Category: Family

IVYP Becomes LEAP! Briefing and Logo Unveiling Draws Community Leaders 

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ISLA VISTA — On May 10 Isla Vista Youth Projects (IVYP), a nonprofit organization, officially announced their new name and unveiled their new logo and identity during a briefing for 50 community leaders and partner organizations. The new name is LEAP: Learn. Engage. Advocate. Partner. 

“We share many common goals, challenges and values and today we hope to create even more connections,” said Chuck Flacks, Chair of LEAP’s Board of Directors as he welcomed attendees to the briefing. “Together we are not just service providers, we are building community.” 

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Teatro de las Américas — Clases de actuación bilingües para adultos

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Impartidas por/Taught by:
James Donlon and Alina Cenal

Máximo de 10 estudiantes
10 Students Max.

8 Sesiones/Sessions 7pm – 9pm

Martes/Tuesdays: May 11, 18, 25, June 1, 8
Jueves/Thursdays. May 30, June 6, 13

Costo/Fee: $75

Desarrolla habilidades en texto, movimiento, voz e improvisación que todo actor debe tener.
¡Sé una fuerza sobre el escenario!

Develop skills in text, movement, voice and improvisation every actor should know.
Be a force on stage!

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Flee To The Sea For Waterfront Warmth This Spring & Experience A New Lineup of Events & Lively Nighttime Vibes At Ventura Harbor Village

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VENTURA, Calif. – Embodying an idyllic coastal setting, and bright sunshine days, Ventura Harbor Village is the place to be seaside this Spring.  Add to the mix a fresh lineup of new midweek/weekend events/entertainment, and the perfect getaway awaits. https://www.venturaharborvillage.com/events/…

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Westlake Village Rotary Clubs Donate $20,000 to 20 Local Nonprofits

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The Rotary Club of Westlake Village and the Westlake Village Sunrise Rotary handed out $20,000 to 20 local nonprofit organizations during the clubs “Evening of Giving” on April 20 in Thousand Oaks. Each nonprofit received $1,000.

The $20,000 was raised from the two clubs’ Holidays In The Village, a European-style winter festival that takes place very December in Westlake Village. “The goal of every Rotary event is to distribute all net proceeds to nonprofits in the community,” says Mike Dutra, Westlake Village Rotary Club president. “It takes a lot of volunteer hours to put on a great event. It’s worth the effort knowing that you’ll be helping those in need.”

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Congresswoman Julia Brownley Delivers $375,000 to the Port of Hueneme’s Environmental Initiative

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Congresswoman Julia Brownley (CA-26) visited the Port of Hueneme to deliver a check in the amount of $375,000 in support of the Port of Hueneme’s Reducing Emissions, Supporting Health (PHRESH) Plan that will assess and address emissions, air quality requirements and goals, as well as look at future growth scenarios, emission control strategies, community involvement, strategy funding, implementation, and monitoring.

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Santa Maria Valley Youth & Family Center Celebrates 50 Years of Empowering Youth, Families

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For the past 50 years, Santa Maria Valley Youth & Family Center (SMVYFC) has provided vital mental health counseling and family support services to Santa Maria youth and families—often at their most critical times of need. The Center, which merged with Family Service Agency (FSA) of Santa Barbara County in 2017, empowers families to tackle mental health challenges, poverty, and parenting issues as they take steps toward strengthening their families and achieving wellness.

“Strong families are the cornerstone of strong communities,” said Brian Zimmerman, Director of Student and Family Services for the Santa Maria Bonita School District (SMBSD). “Santa Maria Valley Youth & Family Center has helped students and their families in our district for generations.”

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Grants to CSUCI will support emergency student housing, healthy nutrition and aquatic programs for kids

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CSU Channel Islands (CSUCI)’s Basic Needs program has received four grants aimed at enhancing the basic needs of students, and the Channel Islands Boating Center received a separate grant supporting the center’s summer boating lessons for kids ages 8 to 15.

Ventura County Continuum of Care (VC CoC) Alliance presented CSUCI’s Basic Needs program with three grants totaling $408,675 to support emergency housing and homelessness prevention efforts.

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Bilingual report — County of Ventura celebrates National Bike Month with CycleMAYnia

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The County of Ventura Sustainability Division will celebrate National Bike Month this year by hosting CycleMAYnia Mini-Expo. CycleMAYnia Mini-Expo is a free event open to the public that aims to inspire more people to embrace cycling as a sustainable, eco-friendly, and health-enhancing mode of transportation. The community is encouraged to attend the event happening on Wednesday, May 31stfrom 10 am – 2 pm at the Ventura County Government Center Lot G. 

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Santa Barbara City College announces selection of new Superintendent/President

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SANTA BARBARA — The Santa Barbara Community College District Board of Trustees is proud to announce the selection of Dr. Erika Endrijonas as the next Superintendent/President of SBCC.

Dr. Endrijonas’ employment is subject to contract negotiations. Her contract is expected to go before the Board of Trustees at their June 15, 2023 meeting. Dr. Endrijonas is expected to officially begin her role on August 1, 2023.

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VCCCD Celebrates LGBTQIA+ Students at Lavender Graduation

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In concert with Diversity, Equity, and Inclusion efforts on our four campuses, the Ventura County Community College District hosted its inaugural Lavender Graduation, which honored graduating LGBTQIA+ students. The districtwide ceremony was held Apr. 28 and was open to all students identifying as LGBTQIA+ who attend Moorpark, Oxnard, and Ventura colleges and Ventura College East Campus. Family, friends, and other supporters were invited as well.

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Music, Rides, Line Dancing, Food and Fun At 67th Annual Conejo Valley Days from June 15 through 25

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The 67th Annual Conejo Valley Days (CVD) will feature 10 days of carnival rides, food, live entertainment and line dancing. Dates are June 15 through June 25 (dark June 19 and 20) at Conejo Creek Park South (23 Freeway/Janss Rd. exit) in Thousand Oaks.

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Talking to Youth About Their Mental Health

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Conversations around mental health issues can be challenging and complicated. Using the tools of Youth Mental Health First Aid (YMHFA), adults can help take the fear and hesitation out of starting a difficult conversation that may end up saving someone’s life. A new slate of YMHFA classes have been scheduled starting this May, which is Mental Health Awareness Month.

The free training teaches adults how to spot warning signs of mental health risks and substance abuse in youth, and how to prevent a tragedy. Join the more than 1,600 Santa Barbara County parents, mental health providers, educators, and counselors have already been trained.

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Friendship Center’s Heidi Holly to Leave Organization after 38 Years One Of Santa Barbara’s Most Beloved Executive Directors is Stepping Down

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Heidi Holly, Executive Director of the Friendship Adult Day Care Center in Santa Barbara for over 38 years is planning to retire in July.  The adult day program provides services for aging and dependent adults and respite for their caregivers. Friendship Center brings social activities to enhance seniors’ quality of life, promote self-esteem, and increase their ability to continue living at home.  

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Social Justice Fund for Ventura County — A Heartfelt Thank You from SJFVC

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This past Saturday, SJFVC held an event in Nyeland Acres to highlight the work of Fellow Brenda Heredia. In her speech, Brenda noted that Nyeland Acres has been forgotten and neglected, which is why her thoughtful advocacy work has been vital for the Nyeland Acres community.

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Bilingual report — New State Insurance Regulations Affecting Property Owners in Fire Risk Areas

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CAMARILLO – Several Ventura County property owners in fire risk areas have shared concerns recently about notices from their insurance companies that indicate coverage would not be renewed unless certain steps to reduce fire risks were taken.

The insurance companies appear to be acting on new rules from California Insurance Commissioner Ricardo Lara that went into effect in April. The regulation was not made by the Ventura County Board of Supervisors or the Ventura County Fire Department.

The state’s new rules were intended to create more transparency in the process when insurance companies determine premiums or decide whether to cancel a policy.

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CLU Commencement ceremonies set for May 12

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California Lutheran University will hold separate 2023 commencement ceremonies for 1,217 undergraduate and graduate students on Friday, May 12, in William Rolland Stadium on the Thousand Oaks campus.

The 60th annual Undergraduate Commencement at 8:30 a.m. will honor 773 students in the Class of 2023, including 707 traditional undergraduates and 66 in the Bachelor’s Degree for Professionals program. Graduate Commencement at 2 p.m. will honor 444 students, including 413 earning master’s degrees and 31 receiving doctorates.

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More than 1,800 Vegetable Plants Distributed During SEEAG’s 1st Annual Plantopia Earth Day Event

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More than 1,800 vegetable plants were distributed at Students for Eco-Education and Agriculture’s (SEEAG) first annual Plantopia U Pick Transplant Fundraiser on Earth Day. The fundraiser raised over $5,000 to help with SEEAG’s agricultural education programs that teach students about the farm origins of their food, water resources, soil health, entomology and locally grown fruits and vegetables.

Plantopia was held at SEEAG’s Farm Lab at Petty Ranch in Ventura and Plantel Nurseries in Santa Maria. In addition to tomatoes, zucchini, squash, basil and pepper seedlings, SEEAG provided 500 bags of potting soil donated by Agromin in Ventura County and Engel and Gray in Santa Barbara County to give plants a healthy start.

“We plan to make Plantopia an annual event,” says Mary Maranville, SEEAG’s founder and CEO. “It’s a great way to kick off planting season, remind people of the importance of our farmers and celebrate Earth Day.”

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Cottage Health Honors Volunteers

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After a three-year pause during the pandemic, the Cottage Health Volunteer Awards Luncheon was back in person this past April at the Hilton Santa Barbara Beachfront Resort.

Over the past year, 450 Cottage volunteers have donated close to 95,000 hours of service at Santa Barbara Cottage Hospital, Goleta Valley Cottage Hospital and Santa Ynez Valley Cottage Hospital.

Cottage volunteers serve across nearly every department, including Emergency, Surgery, Intensive Care, Physical Therapy, Orthopedics and Wound Care.

Ron Werft, President & CEO of Cottage Health, praised the vital work of volunteers during the awards luncheon with 150 volunteers in attendance.

“As volunteers, you have chosen to generously share your gifts, and we are all better because of you,” Mr. Werft said. “Your service is seen through every area of Cottage Health, and you are truly part of the care team.”

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2022 Ventura County Animal Services Annual Report

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We are thrilled to share with you our 2022 Annual Report. We had very successful and busy year. We hope this snapshot provides a glimpse into our daily lifesaving activities during the 2022 calendar year. Thank you for your continuing support of our lifesaving mission!

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Kids Club Offers Free Summer Fun at The Collection

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The Collection at Riverpark is offering free, family-friendly fun at the Kids Club, sponsored by Sunny Smiles Dentistry for Children and Young Adults. Kids Club events are open to all children and families. Don’t give the little ones a chance to say they’re bored this summer.

Kids Club will be held from 10:30 a.m. to noon on the grass at Collection Park and take place on the following Wednesdays: July 12, July 19, July 26, Aug. 2 and Aug. 9. 

Bring the kids and a picnic blanket to the grass at Collection Park for a fun-filled morning of entertainment, crafts and fun surprises. Each Kids Club program is unique, so families should return throughout the summer to get the most out of each experience. 

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Triunfo Water & Sanitation District Lifts Stage 1 Water Shortage Conditions

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At its April 24 meeting, the Triunfo Water & Sanitation District (TWSD) board of directors voted to lift Stage 1 Water Shortage conditions, which have been in place since August 2021. TWSD’s nearly 14,000 Oak Park residential and business potable water users are no longer required to limit their outdoor water use to one day per week.

“Our customers did a great job reducing their water consumption,” says Jane Nye, TWSD board chair. “Along with their efforts and the unusually wet winter, we now can confidently move out of the Stage 1 level.”

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Santa Barbara City College (SBCC) — The Bridge — May 3, 2023

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Black Grad will honor local African American graduates from TK-SBCC 

SBCC, in partnership with the Santa Barbara Unified School District, announces a special, invitation-onlyceremony honoring and celebrating the promotion, culmination, graduation and transfer of Black students in south Santa Barbara county, from transitional kindergarten through City College.

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Bilingual report — County of Ventura latest news — County of Ventura launches 150th Anniversary Website

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County of Ventura launches 150th Anniversary Website
In honor of the County’s 150th anniversary, we’re excited to announce that our VC 150 Memories website has launched!

VC 150 Memories is a community-driven project that aims to celebrate and preserve the cherished memories of residents in Ventura County. The goal is to collect and archive photos that capture special moments and experiences that people have had in the county both past and present. Residents are invited to submit their favorite images, which will be featured in a public photo gallery and used to create a visual representation of the county’s rich history and diverse community.

The project is a celebration of the people, places, and events that make Ventura County such a unique and special place to live.

Visit www.venturacounty150.com and share your favorite memories and why you love Ventura County!

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SBCC’s ‘Unity in the Community’ on May 4 unites students via 2nd annual cultural heritage celebration

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The SBCC Associated Student Government (ASG), Asian Student Union and Ambassadors club, are excited to present the second annual “Unity in the Community,” Thursday, May 4, 11 a.m.-3 p.m. on the SBCC West Campus lawn. Conceived and organized entirely by students, the festival will celebrate the diverse cultures represented throughout the SBCC campus community.

Themed “All Around the World,” the event will highlight the cultures of 15 countries by showcasing food/snacks, arts and crafts, and performances, along with addresses by SBCC Interim Superintendent/President Dr. Kindred Murillo and special guest speaker, SBCC District Board of Trustees President Jonathan Abboud.

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Bilingual report — County of Ventura Approves Move Aligning entura County Area Agency on Aging as Division of HSA

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The County of Ventura Board of Supervisors voted last Tuesday (April 25) to approve a change in the Ventura County Area Agency on Aging’s administrative reporting structure, which will see the VCAAA become a division of the Ventura County Human Services Agency. The move is intended to better align the county’s older adult services.

The VCAAA will retain its current organizational structure, and there will be no change to the existing services provided by the VCAAA, or how clients access these services.

A newly formed Aging and Disability Department will oversee both the AAA functions and programs, and in a phased manner, will assume oversight of four programs currently managed by the HSA: In-Home Support Services (IHSS), IHSS-Public Authority, Adult Protective Services, and Public Administrator.

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Performing Arts Scholarship Foundation announces instrumental and vocal division winners

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The Performing Arts Scholarship Foundation has awarded eleven local youth and adult musicians with scholarships ranging from $1,000 to $6,000 each, following their selection at the organization’s annual competition.

Junior and young adult instrumentalists and vocalists competed for the scholarships during the foundation’s 2023 contest, held April 23 at Lehman Hall in the Marilyn Horne House at the Music Academy of the West. The event is central to the foundation’s mission to support students of the performing arts in the Santa Barbara community. Students are selected for awards by a professional panel of judges and are encouraged to use the funds to develop their musical careers, such as by paying for music lessons, music school tuition, summer music programs, or instrument improvement.

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May @ SPAM: Andrea Vargas Premieres, Free Family Day, Volunteer Mixer, and More!

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EXHIBIT PREMIERE

“Andrea Vargas: On the Ranch”

Saturday, May 13, 2023, from 4 PM to 6 PM

$5 SPAM Members • $10 Non-members

On Saturday, May 13, meet Santa Fe artist and California native Andrea Vargas at the premiere of her all-new, solo exhibition, “On the Ranch.” Featuring over 40 original paintings and drawings, “On the Ranch” honors the places at the heart of Vargas’ life and art: her familial homes in Ventura and Santa Paula, California. All of the artworks will be available for purchase. Beer, wine, and hors d’oeuvres will be served. Reservations are not required.

“Andrea Vargas: On the Ranch” will be on view from May 13, 2023, to September 10, 2023, at the Santa Paula Art Museum.

LEARN MORE >>

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Artist Kimberly Duran’s 2020 California Strawberry Festival Poster Finally Gets To Shine in 2023

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It was March 3, 2020 when the winner of the year’s California Strawberry Festival poster contest was officially announced. Sixteen days later, the festival was canceled because of the pandemic. Finally, after three years, artist Kimberly Duran’s winning poster will be the center point of the festival set for May 20 and 21 at the Ventura County Fairgrounds (10 W. Harbor Blvd., Ventura, CA 93001).

“We’ve been waiting to show off Kimberly’s design for three years,” says Dean Kato, festival chairperson. “She’s a gifted artist and her design captures the wonderful community spirit that’s always present at the festival.” Duran’s artwork was chosen from more than 60 entries.

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Wild Oaks Country Music Festival Booths For Nonprofits Available

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Wild Oaks Country Music Festival, taking place June 3, is seeking nonprofit organizations to exhibit at the festival at no charge. The festival will be held at Conejo Creek Park South in Thousand Oaks.

“We’re setting aside 10 booth spaces for nonprofit organizations at the festival,” says Mary-Catherine McBride, Wild Oaks co-chair. “The booths are 10×10 and are at no cost. It’s a great opportunity to reach festivalgoers with your organization’s message.”

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Housing Trust Fund Ventura County to receive over $2 million in Federal and County funds in support of more affordable housing

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Housing Trust Fund Ventura County (Housing Trust Fund VC) announced that the nonprofit has been awarded a $1.5M grant from the County of Ventura’s general fund for the development of affordable housing throughout the community and another $891,059 from the U.S. Treasury Department’s CDFI Fund Equitable Recovery Program. This combined $2,391,059 has the ability to be matched dollar for dollar by the State of California’s Proposition 1 Local Housing Trust Fund, bringing over $4 million to Ventura County in support of developing more affordable apartments and homes.

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Bilingual commentary — The Branches on the Family Tree

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I recently decided to construct a family tree—as if I didn’t have enough to do already. At this stage of my life, I might have a subconscious desire to leave something valuable behind for my daughter, my grandsons, and their descendants. It’s also important for me, though, as I seem to have lost track of many of my first cousins (there are over 50 of them). The complex web of their children and grandchildren has become a complete fog for me. But now I want to come to terms with the myriad descendants that originated with my four grandparents, all immigrants from Mexico.

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First generation CSUCI Physics major Trent Ruiz wins two scholarships and helps write an $80K grant from NASA

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CSU Channel Islands (CSUCI) Applied Physics major Trent Ruiz failed to get into college more than once, often felt discouraged, and struggled with anxiety and depression.

But thanks to mentors, good therapists and sheer perseverance, Ruiz, 29, became the first in his family to attend college, is the recipient of two major scholarships, and served as the lead student for a recently awarded grant from NASA for $80K.

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Cottage Health in Santa Barbara announces 2023-25 Behavioral Health Initiative Request for Proposals

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Cottage Health is now accepting applications for the 2023-25 Behavioral Health Initiative Community Partnership Grants. The grant opportunity is open to organizations working to address behavioral health needs for children and youth and their families in south Santa Barbara County. Using evidence-based interventions, grantees in the initiative will collaborate on community-based work to increase access and use of behavioral health services and to improve the health and quality of life of adolescents and their families.

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Bilingual report — County of Ventura launches ‘VC 150 Memories’ website in honor of 150th anniversary

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The County of Ventura, in honor of the county’s 150thanniversary, has launched the “VC 150 Memories” website.

Designed to be a community-driven project, “VC 150 Memories” aims to celebrate and preserve the cherished memories of residents in Ventura County. The website provides an opportunity for residents from across the county to collectively contribute photos of special moments and experiences, both past and present, that have shaped their lives in Ventura County.

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Southeast Ventura County YMCA Reaches $200,000 Fundraising Goal During Its Annual Fundraising Campaign

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The Southeast Ventura County YMCA raised more than $200,000  to support YMCA programs during its annual fundraising campaign that ended March 22. The funds will be used to ensure local YMCA programs and memberships are available to those in financial need and to enhance YMCA youth and adult programs.

“We hold one major fundraiser a year. The Y is very grateful for those who donated,” says Ronnie Stone, president and CEO of the Y. “With rising costs on just about everything, people still were able to give.”

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Island Packers Debuts New One-Hour Evening Harbor Cruises That Will Kick Off Just In Time For Summer

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Island Packers presents a special one-hour scenic Evening Harbor Cruise from 6:00 – 7:00 p.m. aboard a 64’ catamaran in Ventura Harbor on select Saturdays from June through October 2023.

The cruise offers guests the opportunity to capture wonderful photography, watch the boats sail by, and view a variety of marine birds and possible harbor seals and sea lions. While on board, guests get a 360-degree view of all Ventura Harbor has to offer and a glimpse of the spectacular waterfront homes in the beautiful Ventura Keys.

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UCSB — The Current — ‘Tending to our superblooms requires developing plans for people to enjoy them’ and more news, events

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After a rainy winter, folks are flocking to see California’s superblooms. But, experts say, smart management strategies will be required if we want to continue enjoying these spectacular events in the future.

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Savie Health in Lompoc Offering Free Women’s Health Care Services for the Uninsured

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LOMPOC — Savie Health, a free medical clinic in Lompoc for people without health insurance, is now offering a limited range of women’s health care services, with plans to add more soon.Patients can now receive the following services for free…

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Santa Barbara County First District Supervisor Das Williams — New EV Fast Charger Opens in Carpinteria

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Congratulations to The Towbes Group and Shepard Place Shops for installing Carpinteria’s first EV Fast Charger! As a Board member of the Santa Barbara County Air Pollution Control District, we are supporting projects just like this across the County. This one received $100,000 as part of our regional strategy to promote zero-emission vehicles. Beginning today, you can view the draft report Zero Emission Vehicle Strategy report, and on April 20, attend a virtual public workshop to provide feedback on potential charging station locations: www.centralcoastzevstrategy.com

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Berry Tastes and Treats at 37th Annual California Strawberry Festival

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VENTURA — The 37th Annual California Strawberry Festival makes its debut at the Ventura County Fairgrounds Saturday and Sunday, May 20 and 21 with strawberry-themed food, beverages and contests, live entertainment, rides and activities. This year marks the first time the festival is being held at the fairgrounds (10 W. Harbor Blvd., Ventura, CA 93001). Hours are 10:00 a.m. to 6:30 p.m. both days.

For strawberry lovers, the California Strawberry Festival is two days of strawberry heaven. Over 50 food and beverage vendors will serve such treats as strawberry pies, strawberry-topped funnel cakes, strawberry nachos, deep-fried strawberries, berry kabobs, strawberry tacos, strawberry beer and smoothies. Festivalgoers can build their own strawberry shortcakes, piling on as many strawberries and whipped cream as possible.

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April News from People’s Self-Help Housing

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The Builder Games returns this Saturday, April 22! Join us and cheer on eight local teams racing against the clock and facing fun challenges as they compete to build the best playhouse. Your ticket includes a delicious meal, fine wine, craft beer, live music, and more! Funds raised benefit the programs of PSHH.

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Performing Arts Scholarship Foundation announces 2023 award finalists

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The Performing Arts Scholarship Foundation is pleased to announce the selection of finalists for the 2023 vocalist and instrumentalist scholarship awards.

This year’s finalists for vocal performance are Nathan Carlin, a baritone attending Westmont College (teacher Bryan Lane); Lorenzo Johnson, Jr., a tenor at the University of California, Santa Barbara (UCSB) (teacher Benjamin Brecher); Sibo Msibi, a tenor at Westmont College (teacher Nichole Dechaine); and Ariana Horner Sutherland, a soprano at UCSB (teacher Dr. Isabel Bayrakdarian).

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UCSB — The Current — ‘A new, fully electric facility opens just in time for spring quarter, increasing classroom capacity by 35%’ and more news, events

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The recently completed Interactive Learning Pavilion is the campus’s first new dedicated classroom building in more than 50 years.

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Bilingual report — Affordable Senior Housing Waiting List to Open for Harry’s House

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SANTA YNEZ — The Housing Authority of the County of Santa Barbara has announced it will be accepting Pre-applications for Harry’s House Development to establish a waiting list, effective April 18 at 10:00 a.m. The waiting list will close May 17, 2023 at 4:30 p.m. Harry’s House, presented by the nonprofit Rona Barrett Foundation is an affordable senior development for 62 years and older, consisting of 60 studio apartments with limited kitchen facilities. Harry’s House is located in Santa Ynez and is scheduled to open this summer.

“My own dear dad, Harry Burstein, was the inspiration for Harry’s House,” said Rona Barrett, founder and CEO of The Rona Barrett Foundation. “Caring for him during his later years opened my eyes to the immense and growing need for solutions to housing and services for seniors who need a safe and supportive home in which to enjoy their golden years. I’m so proud of our team and partners as we now open the waiting list!”

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Boys & Girls Clubs of Greater Conejo Valley — Celebrating Our Shining Stars

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Saturday, March 25th saw the return of our annual Superstars of the Year event! After a turbulent three years, we were finally able to celebrate the incredible efforts and talents of the kids in our community. Congratulations to our 13 & Under Youth of the Year, Gisela Alvarez and our 14 & Over Youth of the Year, Alejandro Joya. A massive thank you to everyone who supported this event whether you sponsored, volunteered, attended, or just spread the word. It was heartwarming to see the joy on the faces of the performers and the passion that our Superstars put into the Youth of the Year application process and preparing for the event. 

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Reaching Higher Together Campaign Surpasses $130M Goal

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Santa Barbara Cottage Hospital Foundation’s 7-year philanthropic campaign, Reaching Higher Together: The Cottage Campaign for Excellence, has raised $150.6 million to support Cottage Health in providing our community with world-class care and access to future innovations and advances in health and medicine.
“The response of our community inspires us to do our best work,” says Ron Werft, President and CEO of Cottage Health. We are so grateful to have the trust and confidence of Santa Barbara and the surrounding region.”

During the campaign, 183 generous donors made gifts of more than $50,000, including two unprecedented gifts of $15 million. One from visionary philanthropists Mary and Richard Compton to create an endowment fund for medical excellence and innovation. And most recently in an extraordinary commitment to providing the finest emergency services and facilities to our community, Naomi and Ben Bollag made a $15 million gift to Cottage’s Emergency Department Expansion Project.

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