Category: Education

Bilingual report — County of Ventura and Museum of Ventura County announce upcoming series of events in celebration of 150th Anniversary of Ventura County

by Community Contributor • August 7, 2023 • Comments Off

VENTURA — The County of Ventura and the Museum of Ventura County will be holding a series of family-friendly pop-up celebrations across the county in celebration of the 150thAnniversary of Ventura County. The pop-up celebrations will be held at larger festival events and will feature community organizations that will provide opportunities for adults and children to interact and learn more about the rich history and traditions of Ventura County. These community partners will provide opportunities for residents to participate in arts and crafts activities, enjoy performances, and learn more about Ventura County’s heritage both past and present. A full calendar of events can be found at www.venturacounty150.com

New SBCC Superintendent/President Dr. Erika Endrijonas begins tenure

by Community Contributor • August 7, 2023 • Comments Off

SANTA BARBARA — Tuesday, Aug. 1, marked Dr. Erika Endrijonas’ first day as the new superintendent/president of Santa Barbara City College.

Dr. Endrijonas’ new role as superintendent/president marks her return to SBCC; She served as the Dean of Career and Technical Services from 2000 to 2009, where she oversaw 28 departments spread across the Business, Technology, and Health and Human Services divisions on campus, along with the School of Culinary Arts and the Kinko’s Early Learning Center. Since then her college leadership roles have included Executive Vice President of Oxnard College, President of Los Angeles Valley College, and most recently, Superintendent/President of Pasadena City College since January 2019.

CSUCI partners with Women’s Economic Ventures to award 45 microgrants to historically marginalized entrepreneurs

by Community Contributor • August 4, 2023 • Comments Off

CAMARILLO — Some entrepreneurs had been working in somebody else’s landscaping business or hair salon and wanted to strike out on their own. Others had been providing child day care and wanted to expand their services. And some had creative ideas for restaurants, food trucks or themed mobile tea parties for kids.

These were some of the 45 business plans chosen for $7,500 microgrants through Women’s Economic Ventures (WEV) Emprendimiento Program, a program developed to provide training and access to funding for Hispanic entrepreneurs who have limited English proficiency. The program is run in partnership with CSU Channel Islands (CSUCI).

“Some of these entrepreneurs don’t have a high school degree, so it’s a beautiful thing to help them become a part of the formal economy, whereas they might have never gotten a loan from a bank,” said Associate Professor of Business Maria Ballesteros-Sola, who coordinates the program at CSUCI. “With this program, not only can you get started with your own business, but you also have a mentor you can call.”

Bilingual report — ¡Viva el Arte de Santa Bárbara! Announces its 2023-2024 Season featuring Prominent Musical and Dance Performers

by Community Contributor • August 4, 2023 • Comments Off

SANTA BARBARA — ¡Viva el Arte de Santa Bárbara! (Viva) returns with a fantastic lineup for its 2023-2024 season. The season features five impressive performers including Grammy nominee Perla Batalla, the nationally distinguished Ballet Folklórico de Los Ángeles, America’s first all-female mariachi Mariachi Reyna de Los Ángeles, music innovator Quitapenas, and dynamic Bordeño-soul group Jarabe Mexicano.

Bilingual report — Teatro de las Américas — Juguetones (5, 8, 12 de agosto), Entre Pancho Villa y una Mujer Desnuda (11 y 12 de agosto)

by Community Contributor • August 4, 2023 • Comments Off

Teatro de las Américas presenta para la familia un espectáculo lleno de humor, títeres, payasos, magia, y misterio.

Escrito por el grupo cómico del Teatro de las Américas con: James Donlon, Alina Cenal, Albert Smith, Mateo Escobedo y Óscar Marrón. Dirigido por James Donlon.

***

Teatro de las Américas presents a show full of humor, puppets, clowns, magic, and mystery for the family.

Written by the comedy group of the Theater of the Americas with: James Donlon, Alina Cenal, Albert Smith, Mateo Escobedo and Oscar Brown. Directed by James Donlon.

Bilingual commentary — The Birth of Mexican Spanish

by Community Contributor • August 4, 2023 • Comments Off

In 2021, we recognized, or mourned (I won’t say “celebrated”), the 500th anniversary of the Conquest of Mexico. On August 13, 1521, Tenochtitlán fell into the hands of the Spanish conquerors led by Hernán Cortés.

It was the beginning of the end for Indigenous Mexico. It was also the birth of modern Mexico, along with a unifying European language. The conquerors also introduced a new religion that was forced to shape itself around the contours of indigenous beliefs.

One would hope that when a student chooses to study the Spanish language, it would mean that the learner will become conversant with native speakers of Spanish. The problem is that “native speakers” of Spanish include both European Spaniards and Latin Americans, whose Spanish is similar but at the same time demonstrate distinctive differences.

American Indian Health & Services in Santa Barbara Celebrates National Health Center Week (NHCW) August 6th-August 12

by Community Contributor • August 3, 2023 • Comments Off

SANTA BARBARA — American Indian Health & Services (AIH&S), at 3227 State St. Santa Barbara, will be celebrating National Health Center Week (NHCW) with other community clinics across the country.

Health centers provide preventive and primary care services to over 30 million people and are the first to respond with wrap around care during disasters and health emergencies. Community Health Centers lower health care costs to the tune of $24 billion a year reducing the rate of chronic diseases and stimulating local economies.

For nearly 30 years, American Indian Health & Services has been serving the Central-Coast’s healthcare needs. At AIH&S we provide medical, dental, optometric, behavioral health, and community cultural services to American Indians, Alaska Natives, and members of the community.

Bilingual report — Department of Child Support Services celebrates August as Child Support Awareness Month

by Community Contributor • August 3, 2023 • Comments Off

CAMARILLO — The Ventura County Department of Child Support Services (VCDCSS) proudly joins all 50 states in commemorating August as Child Support Awareness Month, celebrating exemplary parents and families who play a vital role in their children’s lives.

Child Support Awareness Month, observed annually, reaffirms the inherent right of every child to receive emotional and financial support from both parents. VCDCSS remains steadfastly dedicated to nurturing supportive relationships between parents and their children, encouraging co-parents to fulfill their child support obligations consistently and promptly.

Bilingual report — SING! 2023 fall registration now open/comienza el registro

by Community Contributor • August 2, 2023 • Comments Off

No experience required! Free of charge
Sing! is designed to empower young people, from 1st to 6th grade, to communicate with confidence, empathize with others, and encourage creative thinking. Sing! will help children learn about their own personal history through music and provide an opportunity to connect with others through the joy of singing.

UCSB — The Current — ‘Groundbreaking work of four prominent Black psychologists featured for the first time in American Psychologist’ and more news, events

by Community Contributor • August 2, 2023 • Comments Off

Using an Afrocentric and critical race theoretical framework, lead author Sharon Tettegah and co-authors Alison Cerezo, Terrance Wooten and DeLeon Gray review the works of four prominent Black psychologists.

Southeast Ventura County YMCA’s “Find My Genius” Inspires 600 Young Scholars This Summer

by Community Contributor • August 1, 2023 • Comments Off

WESTLAKE VILLAGE — The Southeast Ventura County YMCA’s Find My Genius program, wrapped up its five-week summer session last week. The program is designed to reduce the achievement gap that often occurs over summer break.

Almost 600 elementary school scholars took part, the highest number ever enrolled in the program. Find My Genius was held at schools in the Las Virgenes, Moorpark and Simi Valley Unified School Districts.

Bilingual report — The latest news from the County of Ventura

by Community Contributor • July 31, 2023 • Comments Off

The County of Ventura and the Museum of Ventura County will be holding a series of family-friendly pop-up celebrations across the county in celebration of the 150th Anniversary of Ventura County. You can catch our team at our first pop-up celebration during the Ventura County Fair on Friday, August 4!

Pop-up celebrations will be held at larger festival events and will feature community organizations that will provide opportunities for adults and children to interact and learn more about the rich history and traditions of Ventura County. These community partners will provide opportunities for residents to participate in arts and crafts activities, enjoy performances, and learn more about Ventura County’s heritage both past and present.

A full calendar of events can be found at www.venturacounty150.com

A weekend with artists Sarah Rosalena and Sandy Rodriguez July 28, 29 at the Museum of Contemporary Art Santa Barbara

by Community Contributor • July 28, 2023 • Comments Off

Recovering the knowledge of the past and the future
Lum Art Talk | In Conversation: Sarah Rosalena and Sandy Rodriguez

Museum of Contemporary Art Santa Barbara

Friday, July 28

5–7pm

Exhibition Tour with Sandy Rodriguez:

Sandy Rodriguez — Unfolding Histories: 200 Years of Resistance

Art, Design & Architecture Museum, UC Santa Barbara

Saturday, July 29

12pm–2pm, Tour begins at 12pm

Bilingual commentary — Writing as a Barrier for Students

by Community Contributor • July 28, 2023 • Comments Off

Editor’s note: Amigos805 welcomes local guest columns, letters to the editor and other submissions from our readers. All opinions expressed in submitted material are those of the author and do not necessarily represent the viewpoint of Amigos805. By David Magallanes •…

WVCBA awards prestigious Oxnard Trophy to Oxnard College’s 2022 Men’s Soccer State Champions

by Community Contributor • July 28, 2023 • Comments Off

OXNARD — The West Ventura County Business Alliance (WVCBA) has announced Oxnard College’s 2022 Men’s Soccer State Championship team as winner of the prestigious Oxnard Trophy. The trophy will be presented at the 73rd annual Oxnard Community & Business Awards on Thursday, August 17, at 11:30 am at Heritage Square.

The team won the California Community College Athletic Association men’s soccer championship in December 2022, its second time in seven years. They completed the season with a 22-1-1 record and were undefeated in conference. In addition, player Odin Rosten and head coach Ross Greaney received National Player and Coaching Staff of the Year awards, respectively, at the United Soccer Coaches national convention in January.

Since 1963, the Oxnard Trophy has been presented to a person, business or organization that has brought recognition to Oxnard and bettered the community. The winner is selected by WVCBA’s Executive Committee of the Board of Directors.

Single (non-subscription) tickets for UCSB Arts & Lectures’ 2023-2024 season go on sale Friday, Aug. 4

by Community Contributor • July 27, 2023 • Comments Off

SANTA BARBARA — UCSB Arts & Lectures presents its 2023-2034 season of world-class cultural and artistic events, from stimulating lectures and animated conversations with today’s thought leaders to brilliant performances by the world’s most accomplished dancers, singers, musicians and performers. Single (non-subscription) tickets for UCSB Arts & Lectures’ 2023-2024 season go on sale Friday, August 4 at 10 a.m.

The 2023-2024 season begins on Sunday, October 1 with a concert and opening night festivities featuring the Santa Barbara debut of five-time Grammy-winner Jacob Collier. The spectacular opening week continues with the Martha Graham Dance Company on October 4 and Americana heroes Nickel Creek and special guest Hawktail on October 8. The classical super trio of Jean-Yves Thibaudet, Lisa Batiashvili and Gautier Capuçon arrive on October 10 to kick off another extraordinary season of the Great Performances series.

CSUCI anthropologist unearths the sprawling tale of Rancho Guadalasca

by Community Contributor • July 27, 2023 • Comments Off

CAMARILLO — After the 2013 Springs Fire stripped the foliage from the hillsides around CSU Channel Islands(CSUCI), Professor of Anthropology Colleen Delaney and six of her students unearthed something mysterious as they began excavating the area. Remnants of Camarillo State Hospital—which occupied the area from 1933 to 1997—were common, but this looked different.

Historic photo courtesy of Terrance Tally, Joseph Lewis’ great-grandson.
“We found an unusual structure that was made out of volcanic rock and concrete,” Delaney said. “It did not match any of the hospital buildings, so we hoped it dated back even further. Based on some faculty/student research we conducted, it looked like a 1950s work building that didn’t match any of the hospital buildings.”

That unusual find launched Delaney on the trail of the mysterious structure, which she learned was part of a historic ranch named Rancho Guadalasca. She then wrote a book released in May entitled “Rancho Guadalasca: Last Ranch of California’s Central Coast,” by The History Press.

VCCU awards inaugural First in Family scholarship to CSUCI first-generation student

by Community Contributor • July 26, 2023 • Comments Off

VENTURA COUNTY — Ventura County Credit Union is proud to announce it has awarded its inaugural First in Family Scholarship to Rayleen Meza, a Santa Paula High School senior who will be attending California State University Channel Islands as a nursing major in the fall, making her the first person in her family to pursue a college education. The scholarship, which is worth $24,000 distributed over four years, will help cover the cost of tuition, fees, books, supplies and other expenses.

Community Environmental Council Launches Campaign to Prepare Central Coast Residents for Extreme Heat Impacts

by Community Contributor • July 26, 2023 • Comments Off

“As a Climate leader for California’s Central Coast, we recognize that without community resilience, extreme heat will continue to exacerbate the underlying inequalities within our region,” said CEC Director of Climate Resilience Em Johnson. “Leading a regional coalition of over fifteen government agencies, grassroots organizations and community-based organizations, our vision as an EHRA partner is to reduce our region’s economic and health disparities related to the prevalence of extreme heat.”

UCSB — The Current — ‘Paranormal experiences, among other extraordinary feelings, provide tools for cross-cultural study’ and more news, events

by Community Contributor • July 26, 2023 • Comments Off

“The culture in which a person grows up can impact the interpretation of the event,” said UC Santa Barbara professor emeritus Ann Taves. “And certain cultures can encourage people to watch out for and expect to experience these things.”

Museum of Ventura County — Proximity to Water Exhibit – Join us for Thirsty Thursday!

by Community Contributor • July 25, 2023 • Comments Off

Proximity to Water: Works from MVC’s Permanent Collection

Just in time for summer, come be inspired by the ever-changing coast captured by our regional artists.

From plein air painting to photography, the mutable coast provides an endless supply of inspiration. Art helps us admire, respect, and revere our region, reminding us of our own place in the natural world. Proximity means a closeness in space, time, or relationship. These artworks from the Museum’s permanent collection bring us closer to the water, both visually and in feeling.

This exhibit is made possible by the Esther and Thomas Wachtell Family Fund, the Paul and Anne Leavens Family Fund and the Bonita McFarland Fund

Find family fun all summer long at The Collection

by Community Contributor • July 25, 2023 • Comments Off

OXNARD — Summer is in full swing at The Collection at Riverpark with free family-friendly concerts, our weekly Kids Club and a show featuring animal expert Corbin Maxey and his collection of reptile friends. For the sports lovers in your family, The Collection is also hosting an Oxnard Fan Night with the Dallas Cowboys Cheerleaders.

July News from People’s Self-Help Housing

by Community Contributor • July 25, 2023 • Comments Off

We are in the midst of a Summer of Celebration here at People’s!

Last week saw the Grand Opening of Templeton Place II – 36 units of truly permanently affordable housing for seniors and veterans, some of whom have come directly out of homelessness. $17M of investment went in this development, substantial amounts of which were injected straight into the local economy through construction subcontracting, including with a designated Disabled Veteran Enterprise. Though many challenges and obstacles showed up along the way, partnerships with multiple federal and state agencies and stakeholders from around the local community, made it happen!

Bilingual report — Economic Development Collaborative (EDC) — Free event and webinar schedule

by Community Contributor • July 24, 2023 • Comments Off

EN ESPAÑOL: SBA: 10 PASOS PARA INICIAR SU EMPRESA

25 de julio a las 11:30 am

Emprender un negocio requiere planificar, tomar decisiones financieras cruciales y realizar una serie de actividades legales. Acompañe al SBA en este seminario web para conocer cada paso.

HAGA CLIC AQUÍ PARA INSCRIBIRSE

District216 — Dosage Dialogues (July 24), Hamilton’s Pharmacopeia Screening (July 26)

by Community Contributor • July 24, 2023 • Comments Off

Topic: “Dosage Dialogues: From Micro to Mega & Everything in Between”

When: Monday, July 24th; 5:30pm to 7pm Conversation

Where: LoDo Studios, 216 E. Gutierrez Street, Santa Barbara, CA 93101
(Please only park across the street on the Office Max side of the lot.)

FREE for Members (check email for Eventbrite RSVP Code).
Guests Welcome to purchase $15 tickets.

N?OTE: We will *not* be filming this event. Refreshments provided.

Ventura County Area Agency on Aging Earns Two National Mature Media Awards

by Community Contributor • July 24, 2023 • Comments Off

VENTURA — The Ventura County Area Agency on Aging, a department of the County of Ventura’s Human Services Agency, was honored twice in the 32nd annual National Mature Media Awards.

The 2022 edition of LIVEWell received Gold honors in the magazine category. It’s the fourth consecutive year that the publication has been recognized, but the first time it has received Gold status after being Bronze in 2021 and 2022 and Silver in 2020. LIVEWell, an annual publication that provides articles and resource listings, is the premier resource guide in Ventura County for individuals 60 and older, caregivers, and people with disabilities.

SBCC Summer Bridge programs offer local teens a jumpstart to college

by Community Contributor • July 21, 2023 • Comments Off

SANTA BARBARA —This summer two of Santa Barbara City College’s innovative programs welcomed local students to experience college-level coursework and gain confidence and motivation to seek higher education in their lives.

The PEAC program is a Santa Barbara Unified School District (SBUSD) initiative that exists to help close the achievement gap and change the trajectory of low-income, first generation college students, while also providing a system of academic and social-emotional support to guarantee students are prepared to enter a college or university. In partnership with SBCC’s Dual Enrollment program and supported by the Foundation for SBCC, students experienced a great opportunity to attend SBCC for a week … earning one unit of college credit even before they enter high school. Students from Goleta Valley, La Cumbre, Santa Barbara and La Colina Junior High schools took a college course in time management along with guided introductions to the Basic Needs Center, Financial Aid, Library, computer labs, EOPS, Center for Equity and Social Justice, Student Health Services, Career Center, Guided Pathways, Automotive, School of Justice Studies and the Cafeteria.

Bilingual commentary — Why Don’t We Follow the Rules?

by Community Contributor • July 21, 2023 • Comments Off

Why are so many of us reluctant to follow “the rules.” As it turns out, there is a whole slew of reasons why we just can’t “behave.” But why would we want to, anyway?

There are reasons that rules exist in society. There may be some rules that are unnecessary, coercive, or frivolous. But for the most part, in our country, at least, rules permeate our lives to protect us and others. They also make life better for all of us.

Clean Power Alliance announces kick-off of the 2023 Community Benefits Grant (CBG) Program Cycle

by Community Contributor • July 21, 2023 • Comments Off

VENTURA COUNTY — Clean Power Alliance, in partnership with Calpine Energy Solutions, is pleased to announce the kick-off of the 2023 Community Benefits Grant (CBG) Program Cycle. This annual grant provides funding for non-profit organizations advancing clean energy, sustainability, and resiliency.

Bilingual report — Economic Development Collaborative (EDC) — California Competes Tax Credit Program

by Community Contributor • July 20, 2023 • Comments Off

The California Competes Tax Credit (CCTC) is an income tax credit available to businesses that want to locate in California or stay and grow in California. Businesses of any industry, size or location compete for over $180 million available in tax credits by applying in one of the three application periods each year. Applicants will be analyzed based on twelve different factors of evaluation, including number of full-time jobs being created, amount of investment, and strategic importance to the state or region.

Application Period Timeline: For the remainder of the 2023-2024, applications for the California Competes Tax Credit will be accepted during the following periods:

July 24, 2023 – August 14, 2023

January 2, 2024 – January 22, 2024

March 4, 2024 – March 18, 2024

Community Environmental Council Welcomes New Staff and Board Members

by Community Contributor • July 20, 2023 • Comments Off

CEC Expands Capacity for Critical Climate Programs Work With New Staff & Board Member SANTA BARBARA — The Community Environmental Council (CEC) welcomed three new staff members and one new board member to its growing roster, as the organization continues…

Bilingual report — Covered California to Launch State-Enhanced Cost-Sharing Reduction Program in 2024 to Improve Health Care Affordability for Enrollees

by Community Contributor • July 20, 2023 • Comments Off

SACRAMENTO — California is set to continue its legacy of building upon and strengthening the Affordable Care Act, as its Board of Directors approved enhanced benefit designs that will ensure over 600,000 Covered California enrollees see reduced out-of-pocket costs in 2024.

“Covered California is proud to be a part of another visionary program that strengthens the Affordable Care Act,” said Jessica Altman, executive director of Covered California. “California made history with the State Premium Subsidy program in 2021, and we appreciate the continued leadership from Gov. Gavin Newsom and the state Legislature to make health care access and affordability a priority in our state.”

The new budget package passed by the state Legislature and enacted by Gov. Newsom appropriates $82.5 million of the Health Care Affordability Reserve Fund (HCARF) to Covered California to support a program of financial assistance for coverage year 2024. Per the budget agreement, funding for the program is planned to increase to $165 million starting in coverage year 2025.

7 Exciting Actitivites For A Memorable Family Adventure in Lompoc

by Community Contributor • July 20, 2023 • Comments Off

LOMPOC — Planning a weekend away that caters to the interests and ages of everyone in your family can be a challenge, but have no fear! Lompoc, situated on California’s Central Coast, offers a wealth of fun experiences that will leave the whole family with smiles. Whether your family loves outdoor adventures or educational explorations, join us as we uncover 7 fun things to do in Lompoc that are perfect for families.

Ventura County Office of Education — Binational Summer Program Serves Children of Migrant Farm Workers

by Community Contributor • July 19, 2023 • Comments Off

VENTURA COUNTY — Educational agencies on both sides of the US/Mexico border are teaming up to provide summer learning opportunities for children of migrant farm workers in Ventura County. Students in grades two through six are taking classes in math, English and computer coding at the Bilingual Summer Institute, being held this July at Somis Elementary School. A unique aspect of the program is that two visiting teachers from Mexico are incorporating cultural enrichment into the lessons to help students learn about their heritage and better connect to the material that’s being taught.

Norma Vianey Tizapan Mendoza is a teacher visiting from the Mexican state of Tlaxcala. She uses art, music and stories to help get students engaged. “Most of their parents are from Mexico and they are here because they want better opportunities for their families,” she says. “I’m so proud to be a teacher and to be here. Being a teacher is about touching your students’ heart.”

Bilingual report — Arte & Cultura Collective of Santa Paula Invites All Artists to Mission & Vision Workshop on Aug, 1

by Community Contributor • July 19, 2023 • Comments Off

SANTA PAULA — The Arte & Cultura Collective of Santa Paula, a vibrant community organization dedicated to promoting and celebrating cultural arts, is excited to announce its upcoming Mission & Vision Workshop. This workshop aims to bring together artists, organizations, and individuals committed to various forms of artistic expression from the local community to collectively shape the future of our cultural arts scene.

The Mission & Vision Workshop will take place on Tuesday, August 1st at the Train Depot located at 200 N. 10th St, Santa Paula, CA 93060 from 4:45PM-7:00PM. Artists, organizations, and individuals of all backgrounds and disciplines are invited to attend and actively participate in this collaborative event.

UCSB — The Current — Multiple ecosystems in hot water after marine heatwave surges across the Pacific and more news, events

by Community Contributor • July 19, 2023 • Comments Off

While they confer many ecological benefits, marine protected areas do not shield against the effects of prolonged elevated water temperatures.

Junior Wheelchair Sports Camp Kicks Off Week of Fun

by Community Contributor • July 18, 2023 • Comments Off

SANTA BARBARA — Junior Wheelchair Sports Camp will welcome approximately 40 enthusiastic campers at the UCSB Recreation Center. Funding from the Cottage Rehabilitation Hospital Foundation allows all campers to attend the week for free.

The annual camp provides sports and recreation skills development for children, youth, and young adults between the ages of 6 to 21 years old who can use a wheelchair to participate in sports and recreation activities. This year more than 50 volunteers will assist the campers.

Economic Development Collaborative (EDC) — Free event and webinar schedule

by Community Contributor • July 17, 2023 • Comments Off

IN-PERSON EVENT: VENTURA COUNTY SCORE: DOUBLE YOUR SALES WITH 5 EASY STEPS

July 18 @ 6:00 pm

Ventura County SCORE is hosting an in-person workshop for entrepreneurs and small business owners to learn techniques to increase sales and boost income. Led by marketing consultant James Bond, the workshop covers strategies like targeting real buyers, creating engaging pitches, using sales promotion, and becoming a preferred alternative. Attendees will gain insights to simplify their marketing process and achieve business growth. Address: VCCF, 4001 Mission Oaks Blvd, Suite A, Camarillo, CA, 93012.

Arcelia Sención Named Chief Strategy-North County Programs Officer At Family Service Agency/Santa Maria Valley Youth & Family Center

by Community Contributor • July 14, 2023 • Comments Off

Family Service Agency (FSA) of Santa Barbara County is pleased to welcome the organization’s new Chief Strategy-North County Programs Officer, Arcelia Sención. She will manage operations at FSA’s North County Santa Maria Valley Youth & Family Center office at 105 N. Lincoln Street.

Arcelia brings over 30 years of nonprofit experience to FSA/SMVYFC improving access to safety-net programs and developing initiatives to address the prevention of childhood trauma and abuse. She served as Associate Director at Standing Together to End Sexual Assault for the past four years and was previously Director of Healthcare and Social Services at Santa Ynez Valley People Helping People.

“We’re so excited to add Arcelia’s to our leadership team,” said CEO Lisa Brabo. “She is a well-respected member of the community who has a clear passion for service and track record of effective leadership. We look forward to working with her to improve the wellbeing of children, families and seniors in our community.”

Bilingual commentary — Is Teaching Conventional English and Math “White Supremacy”?

by Community Contributor • July 14, 2023 • Comments Off

A California high school English teacher, Marta Shaffer, has declared that teaching proper English grammar in our classrooms sustains white supremacy in our education system.

Either Ms. Shaffer has a point, or she is someone who searches tirelessly for supremacist underpinnings where there may be none—or at least not to the extent that she perceives.

Angels Foster Care Partners with CWS and Local Foundations to Launch New Kinship Care Program

by Community Contributor • July 14, 2023 • Comments Off

SANTA BARBARA — Angels Foster Care on July 13 announced the launch of ‘Family & Friends Together’ (FFT), a new kinship care program that provides intensive, trauma-informed multigenerational support to kinship families caring for foster children from birth to age five in Santa Barbara County.

The local nonprofit – which provides safe, stable, loving homes for infants and toddlers in foster care throughout Santa Barbara County and Southern San Luis Obispo County – partnered with Santa Barbara County Child Welfare Services, the Towbes Foundation, the Bower Foundation, the Hazen Foundation and other private donors to launch and fund the new program.

FFT provides case management, referrals, individualized education, and brief therapeutic intervention to kinship caregivers and the children they are fostering.

Santa Barbara County First District Supervisor Das Williams — Taking Action to Prevent Homelessness

by Community Contributor • July 13, 2023 • Comments Off

This week, the Board of Supervisors adopted an ordinance that strengthens protections for tenants in the unincorporated areas of the County. It is my hope that these protections will make the playing field more level for renters in unincorporated areas during this unprecedented housing crisis and prevent people from losing their homes.

The most important protection we can put in place for renters (and for our planet and climate) is allowing more rental housing close to jobs. Only by our community refusing to build any new rental housing can landlords command such immense power over our lives. Our housing element, which is being worked on now, can help address this.

Santa Paula Art Museum — ‘The California Scene’ Opens Saturday With an Added Surprise!

by Community Contributor • July 13, 2023 • Comments Off

Premiere Party: California Art League’s “The California Scene”

Saturday, July 15, 2023, from 4 PM to 6 PM

$5 SPAM Members • $10 Non-members

The Santa Paula Art Museum is the place to be on Saturday, July 15! Join us as we unveil our newest exhibition, “The California Scene,” showcasing 59 quintessential California scenes in a variety of media by 44 artists from the long-established California Art League (CAL). The show is CAL’s 2023 Gold Medal Exhibition and multiple awards will be announced during the premiere party. Mingle with the artists, grab a glass of wine, and find out which artwork is named “Best in Show.”

“The California Scene” will be on view from July 15 to November 5, 2023. Many of the artworks are available for purchase.

Bilingual report — County Board of Supervisors approve Parks Department to enter into dual lease agreement for oversight of Nyeland Acres Park

by Community Contributor • July 13, 2023 • Comments Off

VENTURA — On Tuesday, June 27, though unanimous vote, the Board of Supervisors approved the County Parks Department to enter into a dual lease agreement with the Boys and Girls Club of Greater Oxnard and Nyeland Acres Promise for management of the John C. Zaragoza Nyeland Acres Community Center and Park. The 2.2-acre park property, which is currently owned by the County of Ventura but under management by the Boys and Girls Club, is not available to the public on a full-time basis. Through the voted-on agreement, the County will now assume all oversight and maintenance for the park area through the County Parks Department, which will allow the neighborhood park to be open from dawn to dusk for the Nyeland Acres community. As well, the buildings will now be jointly operated by the Boys and Girls Club of Greater Oxnard and Port Hueneme and Nyeland Promise.

“This is a very large deal to our community,” stated District 3 Supervisor Kelly Long. “Rolling this park into part of the County’s parks system allows us to take the liability off of the Boys and Girls Club and open it up even more to the community as a whole. It allows us to really develop the park for the community.”

Performing Arts Scholarship Foundation in Santa Barbara awards $27,000 for music education

by Community Contributor • July 13, 2023 • Comments Off

SANTA BARBARA — The Performing Arts Scholarship Foundation, a nonprofit that supports classical music education through scholarships and grants, has awarded $27,000 to local music programs.

The foundation’s Education Grant Committee met in early June to discuss the 2023 disbursement of funds for music education programs. These funds are distributed following the foundation’s annual performing arts competition, in which individual vocal and instrumental students receive scholarships and prizes to support their musical studies. Foundation funds that remain after the competition are used for program grant awards, said President Deborah Bertling.

“The grant process is by invitation and focuses on arts organizations that support and foster the foundation’s mission,” Bertling said. “Our mission is to provide financial assistance to young musicians studying classical performing arts and to support music education in our community.”

Tony Morris Continues Reign as Rotary Club of Montecito’s President

by Community Contributor • July 13, 2023 • Comments Off

MONTICITO — Tony Morris is beginning his second year of a two-year term as president of Montecito Rotary Club as the service organization marks a milestone.

This year, the club celebrates its 70th anniversary developing projects and delivering service to the Montecito community while creating lasting friendships and having some fun along the way.

Morris says he loves the area and its people, and is excited to do what he can to make it an even better place through his role in Rotary. He believes that working in service together we can make our world a better place.

UCSB Arts & Lectures welcomes Jenna Hamilton-Rolle as Director of Education & Community Engagement

by Community Contributor • July 13, 2023 • Comments Off

SANTA BARBARA — UCSB Arts & Lectures welcomes Jenna Hamilton-Rolle as Director of Education & Community Engagement. Hamilton-Rolle was the Director of Education at the Santa Barbara Museum of Natural History and Sea Center, and brings substantial experience with community outreach, K-12 field trips, hands-on educational programming, and site-specific experiential learning to her new role with Arts & Lectures.

“I believe everyone in our community deserves access to engaging, high-quality educational opportunities. In alignment with UCSB Arts & Lectures mission, my career goals revolve around inspiring, educating, and engaging an increasingly diverse public” said Hamilton-Rolle. She also said that she has “admired A&L’s commitment to excellence, cogent programming, and dedication to accessibility” since her time as a graduate student at UCSB.

Ventura Land Trust Announces Community Leaders as New Trustees

by Community Contributor • July 13, 2023 • Comments Off

VENTURA — The Board of Trustees of Ventura Land Trust has experienced a major shift, with the recent addition of five new members and the departure of two, bringing the current total number of trustees to 13.

The new trustees include Kate Larramendy, past Director of Design & Sustainability at outdoor company Toad&Co and current board member of The Conservation Alliance; John Krist, who retired in 2022 as CEO of the Farm Bureau of Ventura County; The Trade Desk Assistant Corporate Controller Meridith Thompson; Thousand Oaks City Manager Andrew Powers; and retired Ventura City Fire Marshal Brian Clark.

SEEAG and Gills Onions’ 4th Annual Double Your Impact Challenge Nets Over $30,000 For Youth Wellness Initiatives

by Amigos805.com • July 12, 2023 • Comments Off

VENTURA — For the fourth year, Gills Onions matched up to $15,000 in donations made to Students for Eco-Education and Agriculture (SEEAG)during SEEAG’s annual “Double Your Impact Challenge.” Fundraising efforts during the May campaign raised $15,179 with all proceeds going…

Bilingual report — County of Ventura and Focus on the Masters present History is Now, 2023 photography and art exhibition as part of the 150th Anniversary celebration

by Community Contributor • July 12, 2023 • Comments Off

VENTURA — The County of Ventura and Focus on the Masters Arts Archive & Library (FOTM) are presenting the History Is Now, 2023 photography and art exhibition at the County of Ventura Government Center – Hall of Administration, Atrium Gallery, located at 800 S. Victoria Ave., Ventura. Open now through September 5, 2023 as a part of the County’s 150th Anniversary events, the exhibit celebrates the many artists who have made an impact in Ventura County over the past 150 years.

Social Justice Fund for Ventura County (SJFVC) July Fellowship Update

by Community Contributor • July 12, 2023 • Comments Off

As the 2022-2023 Social Justice Fellowship cycle comes to an end, there is much to reflect on and celebrate! We are proud to highlight that the SJFVC is a first funder, helping new leaders who have never received funding before. In the summary below, you will notice that a majority of our Fellows are now receiving more funding and support from foundations and other sources. This is a great sign that our training and coaching is helping to launch them as new voices for justice.

Museum of Ventura County — True Crime Exhibit: Establish Your Alibi at the MVC

by Community Contributor • July 12, 2023 • Comments Off

The Murder of Tom More:
A True Crime Story

In the early hours of March 24th 1877, a mob of angry settlers set fire to Thomas More’s barn and shot him at least 10 times. Motivated by a passionate battle over land ownership and water rights turned deadly, news of his murder rippled through California.

Amid the rubble of lies, perjuries, briberies, and omissions in the historical record, there are puzzles regarding his death that remain forever unsolved. His story stands today as a warning about the strong emotions unleashed over limited natural resources.

This exhibit is made possible by
the John Hammer Family

Big Brothers Big Sisters of Ventura County goes BIG at BBBS of America’s National Conference!

by Community Contributor • July 10, 2023 • Comments Off

VENTURA COUNTY — Big Brothers Big Sisters of Ventura County (BBSVC) is thrilled to announce that it is a recipient of the Pinnacle Award for 2022 – a designation given by Big Brothers Big Sisters of America to network agencies who demonstrate exemplary programmatic success and fiscal responsibility. BBSVC was one of only eight agencies across the United States selected to receive the award and accept it on the BBBS of America National Conference main stage on June 29th in Anaheim.

Bilingual report — California Oil Museum Property Community Engagement Workshops Kickoff in July

by Community Contributor • July 10, 2023 • Comments Off

SANTA PAULA — On Nov.16, 2022, the City of Santa Paula announced that Chevron, in partnership with its affiliate Union Oil Company of California, made a generous offer to donate the historic former headquarters of Union Oil Company of California to the City. This donation would include the building, a $2 million grant to facilitate necessary maintenance, and select memorabilia displayed in the museum. Since December, staff has been conducting due diligence and negotiating a transfer agreement which would establish the City as the permanent owner of the property. In addition, the City established an ad hoc committee to assist in the evaluation of the property transition and future use of the facility.

“The donation of the former Union Oil Company of California headquarters is a remarkable opportunity for the City of Santa Paula. We are grateful to Chevron and Union Oil Company of California for their commitment to preserving our history and supporting the revitalization of our community,” stated Mayor Andy Sobel.

To ensure community involvement in shaping the future of the property, the City has planned two Community Workshops & Tours led by David Yoshitomi, Arts & Culture Manager of the County of Ventura.

United Way of Ventura County launches 2023 Stuff The Bus Campaign

by Community Contributor • July 7, 2023 • Comments Off

Help stuff backpacks with essential school supplies for local at-risk 3rd-5th grade students. Backpacks are being distributed in partnership with the Ventura County Office of Education to children identified as homeless by their respective school district.

You can help pave the path to academic success for a child from a family experiencing homelessness. Furthermore, your support not only provides essential school supplies. Studies show that it also promotes learning, building self-esteem, and helps ensure that our youth stay in school.

Please help fill the backpacks by supporting our online Roonga school supply campaign which runs until July 13th. Please share this link with friends, family members, and co-workers. Also, below is a QR code that leads to the online drive.

The Little House By The Park Receives $140k Grant From Central Coast Creative Corps For Artist Led Outreach Initiatives

by Community Contributor • July 5, 2023 • Comments Off

SANTA BARBARA — Family Service Agency of Santa Barbara County (FSA) announced that its family resource center in Guadalupe, The Little House by the Park (LHP), has been selected receive a $140,000 grant as part of the Central Coast Creative Corps (CCCC) Program, a pilot grant program funded by the California Arts Council.

The grant award will fund LHP to work with a Central Coast-based artist for one year. The artist will work in collaboration with a parent-led advocacy group known as the Guadalupe Community Changers, a parent-led organization that supports the development of community projects, encourages other parents to be more engaged in their children’s education, and offers leadership opportunities to increase civic participation.

“This opportunity will strengthen our organization’s outreach and advocacy efforts by increasing our program’s visibility and by expanding our community engagement work,” said Samuel Duarte, Community Engagement/Leadership Development Manager. “Integrating culturally relevant art into the Community Changer’s campaigns and projects, can increase participation and discussion among the underrepresented members of our community.”

Bank of Americans announces County Student Leaders

by Community Contributor • July 5, 2023 • Comments Off

CENTRAL COAST — Bank of America on July 3 announced four local high school juniors and seniors from Ventura, Santa Barbara and San Luis Obispo counties have been selected as Student Leaders® (#BofAStudentLeaders), where they will participate in an eight-week paid summer internship providing the students with first-hand experience in serving their communities. As part of the program, the students will develop leadership and practical workforce skills while working with local nonprofits Girl Scouts of California’s Central Coast and Habitat for Humanity San Luis Obispo County, all while earning $17 per hour.

“With changing economic environments and a shifting job market in the region, young people need access to workforce experience and career skills-building opportunities,” said Midge Campbell-Thomas, president, Bank of America Ventura and Santa Barbara. “The private sector has a role to play to help better position and support young adults to be successful in today’s workforce.”

UCSB — The Current — Taming Fire: Controlled burns can be a boon to our landscape

by Community Contributor • July 5, 2023 • Comments Off

Resource managers are increasingly turning toward prescribed burns as a tool for land maintenance and restoration — and for reducing the risk of wildfires.

Economic Development Collaborative (EDC) — Free event and webinar schedule

by Community Contributor • July 3, 2023 • Comments Off

SBA: HOW TO START A BUSINESS

July 10 @ 10:00 am

Are you interested in starting a business? If you are please join the Small Business Administration (SBA) Los Angeles District Office for a virtual workshop to learn about SBA’s 10 Step Guide on How to Start a Business. This virtual workshop targeted to new entrepreneurs. Topics covered from creating a business plan, finding capital, registering your business, getting necessary permits and/or licenses and getting a business bank account. This is a great opportunity to get any questions you may have answered and find out about the multiple resources available to help you. SBA programs and services are extended to the public on a nondiscriminatory basis. For reasonable accommodation request please send an email to LADO@SBA.GOV at least 7 days in advance.

CLICK HERE TO REGISTER

MICOP — WE COUNT! Policy Forum on Data Equity for Latinx and Indigenous Communities in California (Virtual Webinar) at 11 a.m. July 6

by Community Contributor • July 3, 2023 • Comments Off

SACRAMENTO — On July 6th, at 11:00 AM we will be hosting a panel style policy forum on data collection and disaggregation for Latinx subgroups and Indigenous Mesoamerican nations in California. We will be joined by decision makers, advocates, community members, and researchers who will discuss the importance of data disaggregation on advancing representation and health equity for these communities. We will also discuss why passing Senate Bill 435 is critical and necessary as a first step in uncovering trends and tracking the disparities faced by these populations of people throughout our state.The conversation will be facilitated by Mar Velez, Director of Policy for the Latino Coalition for a Healthy California.

What: SB 435 (Gonzalez), The Latinx and Indigenous Disparities Reduction Act – uncovers health and related disparities by collecting and disaggregating more detailed data for Latinx and Indigenous Mesoamerican populations in California.

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