Category: Education

April 9 — Museum of Ventura County to present Mariposas del Campo Documentary Screening

by Community Contributor • January 1, 2022 • Comments Off

The Museum of Ventura County will present Mariposas del Campo Documentary Screening from 2 to 5 p.m. Saturday, April 9 at 100 E. Main St., Ventura.

FREE EVENT!

RSVP: https://interland3.donorperfect.net/weblink/weblink.aspx?name=E342153&id=113

Pre-event music with Juan Mendoza and bar will start at 2 pm. Event formally starts at 3 pm.

Mariposas del Campo, an award-winning film by Bill Yahraus and Robin Rosenthal, shares the stories of indigenous Mixtec, Zapotec, and Purépecha teenagers from Mexico striving to change their families’ destinies in the strawberry fields of Oxnard, California. The documentary captures their journeys—with help from the characters’ own intimate videos—as they navigate cultural identity, parental expectations, economic challenges, and the justice needs of their migrant farmworker community. For young people whose lives have always been steeped in uncertainty, it takes a leap of faith to chase a dream.

April 10 — Museum of Ventura County to present Monoprint Workshop with Margaret Garcia

by Community Contributor • January 1, 2022 • Comments Off

The Museum of Ventura County will present Monoprint Workshop with Margaret Garcia from 11 a.m.to 2 p.m. Sunday, April 10 at 100 E. Main St., Ventura.

RSVP: https://venturamuseum.org/event/monoprint-workshop-with-margaret-garcia/

This fundamental monoprint workshop provides the opportunity to be taught by the prolific artists Margaret Garcia and Bonnie Lambert. Students will walk away with the basic knowledge needed to learn how to create their very own monoprints. Students will also be able to walk away with their very own monoprint in hand. Supplies will be provided for the workshop, but it is recommended that students arrive with their own paintbrushes. This class is for anyone 16 years of age and over.

April 18 — UCSB Arts & Lectures presents the founder of Homeboy Industries Father Gregory Boyle on ‘The Power of Extravagant Tenderness’

by Community Contributor • January 1, 2022 • Comments Off

UCSB Arts & Lectures presents Founder of Homeboy Industries Father Gregory Boyle The Power of Extravagant Tenderness on Monday, April 18th at 7:30 p.m. Pacific at Campbell Hall. This presentation is part of the 2021-2022 CREATING HOPE programming initiative and Justice For All series.

Father Gregory Boyle has transformed thousands of lives as the founder of Homeboy Industries, the largest and most successful gang intervention and rehabilitation program in the world.

April 29 — UCSB Arts & Lectures to present Ballet Hispánico Noche de Oro: A Celebration of 50 Years

by Community Contributor • January 1, 2022 • Comments Off

UCSB Arts & Lectures (A&L) presents Ballet Hispánico Noche de Oro: A Celebration of 50 Years, Friday, Friday, April 29th at 8:00 p.m. at The Granada Theatre.

Named one of America’s Cultural Treasures by the Ford Foundation, Ballet Hispánico celebrates Latinx cultures through innovative performances that elevate diverse artists and ignite cultural pride. This 50th anniversary program from the pioneering, New York-based company features Annabelle Lopez Ochoa’s biting, West Side Story-inspired Tiburones. The award-winning Lopez Ochoa, a sought-after choreographer who excels at narrative ballet, has created works for 68 dance companies worldwide. Noche de Oro also includes Gustavo Ramírez Sansano’s 18+1 and Vicente Nebrada’s Arabesque.

May 12 — Housing Trust Fund Ventura County announces California Department of Housing and Community Development Director Gustavo Velasquez to speak at immersive event

by Community Contributor • January 1, 2022 • Comments Off

Housing Trust Fund Ventura County (Housing Trust Fund VC) announced (on April 7) that Housing and Community Development (HCD) Director Gustavo Velasquez will keynote the nonprofit’s signature event – Compassion Campaign 2022 on Thursday, May 12th at Maravilla Gardens in Camarillo.

“We are honored that Director Velasquez sees the work we are doing here in Ventura County to provide safe, equitable homes for all and will be sharing his perspective on the state of affordable housing in California,” said Linda Braunschweiger, CEO, Housing Trust Fund Ventura County.

Aug. 4 — MICOP celebrates Night in Oaxaca 2022

by Community Contributor • January 1, 2022 • Comments Off

On Thursday, August 4th, the Mixteco/Indígena Community Organizing Project (MICOP) will hold its eleventh annual Night in Oaxaca. Night in Oaxaca is a celebration of the indigenous migrant community of California’s Central Coast and MICOP’s largest and most-sought after fundraiser. After two years of virtual programming, we are proud to bring our supporters a hybrid experience, in-person at Olivas Adobe in Ventura and online.

This year we are gathering around the theme of “Fortaleciendo Nuestras Raíces” or “Strengthening our Roots.” Reflecting on the pandemic and our recent growth, Night in Oaxaca will celebrate our indigenous community’s resiliency and rooted connection to our organization. The evening welcomes a diverse crowd of supporters and leaders from across Ventura and Santa Barbara counties. All proceeds fund MICOP’s work of supporting, organizing and empowering indigenous migrant communities of the Central Coast.

Sept. 17 — Santa Paula Art Museum Presents John Galan’s ‘Remedios (Remedies)’

by Community Contributor • January 1, 2022 • Comments Off

The Santa Paula Art Museum presents “Remedios (Remedies),” a solo exhibition by Conejo Valley artist John Galan. With artworks rich in symbolism and vibrant hues inspired by his Mexican heritage, Galan’s exhibit explores the connections between mind, body, nature, and healing. Meet Galan at the show’s premiere on Saturday, September 17, 2022, from 4:00 p.m. to 6:00 p.m. Admission to the premiere is $5 for SPAM members, and $10 for non-members. Wine, beer, and hors d’oeuvres will be served. “Remedios (Remedies)” will be on view at the Santa Paula Art Museum from September 17, 2022, to January 8, 2023.

Sept. 28 — OC Live to present film screening ‘Signing Black in America’

by Community Contributor • January 1, 2022 • Comments Off

Signing Black in America is the second film in the Talking Black in America documentary project. It features the pioneering research on Black ASL by Dr. Joseph Hill (Rochester Institute of Technology), who will join us by zoom to discuss the film and his work. Join us for this fascinating exploration at the cutting edge of ASL research!

Sept. 28 — Economic Development Collaborative (EDC) — Showcasing the International Success of Latino-Owned and Led Businesses

by Community Contributor • January 1, 2022 • Comments Off

September 2022 Edition: Showcasing the International Success of Hispanic-Owned and Led Businesses

Join U.S. Commercial Service for the eighth session of their “From Local to Global: Celebrating Diversity” event series, as they feature a dynamic panel of Latino founders and leaders from Southern California-based companies, who will share how they have successfully grown their businesses internationally.

Learn about the opportunities to seek out, as well as the challenges to avoid as you launch or expand your international business.

Receive information and resources that will help you chart your path to global sales and expansion success.

Wednesday, September 28, 2022 @ 11:00 am

Location: Virtual (WEBEX)

Oct. 5 — OC LIVE to present ‘Flamenco! Music& Dance

by Community Contributor • January 1, 2022 • Comments Off

Celebrate Hispanic Heritage Month with Flamenco! The passionate strumming of guitars, the thundering rhythms created by dancers’ feet striking the stage – this is Flamenco in its pure essence. Bring your flowers, fans and castanets and get ready to yell Olé! as Wendy Castellanos-Wolf and the rest of Flamenco805 set the stage on fire with their entrancing movements and heart-wrenching expression.

Through Oct. 21 — Javier Zamora to be Keynote Speaker at Moorpark College for Undocumented Student Action Week

by Community Contributor • January 1, 2022 • Comments Off

Award-winning author Javier Zamora will discuss his new memoir, “Solito,” on Oct. 19 at noon as part of Moorpark College’s Undocumented Student Action Week, Oct. 17-21. The hour-long Zoom event is free to students and the community.

“We are excited to have Javier Zamora as the keynote speaker for Undocumented Student Action Week this year,” said Alex Yepez, Moorpark College counseling services specialist and Dreamers support lead. “Javier’s story and experiences reflect those of many of our undocumented student population at Moorpark College. It is critical to host a speaker such as Javier to validate and lift up the experiences of our students, especially in this current political climate.”

Oct. 23 — Santa Barbara Museum of Art to present ‘Day of the Dead’ Free Family Day

by Community Contributor • January 1, 2022 • Comments Off

The Santa Barbara Museum of Art will present its Free “Day of the Dead” Free Family Day from 11 a.m. to 4 p.m. Sunday, Oct. 23 at 1130 State St., Santa Barbara.

For the 33rd year, the Museum honors the Mexican tradition of remembering the dead with a display of altars created by students in the Museum’s school and outreach programs and local community groups, including San Marcos High School, Montecito Union School, Quilt Project Gold Coast, SBMA’s Partnership with A-OK After-School Program (multiple schools), and SBMA’s ArtReach program (multiple schools).

Through Oct. 23 — Moorpark College Theatre Arts Celebrates Latinx Heritage Month with ‘Electricidad’

by Community Contributor • January 1, 2022 • Comments Off

“Electricidad,” an urban Chicano drama set in East Los Angeles, comes to the Moorpark College Performing Arts Center with an all-Latina/Latino student cast. The Theatre Arts department production premieres during Latinx Heritage Month and runs Oct. 13 – 23, with evening performances Thursdays through Saturdays and Sunday matinees.

The Oct. 15 performance will include a meet-and-greet with the cast after the show and free tacos from Epic Taco food truck. The special event coincides with the end of Latinx Heritage month and is sponsored by Moorpark College’s Heritage Month Committee.

“The cast and crew will take the audience on a magnificent journey where they will experience a part of Mexican-American culture that is not often discussed or portrayed,” said Jorge Herrera, C.Phil., who served as the cultural consultant for the production to ensure its cultural authenticity. Herrera is a professor of ethnic studies at California State University, Fullerton, and teaches ethnic studies courses at Oxnard and Moorpark colleges.

Oct. 30 — Museum of Ventura County to present Día de los Muertos Celebration at The Agriculture Museum in Santa Paula

by Community Contributor • January 1, 2022 • Comments Off

We are thrilled to partner once more with the Santa Paula Art Museum and Pierce Brothers Cemetery to present a community-wide celebration of Dia de los Muertos for the city of Santa Paula! As one of three celebration sites located in the city, the Agriculture Museum will host cultural dance performances, display ofrendas created and contributed by people in the community, and provide fun craft activities and face-painting. We will also be serving horchata and have pan de muerto!

Dec. 6 — Community Environmental Council Climate Action Webinar: ‘How the Momentum of Recent Climate Policy is a Win For You’

by Community Contributor • January 1, 2022 • Comments Off

The Community Environmental Council Climate Action Webinar: “How the Momentum of Recent Climate Policy is a Win For You,” will be held at 1 p.m. Tuesday, Dec. 6 via Zoom.

Want to know why the recent wave of federal and California climate legislation is so exciting – and how it can help your pocketbook? Join us to learn how these tremendous policy developments are catalyzing climate momentum like never before. Better yet, get the inside scoop on how they will help you maximize savings on energy upgrades with the latest local, state, and federal consumer tax credits and rebates. Ask your burning questions, and get inspired by the wave of climate progress on the horizon!

Dec. 7 — UCSB Arts & Lectures presents Mariachi Sol de México

by Community Contributor • January 1, 2022 • Comments Off

CSB Arts & Lectures will present Mariachi Sol de México at 7 p.m. Wednesday, Dec. 7 at the Arlington Theatre, 1317 State St., Santa Barbara.

“Mariachi is the heart, the soul and the passion of Mexico.” – José Hernández

One of the world’s foremost mariachi groups, Mariachi Sol de México incorporates elements of Las Posadas alongside traditional Christmas carols in this festive musical tribute to Mexico’s holiday traditions. Get tickets for Mariachi Sol de México on Dec 7, 2022 at Arlington Theatre in Santa Barbara. Presented by UC Santa Barbara Arts & Lectures — artsandlectures.ucsb.edu

Museum of Ventura County — Last chance as we move into 2022…

by Community Contributor • December 29, 2021 • Comments Off

Dear Friend of the Museum,

If you have already made a contribution to the Museum of Ventura County –

THANK YOU VERY MUCH for your support!

If you haven’t, please consider that a gift can help us serve this community with:

Virtual and in-person school tours
Free events
Virtual and in-person discussions and interviews
Historical articles, lectures and videos
Exhibits
Support programs
Free admission to both sites
and much much more!

Oxnard College Named 2021 Equity Champion of Higher Education

by Community Contributor • December 23, 2021 • Comments Off

The Campaign for College Opportunity named Oxnard College a 2021 Equity Champion of Higher Education for its Excellence in Transfer for Latino students through Associate Degrees for Transfer (ADT). Oxnard College, which has a predominantly Latino student body, offers 31 ADT programs covering a wide range of subject areas. These programs meet minimum eligibility requirements for admission to a California State University and guarantee students’ acceptance.

The college’s Latino students obtain ADTs at a rate 2.3% higher than the campus-wide average, reported the California-based nonprofit that advocates for equity in higher education.

“Oxnard College’s efforts to increase transfer rates among Latino students will help lift a generation of families into Ventura County’s middle class,” said Oscar Cobian, vice president of student development. “We’re committed to providing the transfer services and resources our students need to achieve their educational aspirations.”

The college has been a Hispanic-Serving Institution since its inception in 1975. In 2020, it received a $3 million grant from the U.S. Department of Education to increase equitable student outcomes among Latino and low-income students as they pursue their career and transfer goals.

Community Environmental Council Increases Impact With New Staff

by Community Contributor • December 23, 2021 • Comments Off

The Community Environmental Council (CEC) is pleased to announce the addition of new staff members who are meeting this urgent moment in the climate crisis. Each new member represents strengthened resilience within the organization and in the climate work at hand.

Bilingual report — Submissions now accepted for participation in March 1-31 virtual ‘Women Scream Festival’ (Grito de Mujer)

by Community Contributor • December 22, 2021 • Comments Off

Submissions are now being accepted for participation in the March 1-31 virtual ‘Women Scream International Poetry and Arts Festival’ (Grito de Mujer), said Simi Valley resident Teresita Calderón, poet, a writer, and a volunteer coordinator for the Woman Scream International Poetry and Arts Festival.

Born in the Dominican Republic, The Woman Scream Poetry Festival is an annual international chain of cultural events during March that compiles all arts and unifies diverse voices of the world against women violence. It has been celebrating since 2011.

Santa Paula Art Museum — You’re Definitely on Our Nice List!

by Community Contributor • December 22, 2021 • Comments Off

Happy holidays to you and yours from all of us here at the Santa Paula Art Museum. Our partners at Boys & Girls Club of Santa Clara Valley helped to get us in the spirit with their recent Christmas cactus art project! (Our museum educators teach weekly art lessons at the club’s three sites in Santa Paula, Fillmore, and Piru.)

Thank you for making partnerships and programs like this one possible in 2021. Here’s to a new year full of art, joy, and trips to the Museum! Speaking of, check out our upcoming classes and 2022 exhibition lineup below.

The Santa Paula Art Museum will be closed on Christmas Eve, Christmas Day, New Year’s Eve, and New Year’s Day, but will be otherwise open as usual (face masks are required).

Bilingual report — County of Ventura Dec. 22, 2021 – COVID-19 Update

by Community Contributor • December 22, 2021 • Comments Off

Wishing our community a safe, happy and healthy holiday season! We are grateful for our healthcare heroes who are still in the midst of battling the virus and caring for seriously ill patients. May we all take actions to protect ourselves and each other.

Ventura County Community College District Elects New Board Officers

by Community Contributor • December 22, 2021 • Comments Off

The Ventura County Community College District Board of Trustees elected longtime Trustee Dianne B. McKay as board chair during the District’s Annual Organizational Meeting on Dec. 14. The board elected Trustee Stan Mantooth as vice chair and Chancellor Greg Gillespie as secretary.

McKay and Mantooth will continue to work with Trustees Josh Chancer, Bernardo M. Perez and Gabriela Torres in conducting board business and reviewing and adopting policies that regulate activities in the District and its colleges in Moorpark, Oxnard and Ventura. Student Trustee Bryan Rodriguez, a political science major at Ventura College, will continue to advocate for the District’s approximately 31,000 students. The board of trustees is elected in even-numbered years to four-year terms by Ventura County voters. The student trustee is elected annually through a district-wide student election.

Museum of Contemporary Art Santa Barbara — ’tis the season of giving!

by Community Contributor • December 22, 2021 • Comments Off

You’re the reason we are looking so merry and bright!

Thank you all for supporting contemporary art and the artists whose passion compels them to create. It is you who challenges our team to bring our best selves in service to our visitors and our community.

We were inspired by so many enthusiastic visitors and supportive collaborators this year. Looking back brings as much wonder as it does gratification. Just take a look at our very first Earth Day Mural – it still takes our breath away!

The team at Museum of Contemporary Art Santa Barbara (MCASB) is working on some truly fantastic exhibitions, events, travel, and educational programs for 2022. MCASB prioritizes accessibility for all, and maintains a steadfast commitment to free admission.

Please consider a year-end donation, which allows us to continue to bring you awe-inspiring, thought-provoking, and beautiful encounters with the art of our time. Our work is only possible because of your support.

Museum of Ventura County — There’s even more we have to give, for free!

by Community Contributor • December 22, 2021 • Comments Off

MVC Insider Season 3
Episode 1: Erle Stanley Gardner
Starting Friday, January 24, 2022 @ 10am
Fridays @ 10am on Facebook Live

We are officially back with Season 3 of “MVC Insider”! Join us on Facebook Live for the first episode of MVC Insider this Friday, December 24, 2022 at 10am! Mark your calendars and tune-in on Facebook Live for the next five Fridays at 10am.

Krystell Jimenez, Project Archivist, uncovers relics from the John C. Orr Collection pertaining to the prolific novelist and Ventura County native Erle Stanley Gardner who wrote the popular Perry Mason series

Economic Development Collaborative (EDC) — Sales and Use Tax Exclusion Program for Manufacturers

by Community Contributor • December 22, 2021 • Comments Off

Sales and Use Tax Exclusion (STE) Program, from the California Alternative Energy and Advanced Transportation Financing Authority, excludes from sales and use taxes purchases of Qualified Property:
if its use is either to process Recycled feedstock or using Recycled feedstock in the production of another product or soil amendment, or
that is used in an Advanced Manufacturing process, or
that is used to manufacture Alternative Source products or Advanced Transportation Technologies.

Eligible manufacturers planning to construct a new manufacturing facility or expand or upgrade a currently existing manufacturing facility may apply to CAEATFA for an STE award, and if approved, the purchases of Qualified Property for the project are not subject to state and local sales and use tax.

Esmeralda Juarez, Ventura College Foundation’s Weekend Marketplace Supervisor, Named A Ventura Chamber Hometown Hero During Annual Poinsettia Awards

by Community Contributor • December 21, 2021 • Comments Off

Esmeralda Juarez, Ventura College Foundation’s Weekend Marketplace supervisor, was named a Ventura Chamber of Commerce 2021 Hometown Hero during the chamber’s annual Poinsettia Awards Ceremony December 9.

Juarez, who has worked at the Marketplace for 20 years, was honored for her leadership that enabled the Marketplace to remain open and serve the community during the pandemic. For over 35 years, residents have relied on the Marketplace for their everyday goods and fresh produce. The Marketplace also generated almost 100 percent of the operating revenue of the Ventura College Foundation through vendor rental income. When the county shut down on March 13, 2020, the Marketplace closed, leaving the community without an open-air fresh food and goods market and the Ventura College Foundation with only three months of operating cash.

SBCC uses federal stimulus funds to erase student debt and offer direct support

by Community Contributor • December 21, 2021 • Comments Off

Since last August, approximately 1,800 Santa Barbara City College students have received a form of debt relief, and an opportunity to pursue and complete their educational goals, thanks to SBCC’s Fresh Start Initiative and the federal Higher Education Emergency Relief Fund (HEERF).

HEERF funds were allocated to institutions to support students with immediate needs related to the COVID-19 pandemic. One way that SBCC met those needs was by creating the Fresh Start Initiative, allocating $1 million to go directly to students with outstanding balances. Through the initiative, students enrolled in Spring 2020 through Spring 2021 terms impacted by the COVID-19 pandemic were provided with funds to pay off their entire outstanding balance. In addition, students who left SBCC prior to the pandemic who are attempting to re-enroll – and find themselves challenged by COVID-19 related circumstances and restricted from registration due to a pre-pandemic balance – were also provided with Fresh Start monies.

UCSB — The Current — ‘Sending our warmest season’s greetings and happiest holiday wishes’

by Community Contributor • December 21, 2021 • Comments Off

We’ll meet you back here Tuesday, January 4, 2022, when the Current email returns with more research news, features and other campus stories to share.

The Expectation of Happiness and Joy are Part of the Paradox of This Holiday Season

by Community Contributor • December 20, 2021 • Comments Off

The holiday season is upon us, and for many it’s not the happiest season of all.

While celebrations can bring positive feelings like love and connection, according to the American Psychological Association, 38% of Americans say their stress actually gets worse during the holidays, bringing about negative emotions like fatigue, anger and irritability, which can lead to physical illness, depression, anxiety, and substance abuse. The reasons given: lack of time, financial pressure, gift-giving, and family gatherings. And, even after the holidays, many experience a feeling of general disappointment and “let down”.

“One of the most beneficial things we can do leading into the holiday season is to reassess our expectations–our expectations of ourselves, and our expectations of others. This will create a more realistic foundation from which to move forward through the season,” said Annmarie Cameron, CEO of the Mental Wellness Center.

Economic Development Collaborative (EDC) — Free Webinar Schedule

by Community Contributor • December 20, 2021 • Comments Off

The Economic Development Collaborative encourages you to sign up for our partner’s no-cost webinars. Space is limited. Register today!

SBCC — SBCC Board of Trustees elects new officers for 2022

by Community Contributor • December 18, 2021 • Comments Off

At its regular monthly meeting on Dec. 16, 2021, the Santa Barbara City College District Board of Trustees elected Kate Parker as president of the Board for the 2022 calendar year. Jonathan Abboud was elected Board vice president.

President Parker joined the Board in December 2018 and represents Area 7 (Santa Barbara). Born in the Philippines, Parker moved to the Santa Barbara area in 1977 and attended schools in Carpinteria before heading to UC Berkeley for her undergraduate degree. After receiving her bachelor’s degree, she returned to Santa Barbara in 1992, where she and her husband raised three children. She was elected to the Santa Barbara Unified School District Board of Education in 2006 and served three terms working on behalf of local children and families. Kate received her master’s degree in Library and Information Science from San Jose State University in 2015 and served as the library director at Cate School in Carpinteria. She is dedicated to advancing educational opportunities for learners of all ages, and particularly for first generation college students.

Consulado de Mexico en Oxnard — 2022 Mexico/United States Teacher Exchange Program

by Community Contributor • December 18, 2021 • Comments Off

2022 Mexico/United States Teacher Exchange Program

Planned Parenthood San Luis Obispo Health Center Goes Solar

by Community Contributor • December 18, 2021 • Comments Off

Planned Parenthood California Central Coast celebrated its first solar electric system at its San Luis Obispo health center, as part of a regional plan to increase its reliance on renewable energy sources. The system is expected to net $250,000 in financial savings over the next 30 years. The project was part of CEC’s Solarize Nonprofit program and was made possible by support from Asteri Solar.

CEC’s Solarize Nonprofit pilot program is designed to help local nonprofits go solar and run off renewable energy without an upfront cost. The program grew out of CEC’s residential Solarize program, which has helped 858 homeowners go solar. The installation at Planned Parenthood was completed in partnership with CEC, funded by Asteri Solar, and installed by local company Solarponics Energy Management Systems.

People’s Self-Help Housing — Got 5 mins? Build a Home for the Holidays!

by Community Contributor • December 18, 2021 • Comments Off

Each year, our tradition has been to brighten the season with a heartfelt craft for you and your loved ones to make together.

This year’s card represents some of the 5,000+ people who call People’s Self-Help Housing home.

Please enjoy, and thank you for all your support!

Bilingual report — County of Ventura Dec. 17, 2021 – COVID-19 Update

by Community Contributor • December 17, 2021 • Comments Off

Since Wednesday, there are 329 new COVID-19 cases reported and 15,732 new tests performed. There are 75 people hospitalized, 13 in the ICU. There have been 2 additional deaths of a 41 year old male and a 96 year old male. Our sincere condolences to the family and loved ones of the community members who passed away. The R-effective for Ventura County is .96 which means the spread is likely stable.

Get vaccinated at a site near you: www.vaccines.gov.
Find a COVID testing site at www.vcrecovers.org/testing
The County of Ventura’s indoor mask order remains in effect

CSUCI Nursing alumnus saves the life of a mother of two

by Community Contributor • December 16, 2021 • Comments Off

CSU Channel Islands (CSUCI) Nursing alumnus Claire Gillette had just finished a 12-hour shift in the emergency room at Los Robles Regional Medical Center in Thousand Oaks, and she was exhausted. Did she have enough energy for a yoga class before going home?

“I work night shift and I never take that class after a shift because I’m tired, and it’s hot yoga with weights,” Gillette said. “But there was a spot open in the class and I thought ‘I’m feeling into the weights.’”

Had Gillette not joined the class on that particular day, and had she not been prepared with nursing skills she learned at CSUCI, the husband and two sons of Erika Cole, 44, would be spending the holidays without her.

“Claire is the only reason I’m alive today,” Cole said.

Economic Development Collaborative (EDC) Business Alert — Ways to Market Your Business During the Holidays

by Community Contributor • December 16, 2021 • Comments Off

The Holiday Season is here! The Economic Development Collaborative (EDC) would like to share some ways small businesses can boost their sales during the holidays and ways you can support local businesses this year.

3 Top Ways to Help Boost Your Small Business Holiday Sales

UCSB — The Current — ‘A Call to Action’ and more news

by Community Contributor • December 16, 2021 • Comments Off

An exhibit at the library brings to life the public experiences of COVID-19 and Black Lives Matter.

Livingston Memorial — Grief Support during the Holidays

by Community Contributor • December 15, 2021 • Comments Off

It’s that time of year when the expectations we place on ourselves can be unrealistic, especially when faced with the absence of a loved one. Livingston Memorial’s Grief and Bereavement Program can offer compassion and understanding during this difficult time of year. Livingston offers multiple support groups that focus on restorative activities, seeking meaning and purpose, identifying changes to self, and receiving support in making life good again.

December News from People’s Self-Help Housing

by Community Contributor • December 15, 2021 • Comments Off

As I reflect over the course we’ve navigated through 2021 together, this has been a year of tremendous progress. Thank you for your gracious and resilient support, we are more grateful than ever to have been so deeply engaged with you. The mission of providing new affordable homes, preserving others, and increasing services to those in most need continues to be a heavy lift, but one made possible because of your partnership.

Bilingual report — Dec. 15, 2021 – COVID-19 Update

by Community Contributor • December 15, 2021 • Comments Off

Ventura County Public Health will begin offering residents two $25 gift cards ($50) who get a second COVID vaccine dose starting December 14, while supplies last. Residents receiving a first dose will continue to receive one $25 gift card. View Public Health’s vaccine sites here. Shout out to our awesome nurses Ruby (left) and Mallory (right), for their service to our community!

Economic Development Collaborative (EDC) — New Masking Requirements for Businesses

by Community Contributor • December 15, 2021 • Comments Off

Centers for Disease Control and Prevention:
On July 27, 2021, the Center for Disease Control and Prevention (CDC) issued new masking guidance for fully vaccinated individuals in substantial or high transmission areas. This information can be tracked HERE.

NEW California Department of Public Health:
On December 13, 2021, the California Department of Public Health (CDPH) updated their Guidance for the Use of Face Coverings, requiring universal masking indoors, irrespective of vaccine status, statewide from December 15, 2021 to January 15, 2021.

Boys & Girls Clubs of Greater Conejo Valley Announces New Board Member: Judith Sánchez López

by Community Contributor • December 15, 2021 • Comments Off

The Boys & Girls Clubs of Greater Conejo Valley (BGCGCV) is excited to announce its newest board member, Judith Sánchez López.

López has over 30 years of experience as an expert in cosmetics and as a high-level executive. She is skilled in leading sales teams in her previous role as Sales Division Manager, now supervising the corporate brand as the Chief Marketing Officer for JAFRA Cosmetics Int’l. She strives to nourish brand relevancy and inspire the brand’s consumers and consultants alike.

United Way of Ventura County — United in compassion

by Community Contributor • December 15, 2021 • Comments Off

Earlier this month, I celebrated my seventh anniversary with United Way of Ventura County.

Since I started in 2014, our organization has navigated many changes. We moved to a new office in Ventura, took on multiple disaster response and recovery efforts, developed a program to house the homeless in our community, and now we’re helping our neighbors through the pandemic.

Through it all, we’ve remained remarkably resilient. But the source of our resilience is people like you, who care so deeply about your fellow community members. Your generosity and caring inspire us throughout the year.

It’s truly an honor to lead this incredible team, to serve those in need, and to help improve the conditions for all in community. We strive to lead with compassion and unity, rather than division. It’s the United Way.

Museum of Ventura County — Stuff. Those. Stockings

by Community Contributor • December 14, 2021 • Comments Off

We are so excited to present our fun new Museum gift shop items, including one of a kind puzzles with rare historical images from the Research Library! If you’re a fan of Arte Para la Gente: The Collected Works of Margaret Garcia come get your own magnet with her beautiful artwork on it. Popular as ever are our MVC paintbrush pens, collect all four! Find these special items at the Museum of Ventura County or the Agriculture Museum in Santa Paula, while supplies last. Both Museums are open from Thursday-Sunday 11am-5pm.

Data study measures how CSUCI students with disabilities fared with all-virtual learning

by Community Contributor • December 14, 2021 • Comments Off

An in-depth research projected conducted at CSU Channel Islands (CSUCI) this year showed how well students with disabilities fared during virtual learning brought on by the COVID-19 pandemic, and indicated what needs still needed to be addressed.

The project, called “Exploring Service Allocations and Student Success for CI Students with Disabilities Before, During, and After Virtual Instruction Due to COVID-19,” was part of an ongoing program run by the CSU Chancellor’s Office called the Data Analytics Certificate Program. Out of all 23 campuses, the Chancellor’s Office highlighted CSUCI’s data research study as one of the top three projects.

“We were able to put together an incredibly rich data set,” said CSUCI Director of Disability Accommodations & Support Services (DASS) Michelle Resnick, who led the project. “This rich data set tells a lot of story and there is the potential to really drill down and see what needs to be done.”

Grand Re-Openings At Simi Valley and Yarrow YMCAs

by Community Contributor • December 14, 2021 • Comments Off

The Southeast Ventura County YMCA is celebrating a re-opening and major improvements to its Simi Valley branch and the re-opening of the Yarrow Family YMCA in Westlake Village. Tours, kid fun, entertainment, food and other activities will take place Saturday, January 8 at the Simi Valley Family YMCA (3200 Cochran St., Simi Valley) and Saturday, January 22 at the Yarrow Family YMCA (31105 Thousand Oaks Blvd., Westlake Village). Celebration hours are 1:00 p.m. to 4:00 p.m. both days. Free tacos will be served while they last.

Improvements at the Simi Y include an additional group exercise and fitness studio, a small-group training studio, remodeled locker rooms, new equipment, new paint, flooring and energy-efficient lighting. “It’s been years since the Simi Y had these kinds of upgrades,” says Ronnie Stone, President/CEO of the Y. “They were needed to better serve the Simi Valley community.”

UCSB — The Current — ‘Ancient Acid Taste Receptors’ and more news

by Community Contributor • December 14, 2021 • Comments Off

Anindya Ganguly and Craig Montell identify and characterize a sour receptor conserved from fruit flies to humans.

Economic Development Collaborative (EDC) — Free Weekly Webinar Schedule

by Community Contributor • December 13, 2021 • Comments Off

SCORE VENTURA COUNTY: MINDFULNESS FUNDAMENTALS FOR SMALL BUSINESS OWNERS AND STAFF

December 14 @ 10:30 am

In this practical, interactive session, Amy Saltzman M.D. will show you how mindfulness and self-compassion practices can support you during this unusual and stressful time.

CLICK HERE TO REGISTER

Newest members bring financial and economic development expertise to the CSUCI Foundation Board

by Community Contributor • December 13, 2021 • Comments Off

The CSU Channel Islands (CSUCI) Foundation Board is welcoming two new members with a wealth of experience in banking and community investment opportunities.

The two new members are New Capital LLC Chief Executive Officer Beatriz Olvera Stotzer of Los Angeles and Montecito Bank & Trust Senior Vice President and Director of Community Banking Cari Shore of Ojai.

Interim President Richard Yao, Ph.D., said he is excited to welcome two such accomplished leaders in the community and looks forward to working with them both.

“We are fortunate to have these two innovative and entrepreneurial women join our board,” Yao said. “They not only bring incredible talent, experience and thought leadership to the Foundation, but also are deeply connected in our region and are committed to our mission as a University and to the work of the Foundation Board.”

Bilingual report — Dec. 13, 2021 – COVID-19 Update

by Community Contributor • December 13, 2021 • Comments Off

Since Friday, there are 381 new COVID-19 cases reported and 16,256 new tests performed. There are 50 people hospitalized, 10 in the ICU. There have been 2 additional deaths of males ages 54 and 83. Our sincere condolences to the family and loved ones of the community members who passed away. The R-effectivefor Ventura County is 1.12 which means the spread is likely increasing.

Find a COVID testing site at www.vcrecovers.org/testing. The modified holiday schedule for state testing sites is now available.

Boosters are now available for 16- and 17-year-olds. Find a vaccine site at www.vaccines.gov.

Ventura County Office of Education — Responding to Social Media Threats and Bullying

by Community Contributor • December 13, 2021 • Comments Off

Across the country and here in Ventura County, schools are seeing a concerning increase in students making inappropriate and potentially dangerous posts to social media, particularly on Instagram. These posts have included threats of violence and embarrassing pictures of students and staff members who didn’t know they were being photographed. In some cases, students create accounts that fraudulently appear to represent their school.

First confirmed case of Omicron COVID-19 variant identified in Ventura County

by Community Contributor • December 13, 2021 • Comments Off

The County of Ventura Public Health Department has received confirmation of its first case of COVID-19 with mutations consistent with the new Omicron variant (B.1.1.529). The individual, who is a fully vaccinated adult, is self-isolating, and their symptoms are improving without medical care. A small number of close contacts have been identified and, to date, all have tested negative and have no symptoms. The contacts have been asked to follow the quarantine protocol.

“Throughout the pandemic, we have always known there would be more mutations, resulting in the possibility of a more transmissible variant than the Delta variant,” said Public Health Officer Doctor Robert Levin. “While we can’t know for certain the impact of Omicron at this time, the good news is that we already know how to reduce transmission and slow spread. I encourage community members to take the steps that we know offer protection, including getting vaccinated, completing your vaccination series, or getting boosted, getting tested and staying at home if you feel sick or are a close contact, and wearing your mask indoors and at large mega events.”

Bilingual report — Dec. 10, 2021 – COVID-19 Update

by Community Contributor • December 10, 2021 • Comments Off

The generosity of County employees on full display in Downtown Ventura! Big shout out to all county agencies that helped build a forest of trees contributing to Food Share of Ventura County’s Can Tree Build today! A heartfelt thank you to Food Share all volunteers that make this effort possible. All hands on deck to make sure no family goes hungry this season and throughout the year!

Bilingual report — Teatro de las Américas — ¡Feliz Navidad y próspero Año Nuevo!

by Community Contributor • December 9, 2021 • Comments Off

What joy we feel sending you Holiday Greetings. We hope you pass these festive days happy and in good health.

Here goes a report for the years 2020 and 2021.

UCSB — The Current — A Winning Dance of Liquids

by Community Contributor • December 9, 2021 • Comments Off

Researchers take the top award from the American Physical Society for their video capturing the beauty of fluid dynamics.

Bilingual report — Ventura County ranked fourth county in the nation in securing FEMA funding for pandemic response

by Community Contributor • December 8, 2021 • Comments Off

The Federal Emergency Management Agency (FEMA) ranks Ventura County fourth in the nation for securing funding for COVID-19 response. “The County took an aggressive approach in seeking FEMA reimbursement for the County’s $104 million in costs associated with our community-based testing and vaccine efforts in 2020. This approach was an administratively arduous task; however, the benefit was that it allowed our County to maximize the investment back into the community with more than $150 million in local assistance,” said County Executive Officer Mike Powers.

FEMA’s Public Assistance program provides grants to government following a presidential disaster declaration to quickly respond to and recover from major disasters or emergencies. The process to obtain grants is extensive.“It is outstanding. It really says something about our staff that they were able to do the extra work to make this happen. It certainly paid off for members of our community,” said Chair of the Board Supervisor Linda Parks.

People’s Self Help Housing — Got 5 mins? Build a Home for the Holidays!

by Community Contributor • December 8, 2021 • Comments Off

Each year, our tradition has been to brighten the season with a heartfelt craft for you and your loved ones to make together.

This year’s card represents some of the 5,000+ people who call People’s Self-Help Housing home.

Please enjoy, and thank you for all your support!

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