Category: En español

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. 

Bilingual report — Allan Hancock College Foundation elections Manuel Molera to its board of directors

SANTA MARIA — The Allan Hancock College Foundation elected Manuel “Manny” Molera of Los Olivos to its Board of Directors at its latest meeting.

Molera is Vice President and a private wealth advisor at U.S. Bank Private Wealth Management, where he specializes in investment management, trust and estate services, and private banking products. He has worked in the banking and financial services industry since 2011 and has held similar roles at Wells Fargo and JP Morgan Chase. He earned a B.S. in accounting from the University of Arizona.??

Bilingual report — Maruja Clensay Named Assistant Community Development Director for the City of Ventura

VENTURA — Following an extensive recruitment process, Maruja Clensay has been appointed as the new Assistant Community Development Director, effective August 12, 2024. Ms. Clensay brings extensive experience from both the public and private sectors. 

Maruja Clensay served as Chief of Staff for County of Ventura’s District 1 Supervisor Matt LaVere. In this role, she advised Supervisor LaVere on land use planning, zoning, public works, and entitlement procedures. She also oversaw office operations, personnel, budget, and constituent concerns and served as the Executive Officer for the Ojai Valley Municipal Advisory Council.

Bilingual report — Economic Development Collaborative (EDC) — Reimbursement for Employee Training Still Available!

Thanks to a recent contract the Economic Development Collaborative won from the Employment Training Panel, your company can now be reimbursed for training. Employers in manufacturing, biotechnology, agriculture, nursing and healthcare, construction, high technology services, multimedia and entertainment, goods movement and transportation logistics can access this funding.

Qualifications

To benefit from this program, employers must actively pay into the California Unemployment Fund on behalf of employees. Employees must:

Teatro de las Américas — Theatrical exercises end of course presentation | Prácticas Teatrales, presentación de fin de cursos

Come to the end-of-course presentation of the THEATRICAL PRACTICES of the Teatro de las Américas as part of our First Jueves activities

Throughout the month of July, THEATRICAL PRACTICES coordinated by Juan Pablo Yah Yah were carried out in which the participants, some with, others without theater experience, performed exercises and dynamics to fine-tune their theater techniques.

July News from People’s Self-Help Housing

Last month, PSHH students participated in College Signing Day, an event where their friends, family, and educators celebrated next steps into higher education. Congratulations to our 60 hardworking students who graduated this year!

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

The California Labor Market Information Division has released its June 2024 report, showing a large increase to the unemployment rates across most all regions. The US moved from 3.7% in May all the way up to 4.3% in June, California followed suit, from 4.6% to 5.3%, as did Ventura County, from 3.7% in May to 4.5% in June. 

These increases are seasonal, an annual pattern that occurs with the start of summer. That noted, not that many years ago the seasonal change wasn’t so severe, with lots of younger workers finding summer employment, especially in Retail, to offset the losses in Education for the summer, but those summer jobs of course have cooled with the larger move away from bricks and mortar based sales to on-line activity.

Bilingual report — Three Ventura County Communities Earn Firewise Recognition

THOUSAND OAKS — The Ventura County Fire Department congratulates the Woodridge Homeowners Association in Thousand Oaks, the Rancho Matilija neighborhood in Ojai and the Piru community for earning recognition from the National Fire Protection Association as Firewise USA communities.

“The risk of wildfire is ever present in Ventura County,” Fire Marshal Joe Morelli said. “We applaud these communities for doing all they can to reduce some of that risk.”

Bilingual report — Ventura celebrates National Parks and Recreation Month and Fall Activity Guide

The Fall Activity Guide offers a diverse range of classes and programs for all ages, including Beginner Ceramics, a Bus Tour to see Hamilton at the Pantages Theatre, Aikido, and a collection of classes in fitness, art, aquatics, sports, pet wellness, and more.

Bilingual report — Assessor sends Annual Value Notices for 2024

Of the 250,000 notices mailed out, approximately 207,000 are postcard notices showing the 2% increase in value in accordance with Proposition 13. Additionally, just over 6,000 notices will notify owners if their property’s Market Value is less than the Prop 13 (Base Year) Value.

Bilingual commentary — Lessons From the Straw Hat Riots

Just over a century ago, in the fashion centers of America’s east coast, men were programmed to wear straw hats throughout the summer. Men who considered themselves of sufficiently high class customarily donned the requisite straw hat on May 15 (“Straw Hat Day”). This social custom was taken quite seriously by the men of that era, especially in New York City.

But after September 15, wearing a straw hat was considered a serious violation of standing etiquette.

Bilingual report — The latest news from the County of Ventura

Join us at the 1st Annual Government & Disability Summit taking place September 24 – 27th here in Ventura!

We are thrilled to welcome Rebecca Cokley, the first U.S. Program Officer for Disability Rights at the Ford Foundation and a three-time Presidential Appointee under the Obama Administration. Rebecca served at the U.S. Department of Education, the U.S. Department of Health & Human Services, and the White House where she oversaw diversity and inclusion efforts. Don’t miss her keynote speech at this groundbreaking event!

Bilingual report — Allan Hancock College encores students in Fall classes

SANTA MARIA — Allan Hancock College is reminding students that there is still time to register for fall classes, which start on Aug. 19 at the college’s Santa Maria campus and Lompoc Valley Center.

Hancock offers credit and noncredit classes across a wide range of subjects and areas of study for students seeking degrees, certificates, transfer, job training, or enrichment.

“Now is the time for students to register for fall classes,” said Hancock Superintendent/President Kevin G. Walthers. “Our faculty and staff are ready to support and help them achieve their educational goals.”

Bilingual report — Ventura County Probation Chief Gina Johnson honors staff and officers during National Pretrial, Probation, and Parole Services Week 2024

VENTURA — The Ventura County Probation Agency Chief Probation Officer Gina Johnson is proud to recognize National Pretrial, Probation, and Parole Services Week (Probation Services Week), which is celebrated from July 21 to July 27, 2024. During this week, the incredible probation professionals whose unwavering dedication breaks cycles, provides second chances, and transforms lives are celebrated.

Bilingual report — Economic Development Collaborative (EDC) — California Competes Tax Credit Program

The California Competes Tax Credit (CCTC) is an income tax credit available to businesses that want to locate in California or stay and grow in California. Businesses of any industry, size or location compete for over $180 million available in tax credits by applying in one of the three application periods each year. Applicants will be analyzed based on fourteen different factors of evaluation, including number of full-time jobs being created, amount of investment and strategic importance to the state or region.

Bilingual report — City of Santa Paula Celebrates Funding for Mesa Tanks Replacement Project

SANTA PAULA — The City of Santa Paula is proud to announce that Congresswoman Julia Brownley presented a check (July 16) for $959,752 to the City of Santa Paula. This significant funding will support the Mesa Tanks Replacement Project, a crucial initiative aimed at ensuring the city’s water infrastructure meets the highest standards of reliability and safety.

The Mesa Tanks Replacement Project is a comprehensive effort to replace two deteriorating water tanks, identified in a 2017 report by the State Water Resources Control Board Division of Drinking Water as being in poor condition. The total cost of the project is estimated at $5.5 million.

Mayor Leslie Cornejo expressed her gratitude and highlighted the importance of this project for the community. “This funding underscores our commitment to maintaining clean drinking water sources for the residents of Santa Paula,” said Mayor Cornejo. “By replacing the aging Mesa tanks with new, reinforced structures, we are not only improving our water storage capacity but also enhancing our ability to support our growing community needs and firefighting efforts.”

Bilingual report — County of Santa Barbara Lake Fire Update for July 17, 2024 – More Evacuation Orders and Warnings Have Been Cancelled as Fire Containment Increases

Effective Wednesday, July 17, 2024, the Santa Barbara County Sheriff’s Office has cancelled additional Evacuation Orders and Warnings while maintaining orders and warnings in areas unsafe for the public.
Evacuation Orders and Warnings CANCELLED for:
Areas south of the fire perimeter
The following areas remain under an EVACUATION ORDER:
Area between the western fire perimeter and the Los Padres National Forest Fire Area Closure
Area east of La Brea Creek and Forest Route 10N06, south of the Los Padres National Forest boundary, and north of the Sisquoc River
The following areas are under an EVACUATION WARNING:
Area east of Kelly Canyon, north of Sisquoc River, west of La Brea Creek and Forest Route 10N06, and south of the Los Padres National Forest

First District Supervisor Das Williams — Lake Fire, free computer training in Carpinteria, other updates

Let’s all give our collective praise to our firefighters and emergency personnel, who have made significant progress fighting the Lake Fire. As of yesterday evening, the Lake Fire is now 38% contained.

The Santa Barbara County Public Health Department and the Santa Barbara County Air Pollution Control District (APCD) have lifted the Air Quality Alert in the Santa Ynez Valley. The Air Quality Watch will remain in place countywide, and air quality conditions are forecasted to be good to moderate throughout the county

A number of evacuation orders and warnings have been canceled. When returning home, it is important to exercise caution, as public safety and utility vehicles continue to perform operations in the area.

Economic Development Collaborative (EDC) free event and webinar schedule

SCORE: FUND YOUR BUSINESS WITH SPONSORS, EVEN IF YOU’RE JUST STARTING OUT

July 16 @ 10:00 am

Would you like to do what you love and have someone else foot the bill? Have you ever considered corporate sponsors for your business, show, book, charity, speaking or events? If you answered yes to any of these questions, this webinar is for you! America’s most successful companies partner with sponsors. Why not you? Linda Hollander can help you. She is the author of the #1 best-selling book, Corporate Sponsorship in 3 Easy Steps, and Sponsor Concierge’s CEO. Linda has consulted with many entrepreneurs to help them profit from the incredible power of corporate sponsors and has 20 years of experience in business. Her corporate sponsors have included Microsoft, Wells Fargo, Epson, Citibank, Fed Ex, Health Net, Southwest Airlines, Bank of America, Staples, American Airlines, Walmart and IBM.

CLICK HERE TO REGISTER

Bilingual report — Nomination Period Announced for Offices in November 5, 2024 Statewide Presidential General Election

“As we lead up to the November 5th election, the Presidential contest, of course, is the one most voters are aware of,” said Clerk-Recorder Ascencion, “but this is also the election for several local contests where people may find they personally know someone who’s running.  It’s an exciting time and the Elections team enjoys helping our local candidates get their campaign filing started. We do always caution candidates, though – deadlines come up quickly so now is the time to make your appointment.”

Bilingual report — New Chair and Vice Chair Announced for Workforce Development Board of Ventura County (WDBVC)

VENTURA COUNTY — The most recent Workforce Development Board Meeting featured an election of new officers with Laura Martinez, elected as Chair, and Byron K. Ward, elected Vice Chair by their fellow Board Members.  

Martinez has a strong background in Business Development, HR, and Strategic Planning across multiple business sectors, as well as having served in the US Air Force. She is the Founder & CEO of HR Force, her consulting firm specializing in HR architecture and serving as strategic partners in building HR departments from inception to alignment with organizational vision and strategic objectives. 

“I am excited about the opportunities ahead for us as a team [the Workforce Development Board],” Martinez said. “Together, we can continue to make a real difference in our community by fostering economic growth, addressing workforce challenges, and creating meaningful opportunities for workforce development.” 

Bilingual commentary — Pronouns, Language, and the Demotion of Women

I began noticing a particular nuanced change in our language when personal “pronouns” suddenly became a divisive social issue. The more fanatical sectors of the conservative wing went to war with the “wokeness” of the more intense elements of the left regarding the appropriateness and necessity of these pronouns.

In our current toxic political environment, this difference in perspective has led to laws in several states that allow educators, for example, to dismiss a student’s preferred pronouns. This means that whether a male student prefers “she/her/hers” or “they/them/their” or the more exotic versions such as “xe/xem,” a teacher in these states has no obligation to comply with the will of that student.

Bilingual report — City of Ventura appoints new Human Resources Director — Valerie Barroso

“Valerie has been an exceptional leader on our Human Resources team for the past six years,” said City Manager Bill Ayub. “Her deep understanding of the City, our staff, and our strategic goals has been invaluable. Valerie’s dedication, expertise, and visionary approach make her the perfect fit for this role. We are thrilled to have her continue serving Ventura and look forward to the positive impact she will undoubtedly bring in her new capacity as Human Resources Director.”

Bilingual report — Evacuation Orders and Warnings Are In Effect For Areas of Santa Barbara County Due to the Lake Fire

View this email online EVACUATION ORDERS AND WARNINGS ARE IN EFFECT FOR AREAS OF  SANTA BARBARA COUNTY DUE TO THE LAKE FIRE No Additional Protective Actions as of 6 p.m. on Wednesday, July 10, 2024 Click here to access the interactive…

Bilingual report — First 5 Ventura County enrolling families with children ages newborn to 5 years for our Parent and Child Together (PACT) Classes

VENTURA COUNTY — First 5 Ventura County is currently enrolling families with children ages newborn to 5 years for our Parent and Child Together (PACT) Classes. These free, bilingual classes are 14-weeks long and provide in-person, high-quality, teacher-led educational experiences. Space is still available for classes in Moorpark, Santa Paula, and Simi Valley.

The County Of Ventura Arts And Culture Investment Fund Announces Grant Recipients

The grants support 36 Ventura County-based nonprofit arts and culture organizations and 62 independent artists who were selected through a highly competitive grant application process. Nearly 300 applications across the two groups were received during the application window. Grant awards range from $5,000 to $150,000 for the nonprofit organizations, and $1,000 – $4,000 for artists.

Bilingual report — Filing Period for Ventura City Council Candidates Now Open

VENTURA — Mark your calendars! On November 5, 2024, voters in the City of Ventura’s Districts 2, 3, and 7 will head to the polls to elect three City Council members for four-year terms. This election will be held in conjunction with the Ventura County Presidential General Election, making it a pivotal day for our community.

Bilingual report — People’s Self-Help Housing (PSHHC) announces Pre-Applications Available Now for Tiburon Place | Pre-solicitudes disponibles ahora para Tiburon Place

Located in the City of San Luis Obispo, this new development will be comprised of 68 apartments, including studio, one, and two bedroom units. This three-story, three-building con?guration with a community room, outdoor courtyard, and playground, will serve individuals and families making at or below 60% of the Area Median Income, as well as populations with special needs. Residents will also have access to onsite property management, and service-enriched support.

Bilingual report — Stay Cool in Oxnard During Summer Heat

OXNARD — With warm summer days ahead, the City of Oxnard encourages community members to take advantage of the many free indoor activities provided by the City’s Recreation Department to stay cool and entertained.

Visit Oxnard Public Libraries

Oxnard’s Public Libraries are the perfect spots to escape the heat. Besides a vast collection of books and reading materials, the libraries host engaging activities for all ages—children, teens, and adults alike. Discover the exciting events planned for July!

SEE MORE HERE

Bilingual report — Dr. Theresa Cho appointed County of Ventura Director of the Health Care Agency

VENTURA — Dr. Theresa Cho has been selected as the new director of the Ventura County Health Care Agency. The appointment follows a rigorous recruitment that included more than 39 applicants. Cho succeeds Barry Zimmerman who retired from the position in June.

“Dr. Cho brings a wealth of extensive experience and exceptional qualifications to her role as Director of the Health Care Agency,” stated Dr. Sevet Johnson, County Executive Officer. “Her distinguished career as a family medicine physician, coupled with her leadership across our healthcare system uniquely positions Dr. Cho to adeptly advance the mission of the agency. We are confident in her ability to lead the Health Care Agency forward in continued innovation, operational excellence, and our ongoing commitment to patient-centered care for the residents of Ventura County.”

Bilingual report — City of Santa Paula Celebrates the Success of the Santa Paula Future Leaders Academy

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…

Bilingual report — County of Ventura appoints Danielle Keys as new Human Resources Director

“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.” 

Bilingual report — County of Ventura names Gregg Strakaluse as Public Works Director

“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.”

Bilingual commentary — The Risks of Starting a Home-Based Business

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. 

Bilingual report — Veteran Services Office and Farmworker Resource Program move to new location at The Palms-Oxnard

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.

Bilingual report — County of Ventura employees commended for decades of devoted public service

“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.”

Bilingual report — City of Ventura announces reopening of the Ventura Pier

“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.”

Bilingual report — City of Santa Paula announce cancellation of Do Not Drink Notice

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.

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

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.  

Bilingual report — Ventura Police deploy new drone technology to enforce Fourth of July fireworks ban

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.…

Bilingual report — Teatro de las Américas — La Fiesta de Margaret (June 29) | Prácticas Teatrales | Luchadora! CASTING CALL

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

The latest news from the County of Ventura

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.

Gold Coast Health Plan Celebrates the Appointment of Laura Espinosa as the First-Ever Latina Chairperson of the Ventura County Medi-Cal Managed Care Commission

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.”

Bilingual commentary — Crossword Puzzles in the Digital Age

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. 

Bilingual report — City of Oxnard Adopts Surplus Budget; Will Use $20M of Surplus To Pay Down Long-Term Debt and $9.5M to Bolster Reserve Fund

“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.”

Bilingual report — Ventura Police holding DUI checkpoint on Tuesday, June 18, 2024

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.” 

Bilingual report — Economic Development Collaborative (EDC) — Honoring Pride Month

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 City Council Reviews Accelerated $19 Million Pavement Management Plan to Address Resident Concerns on Road Conditions

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.

Bilingual report — City of Ventura releases second episode of Ventura Voices podcast featuring Police Chief Darin Schindler

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.

Bilingual report — Ventura County Office of Education Focus on Education June 2024 — Inspiring Stories form the Ventura County Class of 2024

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. 

Bilingual report — Mixteco/Indigena Community Organizing Project — Oxnard Guelaguetza Festival 2024! (June 23)

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. 

Bilingual report — Join us for the June 11 Santa Barbara County Board of Supervisors FY 2024-25 Budget Hearing

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.

Bilingual report — Economic Development Collaborative (EDC) announces Economic Development Collaborative Delivers Financial Assistance for Worker Training in Ventura County

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.

Bilingual report — Ventura Police Officers’ Association announces 2024 Dee Dowell Memorial Scholarship

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.

Bilingual report — Celebrate Safely and Enjoy a Dazzling Drone Show in Santa Paula this Fourth of July

“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 of Santa Barbara June Newsletter

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.

Bilingual report — City of Ventura secures major grant for VenturaWaterPure

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.