Category: Local

Guest commentary — A Chicano’s Education Or How I Decided to Educate Myself on Zionism, part 1

   As a Chicano who lives in the historically conquered territory of the Southwest after the US attack on Mexico in 1846 and who lives in the state of California that systematically dispossessed indigenous peoples of their land and relegated them to lives in concentration camps known as reservations, I identify with the Palestinian struggle for national liberation. Hence, I refuse to abet via silence the continued catastrophe, Nakba, of ethnic cleansing against the people of Palestine perpetuated since 1948 by the United States-backed state of Israel.[i] This moral stand arose from witnessing the brazenly decontextualized propaganda of commercial network news streamed to my television since October 7, 2023. Indeed, I have yet to view corporate news functionaries addressing the fundamental causes of Zionist invasion, racial apartheid, and theft of Palestinian territories even before the mid-twentieth century that induced Hamas’ recent attack on Israelis and the taking of hostages. 

Bilingual report — Economic Development Collaborative (EDC) releases 2023 Community Impact Report

We are delighted to present our 2023 Community Impact Report with the theme “Connecting Communities: Partnering for Progress.” Our extensive partnerships, spanning multiple counties and sectors, involve a diverse range of public and private stakeholders at local, state and federal levels. This inclusivity informs our ability to construct an economy fostering broadly shared prosperity. At the Economic Development Collaborative, collaboration defines our purpose, enhancing our impact and outcomes. As we enter 2024, we anticipate continuing our mission, building upon existing alliances and forging connections with new partners.

The Friendship Center — Ticket Sales Closing Jan. 26 for ‘Festival of Hearts’

-PURCHASE TICKETS- THANK YOU to our Nautically Noble Sponsors! Thomas & Nancy Crawford Sintija Kemezys Felder CenCal Health William & Jocelyne Meeker Katina Zaninovich Castle Wealth Planning Dr. David & Patty Medina Montecito Village Travel NS CERAMIC, Inc. Mark and…

Performing Arts Scholarship Foundation in Sant Barbara invites area music organizations, teachers to lunch

SANTA BARBARA — The Performing Arts Scholarship Foundation (PASF), a nonprofit that supports music education and scholarships for local students, is hosting a luncheon to gather input from Santa Barbara-area music organizations, schools and teachers.

The event, which is by invitation only, will be held on Saturday, Feb. 10, at the La Cumbre Country Club from 11:30 a.m. to 2 p.m. Invitations have been sent to more than a dozen schools, colleges, teachers and music education groups involved in training junior instrumental, adult instrumental and adult vocal students.

UCSB — The Current — ‘Jody Enders’s ‘naughty’ French comedies nab prize for translation’ and more news, events

For her translation of raunchy Middle French stage comedies, Enders, a theater historian and professor of French, has won the Lois Roth Award from the Modern Language Association.

MVC Adds Three New Members to its Esteemed Board of Directors

VENTURA COUNTY — The Museum of Ventura County is pleased to announce the appointment of three distinguished individuals to its Board of Directors, each bringing a wealth of experience and expertise to contribute to the cultural enrichment and growth of the Museum and our county.

Camarillo broker installed as Realtor association president

CAMARILLO — Camarillo resident Cami Pinsak was recently installed as the 2024 president of the Ventura County Coastal Association of Realtors. Pinsak is the broker-owner of Realty ONE Group Summit, which has offices in Camarillo and Ventura, and has been a Realtor for nearly 18 years.

A Camarillo resident since 1999, Pinsak has been part of the VCCAR leadership team since 2017 when she was first elected to the association’s Board of Directors. She has also served as VCCAR’s treasurer, first vice president and president-elect. She is also a director for the statewide California Association of Realtors and was named VCCAR’s Broker/Manager of the Year Award in 2016.

Explore Lompoc Announces 2024 Events & Festivals

LOMPOC —  Dive into the New Year in Lompoc! From now until December 31, 2024, we have a calendar brimming with fun events. Throughout the year, immerse yourself in the small town charm of Lompoc while you indulge in local cuisine, explore vibrant flower fields, discover history and art, find unique festivals and more. Whether you’re exploring the craft of winemaking or taking a step back into history, the Lompoc Valley has it all.

Here’s a sneak peek into some of the standout Lompoc events of 2024. Check our event calendar for all events and the most current information.

Bilingual report — Volunteers in Ventura County Help Those with Low-Moderate Incomes File for Available Tax Credits Through VITA Program

VENTURA — Tax season is upon us and low- to moderate-income Ventura County residents are encouraged to take advantage of ways to put more money back in their pocket with the help of United Way of Ventura County’s (UWVC) Volunteer Income Tax Assistance Program (VITA).

Throughout February to April 30, 2024, trained VITA volunteer tax preparers will help working families and individuals file their state and federal tax return and access the tax credits to which they are eligible. Households earning up to $64,000 are eligible to use the free services.

The Earned Income Tax Credit (EITC) is a tax credit for low- to moderate-income working families and individuals. The EITC can help you reduce your tax liability and, in many cases, save you money. To qualify for the EITC, you must have worked at least part of 2023 and meet certain income requirements.

Celina Zacarias Elected as 1st Latina Woman to Serve as President of the Oxnard Harbor District, 2024-2025

PORT HUENEME — On January 16, 2024, the Oxnard Harbor District elected Celina Zacarias as the President of the Board of Harbor Commissioners. Zacarias will be the first Latina woman to hold this top post and brings a unique perspective of community engagement, workforce development, and education with her extensive experience serving as Executive Director of Community & Government Relations at California State University Channel Islands (CSUCI).

“It is truly an honor to serve as the President of the Oxnard Harbor District Board of Harbor Commissioners,” said Commissioner Zacarias. “From the beginning of my time as a commissioner, it has been and continues to be my commitment and the commitment of my fellow Commissioners to strengthen our community through educational and workforce opportunities both now and in the future. I will continue the Port’s mission to support our customers, provide impactful community outreach, and serve as an economic force in Ventura County.”

Ventura County Animal Services — Donate a Dog Bed to VCAS

Every few years Ventura County Animal Services holds a Dog Bed Donation Drive to replace kennel beds that have become damaged due to the wear and tear of thousands of animals.  We need 205 beds to replace all beds at the Camarillo and Simi Valley Shelter.  Will you donate a dog bed?

Visit www.vcas.us/DogBedDonation to donate a bed directly to the shelter.  On this page you will find the exact type of bed our dogs need, and you’ll see how many beds have already been purchased. Beds are automatically shipped to the Camarillo Shelter.  Feel free to leave an “In Memory of” or “In Honor of” message when checking out.  Thank you so much for your support!

Museum of Ventura County — ‘Come together, right now’ with Ivor Davis: Up Close and Personal with the Beatles!

Ivor Davis: Up Close and Personal with The Beatles

Thursday, January 25
6:30 pm – 8:00 pm
@Museum of Ventura County
100 E. Main St., Ventura

Ventura County author and journalist Ivor Davis had a front row, eyewitness seat as The Beatles revolution unfolded in all its gory detail. He travelled with them, ate with them, drank with them, and reveals the behind-the-scenes story of what unfolded from sea to shining sea in his 60th anniversary “Beatles and Me on Tour” book. Doors open at 6 pm for refreshments. Those who are not able to join in-person are invited to view via Zoom. Registration is free for members at the Individual/Family level and higher, $10 non-members, $5 non-members Zoom. Registration and information can be found HERE.

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

The California Labor Market Information Division has released its December 2023 report, showing little change for Ventura County in net industry employment—up by only 100 jobs, November to December, and no change to the unemployment rate, at 4.7%. That rate puts Ventura County ahead of the state as a whole, which is at 5.1% unadjusted, though trailing the U.S. average at 3.5%.

There are a couple of indicators that especially disappoint this month, specifically, the total Labor Force and the total number of employed workers. The total labor force is down, month-over-month, by 2,300, to 417,400. That’s 6,400 fewer workers in the total labor force since prior to the pandemic. More concerning is the decline by 11,200 employed workers over the same time.

Ventura County Office of Education — Affordable housing for teachers; graduation rate improves; Hackathon winners; and more

The high cost of housing in Ventura County is a serious roadblock for schools trying to recruit and retain teachers and support staff. One potential solution that’s getting increased attention is to use school-owned property to build affordable housing developments for education employees.

That idea will be the focus of a first-of-its-kind conference next month in Camarillo. A Home for Education will bring together decision-makers in education, government, and housing development to discuss the opportunities and challenges of this type of project.

UCSB — ‘The Current’ — ‘The exiles who shaped the contours of modern dance’ and more news, events

“Border Crossings: Exile and American Modern Dance 1900-1955,” opening Jan. 25 at the Art, Design & Architecture Museum, “rests on the idea that the immigrant, the asylum seeker, the exiled artist, shaped the language of dance modernism.” Performances by Jose Limón Dance Company, Santa Barbara Dance Theater and UCSB Dance Company, as well as a symposium, complement the exhibition.

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

In California, 2023 saw the passage of a number of pieces of legislation to ease the production and delivery of affordable housing to our region. One such success, was SB4 which now provides a streamlined process for religious organizations and nonprofit colleges to develop affordable housing on their property. People’s Self-Help Housing is now one of the first developers to evaluate the application of this new law in our partnership with College United Methodist Church in Ventura. Part of the streamlining afforded by SB4 includes the ability to streamline the  CEQA process when land is to be developed for affordable housing.

Port of Hueneme, Labor and Community Leaders Join Forces in “Powerwall” Response to Infrastructure Emergency

PORT HUENEME — The Port of Hueneme, the pioneering West Coast Port in adopting Shoreside Power for cargo vessels, faced substantial setbacks following severe damage to its Shoreside Power System during an unprecedented rain event on Dec. 21 and 22, 2023.

Torrential rainfall, exceeding three inches per hour, impacted the City of Port of Hueneme and surrounding communities, leading to substantial damage and flooding to the Port’s Shoreside Power System—a 1,000-year storm event.

Throughout the 48-hour storm, Port crews worked tirelessly to pump water away from the system. However, the overwhelming force of water and converging stormwater flows from the local community and Naval Base Ventura exacerbated the situation, resulting in significant flooding. The Port, working in concert with Southern California Edison, promptly deactivated power to the shoreside power electrical infrastructure to ensure the safety of its staff, labor and the community.

Ventura County Office of Education announces Hackathon by the Sea winners

VENTURA COUNTY — More than 100 students from high schools throughout Ventura County stayed up all night as they competed in the annual Hackathon by the Sea last weekend in Camarillo. Participants spent an entire night creating apps and websites with the assistance of volunteer mentors.

Presented by the Ventura County Office of Education, the Hackathon encourages students to use technology in creative ways to solve problems and engage users. At the end of the event, student teams presented their creations to judges, who awarded prizes.

Bilingual report — Reminder: Take the Residents and Business Owners Survey – COVID-19 After-Action Report

The County of Ventura, in collaboration with Constant Associates, a third-party public health and emergency management consultancy, is developing a COVID-19 After-Action Report to document the County’s response to the pandemic and improve its preparedness for future public health crises. Among other data collection activities, to capture detailed data regarding our response efforts, Constant Associates has created a virtual survey, which we invite you to fill out. Please feel free to also forward this email and link to other members of your community or organization whose feedback you feel would be beneficial.

Bilingual report — Students return to Allan Hancock College for Spring classes

SANTA MARIA — Allan Hancock College welcomed thousands of new and returning students back to its Santa Maria campus and Lompoc Valley Center on Jan. 22 for the start of spring classes.  

Despite the wet weather, the campuses were bustling with activity as more than 10,000 credit and noncredit students started classes. 

“We are excited to welcome students back to campus for the spring,” said Hancock Superintendent/President Kevin G. Walthers, Ph.D. “We want them to know that our faculty, staff, and administrators are here to support them.” 

Ventura County Area Agency on Aging seeks applicants for California Senior Legislature Position

VENTURA — The Ventura County Area Agency on Aging, a division of the Human Services Agency, is seeking applicants for an open Senior Assembly Member position on the California Senior Legislature. This person will also serve on the VCAAA’s Advisory Council.

The California Senior Legislature is a volunteer body whose primary mission is to help preserve and enhance the quality of life for older Californians and their families. The CSL gathers ideas for legislation at the state and federal levels, crafts the ideas into formal proposals, prioritizes the proposals, presents them to members of the Legislature or the Congress, and advocates for laws implementing the ideas.

DignityMoves in Santa Barbara receives $100,000 grant from the James M. Cox Foundation

SANTA BARBARA — DignityMoves’s Santa Barbara Capital Campaign has been awarded a $100,000 grant from the James M. Cox Foundation. The Foundation is the charitable arm of Cox Enterprises, parent company of Cox Communications, and named after the company’s founder. The funds will support a housing community called “La Posada Village,” with the goal of reducing homelessness in Santa Barbara County.

“DignityMoves is honored to be the recipient of a James M. Cox Foundation grant. We are incredibly grateful for this type of community support. Without partners like Cox, we cannot help as many people as we do,” said Jack Lorenz, Regional Advancement Director for DignityMoves.

Economic Development Collaborative (EDC) free event and webinar schedule

AI FOR SMALL BUSINESS 101: HOW TO LEVERAGE AI TO ACCELERATE YOUR BUSINESS GROWTH

January 24 @ 12:00 pm

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

EN ESPAÑOL: IA PARA NEGOCIOS 101: CÓMO APROVECHAR LA IA PARA ACELERAR EL CRECIMIENTO DE TU NEGOCIO

24 de enero a las 12:00 pm

Explora las aplicaciones de la IA en el mundo real. No te pierdas la oportunidad de desbloquear el potencial de la IA para el éxito de tu negocio. Ofrecido en asociación con EDC, WEV y SCORE. Habrá interpretación al español.

HAGA CLIC AQUÍ PARA INSCRIBIRSE

Santa Barbara County First District Supervisor Das Williams — Mapping our Justice and Mental Healthcare System

This coming Tuesday at the Board of Supervisors we will discuss a report showing that our County has a higher-than-average jail incarceration rate compared to the rest of California, and hear an update on efforts to better manage the population of the jail. The most basic service in government is public safety, but it does not make us safe when some people are ending up in jail, or coming back to it, because of a lack of mental health services. We have a moral imperative to improve the situation. But we also have a financial need as well.

United Way of Ventura County — Women United Education Awards on May 22 to Honor and Assist Single Moms

VENTURA — United Way of Ventura County’s Women United Education Awards Luncheon will once again be honoring single mothers who are pursuing their education. In 2022-23, Women United presented 14 education awards to local single mothers pursuing their education and has given out 69 awards since 2018.

Sixty-four percent of single mothers in Ventura County do not earn sufficient income to meet their basic needs and a critical component is Education.

Oxnard Harbor District Commissioners name Celina L. Zacarias to serve as new president

PORT HUENEME — On January 16, 2024, the Port of Hueneme welcomed new leadership as the Board of the Oxnard Harbor District voted Celina L. Zacarias to serve as President for 2024.

“It is truly an honor to serve as the President of the Oxnard Harbor District Board of Harbor Commissioners,” said Commissioner Zacarias. “From the beginning of my time as a commissioner, it has been and continues to be my commitment and the commitment of my fellow Commissioners to strengthen our community through educational and workforce opportunities both now and in the future. I will continue the Port’s mission to support our customers, provide impactful community outreach, and serve as an economic force in Ventura County.”

Bilingual commentary — Pre-Columbian Custom on a City Bus

I was on a city bus in Oxnard recently when I found myself fascinated by a female passenger that had boarded.

I know…that statement appears to be borderline salacious, but let me explain.

The woman with a dark complexion appeared to be indigenous Mayan. I’ve spent some time in Yucatán, Mexico, so I recognize the Mayan profile, including the majestic shape of the nose, when I see one. It is distinctively different from the indigenous profiles that hail from other parts of Mexico. 

What struck me even more was the ease with which she was caring for her very young child, maybe one year old.

Bilingual report — The latest news from the County of Ventura

Volunteers Needed: Point In Time Homeless Count
The Ventura County Continuum of Care needs volunteers for the upcoming Point In Time Homeless count on January 24th! The count serves as a crucial tool for understanding the extent and nature of homelessness within the region while securing critical federal funding.

Conducted annually, this count provides a snapshot of the homeless population on a specific day (January 24th), aiding policy makers, service providers, and advocates in assessing the effectiveness of current interventions and shaping future strategies. The data collected helps identify trends, allocate resources more effectively, and measure progress towards addressing homelessness in Ventura County.

Sign up to volunteer by scanning the QR code or by visiting this website: https://ventura.pointintime.info.

Santa Paula Art Museum — 30 Under 30 Opens Saturday + New Events and Classes Just Added!

Premiere Party: “30 Under 30”

Saturday, January 20, 2024 • 4 PM to 6 PM

$5 SPAM members • $10 Non-members

Meet a new generation of California artists during the premiere of “30 Under 30” at the Santa Paula Art Museum on Saturday, January 20! The group exhibition features 30 diverse California artists between the ages of 18 and 29, who are pushing the boundaries of traditional fine art and heralding an exciting new chapter for California’s art scene. Beer, wine, and hors d’oeuvres will be served. “30 Under 30” will be on view from January 20 to May 5, 2024.

MORE INFO

Museum of Ventura County Gratefully Acknowledges Community Support and Announces Changes in Admission Policy

VENTURA COUNTY — The Museum of Ventura County extends heartfelt gratitude to our vibrant community for its unwavering generosity, allowing us to offer free admission throughout 2023. As we look ahead to the new year, the Museum of Ventura County, Downtown Ventura location, will undergo a transition in its admission policy beginning February 1, 2024. The grant that has sustained free admission will conclude, necessitating a shift to a sustainable funding model.

Starting February 1, 2024, the Museum of Ventura County, Downtown Ventura, will implement the following admission fees:

Agromin Receives $10 Million Grant From CalRecycle To Turn Food Waste And Yard Waste Into Compost

OXNARD — Agromin, California’s largest organic waste recycler, received a $10 million grant from CalRecycle’s Organics Grant Program to help communities turn more of their food waste and yard waste into compost.

CalRecycle’s Organics Grant Program is a statewide effort to expand and build new organic recycling facilities, allowing more waste to be recycled instead of ending up in landfills where it emits greenhouse gases.

“The grant funds will help Agromin move forward on expanding our composting facility at Limoneira Ranch in Santa Paula,” says Bill Camarillo, Agromin CEO. “We’re currently processing over one million tons of organic waste a year. Once the expansion is complete, we’ll be able to boost that amount to almost 300,000.”

CSUCI Global Studies alumna launches non-governmental agency to benefit Madagascar

CAMARILLO — During the year she was volunteering with the Peace Corps as a teacher in Madagascar, CSU Channel Islands (CSUCI) alumna Alyson Lucas witnessed the severity of the country’s water crisis on a daily basis.

“In the high school where I was teaching, my students were walking two kilometers to the nearest rice field to get water in order to cook or just wipe down the blackboard,” Lucas said. “When I tried it, I really struggled carrying it. It’s 45 kilos per Jerry Can.”

38th Annual California Strawberry Festival Seeks Sponsors & Exhibitors

VENTURA — The 38th Annual California Strawberry Festival is seeking corporate sponsors and commercial exhibitors. The festival is taking place May 18 and 19 at the Ventura County Fairgrounds in Ventura.

Last year, the family-friendly festival drew more than 57,000 visitors from throughout Southern California including Los Angeles, Ventura, San Bernardino, Kern, Santa Barbara and Orange counties.

District 216 — 20% DISCOUNTED TICKETS ‘Veterans, PTSD & Psychedelics’ Marquee Event on Jan. 20, more news

Fireside Chat + Discussion Panel + Dinner + Live Music + Lounge + Vendors + Networking = COMMUNITY

RAIN OR SHINE! WE HAVE A BEAUTIFUL TENT AND HEATERS READY TO KEEP YOU WARM AND COZY DURING OUR EVENT.

UCSB — ‘The Current’ — ‘A global study reveals pathways to save threatened sharks, despite rising mortality trends’ and more news, events

View this email online January 18, 2024 Top News A global study reveals pathways to save threatened sharks, despite rising mortality trends Geographic protections and fishing regulations could improve what is currently a bleak outlook for sharks, but new policies…

Courtney Cazenave Joins Family Service Agency Board of Directors

SANTA BARBARA — 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 pleased to announce the appointment of Courtney Cazenave to its Board of Directors.  

Cazenave retired from her position as an administrative office professional for the Santa Barbara County Sheriff’s Department earlier this year. She has 18 years of administration and operations experience.  
 
A Guadalupe resident, Cazenave is looking forward to using her skills to make a difference in the community. She has been a Court-Appointed Special Advocate since 2020. She has previously volunteered for the Special Olympics, elections, and the Homeless Count from 2019  
to 2021.  

SEEAG Introduces Visionaries Circle LEAGUE²

VENTURA — Students for Eco-Education and Agriculture (SEEAG) is introducing its Visionaries Circle LEAGUE² (Leaders in Agriculture United for Educational Excellence) membership to recognize its premier donors who have shown support for SEEAG’s youth agricultural and nutrition education programs and Farm Day community education and outreach events. SEEAG’s focus is to educate students and the public about the farm origins of food, healthy eating, and the importance of local agriculture. Many of these donors have been involved in SEEAG since its first program was introduced almost 16 years ago.

“SEEAG has been extremely fortunate to have a dedicated, loyal donor base whose contributions have made a real difference in SEEAG’s ability to offer the cost-free programming we do. Without them, we would not be able to reach thousands of students every year,” says Mary Maranville, the nonprofit’s Founder and CEO.

People’s Self-Help Housing breaks ground on new affordable housing in Santa Ynez Valley

SANTA BARBARA — Last week, People’s Self-Help Housing (PSHH) broke ground on its newest affordable housing: Buellton Garden Apartments. 

Located at 10 & 12 McMurray Road in Buellton, near essential services, this new development is comprised of 89 units.  Including one-, two-, and three-bedroom units for low-income households, it features a welcoming community room, well-resourced learning center, and onsite supportive services for residents.   
 
“We are thrilled to bring more affordable housing to the community members of the Santa Ynez Valley with our first ever project in Buellton,” said Ken Trigueiro, PSHH CEO & President. “We look forward to watching this site develop and come to life over the next couple years. It’s been a long time in the making, and we are grateful to officially have shovels in the ground.” 

Bilingual report — Economic Development Collaborative (EDC) — Disaster Declaration for December 2023 Storm and Flooding

U.S. Small Business Administration (SBA) issued an Administrative Disaster Declaration on Jan. 10 for damages to businesses and homes resulting from the Storm and Flooding that occurred Dec. 21-23, 2023. It is important that homeowners, renters or business owners apply for assistance to initiate an SBA application as a result of physical damage by the Physical Damage deadline of March 11, 2024. The Economic Injury Deadline is October 10, 2024.

Counties Impacted by the Disaster Declaration

Primary County: Ventura County
Contiguous Counties: Kern, Los Angeles and Santa Barbara. These counties are also eligible for both physical damage and economic injury benefits.

Bilingual report — SBA Disaster Survivor Help Center has opened in Oxnard

VENTURA COUNTY — The U.S. Small Business Administration (SBA) is offering low-interest disaster loans to non-farm businesses of all sizes, private nonprofits, homeowners and renters who suffered losses caused by the December 2023 Storm and Flooding that occurred December 21 through December 23, 2023.

A SBA Disaster Loan Outreach Center has been opened at the South Oxnard Branch Library, 4300 Saviers Road, Oxnard, from 9 a.m. to 6 p.m. Mondays through Thursdays.

MICOP is honored to receive a generous grant from The Fund of Santa Barbara

SANTA BARBARA — On Dec. 2, 2023, The Fund for Santa Barbara (The FUND) awarded the Mixteco/Indigena Community Organizing Project (MICOP) $10,000 to support its labor justice, wage theft prevention, and leadership institute programs in Santa Barbara County as part of a $100,000 from their Fall General Grant Cycle. The amount awarded will benefit the indigenous community we serve in our Santa Maria, CA, location. MICOP is very grateful to have been awarded $10,000 from The FUND. 

Dignity Moves Breaks Ground on Third Santa Barbara County Location — La Posada Village

SANTA BARBARA — The DignityMoves community in downtown Santa Barbara, Santa Barbara Street Village has been a proven success for both housing and supporting those who were previously homeless, and it has not gone unnoticed by local leaders. Last year, the County Board of Supervisors voted to partner with DignityMoves to build an additional 300 rooms County-wide – enough interim supportive housing to help close the “shelter gap” in the county. 

The County has identified several county-owned parcels across the County based on the regional distribution of unsheltered homelessness. 

Santa Barbara County First District Supervisor Das Williams — Tackling the Homelessness Crisis with Dignity

(Jan. 12) we took another big step forward to helping our homeless neighbors get off the streets, and back on their feet, breaking ground on the third DignityMoves interim housing community, La Posada. Our crews are on track to finish this project and move the first residents in by this April.

This public-private partnership is the best of what we can do when we come together as a community. Like the Santa Barbara Street Village and Hope Village in Santa Maria, La Posada will have on-site services to help those coming off the streets, including mental healthcare, addiction services, career counseling, and caseworkers to help residents get “document ready” for permanent housing.

SLO Water and Sewer Bill Assistance Program Extended

OCEANO — We’re encouraging low-income customers to apply for help paying their current or past-due water and sewer bills by signing up for the Low Income Household Water Assistance Program (LIHWAP). Customers now have until March 31, 2024, to apply, and eligible households should apply now while funds last.

LIHWAP, initially established by Congress in December 2020 during the COVID-19 pandemic, is designed to support financially struggling low-income households to settle outstanding water bills. Originally slated to conclude in Fall 2023, the program has received a federal extension through March 2024.

Economic Development Collaborative (EDC) free and webinar schedule

AI FOR SMALL BUSINESS 101: HOW TO LEVERAGE AI TO ACCELERATE YOUR BUSINESS GROWTH

January 24 @ 12:00 pm

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

Attorneys Thomas Foley, Cassandra Glanville and Richard Lloyd to chair 2024 Bench and Bar Conference

SANTA BARBARA — Local attorneys Thomas G. Foley, Jr., Cassandra T. Glanville and Richard Lloyd will co-chair the Santa Barbara County Bar Association’s annual Bench and Bar Conference on Jan. 27.

Foley is a founding partner of Foley Bezek Behle & Curtis LLP, a law firm with offices in Santa Barbara and Costa Mesa that specializes in class and mass plaintiff actions, wildfire litigation, complex business litigation, lender liability, intellectual property litigation and entertainment litigation. 

Bilingual report — Ventura County Board of Supervisors authorizes tolling agreement for lawsuits challenging Programmatic Environmental Impact Report for Santa Susana Field Laboratory Clean-up Project

VENTURA — On Tuesday, Jan. 9, by unanimous vote, the Board of Supervisors authorized the signing of a tolling agreement concerning the Santa Susana Field Laboratory Clean-Up Project.  Parties to the agreement include the California Department of Toxic Substances Control, The Boeing Company, the United States on behalf of the U.S. Department of Energy and the National Aeronautics and Space Administration, the City of Los Angeles, the City of Simi Valley, the County of Los Angeles, and the County of Ventura.

The tolling agreement clarifies and extends the deadline for the filing of potential lawsuits challenging the Programmatic Environmental Impact Report for the clean-up project which was certified by the California Department of Toxic Substances Control in July 2023. 

Mitchell Thomas named new audit partner at accounting firm Nasif, Hicks, Harris & Co

SANTA BARBARA — The Santa Barbara and Ventura-based accounting firm Nasif, Hicks, Harris & Co. LLP has named Certified Public Accountant Mitchell “Mitch” Thomas as a new audit partner effective Jan. 1, 2024.

A practicing public accountant since 2012, Thomas joined Nasif, Hicks, Harris & Co. in June 2017. His practice focuses on audit and assurance services. Thomas has experience providing compilation, review, and audit engagements to a diverse range of clients including start-ups, construction, manufacturing, and non-profit entities.

Ventura College Foundation Provided $809,995 In Direct Student Support During 2022-2023 Academic Year

VENTURA — Celebrating its 40th anniversary in 2023, the Ventura College Foundation, a nonprofit organization that provides resources and financial assistance to Ventura College students and school programs, distributed $809,995 in direct assistance support to over 5,000 students during the 2022-2023 academic year and another $1.17 million to 68 Ventura College programs across 16 departments and divisions.

“Since the foundation’s inception, it’s raised over $48 million to benefit Ventura College students and programs. There is no better way to celebrate the foundation’s 40thanniversary than to contribute another $2 million to help remove the financial barriers to education that students face,” says Anne Paul King, Ventura College Foundation executive director.

Bilingual commentary — Preparing For the Collapse of Society

Previously I was not known to be a pessimistic person by my friends and colleagues. Quite the contrary. They know me as someone who is forward-looking and generally optimistic about life. 

Until recently.

Just over three years ago, I breathed a sigh of relief—not so much because Joe Biden had won the presidency, but rather because Donald Trump had lost. 

However, by that time Trump had already primed his supporters to reject the possibility that he could lose. That Biden’s win was not exactly a landslide only served to infuriate his base as they disregarded all evidence supporting the results of the election. 

Bilingual report — County of Ventura invites public to respond to survey on COVID-19 response effort

VENTURA — The County of Ventura invites members of the public to provide responses to a public survey regarding the County’s emergency response efforts during the COVID-19 pandemic. The survey, which will help inform the County’s official After-Action Report (AAR), is available online in English and Spanish at the County’s website at www.ventura.org.

Bilingual report — Area Housing Authority of the County of Ventura (AHA) accepting applications for Section 8 Housing Choice Voucher Program

The Area Housing Authority of the County of Ventura (AHA) will be accepting applications from Tuesday, Jan. 30, 2024 through Tuesday, Feb.13, 2024 for the Section 8 Housing Choice Voucher Program from very low income households.

You do not need to rush to apply. Waiting list placement will be based on the random lottery process and not on a first come first served basis.

Beginning Tuesday, January 30, 2024, at 8:00am through Tuesday, February 13, 2024 at 4:00pm applications will be accepted online. Applications will be accepted via an online portal at onlineportal.ahacv.org.  

Deadline is Feb. 12 for Applicants, Makers of Unique, Quality Handcrafted Artwork and Craft items to participate in the 38th Annual California Strawberry Festival Call for

The festival, which attracts more than 60,000 visitors,features dozens of different kinds of foods and beverages made from fresh strawberries. About 150 artists and crafters from across the county showcase their original works including paintings, sculptures, ceramics, children’s toys, accessories, photography, textiles, outdoor furniture, jewelry and specialty foods.

Celebrate 95 Years of Action with Us at the LULAC National Legislative Conference and Gala!

Join us in marking a monumental milestone – the 95th Anniversary of LULAC.

Set in the prestigious Mayflower Hotel, Washington, DC, on Wednesday, February 14, and Thursday, February 15th, the LULAC Legislative Conference and Awards event promises a day rich with insightful discussions on key issues like Education, Economic Empowerment, Health, Climate Change, Immigration, and Bridging the Digital Divide, with an incredible line up of distinguished speakers.

The festivities continue with the LULAC Legislative Awards Gala on Thursday, February 15, where we will honor Edward James Olmos for his lifetime achievement in the arts and his incredible advocacy and philanthropy work.

CoverlyPro unveils fresh new look

VENTURA — CoverlyPro has lent its voice to elevate brands throughout Ventura County and the region since 2010, and today unveils a fresh new look and revitalized website for itself. The project was completed with collaboration from the entire CoverlyPro team, resulting in a new logo, colors, website, and guiding philosophy “It’s not what you say, it’s how you say it.” The rebrand supports the company’s upward momentum which is furthered with the addition of its newest members, Communications Specialist Chase Woodard and Social Media Specialist Andrea Mora. These efforts reflect an era of growth for the company, displaying an evolution in its visual identity and core values and demonstrating that in the world of marketing, nobody says it quite like CoverlyPro.

“We are excited to usher in a new era of CoverlyPro to the region.” said CEO Lynnette Coverly, “I am confident that our new branding and additions to our team demonstrate a clear message of who we are and where we are headed.”

UCSB — The Current — ‘The choreography of cross-ecosystem subsidies that connects the kelp forest to the beach’ and more news, events

A multi-institution collaboration of scientists investigates the rise and fall in the abundance of kelp, and how it affects shorebirds.

Osher Lifelong Learning Institute (OLLI) classes now open to younger adult learners

CAMARILLO — You no longer have to be 50+ to take CSU Channel Islands (CSUCI) Osher Lifelong Learning Institute (OLLI) classes. Beginning with the 2024 Spring Session I, anyone age 30 and up can register.

“While OLLI is designed for folks ages 50 and up, it is now open to all adult lifelong learners who want to enrich their knowledge without the pressure of tests, grades, or working toward a degree,” said OLLI Program Coordinator Shaina Salin. “OLLI is learning for the joy of learning.”

Triunfo Water & Sanitation District Elects New Board Chair

WESTLAKE VILLAGE — At its December 18, 2023 meeting, the Triunfo Water & Sanitation District (TWSD) elected Janna Orkney as its new board chair. Orkney, who is currently serving her fourth term, will lead the five-member board through 2024. Fellow board member James Wall was selected as vice-chair.

“While we are fortunate that the recent rains have provided short-term relief from the drought cycle, we continue to work towards the completion of our Las Virgenes-Triunfo Pure Water facility in 2030,” says Orkney. “The facility will supply up to 30 percent of Triunfo’s potable water needs, and take pressure off of our 100 percent dependence on imported potable water from Northern California.”

Island Packers Whale Watching and Island Excursions Now Offered Through April, 2024 To The Channel Islands National Park and National Marine Sanctuary

VENTURA — A winter Whale Watch trip is a perfect way to gather with family and friends to view Pacific Gray Whales migrating through the Santa Barbara Channel from their feeding grounds in Alaska to  their breeding grounds in Baja. 

Pacific Gray Whales are normally sighted in the SB Channel near Anacapa and Santa Cruz Island, and whale watching excursions to witness the whales are offered, now available through April, 2024, by  Island Packers, a family-owned and founded in 1969, and the official concessionaire to the Channel Island National Parks.  For more information, visit www.Island Packers.com.  The mammoth migration of more than 20,000 whales and 6,000 miles twice a year remains a major attraction in Southern California. 

Housing Trust Fund Ventura County announces $88,000 in funding for affordable housing lending

VENTURA COUNTY — Housing Trust Fund Ventura County (Housing Trust Fund VC) begins 2024 by announcing $88,000 in new funds for the development of affordable housing in Ventura County. The funds come in the form of $85,000 in grants from U.S. Bank, First Citizen’s Bank and PennyMac Financial Services as well as $3,000 in year-end contributions from private donors. The amount will be applied toward the increased need for affordable housing funding as the staggering need for housing continues to grow.

Bilingual report — Chevron and City of Santa Paula Complete Donation of Historic Union Oil Company of California Headquarters and $2 Million Grant

SANTA PAULA — Chevron, through its affiliate Union Oil Company of California, has transferred ownership and control of the former headquarters of Union Oil Company of California to the City of Santa Paula. The donation became official Dec. 27, 2023.

Included in the donation are the historic headquarters building, a “Rig Building,” an adjacent parking lot, select oil industry memorabilia, and a substantial $2 million grant. The grant is intended to assist the City in addressing maintenance for the 133 year-old iconic building.

“For over 130 years, the former Union Oil Company of California headquarters has been a major historic building that not only defines the town’s aesthetics but also serves as a cultural and economic anchor to businesses of all types in downtown Santa Paula,” said Mayor Leslie Cornejo. “Acquiring this piece of local history is a major win for our community, and we are looking forward to restoring operations for our residents and visitors to enjoy.”

Museum of Ventura County — There’s so much to do at MVC this month!

Autism Society Ventura County Presents: Celebrating the Autistic Mind Art Show

Opening Reception Thursday, January 11

5:30 pm – 7:00 pm

@Museum of Ventura County

100 E. Main St., Ventura

Museum of Ventura County welcomes Autism Society Ventura County’s “Celebrating the Autistic Mind Art Show” January 11 – 14 from 11 am – 5 pm daily with a special opening reception on January 11 from 5:30 – 7 pm. Explore the imaginative works of 43 neurodiverse artists of all ages. Reserve your spot HERE and immerse yourself in creativity!

Music Academy in Santa Barbara welcoming incoming board members, Honors Retiring Members in 2024

At the Music Academy of the West’s Annual Board Meeting in December 2023, three exceptional community leaders were elected to its Board of Directors: Montecito residents Susan Lichtenstein(retired, Senior Vice President and Chief Legal Officer, Hill-Rom Holdings), Kelly Teich (President, The Warner Group Architects), and Santa Barbara resident Tom Orlando(industrial property manager, former manufacturing executive). It also honored the achievements of two retiring board members, Margaret Cafarelli and Tim Taylor.

UCSB — The Current — ‘When bad cells go good: harnessing cellular cannibalism for cancer treatment’ and more news, events

Scientists decipher a cellular murder mystery in fruit flies, solving a human immunodeficiency. The discovery has the potential to enhance cancer immunotherapy.

Friendship Center — Tickets now available for 25th annual Festival of Hears on Feb. 3

The Festival of Hearts, Friendship Center’s premier annual fundraiser now in its 25th year, celebrates caregivers and raises funds for low-income seniors living with dementia to enjoy our specialized programs that uniquely provide social, physical and cognitive engagement.

Since the first Festival of Hearts in 2000, the heart and soul of the event has been the heart-art sold at silent auction, and created by local artists and celebrities, including Jeff Bridges, Julia Louis-Dreyfus, Tony Askew and Rod Lathim. Provided with a blank three-dimensional papier-mâché heart, the imaginative “heart-ists” paint, sculpt, and decorate in various ways to create their unique works.

The 25th Festival of Hearts, slated for Saturday, February 3, 2024 from 12:00 to 2:30 p.m at the Rosewood Miramar Beach Resort will include musical entertainment, a silent auction, a live auction,

There is still time to register for the upcoming free exhibit talk ’50 Years Beyond Vietnam’ on Jan. 9 at the Central Coast Veterans Memorial Museum in SLO

There is still time to register for the upcoming exhibit talk, TUESDAY 1/9/24 at 2:00 pm, hosted by the Central Coast Veterans Memorial Museum at 801 Grand Avenue, Suite 102, San Luis Obispo.

This history presentation is FREE to attend. Please register to ensure seating is available for all.
Join the Central Coast Veterans Memorial Museum (CCVMM) to learn more about the new, special exhibit, “50 Years Beyond Vietnam,” unveiled in November 2023, specially co-curated in honor of the 50th Anniversary of the last American combat troops leaving Vietnam. This history talk will be presented by Dennis Hennessey, local US Army veteran who served in the Vietnam War, and current board member of of Central Coast Vietnam Veterans of America (CCVVA), Chapter #982, Guadalupe.

The display was co-curated by CCVMM, CCVVA and Cal Poly History intern, Grant Kolassa to highlight the United States in Vietnam from November 1, 1955 to April 30, 1975, spanning the administrations of six U.S. presidents. The display includes topics such as the Gulf of Tonkin incident, Operation Rolling Thunder, the Battle of Ia Drang, the My Lai massacre, the antiwar movement, the Battle of Hamburger Hill, the Tet Offensive, the Paris Peace Talks and the Fall of Saigon.

REGISTER TO ATTEND

Economic Development Collaborative (EDC) free event and webinar schedule

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

Plan ahead! Our full EDC and partner event schedule is updated at the start of each month. 

AI FOR SMALL BUSINESS 101: HOW TO LEVERAGE AI TO ACCELERATE YOUR BUSINESS GROWTH

January 24 @ 12:00 pm

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

Museum of Ventura County Announces Call for Applications for the Bonita C. McFarland Scholarship for the Visual Arts

VENTURA COUNTY — The Museum of Ventura County is proud to announce that applications for the Bonita C. McFarland Scholarship for the Visual Arts are now open. This significant scholarship program, established in honor of Bonita C. McFarland—a devoted supporter of the Museum and the broader arts community—aims to increase opportunities for emerging artists and amplify their impact on our community.

Lumina Alliance — January Is National Stalking Awareness Month

SAN LUIS OBISPO COUNTY — January 2024 marks the twentieth annual National Stalking Awareness Month, an annual call to action to recognize and respond to this traumatic and dangerous crime. Stalking impacts nearly 1 in 3 women and 1 in 6 men in the United States but too often goes unrecognized and unaddressed.1 It takes all of us – advocates, legal representatives, victims/survivors and their friends and family, and YOU – to recognize and respond to stalking. This month, Lumina Alliance invites you to join our efforts to “KNOW IT. NAME IT. STOP IT.” – this year’s Stalking Awareness Month theme, and help raise awareness about stalking on the Day of Action on January 18th.

Guest contribution — Embracing a Fresh Start: New Year’s Resolutions for Family Caregivers

SANTA BARBARA COUNTY — As the calendar turns its pages to a new year, it’s a time-honored tradition to set resolutions. For family caregivers especially, the new year presents an opportunity to reflect on their journey and make intentional commitments to enhance their well-being and the quality of care they provide. The Caring Together Santa Barbara County network of organizations offer some meaningful resolutions tailored specifically for family caregivers. 

We acknowledge that caregiving can be both overwhelming and extremely rewarding. Some of these suggestions may be out of reach for many caregivers. Keep in mind that our goal is to improve the wellbeing of the caregiver, as well as the person receiving care, not to add additional stress.  

CLU Steven Dorfman Center for Innovation & Entrepreneurship announces upcoming events Jan. 9, 26-28; Feb. 8, 15; May 1

Demo Day is a showcase of the startups from our IdeaToDo program.

Meet the founders, learn about their startups, view product demos, and network with the startup community.

DATE
Tuesday, January 9 from 4 – 6 PM (PT)
In person at Hub101 (livestream link available)

Five Attorneys Named Partners At Employment Law Firm LightGabler

CAMARILLO — Five attorneys at Camarillo-based employment law firm LightGabler are now partners effective January 1, 2024.

Elevated to partner are Chandra Beaton, Ryan Haws, Michael Brody, Jaime Stein and Angela Lopez.  The partners counsel businesses and nonprofits to reduce employer-related liability and protect against lawsuits and are experienced litigators who represent clients in employment and business litigation.

Bilingual report — CLU receives grant funding for City of Oxnard residents via Community Counseling Services

OXNARD — California Lutheran University has received grant funding for City of Oxnard residents via Community Counseling Services and invites you to come in for free therapy sessions.

To find out if you are eligible for free services, please contact the clinic nearest to you. Low-fee therapy sessions are also available for those who do not qualify for the grant.

Bilingual commentary — Natural vs. “Miracle” Weight Loss

The 2023-2024 holiday season is now in the rearview mirror. Many of us will be resurrecting those weight loss resolutions that perhaps we had attempted last year (and the year before that, etc.). 

Now, suddenly, there are new, shiny objects that glisten on our lifestyle horizons: weight-reduction drugs such as Ozempic and Wegovy. 

The gravitational pull of these “miracle drugs” is too strong to dismiss them as mere fads. Even the respectable, time-honored Weight Watchers organization appears to welcome these drugs into the fold after spending decades encouraging traditional lifestyle-based changes in people’s lives, such as dieting and exercise.

But before conventional dieters cast their calorie tables and food portion scales overboard, they need to seriously consider the numerous downsides of these drugs. 

Teatro de las Américas — Taller de Cine 2024 | Vision Board | Kids Workshop

Objetivo

Realizar un corto de ficción mostrando al público el proceso de producción en tiempo real.

¿Qué es?

El Taller de cine del Teatro de las Américas es una mezcla de tutorial, detrás de cámaras, live streaming, documental y reality show.

Es un proyecto cooperativo en español en el que los participantes idearán, escribirán, producirán y actuarán en una película original.

Santa Barbara County First District Supervisor Das Williams — Remembering the 1/9 Debris Flow

It’s hard to believe that we are approaching six years since the 1/9 Debris flow. that took the lives of 23 people and damaged hundreds of homes.

This tragic event has changed us all in profound ways. For me, and for our Flood Control staff, it has further heightened our personal and professional commitments to improve safety, which is why we are embarking on a Montecito Flood Control Master Plan to improve the capacity of all creeks in Montecito.

Please join me next Tuesday, January 9th and remember, at Raising Our Light.

Bilingual report — County of Ventura announces Residents and Business Owners Survey – COVID-19 After-Action Report

The County of Ventura, in collaboration with Constant Associates, a third-party public health and emergency management consultancy, is developing a COVID-19 After-Action Report to document the County’s response to the pandemic and improve its preparedness for future public health crises. Among other data collection activities, to capture detailed data regarding our response efforts, Constant Associates has created a virtual survey, which we invite you to fill out. Please feel free to also forward this email and link to other members of your community or organization whose feedback you feel would be beneficial.

Your participation in this survey plays a crucial role in shaping our understanding of the County’s COVID-19 response efforts and ensuring that we are effectively meeting the needs of our community. 

To access the survey, click the following link: https://www.surveymonkey.com/r/87XNSZM

Jan. 12 is the deadline to enter California Strawberry Festival Artwork Contest

OXNARD — The deadline to submit an entry into the 38th Annual California Strawberry Festival Artwork Contest is fast approaching. The deadline is Friday, January 12. The winning artist will receive $2,000 and VIP tickets to the festival, which takes place May 18-19 at the Ventura County Fairgrounds.

This is the first California Strawberry Artwork Contest since 2020 when the pandemic resulted in the cancellation of that year’s festival. A panel of judges will look for creativity and the incorporation of a strawberry theme into the design. The winning entry may be used in the festival’s printed and digital advertising collateral as well as on souvenir merchandise such as t-shirts.

Arlington Financial Advisors in Santa Barbara surpasses $1 billion in client assets as company celebrates its 13th year

SANTA BARBARA — Local financial planning firm Arlington Financial Advisors marked a major milestone in the company’s growth in December: surpassing $1 billion in client assets.

The achievement comes as the company celebrates its 13th year in business serving the Santa Barbara community. Members of the Arlington Financial team, including partners Joe Weiland, Arthur Swalley, John Lorenz, Dianne Duva, Wells Hughes, and Cody Makela, celebrated the firm’s accomplishments with clients and friends recently at their historic offices on De la Guerra.

“I am immensely proud of the results that our team has been able to achieve. I am particularly proud of the fact that we have reached this milestone one client at a time,” said Managing Partner Joseph Weiland, CFP. “We formed this firm in 2010 to allow our team to provide trusted advice and financial peace of mind for our clients. They have responded with loyalty and sharing our services with their family and friends. There is no better way to build a business.”

Community Service Organizations Receive Over $530,000 in Funding from Local Health Plan on Central Coast

SANTA BARBARA — More than 40 service agencies and associations, as well as community nonprofits and organizations, in Santa Barbara and San Luis Obispo counties have already received or will receive community benefits funding in 2023 from the local health plan CenCal Health. By the end of this year, over $530,000 will have been distributed by the local Medi-Cal health plan to support and improve the overall health and wellness of communities in its two-county service area.

“During this holiday season of giving, all of us at CenCal Health want to highlight those local agencies and organizations that – in various ways – serve all our residents, including our members, and especially the most vulnerable of our children, youth and seniors,” said CenCal Health CEO Marina Owen.

Bilingual report — Ventura County Community Development Corp. — Camarillo Workforce Housing Down Payment Assistance Program

Have you heard about our newest program in partnership with the City of Camarillo? The Camarillo Workforce Housing Down Payment Assistance Program is designed to help local working households purchasing in Camarillo achieve their dream of homeownership. 

With up to $50,000 in the form of a ten (10) year deferred loan, low-and moderate-income first-time homebuyers can receive the financial support they need to make their homeownership dreams a reality. Plus, these funds can be combined with VCCDC’s other programs to maximize purchasing power.

VCCDC’s partnership with the City of Camarillo underscores our shared commitment to supporting the community and helping individuals achieve their homeownership goals. We encourage eligible and qualified individuals to apply and take advantage of this opportunity to achieve their dream of homeownership!

Enrollment For YMCA Winter Swim Lessons in Westlake Village Now Open

WESTLAKE VILLAGE — Enrollment for winter swim lessons is open for classes at the Yarrow Family YMCA in Westlake Village and Simi Valley Family YMCA. Group lessons are from January 16 through February 26. Private lessons are also available.

Weekly swim classes have a maximum ratio of one teacher per five swimmers. Swimmers are assigned classes based on their age and swimming ability. Age groups are three to five years, five to seven years and eight to 12 years. Parent/child classes are for children from six months of age to three years old. Swim diapers are required for infants and toddlers. Parents can select from class times and days on Mondays through Thursdays and on Saturdays.

Tamara Skov and Shannon Dalton new owners of Quinn Fiduciary Services

SANTA BARBARA — Quinn Fiduciary Services, a local professional fiduciary firm, has been purchased by Tamara Skov and Shannon Dalton.

Jackie Quinn, the founder of Quinn Fiduciary Services (QFS), remains involved with the firm to ensure a seamless transition over the next several months. Skov and Dalton, both licensed professional fiduciaries, have been with QFS for several years and the rest of the team will remain the same.

Quinn Fiduciary Services specializes in estate management serving as Trustees, Successor Trustees, Conservators, and Agents under financial and healthcare Powers of Attorney.

Bilingual report — 12 Cadets graduate from Hancock’s Core Custody Academy

SANTA MARIA — Twelve cadets graduated from Allan Hancock College’s CORE Custody Academy on Dec. 29 during a ceremony at the college’s Public Safety Training Complex in Lompoc.  

All 12 graduates of CORE Academy Class #15 completed a comprehensive California Standards and Training for Corrections course consisting of 260 hours of instruction. The six-week academy is designed to prepare students mentally, morally, emotionally, and physically to work as correctional officers. Some of the instruction included emergency planning in a custody facility, report writing, ethics, investigation procedures, contraband, arrest and control, physical fitness training, CPR/First Aid, and emergency vehicle operations.  

Local Grassroots Organization Endorses Slate of Candidates Committed to Immigrant Worker Power, Environmental and Housing Justice for California’s Central Coast

Editor’s note: * Shooting Star Communications LLC, the parent company of www.Amigos805.com, does not endorse candidates running for political office. We reserve the right to refuse any political advertisement.

“Every election cycle we witness huge sums of money drop into our communities to sway races in support of candidates that represent powerful interests’ runaway profits instead of peoples’ lives – and this year is no different. CAUSE Action’s people power will continue to defend our communities from the special interest money flooding into our communities,” said Hazel Davalos, Co-Executive Director of CAUSE Action. “We have laid the foundation for us to have one-on-one conversations with thousands of voters. And CAUSE Action will work from now until election day to educate and mobilize voters to support candidates committed to environmental and housing justice, and building immigrant worker power.” 

People’s Self-Help Housing — RSVP Today for Buellton Gardens Groundbreaking on Jan. 9

Located at 10 & 12 McMurray Road, near essential services, this new development is comprised of 89 units.  Including one-, two-, and three-bedroom units for low-income households, it features a welcoming community room, well-resourced learning center, and onsite supportive services for residents.

Port of Hueneme Ends Year with Big Splash in the Community!

PORT HUENEME — For the past two weekends, the Port of Hueneme alongside local collaborative groups such as; Ser Humano partnered with Nyeland Promise and the Southwinds Community Council to co-host their first annual community posadas. The posada, which is a traditional holiday celebration rooted in Latin American culture, is unique in that it brought toys for local youth and food for families. With music performed by the Inlakech Cultural Arts Center during the posada, Port of Hueneme, Ser Humano, and Nyeland Promise and Southwinds Council volunteers supplied nearly 1,000 families with food and toys for the holiday season. Nyeland Acres and South Oxnard families took home toys for their little ones alongside bundles of food that included rice, beans, lettuce, tortillas, bananas, Masa for tamales, and corn husks too!

Bilingual report — Morgan Kessler Joins Oxnard as New City Engineer

OXNARD — The City of Oxnard announces the appointment of Morgan Kessler as the new City Engineer with the Public Works Department effective December 18, 2023. 

Kessler brings substantial experience spanning over 20 years overseeing large-scale civil engineering and construction management at the federal and city levels.

Cottage Health Welcomes 2024 New Year’s Baby

SANTA BARBARA – Santa Barbara Cottage Hospital welcomed its first baby of the new year.

Alyssa and Seng Yang of Lompoc welcomed their first child, a baby boy named Eric Yang, into the world at 3:48 am on Monday, January 1, at Santa Barbara Cottage Hospital.

Weighing 5 pounds and 15 ounces and measuring 19 inches, Baby Yang is already captivating hearts with his arrival.

Baby Yang’s arrival marks not just the start of a new year but the beginning of a new chapter in the Yang family’s lives.

Osher Lifelong Learning Institute 2024 Classes Beginning

Experience the fun of learning this Spring! Osher Lifelong Learning Institute, OLLI, at California State University Channel Islands announces new classes beginning January 22, 2024. Registration opens January 8, 2024.

The courses will explore American Power and the Legacy of the Greatest Generation along with an opportunity to take a look into the American Civics 101: A Crash Course.

District216 to present variety of events

District216 is a membership driven psychedelic social club founded in Santa Barbara, CA for thinkers, creators & trailblazers. Our mission is to cultivate lively communities of psychedelics pioneers that exchange ideas, explore health innovations, author new policies, and grow the ecosystem into a thriving industry. Our longterm vision is to advance the full legalization and normalization of healthy psychedelics use in our daily lives, worldwide.

One805 Advisory Council, Comprised of First Responder Orgs, Move Forward on Allocation of Funds

SANTA BARBARA — One805 hosted its annual Advisory Council lunch in December, which is comprised of all 11 Chiefs of Santa Barbara County’s First Responders. Our annual lunches are an opportunity to discuss grants and other financial needs for our local First Responders. It is how we know how to best support and take care of the brave men and women who actively take care of us.

To date, One805 has provided funding to support the mental health counseling for all County fire departments as well as fulfilling grant requests received from 13 County agencies including police, fire, and Sherriff. More announcements about specific grants will be made soon.

Celebrate your business during Hispanic Heritage Month

Hispanic Heritage Month (Sept. 15-Oct. 15, 2024) is here and this is the perfect time to celebrate your business.

You can reach a Ventura, Santa Barbara and San Luis Obispo audience that this year reported more than 900,000 hits, nearly 145,000 visits and nearly 50,000 unique visitors through Aug.15, 2024.

Contact Frank at frank@amigos805.com for more information.

Jan. 3 — District 216 presents free screening of ‘Gratitude Revealed: Catch the Wave’

District216 is a membership driven psychedelic social club founded in Santa Barbara, CA for thinkers, creators & trailblazers. Our mission is to cultivate lively communities of psychedelics pioneers that exchange ideas, explore health innovations, author new policies, and grow the ecosystem into a thriving industry. Our longterm vision is to advance the full legalization and normalization of healthy psychedelics use in our daily lives, worldwide.

Jan. 6 — SBMA presents Special One-Day Lecture Series on Flowers, Gardens, and Self-Reflection in Chinese Painting

SANTA BARBARA — The Santa Barbara Museum of Art (SBMA) will present a special one-Day lecture series on Flowers, Gardens, and Self-Reflection in Chinese Painting from 9:30 a.m. to 5 p.m. Saturday, Jan. 6 at SBMA’s Mary Craig Auditorium, 1130 State St., Santa Barbara.

In conjunction with the exhibition Flowers on a River: The Art of Chinese Flower-and-Bird Painting, 1368–1911, expert art historians offer detailed glimpses into some of the many facets of the flower-and-bird genre in Chinese painting and reveal how these images of intimate nature can be thresholds to worlds rich with beauty and private emotions. Each talk will be approximately 30 minutes with a Q&A following. 

Through Jan. 8 — John Galan’s ‘Remedios’ at the Santa Paula Art Museum

Remedios (Remedies), a solo exhibition by Conejo Valley artist John Galan, on view through January 8, 2023.. John Galan is a high school art teacher by day, and an internationally exhibited artist by night. With artworks rich in symbolism and vibrant hues inspired by his Mexican heritage, Galan’s exhibit explores the connections between mind, body, nature, and healing.

Jan. 8 — Oxnard Film Society presents’ Fallen Leaves’

NYTImes Critic’s Pick Award-winning filmmaker Aki Kaurismäki (Le Havre, The Other Side of Hope) makes a masterful return with FALLEN LEAVES, a timeless, hopeful and ultimately satisfying love story about two lonely souls’ path to happiness – and the numerous hurdles they encounter along the way. Set in contemporary Helsinki, and shot through with Kaurismäki’s typically playful, idiosyncratic style and deadpan humor, this tender romantic tragicomedy is a timely reminder of the potency of movie-going from one of cinema’s living legends. Winner of the Jury Prize at the 2023 Cannes Film Festival.

Jan. 10 — Allan Hancock College hosting ‘Winter Promise’ Workshops

SANTA MARIA — Allan Hancock College is giving high school seniors and current Hancock students a helping hand preparing to apply for spring classes and filling out their financial aid applications at a series of free workshops in December and January.

During Hancock’s Winter Promise workshops, students and their parents will be able to get assistance applying to attend Hancock, applying for scholarships through the Santa Barbara Foundation and preparing and submitting their Free Application for Federal Student Aid (FAFSA ) and Dream Act applications.

The workshops are free and will be available in English and Spanish.

Jan. 13 — NATIVE PLANT FEST 2024 at the Oxnard Performing Arts Center features ‘Plant Listening’ Station, ‘Saging the World’ screenings and filmmaker Q&A

OXNARD — The Oxnard Performing Arts Center Corp. (OPAC) is proud to present its 3rd Annual NATIVE PLANT FEST on Saturday, January 13 from 11AM-4PM. This family-friendly event is free and open to the public and brings together our community to celebrate and showcase local plant-inspired culture, food, traditions, and creativity! This festival is community-led by plant enthusiasts of diverse backgrounds who will share their plants, services, artwork, culinary creations, products, and educational resources.

Through Jan. 14 — Santa Paula Art Museum presents ‘The Art of George Lockwood’

SANTA PAULA — The Santa Paula Art Museum is pleased to present “The Art of George Lockwood,” a solo exhibition by Santa Barbara County artist and Santa Paula native George Lockwood. The exhibition, which is the second show Lockwood has created for SPAM, features over 35 paintings representing scenes and subject matter from Santa Paula to the Central Coast to the Pacific Northwest. “The Art of George Lockwood” will be on view at the Santa Paula Art Museum to January 14, 2024. All of the artworks are available for purchase.

Jan. 14 — Santa Barbara Museum of Art’s Parallel Stories to present ‘Seeing From the Rupture: A Reading and Conversation with Jenny Xie’

In this conversation, Jenny Xie opens up, as US Poet Laureate Juan Felipe Herrera described, “multiple terrains of seeing.” With longing and memory, nuance and subtlety, the “anxiety of bilingualism,” and the unknowability of the self, Xie takes us deep into what is irreducible with pure piercing beauty.

Jan. 17 — Ventura County Area Agency on Aging’s Advisory Council’s Workforce Committee to hold Job Fair

VENTURA — Older adults seeking employment can make plans to attend a Job Fair that will be held in tandem with the 2024 Wellness Fest that will take place at the Goebel Adult Community Center in Thousand Oaks on Wednesday, January 17.

The Workforce Committee of the Ventura County Area Agency on Aging’s Advisory Council is putting on the Job Fair, which will run from 9 a.m. to 1 p.m. that day.

Employers who are confirmed to be at the event include:

America’s Job Center of California
Boys & Girls Club
City of Thousand Oaks
Conejo Valley Unified School District
County of Ventura
Villa Esperanza

Jan. 17 — District 216 presents Alton Sander’s ‘The Role of Mushrooms in Reaching Oneness with Self’

SPEAKER BIO

Alton Sanders

It is my sincere privilege to present the Spiritual Fitness and Bodywork Center to all who search for a higher quality of life. My name is Alton J. Sanders, and I pleased to introduce you to a new world of physical, spiritual, and mental fulfillment at levels you my not have thought were possible. Seeing all the pain and suffering in the world around me, has given me the tremendous passion to do everything within my power to help others realize and experience health of the body, mind and spirit, as well as, full physical potential. I’ve been actively pursuing this goal since I began in Bodywork, Massage, Reiki and Yoga since 1998. Since then, I’ve developed a true love for helping other Beings feel wonderful from the inside out.

Jan. 18 — Santa Barbara Museum of Art to present a Conversation with Artist Keith Mayerson and Curator of Contemporary Art James Glisson

Keith Mayerson has long swum in the sea of mass media that we exist in and reframing them by painting them, and the Santa Barbara Museum of Art recently acquired his painting,Someday we’ll find it, the Rainbow Connection, the lovers, the dreamers, and me (2023). Whether now-iconic photographs of the Stonewall Riots in the summer of 1969, a view of the Grand Canyon, the crenellated skyline of Manhattan, or the Muppets, Mayerson takes subjects we already know—or think we know—and then personalizes them, filtering them through his choice of color and mark, highlight and shadow. We see them through Keith’s eyes and in so doing see them anew.

Jan. 20 — Ventura County Grand Jury to hold informational sessions

VENTURA COUNTY — The Ventura County Grand Jury will be holding information sessions for members of the public interested in becoming Grand Jurors. This is an opportunity to tour the Grand Jury Chambers, meet current Grand Jurors and get deeper insight into what it means to serve.

The informational session will take place on:

Saturday, January 20, 2024 from 11 a.m. to noon

Jan. 20 — County of San Luis Obispo’s Veterans Services Office (VSO) to host Pop-Up Resource Fair in Oceano

SAN LUIS OBISPO — The County of San Luis Obispo’s Veterans Services Office (VSO) proudly announces a family-friendly pop-up resource fair for Veterans and their families in Oceano. “The County of San Luis Obispo’s VSO is pleased to announce a benefits resource fair in Oceano sponsored by Alignment Health to connect our South County’s Veterans with access to resources that support a healthier, more resilient Veteran Community,” said Morgan Boyd, the County Veterans Services Officer. The event will occur on January 20th from 10 am-2 pm at the Oceano Elks Lodge, 410 Air Park Dr, Oceano.

Jan. 20 — Museum of Ventura County to present ‘Documentary Premiere of The Legends of Hobson Heights: The Untold Tales of 100 Years of Architecture, Triumph, and Tragedy’

This film includes over 20 gorgeous Hobson Heights properties and their fascinating stories of Hollywood movie stars, secret speakeasies, Olympic gold athletes, ghosts, ground-breaking firsts, and the heartbreaking story of the fire that almost destroyed it all. Step into the 1920s with “The Legends of Hobson Heights: The Untold Tales.” Join us for a free premiere showcasing a century of captivating stories, Hollywood history, and iconic architecture! Enjoy the documentary, meet the filmmakers and residents, and explore a pop-up exhibit with vintage maps and paintings by local artists. Sip on drinks for a cause – all proceeds support the Museum of Ventura County. Dress to impress in your best 1920s attire! Registration and information at https://venturamuseum.org/events/

Jan. 22 — Oxnard Film Society presents screening of ‘THE CRIME IS MINE’

Paris in the 1930s — a playground for industrial heirs and debonair architects, but the City of Lights does not shine evenly for all. Struggling actress Madeleine (Nadia Terezkiewicz) and her best friend Pauline (Rebecca Marder), an unemployed lawyer, live in a cramped flat and owe five months’ rent. Opportunity knocks after a lascivious theatrical producer who made an inappropriate advance towards Madeleine turns up dead. Madeleine stands trial for murder and ascends to decadent stardom, with Pauline serving as defense counsel and media circus ringmaster. A new life of fame, wealth, and tabloid celebrity awaits — until the truth comes out.

Jan. 25 — Museum of Ventura County to present ‘Ivor Davis: Up Close and Personal with The Beatles’

Ventura County author and journalist Ivor Davis had a front row, eyewitness seat as The Beatles Revolution unfolded in all its gory detail. He travelled with them, ate with them, drank with them, and reveals the behind-the-scenes story of what unfolded from sea to shining sea in his 60th anniversary “Beatles and Me on Tour” book. Doors open at 6 pm for refreshments. Those who are not able to join in-person are invited to view via Zoom. Registration is free for members at the Individual/Family level and higher, $10 non-members, $5 non-members zoom. Registration and information at https://venturamuseum.org/events/

Jan. 24 — Bilingual report — Economic Development Collaborative (EDC) – Join Us for a NO-COST Webinar Series on AI

Join EDC, Women’s Economic Ventures and SCORE for a NO-COST webinar series on how you can use AI to leverage your business! Spanish interpretation will be available.

AI for Business 101: How to Leverage AI to Accelerate your Business Growth

January 24 @ 12:00 pm

AI for Small Business Marketing: Supercharge your Social Media Content Creation with the Power of AI

February 28 @ 12:00 pm

Explore the real-world applications of AI. Don’t miss out on unlocking the potential of AI for your business success.

Register today!
https://us02web.zoom.us/meeting/register/tZUude-trz8sHNRmYCUJx5uVPyyyTn22J-cV#/registration

Canceled — Jan. 25 — UCSB Arts & Lectures presents Les Ballets Trockadero de Monte Carlo at The Granada Theatre

Special note:

We regret to announce that, due to circumstances beyond our control, Les Ballets Trockadero de Monte Carlo’s January 25 performance at The Granada Theatre has been canceled. There is no reschedule date at this time.

Ticket purchasers may apply the value of their tickets toward a ticket exchange for another event in the 2023-2024 season, donate the value of their tickets to Arts & Lectures (tax-deductible), or receive a refund to their original form of payment. 

We appreciate your patience as we work through ticket holders’ replies and requests. 

Questions? Contact us at (805) 893-3535 or info@artsandlectures.ucsb.edu, Mon-Fri, 10 AM-5 PM. 

Sincerely, 
Arts & Lectures

Jan. 26 — Assemblymember Steve Bennett, Contractors State License Board to present ‘Senior Scam Stopper’ in Oxnard

Come learn how to protect yourself from fraud. Discuss legislation and topics relating to scams concerning construction, identity theft, email/texting, foreign lotteries, insurance, and mail fraud. Please RSVP online here or by calling (805) 485-4745.

Spanish interpretation will be available/ Habrá interpretación en español disponible.

Jan. 27 — Barbie Truck Dreamhouse Living Tour at The Collection at RiverPark in Oxnard

OXNARD — Barbie Truck Dreamhouse Living Tour will be held from 10 a.m. to 7 p.m. Saturday, Jan. 27 at The Collection at RiverPark in Oxnard.

Come check out the new Dreamhouse Living Tour with exclusive merch only available on the Barbie Truck Tour! ruck will be located on Collection Blvd. between Copper Blues and Bowlero.

Jan. 27 — UCSB Arts & Lecture present the Limón Dance Company at UCSB Campbell Hall

Due to water damage at The Granada Theatre, the venue for Limón Dance Company has changed to UCSB Campbell Hall. Seating will now be general admission. 

SANTA BARBARA — UCSB Arts & Lecture will present the Limón Dance Company at 8 p.m. Saturday, Jan. 27 at UCSB Campbell Hall.

Jan. 28 — UCSB Arts & Lectures presents Zlatomir Fung, cello

SANTA BARBARA — UCSB Arts & Lectures presents Zlatomir Fung and Benjamin Hochman on Sunday, Jan. 28 at 4 p.m. at Hahn Hall. The youngest musician ever to win First Prize in the International Tchaikovsky Competition Cello Division, Zlatomir Fung is poised to become one of the preeminent cellists of our time. Astounding audiences with his boundless virtuosity and exquisite sensitivity, the 24-year-old has already proven himself a star among the next generation of world-class musicians. Fung teams up with acclaimed pianist and conductor Benjamin Hochman for a breakout recital that promises to be a season highlight.

Jan. 28 — Santa Barbara Museum of Art to present Rock and Roll Hall of Famer John Densmore — ‘The Doors Unhinged’

Beloved by artists across the decades for his fierce, uncompromising dedication to art, John Densmore occupies a rarified space in pop culture. His musicianship landed him in the Rock and Roll Hall of Fame. His writing consistently earns accolades and has appeared in a range of publications including the Los Angeles Timesand Rolling Stone. As his friend and American novelist Tom Robbins recently advised him, “If you keep writing like this, I’ll have to get a drum set.”

Jan. 29 — Bilingual report — Ventura County Public Works Agency Invites Public to Community Meeting for El Rio Pedestrian Improvement Project

VENTURA COUNTY — Ventura County Public Works Agency (VCPWA) invites the public to attend the second community meeting for the El Rio Pedestrian Improvement Project. The meeting will be held at the Rio del Valle Middle School Gymnasium in Oxnard on Jan. 29, 2024, at 6:30pm. The El Rio Pedestrian Improvement Project encompasses the installation of sidewalks, accessible ramps, crosswalks, drainage improvements, and more. These improvements aim to create a safer and more pedestrian-friendly environment for residents.

Jan. 30 — Bilingual report — Peoples’ Self-Help Housing (PSHH) — Broad Street Place Grand Opening Celebration

Located at 3720 Broad Street in San Luis Obispo, this new construction development is comprised of 40 units with three commercial spaces available. Residents will 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, and supportive services. Some units will provide ADA-certified accessibility for those with mobility, hearing, and vision limitations. 

Jan. 31 — Bilingual report — City of Santa Paula Invites Community Members to Coffee with the City Manager and Interim Police Chief

This unique gathering offers residents an opportunity to connect with the City Manager and Interim Chief of Police in a relaxed and intimate setting. Whether you have specific questions about the community or just want to stay informed about local happenings, this event is the perfect occasion.

Jan. 31 — Bilingual report — Allan Hancock College hosts ‘Hometown Heroes’ basketball games

SANTA MARIA — The Allan Hancock College men’s and women’s basketball programs will honor local first responders, veterans, and active-duty members of the military at the college’s inaugural Hometown Heroes Night on Jan. 31.  

The event will feature two basketball games as the Bulldogs host Ventura College for a Western State Conference rivalry showdown. The men’s team will tip off first at 5 p.m., followed by the women’s game at 7 p.m. Both games will take place inside the Joe White Memorial Gymnasium at the college’s Santa Maria campus.  

Jan. 31 — District 216 presents Kyle Nicolaides (Musician/Author) ‘How Ayahuasca and Other Plant Medicines Can Heal Depression’

  Topic: “How Ayahuasca and Other Plant Medicines Can Heal Depression”Date: Wednesday, January 31st, 2024 Times: 5:00pm to 9:00pm (Interview at 6:30pm) Where: LoDo Studios, 216 E. Gutierrez Street, Santa Barbara, CA 93101 (Please only park across the street on the Office…

Continuing Grief Support Groups at Livingston’s Camarillo Grief Center

CAMARILLO — Livingston’s Camarillo Grief Center is adding new grief support groups that cater to specific bereavement needs this coming January. These close-ended support groups are Adult Loss of Parent (February 6th through March 26th), Parent Loss of Child (March 7th through May 9th), and Adult Loss of Sibling (March 26th through May 7th). For reservations, contact 805-389-6870 or online at lmvna.org/grief. Space is limited. 

Feb. 1 — UCSB Arts & Lectures presents radiant soprano Renée Fleming in recital at the Arlington Theatre

SANTA BARBARA — UCSB Arts & Lectures presents Renée Fleming on Thursday, February 1 at 7 p.m. at The Arlington Theatre, 1317 State St. Santa Barbara. Radiant soprano Renée Fleming’s lustrous voice is the stuff of legends. Affectionately called “America’s Diva,” only she can claim to have sung at the Super Bowl, Buckingham Palace, a Nobel Peace Prize ceremony and a presidential inauguration, in addition to all the world’s major opera houses – not to mention boasting five Grammy wins, an indie rock album and a Tony-nominated Broadway appearance. Don’t miss this opportunity to hear “one of the truly magnificent voices of our time” (Los Angeles Times) lend her trademark warmth and sensitivity to a rare recital program.

Feb. 3 — Friendship Center — Save the Date & Secure Your Rank for the Festival of Hearts

The Festival of Hearts, Friendship Center’s premier annual fundraiser now in its 25th year, celebrates caregivers and raises funds for low-income seniors living with dementia to enjoy our specialized programs that uniquely provide social, physical and cognitive engagement.

Since the first Festival of Hearts in 2000, the heart and soul of the event has been the heart-art sold at silent auction, and created by local artists and celebrities, including Jeff Bridges, Julia Louis-Dreyfus, Tony Askew and Rod Lathim. Provided with a blank three-dimensional papier-mâché heart, the imaginative “heart-ists” paint, sculpt, and decorate in various ways to create their unique works.

Feb. 3 — Bilingual report — Build-A-Bed event at VC-Animal Services

Over 200 dog beds were donated by community supporters and we need help putting them together!  If you’re interested and available, you’re invited to our Build-A-Bed event on Saturday, February 3rd, 2024 from 9:00am – 12:00pm at the Camarillo Animal Shelter at 600 Aviation Drive, Camarillo.

Feb. 3 — Friendship Center to host 25th Annual Festival of Hearts Luncheon

SANTA BARBARA — Friendship Center returns to Rosewood Miramar Beach this February to host the 25th Annual Festival of Hearts. This year’s seaside-elegance themed, Silver Jubilee celebration will take place on Saturday, February 3rd, 2024 at the stunning Rosewood Miramar Beach, located across the street from Friendship Center at 1759 S Jameson Ln, Montecito, CA. 

Friendship Center’s Festival of Hearts honors all the caregivers, past and present, who have supported an aging loved one through their final voyage. This fundraiser enables Friendship Center to continue to stay true to its mission of providing care and companionship to seniors and adults living with dementia.

CANCELED — Feb. 4 — UCSB Arts & Lectures presents a live taping of West Virginia Public Broadcasting’s Mountain Stage with Kathy Mattea at The Granada Theatre

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.”

Feb. 4 — Five Cities Orchid Society! Discover to present Orchidfest 2024 in Nipomo

Explore a variety of orchids from vendors like Orchid Design, CalCoast Orchids, Sunset Valley Orchids, and more. The event takes place at Nipomo High School, 525 N. Thompson Ave, Nipomo, CA 93444. For additional details, visit www.fcos.org or contact Jeffrey Parham, FCOS President, at 360-271-3971. Don’t miss this orchid extravaganza!

POSTPHONED — Feb. 5 — Oxnard Film Society presents ‘Monster’

Due to reports of heavy rain and possible flooding the next few days we have decided to postpone Monday’s film and reschedule to Monday, Feb 12. Thanks, George

“One of the director’s finest, its thematic scope and emotional power growing with each new revelation.” MONSTER screening Monday, Feb 5. Directed by Kore-eda Hirokazu. A NYTimes Critics’ Pick.
?Our Film Series screens (usually) two films each month, on the first and third Mondays at 3:30pm and 6:30pm at Plaza Cinemas in downtown Oxnard.
We will continue our mission of providing the best of world cinema to the Oxnard and Ventura County community and supporting local filmmakers.
Thanks and stay safe. George J. Sandoval, Executive Director

Feb. 6 — UCSB Arts & Lectures presents head of TED Chris Anderson at Campbell Hall

SANTA BARBARA — UCSB Arts & Lectures presents a FREE Thematic Learning Initiative event with head of TED Chris Anderson, discussing his new book Infectious Generosity: The Ultimate Idea Worth Spreading on Tuesday, February 6 at 7:30 p.m. at UCSB Campbell Hall. As head and curator of TED, Chris Anderson has had a ringside view of the world’s boldest thinkers sharing their most uplifting ideas. With his new book, Infectious Generosity, Anderson looks at one of humankind’s defining but overlooked impulses – generosity – and how we can super-charge its potential to build a hopeful future.

Feb. 6 — OPAC’s “Insight In Sound” series merges storytelling and career advice from touring musicians

OXNARD — OPAC and its honorary board member and Oxnard native, Jose Cano of Las Cafeteras, are teaming up to present a second installment of the “INSIGHT IN SOUND” series starting with a “Women in Music” panel discussion on Tuesday, February…

Feb. 6 — Economic Development Collaborative (EDC) — NO-COST Webinar: 2024 Employment Law Update

2024 EMPLOYMENT LAW UPDATE: NEW COMPLIANCE OBLIGATIONS FOR CA EMPLOYERS

It’s that time again! Each new calendar year, employment law and human resources guidelines are revised. To ensure your compliance for a January 1, 2024 effective date, join the California’s Manufacturing Network (CMTC) for an overview of what’s new in California labor laws for 2024.

Join CMTC on Tuesday, Feb. 6 @ 11:00 am

Feb. 7 — District 216 to present Conscious Connections Roundtable Discussion: ‘ACTIVE LISTENING IN SUPPORTING CONNECTION’

Topic: “ACTIVE LISTENING IN SUPPORTING CONNECTION”

Date: Wednesday, February 7th, 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 discounted $15 tickets to The District House evenings.

Note: We will not be filming this week’s conversation. Refreshments provided.

Feb. 10 — Chicana/o Studies at CSUCI celebrates ‘Nuestra Quinceañera’

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.

Feb. 11 — Bilingual report — United Parents will present the fundraising event AMOR Y ALEGRÍA FOLKLÓRICA ‘De la mano con nuestras familias’ in Oxnard

OXNARD — United Parents will present the fundraising event AMOR Y ALEGRÍA FOLKLÓRICA “De la mano con nuestras familias” (hand in hand with our families) from 1 to 5 p.m. Sunday, Feb. 11 at the Oxnard Performing Arts Center, 800 Hobson Way, Oxnard.

The free event will feature live music, dance, food and drink vendors, children activities, silent auction and a raffle.

Feb. 12 — Ventura County Office of Education to present Community Event to Fight Addiction

CAMARILLO — Preventing substance use in kids is the focus of a community event being held on Monday, February 12, 2024, in Camarillo. The Addiction Inoculation, featuring bestselling author Jessica Lahey, will highlight risk factors and offer concrete takeaways for parents, teachers, coaches, and mentors to kids from pre-K through college.

Feb. 12 — UCSB Arts & Lectures presents therapist and educator Resmaa Menakem at Campbell Hall

Resilience can ripple outward, changing the lives of people, families and communities. A cultural trauma navigator, Resmaa Menakem connects individual and familial experiences to societal processes, helping people find paths forward from intergenerational racial and historical trauma. Known best for his New York Times bestseller My Grandmother’s Hands and his Guerrilla Muse podcast, Menakem helps us apply critical, empathetic and embodied thought to controversial topics. His work sets a course for critical understanding, healing and transformation of our ailing societies.

Feb. 17 — Museum of Ventura County to present ‘6 Generations 200 Years Later – Screening and Q & A’

Join us for a screening of “Six Generations,” followed by an insightful Q & A session with Chumash elder Ernestine Ygnacio-De Soto and Professor Kristina Foss. The documentary is a profound exploration of Chumash heritage with “6 Generations.” Narrated by Ernestine De Soto, a unique link to the past through her female ancestors, the documentary delves into the impact of the Spanish arrival in Santa Barbara.

Feb. 21 — Temple Grandin to Speak on the Value of Alternative Thinking at CLU

THOUSAND OAKS — Temple Grandin, Ph.D., a multi-hyphenate, celebrated advocate for autistic communities, will present “Great Minds Are Not All The Same” as part of the California Lutheran University Dean’s Lecture Series. The event is at 7 p.m. on Feb. 21 in Samuelson Chapel on the Cal Lutheran campus and brings awareness to the start of Developmental Disabilities Awareness Month in March. 

Feb. 21 — UCSB Arts & Lectures presents Abraham Verghese in conversation with Pico Iyer at the Arlington Theatre

SANTA BARBARA — UCSB Arts & Lectures presents Abraham Verghese in conversation with Pico Iyer on Wednesday, February 21 at 7:30 p.m. at the Arlington Theatre. Dr. Abraham Verghese’s instant New York Timesbestseller, The Covenant of Water, was released in May to widespread critical acclaim and was named an Oprah’s Book Club pick. One of the most masterful literary novels published in recent years, the book is the long-awaited follow-up to Verghese’s previous novel, Cutting for Stone, which topped the New York Times bestseller list for more than two years, is being adapted for film and was named one of Amazon’s 100 Books to Read in a Lifetime. A distinguished Stanford professor and a prominent voice in medicine, Verghese received the National Humanities Medal from President Obama. Following the conversation and Q&A, both Abraham Verghese and Pico Iyer will be available to sign their most recent books. 

Feb. 22 — CLU School of Management — Announcing the Panelists – Undocumented Immigrants Conference

We are thrilled to invite you to the conference hosted by the Center for Economics of Social Issues. This conference aims to shed light on the Demographic Profile and Economic Impact of Undocumented Immigrants in California.