Category: Women

Non-Profit WEV Distributes $225,000 to Entrepreneurial Hispanic and Indigenous Community Members

Women’s Economic Ventures (WEV) on June 29 hosted an Award Ceremony at the Oxnard Performing Arts Center to distribute $225,000 to entrepreneurial Hispanic and Indigenous Ventura County community members. Forty-five Emprendedores program participants, thirty-one women and 14 men, successfully completed WEV’s free, 6-week business training program and applied for grant funding; each received a $5,000 grant award for their small business needs. For more program information, including the upcoming Santa Barbara County cohort enrollment, visit www.wevonline.org/emprendimiento

WEV’s Emprendedores Program, offered in partnership with Mixteco Indigenous Community Organizing Project (MICOP) is funded by the state of California’s Employment Training Panel’s (ETP), Social Entrepreneurs for Economic Development (SEED) initiative and is aimed at empowering marginalized community members who face barriers to employment such as low English proficiency. The program includes group training sessions on topics such as business marketing and finance individualized coaching, and funding tied to a business plan to support individuals in launching or growing their own businesses in Santa Barbara and Ventura counties.

Summer Is Calling: Find Your Seaside At Ventura Harbor Village, Where Sun, Sand And Sea Meet To Create A Perfect Coastal Getaway

The chemistry of sun, sand and sea converge for “Find Your Seaside” – this year’s summer theme at Ventura Harbor Village.  From summer music series to magical moments on the water, new photo opps and tasty summer themed treats, this postcard-perfect destination makes for an ideal midweek or weekend daycation or getaway. What’s more, admission and parking are complimentary all summer long!   Situated on a spectacular stretch of prime Pacific coastline, this California “go to” escape is worth the drive. 

On tap for summer by the sea is a new pop-up photo experience awaiting guests to shoot and post designed by California artist Alexis Andra, and celebration of the “805” for KHAY’s 100.7 FM 805 Day on August 5, 2022 at tthe seashore. See more below as Ventura Harbor Village shares a Top 2022 Summer Bucket List picks that will give sun-seekers from near and far something to “wave” about. See you seaside!

Take to The Great Outdoors & Discover Amazing Summer Events & Activities As Part Of ‘A Space To Explore’ Summer Getaway To Lompoc

With Summer just around the corner, Explore Lompoc invites visitors to explore the great outdoors as part of a “Space to Explore” Summary Getaway  and reveals the destination’s top amazing and events and activities perfect for the budget-conscious traveler.  www.ExploreLompoc.com

Plan your trip to Lompoc and Book Your Hotel for your next visit!

County of Ventura COVID-19 & County Update

It’s election day! Voting centers are open today until 8:00 pm. Visit www.venturavote.org to find a voting center or ballot drop box. Shout out to the many county election workers supporting the 2022 CA primary election! 

Museum of Ventura County — Your donation to MVC makes a real difference

he Museum of Ventura County and the Agriculture Museum are poised to move into a new era of exhibits, programs, and education, and we need your support to do so.

As a community, we are in an exciting time, a time when coming together in-person safely is happening again. In the coming weeks and months, your Museums in Ventura and Santa Paula will be presenting compelling new programming and events.
We are proud of the recent impact made during closures and limited openings, and excited about where we are headed, with your help:
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Admission is now FREE at both locations and will continue to be, with your support
Increased focus on enrichment activities for children and families
New exhibits in every gallery at the Ventura location, beginning in May/June
MVC Education Programs now present education tours in-person or virtually
The MVC 3rd campus – venturamuseum.org – will continue to offer new content regularly, including videos, articles, blogs, puzzles, and over a thousand new digitized photos in 2022
Thank you for your support of MVC throughout these trying times. We are counting on you as we enter this next exciting chapter in the life of our region’s pre-eminent cultural institution. It is only through your sustaining generosity that we can continue to provide the relevant, stimulating, thought-provoking, inspiring, and compelling programming that nourishes this community.

County of Ventura COVID-19 & County Update

Since Tuesday, May 3rd, 780 new COVID-19 cases have been reported and 20,474 new tests completed. There are 15 people hospitalized and 3 in the ICU.

There have been 6 new deaths of a 55 year old female, 63 year old male, 66 year old male, 71 year old female, 75 year old female, and a 94 year old female. We extend our sincere condolences to the family and loved ones of the community members who have passed away.

The R-effective for Ventura County is 1.13, which means that the spread of COVID is likely increasing. The R-effective for California is 1.04.

With the uptick in COVID-19 cases in CA, it’s important to take steps to protect yourself. Community members at higher risk of severe illness are encouraged to take additional precautions.

Santa Barbara County Food Action Network — Spring Newsletter

Spring has sprung in Santa Barbara County: strawberries are at their peak and the abundance of asparagus, peas, artichokes, garlic, freshly dug potatoes, and tender greens of all kinds are hard to miss at farmers’ markets, farm stands, and local food retailers. Ridgeback shrimp and Spot prawns have joined the year-round offerings of live red abalone, sea urchin, oysters, kelp, and fish available from the nutrient-rich waters of the Santa Barbara Channel. Lamb and other recently born grazers can be found dotting the hillsides alongside their parents, protecting our region against impending wildfires and providing quality protein and fiber for our community.

April News from People’s Self-Help Housing

April may have been a “taxing” month for all of us, but the bright side of that is realizing the investment of those resources can produce good things, that are most important and critical to meeting our communities’ common concerns and needs. Such is the case for the federal Low Income Housing Tax Credit program. It’s a tried and true system that, although not perfect nor simple, has continuously produced high quality permanently affordable housing to lower-income earning households all across the nation, including here on the Central Coast. Originating from the 1986 Reagan Tax Reform Act, it has had substantive bipartisan support since then, through numerous pendulum power swinging election cycles and shifts. Success has in part been attributed to the public-private partnership nature of the program, that provides affordable housing financing. It starts with a tax credit allocation made available to each state each year, based on their population at a per capita rate. For 2022 that rate is set at an allocation of $2.35 per person.  

Edward Jones Financial Advisor Regina Korossy Hosted ‘Grand Opening’

Regina Korossy, a licensed financial advisor with the financial services firm Edward Jones, hosted an open house this month for her new offices in Westlake Village.

The event offered a chance for the public to meet Korossy and her staff and to learn more about the services she offers including retirement savings planning, wealth management, estate and legacy planning, business retirement plans, portfolio reviews and help with financial management during and after divorce.

Korossy’s offices are located at 2625 Townsgate Road, Suite 110 (at the entrance closest to Hampshire Road), in Westlake Village.

Bilingual report — WEV seeking Bilingual Program Officer

WEV is seeking to hire a full-time Bilingual Program Officer to support our Emprendedores Spanish language business training, coaching and micro-grant program. ?This role can be based in the Ventura or Santa Barbara office, with hybrid work opportunities.  WEV (pronounced “weave”) is a non-profit organization dedicated to creating an equitable and just society through the economic empowerment of women. We are a purposeful, mission-driven organization with a passionate and engaged staff based in Santa Barbara and Ventura counties, whose primary focus is on supporting women-owned businesses and entrepreneurship.   For more information and to apply visit: www.wevonline.org/jobs/bilingual-program-officer/

Bilingual report — County of Ventura Update – COVID-19

It’s National Public Safety Telecommunications Week and we’re showing gratitude for dispatchers at the Ventura County Sheriff’s Office and Ventura County Fire Department! They are the calm voice on the other end of the line that provides critical support to the community, deputies, and first responders. Thank you for your commitment and dedication to our community!

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

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.

Kaiser Permanente launches Ukrainian relief giving campaign

Kaiser Permanente has launched an employee and physician giving campaign to help with the urgent Ukrainian refugee crisis for physicians and employees who wish to personally support organizations helping with the relief effort, providing refugees with food, shelter, warm clothing, medical care, and supplies. Employees and physicians can choose to support these efforts by donating to any of 3 organizations selected by Kaiser Permanente, and the nonprofit integrated health care organization will match individual donations dollar for dollar, up to a total of $200,000.

The program was announced March 1, and in less than 2 days employees and physicians donated more than $200,000 in relief funds, ensuring the organization will contribute at least $400,000 for Ukraine relief.

Girls Inc. of Carpinteria Awarded $50,000 Grant to Support Healthy Living Curriculum

 Girls Inc. of Carpinteria on March 3 announced it received a $50,000 grant from Cottage Hospital Foundation to provide buffering services to local girls and support growth in the organization’s ‘STRONG’ program, which combines physical activity, nutrition, and a healthy living curriculum to engage the mind, body and soul.

The awarded funds will enable Girls Inc. of Carpinteria to focus on three critical areas to support overall health for the girls it serves, including:

Bilingual report — County of Ventura March 2, 2022 update

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/

Bilingual report — County of Ventura Feb. 23, 2022 update

Since Friday Feb. 18th, there have been 741 new COVID-19 cases reported and 18,487 new tests completed. There are 65 people hospitalized and 15 in the ICU.

There have been 10 new deaths – ages ranging from 64-89. We extend our sincere condolences to the family and loved ones of the community members who have passed away throughout the pandemic. Wellness Everyday offers grief and loss support and resources.

The R-effective for Ventura County is 0.55, meaning that the spread of COVID is likely decreasing.

Local Thousand Oaks non profit celebrates International Women’s Day 3/8 in Uganda with women the serve

Honoring the achievements of women worldwide on International Women’s Day is a special cause for celebration to The Greater Contribution,  a Thousand Oaks non-profit founded in 2006 by women who wanted to make a greater contribution to the world by helping those most in need.

For the past 16 years, the organization’s grassroots fundraising has empowered thousands of women in remote villages of Uganda, Africa, with micro loans so that they can start their own businesses and lift their families out of poverty. Coming from a place of dignity and respect, the two-year program includes literacy and business skills training, along with mentoring and peer counseling to create a life-changing impact. 

Pedro A. Chavez receives Strategic Partner Award from the Women’s Council of Realtors Ventura County Network

Pedro A. Chavez, team sales manager wit Caliber Home Loans in Oxnard, was recently presented with the Strategic Partner Award from Outgoing Ventura County Network President Sher Heard during organization’s Great Gatsby Gala held recently at the Moorpark Country Club.

Santa Barbara County Food Action Network — Winter Newsletter

Winter is fleeting, as it often is in California and throughout our coastal county. Santa Barbara County’s unique micro-climates allow for so much to be produced here this time of year while other parts of the country struggle to get the bare necessities to take root: winter crops such as celery root, beets, hard squash, bok choy, collards, cilantro, and citrus abound. As lobster season comes to a close, fishermen are reeling in halibut, seabass, and dozens of varieties of cod and rockfish. Soon ranchers will bring lamb to the market, a sign that spring is just around the corner.

As we welcome spring, we look forward to gathering with food system actors like you to listen, learn, and share resources.

Bilingual report — County of Ventura COVID-19 Update for Feb. 16, 2022

As of today Feb. 16, Ventura County’s indoor mask mandate is lifted. Masks are required indoors for people who are unvaccinated per the state order and are strongly recommended for all. Updated signage is available at https://www.venturacountyrecovers.org/outreach-toolkit/. Details at https://www.vcnewschannel.com/news/511-vc-indoor-mask-order-lifted-feb-16

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

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 — Ventura County’s Indoor Mask Order Will be Lifted Feb. 16, in Alignment with the State

February 10, 2022 Ventura County’s Indoor Mask Order Will be Lifted February 16, in Alignment with the State Masks required indoors for unvaccinated; strongly recommended for all; vaccines and boosters urged to strengthen defenses Ventura, CA – Ventura County Public…

Federal Grant to Provide Mental Health First Aid Trainings to Over 4,800 Santa Barbara County Residents

In response to our nation’s mental health crisis, Family Service Agency (FSA), Mental Wellness Center (MWC), and Youthwell have secured funding that will continue to bring Youth Mental Health First Aid (YMHFA) trainings to Santa Barbara County. In the next five years, the coalition expects to train 2,800 adults to recognize the signs and symptoms of mental health challenges in youth, provide initial response, and safely connect youth with appropriate services. The funding also includes training 2,000 high school students to recognize and respond to the signs of mental health issues in their peers.

Virtual YMHFA classes start this February and are offered at no cost to Santa Barbara County adults thanks to funding from the Substance Abuse and Mental Health Services Administration.

Bilingual report — Feb. 4, 2022 – COVID-19 Update

We are so grateful for the steady support of our Emergency Medical Services Agency throughout the course of the pandemic! They have been involved in almost every aspect of our county’s response – testing, vaccines, personal protective equipment, you name it. Thank you EMS for your heroic efforts in serving our community!
COVID-19 Update
Since Wednesday, there have been 901 new COVID-19 cases reported and 18,345 new tests completed. There are 213 people hospitalized and 35 in the ICU. There have been 16 additional deaths, 8 females and 8 males between the ages of 50 and 94. We extend our sincere condolences to the family and loved ones of the community members who passed away. The R-effective for Ventura County is 0.66, meaning that the spread of COVID is likely decreasing.

Moderna COVID-19 Vaccine Granted Full FDA Approval by the FDA

Visit San Luis Obispo — Enjoy a two-night midweek escape to San Luis Obispo, receive $100 in gift cards

Now’s the time to plot an escape to the city of San Luis Obispo, the charming walkable town along California’s Central Coast. From February 1-March 31, 2022, the first 500 visitors who book a two-night consecutive stay at a participating San Luis Obispo “SLO-tel” will receive a complimentary gift card bundle worth $100. 

Guests can take advantage of this offer by booking a two-night stay, Sunday through Thursday, at a participating hotel or inn. Travel must be booked and completed by March 31, 2022. Once the booking is confirmed, guest will then need to email their confirmation to info@visitslo.com to see if they are one of the first 500 to qualify for the offer. Blackout dates and certain rules and regulations apply, including valid for new bookings only and bookings made after February 1, 2022. Booking confirmations must be sent prior to arrival. Additional rules and restrictions can be found at visitslo.com.

Bilingual report — Feb. 2, 2022 – COVID-19 Update

Shout out to our Public Health lab! They have gone above & beyond during the pandemic, especially during this surge, to help us move forward. Their efforts studying communicable diseases often go unseen, yet they are so valuable. Thank you to this incredible team for their dedication to our community!

COVID-19 Update
Since Monday, there have been 1,241 new COVID-19 cases reported and 13,579 new tests completed. There are 245 people hospitalized and 38 in the ICU. There have been 16 additional deaths, 3 females and 13 males between the ages of 43 and 94. We extend our sincere condolences to the family and loved ones of the community members who passed away. The R-effective for Ventura County is 0.64, meaning that the spread of COVID is likely decreasing.

Bilingual report — Oxnard City Services Will Continue to Remain Available Remotely Until Further Notice

Due to continuing spread of COVID-19, the City of Oxnard is extending the temporary closures of City facilities and programs until further notice.

Community Resources
City employees will be available to address questions via phone, email and virtual appointments during regular business hours.

Bilingual report — Jan. 26, 2022 – COVID-19 Update

Since Monday, there have been 4,975 new COVID-19 cases reported and 19,054 new tests completed. There are 302 people hospitalized and 46 in the ICU. There have been 8 additional deaths of a 60 year old female, 69 year old male, 84 year old male, 84 year old male, 90 year old male, 94 year old female, 94 year old female, and a 98 year old male. We extend our sincere condolences to the family and loved ones of the community members who passed away. The R-effective for Ventura County is 0.58 which indicates that the spread of COVID is likely decreasing.

Bilingual report — Older Youth in Care Thrive with Support from Local Families & Mentors

Elizabeth “Lizzy” Clews was 15 years old when, after multiple attempts to escape a toxic home life, she was placed in out-of-home care (formerly foster care). Without a stable home environment, Clews attended 13 different high schools leaving her feeling vastly disconnected. It was not until she was 17 and living in her second group home that Elizabeth met Damon, a mentor that completely changed the direction of her life. Now Elizabeth helps others in care. 

“Just having that one solid person that I knew was always going to be there really motivated me and gave me a sense of confidence and just a feeling like I deserved to be loved,” said Clews. “It felt so good to have this person that I thought was successful also see that same potential in me at various stages of my life.” 

Bilingual report — Covered California Begins 2022 With a Record 1.7 Million Enrollees and Encourages Uninsured Californians to Sign Up Now as Deadline Approaches

With the final deadline for the current open-enrollment period quickly approaching on Jan. 31, Covered California announced that 1,744,000 people have signed up for coverage, which is a new record high for the start of a coverage year (see Figure 1: Covered California Plan Selections to Start a Coverage Year). The total represents an increase of more than 350,000 people compared to the start of 2020, as Covered California has used the increased financial help from the American Rescue Plan to expand coverage and meet the needs of people affected by the COVID-19 pandemic.

“The pandemic has highlighted the importance of having quality coverage, and with a surge of COVID-19 infections across the state, now is the time to make sure you have health insurance,” said Peter V. Lee, executive director of Covered California.

“We want to encourage anyone who is currently going without health care coverage to check out their options and sign up so they can be covered in 2022.”

Bilingual commentary — Jan. 21, 2022 – COVID-19 Update

We’re donating blood today and helping end the national blood shortage! Shout out to Adela Oregon with our Probation Agency, Robert Crawford of the General Services Agency, Leslie Cerda student worker with our Sheriff’s Office, and all county employees who made a lifesaving donation today! You can too: www.redcrossblood.org

Take To The Great Outdoors With Island Packers Winter Whale Watching & Excursions To the Channel Islands National Park 

Island Packers, the official boat concessionaire to the Channel Islands National Park, has daily departures to the Channel Islands National Park from Ventura Harbor Village and is now offering Winter Whale Watching excursions.  Book your spot today to view these magnificent mammals at www.islandpackers.com. 

A winter Whale Watch is a perfect way to gather with family and friends to view Pacific Gray whales migrating through the Santa Barbara Channel from their feeding grounds in Alaska to their breeding grounds in Baja. Pacific Gray Whales are normally sighted in the National Marine Sanctuary near Anacapa and Santa Cruz Island continues through April 23, 2022. Thismammoth migration of over 20,000 whales and 6,000 miles twice a year remains a major attraction in Southern California. 

Santa Barbara First District Supervisor Das Williams — Volunteer for Point In Time Count, 1/9 Remembrance Event, COVID-19 Info & More

I want to wish you a healthy and happy New Year, and encourage you to live with less worry. I believe that living without worry is not about ignoring dangers, it is about controlling what you can control, taking precautions, but also living your life and not putting energy into what is outside our control.

“If you have a piece of truth, do not hide it like a treasure, but hang it on a shingle for the world to see.”

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

January 7, 2022 – COVID-19 Update Everyone over the age of 12 is now eligible for a COVID-19 booster dose. Get your COVID-19 booster dose if: • It has been 5+ months since you completed your primary Pfizer series, •…

Bilingual report — Jan. 5, 2022 – COVID-19 Update

Things to consider more seriously in the midst of the Omicron surge
Get vaccinated and boosted.
Please stay home when you are ill to limit exposing others in the community.
Consider temporarily pausing on attending unnecessary indoor events until the Omicron surge slows down.
Wear a mask. They are required indoors for all in the State of California.

Vaccines best protection

The COVID-19 vaccine continues to be the best option to prevent serious illness or hospitalization from COVID-19. Make an appointment today at myturn.ca.gov or by calling 833-422-4255.

Bilingual report — County of Ventura Jan. 3, 2022 – COVID-19 Update

Since Wednesday, December 29, there have been 5,283 new COVID-19 cases reported and 34,015 new tests completed. There are 162 people hospitalized and 27 in the ICU. There have been 2 additional deaths of 73 and 65 year old males. Our sincere condolences to the family and loved ones of the community members who passed away. The R-effective for Ventura County is 1.83 which indicates that the speed of COVID is likely increasing rapidly.

Find a vaccine site at www.vaccines.gov or make an appointment directly at MyTurn.CA.gov. The Public Health clinic schedule is available at www.vcrecovers.org/vaccine.
COVID Therapeutics are currently in severely short supply. If you test positive for COVID-19, are exhibiting symptoms, and feel as though you meet the factors identified in the below risk groups, call your physician to see if you are eligible and where you might be able to receive treatment.
Ventura County Schools to Prioritize Safety Upon Return from Winter Break

78.7% of community members (ages 5+) have received one or more COVID vaccine doses.
72% of eligible community members have been fully vaccinated.
77.7% of community members 12+ have been fully vaccinated.

Museum of Ventura County — There’s even more we have to give, for free!

MVC Insider Season 3
Episode 1: Erle Stanley Gardner
Starting Friday, January 24, 2022 @ 10am
Fridays @ 10am on Facebook Live

We are officially back with Season 3 of “MVC Insider”! Join us on Facebook Live for the first episode of MVC Insider this Friday, December 24, 2022 at 10am! Mark your calendars and tune-in on Facebook Live for the next five Fridays at 10am.

Krystell Jimenez, Project Archivist, uncovers relics from the John C. Orr Collection pertaining to the prolific novelist and Ventura County native Erle Stanley Gardner who wrote the popular Perry Mason series

Bilingual report — Dec. 20, 2021 – COVID-19 Update

Over 900 farmworker families received close to 3,000 toys and nearly 1,200 boxes of food yesterday thanks to an amazing first-time collaboration among Ventura County Fire Department, our Farmworker Resource Program, and Food Share of Ventura County! We are so grateful for the generosity of our community! There is still time to participate in Spark of Love Toy Drive.

Bilingual report — Dec. 15, 2021 – COVID-19 Update

Ventura County Public Health will begin offering residents two $25 gift cards ($50) who get a second COVID vaccine dose starting December 14, while supplies last. Residents receiving a first dose will continue to receive one $25 gift card. View Public Health’s vaccine sites here. Shout out to our awesome nurses Ruby (left) and Mallory (right), for their service to our community!

Local PODS® Announces Its Tenth Year of Support for Food Share CAN-tree Food Drive to Help Local Community

 Local PODS Moving and Storage will once again support Food Share Ventura County’s CAN-tree event December 9-12 at Figueroa Plaza – Downtown Ventura. This year marks a special 10-year anniversary celebration.  

“We’re proud to partner with Food Share for this annual event to help stock the food bank shelves with the extra canned food donations needed to help families through the holidays,” said Steve Yapp, owner of local PODS Moving and Storage. “Food Share helps thousands of food insecure families every holiday season, and we consider it an honor to be able to support their cause.”  

PODS local have been supporting Food Share CAN-tree event programs since its origination in 2011. Each year, the community gathers to build a “forest” of can trees built from donated food that will soon be distributed to families for the holidays.  

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

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

Bilingual report — COVID-19 Update for Nov. 29, 2021

Since Wednesday, there are 323 new COVID-19 cases reported and 14,189 new tests performed. There are 36 people hospitalized, 5 in the ICU. There has been 1 new death of a 73 year old female. Our thoughts and sincere condolences to the loved ones of those that have passed away. The R-effective for Ventura County is .88 which means the spread is likely decreasing.

The California Department of Public Health has released a statement about the Omicron variant of the COVID-19 virus. Read it here.

Bilingual report — Nov. 24, 2021 – COVID-19 Update

The holiday celebrations started early for children receiving care at the Pediatric Unit at the Ventura County Medical Center! This year the Ventura County Fire Urban Search and Rescue (US&R) team used a rope rescue system that allowed them to position Santa Claus on the pediatric level of the hospital where there is an outdoor play area. The rope rescue exercise helped deliver toys to special children and also gave the US&R team valuable training. Join us in dropping off a toy, sporting good or unperishable food at any fire station or participating location to help bring joy to children in need this season. More information at: vcfd.org/sparkoflovedropoff.

Bilingual report — County of Ventura COVID-19 Update for Nov. 22, 2021

Public Health Nurse Mallory Perper and Kyle Culkin of the Emergency Medical Services Agency were among the amazing staff members that made the COVID and Flu Vaccine event at Santa Clara High School in Oxnard over the weekend a great success! Brittany Romane RN BSN of the Public Health Immunization Program is pictured giving both flu and booster shots to Ross Kocen, volunteer with the Medical Reserve Corps. Ross has volunteered at vaccination sites since December of 2020 when the first COVID vaccines arrived in our county! Our team continues to work hard to move us forward and we are so grateful!

Bilingual report — County of Ventura — Nov. 17, 2021 – COVID-19 Update

Dr. Ali Maamar-Tayeb leads the incredible team at the Ventura County Medical Center and Santa Paula Hospital treating patients with some of the most complex neurological cases. We are so proud to have Dr. Maamar-Tayeb on our team and appreciate his work in again achieving the American Heart Association Stroke- Get With The Guidelines- Award! Learn more at www.vchca.org.
COVID-19 Update

United Way of Ventura County makes significant progress to end local veteran homelessness

As we look ahead toward honoring Veterans Day, United Way of Ventura County continues to prioritize providing critical support to veterans in the Ventura County community through its Landlord Engagement Program (LEP) and rapid response efforts throughout the pandemic and beyond.

When COVID-19 first impacted the Ventura community in 2020, United Way of Ventura County mobilized immediately to secure temporary shelter and daily meals for local veterans and have helped a total of 48 veterans and 26 family members. Additionally, the nonprofit provided more than 3,000 Rapid Response Homeless Care Kits, which were distributed by the Ventura County Healthcare for the Homeless Backpack Medicine Team.

Bilingual report — COVID-19 Update for Oct. 13, 2021

Since Monday, there are 201 new COVID-19 cases reported and 11,964 new tests performed. There are 46 people hospitalized, 6 in the ICU. There have been 4 additional deaths of a 77 year old male, 61 year old male, 64 year old female, and an 85 year old male. Our sincere condolences to the loved ones of those who have passed away.

80.2% of Ventura County’s population 12+ has received the first dose.
81.7% of Ventura County’s population 18+ has received the first dose.
73.5% of Ventura County’s population 12+ are fully vaccinated.

www.vcrecovers.org

Santa Barbara First District Supervisor Das Williams — Celebrating National Drive Electric Week & More!

Celebrate National Drive Electric Week by attending an Electric Vehicle 101 webinar, e-biking webinar, Goleta or Oxnard EV showcase, or other virtual or live event. As a long-time electric vehicle driver, I can attest to the many benefits of owning an electric vehicle: significantly lower fuel and maintenance costs, various rebates, incentives, and tax credits, and of course reducing your greenhouse gas emissions! See below for some ways to engage and learn more about electric vehicles:

Santa Paula Art Museum September Classes and Our August Replay!

Class: Still Life in Oil – Essential Skills (Ages 16+)

Four consecutive Saturdays starting Saturday, September 4, 2021, from 11 AM to 2 PM

There are only a few spots left in the four-part Still Life in Oil – Essential Skills course starting Saturday, September 4, at the Santa Paula Art Museum. If you’ve ever wanted to learn how to oil paint, or are looking to improve your skills, this is the perfect class for you! Teaching artist Gabriel Islas will break down the theory and process, and provide you with one-on-one guidance. The cost of the four-part class series is $140. All materials will be provided. Preregistration is required.

County of Ventura COVID-19 Update for Sept. 1, 2021

September 1, 2021 – COVID-19 Update COVID-19 Update Since Tuesday, there are 183 new COVID-19 cases reported and 5,585 new tests performed. There are 124 people hospitalized, 24 in the ICU. There have been 5 additional deaths of a 58…

Bilingual report — COVID-19 Update for Aug. 30, 2021

Since Friday, there are 469 new COVID-19 cases reported and 12,366 new tests performed. There are 134 people hospitalized, 23 in the ICU. There have been 2 additional deaths of a 85 year old male and an 84 year old female. Our thoughts are with the family and friends of those who have passed away.

76.7% of Ventura County’s population 12+ has received the first dose.
78.5% of Ventura County’s population 18+ has received the first dose.
68.4% of Ventura County’s population 12+ are fully vaccinated.

Anyone age 12 and older can get vaccinated for free in Ventura County. Anyone who is immunocompromised 12 or older can get a booster at any vaccine location.
No appointment is needed at County Public Health vaccine clinics. View the schedule at www.vcrecovers.org/vaccine
Schedule an appointment at MyTurn.ca.gov or call 833-422-4255
Visit www.vaccines.gov or call 1-800-232-0233 to find additional vaccine locations including pharmacies and other health care providers.

Find information about COVID-19 vaccines and testing at www.vcrecovers.org

Ventura County Community Development Corporation — VCCDC Community Matters Newsletter – August 2021

We sat down with our very valued long-time client and volunteer, Yolanda Duarte, and asked her about her journey with VCCDC. Take a look at her experience below!

Tell us about yourself!
My name is Yolanda and I am a single mom. I’ve been living here in California for 24 years and my dream has always been to own a home. VCCDC helped me to achieve that dream!

Bilingual report — COVID-19 Update for Aug. 23, 2021

Since Friday, there are 701 new COVID-19 cases reported and 12,169 new tests performed. There are 158 people hospitalized, 37 in the ICU. There have been 4 additional deaths of a 81 year old female, 67 year old male, 72 year old male, 63 year old male. Our thoughts are with the family and friends of those who have passed away.

75.9% of Ventura County’s population 12+ has received the first dose.
77.7% of Ventura County’s population 18+ has received the first dose.
67.4% of Ventura County’s population 12+ are fully vaccinated.

For more information visit www.vcrecovers.org

Family Service Agency Welcomes Paul Cordeiro to Board of Directors

Family Service Agency (FSA) of Santa Barbara County, also known as Santa Maria Valley Youth and Family Center and Guadalupe’s Little House By The Park, is pleased to announce the appointment of Paul Cordeiro to its Board of Directors.

“Paul’s extensive experience in K-12 education will be a huge asset to our agency,” said Lisa Brabo, FSA Executive Director. “Paul has made substantial improvements to education and positive contributions to the community. We’re very happy he’s joining our board!”

Bilingual report — County of Ventura COVID-19 Update for Aug. 19, 2021

Since Wednesday, there are 224 new COVID-19 cases reported and 4,851 new tests performed. There are 147 people hospitalized, 32 in the ICU. There has been 1 additional death of a 55 year old female. Our thoughts are with the family and friends of those who have passed away.

75.4% of Ventura County’s population 12+ has received the first dose.
77.3% of Ventura County’s population 18+ has received the first dose.
67.0% of Ventura County’s population 12+ are fully vaccinated.

Over 1 million vaccine doses have been administered to Ventura County residents.

For more information visit www.vcrecovers.org

United Way of Ventura County — Come celebrate 8 amazing women with us and more news

This Thursday evening, we will host our first in-person event in almost two years.

We will be celebrating the educational achievements of eight outstanding women at our annual Women United Education Awards. Please join us at the Camarillo Ranch for this special occasion.

It will be an inspirational evening full of passionate educators, students, and community partners.

As always, the health and safety of our guests is vitally important to us. We will be following and enforcing public health mandates at this event.

Limited tickets are still available.