Category: Education

Bilingual report — Economic Development Collaborative (EDC) announces Economic Development Collaborative Delivers Financial Assistance for Worker Training in Ventura County

CAMARILLO, Calif. – The Economic Development Collaborative (EDC) proudly announces the renewal of its contract with the Employment Training Panel (ETP), providing financial assistance to Ventura County employers to offset the cost of worker training and fostering economic growth within California.

ETP funding offers a unique opportunity for employers to invest in customized job skills training, reducing the financial burden associated with employee development and allowing businesses to leverage their tax contributions to the California Unemployment Fund. By determining their own training needs, companies enhance their competitiveness, boost employee productivity and upskill their workforce with industry and job-specific skills. This beneficial initiative also creates opportunities for employees to advance their careers within their current organization.

Bilingual report — Ventura Police Officers’ Association announces 2024 Dee Dowell Memorial Scholarship

VENTURA — The Ventura Police Officers’ Association (VPOA) is proud to announce the 2024 Dee Dowell Memorial Scholarship Program, with over $7,000 in scholarships to be awarded to deserving recipients. The application deadline is June 30, 2024.

“It is a privilege to honor the legacy of Sergeant Darlon Dowell by supporting the educational goals of our local students,” said Corporal Joseph Metz, President of the VPOA. “For over 20 years, this scholarship has enabled us to give back to our community and inspire the next generation of public servants.”

The scholarship will be awarded to three applicants who aspire to pursue careers in law enforcement. Funds can be used for college tuition, books, and other educational expenses.

Bilingual report — Celebrate Safely and Enjoy a Dazzling Drone Show in Santa Paula this Fourth of July

“While we have many reasons to celebrate in the coming weeks with family and friends, I strongly encourage my fellow Santa Paulans to avoid the use of illegal fireworks,” said Santa Paula Mayor Leslie Cornejo. “Fireworks can create unsafe and dangerous conditions for our entire community, and there are many other ways to celebrate whether it be a family gathering or barbecue, outdoor activities, or attending the Rotary Club and City of Santa Paula’s first ever 4th of July drone show.”

UCSB — The Current — ‘A novel approach to tracking conservation reveals more areas may be conserved than currently accounted for’ and more news, events

The new method finds more extensive and diverse coverage, which is crucial for meeting the goal of protecting 30% of Earth by 2030.

24 cadets graduate Allan Hancock College’s Basic Law Enforcement Academy

The graduating recruits of Class #24-127 gathered with friends and family to celebrate the completion of more than 871 training hours required to graduate from the academy and enter careers as peace officers. All of the recruits have been hired by Central Coast law enforcement agencies.

“You should be proud of what you’ve accomplished so far,” Atascadero Police Chief Dan Suttles told the graduates. “You’re just starting your careers and are already well-accomplished.”

County of Santa Barbara June Newsletter

County Board of Supervisors Budget Hearing Set for
June 11

The County of Santa Barbara has released its Recommended Budget for Fiscal Year 2024-25. Check out some of the highlights of the budget by clicking the play button, and join us on June 11 for the County’s Budget Hearing.

Allan Hancock College’s Paramedic Academy celebrates first graduating class

Graduating students are employed with local agencies like the San Luis Obispo Fire Department and the Santa Barbara County Fire Department.

“Be better each and every day,” Santa Barbara County Fire Department Chief Mark Hartwig told the students. “Take a break today and pat yourself on the back. Celebrate for a second, and then set for yourself the next lofty goal.”

Guide to Lompoc’s Arts and Culture Scene

LOMPOC — Lompoc is a small city with a big heart for arts and culture. From the historic La Purisima Mission to the vibrant murals of Old Town, there’s something for everyone to enjoy. With a unique blend of Native American, Spanish, and Mexican influences, Lompoc is a captivating destination for history buffs, art enthusiasts, or anyone looking for a unique and enriching experience. Let’s dive into the arts and cultural attractions that make Lompoc a can’t-miss city on California’s Central Coast. Visit www.ExploreLompoc.com

First District Supervisor Das Williams — Fire safety, Swimming into Summer

This week, the Santa Barbara County Fire Department and local fire jurisdictions announced the beginning of the 2024 High Fire Season for all areas of Santa Barbara County.

This is a great reminder of steps you can take to prepare for wildfires:

Maintain Vegetation Clearance: Individuals are advised to maintain proper vegetation clearance around structures to minimize fire risks.
Review and become acquainted with the “Ready! Set! Go!” wildfire action plan, which outlines crucial steps for preparedness and response in the event of a wildfire. For more details, please visit www.sbcfire.com.
Wildfire smoke and ash contain very small particles called particulate matter, which harm the lungs and heart. The best protection against wildfire smoke is to stay indoors as much as possible, ideally in a well-sealed “clean air room” with an air purifier. The Air Pollution Control District (APCD) provides instructions to create a “clean air room” on their website. APCD’s website also provides countywide hourly air quality conditions. People are also encouraged to sign up for Air Quality Alerts issued during wildfires.

CSUCI Art & Art History Department Chair invited to participate in a prestigious international art show

CAMARILLO — When CSU Channel Islands (CSUCI) Art Department Chair Marianne McGrath was first contacted by a representative from the European Cultural Centre in Italy, she thought it was a scam.

“It’s a thing you get in the art world,” McGrath said. “The curator said she saw my work in Denmark last summer and invited to show in their biennial international art show in Venice. She contacted me totally out of the blue. When I realized it was real, I was obviously honored, and then of course, I freaked out.”

McGrath will be showing her work at the 8th edition of the European Cultural Centre (ECC)’s biennial contemporary art exhibition, “Personal Structures,” which will run from April 10 through November 24 in 2026 in parallel to the Venice Biennale. McGrath plans to start working on the exhibition in 2025.

Allan Hancock College offers free Bulldog Express Workshops from June 10 through July 30

Happening at both the Santa Maria campus and Lompoc Valley Center, the workshops will assist new, continuing, and Hancock Promise students with admissions, FAFSA and California Dream Act applications, new student orientation, first-semester planning, class registration, financial aid review, and navigating the myHancock student portal. Campus tours will be offered every 30 minutes, and student success workshops will also be available Tuesdays from 4 – 5 p.m. Bulldog Express additionally offers a “Next Steps Workshop” where students will learn how to get a student ID card, purchase a parking permit, set up their myHancock e-mail address, receive free textbooks, and more.

Ventura County Community Development Corp.’s 12th Annual Virtual Homeownership Conference on June 22

12th Annual Virtual Homeownership Conference A New Way Home Saturday, June 22 l 9:00am – 2:30pm On Zoom FREE!   ASL INTERPRETATION AVAILABLE TRADUCCIÓN AL ESPAÑOL DISPONIBLE REGISTER NOW EXPERIENCE THE ULTIMATE VIRTUAL CONFERENCE FOR HOMEBUYERS Join us for a…

Women’s Economic Ventures Unveils 2023 Impact Report at Event that Celebrates Strategic Community Partnerships Dedicated to Economic Equity

VENTURA AND SANTA BARBARA COUNTIES — Women’s Economic Ventures (WEV) has announced the release of its 2023 Impact Report, highlighting significant strides in empowering women entrepreneurs in Ventura and Santa Barbara counties. The event, held at the Ventura County Community Foundation, saw attendance from key stakeholders, community leaders, and representatives from partnering organizations, showcasing the collective effort to support women’s economic independence and financial literacy in the region.

Ventura Engineer Mohammed A. Hasan receives national recognition

MILWAUKEE, WISC. — The American Academy of Water Resources Engineers has honored Mohammed A. Hasan, a prominent Ventura civil and environmental engineer for his outstanding contribution to water resources engineering.

The induction ceremony was held at the 2024 World Environmental and Water Resources Congress in Milwaukee, Wisc. He was awarded the credential, BC.WRE, board-certified water resources engineer. The BC.WRE is the highest post-license certification one can attain in the water resources engineering profession, and it is an accredited program by the Council of Engineering & Scientific Specialty Boards (CESB). The BC.WRE demonstrates specialty expertise beyond professional licensure, strong professional ethics, and a commitment to life-long learning and continuing professional development.

June at the Santa Paula Art Museum

Kids’ Art Fest

Sunday, June 2, 2024 • 11 AM to 3 PM

Free for everyone

Don’t miss Kids’ Art Fest on Sunday, June 2! This free, outdoor event offers playful art activities for children of all ages, plus face painting, giant bubble making, and more. Best of all, admission is free for everyone. Santa Paula Animal Rescue Center and a few furry friends will join the fun this year, helping inspire our art projects!

Kids’ Art Fest 2024 is sponsored by Calavo, Brianne McGrath, Santa Paula Latino Town Hall, Rotary Club of Santa Paula, and Palazzio Events.

Ventura County Office of Education — Meet the 2024 Ventura County Teacher of the Year — Daniel Cook from Adolfo Camarillo High School

VENTURA COUNTY — Dr. César Morales, Ventura County Superintendent of Schools, is pleased to announce that Daniel Cook from Adolfo Camarillo High School (ACHS) in the Oxnard Union High School District is the 2024 Ventura County Teacher of the Year. Cook found out about the honor today when a group of local education officials made a surprise visit to the campus in Camarillo.

Bilingual report — Ventura County Department of Child Support Services named Outstanding Program by Child Support Directors Association of California

“Our department strives for excellence in the work we do,” said Department Director Marcus Mitchell. “This prestigious honor highlights the dedication of our incredible team and the importance of child support in families’ lives. We continue proudly serving our community, remaining innovative in our approach and working to ensure children receive consistent emotional and financial support from both parents.”

Ventura County Air Pollution Control District (VCAPCD) awards grants to fund electric school buses and chargers

VENTURA — The Ventura County Air Pollution Control District (VCAPCD) has awarded $1.56 million to school districts in Oxnard and Ventura to replace diesel engine buses with new zero-emission electric ones and to install charging stations.

Ocean View School District (OVSD) received funding to replace one diesel bus with an electric one and purchase one charging station. Ventura Unified School District (VUSD) received funding to replace two diesel buses with two electric ones and purchase two charging stations. The charging stations will be level 3, the fastest and most powerful type available. The grants will cover the cost of the charging equipment and 87% of the price of the buses.

CLU School of Management — Watch and Explore the third short video of ‘Separating Myths From Realities’

We are delighted to present the third short video in our series that brings attention to the central themes of the recent conference, “Separating Myths from Realities,” hosted by the Center for Economics of Social Issues. Our third video focuses on the vital topic of “Degradation of Undocumented Immigrants”, containing key insights from our esteemed presenter and panelists.

UCSB — The Current — ‘Mario T. García: A lifetime of achievement in Chicano/a history’ and more news, events

The historian and professor receives the Bert Corona Lifetime Achievement Award for inspiring progressive social change to advance the inclusion of the poor and oppressed.

Read more about the honor

Ventura County Teachers Honored for Innovation in the Classroom

VENTURA COUNTY — Teachers from throughout Ventura County are being honored with grants for developing innovative lessons for their students. At a ceremony last night in Camarillo, the Ventura County Office of Education presented IMPACT II grants worth $1,000 each to seven teachers.

The winning entries cover a variety of subject matters, including history and science. Detailed lesson plans prepared by each of the grant winners are available here for use by other teachers in Ventura County and beyond.

Community Colleges of Ventura County Celebrate Class of 2024

“As we gather to celebrate the accomplishments of this year’s graduates, I am immensely proud of each and every student,” said Chancellor Rick MacLennan. “You have overcome countless challenges, juggled responsibilities, and demonstrated unwavering commitment to your studies. Your determination and resilience have brought you to this pivotal moment, where you stand on the threshold of a new chapter in your lives. I offer my heartfelt congratulations to each and every one of our graduates. Go forth, make your mark on the world! Your success is our success!”

Bilingual report — Allan Hancock College celebrates graduates at 2024 commencement ceremony

SANTA MARIA — Allan Hancock College celebrated the achievements of thousands of graduating students at the college’s 103rd commencement?ceremony. 

“Today, you are representing the more than 100-year legacy of this college,” said Hancock Board of Trustees President Greg Pensa. “Your contribution to that legacy will continue as you go out into the world and represent Hancock as an alumnus.”  ? 

More than 570 of those graduates participated in an in-person?commencement?ceremony on the college’s athletics field at its Santa Maria campus on Friday, May 24. 

Peoples’ Self-Help Housing (PSHH) — 2024 Builder Games Raises $100,000 for Resident Programs

CENTRAL COAST — People’s Self-Help Housing (PSHH) recently hosted the 2024 Builder Games. Presented by Mechanics Bank, with a special sponsorship from Bank of the Sierra for Resident Success, eight teams competed in a series of fun building-related challenges to transform a standard 4’x 4’ playhouse into a home for their imagination.   
Winning this year’s title of ‘Builder Games Champion’ was RRM Design Group for their incredible Monster Truck. Wowing the audience and receiving the People’s Choice award for their Undersea World playhouse was Architects FORA, and sharing the Judge’s Choice award was Arris Studio Architects for their Medieval Castle and Architects FORA. Additional teams competing included 1st Capital Bank, Community West Bank, Omni Design Incorporated, Blosser Urban Garden, and People’s Self-Help Housing. 

Bilingual report — Ten cadets graduate from Allan Hancock College’s CORE Custody Academy

SANTA MARIA — Ten cadets graduated from Allan Hancock College’s CORE Custody Academy on May 23 during a ceremony held at the college’s Public Safety Training Complex in Lompoc.? 

“These cadets have been challenged physically, mentally and emotionally,” said Hancock Public Safety Training Director David Whitham. “They are highly skilled and ready to start their careers as custody deputies.” 

ACH Foundation awards $582,290 at annual scholarship ceremony

SANTA MARIA — Students and donors gathered at the Joe White Memorial Gymnasium on May 23 to celebrate the Allan Hancock College Foundation’s annual?scholarship?awards. 

This year, the Foundation awarded 496?scholarships totaling $582,290 to 345 Allan Hancock College students. 

“The Foundation continues to expand our ability to serve Hancock’s students, and tonight is evidence of that,” said Jon Hooten, Ph.D., executive director of college advancement and the AHC Foundation. “Congratulations to each and every one of these students who earned these awards.” 

Bilingual report — May News from People’s Self-Help Housing

Dear Friend,
May is Mental Health Awareness month, but that subject is on our minds every month at People’s. 

According to the National Alliance on Mental Illness (NAMI), “one in five US adults experience mental illness each year, and less than half of them receive treatment.” Fortunately for residents who live at a People’s property, our onsite specially trained supportive housing team is available to anyone facing mental health issues.

Economic Development Collaborative (EDC) free event and webinar schedule

SBA: EXPLORE GOVERNMENT CONTRACTING OPPORTUNITIES WITH EMERALD CITIES COLLABORATIVE (ECC)

May 28 @ 10:00 am

Join SBA LADO to explore the benefits of connecting with ECC & take your business to the next level in government contracting. Discover how Emerald Cities Collaborative (ECC) can support your small business in accessing government contracts. ECC connects you with government agencies, prime contractors and other stakeholders to help you build relationships and secure contracting opportunities.

CLICK HERE TO REGISTER

First District Supervisor Das Williams — Remembering Those We Have Lost

It’s hard to believe that it’s been 10 years since our community was struck by a tragic mass killing in Isla Vista. This is a time to remember those we lost: George Chen, Chengyuan “James” Hong, Weihan “David” Wang, Katherine Breann Cooper, Christopher Ross Michaels-Martinez, and Veronika Elizabeth Weiss. Yesterday, the community gathered together once more as we did after that fateful night in their memory. For the families of the six who were killed, the residents of IV, and the emergency personnel first on the scene, this was a traumatic and unimaginable experience.

Ventura County Fire Dept. — Trainees of Academy 61 Graduate to Probationary Ventura County Firefighters

CAMARILLO — Fifteen people joined the Ventura County Fire Department ranks on Friday after graduating from the department’s 61st firefighter academy. 

“I commend everyone who graduated today for committing themselves to a career of public service,” Fire Chief Dustin Gardner said. “We work in a challenging and dangerous profession. We show up to help people who might be facing one of the worst days of their lives. And we put ourselves in harm’s way to protect others. It takes special people to do this, and I am glad to welcome each of them to the Ventura County Fire Department.” 

Bilingual report — The latest news from the County of Ventura

Earlier this month, the County of Ventura hosted a visit from the Senior Advisor on Homelessness for Governor Gavin Newsom, Hafsa Kaka, and Deputy Regional Director of External Affairs, Vishesh Anand.
The visit consisted of a presentation on County efforts to address homelessness and several site visits with local nonprofit partners.

‘Latina Characters & Women’s Voices’ featuring local authors Cara Lopez Lee and Mona Alvarado Frazier to be held on May 29 at Timbre Books in Ventura

VENTURA — “Latina Characters & Women’s Voices” featuring local authors Cara Lopez Lee and Mona Alvarado Frazier to be held from 7 to 8 p.m. on Wednesday, May 29 at Timbre Books, 1910 E. Main St., Ventura.

Cara Lopez Lee is the author of the historical novel, Candlelight Bridge (May 28, FlowerSong Press). She’s also the author of the memoir, They Only Eat Their Husbands, and coauthor of the veteran-acclaimed Unexpected Prisoner: Memoir of a Vietnam POW (with Robert Wideman). Her writing has appeared in the Los Angeles Times, Rivet and Manifest-Station.

After decades of working with incarcerated youth in Ventura County, Mona is fulfilling her passion for writing fiction. When she’s not exploring new destinations or writing, you can find her lost in a book or binge-watching K-dramas.

She is a member of SCBWI, Macondo Writers, and a co-founder of #LatinxPitch, an annual X pitch event.

YMCA To Host Summer Camp in Big Bear, Taking Sign-Ups

WESTLAKE VILLAGE — Southeast Ventura County YMCA is taking sign-ups for its annual summer resident camp at Camp Bear in Big Bear. Camp runs from July 28th through August 3rd.

The YMCA camp is for kids entering 3rd through 7th grades. Campers unplug and take part in such activities as kayaking, tubing, archery, rope climbing, hiking, and swimming, with campfires each night. Campers also learn about nature around them, wilderness survival and leadership skills. Throughout the camp experience, emphasis is placed on the YMCA’s core values of caring, honesty, respect and responsibility.

Bilingual report — Allan Hancock College honors 16 retiring faculty, staff employees

SANTA MARIA — Allan Hancock College bid a fond farewell to 16 retiring employees who contributed a combined?346?years of service to the college during an in-person recognition ceremony on May 22.? 

This year’s honored retirees included employees who spent decades serving Hancock students, as well as faculty and staff members who worked to support students in attaining their educational goals.? 

“Each of these retirees is leaving behind a legacy of making a positive impact on the lives of our students,” said Hancock Superintendent/President Kevin G. Walthers, Ph.D. “We are incredibly thankful to each of them for their years of service at Hancock.” 

Central Coast media trio presenting ‘Moment of Truth — Sorting Fact from Fiction in the Misinformation Age’ free workshops

SANTA BARBARA — With half of US adults getting their news from social media and YouTube, it’s tough to know what to believe anymore — but it doesn’t have to be!

Three local journalists are now offering free workshops to help Central Coasters become savvy, responsible media consumers. Their training – Moment of Truth: Sorting Fact from Fiction in the Misinformation Age – is full of practical tips and customized for each audience. 

CSUCI Extended University and Embodied Labs team up to offer free family caregiver training

To help ease what has become a national caregiving crisis, professional and family caregivers can now take advantage of free, self-paced online training from Embodied Labs, a Virtual Reality (VR) immersive training company that has formed a partnership with CSU Channel Islands (CSUCI) Extended University.