Category: Local

First District Supervisor Das Williams — Remembering Those We Have Lost

by Community Contributor • May 27, 2024 • Comments Off

It’s hard to believe that it’s been 10 years since our community was struck by a tragic mass killing in Isla Vista. This is a time to remember those we lost: George Chen, Chengyuan “James” Hong, Weihan “David” Wang, Katherine Breann Cooper, Christopher Ross Michaels-Martinez, and Veronika Elizabeth Weiss. Yesterday, the community gathered together once more as we did after that fateful night in their memory. For the families of the six who were killed, the residents of IV, and the emergency personnel first on the scene, this was a traumatic and unimaginable experience.

Ventura County Fire Dept. — Trainees of Academy 61 Graduate to Probationary Ventura County Firefighters

by Community Contributor • May 27, 2024 • Comments Off

CAMARILLO — Fifteen people joined the Ventura County Fire Department ranks on Friday after graduating from the department’s 61st firefighter academy.

“I commend everyone who graduated today for committing themselves to a career of public service,” Fire Chief Dustin Gardner said. “We work in a challenging and dangerous profession. We show up to help people who might be facing one of the worst days of their lives. And we put ourselves in harm’s way to protect others. It takes special people to do this, and I am glad to welcome each of them to the Ventura County Fire Department.”

Bilingual report — The latest news from the County of Ventura

by Community Contributor • May 27, 2024 • Comments Off

Earlier this month, the County of Ventura hosted a visit from the Senior Advisor on Homelessness for Governor Gavin Newsom, Hafsa Kaka, and Deputy Regional Director of External Affairs, Vishesh Anand.
The visit consisted of a presentation on County efforts to address homelessness and several site visits with local nonprofit partners.

‘Latina Characters & Women’s Voices’ featuring local authors Cara Lopez Lee and Mona Alvarado Frazier to be held on May 29 at Timbre Books in Ventura

by Community Contributor • May 27, 2024 • Comments Off

VENTURA — “Latina Characters & Women’s Voices” featuring local authors Cara Lopez Lee and Mona Alvarado Frazier to be held from 7 to 8 p.m. on Wednesday, May 29 at Timbre Books, 1910 E. Main St., Ventura.

Cara Lopez Lee is the author of the historical novel, Candlelight Bridge (May 28, FlowerSong Press). She’s also the author of the memoir, They Only Eat Their Husbands, and coauthor of the veteran-acclaimed Unexpected Prisoner: Memoir of a Vietnam POW (with Robert Wideman). Her writing has appeared in the Los Angeles Times, Rivet and Manifest-Station.

After decades of working with incarcerated youth in Ventura County, Mona is fulfilling her passion for writing fiction. When she’s not exploring new destinations or writing, you can find her lost in a book or binge-watching K-dramas.

She is a member of SCBWI, Macondo Writers, and a co-founder of #LatinxPitch, an annual X pitch event.

Ventura County Supervisor Janice Parvin responds to CPUC’s proposed motion to discmiss AT&T targeted relief request of COLR

by Community Contributor • May 27, 2024 • Comments Off

“The CPUC’s proposed decision to dismiss AT&T’s request underscores the importance of ensuring equitable access to essential services for all residents of Ventura County”, stated Supervisor Parvin. “As your County Supervisor, I remain committed to advocating for policies that prioritize Public Safety and the needs of our constituents, particularly those in underserved areas.”

Bilingual commentary — The Impact of the Meat Industry on Climate Change

by Community Contributor • May 23, 2024 • Comments Off

Earlier this month, Florida’s Gov. Ron DeSantis signed into law a bill that bans the manufacture and distribution of lab-grown meat. He righteously declared that he was protecting cattle farmers in his state but then characteristically proceeded to blame the “global elite.” This murky, amorphous force is, according to the governor, surreptitiously foisting its “authoritarian goals” on those of us who would dare to suggest that the meat industry is contributing significantly to climate change. He disparaged the mysterious entities that want to force us to eat “fake meat.”

United Way of Ventura County — 19th Annual Spirit Awards – Save the Date: Aug. 15

by Community Contributor • May 23, 2024 • Comments Off

Exclusive VIP Event Sponsorship Reception at 5 p.m.

Registry and Networking at 6 p.m.

Dinner and Awards from 6:30 to 8:30 p.m.

YMCA To Host Summer Camp in Big Bear, Taking Sign-Ups

by Community Contributor • May 23, 2024 • Comments Off

WESTLAKE VILLAGE — Southeast Ventura County YMCA is taking sign-ups for its annual summer resident camp at Camp Bear in Big Bear. Camp runs from July 28th through August 3rd.

The YMCA camp is for kids entering 3rd through 7th grades. Campers unplug and take part in such activities as kayaking, tubing, archery, rope climbing, hiking, and swimming, with campfires each night. Campers also learn about nature around them, wilderness survival and leadership skills. Throughout the camp experience, emphasis is placed on the YMCA’s core values of caring, honesty, respect and responsibility.

UCSB —The Current — ‘Controlling the chaos of active fluids’ and more news, events

by Community Contributor • May 23, 2024 • Comments Off

Physicists Cristina Marchetti and Mark Bowick develop design rules that take advantage of topological defects to control flows in active fluids.

Bilingual report — Ventura PD dedicates DUI checkpoint on Friday, May 31, 2024 to the memory of Coldren Kiblinger

by Community Contributor • May 23, 2024 • Comments Off

This checkpoint will be dedicated to the memory of Coldren “Cole” Kiblinger. On December 25, 2022, Cole accepted a ride from a family friend he did not know was intoxicated. The driver went off an embankment on the Santa Susana Pass in Simi Valley. Cole was killed immediately. At the time of his passing, he was 23-years-old and looking to propose to his girlfriend the following year.

Bilingual report — Allan Hancock College honors 16 retiring faculty, staff employees

by Community Contributor • May 23, 2024 • Comments Off

SANTA MARIA — Allan Hancock College bid a fond farewell to 16 retiring employees who contributed a combined?346?years of service to the college during an in-person recognition ceremony on May 22.?

This year’s honored retirees included employees who spent decades serving Hancock students, as well as faculty and staff members who worked to support students in attaining their educational goals.?

“Each of these retirees is leaving behind a legacy of making a positive impact on the lives of our students,” said Hancock Superintendent/President Kevin G. Walthers, Ph.D. “We are incredibly thankful to each of them for their years of service at Hancock.”

In Remembrance of Memorial Day

by Amigos805.com • May 22, 2024 • Comments Off

Wishing everyone a safe and meaningful Memorial Day holiday weekend.

Memorial Day honors U.S. military service members who have died while serving in the United States Armed Forces.

In honor of this federal holiday, our office will be closed on Monday, March 27, 2024.

Central Coast media trio presenting ‘Moment of Truth — Sorting Fact from Fiction in the Misinformation Age’ free workshops

by Community Contributor • May 22, 2024 • Comments Off

SANTA BARBARA — With half of US adults getting their news from social media and YouTube, it’s tough to know what to believe anymore — but it doesn’t have to be!

Three local journalists are now offering free workshops to help Central Coasters become savvy, responsible media consumers. Their training – Moment of Truth: Sorting Fact from Fiction in the Misinformation Age – is full of practical tips and customized for each audience.

CSUCI Extended University and Embodied Labs team up to offer free family caregiver training

by Community Contributor • May 22, 2024 • Comments Off

To help ease what has become a national caregiving crisis, professional and family caregivers can now take advantage of free, self-paced online training from Embodied Labs, a Virtual Reality (VR) immersive training company that has formed a partnership with CSU Channel Islands (CSUCI) Extended University.

Bilingual report — County of Ventura Arts & Culture Division to receive $75,000 Our Town Grant from the National Endowment for the Arts

by Community Contributor • May 22, 2024 • Comments Off

“Projects like Channeling Murals exemplify the creativity and care with which communities are telling their stories, creating connection, and responding to challenges and opportunities in their communities—all through the arts,” said NEA Chair Maria Rosario Jackson, PhD. “So many aspects of our communities such as cultural vitality, health and wellbeing, infrastructure, and the economy are advanced and improved through investments in art and design, and the National Endowment for the Arts is committed to ensuring people across the country benefit.”

Bilingual report — Economic Development Collaborative (EDC) Economic 411 Labor Market Report

by Community Contributor • May 22, 2024 • Comments Off

Labor Market Report for April 2024

The California Labor Market Information Division released its April 2024 report on May 17 showing a strong monthly improvement in the unemployment rate—down from 4.6% in March to 4.2% in April—though nearly all of that improvement appears to be owing to a drop in the labor force by 4,200 workers and by a gain of 2,600 jobs in Farm. Aside from the Farm sector, the County’s net gain of jobs was only 300, making April a very slow month overall for hiring.

National Association of Government Communicators (NAGC) names Ventura County Fire Department PIO Andy VanSciver 2024 Communicator of the Year

by Community Contributor • May 22, 2024 • Comments Off

NEW ORLEANS — Andy VanSciver, a firefighter and public information officer for the Ventura County (California) Fire Department, was honored as the 2024 Communicator of the Year by the National Association of Government Communicators (NAGC) at the Association’s annual Communications School today in New Orleans.

The Communicator of the Year Award is NAGC’s highest honor.

“Andy VanSciver demonstrates a commitment to excellence in government communications that NAGC advocates, promotes and recognizes,” NAGC President Tabitha Clark said. “We hope his example will encourage others to enhance communications with the communities they serve.”

Bilingual report — Students in Allan Hancock College’s noncredit programs recognized

by Community Contributor • May 21, 2024 • Comments Off

SANTA MARIA — Students from Allan Hancock College’s noncredit programs were recognized for their accomplishments at a special ceremony on May 17 at the college’s Santa Mara campus.

More than 120 students from a variety of noncredit programs celebrated a diverse range of achievements, including completing English as a Second Language classes, earning their GED or passing their tests for United States Citizenship. Others celebrated earning certificates in computer skills, job training, and classes designed to help them prepare for careers in childcare, tax preparation, and commercial truck driving.

The event’s keynote speaker was Mayte Solis, a chemistry instructor at Santa Maria High School, Hancock alumna and the former coordinator for the college’s AIM to Dream Center.

UCSB — The Current — ‘Brenda Major elected to National Academy of Sciences’ and more news, events

by Community Contributor • May 21, 2024 • Comments Off

A distinguished professor emerita in the Department of Psychological & Brain Sciences, Major was cited for her pioneering and decades-long body of work on the psychological impacts of prejudice and discrimination.

Economic Development Collaborative (EDC) free event and webinar schedule

by Community Contributor • May 20, 2024 • Comments Off

CMTC: CMTC CYBERSECURITY TRAINING SERIES: TACTICS & TECHNIQUES USED BY THREAT ACTORS

May 21 @ 10:00 am

With support from the DoD, CMTC is offering a series of no-cost Cybersecurity Trainings for executives, operations and IT. Starting May 21st and ending June 27th, the trainings will be delivered on Tuesdays and Thursdays @ 10:00 – 11:30 AM PT. Each of the 12 trainings will focus on a specific cybersecurity topic.

CLICK HERE TO REGISTER

Allan Hancock College celebrates 2024 transfer students

by Community Contributor • May 20, 2024 • Comments Off

SANTA MARIA — Allan Hancock College celebrated 2024 graduates who will continue their education at four-year universities at its annual University Transfer Celebration on May 17 at the college’s Santa Maria campus.

Hosted each year by Hancock’s University Transfer Center, the event was an opportunity for Hancock’s transfer students to celebrate their achievements with their friends and family as they prepared for a new chapter in their educational journeys. More than 200 “transfer stars” were invited to this year’s celebration.

Participating students, many wearing apparel from their respective universities, received a commemorative?transfer?medallion, took photos with their soon-to-be university peers, and listened to messages of support from Hancock staff and their fellow?transfer?students.

“This is a chance to celebrate your accomplishments and get excited about your next adventure,” said Hancock’s Associate Superintendent/Vice President of Student Services Genevieve Siwabessy, Ed.D. “We know that wherever you are going next, you will excel.”

Ventura County Animal Services — A.I. Helps Reunite Lost Animals

by Community Contributor • May 20, 2024 • Comments Off

VENTURA COUNTY — Ventura County Animal Services (VCAS) announces its adoption of a revolutionary lost and found platform that leverages facial recognition technology to reunite lost animals with their families faster than ever before. The platform, Petco Love Lost, employs an algorithm that scans lost and found photos uploaded by the public and VCAS, and instantly notifies pet owners if a match is made. Numerous animal welfare organizations already using this platform have reported a substantial increase in animals being reclaimed by their families.

“Between 80%-90% of animals arriving at our shelter come to us as lost/stray. If everyone in Ventura County utilizes the Petco Love Lost platform, it could be the game-changer we have been hoping for!” Stated Randy Friedman, spokesperson for VCAS. “This could be the single greatest advancement in lost and found since microchip implants were introduced in the 1990s!”

The Port of Hueneme and City of Port Hueneme Announce Community Benefit Fund Scholarship Program

by Community Contributor • May 17, 2024 • Comments Off

PORT OF HUENEME — The Port of Hueneme and City of Port Hueneme are launching the Community Benefit Fund Scholarship Program. This program was developed to provide financial assistance and support the academic efforts of high school seniors residing in Port Hueneme. The program provides scholarship opportunities to students who are pursuing a college education or seeking to develop expertise in a trade or vocation. The program will provide eight $1,000 scholarships at an upcoming Recognition Ceremony. For details on how to apply and criteria, please email the contacts above or see the attached application packet.

Bilingual report — Women’s Economic Ventures (WEV) Receives Grant to Continue Support of Hispanic Immigrant Entrepreneurs

by Community Contributor • May 17, 2024 • Comments Off

SANTA BARBARA — Women’s Economic Ventures (WEV) is among a prestigious group of non-profits from around California recently selected to implement the “Breaking Barriers to Employment Initiative”. Breaking Barriers is a program of the Foundation for California Community Colleges in partnership with the California Workforce Development Board and the Labor and Workforce Development Agency. The program aims to support “historically underrepresented and economically overlooked populations such as veterans, refugees, formerly incarcerated individuals, women of color, and immigrants with pipelines to meaningful employment and quality jobs”. The programs selected promote the “economic success and increased social mobility of these populations while also addressing regional workforce needs and the social and economic inequality impacting California communities.” A full list of the Breaking Barriers 2.0 Awardees can be seen here.

Bilingual commentary — Entrepreneurship for College Graduates

by Community Contributor • May 17, 2024 • Comments Off

Many of today’s young people are looking askance at the concept of traditional work. What they pursue is entirely foreign to earlier generations, especially the boomer cohort, which is currently aging out of the workforce.

The members of “Generation Z,” for example, seek things that the boomer generation never expected to experience and generally never requested: work-life balance, autonomy, creative freedom, and a rapid ascent into the upper strata of income.

Ventura County Community Development Corp. (VCCDC) awarded $1,000,000 from Citi Foundation

by Community Contributor • May 16, 2024 • Comments Off

“Citi Foundation’s Community Progress Makers Grant is at the forefront of expanding VCCDC’s successful programs and services,” said Bertha Garcia, VCCDC Executive Director. “Creating wealth through homeownership changes lives by providing financial empowerment of families and individuals. This is no easy task especially in communities like Ventura County, yet with the support of partners like Citi it can be accomplished,” she added.

SEEAG’s Gill’s Onions’ ‘Double Your Impact Challenge’ – Now Through May

by Community Contributor • May 16, 2024 • Comments Off

VENTURA — Gill’s Onions will match all donations up to $15,000 for every dollar donated to Students for Eco-Education and Agriculture (SEEAG) through the end of May as part of SEEAG’s 5th Annual Double Your Impact Challenge.

“SEEAG’s mission is to build awareness and appreciation among grade schoolers for agriculture and the importance of eating healthy. Through Gill’s Onions’ generosity and all those who donate during May, SEEAG will receive as much as $30,000 to support our Farm-to-Food Lab program,” says Mary Maranville, SEEAG’s founder and CEO. “The program combines classroom learning with farm field trips where students learn about the origins of their food.”

Navigating the Global Future: Port of Hueneme Spotlights Current Trade and AI Innovations during World Trade Week

by Community Contributor • May 16, 2024 • Comments Off

PORT HUENEME — World Trade Week was established in 1935 by President Roosevelt and was created to recognize the importance and benefits of global trade to the local and national economy. This year, the Port of Hueneme welcomed trade partners from around the world with a focus on “Supply Chain and AI” that included Department of Commerce officials and local elected officials as well as business leaders and consuls in attendance to share information focused on the current state of the supply chain, the economy, and artificial intelligence.

Women’s Fund of Santa Barbara — Record-Breaking $1.125 Million in Grants to Make Life-Changing Impact

by Community Contributor • May 16, 2024 • Comments Off

SANTA BARBARA — In a remarkable demonstration of collective giving, the Women’s Fund of Santa Barbara made history by awarding an unprecedented $1.125 million in grants to local nonprofits. This groundbreaking achievement unfolded on May 7 at the iconic Lobero Theatre, where members and guests gathered to hear the announcement of 10 transformative grants. The Celebration of Grants event not only marked a momentous year for the Women’s Fund, commemorating its 20th anniversary, but also marked a legacy of granting $11.6 million to local nonprofits since its inception in 2004.

UCSB — The Current — ‘How the romantic institution props-up a racialized dating landscape’ and more news, events

by Community Contributor • May 16, 2024 • Comments Off

View this email online May 16, 2024 Top News How the romantic institution props-up a racialized dating landscape In a new book, Sabrina Strings blends historical research, personal anecdotes and cultural criticism to consider the demise of romantic partnerships, emphasizing…

Bilingual report — Ventura PD urges California Strawberry Festival attendees to utilize alternative forms of travel

by Community Contributor • May 16, 2024 • Comments Off

“Ventura PD is fully committed to community safety, particularly during large-capacity events,” shared Traffic Unit Supervisor, Sergeant Mark Knackstedt. “Our focus in encouraging ride-sharing options is to ensure smooth traffic flow and minimize the potential for traffic congestion and collisions. We must work together to create a safer environment for pedestrians and drivers, recognizing that while the City does not directly organize this event, it impacts our community.”

Bilingual report — Registration open for summer and fall classes at Allan Hancock College

by Community Contributor • May 16, 2024 • Comments Off

SANTA MARIA — Registration for summer and fall classes is open at Allan Hancock College, and students of all ages and educational backgrounds are encouraged to change their odds and sign up.

Hancock offers credit and noncredit classes across a wide range of subjects and areas of study for students seeking degrees, certificates, transfer, job training, or enrichment.

“Now is the time to become a Hancock student,” said Hancock Superintendent/President Kevin G. Walthers, Ph.D. “No matter what your educational goals are, Hancock has the resources and support you need to achieve them.”

High school seniors graduating from within the college’s service area can take advantage of the expansion of the Hancock Promise, which now provides two years of tuition and fees free. Financial aid is also available for non-Promise students.

Bilingual report — Ventura Voices podcast series, connecting residents with City leaders

by Community Contributor • May 16, 2024 • Comments Off

As a community member, have you ever wondered what’s happening in Ventura and how can you stay informed on hot topics or upcoming projects? The City of Ventura is proud to launch a new podcast series designed to connect residents, businesses, and community members to important conversations with City staff and community leaders.

Housing Authority of the City of Santa Barbara links seniors with important resources at ‘Young At Heart Senior Fair’

by Community Contributor • May 16, 2024 • Comments Off

The Young at Heart Senior Fair linked seniors with critical services and resources, which is a part of HACSB’s long-standing commitment to providing the resources and support needed to enable local senior residents to experience a good quality of life.

Two CSUCI faculty members will visit Budapest and Scotland on two different Fulbright scholarships

by Community Contributor • May 16, 2024 • Comments Off

CAMARILLO — CSU Channel Islands (CSUCI) Associate Professor of Health Science Lydia Dixon and Professor of History Jim Meriwether will both travel overseas in Spring of 2025 on Fulbright Scholar Awards. Dixon is headed to Edinburgh, Scotland to research rural midwifery practices…

68th Annual Conejo Valley Days Seeks Vendors; Application Deadline is June 10

by Community Contributor • May 16, 2024 • Comments Off

THOUSAND OAKS — Vendor slots are now available for the 68th annual Conejo Valley Days (CVD), June 20 through 30 at Conejo Creek Park South (Janss Rd./23 Freeway) in Thousand Oaks (dark June 24 and 25). The deadline for application submissions is June 10.

Local businesses and craftspeople can show off their products or services in booths along CVD’s newly designed Main Street.

Santa Paula Art Museum upcoming events

by Community Contributor • May 16, 2024 • Comments Off

“Greenbelt” by Ojai author-turned-artist Christopher Noxonwill be on view through September 8, 2024, only at the Santa Paula Art Museum. All of the artworks will be available for purchase.

Bilingual report — Community invited to participate in online survey for Surfers Point project

by Community Contributor • May 16, 2024 • Comments Off

VENTURA — The City of Ventura invites community members to actively engage in the Surfers Point Managed Retreat Project by participating in an online survey. This survey will be open until Friday, May 31, 2024, and is available in English and Spanish, providing flexible options for individuals to share their insights and preferences.

Through the online survey, residents and stakeholders can play a pivotal role in shaping the amenities and potential themes of public art at the Surfers Point site, as well as other key aspects of the project.

First District Supervisor Das Williams — Board of Supervisors Adopts Housing Plan

by Community Contributor • May 16, 2024 • Comments Off

Last week, the Board of Supervisors took a unanimous 5-0 vote to adopt re-zones as the last step to having our Housing Element Update certified by the State. I believe this plan strikes a balance between the State mandates, the County’s legal responsibilities, and the need to have more housing, to reduce traffic commute trips, and to protect our environment.

The final re-zone site list includes District 1 sites in Cuyama, Carpinteria, Santa Barbara, and the Eastern Goleta Valley (in addition to pending projects in Montecito and Toro Canyon).

By re-zoning certain “Builder’s Remedy” sites in the Carpinteria Valley and Eastern Goleta Valley (projects that would have moved forward regardless without our ability to the deny them), we secured traffic mitigations, and a higher percentage of affordable housing.

Allan Hancock College Foundation names 2024 Hancock Honors Recipients

by Community Contributor • May 16, 2024 • Comments Off

SANTA MARIA — On May 10, the Allan Hancock College Foundation announced the community leaders it will recognize at the college’s second-annual Hancock Honors celebration, presented by CoastHills Credit Union, on September 7. This year, the college will honor the Luis and Consuelo Chavez family, owners of L&G Farming, Inc.; Joyce Howerton, former Lompoc Mayor and community advocate; and Larry Lahr, former member and president of the AHC Board of Trustees.

“This year’s honorees exemplify Hancock’s mission to change the odds for our community,” said Hancock Superintendent/President Kevin G. Walthers, Ph.D. “The Hancock Honors is an opportunity for us to celebrate that shared vision and commitment to Northern Santa Barbara County.”

Bilingual report — Ventura Police Department recognizes exemplary service during National Police Week

by Community Contributor • May 16, 2024 • Comments Off

VENTURA — During National Police Week, happening May 12-18, the Ventura Police Department proudly acknowledges the valor of its 135 dedicated officers, who pledge their lives to safeguard Ventura. Amidst the commendations, Ventura PD honors Detective Stephanie Avila as Officer of the Year.

“I am incredibly proud of our officers and deeply grateful for their families’ steadfast support throughout the challenges they face,” said Police Chief Darin Schindler. “Leading a team of compassionate professionals who serve with integrity is an absolute privilege.”

Village Properties in Santa Barbara welcomes five experienced realtors

by Community Contributor • May 16, 2024 • Comments Off

SANTA BARBARA — Village Properties, the Santa Barbara area’s largest independent real estate company, recently attracted five seasoned agents to its growing team of Realtors.

Jen Plana, David Marchetti, Deja Rabb, Nicole Wesley and Nicole Powers join the more than 180 accomplished Village Properties’ Realtors serving clients across the Santa Barbara region including Montecito, Santa Barbara and Santa Ynez. Agents are hired based on their expertise, credentials, local knowledge and commitment to superior customer service, as well as their desire to support Village Properties’ mission of giving back to the community.

Ventura County Public Works Agency will welcome 1,200 students on Public Works Day

by Community Contributor • May 16, 2024 • Comments Off

VENTURA COUNTY — More than 1,200 Ventura County students are expected to attend Ventura County Public Works Agency’s (VCPWA) annual National Public Works Day event on May 21, 2024, at the Ventura County Government Center.

VCPWA invites K-12 students throughout the county to immerse themselves in the world of public works, getting up close and personal with VCPWA staff and equipment. Arriving in staggered groups throughout the day, each class will be paired with VCPWA tour guides, who will lead the groups through the many agency booths and heavy equipment setups that will take over and transform the “G” and part of “F” parking lots for the day.

Stephanie Porter joins Quinn Fiduciary Services as associate fiduciary

by Community Contributor • May 16, 2024 • Comments Off

SANTA BARBARA — Stephanie Porter, an attorney with experience working at local estate planning law firms, has joined Quinn Fiduciary Services as an associate fiduciary.

Porter, who earned her Juris Doctorate from the Santa Barbara College of Law, has worked extensively in the legal field, mainly in estate planning, trust administration and probate. She was admitted to the State Bar of California in January 2021.

Bilingual report — A collaborative approach to addressing homelessness

by Community Contributor • May 16, 2024 • Comments Off

VENTURA — On March 26, 2024, the Ventura City Council approved a five-year plan to address homelessness. This plan, developed through collaboration with the County of Ventura, City of Oxnard, and City of Thousand Oaks, outlines a strategy tailored to Ventura’s needs. LeSar Development Consultants played a crucial role by providing extensive research to inform the plan.

The Point in Time Count, mandated by the U.S. Department of Housing and Urban Development (HUD), serves as a crucial tool for communities seeking federal grants to address homelessness. Results from the 2024 Ventura County Homeless Point in Time Count, conducted by the Ventura County Continuum of Care, showed a significant change. The number of sheltered persons increased by 14.7% from 2023 to 2024, reaching 927 individuals, while the number of unsheltered persons decreased by 12.4% to 1,431.

Farm Bureau of Ventura County — We are hiring! Spread the News! Help us find the perfect fit!

by Community Contributor • May 16, 2024 • Comments Off

Connect with farmers all over Ventura County in this role! Our perfect candidate loves to teach others, guide, and make sure that all the t’s are crossed and i’s are dotted. The coordinator will be on the frontlines of helping farmers comply with the LA Regional Water Quality Control Board waste discharge requirements. For farmers this means upskilling on irrigation and nitrogen management as well as making changes to their fields for storm water run-off.

Bilingual report — Economic Development Collaborative (EDC) — Happy World Trade Month!

by Community Contributor • May 16, 2024 • Comments Off

The Economic Development Collaborative would like to recognize World Trade Month. Observed annually in May, World Trade Month celebrates how international trade unlocks new business opportunities, creates jobs and helps strengthen the United States and global economy.

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

Ventura County Civic Alliance — Livable Communities Newsletter

by Community Contributor • May 16, 2024 • Comments Off

This quarter’s Livable Communities Newsletter takes a look at who we are in the county, who needs help, and what we are doing to address that. Kerry Roscoe gathered data from the State of the Region Report to lay the groundwork for Marni Brook’s article on steps being taken to gather community input and move toward a strategy of assistance.

Let us know what you think.

Housing Trust Fund VC’s Annual Compassion Campaign gathers sold out crowd and sets fundraising record for third straight year

by Community Contributor • May 16, 2024 • Comments Off

VENTURA COUNTY — Housing Trust Fund Ventura County (Housing Trust Fund VC) set another fundraising record at its 5th Annual Compassion Campaign for affordable housing in Ventura County. Supported in part by Keystone Sponsor HOPE (Housing Opportunities for People Everywhere), the Walnut Grove at Tierra Rejada Farms in Moorpark provided the perfect backdrop for this year’s theme, Unlocking Affordable Living – Reshaping Housing Solutions.

Big Brothers Big Sisters of SLO County Acknowledges the Impact of Mentorships at The BIG Event

by Community Contributor • May 16, 2024 • Comments Off

Held at SLO Brew The Rock on Friday, May 17, Executive Director Stacy Salame emphasized the significance of The BIG Event, explaining, “This event and the support from our sponsors are crucial for us to continue providing life-changing mentorship opportunities for youth in our community. Their contributions allow us to create meaningful connections and empower our youth to reach their full potential.”

Cadets graduate from Allan Hancock College’s Fire and EMS Academies

by Community Contributor • May 16, 2024 • Comments Off

The graduates were honored during two ceremonies at the college’s Public Safety Training Complex (PSTC) in Lompoc.

“These cadets represent the next generation of first responders,” said Hancock Superintendent/President Kevin G. Walthers, Ph.D. “They are highly trained and prepared to serve their communities.”

Ventura County Fire Dept. announces 800th Firewise Community

by Community Contributor • May 16, 2024 • Comments Off

CAMARILLO — CAL FIRE – Office of the State Fire Marshal (OSFM) and the Ventura County Fire Department (VCFD) to celebrate the designation of 800th Community Firewise USA® community with the KenCrest Ridge community located in Thousand Oaks. This marks a new record for wildfire prepared communities in California.

UCSB — The Current — ‘Rolling with the punches: How mantis shrimp defend against high-speed strikes’ and more news, events

by Community Contributor • May 14, 2024 • Comments Off

These territorial crustaceans use their tails as shields to defend against the explosive punches of their rivals.

Economic Development Collaborative (EDC) free event and webinar schedule

by Community Contributor • May 13, 2024 • Comments Off

SCORE: AI AND DIGITAL MARKETING 101

May 17 @ 1:00 pm

Dive into the dynamic digital marketing realm with this comprehensive webinar tailored for newcomers and seasoned professionals. Discover the core principles of digital paid media, the nuances of contemporary digital marketing and the groundbreaking impact of artificial intelligence on the industry.

CLICK HERE TO REGISTER

Bilingual report — Economic Development Collaborative (EDC) — Honoring Asian American, Native Hawaiian and Pacific Islander Heritage Month

by Community Contributor • May 9, 2024 • Comments Off

The Economic Development Collaborative would like to recognize National Asian American, Native Hawaiian and Pacific Islander (AANHPI) Heritage Month. Observed annually in May, AANHPI Heritage Month is a time to reflect upon and celebrate the remarkable role of the AANHPI community in our nation’s history. To commemorate AANHPI Heritage Month, the Small Business Administration highlights resources, funding and training available to all AANHPI-owned small businesses and entrepreneurs.

UCSB — The Current — ‘Creative Studies student earns coveted Knight-Hennessy Scholarship’ and more news, events

by Community Contributor • May 9, 2024 • Comments Off

Ashley Yeh ’24 will go on to pursue a Ph.D. in neuroscience at Stanford School of Medicine. The Knight-Hennessy Program, established in 2018, provides fellows up to three years of tuition and a stipend for living and academic expenses.

20th annual Rebozo Festival returns to Camarillo Ranch on May 19

by Community Contributor • May 7, 2024 • Comments Off

CAMARILLO — The 20th annual Rebozo Festival will be held from 11 a.m. to 6 p.m. Sunday, May 19 at the Camarillo Ranch House, Camarillo Ranch Road.

The Rebozo Festival is a benefit event established to raise funds for Ventura County non-profit charitable organizations focusing on the cultural, social and educational needs of the community. This unique cultural event promotes the rich heritage of our area by highlighting the colorful Mexican rebozo (shawl) as our theme.

This year we celebrate the 20th Year Anniversary that began with a dream and dedication of community leader Irma J. Lopez. She was soon joined with other county women leaders to create the Rebozo Festival to benefit our county nonprofit.

Bilingual commentary — Basic Needs and the College Experience

by Community Contributor • May 7, 2024 • Comments Off

Poverty can cast a long, pervasive shadow over the dreams and ambitions of an untold number of college students. Due to the accumulation of mounting debt as they forgo earning opportunities while pursuing higher education, their academic journeys and the prospects for their futures are often threatened.

Sometimes their dedication to improving their lot in life ironically becomes an obstacle to securing their very basic needs, such as food and shelter. This scenario is further complicated by challenges to their academic performance as well as their mental health.

DignityMoves’ La Posada Village receives Resolution from County Board of Supervisors

by Community Contributor • May 7, 2024 • Comments Off

SANTA BARBARA — The County of Santa Barbara Board of Supervisors recognized the grand opening of La Posada Village, a development designed by innovative housing developer DignityMoves to provide interim housing to individuals experiencing homelessness. The Board plans to pass a resolution recognizing La Posada’s community contributions through its offer of shelter, dignity, help, and hope to vulnerable Santa Barbara residents.

“La Posada opens doors for some of our community’s most vulnerable. It opens doors for shelter, food, warmth, and safety. It opens doors for a chance to forge a new path and to reclaim dignity and hope. I couldn’t be more proud of the County for partnering with DignityMoves to address the issue of homelessness head on – and to have La Posada housed in the Second District,” said Supervisor Laura Capps

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