Category: Locales

Community Environmental Council Launches Campaign to Prepare Central Coast Residents for Extreme Heat Impacts

by Community Contributor • July 26, 2023 • Comments Off

“As a Climate leader for California’s Central Coast, we recognize that without community resilience, extreme heat will continue to exacerbate the underlying inequalities within our region,” said CEC Director of Climate Resilience Em Johnson. “Leading a regional coalition of over fifteen government agencies, grassroots organizations and community-based organizations, our vision as an EHRA partner is to reduce our region’s economic and health disparities related to the prevalence of extreme heat.”

Bilingual report — Ventura County Board of Supervisors approve $1.62M in funding for supportive shelter services in the Santa Clara Valley

by Community Contributor • July 26, 2023 • Comments Off

VENTURA — The Board of Supervisors (on June 25) voted to approve $1.62 million in funding to support efforts to provide housing for homeless individuals in the Santa Clara Valley – serving individuals experiencing homelessness in the cities of Santa Paula, Fillmore, and the unincorporated area of Piru. The funding from the County will match funding provided by the cities of Santa Paula and Fillmore, as well as the State of California. The funds, which will be provided over a two-year period, starting in 2024, will go to support ongoing operations of a permanent year-round shelter with housing navigation services administrated by the non-profit Spirit of Santa Paula.

Bilingual report — EDC’s Economic 411 Labor Market Report for June 2023

by Community Contributor • July 26, 2023 • Comments Off

Labor Market Report for June 2023

The California Labor Market Information Division released its June 2023 report, showing a net drop of 1,000 jobs in Ventura County, though nearly all seasonal and anticipated. The public schools dropped 700 jobs as we roll into summer and the Farm sector shed 600, the latter actually fewer than the usual May to June decline. For a longer term take on the Farm industry, at a current 29,800, Ventura County is up some 2,000 jobs since prior to the pandemic and off by just 100 over our high mark way back in 2011.

With those seasonal declines the Ventura County unemployment rate also took a hit, from 3.7% in May up to 4.2% in June. That keeps us considerably ahead still of the state as a whole, at 4.9%, though trailing the U.S. at 3.8%.

Bilingual report — The County of Ventura’s Department of Agriculture/Weights and Measures marks 100-year milestone with release of 2022 Crop and Livestock Report

by Community Contributor • July 26, 2023 • Comments Off

The County of Ventura’s Department of Agriculture/Weights and Measures presented the 2022 Crop and Livestock Report to the Board of Supervisors at the regular meeting on Tuesday, July 25. During the presentation, Agricultural Commissioner Ed Williams reported the value of crops for the county for 2022 was valued at $2,127,682,000 – an increase of 2% from 2021.

For twenty years in a row, strawberries have remained the top crop for the county. For the first time, avocados took the number two spot previously held by lemons. Williams credits prices and a production boom for a 95% increase in avocado sales. Nursery stock moved to fourth place followed by celery, raspberries, peppers, blackberries, blueberries, and cabbage.

“We were dealing with some significant drought in the years leading into 2022 and 2022 saw some of the residual impacts of those drought conditions as well,” said Williams. “So, to come up with the numbers that we have, the industry has done an amazing job.”

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

by Community Contributor • July 24, 2023 • Comments Off

EN ESPAÑOL: SBA: 10 PASOS PARA INICIAR SU EMPRESA

25 de julio a las 11:30 am

Emprender un negocio requiere planificar, tomar decisiones financieras cruciales y realizar una serie de actividades legales. Acompañe al SBA en este seminario web para conocer cada paso.

HAGA CLIC AQUÍ PARA INSCRIBIRSE

Bilingual commentary — Why Don’t We Follow the Rules?

by Community Contributor • July 21, 2023 • Comments Off

Why are so many of us reluctant to follow “the rules.” As it turns out, there is a whole slew of reasons why we just can’t “behave.” But why would we want to, anyway?

There are reasons that rules exist in society. There may be some rules that are unnecessary, coercive, or frivolous. But for the most part, in our country, at least, rules permeate our lives to protect us and others. They also make life better for all of us.

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

by Community Contributor • July 20, 2023 • Comments Off

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

Application Period Timeline: For the remainder of the 2023-2024, applications for the California Competes Tax Credit will be accepted during the following periods:

July 24, 2023 – August 14, 2023

January 2, 2024 – January 22, 2024

March 4, 2024 – March 18, 2024

Bilingual report — Covered California to Launch State-Enhanced Cost-Sharing Reduction Program in 2024 to Improve Health Care Affordability for Enrollees

by Community Contributor • July 20, 2023 • Comments Off

SACRAMENTO — California is set to continue its legacy of building upon and strengthening the Affordable Care Act, as its Board of Directors approved enhanced benefit designs that will ensure over 600,000 Covered California enrollees see reduced out-of-pocket costs in 2024.

“Covered California is proud to be a part of another visionary program that strengthens the Affordable Care Act,” said Jessica Altman, executive director of Covered California. “California made history with the State Premium Subsidy program in 2021, and we appreciate the continued leadership from Gov. Gavin Newsom and the state Legislature to make health care access and affordability a priority in our state.”

The new budget package passed by the state Legislature and enacted by Gov. Newsom appropriates $82.5 million of the Health Care Affordability Reserve Fund (HCARF) to Covered California to support a program of financial assistance for coverage year 2024. Per the budget agreement, funding for the program is planned to increase to $165 million starting in coverage year 2025.

Bilingual commentary — Is Teaching Conventional English and Math “White Supremacy”?

by Community Contributor • July 14, 2023 • Comments Off

A California high school English teacher, Marta Shaffer, has declared that teaching proper English grammar in our classrooms sustains white supremacy in our education system.

Either Ms. Shaffer has a point, or she is someone who searches tirelessly for supremacist underpinnings where there may be none—or at least not to the extent that she perceives.

Bilingual report — County Board of Supervisors approve Parks Department to enter into dual lease agreement for oversight of Nyeland Acres Park

by Community Contributor • July 13, 2023 • Comments Off

VENTURA — On Tuesday, June 27, though unanimous vote, the Board of Supervisors approved the County Parks Department to enter into a dual lease agreement with the Boys and Girls Club of Greater Oxnard and Nyeland Acres Promise for management of the John C. Zaragoza Nyeland Acres Community Center and Park. The 2.2-acre park property, which is currently owned by the County of Ventura but under management by the Boys and Girls Club, is not available to the public on a full-time basis. Through the voted-on agreement, the County will now assume all oversight and maintenance for the park area through the County Parks Department, which will allow the neighborhood park to be open from dawn to dusk for the Nyeland Acres community. As well, the buildings will now be jointly operated by the Boys and Girls Club of Greater Oxnard and Port Hueneme and Nyeland Promise.

“This is a very large deal to our community,” stated District 3 Supervisor Kelly Long. “Rolling this park into part of the County’s parks system allows us to take the liability off of the Boys and Girls Club and open it up even more to the community as a whole. It allows us to really develop the park for the community.”

Bilingual report — Oxnard Receives $16.5 Million in State Funding for Building Rice Ave. Overpass, Santa Clara Levee Construction and Channel Islands Harbor Water Quality

by Community Contributor • July 13, 2023 • Comments Off

OXNARD — The City of Oxnard will receive $16.5 million in funding for critical infrastructure initiatives as part of the 2023-24 California State budget signed by Governor Gavin Newsom.

“With the support of Assemblymember Steve Bennett, Assemblymember Jacqui Irwin, and Senator Monique Limón, Oxnard has secured significant funding to build and repair essential infrastructure that prioritizes the safety and well-being of our community,” said Mayor John C. Zaragoza.

Bilingual report — County of Ventura and Focus on the Masters present History is Now, 2023 photography and art exhibition as part of the 150th Anniversary celebration

by Community Contributor • July 12, 2023 • Comments Off

VENTURA — The County of Ventura and Focus on the Masters Arts Archive & Library (FOTM) are presenting the History Is Now, 2023 photography and art exhibition at the County of Ventura Government Center – Hall of Administration, Atrium Gallery, located at 800 S. Victoria Ave., Ventura. Open now through September 5, 2023 as a part of the County’s 150th Anniversary events, the exhibit celebrates the many artists who have made an impact in Ventura County over the past 150 years.

Bilingual report — Gina Johnson appointed Chief Probation Officer for the Ventura County Probation Agency

by Community Contributor • July 12, 2023 • Comments Off

VENTURA — Through unanimous vote, the Board of Supervisors (on July 11) appointed Gina Johnson to the position of Chief Probation Officer, effective July 11, 2023. Chief Johnson has served the Probation Agency since 1991. For the past 10 years, she has served as the Chief Deputy Probation Officer and, most recently, the Interim Chief Probation Officer.

“Chief Johnson has been with the department for 33 years and seen every nook and cranny of the organization,” said Chair of the Board of Supervisors, Matt LaVere. “The Probation Agency is a complex organization and I have all the confidence in the world that she will succeed in this role.”

Bilingual report — Assessor completes $171 billion 2023-24 Assessment Roll

by Community Contributor • July 11, 2023 • Comments Off

VENTURA — On Wednesday, June 28, County Assessor Keith Taylor completed his first certification and delivery of Ventura County’s Annual Assessment Roll since being elected Assessor in June 2022. The County’s $171.7 billion Property Assessment Roll was delivered to Auditor-Controller Jeff Burgh for the calculation of the tax bills.

The majority of properties received the 2% increase established under Prop 13 when it was passed by the voters in 1978, however, properties with new construction may see a larger increase based on the enrolled value.

Bilingual report — California Oil Museum Property Community Engagement Workshops Kickoff in July

by Community Contributor • July 10, 2023 • Comments Off

SANTA PAULA — On Nov.16, 2022, the City of Santa Paula announced that Chevron, in partnership with its affiliate Union Oil Company of California, made a generous offer to donate the historic former headquarters of Union Oil Company of California to the City. This donation would include the building, a $2 million grant to facilitate necessary maintenance, and select memorabilia displayed in the museum. Since December, staff has been conducting due diligence and negotiating a transfer agreement which would establish the City as the permanent owner of the property. In addition, the City established an ad hoc committee to assist in the evaluation of the property transition and future use of the facility.

“The donation of the former Union Oil Company of California headquarters is a remarkable opportunity for the City of Santa Paula. We are grateful to Chevron and Union Oil Company of California for their commitment to preserving our history and supporting the revitalization of our community,” stated Mayor Andy Sobel.

To ensure community involvement in shaping the future of the property, the City has planned two Community Workshops & Tours led by David Yoshitomi, Arts & Culture Manager of the County of Ventura.

Bilingual report — Ventura County County Disability Access Manager appointed to California Committee on the Employment of People with Disabilities

by Community Contributor • July 6, 2023 • Comments Off

VENTURA — Dani Anderson, Disability Access Manager for the County of Ventura, has been appointed to the California Committee on the Employment of People with Disabilities (CCEPD). The appointment to the committee was made by the Speaker of the California State Assembly Anthony Rendon. Anderson will serve a three-year term that went into effect on June 29, 2023.

“I am very excited to re-connect with efforts to improve and enhance employment opportunities and outcomes for individuals with disabilities, where my career began,” said Anderson. “I have always believed that educating, training, and encouraging youth with disabilities about what their future can hold is crucial to their success. Of the many impactful components of the CCEPD, I look forward to using that mindset to lend to the continued success and even expansion of the Youth Leadership Forum for Students with Disabilities, of which I am an alumna. I am honored to be appointed to this vital committee and cannot wait to get started.”

Bilingual commentary — Oxnard College meets Ventura County’s growing needs

by Community Contributor • June 30, 2023 • Comments Off

For community colleges, the pandemic stressed the need to expand the ways we serve our community. Unfortunately, that’s especially true here in Oxnard, where families were disproportionately impacted by the effects of COVID-19. That’s why a year ago, the Ventura County Community College District invested $1.5 million to help Oxnard College launch two special initiatives aimed at better serving our community’s non-English speaking families and working adults.

When I was growing up here in Ventura County, my sister and I often served as de facto translators for my parents, helping them navigate English-speaking businesses, public institutions and neighborhoods. Over time, they picked up more of the language — even taking an English class at one point — and were increasingly able to engage with the broader community around them. My parents eventually leveraged this important skill — speaking English — to build small businesses and improve my family’s economic situation.

Bilingual commentary — Food Share of Ventura County Receives Multiple Awards

by Community Contributor • June 29, 2023 • Comments Off

VENTURA COUNTY — Food Share, Ventura County’s largest hunger-relief organization, has been honored with a multitude of prestigious awards, solidifying its position as one of the county’s leading nonprofits.

The 73rd annual Oxnard Community & Business Awards, hosted by the West Ventura County Business Alliance, recognizes remarkable individuals, businesses, and organizations that contribute to making Oxnard a thriving place to live, work and play. Food Share was honored with the NonProfit of the Year award for its work in tackling food insecurity within the city, exemplified by the ongoing drive-thru food distributions that take place at College Park, Oxnard. Starting in April 2020, at the beginning of the pandemic, the distributions are now in their third year and continue to draw large numbers, serving an estimated 4,000 people each week.

Teatro de las Américas — Prácticas teatrales | Teatro Summer Camp

by Community Contributor • June 29, 2023 • Comments Off

In this summer camp, girls and boys will be able to approach scenic expression in a fun way in a bilingual environment, led by the experienced actress and teacher Alina Ceñal. At the end of the course, the group will present the play Charlie and the Chocolate Factory to show what they have learned in this fun adventure in which they will put all their talents into play.

Bilingual report — Board of Supervisors approve $2.86 billion balanced budget for fiscal year 2023-2024

by Community Contributor • June 26, 2023 • Comments Off

On Wednesday, June 21, the County of Ventura Board of Supervisors unanimously approved a $2.86 billion balanced budget for the fiscal year 2023-24 following the County’s annual budget hearing. The budget focuses on Board priorities, including critical infrastructure, public and mental health, workforce development, and technology.
“All of the investments detailed in the budget represent the comprehensive services that are provided to the public through the programs and services administered by the County,” shared Supervisor Matt LaVere, Chair of the Board of Supervisors. “This budget represents months of hard work by staff and departments across the county.”

Bilingual report — Ventura County Public Works Agency Announces Four Employees of the Year

by Community Contributor • June 22, 2023 • Comments Off

VENTURA COUNTY— The Ventura County Public Works Agency (VCPWA) announced four 2023 Employees of the Year, showcasing the exceptional abilities and exemplary performance of staff who represent VCPWA’s dedication to innovation and excellence.

The four winners were named from a field of nominations across the agency’s departments. The winners are:

Bilingual report — Ventura County Board of Supervisors vote to support California State Association of Counties’ ‘AT HOME’ Plan

by Community Contributor • June 21, 2023 • Comments Off

VENTURA — In a unanimous vote on Tuesday, June 20, the Board of Supervisors agreed to adopt a resolution in support of a comprehensive plan to address homelessness put forth by the California State Association of Counties. The plan, titled ‘AT HOME’, focuses on establishing solutions to reduce homelessness throughout the state of California, with clear guidelines laid out for specific programs and responsibilities for the state, counties, and cities. Through adoption of the resolution, the County of Ventura joins 21 other counties that have shown their support and voted in favor of supporting CSAC’s ‘AT HOME’ Plan.

“This didn’t just happen overnight – we have been working with CSAC since 2018 on housing solutions,” shared District 3 Supervisor Kelly Long. “We feel that it’s very important to join in on this resolution for the ‘AT HOME’ Plan so we can address how we can secure the funding needed, ensure that it is sustainable, and make a big difference in our homeless count right now.”

Bilingual report — EDC SBDC Receives SBDC Excellence and Innovation Award

by Community Contributor • June 21, 2023 • Comments Off

The Economic Development Collaborative Small Business Development Center(EDC SBDC) has been honored with the Los Angeles District Office SBDC Excellence and Innovation Award. This recognition was presented during National Small Business Week, which also serves as an opportunity to appreciate and express gratitude to resource partners. The EDC SBDC is part of the Los Angeles SBDC network and operates as a dynamic center and is staffed with a team of knowledgeable professionals who provide personalized business advising services to small businesses in Ventura, Santa Barbara and Los Angeles Counties.

Bilingual report — MCASB Board of Trustees is pleased to announce our newest hire Dalia Garcia (she, her, ella), in the role of Program Director and Interim Executive Director

by Community Contributor • June 16, 2023 • Comments Off

SANTA BARBARA — Since mid-March, Garcia has led the development of new protocols for welcoming and hosting our growing and diverse audiences, artists, and funders. She is the primary liaison for the institution, and is working closely with the Board to develop additional staff and programmatic capacity as MCASB continues to fulfill its mission. Recent developments include expanded gallery hours to six days a week, a robust First Thursday series of public programs, and the development of new inclusive youth focused programming that seeks to create greater connections between Indigenous youth and the Museum.

Bilingual commentary — Are We Setting Up College Students for Failure?

by Community Contributor • June 16, 2023 • Comments Off

I taught college mathematics for over 40 years at a local community college. During that time, I witnessed how poorly prepared most incoming students were for college mathematics. In fact, the vast majority required some level of “remediation.”

“Remediating” students meant that they may have had to begin their college math journey as far down as “Basic Mathematics.” This lowest level college class taught them (or reviewed for them) how to add, subtract, multiply, divide, handle fractions and decimals, and deal with some elementary geometric concepts (circles, squares, rectangles, etc.).

Bilingual report — Economic Development Collaborative (EDC) California Small Business and Nonprofit COVID-19 Supplemental Paid Sick Leave Relief Grant Program

by Community Contributor • June 15, 2023 • Comments Off

California Small Business and Nonprofit COVID-19 Supplemental Paid Sick Leave Relief Grant Program was created in accordance with California AB 152 and is administered by the California Office of the Small Business Advocate (CalOSBA). The Program aims to provide financial support to eligible businesses and nonprofits that have incurred costs for COVID-19 Supplemental Paid Sick Leave in compliance with Sections 248.6 and 248.7 of the Labor Code. Grants will be awarded based on eligibility and the availability of funds.

Application Window Is Now Open!

Bilingual report — The latest news from the County of Ventura

by Community Contributor • June 15, 2023 • Comments Off

Mark your calendars!

Join us for a free, family-friendly event on Friday, June 23 to celebrate the kick-off of 150 days of celebration in honor of the 150th Anniversary of Ventura County!

Museum of Ventura County
100 East Main Street
Ventura, CA
5:30 p.m. – 8:00 p.m.

Come enjoy food trucks, music, games and new exhibits at the Museum of Ventura County! We hope to see you there!

Bilingual report — Additional Counties (including San Luis Obispo and Santa Barbara) Now Eligible for FEMA Assistance

by Community Contributor • June 13, 2023 • Comments Off

SACRAMENTO — Residents of San Luis Obispo County who experienced damage from the severe storms and flooding that took place in February and March can now apply for federal disaster assistance.

In addition, Plumas, Solano and Sonoma counties are now eligible for FEMA Public Assistance, which reimburses local and state government agencies and certain nonprofit organizations, including Houses of Worship, for the costs of emergency response, debris removal and restoration of disaster damaged public facilities and infrastructure.

San Luis Obispo County joins the previously designated counties of Butte, Kern, Madera, Mariposa, Mendocino, Mono, Monterey, San Benito, San Bernardino, Santa Cruz, Tulare and Tuolumne in being eligible for FEMA’s Individual Assistance program.

Bilingual report — Oxnard City Manager Alexander Nguyen Appoints Javier Chagoyen-Lázaro as Oxnard’s Chief Financial Officer

by Community Contributor • June 9, 2023 • Comments Off

City Manager Alexander Nguyen is pleased to announce the appointment of Javier Chagoyen-Lázaro as Oxnard’s new Chief Financial Officer (CFO). Chagoyen-Lázaro brings a wealth of financial expertise in both the public and private sectors and will play a vital role in overseeing the finance department and ensuring the City’s fiscal sustainability.

As the CFO, Chagoyen-Lázaro will oversee the City’s financial operations, including budgeting, purchasing, general accounting, and financial reporting. His experience will contribute significantly to the City’s long-term financial planning and decision-making processes.

Bilingual report — General Services Agency to accept donation of memorial statues at Ventura County Veterans Memorial

by Community Contributor • June 8, 2023 • Comments Off

VENTURA — The General Services Agency will accept the donation of two bronze veteran memorial statues for installation at the Ventura County Veterans Memorial. Following a vote at the April 25th Board meeting, the Board of Supervisors authorized the General Services Agency to work in partnership with the Vietnam Veterans of Ventura County and other veterans’ organizations to install the statues.

The two statues slated to be installed will honor the loss and sacrifice made by families and members of the military. The “Gold Star” statue will be a life size rendition of a mother/wife kneeling holding her son’s/husband’s folded casket flag. The “Remembering” statue will be a life size rendition of a kneeling soldier reaching out and remembering his fallen brethren.

“It is powerful to be in the presence of monuments in Washington DC like the Vietnams’ Memorial Wall,” said Chair of the Board of Supervisors Matt LaVere. “Now we do not have to travel across the country, we’re going to have something equally powerful right here in Ventura to go pay our respects which is so important.”.

Bilingual report — Teatro de las Américas Summer Camp | Karaoke Night!

by Community Contributor • June 6, 2023 • Comments Off

En este campamento de verano, niñas y niños podrán acercarse a la expresión escénica de una manera divertida en un entorno bilingüe, de la mano de la experimentada actriz y maestra Alina Ceñal. Al final del curso, el grupo presentará la obra Charlie y la fábrica de chocolates para mostrar lo aprendido en esta divertida aventura en que pondrán en juego todo su talento.

***

Bilingual report — County of Ventura awarded highest short-term credit ratings and long-term rating outlook from nation’s top credit rating firms

by Community Contributor • May 30, 2023 • Comments Off

The County of Ventura has once again received the highest short-term credit rating from the nation’s two top credit rating firms – Moody’s and Standard & Poor’s. The ratings provided by the firms assess the County’s ability to pay its debts and both issued positive comments on the fiscal responsibly of the County.

“The County of Ventura has a fundamental responsibility to be effective stewards of the taxpayers’ money,” said Supervisor LaVere, Chair of the Board of Supervisors. “Once again, the hard work of the County’s financial team coupled with the Board of Supervisors’ commitment to fiscal prudence has resulted in the County receiving the highest possible credit rating.”

Bilingual report — The latest news from the County of Ventura — Últimas noticias del Condado de Ventura

by Community Contributor • May 29, 2023 • Comments Off

Declared a national holiday in 1971, Memorial Day is observed in remembrance of our veterans and the men and women who died while in service to our nation.

Bilingual report — Ventura County Board of Supervisors graduate from Ventura County Public Works (VCPWA) University

by Community Contributor • May 26, 2023 • Comments Off

VENTURA — The Ventura County Board of Supervisors graduated from Ventura County Public Works (VCPWA) University. The university was set up to provide detailed information to the Supervisors of the work, goals, and accomplishments of VCPWA. Each Supervisor received detailed briefings on:

Central Services with services in clerical, fiscal, real estate, health and safety, technology, facilities, payroll, and human resources.
Engineering Services which include the capital program, project management, facilities contracting, land development flood damage mitigation, and land surveying.
Roads & Transportation and the planning, design, funding, operating, and maintaining of the 542 miles of the county’s unincorporated road system and public transit needs for the unincorporated areas.

Bilingual commentary — Google Maps: AI for Our Daily Lives

by Community Contributor • May 26, 2023 • Comments Off

Artificial intelligence (AI) may have burst upon the scene just last November, but it has been a part of our lives for at least several years. We may not have called it “artificial intelligence,” but many of us have been using it for years for our mundane tasks.

Google Maps is one clear long-running example of AI in some of our lives. It became available to us in 2005, not quite 20 years ago. The younger generations may feel particularly adept at using many of the more esoteric features of this app. But those of us of the boomer persuasion might have used Google Maps long ago simply as a digital version of the old Thomas Bros. paper map books that were sold in grocery stores and bookstores before the era of Google Maps.

Bilingual report — Public Comment Period Begins for Voter’s Choice Act Election Administration Plan Renewal

by Community Contributor • May 22, 2023 • Comments Off

County Clerk-Recorder & Registrar of Voters Michelle Ascencion announced the start of the 14-Day public comment period for Ventura County’s new draft of the Voter’s Choice Act (VCA) Election Administration Plan (EAP) Renewal. Comments can be made directly on the Elections website at www.VenturaVote.org or they can be sent to the Elections Division email at elections@ventura.org, from May 22 through June 5.

Bilingual report — 90 Small Business Owners in Ventura County Graduate From WEV’s Emprendimiento (Entrepreneurship) Program

by Community Contributor • May 18, 2023 • Comments Off

Graduation ceremonies were held May 2 – 11 in Oxnard and Santa Paula to celebrate 90 small business owners who completed Women’s Economic Ventures (WEV’s) Emprendimiento Program for entrepreneurial Hispanic and Indigenous Ventura County community members. The 90 participants successfully completed WEV’s free, 8-week business training program taught in Spanish and are now each eligible to apply for a $7,500 microgrant award to grow their existing small business.

Bilingual report — Caltrans PCH Climate Change Adaptation and Bike & Pedestrian Study

by Community Contributor • May 16, 2023 • Comments Off

Caltrans District 7 invites you to participate in our ongoing climate change and active transportation study for the Pacific Coast Highway (PCH) corridor between Malibu and Oxnard. Share your insights to help us uncover opportunities to enhance access and preserve the environment along this corridor.

Bilingual report — The Santa Barbara County Food Action Network (SBCFAN) is pleased to welcome Ashley Lopez Estrada as its first Community Liaison

by Community Contributor • May 15, 2023 • Comments Off

The Santa Barbara County Food Action Network (SBCFAN) is pleased to welcome Ashley Lopez Estrada as its first Community Liaison.

Lopez brings deep, bilingual customer service and administrative experience to the team, as well as passion and desire to help make food more accessible in our region. While still in college, she distinguished herself with a sociological research project on privilege discrepancy for Black, Indigenous, and people of color (BIPOC) students.

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

by Community Contributor • May 15, 2023 • Comments Off

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

Bilingual commentary — The Attacks on Jill Biden Are Attacks on Women

by Community Contributor • May 12, 2023 • Comments Off

For MAGA conservatives, women are fair game. Members of the extreme right wing of the conservative movement can pursue and verbally attack women with impunity. In fact, it raises their profile as they become heroes within their authoritarian, paternalistic tribes.

This was demonstrated recently when right-wing TV host John Fredericks lambasted First Lady Jill Biden on several fronts.

Bilingual report — Former out-of-home youth’s journey to the Navy Ball reminds VC Residents of the need for more families to step up and help

by Community Contributor • May 12, 2023 • Comments Off

Approximately 20,000 youth age out of foster care every year and must be financially and emotionally self-sufficient by 18. [1] Statistics show that within four years of aging out, 50% of these young adults will be unemployed, and experience homelessness. [2] The transition to adulthood is a significant and challenging developmental phase of life for all young people, but for youth in out-of-home care it is particularly daunting. Government agencies can provide support and group homes, but a nurturing mentoring environment requires stable, loving families to open their homes and heart to local youth in out-of-home care.

“At Strengthening VC Families, we need compassionate help and homes for our youth and teens transitioning out of care. Older youths go through so much during their out-of-home care experience. Leaving out-of-home care without achieving permanence with families carries lifelong consequences. These youth are making their own decisions about whom they want to be and what they can do to thrive,” said Jaci Johnson from Strengthening VC Families. “Older youth need a responsible adult to mentor them, guide their decisions, and provide a safe environment so they can become self-sufficient adults. We encourage families to please give back to the youth in our community. Mentoring and opening their homes to youth in out-of-home care brings many rewards to families, youth, and the community”.

Teatro de las Américas — Clases de actuación bilingües para adultos

by Community Contributor • May 10, 2023 • Comments Off

Impartidas por/Taught by:
James Donlon and Alina Cenal

Máximo de 10 estudiantes
10 Students Max.

8 Sesiones/Sessions 7pm – 9pm

Martes/Tuesdays: May 11, 18, 25, June 1, 8
Jueves/Thursdays. May 30, June 6, 13

Costo/Fee: $75

Desarrolla habilidades en texto, movimiento, voz e improvisación que todo actor debe tener.
¡Sé una fuerza sobre el escenario!

Develop skills in text, movement, voice and improvisation every actor should know.
Be a force on stage!

Bilingual report — County of Ventura celebrates National Bike Month with CycleMAYnia

by Community Contributor • May 9, 2023 • Comments Off

The County of Ventura Sustainability Division will celebrate National Bike Month this year by hosting CycleMAYnia Mini-Expo. CycleMAYnia Mini-Expo is a free event open to the public that aims to inspire more people to embrace cycling as a sustainable, eco-friendly, and health-enhancing mode of transportation. The community is encouraged to attend the event happening on Wednesday, May 31stfrom 10 am – 2 pm at the Ventura County Government Center Lot G.

Bilingual report — County Of Ventura Receives Top 2023 Sustainability Award From The Southern California Association Of Governments

by Community Contributor • May 8, 2023 • Comments Off

The County of Ventura was selected to receive the 2023 Sustainability Award for Outstanding Achievement in Sustainability from the Southern California Association of Governments (SCAG). The award, which is the most prestigious given by SCAG, was given in recognition of the Resource Management Agency’s Agricultural Worker Housing Ordinance. The County was recognized at SCAG’s Regional Conference and General Assembly on May 4 in Palm Desert, California.

“Our Board of Supervisors has long championed the promotion of housing for those working in our agriculture industry,” said Kim Prillhart, Director of the Resource Management Agency. “I couldn’t be more pleased by the innovations in this ordinance that ensures a sustainable path forward to build quality housing for our agriculture workers in Ventura County. It is a testament to the quality of the work that we do at the County of Ventura to have those efforts recognized by SCAG’s most prestigious sustainability award.”

Economic Development Collaborative (EDC) — Free event and webinar schedule

by Community Contributor • May 8, 2023 • Comments Off

VENTURA COUNTY SCORE: MARKETING YOUR BUSINESS ON SOCIAL MEDIA

May 11 @ 10:30 am

Social media is constantly evolving, which can make it difficult for your business to keep up. In this webinar, SCORE will break down social media marketing for businesses with best practices that you can use to improve your digital marketing strategy.

Bilingual report — New State Insurance Regulations Affecting Property Owners in Fire Risk Areas

by Community Contributor • May 5, 2023 • Comments Off

CAMARILLO – Several Ventura County property owners in fire risk areas have shared concerns recently about notices from their insurance companies that indicate coverage would not be renewed unless certain steps to reduce fire risks were taken.

The insurance companies appear to be acting on new rules from California Insurance Commissioner Ricardo Lara that went into effect in April. The regulation was not made by the Ventura County Board of Supervisors or the Ventura County Fire Department.

The state’s new rules were intended to create more transparency in the process when insurance companies determine premiums or decide whether to cancel a policy.

Bilingual commentary — Israel and the U.S.: A Tale of Two Countries

by Community Contributor • May 5, 2023 • Comments Off

As I read an article this past week about the 75th anniversary of the founding of Israel, I found myself wondering, for a few moments, whether I was actually reading about Israel or the United States.

Israel has been contending with a hyper-religious, ultra-Orthodox contingent in its government that is very influential regarding national policies. Since December of last year, Israel’s government has taken a hard turn to the right, guided by ultraconservative, extremist lawmakers who have strong authoritarian tendencies and who have no intention of negotiating with the Palestinians regarding their statehood. The history of the Palestinian territories has been fraught with dizzying complexity since 1916, around the time of World War I.

Bilingual report — County of Ventura latest news — County of Ventura launches 150th Anniversary Website

by Community Contributor • May 3, 2023 • Comments Off

County of Ventura launches 150th Anniversary Website
In honor of the County’s 150th anniversary, we’re excited to announce that our VC 150 Memories website has launched!

VC 150 Memories is a community-driven project that aims to celebrate and preserve the cherished memories of residents in Ventura County. The goal is to collect and archive photos that capture special moments and experiences that people have had in the county both past and present. Residents are invited to submit their favorite images, which will be featured in a public photo gallery and used to create a visual representation of the county’s rich history and diverse community.

The project is a celebration of the people, places, and events that make Ventura County such a unique and special place to live.

Visit www.venturacounty150.com and share your favorite memories and why you love Ventura County!

Bilingual report — County of Ventura Approves Move Aligning entura County Area Agency on Aging as Division of HSA

by Community Contributor • May 2, 2023 • Comments Off

The County of Ventura Board of Supervisors voted last Tuesday (April 25) to approve a change in the Ventura County Area Agency on Aging’s administrative reporting structure, which will see the VCAAA become a division of the Ventura County Human Services Agency. The move is intended to better align the county’s older adult services.

The VCAAA will retain its current organizational structure, and there will be no change to the existing services provided by the VCAAA, or how clients access these services.

A newly formed Aging and Disability Department will oversee both the AAA functions and programs, and in a phased manner, will assume oversight of four programs currently managed by the HSA: In-Home Support Services (IHSS), IHSS-Public Authority, Adult Protective Services, and Public Administrator.

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