Category: En español

Bilingual report — County of Ventura announces Mountain Fire Debris Removal Fully Complete for Properties Enrolled in the County-led Debris Removal Program

by Community Contributor • May 8, 2025 • Comments Off

“Our Environmental Health Division team, along with our hired contractors and State partners, approached this effort with great care as we managed the program and supported property owners throughout the process”, said Charles Genkel, Environmental Health Division Director. “This wasn’t just about clearing debris. It was about helping people take an important step toward healing and recovery. As we move into the rebuilding phase, the County remains committed to supporting property owners every step of the way.”

Bilingual report — Ventura PD urges drivers to stay alert during National Motorcycle Safety Awareness Month

by Community Contributor • May 5, 2025 • Comments Off

VENTURA — With the return of warmer weather and an increase in motorcycles on the road, Ventura PD reminds drivers to share the road, reduce crashes, and help save lives throughout May, recognized nationally as Motorcycle Safety Awareness Month.

“Motorcycles can easily be overlooked in traffic, making it essential to check your mirrors and blind spots carefully,” said Corporal David Curtis. “A simple second glance can prevent a tragedy. Unlike drivers in cars, motorcyclists lack the protection of a vehicle frame. We all share the responsibility to help keep our roads safe.”

Bilingual report — Gold Coast Health Plan’s Acting Chief Executive Officer Dr. Felix Nuñez to Assume Permanent Role

by Community Contributor • May 2, 2025 • Comments Off

CAMARILLO — Gold Coast Health Plan (GCHP) announced the appointment of Dr. Felix Nuñez as Chief Executive Officer. A seasoned family physician and health care executive with nearly three decades of experience in managed care and health care delivery, Dr. Nuñez will lead GCHP’s continued commitment to delivering high-quality, equitable care to more than 240,000 Medi-Cal members in Ventura County.

Dr. Nuñez joined GCHP in 2022 as associate chief medical officer and assumed the role of chief medical officer the following year. He assumes the CEO role following an eight-month tenure as Acting CEO. His three-year contract starts May 1, 2025, and runs through April 30, 2028.

“I have dedicated my life’s work to vulnerable populations and underserved communities, and I am happy that I can continue to lead that important work in Ventura County,” Dr. Nuñez said. “I look forward to strengthening GCHP’s partnerships, expanding access to high quality care for our members, and continuing to build a health plan that contributes to the overall health and wellbeing of our community.”

Bilingual report — May is National Bicycle Safety Month: Ventura PD encourages safer streets for all

by Community Contributor • May 2, 2025 • Comments Off

To help protect bicyclists and pedestrians, the Ventura Police Department will conduct a focused traffic safety operation throughout the month, aimed at addressing violations that endanger people walking and biking. Enforcement efforts will focus on speeding, illegal turns, failure to yield, and stop sign or red light violations.

Bilingual report — Economic Development Collaborative (EDC) — Funding Opprotunity for City of Oxnard Business Owners

by Community Contributor • May 1, 2025 • Comments Off

The City of Oxnard and the Economic Development Collaborative have partnered to support small business owners! With a low-interest rate, terms designed for businesses and NO-COST professional advising, this fund is perfect for those who haven’t been unable to qualify for traditional bank loans.

Bilingual report — The latest news from the County of Ventura

by Community Contributor • May 1, 2025 • Comments Off

CARE Act Town Hall Meeting on Mental Health and Support Services

Join the County of Ventura and the Ventura County Superior Court for an upcoming *CARE Act Town Hall Meeting* to learn about a new program offering voluntary support and treatment for individuals facing serious mental health and substance use challenges.

This informative session will cover eligibility, the petition process, and how the Community Assistance, Recovery, and Empowerment (CARE) Act is being implemented locally to connect people with the care they need.

Date: Thursday, May 15, 2025

Time: 6:00 – 7:30 p.m.

Location: Ventura County Government Center

Hall of Administration – Lower Plaza Assembly Room, 800 S. Victoria Ave., Ventura, CA 93009

Or Join via Zoom:

Meeting ID: 814 194 7530

Passcode: 484640

Download Zoom at: zoom.us/download

**Spanish interpretation will be provided.

Speakers include representatives from the Ventura County Superior Court, County Counsel, Public Defender’s Office, and Behavioral Health, all working together to support residents through this new state program.

LEARN MORE

Bilingual report — Twelve cadets graduated from Allan Hancock College’s CORE Custody Academy

by Community Contributor • May 1, 2025 • Comments Off

“Today is not an ending, but rather a beginning,” said Santa Barbara County Sheriff’s Office Chief Deputy Vincent Wasilewski. “It is the beginning of a career in one of the most demanding and rewarding professions anywhere.”

All 12 graduates of CORE Academy Class #19 completed a comprehensive California Standards and Training for Corrections course consisting of 260 hours of instruction. The six-week academy is designed to prepare students to work as correctional officers. Some of the instruction included emergency planning in a custody facility, report writing, ethics, investigation procedures, contraband, arrest and control, physical fitness training, CPR/First Aid and emergency vehicle operations.

Defending Public Education in a Time of Uncertainty

by Community Contributor • April 30, 2025 • Comments Off

Public education is facing an unprecedented challenge. As political rhetoric intensifies, the U.S. Department of Education has come under attack, with calls for its elimination shaking the foundation of our nation’s commitment to equitable learning opportunities. Yet, despite these challenges, the focus of Ventura County educators remains clear: ensuring the well-being and success of students.

At this time, when public education is under scrutiny, our schools need unwavering support from the communities they serve. The narrative around education must shift from one of division to one of shared responsibility and appreciation. We need to reinforce the idea that teaching is not just a profession, but a privilege—one that shapes the future of our society. Strong, compassionate educators and leaders remain essential to guiding our schools through these uncertain times.

Allan Hancock College’s Career and Technical Education (CTE) students shine at state SkillsUSA competition

by Community Contributor • April 30, 2025 • Comments Off

SANTA MARIA — Students in Allan Hancock College’s Career and Technical Education (CTE) programs took home a staggering 50 gold, silver, and bronze medals from the statewide SkillsUSA competition in Ontario, California, earlier this month.

A record-breaking 40 Hancock students who participated in this year’s competition earned gold medals across 25 categories, including cybersecurity, architecture, welding, crime scene investigation, web design, and more.

In addition, seven Hancock students earned silver medals and three earned bronze medals.

“The work and dedication of our SkillsUSA students demonstrates their drive to succeed and their passion for their career pathways,” said Hancock Administration of Justice Instructor Kurt Kruse, who attended the competition as a SkillsUSA coach. “As an instructor, I was proud of every student who competed.”?

Bilingual report — The Agriculture Appreciation Curriculum teaches 3rd grade students a culture of healthy eating and shows them a path to STEM Education

by Community Contributor • April 30, 2025 • Comments Off

VENTURA — Early education about food helps young people see the value of eating fruits and vegetables instead of ultra-processed foods. A fun program helps 3rd grade students learn where their food comes from, the science of agriculture, and related career opportunities. Students for Eco-Education and Agriculture (SEEAG) provides a Farm-to-Table Laboratory that teaches children in Ventura, Los Angeles, and Santa Barbara counties in California, thanks to a grant from Kaiser Permanente.

Bilingual report — City of Ventura names David Dickey as next Chief of Police

by Community Contributor • April 30, 2025 • Comments Off

“We are excited to welcome Chief Dickey as the next leader of the Ventura Police Department,” said City Manager Bill Ayub. “His extensive experience, collaborative leadership style, and dedication to the community make him well-equipped to address evolving public safety challenges with professionalism.”

Bilingual report Allan Hancock College hosts art, music, dance and film events (and ?Folklórico Invitational Concert) May 1 through 19

by Community Contributor • April 28, 2025 • Comments Off

Hancock will host the 2025 Folklórico Invitational concert and dance performance on May 1-3 at 7 p.m. in Boyd Concert Hall (bldg. F) on the Santa Maria campus. Performers include Hancock students, as well as talented dancers from Righetti, Pioneer Valley and Santa Maria high schools, as well as members of the community. Tickets are $10 each and are available at https://www.hancockcollege.edu/pathways/creative-arts/tickets.php.

Bilingual report — Viva el Arte de Santa Barbara presents Ballet Nepantla: A Fusion of Ballet, Contemporary, and Mexican Folklórico May 16-18

by Community Contributor • April 24, 2025 • Comments Off

SANTA BARBARA — Join ¡Viva el Arte de Santa Bárbara! (Viva) for three free community performances by Ballet Nepantla.

Ballet Nepantla

THREE FREE PUBLIC PERFORMANCES

Friday, May 16 | 7 PM | Isla Vista School, 6875 El Colegio Rd, Goleta

Saturday, May 17 | 7 PM | Guadalupe City Hall, 918 Obispo St, Guadalupe, CA

Sunday, May 18 | 6 PM | The Marjorie Luke Theatre, 721 E Cota St, Santa Barbara

Ballet Nepantla combines classic ballet and contemporary dance with traditional Mexican folklórico, creating a truly special production. Founders Andrea Guajardo and Martín Rodríguez envisioned a new form of expression that fused these two distinct dance traditions, creating an aesthetic that reflects the historical, cultural, and social realities of a broader narrative of being Mexican, Mexican American, immigrant, and trans-cultural.

Bilingual report — April news People’s Self-Health Housing

by Community Contributor • April 22, 2025 • Comments Off

In April we celebrate Fair Housing Month and rightly recognize the passage of the Fair Housing Act of 1968. This landmark legislature came just two years ahead of People’s Self-Help Housing’s incorporation.

The Act, which protects people from discrimination when renting or buying a home, securing a mortgage, seeking housing assistance, or engaging in other housing-related activities, originally had four protected classes – race, religion, national origin, and gender. With the amendment of 1988, two additional classes, ability and familial status were added.

Bilingual report — Allan Hancock College sparks conversation on future of AI at summit

by Community Contributor • April 21, 2025 • Comments Off

SANTA MARIA — Allan Hancock College welcomed more than 200 students, educators, industry leaders and community members to its first Artificial Intelligence (AI) Summit on April 18 at the college’s Santa Maria campus.

The event, a first of its kind for the college, brought together experts from the California Community Colleges Chancellor’s Office, LinkedIn, Cal Poly, Moorpark College, Berkeley College and Hancock for a day of engaging discussions, keynote presentations, breakout sessions and panel conversations. Topics included AI trends, practical applications, ethical considerations and how artificial intelligence is reshaping education, employment, and everyday life.

Bilingual commentary — Allan Hancock and Cuesta Colleges receive grant to develop high-tech hubs, cybersecurity degree

by Community Contributor • April 21, 2025 • Comments Off

SANTA MARIA — Allan Hancock College and Cuesta College have been awarded state funding through Uplift Central Coast’s Catalyst Predevelopment Grant initiative to establish the AHC/CC High Tech Hubs: Diversifying Careers Through Education project.

This initiative aims to address regional workforce gaps by preparing the next generation of aerospace engineers, cybersecurity specialists, and skilled technicians in high-demand industries. The grant is part of Uplift Central Coast’s recent $9 million investment in 36 projects across six counties, supporting economic growth, workforce development, and equitable job opportunities.

Bilingual contribution— Post-Action Momentum Continues: April 19 Community Gatherings in Santa Barbara, Goleta, and Isla Vista

by Community Contributor • April 18, 2025 • Comments Off

SANTA BARBARA — Following the powerful momentum of the recent Hands Off! action, local organizers are calling on residents to come together again—this time to deepen connections and organize at the community level.

On Saturday, April 19 from 1:00 to 3:00 PM, simultaneous Community Gatherings will be held in Santa Barbara, Goleta, and Isla Vista. These events are designed to create space for real conversations, grassroots strategy, and mutual support as we build a stronger, people-powered movement.

RSVP today at https://t.ly/apr19 to join one of the gatherings.

Bilingual commentary — The Intrigue of Eavesdropping

by Community Contributor • April 18, 2025 • Comments Off

Throughout history, eavesdropping on others’ conversations has served to gather information that might otherwise not be available. The ethics of eavesdropping varies from unreservedly unconscionable to harmless and even useful. Eavesdropping can prove to be harmlessly thrilling or profoundly exciting for our spirit.

Teatro de las Americas — Don’t miss your chance to see Birthday Party Fundraiser on April 19

by Community Contributor • April 17, 2025 • Comments Off

Don’t miss your chance to see Birthday Party Fundraiser! Tickets are still available, but they’re selling fast. You can skip straight to the front of our line and secure your tickets by visiting our website.

Bilingual report — California Secretary of State Shirley N. Weber, Ph.D., Visits Ventura County Clerk-Recorder & Registrar of Voters Office

by Community Contributor • April 16, 2025 • Comments Off

Secretary Weber’s first stop was the County Clerk and Recorder division office on the main level of the County Government Center’s Hall of Administration. She and her staff greeted county recorder and county clerk staff and looked in on the Mark A. Lunn Wedding Room, named for the former County Clerk and Recorder. Secretary Weber also visited the Elections Division in the lower level, where she received a tour of the facility and engaged with election staff.

Bilingual report — County of Ventura receives Excellence in Public Information and Communications Award for 2023 Annual Report

by Community Contributor • April 16, 2025 • Comments Off

The award was presented during CAPIO’s 2025 Annual Conference, which celebrated outstanding work in government communications for print and digital assets created by public information officials in 2024. The County of Ventura’s 2023 Annual Report took home top honors in the category. Overall, CAPIO received over 500 entries from public agencies throughout California, including cities, counties, special districts, and state departments for the more than 30 awards categories.

Women’s Economic Ventures (WEV) awarded $50,000 from Uplift Central Coast to support EmpowerPath: A bold new initiative for single parents

by Community Contributor • April 15, 2025 • Comments Off

SANTA BARBARA — Women’s Economic Ventures (WEV) has been selected as one of 36 organizations across the Central Coast to receive Catalyst Predevelopment Funding through Uplift Central Coast. WEV was awarded $50,000 to support early-stage research and planning for EmpowerPath,…

Bilingual report — County of Ventura recognizes dedicated public service from 23 longstanding employees

by Community Contributor • April 15, 2025 • Comments Off

“Behind every County program, service, and local initiative that supports our residents, there are dedicated individuals working tirelessly to make those efforts possible,” said Supervisor Janice Parvin, Chair of the Board of Supervisors. “We are proud to acknowledge the career milestones for these employees. Their willingness and dedication to serve the community have made a lasting impact through decades of service and commitment.”

Bilingual report — City of Santa Paula to Celebrate grand opening of Santa Paula Creek Sports Park on May 3

by Community Contributor • April 15, 2025 • Comments Off

The Grand Opening Celebration will offer a full afternoon of fun and excitement for the whole family. Guests will enjoy live drills and demonstrations by Santa Paula’s talented youth softball and soccer teams, showcasing the community’s athletic spirit. A live band will take the stage at the new amphitheater, filling the park with music and energy.

Food lovers can grab a bite from a selection of local food trucks, while kids explore the Parks & Recreation equipment displays or hop aboard a charming kids’ train ride. The celebration will also feature interactive booths hosted by community-based organizations, offering educational resources and hands-on activities.

Bilingual report — Santa Barbara Earth Day Festival takes over Alameda Park April 26 & 27, 2025

by Community Contributor • April 14, 2025 • Comments Off

Now in its 55th year, the community-organized festival is one of the longest-running Earth Day celebrations in the country and is one of the largest Earth Day festivals on the West Coast. Presented by the Community Environmental Council (CEC) and produced by longtime festival partner, CarpEvents, the Santa Barbara Earth Day Festival continues to serve as a beacon for environmental advocacy and education.

Bilingual report — Ventura PD honors dispatchers’ vital role in emergency response

by Community Contributor • April 14, 2025 • Comments Off

“Public safety dispatchers truly are the first responders,” said Interim Police Chief Tony Lee. “They manage intense situations with clarity, compassion, and focus—providing essential support to both the community and our officers in the field. Their work often goes unseen, but it is absolutely vital to every emergency response.”

Among VPD’s team of 17 skilled dispatchers, Megann Williams is being recognized as the 2024 Dispatcher of the Year for her outstanding contributions to public service and officer safety. With a calm, steady presence and an exceptional ability to multitask, Williams exemplifies the critical role dispatchers play in public safety.

Bilingual commentary — The Enigmatic Nature of the Blowing Wind

by Community Contributor • April 11, 2025 • Comments Off

As I write this, the wind outside is causing trees to sway and birds in flight to move erratically. These must be the March winds in April.

I recalled reading about the beliefs of the Aztecs regarding the wind. They surmised that the wind served as a bridge between the realms of the physical and the spiritual. They depicted Ehécatl, the Aztec god of the wind, as the sacred entity that breathed life into humanity.

The Aztecs venerated the wind and lived in awe of its dual nature; it gave life, but it could also chaotically take it away. For them, the wind carried both messages and benedictions from the gods. It was a transformative force to be reckoned with. It moved and changed the elements of the world around them.

Bilingual report — County of Ventura awarded $550,000 Catalyst Grant to establish Advanced Air Mobility Innovation Center

by Community Contributor • April 10, 2025 • Comments Off

VENTURA — The County of Ventura’s Economic Vitality Unit, in partnership with the Department of Airports and key regional partners, has been awarded $550,000 to establish an Advanced Air Mobility Innovation Center. The grant is part of a $9 million…

Museum of Contemporary Art Santa Barbara — Take a Look at What’s Coming Up!

by Community Contributor • April 10, 2025 • Comments Off

Join us for an evening of Cochineal Dye Demonstrations, Mezcal Tasting, and Delicious Oaxacan Cuisine at Sangre De Nopal artist Porfirio Gutierrez’s Studio in Ventura.

Funds raised will provide critical support for museum exhibitions and programs like Sangre de Nopal currently on view.

For further questions email hello@mcasantabarbara.org

Bilingual report — Peoples’ Self-Help Housing (PSHH) — Get your tickets for the 2025 Builder Games on April 26

by Community Contributor • April 10, 2025 • Comments Off

Saturday, April 26 | 3-7 PM | 1060 Kendall Rd, San Luis Obispo

Want to join the fun at the 2025 Builder Games? Reserve your spot now!

Cheer on teams as they race against the clock and face fun challenges to build one-of-a-kind playhouses for children. Enjoy Santa Maria style BBQ, local wine, beer, and music! All funds raised benefit the Supportive Housing and Camino Scholars programs of PSHH.

Bilingual commentary — For Peace Throughout, Let’s Live and Let Live

by Community Contributor • April 4, 2025 • Comments Off

Learning to “live and let live” is like sipping cold tea on a hot summer day. When we master the concept of living and letting live, we learn to tolerate and even accept the quirks, beliefs, boundaries, and tastes of others.

If nothing else, acquiring this outlook allows us to accept a family member who cheers for the political candidate that we abhor or who likes pineapple on their pizza.

In some countries and within certain cultures, many people adopt the philosophy of “live and let live.” Living together while embracing this attitude allows for the avoidance of conflict between members of a society—something we here in the U.S. could use about now

Bilingual report — Ventura Mayor Dr. Jeannette Sánchez-Palacios addresses recent hate crimes and vandalism

by Community Contributor • April 4, 2025 • Comments Off

VENTURA — The City of Ventura strongly condemns the hateful actions that occurred in our community this past weekend. The swastikas painted on public and private property are not only criminal acts of vandalism, but they also seek to spread fear and division. Let it be clear: hate has no place in Ventura.

I am deeply grateful to the Ventura Police Department for their swift and effective response, leading to the identification and arrest of the suspect. Their commitment to justice helped prevent further harm and reassured our community that such behavior will not be tolerated.

Bilingual report — Wildfire season is year-round: Ventura Fire Department urges ongoing defensible space compliance

by Community Contributor • April 3, 2025 • Comments Off

VENTURA — The Ventura Fire Department urges property owners to take proactive steps in wildfire prevention by maintaining flammable grass, trees, and shrubs as part of the annual Fire Hazard Reduction Program (FHRP).

“With recent devastating fires reminding Southern California of the ever-present fire danger, the need for year-round defensible space has never been more urgent,” shared Fire Chief David Endaya. “Wildfires can spread rapidly in Ventura’s dry, drought-prone conditions, and keeping properties clear is critical to reducing structure loss and protecting lives.”

Bilingual report — Ventura’s Guide to summer camps, events, classes, and more!

by Community Contributor • April 1, 2025 • Comments Off

VENTURA — The Parks & Recreation Summer Activity Guide is now available online at www.cityofventura.ca.gov/ActivityGuide. Registration begins Tuesday, April 8, 2025, at 12:00 p.m. and will be available online, over the phone, or in person at City Hall, Room 226, 501 Poli Street. Registration information and policies are on page 6.

The Summer Activity Guide offers a diverse range of youth summer camps and programs for all ages from June through August. Exciting special events await, including the highly anticipated 4th of July Street Fair and the captivating Music Under the Stars concert series. Community members can also explore aquatic activities such as sailing, kayaking, standup paddleboarding, or swim lessons. There are also various arts and cultural options like tours to museums, productions, and local landmarks.

Bilingual report — Apply to Ventura’s council advisory groups through new online portal

by Community Contributor • April 1, 2025 • Comments Off

“We are thrilled to introduce this new tool as part of our ongoing efforts to enhance transparency and community involvement,” said City Clerk Michael MacDonald. “This is an exciting step forward in helping more residents take an active role in shaping Ventura’s future.”

Jump into fun at Museum of Ventura County!

by Community Contributor • April 1, 2025 • Comments Off

Enfoque Calendars on Sale

Stay inspired and organized in 2025 with our stunning calendar, showcasing breathtaking photography by Diego Huerta from the Enfoque exhibit—now on display at the Agriculture Museum. Click HERE to purchase.

Bilingual report — City of Santa Paula Reminds Businesses About Sales Rate Update and Deadline for Measure R Oversight Committee

by Community Contributor • March 31, 2025 • Comments Off

SANTA PAULA — The City of Santa Paula is reminding residents and business owners of several important updates related to Measure R, the local sales tax initiative approved by voters in November 2024. These updates include a change in the City’s sales tax rate, the formation of a community oversight committee, and an invitation for residents to help ensure accountability and transparency in how new revenues are used.

Applications open for Ventura’s Special Event Grant Program

by Community Contributor • March 31, 2025 • Comments Off

VENTURA — The City of Ventura is now accepting applications for its Special Event Grant Program (SEGP), designed to support community events for local residents. To be eligible, applicants must be nonprofit organizations based in the City of Ventura with 501(c)(3) status.

Bilingual report — The latest news from the County of Ventura

by Community Contributor • March 31, 2025 • Comments Off

Coming Soon! New web addresses for County websites

The County of Ventura has officially begun the migration of county websites to the new .gov domain – venturacounty.gov.?
The transition to the new address complies with CA State Assembly Bill 1637, which was passed in 2024 and requires local governments to have a .gov domain by or before 2029. The transition to the new address will provide enhanced cybersecurity and easily identify the County’s online presence for residents, businesses, and visitors.

Bilingual commentary — Rafting Ants: Lessons for Survival

by Community Contributor • March 28, 2025 • Comments Off

The past few weeks have alarmed many of us who contemplate the future of our country. Yes, we’ve always had disagreements among ourselves. We’ve discussed issues and argued with each other. But over the past few years, our discord has devolved into a mean-spirited battle between liberals and conservatives, governments and disadvantaged groups, globalists and nationalists, the religious and the secularists, oligarchs and common citizens.

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