Local

United Way Young Leaders Society Raises over $3,000 to Provide New Books to Four Local Schools

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United Way of Santa Barbara County’s (UWSBC) Young Leaders Society (YSL) partnered with four local schools to raise over $3,000 to provide over 90 books to their libraries for the month of March. 

The event raised funds to fulfil a curated wish list of books from schools. Participating schools included: Franklin Elementary School, McKinley Elementary School, Canalino Elementary School and La Colina Junior High School. The purchased books replaced books that were never returned to the libraries due to school closures during the COVID pandemic and helped to build the schools’ growing collections of Spanish books. 

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Business, Cultural, Education, Family, Finance, Local, News, Youth

People’s Self-Help Housing — Camino Scholars Spring Silent Auction: Bidding Open Now!

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Help our students blossom by participating in our virtual silent auction! Bidding will be open from today, May 16 at 12PM through Sunday, May 22 at 5PM, where you can choose from an exciting selection of local goods, services and experiences. All proceeds will support Camino Scholars, the education program of People’s Self-Help Housing.

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Business, Cultural, Education, Events, Family, Finance, Government, Home, Local, News

Ventura County Community Development Corp. — Registration Now Open for Home Ownership Virtual Conference

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want all your homeownership questions answered but did you know it is also the beginning of a life-changing journey that could impact generations of your family?!

If you’re ready to learn, connect and find a way to financial security, you’re in the right place. Most people come to us feeling like homeownership is impossible, but with over 2,000 families successfully purchasing homes, and countless more engaged on the path, we can confidently be the hope that you need to keeping working toward your dreams. Through resources like our Homeownership Conference, we can help you find “a new way home”.

Now it’s your turn. Don’t miss this chance to find your way home. Check out our website for information and register early.

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Cultural, Education, Entertainment, Events, Family, Local, News, Youth

United Way of Ventura County — Honoring the past while focusing on the future

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On Saturday, June 4, we will celebrate our 17th Annual Spirit Awards Gala for the first time at the Hyatt Regency Westlake. This will be a special evening recognizing community and corporate leaders who partner with us throughout the year and help us sustain our vital initiatives. These honorees embody the spirit of the United Way founders, who boldly formed the War Chest of Ventura County in 1945.

Midge Campbell-Thomas, our Treasurer and Immediate Past Chair, will receive the Milton M. Teague Award for outstanding volunteerism. Armand Begian, DDS, will be recognized with the Douglas Shively Award for his service as a longtime Building Healthy Smiles initiative volunteer and partner. For their top corporate citizenship, outstanding workplace campaign, and corporate volunteer engagement, Procter & Gamble will receive the Roy Pinkerton Award.

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Business, Education, Family, Government, Health, Home, Local, News

Triunfo Water & Sanitation District Outlines Outdoor Watering Restrictions For Its Oak Park Customers

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Triunfo Water & Sanitation District is providing details of how its potable water customers can comply with the one-day-per-week watering restriction ordered by the Metropolitan Water District of Southern California, effective June 1. Triunfo provides drinking water to all residences and businesses in Oak Park.

“With multiple water suppliers in the Conejo Valley, we felt it was important to reach out to our Oak Park customers with specific guidelines for them to follow,” says Mark Norris, Triunfo’s general manager.

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Business, Education, Events, Government, Local, News

Ventura County Civic Alliance — Livable Communities Newsletter – May 15, 2022

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The 2021 State of the Region report helps us understand transportation barriers that impact Ventura County’s growth as a truly livable community.

Sixteen years ago, when we pulled together our first Livable Communities Newsletter, we committed to build on The American Institute of Architects (AIA) 10 Principles for Livable Communities. Over the years we have worked to stay true to that commitment. 

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Business, Finance, Government, Local

EPA Announces $48 Million WIFIA Loan to Expand Water Supplies in Oxnard

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The U.S. Environmental Protection Agency (EPA) on May 13 announced a $48 million Water Infrastructure Finance and Innovation Act (WIFIA) loan to the City of Oxnard, California, to support its Aquifer Storage Recovery Project. With this WIFIA loan, EPA is helping to expand the city’s recycled water supply to help secure a climate-resilient and reliable water service for over 200,000 people. 

“Communities across the west—including in Oxnard, California—are facing sustained water challenges as a result of climate change and the worst megadrought in a millennium. This challenge calls for using multiple tools, including recycling our water to get more use from every drop,” said EPA Assistant Administrator for Water Radhika Fox. “EPA is proud to provide this $48 million loan to help Oxnard expand water reuse. We are working to bring the benefits of water infrastructure investment to communities from coast to coast with $50 billion in through the Bipartisan Infrastructure Law.”

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Education, Local, News, Youth

Moorpark College Students Named 2022 Phi Theta Kappa All-California Award Winners

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In recognition of their academics, leadership and community service, Moorpark College students Breena Becker and Noa Dori have received state-level recognition as members of the 2022 Phi Theta Kappa (PTK) All-California Academic Second Team. The Community College League of California announced that 114 students were chosen for the All-California Academic First, Second and Third Teams. 

“This honor acknowledges Breena’s and Noa’s demanding coursework while at Moorpark College, and it will open doors to them through national recognition, scholarships and job opportunities in the future,” said Moorpark College President Julius Sokenu.

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Business, Education, Local, News, Youth

SEEAG Kicks Off Gill’s Onions’ ‘Double Your Impact Challenge’

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Gill’s Onions will match all donations up to $12,500 for every dollar donated to Students for Eco-Education and Agriculture (SEEAG) during May as part of SEEAG’s third annual Double Your Impact Challenge. 

“The generosity of our friends at Gill’s Onions means SEEAG will receive as much as $25,000 to support our Farm Lab program,” says Mary Maranville, SEEAG’s founder and CEO.  “Farm Lab is a combination of classroom learning and farm field trips where students learn all about the origins of their food, particularly locally-grown food. The money raised will enable us to reach more students across Ventura and Santa Barbara counties.”

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Commentary, Cultural, Education, Local, Locales, News, Noticias, Opinion, Religion

Bilingual commentary — Slavery and the Catholic Church

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Throughout our history, Native and African Americans have been disrespected and despised. That was obvious to our entire country as recently as last March during the confirmation hearings for the nominee to the U.S. Supreme Court, Ketanji Brown Jackson, an African American woman. During the hearings, several senators disrespectfully and contemptuously grilled her almost as if she were a criminal on trial.

Last week I wrote about the treatment of Native Americans at the California missions. Although it is rarely admitted, we may as well accept that Native Americans were in fact treated as slaves for the sake of the glory, power, and expansion of the Church.

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Cultural, Education, Entertainment, Events, Local, News, Youth

Santa Paula Art Museum — Kay Zetlmaier’s “Geomorphic: The Living Earth” Opens Saturday, May 14, more events

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Premiere Party: Kay Zetlmaier’s Geomorphic: The Living Earth

Saturday, May 14, 2022, from 4 PM to 6 PM

$5 Members • $10 Non-members

Reservations are not required.

Wine, beer and hors d’oeuvres will be served.

Kay Zetlmaier’s Geomorphic: The Living Earth is the Ventura artist’s first major showing as an abstract painter after decades of teaching and exhibiting as a representational artist. Inspired by the natural world and humanity’s place within it, Zetlmaier paints layers of bold shapes, luminous colors, and complex textures to convey both the strength and fragility of our living planet. The exhibit will also be an introduction for many to the relatively niche medium of cold wax painting. Geomorphic: The Living Earth will be on view May 14, 2022, to September 11, 2022.

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Business, Education, Family, Health, Local, News, Youth

Livingston’s Grief Support for Children and Young Teens

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Many children and teens have experienced the death of a loved one during the pandemic. This is a difficult time for anyone grieving a loss. Livingston’s Grief and Bereavement Program recognizes the value children and teens receive from sharing their grief experience with their peers. Our groups provide support, connection and validation that they are not alone. 

The Good Grief Club meets the 1st and 3rd Tuesday of every month from 5:30 to 7 pm
The Young Teen Group meets the 2nd and 4th Tuesday of every month from 5:30 to 6:30 pm
If you would like to register a child or young teen for a support group, please contact Stacia Sickle at 805-389-6870 x452 or at ssickle@lmvna.org.

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Family, Government, Health, Local, News, Youth

Lifeguards Return to Ventura Harbor Beaches for Summer

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As the summer season approaches, daily lifeguard service will be provided at Ventura Harbor beaches along Spinnaker Drive.

In a unanimous vote on May 5, 2022, the Board of Port Commissioners authorized Brian Pendleton, General Manager of Ventura Harbor, to contract with State Parks to provide the lifeguard service from May through September 2022 at Harbor Cove, South Beach, and Surfers Knoll beaches. The approved 2022 lifeguard contract of $140,131.07 will provide adequate coverage to each of the three Ventura Harbor beach areas over a five-month period. 

“The Port District has taken great pride in supporting enhanced beach safety by way of seasonal lifeguards on the Harbors beaches,” said Pendleton.

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Events, Family, Health, Local, News

Mental Wellness Center Community Wellness Program presents Stronger Together, a bipolar & depression support group starting Thursdays, May 12

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The Mental Wellness Center Community Wellness Program presents Stronger Together, a bipolar & depression support group starting Thursdays, from May 12 – and every Thursday from 6-7:30 p.m.

This is a drop-in support group where you can find support in a safe and confidential setting. Family members are welcome!

To join, contact Elizabeth Imperato at wrapofsantabarbara@gmail.com

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Entertainment, Events, Local, News, Sports, Youth

Oxnard College’s Athletic Department Hosts Inaugural Hall of Fame Banquet on May 21

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The Oxnard College athletic department will host its inaugural Hall of Fame Banquet on May 21, honoring two outstanding Oxnard College athletic alumni and celebrating the new Oxnard College Athletic Alumni Association. Former athletes, alumni and the general community are invited to attend a reception and dinner commemorating inductees cross-country runner Debra Sharp and baseball coach Jerry White. The 5 p.m. event will be held at the Oxnard College Performing Arts Center.

“Jerry and Debra built a strong foundation for Oxnard College athletics and paved the way for countless student-athletes to follow,” said Jonas Crawford, athletic director at Oxnard College. “Celebrating their mark on our program is long overdue, and we’re looking forward to an evening dedicated to these two stalwarts of Oxnard College athletics.” 

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Events, Food, Local, News

A Taste of Camarillo Festival is Back & Better than Ever! Event set for July 31

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The Meadowlark Service League is hosting A Taste of Camarillo this year on Sunday, July 31, from Noon -4:30 pm with last call at 4:00 pm, at the historic Camarillo Ranch.  Exhibitor spaces are already filling up for the region’s longest running wine, food, and brew festival. 

Tickets are available at TasteofCamarillo.com and are priced at $125 each.  Tickets are all inclusive for the day’s events.  Rockin’ Boots is this year’s theme. There will be dancing and live music from Ignition band playing country and rock music favorites.  Private cabanas will be available with selected sponsor levels. Learn more about sponsoring this year’s Festival at TasteofCamarillo.com

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Business, Education, Events, Family, Government, Health, Local, News, Seniors, Women, Youth

County of Ventura COVID-19 & County Update

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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.

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Cultural, Education, Entertainment, Events, Family, Local, News, Youth

Museum of Ventura County new exhibits: Including George Stuart as you’ve never seen him before

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Behind the Curtain:
An Insider’s Look at The George Stuart Historical Figures®
at the Museum of Ventura County
Exhibit opens Thursday, May 12th

See the George Stuart Figures as you’ve never seen them before!

People argue about whether the Figures are works of art, historical objects, or maybe something else entirely. Mr. Stuart himself objects to both the titles of Artist and Historian. Investigate each Figure closely so that you can decide for yourself. Learn more here.

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Business, Cultural, Education, Family, Health, Local, News

New Hires Lead the way at the Mental Wellness Center

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The Mental Wellness Center (MWC) is celebrating 75 years of providing mental health services to the people of Santa Barbara. 

For 30 of those years, Annmarie Cameron has served as the organization’s CEO, nurturing it from a small to mid-sized nonprofit that serves thousands of people every year. 

“We’ve expanded the way we approach our work,” Cameron said. “We aim to catch people earlier rather than waiting for them to become mentally unwell. We understand the value of early intervention and prevention, the sooner you address it, the better the outcomes are.” 

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Business, Cultural, Education, Local, Youth

SBCC’s Scheinfeld Center announces student winners of its 12th Annual Scheinfeld New Venture Challenge

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The Scheinfeld New Venture Challenge business plan and pitch competition returned for its 12th season on Friday, April 29, showcasing some of our region’s most exciting and innovative college and high school student entrepreneurs. The event was live-streamed on YouTube, and videos from the college and high school competitions can be viewed on the Scheinfeld New Venture Challenge website. 

Students from Santa Barbara City College (SBCC) kicked off the collegiate tier of the event, followed by the high school tier, which featured students from San Marcos High School, Anacapa School, Santa Barbara High School and Cabrillo High School. The aspiring entrepreneurs competed for over $15,000 in cash awards and startup support.

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Local

Guest contribution — PODS® Local Makes Home Renovation Projects a Breeze  

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Home renovation projects are at an all-time high and are expected to continue rising through 2022. In 2021, According to Improving America’s Housing Report by the Joint Center for Housing Studies of Harvard University, the home improvement market reached $281 Billion in 2021. While the cost of a renovation varies depending on the scale of the project, remodeling can increase the value of your home should you ever decide to sell. Homeowners are seeing an average of 65.7% return on investment for bathroom renovations and up to 83.1% a typical kitchen remodel (Realtor.com). 

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Education, Entertainment, Events, Local, News, Youth

Moorpark College Holds Auditions for Summer Productions of ‘Blithe Spirit’ and ‘Disenchanted!’

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The Moorpark College Theatre Arts department will host auditions for its upcoming summer 2022 productions of “Blithe Spirit” and “Disenchanted!” Auditions for actors for both productions will be held May 16-18 on campus. Both productions will run in July.

“We are thrilled to have the Performing Arts Center fully open and bring to our summer stage a classic family farce and the inaugural presentation of the hit fairy tale parody ‘Disenchanted!’” said John Loprieno, director and theatre arts faculty member.

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Business, Family, Health, Home, Local, News, Youth

Union Bank Grants $10,000 to United Way of Santa Barbara County

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Union Bank, as part of its Community Recovery Program, has announced its decision to award $10,000 to United Way’s Young Leaders Society in Santa Barbara County, making Union Bank the largest supporter of the affinity group this year. 

Union Bank is a longtime supporter of United Way community programs and initiatives, including the organization’s Fun in the Sun summer learning program and crisis response and recovery efforts. The bank engages with the organization year-round, with many of its employees representing Union Bank in United Way affiliate groups and various volunteer opportunities. 

In response to the COVID-19 pandemic, Union Bank was one of the first organizations to partner with United Way to support community-wide crisis response efforts. With their support, United Way was able to broaden reach and impact for thousands of local residents and families. 

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Business, Education, Finance, Local, News

Economic Development Collaborative (EDC) — Free Webinar Schedule

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VENTURA COUNTY SCORE: HOW TO RECORD IN QUICKBOOKS ONLINE FROM THIRD PARTY COMPANIES

May 10 @ 10:30 am

This live, interactive webinar session is designed to help you understand the features, functions and benefits of QuickBooks Online for small business owners as well as assist you in implementing accounting best practices to manage your business finance. This webinar will concentrate on steps to properly record payroll transactions that are administered by third party companies like ADP and Paychex. Juliana Ramirez from JR Bookkeeping will live answer your questions related to the subject matter including live demonstrations.

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Business, Education, Finance, Local, News, Youth

Ventura County Community Foundation Awards $192,556 to Ventura College Foundation To Support Ventura College’s Veterinary Technology Program

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The Ventura County Community Foundation (VCCF) awarded $192,556 to the Ventura College Foundation to help support the Ventura College’s Veterinary Technology Program. The two-year vet program is a partnership between the Ohana Pet Hospital and the college that began in 2021 and takes place adjacent to Ventura College’s East Campus in Santa Paula.

The VCCF conducted an Animal Welfare Needs Assessment for Ventura County. This assessment showed, among other things, the need for more veterinarian professionals including qualified vet technicians in Ventura County. 

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Education, Entertainment, Events, Family, Local, News, Youth

2022 Young Authors Fair & Family Literacy Celebration Announced

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The Ventura County Reading Association (VCRA) announces its 43rd Annual Young Authors Fair & Family Literacy Celebration to be held at kidSTREAM Children’s Museum in Camarillo on Saturday, May 21, 2022, from 10:00 a.m. to 1:00 p.m. The museum is located at 3100 E. Ponderosa Dr., Camarillo, CA 93010. The event is FREE and open to the public.

This special event shines a spotlight on student writing through displays of books written by children in grades PreK to 12, which they can share with families and the public. Each submission receives a gold “Young Author Participation” seal from VCRA. Young authors will be able to read books of other writers, participate in fun book-related STREAM activities, and enjoy a presentation by Kirsten Larson, author of Wood, Wire, Wings: Lilian Todd Invents an Airplane. Families with children as well as teachers who participate in the event will receive a free, autographed copy of Kirsten Larsen’s book while supplies last.

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