Category: Education

Pack that PODS® Container with Backpacks for Big Brothers Big Sisters Ventura County

PODS Moving & Storage Ventura County, has partnered with Cumulus Media & Big Brothers Big Sisters (BBBS) to gather over 200 backpacks and extra Tools for Schools for children in Ventura County who need them most. BBBS are asking Ventura County community members to donate as many new backpacks as possible to exceed the 2022 goal. 

“August 2022 will be an exciting time for our local children who are heading back to the classroom, but it can be a daunting time for parents when extra school supplies costs are on the rise,” said Steve Yapp, PODS Tri Counties owner.  “We are always looking for ways that PODS Moving & Storage can make a difference in our community and there is no better way to support our youth than with their education.”  

Donations of new backpacks can be made at any time before August 27th to Big Brothers Big Sisters of Ventura County, 555 Airport Way, Suite D., Camarillo, CA 93012. Alternatively,you can visit https://www.khay.com/backpacks-for-big-brothers-big-sisters-2/ to donate. 

SBCC — The Bridge — August 2022 — Emma Trelles (photo by Regina Reese) SBCC writing instructor receives Academy of American Poets fellowship and more news

In 2021, SBCC composition and creative writing instructor Emma Trelles was named Poet Laureate for the City of Santa Barbara. This year, Trelles was selected as one of 22 poets in the United States to be recognized by the Academy of American Poets with a prestigious Poet Laureate Fellowship. As a Poet Laureate Fellow, Trelles will receive a $50,000 stipend to support her public work and craft.
Read the story in Noozhawk.

Local Kids Get Jump Start on Back-to-School Resources

The Housing Authority of the City of Santa Barbara (HACSB) in partnership with 2nd Story Associates hosted Tools for Schools Saturday, August 13, 2022 from 8:30 a.m. to 12:00 p.m. at Presidio Springs (721 Laguna Street, Santa Barbara 93101).

Now in its tenth year, the “Tools for School” event provided school supplies and backpacks for low-income children and families in the Santa Barbara area. During this event, HACSB youth and families received a FREE backpack, school supplies, and learned about valuable resources and services for them and their families. 

Channel Islands Maritime Museum Releases Custom Channel Islands Breeze Candle to Celebrate The Exhibition Resilience: Art of the Channel Islands

As part of its celebration for the upcoming exhibition Resilience: Art of the Channel Islands, the Channel Islands Maritime Museum is releasing a custom candle in celebration of these unique islands.
 
Featuring the beautiful Channel Islands artwork of Jody Hewgill, and named Channel Islands Breeze, the candle was created in collaboration with local candle crafting business Matte Black Candle Co. Using a coco soy wax, a new wild sage scent was also created for this unique candle.

Fifteen percent of the proceeds from the sale of the candle will be donated to the Friends of the Island Fox organization.

Bilingual report — Covered California Hails the Signing of the Inflation Reduction Act, Which Will Continue to Provide Lower Costs and Expanded Access to Quality Health Insurance for Californians

The Inflation Reduction Act extends the increased financial help initially provided by the American Rescue Plan through the end of 2025. The increased subsidies expanded health care coverage, leading to record enrollment in California and across the nation, and lowered…

Economic Development Collaborative (EDC) August Partner Webinar Schedule

Having trouble viewing this email? Click here EDC AUGUST PARTNER WEBINAR SCHEDULE The Economic Development Collaborative encourages you to sign up for our partner’s no-costwebinars. Space is limited. Register today! IN-PERSON EVENT: SANTA BARBARA COUNTY SCORE: BOOKKEEPING BASICS: TIPS AND…

Bilingual report — List of City, School District and Special District Offices In Extended Nomination Period for Nov. 8, 2022, General Election

Ventura County Clerk-Recorder, Registrar of Voters Mark Lunn announced the extension of the nomination period for the following City, School District and Special District offices that are scheduled to be voted on in the November 8, 2022 General Election. The extended nomination period will close on Wednesday, August 17, 2022, at 5:00 p.m. The extension does not apply to incumbents.

CITIES

The nomination period extension for City offices applies to the following:

Fillmore City Council (Full term, Short term)
Moorpark Mayor
Ojai City Council, District 1
San Buenaventura (Ventura) City Council, Districts 1 and 5
Santa Paula City Council
Simi Valley Mayor
Thousand Oaks City Council

Bilingual report — Economic Development Collaborative (EDC) — Are You Prepared for the Next Big Disaster?

Economic Development Collaborative is partnering with the California Business, Consumer Services and Housing Agency, the California Academy for Economic Development and Edison International to promote the statewide Outsmart Disaster campaign, which equips businesses with the tools and resources they need to be prepared for disaster. Here’s two ways you can take immediate action for your business:

Take the Resilient Business Challenge – a self-guided, five-step process to help your business become more resilient. CLICK HERE
Watch a recording of a Disaster Resiliency Clinic and receive a walkthrough of the basics of preparedness and the campaign’s Resilient Business Challenge. CLICK HERE

Bilingual commentary — Sex Education: U.S. vs. Europe

Nearly 20 years ago, I was on a pilgrimage. I went to France to trace some of the steps my father had taken during World War II. He went through this war-torn country before entering Germany and then Belgium to deal with the Nazis. 

While in Paris, I visited several art museums. I will forever remember a sight that I will never see in an American art museum.

kidSTREAM Children’s Museum adds a new Board Member

kidSTREAM, a children’s museum based in Camarillo, continues to grow. While the organization is finalizing the work toward the slated expansion of the outdoor playscape on the property that the City of Camarillo is transferring to the nonprofit, key steps of growth are taking place within the organization, including board expansion.

Bryan Yee, Director of Knowledge Management at Amgen with 16 years of experience in the biotechnology industry, recently joined kidSTREAM’s board.

“Bryan has been a critical addition during an exhilarating time at kidSTREAM,” said kidSTREAM Board President Kristie Akl, “this next year will be a time of great growth, and all of the skills that Bryan brings – from project management to strategic planning – as well as the intangible qualities that Bryan brings to kidSTREAM from his genuine passion for this project and building community – are just the tip of the iceberg regarding adding Bryan to the team.”

What’s the buzz… at Museum of Ventura County

National Honey Bee Day
Saturday, August 20th from 12-2pm
at the Agriculture Museum
Free
Join us for a celebration of our pollinator pals and their vital role! Volunteers will help kids and adults make their own craft honey bee out of pipe cleaners while beekeepers share fun facts and delicious honey samples. Take part in a bee-themed sing-and-dance-along too!

Also, welcome our new bee colony and browse bee-themed merchandise from local vendors. Check out the ‘Save the Pollinators’ art exhibit by C.R.E.W.’s Green Valley project, and explore our beautiful bee-friendly gardens.

Click here to learn more.

Bilingual report — County of Ventura update for Aug. 9, 2022 — Monkeypox Update & COVID-19

Make sure kids are up-to-date on their COVID-19 vaccines before the start of school! Children 5 and older are eligible for vaccine boosters. Learn more at https://schools.covid19.ca.gov/. For information about COVID-19 vaccines, testing and treatments, visit www.vcrecovers.org.

Santa Barbara County First District Supervisor Das Williams — County Hiring Hot Springs Trail Assistants, CCCE Impact Report, and More

The Community Services Department is currently accepting applications to fill two Hot Springs Trail Assistant vacancies in Santa Barbra at the Hot Springs Trail. This position is important in promoting better relations between trail users and residents near the trail, and a part of the County’s responsibility protecting the public safety of both groups.

This is a great opportunity for weekend and evening work. These positions will be communicating trail usage rules and regulations with trail users and enforcing rules and regulations.

Economic Development Collaborative (EDC) — Free Webinar Schedule

IN-PERSON EVENT: SANTA BARBARA COUNTY SCORE: BOOKKEEPING BASICS: TIPS AND TOOLS FOR STARTUPS AND SMALL BUSINESSES

August 18 @ 10:00 am

As a small business, it’s important to get your head around company finances in order to maximize profits and margins. This can only be accomplished when your bookkeeping is in order. During this interactive session, Accounting Expert, Juliana Ramirez, will walk you through small business bookkeeping and small company accounting tips and tools to help you ensure your bookkeeping is in order and move your business forward as you start, maintain, and grow. Address: Workzones Santa Barbara, 351 Paseo Nuevo, Fl 2, Santa Barbara, CA, 93101.

Housing for a Healthy California Program (HHC) Awards $11.6M to Non-Profit Sponsor Cabrillo Economic Development Corp.

The Cabrillo Economic Development Corporation (CEDC) is excited to announce it was competitively selected to receive funding from the HCD Housing for a Healthy California Program for two affordable housing developments located in Ventura and Santa Barbara Counties.  

In the ongoing effort to address California’s housing affordability and homelessness challenges, the California Department of Housing and Community Development (HCD) has awarded two CEDC developments with funding from the Housing for a Healthy California Program (HHC) to preserve and build new affordable homes.  

The Cabrillo Economic Development Corporation (CEDC) is the largest developer of affordable homes in Ventura County and is best known for providing comprehensive, well-designed affordable housing services and community economic development activities in Ventura and Santa Barbara Counties. 

Santa Barbara County First District Supervisor Das Williams — First Monkeypox Case Detected in Santa Barbara County

As you may be aware, on August 1, Governor Newsom proclaimed a State of Emergency to Support our State’s Response to Monkeypox (MPX). Today, Santa Barbara County has had its first confirmed case of Monkeypox. Our county has been preparing for this eventuality. This person has been isolated for the past seven days and will be quarantined. Our Public Health Department is prepared to activate its Infectious Disease Emergency Response (IDER) plan if/when the Disease Control program receives 3-5 confirmed cases within a 14-day period. This is the level the Disease Control program would need to access additional resources. There is a vaccination that helps to protect against monkeypox when given before or shortly after exposure. The vaccine supply is very limited and Santa Barbara County has only received 40 doses of the JYNNEOS Vaccine. The Public Health Department expects to receive a second allocation later in the summer. Vaccine supply will gradually increase later this year, but current supplies remain low. 

Bilingual report — Board of Supervisors Appoints Dr. Sevet Johnson as County Executive Officer

Following a nationwide recruitment, the County of Ventura Board of Supervisors has unanimously appointed Dr. Sevet Johnson as the County Executive Officer. The Board of Supervisors announced the appointment following a special meeting.

“Our Board thanks Dr. Johnson for accepting this offer of employment and for leading our County during this time of transition,” said Chair of the Board of Supervisors Carmen Ramirez. “We are confident she is the right person to lead our County.”

Bilingual report — COVID-19 & County Update for Aug. 2, 2022

Since Tuesday, July 26, there have been 1,751 new COVID-19 cases reported and 17,959 new tests completed. There are 73 people hospitalized and 10 in the ICU. There have been 6 new deaths of a 62 year old male, 62 year old male, 74 year old male, an 80 year old female, 90 year old female, and a 95 year old female. We extend our sincere condolences to the family and loved ones of the community members who have passed.

The R-effective for Ventura County is 0.94, which means that the spread of COVID is likely stable. The R-effective for California is 0.98.

73.8% of the total county population has been fully vaccinated (completed initial COVID vaccine series).

Ventura College Receives Over $62 Million to Build Student Housing

In Ventura County, the median gross rent is $1,854, according to Census.gov (2016-2020). For college students, this can be a crushing obstacle to fulfilling their educational goals. When Governor Gavin Newsom signed Assembly Bill No. 183 in June, approving more than $542 million for the construction of affordable student housing, Ventura College was honored to be among the 11 recipients.

The college will receive over $62 million, which will fund apartment-type student housing to provide over 300 beds in 95 units with rental costs ranging from $400-$900 per month.

“Access to affordable housing continues to be an issue that California must address,” said State Assemblymember Steve Bennett (District 37). “Students are particularly impacted, and in this year’s state budget, we were able to direct funding to colleges and universities across the state to help address that impact. I know Ventura College’s new housing will enable hardworking students access to a safe and affordable place to live.”

Clean Power Alliance Announces Applications Now Being Accepted for 2022-2023 Community Benefits Grant Program

Clean Power Alliance (CPA) is pleased to announce that applications are now being accepted for the 2022-2023 Community Benefits Grant Program. Now in its second year, the program is an innovative partnership between CPA and Calpine Energy Solutions that provides funding for nonprofit organizations working to advance clean energy in the 30 communities that CPA serves in Los Angeles and Ventura counties, as well as the unincorporated areas within both counties. The program’s application period opens today and runs through Sept. 16.

“Investing in our local communities is a key goal of CPA and this grant program is an important part of creating long-lasting partnerships with organizations that support our clean energy mission,” said Ted Bardacke, CEO of Clean Power Alliance. “We appreciate Calpine’s ongoing commitment to reinvesting with us in Los Angeles and Ventura counties.”

Bilingual report — County Of Ventura Ranked a Top Ten Digital County in the Nation by Center for Digital Government and National Association of Counties

The County of Ventura has ranked eighth among digital counties nationwide by the Center for Digital Government (CDG) and the National Association of Counties (NACo). Ventura County’s Information Technology Services (ITS) Department was awarded in the 20th annual Digital Counties Survey for being an information technology leader amongst counties with populations of 500,000 – 999,999, after Gwinnett County, Georgia, followed by Polk County, Florida, and County of Chester, Pennsylvania.

“We are proud that our County continues to be a leader in technology and innovation and are grateful for this special recognition,” said Interim County Executive Officer Dr. Sevet Johnson. “It reflects the dedication of our ITS Department and entire county team in finding new and efficient ways to serve our community. Looking ahead, we remain committed to leveraging technology and key collaborations to help close the digital divide so that all community members have equitable access to digital services.”

Two groups of CSUCI students spend almost a month on Santa Rosa Island with new Field Studies classes

Fourteen CSU Channel Islands (CSUCI) students sat around a conference table in the John Spoor Broome Library as photos they had taken on Santa Rosa Island lit up the screen at the front of the room.

One photo was taken by Environmental Science & Resource Management (ESRM) major Renee Giragosian as she rode an Island Packers boat into a yawning cave.

“This is the most present I’ve ever felt,” she said, recalling the moment. “It was the fact that this cave was right off the coast as we were just concluding this one month long amazing, challenging journey.”

Economic Development Collaborative (EDC) free webinar schedule

BUSINESS RESOURCES FOR VETERANS FROM THE SBA

August 2 @ 12:00 pm

Did you know that the U.S. Small Business Administration (SBA) has resources and programs for Veterans and the military community? If you are a transitioning or active-duty service member, National Guard or Reserve member, veteran of any era or military spouse, the SBA is here to help. Through training programs, contracting opportunities and access to capital, the SBA is here to help your business start, grow, expand or recover. You can access the SBA’s Veteran resources through the Southern California Veteran’s Business Outreach Center!

CLICK HERE TO REGISTER

Bilingual report — Economic Development Collaborative (EDC) — Employee Retention Tax Credit

Having trouble viewing this email? Click here Para leer este boletín en español, haga clic aquí EMPLOYEE RETENTION TAX CREDIT The Employee Retention Tax Credit (ERTC) is a refundable credit that businesses can claim on qualified wages, including certain health…

Bilingual report — Economic Development Collaborative (EDC) — Loan Opportunity for Businesses

As the region’s largest economic development public-private partnership, the Economic Development Collaborative works with more than 30 professional advisors on contract and a full time loan fund director, available to local businesses at no cost all designed to pair you with the financial expertise and right amount of capital you need to move your business forward.

Having trouble viewing this email? Click here

Para leer este boletín en español, haga clic aquí

Bilingual commentary — Our Aversion to Science

Throughout the history of the world, there have been challenges to classical science. 

It took a couple of centuries for people to embrace Isaac Newton’s heliocentric model, developed in the 16th century, establishing that the sun – and not the earth – was the center of the universe. That the earth was displaced from the center of the universe clashed with the belief that we were “exceptional.” Galileo had proposed this very idea nearly a century earlier, but he recanted when his life was threatened by the Catholic Church.

CSUCI Economics faculty study suggests potential employers may view maternity breaks as unemployment rather than relevant experience

Stay-at-home mothers know their 24/7 unpaid job involves the skills of a nurse, cook, chauffeur, therapist, maid, endurance athlete, logistics expert and, in the case of toddlers—conflict negotiation.

Yet, a study conducted by CSU Channel Islands (CSUCI) Associate Professor of Economics Bryan Tomlin, Ph.D., suggests that employers tend to view time taken off for maternity duties the same way they would view a period of unemployment or any other unexplained gap in a woman’s resume.

Santa Barbara City College seeks public input on five-year strategic plan

Santa Barbara City College (SBCC) seeks the public’s input as it moves forward with its strategic planning process to set goals and priorities for the next five years. The development of a new strategic plan comes at a crucial time for the college, as schools across the country have seen significant changes in how students access higher education and conditions created by the pandemic have revealed a variety of student and community needs in and out of the classroom. SBCC wants to hear from its local students and community members on how to best move forward and meet their needs.

News From Lompoc: New Santa Rita Hills Lavendar Farm Opens This Month in Lompoc

Immerse yourself in lovely fields of scented flowers at the Santa Rita Hills Lavender Farm. Stop by the family-owned farm store for hand-crafted lavender products like bath salts, balsamic vinegar, culinary sugar, and of course, a variety of fresh-cut flowers. The farm also hosts fun and educational events like their lavender wreath-making class.

Bilingual report — COVID-19 & County of Ventura Update

Congratulations to Westminster Free Clinic’s student volunteers for completing over one year of service! The Board of Supervisors recognized the students’ accomplishments at this morning’s meeting. More than 200 high school students participate in WFC’s rigorous two-year program that builds excellent job skills in the health care profession by assisting volunteer medical professionals in the delivery of primary health services to over 12,000 low-income uninsured residents annually.

Museum of Ventura County — Can you bee-lieve it?!

oin us for a celebration of our pollinator pals and their vital role! Volunteers will help kids and adults make their own craft honey bee out of pipe cleaners while beekeepers share fun facts and delicious honey samples. Take part in a bee-themed sing-and-dance-along too!

Also, welcome our new bee colony and browse bee-themed merchandise from local vendors. Check out the ‘Save the Pollinators’ art exhibit by C.R.E.W.’s Green Valley project, and explore our beautiful bee-friendly gardens.

Click here to learn more.

Bilingual report — County of Ventura Public Health Department Confirms First Case of Monkeypox in Ventura County July 22, 2022

Ventura County Public Health (VCPH) officials are investigating the first documented case of Monkeypox in Ventura County, however the risk to general public is still considered low.

VCPH received a confirmed case of Monkeypox virus infection in an adult earlier this morning after testing was completed at a local lab.

VCPH is conducting contact tracing with the patient to identify anyone who may be at risk due to direct close contact with the patient while infectious. People with direct close contact are being asked to watch for symptoms of illness.

Economic Development Collaborative (EDC) — Free Webinar Schedule

BUSINESS RESOURCES FOR VETERANS FROM THE SBA

August 2 @ 12:00 pm

Did you know that the U.S. Small Business Administration (SBA) has resources and programs for Veterans and the military community? If you are a transitioning or active-duty service member, National Guard or Reserve member, veteran of any era or military spouse, the SBA is here to help. Through training programs, contracting opportunities and access to capital, the SBA is here to help your business start, grow, expand or recover. You can access the SBA’s Veteran resources through the Southern California Veteran’s Business Outreach Center!

Ventura County Community Development Corp. Community Matters Newsletter – July 2022

We were thrilled to gather with you and hundreds of other Southern Californians last month! Close to 1,000 individuals registered for VCCDC’s virtual Homeownership Conference this year. It was a day filled with learning, networking and fun. We are so thankful to our Presenting Sponsor, Citibank, for helping us make this event possible for our community. If you missed out on any workshops and panels you can access them on our YouTube page! We have versions in Spanish and American Sign Language.

CSUCI announces new Vice President for Student Affairs

Eboni Ford Turnbow, Ph.D., has been named the next Vice President for Student Affairs at CSU Channel Islands (CSUCI), effective Sept. 12, 2022.

Ford Turnbow comes to CSUCI from Cal Poly Humboldt, where she has served as Associate Vice President & Dean of Students since 2019 as well as Interim Vice President of Enrollment Management & Student Success since June 2022.

CSUCI President Richard Yao, Ph.D., made the announcement this week.

“Dr. Ford Turnbow’s educational background, with graduate studies that included both student affairs and academic affairs perspectives in higher education, has served her well as the enthusiastic, natural collaborator that she has the reputation for being,” Yao said.

Bilingual commentary — Continuation of Attacks on Public Education

As our country tilts menacingly toward a theocratic autocracy, the attacks on our public education system are becoming relentless. In some states, there is a determined effort to infiltrate school boards and administrative posts with supporters of an ultra-conservative, right-wing ideology. A traditionally conservative philosophy in our schools’ governance might be something society could tolerate and even negotiate, but this is different.

In certain states (not so much here in California), there is a troubling Christian nationalist facet of this movement that seems to be working to undermine traditional public education. Curricula and books in public schools are being unmercifully scrutinized. Anything that smacks of “wokeness” is discarded and replaced with a “patriotic” form of education. “Wokeness” is a euphemism for “liberal education,” and “patriotism” is a nefarious euphemism for censorship and distortions of history and science that are destined to warp our students’ understanding of the world and their place in it.

Bilingual report — Covered California Announces 2023 Plan Rates: Lower Than National Average Amid Uncertain Future of American Rescue Plan Benefits

Covered California announced its plans and rates for the 2023 coverage year. The preliminary weighted average rate change is an increase of 6 percent, due in part to the return of a normal medical trend that existed prior to the COVID-19 pandemic, as well as the potential end of the increased and expanded financial help offered to eligible consumers through the American Rescue Plan, if Congress does not extend the law before it expires at the end of the year.

“Covered California’s competitive marketplace continues to hold the line on rates that are well below the national average, keeping coverage within reach and giving Californians new choices,” said Jessica Altman, executive director of Covered California. “However, without an extension of the expanded financial help provided by the American Rescue Plan, Californians will receive less financial help next year and see their monthly payments rise as a result.”

Local Philanthropist Kicks Off ‘Her Legacy’ Through $150K Donation to Girls of Carpinteria

Girls Inc. of Carpinteria has unveiled its plans for the new Lynda Fairly Courtyard, and announced a new investment opportunity called ‘Her Legacy’ that will help ensure its programs continue to flourish and inspire future generations of girls.

Philanthropist and community leader Lynda Fairly recently committed $150,000 to Girls Inc. of Carpinteria to support a total renovation of its outdoor courtyard. The courtyard will be developed into an intentional mixed-use community space, complete with dedicated outdoor classroom areas and an interactive natural playground, in an environmentally conscious and meditative landscape.

Bilingual report — COVID-19 & County of Ventura Update

As of Tuesday, July 19, there have been 1,293 new COVID-19 cases reported and 8,696 new tests completed since Friday, July 15. There are 87 people hospitalized and 7 people in the ICU. There have been 3 new deaths of females ages 86, 87, and 101. We extend our sincere condolences to the family and loved ones of the community members who have passed away.

The R-effective for Ventura County is 1.12, which means that the spread of COVID is likely increasing. The R-effective for California is 1.13.

84.9% of eligible community members (ages 5+) have received a 1st COVID vaccine dose
77.8% of eligible community members (ages 5+) have been fully vaccinated

COVID-19 summary data is now updated Tuesdays and Fridays at www.vcrecovers.org.
Take steps to protect yourself and your family.

Ventura County’s level of COVID-19 transmission is high. Hospitalizations have increased but are not currently overwhelming our hospital systems. Masks are strongly recommended in all public indoor settings in Ventura County.

Quick links:
• Schedule a COVID vaccine or booster appointment at https://myturn.ca.gov/ or call 833-422-4255
• Find a free state testing site: https://www.venturacountyrecovers.org/coronavirus-testing/
• Get the latest on state masking guidance: https://covid19.ca.gov/masks-and-ppe/
• View California’s isolation and quarantine guidance.
• If you are at high risk and test positive, talk to your doctor about accessing treatments. Most state testing sites offer treatments on site for uninsured residents. Access COVID treatment information at https://www.venturacountyrecovers.org/therapeutics/.

Stay up to date at www.vcrecovers.org.

Economic Development Collaborative (EDC) Business Alert — California Competes Tax Credit and Grant Program

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 2022-2023, applications for the California Competes Tax Credit will be accepted during the following periods:

July 25, 2022 – August 15, 2022
January 3, 2023 – January 23, 2023
March 6, 2023 – March 20, 2023

Guest contribution — PODS® Tri-Counties Provides Helpful Tips to Homeowners Moving with Pets

According to Spots.com, 67% of homeowners have pets in America. This is why it is essential to learn how to best transport your pets so their move can be as smooth a transition as yours. PODS® Tri-Counties is making things a little easier for you by providing some simple travel tips to get you going.  

Here are a few tips to help accommodate a pet friendly move: 

Santa Paula Art Museum — Kids’ Craft Camp just added (Ages 8-13) for Aug. 1 through 5

We’ve just added a new week of summer art camp at SPAM’s Cole Creativity Center! Kids’ Craft Camp is all about having fun while getting crafty. Students will learn to use a variety of craft materials for countless creative applications, from clay, fabric, and recycled materials, to a classic favorite—Shrinky Dinks! 

Kids’ Craft Camp is appropriate for children ages 8-13. The cost of the five-day camp is $120.00 per child. All skill levels are welcome and all materials will be provided. Space is limited and preregistration is required.

Bilingual report — Offices and Nomination Period Announced for Nov. 8, 2022 General Election

Ventura County Clerk-Recorder, Registrar of Voters Mark Lunn announced the offices eligible for the upcoming November 8, 2022 General Election. The 2022 General Election is a non-partisan run-off election for the state, federal and county top-two contest finishers who ran in the June 7, 2022 Statewide Direct Primary Election. It is also the regular election for municipal, special district and school district races.

The nomination period for the municipal, special, and school district candidates runs from July 18, 2022, through August 12, 2022. If the incumbent in one of these races does not file by close of business on August 12, the nomination period will be extended an additional five days ending August 17, 2022. It should be noted that newly formed district offices (from previously at-large seats) do not have incumbents and therefore will not have an extension period.

“We are seeing more and more interest in local races in recent years, both from voters and possible candidates,” said Lunn. “We want to make sure anyone interested in running for a city office, school district or a special district is aware that, even though the election isn’t until November, they need to start reviewing the process right away. The deadlines come up quickly.”