The Mountain Fire began in the Somis area on November 6, 2024, and has since expanded to other cities. If you or your business are affected, resources are listed below.
County Specific Resources
Ventura, Santa Barbara and Los Angeles counties have not declared any disasters. For updates, check your county’s website below.
County of Ventura, click here
County of Santa Barbara, click here
County of Los Angeles, click here
Dear Ventura County Community Foundation Family,
Our hearts are with all those who have been impacted by the Mountain Fire. We are working closely with our partners to help ensure that your community foundation is doing all it can to support those most impacted. As the situation continues to develop, we will be in touch with you to keep you informed of how we can all best help.
VENTURA — The City of Ventura invites residents to spread holiday joy by participating in the annual Santa to a Senior program. This year’s program begins accepting gifts November 14 through December 11, 2024, and seeks to brighten the holiday season for local seniors, aged 60 and above, who are connected to the Ventura Avenue Adult Center’s Senior Nutrition Program.
The Santa to a Senior program specifically supports seniors who receive daily meals through the center’s in-person dining service or homebound meal delivery. For many participants, this program is a cherished highlight of the season, offering a chance to receive thoughtful gifts and feel connected to the community during the holidays.
VENTURA — Ventura County Election Night Semi-Official Results for the Nov. 5, 2024 Presidential General Election were posted on VenturaVote.org at 1:50 a.m. this morning, November 6, along with a link to the Secretary of State’s Semi-Official Results for the State of California.
The Ventura County Election Night results include vote by mail ballots received and processed before Election Day, in-person ballots cast during early voting, and non-conditional and non-provisional in-person ballots cast on Election Day.
VENTURA — The Ventura County Air Pollution Control District is issuing an Air Quality Alert because unhealthy conditions exist.
Smoke from the Mountain Fire is causing the Air Quality Index (AQI) to fall in the unhealthy range for everyone in Oxnard and Camarillo. Smoke and ash from wildfires contain very small particles that can harm the lungs and heart.
The district issues Air Quality Alerts when the AQI has reached or is forecast to reach an unhealthy level for all. A lower AQI can affect sensitive groups. This includes children, older adults and people with heart disease or respiratory conditions such as asthma, chronic obstructive pulmonary disease and emphysema.
The alert is in effect until conditions improve.
SANTA BARBARA — Get ready for an unforgettable musical experience as Mariachi Garibaldi de Jaime Cuéllar takes the stage for three free community performances in Santa Barbara County. The performances are a part of ¡Viva el Arte de Santa Bárbara! (Viva), a program dedicated to celebrating Latin America’s vibrant cultural heritage.
Have you heard the buzz about Teatro De Las Americas’s spectacular production of Nos Traen Cortitos 2024? It’s an event you absolutely can’t miss! Secure your seat today by grabbing your tickets online. Join us for an unforgettable experience!
VENTURA — ¡Las increíbles mariposas monarcas han vuelto! ¡Tal vez las has visto buscando plantas de néctar por aquí en el Condado de Ventura!
Muchos conocen los famosos santuarios de las mariposas monarcas en los Estados de Michoacán y México, que dan refugio a millones de mariposas monarca cada invierno en los bosques de oyamel, pero sabías que otra población de monarca, la mariposa monarca del oeste, ¿pasa el invierno en la Costa de California?
“With significant experience in the public sector as well as the nonprofit sector across several counties, Kimberlee brings a unique perspective and proven leadership to the role of Homeless Solutions Director,” stated Dr. Johnson. “Her commitment to innovative solutions has earned her recognition as a leader in the field, demonstrating her ability to drive impactful change. We are confident that her expertise will pave the way for transformative initiatives that will positively impact inflow and outflow of unhoused individuals and create significant impact on addressing homelessness in our county.”
SANTA PAULA — On Friday, November 1, 2024, the Santa Paula Police Department launched “No Shave November” to support local charities that assist with those battling cancer. Police officers are growing their facial hair to help “grow” cancer awareness. The Santa Paula Police Officers Association (SPPOA) is coordinating this campaign, receiving donations from all Police Department employees in order to participate. The fundraising campaign will finish at the end of the month. Employees will be allowed to grow their facial hair fully and neatly trimmed over the next few months.
Whenever we talk with children, including our own, we might find ourselves asking some version of the question, “So, what do you want to be when you grow up?” Sometimes their answers are confident and run the gamut, from astronaut to teacher to police officer to biochemical engineer and everything in between. Others have no idea what they want to pursue, which is perfectly normal and healthy.
VENTURA — In 2013, Sarah Karapetyan, an ultrasound technician at Kaiser Permanente Woodland Hills Medical Center, discovered a lump in her breast. This discovery led to a breast cancer diagnosis, prompting her to take a 14-month leave from her job in the radiology department. Her treatment included a double mastectomy, follow-up surgery, reconstruction, and five months of chemotherapy.
During her treatment, Karapetyan learned about a new ultrasound technician position in the Breast Center at Woodland Hills Medical Center. This role was dedicated to working with patients referred for sonography and biopsy of breast lumps. Despite her ongoing battle with cancer, she applied for and was selected for the job.
As children of all ages prepare for and look forward to “trick or treating” this Halloween, many parents are rightfully asking themselves how they can ensure that their little ghosts and goblins will be safe and sound during this upcoming festive holiday.
Dr. Patricia De La Riva, a pediatrician with Kaiser Permanente Woodland Hills/West Ventura Service Area, encourages parents to make lasting memories with their children. However, she notes it’s also important to remember there are important avoidable safety hazards lurking that can result in injury and illness.“A good start is to make sure your children are up to date with their vaccines, such as those that protect against pertussis given the recent rise in cases, and vaccines that help to prevent influenza and Covid-19 infection,” she said. Additionally, Dr. De La Riva addressed several scary health issues parents should be aware of to ensure their little munchkins have a safe and happy Halloween.
Mariachi Camarillo
Saturday, Nov 2, 2024 at 6:30 PM
Oxnard Performing Arts Center
We are so proud to be a part of the free Dia de Los Muertos celebration hosted by the Oxnard Performing Arts Center this Saturday! Don’t miss Mariachi Camarillo, brought to you by the Ventura Music Festival, from 6:30 – 8:00pm.
Learn More – OPAC
VENTURA — At the Board of Supervisors meeting on Tuesday, October 29, the County of Ventura celebrated 28 dedicated employees for their remarkable commitment to public service across various county agencies. This quarterly ceremony is a highlight of the County’s Employee Continuous Service Recognition Program, honoring those who have devoted 25 years or more to enriching the lives of Ventura County residents. Their unwavering service exemplifies the spirit of community and dedication that defines Ventura County.
Need a low-interest personal loan with the potential for a full refund of the interest you pay*?
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We can help you with both!
Are you ready to take charge of your financial future? With VCCDC’s Advancing Communities Program, you can access a low-interest personal loan of up to $2,500 and gain essential financial management skills! Plus when you make your payments on time and you complete the required classes and financial coaching, interest paid, will be refunded at the end of the loan term!
It has been an exciting month! We broke ground on Calle Joaquin Apartments in San Luis Obispo and marked the Grand Opening of People’s Place in Santa Paula. To learn more about these properties, visit pshhc.org/rental-pipeline.
VENTURA — The Ventura Police Department is proud to announce it has received a grant from the California Office of Traffic Safety (OTS) to support its ongoing enforcement and education programs to help reduce the number of serious injuries and deaths on our roads.
“Securing this grant is a game-changer for our efforts to enhance our traffic enforcement efforts and improve road safety,” said Sergeant Mark Knackstedt. “With a focus on high-risk areas, education, and fostering safe habits, we aim to reduce dangerous driving behaviors, prevent crashes, and make our roads safer for everyone.”
DOD, CMTC AND CASCADE: CMTC & CASCADE CYBERSECURITY TRAINING SERIES: MODERN FIREWALLS
October 29 @ 10:00 am
With support from the DoD, CMTC and CASCADE offer a series of no-cost Cybersecurity Trainings for executives, operations and IT. Starting September 19th and ending November 5th, the trainings will be delivered on Tuesdays and Thursdays @ 10:00 AM – 12:00 PM PT. Each of the 14 trainings will focus on a specific cybersecurity topic.
CLICK HERE TO REGISTER
VENTURA — The Ventura City Council has appointed Javan Rad as its new City Attorney at its meeting on October 8, 2024.
“Javan stood out among a highly qualified pool of candidates, demonstrating exceptional experience, extensive knowledge, and strong leadership qualities,” said Mayor Joe Schroeder. “The City Council is confident that Javan is the right person to guide the City Attorney’s Office into the future.”
VENTURA — On Friday, Oct.18, the County of Ventura and the Hospital Association of Southern California (HASC) hosted the inaugural State of the Hospitals event geared towards industry and community leaders, to present the current challenges hospitals and health care delivery systems are facing and highlight the innovation and achievements of our local hospitals. The free, informative event featured the participation of executive leadership across the six acute care hospitals in Ventura County: Adventist Health, Community Memorial Hospital, Dignity Health – St. John’s Hospital, Los Robles Health System, Ventura County Medical Center, and Vista Del Mar.
Booking your tickets for our upcoming events has never been easier! Visit our website now to quickly secure your seats for an unforgettable experience. Don’t miss out—book your tickets online today!
Warm regards,
Teatro De Las Americas
UPLIFT CENTRAL COAST REGIONAL PLAN PART II REPORT
Uplift Central Coast submitted the Regional Plan Part II, a comprehensive report to the State of California, in September 2024. The report identifies impactful, equitable ways to improve the local economy, dives deep into research findings and identifies strategies.
View the report HERE
Summary Reports
Executive Summary Report CLICK HERE
Community Summary Report CLICK HERE
Alondra Gaytán began her career with the Economic Development Collaborative (EDC) in 2014 and currently serves as the Director of Strategic Relations, overseeing vital relationships with EDC’s partners and stakeholders. During her tenure as Client Services Manager, Alondra successfully managed a team of 60 business advisors, focusing on strategies for client retention, engagement and advisor recruitment. Recognizing her leadership and contributions to the business community, she was honored as one of the Pacific Coast Business Times’ “40 under 40” in 2022. In addition to her professional achievements, she is actively involved in the community, serving on the board of Bell Arts Factory. Alondra is also a part of the Ventura County Leadership Academy (VCLA) Cohort XXX, where a new, diverse group of emerging leaders participates in a nine-month program designed to explore key issues shaping Ventura County.
VENTURA — Whether you send in your vote by mail ballot or go to a vote center to vote in person, the time is NOW to make your voice heard for the November 5th Presidential Election.
More than a half-million ballots were mailed to Ventura County registered voters in early October. At the same time, the Elections Office at the Ventura County Government Center in Ventura opened for early in-person voting. This week, beginning Saturday, October 26, an 11-day vote center will open in each city in the county, allowing additional opportunities for early voting. More than forty more vote centers open beginning November 2. Vote Centers are open every day through Election Day, and you can visit any location in the county.
SANTA BARBARA — CenCal Health, the local Medi-Cal health plan serving nearly 240,000 members in Santa Barbara and San Luis Obispo counties, announced its commitment to a $6 million investment to support access to healthcare through the newly developed Medi-Cal Capacity, Access and Workforce Development Grant Program. The investment is intended to expand capacity through strategic funding aimed at healthcare provider recruitment, workforce training and education, and overall provider practice support. Aligned with the needs identified in the latest Community Assessment Reports for Santa Barbara County and San Luis Obispo County, this 3-year grant program, beginning January 2025, will focus on behavioral health, pediatrics and primary care, and specialty care services. CenCal Health partners with over 5,000 physicians, hospitals, and other providers in delivering health care services to its members.
“Our Building & Safety Division is highly encouraging homeowners, contractors, and developers to “Go All-Electric” with new construction projects,” said Ruben Barrera, Building & Safety Director. “Using electric appliances and equipment rather than natural gas will reduce greenhouse gas emissions from your building’s heater, water heater, kitchen range, and other appliances and equipment. Going “All-Electric” better aligns our communities with the County’s greenhouse gas reduction strategies identified in our Climate Action Plan.”
VENTURA — Michelle Ascencion, Ventura County Clerk-Recorder & Registrar of Voters, announced the launch of Election Smart! and the Election Smart! Blog, a new online resource at VenturaVote.org, to help provide Ventura County voters with accurate, official information about local elections and the upcoming November 5, 2024 General Election. Election Smart! is part of the Registrar of Voters’ commitment to increase transparency around election laws and procedures while countering the spread of misinformation during election season.
Registrar Ascencion’s larger efforts in public outreach began with the Election Education Series, a four-part series presented from October 2023 to February 2024. The series covered different election topics, such as running for office, election integrity and security, and the unique features of Presidential primaries. Videos of the presentations are accessible on the Election Smart! page.
SANTA MARIA — Allan Hancock College reached a historic milestone with the provisional approval from the California Community Colleges Chancellor’s Office for its Bachelor of Science (B.S.) degree in Applied Professional Studies. Provisional approval means the program has cleared key initial requirements and is one step closer to being finalized.
This milestone represents a significant achievement in the college’s ongoing commitment to providing affordable and accessible higher education to Central Coast students. Hancock could begin offering the four-year degree to students as early as the fall of 2026 if final approval is granted.
VENTURA — National Teen Driver Safety Week is October 20-26 and the Ventura Police Department urges parents and caregivers to talk with their teens about the rules of the road and how safe driving saves lives.
Car crashes are a leading cause of death for teens aged 15-18 years old in the United States. According to the National Highway Traffic Safety Administration, there were 2,514 people killed in crashes involving a teen driver in 2022. In California, young drivers were involved in nearly 12% of all fatal crashes in 2022, despite accounting for only 5% of all licensed drivers in the U.S.
VENTURA COUNTY — The Ventura County Computer Basics program has been transforming lives by providing essential digital skills to over 450 participants to date. The program was launched by the Economic Development Collaborative (EDC) to train and empower individuals underserved by current upskilling opportunities and who have little to no experience with computers, enabling them to confidently navigate the digital world, improve their job prospects and increase their earning potential. Now, EDC has created a Computer Basics Course Replication Toolkit that can be used by anyone to expand the impact of the course and get the critical curriculum to more people across the state.
“We are beyond proud of our Fleet Services team for earning these national accolades,” stated Chair of the Board Kelly Long. “Each award reflects not just technical achievements, but the team’s genuine commitment to making a difference—for the environment, for our community, and for future generations.”
“Jen has been an essential member of our team, consistently demonstrating her leadership in communication and public relations,” said City Manager Bill Ayub. “Her dedication to the City’s mission, combined with her innovative approach to public engagement, makes her the perfect fit for this role. I am confident that under her leadership, our communications will continue to thrive and effectively connect our community.”
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VENTURA — The County of Ventura has selected Esteban Rodriguez as Director for Ventura County Animal Services. The appointment follows an extensive recruitment process, which included both internal and external candidates. Rodriguez succeeds former director, Jackie Rose, who retired from the agency in May.
Over the past few years, the siren call of the gig economy has captivated the imagination and creativity of young adults. The lure of “being your own boss,” “setting your own hours,” and the promise of having the freedom to travel the world while you pursue your “dream job” is too much for many of them to resist.
For many dreamers coming of age, the enticement of immediate income and flexible work hours, along with the chance to skip college with all its debt obligation, is seductively appealing.
VENTURA — A variety of Binational Health Week events will be held through Nov. 2 in Ventura County. Ventura County Public Health is presenting a variety of flu vaccination clinics in Santa Paula and Ventura. Click on image for more…
Written by: Alvaro Saar Rios
Directed by: Alina Ceñal
Imagine the Chinese legend Hua Mulan set in the world of lucha libre—Mexican wrestling. The discovery of a worn pink wrestling mask prompts Nana Lupita, a Wisconsin grandmother, to share her tale about growing up in 1960s Texas. As her tale unfolds, Lupita’s life as a teen tomboy comes alive—bike riding with her friends Leopold and Liesl, working at her father’s flower stand and lucha libre. When a World Championship match is announced, Lupita anticipates seeing it until she discovers her ailing father is one of the wrestlers. With the help of a magical mask maker, Lupita secretly trains to take her father’s place. She soon finds it difficult keeping her secret from her friends and, most importantly, her father.
VENTURA — The Ventura College Foundation is now accepting scholarship applications for the 2025-26 school year.
November 29 is the application deadline for the Paramedic and Career Education scholarships. The deadline for all other scholarships is January 20, 2025. Scholarship recipients will be notified in April 2025 and receive their scholarship proceeds after August 1.
Students currently enrolled at Ventura College in the 2024-2025 academic year and who have completed at least six units in the semester they submit an application, are eligible to apply. Units earned in previous semesters at Ventura College count towards the unit requirement.
The Economic Development Collaborative would like to recognize National Women’s Small Business Month. In the most recent program year (October 1, 2023 – September 30, 2024), EDC supported over 1,700 women-owned small businesses and female/male-owned businesses. The EDC is dedicated to helping women achieve their business goals.
The EDC is proud to support the community by providing professional technical assistance in English and Spanish through our Small Business Development Center. Our NO-COST advising areas include:
VENTURA — October is National Pedestrian Safety Month and the Ventura Police Department reminds drivers to slow down and be alert for people walking on our roads. By taking extra precautions, you can help protect pedestrians and reduce the risk of crashes and injuries.
Since January 1, 2023, the Ventura Police Department has responded to 2,470 traffic collisions, including 106 involving pedestrians. These incidents resulted in 915 injuries and five fatalities. Of the pedestrian collisions, three were fatal, and 99 resulted in injury. The high number of pedestrian casualties underscores the urgent need for improved awareness and safety measures for those walking in Ventura.
VENTURA COUNTY — Over 15 farms, ranches and agricultural organizations will open their doors to the public for the 12th Annual Ventura County Farm Day, Saturday, November 2 from 10 a.m. to 3 p.m. Those who attend will experience a day of free agricultural activities and tours and learn about the origins of their food.
“We often don’t think about what it takes to grow, harvest and deliver produce to the market,” says Caitlin Paulus-Case, Students for Eco-Education and Agriculture (SEEAG) executive director. SEEAG is the nonprofit that hosts Ventura County Farm Day each year. “Hundreds of dedicated farm workers are behind every piece of fruit or vegetable we buy at the store.”
OXNARD — Take a break, rejuvenate, and get creative with ¡ÁNDALE!: Wellness + Creativity for Everyone, a new monthly series presented by OPAC, the Oxnard Performing Arts Center Corporation, focused on supporting mental health and wellness through artistic expression and self-care. The event is offered bilingually, free and open to all, creating space where relaxation, creativity, and community connection come together.
The first event will take place on Saturday, October 19, 2024 from 1-3 PM at Community Center Park East (located behind the Oxnard Performing Arts Center). Each session features three different activities designed to engage participants in creative and calming experiences. This month yoga, sound baths and art-making will be offered. Attendees will spend 30 minutes at each activity, for a total of two hours of immersive wellness.
Experience the magic of a live performance! Reserve your tickets for Muero por Vivir. Don’t miss out on the excitement—book now and treat yourself to an unforgettable event.
VENTURA — The County of Ventura is excited to announce the upcoming paving project for the Ojai Valley Trail, set to commence this month. This essential project aims to enhance safety, accessibility, and overall enjoyment for the community and visitors alike.
“This event is an invaluable opportunity for students to see firsthand how higher education can open doors to rewarding career pathways and transform their futures,” said Hancock Superintendent/President Kevin G. Walthers, Ph.D.
VENTURA — Michelle Ascencion, County Clerk-Recorder & Registrar of Voters, announced important activities for the November 5, 2024 Presidential General Election that will begin on October 7.
Throughout the State of California, counties will begin mailing Vote by Mail ballots to all active, registered voters on Oct. 7. Voters should expect to receive their ballot by Oct. 17; anyone who hasn’t received their ballot or State/County Voter Information Guide in the mail by then should contact the Elections Office. Voters are reminded they need to return their ballot in the SIGNED return, postage-paid envelope, and return it by U.S. postal mail; or, in 1 of 38 official ballot drop boxes; or, at 1 of 52 vote centers; or, at the County Elections Office by 8 pm on Election Day, Nov. 5. Mailed ballots must be postmarked no later than Election Day and received within 7 days. …
Most of us are familiar with the solemnity, reflection, and joy that the Day of the Dead (el Día de los Muertos) brings to those of us who wish to immerse ourselves in the deep-rooted Mexican culture. In some regions of Mexico, the celebrations that commemorate the ancestors who have preceded us begin in late October and extend into November.
Coincidentally, the ultra-commercialized festivities of American Halloween occur during the same time of year, leading many to believe that the two celebrations are identical, similar, or have the same roots.
However, the contrast is stark.
Have you heard the buzz about Teatro De Las Americas’s spectacular production of Luchadora!? It’s an event you absolutely can’t miss! Secure your seat today by grabbing your tickets online. Join us for an unforgettable experience!
