Category: En español

Bilingual report — Economic Development Collaborative (EDC) presents NO-COST Computer Basics Course in Moorpark!

VENTURA COUNTY DIGITAL UPSKILLING TRAINING PROGRAM

The Ventura County Digital Upskilling Training program is a NO-COST short-term training program that will increase the digital skills of job seekers, current workers and small business operators. The initiative seeks to expand the opportunities and earning power of Ventura County participants by providing them with much-needed digital skills training to help individuals and employers grow.

NO-COST Classes for New to Tech Learners

This 6-week course teaches adults essential computer skills needed to get a better-paying job.

Goleta Holiday Parade returns — Join the Celebration

We invite local businesses, schools, sports teams, community organizations, and residents to get involved. The parade offers a wonderful opportunity for the community to come together and experience the joy of wholesome, hometown fun. With festive floats, lively musical performances, dynamic dance groups, and cheerful participants, this event promises to be a highlight of the year for both residents and visitors. As the anticipation grows, we invite you to join us in creating a magical experience for all!

Bilingual report — Wilderness Youth Project in Santa Barbara Celebrates 25 Years of Youth Feeling Free + Alive!

SANTA BARBARA — Wilderness Youth Project (WYP) is thrilled to celebrate its 25th Anniversary in the Santa Barbara community. To give back to all the families, donors, partners, volunteers, staff, and friends who have given so much, WYP is offering a free celebration on Saturday, October 5, 2024. This milestone marks a quarter-century of empowering local youth through nature-based education and experiential outdoor learning. The celebration will be held at Santa Barbara City College’s Great Meadow, from 12:00 p.m. to 4:00 p.m. Free tickets are available at wyp.org

Bilingual report — Ventura County Probation Agency appoints new Assistant Chief Officer

VENTURA — The Ventura County Probation Agency (VCPA) is delighted to announce the appointment of Candice Modica as the Assistant Chief Officer, a newly established position for the agency. This position was made as an effort to work closely with Chief Probation Officer Gina Johnson and to further the goals of the agency. This appointment was made by the VCPA Chief Gina Johnson after a comprehensive interview process and national recruitment efforts.

Bilingual report — UCLA Study, to be presented at Oxnard City Council meeting on Oct. 8, reveals significant challenges facing Oxnard’s young adults

OXNARD — A significant study commissioned by the Oxnard City Council and conducted by the UCLA Chicano Studies Research Center (CSRC) that highlights the challenges and barriers facing young adults in Oxnard will be presented to the City Council during a special meeting on Tuesday, Oct. 8, 2024, from 6 – 8 p.m.

Utilizing federal funding from the American Rescue Plan, the City Council commissioned the UCLA CSRC to study the widening gap that was exacerbated by the pandemic between high- and low-income families, and the impacts to young people from lower-income and working-class backgrounds. Led by the UCLA CSRC Director, Professor Veronica Terriquez, the research draws on extensive data from the 2023–24 Thriving Youth Study (TYS), a youth-led initiative involving over 3,000 local residents aged 18 to 34. 

Bilingual report — September News from People’s Self-Help Housing — Thank you to all who joined us for the Grand Opening of Pismo Terrace!

Although we are sometimes wisely counselled that it’s the journey that matters, not the destination, the start of football season gives those of us in the real estate development world a seasonal reminder that it’s getting it across the line that actually counts.

Some might argue that the metaphoric line is when the final piece of funding needed for the purchase of the land is secured, for others it might be the end of a protracted approvals and entitlements process. Our events team might say its when we together snap the classic “We did it!” ribbon cutting photo at the grand opening.

But there is a quieter, though no less celebrated moment, especially for the fortunate people involved, and that’s when we can take the next name off the wait list.

For me, that’s when it feels our team really got it across the line. I hope you’ll join us as we celebrate more coming wins!

Bilingual report — Free, voluntary Central Coast Drinking Water Well Testing Program which is now available in Santa Barbara County

SANTA BARBARA COUNTY — A free, voluntary Central Coast Drinking Water Well Testing Program which is now available in Santa Barbara County, according to the Central Coast Regional Water Quality Control Board.

The purpose of this program is to provide those who get their drinking water from a private well or small water system (14 connections or less) with information regarding the quality of their drinking water. Private wells and small water systems are unregulated, therefore it is the responsibility of those who own and/or use the well to test the quality of the well water.

Bilingual report — Ventura County Area Agency on Aging’s HICAP Offers Medicare Open Enrollment Presentations and Counseling

Medicare Open Enrollment begins on October 15 and runs through December 7. HICAP provides free, unbiased Medicare counseling to the public.

In October, November, and December, HICAP counselors — who are registered with the California Department of Aging —  will be all around the county, hosting 35 One-Stops to provide individual counseling sessions, as well as 13 “2025 Medicare Changes” presentations.

Bilingual report — Santa Paula Beautiful Day Returns: Volunteers Needed to Beautify Fagan Barranca Park

“This event is open to all, and we welcome volunteers of all ages to join us for Santa Paula Beautiful Day,” says Renee Bell, Parks & Recreation Coordinator. “We’re excited to bring the community together once again for a day of service and camaraderie. Your efforts will help ensure that Fagan Barranca Park remains a safe and beautiful space for future generations.”

Bilingual report — Teatro de las Américas — Luchadora! | Muero por Vivir | Lights, Camera, Contribution!

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.

Bilingual report — Ongoing investigations continue following gasoline leak in Pierpont area of Ventura

“The gasoline leak was traced to underground facilities at the Sinclair gas station on 2121 E. Harbor Boulevard,” said Fire Marshal Brett Reed. “Preliminary testing by the Environmental Protection Agency (EPA) on September 20, confirmed the substance was gasoline. While the primary leak has been contained, the full extent of the impact to the sewer system and surrounding environment is still under investigation.”

Bilingual report — Economic Development Collaborative (EDC) Economic 411 Labor Market Report

The California Labor Market Information Division has released its August 2024 report, showing a slight uptick to the unemployment rate, from 5.0% in July to 5.2% in August. We’re currently up from a low 3.6% just a few months back in May, and also up from one year ago, in August 2023, at 4.8%.

While a rise in the unemployment rate in the summer months is routine, we are seeing a real and troublesome increase in the number of unemployed workers (that is, residents looking for work but either not finding it or not choosing to take it). At 21,600 unemployed workers, that’s the highest number we’ve had since 2021, back when we were still in the throes of COVID. 

Bilingual report — Santa Paula Parks and Recreation Announces Exciting Community Events & Programs for Fall and Winter

SANTA PAULA — The City of Santa Paula Parks and Recreation Department would like to share with the community a variety of exciting activities, events, and volunteer opportunities happening throughout the fall and winter seasons. Whether you’re looking to get involved, enjoy the festivities, or give back to your community, there’s something for everyone.

Upcoming Events:

Bilingual report — The County of Ventura Celebrates Latino Heritage Month

COUNTY OF VENTURA — Latino Heritage Month is celebrated from September 15 – October 15. During this month we will celebrate the diverse cultures, values and traditions of individuals with Latin American heritage and who self-identify as Latino/a, Latinx and…

Economic Development Collaborative (EDC) — Bilingual report — Honoring Hispanic Heritage Month

The Economic Development Collaborative would like to recognize National Hispanic Heritage Month. Each year, Americans observe National Hispanic Heritage Month from September 15 to October 15 by celebrating the histories, cultures and contributions of American citizens whose ancestors came from Spain, Mexico, the Caribbean and Central and South America.

Bilingual commentary — The Bittersweet Task of Donating Books

I have begun donating books from my home library. It is quite a large collection that I curated over the past nearly 70 years. I am discovering that this is a profoundly bittersweet experience. I’ve treasured each book throughout the sweep of my life since boyhood. 

These volumes include self-help, how-to, and inspirational classics. There is an abundance of mathematical and scientific books that reflect the technical trajectory of my time on earth.

But there are also books that remind me of the times that I was trying to teach myself something, such as how to use computer software, how to write a business plan, or how to build or reconstruct relationships. 

Bilingual report — Falcon 9 launch cadence increate environmental assessment

VANDENBERG SPACE FORCE BASE — The United States (U.S.) Space Force has prepared a Draft Environmental Assessment (DEA) and Finding of No Significant Impact (FONSI) that evaluates the potential environmental impacts of the Proposed Action (PA).

The PA is to increase Falcon 9 annual launch cadence from 36 to 50 launches per year at Space Launch Complex 4 (SLC-4) on Vandenberg Space Force Base (VSFB), increase Falcon 9 first stage and fairing recovery activities, and expand the recovery area in the Pacific Ocean.

Bilingual report — Santa Paula Police Dept. Traffic Safety Information – Electric Bicycles and Electric Motorcycles

SANTA PAULA — The Santa Paula Police Department has recognized an increase in electric bikes and electric motorcycles in many communities. It is important to provide the public with information concerning Electric Bicycles (E-bikes) and several state laws pertaining to them.

Bilingual report — City of Ventura’s Westpark Skatepark Expansion Project starts construction phase

VENTURA — The City of Ventura is excited to announce the groundbreaking of the Westpark Skatepark Expansion Project. On Friday, September 13, City officials, local dignitaries, and project partners gathered to celebrate the start of construction. The skatepark at 450 W. Harrison Ave will officially close for construction on Monday, September 23, with completion slated for Spring 2025.

Bilingual report — Santa Paula Celebrates Completion of Harvard Boulevard Infrastructure Improvement Project

SANTA PAULA — The City of Santa Paula proudly announced the successful completion of the Harvard Boulevard Infrastructure Improvement Project at a community ribbon-cutting ceremony held August 31, 2024. This transformative project, which spanned nearly two years, marks a significant milestone in the city’s commitment to enhancing infrastructure and ensuring reliable services for its residents.

Bilingual report — Community members invited to share feedback on updated Land Use Map

VENTURA — The City of Ventura invites community members to review and provide input on the updated Land Use Designation Map as part of the General Plan Update, a 25-year blueprint for guiding Ventura’s future growth and development. The survey is available for feedback until Monday, October 21, 2024, and various participation opportunities will be available in addition to the survey.

Bilingual report — Deadline Approaching in California for SBA Working Capital Loans Due to the December 2023 Storm and Flooding

SACRAMENTO — Francisco Sánchez Jr., associate administrator for the Office of Disaster Recovery and Resilience at the Small Business Administration, (on Sept. 11) reminded California small businesses of the Oct. 10, 2024, deadline to apply for an SBA federal disaster loan for economic injury caused by the December 2023 Storm and Flooding in Ventura County that occurred Dec. 21-23, 2023.

According to Sánchez, small nonfarm businesses, small agricultural cooperatives, small businesses engaged in aquaculture and most private nonprofit organizations of any size may apply for Economic Injury Disaster Loans of up to $2 million to help meet working capital needs caused by the disaster. “Economic Injury Disaster Loans may be used to pay fixed debts, payroll, accounts payable and other bills that cannot be paid because of the disaster’s impact. Economic injury assistance is available regardless of whether the applicant suffered any property damage,” Sánchez said.

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

SCORE: BUSINESS FORMATION UNCOVERED: NAVIGATING BUSINESS STRUCTURES

September 10 @ 10:30 am

This business formation webinar is tailored to help entrepreneurs and business owners thoroughly understand the advantages and disadvantages of each entity type (sole proprietor, LLC, s-corp.) from legal separate entities, tax reporting structures, non-tax paying entities, liabilities, asset protection and more.

CLICK HERE TO REGISTER

Livingston Memorial starting Spanish-language Support Group on Sept. 24

VENTURA — El Programa de apoyo para el duelo de Livingston está agregando un grupo de apoyo para el duelo gratuito en español. El grupo de apoyo comienza el 26 de Septiembre de 2024, todos los jueves de 6:30p.m. a 8:00 p. m. en  nuestra officina en Ventura. Nuestra oficina se encuentra en 1996 Eastman Ave Suite 101 (Cuarto de Conferencia Harris) Ventura.

Bilingual report — Award-winning author Karin Klein to visit Allan Hancock College for discussion, book signing

Klein will visit the college’s Santa Maria campus on Wednesday, Sept. 18 to discuss her latest book, Rethinking College: A Guide to Thriving Without a Degree. The event will be held at the Boyd Concert Hall in the Fine Arts Complex (building F) at the college’s Santa Maria campus. The evening will begin with a community discussion at 5 p.m., followed by a book signing from 6-6:30 p.m.?

Bilingual report — Peoples’ Self-Help Housing (PSHH) — People’s Place – Accepting Pre-Applications | Pre-Solicitudes disponibles para People’s Place

  View this email in your browser People’s Place, Santa Paula Accepting Pre-Applications | Aceptando las presolicitudes How to Apply: Visit pshhc.org/PPL to download the PDF pre-application Pre-applications are accepted by: Mail: ATTN: People’s Place, 167 S. Palm, Ventura, CA 93001…

Bilingual report — Ventura Police Department announces DUI checkpoint on Friday, Sept. 6, 2024

VENTURA — The Ventura Police Department Traffic Unit will conduct a DUI checkpoint at an undisclosed location within the city limits on Friday, September 6, 2024, from 7:00 p.m. to 2:00 a.m.

DUI checkpoint locations are chosen based on data showing incidents of impaired driving-related crashes. The primary purpose of checkpoints is not to make arrests, but to promote public safety by deterring residents from driving impaired. 

During the checkpoint, officers will look for signs that drivers are under the influence of alcohol and/or drugs.

Gold Coast Health Plan Announces Dr. Felix Nuñez has been named Acting Chief Executive Officer

Dr. Nuñez joined GCHP in 2022 as associate chief medical officer. In 2023, he assumed the role of chief medical officer. He is an accomplished board-certified family physician and health care leader with nearly three decades of leadership in managed care and health care delivery. Prior to joining GCHP, Dr. Nuñez served for eight years at Molina Healthcare of California as the regional medical director for the Inland Empire. A proud native Angeleno and Mexican-American, Dr. Nuñez is passionate about improving health care access and quality of care for underserved and vulnerable populations.

Bilingual commentary — Voting ‘Emotionally’

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

Bilingual report — City of Santa Paula provides update on Santa Paula Sports Park progress

“We understand that the community is eager to start enjoying the Sports Park, and we share that excitement,” said Greg Barnes, Director of Parks and Recreation for the City of Santa Paula. “It’s essential that we open the park when the facilities are in the best possible condition. The additional time spent ensuring the health of the turf and finalizing other details will pay off in the long run, allowing residents to fully enjoy the space without concerns about damaging newly installed turf.”

Bilingual report — Call to Artists: Beautifying Trash Bins Public Art Project

VENTURA — The City of Ventura invites artists and artist organizations to participate in a new public art initiative to beautify large trash bins near the coast. Selected artists will be uniquely able to beautify four trash bins along the Pier and Promenade area. Online applications are now open through Friday, September 13, 2024, at 5:00 p.m. at www.cityofventura.ca.gov/PublicArt.

Bilingual Report — The latest news from the County of Ventura

County of Ventura to hold public listening session on Request for Proposal for local ambulance services
On Wednesday, September 4, 2024, from 4:00 PM – 5:00 PM, the County Executive Office will conduct an in-person and online listening session to solicit comments from stakeholders and the public on the initial draft Request for Proposal (RFP) for an Exclusive Emergency Ground Ambulance Transport and Related Medical Services Provider. Written and verbal comments will be considered in the final draft submitted to the Ventura County Board of Supervisors.

Bilingual report — ¡Viva el Arte de Santa Bárbara! Unveils an Exciting 2024-2025 Season Lineup with Renowned Latin American Musicians and Dancers

SANTA BARBARA — ¡Viva el Arte de Santa Bárbara! (Viva) is excited to announce its highly anticipated 2024-2025 season, featuring an outstanding lineup of Latin American performers guaranteed to captivate audiences across Santa Barbara County. 

This season, Viva will present five acclaimed acts that exemplify the vibrant and diverse cultural heritage of Latin America.

Bilingual commentary — Was He a King? And Did He Sell Razor Blades?

Have you ever found yourself wondering why a place is called something intriguing, such as “Whynot?” There are communities with that name in Mississippi and North Carolina. 

Or how about “China” in Texas? 

Hinting at scandal, we have the town of “Hooker” in the panhandle of Oklahoma. The locals are quick to assure us that “it’s a location, not a vocation.” I’m glad they clarified that.

There are always equally intriguing reasons how places like these got their names.

Bilingual report — Ventura announces Emily Fox as New Assistant Parks & Recreation Director

“Emily’s extensive experience in local government, combined with her deep commitment to our community, will bring transformative leadership to our department,” said Stacey Zarazua, Parks and Recreation Director. “Her talent for guiding complex projects and creating sustainable strategies will be invaluable as we continue to enhance the quality of life in Ventura.” 

Bilingual report — Ventura County Office of Education — Back to School, Mobile Library, Financial Literacy, and more

A Back to School Message
From Dr. César Morales, Ventura County Superintendent of Schools
The start of the new school year is always a magical time as classrooms and schoolyards come roaring back to life after summer break. Ventura County’s public school system serves nearly 125,000 students and provides a comprehensive range of educational services. This school year will see expanded learning opportunities for students of all ages, from the continued expansion of transitional kindergarten (TK) to new career education options. Some of the most exciting new initiatives are highlighted in my annual back to school message, which I invite you to read at this link.

Bilingual report — City of Ventura launches Ventura Connects to improve customer service and streamline requests

VENTURA — The City of Ventura is introducing Ventura Connects, a new online portal that makes it easier for residents to report issues like potholes, graffiti, and debris. This platform improves accessibility to request types, visibility of requests and reports, and provides real-time updates.

“Our goal is to offer exceptional customer service and make it simple for residents to report issues and track the progress of their requests. Ventura Connects represents a new way for community members to interact with City services,” said City Manager Bill Ayub. “It also demonstrates our dedication to leveraging technology to enhance city service, ensuring the transparency and accountability our residents expect and deserve.”

Ventura Connects offers a mobile-frie

Bilingual report — Allan Hancock College to host ‘Week of Welcome’ for Fall students

SANTA MARIA — Allan Hancock College is expanding its popular “Bulldog Bow-WOW” event into a weeklong series of fun and informative activities for new and returning students.

The college’s “Week of Welcome”, or WOW, will take place from Aug. 26-30 and include workshops and activities designed to get students off to a successful start at Hancock. Students who participate each day will have the opportunity to meet with faculty and staff, learn about programs and services, win prizes, get free food, connect with their peers, and more.

“Hancock’s Week of Welcome will connect new and returning students with the resources and tools they need to set themselves up for a successful fall semester and beyond,” said Hancock Superintendent/President Kevin G. Walthers.

Bilingual report — Economic Development Collaborative (EDC) — Boost Your Employees’ English Skills with EDC’s NO-COST Upskilling Program – EDC Business Alert

EDC has partnered with EnGen, a virtual learning platform, to deliver career-aligned English upskilling at NO-COST to Ventura County immigrants, refugees and speakers of other languages. Unlike other training programs, workers do not need Social Security Numbers and are only required to make the minimum wage of $15.50 per hour to qualify for training.

Bilingual commentary — Unsubscribe Hell

One of the greatest frustrations of modern life is trying to unsubscribe from a paid service that is intent on not making it easy for you. To cancel a particular service that you no longer wish to receive, you may be forced to jump through several hoops that are only two feet wide, ablaze with shooting flames, and 60 feet above the ground. 

Some companies providing services that, supposedly, we can “unsubscribe from at any time” make it excruciatingly difficult for us to do so. Their hope, of course, is that we become so flustered that we simply give up and decide to march on to fight another battle somewhere else in our lives.

Bilingual report — Ventura County Department of Child Support Services recognizes Child Support Awareness Month

“Child Support Awareness Month is a dedicated time for us to celebrate the positive impacts of child support services,” said Marcus R. Mitchell, director of the Ventura County Department of Child Support Services. “I am grateful to everyone that joins us in spotlighting the child support program and connecting parents to our services. Together, we’re improving the lives of families in our community.”

Bilingual report — Economic Development Collaborative (EDC) — Who Do You Call When You Need Business Advice?

The Economic Development Collaborative’s Small Business Development Center (EDC SBDC) is excited to share our new video! This video highlights the NO-COST business services provided by EDC SBDC, aimed at supporting small businesses like yours.

Watch the Video Below

Bilingual report — Ventura County Clerk-Recorder and Registrar of Voters — List of City, School District and Special District Elected Offices in Extended Nomination Period for November 5, 2024 General Election

VENTURA — Ventura County Clerk-Recorder and Registrar of Voters Michelle Ascencion announced the extension of the nomination period for the following City, School District and Special District elected offices that are scheduled to be voted on in the November 5, 2024 General Election. The incumbent officer in each of these positions did not file nomination papers before the August 9, 2024, 5 PM deadline.

Bilingual report — Santa Paula Police Dept. urges Back to School Traffic Safety

SANTA PAULA — As the beginning of the new school year approaches this week, the Santa Paula Police Department reminds residents, parents, students, and school staff to practice caution and safety in observance of drivers, pedestrians, bicyclists, and school buses.

The first day of school is Wednesday, August 7,2024. Vehicleandpedestriantrafficwillbeimpactedduringdrop- off and pickup times. Here are helpful tips for back to school traffic safety:

Bilingual report — Allan Hancock College welcomes new students at ‘Hancock Hello’ orientation

SANTA MARIA — Allan Hancock College invited more than 1,700 new students to attend a “Hancock Hello” orientation event on Aug. 6 at the Santa Maria campus.

During the event, the new Bulldog students and their parents were able to learn more about Hancock and the programs and support services the college offers. Attendees met faculty and staff, learned more about college departments and student clubs, and took campus tours.

“It’s amazing how many clubs and how many people are involved in Hancock Hello,” said Lillian Karstrom, student ambassador and first-time attendee. “It’s incredible how many services the college has to offer students.”

Bilingual report — Ventura City Council election update: Notice of incumbents not seeking re-election

VENTURA — The City of Ventura announces that the following incumbents have not filed nomination papers to seek re-election for their respective offices: Mayor Joe Schroeder (District 7) and Councilmember Mike Johnson (District 3). 

This notification is provided three days before the close of the nomination period, as required by California Elections Code 10224. The deadline for candidates to file nomination papers is Friday, August 9, 2024.