Category: Education

Today — United Way of Ventura County’s 2022 Stuff The Bus Campaign

Today is United Way’s Day of Action!

You can participate by joining United Way of Ventura County’s 2022 Stuff the Bus campaign!

Provide essential school supplies for local students experiencing homelessness. 

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. 

Because of the economic impact of the COVID-19 crisis, we know that the need for support among homeless families has increased greatly. So your help is needed this year more than ever.

Please help fill the backpacks by supporting our online Roonga school supply campaign.

Cal Lutheran Upward Bound gets $3.6M. Largest-ever award will expand college-prep efforts

The U.S. Department of Education awarded California Lutheran University more than $3.6 million to continue and expand its TRIO Traditional Upward Bound services for high school students in Oxnard, Hawthorne and Lawndale.

The five-year grants comprise the largest amount Cal Lutheran has ever received for its program, which for 42 years has been motivating and preparing low-income and potential first-generation college students to continue their education beyond high school.

A $2,138,500 grant will allow the university to serve 89 students a year from Oxnard’s public high schools, and a $1,488,000 award will fund its work with 60 students a year from Hawthorne and Leuzinger high schools in Los Angeles County.

SBCC appoints new Vice Presidents of Academic Affairs and Student Affairs

At their meeting on June 16, the Santa Barbara Community College District Board of Trustees announced that María L. Villagómez has been selected to serve as the new Vice President of Academic Affairs, and Paloma Arnold has been selected as the new Vice President of Student Affairs.

After a competitive screening and interview process for both positions, Interim Superintendent/President Dr. Kindred Murillo shared the news with SBCC faculty and staff, saying, “As we transition from an executive vice president structure to having two vice presidents – one over academic affairs and the other over student affairs – we are so pleased that María, a recognized leader and innovator with over 28 years of leadership experience, and Paloma, who has worked at SBCC for more than 20 years and led a variety of student services over the years, will work closely together in ways that will best serve our students.

Economic Development Collaborative (EDC) — Free Webinar Schedule

SBA: CELEBRATE PRIDE WITH SBA AND JWBC

June 21 @ 9:30 am PST

Join the SBA North Florida District Office (NFDO) and JWBC as we recognize and celebrate Pride Month, by delivering key information that will benefit future and existing small business owners at no cost! The U.S. Small Business Administration (SBA) network for LGBTQ+ Businesses aims to bring focus on economic empowerment in the LGBTQ+ business community by providing access to SBA’s programs and services and recognizes the importance of greater inclusion at all levels and in all communities. Discussions will include a local business owner from the LGBTQ+ business community and resources available to launch and take your business to the next level through the SBA North Florida District Office, SCORE Jacksonville & JWBC. There will also be resources that support LGBTQ+ communities available to connect with. If you plan on attending this free virtual event, you must register, to save your virtual seat!

CLICK HERE TO REGISTER

This Week at the Museum of Contemporary Art Santa Barbara

Artist Talk | Lum Art Magazine Conversations | DJ Javier & Ryan P. Cruz

Thursday, June 23 | 5:30-6:30 PM
MCASB, 653 Paseo Nuevo
 

Join us for a FREE talk with artist DJ Javier and writer Ryan P. Cruz, as they discuss breaking through the noise in visual art and journalism, respectively, and the cultural contexts that have informed their work. Two Santa Barbara natives, both under 31, Javier and Cruz are part of the new crop of creatives that are helping to shape contemporary culture in the area.   

This talk is inspired by the feature “Ba’hala ‘na: DJ Javier” published in the latest Lum Art Magazine, and written by Cruz, Lum Arts Writing Fellow.

Debra Herrick, Lum Editor-in-Chief, will moderate.

One Week to Go for VCCDC 10th Annual Homeownership Virtual Conference

It’s time to stop procrastinating and get registered because our Homeownership Conference is officially ONE WEEK AWAY!

Introducing our Homeownership Conference host…David Cruz! Vice President for Salem Media Group since Dec. 2020 representing the Los Angeles Metropolitan Area, David has over 25 years in broadcast journalism.

CSUCI free Juneteenth presentation on June 21 will detail how enslaved people fought to free themselves

The Juneteenth federal holiday celebrates African American history, culture, and the abolition of slavery in the United States. President Abraham Lincoln signing the Emancipation Proclamation into law on January 1, 1863 is central to the celebration as it declared enslaved people as free, but we should not forget how much the enslaved people did to free themselves.

That’s the theme of “Juneteenth: A Freedom Celebration,” a free public Zoom presentation sponsored by the CSU Channel Islands(CSUCI) Osher Lifelong Learning Institute (OLLI). On Tuesday, June 21 at 1 p.m., University of Maryland Professor of History Richard Bell, Ph.D., an expert on slavery in America, will discuss Juneteenth and how the enslaved people had to fight for their own freedom before and after the Emancipation Proclamation.

“We associate Juneteenth with Abe Lincoln and the Emancipation Proclamation, but to the confederacy, it was just a piece of paper,” Bell said. “They didn’t’ recognize the paper or Lincoln as their president. Freedom had to be seized.”

Santa Paula Art Museum — Learn From the Masters

Lessons from the Masters (Ages 16+) [ONLINE]

Tuesday, June 14, 21, 28, 2022, from 6 PM to 7:30 PM

$50 for three sessions

Online-only

What makes a masterpiece? How do historic artists continue to inflluence contemporary art, and what makes their art so timeless? Join veteran landscape painter Sharon Weaver online to learn the secrets of some of her favorite landscape masters, including Jessie Arms Botke, Marion Kavanagh Wachtel, and Edgar Payne.

VCCCD Board of Trustees Approves New Chancellor Contract and Honors Retiring Chancellor

The Ventura County Community College District board of trustees approved the new chancellor contract for Dr. Rick MacLennan during its regular meeting on June 14. The board also honored Chancellor Greg Gillespie, who is retiring at the end of the month, with a resolution and short reception. In addition, the board swore in and seated Azure Heirshberg as VCCCD Student Trustee, and Gillespie presented the annual State of the District report to the board.

“When Chancellor Gillespie started in this position in 2017, no one knew the challenges that would come before him. He navigated them with steady leadership and focus. The equity and parity initiatives he implemented have been integrated into our colleges’ practices and procedures,” said Board Chair Dianne McKay.

“We are confident that Dr. MacLennan’s experience will bring a fresh perspective to the District while continuing to strengthen our proven pathways to success for our students, classified staff and faculty,” added Vice Chair Stan Mantooth.

10th Annual Ventura County Farm Day Seeks Sponsors

VENTURA — The 10th annual Ventura Farm Day, set for Saturday, November 5, is seeking sponsors. During Farm Day, more than 14 Ventura County farms and agricultural businesses open their doors and invite the public to learn how their food is…

Guest contribution — PODS® Local Provides Simple Tips for DIY Home Improvement

DIY home improvement projects are on the rise, and more homeowners are learning how to save money by renovating their homes without a paid professional. While these improvements can save homeowners money, it can get a bit overwhelming as well. PODS® Local is offering a few helpful tips to help ensure your project is both cost-effective and seamless. 

Bilingual report — County of Ventura June 15, 2022 update

The Progress Pride Flag was raised on June 8, 2022, at the County Government Center in support of the LGBTQ+ community. Each June, cities, and counties throughout the United States come together to celebrate LGBTQ+ Pride Month to acknowledge the courage and history of the LGBTQ+ community and promote equal rights for all.

Bilingual report — Medi-Cal Expansion of Healthcare Coverage for Older Adults Now in Effect

CenCal Health, the community-accountable health plan on the Central Coast, announced that residents of Santa Barbara and San Luis Obispo counties who are 50 years of age or older may qualify for full scope Medi-Cal benefits, regardless of their immigration status. Effective May 1, 2022, this initiative is the result of a new law in California that expands eligibility for the state’s low-income health insurance to individuals who are 50 years of age or older, regardless of citizenship or immigration status. Medi-Cal eligibility is determined by each county’s Department of Social Services, with health plan benefits for Santa Barbara and San Luis Obispo counties’ residents administered by CenCal Health.

Summer Enrichment Workshops At Yarrow Family YMCA

The Yarrow Family YMCA (31105 East Thousand Oaks, Blvd., Westlake Village) is holding summer enrichment workshops for kids ages five to 11 years old that offer programs focusing on sports, dance, cheer/gymnastics and musical theater.

Registration is underway for the July cheer/gymnastics and musical theater workshops. Kids in the cheer/gymnastics workshop learn cheers and cheer dance routines along with introductory tumbling and gymnastics. Musical theater workshop participants learn songs and choreography from some of the top Broadway musicals while working on their acting skills.

In August, a sports workshop and a dance workshop will be offered along with a second round of cheer/gymnastics and musical theater sessions. The sports workshop will focus on increasing skills in soccer, basketball and flag football. The dance workshop will have children working on dance techniques for ballet, jazz and hip hop.

Economic Development Collaborative (EDC) Free Webinar Schedule

VENTURA COUNTY SCORE: QUICKBOOKS ONLINE AND BEST ACCOUNTING PRACTICES: AN OPEN TOPIC INTERACTIVE SESSION

June 14 @ 10:30 am

This live, interactive webinar session is designed to help you understand the features, functions and benefits of QuickBooks Online for small business owners as well as assist you in implementing accounting best practices to manage your business finance. This webinar will concentrate on setting up QuickBooks Online for your business. Juliana Ramirez from JR Bookkeeping will live answer your questions related to the subject matter including live demonstrations.

CLICK HERE TO REGISTER

Dr. César Morales Elected as Ventura County Superintendent of Schools

For the first time, Dr. César Morales has been elected by voters as Ventura County Superintendent of Schools. He was initially appointed to the role in 2021 by the Ventura County Board of Education to fill the vacancy left by the retirement of former Superintendent Stan Mantooth. Upon his appointment, Dr. Morales made history by becoming the first Latino and first person of color to hold the office since it was created in 1873. Dr. Morales ran unopposed in yesterday’s primary election. His new term will run through 2026.

“I’m extremely gratified to have the opportunity to serve as Ventura County Superintendent of Schools for the next four years,” Dr. Morales said. “As local schools deal with declining enrollment and issues surrounding school safety and student mental health, my office will be at their side to find solutions and strategies that best meet students’ needs.”

Bilingual commentary — Spanish, Arabic, and Chumash Influences in the Ojai Area

Last week I was studying a map, looking for hiking trails in the Ojai area. As my eyes wandered across the map of the region, I randomly noted the various paths, highways, streets, communities, and cities in this part of Ventura County. Something caught my attention: a community labeled as “Ojala,” north of the city of Ojai and near Lake Matilija, just off Highway 33. 

Those of us who speak Spanish are very familiar with the language’s most aspirational word: Ojalá. It is a magical word with deep roots in the history of Spain. It sounds very “Arabic” because in fact it is derived from an Arabic expression for hope and longing (inshallah, or ma sha alla), which translates as something along the lines of “God willing,” or “should God will it.”

CSUCI named a Tree Campus USA for the 10th year in a row

Because of its ongoing commitment to the 1,579 trees and about 90 species on campus, the Arbor Day Foundation has named CSU Channel Islands (CSUCI) a Tree Campus USA for the 10th year in a row.

CSUCI is among 411 campuses across the nation to earn the Tree Campus USA distinction for their work in 2021. The annual recognition is for campuses whose members develop and maintain a healthy tree canopy and create programs to make the tree population sustainable.

“Trees not only play a vital role in the environment but also in our daily lives,” said Dan Lambe, chief executive of the Arbor Day Foundation. “Having trees on college and university campuses is a great way to show a commitment to students and faculty’s overall well-being.”

805 Ag Kids Announces Expansion, Partnership with Local Businesses & Media

805 Ag Kids announces the expansion of its nonprofit organization to now include support for local Ag kids in San Luis Obispo and Santa Barbara counties, in addition to continuing their fundraising efforts in Ventura County.

805 Ag Kids is a 501c3 nonprofit organization focused entirely on supporting the next generation in Agriculture in San Luis Obispo, Santa Barbara, and Ventura counties. Powered by volunteers and fueled financially by local organizations, businesses, foundations and corporations, 805 Ag Kids is a grassroots community group dedicated to continuity of local Ag-related organizations and programs for thousands of local kids in our communities, providing direct financial assistance, no-interest loans, scholarships, gifts, and grants to participating members of 4-H clubs, FFA chapters, Grange organizations, and Independent exhibitors.

Ventura College Foundation Confers Board Emeriti Status On Ruth Hemming, Ed.D. and Donna Santo, Esquire

VENTURA — The Ventura College Foundation Board of Directors conferred Board Emeriti status on Ruth Hemming, Ed.D., and Donna Santo, Esquire for their years of leadership and service to thousands of students and alumni of Ventura College. Both served on the…

VCCU partners with Premier America Foundation to support financial literacy

Ventura County Credit Union and Premier America Foundation are partnering to bring financial education to teenagers through a series of local classes. This new program will give young people in Ventura County the opportunity to learn money management basics that will help them build a healthy financial future. 

“Financial literacy makes a huge difference for young people as they begin their adult lives,” said Edith Campa, VCCU’s financial inclusion and education manager. “This program will provide an excellent foundation by introducing important financial topics, and giving teens an opportunity to practice the skills they’ve learned through a fun, hands-on simulation with real-life scenarios.”

First District Supervisor Das Williams — Vote by 8pm tonight in the California Primary Election!

There are many important races in today’s California Primary Election that need your vote to ensure a good candidate moves on to November but also critical local County races that will be decided TODAY!

We have statewide offices at the top of the ballot, including Governor Gavin Newsom, who successfully defeated a recall attempt last year but needs your vote again today to stay in office. Additionally, my former colleague and friend, appointed Attorney General Rob Bonta is facing tough opponents from the right-wing and critically needs your support to stay in office. Lastly, you will need to vote for Senator Alex Padilla twice – once to move on to November for the new Senate term starting next year and a second time to keep him in the seat through the end of this year. That second vote is a nuanced one and critical to ensure we don’t have a Republican take over that seat for the rest of the year, altering the makeup of the Senate. 

County of Ventura COVID-19 & County Update

It’s election day! Voting centers are open today until 8:00 pm. Visit www.venturavote.org to find a voting center or ballot drop box. Shout out to the many county election workers supporting the 2022 CA primary election! 

Aspen Institute Names Moorpark College a Top 10 Finalist for the 2023 Aspen Prize

After multiple rounds of vetting community colleges nationwide, Moorpark College has been named to the elite group of top 10 finalists for the 2023 Aspen Prize for Community College Excellence, the Aspen Institute announced today. Started in 2010, the $1 million Aspen Prize is the nation’s signature recognition of community colleges that are achieving high, improving, and equitable outcomes for students.

The Aspen Institute worked with an expert data panel to craft a formula to assess student outcomes at nearly 1,000 community colleges in key areas such as retention, completion, transfer, and equity. Based on those data, 150 top community colleges were invited to apply; 109 applications were received.

Economic Development Collaborative (EDC) — Free Webinar Schedule

VENTURA COUNTY SCORE: PANEL DISCUSSION: FUNDING YOUR FRANCHISE AND LEGAL ASPECTS TO CONSIDER

June 8 @ 10:30 am

Have you ever thought about owning your own business, but were worried about legal and liability issues? What are the funding options available in today’s lending climate? This casual panel discussion featuring a franchise consultant, a small business attorney and a funding expert will answer your burning questions. SCORE’s goal is to help you gain an understanding as to whether entrepreneurship makes sense for you, to understand the unique legal requirements for franchisors and franchisees in California and to gain insight into funding strategies for your business.

CLICK HERE TO REGISTER

People’s Self Help Housing — Celebrating NeighborWorks Week 2022

Join us in celebrating NeighborWorks Week! During this time, NeighborWorks organizations around the country celebrate the successes of their local communities and see how we can work together build stronger neighborhoods. By empowering people to achieve their goals – such as make their community safer, find and maintain secure housing, and ensure financial stability – leads to thriving, healthier communities.
 
With the support of NeighborWorks America, People’s Self-Help Housing has helped empower communities throughout the Central Coast by: 
Bringing the stability and wealth-building opportunities of homeownership to 1,200+ households
Serving 5,000+ residents with compassionate property management and supportive services
Providing 200+ dedicated team members with reliable, respecful employment

California Rural Legal Assistance Inc. (CRLA) provides free civil legal services to low-income residents of California’s rural counties

California Rural Legal Assistance Inc. (CRLA) provides free civil legal services to low-income residents of California’s rural counties, including free-of-charge expungement services to the residents of Ventura County in partnership with McGuireWoods LLP and Bank of America. 

Services may include:

• Reduction of a conviction • Dismissal of a conviction

Inspiring Stories of Ventura County’s 2022 High School Graduates

Students graduating this year have had more than half of their high school experience impacted by the pandemic. In addition to the regular pressures of adolescence, they’ve experienced the stresses associated with school closures and quarantines and the debates over masking and vaccinations. They’ve also missed out on all types of activities, from dances to sporting events to school plays. 

I want to acknowledge the amazing work of our teachers, administrators and school staff, who have helped guide students through these turbulent times. I also want to express my gratitude to the parents, relatives and community members who have so admirably supported our students and schools these past few years.

The pandemic has taken a toll on mental health that schools are working hard to address. But it has also shown us how incredibly strong and resilient students can be. Many have not only survived the pandemic and their own personal challenges but are thriving as they journey into life after high school. In our annual year-end edition of Focus on Education, I am honored to share of few of the inspiring stories from members of the Ventura County Class of 2022.

Dr. César Morales

Ventura County Superintendent of Schools

CSUCI building to be renamed to honor President Emeritus Richard R. Rush

A building that sits at the heart of the CSU Channel Islands (CSUCI) campus – University Hall – will be renamed Richard R. Rush Hall in honor of President Emeritus Richard R. Rush.

Rush became president of the 23rd and newest campus in the CSU system in June of 2001 and retired in 2016. He first welcomed students and the campus community to CSUCI in 2002 and laid the groundwork for success that the institution has realized and continues to realize today.

The announcement was made during the CSU Board of Trustees Open Session the morning of May 24 during a meeting of the Committee on Institutional Advancement. Before putting the action item to a vote, Trustee Douglas Faigin said he was personally thrilled to see his good friend receive a well-deserved honor.

“The accomplishments during his tenure were significant, which included establishing an array of public partners that helped to raise nearly $49 million in contributions to support student scholarships and help launch programs to better serve regional needs,” Faigin said. “As the founding president, he established the vision and direction of the campus with a clearly-stated focus on students and their success.”

Bilingual commentary — Gun violence is a public health crisis. A preventable one

Every day in America, there is senseless gun violence. Shootings in our homes, places of worship, schools, and on our streets repeatedly threaten our health and safety. No one is immune to the impact.

We, the physicians, care teams, and staff of Kaiser Permanente, see firsthand the devastating aftermath of gun violence and bear witness to the intergenerational trauma that has both short- and long-term effects on physical and mental health.

Through the Kaiser Permanente Task Force on Firearm Injury Prevention, established in 2018, we are supporting research studies and testing firearm screening tools and counseling interventions that focus on how physicians and clinicians can help prevent firearm injuries. This is important work, and yet it is not enough.

Museum of Ventura County — Your donation to MVC makes a real difference

he Museum of Ventura County and the Agriculture Museum are poised to move into a new era of exhibits, programs, and education, and we need your support to do so.

As a community, we are in an exciting time, a time when coming together in-person safely is happening again. In the coming weeks and months, your Museums in Ventura and Santa Paula will be presenting compelling new programming and events.
We are proud of the recent impact made during closures and limited openings, and excited about where we are headed, with your help:
?
Admission is now FREE at both locations and will continue to be, with your support
Increased focus on enrichment activities for children and families
New exhibits in every gallery at the Ventura location, beginning in May/June
MVC Education Programs now present education tours in-person or virtually
The MVC 3rd campus – venturamuseum.org – will continue to offer new content regularly, including videos, articles, blogs, puzzles, and over a thousand new digitized photos in 2022
Thank you for your support of MVC throughout these trying times. We are counting on you as we enter this next exciting chapter in the life of our region’s pre-eminent cultural institution. It is only through your sustaining generosity that we can continue to provide the relevant, stimulating, thought-provoking, inspiring, and compelling programming that nourishes this community.

Family Service Agency Fundraiser Calls Attention to the Youth Mental Health Crisis

On May 12, 150 guests filled the Santa Barbara Woman’s Club at Rockwood on to gain insight about youth mental health and raise funds for Family Service Agency (FSA) of Santa Barbara County, which includes the Santa Maria Valley Youth & Family Center, and Guadalupe’s Little House by the Park. Another 80 people participated in a free online simulcast. The event raised more than $147,000 to support programs for underserved children, families and seniors.

After an outdoor reception with music and appetizers, FSA’s CEO, Lisa Brabo, opened the program and captivated the audience with a story about a foster-care student, Angelica, who struggled with depression and low self-esteem.

“Through twice-weekly meetings with an FSA therapist, Angelica worked through her experiences, building coping skills and slowly learning to trust others,” relayed Brabo. “She recently reunited with her mother and both are invested in repairing their relationship.”

Meet the 2022 Ventura County Teacher of the Year

Dr. César Morales, Ventura County Superintendent of Schools, is pleased to announce that Shannon Klemann from Adolfo Camarillo High School (ACHS) in the Oxnard Union High School District (OUHSD) is the 2022 Ventura County Teacher of the Year. Klemann and her students found out about the honor today when local school administrators made a surprise visit to her classroom.

Klemann is a veteran educator who has taught in OUHSD schools for 23 years. She currently teaches biology in grades 9 through 12 at ACHS.

VCCCD Honors Nearly 5,300 Graduates in the Class of 2022

The excitement was palpable and the cheers enthusiastic as 5,286 students from Moorpark College, Oxnard College and Ventura College received their associate degrees and certificates at last week’s commencement ceremonies. Held at each college on May 19 or 20, these were the first in-person commencements since 2019 due to the COVID-19 pandemic. 

Across the Ventura County Community College District, the class of 2022 earned 7,443 associate degrees and 4,286 certificates. Students often earn multiple degrees and certificates, which they will take with them as they transfer to four-year colleges or universities or launch their careers.

“Whether you’re graduating as a Moorpark College Raider, Oxnard College Condor or Ventura College Pirate, your dedication and hard work has helped you achieve this accomplishment. On behalf of VCCCD faculty, classified staff and administrators, thank you for your commitment to your education,” said Chancellor Greg Gillespie.  “We appreciated the opportunity to support you throughout your educational journey,”

Museum of Ventura County — We are deeply grateful for you

The Museum deeply appreciates these thoughtful gifts of tribute
that sustain the legacy of the Museum’s mission.

The following individuals have chosen to celebrate the legacy of friends and family members through a gift of remembrance or honor in their name to
the Museum of Ventura County.

Bilingual report — Ventura County Public Health Shares Guidance to Navigate the U.S.’ Infant Formula Shortage

There continues to be a shortage of infant formula nationwide due to supply chain issues and a recall of infant formula due to bacterial contamination in the Abbott manufacturing plant in Michigan. The federal government is currently working on strategies to increase production of formula and help families access existing stock.

Compared to other states California is faring better, but the shortages are still of concern.

Babies need the right balance of nutrients- not too much or too little of anything-to grow and be healthy. It is important for your baby’s health to use products that meet federal standards to ensure the formula is safe and free of harmful bacteria.

First District Supervisor Das Williams — Gun Violence, Broadband, Bunnies and more

In the wake of such recent tragedies, Supervisor Gregg Hart and I have co-sponsored a resolution for Wear Orange 2022. We will be presenting the resolution to Moms Demand Action at a press conference in honor of recent tragedies and we will be honoring survivors. Details below.

Tuesday, May 31 · 10 am
On the Front Steps of the Santa Barbara
County Administration Building
105 E. Anapamu Street

This week in Uvalde, Texas, a gunman shot and killed 19 children and one educator at an elementary school. In the United States, going to school has become more deadly than serving in the active military. Here, gun violence is the leading cause of death for children and teens.

Not drownings. Not car accidents. Guns.

On Tuesday, May 31 at 10 am, volunteers with the Santa Barbara Chapter of Moms Demand Action will gather at the front steps of the County Administration Building to accept the resolution. Joining us will be a spokesperson from Congressman Salud Carbajal’s office and Senator Monique Limon’s office. Press and the public are welcome to join us as we honor the lives of those senselessly taken from us, and offer data-driven solutions for preventing further tragedies from occurring.

ABOUT WEAR ORANGE Wear Orange began on June 2, 2015 – what would have been Hadiya Pendleton’s 18th birthday. Her friends honored her by wearing orange after she was shot and killed. Today, Wear Orange honors Hadiya and the more than 100 Americans shot and killed every day.
Learn more at https://wearorange.org/

Bilingual report — CenCal Health to Provide $200K in Funding for Adolescent Family Life Planning

CenCal Health, the community-accountable health plan on the Central Coast, is funding the expansion of critical resources for expectant and parenting teens in Santa Barbara County. The $200,000 contribution to CommUnify will allow its teen pregnancy support program to roughly double in size, increasing the number of unduplicated participants from 30+ to approximately 60 during the program year. This expansion will also help to open up the program’s geographic range beyond Santa Maria to serve residents across Santa Barbara County, including Lompoc and other communities in south county. 

CommUnify’s Adolescent Family Life Planning (AFLP) program provides case management  support for expectant and young parents – primarily mothers – aged 12 to 21.

Bilingual commentary — “Parental Rights” and Public Education

Beware the impending chaos in our schools.

As conservative politicians make inroads to our local governments, they will be charged with the political duty of acquiescing to parents who demand “control” over school boards and other educational entities. Ostensibly, parents on the far right of the political spectrum want to ensure that their children are taught only what are deemed to be “American” or “Christian” values. Unfortunately, this is often code for the elimination of lessons and discussions that investigate our troubled racial history. Anything that barely grazes age-appropriate matters of sexuality will also be off the table. 

California State Assembly Advances Gun Violence Prevention Package in Wake of Uvalde, TX School Shooting Tragedy

In the wake of another tragedy and inaction at the national level, the Assembly Wednesday advanced a package of six gun violence prevention bills to the Senate, signaling California’s commitment to doing everything possible to take action where the federal government is not.

The group of six Democratic lawmakers – Asm. Mike Gipson (D-Carson), Asm. Buffy Wicks (D-Oakland), Asm. Steve Bennett (D-Ventura), Asm. Kevin McCarty (D-Sacramento), Asm. Brian Maienschein (D-San Diego), and Asm. Jesse Gabriel (D-Woodland Hills) – together brought their bills to a vote on the Assembly Floor. The Members expressed impassioned frustration with Congress’s failure to act on the issues of gun control and gun violence prevention, and emphasized the corresponding need for California to recommit itself with urgency to the fight.

“Our number one job as legislators is to keep our communities safe — and on the issue of gun violence, our federal lawmakers are failing horrifically” saidAssemblymember Buffy Wicks. “While we have strong gun violence prevention laws here in California, there’s still so much more that can be done. We must do everything in our power under state law to strengthen protections for our communities, and be an example for other state legislatures to take action where our federal policymakers are not.”

Ventura County Community Development Corp. — 17 years in a garage and now HOME

It’s easy to get overwhelmed by all of the obstacles that loom ahead of a home purchase and too often we count ourselves out of the possibility of becoming homeowners one day. Yet in 2016, the Torres Family decided that they were going to try. It wasn’t an easy start. Mayra Torres, mom of three, had to resort to gathering coins from their money jar to afford a babysitter while they attended their first Homebuyer Workshop with VCCDC. They started from the very beginning; learning how to budget and starting the slow process of building up their credit score. Last month, after diligently working for almost 6 years (and many many homeownership coaching sessions later), the Torres Family moved out of the garage they had been living in for 17 years and closed on their very own home purchase.

“A week before we closed our purchase, we went to see the house [for our final inspection] and I remember I went to the yard which has fruit trees and I picked up a lemon and I brought the lemon home. When I cut the lemon, it was so emotional because this was a lemon that is mine, I don’t have to buy it at the store. It is so amazing to have a place that you can say is yours.” – Mayra

Pictured: the Torres Family in their new kitchen

The Torres Family will be sharing their journey at this year’s conference. Don’t let the mountain of obstacles stop you from starting your homeownership journey. The dream really can become your reality.

Economic Development Collaborative (EDC) — Honoring Asian American, Native Hawaiian, and Pacific Islander Heritage Month

The Economic Development Collaborative would like to recognize National Asian American, Native Hawaiian and Pacific Islander (AANHPI) Heritage Month. Observed annually in May, AANHPI Heritage Month is a time to reflect upon and celebrate the remarkable role of the AANHPI community in our nation’s history. To commemorate AANHPI Heritage Month, the Small Business Administration highlights resources, funding, and training available to all AANHPI-owned small businesses and entrepreneurs.

The EDC is proud to support our community by providing professional technical assistance through our Small Business Development Center. Our NO-COST advising areas include:

Museum of Ventura County — Fascinating new events at the Museum

VUSD Districtwide Student Art Show – Opening Reception

June 2nd from 5-8pm at the Museum of Ventura County

Free

This juried art show will highlight our incredibly talented high school, middle school and elementary school student artists. In total, over 50 works by high school students have been selected from hundreds of submitted pieces: including watercolors, photography, acrylic paintings, mixed media, and pencil drawings.