Category: News

Museum of Contemporary Art Santa Barbara — DJ Javier x MCASB Limited Edition Launch!

by Community Contributor • March 17, 2021 • Comments Off

We are thrilled to release our limited edition collaboration with Santa Barbara-based artist and designer, DJ Javier.

This limited edition was created to communicate a sense of diversity and inclusion within the surf community. The design features a group of characters with varying skin tones, genders, and styles, all of whom carry surfboards, as they walk together in the same direction.

Welcome the arrival of springtime, with summer soon to follow, by purchasing your own DJ Javier x MCASB beach towel before they’re gone! Visit our web store to get yours today!

Board of Supervisors Dismisses 5 COVID Lawsuits Against Non-Compliant Businesses

by Community Contributor • March 17, 2021 • Comments Off

The Board of Supervisors has unanimously voted to dismiss 5 remaining COVID-19 lawsuits against non-compliant businesses.

In a joint statement on behalf of the Board of Supervisors, Chair Linda Parks stated, “The lawsuits were never meant to be punitive but rather to gain compliance with Public Health Orders. This act of good will is in concert with the loosening of indoor restrictions accompanying the county’s move into the red tier. We extend our deep appreciation and thanks to all businesses that have worked so hard and continue to work hard to keep their employees and customers safe from COVID by following public health guidelines. It’s crucial that all businesses follow the state issued guidance so that we can all continue to move forward. We want to make sure we all work together to protect lives and to continue reopening our County.”

March News from People’s Self-Help Housing

by Community Contributor • March 17, 2021 • Comments Off

As we turn a seasonal corner, and start to shed the pandemic gloom, spring fever is in the air throughout all the communities we serve along the Central Coast. Spirits are lifting, economic relief is hitting mail boxes, and nature is blossoming all around.

This past week was dominated by the American Rescue Plan Act – there is much good news there, and multiple benefits will accrue to many of our residents. Direct stimulus checks will help make up for reduced incomes, lost jobs, and to assist those raising families. An upside of living through this past year has been seeing our existing, and new stakeholders, all stepping up their support to meet these increased needs. What a testament to people helping people!

County of Ventura moves forward to the Red Tier 12:01 am March 17

by Community Contributor • March 16, 2021 • Comments Off

The County of Ventura will move to the State’s Red Tier beginning 12:01 am Wednesday, March 17, 2021.“This is great news for our community and an opportunity to work together to support our local businesses as we move forward in reopening our economy,” said County Executive Officer, Michael Powers.

In alignment with the state’s reopening framework, masking, distancing and infection control practices remain in place.

Bilingual report — County of Ventura COVID-19 Update for March 16, 2021

by Community Contributor • March 16, 2021 • Comments Off

The County of Ventura will move to the State’s Red Tier beginning 12:01 am Wednesday, March 17, 2021.“This is great news for our community and an opportunity to work together to support our local businesses as we move forward in reopening our economy,” said County Executive Officer, Michael Powers.

In alignment with the state’s reopening framework, masking, distancing and infection control practices remain in place.

Santa Barbara First District Supervisor Das Williams — Santa Barbara County Moves to Red Tier

by Community Contributor • March 16, 2021 • Comments Off

At (March 16)’s Board of Supervisors hearing, we received a COVID-19 update from the Santa Barbara County Public Health Department. Some very positive news was shared, which is cause for celebration. However, while the winter surge we experienced is now over, we have to stay vigilant collectively as a county so we can continue to see a decline in cases and other metrics, especially with spring break on the horizon.

Our adjusted case rate is 7.7 and positivity rate is 3.3. Effective at 8:00 am tomorrow, Wednesday, 3/17, Santa Barbara County is now in the Red Tier. As a reminder, the following sector changes apply in the Red Tier according to the Blueprint for a Safer Economy. The state has reached its first health equity vaccine goal of vaccinating 2 million persons in the hardest hit communities in our state and our cases fall between 4-10 cases per 100,000 population.

More Schools to Reopen as Ventura County Moves to Red Tier

by Community Contributor • March 16, 2021 • Comments Off

More public schools will be reopening to in-person instruction now that Ventura County is moving to the less restrictive red tier in the State’s coronavirus monitoring system. The move from the purple to the red tier will take effect this Wednesday as COVID-19 rates decline in Ventura County and after the State eased the threshold to switch tiers because of increasing vaccination levels.

The change opens the door for schools that had not reopened the last time the County was in the red tier to do so at all grade levels, including middle and high school. Most schools that open to in-person instruction use hybrid schedules that include some time on distance learning. This is necessary because social distancing requirements prevent many schools from bringing all students back to class in-person full time.

Four decades after founding top law firm, veteran family law attorney Rick Montgomery strikes out on his own

by Community Contributor • March 16, 2021 • Comments Off

For more than 40 years, attorney Frederick “Rick” Montgomery has been a fixture in Santa Barbara legal circles. As co-founder in January of 1977 of one of the city’s most esteemed law firms, Fell, Marking, Abkin, Montgomery, Granet & Raney, LLP, he has helped generations of Santa Barbara families and businesses work through their legal challenges.

This month, the preeminent local attorney launched a new chapter in his career. On March 1, he opened a new practice in downtown Santa Barbara across the street from his old firm.

VCCDC Community Matters Newsletter – March 2021

by Community Contributor • March 16, 2021 • Comments Off

VCCDC is celebrating the success of its first From Here Forward program recipient! Last month, Mia Martinez, a long-time Ventura County resident, closed on her first home with the help of $100,000 in down payment assistance from VCCDC. The From Here Forward Program is made possible with CalHome home buying assistance funds from the State of California and it provides gap funding for homebuyers who were physically or economically displaced by the Thomas or Woolsey Fires in Ventura County. Like many Ventura County residents, after the Thomas and Woolsey Fires, Mia’s rent went through the roof with 10% increases every year as housing supply shortages were exacerbated in Ventura County and landlords raised rents. With over 50% of her income going towards her rent, she had no other choice but to move in with family into a 10×10 bedroom for her and her granddaughter. Read more about Mia’s story and watch an orientation about the From Here Forward Program to learn how this program can help you buy a home!

Economic Development Collaborative (EDC) — American Rescue Plan & Small Business Relief

by Community Contributor • March 16, 2021 • Comments Off

Congress has approved a new $1.9 trillion federal relief package, more commonly known as the American Rescue Plan. The stimulus legislation, the largest of its kind, includes several measures to help stabilize small businesses and the economy.

The details of these programs are still being determined. More information will be shared as it becomes available.

United Way of Santa Barbara County’s Fun in the Sun Program Returns June 21 through July 30

by Community Contributor • March 16, 2021 • Comments Off

United Way of Santa Barbara County’s (UWSBC) annual Fun in the Sun (FITS) summer learning program returns June 21st through July 30th and is now accepting applications for staff and local students to participate. The free six week program will address summer learning loss and COVID-19 learning loss through academic and social emotional programming.

UWSBC is anticipating an in-person program at all six sites depending on COVID-19 mandates. Students will engage in academic rotations focused on literacy and STEAM (Science, technology, engineering, arts and math) as well as participate in social, emotional and mental wellness activities. Should COVID-19 conditions worsen, UWSBC will provide a virtual program.

Quality of Life Financial Assistance is a lifeline for Low Income COVID-19 Positive individuals and Families in Quarantine

by Community Contributor • March 16, 2021 • Comments Off

Hospice of Santa Barbara (HSB) has been providing financial support to over 100 COVID-19 positive lower income patients and their families in a special partnership with Santa Barbara Neighborhood Clinics.

It has been particularly difficult for these families as they experience the multi-pronged impacts of a life-threatening virus including losing work and income while quarantining to protect the rest of us by remaining home. Imagine complying with CDC guidelines by staying at home while, at the same time, being unable to pay for groceries and other essentials for your family. These are families that have been hardest hit by the pandemic and they’re trying their best to be safe under difficult conditions that none of us could have predicted.

UCSB — The Current — ‘An Ancient Mystery’ and more news

by Community Contributor • March 16, 2021 • Comments Off

With support from the Moore and Simons foundations, scientists advance their study of the origins of eukaryotic cells.

Economic Development Collaborative (EDC) — CA Small Business COVID-19 Relief Grant Program

by Community Contributor • March 16, 2021 • Comments Off

Round 4- Nonprofit Arts & Cultural Program
Application Window Now Open!

PLEASE NOTE: Eligible nonprofit arts and cultural institutions interested in being considered in this new program MUST complete a NEW APPLICATION at https://careliefgrant.com/arts-and-culture/ even if they have previously applied to the CA Relief Grant Program during Rounds 1 or 2. Waitlisted applications from Round 1 or 2 do not automatically roll over to Round 4.

Bilingual report — County of Ventura COVID-19 Update for March 15, 2021 — Vaccination Update

by Community Contributor • March 15, 2021 • Comments Off

NEW VACCINE PHASE OPENED TODAY: Individuals aged 16-64 who are deemed to be at the very highest risk to get very sick from COVID-19 because they have the following severe health conditions are now eligible:

Cancer, current with weakened immune system
Chronic kidney disease, stage 4 or above
Chronic pulmonary disease, oxygen dependent
Down syndrome
Solid organ transplant, leading to a weakened immune system
Pregnancy
Sickle cell disease
Heart conditions, such as heart failure, coronary artery disease, or cardiomyopathies (but not hypertension)
Severe obesity (Body Mass Index ? 40 kg/m2)
Type 2 diabetes mellitus with hemoglobin A1c level greater than 7.5%

Cold Again Refrigeration Services recently launched in Oxnard to target local companies with commercial refrigeration equipment

by Community Contributor • March 15, 2021 • Comments Off

A new company, Cold Again Refrigeration Services, a Commercial Refrigeration Services Company, launched March 2021 in response to demand for more specialized services from the commercial refrigeration equipment services sector.

Cold Again Refrigeration Services will help customers to feel at ease about the continued performance of their vital refrigeration equipment. Cold Again knows that their customers want functional, reliable and long-lasting equipment and already works with markets, restaurants and hotels, to name just a few.

The Foundation of VCCU provides $31,000 in grants to local nonprofits

by Community Contributor • March 15, 2021 • Comments Off

The Foundation of VCCU, a philanthropic nonprofit organization established by Ventura County Credit Union (VCCU), gave a total of $31,000 in grants to eight local nonprofit organizations.

The grant recipients included the Boys & Girls Club of Camarillo, El Concilio Family Services, People’s Self-Help Housing, Project Bicycle Love, Ventura College Foundation, Ventura County Area Agency on Aging and Westminster Free Clinic. The nonprofits will use the grant money to support a wide variety of programs and services that benefit the Ventura County community.

SBCC’s School of Extended Learning announces the free ‘Back-to-Work’ program

by Community Contributor • March 15, 2021 • Comments Off

On Mar. 4, KCLU’s Caroline Feraday interviewed Luz Reyes-Martín, SBCC’s Executive Director of Public Affairs and Communications, about the back to work courses offered by the School of Extended Learning for those affected by coronavirus job cuts. Listen to the interview here…

Volunteers in Ventura County Help Those with Low-Moderate Incomes File for Available Tax Credits Through VITA Programs

by Community Contributor • March 15, 2021 • Comments Off

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).

Through April 30, 2021, 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 $57,000 in 2020 are eligible to use the free services.

Bilingual report — Ventura County Board of Supervisors Appoints Tiffany N. North as County Counsel

by Community Contributor • March 15, 2021 • Comments Off

The County Board of Supervisors has unanimously appointed Tiffany N. North as the new County Counsel after a nationwide recruitment.

“Tiffany is a strong generalist legal professional with excellent communication skills who is well-versed in public law with experience in advising a large public agency,” said Board Chair Linda Parks. “Her proven track record providing practical legal advice on a range of topics will serve our County well. We look forward to continuing the collaboration and teamwork with our County Counsel’s office that have been key factors in providing the best public service to our community.”

EDC’s Economic 411 Labor Market Report for January 2021

by Community Contributor • March 15, 2021 • Comments Off

The California Labor Market Information Division (LMID) released its January 2021 report early (March 12), delayed by about a month from the usual release date, accommodating the annual recalibration, helping to assure the monthly data aligns with continuing changes in the economy and labor markets.

The report shows no change from December in the unemployment rate, still at 7.4%, though a steep loss in payroll jobs month-over-month, down a total of 7,900.

Bilingual report — County of Ventura COVID-19 Update for March 12 — Two Million COVID-19 Vaccine Doses Delivered to California’s Hardest-Hit Communities, Prompting Update of State’s Reopening Plan

by Community Contributor • March 12, 2021 • Comments Off

The California Department of Public Health (CDPH) today announced that 2 million doses of COVID-19 vaccine have been administered to Californians in some of the state’s hardest-hit communities, increasing immunity where the state’s transmission rates and disease burden have been the highest during the pandemic. With this equity metric met, and because vaccines slow the spread of disease and serious illness, the previously announced update to the Blueprint for a Safer Economy to account for progress with vaccine administration goes into effect.

Ballet Hispánico Partners with ¡Viva el Arte de Santa Bárbara! for a Virtual Residency and Community Performances

by Community Contributor • March 12, 2021 • Comments Off

Ballet Hispánico, the nation’s renowned Latinx dance organization recognized as one of America’s Cultural Treasures, is partnering with ¡Viva el Arte de Santa Bárbara!, an Arts & Lectures community arts program for a two-month virtual residency. From January 26 through March 18, Ballet Hispánico will teach 40 virtual workshops at three Santa Barbara County schools, serving more than 130 elementary to high school students as they explore cultural identity through the lens of Con Brazos Abiertos.

The workshops will culminate in a live virtual event sharing the process of the residencies with the school communities of Isla Vista Elementary, Kermit McKenzie, and Santa Barbara High School.

The Surge of Summer through Winter, 2020-2021: COVID-19 Burned Through California’s Latino Population

by Community Contributor • March 12, 2021 • Comments Off

While all population groups were affected by the COVID-19 surge from the summer through the winter of 2020?2021, California’s Latino population was among the hardest hit. Looking at increases in age-specific death rates, we can appreciate how many more Latinos than non-Hispanic whites (NHW) in every age group were killed by COVID-19. …

The surge from the summer through the winter of 2020?2021 affected all racial/ethnic groups, but it hit California’s Latinos particularly hard. In every age group, the disparity between Latino and non-Hispanic white death rates remained roughly the same throughout this period, ranging from two times to seven times as high, depending on age.

Bilingual commentary — Career Education at Our Community Colleges

by Community Contributor • March 12, 2021 • Comments Off

Some of us Ventura County residents may be in high school or recently graduated, trying to find a path forward as we wrestle with a daunting number of higher education and career choices. Some of us may be middle-aged and “drifting,” or restless in our current careers.

Then there are those of us who are retired and looking for something new to challenge us. Perhaps we have a new interest—and the time to pursue it. Retirees may even be seeking a career that is either an extension of their life’s work, or possibly something quite different from what they had done for decades.

Bilingual report — Oxnard Fire Department Hosts Virtual Head Shaving Event to Raise Funds for Childhood Cancer Research on March 23-25

by Community Contributor • March 12, 2021 • Comments Off

On March 23-25, 2021, more than 30 Oxnard firefighters will shave their heads to promote and raise funds for childhood cancer research through the St. Baldrick’s Foundation.

“Firefighters often become heroes to people whose lives they save in emergencies. By shaving our heads bald, we hope to raise awareness of the heroic children battling cancer,” said Chief Hamilton. “It’s a unique way to stand in solidarity with these children while also literally creating a buzz for an honorable cause.”

Pioneer Valley HS Trailblazer Hiking and Environmental Club Zoomed into Carrizo Plains

by Community Contributor • March 12, 2021 • Comments Off

Pioneer Valley High School Trailblazer Hiking and Environmental Club members recently Zoomed into the Carrizo Plains in southeastern San Luis Obispo County.

The student club hosted guest speaker Chuck Graham who presented his new photo book “Carrizo Plain “Where the Mountains Meet the Grasslands”

Santa Barbara First District Supervisor Das Williams — Vaccine, Testing & More

by Community Contributor • March 11, 2021 • Comments Off

If you had asked me five years ago if it were possible to have a Board of Supervisors hearing about redistricting, the long-term planning work program, or marijuana without having a knock-down-drag-out fight, I would have told you no way. This week, we discussed all three civilly and though there were disagreements, there was a confluence of purpose and principle. When the rest of the nation has become more partisan and angry, I hope it is reassuring to you to have a Board that works together to get things done.

Bilingual report — County of Ventura COVID-19 Update for March 11, 2021 — When will Ventura County be in the Red Tier?

by Community Contributor • March 11, 2021 • Comments Off

The state has announced that once 2 million doses of the COVID-19 vaccine are administered in the most vulnerable communities in the state that the state will modify the case rate requirements. The case rate requirements are tied into the different colored tiers. If the case rate requirement is adjusted and Ventura County meets the metric we will move to the Red Tier next Wednesday the 17th.

Looking forward. Here’s what can be open (following the state issued guidance for each sector) once the County is in the Red Tier:

Ridley-Tree Cancer Center Sponsors Hospice of Santa Barbara’s illuminate Speaker Series

by Community Contributor • March 11, 2021 • Comments Off

Hospice of Santa Barbara (HSB) is proud to announce that Ridley-Tree Cancer Center is a sponsor of the illuminate Speaker Series, a virtual series that brings world-renowned speakers every month to discuss how COVID-19 is impacting us all.

As local nonprofits in Santa Barbara adapt to find new ways to serve their clients and causes, HSB is adjusting to the new realities that come with COVID-19 through theirilluminate Speaker Series, which provides helpful resources to our community and beyond as we cope with our new reality.

CEO Appoints Barry Zimmerman as the Director of the Ventura County Health Care Agency

by Community Contributor • March 11, 2021 • Comments Off

Barry Zimmerman has been selected as the Director of the Ventura County Health Care Agency after a nationwide recruitment. The appointment was made by County Executive Officer Mike Powers.

“Barry is an excellent leader and the right person at the right time for this vital role. He will guide the Health Care Agency’s outstanding leadership team as they usher in a new era of health care,” said County Executive Officer Mike Powers. “The speed and scope of the pandemic has posed extraordinary challenges and Barry has been a proven leader during this complex and unprecedented time taking the lead on the COVID-19 Testing and Vaccine Taskforce. His service to our community and to our County, especially during this time, has been crucial.”

County of Ventura Economic Vitality — Programa de subvenciones de asistencia comercial del Condado de Ventura

by Community Contributor • March 11, 2021 • Comments Off

Programa de subvenciones de asistencia comercial del Condado de Ventura

Santa Paula Art Museum — This One Is for the Ladies

by Community Contributor • March 11, 2021 • Comments Off

California. Considering how much the Santa Paula Art Museum has learned and benefited from women creatives, we think the two celebrations coincide perfectly. Thank you to all of the amazing women who support the Museum; that includes our women artists, docents, donors, teachers, board members, and our all female staff.

Scroll down to see all of the ways that we are honoring women artists this month and in the year ahead. We are also looking forward to announcing the Museum’s reopening date in the coming weeks!*

*The Santa Paula Art Museum remains temporarily closed to the general public in accordance with COVID restrictions. Please call or email the Museum to make a private viewing appointment.

Economic Development Collaborative (EDC) — CA Small Business COVID-19 Relief Grant Program

by Community Contributor • March 11, 2021 • Comments Off

On February 23rd, Governor Newsom signed into law a comprehensive package providing urgent relief for the small businesses of CA. Part of the package is allocated to a new program solely for certain eligible nonprofit cultural institutions.

This is a new program and will have a separate application process from previous rounds of the California Relief Grant.

Ventura College Foundation’s Gerry Pantoja Elected Association of Fundraising Professionals’ Santa Barbara/Ventura Counties Chapter 2021 President

by Community Contributor • March 10, 2021 • Comments Off

Gerry Pantoja, director of major and planned giving at the Ventura College Foundation, has been elected the 2021 president of the Association of Fundraising Professionals’ Santa Barbara/Ventura Counties Chapter (APFSBVC).

At the Ventura College Foundation, Pantoja is responsible for securing funding to further the foundation’s mission to provide innovative and vital resources and financial support to the students and programs at Ventura College. With over 12 years working in the nonprofit sector, he has fundraised for a variety of nonprofit organizations including eight years fundraising in Washington, D.C.

Allan Hancock College Sponsors SEEAG Santa Barbara County Child Wellness Initiative

by Community Contributor • March 10, 2021 • Comments Off

Allan Hancock College in Santa Maria is sponsoring Students for Eco-Education and Agriculture’s (SEEAG) “Santa Barbara County Child Wellness Initiative” at its highest $10,000 “Rain Maker” level.

The program educates, inspires and empowers children to eat healthy by adding locally grown Santa Barbara fruits and vegetables to their diet to help ward off childhood obesity that could lead to diabetes.

Economic Development Collaborative (EDC) — New Digital Marketing Course

by Community Contributor • March 10, 2021 • Comments Off

In partnership with the Economic Vitality Corporation, SLO Partners and the Morgan Family Foundation, the Economic Development Collaborative is happy to announce a new 10-week digital marketing course that provides a unique hands-on learning experience to enhance your marketing skills in the new digital era. This course has been subsidized by the partners to help promote access and remove obstacles for those looking to improve their marketing skills in an affordable digital classroom setting. Learn topical skills that are fundamental to today’s online world to improve your job marketability, increase your chances at promotions and support your own journey of personal development.

SBCC welcomes Christina Llerena as new EOPS/CARE and CalWORKS director

by Community Contributor • March 10, 2021 • Comments Off

Santa Barbara City College is pleased to announce that the Board of Trustees recently approved Christina Llerena, MSW, as the new EOPS/CARE and CalWORKs Director.

EOPS (Extended Opportunity Programs and Services) is a state-funded, educational support program for financially and academically disadvantaged students enrolled full-time at SBCC. The CARE program (Cooperative Agencies Resources for Education) provides additional services for low-income, single parent students.

Bilingual report — County of Ventura COVID-19 Update for March 10, 2021 — Shout out to the wonderful team of Nurses and Disaster Service Workers

by Community Contributor • March 10, 2021 • Comments Off

Shout out to the wonderful team of Nurses and Disaster Service Workers who are serving at COVID-19 vaccine sites throughout our County! Thank you Ventura County for the many kind emails and letters about your positive experiences receiving the vaccine. The site staff appreciates the messages!

‘Shellebrate’ 2021 March Mermaid Month At Ventura Harbor village & All Things Mermaid With A Salute To Sirens of The Sea

by Community Contributor • March 10, 2021 • Comments Off

Channel your inner mermaid and take in all things Mermaid during Ventura Harbor Village’s 6th Annual March Mermaid Month, a mer-mazing salute that honors the mystical aquatic creatures of the sea.

With Spring right around the corner, now is the ideal time to visit, as the Ventura Harbor Village kicks off this annual promotion with a month-long myriad of re-imagined activities. Mermaids and merman of all ages can enjoy special seaside offerings including themed mermaid/man merchandise, original artwork, eats and treats, fresh seafood and savory fish offerings from Ventura Harbor Villages top seafood restaurants, and a host of month-long specials from locally owned retailers and attractions.

Channel Islands Maritime Museum Hosts Mini “Eco-Boat” Contest for the Month of April

by Community Contributor • March 10, 2021 • Comments Off

The Channel Islands Maritime Museum (CIMM) is happy to announce its April event/contest as part of its continuing 30th anniversary year celebration and Earth Day.

The Museum is calling for mini “eco-boat” contest entries which are boats that utilize recyclable or compostable materials. Entries should be no larger than 24” in length. Winning entries will be chosen based on the most creative use of materials. Wood, paper, glass, aluminum, cardboard, and plant fibers (including cotton fabric, canvas, hemp, non-nylon rope, etc.) are all acceptable materials. Plastics and foams may not be used in the construction of boats. Prizes will be awarded in four age categories: Adults (18 years and older), Young Adults (13-17 years of age), Kids (7-12 years of age), and Kids (6 years and under).

Bilingual report — County of Ventura COVID-19 Update for March 9, 2021 — COVID-19 Update

by Community Contributor • March 9, 2021 • Comments Off

The VC Mobile Library distributes Face Mask Kits to children and families thanks to a partnership with the Ventura County Area Agency on Aging. Kits contain face masks, hand sanitizer, COVID-19 safety and good hygiene information, a resource guide for coping with COVID and where to find help. Brothers, Luis and Sebastian recently enjoyed selecting new books from the Mobile Library. They are smiling behind those masks! Learn more about the Ventura County Library at the following link: www.vencolibrary.org/.

Bilingual report — County of Ventura launches Second $20 million COVID-19 Business Assistance Grant Program

by Community Contributor • March 9, 2021 • Comments Off

The County of Ventura’s second COVID-19 Business Assistance Grant Program for businesses and nonprofit organizations opens for pre-registration March 24-March 30 and applications will be accepted March 31 at 8 am to April 6 at 6 pm. The $20 million assistance program offers $5,000-dollar grants for Ventura County based businesses and nonprofits who did not receive the first round of grants.

“The COVID-19 pandemic has caused severe economic and health impacts in our community. The County with the support of the Board of Supervisors, hopes this funding can help provide some relief to businesses and nonprofits who have been seriously impacted,” said Mike Powers, County Executive Officer. “We also encourage our community members to shop local and support local businesses as much as possible as we move forward.”

Port of Hueneme — Community Survey/Encuesta Comunitaria

by Community Contributor • March 9, 2021 • Comments Off

Do you want to help steer the ship for the next 10 years? The Port of Hueneme is seeking input on its 2030 Strategic Plan! Your voice is important, and your Port wants to hear it! Fill out the survey and let us know which way to go! www.portofh.org/survey

Te gustaría ayudar a manejar el barco por los siguientes 10 años? ¡El Puerto de Hueneme busca tu opinión para su Plan Estratégico del 2030! ¡Tu voz es importante y tu Puerto quiere oír tu opinión! ¡Llena la encuesta y ayúdanos a tomar dirección! www.portofh.org/survey

MVC Insider Returns + New Meme Contest + More!

by Community Contributor • March 9, 2021 • Comments Off

After a four-month hiatus, Season 2 of “MVC Insider” resumed this past Friday, February 26, 2021. The Smith-Hobson Family Collections Manager Renee Tallent took us back a full century to talk about the 1920s hairstyle technique “Marcelling.” Renee explored the different variations of curling irons available on the market sold to achieve the perfect natural wave.

Mark your calendars for Friday, March 12, 2021 at 10am? and tune-in on Facebook Live for another episode of “MVC Insider” with Chief Curator of Exhibits & Collections Anna Bermudez! Anna will take viewers through the exhibit Hulega! Photographs from the Frontlines at the Agriculture Museum in Santa Paula. Set a reminder on Facebook or YouTube.

Museum of Contemporary Art Santa Barbara Calling Santa Barbara County artists!

by Community Contributor • March 9, 2021 • Comments Off

We are delighted to invite you to submit your artistic concepts for our Earth Day Mural, hosted in partnership with The Arts Fund, Community Environmental Council, Museum of Contemporary Art Santa Barbara, Paseo Nuevo, and Santa Barbara BCycle. Application Deadline: Wednesday, March 31, 2021, 5 PM PST.

California Strong Distributes Third Round of Grant Money to Woolsey Fire Victims

by Community Contributor • March 8, 2021 • Comments Off

Nearly 2 1/2 years after the Woolsey Fire destroyed hundreds of homes in Southern California, many families are still impacted by the fire. On March 2, over $330,000 in gift cards was distributed to 88 families as they continue to recover from the fire. The funds were granted to the Southeast Ventura County YMCA by the Ventura County Community Foundation and distributed by California Strong, a program of the Y that provides financial support to victims after disasters. The grant money was distributed at the Yarrow Family YMCA in Westlake Village.

“It was our hope to reconnect with our California Strong family who survived the Woolsey Fire in 2018 and to be supportive of their continued recovery,” says California Strong Director Mollie Vehling. “Hosting the drive-thru distribution was an incredible opportunity to not only share resources, but to share smiles, listening ears, positive energy and love. Their struggle over the past 2 years and 3 months has been hard, but this was a happy day.”

LaunchPoint’s Pioneering Electric Aircraft Design Tool, MAAP™, Makes Commercial Debut

by Community Contributor • March 8, 2021 • Comments Off

As transportation and aerospace companies ramp up development of flying vehicles to meet the mobility demands of the future, they face significant up-front costs and modeling uncertainties that slow down the design process.

LaunchPoint Electric Propulsion Solutions, Inc., a Santa Barbara-area aerospace propulsion innovator known for its patented electric motors, hybrid-electric propulsion systems, and control software for drones and flying cars announced today it has released a pioneering tool to help companies fast-track aircraft propulsion systems designs.

Bilingual report — County of Ventura COVID-19 Update for March 8, 2021 — COVID19 update on March 9 at Board of Supervisors

by Community Contributor • March 8, 2021 • Comments Off

A COVID-19 update will be provided at the Board of Supervisors meeting 3/9/21. The presentation will be live streamed on County of Ventura Facebook @CountyofVentura and at the following link beginning at 8:30 am: www.ventura.org/board-of-supervisors/agendas-documents-and-broadcasts/.

VCCCD Opts-In For California Community College Athletic Association Spring II Season

by Community Contributor • March 8, 2021 • Comments Off

After opting out of Spring I season sports due to the COVID-19 pandemic, the Ventura County Community College District (VCCCD) will “opt-in” for the upcoming California Community College Athletic Association (CCCAA) Spring II season. The decision is based on CCCAA COVID-19 guidelines and input from the athletic directors, coaches and athletic staff of Moorpark, Oxnard and Ventura colleges. The Spring II season includes men’s and women’s competitive sports and begins April 10. The length of the season varies by sport.

CSUCI’s inaugural 2021 Plot-A-Thon Data Visualization Festival equips students to join data gold rush

by Community Contributor • March 8, 2021 • Comments Off

Don’t just show numbers—tell a story. That was the idea behind CSU Channel Islands (CSUCI)’s 2021 Plot-a-thon Data Visualization Festival, which was held last Friday.

The virtual day-long event immersed students in the world of data visualization—the process of taking a mountain of raw data and compressing it into a colorful pie chart, bar chart, a word cloud, cartoons or an interactive map that appears to move and breathe as the data rolls in.

Ventura County Teacher of the Year Applications Being Accepted

by Community Contributor • March 8, 2021 • Comments Off

The Ventura County Office of Education is now accepting applications for the 2021 Ventura County Teacher of the Year. The competition is open to all TK-12th grade teachers at Ventura County public, charter and private schools. Nominees are selected by schools and professional organizations, but members of the public can suggest a teacher for consideration by contacting their principal.

CSUCI webinars on March 9, 30 will detail plans for higher education in a post-pandemic world

by Community Contributor • March 8, 2021 • Comments Off

CSU Channel Islands (CSUCI) Interim President Richard Yao, Ph.D. will be first speaker in a series of webinars designed to familiarize the public with CSUCI’s plans for a post-pandemic campus. Yao will present his “Vision of the Next Chapter” from 9 a.m. to 9:45 a.m. Tuesday, March 9.

“We want people to see how the University is taking on its mission and preparing for a world that will never be the same,” said Vice President for University Advancement Nichole Ipach. “The purpose of the webinar series is to share with the community all of the incredible undertakings happening at Cal State Channel Islands as we work to reimagine higher education for a new generation in a post-pandemic world.”

United Way of Ventura County — United for International Women’s Day

by Community Contributor • March 8, 2021 • Comments Off

Today is International Women’s Day, a global day celebrating the social, economic, cultural, and political achievements of women. In honor of this day, we’d like to honor the matriarch of United Way, Frances Wisebart Jacobs.

In 1887, Jacobs and other Denver faith-based community leaders put together an idea that became the nation’s first united campaign, benefitting 10 local health and welfare agencies. These leaders created an organization to collect the funds for local charities, to coordinate relief services, to counsel and refer clients to cooperating agencies, and to make emergency assistance grants for cases that could not be referred. That year, Denver raised $21,700 for this greater good and created a movement that would become United Way.

Clinicas Del Camino Real Inc. COVID-19 to hold Patient Vaccination Event in Oxnard

by Community Contributor • March 5, 2021 • Comments Off

Clinicas del Camino Real, Inc. will be expanding vaccination efforts to their Maravilla Health Center, located at 450 Clara St. Oxnard CA 93033, in South Oxnard this weekend. A total of 1,000 vaccines will be administered to Clinicas’ patients Saturday March 6, and Sunday March 7, from 8:00 AM to 4:00 PM. Walk-ups will not be accepted at this particular event as all availabilities have been electronically reserved by eligible patients.

Bilingual report — County of Ventura COVID-19 Update for March 6, 2021 — COVID-19 Vaccine Information

by Community Contributor • March 5, 2021 • Comments Off

COVID-19 Vaccines are available for adults age 65 and older, healthcare, food and agriculture, education and childcare, emergency services and qualifying regional center family caregivers. More information at the following link: www.venturacountyrecovers.org/vaccine-information/.

Appointments open each week on Mondays at 7 am online am on the phone line for those with limited internet access: www.venturacountyrecovers.org/vaccine-information/portal/

Santa Maria High School Ag Teacher and FFA Advisor Luis Guerra recently selected as the South Coast Regional Golden Owl Award winner

by Community Contributor • March 5, 2021 • Comments Off

SMHS Agricultural Teacher and FFA Advisor Luis Guerra was recently selected as the South Coast Regional Golden Owl Award winner, making him one of six finalists in the state for the Ag Educator of the Year.

Nationwide Insurance’s Golden Owl Award sheds light on the selfless contributions agricultural teachers play in the communities they serve and the countless hours they spend preparing future generations for successful careers.

U.S. Fish and Wildlife Service awards more than $27 million to help coastal wetland ecosystems

by Community Contributor • March 5, 2021 • Comments Off

The U.S. Fish and Wildlife Service has awarded more than $27 million to support projects across the country to protect, restore or enhance almost 28,000 acres of coastal wetlands and adjacent upland habitats under the National Coastal Wetlands Conservation Grant Program.

The California State Coastal Conservancy, The Nature Conservancy and other partners will receive $1 million to begin restoring the 650-acre Ormond Beach wetlands in Oxnard, California, to improve water quality, resiliency to sea-level rise and reverse degradation of a portion of the wetlands.

Consulado de Mexico en Oxnard — ¡Nueva Línea Telefónica de Acceso Comunitario para el Registro de Vacunas contra COVID-19!

by Community Contributor • March 5, 2021 • Comments Off

?Nueva Línea Telefónica de Acceso Comunitario para el Registro de Vacunas contra COVID-19!

Santa Barbara First District Supervisor Das Williams — Testing & Vaccine Update, Youth Sports, & Electric Vehicle Webinar

by Community Contributor • March 5, 2021 • Comments Off

In order to return to the things we enjoyed pre COVID-19, such as gatherings, travel, live entertainment, in-person education and indoor dining, it is critical that we increase the amount of COVID-19 testing in our County, as well as mask up, physical distance and vaccinate when it is our turn.

Right now, it is as important as ever to get tested for the COVID-19 virus because frequent testing is the best way (short of getting vaccinated once available) to make sure positive cases are identified quickly and get isolated in order to stop further spread.

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