Category: Government

Bilingual report — Allan Hancock College, Santa Maria Joint Union High School District offer college classes in Guadalupe

by Community Contributor • January 28, 2025 • Comments Off

SANTA MARIA — Allan Hancock College and the Santa Maria Joint Union High School District have partnered to bring college-level courses directly to students in Guadalupe, expanding access to higher education opportunities within the community.

The new classes allow high school students in Guadalupe to enroll in general education courses for college credit. The classes include Communication Studies 101: Introduction to Public Speaking and Psychology 101: Introduction to Psychology and are held at the Guadalupe Senior Center.

Each course combines weekly in-person sessions from 5 p.m. to 6:50 p.m. with one hour of online instruction. The classes began on Jan. 21 and will run through May 14, with a capacity of up to 30 students per course.

Bilingual report — City of Santa Paula Engages Community for Master Plan on Aging

by Community Contributor • January 28, 2025 • Comments Off

SANTA PAULA — The City of Santa Paula is developing a local Master Plan for Aging, inspired by California’s groundbreaking Master Plan for Aging (MPA). This initiative addresses the state’s rapidly growing and diversifying over-60 population, projected to reach 10.8 million by 2030, or one-quarter of the population. The MPA is a comprehensive blueprint designed to prioritize the health and well-being of older Californians and people with disabilities, outlining five bold goals and twenty-three strategies to create a “California for All Ages” by 2030.

Recognizing the importance of supporting its aging population, the Santa Paula City Council incorporated the development of a Senior Master Plan (Master Plan for Aging) into the two-year Strategic Plan under Category F: Community Vitality. This category aims to provide the residents of Santa Paula with sustainable resources and programs, making it a great place to live and grow. Objective #7 within this category specifically focuses on developing a Senior Master Plan tailored to the needs of Santa Paula’s residents.

Farm Bureau of Ventura County — Petition USDA to fully restore its inspection of avocados from Mexico

by Community Contributor • January 27, 2025 • Comments Off

In late 2024 USDA unilaterally downgraded its inspection obligations by shifting orchard inspections to Mexico. Shortly after, detections of stem and seed weevils in packing facilities increased with APHIS acknowledging that “the number of recent interceptions is notable given the infrequency of such interceptions over the history of the program.”

To date, the Commission has not convinced USDA to reverse course so we are outreaching to newly appointed leadership at USDA (see letter here) and are asking all of you to support the effort.

Assemblymember Steve Bennett authors legislation to streamline care of foster children

by Community Contributor • January 27, 2025 • Comments Off

SACRAMENTO — Assemblymember Steve Bennett (D-Ventura) announced AB 276 today to ensure continuous, quality care for foster children at community care facilities.

On average, out-of-state background checks take almost three months to complete. These long waiting periods to onboard staff adversely affect community care facilities’ ability to provide top-rate services and programming for foster children and youth. The bill would allow these facilities (which include childcare facilities and foster family homes) to address staffing shortages by allowing qualified applicants to work at a facility while waiting for out-of-state clearance.

“Foster youth and families suffer when programs can’t hire the qualified staff they need due to lengthy background check delays,” said Adrienne Shilton, Vice President of Public Policy for the California Alliance of Child and Family Services. “By aligning state policy with federal law and adhering to California’s rigorous safeguards, this bill ensures that agencies can meet the urgent needs of California’s most vulnerable populations.”

Bilingual report — Community Call to Action (event on Jan. 25): Response to ICE Sighting on Milpas Street, Santa Barbara

by Community Contributor • January 24, 2025 • Comments Off

Community event to be held at noon Saturday, Jan. 25 at La Casa de la Raza, 601 E. Montecito St., Santa Barbara

— A Call to Unite. The IAC is calling on community partners, including service organizations, advocacy groups, faith-based organizations, elected officials, and the broader public, to join forces and address this urgent issue. Together, we can protect the most vulnerable children and families, and ensure the continued vitality of our protected-class neighborhoods.

Bilingual report — Economic Development Collaborative (EDC) — Assistance for Businesses and Residents Affected by the Fires

by Community Contributor • January 24, 2025 • Comments Off

Mountain Fire: SBA acted under its own authority to declare a disaster in response to a request SBA received from Gov. Gavin Newsom’s authorized representative, Director Nancy Ward, of the California Office of Emergency Services on November 25. The disaster declaration makes low-interest federal disaster loans available to residents and businesses the counties of Ventura, Santa Barbara, Los Angeles and Kern who were affected by the Mountain Fire that began November 6.

Wildfires and Straight-line Winds: SBA Administrator Isabel Casillas Guzman announced that low-interest federal disaster loans are now available to Southern California businesses, homeowners, renters and private nonprofit (PNP) organizations following President Joe Biden’s major disaster declaration. The declaration covers Los Angeles and the contiguous counties of Kern, Orange, San Bernardino, and Ventura due to wildfires and straight-line winds that began on January 7.

Guest contribution — American Immigration Council — Trump’s First Immigration Executive Actions

by Community Contributor • January 24, 2025 • Comments Off

President Trump wasted no time trying to radically change the U.S. immigration system. On his first day in office, he issued 10 executive orders that seek to redefine America—excluding everyone from asylum seekers to countless children of immigrants.

In the American Immigration Council’s new fact sheet, After Day One: A High-Level Analysis of Trump’s First Executive Actions, we break down what these policy changes seek to accomplish immediately and what they will mean for immigrants and all Americans in the future.

Read the Analysis

Guest contribution — LULAC applauds federal court ruling blocking President Trump’s executive order on birthright citizenship

by Community Contributor • January 24, 2025 • Comments Off

“LULAC wholeheartedly affirms the decision of the federal judge to stop this attack on one of our nation’s most treasured constitutional protections,” said Roman Palomares, LULAC National President and Chairman of the Board. “Any child born on our soil has the right to be called a citizen, and that right is irrevocable and should not be tampered with. We call upon all Americans to rise in unity and respect for this important and invaluable right.”

Bilingual report — Economic Development Collaborative (EDC) announces California Competes Tax Credit Program

by Community Contributor • January 24, 2025 • Comments Off

The California Competes Tax Credit (CCTC) is an income tax credit available to businesses that want to locate in California or stay and grow in California. Businesses of any industry, size or location compete for over $180 million available in tax credits by applying in one of the three application periods each year. Applicants will be analyzed based on fourteen different factors of evaluation, including number of full-time jobs being created, amount of investment and strategic importance to the state or region.

Application Period Timeline: For fiscal year 2024-2025, GO-Biz will accept applications for the California Competes Tax Credit during the following periods:

January 6, 2025 – January 27, 2025
February 24, 2025 – March 10, 2025

Bilingual Report — Community Environmental Council — Act Now: Save up to $24,000 on an EV

by Community Contributor • January 24, 2025 • Comments Off

Central Coast residents can receive up to $12,000 to purchase or lease an electric vehicle (EV) thanks to funding that was just released through the California Driving Clean Assistance Program. Combined with other incentives, participants could save up to $24,000 on an EV. You must be income-eligible to receive funding, and you must pre-qualify online before shopping for an EV.

Bilingual report — Air Quality Alert for smoke issued in Ventura County

by Community Contributor • January 23, 2025 • Comments Off

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

Smoke from the Hughes Fire is causing the Air Quality Index (AQI) to fall in the unhealthy range for everyone in Camarillo, Fillmore, Moorpark, Oxnard, Piru, Santa Paula, Simi Valley and Ventura. 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.

Bilingual report — County of Ventura — Important Extreme Weather Updates and Resources – Jan. 21, 2025

by Community Contributor • January 23, 2025 • Comments Off

We recognize the challenges that come with facing yet another period of Red Flag conditions and Public Safety Power Shutoffs.

We know these weather conditions and power shutoffs disrupt routines, create uncertainty, and make it difficult to meet essential needs. Please know that we stand with you during this time, and we are here to provide support and resources to help you navigate these challenges.

We are committed to keeping you informed of resources that keep you prepared and provide support as we navigate this challenge together.

Your patience and resilience are deeply appreciated as we work together to navigate these conditions and keep our community safe.

Thank you for your understanding and cooperation as we face these challenges together.

Farm Bureau of Ventura County — Smoke and Wildfire Ag Resources

by Community Contributor • January 23, 2025 • Comments Off

The wildfire hazard is defined by fire severity zones – very high, high, and moderate. Click the image below to find your risk level. Even those in lower risk areas should be prepared for the impacts of wildfire smoke on their operations.

Ventura County Community Development Corp. — VCCDC’s Homebuyer Workshops are here to guide you every step of the way in 2025!

by Community Contributor • January 23, 2025 • Comments Off

Choose a date that works for you:

Saturday, January 25th (online)
Saturday, February 1 (online)
Sábado, 8 de febrero (Oxnard)
Saturday, February 22 (online)
To reserve your seat, simply click below to sign up. We can’t wait to help you achieve your dream of homeownership!

2025 Events & Festivals announced In Lompoc, On California’s Central Coast

by Community Contributor • January 23, 2025 • Comments Off

LOMPOC — Lompoc is gearing up to welcome 2025 with a lineup of exciting events! From now until December 31, 2025, immerse yourself in the small-town charm of this vibrant community. Explore the unique festivals and experiences that make Lompoc Valley stand out. Wine lover or history buff, Lompoc Valley has something extraordinary to offer for every type of adventurer!

Museum of Contemporary Art Santa Barbara — 2025 A New Year of Art, Healing, and Community

by Community Contributor • January 22, 2025 • Comments Off

Sangre De Nopal Curator Talk on Thursday, Jan. 30.

We’re thrilled to present an intimate conversation with two of the exhibition curator’s and a walkthrough of the exhibition. We’ll discuss the research and development of the exhibition and address major themes with in the larger critically acclaimed Sangre de Nopal/Blood of the Nopal project that spans two exhibitions, two museums, the artworks of over twenty four artists, and the forthcoming catalog. Followed by our first Peña Nights live music by Natalie Espinoza and reception. Catch up on recent press here.

Farm Bureau of Ventura County — Webinar and Resources on Immigration (webinar on Jan. 29) & CBP Activity

by Community Contributor • January 21, 2025 • Comments Off

National Immigration Project Webinar on Immigration

Join the National Immigration Project on Wednesday, January 29 at 5pm ET for a free webinar for community defenders, advocates, and impacted community members to go over the basics of what you can do to protect yourself and your community in the face of potential immigration enforcement.

We’ll go over what immigration policies have changed in the first week of the Trump administration; a primer on your Fourth Amendment rights; and ways for families to prepare in case of an arrest by immigration officials. Our 1.5-hour program is meant to address your most burning questions and to remind you of the protections you already have. As policies change, we will continue to provide community defenders with the information and trainings they need to fight back and to keep their people ready to face whatever comes.

County of Ventura District 2 Supervisor Jeff Gorell — Community Update

by Community Contributor • January 21, 2025 • Comments Off

I want to ensure you’re ready for the extreme conditions forecasted for our area. The National Weather Service and Ventura County Sheriff’s Office of Emergency Services are closely monitoring a Red Flag wind event expected to last through Tuesday.

During this period, dry conditions combined with northeast winds of 25 to 40 MPH—and gusts reaching up to 60 MPH—create a heightened risk of wildfires.

Southern California Edison is implementing Public Safety Power Shutoffs in wind-prone areas. The primary period of concern for shutoffs extends through Tuesday morning, though circuits restored earlier may still be at risk for additional shutoffs depending on conditions.

Bilingual report — Allan Hancock College students return for Spring classes

by Community Contributor • January 21, 2025 • Comments Off

“It’s always exciting when we get to see students back on campus for the start of classes,” said Hancock Superintendent/President Kevin G. Walthers, Ph.D. “Our entire team of faculty and staff are dedicated to helping make their college experience as rewarding as possible.”

Steering the Ship, Jess Ramirez sworn in as president of Oxnard Harbor District

by Community Contributor • January 20, 2025 • Comments Off

PORT HUENEME — At a ceremony held at the Port of Hueneme, Jess J. Ramirez was sworn in as president of the Oxnard Harbor District.

Ventura County Supervisor Vianey Lopez administered the oath of office. Ramirez, a long-serving member of the International Longshoreman’s and Warehouse Union Local #46, has dedicated over 51 years to the port, starting as a casual longshoreman and rising through the ranks to a respected leader. Ramirez was sworn in alongside Commissioner Celina L. Zacarias who just completed a successful year at the helm as board president. The presidential baton for 2025 has now been passed to Ramirez.

MLK message to LULAC Family

by Community Contributor • January 20, 2025 • Comments Off

As we honor the life and legacy of Dr. Martin Luther King Jr., I am reminded of the power of his vision. This vision continues to guide us in our work today. Dr. King’s dream of equality, justice, and a “Beloved Community” resonates deeply with our shared mission at LULAC. His strong commitment to nonviolence as a force for change reminds us that unity, courage, and action make progress possible.

This year, we find ourselves at a historic crossroads. The path ahead is uncertain, and challenges are many for the Latino communities we serve across the United States and Puerto Rico. Yet, I want to assure you that our sense of purpose has never been stronger. We are not merely observing the changes around us; we are preparing and taking deliberate action to confront them with clarity and determination.

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

by Community Contributor • January 17, 2025 • Comments Off

This year sees People’s Self-Help Housing celebrate its 55th Anniversary!

Since 1970, when a group of committed individuals said ‘we can do better to help house our neighbors’, we have been doing just that. Originally building through the self-help program – ten families building alongside each other, working on one another’s homes – and then amplifying those efforts through the development of multifamily housing, the DNA of our organization is mutuality and support.

Bilingual commentary — The Importance of Eye Contact for Pedestrians

by Community Contributor • January 17, 2025 • Comments Off

When I was a teenager, my father seemed eager to teach me how to drive. He himself never had any formal driving instruction, but he had earned his “street cred” as a driver on the battlefield known as the Los Angeles freeway system.

Every workday during my first 18 years, I saw him put on his “driving armor,” metaphorically speaking. He would leave home early in the morning, get into the family car, and go out to fight the good fight on the freeways of Los Angeles to earn a living. There were grueling miles between our modest home in the suburbs and his job at a print shop in Hollywood.

Guest contribution — American Immigration Council — Who runs the U.S. immigration system?

by Community Contributor • January 17, 2025 • Comments Off

he Laken Riley Act Would Give States Sweeping Power Over Immigration Policy …

Who runs the U.S. immigration system? If the Senate passes the Laken Riley Act this week, the answer might not be Congress?or?the president. The bill, already passed in the House, would hand state attorneys general, like Ken Paxton in Texas, veto power over large swaths of federal immigration policy.

Register now for Community Environmental Council’s Winter Climate Stewards Cohort starting Jan. 28 in Santa Barbara

by Community Contributor • January 17, 2025 • Comments Off

When climate disasters strike, knowing how to help impacted communities and habitats can be daunting. CEC’s Climate Stewards certification program equips you with the knowledge to take climate action and connects you with a network of local activists working to promote community recovery and resilience.

Santa Paula Art Museum — ‘A Brush with Nature’ premieres Saturday, Jan. 18

by Community Contributor • January 17, 2025 • Comments Off

Join us at the Santa Paula Art Museum on Saturday, January 18, for the premiere of “A Brush with Nature: Three Artists’ Perspectives,” an exhibition featuring Santa Clarita-based artists Sandy Fisher, Mardilan Lee Georgio, and Charlotte Mullich. Together the three artists present three impressions of nature, from landscapes and seascapes to flora and fauna, using three distinct mediums: oil, pastel, and watercolor.

People’s Self-Help Housing Begins 55th Anniversary Celebrations 2025 to mark significant milestone in the organization’s history

by Community Contributor • January 17, 2025 • Comments Off

CENTRAL COAST — This year, People’s Self-Help Housing (PSHH)celebrates 55 years as an organization. To commemorate this historic milestone, PSHH has launched a new celebratory logo and webpage for its use throughout 2025.

“What a privilege for an organization to celebrate 55 years,” said Ken Trigueiro, PSHH CEO & President. “From our origins on the heels of the seminal Fair Housing Act of 1968 to today, we have been proud to participate in the numerous partnerships that have brought tens of thousands of units of affordable housing to the Central Coast.”

Bilingual report — County of Ventura Important Extreme Weather Updates and Resources – Jan. 15

by Community Contributor • January 16, 2025 • Comments Off

Amigos805 editor’s note: Please keep checking with vcemergency.com and other local officials/organizations for the latest fire/weather updates….

We continue to share this update and information in an effort to keep you informed of important resources available as we face the ongoing Red Flag Conditions for our area.

On a positive note, we are pleased to report that the forward progress on the Auto Fire, which occurred on Monday evening, has been stopped and it is 50% contained. We’re grateful for the tireless efforts of firefighters and emergency personnel across our County and cities.

As we continue navigating the challenges of extreme weather together, we encourage you to stay informed by remaining connected to Ventura County’s official communication channels. Updates on power restoration, fire containment, and other critical information are shared regularly via vcemergency.com. Staying informed ensures that you and your loved ones are prepared and aware of the latest developments.

Friendship Center Adult Day Services — Free Emergency Respite Care

by Community Contributor • January 16, 2025 • Comments Off

Amigos805 editor’s note: Please keep checking with vcemergency.com and other local officials/organizations for the latest fire/weather updates….

Through our Emergency Respite Care Program, we are providing no-cost, short-term respite care for families who have temporarily relocated to the Central Coast due to the fires. If your family has been displaced and you’re caring for an older adult with dementia, we can offer a safe, supportive space where your loved one can feel comforted and engaged—while giving you time to focus on recovery and next steps.

UCSB — The Current — ‘UC Santa Barbara heads to State Street’ and more news, events

by Community Contributor • January 16, 2025 • Comments Off

Intending to have a larger presence in the downtown area, and to support the revitalization of Santa Barbara’s primary business corridor, the university will acquire property on State Street.

Read more about the university’s plans

39th Annual California Strawberry Festival seeks sponsors

by Community Contributor • January 16, 2025 • Comments Off

VENTURA — The California Strawberry Festival is seeking corporate sponsors for its 39th annual event, scheduled for May 17-18 at the Ventura County Fairgrounds.

The family-friendly festival drew more than 40,000 visitors from across Southern California in 2024, including attendees from Los Angeles, Ventura, San Bernardino, Kern, Santa Barbara and Orange counties.

Festival attractions include more than 40 strawberry-themed food and beverage vendors, nearly 150 fine arts and crafts booths, live entertainment on three stages, carnival rides, a children’s Strawberryland and a build-your-own strawberry shortcake tent. Organizers estimate visitors consume 1.5 million locally grown strawberries during the two-day event.

Bilingual report — Ventura County supervisors ceremonially sworn in at Board of Supervisors meeting

by Community Contributor • January 16, 2025 • Comments Off

VENTURA — On Tuesday, Jan. 14, during the first regular meeting in 2025 for the Ventura County Board of Supervisors, members of the Board who were elected to office following the 2024 elections were ceremonially sworn in. The swearing-in ceremony…

Assemblymembers Irwin and Harabedian Introduce Bills to Provide Mortgage and Housing Relief to Fire Victims

by Community Contributor • January 16, 2025 • Comments Off

SACRAMENTO — Assemblymembers Jacqui Irwin (D-Thousand Oaks) and John Harabedian (D-Pasadena) have jointly authored and introduced a pair of bills that will provide much-needed financial relief to victims of the Los Angeles County wildfires and expedite rebuilding efforts in impacted communities.

“Many of our friends and neighbors who have had their homes damaged or destroyed are faced with the prospect of having to make a mortgage payment on a residence that is uninhabitable,” said Assemblymember Jacqui Irwin.

County of Ventura District 2 Supervisor Jeff Gorell — Community update

by Community Contributor • January 16, 2025 • Comments Off

Amigos805 editor’s note: Please keep checking with vcemergency.com and other local officials/organizations for the latest fire/weather updates….

(Jan. 14)’s Board of Supervisors meeting brought significant developments, and I’d like to share the updates with you. But first, I want to remind everyone that Ventura County remains under a red flag warning. Please exercise caution, avoid activities that could spark fires, and stay informed by visiting vcemergency.com. Your safety is always my top priority—let’s all remain vigilant and prepared during these critical conditions.

Bilingual report — Ventura County Animal Services — Shelter at 142% capacity! Offering free dog adoptions until Sunday

by Community Contributor • January 16, 2025 • Comments Off

We are at 142% capacity in our dog kennels. To help relieve overcrowding we are holding a free dog adoption promotion* from January 16th – 19th, 2025 at both the Camarillo and Simi Valley Shelters. Can’t adopt? Please share the flyer above. Thank you.

Ventura County Animal Services

*Please note: Promotions do not guarantee the adoption of a shelter pet. All interested parties must participate in the full adoption process to ensure the best possible matches are made. Promotions do not include the cost of a pet license if applicable.

Bilingual report — Ventura Police to hold DUI Checkpoint on Friday, Jan. 17

by Community Contributor • January 16, 2025 • Comments Off

VENTURA — The Ventura Police Department will conduct a driving under the influence (DUI) Checkpoint on Friday, January 17, 2025, from 8:00 p.m. to 2:00 a.m. The checkpoint will be held at an undisclosed location within the City of Ventura.

Carefully chosen based on data reflecting incidents of impaired driving-related crashes, DUI checkpoints play a pivotal role in enhancing public safety by removing suspected impaired drivers from the road.

Santa Ana wind event, Southern California Edison public safety power shutoffs

by Community Contributor • January 15, 2025 • Comments Off

Amigos805 editor’s note: Please keep checking with vcemergency.com and other local officials/organizations for the latest fire/weather updates….

VENTURA COUNTY — A Santa Ana wind event has been forecast to impact Ventura County through 6PM Wednesday, Jan. 15 . Low relative humidity coupled with high northeast wind conditions will continue to bring high fire danger to Ventura County.

A RED FLAG WARNING has been issued for Ventura County through 6PM Wednesday, January 15.

Periods of northeast winds 20 to 30 mph with gusts ranging from 40-50 mph.
The peak of the event will occur early Tuesday morning and last through Tuesday night.
Relative humidities of 8%-15% will be common with minimal improvement overnight.

Southeast Ventura County YMCA and California Strong Will Provide Essential Supplies To Fire Victims – Jan. 18 at Proactive Sports Performance

by Community Contributor • January 14, 2025 • Comments Off

WESTLAKE VILLAGE — California Strong, Southeast Ventura County YMCA, in partnership with Proactive Sports Performance, will provide essential supplies to Los Angeles wildfire victims during an event on Saturday, Jan. 18, from 10 a.m. to 2 p.m. at Proactive Sports Performance (31425 Agoura Rd, Westlake Village).

Available items will include new clothing, toiletries, bedding, baby and toddler supplies, pet supplies, children’s toys and games, shoes and local business gift cards.

“The Southeast Ventura County YMCA has been providing support through its program California Strong to natural disaster victims since the Woolsey Fire in 2018,” says Ronnie Stone, the YMCA’spresident and CEO. “In December, we provided funds to those impacted by the Mountain Fire in Camarillo.”

Bilingual report — Public Safety Power Shutoffs (PSPS) Wind Event Community Update 01/14/2025

by Community Contributor • January 14, 2025 • Comments Off

Amigos805 editor’s note: Please keep checking with vcemergency.com and other local officials/organizations for the latest fire/weather updates….

Due to strong winds and heightened wildfire conditions, the City of Santa Paula is experiencing weather-related power outages and Public Safety Power Shutoffs (PSPS). We want to ensure our community stays safe and informed during this time. Below are essential tips, resources, and important updates to help you navigate these conditions.

UCSB — The Current — ‘Campus events honor Dr. Martin Luther King Jr.’s struggle for equality’ and more news, events

by Community Contributor • January 14, 2025 • Comments Off

Back-to-back events will kick off celebrations for Martin Luther King Jr. Day, including a free documentary screening and a silent march through campus.

Ventura County Community Foundation update on recent wildfires

by Community Contributor • January 13, 2025 • Comments Off

As we face one of the most devastating fire seasons in our region’s history, our hearts are with all those impacted by the fires across Los Angeles County and here in Ventura County. Please know you are not alone, and if you or a loved one need support, please reach out to 2-1-1 or complete this needs assessment if you are in Ventura County. A team of local nonprofits is working collaboratively together and are standing by to help.

Your community foundation is committed to raising funds to address the immediate and long-term needs of those most impacted by the recent Mountain Fire, while remaining prepared to respond to other disaster-related challenges across Ventura County. 100% of all contributions go directly to those most affected and local nonprofits supporting those most in need.

Bilingual report — County of Ventura — Important Extreme Weather Updates and Resources

by Community Contributor • January 13, 2025 • Comments Off

Amigos805 editor’s note: Please keep checking with vcemergency.com and other local officials/organizations for the latest fire/weather updates….

Dear Ventura County Residents,

Our hearts go out to all of you as we continue to navigate one of the most challenging fire seasons in our region’s history. We understand the hardships that many of you have faced, particularly with the extended power outages that have left so many without electricity for days. During the current event, we anticipate that there may be prolonged electrical outages once again so we encourage all residents in impacted areas to prepare accordingly. To find out more information please refer to vcemergency.com.

We want you to know that your safety and well-being remain our top priority. To address the ongoing power issues, we have engaged directly with Southern California Edison executives at the highest levels to advocate for the urgent restoration of electricity to our communities as soon as it is safe to do so. We have also reached out to State and Federal authorities to emphasize the critical need for swift action.

Bilingual report — Kaiser Permanente Statement 1/10/25 (regarding current wildfire emergency)

by Community Contributor • January 13, 2025 • Comments Off

Southern California remains on high alert from devastating wildfires throughout the region. Kaiser Permanente is deeply concerned about everyone in our community who has been affected by this tragedy. Our top priority remains the safety of our patients, members, staff, and anyone seeking care at Kaiser Permanente.

Currently, most of our facilities in Southern California are open and operating normally. We will remain vigilant and ready to respond fluidly as conditions change.

Our hearts go out to those affected, including our own staff and their families. We are grateful to our dedicated employees who continue to work tirelessly to care for our members, even as some of them are personally impacted by the fires.

Bilingual report — Santa Paula Official Update — Red Flag Conditions

by Community Contributor • January 13, 2025 • Comments Off

Amigos805 editor’s note: Please keep checking with vcemergency.com and other local officials/organizations for the latest fire/weather updates….

National Weather Service Update

The National Weather Service is forecasting Red Flag Conditions starting today, Monday, January 13 through Wednesday, January 15. Ventura County and nearby areas will experience very strong Santa Ana winds and extreme fire danger. Conditions will be very dry, with humidity between 10–20% (and not much better at night). Because of these dry conditions and strong winds, any new or existing fire could spread very quickly.

Winds in coastal and valley areas: 25–40 mph
Winds in mountains and foothills: 30–45 mph
Peak gusts could reach 45–70 mph (especially on Tuesday).
Highest wind impact: Tuesday 4 AM – Wednesday 12 PM
Areas at greatest risk: Simi, Moorpark, South Mountain, Piru, Fillmore, and Santa Paula

County of Ventura District 2 Supervisor Jeff Gorell — Key Weather Forecast Details:

by Community Contributor • January 13, 2025 • Comments Off

Amigos805 editor’s note: Please keep checking with vcemergency.com and other local officials/organizations for the latest fire/weather updates….

As we brace for another stretch of gusty and dry wind conditions, I want to take a moment to reach out with important updates and a reminder to stay prepared and informed. Ventura County is facing increased fire danger due to persistent low humidity and high winds, with a RED FLAG WARNING in effect through Wednesday, January 15.

Key Weather Forecast Details:

Santa Ana winds will impact our region starting today, January 13, through Wednesday, January 15.
Winds of 20-30 mph with gusts ranging from 40-50 mph are expected, peaking early Tuesday morning and continuing into Tuesday night.
Relative humidity will remain low at 10%-20%, with minimal overnight improvement.
For the latest updates on weather conditions, please visit the National Weather Service.

First CSU Channel Islands OLLI session of 2025 includes courses on music theory, Qigong, and a historic perspective on international conflict

by Community Contributor • January 13, 2025 • Comments Off

CAMARILLO — Registration is now open for the first spring session of CSU Channel Islands (CSUCI) Osher Lifelong Learning Institute (OLLI). The 10 six-week and two three-week classes included in the Spring I session cover a variety of subjects ranging from a hands-on experience with local geology to the ongoing Israeli/Palestinian conflict.

Spring I class subjects cover the arts, health, global politics, music, movies, current and historical events and much more. Classes begin Jan. 21 and end March 7 and will be both in-person, via Zoom, or a combination of both, in a hybrid format.

County of Ventura District 2 Supervisor Jeff Gorell — 211 Ventura County is an incredible resource

by Community Contributor • January 13, 2025 • Comments Off

Amigos805 editor’s note: Please keep checking with vcemergency.com and other local officials/organizations for the latest fire/weather updates….

As we continue to recover and rebuild from the Mountain Fire and face power outages from other So Cal Fires, I want to make sure you know that help is available, especially for those still without power or dealing with other challenges.

? 211 Ventura County is an incredible resource that connects people with assistance for a wide range of needs, including:

? Shelter and housing support
? Food assistance
? Transportation services
? Utility assistance
? Health care resources
? Mental health support
…and much more.

Allan Hancock College cybersecurity grant to enhance digital resilience

by Community Contributor • January 13, 2025 • Comments Off

“We are honored to receive this grant and are committed to enhancing our cybersecurity infrastructure to safeguard the college’s digital resources and the data of our students and community,” said Allan Hancock College Superintendent/President Kevin G. Walthers, Ph.D. “This funding will play a vital role in strengthening our defenses against evolving cyber threats.”