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Bilingual report — County of Ventura — Important Extreme Weather Updates and Resources – Jan. 21, 2025

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We recognize the challenges that come with facing yet another period of Red Flag conditions and Public Safety Power Shutoffs.

We know these weather conditions and power shutoffs disrupt routines, create uncertainty, and make it difficult to meet essential needs. Please know that we stand with you during this time, and we are here to provide support and resources to help you navigate these challenges.

We are committed to keeping you informed of resources that keep you prepared and provide support as we navigate this challenge together.

Your patience and resilience are deeply appreciated as we work together to navigate these conditions and keep our community safe.

Thank you for your understanding and cooperation as we face these challenges together.

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Ventura County Community Development Corp. — VCCDC’s Homebuyer Workshops are here to guide you every step of the way in 2025!

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Choose a date that works for you:

Saturday, January 25th (online)
Saturday, February 1 (online)
Sábado, 8 de febrero (Oxnard)
Saturday, February 22 (online)
To reserve your seat, simply click below to sign up. We can’t wait to help you achieve your dream of homeownership!

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2025 Events & Festivals announced In Lompoc, On California’s Central Coast

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LOMPOC — Lompoc is gearing up to welcome 2025 with a lineup of exciting events! From now until December 31, 2025, immerse yourself in the small-town charm of this vibrant community. Explore the unique festivals and experiences that make Lompoc Valley stand out. Wine lover or history buff, Lompoc Valley has something extraordinary to offer for every type of adventurer!

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Farm Bureau of Ventura County — Webinar and Resources on Immigration (webinar on Jan. 29) & CBP Activity

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National Immigration Project Webinar on Immigration

Join the National Immigration Project on Wednesday, January 29 at 5pm ET for a free webinar for community defenders, advocates, and impacted community members to go over the basics of what you can do to protect yourself and your community in the face of potential immigration enforcement.

We’ll go over what immigration policies have changed in the first week of the Trump administration; a primer on your Fourth Amendment rights; and ways for families to prepare in case of an arrest by immigration officials. Our 1.5-hour program is meant to address your most burning questions and to remind you of the protections you already have. As policies change, we will continue to provide community defenders with the information and trainings they need to fight back and to keep their people ready to face whatever comes.

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County of Ventura District 2 Supervisor Jeff Gorell — Community Update

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I want to ensure you’re ready for the extreme conditions forecasted for our area. The National Weather Service and Ventura County Sheriff’s Office of Emergency Services are closely monitoring a Red Flag wind event expected to last through Tuesday.

During this period, dry conditions combined with northeast winds of 25 to 40 MPH—and gusts reaching up to 60 MPH—create a heightened risk of wildfires.

Southern California Edison is implementing Public Safety Power Shutoffs in wind-prone areas. The primary period of concern for shutoffs extends through Tuesday morning, though circuits restored earlier may still be at risk for additional shutoffs depending on conditions.

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Community Environmental Council (CEC) — Last Chance to Register: CEC’s Climate Stewards Course

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When climate disasters strike, knowing how to help impacted communities and habitats can be daunting. CEC’s Climate Stewards certification program equips you with the knowledge to take climate action and connects you with a network of local activists working to promote community recovery and resilience.

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Bilingual report — Allan Hancock College students return for Spring classes

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“It’s always exciting when we get to see students back on campus for the start of classes,” said Hancock Superintendent/President Kevin G. Walthers, Ph.D. “Our entire team of faculty and staff are dedicated to helping make their college experience as rewarding as possible.” 

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UCSB — The Current — ‘Sara Miller McCune Arts Library opens for study, research and learning resources’ and more news, events

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Culminating a multiyear effort to unite library collections and services in a central, state-of-the-art space, the newly opened facility also represents the vision of its namesake, a longstanding donor to campus

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Business, Finance, Health, Local, News, Seniors

Hospice of Santa Barbara Surpasses $1 Million Legacy of Compassion Campaign Goal

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SANTA BARBARA — Hospice of Santa Barbara (HSB) is thrilled to announce that it has reached and surpassed its 2024 Legacy of Compassion Campaign goal raising $1,155,410 during the year-long campaign which launched, in part, in celebration of the organization’s 50th anniversary. The campaign initiated a multi-stage effort to ensure the continued sustainability of HSB’s free compassionate care services, helping to meet current demand while building a stronger foundation for years to come.  

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Ventura College Foundation Provided $738,558 In Direct Student Support During 2023-24 Academic Year

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VENTURA — The Ventura College Foundation, a nonprofit organization that provides resources and financial assistance to Ventura College students and school programs, distributed $738,558 in direct assistance support to 7,858 students during the 2023-2024 academic year and another $1.33 million to 56 Ventura College programs across 14 departments and divisions.

“The Ventura College student body is made up of 40 percent first-generation college students,” says Anne Paul King, Ventura College Foundation executive director. “Ventura College students know the value of a solid education. They are well on their way to becoming our next scientists, first responders, educators, workforce technicians, public servants and innovators.”

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Steering the Ship, Jess Ramirez sworn in as president of Oxnard Harbor District

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PORT HUENEME — At a ceremony held at the Port of Hueneme, Jess J. Ramirez was sworn in as president of the Oxnard Harbor District.

Ventura County Supervisor Vianey Lopez administered the oath of office. Ramirez, a long-serving member of the International Longshoreman’s and Warehouse Union Local #46, has dedicated over 51 years to the port, starting as a casual longshoreman and rising through the ranks to a respected leader. Ramirez was sworn in alongside Commissioner Celina L. Zacarias who just completed a successful year at the helm as board president. The presidential baton for 2025 has now been passed to Ramirez.

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Viva el Arte de Santa Barbara kicks off the New Year with three free performances (Jan. 24, 25, 26) by La Santa Cecilia

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La Santa Cecilia exemplifies the modern-day creative hybrid of Latin culture, rock and world music. The group draws inspiration from all over the world, utilizing Pan-American rhythms including cumbia, bossa-nova, rumba, bolero, tango, jazz and klezmer music. Their unique sounds and the experience of their colorful, passionate performances continues to captivate both loyal fans and new listeners.

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MLK message to LULAC Family

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As we honor the life and legacy of Dr. Martin Luther King Jr., I am reminded of the power of his vision. This vision continues to guide us in our work today. Dr. King’s dream of equality, justice, and a “Beloved Community” resonates deeply with our shared mission at LULAC. His strong commitment to nonviolence as a force for change reminds us that unity, courage, and action make progress possible.

This year, we find ourselves at a historic crossroads. The path ahead is uncertain, and challenges are many for the Latino communities we serve across the United States and Puerto Rico. Yet, I want to assure you that our sense of purpose has never been stronger. We are not merely observing the changes around us; we are preparing and taking deliberate action to confront them with clarity and determination.

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Bilingual report — January News from People’s Self-Help Housing

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This year sees People’s Self-Help Housing celebrate its 55th Anniversary!

Since 1970, when a group of committed individuals said ‘we can do better to help house our neighbors’, we have been doing just that. Originally building through the self-help program – ten families building alongside each other, working on one another’s homes – and then amplifying those efforts through the development of multifamily housing, the DNA of our organization is mutuality and support.

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Bilingual commentary — The Importance of Eye Contact for Pedestrians

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When I was a teenager, my father seemed eager to teach me how to drive. He himself never had any formal driving instruction, but he had earned his “street cred” as a driver on the battlefield known as the Los Angeles freeway system.

Every workday during my first 18 years, I saw him put on his “driving armor,” metaphorically speaking. He would leave home early in the morning, get into the family car, and go out to fight the good fight on the freeways of Los Angeles to earn a living. There were grueling miles between our modest home in the suburbs and his job at a print shop in Hollywood. 

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Guest contribution — American Immigration Council — Who runs the U.S. immigration system?

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he Laken Riley Act Would Give States Sweeping Power Over Immigration Policy …

Who runs the U.S. immigration system? If the Senate passes the Laken Riley Act this week, the answer might not be Congress?or?the president. The bill, already passed in the House, would hand state attorneys general, like Ken Paxton in Texas, veto power over large swaths of federal immigration policy. 

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People’s Self-Help Housing Begins 55th Anniversary Celebrations 2025 to mark significant milestone in the organization’s history

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CENTRAL COAST — This year, People’s Self-Help Housing (PSHH)celebrates 55 years as an organization. To commemorate this historic milestone, PSHH has launched a new celebratory logo and webpage for its use throughout 2025.
 
“What a privilege for an organization to celebrate 55 years,” said Ken Trigueiro, PSHH CEO & President. “From our origins on the heels of the seminal Fair Housing Act of 1968 to today, we have been proud to participate in the numerous partnerships that have brought tens of thousands of units of affordable housing to the Central Coast.”

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Friendship Center Adult Day Services — Free Emergency Respite Care

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Amigos805 editor’s note: Please keep checking with vcemergency.com and other local officials/organizations for the latest fire/weather updates….

Through our Emergency Respite Care Program, we are providing no-cost, short-term respite care for families who have temporarily relocated to the Central Coast due to the fires. If your family has been displaced and you’re caring for an older adult with dementia, we can offer a safe, supportive space where your loved one can feel comforted and engaged—while giving you time to focus on recovery and next steps.

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39th Annual California Strawberry Festival seeks sponsors

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VENTURA — The California Strawberry Festival is seeking corporate sponsors for its 39th annual event, scheduled for May 17-18 at the Ventura County Fairgrounds.

The family-friendly festival drew more than 40,000 visitors from across Southern California in 2024, including attendees from Los Angeles, Ventura, San Bernardino, Kern, Santa Barbara and Orange counties.

Festival attractions include more than 40 strawberry-themed food and beverage vendors, nearly 150 fine arts and crafts booths, live entertainment on three stages, carnival rides, a children’s Strawberryland and a build-your-own strawberry shortcake tent. Organizers estimate visitors consume 1.5 million locally grown strawberries during the two-day event.

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Assemblymembers Irwin and Harabedian Introduce Bills to Provide Mortgage and Housing Relief to Fire Victims

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SACRAMENTO — Assemblymembers Jacqui Irwin (D-Thousand Oaks) and John Harabedian (D-Pasadena) have jointly authored and introduced a pair of bills that will provide much-needed financial relief to victims of the Los Angeles County wildfires and expedite rebuilding efforts in impacted communities.

“Many of our friends and neighbors who have had their homes damaged or destroyed are faced with the prospect of having to make a mortgage payment on a residence that is uninhabitable,” said Assemblymember Jacqui Irwin.

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Bilingual report — Ventura County Animal Services — Shelter at 142% capacity! Offering free dog adoptions until Sunday

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We are at 142% capacity in our dog kennels. To help relieve overcrowding we are holding a free dog adoption promotion* from January 16th – 19th, 2025 at both the Camarillo and Simi Valley Shelters. Can’t adopt? Please share the flyer above. Thank you.

Ventura County Animal Services

*Please note: Promotions do not guarantee the adoption of a shelter pet. All interested parties must participate in the full adoption process to ensure the best possible matches are made. Promotions do not include the cost of a pet license if applicable.

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Bilingual report — Public Safety Power Shutoffs (PSPS) Wind Event Community Update 01/14/2025

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Amigos805 editor’s note: Please keep checking with vcemergency.com and other local officials/organizations for the latest fire/weather updates….

Due to strong winds and heightened wildfire conditions, the City of Santa Paula is experiencing weather-related power outages and Public Safety Power Shutoffs (PSPS). We want to ensure our community stays safe and informed during this time. Below are essential tips, resources, and important updates to help you navigate these conditions.

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Ventura County Community Foundation update on recent wildfires

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As we face one of the most devastating fire seasons in our region’s history, our hearts are with all those impacted by the fires across Los Angeles County and here in Ventura County. Please know you are not alone, and if you or a loved one need support, please reach out to 2-1-1 or complete this needs assessment if you are in Ventura County. A team of local nonprofits is working collaboratively together and are standing by to help.

Your community foundation is committed to raising funds to address the immediate and long-term needs of those most impacted by the recent Mountain Fire, while remaining prepared to respond to other disaster-related challenges across Ventura County. 100% of all contributions go directly to those most affected and local nonprofits supporting those most in need.

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Bilingual report — County of Ventura — Important Extreme Weather Updates and Resources

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Amigos805 editor’s note: Please keep checking with vcemergency.com and other local officials/organizations for the latest fire/weather updates….

Dear Ventura County Residents,

Our hearts go out to all of you as we continue to navigate one of the most challenging fire seasons in our region’s history. We understand the hardships that many of you have faced, particularly with the extended power outages that have left so many without electricity for days. During the current event, we anticipate that there may be prolonged electrical outages once again so we encourage all residents in impacted areas to prepare accordingly. To find out more information please refer to vcemergency.com.

We want you to know that your safety and well-being remain our top priority. To address the ongoing power issues, we have engaged directly with Southern California Edison executives at the highest levels to advocate for the urgent restoration of electricity to our communities as soon as it is safe to do so. We have also reached out to State and Federal authorities to emphasize the critical need for swift action.

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Bilingual report — Kaiser Permanente Statement 1/10/25 (regarding current wildfire emergency)

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Southern California remains on high alert from devastating wildfires throughout the region. Kaiser Permanente is deeply concerned about everyone in our community who has been affected by this tragedy. Our top priority remains the safety of our patients, members, staff, and anyone seeking care at Kaiser Permanente.

Currently, most of our facilities in Southern California are open and operating normally. We will remain vigilant and ready to respond fluidly as conditions change.

Our hearts go out to those affected, including our own staff and their families. We are grateful to our dedicated employees who continue to work tirelessly to care for our members, even as some of them are personally impacted by the fires.

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Bilingual report — Santa Paula Official Update — Red Flag Conditions

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Amigos805 editor’s note: Please keep checking with vcemergency.com and other local officials/organizations for the latest fire/weather updates….

National Weather Service Update

The National Weather Service is forecasting Red Flag Conditions starting today, Monday, January 13 through Wednesday, January 15. Ventura County and nearby areas will experience very strong Santa Ana winds and extreme fire danger. Conditions will be very dry, with humidity between 10–20% (and not much better at night). Because of these dry conditions and strong winds, any new or existing fire could spread very quickly.

Winds in coastal and valley areas: 25–40 mph
Winds in mountains and foothills: 30–45 mph
Peak gusts could reach 45–70 mph (especially on Tuesday).
Highest wind impact: Tuesday 4 AM – Wednesday 12 PM
Areas at greatest risk: Simi, Moorpark, South Mountain, Piru, Fillmore, and Santa Paula

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