“Creating equitable opportunities for our community requires resources, and we appreciate the support from U.S. Bank, which helps us continue to build and expand the innovative programs we’re proud to offer,” said Victory Brady, interim COO/CFO of Cabrillo EDC.
When I used to work in offices and organizations, I heard all the excuses from colleagues for not exercising, such as:
I don’t have enough time for exercise
I’m too tired to do exercise after working all day
I’m not interested in exercising
Too much effort is required to exercise
I don’t have to lose weight
Exercise is “not necessary”
But in an era of unprecedented rates of obesity and lifestyle-induced diseases, it becomes imperative for us to somehow, in some way, carve out sufficient time for exercise in our daily lives. For without exercise in our routine, the body, designed for motion and exertion, begins to naturally degenerate.
Community event to be held at noon Saturday, Jan. 25 at La Casa de la Raza, 601 E. Montecito St., Santa Barbara
— A Call to Unite. The IAC is calling on community partners, including service organizations, advocacy groups, faith-based organizations, elected officials, and the broader public, to join forces and address this urgent issue. Together, we can protect the most vulnerable children and families, and ensure the continued vitality of our protected-class neighborhoods.
President Trump wasted no time trying to radically change the U.S. immigration system. On his first day in office, he issued 10 executive orders that seek to redefine America—excluding everyone from asylum seekers to countless children of immigrants.
In the American Immigration Council’s new fact sheet, After Day One: A High-Level Analysis of Trump’s First Executive Actions, we break down what these policy changes seek to accomplish immediately and what they will mean for immigrants and all Americans in the future.
Read the Analysis
This remarkable group will help grow the Academy’s mission to provide musicians and audiences alike with transformative music experiences through public performances and community programs. Newly elected Board officers and members began their terms on January 1, 2025.
VENTURA — The Ventura County Air Pollution Control District is issuing an Air Quality Alert because unhealthy conditions exist.
Smoke from the Hughes Fire is causing the Air Quality Index (AQI) to fall in the unhealthy range for everyone in Camarillo, Fillmore, Moorpark, Oxnard, Piru, Santa Paula, Simi Valley and Ventura. 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.
We recognize the challenges that come with facing yet another period of Red Flag conditions and Public Safety Power Shutoffs.
We know these weather conditions and power shutoffs disrupt routines, create uncertainty, and make it difficult to meet essential needs. Please know that we stand with you during this time, and we are here to provide support and resources to help you navigate these challenges.
We are committed to keeping you informed of resources that keep you prepared and provide support as we navigate this challenge together.
Your patience and resilience are deeply appreciated as we work together to navigate these conditions and keep our community safe.
Thank you for your understanding and cooperation as we face these challenges together.
Choose a date that works for you:
Saturday, January 25th (online)
Saturday, February 1 (online)
Sábado, 8 de febrero (Oxnard)
Saturday, February 22 (online)
To reserve your seat, simply click below to sign up. We can’t wait to help you achieve your dream of homeownership!
LOMPOC — Lompoc is gearing up to welcome 2025 with a lineup of exciting events! From now until December 31, 2025, immerse yourself in the small-town charm of this vibrant community. Explore the unique festivals and experiences that make Lompoc Valley stand out. Wine lover or history buff, Lompoc Valley has something extraordinary to offer for every type of adventurer!
National Immigration Project Webinar on Immigration
Join the National Immigration Project on Wednesday, January 29 at 5pm ET for a free webinar for community defenders, advocates, and impacted community members to go over the basics of what you can do to protect yourself and your community in the face of potential immigration enforcement.
We’ll go over what immigration policies have changed in the first week of the Trump administration; a primer on your Fourth Amendment rights; and ways for families to prepare in case of an arrest by immigration officials. Our 1.5-hour program is meant to address your most burning questions and to remind you of the protections you already have. As policies change, we will continue to provide community defenders with the information and trainings they need to fight back and to keep their people ready to face whatever comes.
I want to ensure you’re ready for the extreme conditions forecasted for our area. The National Weather Service and Ventura County Sheriff’s Office of Emergency Services are closely monitoring a Red Flag wind event expected to last through Tuesday.
During this period, dry conditions combined with northeast winds of 25 to 40 MPH—and gusts reaching up to 60 MPH—create a heightened risk of wildfires.
Southern California Edison is implementing Public Safety Power Shutoffs in wind-prone areas. The primary period of concern for shutoffs extends through Tuesday morning, though circuits restored earlier may still be at risk for additional shutoffs depending on conditions.
When climate disasters strike, knowing how to help impacted communities and habitats can be daunting. CEC’s Climate Stewards certification program equips you with the knowledge to take climate action and connects you with a network of local activists working to promote community recovery and resilience.
“It’s always exciting when we get to see students back on campus for the start of classes,” said Hancock Superintendent/President Kevin G. Walthers, Ph.D. “Our entire team of faculty and staff are dedicated to helping make their college experience as rewarding as possible.”
Culminating a multiyear effort to unite library collections and services in a central, state-of-the-art space, the newly opened facility also represents the vision of its namesake, a longstanding donor to campus
La Santa Cecilia exemplifies the modern-day creative hybrid of Latin culture, rock and world music. The group draws inspiration from all over the world, utilizing Pan-American rhythms including cumbia, bossa-nova, rumba, bolero, tango, jazz and klezmer music. Their unique sounds and the experience of their colorful, passionate performances continues to captivate both loyal fans and new listeners.
As we honor the life and legacy of Dr. Martin Luther King Jr., I am reminded of the power of his vision. This vision continues to guide us in our work today. Dr. King’s dream of equality, justice, and a “Beloved Community” resonates deeply with our shared mission at LULAC. His strong commitment to nonviolence as a force for change reminds us that unity, courage, and action make progress possible.
This year, we find ourselves at a historic crossroads. The path ahead is uncertain, and challenges are many for the Latino communities we serve across the United States and Puerto Rico. Yet, I want to assure you that our sense of purpose has never been stronger. We are not merely observing the changes around us; we are preparing and taking deliberate action to confront them with clarity and determination.
This year sees People’s Self-Help Housing celebrate its 55th Anniversary!
Since 1970, when a group of committed individuals said ‘we can do better to help house our neighbors’, we have been doing just that. Originally building through the self-help program – ten families building alongside each other, working on one another’s homes – and then amplifying those efforts through the development of multifamily housing, the DNA of our organization is mutuality and support.
he Laken Riley Act Would Give States Sweeping Power Over Immigration Policy …
Who runs the U.S. immigration system? If the Senate passes the Laken Riley Act this week, the answer might not be Congress?or?the president. The bill, already passed in the House, would hand state attorneys general, like Ken Paxton in Texas, veto power over large swaths of federal immigration policy.
CENTRAL COAST — This year, People’s Self-Help Housing (PSHH)celebrates 55 years as an organization. To commemorate this historic milestone, PSHH has launched a new celebratory logo and webpage for its use throughout 2025.
“What a privilege for an organization to celebrate 55 years,” said Ken Trigueiro, PSHH CEO & President. “From our origins on the heels of the seminal Fair Housing Act of 1968 to today, we have been proud to participate in the numerous partnerships that have brought tens of thousands of units of affordable housing to the Central Coast.”
Intending to have a larger presence in the downtown area, and to support the revitalization of Santa Barbara’s primary business corridor, the university will acquire property on State Street.
Read more about the university’s plans
VENTURA — The California Strawberry Festival is seeking corporate sponsors for its 39th annual event, scheduled for May 17-18 at the Ventura County Fairgrounds.
The family-friendly festival drew more than 40,000 visitors from across Southern California in 2024, including attendees from Los Angeles, Ventura, San Bernardino, Kern, Santa Barbara and Orange counties.
Festival attractions include more than 40 strawberry-themed food and beverage vendors, nearly 150 fine arts and crafts booths, live entertainment on three stages, carnival rides, a children’s Strawberryland and a build-your-own strawberry shortcake tent. Organizers estimate visitors consume 1.5 million locally grown strawberries during the two-day event.
SACRAMENTO — Assemblymembers Jacqui Irwin (D-Thousand Oaks) and John Harabedian (D-Pasadena) have jointly authored and introduced a pair of bills that will provide much-needed financial relief to victims of the Los Angeles County wildfires and expedite rebuilding efforts in impacted communities.
“Many of our friends and neighbors who have had their homes damaged or destroyed are faced with the prospect of having to make a mortgage payment on a residence that is uninhabitable,” said Assemblymember Jacqui Irwin.
Amigos805 editor’s note: Please keep checking with vcemergency.com and other local officials/organizations for the latest fire/weather updates….
Due to strong winds and heightened wildfire conditions, the City of Santa Paula is experiencing weather-related power outages and Public Safety Power Shutoffs (PSPS). We want to ensure our community stays safe and informed during this time. Below are essential tips, resources, and important updates to help you navigate these conditions.
As we face one of the most devastating fire seasons in our region’s history, our hearts are with all those impacted by the fires across Los Angeles County and here in Ventura County. Please know you are not alone, and if you or a loved one need support, please reach out to 2-1-1 or complete this needs assessment if you are in Ventura County. A team of local nonprofits is working collaboratively together and are standing by to help.
Your community foundation is committed to raising funds to address the immediate and long-term needs of those most impacted by the recent Mountain Fire, while remaining prepared to respond to other disaster-related challenges across Ventura County. 100% of all contributions go directly to those most affected and local nonprofits supporting those most in need.
Amigos805 editor’s note: Please keep checking with vcemergency.com and other local officials/organizations for the latest fire/weather updates….
Dear Ventura County Residents,
Our hearts go out to all of you as we continue to navigate one of the most challenging fire seasons in our region’s history. We understand the hardships that many of you have faced, particularly with the extended power outages that have left so many without electricity for days. During the current event, we anticipate that there may be prolonged electrical outages once again so we encourage all residents in impacted areas to prepare accordingly. To find out more information please refer to vcemergency.com.
We want you to know that your safety and well-being remain our top priority. To address the ongoing power issues, we have engaged directly with Southern California Edison executives at the highest levels to advocate for the urgent restoration of electricity to our communities as soon as it is safe to do so. We have also reached out to State and Federal authorities to emphasize the critical need for swift action.
Southern California remains on high alert from devastating wildfires throughout the region. Kaiser Permanente is deeply concerned about everyone in our community who has been affected by this tragedy. Our top priority remains the safety of our patients, members, staff, and anyone seeking care at Kaiser Permanente.
Currently, most of our facilities in Southern California are open and operating normally. We will remain vigilant and ready to respond fluidly as conditions change.
Our hearts go out to those affected, including our own staff and their families. We are grateful to our dedicated employees who continue to work tirelessly to care for our members, even as some of them are personally impacted by the fires.
Amigos805 editor’s note: Please keep checking with vcemergency.com and other local officials/organizations for the latest fire/weather updates….
National Weather Service Update
The National Weather Service is forecasting Red Flag Conditions starting today, Monday, January 13 through Wednesday, January 15. Ventura County and nearby areas will experience very strong Santa Ana winds and extreme fire danger. Conditions will be very dry, with humidity between 10–20% (and not much better at night). Because of these dry conditions and strong winds, any new or existing fire could spread very quickly.
Winds in coastal and valley areas: 25–40 mph
Winds in mountains and foothills: 30–45 mph
Peak gusts could reach 45–70 mph (especially on Tuesday).
Highest wind impact: Tuesday 4 AM – Wednesday 12 PM
Areas at greatest risk: Simi, Moorpark, South Mountain, Piru, Fillmore, and Santa Paula
Amigos805 editor’s note: Please keep checking with vcemergency.com and other local officials/organizations for the latest fire/weather updates….
As we brace for another stretch of gusty and dry wind conditions, I want to take a moment to reach out with important updates and a reminder to stay prepared and informed. Ventura County is facing increased fire danger due to persistent low humidity and high winds, with a RED FLAG WARNING in effect through Wednesday, January 15.
Key Weather Forecast Details:
Santa Ana winds will impact our region starting today, January 13, through Wednesday, January 15.
Winds of 20-30 mph with gusts ranging from 40-50 mph are expected, peaking early Tuesday morning and continuing into Tuesday night.
Relative humidity will remain low at 10%-20%, with minimal overnight improvement.
For the latest updates on weather conditions, please visit the National Weather Service.
SANTA BARBARA — More women than ever are working in science, technology, engineering, and mathematics (STEM) fields, but they’re still vastly outnumbered by men. For many women professionals that can lead to a feeling of isolation, as well as problems with discrimination, unconscious bias and a lack of role models and support.
Leadership coach Mary Jean Vignone, Ph.D., aims to change that. From Feb. 3 to 6 she will be hosting the second annual “Fearless Femme Summit: Propel Your Career in STEM” The free event, which will be held entirely online from 10 a.m. to 1 p.m. each day, is designed to help women in STEM reach new heights in their careers and become authentic leaders.
Registration is open to STEM professionals, students and the public at no cost by signing up at www.fearlessfemmesummit.com. Participants can also sign up for a paid group coaching program and individualized emotional intelligence assessments that include free access to Fearless Femme Summit speaker videos.
Amigos805 editor’s note: Please keep checking with vcemergency.com and other local officials/organizations for the latest fire/weather updates….
As we continue to recover and rebuild from the Mountain Fire and face power outages from other So Cal Fires, I want to make sure you know that help is available, especially for those still without power or dealing with other challenges.
? 211 Ventura County is an incredible resource that connects people with assistance for a wide range of needs, including:
? Shelter and housing support
? Food assistance
? Transportation services
? Utility assistance
? Health care resources
? Mental health support
…and much more.
VENTURA COUNTY — In an effort to assist residents who were heavily impacted by the recent Mountain Wildfire in Ventura County, Kaiser Permanente has donated $95,000 to 805UndocuFund to provide relief to farm workers impacted by the destructive blaze.
The fire that erupted last month sent thousands fleeing, injured multiple people and destroyed at least 240 structures. It had a particular economic impact on the Ventura County agricultural sector, including the farmworker population. Many of these residents are undocumented or live in mixed-status households and have been disproportionately affected by the loss of work and wages, and the lack of access to available state and federal relief programs.
“Understanding the urgent needs of this vulnerable population, Kaiser Permanente has chosen to partner with 805UndocuFund to support their mission of providing direct assistance to farm workers during this challenging time,” said Murtaza Sanwari, senior vice president and area manager for Kaiser Permanente Woodland Hills/West Ventura County. “This organization will offer undocumented farm workers and individuals in mixed-status households financial aid and resource coordination to help them through the lengthy rebuilding and recovery process following the devastating wildfire.”
One of the major reasons that got Donald Trump elected to the U.S. presidency for the second time was his thundering promise to conduct a mass deportation of all illegal immigrants. For many of his supporters, this promise was all they needed to reinforce their commitment to their fearless leader.
Meanwhile, “co-president” Elon Musk ignited a civil war within MAGA world well before Trump’s inauguration when he declared that immigrant labor is essential for the engineering talent required to keep America great. This outlook flies in the face of those who strongly support the view that Americans are quite capable of providing that expertise. Some among the MAGA faithful were triggered, resulting in even more racist rhetoric that hinted at the tainting of our white American blood.
President-elect Trump’s mass deportation plan will target thousands of people who richly contribute to their families, communities, and our local economies often for decades. While Trump and his advisors claim they will start with “criminal immigrants,” their plans will include millions of people who pose no public safety risk at all—just as we saw during his first administration.
H-1B Modernization Rule Provides Some Comfort But Also Raises Concerns
By issuing a final rule, the Biden administration has made it more difficult for the Trump administration to reverse some agency practices with which it disagrees.
I want to acknowledge the significant inconvenience and frustration caused by the ongoing power outages affecting our area. Many residents, myself included, have been without power for more than three days.
I have reached out to Southern California Edison (SCE) to urge them to expedite efforts to restore power in Ventura County. Unfortunately, their response has been slower than we hoped, but I remain committed to advocating for a swift resolution.
During this challenging time, I encourage you to stay informed and access available resources:
Outage Updates: SCE provides an outage map at www.sce.com/outage-center/check-outage-status.
Emergency Information: The latest updates and emergency services can be found at www.vcemergency.com.
Food Assistance: For those in need, Food Share offers support. You can find more information at foodshare.com.
Storms can still happen even during a drier winter season. Know your risk and be ready for a change in weather.
OXNARD — Housing Director Emilio Ramirez has left his position to serve as Chief of Staff to Riverside County Supervisor Jose Medina. City Manager Alexander Nguyen has appointed Assistant Housing Director Brenda Lopez as Oxnard’s Interim Housing Director while the City begins a formal recruitment process for the position.
Said Nguyen, “Emilio gave Oxnard nearly six great years of service. His intellect and creativity were outsized only by his heart. He left the Housing Department in a much, much better position looking towards the future.”
Since joining the City in April 2019, Ramirez has led the transformation of the Housing Department, improving the operations of the Housing Authority and beginning an Asset Repositioning Implementation Plan, which allows the City to preserve and improve its affordable housing stock by moving away from the traditional public housing model.
CEC’s Climate Stewards certification program is designed to foster connection, confidence, and inspiration for grassroots climate action. Gain the tools and support to tackle climate impacts in your life, work, and community. Let’s work together for a sustainable future — the climate movement needs YOU!
Our Climate Stewards program empowers participants to play an active role in their community to advance rapid and equitable solutions to the climate crisis. Together, our community of 200-strong Climate Steward alumni are leading climate justice initiatives and pushing forward thousands of local solutions.
The next cohort starts January 28, 2025. Now is the perfect time to invest in your future, and the future of our planet!
moment to remind you of important safety information to help keep you and your loved ones safe.
? Stay Informed:
Emergency Alerts: If you haven’t yet registered for emergency alerts, now is the time. Visit VCALERT.ORG to sign up today.
Emergency Updates: Stay up to date on all emergency information at VCEMERGENCY.COM. This site also provides links to updates for neighboring counties.
?? Be Prepared:
Take this opportunity to review your emergency preparedness plans. Helpful information and resources can be found at ReadyVenturaCounty.org.
? Weather Outlook:
Ventura County Sheriff’s Emergency Services and the National Weather Service are monitoring a strong Santa Ana Wind event expected to impact Ventura County thru Friday, January 10th.
Due to strong winds and heightened wildfire conditions, the City of Santa Paula is experiencing weather-related power outages and Public Safety Power Shutoffs (PSPS). We want to ensure our community stays safe and informed during this time. Below are essential tips, resources, and important updates to help you navigate these conditions.
VISALIA — More than 100 people (on Jan. 8) attended the Department of Pesticide Regulation’s (DPR) public hearing at the Visalia Veterans’ Memorial Building on its draft regulation of cancer-causing 1,3-dichloropropene (aka 1,3-D, brand name Telone) that addresses only “occupational bystanders” and relies on completely different assumptions of lifetime cancer risk exposure than the law regulating the same pesticide towards children and residents near agricultural fields.
VENTURA — Ventura County Environmental Health is pleased to announce that the Debris Removal Operations Center (DROC) for residents enrolled in the County-Led Debris Removal Program will officially open its doors on Wednesday, January 8. The DROC will be located at the former Ventura County Fire Department Headquarters at the Camarillo Airport. The center will serve as the main hub for all Phase 2 debris removal operations, as debris removal for properties impacted by the Mountain Fire is set to begin this month.
Opening Reception – Enfoque: Voces Indígenas Mexicanas del Condado de Ventura
(In Focus: Mexican Indigenous Voices of Ventura County)
Saturday, February 8
5:00 pm – 7:00 pm
@Agriculture Museum
926 Railroad Ave., Santa Paula
Únase a nosotros en el Museo de la Agricultura para la inauguración de esta esperada exposición que muestra más de 40 retratos fotográficos del fotógrafo de fama internacional Diego Huerta. Estos retratos destacan las vibrantes y resistentes comunidades indígenas mexicanas del condado de Ventura. Disfrute de las actuaciones de Los Elegidos de Asís y Las Chinas Oaxaqueñas-Las Isabeles, comentarios de los artistas, y comida y bebida. Para más detalles sobre la exposición, haga clic AQUÍ. Los detalles de la recepción sólo para miembros están AQUÍ. Para confirmar su asistencia a la recepción inaugural gratuita, haga clic AQUÍ.
Join us at the Agriculture Museum for this highly anticipated exhibition opening showcasing over 40 photographic portraits by internationally acclaimed photographer Diego Huerta. These portraits highlight the vibrant and resilient Mexican Indigenous communities of Ventura County. Enjoy performances by Los Elegidos de Asís and Las Chinas Oaxaqueñas—Las Isabeles, artist remarks, and food and beverages. For exhibition details, click HERE. Members-only preview details are HERE. To RSVP for the free, community opening reception, click HERE.
This exhibition is made possible by the Busch Family Foundation, Oxnard Performing Arts Center, and Gabriella Navarro-Busch and Peter Busch
(Jan. 6), my tenure on the Santa Barbara County Board of Supervisors came to an end. I consider myself fortunate and blessed that voters have trusted me to serve in elected office and make a difference for 21 years.
When I first came into office people called me a young gun. But in two decades I have seen a lot, and want to leave you with some parting thoughts.
I don’t believe any elected official can make every call right. When you vote on several thousands of pieces of legislation per year, you can never be perfect, as much as I have deeply wanted to.
The issues of our time are daunting.
SANTA BARBARA — During the most recent holidays, many individuals in our community faced heightened stress, anxiety, and emotional challenges. To address this urgent need, SB Therapy Now (www.sbTherapyNow.com) is making it easier than ever for Santa Barbara residents to connect with local therapists who have immediate availability.
The platform is designed to eliminate the long wait times often associated with accessing mental health care. By offering instant access to a curated list of therapists, SB Therapy Now empowers individuals to prioritize their mental health when they need it most.
“Ventura County is proud to partner with Women’s Economic Ventures, an organization that has consistently demonstrated its ability to transform our local business landscape,” said County of Ventura Deputy Executive Officer of Economic Vitality, Estelle Bussa. “Their proven track record of helping entrepreneurs access capital and acquire crucial business knowledge has made a significant impact on our community. This partnership represents our commitment to supporting small businesses that are the backbone of our local economy.”
Professor Soojin Yi leads a study of how gene expression in the human brain reveals cell types becoming more specialized, not just more numerous.
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 fourteen 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 fiscal year 2024-2025, GO-Biz will accept applications for the California Competes Tax Credit during the following periods:
VENTURA — The 39th Annual California Strawberry Festival is accepting applications from individual makers of quality, handcrafted works by artists and crafters for this year’s festival taking place May 17 and 18 at the Ventura County Fairgrounds. The deadline to apply is Feb. 10.
The festival, which attracts more than 60,000 visitors, features dozens of different kinds of foods and beverages made from fresh strawberries. About 150 artisans from throughout California showcase their original works including paintings, sculptures, ceramics, children’s toys, accessories, photography, textiles, outdoor furniture, jewelry and specialty foods
VENTURA — Registration for the City of Ventura’s 2025 Corporate Games opens on January 7, 2025. The Games will occur over the course of five weeks from March 22 to May 3, 2025, on weekends and weeknights after regular business hours.
This annual program brings together businesses from Ventura, Santa Barbara, and Los Angeles Counties to compete against each other in various activities and sporting events. All local companies and businesses are welcome to join. Registration ends February 14, 2025.
“We’re looking forward to welcoming teams old and new back to the Games,” said Recreation Supervisor Tyler Nelson. “We’ve been hosting the Games for over 35 years, and every season we’re working to improve our activities, ensure participants have a great time, and create lasting memories.”
Saturday, January 18, 2025 • 4 PM to 6 PM
$5 SPAM members • $10 Non-members
Join us at the Santa Paula Art Museum on Saturday, January 18, for the premiere of “A Brush with Nature: Three Artists’ Perspectives,” an exhibition featuring Santa Clarita-based artists Sandy Fisher, Mardilan Lee Georgio, and Charlotte Mullich. Together the three artists present three impressions of nature, from landscapes and seascapes to flora and fauna, using three distinct mediums: oil, pastel, and watercolor. All of the artworks will be available for purchase.
