Category: Noticias

Bilingual commentary — Kisses

Editor’s note: Amigos805 welcomes local guest columns, letters to the editor and other submissions from our readers. All opinions expressed in submitted material are those of the author and do not necessarily represent the viewpoint of Amigos805. By David Magallanes •…

Teatro de las Américas — Karaoke Night! (Sept. 16); ‘The Journey of the Skeletons / El viaje de los esqueletos’ (Oct. 27 through Nov. 12)

Afina tu garganta y ven a divertirte en la esperada Karaoke Night del teatro de las Américas. Organizado por voluntarios y amigos del teatro. Disfruta de un refresco o una copa de vino mientras escuchas las canciones favoritas de la voz de amigos que esta noche se convertirán en grandes cantantes y coopera con el Teatro de las Américas para que haya más teatro en español en Oxnard.
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Practice your singing and come and have fun at the long-awaited Karaoke Night at the Teatro de las Américas. This event is organized by volunteers and friends of the theater. Enjoy a soft drink or a glass of wine while listening to the favorite songs of the voice of friends who will become great singers tonight and cooperate with the Theater of the Americas so that there is more theater in Spanish in Oxnard

Bilingual report — Board of Supervisors appoint Korinne Bell as Ventura County Agricultural Commissioner

VENTURA — On Tuesday, September 12, the Ventura County Board of Supervisors, through unanimous vote, appointed Korinne Bell to the position of Agricultural Commissioner. Bell’s appointment was made following the retirement of the previous Agricultural Commissioner, Ed Williams, in August.…

Bilingual report — Oxnard City Manager Alexander Nguyen Appoints Jeff Pengilley as Community Development Director

OXNARD —The City of Oxnard announced the appointment of Jeff Pengilley as Oxnard’s new Community Development Director.

A longstanding and committed Oxnard public servant, Pengilley joined the City in 2000 as a Plan Check Engineer and has held various key positions related to engineering services and building regulations. He most recently served as the Community Development Department’s Assistant Director for the past four years.

“Jeff brings extensive knowledge and experience within Oxnard to this leadership role,” said City Manager Alexander Nguyen. “I am confident that he will continue to steer the department towards implementing solutions that bring greater efficiency and results for Oxnard residents and businesses.”

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

EN ESPAÑOL: COMO CONSTRUIR TU EQUIPO FINANCIERO

7 de septiembre a las 12:00 pm

Aprenda cómo, identificar sus necesidades, conectar con asesores profesionales, investigar y entrevistar, y alinearse con sus valores. Patrocinado por Bank of America.

HAGA CLIC AQUÍ PARA INSCRIBIRSE

Bilingual report — City of Oxnard’s Community Relations Commission Accepting Nominations for 2023 Community Recognition Awards Program

OXNARD — The City’s Community Relations Commission (CRC) announces that nominations are now being accepted for the 2023 Community Recognition Awards Program. 

The CRC is a citizen advisory group for the City of Oxnard that promotes mutual understanding and respect among all minority and non-minority groups, and it facilitates inter-group harmony through educational and cultural activities. Since 1989, the CRC awards program has recognized deserving individuals and groups that work to support the mission of the CRC in the Oxnard community.

“We look forward to celebrating individuals, organizations and businesses that are committed to discouraging unfair practices and prejudices in Oxnard,” said CRC Chair Tiffany Lopez. “These individuals further promote our efforts to encourage education, acceptance and understanding for all community members.”

Bilingual report — EDC SBDC Business Advisor Juliana Ramírez Receives Pacific Coast Business Times Community Spirit Award

We are thrilled to share an exciting accomplishment that speaks to our team’s dedication and impact on small business development. We are delighted that Juliana Ramírez, an EDC SBDC Business Advisor, was honored at the Pacific Coast Business Times (PCBT): Spirit of Small Business Awards held on August 17th.

The Spirit of Small Business Awards, a partnership of Pacific Coast Business Times and the U.S. Small Business Administration’s Los Angeles District Office, shines a spotlight on the innovation and resilience of small enterprises. Since its inception in 2003, this event has showcased inspiring company profiles, informative how-to articles and a valuable resource guide.

Bilingual report — UC Santa Barbara conducting research on families living in the U.S. and Mexico

SANTA BARBARA — UC Santa Barbara is conducting a research project with Latina, Latino, or Hispanic immigrant families who currently live apart because one parent migrated to the United States, while the other parent remained in a country within Latin America. Families who participate in the study will receive $140 in compensation for their time.

Bilingual report — Workforce Development Board of Ventura County partners with Goodwill to offer short-term jobs restoring local parks damaged by flooding

VENTURA — Workforce Development Board of Ventura County (WDBVC) is excited to announce short-term jobs for unemployed adults, to help clean, repair, and restore local parks damaged by the devastating winter storms of 2022-23.   

WDBVC and Goodwill of Ventura have partnered with the federally funded National Dislocated Worker Grant (NDWG), which allows Goodwill to hire workers to clean up mudslides and landslides from the severe storms of 2022-2023. These temporary jobs as restoration team members have flexible hours with pay of up to $25 an hour and provide on-the-job training and work experience.  

With Ventura County unemployment at 4.2%, this is an excellent chance for those who have faced long-term unemployment (four weeks straight or more) to earn an income making a meaningful difference in their community. No previous experience is required, though workers must be at least 18 years old and have the legal right to work in the U.S.  

Bilingual report — EDC Granted Funding from VCCF to Advance Isabella Project

SANTA PAULA — The Economic Development Collaborative (EDC) has been granted first-year funding by the Ventura County Community Foundation (VCCF) to advance the Isabella Project. With the impending implementation of Universal Pre-K (UPK) in California, the funding will be instrumental in addressing potential disruptions faced by early childhood education (ECE) providers and fostering resilience during this transition.

California’s implementation of UPK over the next several years with full implementation by 2025-26 will ensure all children who turn four years old by September 1 of a given school year are provided free access to a Transitional Kindergarten (TK) program from their local school district.

Bilingual report — Santa Paula Parks & Recreation Department and School District Collaborate to Expand Youth Sports Access

SANTA PAULA — The Santa Paula Parks & Recreation Department and the Santa Paula Unified School District are proud to announce a transformative partnership focused on increasing access to youth sports in the community. This collaboration aims to overcome barriers and provide a comprehensive range of sports opportunities for students in 3rd to 8th grade.

Recognizing the importance of youth sports in fostering physical activity, teamwork, and personal growth, the Parks & Recreation Department and the School District have come together to develop a program that addresses existing challenges. The goal is to ensure that all interested youth have the chance to participate, regardless of financial constraints or logistical hurdles.

Bilingual report — Ventura County Public Works Agency Budgets Pavement Plan to Improve Road Safety and Quality

VENTURA COUNTY — The Board of Supervisors recently approved Ventura County Public Works Agency’s (VCPWA) Multi-Year Pavement Plan 2024 – 2028. The Road Repair and Accountability Act funds this Plan with a planned five-year budget of $45 Million.

VCPWA has plans to resurface 192 centerline miles (centerline miles represent the total length of a given road from a start point to an endpoint. The mileage does not include the size, number of lanes, or other features, like shoulders and turn lanes). Other works added to the paving projects are repairs to culvert and storm drains, curb and gutter, and sidewalks (which are reimbursed by the property owners). In addition, VCPWA will improve drainage, ADA access curb ramps, pavement widening at curves, and correct safety issues when feasible. 

Santa Paula Police Explorers Excel in Regional Tactical Competition

SANTA PAULA — Law Enforcement Explorers from Santa Paula Police Department Post 2350 participated in the “Channel Islands Challenge” regional competition in Oxnard August 11-13, 2023. Seven Santa Paula Police Explorers participated and competed with other explorer posts in a three-day competition. The young men and women from Santa Paula were successful with a first place, second place, and four (4) third place awards.

The competition, hosted by the Oxnard Police Explorers, included explorer posts from the Los Angeles County Sheriff’s Department, Oxnard Police Department, Riverside Police Department, Santa Monica Police Department, Simi Valley Police Department, Torrance Police Department, Santa Maria Police Department, and California Highway Patrol.

Bilingual report — Santa Barbara County First District Supervisor Das Williams — Hurricane Hilary Impacts Possible Across Santa Barbara County

The National Weather Service and National Hurricane Center are forecasting the potential for Hurricane Hilary to impact central and southern California counties, including any area within Santa Barbara County. Moderate to heavy rain, strong winds, coastal storm surge and erosion, and hazardous sea conditions are possible. These conditions may start locally as early as Sunday afternoon (August 20).

The National Weather Service has also issued a FLOOD WATCH for the foothills above Santa Barbara, Montecito, Summerland, and Carpinteria and the Eastern Santa Ynez mountain range due to the potential for heavy rainfall from Hurricane Hilary. The FLOOD WATCH is in effect from Sunday (August 20) at 4pm through Monday (August 21) at 11pm.

Here are some resources you can use to get the latest information:

Bilingual report — Peoples’ Self-Help Housing (PSHH) announces Notice of Delay | Notificación de retraso for pre-applications for People’s Place in Santa Paula

Due to circumstances outside of our control, the pre-application for People’s Place, previously announced for Monday, August 28, has been delayed. Current estimates for this process to resume are late 2023.

We regret any inconvenience this may have caused and will update our websiteas soon as new information is available.

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Debido a circunstancias fuera de nuestro control, la pre-aplicación para People’s Place, anunciada para el lunes 28 de agosto, ha sido retrasada. Estimamos que el proceso será reanudando a finales de 2023.  

Lamentamos cualquier inconveniente y pondremos la información pertinente en nuestra página web tan pronto como esté disponible.

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

EN ESPAÑOL: SBA: 10 PASOS PARA INICIAR SU EMPRESA

15 de agosto 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

WEV: WHAT IS IMPOSTER SYNDROME?

August 15 @ 12:30 pm

Have you experienced feeling like an imposter? Do you doubt your abilities and/or capabilities? This is called Imposter Syndrome. Imposter Syndrome is a common experience that is completely normal. Join WEV for this presentation with Isabelle Hertz, founder and CEO of Isabelle Hertz Coaching, who will discuss and teach you about Imposter Syndrome, how to navigate it and what strategies can be used when you notice it arising.

CLICK HERE TO REGISTER

Bilingual report — Gold Coast Health Plan Appoints Chief Innovation Officer

CAMARILLO — Gold Coast Health Plan (GCHP) today announced the appointment of Eve Gelb as its new Chief Innovation Officer. With a proven track record of success, Eve will serve in a critical role, helping drive excellence, innovation, and quality care for GCHP’s more than 250,000 Medi-Cal members.

“As part of Gold Coast Health Plan’s mission to continue to build and improve equity and access across the Medi-Cal system of services and supports in Ventura County, we thoughtfully added a Chief Innovation Officer position to our Executive Team – which itself is an innovation for the organization,” said Nick Liguori, GCHP’s Chief Executive Officer. “Eve will lead the way as we improve the execution and integration of complex, mission-critical and strategic initiatives that will ultimately lead to better outcomes for our members, greater access to quality care, and a superior member experience.”

Bilingual commentary — Economic Development Collaborative (EDC) Celebrates SBDC Director’s Co-Authorship of Landmark COVID-19 Innovation Study

CAMARILLO — The Economic Development Collaborative (EDC) is thrilled to announce that EDC Small Business Development Center (SBDC) Director, Dr. Ray Bowman, has co-authored a groundbreaking study titled “Who innovates during a crisis? Evidence from small businesses during COVID-19.” The study, published in the Journal of Evolutionary Economics, provides unique empirical evidence of how small businesses innovated during the initial uncertainty and rapid changes of the COVID-19 pandemic.

Bilingual report — Santa Paula Police Dept. – Back to School Traffic Safety Awareness

SANTA PAULA — As the beginning of the new school year approaches (this week), the Santa Paula Police Department reminds residents, parents, and students to practice caution and safety in observance of drivers, pedestrians, bicyclists, and school buses.

The first day of school is Wednesday, August 9, 2023. Vehicle and pedestrian traffic will be impacted during drop- off and pickup times. Here are helpful tips for back to school traffic safety:

Bilingual report — County of Ventura and Museum of Ventura County announce upcoming series of events in celebration of 150th Anniversary of Ventura County

VENTURA — The County of Ventura and the Museum of Ventura County will be holding a series of family-friendly pop-up celebrations across the county in celebration of the 150thAnniversary of Ventura County. The pop-up celebrations will be held at larger festival events and will feature community organizations that will provide opportunities for adults and children to interact and learn more about the rich history and traditions of Ventura County. These community partners will provide opportunities for residents to participate in arts and crafts activities, enjoy performances, and learn more about Ventura County’s heritage both past and present. A full calendar of events can be found at www.venturacounty150.com

Bilingual report — ¡Viva el Arte de Santa Bárbara! Announces its 2023-2024 Season featuring Prominent Musical and Dance Performers

SANTA BARBARA —  ¡Viva el Arte de Santa Bárbara! (Viva) returns with a fantastic lineup for its 2023-2024 season. The season features five impressive performers including Grammy nominee Perla Batalla, the nationally distinguished Ballet Folklórico de Los Ángeles, America’s first all-female mariachi Mariachi Reyna de Los Ángeles, music innovator Quitapenas, and dynamic Bordeño-soul group Jarabe Mexicano. 

Bilingual report — Teatro de las Américas — Juguetones (5, 8, 12 de agosto), Entre Pancho Villa y una Mujer Desnuda (11 y 12 de agosto)

Teatro de las Américas presenta para la familia un espectáculo lleno de humor, títeres, payasos, magia, y misterio.

Escrito por el grupo cómico del Teatro de las Américas con: James Donlon, Alina Cenal, Albert Smith, Mateo Escobedo y Óscar Marrón. Dirigido por James Donlon.

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Teatro de las Américas presents a show full of humor, puppets, clowns, magic, and mystery for the family.

Written by the comedy group of the Theater of the Americas with: James Donlon, Alina Cenal, Albert Smith, Mateo Escobedo and Oscar Brown. Directed by James Donlon.

Bilingual report — Department of Child Support Services celebrates August as Child Support Awareness Month

CAMARILLO — The Ventura County Department of Child Support Services (VCDCSS) proudly joins all 50 states in commemorating August as Child Support Awareness Month, celebrating exemplary parents and families who play a vital role in their children’s lives.

Child Support Awareness Month, observed annually, reaffirms the inherent right of every child to receive emotional and financial support from both parents. VCDCSS remains steadfastly dedicated to nurturing supportive relationships between parents and their children, encouraging co-parents to fulfill their child support obligations consistently and promptly.

Bilingual report — SING! 2023 fall registration now open/comienza el registro

No experience required! Free of charge
Sing! is designed to empower young people, from 1st to 6th grade, to communicate with confidence, empathize with others, and encourage creative thinking. Sing! will help children learn about their own personal history through music and provide an opportunity to connect with others through the joy of singing.

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

VENTURA — The County of Ventura honored 17 employees on Tuesday, July 25 during the regular Board of Supervisors meeting for their dedication to continuous county service. This event was part of the County of Ventura’s Employee Continuous Service Recognition Program which recognizes staff who have reached milestones with 25 years or more of service to the county.

“It is such a special day, and I would like to thank you all along with our Board and all your families and friends and coworkers who are here today,” said 3rd District Supervisor Kelly Long. “Thank you for your dedication and your big hearts and all that you do on a daily basis for our residents of Ventura County. I know they do not always know the amazing work that you’re doing but to take that time today and recognize it is special.”

Bilingual report — The latest news from the County of Ventura

The County of Ventura and the Museum of Ventura County will be holding a series of family-friendly pop-up celebrations across the county in celebration of the 150th Anniversary of Ventura County. You can catch our team at our first pop-up celebration during the Ventura County Fair on Friday, August 4!

Pop-up celebrations will be held at larger festival events and will feature community organizations that will provide opportunities for adults and children to interact and learn more about the rich history and traditions of Ventura County. These community partners will provide opportunities for residents to participate in arts and crafts activities, enjoy performances, and learn more about Ventura County’s heritage both past and present.

A full calendar of events can be found at www.venturacounty150.com

Bilingual report — Deadline to Apply for FEMA Assistance Extended to Sept. 1

SACRAMENTO — Renters and homeowners in 14 counties impacted by the February and March  storms and flooding will now have more time to sign up for federal disaster assistance.

FEMA’s registration period, due to end July 20, has been extended to Sept. 1, 2023.

The eligible counties are Butte, Kern, Madera, Mariposa, Mendocino, Mono, Monterey, Nevada, San Benito, San Bernardino, San Luis Obispo, Santa Cruz, Tulare and Tuolumne.

The extended registration deadline will provide  more time for survivors living in remote areas as well as for residents in counties recently designated for federal disaster assistance.

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

“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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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.”