Category: Local

Oct 16 — UCSB Arts & Lectures presents An Evening with big wave surf pioneer Laird Hamilton

by Community Contributor • January 1, 2022 • Comments Off

UCSB Arts & Lectures (A&L) is thrilled to announce an evening with big wave surfer Laird Hamilton moderated by documentary filmmaker Rory Kennedy on October 16 at 7:30 p.m. at the Arlington Theatre. A big-wave surfer and pioneer in the world of action water sports, Laird Hamilton is a hard-charging athlete, renowned innovator and guiding genius of crossover board sports including tow-in surfing, stand-up paddle boarding and hydrofoil boarding. He is the subject of the documentary Take Every Wave, and his bestselling book Liferider tackles human resilience, relationships, business, technology, risk-taking and the importance of respecting the natural world. Explore the courage, ambition and talent that push a person to greatness in an evening with the American icon who changed the sport of big-wave surfing forever.

Just Added – Free screening of Take Every Wave: The Life of Laird Hamilton on Thursday, September 29 at 7:30 p.m. at the Arlington Theatre. This screening is part of the Arts & Lectures Thematic Learning Initiative and is presented in association with the Arlington Theatre.

Oct. 17 — Family Self-Sufficiency (FSS) Program Honors 17 Graduates for Achievements by Housing Authority in Presidio Springs

by Community Contributor • January 1, 2022 • Comments Off

This year, the Housing Authority of the City of Santa Barbara (HACSB) is honoring 17 Family Self-Sufficiency (FSS) Program graduates on October 17, 2022 at 5:00 p.m. in the Presidio Springs community room located at 721 Laguna Street.

The Family Self Sufficiency Program (FSS) is a voluntary five (5) year program in which an Individual Training and Services Plan is developed with each participant to design a clear path of specific goals and objectives in order to achieve living wage employment and gain economic self-sufficiency. It is available to families who are part of the Section 8 Housing program.

Oct. 17 — Santa Barbara Museum of Art to present Aeolus Quartet Chamber Music Concert

by Community Contributor • January 1, 2022 • Comments Off

The Santa Barbara Museum of Art will present Aeolus Quartet Chamber Music Concert at 7:30 p.m. Monday, Oct. 17.

Formed in 2008, the Aeolus Quartet has performed in venues ranging from the Chamber Music Society of Lincoln Center and Lincoln Center’s Great Performers Series to Weill Recital Hall at Carnegie Hall, to Dupont Underground, a subterranean streetcar station in DC’s Dupont Circle. They were the 2013-2015 Graduate Resident String Quartet at the Juilliard School and are currently Quartet-in-Residence at Musica Viva, NY. In addition to extensive touring throughout the United States, the 2021-22 season includes a Morgan Library performance as well as a feature on the Violin Channel.

Oct. 19 — UCSB Arts & Lectures presents The Nrityagram Dance Ensemble at Campbell Hall

by Community Contributor • January 1, 2022 • Comments Off

UCSB Arts & Lectures (A&L) presents The Nrityagram Dance Ensemble on Wednesday, Oct. 19 at Campbell Hall. One of the premier Indian dance ensembles performing today, the Nrityagram Dance Ensemble has the unprecedented distinction of making The New York Times’ Best Dance of the Year list two years in a row. More than a dance company, Nrityagram was founded as a Gurukula (school) devoted to Indian dance. The all-female ensemble’s daily life of intensive training and meditation produces captivating performances that are at once sensual and lyrical. For ?huti, men and women of the Sri Lankan company Chitrasena join the women of Nrityagram’s Odissi troupe, comprising a large ensemble of dancers and musicians.

Oct. 19 — Hospice of Santa Barbara Virtual illuminate Speaker Series Presents Richard Louv “VITAMIN N” AND THE NEW NATURE MOVEMENT”

by Community Contributor • January 1, 2022 • Comments Off

Since 2020, Hospice of Santa Barbara (HSB) has adjusted to the new realities that come with COVID-19 by creating their free illuminate Speaker Series – a virtual series which addresses aspects of the COVID-19 pandemic and offers active solutions to navigate through this new reality.

Next in the lineup will be Richard Louv, who will present “VITAMIN N” AND THE NEW NATURE MOVEMENT on Wednesday, October 19, 2022 from 6:00 to 7:00 pm PDT. The event is free, but registration is required.

Oct. 20 — Santa Barbara Museum of Art to present a reading and discussion with T.C. Boyle

by Community Contributor • January 1, 2022 • Comments Off

The Santa Barbara Museum of Art present a discussion with T.C. Boyle “I’m goin’ to mess with you” on Thursday, Oct. 20, 5:30 pm at SBMA’s Mary Craig Auditorium, 1130 State St., Santa Barbara.

In a reading and discussion of his electric, darkly humorous collection of 13 new short stories, the inimitable T.C. Boyle, Santa Barbara resident and bestselling writer of Talk to Me and Outside Looking In, ”messes with us” as the book inscription from Willie Dixon’s I’m Your Hoochie Coochie Man promises.

In the title story of I Walk Between the Raindrops, a woman sits down next to a man at a bar and claims she has ESP. In “Thirteen Days,” passengers on a cruise line are quarantined, to horrifying and hilarious effect. And “Hyena” begins simply: “That was the day the hyena came for him, and never mind that there were no hyenas in the South of France, and especially not in Pont-Saint-Esprit—it was there, and it came for him.” A virtuoso of the short form, T.C. Boyle returns to share with us these inventive and masterfully told short stories characterized by his always biting satire, resonant wit, and a boundless, irrepressible imagination.

Oct. 20 — Channel Islands Maritime Museum Announces Screening of Award-Winning Film Inhabitants

by Community Contributor • January 1, 2022 • Comments Off

The Channel Islands Maritime Museum (CIMM) is happy to announce the screening of the film Inhabitants. The screening will take place on October 20, 2022 at the Museum.

Inhabitants follows five Native American Tribes across deserts, coastlines, forests, and prairies as they restore their traditional land management practices. For millennia Native Americans successfully stewarded and shaped their landscapes, but centuries of colonization have disrupted their ability to maintain traditional land management practices. From deserts, coastlines, forests, mountains, and prairies, Native communities are restoring their ancient relationships with the land. As the climate crisis escalates these time-tested practices of North America’s original inhabitants are becoming increasingly essential in a rapidly changing world.

Oct. 21-23 — Lompoc Chalk Festival to be held at Lompoc Airport

by Community Contributor • January 1, 2022 • Comments Off

Lompoc Airport will transform with an explosion of color as chalk art masterpieces come to life at the Lompoc Chalks festival October 21-23! Enjoy a weekend of arts and craft booths, nonprofit organizations, a kids corner, fabulous food trucks, live stage entertainment, and of course, talented chalk artists. Support great art AND a good cause, as proceeds benefit the The Lompoc Theatre refurbishment.

October 21 is Our Meet The Artists Kick Off Event at the Airport. Join us from 5:00 – 8:00 for music, food and fun. Food Truck Friday will be on site for amazing eats. Grady DiPietro will be performing from 5:30 – 7:30. Soft drinks, beer and wine will be available to enjoy with your food truck eats.

Oct. 21 — CLU Play explores all sides of Roe v. Wade

by Community Contributor • January 1, 2022 • Comments Off

The original version of Lisa Loomer’s 2016 play “Roe” ended with the words, “As of today, Roe v. Wade still stands.” In June 2022, after the U.S. Supreme Court’s decision in Dobbs v. Jackson Women’s Health Organization overturned a woman’s right to abortion, the play’s final statement was no longer true. So students at California University Lutheran, who are staging “Roe” in October, had to wait for a rewrite from Loomer.

Cal Lutheran’s Theatre Arts and Dance Department will present a staged version of “Roe” (the updated version), directed by Red Patterson and Bianca Akbiyik, at 8 p.m. Oct. 21 in the Preus-Brandt Forum on the Thousand Oaks campus.

Through Oct. 21 — Javier Zamora to be Keynote Speaker at Moorpark College for Undocumented Student Action Week

by Community Contributor • January 1, 2022 • Comments Off

Award-winning author Javier Zamora will discuss his new memoir, “Solito,” on Oct. 19 at noon as part of Moorpark College’s Undocumented Student Action Week, Oct. 17-21. The hour-long Zoom event is free to students and the community.

“We are excited to have Javier Zamora as the keynote speaker for Undocumented Student Action Week this year,” said Alex Yepez, Moorpark College counseling services specialist and Dreamers support lead. “Javier’s story and experiences reflect those of many of our undocumented student population at Moorpark College. It is critical to host a speaker such as Javier to validate and lift up the experiences of our students, especially in this current political climate.”

Oct. 21-23 — Shared Crossing Project presents 3-Day Seminar ‘The Shared Crossing Pathway with William Peters’

by Community Contributor • January 1, 2022 • Comments Off

Join William Peters M.A., M.Ed., MFT for his upcoming event “The Shared Crossing Pathway Seminar: Accompanying Loved Ones Through a Beautiful End of Life”. There will be an in-person seminar in Santa Barbara, CA on October 21-23, 2022, or a live online seminar on November 11-13, 2022.

William Peters, founder of Sharing Crossing Project and author of At Heaven’s Door: What Shared Journeys to the Afterlife Teach About Dying Well and Living Better will host a 3-day journey to help you discover how you and your loved ones can prepare for the best end of life possible … and even share in the journey beyond the veil with grace, love and wonder. Topics covered will include: What is Possible at the End of Human Life?, Preparing for a Conscious, Connecting and Loving End of Life, and The Shared Crossing Protocols©.

Oct. 23 — Santa Barbara Museum of Art to present ‘Day of the Dead’ Free Family Day

by Community Contributor • January 1, 2022 • Comments Off

The Santa Barbara Museum of Art will present its Free “Day of the Dead” Free Family Day from 11 a.m. to 4 p.m. Sunday, Oct. 23 at 1130 State St., Santa Barbara.

For the 33rd year, the Museum honors the Mexican tradition of remembering the dead with a display of altars created by students in the Museum’s school and outreach programs and local community groups, including San Marcos High School, Montecito Union School, Quilt Project Gold Coast, SBMA’s Partnership with A-OK After-School Program (multiple schools), and SBMA’s ArtReach program (multiple schools).

Through Oct. 23 — Moorpark College Theatre Arts Celebrates Latinx Heritage Month with ‘Electricidad’

by Community Contributor • January 1, 2022 • Comments Off

“Electricidad,” an urban Chicano drama set in East Los Angeles, comes to the Moorpark College Performing Arts Center with an all-Latina/Latino student cast. The Theatre Arts department production premieres during Latinx Heritage Month and runs Oct. 13 – 23, with evening performances Thursdays through Saturdays and Sunday matinees.

The Oct. 15 performance will include a meet-and-greet with the cast after the show and free tacos from Epic Taco food truck. The special event coincides with the end of Latinx Heritage month and is sponsored by Moorpark College’s Heritage Month Committee.

“The cast and crew will take the audience on a magnificent journey where they will experience a part of Mexican-American culture that is not often discussed or portrayed,” said Jorge Herrera, C.Phil., who served as the cultural consultant for the production to ensure its cultural authenticity. Herrera is a professor of ethnic studies at California State University, Fullerton, and teaches ethnic studies courses at Oxnard and Moorpark colleges.

Oct. 26 — Women United 2022 Education Awards

by Community Contributor • January 1, 2022 • Comments Off

2022 Women United Education Awards Reception

Wednesday, October 26, 2022

VCCF Nonprofit Center

4001 Mission Oaks Blvd, Camarillo, CA 93012

5:00 p.m. – 7:00 p.m.

Oct. 26 — OC LIVE: A Celebration of Filipino-American Art and Culture

by Community Contributor • January 1, 2022 • Comments Off

In celebration of Filipino-American History Month, renowned Filipino artist Eliseo Art Silva comes to campus for an art exhibition and lecture presentation. Mr Siilva is well known for his major public art projects, including the famed gateway and “Gintong Kasaysayan” mural in Los Angeles’s Filipinotown. His work is celebrated for establishing a new visual language for understanding the Filipino experience at home and abroad.

Mr. Silva’s presentation in the Performing Arts Building will be accompanied by a traditional Filipino dance performance by Ventura-based dance troupe Salin Lahi. Afterwards we will walk to the McNish Gallery of Art for an opening reception hosted by the Filipino-American Council of Ventura County.

Oct. 26 — Economic Development Collaborative (EDC) — Showcasing the International Success of Businesses Supporting Disability Inclusion and Equity

by Community Contributor • January 1, 2022 • Comments Off

Join U.S. Commercial Service for the ninth session of their “From Local to Global: Celebrating Diversity” event series, as they feature a dynamic panel of founders and leaders from Southern California-based companies, fostering disability inclusion and equity, who will share how they have successfully grown their businesses internationally.

Learn about the opportunities to seek out, as well as the challenges to avoid as you launch or expand your international business.
Receive information and resources that will help you chart your path to global sales and expansion success.

Oct. 26 — The Collection hosts spook-tacular trick-or-treat event

by Community Contributor • January 1, 2022 • Comments Off

Attention superheroes, witches, ghosts and goblins, princesses, pirates, and pumpkins! On Wednesday, Oct. 26, 2022, The Collection at RiverPark is hosting a night of trick-or-treating fun from 5-7 p.m.

Stop in for a spell and collect tons of fang-tastic treats. The Collection’s merchants dress up and decorate for the occasion. Be sure to stop by as many locations as possible for tons of fun surprises and special offers.

“This annual event is one of our favorites,” said The Collection’s Marketing Director, Jill Almonia. “We love seeing all the clever, cute and creepy costumes, and it brings us so much joy watching families in our community come together to have fun. Whether this is your first year stopping by the event or you’ve already made it a Halloween tradition, you definitely won’t want to miss it.”

Oct. 28 — Economic Development Collaborative (EDC) reports ‘2022 California Economic Summit’

by Community Contributor • January 1, 2022 • Comments Off

Registration for the 2022 California Economic Summit taking place in Bakersfield on October 27-28 is now open!

Available in-person or virtual attendance

Produced by California Forward in partnership with the California Stewardship Network, the Summit influences CA FWD’s ongoing movement to make the government and economy work for everyone. The two-day Summit is designed to create a shared economic agenda known as the Roadmap to Shared Prosperity and strengthen the Summit network, setting the stage for collective action in 2023.

Oct. 27 — UCSB Arts & Lectures presents Latin Grammy Award-winning international sensation Carla Morrison in her Santa Barbara debut

by Community Contributor • January 1, 2022 • Comments Off

UCSB Arts & Lectures (A&L) presents Carla Morrison on Thursday, Oct. 27 at Campbell Hall. “One the major lyricists of her generation” (NPR), Latin Grammy Award winner and international sensation Carla Morrison makes her Santa Barbara debut. She describes her 2021 release, El Renacimiento, as her “most personal album yet.” That’s something coming from an artist renowned for her raw, emotional retellings of heartbreak and loss. In concert, Morrison delivers multi-dimensional versions of her songs in a voice saturated with genuine emotions.

Through Oct. 30 — Bilingual report — Teatro de las Americas presents ‘Jimmie’

by Community Contributor • January 1, 2022 • Comments Off

Jimmie, el payaso histórico de Oxnard

returns to his birth place to attend

the Day of the Dead festivities,

but…

he’s a spirit, and he’s early!

What to do?

Oct. 30 — Museum of Ventura County to present Día de los Muertos Celebration at The Agriculture Museum in Santa Paula

by Community Contributor • January 1, 2022 • Comments Off

We are thrilled to partner once more with the Santa Paula Art Museum and Pierce Brothers Cemetery to present a community-wide celebration of Dia de los Muertos for the city of Santa Paula! As one of three celebration sites located in the city, the Agriculture Museum will host cultural dance performances, display ofrendas created and contributed by people in the community, and provide fun craft activities and face-painting. We will also be serving horchata and have pan de muerto!

Oct. 31 — Trailblazing scientist and tech executive to speak at CSUCI

by Community Contributor • January 1, 2022 • Comments Off

A former NASA rocket scientist, tech firm executive and Girls Scouts CEO will share her experience and advice with CSU Channel Islands (CSUCI) students and community members during a free luncheon on Monday, Oct. 31.

The Martin V. Smith Speaker Series event featuring Sylvia Acevedo of Santa Barbara will be held from noon to 1:30 p.m. in the Grand Salon, located at the northwest corner of Camarillo Street and Rincon Drive.

“Sylvia is a true trailblazer,” said Susan Andrzejewski, Ph.D., Dean of the Martin V. Smith School of Business & Economics at CSUCI. “As a lifelong advocate for the transformational power of education, Sylvia’s values strongly align with those of CSU Channel Islands, and I am certain our students, faculty, staff, and community members will enjoy the luncheon event.”

Nov. 2 — UCSB Arts & Lectures presents Soweto Gospel Choir at Campbell Hall

by Community Contributor • January 1, 2022 • Comments Off

UCSB Arts & Lectures (A&L) presents Soweto Gospel Choir on Wednesday, Nov. 2 at Campbell Hall. Brimming with energy and thrilling transcendent harmonies, the three-time Grammy-winning Soweto Gospel Choir is beloved the world over for its ensemble flair and indomitable spirit. Commemorating South Africa’s Freedom Movement and the Civil Rights Movement in the U.S., they’ll perform a rousing program of South African gospel and spirituals in a variety of languages, and heartfelt renditions of songs made famous by Billie Holiday, James Brown, Otis Redding, Curtis Mayfield and Aretha Franklin. Prepare to be uplifted by 17 transcendent voices and a driving percussion section!

Nov. 3 — Santa Barbara Museum of Art’s Art Matters Lecture Explores the Promise of Thomas Cole’s Late Career

by Community Contributor • January 1, 2022 • Comments Off

Santa Barbara Museum of Art to present Art Matters Lecture “What Might Have Been: The Promise of Thomas Cole’s Late Career” at 5:30 p.m. Thursday, Nov. 3 at 1130 State St., Santa Barbara.

The Art Matters Lecture features Franklin Kelly, Senior Curator and Christiane Ellis Valone Curator of American Paintings, National Gallery of Art.

Nov. 3 — UCSB Arts & Lectures co-presents Jack E. Davis, author of The Bald Eagle: The Improbable Journey of America’s Bird

by Community Contributor • January 1, 2022 • Comments Off

UCSB Arts & Lectures (A&L) presents Jack E. Davis, the Pulitzer Prize-winning author of The Gulf and now the author of The Bald Eagle: The Improbable Journey of America’s Bird, on Thursday, November 3 at 7:30 p.m. at Fleischmann Auditorium, Santa Barbara Museum of Natural History. Davis’s The Bald Eagle is a sweeping work of cultural and natural history that asks us to reconsider the story of America through the lens of our relationship to the natural world. Using spectacular stories of founding fathers, rapacious hunters, heroic bird rescuers and the lives of bald eagles themselves, Davis demonstrates how one bird’s wondrous journey provides inspiration today, as we grapple with environmental peril on a larger scale.

Nov. 3 — Museum of Ventura County to present ‘Ivor Davis: Up Close and Personal with Joe Sohm’

by Amigos805.com • January 1, 2022 • Comments Off

The Museum of Ventura County to present “Ivor Davis: Up Close and Personal with Joe Sohm” from 6:30 to 8 p.m. Thursday, Nov. 3, 100 E. Main St., Ventura.

Joe Sohm joins host Ivor Davis for a discussion of his work as one of the nation’s preeminent political photographers.

Nov. 4 — Straight from Carnegie Hall, UCSB Arts & Lectures presents Jean Rondeau at Hahn Hall

by Community Contributor • January 1, 2022 • Comments Off

UCSB Arts & Lectures (A&L) presents Jean Rondeau, harpsichord on Friday, November 4 at 7:00 PM at Hahn Hall, Music Academy of the West. As a solo artist and a member of the Baroque ensemble Nevermind, Jean Rondeau has expanded the boundaries of early music and earned universal acclaim for his recordings and live performances. His outstanding talent and innovative approach to keyboard repertoire will be on full display with his performance of Bach’s Goldberg Variations, presented in its complete form, with the indicated repeats and judicious insertion of moments of silence.

Nov. 4 — Museum of Ventura County to present Story Time at the Museum

by Community Contributor • January 1, 2022 • Comments Off

The Museum of Ventura County will present Story Time at the Museum from 3 to 4 p.m. Friday, Nov. 4 at 100 E. Main St., Ventura.

The Museum of Ventura County has been partnering with the Ventura County Library to bring bilingual (in English and Spanish) in-person Story Time every first Friday of the month at 3pm. Join us for stories, then play and learn in the Evelyn and Howard Boroughs Chumash Children’s Garden, a fabulous and FREE outing for ALL!

Nov. 5 — 10th Annual Ventura County Farm Day – ‘Meet All The Hands That Feed You’

by Community Contributor • January 1, 2022 • Comments Off

More than 15 Ventura County farms, ranches and agricultural organizations will invite the public to experience a day of free agricultural activities and tours during the 10th Annual Ventura County Farm Day. This year’s theme is “Meet All The Hands That Feed You,” from 10 a.m. to 3 p.m. Saturday, Nov. 5.

Visitors can map out their day by viewing the Farm Day Trail Map at https://venturacountyfarmday.com/farm-tours.

Nov. 5 — Pierre Claeyssens Veterans Foundation’s 25th Annual Military Ball

by Community Contributor • January 1, 2022 • Comments Off

Join Pierre Claeyssens Veterans Foundation for the Silver Anniversary 25th Annual Military Ball to honor local veterans and active duty service members. The ball will be held Saturday, November 5th from 5:00 p.m. – 10:00 p.m. at the Hilton Santa Barbara Beachfront Resort.

The evening will be filled with live music, dancing, a wonderful three-course meal, and stirring presentations. The Military Ball is a sell-out event each year. Enjoy mingling with old friends, dancing to a live band: The Replicas, enjoying a beautiful dinner, and the pomp and circumstance of the program.

Nov. 5 — Trekking Ambassadors 5k Fun-draising Trail Run-Hike

by Community Contributor • January 1, 2022 • Comments Off

oin Trekking Ambassadors for their 5k Fun-draising Trail run-hike on November 5th, 2022 to support local Santa Barbara Organizations on their mission to deliver critically needed solar lights and reading eyeglasses to remote villagers in the Mount Everest region!

This 5k trail run-hike is set in the beautiful foothills of Santa Barbara following the San Antonio Creek Trail which meanders up a fast, well shaded trail for a big portion of the course. Great for first timers and fun for those with experience that want to challenge their PR on a 5k.

Nov. 5 — 10th Annual Ventura County Farm Day ‘Meet All The Hands That Feed You’

by Community Contributor • January 1, 2022 • Comments Off

On Saturday, November 5, more than 15 Ventura County farms, ranches and agricultural organizations will invite the public to experience a day of free agricultural activities and tours during the 10th Annual Ventura County Farm Day. This year’s theme is “Meet All The Hands That Feed You.”

Visitors can map out their day by selecting locations from the Farm Day Trail Map at https://venturacountyfarmday.com/map. Each site offers tours and produce and other giveaways. Tour hours are from 10 a.m. to 3 p.m. Some locations require reservations.

“Agriculture is Ventura County’s largest industry. Farm Day is the opportunity to see how fruits and vegetables are grown, harvested and then shipped to stores for sale,” says Mary Maranville, founder and CEO of the nonprofit Students for Eco-Education and Agriculture (SEEAG), which puts on Ventura County Farm Day each year. “You’ll come away with an appreciation of the hard work that goes into growing each piece of produce.”

Nov. 6 — UCSB Arts & Lectures to present Jennifer Egan in Conversation with Pico Iyer

by Community Contributor • January 1, 2022 • Comments Off

UCSB Arts & Lectures will present Jennifer Egan in Conversation with Pico Iyer at 3 p.m. Sunday, Nov. 6 at Campbell Hall, Isla Vista. …

Jennifer Egan is a novelist, short story writer and journalist whose innovative literary fiction routinely makes the New York Times bestseller list. Her works include the Pulitzer Prize-winning A Visit From the Goon Squad, Manhattan Beach and her latest, The Candy House. Egan’s rare combination of imaginative daring and comprehensive understanding has made her a favorite of both popular audiences and other authors. Funny, fierce and unafraid of contradiction, Egan brings wit and humor to a wide range of subjects including music, technology, memory and love. Expect fireworks as Pico takes the audience on a whirlwind tour of Egan’s colorful life and fascinating work.

Nov. 6 — Mental Wellness Center Brings Project Reboot to Santa Barbara

by Community Contributor • January 1, 2022 • Comments Off

On Sunday, November 6 @ 4:30 pm, the Mental Wellness Center (MWC) will present Project Reboot, a 3-week screen time program that begins with a keynote presentation by Project Reboot’s founder and director, Dino Ambrosi. The presentation will take place at Santa Barbara City College’s Garvin Theatre, and will introduce attendees to new knowledge, skills and habits aimed at reducing reliance on social media and tech screen time.

Through Nov. 6 — Santa Paula Art Museum Presents ‘Hiroko Yoshimoto: New Works’ Featuring ‘Impending Storms’

by Community Contributor • January 1, 2022 • Comments Off

The Santa Paula Art Museum presents “Hiroko Yoshimoto: New Works,“ an exhibition of 40 new artworks that represent the Ventura artist’s continued work on her long-running “Biodiversity“ series. The exhibit also features “Impending Storms,” a large-scale installation designed by Blue Marble Art Collective, a group that includes Yoshimoto and artists Katherine Chang Liu, W. Scott Miles, and Tori Tasch. Many of the artworks in the exhibit will be available for purchase. The exhibition will open with a premiere reception on Saturday, July 16, 2022, from 4:00 p.m. to 6:00 p.m. Admission to the reception is $5.00 for SPAM members, and $10.00 for non-members. “Hiroko Yoshimoto: New Works” and “Impending Storms” will be on view July 16, 2022, to November 6, 2022.

Nov. 9 — Ventura Land Trust Announces Mariano Rancho Preserve Community Meetings

by Community Contributor • January 1, 2022 • Comments Off

Ventura Land Trust (VLT) will host a series of community meetings on topics related to the newly-conserved Mariano Rancho Preserve. At each meeting, VLT staff will provide an overview of current plans for the 1,645-acre preserve in the hills north of Ventura, and community members will have the opportunity to ask questions and offer feedback.

A meeting on Trails & Recreation will be held on Wednesday, November 9th at De Anza (DATA) Middle School in Ventura from 6:30 – 8:00. The final meeting on Land Conservation and Restoration will be held on Wednesday, December 7th at Ventura Missionary Church from 7:00 – 8:30 pm.

“The hills of Mariano Rancho Preserve are the backdrop to Ventura,” says Ventura Land Trust Executive Director Melissa Baffa, “and yet, when this preserve opens to the public in the next few years, it will be the first time many people will experience them.”

Nov. 9 — Museum of Ventura County to present ‘Life Drawing Sessions’

by Community Contributor • January 1, 2022 • Comments Off

Join other artists for a series of three open model drawing sessions at your Museum from 6:30 to 8:30 p.m. 11/9 at the Museum of Ventura County, 100 E. Main St., Ventura.

Models will be clothed and nude. Organized by artists Cathy Barroca and Barbara Brown. Chairs and easels will be provided; artists must bring their own supplies, paints not permitted. Note: this is not an instructional class. The fee for all three sessions is $50 for MVC members and students and $65 for non-members.

This is a great opportunity for artists of all skill levels to work from a live model to develop their life drawing skills. 10-35 participants per session.

Nov. 10 — UCSB Arts & Lectures presents An Evening with Global Political Risk Expert Ian Bremmer at the Granada Theatre

by Community Contributor • January 1, 2022 • Comments Off

UCSB Arts & Lectures (A&L) presents An Evening with Ian Bremmer, Thursday, November 10 at 7:30 p.m. at The Granada Theatre. As a leading global political risk expert, Ian Bremmer understands the social, economic and technological forces shaping the next wave of global politics. In his new book, The Power of Crisis, the renowned political scientist draws lessons from global challenges of the past 100 years – including global health emergencies, transformative climate change and the AI revolution – to demonstrate how we can respond to the great crises unfolding over the next decade. Bremmer provides a roadmap for surviving – even thriving in – the 21st century, showing how we can create worldwide prosperity and opportunity.

Nov. 10 — State of the Port — Register Today

by Community Contributor • January 1, 2022 • Comments Off

The WVCBA (Chamber) is pleased to announce that the annual State of the Port of Hueneme luncheon will be delivered in-person for the first time since 2019! Attend the luncheon on Thursday, November 10, and hear from Port Commissioner and President Mary Anne Rooney who will share the latest news and updates about one of the biggest economic engines in Ventura County.

Nov. 10 — Cottage Center for Orthopedics announces Virtual Meet the Doctor Seminar ‘Shoulder, Hip and Knee Health in the Aging Athlete’ With Dr. Jervis Yau, Orthopedic Surgeon

by Community Contributor • January 1, 2022 • Comments Off

When joint pain becomes unbearable it can interfere with daily activities and prevent people from doing the things they love. An expert affiliated with the Cottage Center for Orthopedics will discuss treatment options, from pain relief to joint replacement, at a free virtual Meet the Doctor seminar on November 10, from 4-5 pm.

Dr. Jervis Yau, an orthopedic surgeon affiliated with Cottage Health, will provide a virtual presentation on “Shoulder, Hip and Knee Health in the Aging Athlete.” He will discuss causes and symptoms of joint pain, as well as strategies for prevention and treatment. There will be time for questions following the presentation.

Nov. 11 — Bilingual report — Oxnard hosts Veterans Day Ceremony

by Community Contributor • January 1, 2022 • Comments Off

The City of Oxnard, together with the Disabled American Veterans – Chapter 24, Vietnam Veterans of Ventura County, Salvation Army, Knights of Columbus Council 750, Military Officers Association of America Ventura County Chapter and the Boy Scouts of America – Troop 231, invite the community to attend this year’s Veterans Day Ceremony at Plaza Park (500 South C St.) to honor and remember all who have served our country.

On Friday, Nov. 11, 2022, an outdoor ceremony will take place at 11 a.m. next to the Veterans Memorial at Plaza Park.

Nov. 11 — Join Veterans of Foreign Wars Post 1649 and Pierre Claeyssens Veterans Foundation to honor our men and women in uniform who proudly served our country on Veterans Day

by Community Contributor • January 1, 2022 • Comments Off

Veterans of Foreign Wars Post 1649 and Pierre Claeyssens Veterans Foundation are pleased to announce they are once again hosting the Santa Barbara community Veterans Day Ceremony on Friday, November 11th at 11:00 a.m. at the Santa Barbara Cemetery, 901 Channel Drive.

Attendees are encouraged to arrive early; The open air ceremony begins at 11:00 a.m. sharp with a flyover by The Condor Squadron; then presentations and performances by the UCSB Color Guard; Gold Coast Pipe & Drum Band; David Gonzales and the Santa Barbara Choral Society, The Prime Time Band, and local guest speakers.

Nov. 11-13 — The Shared Crossing Pathway Seminar: Accompanying Loved Ones Through a Beautiful End of Life Presented by William Peters, M.Ed, M.A, LMFT

by Community Contributor • January 1, 2022 • Comments Off

Join William Peters M.A., M.Ed., MFT for his upcoming event “The Shared Crossing Pathway Seminar: Accompanying Loved Ones Through a Beautiful End of Life” online seminar on November 11-13, 2022.

Nov. 12 — CSUCI and the Ventura County Library invite everybody to dig into “Taste Makers” with ‘One County, One Book’ event

by Community Contributor • January 1, 2022 • Comments Off

Desperation drove Mexican immigrant Elena Zelayeta and her husband to begin selling homemade Mexican and Spanish meals out of their San Francisco living room after they lost their car and their home during the Great Depression.

Zelayeta went on to become a renowned Mexican American celebrity chef, and one of the women profiled in the 2021 book “Taste Makers: Seven Immigrant Women Who Revolutionized Food in America” by Mayukh Sen, an award-winning food journalist who teaches in Columbia University’s Creative Writing program.

“Taste Makers” is this year’s selection for the Ventura County Library (VCL)’s “One County, One Book” reading program, which will culminate with a public event in the Grand Salon at CSU Channel Islands (CSUCI) beginning at 2 p.m. on Saturday, Nov. 12.

Nov. 12 — UCSB Arts & Lectures presents An Evening with Nigella Lawson in conversation with KCRW Good Food host Evan Kleiman at the Granada Theatre

by Community Contributor • January 1, 2022 • Comments Off

UCSB Arts & Lectures (A&L) presents an evening with Nigella Lawson, Saturday, November 12 at 7:30 p.m. at The Granada Theatre. An iconic home chef, bestselling cookbook author, and star of countless television specials. Nigella Lawson has become an unstoppable and empowering force in the world of food since publishing her first cookbook, How To Eat, in 1998. She is the author of 12 bestselling books, including her latest, Cook, Eat, Repeat, and the beloved personality of TV series including Nigella Bites. She was voted Author of the Year at the British Book Awards and Best Food Personality at the Observer Food Monthly Awards. In conversation with Evan Kleiman, host of KCRW’s Good Food, the culinary powerhouse and global food icon will recount her trajectory by way of the people, food, and recipes that have shaped her unique life of cooking, eating, and repeating.

Nov. 14 — OC LIVE presents Delia Rawdon ‘Transgender Resilience and the Path to Equality’

by Community Contributor • January 1, 2022 • Comments Off

Delia Danae Rawdon is an out and visible transgender actress, writer, musician and performance artist. She is a lifelong advocate for the LGBTQ+ community and strives to break through the social constructs and barriers that society has put upon us. Through historical information, storytelling, and comedy, we will explore raging riots, the world through Delia’s eyes, and the beauty of the transgender experience.

Nov. 15 — Weekday Evening Cash 4 College Workshops Added at Ventura County Community Colleges

by Community Contributor • January 1, 2022 • Comments Off

Moorpark College, Oxnard College, Ventura College and Ventura College East Campus are holding free evening Cash 4 College workshops to help students apply for funds to help with college costs. Funds can be used for tuition, books, housing, transportation, childcare, computers and more.

In-person and online Zoom workshops are scheduled for Nov. 15, depending on the campus. The workshops are free and open to the community; anyone may attend a workshop on either date and can drop in at any time during the events.

Nov. 15 — UCSB Arts & Lectures presents Bill T. Jones/Arnie Zane Company at The Granada Theatre

by Community Contributor • January 1, 2022 • Comments Off

UCSB Arts & Lectures will present Bill T. Jones/Arnie Zane Company at 8 p.m. Tuesday, Nov. 15 at The Granada Theatre.

“All of my work is in pursuit of the ‘we.’ What Problem? is the notion of ‘WE THE PEOPLE.’“ – Choreographer Bill T. Jones

This new work from Tony Award-winning MacArthur “Genius“ Bill T. Jones features a live original score and excerpts from Herman Melville’s Moby Dick and Martin Luther King, Jr.’s I Have a Dream speech.

Jones is known for his ability to visualize the human condition through choreography and dance. The recipient of the National Medal of Arts, a MacArthur Fellowship, a Kennedy Center Honors Award and multiple Tony Awards, there is little imaginative territory Jones has not attempted. His latest, highly-personal work, What Problem? is performed to live music, in part by local community members.

Nov. 16 — Bilingual report — Fallen Firefighters to be Remembered at Ventura County Memorial

by Community Contributor • January 1, 2022 • Comments Off

The fire agencies of Ventura County will honor firefighters who lost their lives in service to our community during the annual Fallen Firefighters Memorial remembrance Wednesday, Nov. 16, at 10 a.m.

“We are fortunate that no new names are being added to the list of the fallen this year,” Ventura County Fire Chief Dustin Gardner said. “And we continue to remember all those who gave the ultimate sacrifice while working to keep others safe.”

The outdoor ceremony at the Ventura County Government Center recognizes all firefighters who died in the line of duty, whether from traumatic injury or job-related illness. The memorial represents all seven fire agencies serving the county, including Ventura County, Oxnard, Ventura City, Federal Fire, Fillmore City, CAL FIRE and the U.S. Forest Service.

Nov. 17 — Economic Development Collaborative (EDC) — Customer Discovery and Research Tools for Tech Businesses

by Community Contributor • January 1, 2022 • Comments Off

The EDC SBDC call team and experienced advisors are available to answer questions and help you navigate today’s complex business environment. The Economic Development Collaborative hosts the Small Business Development Center and is funded in part through a cooperative agreement with the U.S. Small Business Administration. Signing up as a client takes just a few minutes and provides you with lifetime access to all of our no-cost services.

Nov. 17 — UCSB Arts & Lectures presents musician Matthew Whitaker’s Santa Barbara debut

by Community Contributor • January 1, 2022 • Comments Off

UCSB Arts & Lectures (A&L) presents pianist and composer Matthew Whitaker, Thursday, November 17 at 8:00 p.m. at Campbell Hall. At 10, Matthew Whitaker opened for Stevie Wonder’s induction into the Apollo Theater Hall of Fame. At 15, he became a Yamaha Artist, the youngest musician to join the stellar group of jazz pianists. Now, the 21-year-old composer and pianist – one of the hottest new names in jazz – makes his Santa Barbara debut following two acclaimed albums and a feature on CBS’ 60 Minutes. “I am a musician, who happens to be blind,” says Whitaker. “I have been blessed with a God-given gift and my prayer is that I can continue to be a blessing and inspiration to others.”

Nov. 17 — Award-winning author Susan Straight and ‘Mecca’ are featured during the next SBMA Parallel Stories

by Community Contributor • January 1, 2022 • Comments Off

Award-winning author Susan Straight and “Mecca” are featured during the next SBMA Parallel Stories at 5:30 p.m. Thursday, Nov. 17 at SBMA’s Mary Craig Auditorium, 1130 State St., Santa Barbara.

The New York Times award-winning author Susan Straight returns to read from her latest and much lauded novel, Mecca. Set in Southern California’s inland and high desert area, this is a story of freeways, wildfires, secrets, and struggles that is, at its heart, a love song for a place and its people.

Nov. 17 — Conejo/Las Virgenes Future Foundation Presents Future of the Region at Annual Event

by Community Contributor • January 1, 2022 • Comments Off

The Conejo/Las Virgenes Future Foundation will present its eighth annual 10×10 Event on Thursday, Nov. 17, at 6:30 p.m. at the Lundring Event Center (in the Gilbert Sports and Fitness Center) at California Lutheran University. The 10 x10 is a community-wide event that consists of 10 experts speaking on 10 different topics for 10 minutes each.

Nov. 19 — Museum of Ventura County — A Year Without You – Opening Reception

by Community Contributor • January 1, 2022 • Comments Off

The Museum of Ventura County will present “A Year Without You,” Opening Reception from 5 to 9 p.m. Saturday, Nov. 19, at 100 E. Main St., Ventura.

As a collaboration, The RAD Foundation & artist Julie Dahl-Nicolle are showcasing, for thirty days, “A Year Without You”. This collection of one hundred floral mixed media canvas paintings dives into the realization of what we have all experienced over the last two years due to COVID-19: a sense of loss.

Nov. 21 — Santa Barbara Museum of Art to present Grammy Award-winning Parker Quartet

by Community Contributor • January 1, 2022 • Comments Off

The Santa Barbara Museum of Art to present Grammy Award-winning Parker Quartet at 7:30 Monday, Nov. 21 at SBMA’s Mary Craig Auditorium, 1130 State St., Santa Barbara.

Inspiring performances, luminous sound, and exceptional musicianship are the hallmarks of the Grammy Award-winning Parker Quartet.

Nov. 22 — Greater Santa Barbara Area Clergy Association to present Interfaith Thanksgiving Service

by Community Contributor • January 1, 2022 • Comments Off

Our annual Community Interfaith Thanksgiving Service will be held in person on Tuesday, November 22nd, at 7:00 p.m. at the historic, downtown First United Methodist Church.

The Greater Santa Barbara Area Clergy Association, sponsor of this event, includes clergy and religious leaders from over 100 local faith communities and is dedicated to fostering mutual understanding, tolerance and appreciation among all.

Nov. 29 — UCSB Arts & Lectures present Watkins Family Hour at Campbell Hall

by Community Contributor • January 1, 2022 • Comments Off

UCSB Arts & Lectures present Watkins Family Hour at 8 p.m. Tuesday, Nov. 29 at Campbell Hall.

Get ready for a lively evening of authentic Americana as brother and sister Sean and Sara Watkins bring a special 20th anniversary edition of their bluegrass musical variety show to town. Get tickets for Watkins Family Hour on Nov 29, 2022 at Campbell Hall in Santa Barbara. Presented by UC Santa Barbara Arts & Lectures.

Nov. 30 — County of Ventura — State of the County

by Community Contributor • January 1, 2022 • Comments Off

On Wednesday, November 30, 2022, from 5:00 p.m. until 7:30 p.m., please join the Ventura County Taxpayers Foundation and the County of Ventura for the 2022 State of the County event. Doors open at 4:30 pm.

This FREE event will highlight the collective work that makes Ventura County one of the best places to live, work, and play. The evening will include a presentation and discussion about this year’s accomplishments, opportunities, and top priorities to address in the future.

Enjoy a presentation by keynote speaker County of Ventura Chief Executive Officer Dr. Sevet Johnson, followed by a panel discussion among community leaders on key issues facing our communities. Panelists include Ventura County Office of Education Superintendent Dr. César Morales, Casa Pacifica Centers for Children and Families Chief Executive Officer Shawna Morris, and Women’s Economic Ventures Chief Executive Officer Kathy Odell.

The event will be held on at the Ventura County Office of Education, located at 5100 Adolfo Road in Camarillo. The doors will open at 4:30 p.m. for registration and networking, with the presentation beginning at 5:30 p.m. The panel discussions will follow the presentation.

The event is free, but space to attend the in-person event is limited so advance registration is required.

Through Fall 2022 — Channel Islands Maritime Museum to Present Chouinard Arts Exhibition

by Community Contributor • January 1, 2022 • Comments Off

Beginning April 7, 2022, the Channel Islands Maritime Museum (CIMM) will present its latest exhibition, “Chouinard Arts.” Original student works of the famed Chouinard Arts Institute will be displayed through the early fall of 2022.

On loan from local collector Ms. Joy Roy, the nine-piece collection brings a wide variety of maritime subjects to life. The pieces are heirlooms of her grandfather, the artist Stan Johnson, who attended Chouinard and traded these small works amongst his classmates more than 80 years ago.

Dec. 1 — SBMA’s Art Matters Lecture looks at Impressionism and Climate Change

by Community Contributor • January 1, 2022 • Comments Off

Santa Barbara Museum of Art’s Art Matters Lecture looks at Impressionism and Climate Change with Harmon Siegel, Ph.D., Junior Fellow, Harvard Society of Fellows at 5:30 p.m. Thursday, Dec. 1 at SBMA’s Mary Craig Auditorium, 1130 State St., Santa Barbara.

Impressionism has, from the beginning, been seen as an art of nature. Today, however, in the moment we call the Anthropocene, when human projects have transformed every corner of the planet and threaten to make it uninhabitable, this commitment may seem hopelessly naive. In fact, however, impressionist paintings illuminate our condition, revealing the entanglement of nature and society. In so doing, they help us overcome nostalgia for a lost nature and recognize our responsibility for shaping the world we inhabit.

Dec. 1 — Youth Apprenticeship Readiness Accelerator (YARA) Pre-Apprenticeship Training

by Community Contributor • January 1, 2022 • Comments Off

The Youth Apprenticeship Readiness Accelerator (YARA) will present Pre-Apprenticeship Training on Nov. 17 and Dec. 1 in Oxnard. This is an introductory program to work and train in the construction and building trades for union careers. Free-12 week program is for ages 16-24 years old.

Dec. 1 — SBCC School of Extended Learning presenting Arts & Crafts Fair

by Community Contributor • January 1, 2022 • Comments Off

Just in time for the holidays, over 50 arts and crafts faculty and students in the SBCC School of Extended Learning will be selling their wares at the Wake Campus from 10 a.m. to 2 p.m. on December 10.

Dec. 1 — UCSB Arts & Lectures presents Jake Shimabukuro at The Granada Theatre

by Community Contributor • January 1, 2022 • Comments Off

UCSB Arts & Lectures to present Jake Shimabukuro at 7 p.m. Thursday, Dec. 1 at The Granada Theatre, 1214 State St., Santa Barbara.

Drawing on signature favorites, a vibrant catalog of holiday classics, and selections from his recent album, Jake Shimabukuro’s merry live show Christmas in Hawai’i is sure to make spirits bright. Get tickets for Jake Shimabukuro on Dec 1, 2022 at The Granada Theatre in Santa Barbara. Presented by UC Santa Barbara Arts & Lectures.

Dec. 3 — Studio Channel Islands Hosts Annual Holiday Art Market

by Community Contributor • January 1, 2022 • Comments Off

Studio Channel Islands Art Center (SCIART) kicks off the holiday season with its annual holiday fair and festival, 11 a.m. to 5 p.m., Dec. 3, and continues noon to 4 p.m., Dec. 4.

Dec. 3 — Channel Islands Maritime Museum to Host Holiday Lighting of the Tall Ship Mast Event

by Community Contributor • January 1, 2022 • Comments Off

On the evening of December 3, 2022, the Channel Islands Maritime Museum will again host the Holiday Lighting of the Tall Ship Mast in the Museum’s outdoor courtyard. The event will take place from 5:30 pm to 7:30 pm.

Instead of a typical tree lighting ceremony, Santa will arrive at 7:00 p.m. and with the crowd’s encouragement, kick off the holiday season by lighting up the Museum’s tall ship mast. Live music by the Coco Knots will start at 5:30 p.m. and will include sing-alongs to holiday favorites. There will also be holiday shopping and refreshments available. The beautiful 110’ schooner, Mystic Whaler, will host free deck tours for the public. Following the lighting ceremony, Santa will be on hand to meet and greet children in his special nautical sleigh.

Dec. 3 — 38th Annual Memorial Program Light Up A Life to be held in Camarillo

by Community Contributor • January 1, 2022 • Comments Off

Livingston Memorial Visiting Nurse Association & Hospice’s “Light Up A Life” event provides comfort, solace and an opportunity for those who have lost someone to honor their loved one’s memory. For those we’ve lost near or far, recently departed or long ago, “Light Up A Life” is a thoughtful and heartfelt way to honor their memories and spread some joy this holiday season. The date and time for this year’s Light Up event is:

Constitution Park, Paseo Camarillo, Camarillo, CA 93010 Saturday, December 3rd from 4:30 pm – 5:30pm

Dec. 3 — Breakfast with Santa and Simi YMCA Christmas Tree Lot Opens

by Community Contributor • January 1, 2022 • Comments Off

A longstanding holiday tradition that dates back to the 1970s, the Simi Valley Family YMCA Y’s Men’s Club will be once again selling Christmas trees at the Y this year. Trees are available from December 3 through December 17.

Also taking place on December 3 is a Breakfast with Santa. Kids and families can get their pictures taken with Santa, enjoy breakfast, hot cocoa and play in real snow. Hours are 9:00 a.m. to 11:00 a.m. There will be inflatables, a snow slide, holiday activities, a tree raffle and face painting. The cost is $10 per child (15 and under) and $5 per adult (children 2 and under are free). Register for the breakfast at www.sevymca.org/breakfast-santa.The YMCA is still looking for sponsors for this event.

Dec. 3 — Author of Bestselling Book on Mental Health, You Are Not Alone, Comes to Santa Barbara for Book Signing, Q&A

by Community Contributor • January 1, 2022 • Comments Off

Millions of people in the United States are affected by mental illness every year and Santa Barbara is no exception.

Unfortunately, the mental health care system remains chaotic, underfunded and often inaccessible, and many people are asking themselves the same questions: What if my insurance company won’t cover my treatment? Will I have to be on medication my whole life? Will I ever feel better? Am I the only one with this problem?

“You Are Not Alone: The NAMI Guide to Navigating Mental Health ? With Advice from Experts and Wisdom from Real People and Families is the answer to the prayers of millions of people who are living with mental illness and their families and friends—who are often unsure how to navigate this system, deal with financial and logistical issues and handle the emotional challenges of mental illness,” said former Santa Barbara County NAMI Board Chair George Kaufmann whose story, along with his son’s is featured in the book.

Dec. 4 — 2nd Annual Holidays In The Village, A European Marketplace, Westlake Village

by Community Contributor • January 1, 2022 • Comments Off

The 2nd Annual Holidays in the Village, A European Marketplace, which celebrates the warmth and joy of the holiday season–all with a European flair, will take place Sunday, December 4 from 11:00 a.m. to 7:00 p.m. on Lakeview Canyon Road and Agoura Road (adjacent to Stonehaus) in Westlake Village.

Dec. 6 — Community Environmental Council Climate Action Webinar: ‘How the Momentum of Recent Climate Policy is a Win For You’

by Community Contributor • January 1, 2022 • Comments Off

The Community Environmental Council Climate Action Webinar: “How the Momentum of Recent Climate Policy is a Win For You,” will be held at 1 p.m. Tuesday, Dec. 6 via Zoom.

Want to know why the recent wave of federal and California climate legislation is so exciting – and how it can help your pocketbook? Join us to learn how these tremendous policy developments are catalyzing climate momentum like never before. Better yet, get the inside scoop on how they will help you maximize savings on energy upgrades with the latest local, state, and federal consumer tax credits and rebates. Ask your burning questions, and get inspired by the wave of climate progress on the horizon!

Dec. 7 — Enjoy Holidays In The Village, A European Marketplace

by Community Contributor • January 1, 2022 • Comments Off

The 2nd Annual Holidays in the Village, A European Marketplace will take place Saturday, Dec. 7 from 11:00 a.m. to 7:00 p.m. on Lakeview Canyon Road and Agoura Road (adjacent to Stonehaus) in Westlake Village. It is hosted by the two Rotary Clubs of Westlake Village–Sunrise and Noon—and the City of Westlake Village.

The festival features food, drink, music, kids’ activities, and artisan and craft vendors–all with a traditional European flair. Last year was the first time the event was held. It attracted more than 8,500 visitors.

“Our first Holidays in the Village was a huge success. The community welcomed an outdoor winter holiday event where they could shop, eat and be entertained in a wonderfully warm and friendly atmosphere. A European village setting is perfect for friends and families to gather,” says Erin Culbertson, Marketplace chair.

Dec. 7 — UCSB Arts & Lectures presents Mariachi Sol de México

by Community Contributor • January 1, 2022 • Comments Off

CSB Arts & Lectures will present Mariachi Sol de México at 7 p.m. Wednesday, Dec. 7 at the Arlington Theatre, 1317 State St., Santa Barbara.

“Mariachi is the heart, the soul and the passion of Mexico.” – José Hernández

One of the world’s foremost mariachi groups, Mariachi Sol de México incorporates elements of Las Posadas alongside traditional Christmas carols in this festive musical tribute to Mexico’s holiday traditions. Get tickets for Mariachi Sol de México on Dec 7, 2022 at Arlington Theatre in Santa Barbara. Presented by UC Santa Barbara Arts & Lectures — artsandlectures.ucsb.edu

Dec. 8 — OC LIVE presentsCOMEDY NIGHT with JASON LOVE and all ALL-STAR CAST

by Community Contributor • January 1, 2022 • Comments Off

Jason Love brings Hollywood’s hottest comedians to Oxnard. These nationally touring headliners have appeared on HBO, Comedy Central, Comics Unleashed, The Tonight Show and elsewhere!

Through Dec. 9 — CSU Channel Islands Exhibit honors late educator and pioneering animator

by Community Contributor • January 1, 2022 • Comments Off

A free public exhibition at CSU Channel Islands (CSUCI) will commemorate the life and work of Art Lecturer and pioneering animator Kathleen Quaife, a longtime Oak Park resident who died unexpectedly in October 2021.

“Kathleen Quaife: A Portrait of the Artist” will run through Dec. 9, in the Napa Hall Gallery.

Dec. 9 — CLU School of Management presenting Forward Together

by Community Contributor • January 1, 2022 • Comments Off

Sports Management presents its inaugural “Sustainable Goals Development Competition.”
Friday, December 9 | 5:00 pm | In Person
Join us in person as three teams battle to become number one in the first-ever Sports Management Sustainable Goals Development Competition. The teams will be judged by three sports professionals with exceptional experiences from notable companies like the Los Angeles Rams, Los Angeles Kings, and the Los Angeles Sports & Entertainment Commission.

Dec. 10, 11 — Hospice of Santa Barbara’s 39th Annual Light Up A Life

by Community Contributor • January 1, 2022 • Comments Off

Join Hospice of Santa Barbara back in person for their 39th Annual Light Up A Life. This beloved community tradition takes place to remember and honor those you miss this holiday season.

This year, Light Up a Life is back in person and will host four ceremonies, featuring speakers and special guests, entertainment, refreshments, and the lighting of a memorial tree. Guests can also hang one or more stars in memory of a loved one who has died or in honor of someone living.

Dec. 10 — Live Shared Death Experience Q&A Session — Join Dr. Raymond Moody and William Peters for Live Webinar

by Community Contributor • January 1, 2022 • Comments Off

William Peters, founder of Sharing Crossing Project and author of At Heaven’s Door, will be hosting a live, online Q&A session with the legendary Dr. Raymond A. Moody on the Shared Death Experience and what to make of these life-changing events. On December 10th, enjoy 60 minute Q&A Sessions where you can ask your own questions with a group of engaged, like-minded, inquisitive people as you engage with Raymond and William in a relaxed, open online setting. Be captivated by the discussion of this life-changing topic.

Dec. 16, 17, 18 — Teatro de las Américas — Don’t miss your chance to see Christmas Contigo!

by Community Contributor • January 1, 2022 • Comments Off

Visit our website and online box office!

Christmas Contigo
Presented By Teatro De Las Americas

Dec. 17 — VCCDC presents free homebuyer education workshops

by Community Contributor • January 1, 2022 • Comments Off

Must-have information on the latest homeownership & financial topics

Through Dec. 19 — Art of the Channel Islands Exhibition at the Channel Islands Maritime Museum

by Community Contributor • January 1, 2022 • Comments Off

Beginning Sept. 9, the Channel Islands Maritime Museum (CIMM) will be presenting its latest exhibition, Resilience: Art of the Channel Islands in its Brenda and Gary Farr Gallery.

This exhibition will explore how creatives are inspired by the natural world. Five award-winning local artists, Joe Adams, Holly Woolson, Linda Legman, Genie Thomsen, and Christina Altfield, will use unique mediums to explore the flora and fauna of the Channel Islands. Resilience: Art of the Channel Islands will be the Museum’s largest temporary exhibition to date.

Dec. 20 — 31st Annual Living Nativity to be held at First United Methodist Church, Santa Barbara

by Community Contributor • January 1, 2022 • Comments Off

For 31 years the congregation of the First United Methodist Church has offered a beautiful seasonal gift to the community by staging a re-creation of the Holy Night for three nights just before Christmas. Under a redwood tree and adjacent to the church, a grassy area is transformed into a humble wooden stable, complete with a serene Mary, Joseph and tiny baby Jesus asleep in the manger. Three majestic kings stand by with their gifts to the Holy Child, attentive angels appear nearby, and lowly shepherds tend to their flocks. Live camels, sheep, donkeys and goats surround the manger taking in the wonder of it all. It is a silent and beautiful scene to behold.

Through Dec. 24 — The Collection offers holiday fun for everyone

by Community Contributor • January 1, 2022 • Comments Off

Tis the season to start getting excited about the holidays, and The Collection at RiverPark has plenty of excitement to look forward to. From Thanksgiving dinner and Black Friday shopping to the annual Tree Lighting Celebration and photos with Santa, and gingerbread scavenger hunt, there’s plenty of fun for everyone.

Jan. 28 — Economic Development Collaborative (EDC) to present Free Webinar — Digital Marketing Strategies for Measurable Results

by Community Contributor • January 1, 2022 • Comments Off

Digital Marketing Strategies for Measurable Results

Tickets on sale for the WAR New Year’s Eve concert on Dec. 31 at Oxnard Performing Arts Center

by Community Contributor • December 30, 2021 • Comments Off

Tickets are now on sale for the WAR New Year’s Eve concert at 6 p.m. Friday, Dec. 31 at the Oxnard Performing Arts & Convention Center, 800 Hobson Way, Oxnard.

Click here for tickets.

Hosted by Steve Perez of KRUZ 103.3, with an opening set by Dr. T and The Blues Criminals, doors open at 6 p.m.

Multi-platinum selling WAR, the original street band, has been sharing its timeless music and message of brotherhood and harmony for over four decades before millions across the globe. The long list of hits includes “Low Rider,” “The World Is A Ghetto,” “Why Can’t We Be Friends,” “The Cisco Kid,” and many more.

Museum of Ventura County — Last chance as we move into 2022…

by Community Contributor • December 29, 2021 • Comments Off

Dear Friend of the Museum,

If you have already made a contribution to the Museum of Ventura County –

THANK YOU VERY MUCH for your support!

If you haven’t, please consider that a gift can help us serve this community with:

Virtual and in-person school tours
Free events
Virtual and in-person discussions and interviews
Historical articles, lectures and videos
Exhibits
Support programs
Free admission to both sites
and much much more!

Bilingual report — Prepare for Heavy Rains

by Community Contributor • December 28, 2021 • Comments Off

With forecasts calling for a series of rainstorms through much of the week, the Ventura County Fire Department encourages residents to prepare for the possibility of localized flooding and mudslides, especially in areas burned by recent fires.

“It’s not too late to prepare. A quick survey of your residence and property can identify potential problems before the next set of storms begin,” Chief Mark Lorenzen said. “Simple steps can make a big difference in staying safe and protecting your home.”

One area of particular concern is La Conchita, which has received 5.9 inches of rain in the past two weeks. Up to 2 inches of rain are forecast for that area from the storm expected to arrive Wednesday night, which could approach mudslide potential.

Oxnard College Named 2021 Equity Champion of Higher Education

by Community Contributor • December 23, 2021 • Comments Off

The Campaign for College Opportunity named Oxnard College a 2021 Equity Champion of Higher Education for its Excellence in Transfer for Latino students through Associate Degrees for Transfer (ADT). Oxnard College, which has a predominantly Latino student body, offers 31 ADT programs covering a wide range of subject areas. These programs meet minimum eligibility requirements for admission to a California State University and guarantee students’ acceptance.

The college’s Latino students obtain ADTs at a rate 2.3% higher than the campus-wide average, reported the California-based nonprofit that advocates for equity in higher education.

“Oxnard College’s efforts to increase transfer rates among Latino students will help lift a generation of families into Ventura County’s middle class,” said Oscar Cobian, vice president of student development. “We’re committed to providing the transfer services and resources our students need to achieve their educational aspirations.”

The college has been a Hispanic-Serving Institution since its inception in 1975. In 2020, it received a $3 million grant from the U.S. Department of Education to increase equitable student outcomes among Latino and low-income students as they pursue their career and transfer goals.

Gold Coast Health Plan Announces New Chief Executive Officer

by Community Contributor • December 23, 2021 • Comments Off

Gold Coast Health Plan (GCHP) announced (on Dec. 10) that its governing board has appointed Nick Liguori as chief executive officer of the Ventura County Medi-Cal plan effective Feb. 1.

At its monthly meeting on Dec. 16, the Ventura County Medi-Cal Managed Care Commission (VCMMCC) approved a three-year contract with Mr. Liguori. The contract runs through Jan. 31, 2025.

“We are thrilled to have Nick lead Gold Coast Health Plan for the next three years,” said Dee Pupa, VCMMCC chair and deputy director of managed care at the Ventura County Health Care Agency. “His vast experience as a leader at health plans that focused on serving vulnerable populations will be an asset to Gold Coast Health Plan’s members and providers as the Medi-Cal program undergoes transformational changes in the coming years.”

Community Environmental Council Increases Impact With New Staff

by Community Contributor • December 23, 2021 • Comments Off

The Community Environmental Council (CEC) is pleased to announce the addition of new staff members who are meeting this urgent moment in the climate crisis. Each new member represents strengthened resilience within the organization and in the climate work at hand.

Bilingual report — New County Clerk-Recorder Software Provides Speed, Efficiency, Security for Public and Employees

by Community Contributor • December 22, 2021 • Comments Off

In the 22 years that David Valenzuela has been in the County Clerk-Recorder’s office, he has seen many changes in the procedures and technology for processing Ventura County’s hundreds of thousands of vital records and property documents each year.

“When I started in 1999, we were using a system called AtPac, which was high-tech for that time. However, it was not as robust as we first thought,” Valenzuela, now the Clerk-Recorder Division Manager, said. “In 2003, we implemented a new system called AmCad, and in 2006, we had a major upgrade, and we have kept this system for the last 15 years.”

Bilingual report — Submissions now accepted for participation in March 1-31 virtual ‘Women Scream Festival’ (Grito de Mujer)

by Community Contributor • December 22, 2021 • Comments Off

Submissions are now being accepted for participation in the March 1-31 virtual ‘Women Scream International Poetry and Arts Festival’ (Grito de Mujer), said Simi Valley resident Teresita Calderón, poet, a writer, and a volunteer coordinator for the Woman Scream International Poetry and Arts Festival.

Born in the Dominican Republic, The Woman Scream Poetry Festival is an annual international chain of cultural events during March that compiles all arts and unifies diverse voices of the world against women violence. It has been celebrating since 2011.

United Way of Santa Barbara County’s 2021 Holiday Gift Drive Supports Over 200 Children this Holiday Season

by Community Contributor • December 22, 2021 • Comments Off

United Way of Santa Barbara County’s (UWSBC) 2021 Holiday Gift Drive supported?over 200 children?throughout the county this year. Workplaces and individual donors adopted students and fulfilled each child’s unique wish list. In addition to receiving gifts from workplaces and individual donors, gifts were also received from various events (such as UCSB Arts & Lectures concerts at the Arlington and Women United Holiday event). All?presents were provided to families in need that were identified by participating schools and organizations.

Earlier this week, at Franklin school, UWSBC met a young student named Alexa who is one of 7 children. Her family currently rents part of a living room in an apartment. Her dream is to attend Harvard Law School and become a lawyer. One of her wish list items was a Harvard sweatshirt which she received thanks to one of the donors.

Santa Paula Art Museum — You’re Definitely on Our Nice List!

by Community Contributor • December 22, 2021 • Comments Off

Happy holidays to you and yours from all of us here at the Santa Paula Art Museum. Our partners at Boys & Girls Club of Santa Clara Valley helped to get us in the spirit with their recent Christmas cactus art project! (Our museum educators teach weekly art lessons at the club’s three sites in Santa Paula, Fillmore, and Piru.)

Thank you for making partnerships and programs like this one possible in 2021. Here’s to a new year full of art, joy, and trips to the Museum! Speaking of, check out our upcoming classes and 2022 exhibition lineup below.

The Santa Paula Art Museum will be closed on Christmas Eve, Christmas Day, New Year’s Eve, and New Year’s Day, but will be otherwise open as usual (face masks are required).

Bilingual report — County of Ventura Dec. 22, 2021 – COVID-19 Update

by Community Contributor • December 22, 2021 • Comments Off

Wishing our community a safe, happy and healthy holiday season! We are grateful for our healthcare heroes who are still in the midst of battling the virus and caring for seriously ill patients. May we all take actions to protect ourselves and each other.

Ventura County Community College District Elects New Board Officers

by Community Contributor • December 22, 2021 • Comments Off

The Ventura County Community College District Board of Trustees elected longtime Trustee Dianne B. McKay as board chair during the District’s Annual Organizational Meeting on Dec. 14. The board elected Trustee Stan Mantooth as vice chair and Chancellor Greg Gillespie as secretary.

McKay and Mantooth will continue to work with Trustees Josh Chancer, Bernardo M. Perez and Gabriela Torres in conducting board business and reviewing and adopting policies that regulate activities in the District and its colleges in Moorpark, Oxnard and Ventura. Student Trustee Bryan Rodriguez, a political science major at Ventura College, will continue to advocate for the District’s approximately 31,000 students. The board of trustees is elected in even-numbered years to four-year terms by Ventura County voters. The student trustee is elected annually through a district-wide student election.

Museum of Contemporary Art Santa Barbara — ’tis the season of giving!

by Community Contributor • December 22, 2021 • Comments Off

You’re the reason we are looking so merry and bright!

Thank you all for supporting contemporary art and the artists whose passion compels them to create. It is you who challenges our team to bring our best selves in service to our visitors and our community.

We were inspired by so many enthusiastic visitors and supportive collaborators this year. Looking back brings as much wonder as it does gratification. Just take a look at our very first Earth Day Mural – it still takes our breath away!

The team at Museum of Contemporary Art Santa Barbara (MCASB) is working on some truly fantastic exhibitions, events, travel, and educational programs for 2022. MCASB prioritizes accessibility for all, and maintains a steadfast commitment to free admission.

Please consider a year-end donation, which allows us to continue to bring you awe-inspiring, thought-provoking, and beautiful encounters with the art of our time. Our work is only possible because of your support.

Museum of Ventura County — There’s even more we have to give, for free!

by Community Contributor • December 22, 2021 • Comments Off

MVC Insider Season 3
Episode 1: Erle Stanley Gardner
Starting Friday, January 24, 2022 @ 10am
Fridays @ 10am on Facebook Live

We are officially back with Season 3 of “MVC Insider”! Join us on Facebook Live for the first episode of MVC Insider this Friday, December 24, 2022 at 10am! Mark your calendars and tune-in on Facebook Live for the next five Fridays at 10am.

Krystell Jimenez, Project Archivist, uncovers relics from the John C. Orr Collection pertaining to the prolific novelist and Ventura County native Erle Stanley Gardner who wrote the popular Perry Mason series

Oxnard Harbor District/Port of Hueneme Pass Memorandum of Understanding for Use of Zero-Emission Equipment

by Community Contributor • December 22, 2021 • Comments Off

To further its commitment to decarbonize operations at the Port of Hueneme, the Oxnard Harbor District voted on December 20th to approve a Memorandum of Understanding (MOU) to provide stevedores with the ability to utilize the district’s existing two new electric terminal tractors (eUTR). These eUTRs are funded through a Zero-and Near zero-Emission Freight Facilities (ZANZEFF) grant project.

“Last month, my fellow Oxnard Harbor Commissioners and I voted unanimously to put us on a path of pursuing a zero-emission future,” said Jason T. Hodge, President of the Oxnard Harbor District that owns the Port of Hueneme. “Our passage of the MOU signals a strong commitment for the continued support of green infrastructure and equipment use at the Port.”

United Way of Ventura County — 130 housed and we’re not stopping!

by Community Contributor • December 22, 2021 • Comments Off

As we wrap up another year, we take a moment to reflect back on the progress we’ve made through our United to End Homelessness VC Initiative. This month marks the 2-year anniversary of its launch, and with your help, and the support of strong community partnerships, we’ve been able to permanently house 130 individuals. We look forward to sharing more exciting news with you in 2022, as we continue to expand our efforts.

Economic Development Collaborative (EDC) — Sales and Use Tax Exclusion Program for Manufacturers

by Community Contributor • December 22, 2021 • Comments Off

Sales and Use Tax Exclusion (STE) Program, from the California Alternative Energy and Advanced Transportation Financing Authority, excludes from sales and use taxes purchases of Qualified Property:
if its use is either to process Recycled feedstock or using Recycled feedstock in the production of another product or soil amendment, or
that is used in an Advanced Manufacturing process, or
that is used to manufacture Alternative Source products or Advanced Transportation Technologies.

Eligible manufacturers planning to construct a new manufacturing facility or expand or upgrade a currently existing manufacturing facility may apply to CAEATFA for an STE award, and if approved, the purchases of Qualified Property for the project are not subject to state and local sales and use tax.

Esmeralda Juarez, Ventura College Foundation’s Weekend Marketplace Supervisor, Named A Ventura Chamber Hometown Hero During Annual Poinsettia Awards

by Community Contributor • December 21, 2021 • Comments Off

Esmeralda Juarez, Ventura College Foundation’s Weekend Marketplace supervisor, was named a Ventura Chamber of Commerce 2021 Hometown Hero during the chamber’s annual Poinsettia Awards Ceremony December 9.

Juarez, who has worked at the Marketplace for 20 years, was honored for her leadership that enabled the Marketplace to remain open and serve the community during the pandemic. For over 35 years, residents have relied on the Marketplace for their everyday goods and fresh produce. The Marketplace also generated almost 100 percent of the operating revenue of the Ventura College Foundation through vendor rental income. When the county shut down on March 13, 2020, the Marketplace closed, leaving the community without an open-air fresh food and goods market and the Ventura College Foundation with only three months of operating cash.

United Way announces departure of President & CEO Eric Harrison to lead United Way of Central and Northeastern Connecticut

by Community Contributor • December 21, 2021 • Comments Off

United Way of Ventura County (UWVC) announced (Dec. 21) that President and CEO Eric Harrison has notified the Board of Directors of his decision to resign from his role in order to accept the CEO position with United Way of Central and Northeastern Connecticut.

Harrison joined UWVC in December 2014. He will continue to serve Ventura County in his current role through mid-February 2022. The UWVC Board of Directors are in the process of taking the next steps to identify a successor.

SBCC uses federal stimulus funds to erase student debt and offer direct support

by Community Contributor • December 21, 2021 • Comments Off

Since last August, approximately 1,800 Santa Barbara City College students have received a form of debt relief, and an opportunity to pursue and complete their educational goals, thanks to SBCC’s Fresh Start Initiative and the federal Higher Education Emergency Relief Fund (HEERF).

HEERF funds were allocated to institutions to support students with immediate needs related to the COVID-19 pandemic. One way that SBCC met those needs was by creating the Fresh Start Initiative, allocating $1 million to go directly to students with outstanding balances. Through the initiative, students enrolled in Spring 2020 through Spring 2021 terms impacted by the COVID-19 pandemic were provided with funds to pay off their entire outstanding balance. In addition, students who left SBCC prior to the pandemic who are attempting to re-enroll – and find themselves challenged by COVID-19 related circumstances and restricted from registration due to a pre-pandemic balance – were also provided with Fresh Start monies.

UCSB — The Current — ‘Sending our warmest season’s greetings and happiest holiday wishes’

by Community Contributor • December 21, 2021 • Comments Off

We’ll meet you back here Tuesday, January 4, 2022, when the Current email returns with more research news, features and other campus stories to share.

Ventura County Arts Council — Call to Artists! Recharge | Online Entry Deadline Dec. 31

by Community Contributor • December 21, 2021 • Comments Off

RECHARGE
Rejuvenate | Renew
Exhibition dates: Friday, January 12th to Tuesday, February 22nd

We are back to in-person art-on-walls exhibitions

Juried Competition, CASH PRIZES

Your opportunity to have your artwork in one of the largest and most visible art venues in Ventura County!

VCCDC Community Matters Newsletter – Dec. 2021 — Empowering Sylvia to Keep Her Very Special Home

by Community Contributor • December 20, 2021 • Comments Off

80-year-old Sylvia Johnson has lived in her Paso Robles home for 27 years after building it from the ground up alongside her husband after her two children had flown the nest. Tragically, Sylvia’s husband passed away unexpectedly at the age of 55 before the house was finished, leaving Sylvia to continue the build alone. “I was in there every day it was being built,” remembers Sylvia, “and because of losing my husband during that time my home is more special to me than anything.”

When it came to refinancing her home in September of this year, Sylvia felt a little nervous about the process and dreaded reading all the paperwork. When she spoke on the phone with Gaby, VCCDC’s Homeownership Specialist, her fears melted away.

The Expectation of Happiness and Joy are Part of the Paradox of This Holiday Season

by Community Contributor • December 20, 2021 • Comments Off

The holiday season is upon us, and for many it’s not the happiest season of all.

While celebrations can bring positive feelings like love and connection, according to the American Psychological Association, 38% of Americans say their stress actually gets worse during the holidays, bringing about negative emotions like fatigue, anger and irritability, which can lead to physical illness, depression, anxiety, and substance abuse. The reasons given: lack of time, financial pressure, gift-giving, and family gatherings. And, even after the holidays, many experience a feeling of general disappointment and “let down”.

“One of the most beneficial things we can do leading into the holiday season is to reassess our expectations–our expectations of ourselves, and our expectations of others. This will create a more realistic foundation from which to move forward through the season,” said Annmarie Cameron, CEO of the Mental Wellness Center.

EDC’s Economic 411 Labor Market Report for November 2021

by Community Contributor • December 20, 2021 • Comments Off

The California Labor Market Information Division (LMID) released its November 2021 report on Friday the 17th, revealing a strong three-month trend of improvements in Ventura County’s unemployment rate, now at 4.4%, down from 5.0% in October. Also showing some positive movement, employment gains were a bit more widely distributed than in prior months, though up in only six of the twelve major subsectors.

What’s a bit more disappointing, however, is the lackluster showing in holiday Retail hiring. While Retail gained 900 jobs in November, we’re actually showing 300 fewer Retail jobs this November than last and we’re off by 3,600 jobs since November 2019. None of this is surprising given the movement to on-line purchasing, but it’s worth reminding that the loss of these temporary holiday jobs has taken a ton of work experience opportunities away from young workers and has reduced opportunity for a boost in family incomes during the holidays. For more commentary on the data, see below; for the monthly detail, the LMID release is here.

Bilingual report — Dec. 20, 2021 – COVID-19 Update

by Community Contributor • December 20, 2021 • Comments Off

Over 900 farmworker families received close to 3,000 toys and nearly 1,200 boxes of food yesterday thanks to an amazing first-time collaboration among Ventura County Fire Department, our Farmworker Resource Program, and Food Share of Ventura County! We are so grateful for the generosity of our community! There is still time to participate in Spark of Love Toy Drive.

Economic Development Collaborative (EDC) — Free Webinar Schedule

by Community Contributor • December 20, 2021 • Comments Off

The Economic Development Collaborative encourages you to sign up for our partner’s no-cost webinars. Space is limited. Register today!

Housing Trust Fund Ventura County provides $4 million in pre-development construction loan funds for Rancho Sierra Senior Apartments

by Community Contributor • December 18, 2021 • Comments Off

Housing Trust Fund Ventura County announced today that it is providing a $4 million pre-development construction loan to kick-off the development of Rancho Sierra Senior Apartments (Rancho Sierra), to be built in an unincorporated area adjacent to the City of Camarillo. Rancho Sierra is being developed by Many Mansionswith support from the Area Housing Authority of the County of Ventura to provide affordable housing solutions for low-income seniors in eastern Ventura County.

SBCC — SBCC Board of Trustees elects new officers for 2022

by Community Contributor • December 18, 2021 • Comments Off

At its regular monthly meeting on Dec. 16, 2021, the Santa Barbara City College District Board of Trustees elected Kate Parker as president of the Board for the 2022 calendar year. Jonathan Abboud was elected Board vice president.

President Parker joined the Board in December 2018 and represents Area 7 (Santa Barbara). Born in the Philippines, Parker moved to the Santa Barbara area in 1977 and attended schools in Carpinteria before heading to UC Berkeley for her undergraduate degree. After receiving her bachelor’s degree, she returned to Santa Barbara in 1992, where she and her husband raised three children. She was elected to the Santa Barbara Unified School District Board of Education in 2006 and served three terms working on behalf of local children and families. Kate received her master’s degree in Library and Information Science from San Jose State University in 2015 and served as the library director at Cate School in Carpinteria. She is dedicated to advancing educational opportunities for learners of all ages, and particularly for first generation college students.

Consulado de Mexico en Oxnard — 2022 Mexico/United States Teacher Exchange Program

by Community Contributor • December 18, 2021 • Comments Off

2022 Mexico/United States Teacher Exchange Program

Planned Parenthood San Luis Obispo Health Center Goes Solar

by Community Contributor • December 18, 2021 • Comments Off

Planned Parenthood California Central Coast celebrated its first solar electric system at its San Luis Obispo health center, as part of a regional plan to increase its reliance on renewable energy sources. The system is expected to net $250,000 in financial savings over the next 30 years. The project was part of CEC’s Solarize Nonprofit program and was made possible by support from Asteri Solar.

CEC’s Solarize Nonprofit pilot program is designed to help local nonprofits go solar and run off renewable energy without an upfront cost. The program grew out of CEC’s residential Solarize program, which has helped 858 homeowners go solar. The installation at Planned Parenthood was completed in partnership with CEC, funded by Asteri Solar, and installed by local company Solarponics Energy Management Systems.

People’s Self-Help Housing — Got 5 mins? Build a Home for the Holidays!

by Community Contributor • December 18, 2021 • Comments Off

Each year, our tradition has been to brighten the season with a heartfelt craft for you and your loved ones to make together.

This year’s card represents some of the 5,000+ people who call People’s Self-Help Housing home.

Please enjoy, and thank you for all your support!

Bilingual report — County of Ventura Dec. 17, 2021 – COVID-19 Update

by Community Contributor • December 17, 2021 • Comments Off

Since Wednesday, there are 329 new COVID-19 cases reported and 15,732 new tests performed. There are 75 people hospitalized, 13 in the ICU. There have been 2 additional deaths of a 41 year old male and a 96 year old male. Our sincere condolences to the family and loved ones of the community members who passed away. The R-effective for Ventura County is .96 which means the spread is likely stable.

Get vaccinated at a site near you: www.vaccines.gov.
Find a COVID testing site at www.vcrecovers.org/testing
The County of Ventura’s indoor mask order remains in effect

Museum of Ventura County to present Las Posadas on Dec. 17 in Santa Paula

by Community Contributor • December 17, 2021 • Comments Off

The Museum of Ventura County’s Agriculture Museum will present Las Posadas procession starting at 6 p.m. Friday, Dec. 17 in Santa Paula. The celebration is in partnership with De Colores Multicultural Folk Arts.

Las Posadas, (The Inns in Spanish) is a Latinx traditional holiday that commemorates the biblical journey of Mary and Joseph from Nazareth to Bethlehem in search of lodging and a safe refuge for Mary to give birth to Jesus. After nine days of searching for lodging (Las Posadas are celebrated December 16th through 24th, representing the nine (9) days), an Innkeeper gave Mary and Joseph shelter in a stable as there was no room at the inns.

Bilingual report — Entering an Age of Virus Mutations

by Community Contributor • December 17, 2021 • Comments Off

Last summer, we started doffing our masks and reuniting with family and friends. There was a festive glee in the air we breathed as if we who were now vaccinated against COVID were celebrating “The End of the Pandemic.” There was a feeling that now, finally, we could get on with our lives and regard the previous year as something akin to a very bad dream.

The party did not last long. Just as we were putting away the champagne glasses and summer party hats, the Delta variant emerged “from out of nowhere,” quashing our hopes of a return to near normal. We grumbled as we took our masks out from the drawers where we had stored them as “souvenirs” from a crisis that we had survived. Or, if we had ceremoniously burned or shredded our masks, we kvetched as we had to go out and buy new ones.

Bilingual report — $70 Property Tax Break Available for Qualified Homeowners

by Community Contributor • December 17, 2021 • Comments Off

More than 52,000 Ventura County homeowners may have an extra $70 in their pocket this year, just by filling out a simple form. This week, the Ventura County Assessor mailed Homeowners’ Exemption Claim Forms to over 52,000 homeowners that likely qualify for this property tax break.

The Assessor typically mails a Homeowners’ Exemption Claim to new owners. However, in the busy paperwork shuffle of buying a new home, many property owners miss out on this valuable opportunity. In an effort to maximize property tax savings, the Assessor periodically reaches out to potentially eligible homeowners.

CSUCI Nursing alumnus saves the life of a mother of two

by Community Contributor • December 16, 2021 • Comments Off

CSU Channel Islands (CSUCI) Nursing alumnus Claire Gillette had just finished a 12-hour shift in the emergency room at Los Robles Regional Medical Center in Thousand Oaks, and she was exhausted. Did she have enough energy for a yoga class before going home?

“I work night shift and I never take that class after a shift because I’m tired, and it’s hot yoga with weights,” Gillette said. “But there was a spot open in the class and I thought ‘I’m feeling into the weights.’”

Had Gillette not joined the class on that particular day, and had she not been prepared with nursing skills she learned at CSUCI, the husband and two sons of Erika Cole, 44, would be spending the holidays without her.

“Claire is the only reason I’m alive today,” Cole said.

Economic Development Collaborative (EDC) Business Alert — Ways to Market Your Business During the Holidays

by Community Contributor • December 16, 2021 • Comments Off

The Holiday Season is here! The Economic Development Collaborative (EDC) would like to share some ways small businesses can boost their sales during the holidays and ways you can support local businesses this year.

3 Top Ways to Help Boost Your Small Business Holiday Sales

UCSB — The Current — ‘A Call to Action’ and more news

by Community Contributor • December 16, 2021 • Comments Off

An exhibit at the library brings to life the public experiences of COVID-19 and Black Lives Matter.

Bilingual report — County Board of Supervisors supports the creation of more than 235 affordable housing units filling critical gap in housing needs for the most vulnerable and expanding behavioral health support

by Community Contributor • December 15, 2021 • Comments Off

On December 14, the County Board of Supervisors approved actions that support the creation of more than 235 units of new affordable, permanent supportive housing and transitional housing. “Homelessness and mental illness are our two most pressing social issues, and so I’m delighted that our last board meeting of 2021 capped a year of stepping up to provide shelter and affordable housing and services to these vulnerable populations,” said Chair of the Board Linda Parks.

The projects support those experiencing homelessness, at risk of becoming homeless, transition aged youth (age 18-24) and seniors. The Board also supported the expansion of Behavioral Health Mobile Crisis Care Units and the development of a Transitional Age Youth Rapid Response Team to provide mental health support services throughout the County.

“There is a critical need for housing in our communities. The Board action is a huge step in helping to fill that gap,” said County Executive Officer Mike Powers. “In addition to housing, these community members will have access to supportive services to help meet their needs.”

Livingston Memorial — Grief Support during the Holidays

by Community Contributor • December 15, 2021 • Comments Off

It’s that time of year when the expectations we place on ourselves can be unrealistic, especially when faced with the absence of a loved one. Livingston Memorial’s Grief and Bereavement Program can offer compassion and understanding during this difficult time of year. Livingston offers multiple support groups that focus on restorative activities, seeking meaning and purpose, identifying changes to self, and receiving support in making life good again.

December News from People’s Self-Help Housing

by Community Contributor • December 15, 2021 • Comments Off

As I reflect over the course we’ve navigated through 2021 together, this has been a year of tremendous progress. Thank you for your gracious and resilient support, we are more grateful than ever to have been so deeply engaged with you. The mission of providing new affordable homes, preserving others, and increasing services to those in most need continues to be a heavy lift, but one made possible because of your partnership.

Bilingual report — Dec. 15, 2021 – COVID-19 Update

by Community Contributor • December 15, 2021 • Comments Off

Ventura County Public Health will begin offering residents two $25 gift cards ($50) who get a second COVID vaccine dose starting December 14, while supplies last. Residents receiving a first dose will continue to receive one $25 gift card. View Public Health’s vaccine sites here. Shout out to our awesome nurses Ruby (left) and Mallory (right), for their service to our community!

Economic Development Collaborative (EDC) — New Masking Requirements for Businesses

by Community Contributor • December 15, 2021 • Comments Off

Centers for Disease Control and Prevention:
On July 27, 2021, the Center for Disease Control and Prevention (CDC) issued new masking guidance for fully vaccinated individuals in substantial or high transmission areas. This information can be tracked HERE.

NEW California Department of Public Health:
On December 13, 2021, the California Department of Public Health (CDPH) updated their Guidance for the Use of Face Coverings, requiring universal masking indoors, irrespective of vaccine status, statewide from December 15, 2021 to January 15, 2021.

Boys & Girls Clubs of Greater Conejo Valley Announces New Board Member: Judith Sánchez López

by Community Contributor • December 15, 2021 • Comments Off

The Boys & Girls Clubs of Greater Conejo Valley (BGCGCV) is excited to announce its newest board member, Judith Sánchez López.

López has over 30 years of experience as an expert in cosmetics and as a high-level executive. She is skilled in leading sales teams in her previous role as Sales Division Manager, now supervising the corporate brand as the Chief Marketing Officer for JAFRA Cosmetics Int’l. She strives to nourish brand relevancy and inspire the brand’s consumers and consultants alike.

United Way of Ventura County — United in compassion

by Community Contributor • December 15, 2021 • Comments Off

Earlier this month, I celebrated my seventh anniversary with United Way of Ventura County.

Since I started in 2014, our organization has navigated many changes. We moved to a new office in Ventura, took on multiple disaster response and recovery efforts, developed a program to house the homeless in our community, and now we’re helping our neighbors through the pandemic.

Through it all, we’ve remained remarkably resilient. But the source of our resilience is people like you, who care so deeply about your fellow community members. Your generosity and caring inspire us throughout the year.

It’s truly an honor to lead this incredible team, to serve those in need, and to help improve the conditions for all in community. We strive to lead with compassion and unity, rather than division. It’s the United Way.

Bilingual award — City of Oxnard Wins $7.1 Million Grant to Revitalize Durley Park

by Community Contributor • December 14, 2021 • Comments Off

The City of Oxnard won a $7.1 million grant for improvements to Durley Park as part of Governor Newsom’s “Outdoors for All” initiative to enable all Californians, regardless of zip code or income, to access parks and open space.

The California State Parks’ grant funding will allow the City to invest in restorations to the current Durley Park space and add amenities such as a new area for a bike pump track/skate park, a community track for walkers and joggers, and much more.

“Revitalizing our parks is very important to our community,” said Mayor John Zaragoza. “From Oxnard’s seniors to our youth, everyone’s quality of life improves with access to open-space and recreational opportunities.”

“We’re excited that the State recognized the potential of Durley Park,” said Mayor Pro Tem Bryan MacDonald, whose District 4 includes Durley Park. “With this grant funding, the City is able to add amenities, from picnic areas to athletic fields, that will benefit the whole community.”

Museum of Ventura County — Stuff. Those. Stockings

by Community Contributor • December 14, 2021 • Comments Off

We are so excited to present our fun new Museum gift shop items, including one of a kind puzzles with rare historical images from the Research Library! If you’re a fan of Arte Para la Gente: The Collected Works of Margaret Garcia come get your own magnet with her beautiful artwork on it. Popular as ever are our MVC paintbrush pens, collect all four! Find these special items at the Museum of Ventura County or the Agriculture Museum in Santa Paula, while supplies last. Both Museums are open from Thursday-Sunday 11am-5pm.

Data study measures how CSUCI students with disabilities fared with all-virtual learning

by Community Contributor • December 14, 2021 • Comments Off

An in-depth research projected conducted at CSU Channel Islands (CSUCI) this year showed how well students with disabilities fared during virtual learning brought on by the COVID-19 pandemic, and indicated what needs still needed to be addressed.

The project, called “Exploring Service Allocations and Student Success for CI Students with Disabilities Before, During, and After Virtual Instruction Due to COVID-19,” was part of an ongoing program run by the CSU Chancellor’s Office called the Data Analytics Certificate Program. Out of all 23 campuses, the Chancellor’s Office highlighted CSUCI’s data research study as one of the top three projects.

“We were able to put together an incredibly rich data set,” said CSUCI Director of Disability Accommodations & Support Services (DASS) Michelle Resnick, who led the project. “This rich data set tells a lot of story and there is the potential to really drill down and see what needs to be done.”

Grand Re-Openings At Simi Valley and Yarrow YMCAs

by Community Contributor • December 14, 2021 • Comments Off

The Southeast Ventura County YMCA is celebrating a re-opening and major improvements to its Simi Valley branch and the re-opening of the Yarrow Family YMCA in Westlake Village. Tours, kid fun, entertainment, food and other activities will take place Saturday, January 8 at the Simi Valley Family YMCA (3200 Cochran St., Simi Valley) and Saturday, January 22 at the Yarrow Family YMCA (31105 Thousand Oaks Blvd., Westlake Village). Celebration hours are 1:00 p.m. to 4:00 p.m. both days. Free tacos will be served while they last.

Improvements at the Simi Y include an additional group exercise and fitness studio, a small-group training studio, remodeled locker rooms, new equipment, new paint, flooring and energy-efficient lighting. “It’s been years since the Simi Y had these kinds of upgrades,” says Ronnie Stone, President/CEO of the Y. “They were needed to better serve the Simi Valley community.”

Bilingual report — Consulado de Mexico en Oxnard: Control de Armas, Persona del Año 2021 – ¡Vote ahora! / 2021 Arms Control Person of the Year – Vote Now!

by Community Contributor • December 14, 2021 • Comments Off

The illicit arms trade is a subject of the utmost interest for Mexico and the entire Latin American region due to the violence that this activity brings about. Despite the specific national contexts, the violence caused by arms trafficking has consequences of great magnitude on the quality of life of our populations, as well as, on the development of our countries.

In that regard, last August, the Government of Mexico filed a lawsuit, before a United States federal district court against manufacturers and distributors of firearms, for negligent commercial practices that promote arms trafficking to our country. It is important to point out that the litigation is not against the U.S. government nor against the right of U.S. citizens to own and bear arms in their country (Second Amendment of its Constitution). The aim is to prevent criminal groups from benefiting from this illicit trafficking, that is, the drug cartels who do not have the right to possess and bear arms.

Assemblymember Irwin announces Legislation on Organized Retail Theft Prosecutions

by Community Contributor • December 14, 2021 • Comments Off

Assemblymember Jacqui Irwin (D – Thousand Oaks) joined Ventura County Sheriff Bill Ayub and Ventura County District Attorney Erik Nasarenko this morning to announce her plans to introduce legislation to respond to the recent occurrences of brazen organized retail theft in California.

“We have all seen the news accounts of store clerks being pistol whipped, shoppers being pepper sprayed, and thieves using sledgehammers to threaten anyone in their way,” shared Assemblymember Irwin. “I will not wait out this holiday season and let these organized groups continue to believe they can prey on California shoppers and retailers with no repercussions.”

Housing Authority City of Santa Barbara Groundbreaking for Vera Cruz Village housing complex taking place Dec. 15

by Community Contributor • December 14, 2021 • Comments Off

The Housing Authority City of Santa Barbara (HACSB) is pleased to announce that the ground breaking ceremony for Vera Cruz Village, at 116 East Cota Street, will take place on Wednesday, December 15th at 10 a.m. HACSB officials, Mayor Cathy Murrillo, Alejandra Gutierrez, Santa Barbara 1st District City Council Member, Oscar Gutierrez, Santa Barbara 3rd District City Council Member, a representative forCongressman Salud Carbajal and other dignitaries will be onsite with shovels in hand to participate in the official ceremonial launch of the project. Vera Cruz Village represents the HACSB’s latest affordable housing project designated for special needs and homeless individuals in the community. People experiencing homelessness have high rates of chronic mental and physical health conditions, co- occurring disorders, and barriers to receiving health care. Santa Barbara continues to grapple with adequately addressing this issue. The most recent Point-in-Time count completed in January 2020 found 1,897 homeless residents countywide, with 914 (48%) living in the City of Santa Barbara. The chronically homeless in the county rose from 423 to 614, a 45% increase (Santa Barbara County Point in Time Count 2020).

Economic Development Collaborative (EDC) Business Alert — California Competes Tax Credit and Grant Program

by Community Contributor • December 14, 2021 • Comments Off

The California Competes Tax Credit (CCTC) and Grant Program (CCGP) are 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 fiscal year 2021-2022, GO-Biz will accept applications for the California Competes Tax Credit during the following periods:

January 3, 2022 – January 24, 2022
March 7, 2022 – March 28, 2022

UCSB — The Current — ‘Ancient Acid Taste Receptors’ and more news

by Community Contributor • December 14, 2021 • Comments Off

Anindya Ganguly and Craig Montell identify and characterize a sour receptor conserved from fruit flies to humans.

Triunfo Water & Sanitation District Board Member Leon Shapiro Appointed To Ventura Regional Sanitation District Board

by Community Contributor • December 14, 2021 • Comments Off

Leon Shapiro, a Triunfo Water & Sanitation District (TWSD) board member, was appointed to the Ventura Regional Sanitation District (VRSD) board of directors for a one-year term beginning this month.

The VRSD board is made up of representatives from eight Ventura County cities and a representative from one of five special districts in the county that receive water and wastewater services from VRSD. Shapiro will represent the special districts during his one-year term.

Shapiro has served on the TWSD board since he was appointed in 2018 and subsequently elected in 2020.

Santa Barbara First District Supervisor Das Williams — Evacuation Order for Alisal Burn Scar Area & Storm Details

by Community Contributor • December 13, 2021 • Comments Off

Supervisor Joan Hartmann, who represents the area that recently burned in the Alisal Fire, recently sent out information to her constituents regarding an Evacuation Order that has been issued for the Alisal Fire burn scar. From Supervisor Hartmann:

“Meteorologists and emergency personnel continue to track an intense winter storm expected to arrive in Santa Barbara County around 6 pm tonight. This storm is expected to bring periods of heavy rain and high winds through Tuesday morning.

Rainfall totals could exceed 1″ or more per hour, which exceeds the thresholds for possible debris flows in the Alisal burn area.

Given these rainfall projections, the Sheriff issued an evacuation order for the Alisal burn area which went into effect at noon today. The Sheriff is going door-to-door to inform residents about the evacuation and to educate residents about storm related risks. The Sheriff, Fire Department and Public Works Department are all stationing emergency resources and staff to respond to this upcoming storm.”

Economic Development Collaborative (EDC) — Free Weekly Webinar Schedule

by Community Contributor • December 13, 2021 • Comments Off

SCORE VENTURA COUNTY: MINDFULNESS FUNDAMENTALS FOR SMALL BUSINESS OWNERS AND STAFF

December 14 @ 10:30 am

In this practical, interactive session, Amy Saltzman M.D. will show you how mindfulness and self-compassion practices can support you during this unusual and stressful time.

CLICK HERE TO REGISTER

Newest members bring financial and economic development expertise to the CSUCI Foundation Board

by Community Contributor • December 13, 2021 • Comments Off

The CSU Channel Islands (CSUCI) Foundation Board is welcoming two new members with a wealth of experience in banking and community investment opportunities.

The two new members are New Capital LLC Chief Executive Officer Beatriz Olvera Stotzer of Los Angeles and Montecito Bank & Trust Senior Vice President and Director of Community Banking Cari Shore of Ojai.

Interim President Richard Yao, Ph.D., said he is excited to welcome two such accomplished leaders in the community and looks forward to working with them both.

“We are fortunate to have these two innovative and entrepreneurial women join our board,” Yao said. “They not only bring incredible talent, experience and thought leadership to the Foundation, but also are deeply connected in our region and are committed to our mission as a University and to the work of the Foundation Board.”

Museum of Contemporary Art Santa Barbara — Shop for unique holiday gifts @ MCASB | Saturday, Dec. 18

by Community Contributor • December 13, 2021 • Comments Off

Shop for unique holiday gifts crafted by artists and designers at MCASB’s Gift Studio Pop-Up Holiday Market.

Featuring FREE hands-on holiday craft workshops for the whole family, hot cocoa, and Happy Hour from 2:00-6:00 PM when you can shop with spiked festive drinks in hand, accompanied by a curated DJ set.

FEATURING: Augie’s Agave – Camille K Jewelry – Demi Boelsterli – Monica Epstein – Madeleine Ignon – SlingShot Art Studio – SWEETZER Gourmet Popcorn – Yellow Rat – Rhys Zemeckis

Bilingual report — Dec. 13, 2021 – COVID-19 Update

by Community Contributor • December 13, 2021 • Comments Off

Since Friday, there are 381 new COVID-19 cases reported and 16,256 new tests performed. There are 50 people hospitalized, 10 in the ICU. There have been 2 additional deaths of males ages 54 and 83. Our sincere condolences to the family and loved ones of the community members who passed away. The R-effectivefor Ventura County is 1.12 which means the spread is likely increasing.

Find a COVID testing site at www.vcrecovers.org/testing. The modified holiday schedule for state testing sites is now available.

Boosters are now available for 16- and 17-year-olds. Find a vaccine site at www.vaccines.gov.

Ventura County Office of Education — Responding to Social Media Threats and Bullying

by Community Contributor • December 13, 2021 • Comments Off

Across the country and here in Ventura County, schools are seeing a concerning increase in students making inappropriate and potentially dangerous posts to social media, particularly on Instagram. These posts have included threats of violence and embarrassing pictures of students and staff members who didn’t know they were being photographed. In some cases, students create accounts that fraudulently appear to represent their school.

First confirmed case of Omicron COVID-19 variant identified in Ventura County

by Community Contributor • December 13, 2021 • Comments Off

The County of Ventura Public Health Department has received confirmation of its first case of COVID-19 with mutations consistent with the new Omicron variant (B.1.1.529). The individual, who is a fully vaccinated adult, is self-isolating, and their symptoms are improving without medical care. A small number of close contacts have been identified and, to date, all have tested negative and have no symptoms. The contacts have been asked to follow the quarantine protocol.

“Throughout the pandemic, we have always known there would be more mutations, resulting in the possibility of a more transmissible variant than the Delta variant,” said Public Health Officer Doctor Robert Levin. “While we can’t know for certain the impact of Omicron at this time, the good news is that we already know how to reduce transmission and slow spread. I encourage community members to take the steps that we know offer protection, including getting vaccinated, completing your vaccination series, or getting boosted, getting tested and staying at home if you feel sick or are a close contact, and wearing your mask indoors and at large mega events.”

BBSVC: CEO Lynne West announces retirement after 34 Years

by Community Contributor • December 13, 2021 • Comments Off

After over 34 years as the Chief Executive Officer of Big Brothers Big Sisters of Ventura County (BBSVC), Lynne West has decided that the timing is right to retire from her role. Over her tenure, Ms. West has led the local agency as well as served as a Big Sisters to her Little, Juanita, for over a decade. She has also sat on state and national committees that have allowed her to use her voice for the betterment of the entire Big Brothers Big Sisters federation.

At the close of 2021, BBSVC is able to celebrate Ms. West’s retirement with the acknowledgement that the local agency will be recognized for achieving Gold Standard, a Big Brothers Big Sisters of America designation for BBBS agencies that go above and beyond best practice standards through youth mentorship.

Bilingual report — Dec. 10, 2021 – COVID-19 Update

by Community Contributor • December 10, 2021 • Comments Off

The generosity of County employees on full display in Downtown Ventura! Big shout out to all county agencies that helped build a forest of trees contributing to Food Share of Ventura County’s Can Tree Build today! A heartfelt thank you to Food Share all volunteers that make this effort possible. All hands on deck to make sure no family goes hungry this season and throughout the year!

Local PODS® Announces Its Tenth Year of Support for Food Share CAN-tree Food Drive to Help Local Community

by Community Contributor • December 10, 2021 • Comments Off

Local PODS Moving and Storage will once again support Food Share Ventura County’s CAN-tree event December 9-12 at Figueroa Plaza – Downtown Ventura. This year marks a special 10-year anniversary celebration.

“We’re proud to partner with Food Share for this annual event to help stock the food bank shelves with the extra canned food donations needed to help families through the holidays,” said Steve Yapp, owner of local PODS Moving and Storage. “Food Share helps thousands of food insecure families every holiday season, and we consider it an honor to be able to support their cause.”

PODS local have been supporting Food Share CAN-tree event programs since its origination in 2011. Each year, the community gathers to build a “forest” of can trees built from donated food that will soon be distributed to families for the holidays.

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