Category: Family

Bilingual report — Gold Coast Health Plan Launches $1.5 Million Scholarship Program to Strengthen Diversity in Behavioral Health Workforce

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CAMARILLO — Gold Coast Health Plan (GCHP) (on Nov. 18) announced the launch of a groundbreaking scholarship program that aims to develop a more diverse behavioral health workforce to ensure Ventura County residents have access to culturally responsive care. The $1.5 million initiative is funded through the state Department of Health Care Services’ Student Behavioral Health Incentive Program (SBHIP), which aims to expand access to behavioral health services for children and adolescents enrolled in Medi-Cal.

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Ventura County Animal Shelter — Mountain Fire — Animal Rescue & Response

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We would like to take a moment to recognize the incredible work of our shelter staff, volunteers, and Emergency Volunteer Rescue Team (EVRT) during the recent Mountain Fire. In the midst of the emergency, 446 animals were brought to us for safety, either by their families or by members of our Emergency Volunteer Rescue Team, 38 of whom worked TIRELESSLY to rescue and transport animals from the fire’s path, often through hazardous conditions!

Our amazing shelter staff who worked 12-hour shifts, caring for animals at both the Camarillo Shelter and the Ventura County Fairgrounds. They managed intake, provided safe shelter for animals, and gave comfort to families who had lost so much.

We also want to recognize the 121 VCAS volunteers who collectively worked 416 hours at the Camarillo Shelter, managing donations, cleaning kennels, and comforting animals whose families had been evacuated.

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Oxnard Performing Arts Center Nonprofit Corp. (OPAC) launches ‘Lotería de Oxnard:’ A Celebration of the City’s Culture and Community with events on Nov. 30, Dec. 12

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OXNARD — The Oxnard Performing Arts Center Nonprofit Corp. (OPAC) is thrilled to announce the release of “Lotería de Oxnard,” a reimagined, Oxnard-centric take on the traditional Mexican bingo game that highlights the people, places, and iconic things that make Oxnard one-of-a-kind. This project was made possible through the generous support of the Port of Hueneme, commemorated as card #43 in the set

“The Port of Hueneme is more than a global trade hub—it’s a proud part of the fabric of this community and we’re delighted to partner with OPAC in reimagining Lotería as a way to bring people together and celebrate what makes our beautiful region unique,” – Drew Rodriguez, Public & Community Relations Senior Representative for the Port of Hueneme.

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Tim Blaylock appointed new executive director of the Humane Society of Ventura County

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OJAI — The Humane Society of Ventura County (HSVC) announced today the appointment of Tim Blaylock as its new Executive Director.

With over 30 years of experience in leadership and non-profit management, Blaylock brings a wealth of experience and passion to the organization’s mission of improving the lives of animals in Ventura County.

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Bilingual report — The City of Ventura and ForeFront Power Break Ground on Solar Projects

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VENTURA — The City of Ventura, in partnership with ForeFront Power, has started construction on two solar energy projects at Ventura Community Park and the Police/Fire Headquarters. Together, these projects will deliver 900 kilowatt-DC (kW DC) of renewable energy through solar parking canopies at both sites.

Scheduled for completion by summer 2025, the solar installations will produce over 1.5 million kilowatt-hours of electricity annually—enough to power 200 homes. Over their 20-year lifespan, the projects are expected to save the City approximately $2.3 million in electricity costs while supporting its environmental sustainability goals.

“This is the largest sustainability project of its kind for the City of Ventura,” said Public Works Director Charlie Ebeling. “Thanks to the support of our City Council and community, these solar energy projects will provide long-term benefits to Ventura.”

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Cottage Health Opens New Primary Care Clinic in Goleta

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SANTA BARBARA — Cottage Health announces the opening of a new primary care clinic, Cottage Primary Care—Goleta. Located at 334 S Patterson Ave, Suite 120, the clinic is open Monday through Friday, from 8 a.m. to 5 p.m. and is now accepting new patients. Scheduling an appointment can be conveniently done online at cottagehealth.org/gpc

Primary care plays a vital role in maintaining overall health and well-being. At Cottage Primary Care— Goleta, physicians specialize in the prevention, diagnosis and treatment of common illnesses and chronic conditions, ensuring patients receive comprehensive care for health issues ranging from minor ailments to more serious conditions.

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Cabrillo Economic Development Corp. Focuses on the Rodney Fernandez Leadership Fund for Giving Tuesday

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VENTURA COUNTY — As the season of giving approaches, Cabrillo Economic Development Corporation (Cabrillo EDC) is proud to announce that this year’s Giving Tuesday efforts will center around the Rodney Fernandez Leadership Fund (RFLF) Scholarship Program, a program that has changed lives and opened doors for countless students within the community.

Established in honor of Cabrillo EDC’s founding Executive Director, Rodney Fernandez, the RFLF Scholarship Program provides scholarships to local youth and residents of Cabrillo EDC affordable housing communities, helping them pursue higher education and achieve their career goals. The program embodies Cabrillo EDC’s ongoing commitment to building stronger, more empowered communities through education, support, and leadership development.

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Museum of Ventura County — Keep Art, History, and Hope Alive – Your Support Makes It Possible

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As we reflect on another successful year of bringing history, art, and culture to life, we are excited to share a story that embodies the heart of our mission. It’s the story of Elisa Torres, a young artist whose journey reflects the power of creativity, perseverance, and community—reminding us of why the work we do here at the Museum of Ventura County (MVC) is important.

Elisa’s story began right here in Ventura County. A first-generation Californian born and raised in Oxnard, Elisa’s first job after high school was in an assembly factory, where she worked alongside her mother piecing together fiber optic cables. It was honest work, but not her dream.

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Bilingual report — Phase 1 of debris removal set to begin for hazardous waste removal for properties partially damaged and destroyed by the Mountain Fire

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VENTURA — As the Mountain Fire nears 100% containment, the County of Ventura continues to work with the City of Camarillo and multiple agencies to expedite recovery activities and ensure safe hazardous waste and fire debris removal and disposal from structures and properties damaged by the fire through a consolidated debris removal program. The Debris Removal Program takes place in two phases with Phase 1: Household hazardous waste (HHW) removal scheduled to begin this week.  

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California Strong Accepting Applications For Financial Assistance By Those Impacted By Mountain Fire

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WESTLAKE VILLAGE — California Strong, founded by the Southeast Ventura County YMCA and professional athletes after the 2018 California wildfires, and dedicated to providing immediate financial support to victims whenever a disaster strikes in the state, is accepting applications for assistance from those impacted by the Mountain Fire. The first round of funding is in early December.

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Bilingual report — County of Ventura reports property tax relief available for property owners affected by the Mountain Fire

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VENTURA — Property owners whose property was physically damaged by the Mountain Fire and sustained losses over $10,000 may be eligible for property tax relief. Through services offered by the Ventura County Assessor’s Office, property owners can work with the office to adjust their property’s current assessment to reflect the damage incurred by the fire and reduce their current year property taxes.

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Economic Development Collaborative (EDC) free event and webinar schedule

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

November 19 @ 10:00 am

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

CLICK HERE TO REGISTER

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Big Brothers Big Sisters of Ventura County kicks off the “WICKED Kindness Challenge” in a BIG way!

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VENTURA COUNTY — In a national partnership with NBCUniversal and inspired by the theatrical release of WICKED, Big Brothers Big Sisters of Ventura County (BBSVC) youth led the creation of “The WICKED Kindness Challenge” – an online experience that explores what kindness really means, for oneself, their family and friends, and the greater community. 

Fifteen BBSVC youth participants of all ages from across the county came together for four full days to brainstorm ideas on what kindness looks like, and how to teach and inspire others to make kindness an everyday part of their lives. They worked closely with the Big Brothers Big Sisters of America Learning and Development Team, playing a BIG part in structuring, developing, and creating the content and messages for the script and videos for the challenge. A film crew met with youth to create the videos that were featured in the challenge. Everything for the ongoing challenge was organized at the BBSVC@Ventura Youth Room at the Pacific View Mall. 

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Santa Barbara County Food Action Network — Transform the Future of Food

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At the Santa Barbara County Food Action Network, we’re redefining the possibilities in our food system by taking on the risks few others will. We believe that real change requires bold steps, and with your support, we’re ready to go further, building lasting foundations in advocacy, shared resources, and community connections.

We’ve already demonstrated what’s possible. By connecting food producers, policymakers, advocates, technical assistance providers, and more, we’re able to channel resources to the communities that need them most. These early successes are not just local victories—they’re prototypes for sustainable, equitable change across food systems everywhere.

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Ventura County Fire Dept. — Sparking Joy: Annual Holiday Toy Drive Returns to Brighten the Holidays

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This heartwarming community campaign centers around collecting new, unwrapped toys and sports equipment for underserved children and teenagers in Ventura County. In partnership with the American Red Cross, the drive Spark Of Love will prioritize supporting those will work to prioritize families affected impacted by the recent Mountain fire.

Donations of non-perishable food and toys can be made at any participating Spark of Love donation location, ensuring that your generosity directly impacts our local community.

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Anacapa Dental Art Institute launches “Holiday Smile” initiative to give one community member a life-changing smile makeover

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The “Holiday Smile” Initiative aims to not only restore one individual’s smile but also to renew their confidence, health, and quality of life. Through this giveaway, Dr. Saj and the Anacapa Dental team are excited to bring the joy and life-changing impact of a healthy smile to a local resident just in time for the New Year.

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Guest contribution — American Immigration Council: Biden has 64 days left in office to protect vulnerable immigrants

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The federal government currently lacks the resources to fulfill Trump’s pledge of mass deportations in the first months of his presidency, but ICE?can and will act?quickly to target immigrants for arrests. However, before that begins, President Biden has two months left in office to take decisive action to protect people at risk under Trump’s indiscriminate immigration enforcement plans.

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MICOP — Farmworker-led Campaign for Dignified Wages receives a special meeting on Nov. 12 with the Santa Barbara County Board of Supervisors

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SPECIAL UPDATE — Farmworker-led Campaign Mobilizes 300 to Supervisors’ Hearing, Demanding Fair Pay and Better Working Conditions.

SANTA MARIA – On November 12, the Santa Barbara County Board of Supervisors held a special hearing to discuss a county-wide living wage for farmworkers, drawing hundreds of community members who turned out in strong support of fair treatment and equitable pay. 

“More than 300 farmworkers and their families gathered. Their presence, alongside allies and supporters, showcased a powerful demonstration of support for fair compensation and improved working conditions,” said Celina Ramirez, Organizer with CAUSE. “I was so impressed by the number of people who came out, united in one voice, to urge the county supervisors to improve farmworkers’ wages and address working conditions.”

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District 2 Supervisor Jeff Gorell update — Mountain Fire Relief

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Following the impact of the Mountain Fire, please know that there is a strong network of agencies working tirelessly to support your recovery. Today, we launched a Local Assistance Center, in Camarillo, providing resources for those affected. Whether you need information on housing, financial assistance, or guidance on cleanup and rebuilding, there is help available for you and your family.

As you begin to rebuild, I want you to know that I am here for you. Together, we’ll navigate this path and help our community rise stronger than before.

I would also like to extend my heartfelt thanks to the many residents, businesses, and nonprofits that have stepped up in impactful ways to support recovery. Your kindness and commitment are truly making a difference during these challenging times.

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Bilingual report — Ventura County Animal Services announces FREE Pet Adoptions due to Overcrowding [122%]

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Due to a high influx of animals arriving at VCAS, we will be offering fee-waived adoptions for all available animals in our care (dogs, cats, rabbits, etc.) through November 30th. Our hope is to create space for incoming critical cases.

Preview animals at www.vcas.us/pets. 

View our full adoption process at www.vcas.us/adopt.

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People’s Self-Help Housing (PSHHC) announces The 2025 Builder Games! Saturday, April 26, 2025

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

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Ventura County Fire Awarded Grant to Enhance Child Passenger Safety

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THOUSAND OAKS — The Ventura County Fire Department (VCFD) has been awarded a $92,113 grant from the California Office of Traffic Safety (OTS) to support programs aimed at preventing motor vehicle injuries to children, the agencies announced today. The grant program runs through September 2025.

This year’s funding continues VCFD’s mission to educate the community on child passenger safety, with initiatives to increase awareness and provide resources to ensure that children are properly secured in vehicles throughout Ventura County.

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VCCF’s Mountain Fire Update on Community Support

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Tonight, county and city officials are hosting a community meeting to inform residents affected by the Mountain Fire about the opening of the Local Assistance Center in Camarillo. Thanks to your generous support, we are honored to share that to-date $93,500 has been granted to help individuals and families most affected by the wildfire, along with an additional $10,000 dedicated to covering costs associated with emergency animal evacuations.

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SEEAG’s Christmas Tree Fundraiser: Proceeds Fund Ag-Education For Kids, Pre-Order Now For November 30 Pickup

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VENTURA — Sustainably harvested white and red “silver tipped” fir trees from Northern California will be available for pickup on Saturday, Nov. 30 during “Christmas On The Ranch” at Petty Ranch (11971 Darling Rd.) in Ventura. Proceeds from the Christmas tree fundraiser will support Students for Eco-Education and Agriculture (SEEAG) agriculture education and healthy eating programs for kids in Ventura County. 

The hand-harvested trees are 6’ to 10’ tall. Trees are available for pick-up and purchase from 11:00 a.m. to 4:00 p.m. on November 30. Free hot cocoa and cookies will be served.

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Ventura County Area Agency on Aging announces 2024 Legacy Award Winners

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VENTURA — The 2024 LEGACY Awards, which recognize the contributions of Ventura County residents and organizations that dedicate their lives to helping older adults, people with disabilities, and their caregivers to live optimally, were presented on Wednesday morning at the Ventura County Area Agency on Aging’s Advisory Council meeting.

Since 2018, the VCAAA Advisory Council’s Optimal Aging Committee has annually presented LEGACY Awards to a local business/organization, to Dementia Friendly business/organizations, and to community members/volunteers.

The 2024 winners are:

CAREGIVERS: Volunteers Assisting the Elderly (business/organization)
Santa Clara Valley Hospice (Dementia Friendly business/organization)
Marty Blumenthal (community member/volunteer)
Sylvia Fulton (community member/volunteer)

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Bilingual report — County of Ventura and City of Camarillo to open Local Assistance Center to help residents impacted by the Mountain Fire

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VENTURA — On Thursday, November 14, 2024, the County of Ventura and the City of Camarillo will open a Local Assistance Center (LAC) at the Ventura County Office of Education Conference Center at 5100 Adolfo Road in Camarillo. The Local Assistance Center will help residents as they begin their recovery process from the Mountain Fire.

Information will be available on-site on the following topics: rebuilding, tax relief, business and employment assistance, debris removal, permits, housing, rental assistance, vital records, property assessments, public assistance, crisis intervention stress management, and basic needs. Services such as replacement of driver’s licenses and connection to health care resources will also be available on site. 

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County of Ventura — Bilingual report — Mountain Fire Community Update from the County of Ventura

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As our community comes together in the wake of the Mountain Fire, we want to assure all Ventura County residents that support is here.

This newsletter update offers information on essential resources, key information, and upcoming events to aid in recovery efforts. Our teams are working alongside local and state agencies to deliver the assistance you need as quickly as possible.

Community members who are not already subscribed to receive this newsletter may sign up to receive it in English here and in Spanish here.

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Ventura County Community Foundation Mountain Fire Update

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We are deeply grateful for the incredible outpouring of support as we rally together to help those most impacted by the Mountain Fire.  Thank you from the bottom of our hearts for helping us reach those most affected and offering both awareness and critical financial aid in this time of need.

On Saturday, the VCCF Board of Directors authorized the immediate distribution of $20,000 in direct financial assistance to support eight families who lost their housing in the wildfire and were left with no place to go. Because of your generosity, these families now have emergency financial support to secure temporary housing and other essentials.

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Social Justice Fund for Ventura County announces new program, general manager

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On behalf of the Board of Directors and staff of the Social Justice Fund for Ventura County (SJFVC), I am pleased to announce two organizational changes. These changes will help us lay a stronger foundation for our Fellowship program to ensure its growth and sustainability.

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Ventura County Taxpayers Association — Mountain Fire resources

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As the Mountain Fire continues to impact Ventura County, we want to help you access the resources and support needed to protect your operations, workers, and property. Our hearts are with all those affected, and we stand ready to help in any way possible.

In partnership with Farm Bureau Ventura County, the Ag Commissioner’s Office, UCCE, VCRCD, USDA-FSA, Thomas Fire survivors, and others, VC CoLAB is co-hosting a series of webinars for the agricultural community. 

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County of Ventura District 2 Supervisor Jeff Gorell — Mountain Fire community meeting on Nov. 13

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Dear Neighbors,

A community meeting is scheduled for Wednesday, 11/13 at 6:30 pm for those impacted by the Mountain Fire. The CalFire Incident Management Team, the County of Ventura and the City of Camarillo will host the meeting at the Rancho Campana High School Performing Arts Center located at 4235 Mar Vista Drive in Camarillo.

Please stay informed about the situation at www.vcemergency.com and www.venturacountyrecovers.org.

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Bilingual report — Declaration of Local Health Emergency and health concerns from home and building fire ash

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VENTURA — On Nov. 8, 2024, due to potential widespread toxic exposures and threats to public health and the environment that exist in the aftermath of a major wildfire disaster, the Ventura County Public Health Officer declared a Local Health Emergency to limit the public’s exposure to hazardous substances. This Declaration will be presented to the County Board of Supervisors for ratification during their Board meeting on November 12, 2024.

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Ventura County Office of Education — Update on Status of Ventura County Schools

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VENTURA COUNTY — Monday, November 11, is a regularly scheduled school holiday. On Tuesday, November 12, most Ventura County schools will be operating normally. However, the following schools and districts have announced closures as they continue to respond to impacts from the Mountain Fire.

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Bilingual report — Economic Development Collaborative (EDC) — National Veterans Small Business Week

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The Economic Development Collaborative would like to recognize National Veteran’s Small Business Week. The EDC is dedicated to providing equal access to resources, advising and capital to all business owners. Since 2010, the EDC has provided over 2,000 hours of one-of-one business advising to Veteran-Owned businesses and has helped generate over $990 million in revenue.

The EDC is proud to support the community by providing professional technical assistance in English and Spanish through our Small Business Development Center. Our NO-COST advising areas include:

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First District Supervisor Das Williams — Farmworker Conditions Community Meeting on Nov. 12

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Farmworker Conditions Community Meeting
Tuesday, November 12 at 3:00 PM
Santa Maria Hearing Room, 511 Lakeside Parkway

Please join myself and Supervisor Hartmann at a community meeting to examine the conditions of farmworkers in our County, and to discuss strategies to improve conditions. The meeting will include panel discussions featuring farmworkers, researchers, ag operators, and more. Following the community meeting, the temporary ad hoc committee will report back to the Board of Supervisors with a summary of key points and possible suggestions for improving the lives of farm workers.

Live translation services will be available for attendees. The meeting can be watched live on CSBTV Cable Channel 20 and our CSBTV YouTube Channel. Following the event, our Committee will present a summary of key points to the Board of Supervisors.

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United Way of Ventura County — Mountain Fire Needs Assessment Survey

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Our hearts go out to all those who have been impacted by the Mountain Fire. We understand what an unpredictable and challenging time lies ahead for so many of our community members as they navigate seeking aid and resources in the face of tremendous loss. 

Ventura County Voluntary Organizations Active in Disasters (VCVOAD) has created a needs assessment form to support Ventura County community members impacted by the Mountain Fire.

If you, or someone you know, has been impacted, please fill out the Needs Assessment Form below or call 2-1-1 for assistance. This form can also be found on our Disaster Relief website page.

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Ventura County Community Foundation Accepting Emergency Donations for Mountain Fire

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Dear Ventura County Community Foundation Family,

We extend our deepest gratitude to our first responders, the County of Ventura, local municipalities, the State of California, and our dedicated elected officials who have been working tirelessly to support and advocate for our community during the challenges posed by the Mountain Fire. We are acutely aware of the pain our neighbors are experiencing—those who have lost their homes and those whose livelihoods are at risk.

We also recognize and commend the many nonprofits that have stepped forward to assist those most in need, including our cherished animals, both large and small, and childcare providers

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County of Ventura District 2 Supervisor Jeff Gorell — Mountain Fire update of Nov. 8

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The impact of the Mountain Fire on our community has been truly heartbreaking. My heart goes out to everyone affected. As I toured the impacted neighborhoods, I witnessed firsthand the immense loss and devastation that has struck District 2.

I also spent time at the evacuation center today, and in the midst of this tragedy, I was reminded of the extraordinary resilience of our community. We have faced challenges before, and each time, we’ve come together, emerging stronger and more united.

Now, more than ever, many of our neighbors need our support. Below, I’ve included resources for those affected and ways to help if you feel moved to lend a hand. I am deeply grateful to the many first responders, county departments, partner agencies, community groups, and individuals who have shown up to assist in incredible ways during this difficult time. Your generosity and dedication have been a light in the darkness.

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Santa Paula Museum of Art announces Joanne Julian’s ‘Nature’s Spirits now open

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Ever inspired by nature, artist Joanne Julian’s solo exhibition, “Nature’s Spirits,” is a meditation on nature’s miracles, from birds, insects, and botanicals found in the garden to clouds, stars, and nebulae witnessed in the night sky.

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The Central Coast Small Farmer, Rancher, and Fisherfolk Forum brings small producers together to effect positive change

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SANTA MARIA — EconAlliance and the Santa Barbara County Food Action Network (SBCFAN) co-produced the first Central Coast Small Farmer, Rancher, and Fisherfolk Forum, hosted at Allan Hancock College on October 25th and 26th. The event drew hundreds of small scale food producers and businesses from all over the Central Coast, as both a networking and learning event. The Forum, on October 26th, featured a robust lineup of workshops tailored to support small-scale producers, and hosted Keynote Speaker Jennifer Lester Moffit, Undersecretary for Marketing and Regulatory Programs for the USDA.

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Bilingual report — Registration now open for Winter, Spring classes at Allan Hancock College

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“We want our students to know that everyone at Hancock is invested in helping them reach their educational goals this winter and spring,” said Hancock Superintendent/President Kevin G. Walthers, Ph.D. “We are encouraging them to register for classes now and take advantage of all the resources and support services that Hancock offers.” 

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Gov. Newsom convenes a special session of the Legislature to protect California values

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SACRAMENTO — Gov. Gavin Newsom (on Nov. 7) issued a proclamation convening a special session of the California Legislature to safeguard California values and fundamental rights in the face of an incoming Trump administration. The special session will focus on bolstering California legal resources to protect civil rights, reproductive freedom, climate action, and immigrant families.

This is the first of several actions by the Newsom Administration, in partnership with the Legislature, as the Governor begins shoring up California’s defenses against an incoming federal administration that has threatened the state on multiple fronts.

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Ventura Music Festival November News — Dear Music Lover! Look at what you’ve helped us achieve!

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A Note of Thanks from our Executive Director

As we welcome November and embrace the shift toward shorter days (and change in general) there’s also something reflective and revitalizing in the air as we approach Thanksgiving season.

As I choose to focus on gratitude and hope, I’d like to start by thanking our long time VMF’s supporters and sponsors, the VMF Board of Directors, and sister organizations with whom we have forged new and renewed collaborations. In 2024 so far we have received funding from VCCF, the City and County of Ventura’s Arts & culture divisions who have supported VMF with generous grants to augment our music and educational offerings for the entire Community. To them we extend a deep gratitude for spending our tax dollars wisely to enrich our culture in so many ways.

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

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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.

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

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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. 

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UPDATED: School Closures in Ventura County Due to Mountain Fire

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The below list has been updated with additional closures since our prior email. Please refer the public to www.vcoe.org for a list of Ventura County school closures that will be continuously updated throughout the duration of this emergency.

VENTURA COUNTY — Due to impacts from the Mountain Fire, the following Ventura County schools and districts have announced closures for Thursday, November 7 and Friday, November 8, 2024.

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American Medical Response Ventura County (AMR) prepared to handle increased call volume during Red Flag Warning and fires

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VENTURA COUNTY — In response to the County of Ventura’s Red Flag Warning and the current fires, American Medical Response Ventura County (AMR Ventura County) and its affiliate Gold Coast Ambulance (GCA) have upstaffed an additional five ambulances in the 9-1-1 system today. The additional staffing will assist with the extra call volume expected as a result of the poor air quality, while allowing the Ventura County Fire Department first responders to focus on fire response. Several AMR Ventura County and GCA crews have been assigned to the fire and are also assisting with evacuations, and AMR Ventura County and GCA are prepared to add additional staffing as needed to support the Ventura County community. 

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Bilingual report — Air Quality Alert issued for Ventura County

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VENTURA — The Ventura County Air Pollution Control District is issuing an Air Quality Alert because unhealthy conditions exist.

Smoke from the Mountain Fire is causing the Air Quality Index (AQI) to fall in the unhealthy range for everyone in Oxnard and Camarillo. Smoke and ash from wildfires contain very small particles that can harm the lungs and heart.

The district issues Air Quality Alerts when the AQI has reached or is forecast to reach an unhealthy level for all. A lower AQI can affect sensitive groups. This includes children, older adults and people with heart disease or respiratory conditions such as asthma, chronic obstructive pulmonary disease and emphysema.

The alert is in effect until conditions improve.

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Port of Hueneme Dock Talk — October Recap

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Port of Hueneme “Goes Electric” receiving an impressive $42,287,893 grant from the U.S. Environmental Protection Agency (EPA), funding critical to the Port’s goal of zero emissions by 2030.

Read our latest Press Release on how we plan to invest the $42M EPA grant to step towards our Zero Emission goal!

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Bilingual report — County of Ventura names Kimberlee Albers new Homeless Solutions Director

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“With significant experience in the public sector as well as the nonprofit sector across several counties, Kimberlee brings a unique perspective and proven leadership to the role of Homeless Solutions Director,” stated Dr. Johnson. “Her commitment to innovative solutions has earned her recognition as a leader in the field, demonstrating her ability to drive impactful change. We are confident that her expertise will pave the way for transformative initiatives that will positively impact inflow and outflow of unhoused individuals and create significant impact on addressing homelessness in our county.” 

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

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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.

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Simi Valley Family YMCA Forms New Advisory Board

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SIMI VALLEY — The Simi Valley Family YMCA has formed a new all-volunteer advisory board. Andy Dominguez is board chair.

The Simi YMCA is a branch of the Southeast Ventura County YMCA. The new board will support the mission and goals of the Simi YMCA and the Southeast Ventura County YMCA and function as ambassadors for both.

“The community of Simi Valley and the Simi Valley Family YMCA have been partners in growth, healthy living and quality experiences for many years,” says Dominguez. “This is an exciting time to be an Advisory Board member as we work towards strengthening and extending that partnership.”

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Girls Inc.’s Project Accelerate On Track to Meet its Goals to Advance Gender Parity in the Workplace for Girls Across North America

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CARPINTERIA — Girls Inc. of Carpinteria is proud to announce its participation in Project Accelerate, a transformative initiative launched by the Girls Inc. national organization. This program was made possible by a $10 million grant from the Equality Can’t Wait Challenge, aimed at advancing gender equality by 2030. Project Accelerate seeks to propel 5,400 diverse women into corporate leadership roles across 30 sites nationwide.

Now in its fourth year, Project Accelerate has expanded to 26 Girls Inc. affiliates, reaching approximately 3,700 girls across the country. Girls Inc. of Carpinteria is excited to announce that they are among the newest cohort of affiliates selected for this impactful initiative.

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

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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.

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Bilingual report — Guest contribution — Is it Safe for Children to ‘Trick or Treat’ This Halloween?

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As children of all ages prepare for and look forward to “trick or treating” this Halloween, many parents are rightfully asking themselves how they can ensure that their little ghosts and goblins will be safe and sound during this upcoming festive holiday.

Dr. Patricia De La Riva, a pediatrician with Kaiser Permanente Woodland Hills/West Ventura Service Area, encourages parents to make lasting memories with their children. However, she notes it’s also important to remember there are important avoidable safety hazards lurking that can result in injury and illness.“A good start is to make sure your children are up to date with their vaccines, such as those that protect against pertussis given the recent rise in cases, and vaccines that help to prevent influenza and Covid-19 infection,” she said. Additionally, Dr. De La Riva addressed several scary health issues parents should be aware of to ensure their little munchkins have a safe and happy Halloween.

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Cabrillo Economic Development Corp. Welcomes New Leadership and Promotions

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VENTURA COUNTY — Cabrillo Economic Development Corporation (Cabrillo EDC), the largest developer of affordable homes in Ventura County, is excited to announce the addition of two new leaders to its team and the promotion of valued staff members. The addition and promotion of these remarkable individuals reflect Cabrillo EDC’s goal of strengthening its leadership and enhancing the ability to serve the community with high-quality affordable housing solutions and resident services. 

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