Graduate student Zach Aralis has developed a rapid test for the COVID-19 Omicron variant.
UCSB — The Current — ‘Outwitting Omicron’ and more news
Category: News
Economic Development Collaborative (EDC) — Free Webinar Schedule
DIGITAL MARKETING STRATEGIES FOR MEASURABLE RESULTS
January 28 @ 12:00 pm
A comprehensive marketing strategy leverages Social Media to make information more accessible by combining together technology, content, and social interaction across many platforms including websites, blogs, video sharing, review sites, email marketing, and event promotion. This session provides an overview of the 9 key areas of social media as defined by David Mitroff with examples from his work.
Bilingual report — Jan. 10, 2022 – COVID-19 Update
Since Friday there have been 38,627 new tests completed and 5,835 new COVID-19 cases reported. There are 261 people hospitalized and 36 in the ICU. There have been 3 additional deaths of a 37 year old male, 58 year old female, and an 81 year old female. Our sincere condolences to the family and loved ones of the community members who passed away. The R-effective for Ventura County is 1.74 which indicates that the speed of COVID is likely increasing rapidly.
The County of Ventura has the third-highest testing rate in central and southern California. The state will be sending National Guard medical personnel to assist with testing at the state sites due to staffing impacts. This will help to allow services to continue. They will be in uniform and will not be armed.
Starting Friday, January 7, many of the state testing sites will have expanded capacity which includes additional days, times, and lanes at drive-thru sites. Appointments are now live. Please make an appointment at https://lhi.care/covidtesting or call 888-634-1123. View the updated schedule at www.vcrecovers.org/testing.
Economic Development Collaborative (EDC) — New Masking Requirements for Businesses
UPDATED: California Department of Public Health:
As of January 5, 2022, the California Department of Public Health (CDPH) updated their Guidance for the Use of Face Coverings, continuing the requirement for universal masking indoors, irrespective of vaccine status, statewide from December 15, 2021, through February 15, 2022.
Take To The Great Outdoors With Island Packers Winter Whale Watching & Excursions To the Channel Islands National Park
Island Packers, the official boat concessionaire to the Channel Islands National Park, has daily departures to the Channel Islands National Park from Ventura Harbor Village and is now offering Winter Whale Watching excursions. Book your spot today to view these magnificent mammals at www.islandpackers.com.
A winter Whale Watch is a perfect way to gather with family and friends to view Pacific Gray whales migrating through the Santa Barbara Channel from their feeding grounds in Alaska to their breeding grounds in Baja. Pacific Gray Whales are normally sighted in the National Marine Sanctuary near Anacapa and Santa Cruz Island continues through April 23, 2022. Thismammoth migration of over 20,000 whales and 6,000 miles twice a year remains a major attraction in Southern California.
Santa Barbara First District Supervisor Das Williams — Volunteer for Point In Time Count, 1/9 Remembrance Event, COVID-19 Info & More
I want to wish you a healthy and happy New Year, and encourage you to live with less worry. I believe that living without worry is not about ignoring dangers, it is about controlling what you can control, taking precautions, but also living your life and not putting energy into what is outside our control.
“If you have a piece of truth, do not hide it like a treasure, but hang it on a shingle for the world to see.”
Ventura College Foundation Provided $696,095 In Direct Student Support During 2020-2021 Academic Year
Despite pandemic challenges, the Ventura College Foundation, a nonprofit organization that provides resources and financial assistance to Ventura College students and school programs, distributed $696,095 in direct student financial support during the 2020-2021 academic year and another $871,749 to 28 Ventura College programs across 17 department and divisions.
“This past academic year was like no other for students and their families, college leadership, faculty and staff, donors and the foundation,” says Anne Paul King, Ventura College Foundation executive director. “Despite everything, the foundation was able to build its financial reserves while distributing over $1.5 million in student and school program aid.”
The Collection offers law enforcement discount at The Annex Food Hall
In honor of National Law Enforcement Appreciation Day, The Collection at RiverPark is offering Ventura County law enforcement a 20% discount on food and beverages at the Annex Food Hall. This month-long program to recognize and thank law enforcement for their many contributions to the community will begin on Jan. 9 and continue through Feb. 9, 2022.
All law enforcement employees from any police department, sheriff’s office or highway patrol office in Ventura County are invited to take advantage of the discount with proof of employment at any of the participating locations at The Annex.
Bilingual report — Jan. 7, 2022 – COVID-19 Update
January 7, 2022 – COVID-19 Update Everyone over the age of 12 is now eligible for a COVID-19 booster dose. Get your COVID-19 booster dose if: • It has been 5+ months since you completed your primary Pfizer series, •…
LULAC Warns A Repeat Of The January 6, 2021 Insurrection Is Still Possible
The League of United Latin American Citizens (LULAC) issued the following statement on the first anniversary of the attack on the U.S. Capitol on January 6, 2021. The protest and violence were carried out in an attempt to stop the ratification of the electoral ballot results from the November 2020 presidential election that defeated Donald Trump. The US Justice Department issued a report six months following the attack and stated that more than 535 people who took part in the insurrection were arrested in all 50 states. Five people died during the incident, a Capitol police officer lost his life the following day of stroke complications from injuries he suffered in the violence, and four other officers on duty during the attack died later from suicide. A full congressional investigation into the insurrection continues.
COVID-19 Test Kits for Students Arrive in Ventura County
The State of California delivered 132,000 COVID-19 test kits to the Ventura County Office of Education (VCOE) in Camarillo yesterday evening and this morning. The at-home kits are intended specifically for K-12 public school students as part of a program announced by Governor Gavin Newsom in December. Each kit contains two COVID-19 tests, and VCOE has received enough kits to provide one to every student in the county at no charge. They’re now being sent to local school districts, which will coordinate distribution to students and families.
3C-REN to Bring the Building Decarbonization Coalition’s ‘The Switch is On’ Program to Tri-County Area
3C-REN (The Tri-County Regional Energy Network), a partnership between the Counties of San Luis Obispo, Santa Barbara and Ventura that delivers energy-saving programs and building industry trainings, has partnered with the Building Decarbonization Coalition for the “Switch is On” campaign to help Tri-County residents interested in the switch from gas-powered to all-electric appliances. An all-electric home reduces health risks, contributes to a more resilient energy system, supports the state’s decarbonization goals, and in many cases can save money for homeowners. This campaign is the first of its kind in California.
The “Switch is On” offers residents the opportunity to speak one-on-one with home electrification advisors, find local vetted contractors, get information on incentives and rebates, and find additional resources about home electrification.
UCSB — The Current — ‘Animals and the Big C’ and more news
Ventura County’s Community Colleges Respond to COVID-19 Surge
To protect the health of students and employees within the Ventura County Community College District and to help mitigate the surge in the county’s COVID-19 cases, Ventura County’s community colleges will start the Spring 2022 semester primarily online beginning Jan. 10. Spring classes at Moorpark, Oxnard and Ventura colleges and Ventura College East Campus will be mainly remote for a limited time with exceptions for classes requiring in-person instruction. Scheduled in-person class sessions will be reinstated following a reduction in COVID-19 infections and hospitalizations.
“The health and safety of our students and employees has been paramount in operations throughout the COVID-19 pandemic. We made the current decision to help reduce transmission and support ongoing public health efforts. We know we must be flexible in our planning as we approach the start of the Spring semester. Remote instruction will contribute to reducing employee and student absences as we help students attain their educational goals,” said Chancellor Greg Gillespie.
First two weeks of CSUCI Spring semester will be virtual and “fully vaccinated” is redefined
To minimize class disruptions to the greatest extent possible, CSU Channel Islands (CSUCI) courses will be virtual for the first two weeks of class, from Jan. 22 through Feb. 6, with some exceptions.
In addition, the CSU’s recently updated Interim COVID-19 Vaccination Policy redefines “fully vaccinated” to include a booster vaccine for students, staff and faculty when they become eligible to receive one.
Measures are being taken in addition to the ongoing requirement of appropriate mask-wearing indoors and other safety protocols because of the current wave of the highly-contagious Omicron variant of the COVID-19 virus, according to Interim President Richard Yao, Ph.D.
Local PODS Moving and Storage Offers Post-Holiday Decluttering Tips for the New Year
As you head into a new calendar year, your local PODS® wants to help you make a fresh start in 2022. According to James Gregory, a clinical psychologist, clearing out clutter can positively affect your psychological state, increase focus, and minimize stress. Additionally, in 2021, more people spent time decluttering, cleaning, and repurposing items at home to minimize waste.
To help its customers recover from the busyness of the holidays, local PODS® Moving and Storage offers ideas about how to organize your home for the New Year.
Bilingual report — Jan. 5, 2022 – COVID-19 Update
Things to consider more seriously in the midst of the Omicron surge
Get vaccinated and boosted.
Please stay home when you are ill to limit exposing others in the community.
Consider temporarily pausing on attending unnecessary indoor events until the Omicron surge slows down.
Wear a mask. They are required indoors for all in the State of California.
Vaccines best protection
The COVID-19 vaccine continues to be the best option to prevent serious illness or hospitalization from COVID-19. Make an appointment today at myturn.ca.gov or by calling 833-422-4255.
Museum of Contemporary Art Santa Barbara — Rosha Yaghmai: Drifters | Final Days
There are only four days remaining to view Rosha Yaghmai: Drifters at MCASB before it’s gone. Join us for the final days of this exhibition!
It has been an honor to host Rosha Yaghmai at MCASB and we are so grateful to our community for welcoming this exhibition. Thank you to all who have visited in person; your continued support makes it all possible. Click here to view our hours >>>
We are looking forward to seeing you at our next exhibition!
UCSB — The Current — ‘Diverse Voices, Diverse Approaches to Theater’ and more stories
Bilingual report — Update: Jan. 4, 2022 — At Home Test Kit Distribution
Good Morning – While supplies last a limited amount of COVID-19 home testing kits will be distributed at no cost by Ventura County Public Health today.
What: Drive through at home Covid-19 testing distribution
Where: Freedom Park, 275 E Pleasant Valley Road, Camarillo 93010 (Enter at Freedom Park Dr past the baseball fields)
When: Tuesday, January 4 from 1-3 pm
*Supplies limited *No cost
There will be NO distribution at Solar Drive in Oxnard. Only for Ventura County residents. Please be prepared to show ID.
Museum of Ventura County — New Year, New Museum Happenings
MVC Insider Season 3
Episode 3: Lucy Hicks Anderson
Friday, January 7, 2022 @ 10am
On Facebook Live
Get to know your local trans icon and trailblazer Lucy Hicks Anderson! Lucy was the first trans woman in history to fight for marriage equality in court, was an award winning baker, and ran a bordello here in Ventura County. That’s just in a nutshell– you won’t want to miss this MVC Insider! Mark your calendars and tune-in on Facebook for the next five Fridays at 10am. Check out all upcoming MVC Insiders here.
The Ventura County Community Development Corp. (VCCDC) — We’re hiring!
Start the new year with a new career! If you would love to empower our community and help families achieve their financial and homeownership goals apply for the Homeownership Specialist position today! VCCDC offers a comprehensive benefits package including a generous paid time off plan, paid holidays, various health insurance plans including a plan offering 100% premium coverage for the employee and a 403b retirement plan.
Bilingual report — County of Ventura Jan. 3, 2022 – COVID-19 Update
Since Wednesday, December 29, there have been 5,283 new COVID-19 cases reported and 34,015 new tests completed. There are 162 people hospitalized and 27 in the ICU. There have been 2 additional deaths of 73 and 65 year old males. Our sincere condolences to the family and loved ones of the community members who passed away. The R-effective for Ventura County is 1.83 which indicates that the speed of COVID is likely increasing rapidly.
Find a vaccine site at www.vaccines.gov or make an appointment directly at MyTurn.CA.gov. The Public Health clinic schedule is available at www.vcrecovers.org/vaccine.
COVID Therapeutics are currently in severely short supply. If you test positive for COVID-19, are exhibiting symptoms, and feel as though you meet the factors identified in the below risk groups, call your physician to see if you are eligible and where you might be able to receive treatment.
Ventura County Schools to Prioritize Safety Upon Return from Winter Break
78.7% of community members (ages 5+) have received one or more COVID vaccine doses.
72% of eligible community members have been fully vaccinated.
77.7% of community members 12+ have been fully vaccinated.
Economic Development Collaborative (EDC) Free Webinar Schedule
The Economic Development Collaborative encourages you to sign up for our partner’s no-cost webinars. Space is limited. Register today!
SCORE SANTA BARBARA COUNTY: AMAZON 101 – ASSESSMENT, IMPLEMENTATION AND STORE MANAGEMENT
January 4 @ 5:00 pm
In this workshop John Richardson will discuss the basics as it relates to if and how to setup your own Amazon Store.
CLICK HERE TO REGISTER
Bilingual report — Ventura County Public Health to distribute limited supply of at home COVID-19 test kits 1/3 and 1/4
While supplies last a limited amount of COVID-19 home testing kits will be distributed at no cost by Ventura County Public Health on January 3 and January 4. Given the limited amount, of tests made available to Public Health from the state and federal agencies, current priority for these rapid tests are Ventura County residents that 1) were exposed recently to someone that has been confirmed COVID-19 positive, and 2) that have had symptoms for 2-3 days.
What: Drive through at home Covid-19 testing distribution
Where: 1801 Solar Drive, parking lot next to North Oxnard Public Health Clinic
When: Monday, January 3 from 3-5 and Tuesday, January 4 from 10-12
*Supplies limited *No cost
Ventura County Schools to Prioritize Safety Upon Return from Winter Break
As Ventura County students prepare to return from winter break amid increasing COVID-19 cases in the community, local school leaders are taking all possible steps to ensure the safety of students and employees
While some colleges and universities have announced plans to revert to distance learning temporarily, this is not an option for Pre-K-12 schools. The State of California does not currently permit Pre-K-12 schools to offer distance learning and expects all schools to keep their doors open for in-person instruction. Schools do provide an independent study option that allows students to learn from home. But unlike distance learning, it must be requested individually by families and is not intended to serve large numbers of students.
“The Ventura County Office of Education is continuing to work closely with Ventura County Public Health and our local school districts to ensure the safety of students and staff,” said Dr. César Morales, Ventura County Superintendent of Schools. “A major effort is underway to expand optional COVID-19 testing for students so we can reduce the chances of the virus spreading at school. Many school districts have been working diligently during the winter break to distribute home test kits to families, and we expect a greater supply of kits to be available soon.” Free testing is also available at locations throughout Ventura County.
Bilingual report — County of Ventura transitions to in person services by appointment to help prevent the spread of COVID-19, online services encouraged, all essential services to continue
The County of Ventura will close its buildings to the public effective Wednesday, January 5, for a three-week period, as a precautionary measure to slow the spread of COVID-19. Services will continue to be available online at www.ventura.org and by appointment at 805-654-5000. The health conditions will be monitored, and a reopening date will be announced after the three-week period.
“Our County is committed to the continuity of all services while helping to protect community members and County employees. Services will continue as we temporarily modify operations. Community members are encouraged to take advantage of on-line services or schedule an appointment in advance,” said County Executive Officer Mike Powers. “I appreciate the dedicated service of our nearly 10,000 County employees as they continue to respond to the pandemic and carry-on essential services without delay. I also appreciate our community members as we work together to move forward.”
Ventura County Arts Council — County Employee | Retiree Images, Judges Comments, and Art Pickup
Santa Barbara Latino Philanthropic Leaders Raise Over $15K to Support Board Leadership Development and Invite New Members to join the 2022 Giving Cycle
The Santa Barbara Latino Giving Circle (SBLGC) announced that it will invest over $15,500 in three nonprofits in the greater Santa Barbara region. The SBLGC is part of the Latino Community Foundation’s (LCF) Latino Giving Circle Network™, a philanthropic group harnessing the collective power of paying it forward and civic engagement.
The three organizations selected for funding fall into the group’s priorities of board leadership development and mental health:
Central Coast Alliance United for a Sustainable Economy (Santa Barbara) – CAUSE is a base-building organization for social, economic and environmental justice with Central Coast working class and immigrant communities.
Future Leaders of America (Santa Maria) – develops youth resiliency and leadership to create long-lasting systemic change by empowering and mobilizing youth leaders to advocate for policies that improve their lives and the lives of their peers and their communities.
Leading from Within (Santa Barbara) – Leading From Within invests in leaders who drive and create change.
Clinicas del Camino Real Inc. celebrates Annual Toy Distribution 2021
As 2021 comes to a close, we look back at the immense challenges we’ve all faced this year. This year has without a doubt been difficult and a little different for everyone. Keeping in mind the patients and their families who put their trust in Clinicas; we recognize that creating joy during the holiday season is just as important as providing quality health care to our community.
Kaiser Permanente makes changes to ‘A Healthier Future’ Rose Parade float participation due to rising COVID-19 positivity rate
Taking into consideration that our Southern California region is experiencing a 26% COVID-19 positivity rate, and Los Angeles County currently has a 17.6% positivity rate and in consultation with our infectious disease experts, we have decided to continue to have our “A Healthier Future” float participate in the Tournament of Roses Parade.?Unfortunately, we will not feature our 20 front-line medical heroes as float riders and “out-walkers.” We must prioritize the health and safety of our front-line medical staff and ensure we are able to treat patients during this recent surge of COVID-19 cases caused by the omicron variant.
Bilingual report — Ventura County Clerk-Recorder, Registrar of Voters Lunn Announces Signatures-In-Lieu Period for June 7, 2022 Statewide Direct Primary Election
County Clerk-Recorder, Registrar of Voters Mark Lunn announced (Dec. 30) that signatures-in-lieu of the filing fee petitions for the June 7, 2022 Statewide Direct Primary Election may be obtained from the Ventura County Elections Division beginning Monday, January 3, 2022, for the following offices:
Port of Hueneme Last Dock Talk of 2021 – Year End Review
CLICK to read a recap of what the Port of Hueneme has been up to in 2021. The Port Commissioners and staff wish you a safe, happy and prosperous 2022.
Bilingual report — Dec. 29, 2021 – COVID-19 Update
Since Monday there have been 1,052 new COVID-19 cases reported and 12,750 new tests completed. There are 92 people hospitalized and 18 in the ICU. There has been 4 additional deaths of a 58 year old male, 60 year old female, 78 year old male, and a 93 year old female. Our sincere condolences to the family and loved ones of the community members who passed away.The R-effective for Ventura County is 1.08. Delays in case reporting lead to underestimates of R-eff. It is possible that testing patterns over the Christmas and New Year holidays will result in abnormal trends.
End-of-year message from Ventura County Animal Services
What a year this has been for all of us! Despite the many challenges that 2021 brought, we are happy to report that our agency remained committed to our life-saving mission, having reunited thousands of lost animals with their families, and found new, loving homes for thousands more. Innovative programs we have created over the years continue to grow and evolve as the needs of our community change. But none of our many accomplishments would have been possible without the passionate dedication of our staff and volunteers who give their heart and soul to each and every animal, every day.
Economic Development Collaborative (EDC) — Free Weekly Webinar Schedule
SCORE SANTA BARBARA COUNTY: AMAZON 101 – ASSESSMENT, IMPLEMENTATION AND STORE MANAGEMENT
January 4 @ 5:00 pm
In this workshop John Richardson will discuss the basics as it relates to if and how to setup your own Amazon Store.
CLICK HERE TO REGISTER
Ventura County Community Development Corporation Receives $50,000 Bank of America Grant Award
The Ventura County Community Development Corporation (VCCDC) received a $50,000 grant from Bank of America to help continue the organization’s mission to increase homeownership and economic stability to low- and moderate-income families and individuals in Ventura, Santa Barbara, Kern, and Los Angeles Counties. This is the largest support received to-date by Bank of America Charitable Foundation, which underscores VCCDC service and outreach to an underserved market.
Economic Development Collaborative (EDC) — Happy Holidays!
All of us at the EDC are wishing you and your families a happy and safe holiday season! We are grateful to have worked with you over the last year and are excited to connect with you again in the new year.
Ventura County Animal Services — Hungry animals need your support!
Thousands of animals benefit from your support. Your donation helps: fill empty bellies, mend broken bones, heal the sick, provide enrichment activities, and so much more. Thank you for all you do for the animals in our care!
Jan. 6 — Santa Barbara Museum of Art will present Art Matters Lecture ‘Buried by Vesuvius: Conserving a Monumental Drunken Satyr Bronze Statue from Herculaneum’
The Santa Barbara Museum of Art will present Art Matters Lecture
“Buried by Vesuvius: Conserving a Monumental Drunken Satyr Bronze Statue from Herculaneum,” with Erik Risser, Associate Conservator of Antiquities, J. Paul Getty Museum, at 5:30 p.m. Thursday, Jan. 6, 2022.
In advance of the international loan exhibition Buried by Vesuvius: Treasures from the Villa dei Papiri at the Getty Villa in Los Angeles in 2019, the Museo Archeologico Nazionale di Napoli (MANN) generously lent the bronze statue of a Drunken Satyr for study, analysis, and conservation.