Category: Locales

Allan Hancock Community College offers noncredit Spring classes

by Community Contributor • December 19, 2023 • Comments Off

SANTA MARIA — Allan Hancock College Community Education is inviting community members to enroll in free noncredit classes this spring.

This spring noncredit classes include a wide range of engaging courses that span a multitude of subjects including arts and crafts, wellness, English language learning, technology, career development, GED preparation and much more. The noncredit classes provide a welcoming and inclusive environment for new and returning students, as well as life-long learners.

“Community Education is more than just classes. It’s a door to opportunities, the first step into an educational and personal journey,” said Hancock Dean of Academic Affairs Sofia Ramirez Gelpi “We offer students from all walks of life a supportive learning environment that encourages personal growth and will help them achieve their educational goals, from learning English to transitioning to credit programs.”

Bilingual report — ¡Viva el Arte de Santa Bárbara! Presents Three Free Performances (Jan. 19, 20, 21) of Mariachi Reyna de Los Ángeles

by Community Contributor • December 18, 2023 • Comments Off

SANTA BARBARA — ¡Viva el Arte de Santa Bárbara! (Viva) returns with its first event of the year– a free community performance by America’s first all-female mariachi, Mariachi Reyna de Los Ángeles. A collaboration between UCSB Arts & Lectures, The Marjorie Luke Theatre, the Guadalupe-Nipomo Dunes Center, and the Isla Vista School Parent Teacher Association, Viva is dedicated to bringing the rich cultural heritage of Latin America to Santa Barbara County community members and students.

Bilingual report — Mayor Leslie Cornejo and Vice-Mayor Pedro Chavez Assume Prominent Roles in Santa Paula City Council

by Community Contributor • December 15, 2023 • Comments Off

SANTA PAULA — During a largely ceremonial Council meeting on the evening of December 6, 2023, former Vice Mayor Leslie Cornejo, a distinguished Santa Paula businesswoman and owner-operator of Santa Paula Travel Service, assumed the esteemed role as the 121st Mayor of Santa Paula, coincidentally on her birthday. This transition of leadership unfolded amidst a packed Council Chambers as Cornejo graciously accepted the mayoral responsibilities, receiving the symbolic gavel from the outgoing Mayor Andy Sobel.

Bilingual report — CAUSE and MICOP Host Event Celebrating Art, Stories, and Culture of Farmworker Families

by Community Contributor • December 15, 2023 • Comments Off

CENTRAL COAST — (On Dec. 1), the Central Coast Alliance United for a Sustainable Economy (CAUSE) and the Mixteco/Indigena Community Organizing Project (MICOP) celebrated and honored the farmworker families of Santa María at an event called “La Cultura Cura” (The Culture Cures). More than 60 people attended the event, which aimed to help build a more united community, one that connects and strengthens through art. Music, dance, song, poetry, and painting were the centerpieces of a special night that will undoubtedly remain in the memory of the people present. After a year often marked with painful reminders about the challenges faced by farmworkers, from high-profile investigations of labor violations to the workplace deaths of farmworkers in Guadalupe and Cuyama (see statement here), the “Cultura Cura” event offered an opportunity to reflect in joy and value family bonding moments.

Teatro de las Américas — Muestra de cortos en español | Karaoke Night | Taller de Cine 2024

by Community Contributor • December 15, 2023 • Comments Off

Primera muestra de cortos en español del Teatro de las Américas 2023
Teatro de las Américas Spanish Short Film Showcase

Bilingual report — 34 cadets graduate from Allan Hancock College’s Emergency Medical Services (EMS) Academy

by Community Contributor • December 12, 2023 • Comments Off

SANTA MARIA — After 16 weeks of classroom and field instruction, 34 cadets graduated from Allan Hancock College’s Emergency Medical Services (EMS) Academy on Dec.7. The cadets were recognized for completing the Emergency Medical Services Academy 1A during a ceremony at Hancock’s Public Safety Training Complex (PSTC) in Lompoc.

Upon completion of the training, the cadets can provide basic life-saving skills and have passed a national registry test to become emergency medical technicians (EMTs).

Bilingual report — 79 students graduate from Hancock nursing programs

by Community Contributor • December 11, 2023 • Comments Off

SANTA MARIA — A total of 79 students graduated from Allan Hancock College’s nursing program on Dec. 7, continuing the college’s legacy of training highly skilled healthcare workers.

The graduating class included 46 graduates from Hancock’s registered nursing program and 33 graduates from the college’s vocational nursing program. The graduates and their families celebrated with a ceremony at the Marian Theatre on the college’s Santa Maria campus. Both groups received commemorative pins marking their accomplishments.

“Training public servants is one of the most important missions of a community college,” said Hancock Superintendent/President Kevin G. Walthers, Ph.D. “I am honored that our nursing students have chosen this profession.”

Bilingual commentary — The Pros and Cons of Arranged Marriages

by Community Contributor • December 8, 2023 • Comments Off

was talking with a female friend recently about her ongoing search for a marriage partner. This is not unusual for a woman in her twenties. Her approach, however, is largely unusual in our culture. She is willing to consider submitting her destiny to an “arranged marriage.”

She is of Middle Eastern heritage, though raised in the U.S. from an early age. Some traditions such as arranged marriages, as anathema as they may be in American culture, endure in some ethnic families. There are many reasons why individuals might be open to accepting an arranged marriage for themselves.

There are also a lot of reasons to tread carefully into an arranged marriage, or to avoid one at all costs.

Bilingual report — County of Ventura recognizes employees for decades of dedication to public service

by Community Contributor • December 7, 2023 • Comments Off

VENTURA — On Tuesday, Dec. 5, the County of Ventura honored 25 employees during the regular Board of Supervisors meeting for decades of continuous service across county agencies. The awards are part of the County of Ventura’s Employee Continuous Service Recognition Program which honors staff who have reached career milestones with 25 years or more of service to the county.

“We as a Board take this opportunity to show our appreciation,” said Chair of the Board of Supervisors Matt LaVere. “We have 10,000 employees and I hope we, as a Board, are able to express our utmost appreciation for the work that our employees do every day to serve the residents of Ventura County. With the seniority that is present in the group honored today, it’s amazing to think of the brain power and the work they have done over the years to improve the quality of life in the county.”

Twenty-six recruits graduate from Hancock’s Law Enforcement Academy

by Community Contributor • December 7, 2023 • Comments Off

SANTA MARIA — Twenty-six recruits graduated from Allan Hancock College’s Basic Law Enforcement Academy on Dec. 6 at the college’s Public Safety Training Complex in Lompoc.?

The graduating recruits of Class #23-126 gathered with their friends and families to celebrate the completion of more than 856 training hours required to graduate from the academy and enter careers as peace officers. Nearly all of the recruits have already been hired by Central Coast law enforcement agencies.?

“You have strapped into the seat of one of the greatest rollercoaster rides of your life,” Grover Beach Police Chief John Peters told the graduates. “This profession will have you experiencing more things than you ever imagined.”

Bilingual report — A Win for Equitable Park Access: NatureTrack and Wilderness Youth Project Receive Nearly $400,000 through California Natural Resources Agency Grant

by Community Contributor • December 7, 2023 • Comments Off

SANTA BARBARA — In a significant stride toward fostering equitable access to parks and nature, NatureTrack and Wilderness Youth Project have been awarded grants totaling nearly $400,000 through the California Natural Resources Agency’s Youth Community Access program.

Gov. Gavin Newsom and First Partner Jennifer Seibel lead the state’s Outdoors For All Strategy, which recently allocated a total of almost $18 million to 71 projects statewide. Notably, two projects in Santa Barbara County—NatureTrack and Wilderness Youth Project—received grants to the tune of nearly $400,000.

Santa Ynez Valley-based NatureTrack received $97,400 to support outdoor field trips for underserved, low-income K-12 students in the north county of Santa Barbara County. Older youth will be recruited from local colleges to work as trip docents.

Bilingual report — Economic Development Collaborative (EDC) — Uplift Central Coast Community Update on Jan. 25

by Community Contributor • December 6, 2023 • Comments Off

Save the date for a Community Update with Uplift Central Coast on Zoom, January 25 at 12:00 pm. Uplift will share project updates, key findings from their community engagement and research and hear from partners about the work ahead.

Teatro de las Américas — iStarELA. La pastorela | Muestra de cortos en español | Karaoke Night

by Community Contributor • December 5, 2023 • Comments Off

iStarELA es la lectura en atril de la pastorela del Teatro de las Américas totalmente en español.

Es noche buena y los “pastorcitos” alrededor del mundo hacen fila para conseguir su dispositivo móvil que representa la gloria y la salvación. Guiados por la estrella de iStar, la división de tecnología de una gran corporación, estos consumidores ansiosos responden a las estrategias mercadológicas generadas en el cuartel general de la compañía. Todo parece estar saliendo de acuerdo a lo planeado excepto en la tienda iStar de Oxnard, donde la fila ha sido dispersada por culpa de una pareja de inmigrantes ilegales, una ‘influencer’ fuera de control y unos ‘homeless’ desprevenidos y un par de usuarios de los productos de iStar que muestran un poco de humanidad.

Bilingual report — City of Port Hueneme commissions a mural to celebrate its 75th anniversary

by Community Contributor • December 1, 2023 • Comments Off

PORT HUENEME — The City of Port Hueneme, in collaboration with the Oxnard Performing Arts Center Corporation (OPAC) and the Ventura County Library, is pleased to announce a Call for Artists and Request for Qualifications for the development of a new mural at the Ray D. Prueter Library located at 510 Park Ave in Port Hueneme, California. This project will celebrate the 75th anniversary of the founding of the City of Port Hueneme and will launch the City’s public arts initiatives.

Bilingual report — Economic Development Collaborative (EDC) free event and webinar schedule

by Community Contributor • November 27, 2023 • Comments Off

SBA: INTRO TO GOVT CONTRACTING

December 5 @ 10:00 am

This webinar will provide a brief overview of SBA programs and services, with an emphasis on SBA’s federal contracting resources! Have you considered, is government contracting a good fit for your business ? This will be an intro to small business certification programs. Government contracts are a tremendous financial opportunity for small businesses, and the U.S. government is the largest customer in the world. It buys all types of products and services — in both large and small quantities — and it’s required by law to consider buying from small businesses. The SBA has several contracting assistance programs, and federal contracting resources available to assist entrepreneurs. This is a great opportunity to get any questions you may have answered and find out about the multiple resources available to help you on your way to small business success. This event will take place online, please register for the log on information. SBA programs and services are extended to the public on a nondiscriminatory basis. For reasonable accommodation request please send an email to lado@sba.gov at least 7 days in advance.

Teatro de las Américas — Did you get your tickets to Muestra de cortos en español?

by Community Contributor • November 27, 2023 • Comments Off

Purchase tickets online today—it’s quick and easy!

Muestra de cortos en español
Presented By Teatro De Las Americas

Dec 15th 2023, 7:00 PM

Bilingual report — Single-parent Allan Hancock College students in Santa Maria receive free Thanksgiving meals

by Community Contributor • November 22, 2023 • Comments Off

SANTA MARIA — For the 15th year in a row, Allan Hancock College’s CARE program provided students who are single parents with a turkey and other Thanksgiving meal items free of charge.

A total of 51 individuals and families stopped by CARE’s “Turkey Fest” booth outside the college’s Santa Maria campus on Nov. 21, where CARE staff provided them with everything needed to prepare a delicious Thanksgiving meal. The packages included a turkey, potatoes, beans, cranberry sauce, rolls, stuffing, pumpkin pie, whipped cream and butter. Also included were turkey preparation and cooking instructions.

“We know times are tough, so we are thrilled that we can provide this food and put a smile on the faces of our students,”?said Hancock CARE/EOPS Coordinator Fabian Mendoza

Bilingual report — Cooper Kupp, Los Angeles Rams’ Star Receiver, Leads Food Share’s Annual Thanksgiving Turkey Distribution

by Community Contributor • November 22, 2023 • Comments Off

OXNARD — In a heartwarming display of community commitment, Cooper Kupp, the celebrated wide receiver for the Los Angeles Rams, took center stage at Food Share’s Thanksgiving Turkey n’ Trimmings giveaway in College Park, Oxnard, yesterday, Tuesday, 11/21. The event saw 1,800 families receive packages containing turkeys, seasonal fresh produce, and Thanksgiving trimmings, along with essential shelf-stable food items.

Kupp was joined by an impressive cohort of 45 student volunteers from Simi Valley’s Royal High School football team. Kupp has been actively mentoring these young athletes as part of the Rams’ partnership with the school.

Passionate about combating food insecurity, Kupp has championed various initiatives in Southern California, alongside fellow Rams players and staff. His commitment also reaches beyond state lines, as he has supported food banks in the Yakima and Richland areas in his home state of Washington.

Teatro de las Américas — Audiciones para la lectura de la pastorela

by Community Contributor • November 22, 2023 • Comments Off

Audiciones para la lectura de la pastorela

Bilingual report — Economic Development Collaborative (EDC)’s October Labor Market Report

by Community Contributor • November 21, 2023 • Comments Off

The California Labor Market Information Division has released its October 2023 report, showing job growth in Ventura County across just about all industry sectors and losses in none.

For the most encouraging news, now at 349,600 total industry jobs, Ventura County is up by more than 10,000 jobs since just prior to the pandemic.

While that’s extraordinarily positive for overall recovery, the major labor market indicators are still a bit mixed, as we had a slight uptick in October in the number of unemployed workers and in the unemployment rate, up from 4.4% in September to 4.5% in October. To be clear, the unemployment rate is up not because we’re failing to create jobs, rather because more workers are coming back to the labor force and because volatility, or churn—workers changing jobs—remains high.

Guest commentary — The Surprising History of Oxnard’s Teatro Boulevard

by Community Contributor • November 17, 2023 • Comments Off

I’ve lived in the Oxnard/Port Hueneme area for nearly 50 years. Throughout that time, I’ve driven past the “Teatro” on Oxnard Boulevard at least a couple hundred times. I hadn’t realized how little I knew about it.

I had a vague understanding of its history. I’ve since learned that the building was constructed in 1929 around the time that “palace theaters” were flourishing in this country.

The venue was originally called Boulevard Theater, but its name changed to Teatro Boulevard in the 1960s in recognition of its importance to the Latino population that supported it. It was a thriving Spanish-language theater in its heyday. In fact, it was the only Spanish-language theater in Ventura County at the time. I seem to recall seeing a couple of films there in the 1970s.

Economic Development Collaborative (EDC) — Honoring Native American Heritage Month

by Community Contributor • November 17, 2023 • Comments Off

Native American Heritage Month is a time to honor, learn and stand united in appreciation of the invaluable contributions of Native Americans, Alaska Natives and Native Hawaiians. Celebrating the rich history and vibrant cultures of Native American communities is critical for fostering understanding, preserving cultures and promoting unity across our nation. The EDC is dedicated to providing equitable access to resources, advising and capital. Since 2010, the EDC has helped generate over $130 million in revenue to Native American businesses.

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

Oxnard Film Society presents CASSANDRO, a comedy featuring Mexican star Gael Garcia Bernal and other Monday Night Forum Film Series events on Dec. 4, 18

by Amigos805.com • November 16, 2023 • Comments Off

The Oxnard Film Society presents CASSANDRO, a comedy featuring Mexican star Gael Garcia Bernal.

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.

Bilingual report — The latest news from the County of Ventura

by Community Contributor • November 16, 2023 • Comments Off

2023 State of the County: A Triumph in Safety and Progress
Celebrating 150 years as a County, on November 2nd, community members gathered at the iconic Ronald Reagan Presidential Library for the State of the County address by CEO Dr. Sevet Johnson. In a visionary speech, Dr. Johnson delivered an update on the County’s programs, initiatives and future endeavors.

Dr. Johnson also proudly highlighted the County’s achievements and distinction as not only fiscally healthy but as the “safest large county in the State of California.”

Bilingual report — Workforce Development Board (WDB) of Ventura County is pairing skilled workers with Employers!

by Community Contributor • November 15, 2023 • Comments Off

VENTURA COUNTY — With the closure of California Youth Authority facility in Camarillo, many talented workers have been left jobless and in search of the next step in their careers. Originally 93 affected workers, 45 are remaining and using the Workforce Development Board of Ventura County to find local jobs.

One of the key Business Solutions the WDB offers is working to help reunite and relocate workers with employers who have available jobs and to help them find a valuable team member.

Bilingual report — Declaration of Intention Period for March 5, 2024, Primary Presidential Election Extended for One Judicial Office

by Community Contributor • November 8, 2023 • Comments Off

VENTURA — Ventura County Clerk-Recorder & Registrar of Voters Michelle Ascencion announced the extension of the Declaration of Intention period to 5:00 p.m. on Monday, November 13, 2023, for one judicial office that is scheduled to be voted upon at the March 5, 2024, Presidential Primary Election.

People’s Self Help Housing — First Look: 2022-23 Impact Report | Primera vista: Informe de Impacto Anual

by Community Contributor • November 6, 2023 • Comments Off

We invite you to take a look at our 2022-23 Impact Report, a compilation of the top milestones from this past year! For the first time, this report is available in both English & Spanish. Together, we are building so much more than housing!

Bilingual commentary — National Greasy Foods Day: A Warning or a Celebration?

by Community Contributor • November 3, 2023 • Comments Off

Last week I noticed that October 25 was National Greasy Foods Day. Initially, I didn’t know if this was a joke or a celebration.

As it turns out, this day is deemed worthy of a “limited celebration.” This culinary observance is meant to celebrate greasy foods, which we all love, but only as a “special treat” of which we should partake only occasionally.

There are many good reasons to emphasize the “occasional” nature of this kind of food that, unfortunately, many of us tend to crave.

Bilingual report — Golden Oaks Neighborhood in Ojai Earns Firewise Recognition

by Community Contributor • November 2, 2023 • Comments Off

CAMARILLO — The Ventura County Fire Department congratulates the Golden Oaks neighborhood in Ojai, which became the sixth community in Ventura County to earn recognition from the National Fire Protection Association’s Firewise USA program.

Firewise recognizes communities that organize to reduce their wildfire risk by following best practices for vegetation management and home hardening.

“Ventura County has experienced devastating wildfires in recent years,” Fire Marshal Massoud Araghi said. “When neighborhoods come together to create defensible spaces and make it harder for embers to light buildings on fire, it significantly reduces the risk for the entire community.”

Bilingual report — Teatro de las Américas — El viaje de los esqueletos | PRESENTACIÓN ESPECIAL Día de los Muertos

by Community Contributor • October 31, 2023 • Comments Off

Este jueves 2 de noviembre ven a la función especial de El Viaje de los Esqueletos como parte del Paseo de las Artes de Oxnard (Oxnard Art Crawl)

Pre-show con: Rudy Razo (poeta chicano) y Araceli Collazo (cantante) a partir de las 7:00 p.m.

¡Deliciosos buñuelos y champurrado a la venta!

Presentación en exteriores en la parte trasera del teatro. Ven preparado con ropa invernal o tu cobijita, sarape o poncho favorito.

Bilingual report — Economic Development Collaborative (EDC) — National Veterans Small Business Week

by Community Contributor • October 31, 2023 • Comments Off

The Economic Development Collaborative would like to recognize National Veteran’s Small Business Week. The EDC is dedicated to providing equal access to resources, advising and capital to all business owners. Since 2010, the EDC has provided over 3,000 hours of one-of-one business advising to Veteran-Owned businesses and has helped generate over $1 Billion in revenue.

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

Bilingual commentary — Why Study History?

by Community Contributor • October 26, 2023 • Comments Off

During my elementary and high school years, my history teachers were passionate about imparting their knowledge and perspectives. One of my problems at the time was that I did not appreciate their wisdom and incisive insights into the forces that shape our world.

Looking back, I wish I could have allowed them to fill the vessel that should have been receptive and overflowing. Like most young people, I would venture to say, I did not see the point in learning about a world that, I thought, “no longer exists.”

But the world of the past is still very much in our midst, just as our ancestors have had a powerful hand in shaping who we are today.

Bilingual report — October News from Peoples’ Self-Help Housing (PSHH)

by Community Contributor • October 23, 2023 • Comments Off

We were thrilled to join the Housing Authority of San Luis Obispo and El Camino Homeless Organization (ECHO) at the ribbon cutting for their Project Homekey housing in Paso Robles! This site provides 28 rooms of emergency shelter and 60 permanently supportive units of affordable housing.

Bilingual report — Economic Development Collaborative (EDC) — Bruce Stenslie Selected for the Rodney Fernandez Founder’s Award

by Community Contributor • October 19, 2023 • Comments Off

Bruce Stenslie, a seasoned professional with 30 years of experience in workforce and economic development, has held the position of President and CEO at the Economic Development Collaborative (EDC) since 2007. Throughout his career, Stenslie has undertaken pivotal roles, such as Deputy Director for the California Workforce Association and Executive Director of various organizations. Recognized for his influential contributions, including being elected Chair of the California Association for Local Economic Development and receiving VCLA’s recognition as the 2023 Business Leader of the Year is a representation of how hard Bruce and his team worked to significantly impact the small business community across Ventura, Santa Barbara and Los Angeles counties.

The VCCDC Rodney Fernandez Founder’s Award for Excellence in Visionary Leadership was established to celebrate Rodney Fernandez, a dedicated advocate for affordable workforce housing in Ventura County and the founder of VCCDC. Bruce received this award for his commitment to empowering businesses, community partners, and civic leaders to succeed and make a positive impact on the community.

Bilingual report — County Clerk-Recorder and Registrar of Voters Begins Board of Supervisors Presidential Primary Election Education Series Nov. 7, Jan. 23, Feb. 6 and 27

by Community Contributor • October 19, 2023 • Comments Off

VENTURA — In anticipation of the upcoming March 5, 2024 Presidential Primary Election, Michelle Ascencion, County Clerk-Recorder and Registrar of Voters, will be presenting a five-part Election Education Series at the Ventura County Board of Supervisors Meetings. Over the next few months, Ascencion will be covering election topics that are of interest to the Ventura County voting and candidate community.

The Board of Supervisors’ schedule for the Election Education Series is as follows:

Bilingual report — Tree Top Lane HOA becomes Fifth Firewise USA Community in Ventura County

by Community Contributor • October 19, 2023 • Comments Off

CAMARILLO — Tree Top Lane Homeowners Association in Thousand Oaks earned recognition as a Firewise USA community, the National Fire Protection Association announced.

The program recognizes communities that organize to reduce their wildfire risk following best practices for vegetation management and home hardening.

“After seeing the fire that consumed Lahaina, our community finally realized that no one is immune, especially here in SoCal, so we decided to become a Firewise community,” Alfonso Canella, a board member for the High Point at Tree Top Lane HOA, said.

Tree Top Lane becomes the fifth community in Ventura County with the Firewise USA designation.

Bilingual report — Economic Development Collaborative (EDC) — Uplift Central Coast Coalition Has Rebranded!

by Community Contributor • October 9, 2023 • Comments Off

Uplift Central Coast Coalition has announced a the launch of their new brand identity, website and social media accounts! Uplift Central Coast’s reimagined brand reflects their bold vision and commitment to uplifting the residents and economy of the Central Coast.

Bilingual report — Harvesting All Dads: A Ventura County initiative to foster fatherhood engagement event to be held Oct. 7 in Camarillo

by Community Contributor • October 6, 2023 • Comments Off

CAMARILLO — The Ventura County Department of Child Support Services (VCDSS), in collaboration with First 5 Ventura County, is thrilled to announce the Harvesting All Dads event scheduled for October 7, 2023. This unique gathering aims to celebrate fatherhood and connect with dads in the community, fostering a supportive environment for them to share their insights. The event will take place from 9:30 am to 12:30 pm at the scenic Camino Real Park in Ventura.

As part of the ongoing commitment to enhancing fatherhood experiences in Ventura County, the Harvesting All Dads event welcomes all dads to participate in a morning filled with food, games, and valuable resources. The event is a crucial component of the county-wide Fatherhood Initiative that VCDSS is currently developing. The primary goal of this event is to better understand the needs of fathers in the community and to tailor services and resources accordingly.

“Father involvement is pivotal for the holistic development of families and communities,” says Director Marcus R. Mitchell. “We, at VCDSS, along with our partners at First 5 Ventura County, recognize the significance of actively engaging fathers in the journey of parenthood. The Harvesting All Dads event is more than just a gathering; it’s an opportunity for us to directly connect with dads, listen to their perspectives, and collaboratively create a fatherhood experience in Ventura County that is inclusive and resourceful. We believe that by understanding the needs of fathers, we can better support them in their role as parents.”

Bilingual commentary — The High Price of Illiteracy

by Community Contributor • October 6, 2023 • Comments Off

I was recently listening to a radio program discussing illiteracy and poverty in our country. These two intractable problems in our society are inextricably linked to each other. They also explain a lot of the darker forces that are shaping our future—and that of our children.

As I searched the Internet for some insight into the aforementioned forces, I came across a few uncomfortable propositions. I was reluctant to accept them. But I had to admit to myself that there were good reasons to at least entertain the possibility that these propositions contained some truth.

Bilingual report — 3H Custom Farming, Inc. Pays $17,505 and Offers Reinstatement to Farmworkers to Settle Unfair Labor Practice Complaint

by Community Contributor • October 6, 2023 • Comments Off

OXNARD — 3H Custom Farming Inc. in Oxnard has paid $17,505 in lost wages and agreed to reinstate two agricultural workers to resolve a Complaint filed by the California Agricultural Labor Relations Board (“ALRB”) that the workers lost their jobs…

Bilingual report — City of Santa Paula Launches Recruitment for Chief of Police

by Community Contributor • October 5, 2023 • Comments Off

SANTA PAULA — On Friday, September 29, the City of Santa Paula officially launched its recruitment for a Chief of Police. The recruitment process, spearheaded by Bob Murray & Associates, will identify a distinguished leader who embodies the values and principles of the diverse needs of the Santa Paula community.

Interim Chief of Police Donald Aguilar has been leading the Santa Paula Police Department since November 7, 2022 and will continue serving until the recruitment process is complete.

“Chief Aguilar has provided stability and effective leadership to the Santa Paula Police Department during this transitional period, and we appreciate his dedication to our community,” said Mayor Sobel. “Engaging a third-party recruiter ensures an unbiased selection process, highlighting our unwavering commitment to a fair, transparent and community-driven recruitment process. We are looking forward to taking this next step and selecting a candidate who reflects our values.”

Teatro de las Américas — Skip the line on opening night (Oct. 27): Buy your El viaje de los esqueletos tickets now!

by Community Contributor • October 4, 2023 • Comments Off

CHECK OUT EL VIAJE DE LOS ESQUELETOS ONLINE

Visit our website and online box office!

El viaje de los esqueletos
Presented By Teatro De Las Americas

Oct 27th 2023, 7:00 PM

Oct 28th 2023, 7:00 PM

Oct 29th 2023, 2:00 PM

Nov 2nd 2023, 7:00 PM

Nov 3rd 2023, 7:00 PM

Nov 4th 2023, 7:00 PM

Nov 5th 2023, 2:00 PM

Nov 10th 2023, 7:00 PM

Nov 11th 2023, 7:00 PM

Nov 12th 2023, 2:00 PM

Bilingual report — Ventura County Area Agency on Aging’s HICAP Available to Help With Medicare Open Enrollment

by Community Contributor • October 3, 2023 • Comments Off

VENTURA — With the Medicare Open Enrollment period about to begin, the Health Insurance Counseling and Advocacy Program (HICAP) – part of the Ventura County Area Agency on Aging, a division of the Human Services Agency – will again be providing countywide resources and help.

Medicare Open Enrollment begins on October 15 and runs through December 7. HICAP provides free, unbiased Medicare counseling to the public.

In October, November, and December, HICAP counselors — who are registered with the California Department of Aging — will be all around the county, hosting 37 One-Stops to provide individual counseling sessions, as well as 13 “2024 Medicare Changes” presentations.

Bilingual report — County of Ventura celebrates 150th anniversary with California Humanities- Humanities for All grant supported events

by Community Contributor • October 2, 2023 • Comments Off

VENTURA — The County of Ventura’s Office of Arts and Culture is honored to be a recipient of a $25,000 Humanities for All grant from California Humanities, a non-profit partner of the National Endowment for the Humanities. This grant will support programs and projects connected to the County’s 150th Anniversary events, celebrating the theme of “Our History, Our Future, Together,” and planned by the County of Ventura, the Museum of Ventura County, and other community partners.

This funding will support a variety of 150th Anniversary activities throughout Ventura County, which will culminate at two communitywide events: the Mountain to the Sea Jubilee in Santa Paula on October 21, 2023, and the State of the County at the Ronald Reagan Presidential Library and Museum in Simi Valley on November 2, 2023. In addition to these capstone events, funding from California Humanities program will support these 150th Anniversary events:

Bilingual report — County of Ventura recognizes employees for decades of commitment to public service

by Community Contributor • September 28, 2023 • Comments Off

VENTURA — During the regular Board of Supervisors meeting on Tuesday, September 26, the County of Ventura honored and recognized 12 employees from across county agencies for their commitment to continuous public service. The presentation was part of the County of Ventura’s Employee Continuous Service Recognition Program which recognizes staff who have reached career milestones with 25 years or more of service to the county.

“These employees all perform such important, diverse tasks in their positions,” said Supervisor Matt LaVere, Chair of the Board of Supervisors. “We are grateful for their commitment, their decades of service to the residents of Ventura County, and for their exceptional work.”

Bilingual report — Ventura County Board of Supervisors vote to approve $3.7 million in multi-year funding plan to combat opioid crisis

by Community Contributor • September 26, 2023 • Comments Off

VENTURA — On Tuesday, September 26, the Board of Supervisors voted to approve a $3.7 million multi-year funding plan to support programs that will address the opioid crisis locally. The funding will be used to create an expanded multi-agency plan to augment evidence-based strategies and resources that locally will reduce the supply of and decrease the demand for illicit opioids and, in turn, save lives.

“It takes a county-wide effort and everyone working together to make a true difference as we fight the impacts of fentanyl in our community”, said Supervisor Matt LaVere, Chair of the Board of Supervisors. “This plan accomplishes much of what we need to do to most effectively utilize this money. I fully endorse this and the efforts.”

Bilingual report — September News from People’s Self-Help Housing / Noticias de septiembre de People’s Self-Help Housing

by Community Contributor • September 26, 2023 • Comments Off

Aunque desde Washington DC no se ve ningún apoyo presupuestal significativo para abordar la crisis de viviendas asequibles, este mes vimos venir una ayuda útil, variada y pragmática desde la legislatura de California.

No surgió una solución milagrosa, pero en conjunto los proyectos de ley enviados al escritorio del Gobernador, medidas que se someterían a votación en las boletas, hacen que la construcción de viviendas asequibles sea menos onerosa, más ágil y ayude a frenar sus crecientes costos. Las señales más positivas fueron que estas medidas experimentaron relativamente poca oposición, sólo algunos niveles limitados de discusión en el debate público, y que existe una sensación cada vez mayor de consenso en todo el estado.

Algunas victorias importantes para la creación de nuevas viviendas asequibles incluyen:?

Bilingual report — Economic Development Collaborative (EDC) Honoring Hispanic Heritage Month

by Community Contributor • September 22, 2023 • Comments Off

The Economic Development Collaborative would like to recognize National Hispanic Heritage Month. Each year, Americans observe National Hispanic Heritage Month from September 15 to October 15 by celebrating the histories, cultures and contributions of American citizens whose ancestors came from Spain, Mexico, the Caribbean and Central and South America.

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

Start-up Guidance
Marketing & Branding
International Trade
E-commerce & Social Media
Manufacturing Assistance
Legal Compliance
Strategic Planning
QuickBooks & Accounting
And MORE

Bilingual report — Public hearing to be held on Oct. 5 on the study of additional potential disadvantaged community designations in unincorporated Ventura County

by Community Contributor • September 21, 2023 • Comments Off

VENTURA, CA – A public hearing is scheduled before the Ventura County Planning Commission on October 5, 2023, at 8:30 a.m. to request that the Planning Commission consider and make recommendations to the Board of Supervisors regarding the Study of Additional Potential Disadvantaged Community Designations in unincorporated areas of Ventura County. The public hearing will be held in the Board Hearing Room in the Hall of Administration, County Government Center, 800 S. Victoria Avenue, Ventura, California. To view the public hearing and to provide public testimony remotely, visit vcrma.org/en/planning-commission.

Disadvantaged communities are low-income areas or areas that are disproportionately affected by environmental pollution and other hazards that can lead to negative public health effects, exposure, or environmental degradation. The unincorporated areas of Saticoy, El Rio/Del Norte (including Nyeland Acres), and Piru are already designated disadvantaged communities in the Ventura County General Plan.

Bilingual report — Community Support Urgently Needed for Additional Emergency Shelter Homes for Children and Youth in Ventura County

by Community Contributor • September 21, 2023 • Comments Off

VENTURA COUNTY — Strengthening VC Families, an initiative of Ventura County Children and Family Services, is asking for families to help children in need by providing safe Emergency Shelter Homes (ESH) for children and youth who need an immediate place to go.

The ESH program provides children, youth, and families with a foundation of respect and support, from special people who can support children and youth by providing a safe place to stay, while birth families receive support so that they can reunify with their children as soon as it is possible.

“We all know the importance of a safe and loving home”, said Arturo Vargas, Manager of Resource Family Approval (RFA). “Folks who step up to offer an emergency shelter home understand how food, warm hearts, and loving compassion heals during times of trauma. All of us at Children and Family Services — through Strengthening VC Families — know that with our need of emergency shelter homes–this is an important community ask.” “It’s a big ask” but it’s an important ask.

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