Category: familia

Ventura County Community Foundation Community Update on Mountain Fire — Pacific Coast Business Times’ Emergency Preparedness Guide in English, Spanish

Dear Ventura County Community Foundation Family,

Our hearts are with all those who have been impacted by the Mountain Fire. We are working closely with our partners to help ensure that your community foundation is doing all it can to support those most impacted. As the situation continues to develop, we will be in touch with you to keep you informed of how we can all best help.

Bilingual report — Share the spirit of giving with Ventura’s Santa to a Senior Program

VENTURA — The City of Ventura invites residents to spread holiday joy by participating in the annual Santa to a Senior program. This year’s program begins accepting gifts November 14 through December 11, 2024, and seeks to brighten the holiday season for local seniors, aged 60 and above, who are connected to the Ventura Avenue Adult Center’s Senior Nutrition Program. 

The Santa to a Senior program specifically supports seniors who receive daily meals through the center’s in-person dining service or homebound meal delivery. For many participants, this program is a cherished highlight of the season, offering a chance to receive thoughtful gifts and feel connected to the community during the holidays. 

Police Department Launches “No Shave November” in Honor of Supporting Those with Cancer

SANTA PAULA — On Friday, November 1, 2024, the Santa Paula Police Department launched “No Shave November” to support local charities that assist with those battling cancer. Police officers are growing their facial hair to help “grow” cancer awareness. The Santa Paula Police Officers Association (SPPOA) is coordinating this campaign, receiving donations from all Police Department employees in order to participate. The fundraising campaign will finish at the end of the month. Employees will be allowed to grow their facial hair fully and neatly trimmed over the next few months.

Guest contribution — From Patient to Advocate: A Breast Cancer Survivor’s Mission to Empower Others

VENTURA — In 2013, Sarah Karapetyan, an ultrasound technician at Kaiser Permanente Woodland Hills Medical Center, discovered a lump in her breast. This discovery led to a breast cancer diagnosis, prompting her to take a 14-month leave from her job in the radiology department. Her treatment included a double mastectomy, follow-up surgery, reconstruction, and five months of chemotherapy.

During her treatment, Karapetyan learned about a new ultrasound technician position in the Breast Center at Woodland Hills Medical Center. This role was dedicated to working with patients referred for sonography and biopsy of breast lumps. Despite her ongoing battle with cancer, she applied for and was selected for the job.

Ventura County employees recognized for 805 years of collective public service

VENTURA — At the Board of Supervisors meeting on Tuesday, October 29, the County of Ventura celebrated 28 dedicated employees for their remarkable commitment to public service across various county agencies. This quarterly ceremony is a highlight of the County’s Employee Continuous Service Recognition Program, honoring those who have devoted 25 years or more to enriching the lives of Ventura County residents. Their unwavering service exemplifies the spirit of community and dedication that defines Ventura County.

Ventura County Community Development Corp. (VCCDC) — Application period opens this Friday

Need a low-interest personal loan with the potential for a full refund of the interest you pay*?
Need to improve your financial management skills?
We can help you with both!
Are you ready to take charge of your financial future? With VCCDC’s Advancing Communities Program, you can access a low-interest personal loan of up to $2,500 and gain essential financial management skills! Plus when you make your payments on time and you complete the required classes and financial coaching, interest paid, will be refunded at the end of the loan term!

October News from People’s Self-Help Housing

It has been an exciting month! We broke ground on Calle Joaquin Apartments in San Luis Obispo and marked the Grand Opening of People’s Place in Santa Paula. To learn more about these properties, visit pshhc.org/rental-pipeline.

Bilingual report — County of Ventura launches “Think Again” campaign to raise awareness on the dangers of fentanyl

VENTURA — The County of Ventura on Oct. 22 announced the launch of “Think Again”, a new countywide public awareness campaign to draw attention to the dangers of fentanyl and provide residents with the information and resources necessary to protect themselves and prevent overdoses.

Fentanyl poses a growing threat statewide and nationally, and Ventura County is not immune. “Think Again” provides localized statistics and life-saving information and resources to help residents take action. The campaign encourages residents to get educated, be aware, and save lives.

“To recreational drug users who are contemplating taking a pill or using a substance this Halloween, we ask you to “think again,” said District Attorney Erik Nasarenko. “Community members must presume that each and every illicit drug is cut, laced, or adulterated with fentanyl. And that fentanyl will kill you.”

Bilingual report — Allan Hancock College receives provisional approval to offer Bachelor’s degree

SANTA MARIA — Allan Hancock College reached a historic milestone with the provisional approval from the California Community Colleges Chancellor’s Office for its Bachelor of Science (B.S.) degree in Applied Professional Studies. Provisional approval means the program has cleared key initial requirements and is one step closer to being finalized.

This milestone represents a significant achievement in the college’s ongoing commitment to providing affordable and accessible higher education to Central Coast students. Hancock could begin offering the four-year degree to students as early as the fall of 2026 if final approval is granted. 

Ventura Police Dept. — Bilingual report — National Teen Driver Safety Week: Parents are key to keeping teens safe behind the wheel

VENTURA — National Teen Driver Safety Week is October 20-26 and the Ventura Police Department urges parents and caregivers to talk with their teens about the rules of the road and how safe driving saves lives. 

Car crashes are a leading cause of death for teens aged 15-18 years old in the United States. According to the National Highway Traffic Safety Administration, there were 2,514 people killed in crashes involving a teen driver in 2022. In California, young drivers were involved in nearly 12% of all fatal crashes in 2022, despite accounting for only 5% of all licensed drivers in the U.S.

Ventura College Foundation is Now Accepting Scholarship Applications

VENTURA — The Ventura College Foundation is now accepting scholarship applications for the 2025-26 school year.

November 29 is the application deadline for the Paramedic and Career Education scholarships. The deadline for all other scholarships is January 20, 2025. Scholarship recipients will be notified in April 2025 and receive their scholarship proceeds after August 1.

Students currently enrolled at Ventura College in the 2024-2025 academic year and who have completed at least six units in the semester they submit an application, are eligible to apply. Units earned in previous semesters at Ventura College count towards the unit requirement.

Bilingual report — 12th Annual Ventura County Farm Day – Nov. 2

VENTURA COUNTY — Over 15 farms, ranches and agricultural organizations will open their doors to the public for the 12th Annual Ventura County Farm Day, Saturday, November 2 from 10 a.m. to 3 p.m.  Those who attend will experience a day of free agricultural activities and tours and learn about the origins of their food.   

“We often don’t think about what it takes to grow, harvest and deliver produce to the market,” says Caitlin Paulus-Case, Students for Eco-Education and Agriculture (SEEAG) executive director. SEEAG is the nonprofit that hosts Ventura County Farm Day each year. “Hundreds of dedicated farm workers are behind every piece of fruit or vegetable we buy at the store.”

Bilingual report — OPAC debuts ¡ÁNDALE!: Wellness + Creativity for Everyone – A Free Monthly Series for Mental Health and Well-being

OXNARD — Take a break, rejuvenate, and get creative with ¡ÁNDALE!: Wellness + Creativity for Everyone, a new monthly series presented by OPAC, the Oxnard Performing Arts Center Corporation, focused on supporting mental health and wellness through artistic expression and self-care. The event is offered bilingually, free and open to all, creating space where relaxation, creativity, and community connection come together.

The first event will take place on Saturday, October 19, 2024 from 1-3 PM at Community Center Park East (located behind the Oxnard Performing Arts Center). Each session features three different activities designed to engage participants in creative and calming experiences. This month yoga, sound baths and art-making will be offered. Attendees will spend 30 minutes at each activity, for a total of two hours of immersive wellness.

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

Upcoming Events:

Bilingual report — The County of Ventura Celebrates Latino Heritage Month

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

Bilingual report — Protecting Ventura’s littlest passengers: Child Passenger Safety Week kicks off September 15-21, 2024

“Children are especially vulnerable to injuries in a crash if they are in the wrong type of car seat for their age and size or if the car seat is improperly installed,” said Sergeant Mark Knackstedt. “We are dedicated to helping parents and caregivers safeguard their children on the road.”

Bilingual report — Resource Management Agency and House Farm Workers! publish Ventura County farmworker survey results

VENTURA — The Resource Management Agency’s (RMA) Planning Division, in partnership with House Farm Workers!, published the results of a countywide survey of agricultural employers, farmworkers, and stakeholders. This completes a major milestone in the Ventura County Farmworker Housing Study and Action Plan, highlighting the farmworker community and their housing needs.

“The commitment by the County, all ten cities and Ventura County Transportation Commission (VCTC) to help fund, facilitate and share the knowledge learned from our local agricultural operators and farmworkers will be instrumental to our next step of this project – to develop recommendations for the production of farmworker housing across our County,” said Dave Ward, Planning Director for the Resource Management Agency.

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

Bilingual report — Ventura Police Dept. urges drivers to prioritize pedestrian safety

“Our roadways are extremely busy, and everyone deserves to reach their destination safely,” said Sergeant Mark Knackstedt. “It’s crucial for drivers to stay alert and watch out for pedestrians. Slow down, avoid distractions, and never drive impaired. Safety on our streets is a collective effort, and we all have a part to play.”

Bilingual Report — The latest news from the County of Ventura

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

Ventura Connects offers a mobile-frie

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

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

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

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

Bilingual report — 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:

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 — 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.”