Category: Public Safety

Port of Hueneme Achieves Highest Scores for Green Marine Certification to Emerge as Top Port in California

by Community Contributor • June 14, 2022 • Comments Off

Being committed to environmental stewardship ranks among the five pillars the Port of Hueneme has included in its Strategic Plan. This month, the Port of Hueneme earned a certification from Green Marine—the leading international environmental certification program for the maritime transportation industry — that demonstrates a tradition of leading the way towards becoming a cleaner and more environmentally sustainable port. Green Marine certification, which requires annual improvement, is predicated on members going beyond and above mere compliance with legally required environmental programs.

Green Marine’s environmental program assists ports, terminal operators, and shipping lines in reducing their environmental footprint through a comprehensive program that addresses key environmental issues and criteria using seven performance indicators: Greenhouse Gases & Air Pollutants, Spill Prevention and Stormwater Management, Dry Bulk Handling and Storage, Community Impact, Environmental Leadership, Waste Management, and Underwater Noise.

VCFD Recognizes 108 Employees Who Earned Promotions

by Community Contributor • June 9, 2022 • Comments Off

The Ventura County Fire Department will recognize 108 employees Thursday, June 9, for earning 113 promotions over the past two and a half years.
Social distancing restrictions during the coronavirus pandemic prohibited annual ceremonies recognizing sworn personnel and civilian employees who earned promotions. Thursday’s event honors everyone who earned a promotion since the last ceremony in 2019. Five employees earned two promotions during that timeframe.
“I am grateful to have the opportunity to recognize the accomplishments of so many people in our department,” Fire Chief Dustin Gardner said. “During such a challenging time with a pandemic, they continued to grow in their careers, taking on greater roles in our department and delivering excellent service to our community.”

Bilingual commentary — Gun violence is a public health crisis. A preventable one

by Community Contributor • June 2, 2022 • Comments Off

Every day in America, there is senseless gun violence. Shootings in our homes, places of worship, schools, and on our streets repeatedly threaten our health and safety. No one is immune to the impact.

We, the physicians, care teams, and staff of Kaiser Permanente, see firsthand the devastating aftermath of gun violence and bear witness to the intergenerational trauma that has both short- and long-term effects on physical and mental health.

Through the Kaiser Permanente Task Force on Firearm Injury Prevention, established in 2018, we are supporting research studies and testing firearm screening tools and counseling interventions that focus on how physicians and clinicians can help prevent firearm injuries. This is important work, and yet it is not enough.

Bilingual report — Ventura County Public Health Shares Guidance to Navigate the U.S.’ Infant Formula Shortage

by Community Contributor • May 27, 2022 • Comments Off

There continues to be a shortage of infant formula nationwide due to supply chain issues and a recall of infant formula due to bacterial contamination in the Abbott manufacturing plant in Michigan. The federal government is currently working on strategies to increase production of formula and help families access existing stock.

Compared to other states California is faring better, but the shortages are still of concern.

Babies need the right balance of nutrients- not too much or too little of anything-to grow and be healthy. It is important for your baby’s health to use products that meet federal standards to ensure the formula is safe and free of harmful bacteria.

First District Supervisor Das Williams — Gun Violence, Broadband, Bunnies and more

by Community Contributor • May 27, 2022 • Comments Off

In the wake of such recent tragedies, Supervisor Gregg Hart and I have co-sponsored a resolution for Wear Orange 2022. We will be presenting the resolution to Moms Demand Action at a press conference in honor of recent tragedies and we will be honoring survivors. Details below.

Tuesday, May 31 · 10 am
On the Front Steps of the Santa Barbara
County Administration Building
105 E. Anapamu Street

This week in Uvalde, Texas, a gunman shot and killed 19 children and one educator at an elementary school. In the United States, going to school has become more deadly than serving in the active military. Here, gun violence is the leading cause of death for children and teens.

Not drownings. Not car accidents. Guns.

On Tuesday, May 31 at 10 am, volunteers with the Santa Barbara Chapter of Moms Demand Action will gather at the front steps of the County Administration Building to accept the resolution. Joining us will be a spokesperson from Congressman Salud Carbajal’s office and Senator Monique Limon’s office. Press and the public are welcome to join us as we honor the lives of those senselessly taken from us, and offer data-driven solutions for preventing further tragedies from occurring.

ABOUT WEAR ORANGE Wear Orange began on June 2, 2015 – what would have been Hadiya Pendleton’s 18th birthday. Her friends honored her by wearing orange after she was shot and killed. Today, Wear Orange honors Hadiya and the more than 100 Americans shot and killed every day.
Learn more at https://wearorange.org/

California State Assembly Advances Gun Violence Prevention Package in Wake of Uvalde, TX School Shooting Tragedy

by Community Contributor • May 26, 2022 • Comments Off

In the wake of another tragedy and inaction at the national level, the Assembly Wednesday advanced a package of six gun violence prevention bills to the Senate, signaling California’s commitment to doing everything possible to take action where the federal government is not.

The group of six Democratic lawmakers – Asm. Mike Gipson (D-Carson), Asm. Buffy Wicks (D-Oakland), Asm. Steve Bennett (D-Ventura), Asm. Kevin McCarty (D-Sacramento), Asm. Brian Maienschein (D-San Diego), and Asm. Jesse Gabriel (D-Woodland Hills) – together brought their bills to a vote on the Assembly Floor. The Members expressed impassioned frustration with Congress’s failure to act on the issues of gun control and gun violence prevention, and emphasized the corresponding need for California to recommit itself with urgency to the fight.

“Our number one job as legislators is to keep our communities safe — and on the issue of gun violence, our federal lawmakers are failing horrifically” saidAssemblymember Buffy Wicks. “While we have strong gun violence prevention laws here in California, there’s still so much more that can be done. We must do everything in our power under state law to strengthen protections for our communities, and be an example for other state legislatures to take action where our federal policymakers are not.”

Statement about Texas School Shooting from Dr. César Morales, Ventura County Superintendent of Schools

by Community Contributor • May 25, 2022 • Comments Off

Our hearts are broken by the tragic news of today’s mass shooting at Robb Elementary School in Uvalde, Texas. We send our sincerest sympathies to the families whose lives have been forever shattered. School shootings are a plague on our society that have been happening for far too long. I call on decision-makers at every level of government to take all necessary measures to put an end to these senseless acts of violence in our schools.

— Dr. César Morales

Ventura County Superintendent of Schools

Bilingual report — COVID-19 & County Update for May 24, 2022

by Community Contributor • May 24, 2022 • Comments Off

Please join Ventura County Behavioral Health tonight, Tuesday, May 24 from 5:30-7:00 pm for a free “Talking About Mental health” webinar. Spanish interpretation will be available. Register at www.wellnesseveryday.org/news/community-webinars-mental-health-matters
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It was a wonderful Saturday morning! Supervisor Linda Parks, Supervisor Carmen Ramirez, Interim County Executive Officer Sevet Johnson and many members of our County family joined community members at the 17th annual National Alliance on Mental Illness (NAMI) walk in Port Hueneme to support individuals with mental illness and their families. NAMI is dedicated to building better lives for the millions of Americans affected by mental illness.

VCFD Graduates 19 Firefighter Trainees & Ventura City Graduates 2 Firefighter Trainees

by Community Contributor • May 24, 2022 • Comments Off

The Ventura County Fire Department (VCFD) introduces 19 new firefighter trainees who have successfully completed 20 weeks of intense training at VCFD’s Regional Training Center in Camarillo. Under the leadership of VCFD’s training staff, the trainees of Academy 59 will enter the field this Sunday as they staff fire engines and ladder trucks throughout Ventura County.

Graduating firefighter trainees consistently demonstrated proficiency in all disciplines of firefighting, including structural firefighting, wildland firefighting, vehicle extrication, and emergency medical care to name a few.

Graduation ceremony will take place at 1:00 p.m. on Friday May 27, 2022, directly preceded by recruits showcasing some of the skills learned in the academy in front of an audience. Live demonstrations include a simulated three-story structure fire, ladder evolutions, patient extrication from a simulated vehicle accident and more. Live streaming will be available on our social media platforms as well as our website.

UCSB — The Current — ‘A Threat Reconsidered’ and more news

by Community Contributor • May 24, 2022 • Comments Off

A new study finds support for political violence in the U.S. is overstated.

Bilingual report — County of Ventura Update – COVID-19

by Community Contributor • May 3, 2022 • Comments Off

(On May 2), the Consulate of Mexico in Oxnard and the County of Ventura Human Service Agency’s Farmworker Resource Program inaugurated a new Integral Service Window for Origin and Indigenous Peoples of Mexico Abroad, titled VAIPOIME in Spanish. The new service window will connect farmworkers of indigenous origins to information and resources about labor laws, resolutions to workplace issues, and services provided by the Mexican government to their communities abroad. Services will be available in English, Spanish, Mixteco and Zapoteco. This is only the third VAIPOIME in the nation and the first in collaboration with a government agency.

Two AMR Ventura County team members honored for excellence

by Community Contributor • May 3, 2022 • Comments Off

Two American Medical Response Ventura County team members, paramedic Robert Sebree and retired paramedic William “Sterling” Johnson, were awarded for their exceptional efforts on behalf of the community. Sebree was honored with a Star of Life Award from the American Ambulance Association, as well as a Clinical Excellence Award from California EMS Authority. Johnson received California EMS Authority’s Distinguished Service Medal.

Communities invited to take part in California’s Wildfire Preparedness Week

by Community Contributor • May 2, 2022 • Comments Off

Ventura County information event to be held at 11 a.m. Tuesday, May 3 at Camarillo Airport. Ventura County information event to be held at 11 a.m. Tuesday, May 3 at Camarillo Airport. RSVP by calling 916-653-4561, www.fire.ca.gov

VCFD to Host Junior Firefighter Academy Again this Summer

by Community Contributor • April 22, 2022 • Comments Off

Ventura County Fire Department (VCFD) will resume its very popular free Junior Firefighter Academy this summer for girls and boys ages 13 -16. VCFD will offer three, 5-day sessions taught by VCFD firefighters and feature rigorous hands-on activities, interactive learning and field trips.

The week-long sessions are a great first step toward the VCFD Explorer Program because participants will learn what it takes to be a fire firefighter and be introduced to other fire safety careers such as Paramedic, Fire Inspector, Fire Prevention Officer and Dispatch, just to name a few.

Ventura County Fire Department — Chuck Scherrei Promoted to Assistant Chief of Operations

by Community Contributor • April 21, 2022 • Comments Off

The Ventura County Fire Department announced the promotion of Chuck Scherrei to assistant chief in charge of operations today.

Scherrei, who was selected after a nationwide search, is an 18-year veteran of the department and worked his way through the ranks of firefighter, engineer, captain and battalion chief before receiving this promotion. Most recently, he served as the battalion chief in charge of the Training Division. Previously, he oversaw the Wildland Division after assignments in Battalion 4 serving eastern Ventura County, and in Simi Valley and Moorpark.

Ventura County Fire Department — Dispatchers Put the First in First Responder

by Community Contributor • April 11, 2022 • Comments Off

A 64-year-old man stops breathing while working out at the gym. A pregnant woman’s baby won’t wait for her to get to the hospital. A 50-year-old man collapses while hiking and his heart stops beating.

In each case, the “first first-responder” was a Ventura County Fire Department dispatcher who answered a phone call for help and guided the reporting person on what to do to save lives or deliver a new one into the world.

“Our dispatchers provide a vital link in countywide public safety services every day,” Ventura County Fire Chief Dustin Gardner said. “While few people who need our help know a dispatcher by more than a voice on the phone, their dedication and care for others sets an example we all should appreciate.”

County of Ventura Special Report — 2021 Fatal Overdoses

by Community Contributor • March 17, 2022 • Comments Off

2,127 deaths were reported to the Ventura County Medical Examiner’s Office during calendar year 2021. … The total number of overdoses in 2021 represent a 33% increase compared to 2020 and a 94% increase compared to 2019.

Bilingual report — County of Ventura March 14, 2022 Update – COVID-19

by Community Contributor • March 14, 2022 • Comments Off

Happy Women’s History Month! “The teamwork that I contribute to the Fire Department family is meaningful and impactful to me as I am able to serve the people of Ventura County, including the community I grew up in. Women’s History Month is a good reminder that so many hard-working, and dedicated women have paved a path before me that I am honored to walk. I love investing my time into the county and community that has invested in me.” – Marisol Rodriguez, Captain of Engine 84, Ventura County Fire Department.

Bilingual report — Safety Comes First in the Most Difficult Work

by Community Contributor • March 14, 2022 • Comments Off

A compilation of years of safety training for the Ventura County Public Works Agency (VCPWA) teams that work with large objects, fast tools, and huge trucks was recognized in February 2022 by the VCPWA leadership team.

The Public Works Agency Safety Program recognizes individuals and work teams who are taking extra steps to promote health and safety to reduce accidents that cause injury and work-time loss. Beginning January 2017, VCPWA started tracking ‘No Loss Workdays’ at operations and maintenance facilities. 2022 marked the first time a ceremony was held to celebrate the year’s recipients.

“These awards signified one of our biggest achievements here at VCPWA. It is a credit to all involved that these milestones are achieved, and further proof of our dedication to innovation and excellence,” said Agency Director, Jeff Pratt.

Santa Barbara First District Supervisor Das Williams — Ukrainian Solidarity Concert & Other Important Notifications

by Community Contributor • March 8, 2022 • Comments Off

We are at a time in history where the foundations of democracy, rule of law, and our way of life is under assault at home and abroad. Nowhere do we see this like the vivid tragedy unfolding in Ukraine, where brave people are leaving their jobs to fight against the invasion, and to most because they feel the future of the country faces the democratic West. Feel free to visit my Facebook siteto see how you can help or join me at this benefit concert in our community this evening.

Economic Development Collaborative (EDC) — New Masking Requirements for Businesses

by Community Contributor • March 8, 2022 • Comments Off

UPDATED: Centers for Disease Control and Prevention (CDC):
CDC is now recommending masking based on “COVID-19 Community Level.” Levels can be low, medium, or high and are determined by looking at hospital beds being used, hospital admissions, and the total number of new COVID-19 cases in an area. Indoor masking is only recommended universally if the Community Level is high. This information can be tracked HERE.

Bilingual report — County of Ventura March 2, 2022 update

by Community Contributor • March 2, 2022 • Comments Off

COVID-19 Update

Since Monday, there have been 108 new COVID-19 cases reported and 9,152 new tests completed. There are 44 people hospitalized and 9 in the ICU.

There have been 9 new deaths of community members between the ages of 36-94. We extend our sincere condolences to the family and loved ones of the 1,434 community members who have passed away throughout the pandemic. The R-effective for Ventura County is 0.65, meaning that the spread of COVID is likely decreasing.

Updated state masking guidance: In California, starting March 1, masks are no longer required for unvaccinated individuals, but strongly recommended for all individuals in most indoor settings. After March 11, in schools and child care facilities, masks will not be required but will be strongly recommended. Masks will still be required for everyone in high transmission settings like public transit, emergency shelters, health care settings, correctional facilities, homeless shelters and long-term care facilities. For more information visit: https://www.gov.ca.gov/2022/02/28/governors-newsom-brown-and-inslee-announce-updated-health-guidance/

Port of Hueneme — Heroic Actions of Tugboat Crew to Save Vessel Recognized by Coast Guard and Port of Hueneme

by Community Contributor • February 28, 2022 • Comments Off

It was an unusually slow day on the docks back on April 21, 2021 when crewmembers onboard a Brusco tugboat sprang into action from the Port of Hueneme to assist a vessel in distress. A 17-year-old container ship named the President Eisenhower was headed from Los Angeles to San Francisco when it suffered an engine room fire that disabled command of the vessel.
A vessel named Teresa Brusco and her crew pushed the Eisenhower vessel away from shore while other tugboats and salvage companies came to assist. The vessel was disabled in the shipping lane while fully loaded and drifting to shore. Crewmembers of the Teresa Brusco, Capt. Mike Fullilove, Jason Diaz, George Gonzalez, and Justin Donick worked quickly to ensure everyone’s safety.

Bilingual report — County of Ventura COVID-19 update for Feb. 14

by Community Contributor • February 14, 2022 • Comments Off

Happy Valentine’s Day from the team at the Clerk/Recorder’s Office! A sweet photo from the wedding room today. This all-star team processes marriage licenses and other vital records year round. 3,550+ marriage licenses last year. Big day for them, many appointments scheduled today! We are grateful for this special team!

Bilingual report — City of Oxnard reopening its facilities for in-person services starting Feb. 14

by Community Contributor • February 10, 2022 • Comments Off

OXNARD — The City of Oxnard is reopening its facilities for in-person services starting Monday, February 14, 2022.

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OXNARD – – La ciudad de Oxnard reabrirá sus instalaciones para servicios en persona a partir del lunes 14 de febrero de 2022.

Ventura County Civil Grand Jury accepting applications

by Community Contributor • February 8, 2022 • Comments Off

Applications are now being accepted for the 2022-2023 Ventura County Civil Grand Jury session that begins on July 1, 2022.

The Civil Grand Jury is a panel of 19 Ventura County citizens who conduct investigations into the effective and efficient operations of all governmental entities within the county. Investigations originate either from a public complaint or from within the Grand Jury.

Bilingual report — Dustin Gardner appointed as next County of Ventura Fire Chief

by Community Contributor • February 2, 2022 • Comments Off

After a nationwide recruitment, Dustin Gardner has been appointed as the next County Fire Chief. Appointed by the County Executive Officer, with the concurrence of the Board of Supervisors, he will be the 12th Fire Chief in the County Fire Department’s 94-year history. He will be responsible for the protection of life and property from fire and other emergencies by directing the activities of the Ventura County Fire Protection District.

Bilingual report — CenCal Health Welcomes Governor’s Plan to Expand Medi-Cal to All Eligible

by Community Contributor • January 20, 2022 • Comments Off

In response to the announcement and 2022-23 budget proposal from California State Governor Gavin Newsom, community-based health plan CenCal Health made the following statement:

“CenCal Health welcomes Governor Newsom’s health care expansion plan for California and is ready to support Medi-Cal coverage for eligible residents in Santa Barbara and San Luis Obispo counties – regardless of their immigration status,” said Marina Owen, CenCal Health CEO.

“Along with our Board of Directors, executive team and staff, I am gratified that our organization here on the Central Coast can help bring much-needed, long overdue health coverage to the region, and take this step towards health equity. In partnership with our network of dedicated doctors, hospitals, pharmacies, and other providers, CenCal Health is ready to deliver high-quality health care to all.” If the new budget plan is supported by the legislature, coverage would begin on Jan. 1, 2024.

Ventura Port District Board of Commissioners Approves Emergency Action for Hunga Tonga Tsunami Damages

by Community Contributor • January 20, 2022 • Comments Off

Ventura Harbor experienced unpredictable currents and damaging surges following a massive undersea volcanic eruption near Tonga on Saturday, January 14, 2022. As a result, the Ventura Port District Board of Commissioners took immediate action at their Board Meeting held January 19, 2022 by approving a State of Emergency resolution to restore District assets in the Ventura Harbor.

Thankfully, no injuries were reported in the Ventura area following the Hunga Tonga Tsunami Advisory. However, the powerful surges led to damage of both public and private property in the Ventura Harbor and the adjoining Ventura Keys. There are at least two dozen damaged docks at multiple marinas and private residences and two Ventura Harbor Patrol Boats have been rendered out of commission.

Bilingual report — Ventura County Department of Airports Acknowledges Community Survey; Results Align with Department’s Current Path

by Community Contributor • January 13, 2022 • Comments Off

The City of Camarillo recently surveyed residents with questions about the Camarillo Airport operated by the County of Ventura Department of Airports. The results of the survey were presented at the January 12, 2021 Camarillo City Council meeting. “We really appreciate the community input about the airport. The County of Ventura is committed to working with the City and community members to seek a collective vision for the best use of the airport,” said County Executive Officer Mike Powers.

“I am pleased our Director of Airports was able to attend the Council meeting last night to hear the presentation of the survey results firsthand. While the County manages operations at Camarillo Airport, we continue to recognize the City of Camarillo as the host City and strive to partner with them in every way possible,” said Ventura County Supervisor Kelly Long. “As a Camarillo resident, I especially appreciate this partnership and the airport’s efforts to be a good neighbor when it comes to noise and overall operations.”

Bilingual report — Jan. 7, 2022 – COVID-19 Update

by Amigos805.com • January 7, 2022 • Comments Off

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, •…

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

by Community Contributor • January 3, 2022 • Comments Off

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.”

CSUCI Nursing alumnus saves the life of a mother of two

by Community Contributor • December 16, 2021 • Comments Off

CSU Channel Islands (CSUCI) Nursing alumnus Claire Gillette had just finished a 12-hour shift in the emergency room at Los Robles Regional Medical Center in Thousand Oaks, and she was exhausted. Did she have enough energy for a yoga class before going home?

“I work night shift and I never take that class after a shift because I’m tired, and it’s hot yoga with weights,” Gillette said. “But there was a spot open in the class and I thought ‘I’m feeling into the weights.’”

Had Gillette not joined the class on that particular day, and had she not been prepared with nursing skills she learned at CSUCI, the husband and two sons of Erika Cole, 44, would be spending the holidays without her.

“Claire is the only reason I’m alive today,” Cole said.

Bilingual report — Consulado de Mexico en Oxnard: Control de Armas, Persona del Año 2021 – ¡Vote ahora! / 2021 Arms Control Person of the Year – Vote Now!

by Community Contributor • December 14, 2021 • Comments Off

The illicit arms trade is a subject of the utmost interest for Mexico and the entire Latin American region due to the violence that this activity brings about. Despite the specific national contexts, the violence caused by arms trafficking has consequences of great magnitude on the quality of life of our populations, as well as, on the development of our countries.

In that regard, last August, the Government of Mexico filed a lawsuit, before a United States federal district court against manufacturers and distributors of firearms, for negligent commercial practices that promote arms trafficking to our country. It is important to point out that the litigation is not against the U.S. government nor against the right of U.S. citizens to own and bear arms in their country (Second Amendment of its Constitution). The aim is to prevent criminal groups from benefiting from this illicit trafficking, that is, the drug cartels who do not have the right to possess and bear arms.

Assemblymember Irwin announces Legislation on Organized Retail Theft Prosecutions

by Community Contributor • December 14, 2021 • Comments Off

Assemblymember Jacqui Irwin (D – Thousand Oaks) joined Ventura County Sheriff Bill Ayub and Ventura County District Attorney Erik Nasarenko this morning to announce her plans to introduce legislation to respond to the recent occurrences of brazen organized retail theft in California.

“We have all seen the news accounts of store clerks being pistol whipped, shoppers being pepper sprayed, and thieves using sledgehammers to threaten anyone in their way,” shared Assemblymember Irwin. “I will not wait out this holiday season and let these organized groups continue to believe they can prey on California shoppers and retailers with no repercussions.”

Santa Barbara First District Supervisor Das Williams — Evacuation Order for Alisal Burn Scar Area & Storm Details

by Community Contributor • December 13, 2021 • Comments Off

Supervisor Joan Hartmann, who represents the area that recently burned in the Alisal Fire, recently sent out information to her constituents regarding an Evacuation Order that has been issued for the Alisal Fire burn scar. From Supervisor Hartmann:

“Meteorologists and emergency personnel continue to track an intense winter storm expected to arrive in Santa Barbara County around 6 pm tonight. This storm is expected to bring periods of heavy rain and high winds through Tuesday morning.

Rainfall totals could exceed 1″ or more per hour, which exceeds the thresholds for possible debris flows in the Alisal burn area.

Given these rainfall projections, the Sheriff issued an evacuation order for the Alisal burn area which went into effect at noon today. The Sheriff is going door-to-door to inform residents about the evacuation and to educate residents about storm related risks. The Sheriff, Fire Department and Public Works Department are all stationing emergency resources and staff to respond to this upcoming storm.”

Ventura County Fire Department & Thomas Aquinas College Create New Helispot for Area Firefighting & Rescue

by Community Contributor • December 8, 2021 • Comments Off

A newly installed helispot on the campus of Thomas Aquinas College got its first use Tuesday afternoon as the Ventura County Fire Department (VCFD) trained a crew in advanced firefighting techniques using one of its recently purchased Sikorsky Firehawk helicopters.

“The new helispot at Thomas Aquinas College – less than a mile from where the 2017 Thomas Fire started — greatly aids our firefighting abilities in the Santa Paula area,” Fire Chief Mark Lorenzen said. “We no longer need to fly our helicopters to Fillmore to fill water tanks. That means we can put more water on a fire while it’s small, giving it less time to spread.”

Bilingual report — Dec. 6, 2021 – COVID-19 Update

by Community Contributor • December 6, 2021 • Comments Off

Since Friday, there are 623 new COVID-19 cases reported and 15,079 new tests performed. There are 45 people hospitalized, 7 in the ICU. There have been no additional deaths reported. The R-effective for Ventura County is 1.12 which means the spread is likely increasing.

California Department of Public Health Omicron Fact Sheet
Find a COVID testing location
Get a COVID vaccine or booster shot
Get a copy of your digital vaccine record

76.6% of community members (ages 5+) have received one or more COVID vaccine doses.
70.0% of eligible community members have been fully vaccinated.
76.4% of community members 12+ have been fully vaccinated.

Stay informed at www.vcrecovers.org.

Bilingual report — Dec. 3, 2021 – COVID-19 Update

by Community Contributor • December 3, 2021 • Comments Off

Since Wednesday, there are 147 new COVID-19 cases reported and 20,462 new tests performed. There are 38 people hospitalized, 8 in the ICU. There have been 2 new deaths of a 44 year old female and a 68 year old male. Our thoughts and sincere condolences to the loved ones of those that have passed away. The R-effective for Ventura County is .86 which means the spread is likely decreasing.

California Department of Public Health Omicron Fact Sheet
Find a COVID testing location
Get a COVID vaccine or booster shot

76.4% of community members (ages 5+) have received one or more COVID vaccine doses.
69.7% of eligible community members have been fully vaccinated.
76.3% of community members 12+ have been fully vaccinated.

Stay informed at www.vcrecovers.org.

POOLCORP Donates $70,000 To Southeast Ventura County YMCA’s Water Safety Program

by Community Contributor • December 2, 2021 • Comments Off

The Southeast Ventura County YMCA received a $70,000 grant from POOLCORP to help fund the Y’s Safety Around Water (SAW) program and current and future lifeguard training.

POOLCORP made the donation at the Yarrow Family YMCA in Westlake Village on November 22.

Bilingual report — Dec. 1, 2021 – COVID-19 Update

by Community Contributor • December 1, 2021 • Comments Off

A confirmed case of the Omicron variant is in California. Californians can protect themselves by getting vaccinated and boosted, wearing a mask, getting tested if they have any symptoms and staying home if sick. Get the facts about the Omicron variant here: bit.ly/omicronvariant

CSUCI Borderline remembrance and bench dedication ceremony

by Community Contributor • November 29, 2021 • Comments Off

CSU Channel Islands(CSUCI) alumnus Jessica Webb was a sophomore the night of Nov. 7, 2018, when she and her friends went out dancing at the Borderline Bar & Grill.

It was an ordinary Wednesday night and Webb and her friend decided to relax and unwind at the country western-themed bar, a favorite place for many CSUCI students.

At about 11:15 p.m., Webb, then 18, was standing by the pool tables across from the dance floor when she turned and saw the shooter walk into the bar about 20 feet away from her.

“I froze. There is a fight, flight or freeze response and I froze,” she said. “A man screamed “Get down!” and I crawled under the pool table. I later found out that man was Cody Coffman.”

Fire Safety in the Kitchen Will Keep This a Happy Thanksgiving

by Community Contributor • November 23, 2021 • Comments Off

With shopping and preparations underway for Thanksgiving dinners with family and friends, the Ventura County Fire Department reminds everyone to practice fire safety in the kitchen when the cooking starts.

Cooking is the leading cause of Thanksgiving Day fires, according to the Federal Emergency Management Agency’s National Data Center. Also, the National Fire Protection Association reports that two thirds of home cooking fires start with the ignition of food or other cooking materials.

“Kitchens can get busy and distracting when family and friends gather for big, holiday meals,” Fire Chief Mark Lorenzen said. “The extra hustle and bustle add to the risk of a mistake that can ruin more than a celebration. We want you and your family to enjoy the holiday safely.”

Ventura County Medical Examiner’s Office Seeking Help on Unidentified Male

by Community Contributor • November 22, 2021 • Comments Off

The Medical Examiner’s Office is requesting the Public’s help in identifying a deceased male found in Oxnard on November 9, 2021. Please see attached Press Release.

Fallen Firefighters to be Remembered at Ventura County Memorial

by Community Contributor • November 16, 2021 • Comments Off

The fire agencies of Ventura County will honor four firefighters who lost their lives to job-related illnesses during the annual Fallen Firefighters Memorial remembrance Wednesday at 10 a.m.

The outdoor ceremony is being limited to families and invited guests of the firefighters being honored with COVID precautions in place due to the continuing pandemic. A livestream will be available on our Facebook page for others who would like to watch.

Reducing Wildfire Risk in Santa Barbara County — Partners Develop a Regional Priority Plan to reduce risk and improve ecosystem health

by Community Contributor • November 10, 2021 • Comments Off

As the region becomes increasingly vulnerable to fire due to extreme drought and heat conditions exacerbated by climate change, community leaders and organizations have come together to proactively address fire risk in Santa Barbara County. For over a year, a dedicated team, which included the Cachuma Resource Conservation District, LegacyWorks Group, Community Environmental Council, McGinnis Environmental and Conservation Biology Institute engaged numerous partners in the fields of fire protection, education, environmental stewardship, restoration, land management, agriculture, neighborhood associations and government leadership. Together, the partners identified fire risk reduction opportunities and developed a suite of project ideas. Nearly 200 potential projects were identified and 50 high impact opportunities were prioritized addressing:

Bilingual report — Ventura County Health Officer extends indoor face covering order and issues criteria for lifting order

by Community Contributor • October 18, 2021 • Comments Off

The Ventura County Public Health Officer has extended the indoor mask order, requiring all individuals, regardless of vaccination status, to wear face coverings when indoors in public settings, with limited exceptions. “The order is necessary to reduce the rate of community spread and to reinforce the need for safe interactions. We will continue to monitor transmission rates, hospitalizations, deaths and vaccination rates throughout the County,” said Public Health Officer Doctor Robert Levin.

Santa Barbara First District Supervisor Das Williams — Alisal Fire Update & Air Quality Watch

by Community Contributor • October 12, 2021 • Comments Off

I know many are concerned about the growing Alisal Fire. The Board of Supervisors today proclaimed a local emergency and requested the Governor declare a state of emergency.

Below I am sharing information Third District Supervisor Joan Hartmann shared earlier today in addition to other recent updates.

The Alisal fire has burned 7,500 + acres, with zero percent containment. There are 800 firefighters responding. Information about evacuations orders and warnings are available below.

Highway 101 remains closed between Highway 1 and Winchester Canyon Road/Cathedral Oaks in both directions. Highway 154 is the alternate route, however expect significant delays on this route.

Please visit https://readysbc.org/alisal-fire/ for status updates on the fire, evacuation zones and road closures. En Español: https://readysbc.org/es/alisal-fire/

Grant Program Championed by Assemblymember Irwin to Seize Weapons from Prohibited Persons Announces Open Application Window

by Community Contributor • October 11, 2021 • Comments Off

California Attorney General Rob Bonta today announced the opening of the application period for Gun Violence Reduction Program grants. Assemblymember Jacqui Irwin led a coalition of over 20 of her colleagues in the Assembly to secure this funding in the 2021 Budget Act. Funding will be awarded by the California Department of Justice (DOJ) to county sheriff’s departments to support activities related to seizing weapons and ammunition from individuals prohibited from possessing them.

Bilingual report — Civil Grand Jury in Session – Public Complaints Welcome

by Community Contributor • September 30, 2021 • Comments Off

The Ventura County Civil Grand Jury is a panel of 19 local citizen volunteers established to investigate complaints about government mismanagement, verify that public funds are properly accounted for and legally spent, and investigate the policies, practices and processes of county or city departments in order to improve the efficiencies and effectiveness of our government.

Civil Grand Jury investigations can be generated from public complaints. If you have a complaint about county government, cities and special districts (school and water districts, etc.), you are encouraged to file a complaint any time. All complaints are kept confidential.

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