Category: Local

¡Si Se Puede! Unity March scheduled for March 21 at Santa Barbara City College

by Community Contributor • March 12, 2024 • Comments Off

SANTA BARBARA — The Santa Barbara City College (SBCC) first-year experience and student empowerment program ¡Raíces: First Year and Beyond! is hosting a Rally and Campus Unity March across campus on Thursday, March 21, from 1-2:30 p.m. The rally will be held outside the West Campus Center, where the march will commence. From there the marchers will cross the SBCC campus bridge and make their way to the Winslow Maxwell Overlook on East Campus.

This event is part of the ¡Sí Se Puede!: Student Advocacy Series during March 2024 to honor el Movimento and the liberation grassroots activism can manifest.

UCSB — The Current — Archive of multicultural modernist architect Steven Ehrlich adds to the art museum collection and more news, events

by Community Contributor • March 12, 2024 • Comments Off

The acquisition underscores the Art and Design Collection’s status as a premier resource for the study of the built environment in Southern California from the late 19th century to the present day.

Dual Enrollment Educators Forging Pathways for Ventura County Students

by Community Contributor • March 11, 2024 • Comments Off

CAMARILLO — The Ventura County Community College District (VCCCD) and the Ventura County Office of Education (VCOE) recently organized the second Dual Enrollment Community of Practice, emphasizing the importance of designing college pathways for high school students in Ventura County. Held on March 4, 2024, the workshop brought together educators and leaders from both school systems in a dynamic meeting of collaboration and inspiration.

The workshop, titled “Empowering Futures: Building Intentional Pathways for All Students,” highlighted the increasing opportunities available for the county’s high school students. These dual enrollment programs allow students to complete college-level courses while still in high school, providing them with a head start on their higher education journey. This event marked the continuation of efforts initiated during the first meeting in November 2023, where educators from both systems collaborated to envision dual enrollment opportunities across the county.

Cottage Gynecologic Oncology Clinic Expands with Addition of Dr. Sumit Mehta, MD and Heather Merrick, PA-C

by Community Contributor • March 11, 2024 • Comments Off

“We are excited to welcome Dr. Mehta and Ms. Merrick to our practice,” said Dr. Rodriguez, Medical Director of Gynecologic Oncology services at Cottage Health. “Their dedication to patient-centered care and their clinical expertise will enhance our ability to provide care to women facing gynecologic and breast cancers in our community.”

The clinic specializes in treating various gynecologic and breast cancers and complex benign gynecologic conditions. Services offered include:

Bilingual report — Santa Paula Police Department Receives $28,108 Grant to Fight Alcohol-Related Harm from California Department of Alcoholic Beverage Control

by Community Contributor • March 11, 2024 • Comments Off

SANTA PAULA — Santa Paula Police Department announces they have been awarded a $28,108 grant from the California Department of Alcoholic Beverage Control (ABC) to reduce alcohol-related harm in their community.

The funds will be used to help prevent alcoholic beverage sales to minors and obviously intoxicated patrons, illegal solicitations of alcohol, and other criminal activities such as the sale and possession of illegal drugs. “This is important to Santa Paula in order to increase protection for youth and to address crime at problem locations,” said Chief of Police Don Aguilar.

Economic Development Collaborative (EDC) free event and webinar schedule

by Community Contributor • March 11, 2024 • Comments Off

SBA: DOING BUSINESS WITH THE US DEPARTMENT OF THE ARMY

March 13 @ 11:00 am

Join SBA as they discuss Federal Contracting Set-aside with the US Department of the Army – (US ARMY). Attend to learn about OSDBU’s role and how it can benefit your business, how to effectively position your business for federal contracting opportunities and explore key resources and tools available to support your business growth in the federal marketplace.

CLICK HERE TO REGISTER

Bilingual report — Workforce Development Board of Ventura County Teams Up with America’s Job Centers of California for Ventura County WORKS Program

by Community Contributor • March 7, 2024 • Comments Off

“We are excited to bring the Ventura County WORKS program to our community’s America’s Job Center of California. The America’s Job Center of California network brings workforce partners that leverage funding and resources across the region to job seekers and local businesses,” said Rebecca Evans, Executive Director of the Workforce Development Board of Ventura County. “By providing comprehensive resources and support, we aim to empower individuals to achieve their career goals and contribute to the economic vitality of Ventura County.”

Bilingual commentary — Leap Year: A Tale of Science and Conspiracy Theories

by Community Contributor • March 7, 2024 • Comments Off

Every four years, we get to experience a phenomenon known as “leap year.” This occurs when February has 29 days rather than its usual 28. The “leap” refers to the reoccurrence of days from one year to the next. Normally, a given date that occurs during a given year will occur one day later in the subsequent year. For example, January 1, 2023, occurred on a Sunday whereas January 1, 2024, occurred on a Monday of the following year.

Bilingual report — Gold Coast Health Plan to Invest $75 million in Ventura County’s Medi-Cal Provider Network to Connect Members with Care

by Community Contributor • March 7, 2024 • Comments Off

CAMARILLO — Gold Coast Health Plan (GCHP) is transforming the health care system in Ventura County with a groundbreaking $75 million investment in its provider network. Through the development of innovative incentive and grant programs, GCHP is on a mission to connect members with high quality primary, specialty, and behavioral care and empower providers with the vital resources they need for service expansion and to create efficiencies. This strategic investment includes a drive to recruit providers, expanding access to quality health care services. With the scale and ambition of these initiatives, GCHP is setting a new standard for quality care and blazing a trail in community investments.

“Gold Coast Health Plan is committed to supporting providers in innovative ways to achieve our mission of the best health and health care possible for our members,” said Nick Liguori, GCHP’s chief executive officer (CEO). “These programs reinforce GCHP’s ongoing commitment to driving meaningful quality improvements in Ventura County’s health care system and providing the necessary financial support for a much-needed infusion of equipment and technology that will provide needed care, along with additional providers to support our community.”

FIRST Robotics “Hueneme Port Regional” takes place at FATHOMWERX Lab for Third Consecutive Year

by Community Contributor • March 7, 2024 • Comments Off

PORT HUENEME — The Port of Hueneme and City of Port Hueneme are thrilled to host the FIRST Robotics Hueneme Port Regional Competition in their vibrant coastal community. The Competition takes place over two weekends from March 1-3, 2024 and March 9 &10, 2024 located onsite at the Port of Hueneme in the FATHOMWERX lab — a collaborative space for innovation and technology transfer between the Port, the Naval Base Ventura County, the Economic Development Collaborative, and Matter Labs.

The exhilarating event brings over 1,500 high school students from across the world together along with their 51 life-sized robots to test the power of collaboration and measure the effectiveness of innovations and is made possible in part through the Port of Hueneme & City of Port Hueneme’s joint Community Benefit Fund. First Robotics is an exemplary partner as their mission not only fosters creativity and technical prowess but also focuses on strengthening community bonds. Support of their work is crucial as it empowers young minds, encourages innovation, and ensures a brighter future for our coastal community.

CSUCI’s Osher Lifelong Learning Institute celebrates 20 years with a rich variety of classes

by Community Contributor • March 7, 2024 • Comments Off

CAMARILLO — CSU Channel Islands (CSUCI)’s Osher Lifelong Learning Institute (OLLI) is celebrating its 20th anniversary with a strong lineup of class offerings for the Spring II session.

Adult students whose tastes run toward current events, politics and history can sign up for classes like: “Eyeball to Eyeball: The Eagle and the Dragon Stare Each Other Down,” on U.S. Chinese relations; “Grasping Israeli Politics” or “Founding Friendship: John Adams and Thomas Jefferson.”

UCSB — The Current — ‘Historian Nelson Lichtenstein: Clinton betrayed progressives, capitulated to the right,’ and more news, events

by Community Contributor • March 7, 2024 • Comments Off

Lichtenstein’s latest book examines the former president’s expansive agenda, revealing why it was such ‘a fabulous failure’ and why its demise still haunts us today.

Ventura College Presidential Finalist Forums provides updates schedule

by Community Contributor • March 7, 2024 • Comments Off

VENTURA COLLEGE — Ventura County Community College District (VCCCD) announces an updated schedule for the open forums featuring finalists for the Ventura College Presidential Search. College faculty, staff, administration, and community members are invited to attend.

Ventura College President Finalist Forums
Ventura College Performing Arts Center
4700 Loma Vista Road, Ventura, California

Bilingual report — Michelle Ascencion, Ventura County Registrar of Voters, Announces 2024 Presidential Primary Election Night Results and the Start of the Canvass Period

by Community Contributor • March 7, 2024 • Comments Off

VENTURA — Primary Election Night Closing Results for Ventura County came in at 1:50 a.m., March 6, 2024, and are posted on the VenturaVote.org Election Results page, along with a link to the Secretary of State’s Semifinal Official Results for the State of California.

The Ventura County Election Night Results include: vote-by-mail ballots received and processed before Election Day, in-person ballots cast during early voting, and non-conditional and non-provisional ballots cast on Election Day.

March 6 is also the start of the Official Canvass Period, which must be completed within thirty days after Election Day. Election officials conduct numerous post-election activities during the canvass as mandated by State Law.

Bilingual report — Updates on Fire at Former Sunkist Packaging Plant in Oxnard

by Community Contributor • March 6, 2024 • Comments Off

OXNARD — Nineteen fire engine companies and four ladder trucks responded to a major fire in Oxnard that began on Tuesday, March 5 at approximately 10:30 p.m. at the former Sunkist packaging plant located at 245 E. Colonia Rd.

Due to the dangerous conditions within the building, firefighters maintained a defensive position around the plant to extinguish the flames, which did not spread beyond the property. As of 10 a.m. on March 6, fire department personnel remain onsite to put out the fire’s remaining embers. The building is considered a total loss.

Mystic Whaler and Central Coast Ocean Adventures join the Southern California Plankton Watch

by Community Contributor • March 6, 2024 • Comments Off

OXNARD — Central Coast Ocean Adventures Foundation (CCOAF) and the schooner Mystic Whaler are now partners with the Southern California Plankton Watch.

Interest and awareness of plankton and blooms brought together scientists and informal educators in the Southern California Bight region to form a volunteer plankton monitoring network which led to the formation of the Southern California Plankton Watch.

It’s Shepherd Week at Ventura County Animal Services

by Community Contributor • March 6, 2024 • Comments Off

It’s Shepherd Week at Ventura County Animal Services and we’re celebrating this majestic breed with fee-waived adoptions for all German Shepherds and Shepherd mixes. Promotion ends Sunday, March 10th, 2024. With over 50 German Shepherds to choose from you’re bound to find your perfect match!

Community Environmental Council (CEC) starts 2024 Strong with New Board Leadership

by Community Contributor • March 6, 2024 • Comments Off

SANTA BARBARA — The Community Environmental Council (CEC) is pleased to welcome new members and officers to its Board of Directors as it expands its bold climate action across California’s Central Coast.

Fillmore High School Makes History with State Honor

by Community Contributor • March 5, 2024 • Comments Off

FILLMORE — For the first time ever, Fillmore High School in the Fillmore Unified School District (FUSD) is being honored with the prestigious California Distinguished Schools Award. The California Department of Education announced last week that Fillmore High School is one of only 293 schools out of thousands statewide to receive the honor in 2024.

Fillmore High School was selected as a Distinguished School following its exemplary efforts to increase student achievement in the aftermath of the COVID-19 pandemic. “After the pandemic, instead of focusing on the challenges ahead of us, we focused on creating opportunities for our students,” said FUSD Superintendent Christine Schieferle. “We expanded counseling and social-emotional support and focused on developing the capacity of our staff. Additional academic and counseling supports were added to meet the needs of our students.”

Santa Maria Kids Hold ‘Supply Drive’ for Adopt-a-Room Campaign to Help Homeless Individuals Moving into Hope Village Interim Housing

by Community Contributor • March 5, 2024 • Comments Off

SANTA BARBARA COUNTY — Santa Maria’s Asa Jacobo-Anaya has always had the desire to help others. At only 8-years old, he is constantly trying to give away his allowance money, food, snacks and anything he can think of to the local unhoused individuals he sees around town.

Aware of her son’s passion for helping people experiencing homelessness, Ana Jacobo-Anaya proposed Asa’s 4-H program participate in the Hope Village Adopt-A-Room campaign by local nonprofit DignityMoves, an organization that provides interim housing and supportive services for Santa Barbara County’s unhoused population with the goal of transitioning them to more permanent housing.

Museum of Ventura County — Spring into a new season with Nowruz!

by Community Contributor • March 5, 2024 • Comments Off

NOWRUZ

Saturday, March 23
11:00 am – 2:00 pm
@Museum of Ventura County
100 E. Main St., Ventura

Celebrate Nowruz at the Museum of Ventura County! Enjoy Persian cuisine by Safir Mediterranean Cuisine, traditional dance by Sahlala Dancers, and live music by Illunis Music. Experience Farsi Calligraphy, cultural displays, and the thrilling Fire Jumping ritual. Join us for a day of cultural splendor, delicious cuisine, and lively entertainment! Free, no registration required. For more information, click HERE.

11-Year-Old Gio Basile Wins 38th Annual California Strawberry Festival Poster Design Contest

by Community Contributor • March 5, 2024 • Comments Off

OXNARD — Eleven-year-old engineering wiz Gio Basile created the winning poster design for the 38th Annual California Strawberry Festival. Gio’s winning entry was revealed today to a group of dignitaries and festival sponsors gathered at Yolanda’s Mexican Café in Oxnard. The luncheon officially kicks off activities for the 2024 festival celebration taking place May 18 and 19 at the Ventura County Fairgrounds.

Ventura County Community Development Corp. — Free Workshops, Free Financial Coaching and Credit Report

by Community Contributor • March 5, 2024 • Comments Off

Homebuyer Workshop

Saturday, March 9, in-person @ Thousand Oaks

Saturday, March 16, in-person @ Bakersfield

Saturday, March 23, online

‘A Home for Education’ gathers community leaders to address affordable housing solutions on education properties

by Community Contributor • March 5, 2024 • Comments Off

VENTURA COUNTY — Housing Trust Fund Ventura County (Housing Trust Fund VC) welcomed community leaders to its Annual Meeting and “A Home for Education” symposium February 29th at the CSU Channel Islands (CSUCI) campus. The symposium was presented in collaboration with the County of Ventura, CSUCI, Ventura County Office of Education, Ventura County P-20 Council, and Housing Trust Fund VC to an audience of key decision makers in education, government, land use planning, and affordable housing development.

UCSB — The Current — ‘Unraveling the mystery of chiton visual systems’ and more news, events

by Community Contributor • March 5, 2024 • Comments Off

Rebecca Varney of the Department of Ecology, Evolution & Marine Biology helps to reveal the surprising origins behind mollusk eyes, shedding light on evolutionary processes.

Shimmering Scales & Mermaid Tails Await Sea Goers At Ventura Harbor Village’s 9th Annual March Is Mermaid Month

by Community Contributor • March 5, 2024 • Comments Off

VENTURA — There is a “fin-tastic” tale to be told this Spring at Ventura Harbor Village, a seaside attraction, where visitors across all oceans come together to “shell-abrate” good times at the 9th Annual March is Mermaid Month. Lovers of the sea and landlubbers alike are invited to celebrate mystical sirens of the sea with free ocean-inspired festivities for the entire family all month long, as well as on select dates on Saturdays, March 16 and 23, 2024 from noon – 3 PM. Complimentary parking is available.

Whether you’re a seasoned sea enthusiast or just dipping your toes into mermaid lore, there’s something for everyone to enjoy with the return of this month-long event. Here’s a glistening lineup of what’s on tap:

Ventura County Arts Council — Artist Grants – $1k-$5k! VC Arts and Culture Investment Fund

by Community Contributor • March 5, 2024 • Comments Off

The grants available are designed to revitalize and encourage the arts community in Ventura County. They aim to foster creativity, cooperation, and a greater involvement in the arts throughout the county. Whether you are an independent artist or part of an organization, you may be eligible to apply for these grants. The grants can be used to cover general expenses and to support new or existing projects.

Economic Development Corp. free event and webinar schedule

by Community Contributor • March 4, 2024 • Comments Off

SBA: HOW TO DO BUSINESS WITH THE US DEPARTMENT OF HEALTH & HUMAN SERVICES (HHS)

March 5 @ 12:00 pm

Hear directly from the Executive Director of OSDBU at HHS about their procurement process and priorities for 2024. Join BSA as they discuss Federal Contracting Set-aside with the Department of Health and Human Services (HHS).

CLICK HERE TO REGISTER

One805 to Make Major Announcement Regarding First Responder Grant Recipients at March Event. $484,400 will be Distributed

by Community Contributor • March 4, 2024 • Comments Off

SANTA BARBARA — One805 will host its Annual Honorary Board Cocktail reception at the Montecito Club March 9 to officially announce First Responder grant recipients.

One805’s Honorary Board comprises predominantly of local community members who, by their membership, provide additional funding and support for the nonprofit’s critical counseling support and emergency equipment needs.

Farm Bureau of Ventura County — Resources for Fruit Fly Quarantines

by Community Contributor • March 4, 2024 • Comments Off

California is currently experiencing an unusually high?number?of invasive fruit fly?detections, resulting in quarantines being established across numerous California counties, including Ventura County. These invasive fruit fly species – including Mediterranean fruit fly, Oriental fruit fly, Queensland fruit fly and tau fruit fly – are considered not established in California. The California Department of Food and Agriculture (CDFA), in cooperation with the United States Department of Agriculture (USDA) and various County Agricultural Commissioners, has initiated local regulatory measures to eradicate and prevent the further spread of these fruit fly species statewide.

Santa Barbara County First District Supervisor Das Williams — Clean Energy for the Central Coast & Get Ready for Wildfire Season

by Community Contributor • March 4, 2024 • Comments Off

(March 1) we took a significant step forward towards avoiding the worst effects of climate change, opening the new Strauss Wind Project. These 27 wind turbines will generate enough power for 36,000 homes – helping us move towards a more clean and reliable electric grid.

What’s most important isn’t just the impact of this one project, but what it means for the potential of clean energy in other parts of coastal California. 21 years in the making, this project was able to navigate the process and get the permits and approvals it needed to open.

Santa Barbara Cottage Hospital Welcomes Leap Year Baby

by Community Contributor • March 4, 2024 • Comments Off

SANTA BARBARA — Santa Barbara Cottage Hospital is excited to introduce Ezra Kai Avila, the hospital’s first Leap Year baby.

Born on February 29, 2024, at 2:19 a.m., weighing 6 pounds, 7 ounces, and measuring 19.5 inches in length. Ezra’s birth is unique as this date only occurs every four years.

Ezra’s proud parents, Veronica Ortega and Miguel Angel Avila of Goleta were overjoyed by his arrival. As first- time parents, they found Ezra’s Leap Day birth exciting and unique.

VCCCD Announces Oxnard College Presidential Finalists

by Community Contributor • March 1, 2024 • Comments Off

OXNARD — We are pleased to announce that we have selected three (3) finalists for the next President of Oxnard College. We would like to thank the entire College community for your continued interest and support in the process to identify our next President. I would like to take this opportunity to personally thank each member of the Presidential Search Committee for their exceptional insight, dedication, and effort.

Bilingual commentary — How and Why to Vote Responsibly

by Community Contributor • March 1, 2024 • Comments Off

As I was filling out my ballot for the coming election here in California, most of the items were fairly easy choices for me (one of them at the top of the ticket was very easy). But then I came to the choices for judge for the Ventura County Superior Court. We are directed to vote for only one.

I stared at the names. One of them was immediately recognizable because I had seen his name in news items about some of our local civil and criminal trials. His credentials seem impeccable.

But then I realized that I knew essentially nothing about the other three candidates.

So why is it so important to vote for judges and not just skip over this section of the ballot?

Bilingual report — Ventura County Registrar of Voters Announces Schedule for Election Results Reporting for Presidential Primary Election Night

by Community Contributor • March 1, 2024 • Comments Off

VENTURA COUNTY — With March 5, 2024, Election Day less than a week away, Michelle Ascencion, Registrar of Voters, and her Elections team are not only planning for the busy voting days that remain ahead, they are also preparing for the long night of election results reporting that follows. The 8:00 p.m. official close of the Election starts the clock when candidates, voters and the media all start looking for the first ballot count results to be reported.

Camarillo Sunrise Rotary Club Hosts Fourth Annual Golf Tournament to Benefit kidSTREAM Children’s Museum

by Community Contributor • March 1, 2024 • Comments Off

CAMARILLO — The Camarillo Sunrise Rotary Club, a local service organization comprised of local business leaders and committed to a wide range of local and global causes, has been a long-time supporter of kidSTREAM, Ventura County’s only children’s museum. The Rotary Club is hosting the Fourth Annual kidSTREAM Charity Golf Tournament at Las Posas Country Club Golf Course on Monday, April 29.

There are a few spots for golfers remaining through sponsorship of the tournament, and they can be found by going to kidSTREAM’s website at kidSTREAM.org, under “Upcoming Events”. In addition to the golf tournament a 3-day silent online auction will open to the public on tournament day.

Hundreds of Runners Participated in a Heart Pumping Race to the Finish During the First-Ever Port/City 5K

by Community Contributor • February 29, 2024 • Comments Off

PORT OF HUENEME — In a strong spirit of partnership and heart for the community, the City of Port Hueneme, and the Port of Hueneme celebrated Heart Health Awareness Month by hosting a “Run for Your Heart” 5K Race on Sunday, February 24, 2024. The event is a result of the Port of Hueneme and City of Port Hueneme’s Community Benefit Fund partnership. To help celebrate, Del Monte Fresh Fruit and Produce provided a nutritious banana for runners after they crossed the finish line.

SEEAG’s ‘Bus Bucks’ Fundraiser For Student Farm Field Trips

by Community Contributor • February 29, 2024 • Comments Off

VENTURA — Each year, elementary school students travel by bus to Students for Eco-Education and Agriculture’s (SEEAG) free Farm Lab program at Petty Ranch in Ventura and Allan Hancock College’s Demonstration Orchard in Santa Maria. While at the farms, students learn about the farm origins of their food. Funds raised through SEEAG’s current “Bus Bucks” fundraiser will help offset school bus expenses so that field trips remain entirely cost-free to students, teachers and schools.

For each Farm Lab field trip, SEEAG gives schools $300 for bus expenses. Currently, SEEAG is scheduled to host 70 field trips in 2024. To ensure there are enough funds to pay for transportation, the Bus Bucks’ goal is to raise $20,000.

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

by Community Contributor • February 29, 2024 • Comments Off

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

Bilingual report — Ventura County Board of Supervisors takes further action to reduce homelessness

by Community Contributor • February 29, 2024 • Comments Off

VENTURA — On Tuesday, Feb. 27, the Ventura County Board of Supervisors adopted significant measures to combat homelessness with a proactive approach aimed at reducing the number of individuals facing housing instability. The actions taken by the Board reflect a comprehensive strategy outlined in the Updated Plan to Prevent and End Homelessness, as presented by LeSar Development Consultants on December 19, 2023, and align with the Board’s adopted Strategic Plan Priority to Address Homelessness and Lift Up the Most Vulnerable.

Recognizing the urgency of the issue, the Board has adopted recommendations to address homelessness from multiple angles, including homelessness prevention and rapid re-housing, housing prioritization, regional coordination, outreach, service delivery, data-driven decision making, and representation.

UCSB — The Current — Poet professor reflects on imagination, students and racism in America and more news, events

by Community Contributor • February 29, 2024 • Comments Off

Assistant teaching professor Michelle Petty-Grue explores her life and profession in the arts in this long-form interview that ranges from her upbringing in England to raising a Black son in America.

33 global shipping companies receive awards for reducing speeds off California coast to protect blue whales and blue skies

by Community Contributor • February 28, 2024 • Comments Off

VENTURA — Shipping companies received awards for reducing speeds in the 2023 “Protecting Blue Whales & Blue Skies” program. The voluntary incentive program ran May 1 through Dec. 15, 2023, to reduce fatal ship strikes to endangered whales, air pollution, regional greenhouse gas emissions and underwater noise.

Thirty-three shipping companies participated, transiting at 10 knots or less in the San Francisco and Monterey Bay and Southern California regions, including Ventura County. Cooperation levels continue to improve in both regions with an overall 81% cooperation rate from participants during the 2023 season, up from 78% in the 2022 season.The number of participants was also greater than any previous year, increasing from 23 shipping companies in 2022.

SBCC’s Financial Aid Festival on Feb. 28 to provide support to ALL college students in the SB area

by Community Contributor • February 28, 2024 • Comments Off

SANTA BARBARA — Santa Barbara City College invites all college students to the Financial Aid Fest on Wednesday, February 28, from 10 a.m. to 1 p.m. on SBCC’s Cliff Campus in the Eastern courtyard of the Student Services Building (East Campus).
Expert specialists will be available to assist students in completing FAFSA and Dream Act Applications. This event is open to ALL college students including AB-540 students and students from other colleges and universities like UCSB, Westmont, and Antioch are welcome to receive support.

Bilingual report — Economic Development Collaborative (EDC) — Important Deadline on March 3 for PPP and COVID-19 EIDL Borrowers in Default

by Community Contributor • February 28, 2024 • Comments Off

If you received a Paycheck Protection Program (PPP) or COVID-19 Economic Injury Disaster Loan (COVID-19 EIDL) loan from the U.S. Small Business Administration (SBA) for under $100,000 and are in default, the SBA recommends you take action before March 3, 2024.

The U.S. Small Business Administration will begin referring defaulted PPP and COVID-19 EIDL borrowers with loans under $100,000 to the U.S. Treasury Department and the Internal Revenue Service for collection beginning March 4, 2024.

CSUCI’s STEAM Carnival on March 9 will introduce kids to the fun side of science, technology, engineering, art and math

by Community Contributor • February 27, 2024 • Comments Off

CAMARILLO — After years of transformation, the CSU Channel Islands (CSUCI) Science Carnival is back, bigger and better, as the CSUCI School of Arts and Sciences STEAM Carnival. STEAM stands for science, technology, engineering, arts and mathematics.

“It took a while to make this happen again, but I am so, so, so excited,” said Acting Dean of Arts & Sciences Phil Hampton, who started the carnival. “COVID nearly eliminated the event but now it has grown up into the Arts and Sciences (A&S) STEAM Carnival. We’ve added the arts, but it’s a very long bar over the ‘A’ to make it include art, social science and humanities.”

Middle School Winners of Ventura County Mock Trial

by Community Contributor • February 27, 2024 • Comments Off

VENTURA COUNTY — Trinity Pacific Christian School is the winner of the middle school division of the 2024 Ventura County Mock Trial competition after earning the highest score in the final round this afternoon. Valley View Middle School in the Simi Valley Unified School District came in second place and Mesa Union School took third. The winners were announced at an awards ceremony this evening at the Oxnard Performing Arts Center.

Bilingual report — City of Oxnard is Paving and Restoring Gonzales Road

by Community Contributor • February 27, 2024 • Comments Off

OXNARD — The City of Oxnard has started its phased project to repair the pavement on Gonzales Rd. between Victoria Ave. to Rice Ave. Major activities began in mid-February and are expected to continue through the fall of 2024.

The Ultimate Girls Getaway yo Lompoc

by Community Contributor • February 27, 2024 • Comments Off

LOMPOC — Reconnect with your besties and embark on the ultimate Girls’ getaway to Lompoc, California. From a leisurely breakfast to heart-pounding adventures and serene spa sessions, this itinerary promises a day of joy, laughter, and unforgettable moments.

UCSB — The Current — ‘Untangling a sticky mystery: Researchers make progress into a genetic form of Alzheimer’s disease’ and more news, events

by Community Contributor • February 27, 2024 • Comments Off

Members of a single Colombian family each carry a mutation linked to accelerated development of the sticky plaques that, in addition to tangles of a misfolded structural protein called tau, are the hallmarks of Alzheimer’s disease.

2024 Ventura County Mock Trial Winners – High School Division

by Community Contributor • February 26, 2024 • Comments Off

VENTURA COUNTY — Trinity Pacific Christian School and Royal High School took the top two spots in the high school division of the 2024 Ventura County Mock Trial competition, which was held over two weekends at the Ventura County Hall of Justice. Twenty-one high schools from throughout Ventura County participated in Mock Trial this year. The winning teams were announced at an awards ceremony this evening at the Oxnard Performing Arts Center. Here’s how the eight highest-scoring high school teams ranked:

5 Fun Things to Do At La Purisima Mission State Historic Park In Lompoc

by Community Contributor • February 26, 2024 • Comments Off

LOMPOC — Step into history at one of California’s most extensively restored missions – La Purisima Mission State Historic Park! The Mission offers visitors a remarkable historic journey to life in the 1800’s. Within minutes of downtown Lompoc, you can explore the grounds of this meticulously preserved mission, and find yourself immersed in the rich tapestry of California’s past. From the imposing adobe walls to the tranquil courtyards, every corner of La Purisima Mission resonates with history.

Visitors can wander through the well-preserved buildings, including the chapel, living quarters, workshops, and gardens, gaining insight into the daily lives of the Spanish missionaries and the indigenous Chumash people who once inhabited this site.

Economic Development Collaborative (EDC) free event and webinar schedule

by Community Contributor • February 26, 2024 • Comments Off

DEMYSTIFYING THE FDA MOCRA 2022 COSMETICS RULES: WHAT BEAUTY BRANDS NEED TO KNOW

February 28 @ 10:00 am

Join Women in International Trade Orange County (WITOC) and the Economic Development Collaborative Go Global Trade Program (EDC GGTP) as we partner with Krieger Worldwide for an informative webinar explaining the key provisions of the forthcoming Modernization of Cosmetics Regulation Act of 2022 (MoCRA) and how it establishes new requirements for the importation of cosmetics. This legislation introduces new requirements for cosmetic safety substantiation, supply chain transparency and labeling. Experts from Krieger Worldwide will provide clarity on the act’s scope, compliance timelines and strategies for company readiness.

District 216 announces upcoming events, news in Santa Barbara

by Community Contributor • February 26, 2024 • Comments Off

Topic: “Wisdom Warrior: A Psychedelic Shamanic Path to Transformation”

Date: Wednesday, February 28th, 2024
Times: 5:00pm to 9:00pm (Roundtable Discussion at 6:30pm)

Where: LoDo Studios, 216 E. Gutierrez Street, Santa Barbara, CA 93101
(Please only park across the street on the Office Max side of the lot.)

Members are Free to attend The District House evenings, and are prioritized when we reach capacity.

Guests Welcome to purchase $50 tickets to The District House evenings.

Note: We will be filming the speaker for the District216 Change Your Lens Series. Refreshments provided.

YMCA’s Model United Nations For Middle Schoolers Begins March 6

by Community Contributor • February 26, 2024 • Comments Off

WESTLAKE VILLAGE — The YMCA’s Model United Nations for middle schoolers will begin in the Conejo and Simi valleys on March 6. Students in grades sixth through eighth are eligible. The program is sponsored by the Southeast Ventura County YMCA.

The program, which runs from March 6 through April 28, enables participants to come together with peers from across California to discuss international issues, discover other cultures, develop life-enhancing skills and make new friends. These students will become “delegates” and be assigned to one of two program areas, each focusing on improving the international community.

Santa Paula Art Museum to presenting ‘The 15th Annual Art About Agriculture Exhibition’ through March 3, more events

by Community Contributor • February 26, 2024 • Comments Off

“Art About Agriculture” is a group exhibition presented by the Ag Art Alliance, a collective formed in 2007 by Santa Paula photographer John Nichols and Santa Paula painter Gail Pidduck. The purpose of the exhibit is to promote awareness of agriculture by exploring its many facets through art—from workers to water, from machinery to fields, to the food that goes on our plates. All of the artworks are available for purchase.

Bilingual report — SCORE Ventura Seeks Volunteers / SCORE Ventura Solicita Voluntarios

by Community Contributor • February 23, 2024 • Comments Off

SCORE is proud to be the nation’s largest network of volunteer mentors. To better serve the Spanish speaking Latino small business community in Ventura County, SCORE Ventura is seeking bilingual (English-Spanish) volunteers.

As a SCORE Ventura mentor, you can play a pivotal role in the inspiring work we do. The skills, intelligence, and experience that you bring can be an invaluable resource for local entrepreneurs, helping them develop ideas, tackle challenges, and gain momentum as they grow. It’s a rewarding way to donate your time; one that really makes a difference.

Bilingual commentary — The Mysterious Letter X

by Community Contributor • February 23, 2024 • Comments Off

The letter X is one of the simplest, yet most enigmatic letters in use today. We’re not even sure how to pronounce it sometimes. The story of its origins is fuzzy.

Just look at the word for the name brand “Xerox.” One word, two very distinct pronunciations for x.

In Mexican Spanish, x has a place in the evolution of the language. It has generally replaced j in such words as “México” vs. “Méjico,” “Texas” vs. “Tejas,” and “Oaxaca” vs. “Oajaca.”

Bilingual report — City of Santa Paula Invites Residents to Participate in New Santa Paula Future Leaders Academy

by Community Contributor • February 23, 2024 • Comments Off

“Inspired by the transformative power of mentorship, almost twenty years ago, I participated in a program that changed my perspective on public service,” said Mayor Leslie Cornejo. “Now, I’m thrilled to announce the launch of the Santa Paula Future Leaders Academy. This 10-week program is a direct response to our community’s desire for deeper engagement and understanding of City operations and aims to mentor residents and business owners, transforming them into ambassadors for our city.”

Bilingual report — The latest news from the County of Ventura

by Community Contributor • February 23, 2024 • Comments Off

Thank you for staying up-to-date on news at the County of Ventura! Want to sign up for our newsletter?

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

UCSB Arts & Lectures’ presentation of Abraham Verghese in Conversation with Pico Iyer featured a surprise introduction by Oprah Winfrey

by Community Contributor • February 22, 2024 • Comments Off

SANTA BARBARA — A capacity Arlington Theatre audience thrilled to a surprise appearance by Oprah Winfrey at last night’s UCSB Arts & Lectures Speaking with Pico event. Winfrey came out to celebrate the success of her friend Dr. Abraham Verghese, whose novel The Covenant of Water was an Oprah’s Book Club pick in 2023 and has been on the New York Times fiction bestseller list continuously since its release.

Cal Lutheran Professor Named Inaugural Faculty Fellow

by Community Contributor • February 22, 2024 • Comments Off

THOUSAND OAKS — In recognition of her noteworthy research and exemplary teaching record, Megan K. Fung, Ph.D., assistant professor in the Department of Earth and Environmental Sciences at California Lutheran University, has been selected for the Cal Lutheran Faculty Fellowship Program.

UCSB — The Current — ‘Researchers develop molecules for a new class of antibiotics that can overcome drug resistant bacteria’ and more news, events

by Community Contributor • February 22, 2024 • Comments Off

The team in chemistry Professor Guillermo Bazan’s lab was trying to develop compounds to harness energy from bacteria. They wound up developing the basis for a new class of antibiotics.

Bilingual report — People’s Self-Help Housing (PSHHC) — New Affordable Housing in Santa Paula: Online pre-applications available Monday, March 18 at 9 a.m.

by Community Contributor • February 22, 2024 • Comments Off

People’s Place is a new construction development of 68 one-, two- and three-bedroom units, which will serve families and farmworker households earning 30-60% of the area median income. On-site amenities include a community building and kitchen for resident events, a multipurpose room, outdoor courtyards, BBQs, and playgrounds. All residents will have access to free, confidential supportive services.

Museum of Contemporary Art Santa Barbara — Artist Party This Sunday with Janna Ireland

by Community Contributor • February 22, 2024 • Comments Off

Janna Ireland’s photographic practice is primarily concerned with the themes of family, home, and the expression of Black identity in American culture. In 2016, she began photographing structures designed by legendary Black architect Paul R. Williams. A collection of 250 of these photographs was published in the major 2020 monograph, Regarding Paul R. Williams: A Photographer’s View. These multiple aspects of Ireland’s work will be featured and interwoven across both venues.

Enrollment opens for Beginning Farmers and Ranchers program

by Community Contributor • February 22, 2024 • Comments Off

VENTURA COUNTY — The California Bountiful Foundation, the 501(c)3 science, research and education nonprofit organization of the California Farm Bureau, will begin enrollment Feb. 21 for a new program called Expanding Our Roots: Beginning Farmers and Ranchers Mentorship Program.

The program has a website where beginning farmers and ranchers with one to 10 years of farming and ranching experience in California may enroll for free in the mentorship program.

Farmers and ranchers interested in serving as mentors may also sign up via the webpage. Mentors are financially compensated for providing six hours of mentoring services to beginning farmers and ranchers.

Bilingual report — County of Ventura, Ventura County Community Foundation, and Ventura Arts Council announce the Arts and Culture Investment Fund grant opportunity

by Community Contributor • February 22, 2024 • Comments Off

VENTURA —The County of Ventura, in partnership with the Ventura County Community Foundation and the Ventura County Arts Council, has announced the Arts and Culture Investment Fund grant opportunity to support Ventura County-based arts and culture organizations and independent artists.

A total of $800,000 in funding will be available through this program, making it one of the largest arts and culture specific grant programs offered by local government in Ventura County. Of this funding, a total of $700,000 is available to nonprofit art organizations, independent artists, and arts projects. The remaining $100,000 will be dedicated to providing matching funds from the County to support arts and culture organizations applying for grant opportunities where a grant match is required.

CSUCI and the West Ventura County Business Alliance host the inaugural Women’s Business Conference 2024 on March 8

by Community Contributor • February 21, 2024 • Comments Off

CAMARILLO — According to Women’s Business Enterprise National Council (WBENC), there are 13 million U.S. businesses owned by women, representing 42% of all American businesses. And a 2024 Wells Fargo Newsroom report indicated that women-owned businesses surged at almost double the rate of men’s from 2019-2023.

Local women business owners who are a part of this nationwide sisterhood or others in the business community who support women business owners can enjoy a day of inspiration and networking from 9 a.m. to 2 p.m. on Friday, March 8 on the CSU Channel Islands (CSUCI) campus at the inaugural “Women’s Business Conference 2024” co-hosted by CSUCI and the West Ventura County Business Alliance (WVCBA).

Dianne Duva named managing partner at Arlington Financial Advisors

by Community Contributor • February 21, 2024 • Comments Off

SANTA BARBARA — Certified Financial Planner Dianne Duva, a founding partner of the wealth management firm Arlington Financial Advisors in Santa Barbara, has been named the company’s new managing partner.

A graduate of The George Washington University in Washington, D.C., Duva has worked at Arlington Financial Advisors since the firm launched in 2010. She advises high-net-worth families, business owners and women in transition. She helps clients understand and manage their net worth and solve complex financial problems by offering advice in an array of areas including retirement planning, insurance planning, estate and tax planning, and investment management. She holds the Certified Financial Planner® designation.

Museum of Ventura County — Exhibit Opening This Thursday – Napoleon: Revolution, Romance, and Rivalries, more events

by Community Contributor • February 21, 2024 • Comments Off

Explore the complex life of Napoleon Bonaparte in a new exhibition of George Stuart Historical Figures®. As a charismatic leader, military strategist, and political figure, Napoleon rose to power during the tumultuous aftermath of the French Revolution. Immerse yourself in his journey, from the forces that propelled him to prominence, his marriages, and his entwined destinies with other global leaders. Through George Stuart’s intricate creations, experience Napoleon Bonaparte’s significant impact on the course of history.

Bilingual report — Allan Hancock College’s Fine Arts Faculty Showcase Talent with New Exhibit

by Community Contributor • February 20, 2024 • Comments Off

SANTA MARIA — Allan Hancock College’s talented fine?arts?instructors are?showcasing?a wide range of creative work during the college’s Fine?Arts?Faculty?Art?Show.

The?exhibit?is currently running at the Ann Foxworthy Gallery on Hancock’s Santa Maria campus through March 14 and is free and open to the public.

The?show?features a variety of artwork by Hancock’s fine?arts?faculty, who represent multiple disciplines including art history, painting, drawing, 3D design, ceramics, photography, media arts, dance, music and more.

“As artists, our faculty have their own art-making practices both within their scope of teaching and beyond,” said Gallery Director Laura-Susan Thomas.?“This exhibit showcases the variety of their works and the breadth of their talents.”

Osher Lifelong Learning Institute (OLLI) at CSU Channel Islands Announces New Spring Catalog

by Community Contributor • February 20, 2024 • Comments Off

CAMARILLO — The Osher Lifelong Learning Institute (OLLI) at CSU Channel Islands is offering exciting new classes for Spring II, 2024. This session, you can explore the works of California’s prominent architects, learn about the diversity of invertebrates, discover the cultural jewels of the Stuart Dynasty…and much more! We have a wide range of exciting courses to offer!

Classes begin March 25, 2024. Registration opens March 4, 2024. Classes are offered throughout Ventura County in-person and on Zoom.

UCSB — The Current – “Earl Louis Stewart’s ‘Homage to Swing’ recognized by American Prize Competition” and more events, news

by Community Contributor • February 20, 2024 • Comments Off

The College of Creative Studies and Black studies professor emeritus described the work as a “tribute to the tradition of swing” and “an exercise in contemplative jazz.”

CLU — Last Chance to Register for ‘Separating Myths From Realities — Challenges Undocumented Immigrants Face and Their Economic Impact in California’ on Feb. 22

by Community Contributor • February 19, 2024 • Comments Off

Join, explore, and participate in discussions on the social and economic challenges undocumented families face in California and their irreplaceable value for the entire state, organized by the Center for Economics of Social Issues.

Economic Development Collaborative (EDC) free webinar schedule

by Community Contributor • February 19, 2024 • Comments Off

DEMYSTIFYING THE FDA MOCRA 2022 COSMETICS RULES: WHAT BEAUTY BRANDS NEED TO KNOW

February 28 @ 10:00 am

Museum of Ventura County — Survey: Why Does History, Art, and Culture Matter to You?

by Community Contributor • February 16, 2024 • Comments Off

We at Museum of Ventura County care deeply about making the history and art we share with you, our community, and our visitors, meaningful.

But we need your help. We want to better understand our visitors’ different needs and values so we can best serve you. Museums (like ours!) strive to encourage and expand learning while also addressing the challenges facing our society, and we need to hear your thoughts.

To do this, we are participating in a national survey of museum-goers, sponsored by the American Alliance of Museums. This survey will provide us with data from our visitors, as well as from visitors to museums nationwide, helping us be more effective in the coming months and in the communities we serve.

Bilingual commentary — Roman Numerals and the Super Bowl

by Community Contributor • February 16, 2024 • Comments Off

The first Super Bowl, which could have been known as “Super Bowl No. 1,” was played the year I graduated from high school in 1967. “Super Bowl No. 2” followed in 1968, and so on, until we got to “Super Bowl No. 4” in 1970.

The “footballerati” started to think that this numbering system for the Super Bowl games was getting a bit “boring.” Lamar Hunt, the late owner of the Kansas City Chiefs, decided that the Super Bowl needed a more eloquent numbering system…something that would make it sound more important, dignified, and even “magisterial.”

Ventura County Civic Alliance Livable Communities Newsletter – Feb. 15, 2024

by Community Contributor • February 15, 2024 • Comments Off

This quarter’s Livable Communities Newsletter offers more information from the recently published State of the Region report. This data is packaged to shed light on the Ventura County Civic Alliance 3Es: the Economy, the Environment, and social Equity. Special Thanks go to Tony Biasotti for his write-ups, to David Maron for the graphics, and to Kerry Roscoe for the final assembly of the newsletter.

UCSB — The Current — ‘Art installation examines Vietnamese refugee history’ and more news, events

by Community Contributor • February 15, 2024 • Comments Off

At O’Hare International Airport’s Terminal 5, art lecturer H??ng Ngô and collaborator H?ng-n Tr??ng reimagine concepts of citizenship and safe passage in a newly commissioned piece.

Bilingual commentary — Ventura County Board of Supervisors ratify declaration of local emergency for Ventura County following February storms

by Community Contributor • February 14, 2024 • Comments Off

VENTURA — On Tuesday, February 13, the Board of Supervisors, voted to ratify the proclamation of a local emergency put forth by the Ventura County Sheriff’s Office of Emergency Services to secure federal disaster assistance in relation to the storms that affected the county beginning on February 4. The vote to ratify occurred following the date of the proclamation since the Board of Supervisors was not in session on the date the proclamation was authored.

“The prospective funding that we would receive from FEMA is essential to our ability as a county to support residents as we perform repairs to local infrastructure that sustained major damage,” said Kelly Long, Chair of the Board of Supervisors. “We hope these funds can quickly become available to assist the County in covering the costs related to the most recent storms.”

Hospice of Santa Barbara Shares Tips — Coping with Valentine’s Day after the Loss of a Romantic Partner

by Community Contributor • February 14, 2024 • Comments Off

SANTA BARBARA — It is the time of year for pink and red balloons, heart-shaped candies and chocolates, stuffed animals, and bouquets of roses. It is a day meant to celebrate loving someone and being loved. However, for those grieving a lost loved one, holidays such as Valentine’s Day may bring up difficult emotions and memories of a romantic partner who has passed away.

Whether it is the first Valentine’s Day without your loved one, or several years without them, it is natural to miss them during this holiday. A variety of emotions may surface and that is okay. It is natural to feel overwhelmed, lost, confused, angry, guilty, and sad.

Teatro de las Américas — Casting Call | Karaoke Night | RIP Ludwig Pineda | Taller de Cine 2024

by Community Contributor • February 14, 2024 • Comments Off

Casting Call | Karaoke Night | RIP Ludwig Pineda | Taller de Cine 2024

Assemblymember Steve Bennett introduces bill targeting state’s single-use plastic consumption

by Community Contributor • February 14, 2024 • Comments Off

SACRAMENTO — Assemblymember Steve Bennett introduced Assembly Bill (AB) 2648, which tackles California’s ambitious goals to reduce consumption of single-use plastics. Specifically, AB 2648 will phase out the purchase and sale of single-use plastic bottles by state agencies. AB 2648 does not apply to the average consumer.

“It is time that state government models the change we ask of everyone else,” said Assemblymember Bennett. “The impact of plastics is pervasive and well-documented, and makes this transition necessary. The State of California has massive purchasing power and resources to show that this change is feasible in all but the most unique situations, for California’s residents and visitors alike.”

Bilingual report — February news from People’s Self-Help Housing (PSHHC)

by Community Contributor • February 14, 2024 • Comments Off

The 1950’s housing boom, subsidized by the federal government, paid builders on the condition that no homes be sold to African Americans.

This uncomfortable truth, which sits uneasily in our national psyche, has now been compounded by three generations. Along with the ensuing inability to accrue wealth through home ownership, and the subsequent inability to transfer that wealth to their heirs, it is the single most important factor in the wealth gap and the reason for the incessant poverty of many people of color.

During this Black History month, if you have:

Southeast Ventura County YMCA Launches Annual Fundraising Campaign And Celebrates Its 60th Anniversary

by Community Contributor • February 14, 2024 • Comments Off

WESTLAKE VILLAGE — The Southeast Ventura County YMCA has launched its 2024 annual fundraising campaign. Now until March 15, the Y’s goal is to raise $200,000 so it can continue to offer its programs to all community members, regardless of an ability to pay. The Southeast Ventura County YMCA is also celebrating its 60thanniversary in 2024.

The YMCA‘s two no-cost signature programs are supported solely by donations. Find My Genius closes the learning gap that often occurs during summer, especially for children in low- to middle-income households. In 2023, Find My Genius enrolled 575 young scholars in its summer program and 287 took part in its year-round afterschool program.

Cooperative Farm Equipment Program Proposed by Assemblymember Steve Bennett (D-Ventura)

by Community Contributor • February 14, 2024 • Comments Off

SACRAMENTO — Assemblymember Steve Bennett (D-Ventura) has introduced AB 2313 which would create a new program to increase equipment access for small and underserved growers as well as offering essential technical assistance for farmer cooperative development. Despite the Governor’s veto of this vital legislation last year, our food and farming communities have expressed a continued and strong need for this program which will increase access to necessary farm equipment for healthy soil and on-farm conservation practices, storage, and processing. The program will also offer essential technical assistance to farmers on the development of farm cooperatives as well as the maintenance of tools and tool demonstrations. The bill is co-sponsored by the California Climate & Agriculture Network (CalCAN) and Community Alliance with Family Farmers (CAFF).

United Way of Ventura County provides permanent homes for over 400 residents

by Community Contributor • February 13, 2024 • Comments Off

VENTURA — United Way of Ventura County’s Landlord Engagement Program has officially provided permanent housing for over 400 people with a 97.4% retention rate. This means 434 individuals, including 74 veterans, 54 seniors, and 153 children, now have a place to call home in our Ventura County community.

Homelessness and housing challenges are continuing to rise due to limited affordable housing supply, extremely low vacancy rates, and rising rents which all elevate the critical nature of this program. UWVC’s Landlord Engagement Program (LEP) advocates for and supports those prioritized for housing vouchers and housing subsidies provided by local jurisdictions and community partners.

“In today’s competitive housing market, many people are struggling to find affordable places to live,” said Mitchel Sloan, president, and CEO of UWVC. “Our Landlord Engagement Program is helping provide a safe place to call home for our community’s most vulnerable individuals, families, seniors and veterans.”

Music Academy of the West in Santa Barbara Launches Alumni Performance Award

by Community Contributor • February 13, 2024 • Comments Off

Open to all alumni, the annual award will support an emerging Music Academy alum in their professional pursuits as a performing artist.

The inaugural recipient of the award is solo piano alum Evan Shinners (‘09), who is slated to perform in the galleries on Feb 24 at the Santa Barbara Museum of Art.

UCSB — The Current — ‘Embracing single life: Love, intimacy and family beyond the couple’ and more news, events

by Community Contributor • February 13, 2024 • Comments Off

View this email online February 13, 2024 Top News Embracing single life: Love, intimacy and family beyond the couple Using survey data from more than 20,000 people from over 100 countries, and drawing from research by other social scientists, Bella…

Uplift releases report examining economic data and perspectives of Central Coast residents

by Community Contributor • February 12, 2024 • Comments Off

“The community played a pivotal role in creating this report as well as the 33 governance committee members who collaborated on and helped shape and inform the plan and work to date,” said Quinn Brady, Project Director of Uplift. “We are excited to share the outcomes of this collective effort.”

Bilingual report — Economic Development Collaborative (EDC) Expands Digital Upskilling Training Initiative to Santa Barbara County

by Community Contributor • February 12, 2024 • Comments Off

GOLETA — The Economic Development Collaborative (EDC) celebrates a groundbreaking achievement as it extends its Digital Upskilling Training Program to Santa Barbara County, forging a collaborative partnership with the City of Goleta. Originating in Ventura County, EDC’s Digital Upskilling Training Program is a pioneering short-term training program expanding digital skills training opportunities. In addition to the program’s training goals, the initiative strives to create a replicable model that can be expanded statewide.

Economic Development Collaborative (EDC) free event and webinar schedule

by Community Contributor • February 12, 2024 • Comments Off

DEMYSTIFYING THE FDA MOCRA 2022 COSMETICS RULES: WHAT BEAUTY BRANDS NEED TO KNOW

February 28 @ 10:00 am

CLICK HERE TO REGISTER

CSUCI highlights Hispanic culture with a Chicana/o Studies quinceañera fundraiser and a lowrider car show on Feb. 10

by Community Contributor • February 9, 2024 • Comments Off

CAMARILLO — The CSU Channel Islands (CSUCI) campus will be alive with two Latina/o cultural celebrations from 11 a.m. to 10 p.m. on Saturday, Feb. 10, and the public is invited to join in.

Just as it is customary to honor a Latina’s 15th birthday with a grand celebration including music, dancing, food, tiaras and elaborate gowns, the Chicana/o Studies program is celebrating its 15th birthday with a big party in the Grand Salon with longtime Chicana/o activist Carlos Montes and his daughter, artist/activist/educator Felicia Montes, as keynote speakers.

“The quinceañera in Latina/o culture marks an important time of transitioning from a girl into a woman,” said Professor of Chicana/o Studies José Alamillo. “It’s acknowledging the next stage of life and the fact that the young woman will be doing big things. Our department is also becoming more mature and we’re also going to do some big things involving social justice and scholarship.”

Bilingual commentary — Is a College Education Affordable?

by Community Contributor • February 9, 2024 • Comments Off

Who can afford college?

This question is uncomfortably popping up more frequently lately. There has been much chatter about student debt, upward-spiraling tuition, lower wages for college graduates, and employers’ increasing willingness to hire people without college degrees. This discussion has led young people to more seriously weigh their options after high school.

The specter of near-lifetime student debt looms large in young people’s decisions.

Port of Hueneme DOCK TALK – Community Newsletter – February – 2024

by Community Contributor • February 9, 2024 • Comments Off

During the month of February, please join the Port in celebrating the legacies and contributions of Black Americans who have helped build, shape, and transform the United States of America.

Early Summer Camp Registration Begins At Southeast Ventura County YMCA Branches

by Community Contributor • February 9, 2024 • Comments Off

WESTLAKE VILLAGE — Southeast Ventura County YMCA branches are taking early registrations for their summer camps. Camp is from June 17 to August 16 through the Yarrow Family YMCA and from June 10 to August 8 through the Simi Valley Family YMCA.

Campers in TK to 5th grade can attend day camp full-time (four to five days a week) or part-time (two to three days a week) for the entire camp session or selected weeks.

MICOP — Bill (SB 1016) to Disaggregate Health Data for Latine and Indigenous Communities in California, Reintroduced

by Community Contributor • February 8, 2024 • Comments Off

SACRAMENTO — On Monday, February 5th, 2024, State Sen. Lena Gonzalez (D-Long Beach) reintroduced The Latine and Indigenous Disparities Reduction Act, SB 1016. The bill aims to uncover health and related disparities by requiring state departments to collect and disaggregate more detailed data for Latine and Indigenous Mesoamerican populations in California.

The U.S. Census Bureau recently reported that over 1 in 4 Americans are likely to be Latino by 2060 – with ever growing ethnic and language diversity within the population, it is critical that the state with the largest Latine population understand the diversity of this community.

Bilingual report — Economic Development Collaborative (EDC) — Honoring Black History Month

by Community Contributor • February 8, 2024 • Comments Off

The Economic Development Collaborative would like to recognize the month of February as Black History Month. This month is dedicated to honoring and celebrating the contributions of Black Americans throughout history. During this time, and throughout the entire year, the EDC is committed to supporting Black-owned small businesses. The EDC strives to provide equitable access and inclusive services, leading to stronger economic outcomes that support businesses and our region as a whole. The following are a handful of programs that provide support for Black-owned small businesses:

Bilingual report — Community members invited to provide feedback on recent Board of Supervisors direction to include additional designated disadvantaged communities in the Ventura County General Plan

by Community Contributor • February 8, 2024 • Comments Off

VENTURA — The Ventura County Planning Division invites community members to a virtual public meeting on February 22, 2024, at 6:30 p.m. to discuss an update to the Ventura County General Plan to include additional designated disadvantaged communities in the unincorporated county areas of North Ventura Avenue, Oxnard Plain, and Santa Paula. The purpose of the meeting is to review recent direction from the Board of Supervisors on this project and hear from the public on issues related to being a designated disadvantaged community.

The County’s General Plan is a policy document that reflects a long-term vision for land use, health and safety, economic advancement, and resource conservation in unincorporated Ventura County through the year 2040. Including designated disadvantaged communities in the General Plan helps to ensure that these communities can benefit from grant funding opportunities and tailored County policies and programs intended to safeguard these communities from further environmental pollution, prioritize improvements to public services and infrastructure, and enhance public outreach and participation on development projects.

UCSB — The Current — ‘Reinforcing the diverse ways people access seafood can ensure healthy communities in the face of change’ and more news, events

by Community Contributor • February 8, 2024 • Comments Off

Understanding and bolstering existing pathways for acquiring seafood — as opposed to creating new programs and processes — can promote food system resilience in the Pacific Islands.

Family Service Agency (FSA) Unveils Program to Help Older Adults Age in Place

by Community Contributor • February 8, 2024 • Comments Off

SANTA BARBARA COUNTY — Family Service Agency (FSA) of Santa Barbara County, also known as Santa Maria Valley Youth and Family Center and Guadalupe’s Little House By The Park, is excited to announce that it is expanding its case management services to help older adults age in place. The program is open to any Santa Barbara County resident 60 or older and is free, thanks to funding from the Modernization of the Older Californians Act and the Area Agency on Aging.

The Centers for Disease Control (CDC) defines aging in place as: “the ability to live in one’s own home and community safely, independently, and comfortably, regardless of age, income, or ability level.”

Women’s Fund of Santa Barbara Announces $1.125 Million Grants Pool for 2024

by Community Contributor • February 8, 2024 • Comments Off

SANTA BARBARA — The Women’s Fund of Santa Barbara, a philanthropic organization founded 20 years ago by 12 local women, is proud to announce it will award a record-breaking grants pool of $1.125 million as part of its 20th Anniversary celebration. With this significant investment, the Women’s Fund continues improving the lives of women, children, and families in south Santa Barbara County.

Over the past two decades, the Women’s Fund has donated nearly $10.5 million to 142 local nonprofits with impactful grants up to and exceeding $100,000. “We are thrilled to mark our 20th anniversary with this amazing grants pool and applaud the 1,300 women who made it possible with their generous donations,” said Jamie Dufek, Board Chair of the Women’s Fund. “This milestone reflects our unwavering commitment to making a positive difference in the lives of those most in need.”

Bilingual report — Economic Development Collaborative (EDC) — Declared Emergency Storm Updates for February 2024 Storm and Flooding

by Community Contributor • February 7, 2024 • Comments Off

As of February 3, 2024 Governor Gavin Newson issued a Proclamation of a State of Emergency for damages to businesses and homes in Los Angeles, Orange, Riverside, San Bernardino, San Diego, San Luis Obispo, Santa Barbara and Ventura Counties resulting from the Storm and Flooding that occurred February 3, 2024.

See the Disaster Proclamation for the recent February storm HERE.

Ventura County Resources

Report Damage to Homes & Businesses: Ventura County Sheriff’s Emergency Services is collecting data on damaged property following the recent storms. This information is then shared with Cal OES and FEMA to assist with qualifying Ventura County as a disaster area. You can submit a damage report through February 12 HERE.

Gov. Newsom on Winter Storms: ‘We’re Grateful to Our Thousands of First Responders’

by Community Contributor • February 7, 2024 • Comments Off

SACRAMENTO – Today, Governor Gavin Newsom thanked first responders for their efforts over the past few weeks to help keep Californians safe during record-breaking winter storms.

Starting in late January, Governor Newsom directed an all-of-government response to storms that have impacted nearly all residents. The response included over 8,500 boots on the ground to support communities with roadways, flood operations, rescue teams, sheltering, and more.

State swift water rescue teams, composed of both California Governor’s Office of Emergency Services and CAL FIRE assets, made a combined 47 rescues and assisted six locally-led rescue operations. These state operations complemented the work of local governments conducting their own rescues.

Santa Paula Art Museum — This Weekend: Art, Wine & Cider Tasting, Live Music, and More!

by Community Contributor • February 7, 2024 • Comments Off

Art & Aperitifs: “Art About Agriculture”

?Saturday, February 10, 2024 • 4 PM to 6 PM
$35 per person

Have plans Saturday evening? Spend it at the Santa Paula Art Museum during our all-new Art & Aperitifs event from 4 PM to 6 PM! Enjoy the current “Art About Agriculture” exhibition while sampling locally grown and made wine and cider from Santa Paula Cellars and Anna’s Cider. Listen to live music by Santa Paula chanteuse Shay Moulder, and watch a live painting demonstration by “Art About Ag” artist Gabriel Islas.

Bilingual report — County of Ventura Building and Safety Division announces new electronic building permit application system

by Community Contributor • February 7, 2024 • Comments Off

VENTURA — The Building and Safety Division of the County’s Resource Management Agency is now accepting electronic submission of building permit applications to facilitate and streamline the issuance of building permits for new construction.

“Building permit applicants will no longer need to drive to the Building and Safety office to submit their permit application in person,” said Ruben Barrera, Deputy Director with the Building and Safety Division. “Permit applications will be received electronically and linked directly into the County’s Permit Tracking system for faster processing.”

Triunfo Water & Sanitation District Taking Applications To Fill Board Vacancy

by Community Contributor • February 7, 2024 • Comments Off

WESTLAKE VILLAGE —The Triunfo Water & Sanitation District (TWSD) is accepting applications from the public to fill a board vacancy created when Director Janna Orkney resigned on January 29. The appointed director will serve for the remainder of the current term, until December 2024. The deadline for application submissions is March 9 by 5:00 p.m.

Guest contribution — Providing Housing for the Homeless Leads to More Safety and Better Health for all of us, Particularly for Those who Live on the Streets

by Community Contributor • February 7, 2024 • Comments Off

SANTA BARBARA — Chronic homelessness is a health and safety risk for an entire community, including those who are homeless. High concentrations of homeless persons often result in increased emergency room visits and hospitalizations, police intervention, incarceration and drug and sanitation issues. This is just one reason why organizations like DignityMoves are working to reduce homelessness by providing safe, dignified housing for homeless individuals and families. This service improves the lives of both the residents of DignityMoves housing sites as well as those living throughout Santa Barbara County.

“We do have many safety issues associated with where people are camped here in Santa Barbara County,” said Mark Hatwig, Fire Chief of Santa Barbara County. “Most of these homeless encampments are not safe living spaces. …

Friendship Center hosts 25th Annual Festival of Hearts Event

by Community Contributor • February 7, 2024 • Comments Off

SANTA BARBARA — Friendship Center successfully hosted its 25th Annual Festival of Hearts. This year’s seaside-elegance themed, Silver Jubilee celebration took place on Saturday, February 3rd, 2024 at the stunning Rosewood Miramar Beach, located across the street from Friendship Center at 1759 S Jameson Lane, Montecito.

Dr. Cynder Sinclair, Board President & David Moorman, emcee.
Special honorees included member “Sir Robert” who was featured in a video about his 6 years of coming to Friendship Center and how it improves his quality of life. Shianne Motter spoke passionately about her family and father with dementia and how Friendship Center was a lifesaver for her as a younger caregiver.

Cottage Health Launches New Women’s Heart Clinic

by Community Contributor • February 7, 2024 • Comments Off

SANTA BARBARA — Cottage Health is pleased to announce the launch of the Cottage Women’s Heart Clinic, the first of its kind in Santa Barbara County. The specialty care clinic is designed to address the unique needs of women with cardiovascular diseases. Cardiovascular disease stands as the leading cause of death in women, responsible for one in three deaths each year, according to the American Heart Association.

U.S. Rep. Julia Brownley — Weather & Storm Resources

by Community Contributor • February 6, 2024 • Comments Off

Dear Neighbor,

Recently, the Counties of Ventura and Los Angeles have experienced devastating flooding and rains impacting the lives of many members of our community and throughout Southern California.

During these extreme weather events, my team and I are keeping a close watch on the conditions and coordinating with local, state, and federal officials to ensure that all the necessary resources are available to support our community. As weather and storm conditions continue in the area, I wanted to provide you with a list of up-to-date resources to be prepared, remain informed, and, most importantly, stay safe.

Museum of Ventura County — Join Us for One of MVC’s Inspired Upcoming Itineraries!

by Community Contributor • February 6, 2024 • Comments Off

6 Generations 200 Years Later

Saturday, February 17

1:00 pm – 3:00 pm

@Museum of Ventura County

100 E. Main St., Ventura

Join us for a screening of “6 Generations,” followed by an insightful Q&A session with Chumash elder Ernestine Ygnacio-De Soto and Professor Kristina Foss. There will also be a curated display on the 1824 Chumash Revolt, offering a glimpse into a pivotal moment in Chumash history.

Discover the untold stories, triumphs, and challenges that have shaped the shared heritage of the Chumash people. Cost: $10 non-members, free for members at Individual/Family level or higher. Includes admission to the Museum. Made possible, in part, by the Bauer Foundation. Click HERE for more information and to register.

Bilingual report — Allan Hancock College students present research to prestigious biology organization

by Community Contributor • February 6, 2024 • Comments Off

SANTA MARIA — Two Allan Hancock College students were invited to present their research project to a prestigious body of scientists and scholars in Seattle, Washington.

Hancock students Brianna Munoz Gonzalez and Katherine Goldstein traveled to Seattle Washington, where the duo presented their research on native plant and bee populations to the Society for Integrative and Comparative Biology (SICB) during the organization’s annual meeting in January 2024.

“Being asked to present in front of a body of other researchers was a humbling and empowering experience,” said Goldstein, who received Hancock’s prestigious Marian Scholarship in 2023. “Every single researcher we spoke to was interested in what we were doing, took us seriously and saw the importance and the value of what we were working to accomplish.”

Two California State Dignitaries Create A Big Splash During First Visit to The Port of Hueneme

by Community Contributor • February 6, 2024 • Comments Off

PORT HUENEME — The Port of Hueneme welcomed two distinguished visitors, Dee Dee Myers, the Director of the Governor’s Office of Business and Economic Development (GO-Biz), and Assemblymember Mike A. Gipson, Chair of the Select Committee on Ports and Goods Movement. The two California officials toured The Port of Hueneme’s onsite facilities and learned about its unique Hueneme Way of supporting logistics and trade through its collaboration and utilization of offsite facilities to create more job opportunities for local residents and maximize the throughput and efficiency of California bound cargo. As the only deep-water Port between Los Angeles and San Francisco, The Port of Hueneme serves as a vital link in the supply chain, handling over $15.8 billion worth of cargo annually.

UCSB — The Current — ‘Los Angeles Times columnist Gustavo Arellano to receive Luis Leal Award’ and more news, events

by Community Contributor • February 6, 2024 • Comments Off

The author of “¡Ask a Mexican!” (2007), “Orange County: A Personal History” (2008) and “Taco USA: How Mexican Food Conquered America” (2012) will join Mario T. Garcia to discuss his work as a journalist, politics and the future of print media.

Music Academy of the West in Santa Barbara announces new Chief Artistic Officer

by Community Contributor • February 6, 2024 • Comments Off

Music Academy of the West is delighted to announce the appointment of Nate Bachhuber to the position of Chief Artistic Officer. Nate is recognized for his collaborative and strategic approach to artistic planning with prestigious performing arts organizations including the LA Phil, Cincinnati Symphony Orchestra, and St. Louis Symphony Orchestra. He takes up this new post on February 26, and looks forward to engaging Santa Barbara’s vibrant communities through music and, with his colleagues, expanding the Music Academy’s future artistic impact.

Bilingual report — Ballots for the March 5, 2024, Presidential Primary Election Are On Their Way to Registered Voters in Ventura County

by Community Contributor • February 5, 2024 • Comments Off

VENTURA — Today, Feb. 5, 2024, starts the 29-day countdown to the March 5, 2024, Presidential Primary election and all the activities mandated by California State Election law.

Throughout the State, Vote by Mail ballots are prepared to go out to all active, registered voters. Those voters should expect to receive their ballots within ten days. Military and overseas voters have already been sent their vote by mail ballots to ensure they have enough time to receive and return them and have them postmarked before the 8:00 pm deadline on Election Day.

Economic Development Collaborative (EDC) free event and webinar schedule

by Community Contributor • February 5, 2024 • Comments Off

AI FOR SMALL BUSINESS MARKETING: SUPERCHARGE YOUR SOCIAL MEDIA CONTENT CREATION WITH THE POWER OF AI

February 28 @ 12:00 pm

Part 2 of the AI webinar series. Explore the real-world applications of AI. Don’t miss out on unlocking the potential of AI for your business success. Offered in partnership with EDC, WEV and SCORE. Spanish interpretation will be available.

CLICK HERE TO REGISTER

Santa Barbara County First District Supervisor Das Williams — Evacuation Order Lifted and Help Us Assess Storm Damage

by Community Contributor • February 5, 2024 • Comments Off

All Evacuation Orders for Santa Barbara County are CANCELED as of 12:00 PM Monday, February 5.

Several roads and trails may be inaccessible or closed throughout the county due to storm impacts. Ground saturation may cause continued rock falls, minor debris flows and landslides, and tree falls even if it is not raining.

Please refer to State Parks and County Parks for information regarding status of campgrounds.

Residents and businesses that sustained damages as a result of the storm can complete an online Storm Damage Report Form available here: Storm Damage Report Form

Guest contribution — The Housing Authority of the City of Santa Barbara Improves Lives and Neighborhoods

by Community Contributor • February 5, 2024 • Comments Off

SANTA BARBARA — The Housing Authority of the City of Santa Barbara (HACSB) turns “low-income housing” preconceived bias on its head with beautiful architecture and stringent qualifications and rules for their tenants.

Since 1969, the HACSB has been working to provide affordable housing to the city’s lower-income residents. These residents include seniors, veterans, disabled, those with mental health or drug and alcohol issues, or simply trying to create better lives for their families. Over the years, HACSB has helped thousands of people become housed, allowing them the space and opportunity to turn their lives around.

Gov. Newsom Proclaims State of Emergency in Southern California As Powerful Storm Makes Landfall

by Community Contributor • February 5, 2024 • Comments Off

SACRAMENTO – Gov. Gavin Newsom (on Feb. 4)proclaimed a state of emergency for eight counties in Southern California as a series of winter storms began impacting much of the state with high winds, damaging rain and heavy snowfall. The text of the proclamation can be found here.

The proclamation covers Los Angeles, Orange, Riverside, San Bernardino, San Diego, San Luis Obispo, Santa Barbara and Ventura counties. The emergency proclamation includes provisions authorizing a California National Guard response if tasked, facilitating unemployment benefits for impacted residents, and making it easier for out-of-state contractors and utilities to repair storm damage.

Earlier today, the Governor visited the State Operations Center near Sacramento for an update on the storm and the state’s response efforts. B-roll video of the visit can be downloaded here.

Assemblymember Steve Bennett presents World Wetlands Day Resolution with Coastal Keepers

by Community Contributor • February 5, 2024 • Comments Off

OXNARD — The California State Assembly unanimously passed Assemblymember Steve Bennett’s resolution, HR 64 (2023-24), proclaiming February 2nd as World Wetlands Day. The idea was presented to Bennett by Oxnard-based Coastal Keepers, a grassroots organization dedicated to the clean-up and stewardship of Ormond Beach.

“Our partnership with Coastal Keepers has been fruitful and inspiring. These young leaders have demonstrated initiative and passion for keeping our public beaches and waterways clean for all. I’m grateful to have collaborated with them on this resolution that is important to our coastal district,” said Assemblymember Steve Bennett.

Cottage Health to Host Blood drives on Feb. 22, 23

by Community Contributor • February 5, 2024 • Comments Off

SANTA BARBARA — To bolster local blood supply and contribute to the community’s well-being, Cottage Health, in partnership with Vitalant, is hosting two blood drives in February.

The blood drives are scheduled in Goleta and Santa Barbara on the following dates:

Santa Barbara County First District Supervisor Das Williams — Evacuation Order Issued

by Community Contributor • February 4, 2024 • Comments Off

Evacuation Order Issued Due to Incoming Storm EVACUATION ORDERS have been issued for the following areas in Santa Barbara County: Properties along waterways associated with the Thomas, Cave and Alisal burn areas. Properties in the vicinity of Sycamore Creek, from Stanwood…

CANCELED Mountain Stage with Kathy Mattea on Sunday, Feb 4 at the Arlington Theatre

by Community Contributor • February 3, 2024 • Comments Off

Due to the evacuation order issued by the county for parts of Santa Barbara, as well as the warning issued today by the National Weather Service, Mountain Stage with Host Kathy Mattea has been canceled. There is no reschedule date at this time.

As reported by KEYT, “The National Weather Service announced a high risk for life threatening and damaging flash flooding in all of Santa Barbara down to Los Angeles, and stressed the importance of preparation and avoiding flooding roadways.”

Ticket sales have begun for Chicana/o Studies at CSUCI celebrates ‘Nuestra Quinceañera’ fundraiser on Feb. 22

by Community Contributor • February 2, 2024 • Comments Off

CAMARILLO — Chicana/o Studies at CSUCI celebrates “Nuestra Quinceañera” at 5 p.m. Saturday, Feb. 10 at the Grand Salon at CSU Channel Islands.

Join us to mark our 15th year milestone! You are cordially invited to Nuestra Quinceañera: 15 Years of Chicana/o Studies at CSU Channel Islands. This fundraising dinner and celebration will honor the impact of Chicana/o Studies at CI and beyond. We will be featuring live music, delicious food, and engaging speakers. Taking place on February 10, 2024 (Saturday) from 5:00 PM to 10:00 PM at Grand Salon, CSUCI.

Bilingual commentary — Learning English Can’t Be Easy

by Community Contributor • February 2, 2024 • Comments Off

We who have spoken English all our lives cannot possibly appreciate the magnitude of the gift we possess. English has become the de facto “universal language” that people throughout the world resort to when they have the need for a common tongue.

Most of the rest of the world who wants to learn English struggles mightily with the immense challenges posed by this lingua franca.

UCSB — The Current — ‘Sea otters stabilize salt marsh banks as they recolonize a California estuary’ and more news, events

by Community Contributor • February 1, 2024 • Comments Off

A new study finds that some features essential to the resiliency of Elkhorn Slough, a salt marsh-dominated coastal estuary in Monterey County, are improved by the return of sea otters and their insatiable appetite for herbivorous marsh crabs.

Santa Barbara County First District Supervisor Das Williams — Two Storms Coming – What We Know

by Community Contributor • February 1, 2024 • Comments Off

Rain is on the way, and now is the time to prepare.

The National Weather Service is forecasting two storms that are heading toward our area. The first will arrive tonight and last through tomorrow, February 1, and a stronger storm is likely arriving Sunday, February 4th and lasting through Wednesday, February 7th.

The first storm arriving tonight may bring moderate impacts which include flooding of roadways, creeks and areas that are prone to flooding risk during moderate storms.

California Mobilizes Ahead of Next Round of Storms, Urges Communities to Prepare

by Community Contributor • February 1, 2024 • Comments Off

SACRAMENTO — Working proactively to keep communities safe, California is mobilizing a whole-of-government response to a series of potentially dangerous incoming storms.

Beginning Tuesday evening, a series of storms will hit the state for the next 10 days and is expected to bring significant rain, high winds, deep snow as well as potential flash flooding and power outages.

At the direction of Governor Gavin Newsom, the State Operations Center in Mather is being activated to coordinate a unified response to these storms across state, local and federal agencies.

Conference Explores Challenges and Economic Impact of Undocumented Immigrants in California

by Community Contributor • January 31, 2024 • Comments Off

THOUSAND OAKS — Undocumented immigrants contribute more than $151 billion to California’s economy, according to the 2023 study “Demographic Profile and Economic Impact of Undocumented Immigrants in California: Separating Myths from Realities” by Jamshid Damooei, Ph.D., of California Lutheran University School of Management’s Center for Economics of Social Issues (CESI). To discuss and explore the findings, Cal Lutheran is holding the timely conference, “Separating Myths from Realities: Challenges Undocumented Immigrants Face and Their Economic Impact in California.” The conference will be held from 8 a.m. – noon on Feb. 22 in the Lundring Events Center on the Cal Lutheran campus.

February @ SPAM: Art & Aperitifs, Secrets of the Impressionists and More!

by Community Contributor • January 31, 2024 • Comments Off

Art & Aperitifs: “Art About Agriculture”

Saturday, February 10, 2024 • 4 PM to 6 PM

$35 per person

Elevate your taste in art and beverages during Art & Aperitifs, an all-new event at the Santa Paula Art Museum! Experience a new appreciation for the Museum’s current “Art About Agriculture” exhibition while sampling locally grown and made aperitifs, including wine and cider by Santa Paula Cellars and Anna’s Cider. Enjoy live music by homegrown Santa Paula musician Shay Moulder, and a live painting demonstration by “Art About Ag” featured artist Gabriel Islas.

Advance ticket purchase is required and space is limited. (Please note, this event is for 21-and-overs only.)

MORE INFO + GET TICKETS

Bilingual report — Covered California Announces More Time to Enroll for Coverage in 2024

by Community Contributor • January 31, 2024 • Comments Off

SACRAMENTO — Covered California announced today that it will give consumers until Feb. 9 to sign up for coverage in 2024.

“We’ve seen record-breaking enrollment nationally, and Covered California is surging with heightened demand,” said Covered California Executive Director Jessica Altman. “We want any Californian who needs health insurance to have the opportunity to get covered for the rest of 2024, and extending the open-enrollment period will ensure they have the time they need.”

People’s Self-Help Housing Celebrates Grand Opening of New Affordable Housing in San Luis Obispo

by Community Contributor • January 31, 2024 • Comments Off

SAN LUIS OBISPO — People’s Self-Help Housing (PSHH) has opened its newest affordable housing development: Broad Street Place.

Located at 3720 Broad Street in San Luis Obispo, this new construction development is comprised of 40 units with three commercial spaces available. Residents have access to a community center, shared kitchen, barbeque space, outdoor patios, laundry facilities, bike storage, playground, electric vehicle charging stations, on-site property management, free internet, and supportive services. Some units provide ADA-certified accessibility for those with mobility, hearing, and vision limitations.

“This is a very collaborative project. While we can do a lot on our own, we do so much more when we work together.” said Ken Trigueiro, CEO & President. “It’s really fun to celebrate this moment.”

3C-REN Celebrates Successful 2023 with over $800,000 in Energy-Saving Incentives Serving over 500 Homes in the Tri-County Region

by Community Contributor • January 31, 2024 • Comments Off

CENTRAL COAST — Throughout 2023, 3C-REN (Tri-County Regional Energy Network), a partnership between the Counties of San Luis Obispo, Santa Barbara and Ventura, served more than 500 homes in the region with energy-saving projects, representing a local investment of over $800,000 via incentives paid out to projects. 3C-REN also upskilled hundreds of local workers and supported design and trade professionals adjusting to new, more efficient building codes.

“We are very proud of the work we accomplished and the energy-saving projects we completed in 2023 as we move our region closer to meeting local and state climate goals,” said Marisa Hanson-Lopez, 3C-REN Multifamily Program Manager. “As we continue to provide new opportunities to save money and energy, we encourage residents and businesses to get in touch when replacing furnaces, air conditioners, water heaters, windows and more. 3C-REN incentives for these systems can lower energy bills while creating healthier, more comfortable homes that are better for the planet. We know it can be confusing, but we can help!”

Westlake, Channel Islands, and Thousand Oaks High Schools Take Top Spots in 2024 Ventura County Academic Decathlon

by Community Contributor • January 30, 2024 • Comments Off

VENTURA COUNTY — The Ventura County Office of Education (VCOE) is pleased to announce the winners of the 2024Ventura County Academic Decathlon, which was held over the past few weeks. The winners were revealed at a ceremony this evening in Camarillo. The three teams with the highest overall scores this year are:

1st Place: Westlake High School
2nd Place: Channel Islands High School
3rd Place: Thousand Oaks High School

Registration opens Feb. 12 for free Safety Around Water Classes at Yarrow Family YMCA

by Community Contributor • January 30, 2024 • Comments Off

WESTLAKE VILLAGE — Registration will open on February 12 for Safety Around Water (SAW) classes at the Yarrow Family YMCA in Westlake Village. The free, six-session program provides water safety and basic swimming skills to children with little or no water experience.

The once-a-week sessions are offered on Mondays March 4 through April 15, and on Wednesdays March 6 through April 17. Class times are 5:30 p.m. to 6:00 p.m. SAW is for elementary-aged children. It teaches participants how to exit a pool safely and other water safety skills.

Registration has opened for Ventura County Public Works Day on May 21

by Community Contributor • January 30, 2024 • Comments Off

Registration closed March 4

VENTURA — The Ventura County Public Works Agency (VCPWA) has announced that registration has opened for Ventura County Public Works Day, which will be held from 9 a.m. to 2 p.m. Tuesday, May 21 at the Ventura County Government Center, 800 South Victoria Ave., Ventura.

Click here to register.

Economic Development Collaborative (EDC) — Emergency Preparedness Guide for Small Businesses and Nonprofits

by Community Contributor • January 30, 2024 • Comments Off

The Economic Development Collaborative is proud to support Pacific Coast Business Times’ Emergency Preparedness guide. The guide is designed to help small businesses and nonprofit organizations prepare for natural disasters and be aware of recovery options.

If disaster strikes, is your business prepared? View the report HERE.

UCSB — The Current — ‘Extreme drought hits grasslands and shrublands harder than anticipated’ and more news, events

by Community Contributor • January 30, 2024 • Comments Off

A global experiment covering 100 sites, undertaken to generate a baseline understanding of the potential losses of plant productivity in these vital ecosystems, quantifies the impacts of extreme drought across six continents.

SBCC Nurturing a Pathway for Professional Journalism in the South Coast

by Community Contributor • January 30, 2024 • Comments Off

SANTA BARBARA — The Channels, the student news outlet of Santa Barbara City College (SBCC), welcomes the campus and community to tour their new collaborative workspace on the East Cliff Campus during a grand opening celebration from 1:30-3:30 p.m. Thursday, Feb. 8 in Room A180 of the Administration Building. (See below for more event information.)

The Channels newsroom has relocated from a portable classroom on the edge of the East Cliff Campus to a newly redesigned space in the Administration Building at the heart of SBCC. This places students in the center of the action, giving them easier access to the administration, faculty, and staff and fellow media arts programs on campus. This move and investment emphasizes SBCC’s commitment to supporting and valuing students’ freedom of press and expression, recognizing journalism’s critical role in democracy and social justice, and operating with transparency. The new newsroom allows students to practice their craft within a professional space with state-of-the-art technology.

Bilingual report — Ventura County Board of Supervisors approve adoption of Disability Access Strategic Plan

by Community Contributor • January 29, 2024 • Comments Off

VENTURA — Through unanimous vote during the regular meeting on Tuesday, January 23, the Ventura County Board of Supervisors approved the adoption of a 2024-2027 County Disability Access Strategic Plan. The plan outlines key goals that advocate for increased transportation options, ensuring digital accessibility, enhancing physical access to facilities, prioritizing community relationships, education, and emergency preparedness. The plan is the first of its kind for the County of Ventura and represents a comprehensive and forward-thinking approach to fostering a more inclusive and accessible community.

“This strategic plan will provide a strong foundation for the County’s work in disability access,” stated Supervisor Kelly Long, Chair of the Board of Supervisors. “I appreciate the internal and external focus on expanding disability access within our local community and finding new and innovative ways to partner with the community.”

Economic Development Collaborative (EDC) free event and webinar schedule

by Community Contributor • January 29, 2024 • Comments Off

SCORE VENTURA COUNTY: FRANCHISING 101 FOR VETERANS

January 31 @ 1:00 pm

Did you know that 1 out of 7 franchises is owned by a Veteran? Franchises appreciate the mindset and skills that military professionals possess and in appreciation, reward them with discounts and incentives if they are awarded a franchise. There are many misconceptions surrounding franchises and how a successful placement works. Also, with thousands of brands across nearly 100 categories, how would one really know which one is right for them? If a franchise is something you are thinking about for now, or someday this webinar is for you.

CLICK HERE TO REGISTER

805 CoWorking Collective launches to offer flexible workspaces from Westlake to Santa Barbara

by Community Contributor • January 29, 2024 • Comments Off

SANTA BARBARA — Remote and hybrid workers traveling in Ventura and Santa Barbara counties can now access flexible office spaces at multiple points along U.S. Route 101 under the newly launched 805 CoWorking Collective.

Comprised of four coworking spaces on the Central Coast, the Collective spans almost 60 miles from Westlake to Santa Barbara. Member spaces are Workzones in Santa Barbara, Coastal Coworking in Ventura, Collab District in Camarillo, and Hub101 in Westlake Village.

All of the spaces offer drop-in day passes to members and non-members alike. Travelers who are members of any one space within the 805 CoWorking Collective will receive discounted day passes when they visit the other flex spaces. Non-members pay standard rates.

“With so many people working from home or in a hybrid work model, being able to access a professional space for a few hours or a day while traveling is far superior to working out of a coffee shop,” said Pam Tanase, the Collective’s organizer and Workzones cofounder. “The 805 CoWorking Collective has been created to give people more options when they travel along the 101 to support their flexible workspace needs.”

Triunfo Water & Sanitation District 2023 Year in Review

by Community Contributor • January 29, 2024 • Comments Off

WESTLAKE VILLAGE — The welcomed rainfall in 2023 shored up Triunfo Water & Sanitation District’s supply and put the district on a solid foundation for 2024.

60th Anniversary

The rainy weather helped celebrate TWSD’s 60th anniversary in 2023. The rain prompted TWSD to rescind its Stage 1 Water Shortage restrictions implemented because of the drought, although permanent water restrictions remain in place.

“Last year’s storm events brought a very different picture to our ongoing drought status,” says Jane Nye, TWSD 2023 board chair. “Unprecedented winter storms replenished water supplies throughout the state, and we hope that this year will deliver the same.”

Ventura County Animal Services — We did it! 205 beds donated in 36 hours thanks to you!

by Community Contributor • January 29, 2024 • Comments Off

WE DID IT! Thanks to you! 205 dog beds were donated in just 36 HOURS by shelter supporters in the community! The folks at Kuranda said, “We’ve NEVER seen a donation drive this big go this fast!” They asked how we did it, and we told them we have a close-knit community of animal lovers who know us, trust us, and believe in our lifesaving mission! That’s how we did it!

Thank you to ALL who donated to this Donation Bed Drive! Will be having a Build-A-Bed event on Saturday, February 3rd, 2024. Stay tuned for event details.

Jalama Beach in Lompoc: California’s Best-Kept Secret For Sun And Surf

by Community Contributor • January 29, 2024 • Comments Off

LOMPOC — Situated on California’s gorgeous central coast, Lompoc’s Jalama Beach is waiting to be discovered. With its wild beauty, rugged charm, and off-the-beaten-path location, this beach offers an authentic California experience unlike any other. Join us on a journey as we explore the allure of Jalama Beach and why it’s perfect for your next beach adventure. https://explorelompoc.com/jalama-beach/

Bilingual report — Donald Aguilar Appointed Santa Paula Chief of Police

by Community Contributor • January 26, 2024 • Comments Off

SANTA PAULA — The City of Santa Paula is pleased to announce the appointment of Donald Aguilar as the City’s permanent Chief of Police. With an illustrious, nearly four-decade career in law enforcement and a proven track record of leadership in Santa Paula, Chief Aguilar brings a unique combination of local knowledge and experience to the Santa Paula community.

“Chief Aguilar has provided stability and effective leadership to the Santa Paula Police Department and has earned the respect and support of our community during his term as our Interim Chief,” said Mayor Leslie Cornejo. “His vision for public safety aligns seamlessly with our core values as a City. I am confident that under Chief Aguilar’s leadership, we will continue to build on the progress we’ve been making to strengthen our Police Department.”

Bilingual commentary — Raising A Daughter

by Community Contributor • January 26, 2024 • Comments Off

This is an updated version of one of the first articles, with this same title, that I wrote for Amigos805 in October 2011.

I have had the experience and privilege of raising a daughter. Many people throughout the years have indicated to me their belief that I had accomplished this task successfully. It was not always easy nor without considerable reading, research, reflection, and discussion with other parents.

Page 7 of 89

« 1 … 5 6 7 8 9 … 89 »