Tag: Ventura County

Clean Power Alliance Announces Applications Now Being Accepted for 2024 Community Benefits Grant

by Community Contributor • August 8, 2024 • Comments Off

LOS ANGELES — Clean Power Alliance (CPA) is pleased to announce that applications are now being accepted for the 2024 Community Benefits Grant. The grant program, a partnership between CPA and Calpine Community Energy, has once again increased funding to support local nonprofit organizations working to advance clean energy goals within CPA’s service area. This year, $325,000 in funding will be made available to 12 to 15 organizations – the largest amount since the grant was launched in 2021. Last year, $288,000 was distributed to 12 organizations throughout Los Angeles and Ventura counties.

Ventura County Teachers Honored for Innovation in the Classroom

by Community Contributor • May 28, 2024 • Comments Off

VENTURA COUNTY — Teachers from throughout Ventura County are being honored with grants for developing innovative lessons for their students. At a ceremony last night in Camarillo, the Ventura County Office of Education presented IMPACT II grants worth $1,000 each to seven teachers.

The winning entries cover a variety of subject matters, including history and science. Detailed lesson plans prepared by each of the grant winners are available here for use by other teachers in Ventura County and beyond.

Local Entrepreneur Brings Metal Supermarkets to Newbury Park

by Community Contributor • March 14, 2024 • Comments Off

VENTURA COUNTY — Metal Supermarkets, a supplier of small-quantity metals, will open its newest location in Ventura County, California on March 11th. The premier metal supplier is set to become the one-stop shop for local professionals, businesses and hobbyists alike, offering speed, variety and convenience.

As the fourth Metal Supermarkets location in California, Metal Supermarkets Ventura County offers 8,000 types, shapes and grades of metal, cut to each customer’s exact specifications. Brandishing its signature, world-class customer service, Metal Supermarkets will be the trusted metals supplier for local manufacturers, machinists, maintenance and repair, artists, hobbyists, tool and die shops, and more in Ventura County.

Bilingual report — Michelle Ascencion, Ventura County Registrar of Voters, Announces 2024 Presidential Primary Election Night Results and the Start of the Canvass Period

by Community Contributor • March 7, 2024 • Comments Off

VENTURA — Primary Election Night Closing Results for Ventura County came in at 1:50 a.m., March 6, 2024, and are posted on the VenturaVote.org Election Results page, along with a link to the Secretary of State’s Semifinal Official Results for the State of California.

The Ventura County Election Night Results include: vote-by-mail ballots received and processed before Election Day, in-person ballots cast during early voting, and non-conditional and non-provisional ballots cast on Election Day.

March 6 is also the start of the Official Canvass Period, which must be completed within thirty days after Election Day. Election officials conduct numerous post-election activities during the canvass as mandated by State Law.

June 1 — Bilingual report — Department of Child Support Services collaborates to co-host inaugural Fatherhood Summit

by Community Contributor • January 1, 2024 • Comments Off

VENTURA COUNTY — The Ventura County Department of Child Support Services, in partnership with the Rio School District, First 5 Ventura County, and Hope & Comfort will host the inaugural Fatherhood Summit. Registration is encouraged, and additional information is available online at bit.ly/Fatherhood_Summit.

Detection of HLB in VC establishes new quarantine area:Meeting (Oct. 4)

by Community Contributor • October 3, 2023 • Comments Off

VENTURA COUNTY — CDFA has declared a quarantine in Ventura County following the detection of the citrus disease Huanglongbing (HLB), or citrus greening, in two citrus trees on one residential property in the city of Santa Paula. These detections are the first HLB-positive trees in Ventura County. CDFA is working with the USDA and the Ventura County Agricultural Commissioner on this cooperative project.

The detection will require a mandatory five-mile-radius quarantine area around the find site to restrict the movement of citrus fruit, trees, and related plant material. The quarantine area is bordered on the north by Ojai Road; on the south by E Los Angeles Avenue; on the west by Wells Road; and on the east by Balcom Canyon Road. HLB quarantine maps for Ventura County are available online at: https://www.cdfa.ca.gov/citrus/pests_diseases/hlb/regulation.html.

Bilingual report — Help Clean Up Ventura County One Community at a Time

by Community Contributor • April 7, 2022 • Comments Off

Ventura County is challenging residents living in Ventura County unincorporated areas to work together to clean up their communities by disposing/recycling household materials. These events are provided on behalf of the Ventura County Board of Supervisors, Ventura County Public Works Agency, Harrison Industries, and Waste Management.

Residents currently subscribed to trash, recycling, and green waste service through a County contract collector will receive a notice in the mail one (1) month prior to each event. All events will have minimum contact and will be drive-through. There will be assistance with vehicle unloading and all County Covid-19 guidelines will be followed.

Bilingual report — $70 Property Tax Break Available for Qualified Homeowners

by Community Contributor • December 17, 2021 • Comments Off

More than 52,000 Ventura County homeowners may have an extra $70 in their pocket this year, just by filling out a simple form. This week, the Ventura County Assessor mailed Homeowners’ Exemption Claim Forms to over 52,000 homeowners that likely qualify for this property tax break.

The Assessor typically mails a Homeowners’ Exemption Claim to new owners. However, in the busy paperwork shuffle of buying a new home, many property owners miss out on this valuable opportunity. In an effort to maximize property tax savings, the Assessor periodically reaches out to potentially eligible homeowners.

3C-REN Launches Multifamily Home Energy Savings Program

by Community Contributor • September 30, 2021 • Comments Off

3C-REN (The Tri-County Regional Energy Network), a partnership between the Counties of San Luis Obispo, Santa Barbara and Ventura that delivers energy-saving programs and industry trainings, is launching the Multifamily Home Energy Savings program, which works with property owners and managers to identify and provide rebates for optimum energy improvements for tri-county multifamily properties.

“We are all feeling the effects of climate change with summers getting hotter,” said Marisa Hanson-Lopez, 3C-REN Multifamily Program Manager. “This new program provides significant incentives to lower the costs of property upgrades, like updating HVAC systems and replacing water heaters, that create more comfortable and affordable homes.”

Local Community invited to celebrate Public Works with fun, educational virtual event

by Community Contributor • April 9, 2021 • Comments Off

To celebrate the American Public Works Association’s National Public Works Week, Ventura County Public Works Agency (VCPWA) will celebrate with its very own virtual event the week of May 17, 2021!

This year might look a little different, but we are working to ensure that students will still receive content and activities customized to their interests while continuing to show the diversity of what Ventura County Public Works Agency does for the community. Curriculum for your students could feature interactive information about science, the latest innovations in technology, heavy equipment demonstrations, and much more going on in the heart of their community.

Ventura County Team Wins State Mock Trial Competition

by Community Contributor • March 22, 2021 • Comments Off

California Mock Trial Finals. Trinity Pacific Christian School in Thousand Oaks won the top spot in the statewide competition a few weeks after taking both first and second place in the Ventura County Mock Trial. Another Ventura County high school has reason to celebrate after the state finals. Jessica Zhou of Newbury Park High School took first place in the courtroom journalist portion of the competition.

The Trinity Pacific team (pictured) will now advance to the national mock trial competition to be held from May 13 – 15. The last Ventura County team to win at the state level was La Reina High School in 2013. La Reina went on to place second in the national contest.

Bilingual report — Workforce Development Board Receives $2.8 million To Provide Workforce Services To English Language Learners & Justice-Involved Individuals

by Community Contributor • January 14, 2021 • Comments Off

Workforce Development Board of Ventura County (WDB) was awarded $2,417,711 from the U.S. Department of Labor to prepare justice-involved individuals for the workforce. Another $350,000 was received from the Workforce Innovation and Opportunity Act/Governor’s Discretionary Fund for services to the English Language Learner (ELL) population to foster successful job placement and retention.

WDB partnered with the Ventura County’s Sherriff Office when applying for the Department of Labor grant that provides work-related training to inmates. The Ventura County “Bridges 2 Work” (B2W) project will place employment specialists at the Todd Road Jail in Santa Paula. Their focus will be on inmates who are less than 180 days away from release. A WDB “Pre-Release Specialized Job Center” at the jail will serve up to 300 inmates.

Bilingual report — Workforce Development Board of Ventura County Roundtable Via Zoom

by Community Contributor • January 11, 2021 • Comments Off

Plans to increase workforce development opportunities and skills in Ventura County through 2022 will be discussed at a Zoom Workforce Development Board of Ventura County (WDB) Strategic Workforce Planning Roundtable Thursday, January 28, from noon to 1:00 p.m. The public is invited to discuss the plans and provide input.

One regional and one local plan was initially created in 2017 by WDB as part of the Workforce Innovation and Opportunity Act.

Ventura County Workforce Development Board Secures Programs To Address COVID-19 Pandemic’s Impact on Ventura County’s Workforce

by Community Contributor • December 21, 2020 • Comments Off

The Workforce Development Board of Ventura County (WDB) was awarded a $315,000 grant by the State of California Employment Development Department to implement a National Dislocated Worker Grant (NDWG) to address the COVID-19 pandemic’s impact on the Ventura County workforce.

The funding will aid Ventura County’s response to COVID-19 by providing opportunities for employment and training services to individuals who are unemployed or underemployed as a result of the pandemic and who are unlikely to return to work in their previous occupations. Services include training and job placement in in-demand careers, especially those where there is an increased need due to the impact of COVID-19.

Bilingual report — Ventura County completes the 2020 Census ranked in the 95th percentile nationwide

by Community Contributor • October 26, 2020 • Comments Off

Following the completion of the 2020 Census on Thursday, October 15, Ventura County has ranked in the 95thpercentile nationwide for the response rate from area residents. Consistently throughout the self-response period, Ventura County has performed above the percentage for self-response state wide, which is recorded at 69.6% and the national average which is 66.9%. As well, several cities across the county achieved a response rate that was 5 points higher than what was recorded in 2010.

Bilingual report — All cities across Ventura County surpass 2010 Census self-response rate

by Community Contributor • September 22, 2020 • Comments Off

While efforts continue to count residents across the state and nation in the 2020 Census, Ventura County has achieved a significant milestone. To date, all cities across the County have surpassed the self-response rate recorded in 2010, with many cities recording a 5-point increase or higher in the response rate recorded a decade ago.

“This is an exciting achievement for our County especially in the midst of the COVID-19 response efforts, said Mike Powers, County Executive Officer. “Prior to COVID-19, it was reported that our County would be difficult to count, so it’s incredible that we not only overcame but exceeded expectations. Now is the final stretch to make it count! Now more than ever, it’s especially important as our community is responding to, and recovering from, the health and economic impacts of COVID-19. We hope that as the Census enters into the last week of the response period that we continue to see these numbers grow.”

Food Share Partners with SoCalGas to bring the ‘Fueling Our Communities’ program to Ventura County

by Community Contributor • August 13, 2020 • Comments Off

Food Share, Ventura County’s largest hunger-relief organization, has partnered with Southern California Gas Co. (SoCalGas) to bring the “Fueling Our Communities” program to Ventura County with drive-thru meal distribution events in Santa Paula and El Rio community in Oxnard. The events, which were funded in part by the utility, provided more than 26,000 free meals to individuals and families struggling with food insecurity in the wake of the COVID-19 pandemic.

County of Ventura COVID-19 update for July 17

by Community Contributor • July 17, 2020 • Comments Off

Here is your COVID-19 update from the County of Ventura.

224 new cases

1,588 new people tested

5,192 total cases

2,726 recovered cases

95 hospitalizations

31 in the ICU

57 deaths (1 additional death – 77 year-old male)

89,336 total people tested

Bilingual report — State issues guidance on closure of sectors in response to COVID-19

by Community Contributor • July 1, 2020 • Comments Off

As COVID-19 transmission rates continue to rise, Governor Newsom issued guidance July 2 that instructs counties that have been on the County Monitoring List for three consecutive days or more to close indoor operations for certain sectors which promote the mixing of populations beyond households and make adherence to physical distancing with face coverings difficult. Within those sectors, those that are not able to continue their business through outdoor operations must close that portion of their business effective immediately for at least three weeks, in order to further mitigate the spread of the virus.

Bilingual report — Food Distribution Events Planned Throughout Ventura County, California & Washington State to Support Essential Frontline Farmworkers During COVID-19 Pandemic

by Community Contributor • June 11, 2020 • Comments Off

This Saturday, June 13th, the farmworkers’ rights group “Feeding the Frontline: Feeding our Farmworkers” will join with Latino activists and donors throughout California and Washington State to provide food distribution events for farm-working families who have been disproportionately impacted by the COVID-19 pandemic even while working to feed Americans. These efforts will include events in six agricultural counties throughout California, including Ventura, Santa Barbara, Monterey, Tulare, Fresno, and San Benito counties.

“This pandemic underscores the invaluable contributions farmworkers provide our communities, state, and nation,” shared Roberto Juarez, who heads Clinicas Del Camino Real, an organization helping lead Saturday’s events. “What COVID-19 has done to farm workers is to simply lay bare and even exacerbate the inequities they were already facing – ranging from health care disparities to poor living conditions and low wages that families simply cannot live on. …”

Ventura County Civil Grand Jury Announces Release of Report on Cybersecurity Strategies for Cities in Ventura County

by Community Contributor • June 11, 2020 • Comments Off

The 2019-2020 Ventura County Civil Grand Jury investigated cybersecurity strategies of the Cities in Ventura County to assess each City’s preparedness to defend against data breaches and ransomware and identify opportunities to implement improvements.

Cyberattacks on local governments increased across the nation during 2019. Half resulted in ransomware demands. As the reports of these attacks on cities unfolded, it became clear that better preparation could have assisted those cities to avoid major and costly data breaches.

County of Ventura COVID-19 update for May 21

by Community Contributor • May 21, 2020 • Comments Off

VENTURA COUNTY — Good Evening, Here’s your COVID-19 Update from the County of Ventura. 25 new cases 883 total cases 680 recovered cases 21 hospitalized 12 ICU 174 under quarantine 29 deaths 18,673 people tested www.vcemergency.com Business Information: www.vcreopens.com…

County of Ventura COVID-19 update for May 8 — The County of Ventura expanded testing throughout the County this week for essential workers and residents

by Community Contributor • May 8, 2020 • Comments Off

Good Evening, Here is your daily COVID-19 update from the County of Ventura.

View today’s video update at: https://vimeo.com/416539740.

By the numbers:

21 new cases

652 total cases

435 recovered cases

29 in the hospital

12 in the ICU

198 under quarantine

19 deaths

12, 863 tested

Testing The County of Ventura expanded testing throughout the County this week for essential workers and residents. You will not be charged for the test, and you do not need to have health insurance. There are two sites for essential workers and seven drive thru sites for all community members. Learn more at: https://vcportal.ventura.org/covid19/docs/2020-05-03_Covid19Testing_updated.pdf.

County of Ventura COVID-19 update for April 23

by Community Contributor • April 23, 2020 • Comments Off

14 new cases
465 total cases
245 recovered cases
26 in the hospital *5 of which are not in need of hospitalization but are long-term care facility patients being cared for at hospitals to protect the other long-term care facility members.
7 in the ICU
8, 256 people tested
16 deaths
Age range of deaths 37-99: 8 males and 8 females. All individuals had comorbidities.
Unfortunately, a 37-year-old male died as the result of a drug overdose with COVID-19 infection as a significant comorbidity and contributing condition. Questions can be directed to the Medical Examiner’s Office at MeoAdmin@ventura.org.

Bilingual report: County of Ventura COVID-19 update for April 16

by Community Contributor • April 16, 2020 • Comments Off

une in on April 17 at 1 pm at www.vcemergency.com, News Channel 3, ABC 7, Spectrum 10, Facebook @ countyofventura and Twitter @ countyventura for a press conference update from the County of Ventura highlighting efforts to support businesses throughout the County.

Mexican Consulate in Oxnard — 805 UndocuFund reactivated to help undocumented families in Ventura, Santa Barbara counties

by Community Contributor • April 14, 2020 • Comments Off

We would like to bring to your attention that the 805 UndocuFund has been reactivated to help undocumented families affected by the Novel Coronavirus (COVID-19) outbreak in Ventura and Santa Barbara counties. …

The 805 UndocuFund is currently fundraising and looking for volunteers to serve our community. This upcoming week, they will start processing application to provide financial assistance. They will need our support to help thousands of families that are facing hardship right now.

County of Ventura COVID-19 update for March 31

by Community Contributor • March 31, 2020 • Comments Off

VENTURA COUNTY — Good Evening, Here is your daily report of COVID-19 cases in the County of Ventura. 23 new cases 149 total cases 27 recovered cases 30 people have ever been hospitalized from COVID-19 117 active cases under quarantine…

Bilingual report: Coronavirus (COVID-19) Preparedness Public Health Urges Preparedness for Social Distancing

by Community Contributor • March 6, 2020 • Comments Off

VENTURA — In the face of a significant increase in the numbers of confirmed cases of novel coronavirus (COVID-19) in mainland China and other Countries, many Ventura County residents are understandably worried and fearful. The Ventura County Department of Public Health…

Feb. 27 — Somis Water Meeting to be held at Somis Elementary School

by Community Contributor • January 1, 2020 • Comments Off

SOMIS — Ventura County Waterworks District 19 customers in Somis are encouraged to attend an informational meeting on Feb. 27 at 6 p.m. at Somis Elementary School. The meeting will feature speakers on water, displays on water conservation, the state…

Ventura County reaches agreement on new three-year contract with Service Employees International Union

by Community Contributor • December 18, 2019 • Comments Off

VENTURA — The Ventura County Executive Office is pleased to announce a new three-year labor contract with the Service Employees International Union Local 721, which represents 4,500 of the County’s approximate 9,000 employees. SEIU Local 721 informed County management on December…

Bilingual report: Ventura County to launch mass shooting awareness and education initiative

by Community Contributor • August 15, 2019 • Comments Off

VENTURA — Ventura County is one of the safest places in the United States, but the recent tragedy at the Borderline Bar, and incidents in Gilroy, El Paso, Dayton and other communities across the country, serve as a stark reminder…

Bilingual report: Community support leads to agreement to maintain OB services at Santa Paula Hospital

by Community Contributor • June 25, 2019 • Comments Off

VENTURA — At a meeting initiated by the Santa Clara River Valley Community on Friday, Ventura County Executive Officer Mike Powers, Health Care Agency Director Bill Foley, and CEO for VCMC/SPH, John Fankhauser, MD agreed to resume OB services at…

Bilingual report: Ventura County receives top short-term credit ratings and positive long-term rating outlook

by Community Contributor • June 10, 2019 • Comments Off

VENTURA — The nation’s two top credit ratings firms – Moody’s and Standard & Poor’s – have awarded the County with their highest short-term credit ratings. In addition, Moody’s issued positive comments on the County’s long-term credit outlook. Simply put, the…

Bilingual report: County invites public to Planning Commission work sessions on June 6 for the preliminary public review draft of the 2040 General Plan

by Community Contributor • June 5, 2019 • Comments Off

VENTURA — The County’s Planning Division will host three Planning Commission work sessions beginning on June 6th to review the Preliminary Public Review Draft 2040 General Plan and share public input received during recent public outreach events. All work sessions…

CalCIMA Files Lawsuit Seeking to Protect Mineral Resources

by Community Contributor • May 2, 2019 • Comments Off

SACRAMENTO — The California Construction and Industrial Materials Association (“CalCIMA”) filed a lawsuit in Superior Court seeking to set aside Ventura County’s approval of a sweeping, first of its kind, wildlife corridor zoning designation impacting thousands of acres of land. The…

Ventura County has no measles cases

by Community Contributor • April 25, 2019 • Comments Off

VENTURA COUNTY — As of April 25, 2019, Ventura County has been fortunate to claim no measles cases in our county, despite the fact that our neighboring county – The Los Angeles County (LAC) Department of Public Health (DPH) –…

Bilingual report: Kip Turner selected to run the Camarillo and Oxnard airports

by Community Contributor • March 13, 2019 • Comments Off

VENTURA — With more than 14 years’ experience in airport management, Kip Turner has been selected to run the County’s airports in Camarillo and Oxnard. Turner’s appointment as Director of Airports was made by County Executive Officer Mike Powers following an…

Cheesecake Factory now hiring for new Oxnard location at The Collection

by Community Contributor • February 11, 2019 • Comments Off

OXNARD — The Cheesecake Factory® is opening a new restaurant this April in The Collection at RiverPark in Oxnard, and is looking to hire nearly 250staff members to join the team. Hospitality-minded individuals who take pride in their work and…

Drop Off Your Christmas Tree At Agromin, Get Free Potting Mix

by Community Contributor • December 10, 2018 • Comments Off

VENTURA COUNTY — Agromin, the green waste recycler for most of Ventura County, is accepting Christmas trees at three of its locations from December 26 through January 19. Residents who drop off their trees will receive a free bag of…

Bilingual report: Ventura County District Attorney Warns About Price Gouging

by Community Contributor • December 10, 2018 • Comments Off

VENTURA — District Attorney Gregory D. Totten warned Ventura County residents today to beware of individuals and businesses who attempt to illegally profit from the recent fires by engaging in price gouging. California law generally prohibits businesses and individuals from…

Bilingual report: Ventura County declares local health emergency for areas affected by the Hill and Woolsey fires

by Community Contributor • November 13, 2018 • Comments Off

VENTURA — Due to the potential of widespread toxic exposures and threats to public health and the environment that exist in the aftermath of the Woolsey and Hill fires, the Ventura County Public Health Officer and the Director of the…

Ventura County approves Farmworker Resource Program

by Community Contributor • October 12, 2018 • Comments Off

VENTURA — The Ventura County Board of Supervisors unanimously approved the Farmworker Resource Program, the first program of its kind in California. The program was developed by an eight-member advisory committee, facilitated by the County Executive Office, that included members…

First 5 Ventura County announces new Pritzker Fellow with a focus on families, infants and toddlers for a strong start in life

by Community Contributor • October 4, 2018 • Comments Off

VENTURA COUNTY — Elizabeth Majestic has been selected to join a dozen other community leaders nationwide for the inaugural cohort of the Pritzker Fellows Program. The program aims to build a network of strong leaders nationwide who will lead community-based…

Local PODS® Moving and Storage Helps 8 Locals Move Their Way into the Nashville Country Circle

by Community Contributor • September 12, 2018 • Comments Off

VENTURA COUNTY — Eight Ventura County locals are competing for the chance of heading to Nashville with the support of the local community and local PODS® Moving and Storage. Local PODS and 100.7 KHAY have teamed up to discover country’s…

The Annex Food Hall and First 5 Ventura County Partner to Offer Storytime and Crafts for Monthly Kids Club

by Community Contributor • September 5, 2018 • Comments Off

OXNARD — The Annex Food Hall invites friends and family to a morning of storytime and crafts in partnership with First 5 Ventura County and the Oxnard Public Library. Talk, Read, Sign – a program developed by First 5 California,…

Oak View children and families receive expanded classes and preschool scholarships, thanks to grants received by First 5 Ventura

by Community Contributor • August 31, 2018 • Comments Off

VENTURA COUNTY — Oak View children and families are benefitting from a pair of grants received by First 5 Ventura County (F5VC). F5VC has been able to expand the number of Parent and Child Together (PACT) classes and preschool scholarships…

Volunteer Opportunities Available at the Museum of Ventura County

by Community Contributor • August 29, 2018 • Comments Off

VENTURA — The Museum of Ventura County is seeking volunteers to assist with tours, events, and programs, which cover the diverse culture, art, history and interests of Ventura County. The Museum has openings at both the Ventura and Santa Paula…

Ojai’s Azu Restaurant Owner Receives Small Business Award for District 37

by Community Contributor • August 1, 2018 • Comments Off

OJAI — The co-owner of popular Ojai eatery, Azu Restaurant & Bar, located in downtown Ojai, has been awarded the California State Legislature’s Small Business Award for District 37 at an awards ceremony held in Sacramento. Nominated by Assemblymember Monique…

Ventura County Public Works Agency Launches New App to Address Community Issues

by Community Contributor • July 19, 2018 • Comments Off

VENTURA — Ventura County Public Works Agency (VCPWA) is excited to officially launch VCPWA Connect! – A mobile device and web-based system that streamlines how community members report issues within the unincorporated areas of the County of Ventura and in…

Ventura County budget sustains services: invests in capital projects, builds reserves

by Community Contributor • June 22, 2018 • Comments Off

By the Ventura County News Channel VENTURA COUNTY — The Board of Supervisors passed a $2.245 billion Fiscal Year 2018-2019 budget on Monday, June 18. The budget begins with the start of the fiscal year on July 1, 2018. “The budget…

Ventura County Receives Multiple Accolades for Committing To Natural, Environmentally Friendly Treatment of Local Wildlife

by Community Contributor • June 8, 2018 • Comments Off

VENTURA COUNTY — The Ventura County Public Works Agency (VCPWA) has discovered that hawks and owls may be more effective than rodenticide anticoagulants for controlling rodent damage to dams and levees.. In the Ventura County area, there is heightened awareness…

Foundation Veteran Phylene Wiggins Brings Philanthropic Expertise to Ventura County Community Foundation

by Community Contributor • May 28, 2018 • Comments Off

VENTURA COUNTY — The Ventura County Community Foundation recently announced the addition of Phylene Wiggins who will serve as vice president of programs and grants. Wiggins formerly worked at the Santa Barbra Foundation as senior director of community investments. “Phylene’s…

Applications Available for High School and College Scholarships

by Community Contributor • April 9, 2018 • Comments Off

VENTURA COUNTY — The Museum of Ventura County has announced the opening of the application process for its visual arts scholarships. These scholarships are available to any high school senior preparing to enter college in the fall of 2018 or…

Law Firm Ferguson Case Orr Paterson Moves Westlake Office to New Location

by Community Contributor • March 26, 2018 • Comments Off

WESTLAKE VILLAGE — Ferguson Case Orr Paterson LLP (FCOP), Ventura County’s largest law firm, recently announced it moved its Westlake Village office to a new location, 4550 E. Thousand Oaks Blvd., Suite 250, in Westlake Village. Since 1982, FCOP has…

Foster VC Kids: urgent need for homes for children and teens, especially in the cities of Oxnard and Ventura

by Community Contributor • March 23, 2018 • Comments Off

VENTURA COUNTY — Foster VC Kids, a program of Ventura County’s Children and Family Services, has launched a new initiative – What does home mean to you? – to raise awareness and educate the public about the increased and immediate…

Local PODS and Old School 104.7 to Give One Lucky Winner 60 Days of Free Storage with “Everyone Needs a PODS Container” contest

by Community Contributor • March 12, 2018 • Comments Off

CENTRAL COAST — Need storage? Have an upcoming renovation? Local PODS moving and storage and Old School 104.7 want to find out why you need a PODS container. Listeners can enter the contest by submitting their reasons why they need…

Boy Scouts of Ventura Install Hand Built Owl Boxes with Hopes to Save Local Wildlife

by Community Contributor • March 8, 2018 • Comments Off

VENTURA COUNTY — As part of an integrated pest management program, the Boy Scouts of Ventura adventured into the field, armed with handcrafted owl boxes. They were joined by VCPWA Watershed Protection District Director, Karl Novak and Linda Parks, Supervisor…

Four “Rising Stars” Recognized at Ferguson Case Orr Paterson

by Community Contributor • March 1, 2018 • Comments Off

VENTURA COUNTY — Four attorneys with Ferguson Case Orr Paterson LLP, Ventura County’s largest law firm, have been named to the 2018 “Rising Stars” list of Super Lawyers. This is a repeat honor for partner Douglas Goldwater and associates Kymberley…

Four Ferguson Case Orr Paterson Attorneys Named to Super Lawyers List

by Community Contributor • February 26, 2018 • Comments Off

WESTLAKE VILLAGE — Four partners with Ferguson Case Orr Paterson LLP have been recognized as Super Lawyers, a rating service that acknowledges attorneys who have attained a high degree of peer recognition and professional achievement. The 2018 distinguished Super Lawyers list…

Ferguson Case Orr Paterson Welcomes Attorney Arthur Zittell

by Community Contributor • February 26, 2018 • Comments Off

WESTLAKE VILLAGE — Ferguson Case Orr Paterson LLP (FCOP), Ventura County’s largest law firm, recently announced that attorney Arthur Zittell has joined the firm. Zittell, who will be of counsel, brings 45 years of law experience, with the past 30…

Ventura College Launches Thomas Fire Victim Relief Collection Drive Dec. 11-13

by Community Contributor • December 11, 2017 • Comments Off

VENTURA — To help fire relief efforts, Ventura College and its Foundation have launched a victim relief collection drive for donations of cash and items needed by many of the faculty, staff, students and neighbors who have suffered loss due…

Ventura County Public Works Agency disaster simulation training ensures county-wide state of storm readiness

by Community Contributor • November 9, 2017 • Comments Off

VENTURA COUNTY — Even in drought years, severe floods happen: preparation helps save lives and property. The Ventura County Public Works Agency (VCPWA) conducted Storm Day, an annual disaster simulation drill, on Nov. 1, which focused on preparation for flooding…

Sept. 1 — Opening reception for ‘Icons and Archetypes at Museum of Ventura County

by Community Contributor • August 1, 2017 • Comments Off

VENTURA — A new series of large-scale oil paintings by Ojai-based artist, Tom Hardcastle, explores the artist’s perspective of popular cultural icons and exploitative archetypes that have come to represent more than their own personal identity and in some cases,…

Sept. 3 — Free First Sunday at the Museum of Ventura County: It’s a Day at the Farm!

by Community Contributor • August 1, 2017 • Comments Off

VENTURA — September 3 is Free First Sunday and the Museum of Ventura County is hosting a Day at the Farm 11 a.m.– 5 p.m. Enjoy a screening of the beloved film, Babe, at 1 p.m. and a chance to…

Sept. 4 — Free Labor Day Tractor Fair at the Agriculture Museum in Santa Paula

by Community Contributor • August 1, 2017 • Comments Off

SANTA PAULA — Bring the family for a fun-filled Labor Day at the Agriculture Museum, 926 Railroad Avenue, Santa Paula, 10 a.m. to 2 p.m., September 4. Move to the music of Cruise Knights as you cruise the vintage tractor…

Continuing: Summer of Love 50th Anniversary exhibits at the Museum of Ventura County

by Community Contributor • August 1, 2017 • Comments Off

VENTURA — Summer of Love 50th Anniversary exhibits continues at the at the Museum of Ventura County. Experience the significance of the times through the community-based Tune In, Turn On, Drop Out pop-up exhibit featuring memorabilia from across Ventura County, including a…

Aug. 12 — Child Hope Services and Foster VC Kids invite community members to an inspirational and informative Foster Care Summit

by Community Contributor • July 1, 2017 • Comments Off

VENTURA COUNTY — Child Hope Services and Foster VC Kids will host a Foster Care Summit, August 12, 8:30 AM to 12:30 PM at Reality Ventura Church, 1954 Goodyear Avenue, Ventura, 93003. The Foster Care Summit is free and community…

May 13 — Local PODS Helps Foster Youth Transition to Independence

by Community Contributor • April 1, 2017 • Comments Off

VENTURA COUNTY — Local PODS Moving and Storage leader will be supporting local foster group Women of Substance Men of Honor (WOSMOH) at their 9th Annual Embracing Hearts for Foster Youth Rummage Sale with a donation of two PODS containers.…

Exclusive Local Winery Joins 31st Annual Ojai Wine Festival VIP Experience

by Community Contributor • March 17, 2017 • Comments Off

OJAI — After the opening of a popular local tasting room, one of Ojai’s wine-making favorites has joined the Ojai Wine Festival for the very first time this year, while Ojai’s most exclusive winery celebrates an award-winning first year with…

April 3 — With “Eat Local” Focus, Pioneering Community Magazine Organization with Editions Across North America Celebrates 15 Years Edible Ojai & Ventura County Marks Milestone Anniversary

by Community Contributor • March 1, 2017 • Comments Off

VENTURA COUNTY — Regional magazine Edible Ojai & Ventura County, part of Edible Communities–the James Beard Foundation award-winning family of 100 locally owned and licensed food magazines—is celebrating its 15th anniversary this spring. It’s a milestone shared by its parent…

Jan. 12 — Ventura County Climate Hub hosts “Water and Oil Do Not Mix” with Mni Wiconi Pacifica

by Community Contributor • December 31, 2016 • Comments Off

WHEN: Thursday, January 12th. Doors open at 6:30 pm for meet and greet. Program starts at 7 pm. WHERE: Unitarian-Universalist Church of Ventura, 5654 Ralston Ave, Ventura, 93003. Fellowship hall; back parking lot. WHO: Presenters Kimberly Rivers, Executive Director for…

Ventura County Public Works Agency appoints Glenn Shephard as new Director of Watershed Protection District

by Community Contributor • December 20, 2016 • Comments Off

VENTURA COUNTY — The Ventura County Public Works Agency (VCPWA) has named Glenn Shephard as the Director of its Watershed Protection District (WPD). Sheppard’s first day will be December 19. Shephard comes to Ventura County after a successful 27-year Civil Engineering career…

New Non-Profit Provides Much-Needed Information on Ventura County Agriculture

by Community Contributor • August 30, 2016 • Comments Off

VENTURA COUNTY — A new non-profit organization has been created to provide educational resources and highlight the important roles played by farmers, ranchers and agriculture in Ventura County. The 501(c)(3) organization, Treasure Our Farms, will showcase local growers and livestock…

Ventura County Public Works Agency announces Chris Cooper as new Director of Engineering Services Department

by Community Contributor • August 14, 2016 • Comments Off

VENTURA COUNTY — The Ventura County Public Works Agency (VCPWA) has named as the Director of the Agency’s Engineering Services Department (ESD). Cooper succeeds Herbert Schwind who served VCPWA for over 4 years and retired earlier this year. Cooper is…

After rescuing animals in Japan for the past 5 years, Nyander Guard Comes to Ventura County Animal Services, Camarillo to share their story Sept. 20

by Community Contributor • August 1, 2016 • Comments Off

CAMARILLO — After dedicating the last five years of his life to rescuing animals in Japan, Nyander Guard Animal Rescue founder, Akira Honda (Taicho) comes to Ventura County to share his story Sept. 17-20 at the Ventura County Animal Services,…

Ventura’s historic Downtown and Westside Cultural District to celebrate works of hundreds of regional artists for annual ArtWalk Ventura, Oct. 1-2

by Community Contributor • August 1, 2016 • Comments Off

VENTURA — The streets of the city of Ventura’s historic Downtown and Westside Cultural District will transform into a mecca of artistic expression for the 23rd ArtWalk Ventura event the weekend of Oct. 1-2. The two-day Southern California art tradition…

Foster VC Kids Hosts Spanish Foster Family Informational Session on Aug. 24

by Community Contributor • August 1, 2016 • Comments Off

VENTURA COUNTY — Currently in Ventura County, over 1,000 children and youth in foster care need loving families, mentors, and advocates who will support them as if they were their own. Foster VC Kids relies on resource parents and families…

Ventura County Public Works Agency announces $7 million in cost avoidance from Lean Six Sigma program over six years

by Community Contributor • July 7, 2016 • Comments Off

VENTURA COUNTY — The Ventura County Public Works Agency’s (VCPWA) announced that using Lean Six Sigma efficiency programs provided nearly $2 million in cost avoidance this fiscal year, and almost $7 million in cost avoidance over the past six years.…

Ventura County Public Works Agency announces Michaela Brown as new Director of Water and Sanitation Department

by Community Contributor • June 29, 2016 • Comments Off

VENTURA COUNTY — The Ventura County Public Works Agency has named Michaela Brown as the Director of the Agency’s Water and Sanitation Department. Brown is scheduled to start on June 20. Brown brings more than 25 years of in-depth engineering…

Ventura County Public Works Agency Appoints J. Tabin Cosio New Central Services Director

by Community Contributor • June 29, 2016 • Comments Off

VENTURA COUNTY — The Ventura County Public Works Agency appointed J. Tabin Cosio as Director of Central Services. Cosio replaces Janice Turner, who served the VCPWA for 35 years and retired earlier this year. As director of the Ventura County…

Local PODS Moving and Storage Offers Tips for Summer Moves with Children

by Community Contributor • June 27, 2016 • Comments Off

CENTRAL COAST — As June marks the unofficial start of summer, more families are looking at how to help their children handle the stress and uncertainty of packing, moving and relocating to a new home. To help during the summer…

Letter Carriers prepare to collect and carry more than 100,000 pounds of food in one day for Ventura County’s hungry

by Community Contributor • May 2, 2016 • Comments Off

VENTURA COUNTY — On Saturday, May 14, Ventura County letter carriers will be caravanning more than just incoming and outgoing mail; and community members won’t have to venture far from their doorsteps to give back to the local hungry in…

Letter Carriers prepare to collect and carry more than 100,000 pounds of food in one day for Ventura County’s hungry on May 14

by Community Contributor • April 30, 2016 • Comments Off

Information session for foster parents to be held March 22

by Community Contributor • February 29, 2016 • Comments Off

VENTURA COUNTY — As a resource family, you become a link in a lifelong chain. You can provide the unconditional healing, support, and guidance that can help a child and siblings thrive and grow as every child needs. When children…

Sesión informativa para padres de crianza el 22 de marzo

by Community Contributor • February 29, 2016 • Comments Off

VENTURA COUNTY — El mejor regalo que puede darle a un menor es dejarlo ser un niño rodeado del amor de una familia. Como padre de crianza, usted ayudara a mejorar la seguridad, permanencia y bienestar para toda la vida. Ofrecerle…

Bilingual report: Rep. Brownley’s bill benefitting Ventura County sent to president’s desk

by Amigos805.com • December 23, 2013 • Comments Off

WASHINGTON, D.C. — The Senate sent to the President’s desk on Dec. 20 legislation passed last week by the House that includes a provision spearheaded by Rep. Julia Brownley (D-Westlake Village) that will directly benefit Ventura County. Brownley originally introduced the…

Guest commentary: Supervisor Zaragoza reports on progress in 2013

by Amigos805.com • December 20, 2013 • Comments Off

OXNARD — It’s been a great year at the County of Ventura. In the fall of 2013, construction began on the new Ventura County Medical Center Hospital wing. In addition to meeting earthquake safety standards, this new hospital wing will…

Dr. Robert Gonzalez to leave position as director of Ventura County Health Care Agency

by Amigos805.com • November 15, 2013 • Comments Off

VENTURA COUNTY — Dr. Robert Gonzalez will leave his position as director of Ventura County Health Care Agency upon completion of recruitment for his successor, Ventura County Executive Officer Mike Powers announced in a media release on Nov. 14. “Dr. Gonzales…

Assemblymember Das Williams recognized for work on Gold Coast Transit District bill

by Amigos805.com • November 7, 2013 • Comments Off

OXNARD — Gold Coast Transit (GCT) awarded Assemblymember Das Williams a special proclamation and his very own GCT bus stop sign at the Nov. 6 board of directors meeting in recognition of his leadership and sponsorship of Assembly Bill 664, the…

Binational Health Week Conference (Oct. 18), health fair (Oct. 19) to be presented in region

by Amigos805.com • October 14, 2013 • Comments Off

The Binational Health Week Conference will be held from 8:30 a.m. to 1 p.m. Friday, Oct. 18 at the Westside Neighborhood Center, 423 W. Victoria St., Santa Barbara. Access to Health Care and Health Care Systems will be the focus…

Bilingual report: Free flu shots starting Oct. 5 throughout Ventura County

by Amigos805.com • October 4, 2013 • Comments Off

VENTURA COUNTY — Community Memorial Health System’s Centers for Family Health, in conjunction with Ventura County Public Health, will provide free flu shots for people over 60 years old, people with chronic medical conditions, pregnant women, healthcare personnel that provide direct patient care, children…

October Cover Story: Providing healthcare services to entire community

by Amigos805.com • October 1, 2013 • Comments Off

Binational Health Week puts spotlight on Latino health care issues in the 805 region By Frank X. Moraga / Amigos805 For Dr. Cheryl Lambing, health care and the upcoming Binational Health Week Conference (Oct. 18) offers a very personal link.…

Passing on culture, traditions to new generation

by Amigos805.com • August 29, 2013 • Comments Off

Please see slideshow below for more images from the event Fiestas Patrias activities encourage youth to learn about their heritage By Frank X. Moraga / Amigos805 While it may look easy putting on a colorful costume and walking up on…

Commentary: Hispanic Heritage Month brings wealth of events

by Amigos805.com • August 29, 2013 • Comments Off

By Frank X. Moraga / Amigos805 Wow, where has the summer gone? It seems that we were just celebrating Cinco de Mayo events and now here we are getting ready to enjoy the last big three-day holiday weekend of the…

El Concilio profile: Padres Promotores de la Educación

by Amigos805.com • May 23, 2013 • Comments Off

Editor’s note: Part of a continuing series of stories profiling the award-winners of El Concilio Family Service 2013 Latino Leadership Awards. The awards gala will be held on Friday, June 7, 2013 at the Oxnard Performing Arts Center. The event is…

Bilingual report: Mexican Consul Flores Mejía ending service to Tri-Counties region

by Amigos805.com • May 1, 2013 • Comments Off

OXNARD— Mexico Consul Rogelio A. Flores Mejía said as of April 30 he has concluded his consulate duties serving the Mexican population in Ventura, Santa Barbara and San Luis Obispo counties. No announcement has been made as to who will replace…

Time to gather your information before April 15 tax day

by Amigos805.com • March 5, 2013 • Comments Off

Free preparation service available for low-, moderate-income earners By Frank X. Moraga / Amigos805 The hours are ticking away until midnight Monday, April 15. So where are you in the preparation of your 2012 tax return? Yes, some overly ambitious souls…

Ventura County Public Health offers flu shot clinics

by Amigos805.com • January 14, 2013 • Comments Off

VENTURA COUNTY — The nation’s widespread outbreak of the flu has caused an increase in flu cases in California and a sudden surge in demand for the flu vaccine in Ventura County, the Ventura County’s Public Health (VCPH) Department reported in…

Deadline is Dec. 12 for matching donation for farm worker housing

by Amigos805.com • December 3, 2012 • Comments Off

VENTURA COUNTY — Dark, small, crowded, dilapidated… substandard and unacceptable. These are words that are commonly used to describe the housing available to farm worker families in Ventura County, and yet farm workers sustain agriculture in our community and bring…

Bilingual commentary: Commentary: Never too early to start your scholarship effort for 2013

by Amigos805.com • December 1, 2012 • Comments Off

By Frank X. Moraga / Amigos805 Years ago, I made the ultimate goof in the usual couple relationship. She had come into the room, probably while I was watching NFL football, and said something probably coherent. I then muttered the…

El Centrito co-founder receives prestigious grant from The California Wellness Foundation

by Amigos805.com • November 16, 2012 • Comments Off

OXNARD — Since the economic recession struck, nonprofit agencies throughout the country have struggled to stay afloat and sustain services at sufficient levels to meet the increasing demand. El Centrito Family Learning Centers, an Oxnard nonprofit that provides bilingual education services…

MICOP seeks volunteers for monthly Mixteco community meeting on Nov. 17

by Amigos805.com • November 14, 2012 • Comments Off

Volunteers are needed support the monthly Mixteco/Indigena Community Organizing Project community meeting from 3 to 6 p.m. Saturday, Nov. 17 at Harrington Elementary School, 2501 Gisler St., Oxnard. “We have a lot planned for this meeting, including giving out flu shots which…

$1.2 million in scholarships available through Ventura County Community Foundation

by Amigos805.com • November 13, 2012 • Comments Off

CAMARILLO — The Ventura County Community Foundation is accepting applications from Ventura County students for more than $1.2 million in scholarships for the 2013-2014 school year, the Camarillo-based organization reported on Tuesday. Applying for a scholarship at VCCF is a…

Check out the November print edition of Amigos805

by Amigos805.com • November 1, 2012 • Comments Off

Politics, upcoming cultural events, tips on travel, food and personal finance — you can find all these in the latest print edition of Amigos805. Distributed throughout Ventura and Santa Barbara counties, the 10,000-copy November print edition can be found…

Binational Health Week Conference set for Oct. 4

by Amigos805.com • October 3, 2012 • Comments Off

The 12th Binational Health Week Conference will be held from 8 a.m. to 3 p.m. Thursday, Oct. 4 at the Oxnard Performing Arts Center, 800 Hobson Way, Oxnard. Designed for health professionals, the conference will feature Dr. Robert Gonzalez, director of…

Bilingual report: Hispanic Heritage Month events coming to the 805 region

by Amigos805.com • September 12, 2012 • Comments Off

Festivals, parades, musical performances part of annual event By Frank X. Moraga / Amigos805 Mariachi and other musical performances, cultural education programs and a parade — they are all coming to the 805 region as part of the annual Hispanic Heritage Month celebration…

Bilingual report: Exhibit of traditional Mexican costumes set for Aug. 26

by Amigos805.com • August 20, 2012 • Comments Off

OXNARD — An exhibit of traditional Mexican costumes worn by the participants of the “Senorita Fiestas Patrias” cultural pageant will be presented at 4:30 p.m., Sunday, Aug. 26 at Pacifica High School, 600 E. Gonzalez Road, Oxnard. There is a…

New book by CLU’s José Marichal explores ‘Facebook Democracy’

by Amigos805.com • August 9, 2012 • 2 Comments

THOUSAND OAKS — A California LutheranUniversity professor is the author of a new book that examines the impact of Facebook on democracy. London-based Ashgate Press is scheduled to release “Facebook Democracy: The Architecture of Disclosure and the Threat to Public…

Orozco, North, Rondeau guide KCLU to four awards

by Amigos805.com • June 8, 2012 • Comments Off

NPR station honored for newswriting, bullying special THOUSAND OAKS — National Public Radio station KCLU is the winner of three awards from the Associated Press Television and Radio Association and one from the California Teachers Association for its news coverage.??…

Bilingual report: Protest to cuts in state childcare budget set for June 9 in Oxnard

by Amigos805.com • June 8, 2012 • Comments Off

The Latin America Child Care Provider Association, a nonprofit group of bilingual childcare providers, will provide information on cuts to the state’s childcare budget at 10 a.m. Saturday, June 9 at Del Sol Park at the corner of Camino del…

Crowne Plaza’s Martinez receives top honor at Casa Pacifica Angels Wine & Food Festival

by Amigos805.com • June 7, 2012 • Comments Off

CAMARILLO — “Melt in your mouth” short ribs created by Luis Martinez, executive chef at the Crowne Plaza Ventura Beach, wowed the judges over the past weekend and took top honors at the 2012 Casa Pacifica Angels Wine and Food…

Linda Garcia joins VCCF as programs and grants vice president

by Amigos805.com • June 7, 2012 • Comments Off

Brings 20 years of community-engagement experience to the foundation CAMARILLO — Linda Garcia has joined the staff of the Ventura County Community Foundation as vice president for Programs and Grants, the organization reported on Thursday. With more than 20 years of experience…

El Concilio profile: Gilbert A. Romero

by Amigos805.com • June 7, 2012 • Comments Off

Editor’s note: Part of a continuing series of stories profiling the award-winners of El Concilio Family Service 2012 Latino Leadership awards — “Excellence in Education.” The awards gala was held on June 1, 2012 at the Oxnard Performing Arts Center. Click here or call…

Sidewalk CPR ‘Hands-Only’ program set for June 7 in Ventura County

by Amigos805.com • June 6, 2012 • Comments Off

The Ventura County Emergency Medical Services Agency is partnering with the American Heart Association to coordinate a county-wide CPR program from 10 a.m. to 1 p.m. Thursday, June 7. This service is free to the public and will be held in various…

Bilingual report: CEDC’s Neighborworks Week 2012 set for June 9 at Ventura College

by Amigos805.com • June 6, 2012 • Comments Off

The Cabrillo Economic Development Corp.’s NeighborWorks Week 2012, “Family Learning Institute: Building Family Power from Home to Community,” will be from 9 a.m. to 2 p.m. Saturday, June 9 at Ventura College, 4667 Telegraph Road, Ventura. The event will focus…