SANTA PAULA — The City of Santa Paula is proud to announce the successful completion of the inaugural Santa Paula Future Leaders Academy, a 10-week program designed to provide residents and business owners with direct insight into city management, operations…
“Danielle’s extensive experience brings a wealth of strategic insight and leadership to our County government” said Dr. Sevet Johnson, County Executive Officer. “With a proven track record in fostering organizational excellence, advancing workforce initiatives, focusing on relationship building and enhancement of leadership skills, Danielle’s skillset will invest in supporting and growing our County workforce.”
“Gregg’s distinguished engineering background, complemented by his profound skillset across all facets of public works and specialized disaster response experience, ensures seamless service continuity,” stated Dr. Sevet Johnson, County Executive Officer. “His appointment reinforces our commitment to advancing from a robust foundation, poised for sustained growth and excellence across our Public Works Agency. Gregg’s wealth of expertise promises to continue to elevate the level of quality service to our residents throughout the county.”
As incredible as it may seem, there was a silver lining to the pandemic that we all lived through. During that difficult time, when many of us endured a traumatic lockdown, a healthy number of Americans began to seriously consider establishing their own home-based business.
After all, we had time to study and learn how to plan for and establish a home business. People began realizing that by working for someone else, they were actually quite vulnerable to office politics and the vagaries and whims of an employer.
The VSO’s fully accredited veteran claims officers provide information, referrals, claims preparation and submission, and follow-up service to ensure that veterans, their dependents, and survivors receive the benefits to which they are entitled. All services are provided free of charge. Veterans and their family members may also meet with claims officers at field offices located in Camarillo, Thousand Oaks and Simi Valley. Veterans and family members who wish to speak with a VSO representative over the phone or make an in-person appointment may call 805-477-5155.
“I extend my sincere gratitude for the exceptional service and dedication to Ventura County that is demonstrated by the extraordinary careers of these individuals,” stated 3rd District Supervisor Kelly Long, Chair of the Board of Supervisors. “The progress and achievements of our County are a direct result of the tireless efforts and commitment of our employees. The opportunity to recognize publicly these achievements exemplifies the strength of our collective efforts and the invaluable contributions each of you bring to our community.”
“The reopening of the Ventura Pier marks a celebratory moment for our community. I am thankful for the swift, coordinated efforts of city staff, the County of Ventura, various state agencies, and our community partners like the Ventura Port District—Harbor Patrol, the Coastal Commission, State Parks, and Pier into the Future,” commented Ventura Mayor Joe Schroeder. “Their hard work has ensured the pier’s safety with effective emergency responses, debris clearance, and coastal mitigation efforts and helped preserve an essential piece of our local heritage. We eagerly anticipate welcoming the community back to this cherished landmark.”
SANTA PAULA — On June 24, 2024, Santa Paula water customers were notified as a precaution to not use the tap water for drinking or cooking until further notice. This notice did not impact all water customers but particular areas of the city which were identified in the original notice.
The City of Santa Paula Water System, in conjunction with the State Water Resources Control Board, and the Ventura County Environmental Division, has determined that, through abatement of the health hazard and comprehensive testing of the water, the tap water for all Santa Paula residences is safe, including for drinking and cooking.
The California Labor Market Information Division released its April 2024 report on June 21, with a mix of positive and negative news for Ventura County.
On the upside, the County unemployment rate improved dramatically, from 4.2% in May all the way down to 3.7% in June. We’re on a strong four-month run of steady improvements, down from a recent high mark of 5.2% in January.
On the downside, we had a rather weak month for job creation, a net gain of only 2,600 jobs, 1,000 in Farm and 1,600 in the Nonfarm sectors. The Nonfarm gains were restricted mostly to only four sectors, Professional & Business Services up 300, Private Education & Health Services up 400, Leisure & Hospitality up 500, and Local Government—mostly Educational Services—up 400.
VENTURA — With the Fourth of July approaching, the Ventura Police Department reminds community members that all fireworks are illegal within city limits. This year, the department is implementing new technology to enhance community safety and enforce the fireworks ban.…
Let’s Celebrate our Friend
Margaret Cortese
Historic Director of Teatro de las Américas.
The party will be held Saturday June 29 From 1 p.m. to 5 p.m. At Teatro’s facilities at
321 W. 6th Street, Oxnard, CA
Please bring a dish to share
El Rio Will Soon Have Sidewalks: Update on Agenda Item 49
The Board unanimously approved the Ventura County Public Works Agency’s plan to move forward with the El Rio Pedestrian Improvement Project.
This project will bring sidewalks to the neighborhood, making the area safer and it will improve drainage issues for the community.
PWA will award a contract this month, with construction beginning this July.
The project is expected to be completed — by March of 2025.
She is the first consumer representative to serve in that role. Former board chair transitions to role of vice chair; two new members join the Commission
“We applaud Laura for her longstanding dedication to health care advocacy in Ventura County and celebrate this milestone as she becomes the first Latina to hold this esteemed position as chair of the Commission,” said GCHP Chief Executive Officer (CEO) Nick Ligouri. “With deep roots in Santa Paula and the Santa Clara Valley at large, Laura embodies the vital voice of our community. Her dedication to the community and understanding of the health care needs of our members make her an invaluable asset to the Commission, especially as we continue to evolve in an ever-changing health care landscape.”
When I was growing up in the 1950s, I observed how my father used his leisure time. He would either make sketches, read books, or work on crossword puzzles from the newspaper. It didn’t occur to me how difficult it must have been for crossword puzzle enthusiasts of that era.
“Thanks to the policy direction of our Council and the hard work of City staff, we’re delivering a positive, balanced budget that will continue the restoration of infrastructure such as paving our streets and alleys and investing in community services throughout Oxnard,” said Mayor John C. Zaragoza. “We’re also supporting Oxnard’s long-term financial sustainability by using one-time surplus funds to make a significant payment towards long-term debt.”
VENTURA — The Ventura Police Department will conduct a driving under the influence (DUI) Checkpoint on Tuesday, June 18, 2024, from 7:00 p.m. to 12:00 a.m. The checkpoint will be held at an undisclosed location within the City of Ventura.
DUI checkpoint locations are determined based on data showing incidents of impaired driving-related crashes. Additionally, based on collision and arrest data, Tuesdays are shown to be the highest days of the week for DUI-related offenses in the City of Ventura. The primary purpose of DUI checkpoints is to promote public safety by taking suspected impaired drivers off the road.
“Impaired drivers put others on the road at significant risk,” said Corporal David Curtis. “Any prevention measures that reduce the number of impaired drivers on our roads significantly improves traffic safety and keeps our residents safe.”
The Economic Development Collaborative (EDC) would like to recognize Pride Month. Observed annually in June, Pride Month is a time to uplift and celebrate the the LGBTQ+ community. EDC is committed to supporting LGBTQ+ innovators and entrepreneurs and strives to provide equitable access to inclusive services year-round.
The EDC is proud to support our community by providing professional technical assistance through our Small Business Development Center.
SANTA PAULA — On May 15, the Santa Paula Public Works Department returned to the City Council to present options for the second five-year cycle of the City’s Pavement Management Plan (PMP). The PMP outlines all regular street maintenance and repair work throughout the City to increase road quality.
The first five-year cycle of the PMP, adopted in 2020, prioritized repairs and maintenance for some of Santa Paula’s worst major thoroughfares, including Harvard Boulevard. Although the City will have addressed 35.6 centerline miles of streets out of 55 with the completion of Phase I, Santa Paula residents still identify poor road conditions in the City as their top concern in a recent community survey and through recent engagement efforts through Santa Paula Speaks.
VENTURA — The City of Ventura is thrilled to release the second episode of its new podcast series, Ventura Voices. This episode features an insightful interview with Ventura’s Police Chief, Darin Schindler and is available on Spotify, Apple Podcasts, and Amazon Music, or watch the podcast video on the City’s YouTube channel.
The episode explores local crime rates and homelessness and shares the positive news that Ventura has seen its lowest crime rate in over three decades.
Chief Schindler also discusses his 34-year career in law enforcement and reflects on his first year as chief, having stepped into the role during the COVID-19 pandemic in 2020.
They started high school in their bedrooms and at kitchen tables in front of computers, taking classes over Zoom. They’re coming of age at a time when our nation is politically divided, our world is facing war and unrest, and artificial intelligence is rewriting the rules of education and work. But the students graduating from Ventura County high schools in 2024 are not deterred. They’re facing the future with a sense of optimism that will take them far as they enter the next stage of their lives.
OXNARD — Mixteco/Indigena Community Organizing Project (MICOP) is inviting the public to its annual Oxnard Guelaguetza Festival, which will be held on June 23, 2024, from 11 a.m. to 5 p.m. at Plaza Park in Oxnard: 500 S. C Street, Oxnard, CA, 93030.
MICOP was founded in 2001 “to support, organize, and empower the Indigenous immigrant community in California’s Central Coast.” MICOP serves over 12,000 unduplicated Indigenous migrant men, women, and children annually across Santa Barbara, Ventura & San Luis Obispo County. MICOP organizes and trains the indigenous migrant community to become self-sufficient and successful members of the broader community.
Reuniones de la Junta de Supervisores en español
(Board of Supervisors’ Meetings in Spanish)
El Condado de Santa Bárbara está ofreciendo interpretación en español de las reuniones de la Junta de Supervisores. Véalo en vivo en nuestro canal de YouTube en español, o las personas suscritas a la televisión por cable pueden acceder a la programación secundaria de audio (SAP) en los ajustes de idioma.
Aún se requiere pedir con anticipación la interpretación de los comentarios públicos en español. Para proporcionar comentarios públicos en español, póngase en contacto con la Secretaría de la Junta llamando al (805) 568-2240 antes de las 4:00 p.m. del viernes anterior a la reunión de la Junta.
Santa Barbara County Board of Supervisors’ meetings are available in Spanish. Watch live on our Spanish YouTube Channel, or Cable TV subscribers can access Secondary Audio Programming (SAP) in language settings.
Advance requests are still needed to interpret public comment originating in Spanish. To provide public comment in Spanish, contact the Clerk of the Board at (805) 568-2240, before 4:00 p.m. the Friday before the Board meeting.
CAMARILLO, Calif. – The Economic Development Collaborative (EDC) proudly announces the renewal of its contract with the Employment Training Panel (ETP), providing financial assistance to Ventura County employers to offset the cost of worker training and fostering economic growth within California.
ETP funding offers a unique opportunity for employers to invest in customized job skills training, reducing the financial burden associated with employee development and allowing businesses to leverage their tax contributions to the California Unemployment Fund. By determining their own training needs, companies enhance their competitiveness, boost employee productivity and upskill their workforce with industry and job-specific skills. This beneficial initiative also creates opportunities for employees to advance their careers within their current organization.
VENTURA — The Ventura Police Officers’ Association (VPOA) is proud to announce the 2024 Dee Dowell Memorial Scholarship Program, with over $7,000 in scholarships to be awarded to deserving recipients. The application deadline is June 30, 2024.
“It is a privilege to honor the legacy of Sergeant Darlon Dowell by supporting the educational goals of our local students,” said Corporal Joseph Metz, President of the VPOA. “For over 20 years, this scholarship has enabled us to give back to our community and inspire the next generation of public servants.”
The scholarship will be awarded to three applicants who aspire to pursue careers in law enforcement. Funds can be used for college tuition, books, and other educational expenses.
“While we have many reasons to celebrate in the coming weeks with family and friends, I strongly encourage my fellow Santa Paulans to avoid the use of illegal fireworks,” said Santa Paula Mayor Leslie Cornejo. “Fireworks can create unsafe and dangerous conditions for our entire community, and there are many other ways to celebrate whether it be a family gathering or barbecue, outdoor activities, or attending the Rotary Club and City of Santa Paula’s first ever 4th of July drone show.”
County Board of Supervisors Budget Hearing Set for
June 11
The County of Santa Barbara has released its Recommended Budget for Fiscal Year 2024-25. Check out some of the highlights of the budget by clicking the play button, and join us on June 11 for the County’s Budget Hearing.
VENTURA — The City of Ventura is excited to announce that after a national competitive solicitation process, the U.S. Bureau of Reclamation (USBR) awarded the City an additional $30 million under its WaterSMART large-scale water recyclingprogram to support the VenturaWaterPure project.
Happening at both the Santa Maria campus and Lompoc Valley Center, the workshops will assist new, continuing, and Hancock Promise students with admissions, FAFSA and California Dream Act applications, new student orientation, first-semester planning, class registration, financial aid review, and navigating the myHancock student portal. Campus tours will be offered every 30 minutes, and student success workshops will also be available Tuesdays from 4 – 5 p.m. Bulldog Express additionally offers a “Next Steps Workshop” where students will learn how to get a student ID card, purchase a parking permit, set up their myHancock e-mail address, receive free textbooks, and more.
“Our department strives for excellence in the work we do,” said Department Director Marcus Mitchell. “This prestigious honor highlights the dedication of our incredible team and the importance of child support in families’ lives. We continue proudly serving our community, remaining innovative in our approach and working to ensure children receive consistent emotional and financial support from both parents.”
LOS ANGELES – On May 28 Metrolink, Southern California’s regional passenger rail provider, made summer travel more convenient and affordable with the return of its $15 Summer Day Pass. The seasonal weekday promotion was first introduced in 2022 and offers unlimited rides on Metrolink’s system on the day of purchase.
“The possibilities are endless with Metrolink’s $15 Summer Day Pass,” Metrolink Board Second Vice-Chair and City of Jurupa Valley Mayor Pro-Tem Brian Berkson said. “If you’re traveling for business or recreation, no matter how you plan to spend your day, the pass is a budget-friendly option that lets you navigate Southern California with ease. It’s also a win for families looking for fun and memorable ways to spend the summer break months.”
Earlier this month, Florida’s Gov. Ron DeSantis signed into law a bill that bans the manufacture and distribution of lab-grown meat. He righteously declared that he was protecting cattle farmers in his state but then characteristically proceeded to blame the “global elite.” This murky, amorphous force is, according to the governor, surreptitiously foisting its “authoritarian goals” on those of us who would dare to suggest that the meat industry is contributing significantly to climate change. He disparaged the mysterious entities that want to force us to eat “fake meat.”
This checkpoint will be dedicated to the memory of Coldren “Cole” Kiblinger. On December 25, 2022, Cole accepted a ride from a family friend he did not know was intoxicated. The driver went off an embankment on the Santa Susana Pass in Simi Valley. Cole was killed immediately. At the time of his passing, he was 23-years-old and looking to propose to his girlfriend the following year.
“Projects like Channeling Murals exemplify the creativity and care with which communities are telling their stories, creating connection, and responding to challenges and opportunities in their communities—all through the arts,” said NEA Chair Maria Rosario Jackson, PhD. “So many aspects of our communities such as cultural vitality, health and wellbeing, infrastructure, and the economy are advanced and improved through investments in art and design, and the National Endowment for the Arts is committed to ensuring people across the country benefit.”
SANTA MARIA — Students from Allan Hancock College’s noncredit programs were recognized for their accomplishments at a special ceremony on May 17 at the college’s Santa Mara campus.
More than 120 students from a variety of noncredit programs celebrated a diverse range of achievements, including completing English as a Second Language classes, earning their GED or passing their tests for United States Citizenship. Others celebrated earning certificates in computer skills, job training, and classes designed to help them prepare for careers in childcare, tax preparation, and commercial truck driving.
The event’s keynote speaker was Mayte Solis, a chemistry instructor at Santa Maria High School, Hancock alumna and the former coordinator for the college’s AIM to Dream Center.
“Ventura PD is fully committed to community safety, particularly during large-capacity events,” shared Traffic Unit Supervisor, Sergeant Mark Knackstedt. “Our focus in encouraging ride-sharing options is to ensure smooth traffic flow and minimize the potential for traffic congestion and collisions. We must work together to create a safer environment for pedestrians and drivers, recognizing that while the City does not directly organize this event, it impacts our community.”
VENTURA — During National Police Week, happening May 12-18, the Ventura Police Department proudly acknowledges the valor of its 135 dedicated officers, who pledge their lives to safeguard Ventura. Amidst the commendations, Ventura PD honors Detective Stephanie Avila as Officer of the Year.
“I am incredibly proud of our officers and deeply grateful for their families’ steadfast support throughout the challenges they face,” said Police Chief Darin Schindler. “Leading a team of compassionate professionals who serve with integrity is an absolute privilege.”
The Economic Development Collaborative would like to recognize World Trade Month. Observed annually in May, World Trade Month celebrates how international trade unlocks new business opportunities, creates jobs and helps strengthen the United States and global economy.
The EDC is proud to support our community by providing professional technical assistance through our Small Business Development Center. Our NO-COST advising areas include:
The graduates were honored during two ceremonies at the college’s Public Safety Training Complex (PSTC) in Lompoc.
“These cadets represent the next generation of first responders,” said Hancock Superintendent/President Kevin G. Walthers, Ph.D. “They are highly trained and prepared to serve their communities.”
VENTURA — May is National Bicycle Safety Month, and The City of Ventura is encouraging everyone to get active and safely take bike rides while at the same time reminding drivers to be on the lookout for more people biking and walking.
“Everyone deserves to reach their destination safely,” Public Works Director, Charlie Ebeling said. “Unfortunately, there has been an increase in bicycle fatalities and injuries over the last few years. Bicyclists do not have the same protections as people in a vehicle so if you see a bicyclist — slow down.”
VENTURA — For 40 years, the first full week of May has been recognized as National Correctional Officers Week. This week provides a platform to recognize the sacrifices and dedication of these unsung heroes. As a 24/7, 365 days a year operation, Corrections Services Officers for the Ventura County Probation Agency serve a vital role in public safety.
“Corrections Services Officers serve a vital role in public safety, one that often goes unnoticed,” shared Chief Probation Officer Gina Johnson. “Their responsibility of caring for youth and young adults at our Juvenile Facilities is monumental. They have an unwavering dedication to their jobs, to the youth and young adults, and to each other. It is befitting that they have a week dedicated in their honor!”
OXNARD – – Como parte de los esfuerzos conjuntos entre el Gobierno de México y el Departamento de Trabajo de los Estados Unidos, para localizar a personas mexicanas trabajadoras que laboraran en territorio estadounidense a las cuales se les adeuda algún salario, el Consulado de México en Oxnard informa lo siguiente.
Si has trabajado o estás trabajando con una visa H2A en Estados Unidos, te invitamos a visitar el Consulado de México en Oxnard, California.
SANTA BARBARA — ¡Viva el Arte de Santa Bárbara! (Viva) returns with its final installment of the 2023-2024 season. Enjoy three free eclectic and upbeat performances by bordeño-soul music group, Jarabe Mexicano.
Jarabe Mexicano captures the nostalgic spirit of their border roots with their brand of “Bordeño-Soul,” which honors the musical tastes and cultural influences of its members. Jarabe, which translates to ‘concoction,’ highlights the eclectic mix of genres they perform ranging from Mexican Folk, Rock & Roll, and Norteño/Tex-Mex to Latin Rock, Trio Romántico, and popular Cumbia. Their traditional Mariachi string instruments and Norteño-inspired drums complement dramatic vocals in English, Spanish, and Spanglish, and show how this multi-generational ensemble embraces change while still honoring the past.
We cannot deny that artificial intelligence (AI) is rapidly becoming a threat to the livelihoods of writers. How concerned should writers, or prospective writers, be?
The frustratingly simple answer is, “It depends.”
Writers who devote themselves to creating content for publications are particularly vulnerable because AI is remarkably adept at content creation. It scans the universe of language and generates literary content in a flash that is nearly as spirited as that of the human mind.
There are already books sold on Amazon that are generated by AI. Any books that we might write and place on the Amazon marketplace will be competing with a superabundance of books that may or may not have been written by humans.
VENTURA — Construction has begun on the Ventura River Trail Improvements Project (VRTIP), a rails-to-trails amenity originally constructed in the late 1990s. The project, funded by a Caltrans Clean California grant of nearly $5 million, will revitalize approximately 1.8 miles of this highly used corridor.
The City of Ventura, joined by local elected officials, staff, and community groups, gathered on Thursday, May 2, 2024, for an official groundbreaking ceremony to celebrate the start of this long-awaited project.
Students who are accepted into the program as?College?Corps?“fellows” will?work with K-12 schools, food banks or climate action organizations to build healthier and more equitable communities across California. In exchange, they can receive up to $10,000, including a living stipend throughout the service term and an Education Award upon completion of 450 service hours. The program also provides students with valuable job experience and skills, as well as access to training, networking, and professional development opportunities.
The California Labor Market Information Division released its March 2024 report, displaying a strong improvement in the Ventura County unemployment rate, from an adjusted 5.1% in February down to 4.6% in March. Job creation was more moderate in improvement, with a net increase by 2,900 payroll jobs, driven primarily by an increase in Farm jobs, up 1,800 in March.
Looking year-over-year, Ventura County added 7,200 jobs across all industries, 5,000 in the private sector, 1,200 in the public sector.
Decades ago, I had a student in my college classroom who was mathematically brilliant. His behavior, however, was sometimes a bit “unconventional,” and he seemed to have no desire (or ability) to interact with any of his classmates.
Recently, I decided to try to fathom this segment of our population, about which I knew little. I embarked on an exploratory journey that took me to a new, fictitious series, Astrid, on PBS Passport. This French-language program (with English subtitles) teaches viewers about the strengths and challenges of people who struggle with autism.
Astrid opens our minds to the varied tapestry of human experience. It invites us to explore with empathy and understanding the diverse ways in which individuals perceive and interact with the world around them.
I invite you to revisit the history and the content of The Fair Housing Act here and reflect on what has been and can be achieved. Though we are tired of seeing the conditions still experienced around our communities that have not yet been righted, I trust you will stay encouraged, not growing weary of doing more and better.
SBA: HOW TO DO BUSINESS WITH NASA
April 24 @ 10:00 am
Discover the roadmap to federal contracting success. Join SBA for an in-depth discussion on FY24 goals and building rapport with the National Aeronautics and Space Administration (NASA).
The methods used to frighten and manipulate the ancient Mexicans are still being used today, for the same purposes, in modern America.
In the seventh and eighth centuries, the Mayan priests used their profound knowledge of mathematics, astronomy, and politics to control and subjugate the masses within their jurisdiction. American politicians who understand politics and social media, but who have no apparent understanding of mathematics or astronomy, are attempting to do the very same thing.
