Category: Business

From Ventura County farmworker to business owner: Ochoa family celebrates 25 years of Sunrise Set LLC

OXNARD — Sunrise Set LLC, a family-owned trucking and logistics company rooted in Ventura County agriculture, is celebrating its 25th anniversary this month, marking a journey that began not behind the wheel of a truck, but in the fields of Oxnard.

Founded in 2001 by Francisco E. Ochoa and his son, Benjamin Ochoa, Sunrise Set grew from two bobtail trucks moving small shipments from local farms to shipping docks into a refrigerated freight company transporting fresh produce and agricultural products throughout California.

The family’s connection to Ventura County agriculture began decades earlier.

Senior Concerns’ ‘Par and Away’ Golf Tournament on Nov. 17 tees up critical support for local seniors and family caregivers

“The need in our community is growing at a pace we haven’t seen before,” said Andrea Gallagher, president and CEO of Senior Concerns. “We used to receive one or two inquiries a week about Meals On Wheels. Now we’re receiving 10 to 12. At the same time, more older adults and family caregivers are reaching out to our case workers for guidance, resources and support. The funds raised through events like Par and Away help us respond when our neighbors need us most.”

Ventura County nonprofit serving 750+ brain injury survivors and families celebrates three local community leaders at annual fundraiser on Oct. 10

‘An Evening of Magical Memories — 23rd Annual Fundraiser’ will be presented on Oct. 10 at Las Posas County Club. The event is a fundraiser for the Brain Injury Center of Ventura County.

Cottage Medical Group expands urology care with new Cottage Urology Clinic

SANTA BARBARA — Cottage Medical Group (CMG) has expanded access to comprehensive urologic care with the addition of Cottage Urology Clinic, located at 5333 Hollister Avenue, Suite 275, in Goleta.

Cottage Urology Clinic provides evaluation and treatment for conditions affecting the urinary tract, male reproductive system, and female urologic and pelvic health, including kidney stones, urinary incontinence, enlarged prostate, erectile dysfunction and pelvic organ prolapse. The clinic also provides screening and treatment for prostate, bladder, kidney and other urologic cancers.

County of Ventura District 2 Supervisor Jeff Gorell — Ventura County Supervisors vote to pursue statewide legislation promoting dangerous dog transfers to rescues, and reducing animal euthanasia

VENTURA — The Ventura County Board of Supervisors unanimously approved a measure from Supervisors Jeff Gorell and Matt LaVere to pursue state legislation establishing a conditional safe harbor for public agencies following the lawful transfer of potentially dangerous or vicious dogs to qualified nonprofit rescue organizations. 

The action allows Ventura County to pursue sponsorship of legislation during the 2027 state legislative session or actively support a substantially equivalent measure introduced by another sponsor. 

UCSB — The Current — ‘Physicists extend the search for quantum black holes’ and more news, events

The work by UC Santa Barbara’s Danyi Zhang and Tamas Vami demonstrates a novel method for searching for particles. The results will inform theories and future searches.

Read more about their findings

Bilingual report — Economic Development Collaborative (EDC) — SBA offers relief to California small businesses and private nonprofits affected by the 2026 Plains Oil Spill

The U.S. Small Business Administration announced low-interest federal disaster loans are now available to small businesses and private nonprofit organizations in California to offset economic losses caused by the 2026 Plains Oil Spill occurring May 22 – 28. The SBA issued a disaster declaration in response to a request received from California Governor’s Office of Emergency Services Director Caroline Thomas Jacobs on behalf of Governor Gavin Newsom on Sept. 17.

The disaster declaration covers the California counties of Kern, Los Angeles, Orange, San Bernardino, and Ventura.

Goleta Valley Cottage Hospital receives Five-Star CMS Rating for cleanliness

SANTA BARBARA — Goleta Valley Cottage Hospital (GVCH) has received a five-star rating from the Centers for Medicare & Medicaid Services (CMS) for hospital environment cleanliness, the highest rating available for this patient experience measure.

GVCH was among 381 hospitals nationwide receiving the five-star cleanliness rating and one of 19 hospitals in California included on the list.

The rating is based on patient responses to the Hospital Consumer Assessment of Healthcare Providers and Systems (HCAHPS) survey, which measures patients’ experiences with different aspects of their hospital care. The results included in the latest CMS data reflect surveys completed between October 1, 2024, and September 30, 2025.

Ventura College Foundation accepting scholarship applications for 2027-28 School Year

The scholarship application deadline for the Paramedic and Career Education programs is November 23. Students will be notified of their scholarship status by mid-December. The application deadline for all other scholarships is January 22, 2027. Students will be notified of their scholarship submission results by mid-April 2027. Scholarship award distributions will begin August 1.

Students currently enrolled at Ventura College in the 2026-2027 academic year and who have completed or are on track to complete at least six units in the semester are eligible to apply. Units earned in previous semesters at Ventura College count towards the unit requirement.

Bilingual report — Ventura County Farmworker Housing Study and Action Plan goes to the Ventura County Board of Supervisors on 9-22-2026

The County of Ventura’s Planning Division is presenting the following item to the Ventura County Board of Supervisors on Tuesday, September 22, 2026, at 8:30 am (Item #51, on the Regular Agenda).

Bilingual report — Economic Development Collaborative (EDC) free event and webinar schedule

EN ESPAÑOL: PRODUCTIVIDAD, ADMINISTRACIÓN Y HERRAMIENTAS DE GOOGLE CON INTELIGENCIA ARTIFICIAL

21 de septiembre a las 6:00 pm

Las tareas administrativas suelen consumir tiempo valioso que podría dedicarse al crecimiento del negocio. Este taller explora cómo la Inteligencia Artificial y las herramientas de Google pueden mejorar la productividad mediante la gestión de correos electrónicos, creación de documentos, resúmenes de reuniones, organización de tareas y administración de información. Los participantes aprenderán formas prácticas de reducir trabajo repetitivo y mejorar la eficiencia. Precio: GRATIS.

HAGA CLIC PARA REGISTRARSE

Guest contribution — Ventura County Taxpayers Association (VCTA) — School Bonds Are Back on the November Ballot. ?Both of Them Get a NO VOTE from VCTA!

Two school general-obligation bonds will appear on local November 3rd ballots. Rio Elementary Measure B and Santa Paula Unified Measure C asks K–12 taxpayers to take on decades of new property-tax debt for projects that look a lot like the last ask.

Santa Paula Measure C — $48.6 million. Voters already said NO.

Measure C would issue $48.6 million at about $27.98 per $100,000 of assessed value to rebuild a gymnasium, build community swimming-pool facilities, and modernize vocational and performing-arts space. It needs 55 percent.

Girls Inc. of Carpinteria plans expansion into Ventura County, welcomes new Director of Partnerships & Expansion

CARPINTERIA — Girls Inc. of Carpinteria is thrilled to unveil plans to bring their proven model for intentional, girl-centered programming back to Ventura County. We are pleased to welcome a new Director of Partnerships and Expansion to our administrative team to aid with the growth initiative and building partnerships throughout the region.

The expansion back into Ventura County marks a momentous leap towards Girls Inc. of Carpinteria’s three-year goal to significantly expand its reach and double its impact along the central coast. Their holistic, researched-informed programming will bring mentorship, leadership development, college and career readiness, and STEM-based curriculum to Ventura County, with programs serving girls and young women ages 4-24.

13th Annual Banana Festival returns to the Port of Hueneme Sept. 26

… The festival will run from 10 a.m. to 5 p.m. and is expected to attract thousands of visitors for a full day of live entertainment, food, family activities, local vendors, and opportunities to experience the working Port up close through bus and boat tours. Admission and event parking are free. Guests are encouraged to park at Hueneme Beach.

The Banana Festival was created as a way to celebrate the Port’s role as a major gateway for imported bananas and other refrigerated agricultural products. The banana trade came to Hueneme in 1993 as the Port developed the largest cold storage capacity on the West Coast. Today, the Port of Hueneme ranks 5th in the nation for both automobiles and refrigerated cargo.While it imports 5 billion bananas per year, it also brings in Peruvian blueberries, avocados, mangos, and much more.

Bilingual commentary — Swinging Through Life

When I came up with the title for this article, I was immediately concerned that adult minds might very well go where I did not want them to go. But I’m going to talk here about entirely different kinds of “swing.” 

I’ve had different kinds of “swing” in my life. Each cycle of “swing” taught me something about balance, momentum, and joy. 

In the more vibrant phase of my life as a young man, “swinging” meant high-energy balance and precision on the dance floor.

Guest commentary — Ventura County’s AI push needs a skills ladder

Editor’s note: Amigos805 welcomes guest columns, letters to the editor and other submissions from our readers. All opinions expressed in submitted material are those of the author and do not necessarily represent the viewpoint of Amigos805. By Gleb Tsipursky, PhD, Ventura…

Museum of Ventura County — Taste of History Photos + Free admission through September + October Events

I want to personally thank you for your incredible support of our third annual Taste of History Gala. It was truly a magical evening, and its success would not have been possible without all of you.

Whether you supported Taste of History as an event sponsor, through an in-kind or live auction donation, by purchasing tickets, raising a paddle, or simply joining us for the evening—thank you. Your generosity brought us incredibly close to our fundraising goal and, most importantly, directly supports the Museum of Ventura County and the work we do to preserve and share the history, art, and culture of our community.

To our wonderful sponsors, an additional thank you for your partnership and generosity. And stay tuned—a little treat is in store!

Teatro de las Américas — Last Weekend- Obras de Un Acto | Herbert Siguenza-One Night Only: Diego Rivera: His Story

Sept. 18 & 19 7:00 P.M.

Sept. 20 2:00 P.M.

Last Weekend for Our One Acts, Featuring Brand New Directors!

Teatro de las Américas celebrates the final weekend of our One Acts Festival, showcasing three original pieces directed by emerging artists from our community. Each work offers a fresh, bold, and deeply human perspective, highlighting the talent growing within our Teatro.

Ventura Land Trust — A small gift. A lasting impact

Every day, people enjoy the lands that Ventura Land Trust has worked so hard to protect—hiking the trails, exploring with their families, watching wildlife, or simply taking a few quiet moments outside.

When you give monthly to Ventura Land Trust, you become part of the community that makes this work possible, all year long. Your steady support helps us care for the places we’ve already protected, restore native habitat, maintain trails, and seize new opportunities to protect Ventura County’s wild and beautiful places.

Music Academy of the West holding Groundbreaking of ‘The Muse’ on Oct. 15

SANTA BARBARA — The Music Academy of the West and Downtown Santa Barbara Improvement Association (DSBIA) invite the community for a ceremonial groundbreaking marking an exciting new chapter for arts education and performance in downtown Santa Barbara. The event will take place on Thursday, October 15, at 5:00 PM at 901 State Street, the future home of the Music Academy’s Music Education Center, The Muse.

Community Environmental Council (CEC) — We Want to Hear From You: Help Inform CEC’s Critical Climate Work, upcoming events

At the Community Environmental Council (CEC), we believe effective climate action is best informed by the people and communities we serve and protect. Your perspective can help us better understand what matters most to our community and ensure CEC’s work continues to meet the needs of Central Coast residents.

Commununity Environmental Council (CEC) — SUCCESS: Santa Barbara County votes to stop new oil and gas wells

On September 15, the Santa Barbara County Board of Supervisors voted 3-2 to approve amendments to the Land Use and Development Code (LUDC) and Coastal Zoning Ordinance (CZO) that prohibit new onshore oil and gas wells countywide. This marks a major milestone for public health, environmental protection, and climate action in Santa Barbara and affirms that local governments can lead when federal protections fall short. 

Explore Lompoc — Fall in love with Lompoc, California’s Harvest & Halloween events

LOMPOC — Fall looks good on Lompoc.

Cooler days, vineyard views, pumpkins, seasonal treats, and just the right amount of spooky make this an especially fun time to visit.

Whether you’re planning a weekend in wine country, a family getaway, or simply looking for a reason to hit the road, Lompoc has plenty of ways to make the most of the season.

Bilingual report — Oxnard Fire Chief Alexander Hamilton announces retirement; Battalion Chief John Albin appointed next Fire Chief

“Even before Alex became Oxnard’s Fire Chief, he was bringing innovation to the department, especially for increased awareness around cancer-causing conditions and prevention, and mental health and suicide prevention care for public safety personnel,” said Nguyen. “As Oxnard’s Chief, one of his highlights is advocating for the creation of Oxnard’s EMS Corps program, which will serve our community for generations to come.”

Albin brings over three decades of fire service experience to the role, including 28 years with the Oxnard Fire Department. He joined the department as a firefighter in 1998 and rose through the ranks, promoting from Firefighter to Fire Engineer in 2002, Fire Captain in 2011 and Battalion Chief in 2025, when he was selected to establish and lead the department’s newly created Support Services Division, which manages fleet, facilities, technology, logistics, purchasing, and peer support.  

Bilingual report — Ventura County Area Agency on Aging’s (VCAAA) Advisory Council seeks Veterans’ representative

VENTURA — The Ventura County Area Agency on Aging’s (VCAAA) Advisory Council has an opening for a veterans’ representative. The Advisory Council is a volunteer-based body of advocates who share a mission to create and sustain programs that positively impact the lives of older adults, people with disabilities and caregivers in Ventura County.

Applications for the veterans’ representative must be received by November 1.

SBCC Board of Trustees name the “Michael A. Goldberg Physical Education Building” and the “Kathleen ‘Kathy’ O’Connor Gymnasium” in their honor

“We are beyond thrilled about the generous donation from Cheryl Goldberg and I also wanted to honor the work of Kathy O’Connor, who is the impetus for the new building,” shared Superintendent/President Dr. Erika Endrijonas. “Scheduled for completion in late spring of 2028, the new building provides state-of-the-art classrooms, event spaces, a new home for the SBCC Life Fitness Center, offices, and more in half the footprint of the existing building.”

Bilingual report — Economic Development Collaborative (EDC) free event and webinar schedule

The Economic Development Collaborative encourages you to sign up for our no-cost events and webinars. Space is limited. Register today!

Plan ahead! Our full EDC and partner event schedule is updated at the start of each month. 

UCSB — The Current — ‘New fund supports student projects connecting Indigenous studies and environmental action’ and more news, events

The Kenneth Robert Lincoln Indigenous Environmental Projects Fund will make grants of up to $1,000 available to students enrolled in the Environmental Leadership Incubator.

Trusted Legal elevates Natasha Bhushan to managing attorney

Bhushan joined Trusted Legal in 2025 as a senior attorney, bringing more than a decade of experience advising businesses, entrepreneurs, nonprofits, and private clients. Since then, she has quickly become an integral part of the firm and its work with clients navigating business formation and governance, transitions, real estate transactions, and other complex legal matters.

Guest contribution — Elevated oil prices add new pressure to 2026 holiday private jet travel

SANTA ROSA VALLEY — Private jet travelers vacationing for the holidays may face a more expensive season as elevated oil prices add additional cost pressure to an already high-demand period.

According to the U.S. Energy Information Administration (EIA), global oil inventories have declined this year by approximately 400 million barrels, with this trend continuing through the end of 2026.

Explore Lompoc — News From Santa Barbara County: Experience the ultimate wine tour

LOMPOC — Everyone knows California is wine country. But have you heard about Lompoc?

This laid-back Central Coast wine destination is the perfect place to sip small-production wines, meet the makers, and explore a wine scene  that feels refreshingly unhurried.Add beautiful vineyard views, cool coastal temps, and plenty of chances to discover a new favorite, and you’ve got the makings of a seriously good wine weekend.

Central Coast Veterans Memorial Museum — Special exhibit honoring 9/11 now open in San Luis Obispo

Coast Veterans Memorial Museum invites our community to remember, reflect and help preserve the stories of a day that changed America.

Our new special exhibit, “On 9/11, I remember…”, is now open, presenting the events of September 11 and the lasting impact they had on our nation, our military and generations of veterans and their families.

Bilingual report — County of Ventura Ocean Water Quality Monitoring Report

VENTURA — Ocean water quality results for samples collected this week indicate ocean water quality at the following Ventura County beach sampling location failed to meet State standards for bacteria:

Promenade Park Beach – Figueroa St.   

Warning signs are currently posted and contact with ocean water should be avoided for a minimum of 50 yards on either side of each posted sign.  Warning signs will remain posted until ocean water quality meets State standards.  Any items that may have come in contact with ocean water should be avoided.  If contact occurs, wash thoroughly with soap and water.

Bilingual guest contribution — Community Environmental Council — Speak out on Sept. 15 to stop new oil wells in Santa Barbara County

Join us Tuesday, Sept. 15, to urge the Santa Barbara County Board of Supervisors to approve proposed amendments to the Land Use and Development Code (LUDC) and Coastal Zoning Ordinance (CZO) that would prohibit new onshore oil and gas wells. These long-awaited protections would safeguard community health, reduce greenhouse gas emissions, and prevent future expansion of oil extraction while creating a responsible pathway for winding down existing operations in Santa Barbara County.

Over 120 teen volunteers to help at 8th annual Santa Barbara County Farm Day

“Volunteering at Farm Day enables students to see that there is so much more to agriculture than the harvesting portion,” says Tyler A. Dickinson, an agriculture teacher at Pioneer Valley High School in Santa Maria. Dickinson coordinates the Farm Day volunteers. “They learn firsthand how farms operate. It broadens their perspective. They see career opportunities within the ag industry and the importance of the work that literally feeds the world.”

The Picklr Santa Barbara is now The Grove Pickleball

“When we opened the facility, our goal was simple: to create an amazing, reliable place where people could play pickleball, make friends and feel part of a community,” said owner Ted Guggenheim. “Over the past few months, we’ve listened closely to our players, our staff, and the people who walk through our doors every day. In response, we are moving away from a membership model and lowering the pricing by offering a player Pass system. This allows us to focus on the occasional customer as much as our regulars.”

Ventura County Office of Education (VCOE) — Logo contest, Library Day, Student-Led Candidate Forum, and more

Ventura County students are invited to showcase their artistic talents by designing logos for the 2027 Academic Decathlon, Batalla de los Libros, Battle of the Books, Mock Trial, Science Fair, and Civic Action Project. 

The winning designs will be featured on event lapel pins, awards, and competition materials. Students can compete for the opportunity to leave their mark on these prestigious events and win a plaque at the competition awards ceremonies. The deadline to submit entries is Friday, October 16, and details on how to enter are available at this link.

UCSB Arts & Lectures adds four powerful speakers to its 2026-2027 season

Global economic analyst Rana Foroohar, two-time Olympic gold medalist Alysa Liu, OB-GYN Mary Claire Haver and MacArthur Fellow Danielle Allen will address topical issues including the economy and national security, academic freedom, women’s health and how we define success

Bilingual report — Ventura County Area Agency on Aging — Health Insurance Counseling and Advocacy Program (HICAP) available to help with Medicare Open Enrollement

VENTURA — With the Medicare Open Enrollment period soon to begin, the Health Insurance Counseling and Advocacy Program (HICAP) – part of the Ventura County Area Agency on Aging, a division of the Human Services Agency – will again be providing countywide resources and help.

Medicare Open Enrollment begins on October 15 and runs through December 7. HICAP counselors, who are registered by the California Department of Aging, provide free, unbiased Medicare counseling to the public.

Gabe Grandcolas named president of the Santa Barbara Athletic Round Table Board of Directors

SANTA BARBARA — The Santa Barbara Athletic Round Table (SBART) is pleased to announce that Santa Barbara native Gabe Grandcolas has been named president of its board of directors, taking on a leadership role with an organization that has supported and celebrated local student-athletes for nearly 60 years.

Grandcolas brings deep roots in the Santa Barbara community to the role. He graduated from Santa Barbara High School, where he was a high school baseball pitcher, before heading to the University of Southern California’s Marshall School of Business, where he graduated cum laude. As the Sales Director with the Knight Real Estate Group, Grandcolas built his reputation on careful listening, creative problem-solving and giving clients a clear understanding of their options, whether they are selling a family property or looking to call the greater Santa Barbara area home.

UCSB Associated Students executive appointed to Isla Vista Government Board of Directors

SANTA BARBARA —  Noah Luken, the 2026-27 Associated Students of UCSB’s Executive Vice President of Local Affairs, has been appointed to serve on the Isla Vista Community Services District (CSD or IVCSD) board of directors. Luken will fill the remaining term of Director Edward Pilotte, a recent graduate of UC Santa Barbara.  

“I applied for the IVCSD Board of Directors to bridge the institutional gap between the two most influential public-facing entities in Isla Vista — Associated Students and the Community Services District,”  said Luken, a fourth-year economics and philosophy double major at UCSB. “This will allow for greater collaboration and coordinated efforts when addressing issues faced by students and Isla Vista residents.”

Last chance to become a Community Environmental Council (CEC) Climate Steward this fall!

Over seven weeks, you’ll explore the science and solutions behind the climate crisis facing our region, hear from local experts and climate leaders, and connect with others who want to make a difference. You’ll have chances to put what you learn into practice through hands-on field experiences and a stewardship project centered on an issue you care about. You don’t have to do it alone — we’ll be there to guide you!

Bilingual report — Following 33 Years of Public Service, Oxnard Police Chief Jason Benites announces retirement; Assistant Chief Rocky Marquez named as next police chief

“On behalf of the Oxnard community, we thank Chief Benites for his steadfast leadership of the department over the past six years and his decades of service dedicated to keeping Oxnard safe,” said Nguyen. “We’re fortunate to have strong leadership within our Police Department, and I am confident that Rocky Marquez will continue the department’s commitment to excellence and service to our community as our next Police Chief.”

Guest contribution — Celebrating 15 Years of the Salena Bracamontes Insurance Agency

VENTURA — Fifteen years ago, Salena Bracamontes took a leap into business ownership and opened the doors to her own State Farm agency. Today, she’s built so much more than a successful business with the Salena Bracamontes Insurance Agency, she’s built a dedicated team, lasting relationships with clients, and a reputation for showing up for the people and community she cares about.

Santa Barbara area businesses collecting diapers for babies in need

SANTA BARBARA — For families with babies and toddlers, diapers are not optional—but for too many families across Santa Barbara County, having enough diapers each month can be a serious financial challenge. In recognition of National Diaper Need Awareness week, LEAP is calling on community members to help ensure local families have access to this basic necessity by donating diapers and wipes through its annual month-long community diaper drive.

“Every donation helps us put diapers in the hands of parents who need them most,” said Lori Goodman, CEO of LEAP. “Together, we can relieve some of the daily stress families face and make sure babies across our county have the healthy start they deserve.”

Community Food Pantry at Girls Inc. relocating to Carpinteria Children’s Project

CARPINTERIA — Girls Inc. of Carpinteria is happy to announce that their on-campus community food pantry will be relocating and transitioning into the care of trusted community partner Carpinteria Children’s Project. 

Over the coming weeks, team members from both organizations will work closely together to ensure a seamless transition that provides members of the Carpinteria community with continued access to household necessities and kitchen staples. 

The decision to transfer stewardship of the food pantry is one that allows Girls Inc. of Carpinteria to focus its resources on impacting girls in the community and continuing its core mission of inspiring all girls to be strong, smart, and bold. 

Bilingual report — City of Camarillo Business Assistance Loans now Available

In partnership with the City of Camarillo, the Economic Development Collaborative has launched the City of Camarillo Business Assistance Loan Fund. This low-interest program is specifically designed to prioritize the vibrant business community in the City of Camarillo. Start-ups can get the necessary capital to launch their ventures and established businesses can secure funds to fuel their growth. With abundant opportunities for collaboration, a diverse customer base and an environment of innovation, Camarillo is a perfect place to start or grow your business.

Friendship Center Adult Day Care Center in Santa Barbara — The Friendly Finch: September 2026

I am writing this letter whilst attending the National Adult Day Services Association conference with our Program Director (recently promoted!), Nerely, and Lead Program Specialist/Volunteer Coordinator, Mary. We are thrilled to be here learning about ways to further improve and expand FC’s programs and services, but do forgive any lack of cohesion in this letter, as traveling to Providence took us more plane time than my trips to and from school in Australia. Four legs of flight, a cross-state-lines Uber, and we are here!

County of Santa Barbara and City of SB Housing Authorities seeking help from county renters and rental property owners to show true cost of rental housing

SANTA BARBARA — The City and County Housing Authorities are asking community members to complete a short rental market survey.

A SB County-wide request is being made to renters and rental property owners to complete a short rental market survey to help determine the true cost of rental housing.

Downtown Oxnard — See upcoming events here

First Thursdays Food Trucks returns to Downtown Oxnard this Thursday, Sept. 3rd!  Dinner, dessert, drinks — and plenty of choices all in one place. Grab your crew and make a night of it in Downtown Oxnard!
Live music + 13 Food Trucks + Marketplace

Housing Trust Fund Ventura County announces $500,000 loan for a 21-unit supportive housing development in Santa Paula

“Predevelopment financing is often the hardest capital to secure, but it’s what allows a project like Gateway Grove to move from an idea to groundbreaking,” said Linda Braunschweiger, CEO of Housing Trust Fund Ventura County. “By stepping in early, we’re helping the Santa Paula Housing Authority, Many Mansions, and Homes & Hope turn a vacant motel into 21 homes for people who need them most, including veterans who have served our country.”

VCCF scholarship season surpasses $2 million milestone in awards

CAMARILLO — The Ventura County Community Foundation Scholarship Program has awarded $2,009,312 to students across the county for the 2026 season, exceeding the nonprofit’s past scholarship grantmaking record.

“As another incredible scholarship season closes and we enter a new school year, we are proud to celebrate the hard work and promise of the students this program exists to serve,” said Kirsti Vomund, VCCF scholarship director. “This year, we awarded 610 scholarships to 441 students, making this our biggest award year ever!”

United Way of Ventura County — Thank you for making our Spirit Awards Gala a success!

This special event would not be possible without our incredible award recipients and the meaningful work they do for our Ventura County community, as well as our presenters, sponsors, donors, performers, volunteers, vendors, and United Way staff. We are so grateful for your support and partnership in making this celebration a success!

Commercial Fishermen of Santa Barbara receives over $500,000 from State Coastal Conservancy to launch the Ocean Collective with SBCC

SANTA BARBARA — The Commercial Fishermen of Santa Barbara (CFSB) has been awarded $507,500 from the California State Coastal Conservancy to launch the Ocean Collective, a partnership dedicated to building career pathways and shared infrastructure for the region’s Blue Economy. SCC funding comes from the voter approved Safe Drinking Water, Wildfire Prevention, Drought Preparedness, and Clean Air Bond Act of 2024 (a.k.a. “2024 Climate Bond” or “Proposition 4”).

Housing Authority Executive Director/CEO Rob Fredericks announces planned retirement at end of 2027

SANTA BARBARA — Rob Fredericks, Executive Director and CEO of the Housing Authority of the City of Santa Barbara, has announced his intent to retire at the end of December 2027, following more than three decades of service to the Housing Authority and nearly twelve years as its Executive Director/CEO.

Fredericks shared his planned retirement with the Housing Authority Commission to provide ample time for a thoughtful, orderly, and successful leadership transition. The advance notice will allow the Commission to develop a recruitment and transition plan for the agency’s next Executive Director/CEO, while ensuring continued stability for the residents, participants, staff, partners, and community members who depend on the Housing Authority’s work.

Guest contribution — TruNorth Jets — Book Vacations 90 Days Prior to Takeoff

SANTA ROSA VALLEY — With the holidays less than 90 days out, now is the prime time to consider booking arrangements in order to maximize savings on costs as well as time.

Typically, the Wednesday before Thanksgiving is the busiest travel day of the year in the U.S. If you plan to travel on that day, you will definitely need to get ahead of the holiday rush. Booking ahead allows you more flexibility to adjust travel dates if necessary and can help lessen the stress of having to book everything last minute.

Additionally, as the holidays near, flight prices will increase as availability dwindles and demand escalates. By securing bookings in advance, travelers increase their likelihood to secure the best pricing for their trips.