VENTURA — After serving for 10 days as a one-stop center for fire recovery information and assistance, the Local Assistance Center that was run to assist residents impacted by the Mountain Fire will close its doors on Saturday, November 23, at 7:00 p.m. Residents still seeking services are encouraged to visit the Center by Saturday or they may obtain services after Saturday by visiting existing local County and City of Camarillo government offices.
We would like to take a moment to recognize the incredible work of our shelter staff, volunteers, and Emergency Volunteer Rescue Team (EVRT) during the recent Mountain Fire. In the midst of the emergency, 446 animals were brought to us for safety, either by their families or by members of our Emergency Volunteer Rescue Team, 38 of whom worked TIRELESSLY to rescue and transport animals from the fire’s path, often through hazardous conditions!
Our amazing shelter staff who worked 12-hour shifts, caring for animals at both the Camarillo Shelter and the Ventura County Fairgrounds. They managed intake, provided safe shelter for animals, and gave comfort to families who had lost so much.
We also want to recognize the 121 VCAS volunteers who collectively worked 416 hours at the Camarillo Shelter, managing donations, cleaning kennels, and comforting animals whose families had been evacuated.
Have you thought about kicking the nicotine habit to improve your health and reduce your chances of acquiring lung cancer or heart failure?
If you’re looking for extra motivation, then consider quitting smoking during the Great American Smokeout that takes place this Thursday, Nov. 21. Doing so won’t only improve your health, but it will also reverse years of likely damage done to your heart and lungs.
When it comes to giving up the nicotine habit, naturally, you may say that’s easier said than done, as giving up smoking can seem to be a daunting task. You may also think that it’s too late to quit smoking and reverse years of impact on your health.
OJAI — The Humane Society of Ventura County (HSVC) announced today the appointment of Tim Blaylock as its new Executive Director.
With over 30 years of experience in leadership and non-profit management, Blaylock brings a wealth of experience and passion to the organization’s mission of improving the lives of animals in Ventura County.
This heartwarming community campaign centers around collecting new, unwrapped toys and sports equipment for underserved children and teenagers in Ventura County. In partnership with the American Red Cross, the drive Spark Of Love will prioritize supporting those will work to prioritize families affected impacted by the recent Mountain fire.
Donations of non-perishable food and toys can be made at any participating Spark of Love donation location, ensuring that your generosity directly impacts our local community.
A representative from the U.S. Department of Agriculture Farm Service Agency (USDA FSA) will be available onsite this week to assist ranchers and growers.
November 19th, Tuesday 9am-2pm
VC Ag Commissioner’s Camarillo Office
555 Airport Way, Suite E
Camarillo, CA 93010
November 20th, Wednesday 9am-2pm
VC Ag Commissioner’s Camarillo Office
555 Airport Way, Suite E
Camarillo, CA 93010
November 21st, Thursday 9am-2pm
VC Ag Commissioner’s Camarillo Office
555 Airport Way, Suite E
Camarillo, CA 93010
As I type out this article, the Santa Ana Winds are howling. They are blowing leaves, sending them into the air, and piling them up in front of doors like snow during a blizzard. True to their reputation, these winds have spurred a fire nearby, leaving me and my community in a smoky environment, both inside and outside our homes.
Southern California has the unique misfortune of hosting the Santa Ana Winds, which occur unfailingly throughout the year at random intervals. Like stories that are told among families over generations, they carry a mystique that is both unsettling and fascinating.
Following the impact of the Mountain Fire, please know that there is a strong network of agencies working tirelessly to support your recovery. Today, we launched a Local Assistance Center, in Camarillo, providing resources for those affected. Whether you need information on housing, financial assistance, or guidance on cleanup and rebuilding, there is help available for you and your family.
As you begin to rebuild, I want you to know that I am here for you. Together, we’ll navigate this path and help our community rise stronger than before.
I would also like to extend my heartfelt thanks to the many residents, businesses, and nonprofits that have stepped up in impactful ways to support recovery. Your kindness and commitment are truly making a difference during these challenging times.
SANTA BARBARA — At times when the world feels unsettled, the Community Environmental Council is the place where you can turn for hope, empowerment, and tangible action. That’s what we’ve been doing for over 50 years, and we’re good at it.
But building strong heart-centered, climate-resilient, environmentally-sound communities isn’t easy. It takes grit and — for real — we need your support. Here’s our plan of action:
THOUSAND OAKS — The Ventura County Fire Department (VCFD) has been awarded a $92,113 grant from the California Office of Traffic Safety (OTS) to support programs aimed at preventing motor vehicle injuries to children, the agencies announced today. The grant program runs through September 2025.
This year’s funding continues VCFD’s mission to educate the community on child passenger safety, with initiatives to increase awareness and provide resources to ensure that children are properly secured in vehicles throughout Ventura County.
VENTURA — On Thursday, November 14, 2024, the County of Ventura and the City of Camarillo will open a Local Assistance Center (LAC) at the Ventura County Office of Education Conference Center at 5100 Adolfo Road in Camarillo. The Local Assistance Center will help residents as they begin their recovery process from the Mountain Fire.
Information will be available on-site on the following topics: rebuilding, tax relief, business and employment assistance, debris removal, permits, housing, rental assistance, vital records, property assessments, public assistance, crisis intervention stress management, and basic needs. Services such as replacement of driver’s licenses and connection to health care resources will also be available on site.
VENTURA — On Nov. 8, 2024, due to potential widespread toxic exposures and threats to public health and the environment that exist in the aftermath of a major wildfire disaster, the Ventura County Public Health Officer declared a Local Health Emergency to limit the public’s exposure to hazardous substances. This Declaration will be presented to the County Board of Supervisors for ratification during their Board meeting on November 12, 2024.
VENTURA COUNTY — Monday, November 11, is a regularly scheduled school holiday. On Tuesday, November 12, most Ventura County schools will be operating normally. However, the following schools and districts have announced closures as they continue to respond to impacts from the Mountain Fire.
VENTURA — Ventura College has been awarded a $150,000 grant through the Veterans Mental Health Demonstration Project. As one of only ten community colleges across California to receive this critical funding aimed at enhancing mental health and wellness support for veteran students, Ventura College will be able to commit even more resources to fostering a supportive and inclusive campus environment for veterans.
Provided through the California Chancellors Office, the grant aims to bolster mental health outreach and peer support for veterans transitioning from military to civilian life. These funds are particularly vital to Ventura College as its Veteran Resource Center (VRC) served more than 370 veteran students in the 2022-2023 school year.
Our hearts go out to all those who have been impacted by the Mountain Fire. We understand what an unpredictable and challenging time lies ahead for so many of our community members as they navigate seeking aid and resources in the face of tremendous loss.
Ventura County Voluntary Organizations Active in Disasters (VCVOAD) has created a needs assessment form to support Ventura County community members impacted by the Mountain Fire.
If you, or someone you know, has been impacted, please fill out the Needs Assessment Form below or call 2-1-1 for assistance. This form can also be found on our Disaster Relief website page.
The impact of the Mountain Fire on our community has been truly heartbreaking. My heart goes out to everyone affected. As I toured the impacted neighborhoods, I witnessed firsthand the immense loss and devastation that has struck District 2.
I also spent time at the evacuation center today, and in the midst of this tragedy, I was reminded of the extraordinary resilience of our community. We have faced challenges before, and each time, we’ve come together, emerging stronger and more united.
Now, more than ever, many of our neighbors need our support. Below, I’ve included resources for those affected and ways to help if you feel moved to lend a hand. I am deeply grateful to the many first responders, county departments, partner agencies, community groups, and individuals who have shown up to assist in incredible ways during this difficult time. Your generosity and dedication have been a light in the darkness.
SACRAMENTO — Gov. Gavin Newsom (on Nov. 7) issued a proclamation convening a special session of the California Legislature to safeguard California values and fundamental rights in the face of an incoming Trump administration. The special session will focus on bolstering California legal resources to protect civil rights, reproductive freedom, climate action, and immigrant families.
This is the first of several actions by the Newsom Administration, in partnership with the Legislature, as the Governor begins shoring up California’s defenses against an incoming federal administration that has threatened the state on multiple fronts.
The Mountain Fire began in the Somis area on November 6, 2024, and has since expanded to other cities. If you or your business are affected, resources are listed below.
County Specific Resources
Ventura, Santa Barbara and Los Angeles counties have not declared any disasters. For updates, check your county’s website below.
County of Ventura, click here
County of Santa Barbara, click here
County of Los Angeles, click here
CAMARILLO — CSU Channel Islands has announced that the campus remains safe but due to severe disruptions from the Mountain Fire and significant impacts on several members of the campus community, classes have been canceled for Thursday and Friday, Nov. 7 and 8.
Monday, Nov. 11 is a campus holiday in observance of Veterans Day and classes and full campus operations will resume on Tuesday, Nov. 12.
Updates will continue to be provided on the campus website at www.csuci.edu or by calling the information hotline at 805-437-3911.
The below list has been updated with additional closures since our prior email. Please refer the public to www.vcoe.org for a list of Ventura County school closures that will be continuously updated throughout the duration of this emergency.
VENTURA COUNTY — Due to impacts from the Mountain Fire, the following Ventura County schools and districts have announced closures for Thursday, November 7 and Friday, November 8, 2024.
Note from the CEO,
As the Mountain Fire continues to affect parts of Ventura County, we want to make sure you have the latest resources and support available to protect your operations, workers, and property. Our hearts go out to everyone impacted, and we’re here to assist however we can.
In this email, you’ll find links to resources on fire safety, evacuation guidance, air quality updates, and available emergency services. Please review these resources and reach out if you need additional assistance. The safety of our members and community remains our top priority.
Stay safe,
Maureen McGuire
Farm Bureau of Ventura County
Cell: (805) 310-3620
VENTURA COUNTY — In response to the County of Ventura’s Red Flag Warning and the current fires, American Medical Response Ventura County (AMR Ventura County) and its affiliate Gold Coast Ambulance (GCA) have upstaffed an additional five ambulances in the 9-1-1 system today. The additional staffing will assist with the extra call volume expected as a result of the poor air quality, while allowing the Ventura County Fire Department first responders to focus on fire response. Several AMR Ventura County and GCA crews have been assigned to the fire and are also assisting with evacuations, and AMR Ventura County and GCA are prepared to add additional staffing as needed to support the Ventura County community.
VENTURA — The Ventura County Air Pollution Control District is issuing an Air Quality Alert because unhealthy conditions exist.
Smoke from the Mountain Fire is causing the Air Quality Index (AQI) to fall in the unhealthy range for everyone in Oxnard and Camarillo. Smoke and ash from wildfires contain very small particles that can harm the lungs and heart.
The district issues Air Quality Alerts when the AQI has reached or is forecast to reach an unhealthy level for all. A lower AQI can affect sensitive groups. This includes children, older adults and people with heart disease or respiratory conditions such as asthma, chronic obstructive pulmonary disease and emphysema.
The alert is in effect until conditions improve.
As children of all ages prepare for and look forward to “trick or treating” this Halloween, many parents are rightfully asking themselves how they can ensure that their little ghosts and goblins will be safe and sound during this upcoming festive holiday.
Dr. Patricia De La Riva, a pediatrician with Kaiser Permanente Woodland Hills/West Ventura Service Area, encourages parents to make lasting memories with their children. However, she notes it’s also important to remember there are important avoidable safety hazards lurking that can result in injury and illness.“A good start is to make sure your children are up to date with their vaccines, such as those that protect against pertussis given the recent rise in cases, and vaccines that help to prevent influenza and Covid-19 infection,” she said. Additionally, Dr. De La Riva addressed several scary health issues parents should be aware of to ensure their little munchkins have a safe and happy Halloween.
VENTURA COUNTY — Mike Sanders, regional director of American Medical Response (AMR) Ventura County (AMR Ventura County) and its affiliate Gold Coast Ambulance (GCA) — Ventura County’s primary ambulance care provider for more than 70 years — was selected by Global Medical Response (GMR) to lead AMR’s response to Hurricane Helene and Milton.
VENTURA — The Ventura Police Department is proud to announce it has received a grant from the California Office of Traffic Safety (OTS) to support its ongoing enforcement and education programs to help reduce the number of serious injuries and deaths on our roads.
“Securing this grant is a game-changer for our efforts to enhance our traffic enforcement efforts and improve road safety,” said Sergeant Mark Knackstedt. “With a focus on high-risk areas, education, and fostering safe habits, we aim to reduce dangerous driving behaviors, prevent crashes, and make our roads safer for everyone.”
VENTURA — The Ventura City Council has appointed Javan Rad as its new City Attorney at its meeting on October 8, 2024.
“Javan stood out among a highly qualified pool of candidates, demonstrating exceptional experience, extensive knowledge, and strong leadership qualities,” said Mayor Joe Schroeder. “The City Council is confident that Javan is the right person to guide the City Attorney’s Office into the future.”
VENTURA — The County of Ventura on Oct. 22 announced the launch of “Think Again”, a new countywide public awareness campaign to draw attention to the dangers of fentanyl and provide residents with the information and resources necessary to protect themselves and prevent overdoses.
Fentanyl poses a growing threat statewide and nationally, and Ventura County is not immune. “Think Again” provides localized statistics and life-saving information and resources to help residents take action. The campaign encourages residents to get educated, be aware, and save lives.
“To recreational drug users who are contemplating taking a pill or using a substance this Halloween, we ask you to “think again,” said District Attorney Erik Nasarenko. “Community members must presume that each and every illicit drug is cut, laced, or adulterated with fentanyl. And that fentanyl will kill you.”
For affordability, social mobility, research impact, academics and other metrics, the campus is again considered among the nation’s — and the world’s — top universities, according to myriad recent rankings.
SANTA PAULA — The City of Santa Paula will begin a 2024/2025 Citywide Street Maintenance Project on Monday, October 21st, continuing efforts to maintain and upgrade key streets across the city. The project, expected to wrap up by Thanksgiving, is funded largely through Measure T, reflecting the City’s commitment to enhancing road conditions and infrastructure reliability.
VENTURA — National Teen Driver Safety Week is October 20-26 and the Ventura Police Department urges parents and caregivers to talk with their teens about the rules of the road and how safe driving saves lives.
Car crashes are a leading cause of death for teens aged 15-18 years old in the United States. According to the National Highway Traffic Safety Administration, there were 2,514 people killed in crashes involving a teen driver in 2022. In California, young drivers were involved in nearly 12% of all fatal crashes in 2022, despite accounting for only 5% of all licensed drivers in the U.S.
Dear Neighbors,
I hope this message finds you well! I am writing to share a reminder of the Home Insurance Town Hall that is taking place Tuesday, October 15 from 6:00 to 8:00 pm at Ventura County Fire Headquarters located at 2400 Conejo Spectrum Street in Newbury Park.
If you plan to attend please RSVP today by emailing SupervisorGorell@ventura.org. A live stream of the event will also be offered on my YouTube page at the following link: www.youtube.com/@vcd2super/streams. Simply visit the link at 6 pm to view the live event or watch the recording at a time that is convenient for you.
VENTURA — The County of Ventura has selected Esteban Rodriguez as Director for Ventura County Animal Services. The appointment follows an extensive recruitment process, which included both internal and external candidates. Rodriguez succeeds former director, Jackie Rose, who retired from the agency in May.
VENTURA — October is National Pedestrian Safety Month and the Ventura Police Department reminds drivers to slow down and be alert for people walking on our roads. By taking extra precautions, you can help protect pedestrians and reduce the risk of crashes and injuries.
Since January 1, 2023, the Ventura Police Department has responded to 2,470 traffic collisions, including 106 involving pedestrians. These incidents resulted in 915 injuries and five fatalities. Of the pedestrian collisions, three were fatal, and 99 resulted in injury. The high number of pedestrian casualties underscores the urgent need for improved awareness and safety measures for those walking in Ventura.
SANTA BARBARA — One805 mourns the loss of our board member, colleague and friend, Tony Pighetti, who was a tireless advocate for the mental wellness of our First Responders. A retired firefighter with 30 years in the City of Santa Barbara Fire Department, Tony selflessly volunteered his time and talents to ensure our bravest, among whom he was counted and loved, had resources to help them get counseling and support.
VENTURA — Responding proactively to the aftermath of the estimated 2,000 gallons of gasoline that leaked from the Sinclair gas station located at 2121 E. Harbor Boulevard, the City of Ventura declared a local state of emergency on Friday, September 27, 2024.
This move allows the City to expedite disaster response and seek emergency funding from the state to aid recovery efforts. The City Council ratified the local state of emergency on October 1, 2024, and it will remain in effect for the next 60 days.
VENTURA — The Ventura County Probation Agency (VCPA) is delighted to announce the appointment of Candice Modica as the Assistant Chief Officer, a newly established position for the agency. This position was made as an effort to work closely with Chief Probation Officer Gina Johnson and to further the goals of the agency. This appointment was made by the VCPA Chief Gina Johnson after a comprehensive interview process and national recruitment efforts.
PORT HUENEME — In a powerful display of community solidarity, the Port of Hueneme, alongside SeaCube Containers and several key partners, has come together to support the Naval Base Ventura County (NBVC) USDA Fleet Reserve Program, which provides access to critical food resources for military families and veterans for over 40 years. Originally founded in the back of a pickup truck behind the Naval Base Chapel, the program has grown significantly since 1984, providing essential food supplies to active-duty service members, their families, and veterans throughout Ventura County.
Although we are sometimes wisely counselled that it’s the journey that matters, not the destination, the start of football season gives those of us in the real estate development world a seasonal reminder that it’s getting it across the line that actually counts.
Some might argue that the metaphoric line is when the final piece of funding needed for the purchase of the land is secured, for others it might be the end of a protracted approvals and entitlements process. Our events team might say its when we together snap the classic “We did it!” ribbon cutting photo at the grand opening.
But there is a quieter, though no less celebrated moment, especially for the fortunate people involved, and that’s when we can take the next name off the wait list.
For me, that’s when it feels our team really got it across the line. I hope you’ll join us as we celebrate more coming wins!
SANTA BARBARA COUNTY — A free, voluntary Central Coast Drinking Water Well Testing Program which is now available in Santa Barbara County, according to the Central Coast Regional Water Quality Control Board.
The purpose of this program is to provide those who get their drinking water from a private well or small water system (14 connections or less) with information regarding the quality of their drinking water. Private wells and small water systems are unregulated, therefore it is the responsibility of those who own and/or use the well to test the quality of the well water.
“The gasoline leak was traced to underground facilities at the Sinclair gas station on 2121 E. Harbor Boulevard,” said Fire Marshal Brett Reed. “Preliminary testing by the Environmental Protection Agency (EPA) on September 20, confirmed the substance was gasoline. While the primary leak has been contained, the full extent of the impact to the sewer system and surrounding environment is still under investigation.”
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I was pleased to join Carpinteria Senior Citizens, Inc. at their annual picnic with a sweet new ride! My office worked to purchase a vehicle from the County’s fleet and donate it to Seniors Inc. so that they can help transport their members to appointments and activities. A recent study from the Central Coast Commission for Senior Citizens found that transportation is the number one need among seniors in Santa Barbara County. Being unable to attend social events due to a lack of transportation is strongly correlated with an increase in isolation and poor health outcomes among seniors. The best part is the vehicle is wheelchair-capable!
VANDENBERG SPACE FORCE BASE — The United States (U.S.) Space Force has prepared a Draft Environmental Assessment (DEA) and Finding of No Significant Impact (FONSI) that evaluates the potential environmental impacts of the Proposed Action (PA).
The PA is to increase Falcon 9 annual launch cadence from 36 to 50 launches per year at Space Launch Complex 4 (SLC-4) on Vandenberg Space Force Base (VSFB), increase Falcon 9 first stage and fairing recovery activities, and expand the recovery area in the Pacific Ocean.
SANTA PAULA — The Santa Paula Police Department has recognized an increase in electric bikes and electric motorcycles in many communities. It is important to provide the public with information concerning Electric Bicycles (E-bikes) and several state laws pertaining to them.
PORT OF HUENEME — The Port of Hueneme’s operations team joined by other Port staff, Port tenants, vessels, labor, Port partners, Naval Base Ventura County (NBVC), and numerous public safety agencies led a training at the Port this Monday to evaluate the impact that a Maritime Security (MARSEC) level increase would have on the Port’s operations, placing an emphasis on safety, security and community partnerships. This year’s training focused on the Port’s ability to react to a proposed threat to cargo. The training was conducted over a morning and afternoon session.
OXNARD — Oxnard College has received a $50,000 grant renewal from the Grammy Award-winning band Metallica’s foundation, All Within My Hands (AWMH). The award follows an initial grant of $100,000 issued last year and will continue supporting students in the college’s Culinary Arts, Dental Hygiene and Fire Academy programs as the band continues its multimillion-dollar investment in critical workforce programs at community colleges nationwide.
VENTURA — The Ventura Police Department Traffic Unit will conduct a DUI checkpoint at an undisclosed location within the city limits on Friday, September 6, 2024, from 7:00 p.m. to 2:00 a.m.
DUI checkpoint locations are chosen based on data showing incidents of impaired driving-related crashes. The primary purpose of checkpoints is not to make arrests, but to promote public safety by deterring residents from driving impaired.
During the checkpoint, officers will look for signs that drivers are under the influence of alcohol and/or drugs.
“We are thrilled that Kevin Costner is our opening act and rounds out an incredible line-up of entertainment across the musical spectrum,” said Kirsten Cavendish Weston Smith, One805 Co-Founder and CEO. “Kevin has been such a huge asset and partner to One805and our local first responders as a board member and with his annual “donation” of his incredible property for our One805Live! event. “His generosity has been remarkable and now, he is literally lending his ‘voice’ to the cause!” said Cavendish Weston Smith.
