Category: familia

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 — 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 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.

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 — 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 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 — 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.…

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.

Bilingual report — Air Quality Alert issued for Ventura County

VENTURA — The Ventura County Air Pollution Control District is issuing an Air Quality Alert because unhealthy conditions are forecast for Monday, June 16.

Smoke from the Post Fire is expected to cause the Air Quality Index (AQI) to fall in the unhealthy range for everyone. Measured levels of PM2.5, particulate matter with a diameter of 2.5 micrometers or less, have reached unhealthy for sensitive groups in the Simi Valley area with the potential to reach unhealthy levels for all in the overnight and morning hours. While the largest smoke impact remains near the northeastern portions of Ventura County, elevated levels of PM 2.5 are anticipated to increase in all locations during the Sunday overnight hours and into Monday morning.

Bilingual report — REACH Fellowship in Santa Barbara Announces Summer Trips for REACH Fellows

Fellows during their Backpacking Trip, Photo Credit Rob Balloch *** Becarios durante su viaje de mochilero, Crédito de Foto Rob Balloch.

SANTA BARBARA — REACH Fellowship, a leading organization dedicated to empowering students through educational and experiential learning opportunities, is thrilled to announce their summer trips designed to inspire and educate the participants in the program, referred to as Fellows. This year, REACH Fellows will attend a variety of enriching trips, including college tours, backpacking adventures, and culminating experiential trips, both international and domestic. REACH staff carefully select these Fellows during the fall of their junior year of high school through a rigorous selection process, and each cohort is supported through the summer of their first year of college. The primary goal of the program is to support first-generation, low- to moderate-income students in Santa Barbara County. REACH is able to fund the program, these trips, and other workshops through the support of the Audacious Foundation and other generous donors. This support enables us to offer the program to students at no cost to them or their families.

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 — 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 — 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.”

Bilingual report — Ventura County Department of Child Support Services named Outstanding Program by Child Support Directors Association of California

“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.”

Bilingual report — The latest news from the County of Ventura

Earlier this month, the County of Ventura hosted a visit from the Senior Advisor on Homelessness for Governor Gavin Newsom, Hafsa Kaka, and Deputy Regional Director of External Affairs, Vishesh Anand.
The visit consisted of a presentation on County efforts to address homelessness and several site visits with local nonprofit partners.

Bilingual commentary — The Impact of the Meat Industry on Climate Change

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.”

Bilingual report — Students in Allan Hancock College’s noncredit programs recognized

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.   

Bilingual report — Women’s Economic Ventures (WEV) Receives Grant to Continue Support of Hispanic Immigrant Entrepreneurs

SANTA BARBARA — Women’s Economic Ventures (WEV) is among a prestigious group of non-profits from around California recently selected to implement the “Breaking Barriers to Employment Initiative”. Breaking Barriers is a program of the Foundation for California Community Colleges in partnership with the California Workforce Development Board and the Labor and Workforce Development Agency. The program aims to support “historically underrepresented and economically overlooked populations such as veterans, refugees, formerly incarcerated individuals, women of color, and immigrants with pipelines to meaningful employment and quality jobs”. The programs selected promote the “economic success and increased social mobility of these populations while also addressing regional workforce needs and the social and economic inequality impacting California communities.” A full list of the Breaking Barriers 2.0 Awardees can be seen here.

Cadets graduate from Allan Hancock College’s Fire and EMS Academies

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.”  

Bilingual report — People’s Self-Health Housing invites public to Pismo Terrace Grand Opening on May 22

Located at 855 4th Street, adjacent to bus routes, and community resources, this new construction development is comprised of 50 units. Residents will have access to a community center, picnic area, laundry room, playground, on-site property management, and supportive services. Some units will be designated for No Place Like Home households. 

Bilingual report — Allan Hancock College seeks students for California College Corps program

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. 

Bilingual report — April News from People’s Self-Help Housing

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. 

Bilingual report — Our Collective Impact: 2024 Community Report Presented by CenCal Health

“Together with our partners, CenCal Health is now one year into carrying out the transformative priorities of our Strategic Plan,” said Marina Owen, CenCal Health CEO. “As a tribute to the efforts of so many, we have dedicated this Community Report to highlighting the collaborative accomplishments essential to improving the well-being of our members. I am confident we will reach new heights through local innovation and build healthier communities.”

Bilingual report — Santa Paula Beautiful Day Returns, Calling for Volunteers to Beautify the City

The upcoming Santa Paula Beautiful Day presents a chance for residents of all ages to make a meaningful impact. From 9:00 am to 12:00 pm, volunteers will have the opportunity to participate in various beautification projects throughout Santa Paula. Whether it’s cleaning up popular bike trails, sprucing up neighborhood parks, touching up city landmarks, or helping maintain downtown Santa Paula, every volunteer effort counts towards creating a cleaner, more vibrant community for all.

Bilingual report — March News from People’s Self-Help Housing

Lea en español | Received this from a friend? Subscribe! eNewsletter | March 2024 Last month we celebrated the groundbreaking of Cleaver & Clark Commons – new affordable housing coming to the City of Grover Beach! This development will bring 53 new,…

Bilingual report — Pre-Applications Available Monday for People’s Place in Santa Paula | Pre-Solicitudes disponibles lunes para People’s Place en Santa Paula

People’s Place is a new construction development of 68 one-, two- and three-bedroom units, which will serve families and farmworker households earning 30-60% of the area median income. On-site amenities include a community building and kitchen for resident events, a multipurpose room, outdoor courtyards, BBQs, and playgrounds. All residents will have access to free, confidential supportive services.

Bilingual report — Gold Coast Health Plan to Invest $75 million in Ventura County’s Medi-Cal Provider Network to Connect Members with Care

CAMARILLO — Gold Coast Health Plan (GCHP) is transforming the health care system in Ventura County with a groundbreaking $75 million investment in its provider network. Through the development of innovative incentive and grant programs, GCHP is on a mission to connect members with high quality primary, specialty, and behavioral care and empower providers with the vital resources they need for service expansion and to create efficiencies. This strategic investment includes a drive to recruit providers, expanding access to quality health care services. With the scale and ambition of these initiatives, GCHP is setting a new standard for quality care and blazing a trail in community investments.

“Gold Coast Health Plan is committed to supporting providers in innovative ways to achieve our mission of the best health and health care possible for our members,” said Nick Liguori, GCHP’s chief executive officer (CEO). “These programs reinforce GCHP’s ongoing commitment to driving meaningful quality improvements in Ventura County’s health care system and providing the necessary financial support for a much-needed infusion of equipment and technology that will provide needed care, along with additional providers to support our community.”

Bilingual report — People’s Self-Help Housing (PSHHC) — New Affordable Housing in Santa Paula: Online pre-applications available Monday, March 18 at 9 a.m.

People’s Place is a new construction development of 68 one-, two- and three-bedroom units, which will serve families and farmworker households earning 30-60% of the area median income. On-site amenities include a community building and kitchen for resident events, a multipurpose room, outdoor courtyards, BBQs, and playgrounds. All residents will have access to free, confidential supportive services.

Bilingual commentary — Learning English Can’t Be Easy

We who have spoken English all our lives cannot possibly appreciate the magnitude of the gift we possess. English has become the de facto “universal language” that people throughout the world resort to when they have the need for a common tongue. 

Most of the rest of the world who wants to learn English struggles mightily with the immense challenges posed by this lingua franca.

Bilingual report — Covered California Announces More Time to Enroll for Coverage in 2024

SACRAMENTO — Covered California announced today that it will give consumers until Feb. 9 to sign up for coverage in 2024.

“We’ve seen record-breaking enrollment nationally, and Covered California is surging with heightened demand,” said Covered California Executive Director Jessica Altman. “We want any Californian who needs health insurance to have the opportunity to get covered for the rest of 2024, and extending the open-enrollment period will ensure they have the time they need.”

Bilingual report — Ventura County Board of Supervisors approve adoption of Disability Access Strategic Plan

VENTURA — Through unanimous vote during the regular meeting on Tuesday, January 23, the Ventura County Board of Supervisors approved the adoption of a 2024-2027 County Disability Access Strategic Plan. The plan outlines key goals that advocate for increased transportation options, ensuring digital accessibility, enhancing physical access to facilities, prioritizing community relationships, education, and emergency preparedness. The plan is the first of its kind for the County of Ventura and represents a comprehensive and forward-thinking approach to fostering a more inclusive and accessible community.

“This strategic plan will provide a strong foundation for the County’s work in disability access,” stated Supervisor Kelly Long, Chair of the Board of Supervisors. “I appreciate the internal and external focus on expanding disability access within our local community and finding new and innovative ways to partner with the community.”

Bilingual commentary — Raising A Daughter

This is an updated version of one of the first articles, with this same title, that I wrote for Amigos805 in October 2011.

I have had the experience and privilege of raising a daughter. Many people throughout the years have indicated to me their belief that I had accomplished this task successfully. It was not always easy nor without considerable reading, research, reflection, and discussion with other parents. 

Bilingual report — January News from People’s Self-Help Housing (PSHHC)

In California, 2023 saw the passage of a number of pieces of legislation to ease the production and delivery of affordable housing to our region. One such success, was SB4 which now provides a streamlined process for religious organizations and nonprofit colleges to develop affordable housing on their property. People’s Self-Help Housing is now one of the first developers to evaluate the application of this new law in our partnership with College United Methodist Church in Ventura. Part of the streamlining afforded by SB4 includes the ability to streamline the  CEQA process when land is to be developed for affordable housing.

Bilingual commentary — Pre-Columbian Custom on a City Bus

I was on a city bus in Oxnard recently when I found myself fascinated by a female passenger that had boarded.

I know…that statement appears to be borderline salacious, but let me explain.

The woman with a dark complexion appeared to be indigenous Mayan. I’ve spent some time in Yucatán, Mexico, so I recognize the Mayan profile, including the majestic shape of the nose, when I see one. It is distinctively different from the indigenous profiles that hail from other parts of Mexico. 

What struck me even more was the ease with which she was caring for her very young child, maybe one year old.

Bilingual report — SBA Disaster Survivor Help Center has opened in Oxnard

VENTURA COUNTY — The U.S. Small Business Administration (SBA) is offering low-interest disaster loans to non-farm businesses of all sizes, private nonprofits, homeowners and renters who suffered losses caused by the December 2023 Storm and Flooding that occurred December 21 through December 23, 2023.

A SBA Disaster Loan Outreach Center has been opened at the South Oxnard Branch Library, 4300 Saviers Road, Oxnard, from 9 a.m. to 6 p.m. Mondays through Thursdays.

Bilingual report — Area Housing Authority of the County of Ventura (AHA) accepting applications for Section 8 Housing Choice Voucher Program

The Area Housing Authority of the County of Ventura (AHA) will be accepting applications from Tuesday, Jan. 30, 2024 through Tuesday, Feb.13, 2024 for the Section 8 Housing Choice Voucher Program from very low income households.

You do not need to rush to apply. Waiting list placement will be based on the random lottery process and not on a first come first served basis.

Beginning Tuesday, January 30, 2024, at 8:00am through Tuesday, February 13, 2024 at 4:00pm applications will be accepted online. Applications will be accepted via an online portal at onlineportal.ahacv.org.  

Teatro de las Américas — Taller de Cine 2024 | Vision Board | Kids Workshop

Objetivo

Realizar un corto de ficción mostrando al público el proceso de producción en tiempo real.

¿Qué es?

El Taller de cine del Teatro de las Américas es una mezcla de tutorial, detrás de cámaras, live streaming, documental y reality show.

Es un proyecto cooperativo en español en el que los participantes idearán, escribirán, producirán y actuarán en una película original.

Bilingual report — County of Ventura announces Residents and Business Owners Survey – COVID-19 After-Action Report

The County of Ventura, in collaboration with Constant Associates, a third-party public health and emergency management consultancy, is developing a COVID-19 After-Action Report to document the County’s response to the pandemic and improve its preparedness for future public health crises. Among other data collection activities, to capture detailed data regarding our response efforts, Constant Associates has created a virtual survey, which we invite you to fill out. Please feel free to also forward this email and link to other members of your community or organization whose feedback you feel would be beneficial.

Your participation in this survey plays a crucial role in shaping our understanding of the County’s COVID-19 response efforts and ensuring that we are effectively meeting the needs of our community. 

To access the survey, click the following link: https://www.surveymonkey.com/r/87XNSZM

Jan. 29 — Bilingual report — Ventura County Public Works Agency Invites Public to Community Meeting for El Rio Pedestrian Improvement Project

VENTURA COUNTY — Ventura County Public Works Agency (VCPWA) invites the public to attend the second community meeting for the El Rio Pedestrian Improvement Project. The meeting will be held at the Rio del Valle Middle School Gymnasium in Oxnard on Jan. 29, 2024, at 6:30pm. The El Rio Pedestrian Improvement Project encompasses the installation of sidewalks, accessible ramps, crosswalks, drainage improvements, and more. These improvements aim to create a safer and more pedestrian-friendly environment for residents.

Jan. 31 — Bilingual report — City of Santa Paula Invites Community Members to Coffee with the City Manager and Interim Police Chief

This unique gathering offers residents an opportunity to connect with the City Manager and Interim Chief of Police in a relaxed and intimate setting. Whether you have specific questions about the community or just want to stay informed about local happenings, this event is the perfect occasion.

Jan. 31 — Bilingual report — Allan Hancock College hosts ‘Hometown Heroes’ basketball games

SANTA MARIA — The Allan Hancock College men’s and women’s basketball programs will honor local first responders, veterans, and active-duty members of the military at the college’s inaugural Hometown Heroes Night on Jan. 31.  

The event will feature two basketball games as the Bulldogs host Ventura College for a Western State Conference rivalry showdown. The men’s team will tip off first at 5 p.m., followed by the women’s game at 7 p.m. Both games will take place inside the Joe White Memorial Gymnasium at the college’s Santa Maria campus.  

Feb. 11 — Bilingual report — United Parents will present the fundraising event AMOR Y ALEGRÍA FOLKLÓRICA ‘De la mano con nuestras familias’ in Oxnard

OXNARD — United Parents will present the fundraising event AMOR Y ALEGRÍA FOLKLÓRICA “De la mano con nuestras familias” (hand in hand with our families) from 1 to 5 p.m. Sunday, Feb. 11 at the Oxnard Performing Arts Center, 800 Hobson Way, Oxnard.

The free event will feature live music, dance, food and drink vendors, children activities, silent auction and a raffle.

Feb. 28 — Bilingual report — People’s Self-Help Housing (PSHHC) — You’re Invited to Cleaver & Clark Commons Groundbreaking in Grover Beach

Cleaver & Clark Commons is an affordable housing community that will serve families, farmworkers, and those at risk of homelessness. Comprised of two buildings, this new development will bring 53 one-, two-, and three-bedroom units to the City of Grover Beach. Features of the site include an interior courtyard, drought-tolerant landscaping, and two community rooms for resident gatherings. Residents will also have access to onsite property management, and service-enriched support.

April 20 — Bilingual report — CSU Channel Islands to present Children’s Day/Día de los Niños

This free event is for all families, guardians, children, educators, and community members to join us for a day of activities, games, reading. Our special guest is children’s book author James Luna. James will be reading his The Runaway Piggy/El Cochinito Fugitivo book. The first 150 guests will receive a free copy of the book as well!

May 3 — Bilingual report — Santa Barbara County Board of Supervisors Hearing to Select Housing Element Update Rezone Sites

SANTA BARBARA — Fri. May. 3, 2024, starting at 9 AM at the Board of Supervisors Hearing Room at 105 E. Anapamu, Santa Barbara (entrance on Anacapa St.): Board Hearings on Proposed Rezones to comply with State Regional Housing Needs Allocation (RHNA).

May 8 — Bilingual report — City of Santa Paula Parks & Recreation Department Hosts ‘Wellness Fair’ to Empower Seniors

“Older adults are a vital part of our community, and it’s essential to provide them with the support they need to lead healthy, fulfilling lives,” said Renee Bell, Recreation Coordinator – Senior Services of the Parks and Recreation Department. “Through this Wellness Fair, we aim to connect seniors with resources that promote their overall well-being and enhance their quality of life.”

June 5 — Bilingual report — Next Dementia Friendly Ventura County event t be held at the Gobble Adult Community Center in Thousand Oaks

The public is encouraged to stop by anytime during the “Living Well, Caring Well” event and meet with many local providers who can assist with dementia-related issues, which may include adult day centers, adult protective services, the Alzheimer’s Association, caregiver resources, financial resources, in-home care, health insurance counseling and advocacy, legal and advanced planning, long-term care ombudsman, neurology, and public benefit programs.

June 22 — Bilingual update — Experience Traditional Chumash Cooking in Oxnard

Join us for an afternoon of cultural enrichment and culinary exploration as we delve into traditional and modern fusion Chumash recipes using native plant ingredients. This hands-on class will be a unique opportunity to learn from Chumash chefs hi ho stoqos?lo?q hi xus about the rich heritage and sustainable practices of the Chumash people. The event is free and open to all ages. A Spanish Interpreter will be present to interpret live.

July 4 — Bilingual report — Downtown Ventura transforms for 4th of July festivities

VENTURA — The City of Ventura’s annual 4th of July Street Fair and Pushem-Pullem Parade returns on Thursday, July 4, 2024, from 10:00 a.m. to 4:00 p.m. in Ventura’s Downtown District. 

The Pushem-Pullem Parade, presented by the Rotary Club of East Ventura, will begin at 10:00 a.m. on Main Street in front of Cemetery Memorial Park and continue into the Street Fair in Downtown Ventura. No registration is required. 

This year’s Street Fair features artisan vendors, a car exhibit, live entertainment, a kids’ activity area, a corn hole zone, and more. Attendees can also enjoy Downtown’s local shops and outdoor dining as part of Main Street Moves. 

July 23 — Bilingual report — Scoop up Safety: Join Ventura Police for ‘Cones with a Cop’ at Coastal Cone

VENTURA — The Ventura Police Department invites the community to enjoy ice cream, shakes, floats, and friendly conversation at ‘Cones with a Cop.’ This sweet summertime event will be hosted on Tuesday, July 23, 2024, from 2:00 – 3:30 p.m.…

Sept. 13 — Bilingual report — Community invited to celebrate Ventura River Trail Improvements Project completion

VENTURA — The public is invited to a ribbon-cutting ceremony and a community bike ride on Friday, September 13, 2024, at 4:00 p.m., as the City of Ventura celebrates the completion of the Ventura River Trail Improvements Project.

The upgrades, funded by a nearly $5 million Caltrans Clean California grant, include new pavement, wayfinding signage, improved accessibility, solar lighting, urban greening, and a new public art mural. These enhancements revitalize 1.8 miles of the highly used trail connecting Ventura to Ojai.

“This project is a testament to our commitment to creating a sustainable, vibrant community,” said Mayor Joe Schroeder. “By enhancing Ventura’s active transportation with improved infrastructure for pedestrians and cyclists, and incorporating public art, we’re not just beautifying our city—we’re fostering a healthier, more connected, and environmentally conscious Ventura.”

Sept. 14 — Bilingual report — Santa Paula Fiesta de Mariachi

SANTA PAULA — The Santa Paula Parks & Recreation Department is happy to announce the much-anticipated return of the 11th Annual Mariachi Dinner, a captivating evening of cultural celebration, live music, and dining. Hosted by the City of Santa Paula Parks & Recreation Department, this event promises a memorable experience for all attendees, young and old.

The 11th Annual Mariachi Dinner is an opportunity for the community to come together and revel in the joy of shared moments. Immerse yourself in the vibrant sounds of Mariachi Quinto Sol, an exceptional Mariachi band, while savoring delicious traditional cuisine.

Sept. 18 — Bilingual report — People’s Self-Help Housing (PSHHC) announces Pismo Terrace Grand Opening!

Located at 855 4th Street, adjacent to bus routes, and community resources, this new construction development is comprised of 50 units. Residents have access to a community center, picnic area, laundry room, playground, on-site property management, and supportive services. Some units are designated for No Place Like Home households. 

Sept. 27 — Bilingual report — 2024 Fall Prevention Forum to be held at CLU

VENTURA —The annual Fall Prevention Forum – co-hosted by the Ventura County Elderly Fall Prevention Coalition and the Ventura County Area Agency on Aging – will return on Friday, September 27 at Cal Lutheran University in Thousand Oaks.

The 2024 forum – “All Aboard the Fall Prevention Train” – will be held at CLU’s Gilbert Sports & Fitness Center (130 Overton Court).

The event is free to attend, but participants are urged to pre-register by filling out the registration form at www.vcaaa.org/falls, or by calling the VCAAA at 805-477-7300. The 2023 Fall Prevention Forum had a near-overflow crowd at the Oxnard Performing Arts Center.

Sept. 28 — Bilingual report — Ventura County Animal Services presenting $10 Rabies Vaccine Clinic (9/28 at Fairgrounds)

Our final $10 Rabies Vaccination Clinic will be this Saturday, September 28th from 1:00pm – 3:00pm at the Ventura County Fairgrounds, at 10 W. Harbor Blvd.  This is a cash-only clinic and no appointments are needed.  Dogs and cats must be three (3) months or older and pet licensing will be available.  Please ensure dogs are on-leash and that cats are in carriers.

For questions, please contact VCAS at (805) 388-4341 or info@vcas.us.  Thank you for keeping your pets healthy and happy!

Oct. 3 — Bilingual report — Peoples’ Self-Help Housing (PSHH) — Come Celebrate Start of Construction at Calle Joaquin

In partnership with the City of San Luis Obispo, People’s Self-Help Housing is developing the former Motel 6 located at 1433 Calle Joaquin.

The project will bring 76 units to extremely low-income individuals who are unhoused or at risk of becoming unhoused. Residents will have access to a community center, laundry room, outdoor recreational spaces, on-site property management, and supportive services.

This Project Homekey program was made possible through innovative funding from the California Department of Housing & Community Development.

Oct. 5 — Bilingual report — Wilderness Youth Project to hold 25th anniversary Community Celebration at Santa Barbara City College

SANTA BARBARA — The Wilderness Youth Project will hold its 25th anniversary Community Celebration at Santa Barbara City College, 721 Cliff Dr, Santa Barbara.

Come celebrate WYP’s 25th Anniversary with us!

Celebrate 25 years of Wilderness Youth Project at an all-ages festival on October 5th, 2024, from 12:00 – 4:00 p.m. at Santa Barbara City College’s Great Meadow. Enjoy a day filled with nature-inspired activities, live music, delicious food, and crafts. Don’t miss out on this fun-filled day for the whole family!