SANTA BARBARA — Santa Barbara Cottage Hospital (SBCH) and Goleta Valley Cottage Hospital (GVCH) have earned a five-star rating, the highest rating possible, on the Centers for Medicare & Medicaid Services (CMS) 2023 quality star rating report.
SBCH and GVCH are among 10 percent of surveyed U.S. hospitals that received five stars, the highest rating.
CMTC: EXPLORING ENERGY AND PRODUCTIVITY SAVINGS: A CLOSER LOOK AT INDUSTRIAL ASSESSMENT CENTERS AND THE IMPLEMENTATION GRANT PROGRAM
August 10 @ 1:30 pm
In California, there are four U.S. Department of Energy (DoE)-funded Industrial Assessment Centers (IACs) that offer no-cost energy assessments to small and medium-sized manufacturers (SMMs) – during these assessments, IACs typically identify up to 10-20% in energy and productivity savings. To further support SMMs, the DoE is currently offering the Implementation Grant Program which provides SMMs with funding of up to $300,000 with a 50% cost share for implementation of energy-efficient equipment based on recommendations made in IAC assessments. Interested to learn more? Join CMTC for this educational webinar!
SANTA PAULA — As the beginning of the new school year approaches (this week), the Santa Paula Police Department reminds residents, parents, and students to practice caution and safety in observance of drivers, pedestrians, bicyclists, and school buses.
The first day of school is Wednesday, August 9, 2023. Vehicle and pedestrian traffic will be impacted during drop- off and pickup times. Here are helpful tips for back to school traffic safety:
VENTURA — The County of Ventura and the Museum of Ventura County will be holding a series of family-friendly pop-up celebrations across the county in celebration of the 150thAnniversary of Ventura County. The pop-up celebrations will be held at larger festival events and will feature community organizations that will provide opportunities for adults and children to interact and learn more about the rich history and traditions of Ventura County. These community partners will provide opportunities for residents to participate in arts and crafts activities, enjoy performances, and learn more about Ventura County’s heritage both past and present. A full calendar of events can be found at www.venturacounty150.com
SANTA BARBARA — Tuesday, Aug. 1, marked Dr. Erika Endrijonas’ first day as the new superintendent/president of Santa Barbara City College.
Dr. Endrijonas’ new role as superintendent/president marks her return to SBCC; She served as the Dean of Career and Technical Services from 2000 to 2009, where she oversaw 28 departments spread across the Business, Technology, and Health and Human Services divisions on campus, along with the School of Culinary Arts and the Kinko’s Early Learning Center. Since then her college leadership roles have included Executive Vice President of Oxnard College, President of Los Angeles Valley College, and most recently, Superintendent/President of Pasadena City College since January 2019.
CAMARILLO — Some entrepreneurs had been working in somebody else’s landscaping business or hair salon and wanted to strike out on their own. Others had been providing child day care and wanted to expand their services. And some had creative ideas for restaurants, food trucks or themed mobile tea parties for kids.
These were some of the 45 business plans chosen for $7,500 microgrants through Women’s Economic Ventures (WEV) Emprendimiento Program, a program developed to provide training and access to funding for Hispanic entrepreneurs who have limited English proficiency. The program is run in partnership with CSU Channel Islands (CSUCI).
“Some of these entrepreneurs don’t have a high school degree, so it’s a beautiful thing to help them become a part of the formal economy, whereas they might have never gotten a loan from a bank,” said Associate Professor of Business Maria Ballesteros-Sola, who coordinates the program at CSUCI. “With this program, not only can you get started with your own business, but you also have a mentor you can call.”
SANTA BARBARA — ¡Viva el Arte de Santa Bárbara! (Viva) returns with a fantastic lineup for its 2023-2024 season. The season features five impressive performers including Grammy nominee Perla Batalla, the nationally distinguished Ballet Folklórico de Los Ángeles, America’s first all-female mariachi Mariachi Reyna de Los Ángeles, music innovator Quitapenas, and dynamic Bordeño-soul group Jarabe Mexicano.
Teatro de las Américas presenta para la familia un espectáculo lleno de humor, títeres, payasos, magia, y misterio.
Escrito por el grupo cómico del Teatro de las Américas con: James Donlon, Alina Cenal, Albert Smith, Mateo Escobedo y Óscar Marrón. Dirigido por James Donlon.
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Teatro de las Américas presents a show full of humor, puppets, clowns, magic, and mystery for the family.
Written by the comedy group of the Theater of the Americas with: James Donlon, Alina Cenal, Albert Smith, Mateo Escobedo and Oscar Brown. Directed by James Donlon.
PORT OF HUENEME — On the heels of the historic state funding for the Port of Hueneme earlier this month, Port of Hueneme CEO Kristin Decas alongside California Transportation Secretary Toks Omishakin and CA Port leaders were in Washington, D.C. last week to meet with U.S. Secretary of Transportation Pete Buttigieg to discuss leveraging California state funding with federal infrastructure investment grants. California ports play a vital role in the United States economy and supply chain with eleven trade ports providing critical pathways for goods. An increase in federal funding will significantly impact the future success of U.S. trade.
The request to leverage funds was based on the $80 million grant to the Port in July from Governor Newson’s 2023/24 fiscal budget. At the meetings on Capitol Hill, Decas highlighted how the funding is crucial in the Port’s success as a hub for fresh produce and cars. The requested federal support will help fund projects to create new green jobs while uplifting the Ventura County community with workforce development opportunities, equity and environmental sustainability projects.
In 2021, we recognized, or mourned (I won’t say “celebrated”), the 500th anniversary of the Conquest of Mexico. On August 13, 1521, Tenochtitlán fell into the hands of the Spanish conquerors led by Hernán Cortés.
It was the beginning of the end for Indigenous Mexico. It was also the birth of modern Mexico, along with a unifying European language. The conquerors also introduced a new religion that was forced to shape itself around the contours of indigenous beliefs.
One would hope that when a student chooses to study the Spanish language, it would mean that the learner will become conversant with native speakers of Spanish. The problem is that “native speakers” of Spanish include both European Spaniards and Latin Americans, whose Spanish is similar but at the same time demonstrate distinctive differences.
SANTA BARBARA — American Indian Health & Services (AIH&S), at 3227 State St. Santa Barbara, will be celebrating National Health Center Week (NHCW) with other community clinics across the country.
Health centers provide preventive and primary care services to over 30 million people and are the first to respond with wrap around care during disasters and health emergencies. Community Health Centers lower health care costs to the tune of $24 billion a year reducing the rate of chronic diseases and stimulating local economies.
For nearly 30 years, American Indian Health & Services has been serving the Central-Coast’s healthcare needs. At AIH&S we provide medical, dental, optometric, behavioral health, and community cultural services to American Indians, Alaska Natives, and members of the community.
VENTURA — The County of Ventura’s Assessor’s Office has sent out by mail approximately 250,000 assessed value notices to taxpayers of Ventura County. These notices inform owners of their property’s assessed value as of January 1, 2023.
SANTA BARBARA – Cottage Health has received two American Heart Association Get With The Guidelines® achievement awards for demonstrating a commitment to research-based guidelines for the treatment of stroke, leading to more lives saved, shorter recovery times and fewer readmissions to the hospital.
SANTA BARBARA — When four local entrepreneurs launched the coworking space Workzones in Santa Barbara just over a decade ago, the practice of working remotely was limited to a small subset of individuals and companies.
Ten years and one pandemic later, remote work – either partially or full-time – has become a common reality for millions of employees and business owners.
Pam Tanase and fellow entrepreneurs Kirk Peacock, Mike Franco and Lisa Riolo founded Workzones in March, 2013. At the time, they all ran small businesses from home but were frustrated with the arrangement. Their goal was to create an affordable, shared workspace with meeting and conference rooms where independent workers and businesspeople could enjoy the amenities and social opportunities of an office environment, without fixed leases and high overhead.
CAMARILLO — Livingston Memorial Visiting Nurse Association & Hospice is bringing back their beloved Life Story program. This program is designed to provide both community members and hospice patients the opportunity to record their personal memoirs.
CAMARILLO — The Ventura County Department of Child Support Services (VCDCSS) proudly joins all 50 states in commemorating August as Child Support Awareness Month, celebrating exemplary parents and families who play a vital role in their children’s lives.
Child Support Awareness Month, observed annually, reaffirms the inherent right of every child to receive emotional and financial support from both parents. VCDCSS remains steadfastly dedicated to nurturing supportive relationships between parents and their children, encouraging co-parents to fulfill their child support obligations consistently and promptly.
No experience required! Free of charge
Sing! is designed to empower young people, from 1st to 6th grade, to communicate with confidence, empathize with others, and encourage creative thinking. Sing! will help children learn about their own personal history through music and provide an opportunity to connect with others through the joy of singing.
SOUTHERN CALIFORNIA — Clean Power Alliance (CPA) is pleased to announce that applications are now being accepted for the 2023-2024 Community Benefits Grant Program. Now in its third year, the program, which is a partnership between CPA and Calpine Energy Solutions, has once again increased funding to support nonprofit organizations working to advance clean energy goals. Eligible nonprofits must be working in the 35 communities CPA serves throughout Los Angeles and Ventura counties. The program’s application period opens today and runs through Sept. 15.
A total of $275,000 in funding is being made available this year, to an anticipated 12 recipients. In 2022, nearly $204,000 in funding was distributed to 10 organizations throughout both counties. In the program’s inaugural year, eight organizations were awarded $75,000 in grant funding.
CAMARILLO — The season is changing, and we look to new opportunities. OLLI-Osher Lifelong Learning Institute at California State University Channel Island is offering ten new classes in Ventura County.
Fall Session I is your opportunity to explore the Dawn of the easiest humans. Examine fossil evidence of early members of humans dating from 2.8 million years ago to 300 thousand years ago.
Edgar Allen Poe dreamt dreams that no mortal even dreamt to dream before. Learn more in our class on his life and writings.
Be an armchair traveler to Australia in our class “the Land Down Under” and learn about the history, geography and culture of this far-off land.
Learn how a rush for glory and riches brought Europeans to Afric
Using an Afrocentric and critical race theoretical framework, lead author Sharon Tettegah and co-authors Alison Cerezo, Terrance Wooten and DeLeon Gray review the works of four prominent Black psychologists.
VENTURA COUNTY — NominatIons for the Ventura County Area Agency on Aging (VCAAA) LEGACY Awards are now being accepted,
Consider nominating an exceptional business, organization, or individual that exemplifies commitment to service for:
Older Adults
People with Disabilities
Caregivers
WESTLAKE VILLAGE — The Southeast Ventura County YMCA’s Find My Genius program, wrapped up its five-week summer session last week. The program is designed to reduce the achievement gap that often occurs over summer break.
Almost 600 elementary school scholars took part, the highest number ever enrolled in the program. Find My Genius was held at schools in the Las Virgenes, Moorpark and Simi Valley Unified School Districts.
Friendship Center is looking forward to our 11th Annual Wine Down to be held Thursday, September 14th, 2023, from 4 to 7pm outdoors at our Montecito Center’s courtyard. This delicious and delightful event brings us together to enjoy an evening of great local wines and beer, along with hearty hors d’oeuvres and live music, all for a good cause!
The event will feature LIVE music with several wines from our local regions, local craft beer and locally brewed coffee, all paired with a mouthwatering array of delicious hors d’oeuvres.
Your contributions raise funds for LEAP, our Life Enrichment Activity Program, providing music, movement and excursion programs for seniors with dementia, led by local entertainers and instructors, engaging our members in mind, body, and spirit.
Economic Development Collaborative encourages you to sign up for our partner’s no-cost events and webinars.
Plan ahead! Our full partner event schedule is updated at the start of each month.
VENTURA — The County of Ventura honored 17 employees on Tuesday, July 25 during the regular Board of Supervisors meeting for their dedication to continuous county service. This event was part of the County of Ventura’s Employee Continuous Service Recognition Program which recognizes staff who have reached milestones with 25 years or more of service to the county.
“It is such a special day, and I would like to thank you all along with our Board and all your families and friends and coworkers who are here today,” said 3rd District Supervisor Kelly Long. “Thank you for your dedication and your big hearts and all that you do on a daily basis for our residents of Ventura County. I know they do not always know the amazing work that you’re doing but to take that time today and recognize it is special.”
The County of Ventura and the Museum of Ventura County will be holding a series of family-friendly pop-up celebrations across the county in celebration of the 150th Anniversary of Ventura County. You can catch our team at our first pop-up celebration during the Ventura County Fair on Friday, August 4!
Pop-up celebrations will be held at larger festival events and will feature community organizations that will provide opportunities for adults and children to interact and learn more about the rich history and traditions of Ventura County. These community partners will provide opportunities for residents to participate in arts and crafts activities, enjoy performances, and learn more about Ventura County’s heritage both past and present.
A full calendar of events can be found at www.venturacounty150.com
Recovering the knowledge of the past and the future
Lum Art Talk | In Conversation: Sarah Rosalena and Sandy Rodriguez
Museum of Contemporary Art Santa Barbara
Friday, July 28
5–7pm
Exhibition Tour with Sandy Rodriguez:
Sandy Rodriguez — Unfolding Histories: 200 Years of Resistance
Art, Design & Architecture Museum, UC Santa Barbara
Saturday, July 29
12pm–2pm, Tour begins at 12pm
Editor’s note: Amigos805 welcomes local guest columns, letters to the editor and other submissions from our readers. All opinions expressed in submitted material are those of the author and do not necessarily represent the viewpoint of Amigos805. By David Magallanes •…
OXNARD — The West Ventura County Business Alliance (WVCBA) has announced Oxnard College’s 2022 Men’s Soccer State Championship team as winner of the prestigious Oxnard Trophy. The trophy will be presented at the 73rd annual Oxnard Community & Business Awards on Thursday, August 17, at 11:30 am at Heritage Square.
The team won the California Community College Athletic Association men’s soccer championship in December 2022, its second time in seven years. They completed the season with a 22-1-1 record and were undefeated in conference. In addition, player Odin Rosten and head coach Ross Greaney received National Player and Coaching Staff of the Year awards, respectively, at the United Soccer Coaches national convention in January.
Since 1963, the Oxnard Trophy has been presented to a person, business or organization that has brought recognition to Oxnard and bettered the community. The winner is selected by WVCBA’s Executive Committee of the Board of Directors.
SACRAMENTO – California continues to prepare communities against the devastating impacts of wildfires, with Governor Gavin Newsom announcing new investments today that will ramp up defenses around homes, reduce overgrown vegetation, improve evacuation routes for rural communities and more.
The $113 million in new funding, made possible by the $52 billion California Climate Commitment budget, will support 96 wildfire prevention projects across the state – with more than 8 in 10 grants directed towards vulnerable or underserved communities.
(Grants awarded to Wildland Resisidents Association (WRA), Santa Barbara County Fire Safe Council, City of Santa Barbara Parks and Recreation Department and Fire Department (applicant); California State Parks-San Luis Obispo Coast District, City of Pismo Beach, City of Paso Robles, San Luis Obispo County Community Fire Safe Council; Central Ventura County Fire Safe Council, Inc. and Ojai Valley Land Conservancy. See full grant description HERE.)
SANTA BARBARA — UCSB Arts & Lectures presents its 2023-2034 season of world-class cultural and artistic events, from stimulating lectures and animated conversations with today’s thought leaders to brilliant performances by the world’s most accomplished dancers, singers, musicians and performers. Single (non-subscription) tickets for UCSB Arts & Lectures’ 2023-2024 season go on sale Friday, August 4 at 10 a.m.
The 2023-2024 season begins on Sunday, October 1 with a concert and opening night festivities featuring the Santa Barbara debut of five-time Grammy-winner Jacob Collier. The spectacular opening week continues with the Martha Graham Dance Company on October 4 and Americana heroes Nickel Creek and special guest Hawktail on October 8. The classical super trio of Jean-Yves Thibaudet, Lisa Batiashvili and Gautier Capuçon arrive on October 10 to kick off another extraordinary season of the Great Performances series.
CAMARILLO — After the 2013 Springs Fire stripped the foliage from the hillsides around CSU Channel Islands(CSUCI), Professor of Anthropology Colleen Delaney and six of her students unearthed something mysterious as they began excavating the area. Remnants of Camarillo State Hospital—which occupied the area from 1933 to 1997—were common, but this looked different.
Historic photo courtesy of Terrance Tally, Joseph Lewis’ great-grandson.
“We found an unusual structure that was made out of volcanic rock and concrete,” Delaney said. “It did not match any of the hospital buildings, so we hoped it dated back even further. Based on some faculty/student research we conducted, it looked like a 1950s work building that didn’t match any of the hospital buildings.”
That unusual find launched Delaney on the trail of the mysterious structure, which she learned was part of a historic ranch named Rancho Guadalasca. She then wrote a book released in May entitled “Rancho Guadalasca: Last Ranch of California’s Central Coast,” by The History Press.
SANTA PAULA — The Ventura County Board of Supervisors on July 25 voted to approve $1.62 million in funding over the next two years to support efforts to provide housing for homeless individuals in the Santa Clara Valley – serving individuals experiencing homelessness in the cities of Santa Paula, Fillmore, and the unincorporated area of Piru. The funding from the County will match funding provided by the City of Santa Paula and City of Fillmore.
In tandem, the Santa Paula City Council held a special meeting on July 19 to approve an agreement that will contribute $24,000 per month for two years to support the operations of the nonprofit Spirit of Santa Paula Harvard Shelter for the unhoused. The shelter, located at 1498 E. Harvard Blvd., has been providing essential services to 49 individuals, including 19 children, in need of assistance.
SACRAMENTO — Renters and homeowners in 14 counties impacted by the February and March storms and flooding will now have more time to sign up for federal disaster assistance.
FEMA’s registration period, due to end July 20, has been extended to Sept. 1, 2023.
The eligible counties are Butte, Kern, Madera, Mariposa, Mendocino, Mono, Monterey, Nevada, San Benito, San Bernardino, San Luis Obispo, Santa Cruz, Tulare and Tuolumne.
The extended registration deadline will provide more time for survivors living in remote areas as well as for residents in counties recently designated for federal disaster assistance.
VENTURA COUNTY — Ventura County Credit Union is proud to announce it has awarded its inaugural First in Family Scholarship to Rayleen Meza, a Santa Paula High School senior who will be attending California State University Channel Islands as a nursing major in the fall, making her the first person in her family to pursue a college education. The scholarship, which is worth $24,000 distributed over four years, will help cover the cost of tuition, fees, books, supplies and other expenses.
“As a Climate leader for California’s Central Coast, we recognize that without community resilience, extreme heat will continue to exacerbate the underlying inequalities within our region,” said CEC Director of Climate Resilience Em Johnson. “Leading a regional coalition of over fifteen government agencies, grassroots organizations and community-based organizations, our vision as an EHRA partner is to reduce our region’s economic and health disparities related to the prevalence of extreme heat.”
SAN LUIS OBISPO COUNTY — Lumina Alliance is honored to announce that it has received $70k in funding from the California Commission on the Status of Women and Girls as part of the highly competitive Women’s Recovery Response Grant Program.
This dedicated investment of state funding into organizations serving women and girls locally across the state represents a unique investment in the economic health and well-being of nearly half of California’s citizens.
VENTURA — The Board of Supervisors (on June 25) voted to approve $1.62 million in funding to support efforts to provide housing for homeless individuals in the Santa Clara Valley – serving individuals experiencing homelessness in the cities of Santa Paula, Fillmore, and the unincorporated area of Piru. The funding from the County will match funding provided by the cities of Santa Paula and Fillmore, as well as the State of California. The funds, which will be provided over a two-year period, starting in 2024, will go to support ongoing operations of a permanent year-round shelter with housing navigation services administrated by the non-profit Spirit of Santa Paula.
SANTA PAULA — At its regular meeting on June 21, the Santa Paula City Council adopted the 2023-2025 Strategic Plan. This plan comes as an update to the 2021-2023 Strategic Plan and emphasizes the City’s commitment to transparency as part of its larger goals to increase community engagement and promote equity.
The 2023-2025 Strategic Plan outlines major milestones for the City across seven core areas:
Labor Market Report for June 2023
The California Labor Market Information Division released its June 2023 report, showing a net drop of 1,000 jobs in Ventura County, though nearly all seasonal and anticipated. The public schools dropped 700 jobs as we roll into summer and the Farm sector shed 600, the latter actually fewer than the usual May to June decline. For a longer term take on the Farm industry, at a current 29,800, Ventura County is up some 2,000 jobs since prior to the pandemic and off by just 100 over our high mark way back in 2011.
With those seasonal declines the Ventura County unemployment rate also took a hit, from 3.7% in May up to 4.2% in June. That keeps us considerably ahead still of the state as a whole, at 4.9%, though trailing the U.S. at 3.8%.
The County of Ventura’s Department of Agriculture/Weights and Measures presented the 2022 Crop and Livestock Report to the Board of Supervisors at the regular meeting on Tuesday, July 25. During the presentation, Agricultural Commissioner Ed Williams reported the value of crops for the county for 2022 was valued at $2,127,682,000 – an increase of 2% from 2021.
For twenty years in a row, strawberries have remained the top crop for the county. For the first time, avocados took the number two spot previously held by lemons. Williams credits prices and a production boom for a 95% increase in avocado sales. Nursery stock moved to fourth place followed by celery, raspberries, peppers, blackberries, blueberries, and cabbage.
“We were dealing with some significant drought in the years leading into 2022 and 2022 saw some of the residual impacts of those drought conditions as well,” said Williams. “So, to come up with the numbers that we have, the industry has done an amazing job.”
“The culture in which a person grows up can impact the interpretation of the event,” said UC Santa Barbara professor emeritus Ann Taves. “And certain cultures can encourage people to watch out for and expect to experience these things.”
Proximity to Water: Works from MVC’s Permanent Collection
Just in time for summer, come be inspired by the ever-changing coast captured by our regional artists.
From plein air painting to photography, the mutable coast provides an endless supply of inspiration. Art helps us admire, respect, and revere our region, reminding us of our own place in the natural world. Proximity means a closeness in space, time, or relationship. These artworks from the Museum’s permanent collection bring us closer to the water, both visually and in feeling.
This exhibit is made possible by the Esther and Thomas Wachtell Family Fund, the Paul and Anne Leavens Family Fund and the Bonita McFarland Fund
OXNARD — Summer is in full swing at The Collection at Riverpark with free family-friendly concerts, our weekly Kids Club and a show featuring animal expert Corbin Maxey and his collection of reptile friends. For the sports lovers in your family, The Collection is also hosting an Oxnard Fan Night with the Dallas Cowboys Cheerleaders.
We are in the midst of a Summer of Celebration here at People’s!
Last week saw the Grand Opening of Templeton Place II – 36 units of truly permanently affordable housing for seniors and veterans, some of whom have come directly out of homelessness. $17M of investment went in this development, substantial amounts of which were injected straight into the local economy through construction subcontracting, including with a designated Disabled Veteran Enterprise. Though many challenges and obstacles showed up along the way, partnerships with multiple federal and state agencies and stakeholders from around the local community, made it happen!
EN ESPAÑOL: SBA: 10 PASOS PARA INICIAR SU EMPRESA
25 de julio a las 11:30 am
Emprender un negocio requiere planificar, tomar decisiones financieras cruciales y realizar una serie de actividades legales. Acompañe al SBA en este seminario web para conocer cada paso.
HAGA CLIC AQUÍ PARA INSCRIBIRSE
Topic: “Dosage Dialogues: From Micro to Mega & Everything in Between”
When: Monday, July 24th; 5:30pm to 7pm Conversation
Where: LoDo Studios, 216 E. Gutierrez Street, Santa Barbara, CA 93101
(Please only park across the street on the Office Max side of the lot.)
FREE for Members (check email for Eventbrite RSVP Code).
Guests Welcome to purchase $15 tickets.
N?OTE: We will *not* be filming this event. Refreshments provided.
VENTURA — The Ventura County Area Agency on Aging, a department of the County of Ventura’s Human Services Agency, was honored twice in the 32nd annual National Mature Media Awards.
The 2022 edition of LIVEWell received Gold honors in the magazine category. It’s the fourth consecutive year that the publication has been recognized, but the first time it has received Gold status after being Bronze in 2021 and 2022 and Silver in 2020. LIVEWell, an annual publication that provides articles and resource listings, is the premier resource guide in Ventura County for individuals 60 and older, caregivers, and people with disabilities.
SANTA BARBARA —This summer two of Santa Barbara City College’s innovative programs welcomed local students to experience college-level coursework and gain confidence and motivation to seek higher education in their lives.
The PEAC program is a Santa Barbara Unified School District (SBUSD) initiative that exists to help close the achievement gap and change the trajectory of low-income, first generation college students, while also providing a system of academic and social-emotional support to guarantee students are prepared to enter a college or university. In partnership with SBCC’s Dual Enrollment program and supported by the Foundation for SBCC, students experienced a great opportunity to attend SBCC for a week … earning one unit of college credit even before they enter high school. Students from Goleta Valley, La Cumbre, Santa Barbara and La Colina Junior High schools took a college course in time management along with guided introductions to the Basic Needs Center, Financial Aid, Library, computer labs, EOPS, Center for Equity and Social Justice, Student Health Services, Career Center, Guided Pathways, Automotive, School of Justice Studies and the Cafeteria.
Why are so many of us reluctant to follow “the rules.” As it turns out, there is a whole slew of reasons why we just can’t “behave.” But why would we want to, anyway?
There are reasons that rules exist in society. There may be some rules that are unnecessary, coercive, or frivolous. But for the most part, in our country, at least, rules permeate our lives to protect us and others. They also make life better for all of us.
VENTURA COUNTY — Clean Power Alliance, in partnership with Calpine Energy Solutions, is pleased to announce the kick-off of the 2023 Community Benefits Grant (CBG) Program Cycle. This annual grant provides funding for non-profit organizations advancing clean energy, sustainability, and resiliency.
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 twelve 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 the remainder of the 2023-2024, applications for the California Competes Tax Credit will be accepted during the following periods:
July 24, 2023 – August 14, 2023
January 2, 2024 – January 22, 2024
March 4, 2024 – March 18, 2024
CEC Expands Capacity for Critical Climate Programs Work With New Staff & Board Member SANTA BARBARA — The Community Environmental Council (CEC) welcomed three new staff members and one new board member to its growing roster, as the organization continues…
SACRAMENTO — California is set to continue its legacy of building upon and strengthening the Affordable Care Act, as its Board of Directors approved enhanced benefit designs that will ensure over 600,000 Covered California enrollees see reduced out-of-pocket costs in 2024.
“Covered California is proud to be a part of another visionary program that strengthens the Affordable Care Act,” said Jessica Altman, executive director of Covered California. “California made history with the State Premium Subsidy program in 2021, and we appreciate the continued leadership from Gov. Gavin Newsom and the state Legislature to make health care access and affordability a priority in our state.”
The new budget package passed by the state Legislature and enacted by Gov. Newsom appropriates $82.5 million of the Health Care Affordability Reserve Fund (HCARF) to Covered California to support a program of financial assistance for coverage year 2024. Per the budget agreement, funding for the program is planned to increase to $165 million starting in coverage year 2025.
LOMPOC — Planning a weekend away that caters to the interests and ages of everyone in your family can be a challenge, but have no fear! Lompoc, situated on California’s Central Coast, offers a wealth of fun experiences that will leave the whole family with smiles. Whether your family loves outdoor adventures or educational explorations, join us as we uncover 7 fun things to do in Lompoc that are perfect for families.
VENTURA COUNTY — Educational agencies on both sides of the US/Mexico border are teaming up to provide summer learning opportunities for children of migrant farm workers in Ventura County. Students in grades two through six are taking classes in math, English and computer coding at the Bilingual Summer Institute, being held this July at Somis Elementary School. A unique aspect of the program is that two visiting teachers from Mexico are incorporating cultural enrichment into the lessons to help students learn about their heritage and better connect to the material that’s being taught.
Norma Vianey Tizapan Mendoza is a teacher visiting from the Mexican state of Tlaxcala. She uses art, music and stories to help get students engaged. “Most of their parents are from Mexico and they are here because they want better opportunities for their families,” she says. “I’m so proud to be a teacher and to be here. Being a teacher is about touching your students’ heart.”
SANTA PAULA — The Arte & Cultura Collective of Santa Paula, a vibrant community organization dedicated to promoting and celebrating cultural arts, is excited to announce its upcoming Mission & Vision Workshop. This workshop aims to bring together artists, organizations, and individuals committed to various forms of artistic expression from the local community to collectively shape the future of our cultural arts scene.
The Mission & Vision Workshop will take place on Tuesday, August 1st at the Train Depot located at 200 N. 10th St, Santa Paula, CA 93060 from 4:45PM-7:00PM. Artists, organizations, and individuals of all backgrounds and disciplines are invited to attend and actively participate in this collaborative event.
SACRAMENTO — Gov. Gavin Newsom on July 19 unveiled a new $4.5 million pilot program to provide free immigration legal assistance to farmworkers who are involved in state labor investigations. This new program includes case review services, legal advice and representation by an attorney – all at no cost to farmworkers seeking assistance.
What the Governor said: “Farmworkers are the backbone of our economy and we won’t stand by as bad actors use the threat of deportation as a form of exploitation. In the absence of Congress modernizing our broken, outdated immigration system, California continues our efforts to support immigrant families.”
SACRAMENTO — Continuing with her commitment to reduce food waste, Assemblymember Jacqui Irwin announced that she has requested California’s Department of Resources Recycling and Recovery (CalRecycle) to promulgate regulations requiring packaged food sold in California be labeled with clear and consistent expiration dates. The proposal aligns with Assembly Bill (AB) 660, which would assist consumers in understanding how long they can safely keep and consume products before discarding them.
While they confer many ecological benefits, marine protected areas do not shield against the effects of prolonged elevated water temperatures.
CAMARILLO — The West Ventura County Business Alliance (WVCBA) has opened nominations for the 56th annual Camarillo Top Ten Community Awards.
Any person, business or nonprofit whose deeds and actions have contributed to the betterment of Camarillo’s community is eligible to be nominated. The online nomination form with award descriptions is available at https://bit.ly/toptenawards23 and is also available as a downloadable PDF that can be emailed or mailed to the WVCBA.
LOMPOC — The enchanting world of the Sta. Rita Hills AVA, a picturesque wine region along California’s Central Coast welcomes wine lovers from near and far. Embark on a delightful journey uncovering the trifecta of wine areas that make this region truly special: the Lompoc Wine Ghetto, the Midtown Wineries, and the Sta. Rita Hills Wineries. Diverse, exquisite flavors await as we delve into the thriving wine scene of this unique and esteemed appellation. So, grab a glass and join us as we unravel the vinicultural treasures of Sta. Rita Hills.
SANTA BARBARA — Junior Wheelchair Sports Camp will welcome approximately 40 enthusiastic campers at the UCSB Recreation Center. Funding from the Cottage Rehabilitation Hospital Foundation allows all campers to attend the week for free.
The annual camp provides sports and recreation skills development for children, youth, and young adults between the ages of 6 to 21 years old who can use a wheelchair to participate in sports and recreation activities. This year more than 50 volunteers will assist the campers.
IN-PERSON EVENT: VENTURA COUNTY SCORE: DOUBLE YOUR SALES WITH 5 EASY STEPS
July 18 @ 6:00 pm
Ventura County SCORE is hosting an in-person workshop for entrepreneurs and small business owners to learn techniques to increase sales and boost income. Led by marketing consultant James Bond, the workshop covers strategies like targeting real buyers, creating engaging pitches, using sales promotion, and becoming a preferred alternative. Attendees will gain insights to simplify their marketing process and achieve business growth. Address: VCCF, 4001 Mission Oaks Blvd, Suite A, Camarillo, CA, 93012.
VENTURA — In a June 28 meeting, the Ventura College Foundation Board of Directors selected a new board chair and vice-chair and approved two new board members for the 2023-24 term.
The new foundation board chair is Nicole Kreutz, vice president, senior portfolio manager at Montecito Bank & Trust. She has been on the foundation board for five years and is a Ventura College alumnus. “I am excited to lead the foundation’s efforts to help students at Ventura College thrive and prosper,” says Kreutz. “As a foundation, we remain focused and vigilant on what we do best, providing our students with a way to open doors for the future and provide a bridge to higher education.”
LOMPOC — Parks in Lompoc offer a tranquil oasis for nature enthusiasts and outdoor lovers alike. With the destination’s gentle climate and breathtaking landscapes, the Lompoc Valley boasts a myriad of beautiful parks. Travelers can explore top parks where they can immerse themselves in the region’s natural wonders and find moments of tranquility.
CAMARILLO — Three attorneys have joined the Camarillo-based employment law firm LightGabler.
“All three attorneys broaden our firm’s ability to serve our clients by providing comprehensive legal counsel on all types of employment matters and effectively resolving legal disputes,” says Jonathan Fraser Light, LightGabler managing attorney. “Their breadth of experience will serve our clients well.”
Family Service Agency (FSA) of Santa Barbara County is pleased to welcome the organization’s new Chief Strategy-North County Programs Officer, Arcelia Sención. She will manage operations at FSA’s North County Santa Maria Valley Youth & Family Center office at 105 N. Lincoln Street.
Arcelia brings over 30 years of nonprofit experience to FSA/SMVYFC improving access to safety-net programs and developing initiatives to address the prevention of childhood trauma and abuse. She served as Associate Director at Standing Together to End Sexual Assault for the past four years and was previously Director of Healthcare and Social Services at Santa Ynez Valley People Helping People.
“We’re so excited to add Arcelia’s to our leadership team,” said CEO Lisa Brabo. “She is a well-respected member of the community who has a clear passion for service and track record of effective leadership. We look forward to working with her to improve the wellbeing of children, families and seniors in our community.”
PORT OF HUENEME — It’s official! The Port of Hueneme’s annual Green Marine certification results are out, and the Port was certified in June 2023 with its highest scores ever during the annual Green Marine re-certification process. These high scores are an acknowledgement of the Port of Hueneme’s commitment to leadership in environmental stewardship. Green Marine is the leading voluntary environmental certification program for North America’s maritime industry. Green Marine’s Environmental Port Program scores an applicant against a rigorous set of more than 160 performance indicators in nine categories, including environmental leadership, community impacts, greenhouse gases and air pollutants as well as waste management. The scores an applicant receives are based upon escalating requirements, all of which are predicated on going above and beyond mere compliance with environmental regulations. In addition, the program categories evolve annually and require ongoing year over year improvement to maintain, let alone improve on, an applicant’s score. The Port of Hueneme has been part of this program since 2017 and in addition to the annual re-certification process, there is a third-party onsite program audit every other year of an applicant’s participation. The Port of Hueneme was the first port in California to achieve a Green Marine certification in 2017.
A California high school English teacher, Marta Shaffer, has declared that teaching proper English grammar in our classrooms sustains white supremacy in our education system.
Either Ms. Shaffer has a point, or she is someone who searches tirelessly for supremacist underpinnings where there may be none—or at least not to the extent that she perceives.
SANTA BARBARA — Angels Foster Care on July 13 announced the launch of ‘Family & Friends Together’ (FFT), a new kinship care program that provides intensive, trauma-informed multigenerational support to kinship families caring for foster children from birth to age five in Santa Barbara County.
The local nonprofit – which provides safe, stable, loving homes for infants and toddlers in foster care throughout Santa Barbara County and Southern San Luis Obispo County – partnered with Santa Barbara County Child Welfare Services, the Towbes Foundation, the Bower Foundation, the Hazen Foundation and other private donors to launch and fund the new program.
FFT provides case management, referrals, individualized education, and brief therapeutic intervention to kinship caregivers and the children they are fostering.
This week, the Board of Supervisors adopted an ordinance that strengthens protections for tenants in the unincorporated areas of the County. It is my hope that these protections will make the playing field more level for renters in unincorporated areas during this unprecedented housing crisis and prevent people from losing their homes.
The most important protection we can put in place for renters (and for our planet and climate) is allowing more rental housing close to jobs. Only by our community refusing to build any new rental housing can landlords command such immense power over our lives. Our housing element, which is being worked on now, can help address this.
Premiere Party: California Art League’s “The California Scene”
Saturday, July 15, 2023, from 4 PM to 6 PM
$5 SPAM Members • $10 Non-members
The Santa Paula Art Museum is the place to be on Saturday, July 15! Join us as we unveil our newest exhibition, “The California Scene,” showcasing 59 quintessential California scenes in a variety of media by 44 artists from the long-established California Art League (CAL). The show is CAL’s 2023 Gold Medal Exhibition and multiple awards will be announced during the premiere party. Mingle with the artists, grab a glass of wine, and find out which artwork is named “Best in Show.”
“The California Scene” will be on view from July 15 to November 5, 2023. Many of the artworks are available for purchase.
VENTURA — On Tuesday, June 27, though unanimous vote, the Board of Supervisors approved the County Parks Department to enter into a dual lease agreement with the Boys and Girls Club of Greater Oxnard and Nyeland Acres Promise for management of the John C. Zaragoza Nyeland Acres Community Center and Park. The 2.2-acre park property, which is currently owned by the County of Ventura but under management by the Boys and Girls Club, is not available to the public on a full-time basis. Through the voted-on agreement, the County will now assume all oversight and maintenance for the park area through the County Parks Department, which will allow the neighborhood park to be open from dawn to dusk for the Nyeland Acres community. As well, the buildings will now be jointly operated by the Boys and Girls Club of Greater Oxnard and Port Hueneme and Nyeland Promise.
“This is a very large deal to our community,” stated District 3 Supervisor Kelly Long. “Rolling this park into part of the County’s parks system allows us to take the liability off of the Boys and Girls Club and open it up even more to the community as a whole. It allows us to really develop the park for the community.”
OXNARD — The City of Oxnard will receive $16.5 million in funding for critical infrastructure initiatives as part of the 2023-24 California State budget signed by Governor Gavin Newsom.
“With the support of Assemblymember Steve Bennett, Assemblymember Jacqui Irwin, and Senator Monique Limón, Oxnard has secured significant funding to build and repair essential infrastructure that prioritizes the safety and well-being of our community,” said Mayor John C. Zaragoza.
SANTA BARBARA — The Performing Arts Scholarship Foundation, a nonprofit that supports classical music education through scholarships and grants, has awarded $27,000 to local music programs.
The foundation’s Education Grant Committee met in early June to discuss the 2023 disbursement of funds for music education programs. These funds are distributed following the foundation’s annual performing arts competition, in which individual vocal and instrumental students receive scholarships and prizes to support their musical studies. Foundation funds that remain after the competition are used for program grant awards, said President Deborah Bertling.
“The grant process is by invitation and focuses on arts organizations that support and foster the foundation’s mission,” Bertling said. “Our mission is to provide financial assistance to young musicians studying classical performing arts and to support music education in our community.”
MONTICITO — Tony Morris is beginning his second year of a two-year term as president of Montecito Rotary Club as the service organization marks a milestone.
This year, the club celebrates its 70th anniversary developing projects and delivering service to the Montecito community while creating lasting friendships and having some fun along the way.
Morris says he loves the area and its people, and is excited to do what he can to make it an even better place through his role in Rotary. He believes that working in service together we can make our world a better place.
SANTA BARBARA — UCSB Arts & Lectures welcomes Jenna Hamilton-Rolle as Director of Education & Community Engagement. Hamilton-Rolle was the Director of Education at the Santa Barbara Museum of Natural History and Sea Center, and brings substantial experience with community outreach, K-12 field trips, hands-on educational programming, and site-specific experiential learning to her new role with Arts & Lectures.
“I believe everyone in our community deserves access to engaging, high-quality educational opportunities. In alignment with UCSB Arts & Lectures mission, my career goals revolve around inspiring, educating, and engaging an increasingly diverse public” said Hamilton-Rolle. She also said that she has “admired A&L’s commitment to excellence, cogent programming, and dedication to accessibility” since her time as a graduate student at UCSB.
VENTURA — The Board of Trustees of Ventura Land Trust has experienced a major shift, with the recent addition of five new members and the departure of two, bringing the current total number of trustees to 13.
The new trustees include Kate Larramendy, past Director of Design & Sustainability at outdoor company Toad&Co and current board member of The Conservation Alliance; John Krist, who retired in 2022 as CEO of the Farm Bureau of Ventura County; The Trade Desk Assistant Corporate Controller Meridith Thompson; Thousand Oaks City Manager Andrew Powers; and retired Ventura City Fire Marshal Brian Clark.
SANTA BARBARA — Caring Together Santa Barbara County (CTSBC) (on July 12) announced that it is one of 37 communities selected by the California Accountable Communities for Health Initiative (CACHI) to advance an innovative approach to building community health and equity. CTSBC will receive $500,000 in funding over a 30-month period to implement an Accountable Community for Health (ACH), a sustainable platform for aligning local health and social services while centering community voice and equity.
VENTURA — For the fourth year, Gills Onions matched up to $15,000 in donations made to Students for Eco-Education and Agriculture (SEEAG)during SEEAG’s annual “Double Your Impact Challenge.” Fundraising efforts during the May campaign raised $15,179 with all proceeds going…
SANTA BARBARA —
Friendship Center is Pleased to Announce Katheryn Westland as its New Executive Director. She brings extensive experience, focused passion and innovative vision to her work in the senior care space.
Kathryn previously served as the Friendship Center’s Program manager and is excited to join the organization in the capacity of Executive Director.
VENTURA — The County of Ventura and Focus on the Masters Arts Archive & Library (FOTM) are presenting the History Is Now, 2023 photography and art exhibition at the County of Ventura Government Center – Hall of Administration, Atrium Gallery, located at 800 S. Victoria Ave., Ventura. Open now through September 5, 2023 as a part of the County’s 150th Anniversary events, the exhibit celebrates the many artists who have made an impact in Ventura County over the past 150 years.
SANTA BARBARA — Santa Barbara Cottage Hospital (SBCH) is pleased to announce the completion of a significant phase in its Emergency Department (ED) remodel project, made possible by generous community support and donations. The ED remains conveniently accessible from Junipero Street and has been redesigned for improved patient flow.
“Thanks to the renovation, we now have the ability to serve more patients and remain prepared for future healthcare needs,” said Dr. John Anis, medical director for Santa Barbara Cottage Hospital’s Emergency Department. “Prior to the remodel, we were able to see 45,000 patients annually, now we are equipped to accommodate up to 75,000 patients.”
CAMARILLO — The Ventura County Department of Child Support Services (VCDCSS), a leading advocate for family well-being, is thrilled to announce the launch of the Empowering Fathers series this August as part of its Child Support Awareness Month Campaign. Committed to its core principle of helping families thrive, The Department of Child Support Services recognizes the instrumental role fathers play in the development and future success of their children. With this in mind, the department has curated a series of presentations that aim to empower fathers with the knowledge, support, and resources needed to overcome obstacles that may hinder their involvement in their children’s lives.
As the 2022-2023 Social Justice Fellowship cycle comes to an end, there is much to reflect on and celebrate! We are proud to highlight that the SJFVC is a first funder, helping new leaders who have never received funding before. In the summary below, you will notice that a majority of our Fellows are now receiving more funding and support from foundations and other sources. This is a great sign that our training and coaching is helping to launch them as new voices for justice.
The Murder of Tom More:
A True Crime Story
In the early hours of March 24th 1877, a mob of angry settlers set fire to Thomas More’s barn and shot him at least 10 times. Motivated by a passionate battle over land ownership and water rights turned deadly, news of his murder rippled through California.
Amid the rubble of lies, perjuries, briberies, and omissions in the historical record, there are puzzles regarding his death that remain forever unsolved. His story stands today as a warning about the strong emotions unleashed over limited natural resources.
This exhibit is made possible by
the John Hammer Family
VENTURA — Through unanimous vote, the Board of Supervisors (on July 11) appointed Gina Johnson to the position of Chief Probation Officer, effective July 11, 2023. Chief Johnson has served the Probation Agency since 1991. For the past 10 years, she has served as the Chief Deputy Probation Officer and, most recently, the Interim Chief Probation Officer.
“Chief Johnson has been with the department for 33 years and seen every nook and cranny of the organization,” said Chair of the Board of Supervisors, Matt LaVere. “The Probation Agency is a complex organization and I have all the confidence in the world that she will succeed in this role.”
OXNARD — STIIIZY, a cannabis lifestyle brand and retailer, announced (on July 12) the grand opening of its 32nd dispensary, and first location in Oxnard, the vibrant seaside city and seat of Ventura County, where STIIIZY has long held a significant following.
Located inside a busy commercial shopping center at 2343 N. Oxnard Blvd., STIIIZY Oxnard was built to serve Ventura County. The dispensary spans 2,880 square feet and sits on the corner of Vineyard and Oxnard Blvd., where an average of 80,000 cars pass by each day. Upon entering, customers will be met with a spacious entryway that pours into the sales floor, where the walls are wrapped in floor-to-ceiling photography, and artwork that depicts STIIIZY’s distinct flavor of cannabis culture and style.
CENTRAL COAST?— 3C-REN (Tri-County Regional Energy Network), a partnership between the Counties of San Luis Obispo, Santa Barbara and Ventura that delivers energy-saving programs, had its $155 million, 8-year business plan approved by the California Public Utilities Commission. The plan permits 3C-REN to continue operating four successful existing programs and launch three new programs to fill gaps in energy efficiency services for commercial and public sector buildings, and the agricultural sector.
VENTURA — On Wednesday, June 28, County Assessor Keith Taylor completed his first certification and delivery of Ventura County’s Annual Assessment Roll since being elected Assessor in June 2022. The County’s $171.7 billion Property Assessment Roll was delivered to Auditor-Controller Jeff Burgh for the calculation of the tax bills.
The majority of properties received the 2% increase established under Prop 13 when it was passed by the voters in 1978, however, properties with new construction may see a larger increase based on the enrolled value.
VENTURA COUNTY — Big Brothers Big Sisters of Ventura County (BBSVC) is thrilled to announce that it is a recipient of the Pinnacle Award for 2022 – a designation given by Big Brothers Big Sisters of America to network agencies who demonstrate exemplary programmatic success and fiscal responsibility. BBSVC was one of only eight agencies across the United States selected to receive the award and accept it on the BBBS of America National Conference main stage on June 29th in Anaheim.
Having trouble viewing this email? Click here EDC PARTNER JULY EVENT AND WEBINAR SCHEDULE Economic Development Collaborative encourages you to sign up for our partner’s no-cost events and webinars. Plan ahead! Our full partner event schedule is updated at the start of…
SANTA PAULA — On Nov.16, 2022, the City of Santa Paula announced that Chevron, in partnership with its affiliate Union Oil Company of California, made a generous offer to donate the historic former headquarters of Union Oil Company of California to the City. This donation would include the building, a $2 million grant to facilitate necessary maintenance, and select memorabilia displayed in the museum. Since December, staff has been conducting due diligence and negotiating a transfer agreement which would establish the City as the permanent owner of the property. In addition, the City established an ad hoc committee to assist in the evaluation of the property transition and future use of the facility.
“The donation of the former Union Oil Company of California headquarters is a remarkable opportunity for the City of Santa Paula. We are grateful to Chevron and Union Oil Company of California for their commitment to preserving our history and supporting the revitalization of our community,” stated Mayor Andy Sobel.
To ensure community involvement in shaping the future of the property, the City has planned two Community Workshops & Tours led by David Yoshitomi, Arts & Culture Manager of the County of Ventura.
SANTA BARBARA — Cottage Health is the first health system on the California Central Coast to offer Focal One’s noninvasive Robotic Focal High Intensity Focused Ultrasound (HIFU) treatment to patients with localized prostate cancer. HIFU, an outpatient procedure, is today’s most advanced technology for precisely targeted ablation of diseased prostate tissue. Dr. David Laub, urologist with Cottage Health, performed the first three procedures on June 23, 2023, at Cottage Outpatient Surgery Center.
Help stuff backpacks with essential school supplies for local at-risk 3rd-5th grade students. Backpacks are being distributed in partnership with the Ventura County Office of Education to children identified as homeless by their respective school district.
You can help pave the path to academic success for a child from a family experiencing homelessness. Furthermore, your support not only provides essential school supplies. Studies show that it also promotes learning, building self-esteem, and helps ensure that our youth stay in school.
Please help fill the backpacks by supporting our online Roonga school supply campaign which runs until July 13th. Please share this link with friends, family members, and co-workers. Also, below is a QR code that leads to the online drive.
Editor’s note: Amigos805 welcomes local guest columns, letters to the editor and other submissions from our readers. All opinions expressed in submitted material are those of the author and do not necessarily represent the viewpoint of Amigos805. By David Magallanes •…
VENTURA — Dani Anderson, Disability Access Manager for the County of Ventura, has been appointed to the California Committee on the Employment of People with Disabilities (CCEPD). The appointment to the committee was made by the Speaker of the California State Assembly Anthony Rendon. Anderson will serve a three-year term that went into effect on June 29, 2023.
“I am very excited to re-connect with efforts to improve and enhance employment opportunities and outcomes for individuals with disabilities, where my career began,” said Anderson. “I have always believed that educating, training, and encouraging youth with disabilities about what their future can hold is crucial to their success. Of the many impactful components of the CCEPD, I look forward to using that mindset to lend to the continued success and even expansion of the Youth Leadership Forum for Students with Disabilities, of which I am an alumna. I am honored to be appointed to this vital committee and cannot wait to get started.”
SANTA BARBARA — Family Service Agency of Santa Barbara County (FSA) announced that its family resource center in Guadalupe, The Little House by the Park (LHP), has been selected receive a $140,000 grant as part of the Central Coast Creative Corps (CCCC) Program, a pilot grant program funded by the California Arts Council.
The grant award will fund LHP to work with a Central Coast-based artist for one year. The artist will work in collaboration with a parent-led advocacy group known as the Guadalupe Community Changers, a parent-led organization that supports the development of community projects, encourages other parents to be more engaged in their children’s education, and offers leadership opportunities to increase civic participation.
“This opportunity will strengthen our organization’s outreach and advocacy efforts by increasing our program’s visibility and by expanding our community engagement work,” said Samuel Duarte, Community Engagement/Leadership Development Manager. “Integrating culturally relevant art into the Community Changer’s campaigns and projects, can increase participation and discussion among the underrepresented members of our community.”
SANTA BARBARA – Following a national search, Cottage Health has appointed Andrew Brown as the new Vice President of Advancement. In this role, Mr. Brown will lead fund development operations and work closely with the foundations providing critical fundraising support for Cottage Health.
Mr. Brown brings more than 20 years of experience in advancement leadership. Most recently, Mr. Brown served as Vice President of Advancement at Macalester College in St. Paul, MN, where he successfully led The Macalester Moment fundraising campaign, a 4-year, $100 million fundraising initiative that exceeded its goal by 26%. While at Macalester, he also implemented community-centric fundraising strategies and doubled total annual fundraising.
CENTRAL COAST — Bank of America on July 3 announced four local high school juniors and seniors from Ventura, Santa Barbara and San Luis Obispo counties have been selected as Student Leaders® (#BofAStudentLeaders), where they will participate in an eight-week paid summer internship providing the students with first-hand experience in serving their communities. As part of the program, the students will develop leadership and practical workforce skills while working with local nonprofits Girl Scouts of California’s Central Coast and Habitat for Humanity San Luis Obispo County, all while earning $17 per hour.
“With changing economic environments and a shifting job market in the region, young people need access to workforce experience and career skills-building opportunities,” said Midge Campbell-Thomas, president, Bank of America Ventura and Santa Barbara. “The private sector has a role to play to help better position and support young adults to be successful in today’s workforce.”
Resource managers are increasingly turning toward prescribed burns as a tool for land maintenance and restoration — and for reducing the risk of wildfires.
At its regular meeting on June 21, the Santa Paula City Council unanimously adopted its two-year Fiscal Year (FY) 2023-25 Budget. The balanced, nearly $54 million budget, indicates the City is in strong financial standing and is committed to maintaining its financial health.
“This budget is a testament to the strides we have made as a City,” said Mayor Andy Sobel. “From supporting street improvements and infrastructure, such as the Harvard Boulevard project, enhancing our Parks and Recreation offerings and budgeting for initiatives in Council’s newly adopted two-year Strategic Plan, we have taken significant steps towards creating a more prosperous and inclusive Santa Paula community.”
SBA: HOW TO START A BUSINESS
July 10 @ 10:00 am
Are you interested in starting a business? If you are please join the Small Business Administration (SBA) Los Angeles District Office for a virtual workshop to learn about SBA’s 10 Step Guide on How to Start a Business. This virtual workshop targeted to new entrepreneurs. Topics covered from creating a business plan, finding capital, registering your business, getting necessary permits and/or licenses and getting a business bank account. This is a great opportunity to get any questions you may have answered and find out about the multiple resources available to help you. SBA programs and services are extended to the public on a nondiscriminatory basis. For reasonable accommodation request please send an email to LADO@SBA.GOV at least 7 days in advance.
CLICK HERE TO REGISTER
SACRAMENTO — On July 6th, at 11:00 AM we will be hosting a panel style policy forum on data collection and disaggregation for Latinx subgroups and Indigenous Mesoamerican nations in California. We will be joined by decision makers, advocates, community members, and researchers who will discuss the importance of data disaggregation on advancing representation and health equity for these communities. We will also discuss why passing Senate Bill 435 is critical and necessary as a first step in uncovering trends and tracking the disparities faced by these populations of people throughout our state.The conversation will be facilitated by Mar Velez, Director of Policy for the Latino Coalition for a Healthy California.
What: SB 435 (Gonzalez), The Latinx and Indigenous Disparities Reduction Act – uncovers health and related disparities by collecting and disaggregating more detailed data for Latinx and Indigenous Mesoamerican populations in California.
For community colleges, the pandemic stressed the need to expand the ways we serve our community. Unfortunately, that’s especially true here in Oxnard, where families were disproportionately impacted by the effects of COVID-19. That’s why a year ago, the Ventura County Community College District invested $1.5 million to help Oxnard College launch two special initiatives aimed at better serving our community’s non-English speaking families and working adults.
When I was growing up here in Ventura County, my sister and I often served as de facto translators for my parents, helping them navigate English-speaking businesses, public institutions and neighborhoods. Over time, they picked up more of the language — even taking an English class at one point — and were increasingly able to engage with the broader community around them. My parents eventually leveraged this important skill — speaking English — to build small businesses and improve my family’s economic situation.
CAMARILLO — CSU Channel Islands (CSUCI) has received $250,000 to develop an affordable program where students can complete bachelor’s degrees and preparation requirements for California’s new early-childhood teaching credential in four years to address a critical shortage.
The Commission on Teacher Credentialing awarded the $249,942 grant as part of an effort to support shortened teacher-preparation programs in fields where there are shortages. CSUCI’s program will help fill the critical need for transitional kindergarten, or prekindergarten, teachers, particularly those with bilingual education credentials.
The need for credentialed early childhood teachers has been growing in recent years as the state has expanded transitional kindergarten. Legislation approved in 2021 calls for all 4-year-olds to have the opportunity to attend transitional kindergarten programs by the 2025-26 school year.
OXNARD — Community Roots Garden, at 1801 Joliet Pl. in Oxnard, will host some beautiful collective workshops and conversations guided by some wonderfully talented individuals. These workshops are geared towards healing and connecting by sharing knowledge of ancestral ways of being through storytelling and cultural art practice shares. All workshops start at 10 a.m. with options to stay to help paint the mural after each workshops.
VENTURA COUNTY — Food Share, Ventura County’s largest hunger-relief organization, has been honored with a multitude of prestigious awards, solidifying its position as one of the county’s leading nonprofits.
The 73rd annual Oxnard Community & Business Awards, hosted by the West Ventura County Business Alliance, recognizes remarkable individuals, businesses, and organizations that contribute to making Oxnard a thriving place to live, work and play. Food Share was honored with the NonProfit of the Year award for its work in tackling food insecurity within the city, exemplified by the ongoing drive-thru food distributions that take place at College Park, Oxnard. Starting in April 2020, at the beginning of the pandemic, the distributions are now in their third year and continue to draw large numbers, serving an estimated 4,000 people each week.
CAMARILLO — California State University has awarded CSU Channel Islands (CSUCI) a grant to develop the statewide system’s first online program in Health Science in order to address the critical need for workers and provide working adults with a convenient way to complete their bachelor’s degree.
The CSU Commission on Professional and Continuing Education awarded CSUCI a $50,000 accelerator grant to launch an online Bachelor of Science in Health Science degree in August 2024.
The U.S. has had a shortage of health care workers for decades, and the COVID-19 pandemic made it worse by driving many to leave the field because of burnout. The shortfall is more pronounced in California. In 2021, there were 34% more health care jobs requiring a bachelor’s degree in Health Science than the national average, according to a report commissioned by CSUCI. The report projected an 18% growth over the next five years, outpacing projected growth nationally.
In this summer camp, girls and boys will be able to approach scenic expression in a fun way in a bilingual environment, led by the experienced actress and teacher Alina Ceñal. At the end of the course, the group will present the play Charlie and the Chocolate Factory to show what they have learned in this fun adventure in which they will put all their talents into play.
EMERYVILLE, Calif. — Grocery Outlet Bargain Market, extreme-value grocery retailer, on June 28 launched its 13th consecutive Independence from Hunger Food Drive to combat food insecurity. Through July 31, 2023, the campaign will collect cash donations and pre-made bags of nonperishable foods in-store at Grocery Outlet’s 450 locations that will be distributed to local food agencies partners. In the Ventura County area, the program will benefit Foodshare Ventura County and Manna Conejo Valley Food Bank,among other non-profit charities.
With the ongoing inflation, families continue to turn to food banks as 34 million people in the United States are currently food insecure. Specifically in the Latino community, one in six is food insecure. Each independently owned and operated Grocery Outlet store is committed to giving back to their community and have partnered locally to bring the community together in providing families nutritious food.
SANTA BARBARA — This week the Community Environmental Council (CEC) released its 2022 Impact Report, which provides key highlights of how the organization is working to immediately tackle the urgent threat of climate change on California’s Central Coast. The report is accessible at cecsb.org/impact.
We’re pleased to share with you our latest video highlighting our Community Impact programs.
Learn more about Women United, VITA, Stuff the Bus, United to End Homelessness VC, and Building Healthy Smiles initiatives and the outcomes we’ve accomplished together!
Please hit play to take a look!
The Economic Development Collaborative team has been recognized as one of the Best Places to Work in the Tri-Counties for two consecutive years!
The Central Coast Best Places to Work event, organized by Pacific Coast Business Times, is a prestigious occasion that honors organizations creating exceptional work environments. They collect nominations through a comprehensive survey and evaluate the data to identify the best of the best. This recognition serves as a testament to the hard work and enthusiasm exhibited by each member of the team.
Remarkably well preserved after 11,000 years, the botanical materials at El Gigante reflect the transition from foraging to farming, providing a rare glimpse of early foraging strategies and changes in subsistence.
Spin Cycle: Unfolding the
Science of Laundry
Everybody’s clothes get dirty, meaning we all must deal with the dreaded laundry. Through the years people have tried different ways to clean their clothes and now we have the science to explain why some of those methods actually work!
Using 19th and early 20th century laundry items from MVC’s historical collection, visitors will learn about the “how” and “who” behind everyone’s least favorite chore. Let’s explore how our everyday world works together.
This exhibit is made possible by the
?Ventura County Credit Union
LOMPOC — Parks in Lompoc offer a tranquil oasis for nature enthusiasts and outdoor lovers alike. With the destination’s gentle climate and breathtaking landscapes, the Lompoc Valley boasts a myriad of beautiful parks. Travelers can explore top parks where they can immerse themselves in the region’s natural wonders and find moments of tranquility.
CAMARILLO — The Ventura County Fire Department placed four rescue ambulances into service today in Camarillo, Santa Paula, Thousand Oaks and Simi Valley to improve service for people experiencing medical emergencies.
The ambulances are assigned to Station 50 in Camarillo, Station 26 in Santa Paula, Station 30 in Thousand Oaks and Station 41 in Simi Valley. They are staffed by the firefighter paramedics who had been assigned to squads at those stations. The new rescue ambulances allow those paramedics to continue their existing work and provide vital transportation service to patients when emergency activity creates potential delays in transport to a hospital.
“After initial assessment and medical assistance, it is important to get patients who need higher levels of care to the hospital quickly,” Fire Chief Dustin Gardner said.
VENTURA COUNTY SCORE: FINANCIAL LITERACY FOR SMALL BUSINESS OWNERS
June 29 @ 10:00 am
As a small business owner, do you sometimes feel overwhelmed by all your financial decisions? Have you considered the strategies of using your business to help plan for retirement? Can you set up retirement plans for both you and your employees? Can offering employee benefits help your financial bottom line? Do you have an adequate insurance strategy? What about your marketing plan and budget? These and other financial questions can be difficult for small business owners to answer. This Ventura County SCORE webinar will help you find solutions to these questions.
CLICK HERE TO REGISTER
The City of Santa Paula is pleased to announce its remarkable achievement of being honored once again as a 2022 Tree City USA by the prestigious Arbor Day Foundation. This recognition truly exemplifies Santa Paula’s unwavering dedication to prioritizing the planting and care of trees within our vibrant community.
Established in 1976, the Tree City USA program stands as a collaborative initiative between the Arbor Day Foundation, the U.S. Forest Service, and the National Association of State Foresters. By joining the ranks of over 3,600 Tree City USA communities nationwide, encompassing a combined population of 155 million, the City of Santa Paula proudly becomes part of an impressive network of environmental stewards.
In recent years, the value and importance of trees have become increasingly evident, as cities and towns across the globe face pressing challenges related to air quality, water resources, personal well-being, and energy consumption. Embracing the urgency of the situation, the City of Santa Paula has proactively taken substantial measures towards building a greener and more vibrant future for generations to come.
“We extend our heartfelt congratulations to the City of Santa Paula for achieving the prestigious Tree City USA recognition once again,” expressed Dan Lambe, Chief Executive of the Arbor Day Foundation. “The residents of Santa Paula can take great pride in their community’s unwavering commitment to fostering a healthy and sustainable environment through the planting and preservation of trees.”
On Wednesday, June 21, the County of Ventura Board of Supervisors unanimously approved a $2.86 billion balanced budget for the fiscal year 2023-24 following the County’s annual budget hearing. The budget focuses on Board priorities, including critical infrastructure, public and mental health, workforce development, and technology.
“All of the investments detailed in the budget represent the comprehensive services that are provided to the public through the programs and services administered by the County,” shared Supervisor Matt LaVere, Chair of the Board of Supervisors. “This budget represents months of hard work by staff and departments across the county.”
County to Consider Tenant Protection Ordinance On Tuesday, June 27th the Board of Supervisors will consider an ordinance to further strengthen the County’s tenant protection ordinance. This proposal will make important changes to extend access to tenant protections to…
NYELAND ACRES, OXNARD — The Arts Council for Monterey County, Arts Council Santa Cruz County, the San Benito County Arts Council, the San Luis Obispo County Arts Council, the Santa Barbara County Office of Arts and Culture, and the Ventura County Arts Council are pleased to announce that Nyeland Promise has been selected through a competitive, regional call to receive a $140,000 grant as part of the Central Coast Creative Corps (CCCC) Program, a pilot grant program funded by the California Arts Council.
These grant awards will fund Nyeland Promise, a local Oxnard neighborhood nonprofit (tax id #83-2109489), as part of the 23 Community Partner grantees, to work with central coast-based Artists and Culture Bearers for one year.
Mae West, the renowned and controversial actress whose career spanned several decades over the 20th century, was spectacularly successful. She used her considerable affluence to invest wisely in San Fernando Valley real estate. By all measures, she was a wealthy woman.
She was not born wealthy, however. Her mother, who had worked as a corset model, was a German immigrant. Her father was a “prizefighter.”
One of Ms. West’s most famous quotes is: “I’ve been rich, and I’ve been poor. Believe me, rich is better.”
VENTURA COUNTY— The Ventura County Public Works Agency (VCPWA) announced four 2023 Employees of the Year, showcasing the exceptional abilities and exemplary performance of staff who represent VCPWA’s dedication to innovation and excellence.
The four winners were named from a field of nominations across the agency’s departments. The winners are:
VENTURA COUNTY — In the period 2016 to 2022, there were 25 deaths of persons detained in jails operated by the Ventura County Sheriff’s Office. Causes of deaths included suicide, drug overdose and medical complications. The 2022-2023 Ventura County Grand Jury conducted an investigation concerning current policies and practices to prevent deaths and promote safety of persons detained in the Pre-Trial Detention Facility and Todd Road Jail.
America is recognizing National Homeownership Month during June, and People’s is working toward making that American Dream more possible across the Central Coast, every day. Since 1970, we have continued to bridge seemingly insurmountable gaps for those locked out of the intergenerational benefits from homeownership and facilitated the construction of over 1,200 self-help houses for first-time owners. Though substantial gains have been made, our local challenges continue to grow exponentially. The increasing barriers to homeownership are in large part a result of what’s occurred over the past 50 years; a steadily widening gap between earnings and housing costs.
For middle schoolers who love science, registration is open for the Southeast Ventura County YMCA’s summer STEM Club in Simi Valley and Westlake Village.
The one-week programs each have a specific theme. The robots workshop is July 10 through 14 at the Simi Valley YMCA (3200 Cochran Street, Simi Valley) and July 17 through 21 at the Yarrow Family YMCA (31105 Thousand Oaks Blvd., Westlake Village). The engineering session is from July 31 through August 4 at the Simi Y. There is a waitlist for the session at the Yarrow Y (August 7 through 11).
During the West Ventura County Business Alliance Mayor’s State of the City address on June 16, Mayor John C. Zaragoza spoke about Oxnard’s positive and balanced budget, the City’s steady progress in restoring infrastructure and services, and the economic and social impacts slowing down city-wide restoration efforts.
The event was held by the West Ventura County Business Alliance (WVCBA) at Zachari Dunes on Mandalay Beach in front of nearly 200 attendees from the Oxnard business community.
“All of us at the West Ventura County Business Alliance sincerely appreciate the collaboration between the City of Oxnard and the business community. We certainly embraced the positive report Mayor Zaragoza rendered,” says Nancy Lindholm, President & CEO of the WVCBA, the chamber of commerce serving Oxnard and Camarillo.
CAMARILLO — With their kayak paddles in hand, CSU Channel Islands (CSUCI) Health Science students clustered around Channel Islands Boating Center (CIBC) Lead Paddle Instructor and CSUCI 2023 graduate Brooke Rogers as she gave them an idea of what to expect out on the water.
“Our starfish just stick to rocks and they’ll be like ‘Yo, keep going,’” Rogers said. “Pelicans might try to dive-bomb you. They’re pretty crazy, but they’re cool.”
The paddle briefing was part of a Health Science course called Health 300: Nutrition, Wellness & Exercise—with a twist. This spring, the course was offered in partnership with the Channel Islands Boating Center located at the Channel Islands Harbor.
SAN LUIS OBISPO — On Thursday, June 22 a Disaster Recovery Center (DRC) will open in Oceano to provide resources to residents who were affected by the February and March storms. The DRC is a partnership between the Federal Emergency Management Agency (FEMA), Governor’s Office of Emergency Services (Cal OES), and County of San Luis Obispo.
The DRC will be open Thursday, June 22 through Monday, June 26 from 9:00 AM to 7:00 PM at the Oceano CSD Board Room, 1655 Front Street in Oceano.
VENTURA — In a unanimous vote on Tuesday, June 20, the Board of Supervisors agreed to adopt a resolution in support of a comprehensive plan to address homelessness put forth by the California State Association of Counties. The plan, titled ‘AT HOME’, focuses on establishing solutions to reduce homelessness throughout the state of California, with clear guidelines laid out for specific programs and responsibilities for the state, counties, and cities. Through adoption of the resolution, the County of Ventura joins 21 other counties that have shown their support and voted in favor of supporting CSAC’s ‘AT HOME’ Plan.
“This didn’t just happen overnight – we have been working with CSAC since 2018 on housing solutions,” shared District 3 Supervisor Kelly Long. “We feel that it’s very important to join in on this resolution for the ‘AT HOME’ Plan so we can address how we can secure the funding needed, ensure that it is sustainable, and make a big difference in our homeless count right now.”
The Economic Development Collaborative Small Business Development Center(EDC SBDC) has been honored with the Los Angeles District Office SBDC Excellence and Innovation Award. This recognition was presented during National Small Business Week, which also serves as an opportunity to appreciate and express gratitude to resource partners. The EDC SBDC is part of the Los Angeles SBDC network and operates as a dynamic center and is staffed with a team of knowledgeable professionals who provide personalized business advising services to small businesses in Ventura, Santa Barbara and Los Angeles Counties.
Labor Market Report for May 2023
The California Labor Market Information Division just released its May 2023 report, revealing some volatility in worker turnover but very little change in the major data points. Ventura County’s unemployment rate ticked up from 3.6% in April to a still very low 3.7% in May. And while we added a total of 1,800 industry jobs (700 in Farm; 600 in the public sector, mostly in Local Public Education; and a net of 500 gained in all other industries combined), there wasn’t enough to draw workers back to the labor force, as we had 1,300 workers drop out in May.
IN-PERSON EVENT: VENTURA COUNTY SCORE: FUNDAMENTALS OF STARTING A NEW BUSINESS
June 20 @ 6:30 pm
Have you ever dreamed of owning your own business but don’t know where to start? Do you have the passion and work ethic but need education and guidance? Being a small business owner is exciting but understanding the lifestyle will clarify if it is right for you. Join Ventura County SCORE in this informative webinar and learn what it takes to be a successful business owner. Address: Glen Tavern Inn Banquet Room, 134 N. Mill Street, Santa Paula, CA 93060.
CLICK HERE TO REGISTER
California Lutheran University’s School of Management continues to provide a stimulating environment for our learners and the community around us, even in these unusual times. Today, we are once again happy to share a selection of exciting news, updates, and upcoming events with our communities in Southern California and beyond.
We encourage you to stay current on what’s going on at the School of Management by following our Showcase page on LinkedIn.
CAMARILLO — The Ventura County Fire Department (VCFD), in cooperation with the Ventura County Prescribed Burn Association (VCPBA), the Ojai Valley Land Conservancy (OVLC), Ventura County Resource Conservation District (VCRCD) and the Ventura County Air Pollution Control District (VCAPCD) will be conducting prescribed burns on two adjacent properties, June 22 and June 23, at OVLC’s Ventura River Steelhead Preserve and Nye Ranch, respectively. Both properties are located off Santa Ana Road in Casitas Springs and the burns will occur on approximately 40 acres of grassland currently inundated with non-native and noxious weed species.
CAMARILLO — Commitment to the roughly 1,600 trees on the CSU Channel Islands (CSUCI) campus has earned the University a Tree Campus USA designation for the 11th year in a row. In addition, CSUCI’s rigorous sustainability practices have earned…
On view now through July 9, 2023
Closing soon: “Shadow and Light” is a 30-year survey of Central Coast artist Bruce Everett’s magnificent landscapes in oil. Characterized by bold and often dark compositional forms, dramatic effects of light, and a sense of solitude, Everett’s paintings combine both smooth and expressive brushwork and include large studio pieces and small plein air scenes depicting locales from Los Angeles north to San Luis Obispo.
While we highly recommend experiencing Bruce’s art in person, we hope you enjoy this abbreviated look at Everett’s exhibit in your inbox!
SANTA BARBARA — Since mid-March, Garcia has led the development of new protocols for welcoming and hosting our growing and diverse audiences, artists, and funders. She is the primary liaison for the institution, and is working closely with the Board to develop additional staff and programmatic capacity as MCASB continues to fulfill its mission. Recent developments include expanded gallery hours to six days a week, a robust First Thursday series of public programs, and the development of new inclusive youth focused programming that seeks to create greater connections between Indigenous youth and the Museum.
I taught college mathematics for over 40 years at a local community college. During that time, I witnessed how poorly prepared most incoming students were for college mathematics. In fact, the vast majority required some level of “remediation.”
“Remediating” students meant that they may have had to begin their college math journey as far down as “Basic Mathematics.” This lowest level college class taught them (or reviewed for them) how to add, subtract, multiply, divide, handle fractions and decimals, and deal with some elementary geometric concepts (circles, squares, rectangles, etc.).
“Dad, I feel like I am cured!” Those were the words that my son, Aaron, said to me, this past Thursday, May 25, 2023 at 11:16 AM. In my wildest dreams and nightmares, I was not remotely prepared for this miraculous news. My mind, heart, my entire world froze temporarily. I was left speechless and breathless. I was catapulted to an unknown realm between ecstasy and terror. Then I saw the loving faces of my jefitos and our sacred elders and I was finally able to breathe. It took some eternally long seconds to finally wrap my head around what my son was telling me. Aaron repeated again, “Dad, I believe that I am cured!” I move the phone away from my month, and as quietly as I possibly could I tried to control myself, and I silently wailed thanks and praises to the spirits over these four little miraculous words that my family and close friends have been praying and waiting to hear from Aaron for these past 18 years.
SANTA BARBARA — Happy Father’s Day cards extol the virtues of Dad with pithy sayings like “#1 Dad” and “Happy Father’s Day to a dad who taught me what life is about….”
Fathers occupy a critical role in child development. According to The Fatherhood Project, Children with actively involved fathers are: 43% more likely to earn A’s in school and 33% less likely to repeat a grade than those without engaged dads. Children who feel a closeness to their father are also twice as likely as to enter college or find stable employment after high school, 75% less likely to have a teen birth, 80% less likely to spend time in jail, and half as likely to experience multiple depression symptoms.
VENTURA — In a unanimous vote during the regular meeting on Tuesday, June 6, the Board of Supervisors approved the finalization of the purchase of the property at 545/555 S. A St. in the City of Oxnard with the intention of establishing the Carmen Ramirez Family Justice Center. The location, a two-story, 32,000 sq. foot building, will become the home of the second Family Justice Center located in the county. The support services provided are administered by the Ventura County District Attorney’s Office and will serve residents primarily located in the cities of Oxnard and Port Hueneme.
California Small Business and Nonprofit COVID-19 Supplemental Paid Sick Leave Relief Grant Program was created in accordance with California AB 152 and is administered by the California Office of the Small Business Advocate (CalOSBA). The Program aims to provide financial support to eligible businesses and nonprofits that have incurred costs for COVID-19 Supplemental Paid Sick Leave in compliance with Sections 248.6 and 248.7 of the Labor Code. Grants will be awarded based on eligibility and the availability of funds.
Application Window Is Now Open!
SANTA PAULA — As residents begin to plan their Fourth of July celebrations, the City of Santa Paula reminds the community that all fireworks, including those commonly referred to as “safe and sane,” are illegal within the City. Santa Paulans are invited to celebrate in other ways and review the City’s municipal code pertaining to fireworks.
“While we have many reasons to celebrate in the coming weeks with family and friends, I strongly encourage my fellow Santa Paulans to avoid the use of illegal fireworks,” said Santa Paula Mayor Andy Sobel. “Fireworks can create unsafe and dangerous conditions for our entire community, and there are many other opportunities and ways to celebrate whether it be a family gathering or barbecue, outdoor activities such as biking or hiking, or attending the annual Rotary Club and City of Santa Paula fireworks display.”
The first of a series of events celebrating the campus’s newest crop of graduates shined a spotlight on CCS, the “graduate school for undergraduates.”
Last Thursday, a significant milestone has been achieved that has been in the works the entire time I’ve been Supervisor. With the opening of Fire Station 27, Our most remote community has finally received the Fire Station it deserves. As Supervisor for Cuyama, I always strive to ensure equitable services and emergency response for every part of the County. This project has been made possible through the active participation of many dedicated Cuyama community members. I want to give a special shoutout to Mrs. Fursteinfeld’s 6th Grade Class who joined the ribbon-cutting ceremony. I am certain that there are some future first responders among this great group of students!
Mark your calendars!
Join us for a free, family-friendly event on Friday, June 23 to celebrate the kick-off of 150 days of celebration in honor of the 150th Anniversary of Ventura County!
Museum of Ventura County
100 East Main Street
Ventura, CA
5:30 p.m. – 8:00 p.m.
Come enjoy food trucks, music, games and new exhibits at the Museum of Ventura County! We hope to see you there!
