Category: Youth

Ventura Music Festival — A Bucket List Opportunity

by Community Contributor • November 25, 2024 • Comments Off

Prepare to be captivated as The King’s Singers, the world-renowned vocal ensemble, bring their exceptional artistry to Ventura on December 14, 2024. This celebrated group, formed by choral scholars from King’s College, Cambridge in 1968, is one of the most iconic and versatile a cappella ensembles in the world. Renowned for their unique “Pyramid of Sound,” their technique creates a perfect blend with a strong bass and baritone foundation supporting vibrant, ethereal upper voices. With over 200 commissioned works by some of the world’s leading composers—such as György Ligeti, Richard Rodney Bennett, and John Rutter—The King’s Singers continue to shape the future of choral music while honoring its rich tradition. Now is your chance to be a part of the magic…

Bilingual report — Indigenous Agricultural Workers in Ventura County Can Get Help to Qualify for Kaiser Permanente’s New Coverage

by Community Contributor • November 22, 2024 • Comments Off

VENTURA — Indigenous men, women, and children in Ventura County will have greater access to health care in 2025 thanks to Kaiser Permanente’s health coverage. The new Community Health Care Program (CHCP) from Kaiser Permanente covers low-income individuals, including those who earn slightly more than the threshold for Medi-Cal or who lack legal documentation to reside in the U.S.

To reach those in need of health coverage, Kaiser Permanente has awarded a $200,000 one-year grant to the Mixteco Indigena Community Organizing Project (MICOP) to support health navigators who provide assistance in the language of the Mixteco Indigenous community.

Health navigators are trained and fluent in indigenous languages such as Mixteco and Zapoteco, as well as Spanish and English, allowing them to overcome language barriers and ultimately help individuals obtain the necessary health care.

Bilingual report — Local Assistance Center to close (on Nov. 23) after serving close to 300 households impacted by the Mountain Fire

by Community Contributor • November 22, 2024 • Comments Off

VENTURA — After serving for 10 days as a one-stop center for fire recovery information and assistance, the Local Assistance Center that was run to assist residents impacted by the Mountain Fire will close its doors on Saturday, November 23, at 7:00 p.m. Residents still seeking services are encouraged to visit the Center by Saturday or they may obtain services after Saturday by visiting existing local County and City of Camarillo government offices.

Ventura County Office of Education (VCOE) — Ventura County Schools Show Progress in Attendance, Graduation Rate, and Academic Performance

by Community Contributor • November 22, 2024 • Comments Off

VENTURA COUNTY — Ventura County Schools are making improvements in attendance, graduation rates, academic performance, and other measures according to new data from the 2024 California School Dashboard released today by the California Department of Education. Highlights for Ventura County include:

GRADUATION RATE: Ventura County’s graduation rate of 89.3% for 2024 has improved by six percentage points since 2021 and is nearly three percentage points better than the statewide rate.
CHRONIC ABSENTEEISM: Ventura County’s chronic absenteeism rate of 18.3% for 2024 marks the third consecutive year of improvement and is more than two percentage points better than the statewide rate.
SUSPENSION RATE: Ventura County’s suspension rate of 3.2% for 2024 is a 0.4% improvement from the prior year and slighter better than the statewide rate.
MATHEMATICS: Ventura County students’ performance in mathematics on the California Assessment of Student Performance and Progress (CAASPP) for 2024 improved by 1.2 percentage points over the prior year.
ENGLISH LANGUAGE ARTS: Ventura County students’ performance in English language arts on the California Assessment of Student Performance and Progress for 2024 improved by 0.63 percentage points over the prior year.

Bilingual report — Gold Coast Health Plan Launches $1.5 Million Scholarship Program to Strengthen Diversity in Behavioral Health Workforce

by Community Contributor • November 22, 2024 • Comments Off

CAMARILLO — Gold Coast Health Plan (GCHP) (on Nov. 18) announced the launch of a groundbreaking scholarship program that aims to develop a more diverse behavioral health workforce to ensure Ventura County residents have access to culturally responsive care. The $1.5 million initiative is funded through the state Department of Health Care Services’ Student Behavioral Health Incentive Program (SBHIP), which aims to expand access to behavioral health services for children and adolescents enrolled in Medi-Cal.

Oxnard Performing Arts Center Nonprofit Corp. (OPAC) launches ‘Lotería de Oxnard:’ A Celebration of the City’s Culture and Community with events on Nov. 30, Dec. 12

by Community Contributor • November 21, 2024 • Comments Off

OXNARD — The Oxnard Performing Arts Center Nonprofit Corp. (OPAC) is thrilled to announce the release of “Lotería de Oxnard,” a reimagined, Oxnard-centric take on the traditional Mexican bingo game that highlights the people, places, and iconic things that make Oxnard one-of-a-kind. This project was made possible through the generous support of the Port of Hueneme, commemorated as card #43 in the set

“The Port of Hueneme is more than a global trade hub—it’s a proud part of the fabric of this community and we’re delighted to partner with OPAC in reimagining Lotería as a way to bring people together and celebrate what makes our beautiful region unique,” – Drew Rodriguez, Public & Community Relations Senior Representative for the Port of Hueneme.

CSUCI students learn dance designed to help those with Parkinsons disease

by Community Contributor • November 21, 2024 • Comments Off

CAMARILLO — The CSU Channel Islands (CSUCI) Dance Studies and Health Science programs teamed up this semester to offer a class designed to help students understand Parkinson’s disease from both a dance and neurological perspective. Plans are to open a community dance therapy clinic class in the Spring semester for Parkinson’s patients in the region.

“We have dance students and Health Science students working together,” said Professor and Chair of Health Science Sonsoles de Lacalle, M.D., Ph.D. “Our goal is to provide a service to the community by setting up a weekly dance studio session for people with Parkinson’s and other members of the community to come and dance with us once a week.”

UCSB — The Current — ‘A new study in Science maps out a comprehensive plan to eliminate plastic pollution by 2050’ and more news, events

by Community Contributor • November 21, 2024 • Comments Off

If policy makers implemented just four policies acting across the plastic lifecycle (from production to use and disposal), researchers say, we could reduce plastic pollution by 91%.

Cottage Health Opens New Primary Care Clinic in Goleta

by Community Contributor • November 20, 2024 • Comments Off

SANTA BARBARA — Cottage Health announces the opening of a new primary care clinic, Cottage Primary Care—Goleta. Located at 334 S Patterson Ave, Suite 120, the clinic is open Monday through Friday, from 8 a.m. to 5 p.m. and is now accepting new patients. Scheduling an appointment can be conveniently done online at cottagehealth.org/gpc

Primary care plays a vital role in maintaining overall health and well-being. At Cottage Primary Care— Goleta, physicians specialize in the prevention, diagnosis and treatment of common illnesses and chronic conditions, ensuring patients receive comprehensive care for health issues ranging from minor ailments to more serious conditions.

Cabrillo Economic Development Corp. Focuses on the Rodney Fernandez Leadership Fund for Giving Tuesday

by Community Contributor • November 20, 2024 • Comments Off

VENTURA COUNTY — As the season of giving approaches, Cabrillo Economic Development Corporation (Cabrillo EDC) is proud to announce that this year’s Giving Tuesday efforts will center around the Rodney Fernandez Leadership Fund (RFLF) Scholarship Program, a program that has changed lives and opened doors for countless students within the community.

Established in honor of Cabrillo EDC’s founding Executive Director, Rodney Fernandez, the RFLF Scholarship Program provides scholarships to local youth and residents of Cabrillo EDC affordable housing communities, helping them pursue higher education and achieve their career goals. The program embodies Cabrillo EDC’s ongoing commitment to building stronger, more empowered communities through education, support, and leadership development.

Museum of Ventura County — Keep Art, History, and Hope Alive – Your Support Makes It Possible

by Community Contributor • November 20, 2024 • Comments Off

As we reflect on another successful year of bringing history, art, and culture to life, we are excited to share a story that embodies the heart of our mission. It’s the story of Elisa Torres, a young artist whose journey reflects the power of creativity, perseverance, and community—reminding us of why the work we do here at the Museum of Ventura County (MVC) is important.

Elisa’s story began right here in Ventura County. A first-generation Californian born and raised in Oxnard, Elisa’s first job after high school was in an assembly factory, where she worked alongside her mother piecing together fiber optic cables. It was honest work, but not her dream.

CSUCI surpasses goal to reduce greenhouse gas emissions in U.S. Dept of Energy Better Climate Challenge

by Community Contributor • November 20, 2024 • Comments Off

“We are setting an example for other universities by making a positive impact on the environment,” said then-CSUCI Director of Sustainability and Energy Roxane Beigel-Coryell, who entered the University in the DOE’s Better Climate Challenge.

UCSB — The Current — ‘Frog populations once decimated by disease mount a major comeback’ and more news, events

by Community Contributor • November 19, 2024 • Comments Off

Over 17 years, researchers and conservationists team to save, then reintroduce, mountain yellow-legged frogs to lakes in Yosemite where they’d been extirpated by a deadly fungus.

Moorpark College Alumnus Mike Madrid Recognized as a 2024 Distinguished Alumni Honoree

by Community Contributor • November 18, 2024 • Comments Off

MOORPARK — Moorpark College alumnus Mike Madrid will be honored with the 2024 Distinguished Alumni Award by the Community College League of California (CCLC) at its Annual Convention on November 22 in Burlingame, California.

Madrid and fellow honorees Marlin “Skip” Davies (Yuba College) and Mike McGuire (Santa Rosa Junior College) were nominated by their peers and colleges to receive this honor.

“On behalf of the Community College League of California, I am immensely proud to celebrate the 2024 Distinguished Alumni Award honorees,” said Larry Galizio, CCLC president and CEO. “Their achievements exemplify the transformative power of California’s community colleges and reflect the profound impact our community colleges have on individual lives and our society as a whole.”

California Strong Accepting Applications For Financial Assistance By Those Impacted By Mountain Fire

by Community Contributor • November 18, 2024 • Comments Off

WESTLAKE VILLAGE — California Strong, founded by the Southeast Ventura County YMCA and professional athletes after the 2018 California wildfires, and dedicated to providing immediate financial support to victims whenever a disaster strikes in the state, is accepting applications for assistance from those impacted by the Mountain Fire. The first round of funding is in early December.

Bilingual report — County of Ventura reports property tax relief available for property owners affected by the Mountain Fire

by Community Contributor • November 18, 2024 • Comments Off

VENTURA — Property owners whose property was physically damaged by the Mountain Fire and sustained losses over $10,000 may be eligible for property tax relief. Through services offered by the Ventura County Assessor’s Office, property owners can work with the office to adjust their property’s current assessment to reflect the damage incurred by the fire and reduce their current year property taxes.

Big Brothers Big Sisters of Ventura County kicks off the “WICKED Kindness Challenge” in a BIG way!

by Community Contributor • November 18, 2024 • Comments Off

VENTURA COUNTY — In a national partnership with NBCUniversal and inspired by the theatrical release of WICKED, Big Brothers Big Sisters of Ventura County (BBSVC) youth led the creation of “The WICKED Kindness Challenge” – an online experience that explores what kindness really means, for oneself, their family and friends, and the greater community.

Fifteen BBSVC youth participants of all ages from across the county came together for four full days to brainstorm ideas on what kindness looks like, and how to teach and inspire others to make kindness an everyday part of their lives. They worked closely with the Big Brothers Big Sisters of America Learning and Development Team, playing a BIG part in structuring, developing, and creating the content and messages for the script and videos for the challenge. A film crew met with youth to create the videos that were featured in the challenge. Everything for the ongoing challenge was organized at the BBSVC@Ventura Youth Room at the Pacific View Mall.

Santa Barbara County Food Action Network — Transform the Future of Food

by Community Contributor • November 18, 2024 • Comments Off

At the Santa Barbara County Food Action Network, we’re redefining the possibilities in our food system by taking on the risks few others will. We believe that real change requires bold steps, and with your support, we’re ready to go further, building lasting foundations in advocacy, shared resources, and community connections.

We’ve already demonstrated what’s possible. By connecting food producers, policymakers, advocates, technical assistance providers, and more, we’re able to channel resources to the communities that need them most. These early successes are not just local victories—they’re prototypes for sustainable, equitable change across food systems everywhere.

Ventura County Fire Dept. — Sparking Joy: Annual Holiday Toy Drive Returns to Brighten the Holidays

by Community Contributor • November 18, 2024 • Comments Off

This heartwarming community campaign centers around collecting new, unwrapped toys and sports equipment for underserved children and teenagers in Ventura County. In partnership with the American Red Cross, the drive Spark Of Love will prioritize supporting those will work to prioritize families affected impacted by the recent Mountain fire.

Donations of non-perishable food and toys can be made at any participating Spark of Love donation location, ensuring that your generosity directly impacts our local community.

Anacapa Dental Art Institute launches “Holiday Smile” initiative to give one community member a life-changing smile makeover

by Community Contributor • November 18, 2024 • Comments Off

The “Holiday Smile” Initiative aims to not only restore one individual’s smile but also to renew their confidence, health, and quality of life. Through this giveaway, Dr. Saj and the Anacapa Dental team are excited to bring the joy and life-changing impact of a healthy smile to a local resident just in time for the New Year.

Women’s Flag Football Coming to Cal Lutheran

by Community Contributor • November 18, 2024 • Comments Off

“The demand in our area and throughout the state is unmistakable, given its growth and success. Very quickly, flag football will be ubiquitous throughout the college athletics landscape,” Davis said. “I’m proud that Cal Lutheran is an early adopter and excited to add what I believe will be another elite athletic program for us.”

District 2 Supervisor Jeff Gorell update — Mountain Fire Relief

by Community Contributor • November 15, 2024 • Comments Off

Following the impact of the Mountain Fire, please know that there is a strong network of agencies working tirelessly to support your recovery. Today, we launched a Local Assistance Center, in Camarillo, providing resources for those affected. Whether you need information on housing, financial assistance, or guidance on cleanup and rebuilding, there is help available for you and your family.

As you begin to rebuild, I want you to know that I am here for you. Together, we’ll navigate this path and help our community rise stronger than before.

I would also like to extend my heartfelt thanks to the many residents, businesses, and nonprofits that have stepped up in impactful ways to support recovery. Your kindness and commitment are truly making a difference during these challenging times.

Community Environmental Council — What We’re Going To Do Together

by Community Contributor • November 14, 2024 • Comments Off

SANTA BARBARA — At times when the world feels unsettled, the Community Environmental Council is the place where you can turn for hope, empowerment, and tangible action. That’s what we’ve been doing for over 50 years, and we’re good at it.

But building strong heart-centered, climate-resilient, environmentally-sound communities isn’t easy. It takes grit and — for real — we need your support. Here’s our plan of action:

Bilingual report — Ventura County Animal Services announces FREE Pet Adoptions due to Overcrowding [122%]

by Community Contributor • November 14, 2024 • Comments Off

Due to a high influx of animals arriving at VCAS, we will be offering fee-waived adoptions for all available animals in our care (dogs, cats, rabbits, etc.) through November 30th. Our hope is to create space for incoming critical cases.

Preview animals at www.vcas.us/pets.

View our full adoption process at www.vcas.us/adopt.

People’s Self-Help Housing (PSHHC) announces The 2025 Builder Games! Saturday, April 26, 2025

by Community Contributor • November 14, 2024 • Comments Off

Cheer on teams as they race against the clock and face fun challenges to build one-of-a-kind playhouses for children. Enjoy Santa Maria style BBQ, local wine, beer, and music! All funds raised benefit the Supportive Housing and Camino Scholars programs of PSHH.

UCSB — The Current — ‘Atmospheric rivers are shifting toward the poles, possibly following a long-term cycle’ and more news, events

by Community Contributor • November 14, 2024 • Comments Off

Investigating major migrations in global weather patterns, research by Zhe Li and Quingha Ding suggests this poleward shift is part of a natural cycle in sea surface temperatures in the Tropical Eastern Pacific.

Ventura County Fire Awarded Grant to Enhance Child Passenger Safety

by Community Contributor • November 14, 2024 • Comments Off

THOUSAND OAKS — The Ventura County Fire Department (VCFD) has been awarded a $92,113 grant from the California Office of Traffic Safety (OTS) to support programs aimed at preventing motor vehicle injuries to children, the agencies announced today. The grant program runs through September 2025.

This year’s funding continues VCFD’s mission to educate the community on child passenger safety, with initiatives to increase awareness and provide resources to ensure that children are properly secured in vehicles throughout Ventura County.

VCCF’s Mountain Fire Update on Community Support

by Community Contributor • November 13, 2024 • Comments Off

Tonight, county and city officials are hosting a community meeting to inform residents affected by the Mountain Fire about the opening of the Local Assistance Center in Camarillo. Thanks to your generous support, we are honored to share that to-date $93,500 has been granted to help individuals and families most affected by the wildfire, along with an additional $10,000 dedicated to covering costs associated with emergency animal evacuations.

Cottage Heart & Vascular Center Implants 1,000th WATCHMAN Device for Treatment of Atrial Fibrillation

by Community Contributor • November 13, 2024 • Comments Off

First program in the Central Coast to reach this lifesaving milestone SANTA BARBARA — The Cottage Heart & Vascular Center’s structural heart team at Santa Barbara Cottage Hospital (SBCH) recently performed their 1,000th WATCHMAN device procedure, a minimally invasive solution…

CSUCI research inspires conservation study on the climate benefits of protecting surf breaks

by Community Contributor • November 13, 2024 • Comments Off

CAMARILLO — If we want to protect ecosystems, try protecting the surf breaks.

That’s the gist of a 2021 research study, “Conservation Opportunities Arise from the Co-Occurrence of Surfing and Key Biodiversity Areas” led by CSU Channel Islands (CSUCI) Associate Professor of Environmental Science & Resource Management (ESRM), Dan Reineman.

“There’s a conservation opportunity ‘two-for’ here,” Reineman said. “We found that many of the world’s surf breaks are located in the same places as critical, but unprotected, ecosystems. Surfing – for recreation and tourism – provides an additional incentive to protect both.”

Bilingual report — County of Ventura and City of Camarillo to open Local Assistance Center to help residents impacted by the Mountain Fire

by Community Contributor • November 13, 2024 • Comments Off

VENTURA — On Thursday, November 14, 2024, the County of Ventura and the City of Camarillo will open a Local Assistance Center (LAC) at the Ventura County Office of Education Conference Center at 5100 Adolfo Road in Camarillo. The Local Assistance Center will help residents as they begin their recovery process from the Mountain Fire.

Information will be available on-site on the following topics: rebuilding, tax relief, business and employment assistance, debris removal, permits, housing, rental assistance, vital records, property assessments, public assistance, crisis intervention stress management, and basic needs. Services such as replacement of driver’s licenses and connection to health care resources will also be available on site.

Museum of Ventura County — Sip ‘n Shop, ‘Winter’ Exhibition, and an Art Workshop!

by Community Contributor • November 13, 2024 • Comments Off

Celebrate the season with a festive shopping experience and a complimentary beverage! From 4:00 pm – 6:00 pm, enjoy a special appearance by Ventura County Ballet as they present “Storytime and Excerpts,” an interactive preview of The Nutcracker. Plus, members enjoy a 10% discount on all in-store purchases. Join us for an evening of holiday cheer!

Bilingual report — Historic E.P. Foster Library Secures $13 Million for Major Upgrades

by Community Contributor • November 13, 2024 • Comments Off

“The E.P. Foster Library has been a cornerstone of our community for over a century, and this renovation marks a significant step towards ensuring it remains a vital resource for generations to come,” said County Supervisor Matt LaVere. “These improvements will not only enhance the library’s services, but also provide a safe and welcoming space during extreme heat, reflecting our commitment to the health, safety, and well-being of all residents.”

Elske Free Bernt Joins Hospice of Santa Barbara as Volunteer Service Manager

by Community Contributor • November 13, 2024 • Comments Off

She Brings an Artist’s Perspective and Real Life Grief Experience to the Role SANTA BARBARA — Hospice of Santa Barbara is excited to announce Elske Free Bernt has been chosen as the new Volunteer Services Manager. Free Bernt has served…

UCSB — The Current — ‘Deaf male mosquitoes don’t mate’ and more news, events

by Community Contributor • November 12, 2024 • Comments Off

Researchers at Craig Montell’s lab created deaf mosquitoes by knocking out a single gene and found that the males had absolutely no interest in mating. The results could have major implications for how we manage disease transmission.

County of Ventura — Bilingual report — Mountain Fire Community Update from the County of Ventura

by Community Contributor • November 11, 2024 • Comments Off

As our community comes together in the wake of the Mountain Fire, we want to assure all Ventura County residents that support is here.

This newsletter update offers information on essential resources, key information, and upcoming events to aid in recovery efforts. Our teams are working alongside local and state agencies to deliver the assistance you need as quickly as possible.

Community members who are not already subscribed to receive this newsletter may sign up to receive it in English here and in Spanish here.

Ventura County Community Foundation Mountain Fire Update

by Community Contributor • November 11, 2024 • Comments Off

We are deeply grateful for the incredible outpouring of support as we rally together to help those most impacted by the Mountain Fire. Thank you from the bottom of our hearts for helping us reach those most affected and offering both awareness and critical financial aid in this time of need.

On Saturday, the VCCF Board of Directors authorized the immediate distribution of $20,000 in direct financial assistance to support eight families who lost their housing in the wildfire and were left with no place to go. Because of your generosity, these families now have emergency financial support to secure temporary housing and other essentials.

Social Justice Fund for Ventura County announces new program, general manager

by Community Contributor • November 11, 2024 • Comments Off

On behalf of the Board of Directors and staff of the Social Justice Fund for Ventura County (SJFVC), I am pleased to announce two organizational changes. These changes will help us lay a stronger foundation for our Fellowship program to ensure its growth and sustainability.

County of Ventura District 2 Supervisor Jeff Gorell — Mountain Fire community meeting on Nov. 13

by Community Contributor • November 11, 2024 • Comments Off

Dear Neighbors,

A community meeting is scheduled for Wednesday, 11/13 at 6:30 pm for those impacted by the Mountain Fire. The CalFire Incident Management Team, the County of Ventura and the City of Camarillo will host the meeting at the Rancho Campana High School Performing Arts Center located at 4235 Mar Vista Drive in Camarillo.

Please stay informed about the situation at www.vcemergency.com and www.venturacountyrecovers.org.

Ventura County Office of Education — Update on Status of Ventura County Schools

by Community Contributor • November 11, 2024 • Comments Off

VENTURA COUNTY — Monday, November 11, is a regularly scheduled school holiday. On Tuesday, November 12, most Ventura County schools will be operating normally. However, the following schools and districts have announced closures as they continue to respond to impacts from the Mountain Fire.

United Way of Ventura County — Mountain Fire Needs Assessment Survey

by Community Contributor • November 11, 2024 • Comments Off

Our hearts go out to all those who have been impacted by the Mountain Fire. We understand what an unpredictable and challenging time lies ahead for so many of our community members as they navigate seeking aid and resources in the face of tremendous loss.

Ventura County Voluntary Organizations Active in Disasters (VCVOAD) has created a needs assessment form to support Ventura County community members impacted by the Mountain Fire.

If you, or someone you know, has been impacted, please fill out the Needs Assessment Form below or call 2-1-1 for assistance. This form can also be found on our Disaster Relief website page.

Ventura County Community Foundation Accepting Emergency Donations for Mountain Fire

by Community Contributor • November 11, 2024 • Comments Off

Dear Ventura County Community Foundation Family,

We extend our deepest gratitude to our first responders, the County of Ventura, local municipalities, the State of California, and our dedicated elected officials who have been working tirelessly to support and advocate for our community during the challenges posed by the Mountain Fire. We are acutely aware of the pain our neighbors are experiencing—those who have lost their homes and those whose livelihoods are at risk.

We also recognize and commend the many nonprofits that have stepped forward to assist those most in need, including our cherished animals, both large and small, and childcare providers

County of Ventura District 2 Supervisor Jeff Gorell — Mountain Fire update of Nov. 8

by Amigos805.com • November 11, 2024 • Comments Off

The impact of the Mountain Fire on our community has been truly heartbreaking. My heart goes out to everyone affected. As I toured the impacted neighborhoods, I witnessed firsthand the immense loss and devastation that has struck District 2.

I also spent time at the evacuation center today, and in the midst of this tragedy, I was reminded of the extraordinary resilience of our community. We have faced challenges before, and each time, we’ve come together, emerging stronger and more united.

Now, more than ever, many of our neighbors need our support. Below, I’ve included resources for those affected and ways to help if you feel moved to lend a hand. I am deeply grateful to the many first responders, county departments, partner agencies, community groups, and individuals who have shown up to assist in incredible ways during this difficult time. Your generosity and dedication have been a light in the darkness.

Santa Paula Museum of Art announces Joanne Julian’s ‘Nature’s Spirits now open

by Community Contributor • November 11, 2024 • Comments Off

Ever inspired by nature, artist Joanne Julian’s solo exhibition, “Nature’s Spirits,” is a meditation on nature’s miracles, from birds, insects, and botanicals found in the garden to clouds, stars, and nebulae witnessed in the night sky.

Bilingual report — Registration now open for Winter, Spring classes at Allan Hancock College

by Community Contributor • November 11, 2024 • Comments Off

“We want our students to know that everyone at Hancock is invested in helping them reach their educational goals this winter and spring,” said Hancock Superintendent/President Kevin G. Walthers, Ph.D. “We are encouraging them to register for classes now and take advantage of all the resources and support services that Hancock offers.”

United for Progress: LULAC Vision for a Stronger Latino Future

by Community Contributor • November 8, 2024 • Comments Off

As the oldest Latino civil rights organization in the nation, LULAC stands firmly committed to uplifting and empowering the Latino community across America—working to strengthen economic and educational opportunities and to protect our civil rights.

For nearly a century, LULAC has been here, side by side with the communities we serve, tirelessly working toward a future that fulfills the dreams of our families and honors the sacrifices of those who came before us. Now, as we look to the horizon, we welcome the opportunity to work with President Donald J. Trump, Vice President-elect J.D. Vance, all of last night’s elected officials, and the incoming Administration. Together, we are called to build a future that holds space for all our stories, our voices, and our dreams.

Ventura Music Festival November News — Dear Music Lover! Look at what you’ve helped us achieve!

by Community Contributor • November 7, 2024 • Comments Off

A Note of Thanks from our Executive Director

As we welcome November and embrace the shift toward shorter days (and change in general) there’s also something reflective and revitalizing in the air as we approach Thanksgiving season.

As I choose to focus on gratitude and hope, I’d like to start by thanking our long time VMF’s supporters and sponsors, the VMF Board of Directors, and sister organizations with whom we have forged new and renewed collaborations. In 2024 so far we have received funding from VCCF, the City and County of Ventura’s Arts & culture divisions who have supported VMF with generous grants to augment our music and educational offerings for the entire Community. To them we extend a deep gratitude for spending our tax dollars wisely to enrich our culture in so many ways.

Ventura County Community Foundation Community Update on Mountain Fire — Pacific Coast Business Times’ Emergency Preparedness Guide in English, Spanish

by Community Contributor • November 7, 2024 • Comments Off

Dear Ventura County Community Foundation Family,

Our hearts are with all those who have been impacted by the Mountain Fire. We are working closely with our partners to help ensure that your community foundation is doing all it can to support those most impacted. As the situation continues to develop, we will be in touch with you to keep you informed of how we can all best help.

County of Santa Barbara November 2024 Newsletter

by Community Contributor • November 7, 2024 • Comments Off

Have a Food-Safe Thanksgiving Holiday

In a few weeks, loved ones will come together around delicious meals. Take some steps to ensure your food is prepared safely.

Santa Barbara City College thanks community for passing Measure P and welcomes new Trustee-elects

by Community Contributor • November 7, 2024 • Comments Off

SANTA BARBARA — Santa Barbara City College (SBCC) and the Santa Barbara City College Foundation express heartfelt gratitude to the Santa Barbara community, Yes on Measure P campaign, and their volunteers for the passage of Measure P, a vital bond extension that will enable the college to enhance facilities, update technology, and continue offering a high-quality educational experience. This bond extension reflects the community’s commitment to SBCC’s mission of empowering students through affordable, accessible, and innovative education.

UCSB — The Current — ‘Bridging divided views to strengthen communities’ and more news, events

by Community Contributor • November 7, 2024 • Comments Off

n award-winning video series Research in 60, Tania Israel, a professor in the Department of Counseling, Clinical & School Psychology, discusses strategies for navigating conversations in a divided nation.

CSUCI Cancels Classes Nov. 7 & 8 due to impact of Mountain Fire

by Community Contributor • November 7, 2024 • Comments Off

CAMARILLO — CSU Channel Islands has announced that the campus remains safe but due to severe disruptions from the Mountain Fire and significant impacts on several members of the campus community, classes have been canceled for Thursday and Friday, Nov. 7 and 8.

Monday, Nov. 11 is a campus holiday in observance of Veterans Day and classes and full campus operations will resume on Tuesday, Nov. 12.

Updates will continue to be provided on the campus website at www.csuci.edu or by calling the information hotline at 805-437-3911.

UPDATED: School Closures in Ventura County Due to Mountain Fire

by Community Contributor • November 7, 2024 • Comments Off

The below list has been updated with additional closures since our prior email. Please refer the public to www.vcoe.org for a list of Ventura County school closures that will be continuously updated throughout the duration of this emergency.

VENTURA COUNTY — Due to impacts from the Mountain Fire, the following Ventura County schools and districts have announced closures for Thursday, November 7 and Friday, November 8, 2024.

Bilingual report — Air Quality Alert issued for Ventura County

by Community Contributor • November 7, 2024 • Comments Off

VENTURA — The Ventura County Air Pollution Control District is issuing an Air Quality Alert because unhealthy conditions exist.

Smoke from the Mountain Fire is causing the Air Quality Index (AQI) to fall in the unhealthy range for everyone in Oxnard and Camarillo. Smoke and ash from wildfires contain very small particles that can harm the lungs and heart.

The district issues Air Quality Alerts when the AQI has reached or is forecast to reach an unhealthy level for all. A lower AQI can affect sensitive groups. This includes children, older adults and people with heart disease or respiratory conditions such as asthma, chronic obstructive pulmonary disease and emphysema.

The alert is in effect until conditions improve.

Bilingual report — ¡Viva el Arte de Santa Barbara! — Mariachi Garibaldi de Jaime Cuéllar to Perform Three Free Concerts in Santa Barbara County (Nov. 22-24)

by Community Contributor • November 5, 2024 • Comments Off

SANTA BARBARA — Get ready for an unforgettable musical experience as Mariachi Garibaldi de Jaime Cuéllar takes the stage for three free community performances in Santa Barbara County. The performances are a part of ¡Viva el Arte de Santa Bárbara! (Viva), a program dedicated to celebrating Latin America’s vibrant cultural heritage.

Port of Hueneme Dock Talk — October Recap

by Community Contributor • November 5, 2024 • Comments Off

Port of Hueneme “Goes Electric” receiving an impressive $42,287,893 grant from the U.S. Environmental Protection Agency (EPA), funding critical to the Port’s goal of zero emissions by 2030.

Read our latest Press Release on how we plan to invest the $42M EPA grant to step towards our Zero Emission goal!

Bilingual report — County of Ventura names Kimberlee Albers new Homeless Solutions Director

by Community Contributor • November 5, 2024 • Comments Off

“With significant experience in the public sector as well as the nonprofit sector across several counties, Kimberlee brings a unique perspective and proven leadership to the role of Homeless Solutions Director,” stated Dr. Johnson. “Her commitment to innovative solutions has earned her recognition as a leader in the field, demonstrating her ability to drive impactful change. We are confident that her expertise will pave the way for transformative initiatives that will positively impact inflow and outflow of unhoused individuals and create significant impact on addressing homelessness in our county.”

Simi Valley Family YMCA Forms New Advisory Board

by Community Contributor • November 5, 2024 • Comments Off

SIMI VALLEY — The Simi Valley Family YMCA has formed a new all-volunteer advisory board. Andy Dominguez is board chair.

The Simi YMCA is a branch of the Southeast Ventura County YMCA. The new board will support the mission and goals of the Simi YMCA and the Southeast Ventura County YMCA and function as ambassadors for both.

“The community of Simi Valley and the Simi Valley Family YMCA have been partners in growth, healthy living and quality experiences for many years,” says Dominguez. “This is an exciting time to be an Advisory Board member as we work towards strengthening and extending that partnership.”

Two New Members Join the Ventura College Foundation Board

by Community Contributor • November 5, 2024 • Comments Off

VENTURA — The Ventura College Foundation board approved two new members at its September 18th meeting.

One of the new members is Dustin Tondreau, AVP of the Wealth Management Team at Ocean Air Federal Credit Union in Ventura County which partners with LPL Financial. As foundation treasurer, Tondreau’s role is to provide a fiduciary duty of care in overseeing the foundation’s financials and to bring new strategic partnership opportunities to the board.

Girls Inc.’s Project Accelerate On Track to Meet its Goals to Advance Gender Parity in the Workplace for Girls Across North America

by Community Contributor • November 4, 2024 • Comments Off

CARPINTERIA — Girls Inc. of Carpinteria is proud to announce its participation in Project Accelerate, a transformative initiative launched by the Girls Inc. national organization. This program was made possible by a $10 million grant from the Equality Can’t Wait Challenge, aimed at advancing gender equality by 2030. Project Accelerate seeks to propel 5,400 diverse women into corporate leadership roles across 30 sites nationwide.

Now in its fourth year, Project Accelerate has expanded to 26 Girls Inc. affiliates, reaching approximately 3,700 girls across the country. Girls Inc. of Carpinteria is excited to announce that they are among the newest cohort of affiliates selected for this impactful initiative.

Bilingual commentary — The Future King Who Would Rather Be a Pizza Chef

by Community Contributor • November 1, 2024 • Comments Off

Whenever we talk with children, including our own, we might find ourselves asking some version of the question, “So, what do you want to be when you grow up?” Sometimes their answers are confident and run the gamut, from astronaut to teacher to police officer to biochemical engineer and everything in between. Others have no idea what they want to pursue, which is perfectly normal and healthy.

Bilingual report — Guest contribution — Is it Safe for Children to ‘Trick or Treat’ This Halloween?

by Community Contributor • October 31, 2024 • Comments Off

As children of all ages prepare for and look forward to “trick or treating” this Halloween, many parents are rightfully asking themselves how they can ensure that their little ghosts and goblins will be safe and sound during this upcoming festive holiday.

Dr. Patricia De La Riva, a pediatrician with Kaiser Permanente Woodland Hills/West Ventura Service Area, encourages parents to make lasting memories with their children. However, she notes it’s also important to remember there are important avoidable safety hazards lurking that can result in injury and illness.“A good start is to make sure your children are up to date with their vaccines, such as those that protect against pertussis given the recent rise in cases, and vaccines that help to prevent influenza and Covid-19 infection,” she said. Additionally, Dr. De La Riva addressed several scary health issues parents should be aware of to ensure their little munchkins have a safe and happy Halloween.

Festival Celebrating Early Childhood Education for All A Huge Success

by Community Contributor • October 31, 2024 • Comments Off

SANTA PAULA — Over 680 children and family members attended the Todos Juntos Por Los Niños Children’s Festival held at Glen City Elementary in Santa Paula on Saturday, Oct. 19. The event hosted by the Isabella Project was designed especially for children ages 0 to 5, creating a joyful space for hundreds of families to connect, play and learn about the vast array of support services available to them.

UCSB — The Current — ‘Children’s Event: Dia de los Muertos’ on Nov. 3, more news

by Community Contributor • October 31, 2024 • Comments Off

The MultiCultural Center and UCSB’s Early Childhood Care and Education Services partner on a community-based Dia de los Muertos celebration for children and families.

Ventura Music Festival — What’s on this Halloweekend? Mariachi Camarillo to perform at OPAC on Nov. 2

by Community Contributor • October 31, 2024 • Comments Off

Mariachi Camarillo
Saturday, Nov 2, 2024 at 6:30 PM
Oxnard Performing Arts Center

We are so proud to be a part of the free Dia de Los Muertos celebration hosted by the Oxnard Performing Arts Center this Saturday! Don’t miss Mariachi Camarillo, brought to you by the Ventura Music Festival, from 6:30 – 8:00pm.
Learn More – OPAC

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