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By Anonymous — Wednesday, February 15th, 2012
FMS DAILY BULLETIN General Info 524-6055; Attendance 524-6065; Health Office 524-6059 STUDENT INFORMATION 1. ATTENTION FMS BULLDOGS – Get your jeans on! Wear your favorite jeans on Friday! PARENT INFORMATION 1. FMS invites parents to use a computer in the front office that is dedicated to parents for using Parent Connect to check your student’s assignments and grades. |
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By Anonymous — Tuesday, February 14th, 2012
 Dr. Rush Camarillo, CA - CSU Channel Islands (CI) President Richard R. Rush will deliver his annual State of the University at the Camarillo Chamber of Commerce’s CI Connection Luncheon on Thursday, Feb. 23, at 11:30 a.m. at Spanish Hills Country Club. Rush will discuss CI’s impact on Camarillo, the University’s enrollment status, and new programs and construction. The event is hosted by the Camarillo Chamber of Commerce. Tickets are $35 for Chamber members and $50 for non-members, with a registration deadline of Monday, Feb. 20. Tickets may be purchased by calling 805-484-4383, ext. 3. Members can also register online at www.camarillochamber.org. Spanish Hills Country Club is located at 999 Crestview Ave. in Camarillo. For more information, visit www.camarillochamber.org. About California State University Channel Islands |
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By Anonymous — Tuesday, February 14th, 2012
FMS DAILY BULLETIN General Info 524-6055; Attendance 524-6065; Health Office 524-6059 STUDENT INFORMATION 1. ATTENTION FMS BULLDOGS – Get your jeans on! Wear your favorite jeans on Friday! PARENT INFORMATION 1. MEET & GREET – Please join us in the staff lounge TOMORROW, Feb. 16th at 7:30 a.m. for our February Meet & Greet! |
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By Anonymous — Tuesday, February 14th, 2012
Political and civil rights leader, designer and entrepreneur to receive doctorates
Camarillo, CA - Labor and civil rights leader Henry L. “Hank” Lacayo and designer and entrepreneur Kathy Ireland will receive honorary doctorate degrees from CSU Channel Islands (CI) during the University’s Commencement ceremony on May 19, 2012. Lacayo’s Doctor of Humane Letters (L.H.D.) degree salutes his decades of service as an influential figure in the American labor, civil rights and political movements, as well as his longstanding support of CI and the surrounding community. An Air Force veteran and former national director of the United Auto Workers’ political and legislative department, Lacayo has advised U.S. presidents, members of Congress, Senate, and governors, marched for civil rights alongside Dr. Martin Luther King Jr., championed the rights of farm workers with Cesar Chavez, and helped to found and lead the Labor Council for Latin American Advancement and the U.S. Hispanic Leadership Institute. The 80-year-old Newbury Park resident is currently serving a sixth term as president of the Congress of California Seniors, which represents more than 500,000 seniors statewide. He continues to address the interests of the public, minorities, the disadvantaged through philanthropy, and volunteering his time to more than a dozen boards and committees. Lacayo was an early and important friend of the University who helped garner community support when the campus opened its doors. He was instrumental in securing more than $560,000 in financial support for the Henry L. "Hank" Lacayo Institute for Workforce & Community Studies (HLI), which provides opportunities for students to engage in entrepreneurial studies and continues his legacy by addressing the importance of workforce and community issues. “To be recognized in this way by CSU Channel Islands, where I’ve devoted so much of my time, is a significant, overwhelming and a completely unexpected honor,” Lacayo said. “Hank Lacayo has left a profound and lasting mark on the American labor, political and civil rights movements and on CSU Channel Islands through his ongoing support and involvement,” said CI President Richard R. Rush. “His service to the underserved in our communities and to higher education has made him a strong positive role model for university students and alumni. I can think of no better way to pay tribute to this man’s remarkable life.” Kathy Ireland’s honorary Doctor of Humane Letters (L.H.D.) degree recognizes her many accomplishments as a designer, entrepreneur and philanthropist. As a super model in the fashion industry, who appeared on countless covers including Vogue, Cosmopolitan and the best-selling Sports Illustrated issue in history, Ireland launched a highly successful design and marketing empire. Ireland’s designs include fashion, home products, fine jewelry, and has written six books. Her business, Kathy Ireland Worldwide, now boasts retail sales of more than $2 billion a year with more than 15,000 products in 50 countries. In a cover story out this month, Forbes magazine proclaims her as the prototype for a savvy, hands-on $350-million “Supermodel/Supermogul,” far surpassing Martha Stewart in sales and revenue. The 48-year-old Santa Barbara resident is also recognized for using her success to create a better world. Through kathyireland.org, she supports a variety of causes, including maternal and child health, HIV/AIDS, military families, and empowering women. She is lauded for running a sustainable and socially responsible business by the United Nations Global Compact and honored for her philanthropic impact and contributions by the Anti-Defamation League, the Dream Foundation, the Alliance for Christian Education, and the YWCA, among others. “Being honored by CSU Channel Islands is completely humbling. This great university changes lives in powerful ways. Receiving this honorary degree reminds me that we must expand the opportunity of education whenever possible. CSU Channel Islands is a university of the people, by people and for the people of our great state. I am most grateful, and even more aware of the responsibility that accompanies this honorary degree,” said Ireland. “Kathy Ireland sets a powerful example of how business success and entrepreneurship can be used to perpetuate good in the world – values we work hard to instill in our graduates,” said Rush. “We are proud to honor her work and impact with an honorary degree and to be able to count her among CI’s many distinguished associates.” About California State University Channel Islands |
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By Anonymous — Monday, February 13th, 2012
New El Dorado Hall offers a dedicated space for graduate and post baccalaureate students and those studying science, technology, engineering and mathematics
Camarillo, CA - CSU Channel Islands (CI) invites the public to the grand opening of two student centers designed to encourage and support graduate and post baccalaureate students and students of science, technology, engineering and mathematics. A public event will be held Thursday, Feb. 23, at 4 p.m. at the newly renovated El Dorado Hall, located on the CI campus. Join University President Richard Rush and members of the CI campus community in celebrating and touring the new Graduate Studies Center (GSC) and STEM (Science, Technology, Engineering and Mathematics) Center. Funded with the help of federal grants designed to strengthen Hispanic-Serving Institutions, both centers aim to nurture and inspire all students to pursue advanced degrees and the STEM disciplines. “The Graduate Studies Center is a centralized place that helps us to foster a sense of community and belonging among CI’s growing graduate and professional student population,” said Dr. Kaia Tollefson, education associate professor and director of the Project Vista grant that created the GSC. “Our intention is to make it a one-stop shop designed to give our graduate and postbac students, who are often working professionals, the campus services and support they need to succeed.” The GSC offers convenient, extended evening hours and a home where students can seek academic, financial and career advice, tutoring, workshops and mentoring, quiet study or group collaboration and consultation. It features seminar and study rooms, a kitchen, a lounge, a family restroom and lactation area, and offices for academic advising and career development. A study is underway at the center to determine the scope of need for an on-campus family and childcare facility. Also housed in El Dorado Hall, the STEM Center is a dedicated space for students of science, technology, engineering and math. Most of its walls are covered with whiteboard – allowing aspiring mathematicians and scientists to work out problems and equations on an expansive, erasable surface. The STEM Center includes ample computer workspaces, places for students, faculty and staff to work and meet, and areas to showcase student research. An outdoor laboratory and greenhouse are also in the works. “The STEM Center will enable CI to better prepare our students to become part of a vital and critically needed workforce in the areas of math, science, engineering and technology,” said Dr. Phil Hampton, chemistry professor and director of Project ACCESO, the grant that funded the STEM Center. “It’s a place to build a community and reinforce student success by providing extra help in courses that can be particularly challenging.” The El Dorado Hall renovation gives new life to an old building that served as a canteen when it was part of the former hospital and, later, played host to CI’s first Student Union. The GSC and STEM Centers help CI fulfill its goal of making graduate and STEM education more attractive and attainable – particularly for underrepresented minorities. Graduate and post baccalaureate students compose almost 9 percent of CI’s student population; STEM majors constitute nearly 18 percent. The University offers six master’s degree programs and three post baccalaureate teaching credential programs, with new graduate programs planned in the coming years. Both centers were funded with the help of Department of Education Title V grants awarded to Hispanic-Serving Institutions, which have student populations that are more than 25 percent Hispanic. Project Vista is a five-year, $2.8 million grant designed to strengthen CI’s graduate culture and enhance the capacity of its post baccalaureate programs to better serve, retain, and graduate Hispanic and low-income students. Project ACCESO is a five-year, $6 million program aimed at increasing the number of Hispanic and low-income students who are pursuing and graduating from science, technology, engineering and math (STEM) majors at CI. Limited parking is available on campus with the purchase of a $6 daily permit; follow signs to the parking permit dispensers. Free parking is available at the Camarillo Metrolink Station/Lewis Road parking lot in Camarillo with bus service to and from the campus. Riders should board the VISTA Bus to the campus; the fare is $1.25 each way. Buses arrive and depart from the Camarillo Metrolink Station every 30 minutes from 7 a.m. to 10 p.m. Monday through Friday. For exact times, check the schedule at www.goventura.org. For more information on the Graduate Studies Center or Project Vista, contact Dr. Kaia Tollefson at 805-437-3125 or kaia.tollefson@csuci.edu or Wendy Olson, GSC Activity Director and Project Vista Coordinator, at 805-437-8553 or wendy.olson@csuci.edu. For additional information on the STEM Center or Project ACCESO, contact Dr. Phil Hampton at 805-437-8869 or philip.hampton@csuci.edu. About California State University Channel Islands |
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By Anonymous — Monday, February 13th, 2012
University to host workshop asking the public to weigh in on campus community park
Camarillo, CA - CSU Channel Islands (CI) invites the public to help shape the future of a 367-acre community park located on the CI campus. The University will host a workshop on Tuesday, Feb. 21, from 6:30 to 8:30 p.m. at the John Spoor Broome Library, Room 1360, to encourage public input, ideas and brainstorming. “We want to learn who is likely to use the park, what features and amenities they’re seeking, and what types of recreational, educational and conservational activities they’d like to see,” said Caroline Doll, Director of Special Projects for Finance & Administration, who chairs the park’s Master Planning Committee. The CSU Channel Islands University Park is an undeveloped expanse of foothills and meadows near the campus entrance bordered by Calleguas Creek. It is home to several hiking trials, dirt roads and a wide variety of native and non-native plants and wildlife. CI acquired the land from the County of Ventura in 2009 with the goal of creating a unique outdoor setting for the community to enjoy. With funding sources scarce, development of the park will rely primarily on the availability of grants and community support. Future public workshops, an informational Web site, online survey, and focus groups are also planned, with the goal of creating a draft master plan in the fall of 2012. Limited parking on campus will be available; please follow directional signs upon arriving at the campus. Parking is also available at the Camarillo Metrolink Station/Lewis Road parking lot in Camarillo with bus service to and from the campus. Riders should board the VISTA Bus to the campus; the fare is $1.25 each way. Buses arrive and depart from the Camarillo Metrolink Station every 30 minutes from 7 a.m. to 10 p.m. Monday through Friday. For exact times, check the schedule at www.goventura.org. For more information, contact Caroline Doll, Chair of the Park Master Planning Committee and Director of Special Projects for Finance & Administration, at 805-437-3232 or caroline.doll@csuci.edu. About California State University Channel Islands |
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By Anonymous — Monday, February 13th, 2012
On Monday, February 6th, San Cayetano School recognized good citizenship and character at their Peacebuilder Assembly for the month of February. Paula Phillips from the Right Road Kids, came to speak to the students about what a good citizen is, believing in yourself, “I can do it”, and how respecting others is important. She shared how we can be good citizens to help our school and community. Each teacher chose a student from his or her class whom showed excellent character and respect during the month. Hailey Avila and Bryan Arnett, the San Cayetano ASB President and Vice-President assisted Mrs. Phillips in handing out the Peacebuilder Awards. The Peacebuilders for February are: Michael Santoyo, Venice Aparicio, Makayla Balboa, Dorian Foster, Nathan Delgadillo, Irvin Rodriguez, Gabriel Gomez, Alexander Adame, Aleena Castañeda, Luke Hernandez, Alexis Rosales, Anateresa Jimenez, Noelani Sanchez, Moises Martinez, Aiyanna Simental, Alejandro Rodriguez, Diana Perez, Ulany Valencia, and Hailey Carrillo. Mrs. Phillips then announced the San Cayetano Character Counts Award of a $100.00 savings bond sponsored by the John Paul Pet Foundation. She presented the Character Counts Award to a deserving kinder student. Michael Santoyo was chosen by the kinder teachers as a model of kindness and respectfulness to the other students and school community. Each month all students who come to school, each day, on time, are given a raffle ticket. The students place their tickets in a box and one ticket is drawn. The student whose ticket is drawn is given a NASA backpack with the book Max Goes to the Moon in it. This month’s Perfect Attendance winner is Angelina Delgadillo from room 10. Each month, the tickets will be put into a larger box that will be kept until the end of the year. In June, Mrs. Lee, the principal, will draw from the tickets to give away two new bicycles. |
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By Anonymous — Monday, February 13th, 2012
FMS DAILY BULLETIN General Info 524-6055; Attendance 524-6065; Health Office 524-6059 STUDENT INFORMATION 1. ATTENTION FMS BULLDOGS – Get your jeans on! Wear your favorite jeans on Friday! PARENT INFORMATION 1. TDAP IMMUNIZATION – For the 2012-13 school year ALL students entering 7th grade will need proof of a whooping cough booster shot (TDAP) before starting school. By law, students who do not have proof of a TDAP booster shot will not be able to start school until proof is provided to the school. So, make an appointment with your child’s doctor now and avoid the back-to-school rush. Save your proof of TDAP immunization and bring or FAX into the middle school a copy of this documentation. Our FAX number is 524-6063. |
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By Anonymous — Monday, February 13th, 2012
FMS DAILY BULLETIN General Info 524-6055; Attendance 524-6065; Health Office 524-6059 STUDENT INFORMATION 1. AR READING CONTEST is here! Go and check out the prizes in the library! Keep listening to the bulletin for more information. PARENT INFORMATION 1. TDAP IMMUNIZATION – For the 2012-13 school year ALL students entering 7th grade will need proof of a whooping cough booster shot (TDAP) before starting school. By law, students who do not have proof of a TDAP booster shot will not be able to start school until proof is provided to the school. So, make an appointment with your child’s doctor now and avoid the back-to-school rush. Save your proof of TDAP immunization and bring or FAX into the middle school a copy of this documentation. Our FAX number is 524-6063. |
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By Anonymous — Monday, February 13th, 2012
FILLMORE UNIFIED SCHOOL DISTRICT AGENDA |
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By Anonymous — Monday, February 13th, 2012
Fillmore High School graduate Randal Kamradt, former honors grad and Varsity Captain for the Cross county Team, is in the Philippines, shooting his third independent film. Accompanying him in the shoot is former FHS honor grad Nick Medina, who went on to graduate from UC Berkeley. Any philanthropist out there who would like to be involved in funding for the film can go to http://www.indiegogo.com/Farawayfilm, http://www.weekend-themovie.com/news.html, or http://www.facebook.com/profile.php?id=100000406092127&ref=ts and touch base with Randal |
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By Anonymous — Wednesday, February 8th, 2012
FMS DAILY BULLETIN General Info 524-6055; Attendance 524-6065; Health Office 524-6059 STUDENT INFORMATION 1. CONGRATULATIONS to Fillmore Raiders Jr. II cheerleaders who competed in Las Vegas! Our girls brought home 1st and 2nd places in Regionals and 3rd place at Nationals! Your coaches are very proud of you. Stop by the health office to view pictures. PARENT INFORMATION 1. ATTENTION PARENTS OF BAND MEMBERS – The Fillmore Band Boosters monthly meeting has been changed to Monday, Feb. 13th for this month. We meet in the High School band room at 6:30 p.m. Our agenda includes concerts, fundraising and supporting our students for the remainder of this school year. Please join us! |
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By Anonymous — Wednesday, February 8th, 2012
The Accrediting Commission for Community and Junior Colleges, Western Association of Schools and Colleges (Commission) has released its official follow-up review findings for Ventura County Community College District (VCCCD). The Commission has moved all three of the District’s colleges to “Probation” status due to deficiencies identified by the Commission pertaining to the Board and governance. Per the Commission’s statement, “The team report confirmed that board development activities had been provided and that all board members were encouraged to attend. At the same time, the team expressed concern about the consistency and long-term sustainability of the Board’s demonstration of its primary leadership role, and reiterates its recommendation for evidence of ongoing professional development for all Board members. Specifically, the Commission notes a particular board member’s disruptive and inappropriate behavior, and the entire board’s responsibility to address and curtail it.” A probation status indicates the Commission finds an institution deviating significantly from the Commission’s Eligibility Requirements, Standards, or Commission policies that gives concern to the Commission. The Commission is the accrediting agency that ensures its member institutions meet required institutional standards recognized by the Council for Higher Education Accreditation and the U.S. Department of Education, including mission, institutional effectiveness, student learning, student services, resources, leadership, and governance. Accreditation status of the colleges continues during probation status; however, accreditation status cannot be reaffirmed until the recommendations for improvement have been satisfied. The District and its colleges are now required to submit a special report addressing the Commission’s eligibility concerns by March 15, 2012, with a follow-up report regarding all District recommendations by October 15, 2012. Both reports will be followed by a visit of Commission representatives. Stephen Blum, Chair of the Board of Trustees, stated, “The Board recognizes and accepts the gravity of this situation and assures students, employees, and the community that we, as a full Board, are committed to do what is necessary to rectify Commission concerns.” VCCCD Chancellor James Meznek commented, “I am confident the Board will move aggressively to satisfy all Commission requirements. We will use this as an opportunity to improve.” |
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By Anonymous — Monday, February 6th, 2012
 Fillmore Unified School District FILLMORE UNIFIED SCHOOL DISTRICT AGENDA 5:00 p.m. 6:30 p.m. |
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By Anonymous — Thursday, February 2nd, 2012
Fillmore High School and the University of California Santa Barbara’s Early Academic Outreach Program, in collaboration with the AVID program, will be hosting a “College Making It Happen Event.” The college event is open to the public and will be held on Tuesday, February 28, 2012 in the Fillmore High School Gym, from 6:00 - 8:30 p.m. There will be several representatives from out of state colleges, private universities, Cal States, UC’s, community colleges, and many more. We will also have the following workshops: high school & college requirements, importance of college prep programs, financial aid, college student panel, and the opportunity to learn about scholarships and scams. |
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By Anonymous — Tuesday, January 31st, 2012
• Learn how to recognize the signs of bullying February 9th @ Sespe School Cafeteria All Fillmore families and community welcome 5:30 PM - 6:00 PM Pizza Sales 425 Orchard Street • Fillmore, CA 93012 |
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By Donna Wojciechowski — Monday, January 30th, 2012
Can you spell audience? Well, Damian Meza certainly can! Audience was his winning word at the Sespe Elementary School Spelling Bee, the first milestone toward the prestigious Scripps National Spelling Bee. Sespe’s contest, held on January 10th, challenged 25 spellers through thirteen rounds, spelling difficult words like defiantly, eclipse, and laborious. The spellers took a written test to qualify for entrance into the bee and then studied their lists of 450 words in preparation for the epic mental battle. Runner up, Summer Hurtado, was tough competition throughout the bee, finally missing “replete” which allowed Meza to take the victory. Meza continues studying for the upcoming county bee to be held at the Universtiy of California, Channel Islands on March 3, 2012. Although only one speller per school is permitted to move on in the competition, Hurtado continues to study as well, in case Meza should be unable to compete. The competition will consist of a written test followed by an onstage contest for the top 50 qualifiers, the winner of which will compete at the National Spelling Bee in Washington DC, in May. All students and staff at Sespe wish Damian and Summer the best of luck. Donna Wojciechowski is the School Spelling Bee Coordinator. |
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By Anonymous — Monday, January 30th, 2012
Camarillo, CA - Eight undergraduate students who show outstanding promise in chemistry and biology research recently were awarded $1,000 scholarships from CSU Channel Islands (CI). The juniors and seniors work with faculty in the chemistry and biology programs, tackling issues ranging from examining the relationship between smog and local weather conditions to synthesizing drugs for Alzheimer’s disease. The students received the awards based on their faculty mentors’ recommendations and assessments of their achievements and potential. “I feel extremely grateful and humbled having received such a scholarship,” said Mary Grabiak, a biology major working with Dr. Nitika Parmar, by investigating tumor protein effects on metabolic pathways. “Having participated in undergraduate research, I know that I will be a better, well-rounded pharmacist. Research has taught me that you may not find the exact answer you are looking for, but doors to many other opportunities and questions will be opened just in trying.” Undergraduate student research is an important part of the student learning experience at CI. Each semester, approximately 60 students majoring in biology and chemistry collaborate with a professor in an attempt to answer an unresolved scientific question. “Answering a scientific question ignites a process of discovery in these students that you can’t duplicate in a classroom laboratory setting,” said Dr. Simone Aloisio, Chair of the Chemistry program, who mentors several undergraduate researchers. “Their research projects may end up inconclusive – or they may have a rare breakthrough – but that’s how discoveries are made. The process of trial and error really awakens a passion for science and knowledge in these students.” It also provides the undergraduates with hands-on research experience that is attractive to graduate schools and prospective employers. Paulina Kolic, a 2010 graduate of CI’s Chemistry program, is now working toward her Ph.D. at Louisiana State University. “My research experience at CI helped prepare me for my graduate studies by developing my critical thinking skills and my ability to troubleshoot and learn on my own,” she said. “Graduate schools look for students that have had to go through the trials associated with research.” For additional information, contact Dr. Simone Aloisio at 805-437-8999 or simone.aloisio@csuci.edu. About California State University Channel Islands |
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By Anonymous — Tuesday, January 24th, 2012
Entertainment and recreation industry leaders Cheech Marin, Rich Block and Bob Santelli to be highlighted
The Martin V. Smith School of Business & Economics at CSU Channel Islands (CI) will kick off its Spring 2012 Speaker Series Wednesday, Feb. 8, with actor and comedian Cheech Marin. The performer is the first in a trio of speakers representing the entertainment and recreation industries. Each speaker will discuss their background, work, and the current issues affecting their organizations and professions. All three on-campus programs are free, include lunch or refreshments, and are open to the public by reservation. Cheech Marin, Actor/comedian/director/writer Wednesday, Feb. 8, at 6 p.m. in Salon A Best known as one half of the hilariously irreverent duo of Cheech and Chong, Cheech Marin also has authored three bilingual children’s books and developed one of the country’s finest and most extensive private collections of Chicano art. He’s currently writing a book of comedic essays entitled “The Chimichanga Chronicles.” Rich Block, CEO/Director, Santa Barbara Zoo Friday, Feb. 24, at noon in Malibu Hall 100 Rich Block has served as CEO and Director of the Santa Barbara Zoo since 1998. He previously held roles as Vice President for Science & Program Development at the Indianapolis Zoo and Director of Public Programs/Senior Fellow for World Wildlife Fund. Block currently sits on the California Association of Zoos & Aquariums Board as Vice President. Bob Santelli, Executive Director of The GRAMMY Museum Friday, April 27, at noon in Malibu Hall 100 Bob Santelli has served as Executive Director of The GRAMMY Museum since 2006. A noted blues and rock historian, Santelli is the author of more than a dozen books on American music and was the first Director of Education and Vice President of Public Programs at the Rock and Roll Hall of Fame and Museum. Santelli created “An Evening With...,” a series that features in-depth interviews with artists such as Dave Matthews, Brian Wilson, Annie Lennox, and Smokey Robinson. While continuing to serve on the creative team for the annual GRAMMY® Awards Show, he also wrote and developed “The Official Michael Jackson Exhibition.” "We are delighted to host these prominent industry leaders and look forward to their presentations,” said Dr. William Cordeiro, Director of the Martin V. Smith School of Business & Economics. “We are especially grateful that they will take time from their very busy schedules to speak to our students and community members." The Speaker Series is sponsored and presented by the Business Advisory Council of the MVS School of Business & Economics. RSVP at https://csuci.wufoo.com/forms/spring-2012-speaker-series/. Limited parking is available on campus. Attendees should follow signs to the designated parking lot. Additional free parking is available at the Camarillo Metrolink Station/Lewis Road parking lot in Camarillo with bus service to and from the campus. Riders should board the VISTA bus to the campus; the fare will be complimentary each way for guests attending the Cheech Marin event. Buses arrive and depart from the Camarillo Metrolink Station every 30 minutes from 7 a.m. to 10 p.m., Monday through Friday. For exact times, check the schedule at www.goventura.org. For more information, contact Merissa Stith, Events Coordinator, at 805-437-8548 or merissa.stith@csuci.edu. About California State University Channel Islands |
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By Anonymous — Tuesday, January 24th, 2012
$150,000 grant to fund Oxnard pesticide study
THOUSAND OAKS, CA - California Lutheran University has received a $150,000 grant to research environmental justice in Oxnard. The California Wellness Foundation awarded the two-year grant for two professors and selected student researchers to assess farmworkers’ exposure to pesticides, their knowledge of related health risks, and their ability to advocate for themselves. Based on the findings, the researchers will develop policy recommendations for promoting social justice in low-income communities of Ventura County. Grady Hanrahan, the John Stauffer Endowed Professor of Analytical Chemistry, and Haco Hoang, an associate professor of political science, are the lead researchers. Students will assist with the project in the summer. Kaitlyn Noli, a Thousand Oaks resident who graduated with a degree in global studies in 2011, and Huong (Ivy) Nguyen, a sophomore chemistry major from Vietnam, will work on the project full time this summer. Both were members of a team of students that conducted initial research for the project last summer. By testing water, soil and urine samples, the researchers are monitoring exposure to pesticides and comparing the results for farmworkers and others who don’t work or live near farms. They are also looking for correlations between pesticide exposure and household income. Initial findings have shown significant concentrations of pesticides in a small area of agricultural land and higher than normal levels of pesticide exposure among the farmworkers. Team members are conducting community meetings to gather input, educate people and encourage action on environmental health issues in areas with high rates of pesticide exposure. They will present the project to farmworkers at a Mixteco/Indigena Community Organizing Project meeting in February and return in March to measure the pesticide exposure levels of volunteers. Hanrahan and Hoang hope to increase public awareness about pesticide exposure, environmental health and channels for community input and action. As part of the project, they are assessing the effectiveness of media, such as Spanish-language radio, in communicating environmental health information. The project is designed to promote community activism based on scientific findings and principles and to help the student researchers develop the skills to become agents of social change. The faculty and student researchers plan to present preliminary findings at the International Making Cities Livable Conference to be held May 20 through 24 in Portland, Ore. |