Category: Business

Senior Concerns President & CEO Andrea Gallagher recognized with City of Thousand Oaks Council Chambers Seat Dedication

THOUSAND OAKS — Senior Concerns president and CEO Andrea Gallagher was recognized with a City of Thousand Oaks City Council Chambers Seat Dedication during the Dec. 9, 2025, City Council meeting. Outgoing Mayor David Newman presented the prestigious honor. 

Gallagher was honored with Seat N9 at the Thousand Oaks Civic Arts Plaza’s Scherr Forum Theatre, which also serves as the Andrew P. Fox City Council Chamber.

The recognition highlights Gallagher’s years of service at Senior Concerns and her work supporting older adults and family caregivers throughout the Conejo Valley. Under her leadership, Senior Concerns has advanced key programs including Meals On Wheels, the Adult Day Program, Caregiver Support Center, Senior Advocates, and the organization’s 50th Anniversary Future Fund.

Bilingual report — Ventura City Council approves water and wastewater rate adjustments

VENTURA — On Tuesday, December 9, 2025, at the Public Hearing for Proposed Water and Wastewater Rates, City Council unanimously approved five-year water and wastewater rate increases needed to maintain reliable water and wastewater service. The new rates will take effect July 1, 2026. Customers can use Ventura Water’s online bill calculator to estimate individual impacts to their water and wastewater bill.  

Bilingual report — Santa Paula City Council Selects New Mayor and Vice Mayor for the 2026 Term

SANTA PAULA — During a ceremonious and festive Council meeting on December 10, 2025, the Santa Paula City Council held its annual leadership reorganization, resulting in the appointment of a new Mayor and Vice Mayor for the upcoming year.

Outgoing Mayor Chavez, who made history as the first openly gay Mayor in both Santa Paula and Ventura County, received enthusiastic and appreciative public comments recognizing his leadership, integrity, and the many accomplishments achieved under his tenure. Community members expressed gratitude for his commitment to transparency, inclusivity, and elevating civic engagement across Santa Paula. The Council also thanked him for his accomplishments and stewardship throughout the past year.

Additionally, the Council unanimously appointed outgoing Vice Mayor Carlos Juarez to serve as Mayor of Santa Paula for the new term.

Bilingual commentary — What Do They Mean “Accounting Is Not Professional”?

In its nefarious dedication to destroying the foundations of American education, the U.S. Department of Education, in its definitely finite wisdom, is proposing that graduate accounting degrees are no longer to be recognized as “professional” for student loan purposes. This is certain to have repercussions that will significantly impact higher education in the field of finance.

Bilingual report — Teatro de las Américas — La Posada del teatro | Movie Night | Casting Call | Vision Board

*** Teatro’s Christmas Party ***

Let’s celebrate another year of art, stories, friendship, drama, and smiles.

Saturday, December 13

Starting at 6 p.m.

7 p.m. Araceli Collazo & The Ensamble

8 p.m. Karaoke Night with DJ Mannu

Bilingual report — Ventura Police spread holiday cheer at annual Shop with a Cop

VENTURA — The Ventura Police Department helped make the season brighter for local families on December 10, 2025, during its annual Shop with a Cop event, held at Walmart and hosted in partnership with the Housing Authority of the City of San Buenaventura and the Teddy Bear Cancer Foundation. 

This year, 30 children from low-income households and families facing childhood cancer were paired with Ventura Police officers for an unforgettable evening of one-on-one shopping. Each child received $150 to choose gifts for the people they love, turning what can be a challenging time of year into an afternoon of joy and connection. 

Climate Stewards Winter 2026 Enrollment: Turn climate anxiety into community power

As federal policy and funding rollbacks threaten decades of environmental progress, it’s never been more important for all of us to step up, care for our neighborhoods, restore our ecosystems, and protect the places we love.

CEC’s Climate Stewards Certification Program empowers individuals from all backgrounds to advance bold climate solutions right at home. High school and college students, recent grads, teachers, community members, non-profit staff, business owners, retirees, and more are all invited to join us as we take collective action to move forward meaningful climate progress.

Holiday Magic at Heritage Square Oxnard

Call for Entries: Gingerbread House Contest & Exhibit
Looking for a fun holiday project? Our annual Gingerbread House Contest & Exhibit is the perfect way for family and friends to gather this weekend and create something sweet together.
Entries are due by next Tuesday, December 15.
Your gingerbread creation will be featured as part of our holiday display at Heritage Square.
View entry information: https://forms.gle/y7e8bHAoNfiiQcXC7
Inspiration from past entries here: https://www.flickr.com/photos/137180328@N06/albums/72157720188275462/

Guest contribution — McCarthy Companies marks milestone with continued commitment to quality, community

“Forty-five years of growth have reinforced a core belief: we don’t just build homes—we create opportunity, stability, and long-term value for the communities we serve,” said Sarah McCarthy-Garcia, Partner. “As we look ahead, our focus remains on thoughtful expansion, innovation, and advancing housing options that will endure for generations.”

Habitat Families receive keys to homes they helped build at Vista Campanario

VENTURA — On the morning of Saturday, December 6th, Habitat for Humanity of Ventura County (Habitat Ventura) presented families with keys to their very own homes at Vista Campanario in Camarillo. The families, all first-time homeowners, helped build their homes alongside Habitat Ventura volunteers, with each family contributing 250-500 hours of sweat equity.The eight new townhomes are located at Vista Campanario, a new Camarillo development that includes rental units along with the eight for-sale Habitat town homes.

“We are always trying to be better at what we do. This build is the first time we’ve collaborated with multiple partners to build these units,” said Darcy Taylor, CEO, Habitat for Humanity of Ventura County. “To continue to build low-income housing, it’s going to take more than just Habitat to do that. We’re grateful for the partners that have allowed us to put these wonderful homes together.”

UCSB — The Current — ‘UCSB physicists accept Nobel Prizes in Sweden’ and more news, events

In a ceremony full of splendor, music and admiration, professors Michel Devoret and John Martinis, alongside their mentor, UC Berkeley physicist John Clarke, on Dec. 10 officially received their Nobel Prizes from King Carl XVI Gustaf of Sweden.

SEEAG Awarded $236,360 California Department of Food and Agriculture Grant

“Students learn about specialty crop-related science, technology and engineering. They explore career opportunities at local farms and connect with agricultural professionals,” says Caitlin Paulus Case, SEEAG executive director. “To run a successful agriculture business today requires the skills to address the many challenges facing the industry, including soil science, plant nutrition and sustainability practices.”

Bilingual report — Registration for Ventura’s Spring 2026 Activity Guide begins Jan. 6

Every Ventura resident will receive a printed copy of the Activity Guide in the mail. Additional copies are available for pick-up at City Hall and other City facilities during business hours, including the Westpark Community Center, Barranca Vista Community Center, Ventura Aquatics Center, and Ventura Avenue Adult Center.

History, Art, Community & Connection at Museum of Ventura County

GIVE THE GIFT OF HISTORY

As you make your year-end giving plans, we invite you to support the Museum of Ventura County and help preserve the stories that define our community. A meaningful way to give this season is by donating appreciated stock. Gifts of stock may offer significant tax advantages while making a lasting impact on our exhibitions, education programs, and preservation work.

Bilingual report — Signatures in lieu of filing fee period starts Dec. 19, 2025 for the June 2, 2026 Statewide Primary Election

“Although June 2, 2026 may seem far away, many of the important deadlines for people who are considering running for office are coming up quickly,” said Registrar of Voters Michelle Ascencion. “The signatures-in-lieu period is the first major action of the election cycle, and we encourage candidates for qualifying offices to take full advantage of it. Not only can it reduce costs, but it also provides a head start on gathering signatures needed for nomination papers.”

A to Z Law welcomes new litigation associate Megan Rayburn

“As a former deputy attorney general for California and Ventura County deputy district attorney, Megan Rayburn believes everyone’s rights are worth protecting. We are delighted that Megan will bring that advocacy to her new position as a litigation associate with A to Z Law,” said Susan McCarthy, civil litigation partner.

Bilingual report — Holiday Heroes to bring magic to children at Ventura County Medical Center

VENTURA — Ventura County Medical Center (VCMC) is excited to announce its upcoming Holiday Heroes Rappel event for pediatric patients. On Monday, Dec. 15, members of the Urban Search and Rescue Regional Task Force, including firefighters from Oxnard, Ventura City, and Ventura County, will dress as Santa Claus and beloved holiday characters such as elves and rappel from the hospital roof to the pediatric unit playground.

Gold Coast Transit District unveils 2025 Holiday Bus: The Holiday Express – Ride into the Magic

OXNARD — Gold Coast Transit District (GCTD) is excited to announce the official launch of its 2025 Holiday Bus, The Holiday Express: Ride into the Magic. Inspired by the timeless Polar Express Christmas story, this year’s festive bus invites riders of all ages to step aboard and experience the wonder of the season.

GCTD hosted a special Ribbon Cutting Ceremony on Wednesday, December 3rd, where community members, staff, and local leaders gathered to witness the unveiling of the transformed bus. Wrapped in winter scenery, twinkling lights and whimsical holiday illustrations, The Holiday Express sets the stage for a magical ride throughout Ventura County.

NOAA’s Channel Islands National Marine Sanctuary seeks Advisory Council applicants

CENTRAL COAST — NOAA’s Channel Islands National Marine Sanctuary is seeking applications to fill seven seats on its advisory council. The Sanctuary Advisory Council ensures public participation in sanctuary matters and provides advice on sanctuary management.

Bilingual report — City of Ventura continues public education on proposed water and wastewater rate adjustments

VENTURA — In October, the City of Ventura mailed Proposition 218 notices to all Ventura Water customers and property owners to inform them about proposed adjustments to water and wastewater rates. These adjustments are needed to ensure that Ventura Water is able to upgrade aging infrastructure, meet stricter state and federal requirements, and continue to provide reliable service for years to come.  

Economic Development Collaborative (EDC) free event and webinar schedule

SCORE: BUSINESS LAW AND RELATED TAX TOPICS FOR EMERGING BUSINESS

December 8 @ 8:00 am

SCORE KC’s Business Law and Related Tax Topics for Emerging Businesses webinar will help you decide when and how to utilize legal advice, such as forming your business, operating your business, growing your business, addressing related business law issues, and understanding related tax law issues. Price: $10.00.

CLICK HERE TO REGISTER

City of Ojai offers free compost and mulch to residents through Agromin partnership

OJAI — The City of Ojai has partnered with Agromin, California’s largest organics recycler, to provide residents with free compost and mulch through a new coupon program.

The program helps the city comply with Senate Bill 1383’s greenhouse gas reduction requirements while offering residents high-quality soil amendments at no cost.

Residents can order bagged or bulk materials directly from Agromin at www.shop.agromin.com by selecting their products and entering the corresponding coupon code at checkout.

Pickup is available at Agromin (201 Kinetic Drive, Oxnard) or Aqua-Flo Ojai (1940 E Ojai Ave., Ojai). Delivery is available for a fee.

Downtown Oxnard — A Storybook Christmas season …

OXNARD — Celebrate the season on Sat., Dec. 6th, at the Oxnard Christmas Parade. This year’s theme “A Storybook Christmas” will showcase creative floats, colorful marching bands, equestrian units, local school groups, and the man of the hour – Santa! This year’s Grand Marshal is Anderson .Paak. It all begins at 10:00 a.m. on Sat., Dec. 6th. Stake out your viewing spot on the route on A Street from 9th to 5th and north on C Streets in Downtown Oxnard.

Bilingual report — Ventura County Library launches ‘Reimagine Your VC Library’ strategic planning initiative; Invites community feedback to shape the future

Through the initiative, VCL is inviting residents across Ventura County to share their ideas and feedback to help ensure that the library continues to meet the evolving needs of its diverse communities.

The planning effort will gather public input to:

• Identify community needs and opportunities
• Provide optimum access to resources and technology
• Design innovative programs that inspire and empower
• Create inclusive and welcoming library spaces
• Ensure alignment with the County of Ventura Strategic Plan

Bilingual report — Gold Coast Health Plan member information potentially exposed in data breach

CAMARILLO — Gold Coast Health Plan (GCHP) recently discovered that one of its contracted business partners suffered a cyberattack that resulted in the potential disclosure of member information to an unauthorized third party.

Conduent Business Solutions, a longtime administrative services vendor for GCHP, reported that the cyberattack compromised a single employee’s email account, permitting the attacker to gain access to some files between Oct. 21, 2024, and Jan. 13, 2025. Upon discovery of the incident on Jan. 13, 2025, Conduent immediately safeguarded its systems and started an investigation. Conduent notified law enforcement of the incident and engaged a leading cybersecurity firm to assess the potential disclosure of protected health information.

Bilingual report — Economic Development Collaborative (EDC) announces California Competes Tax Credit Program update

Application Period Timeline: For fiscal year 2025-2026, GO-Biz will accept applications for the California Competes Tax Credit during:

January 5, 2026 – January 26, 2026
March 2, 2026 – March 16, 2026

Bilingual report — Ventura County certifies Nov. 4, 2025 statewide special election

“As we close out this Special Election, I want to thank our voters and our dedicated election workers,” said Registrar Michelle Ascencion. “Even with a compressed timeline, the community showed its commitment to participating in and supporting the election process. I’m grateful for everyone who took the time to vote, and of course for our election workers and staff who worked tirelessly to ensure every legal ballot was validated and counted with care.”

Island Packers announces December 2025 holiday & seasonal cruises departing from Ventura Harbor

VENTURA — Celebrate the holiday season with family and friends aboard Island Packers, (the official concessionaire to the Channel Islands) as part of company’s seasonal offerings, including a holiday caroling cruises, Ventura Harbor 49th Annual Parade of Lights & Fireworks Cruise with select weekly departures from Ventura Harbor, and   winter whale watching www.islandpackers.com Seasonal options include:

One-hour Holiday Caroling Cruise in Ventura Harbor on selected dates between December 5  – December 23, 6:30 to 7:45 p.m.  Enjoy a cruise through the harbor to view holiday lights in the main channels of the marinas. Listen or sing to seasonal music.  Dates are December 5, 6, 7, 10, 11, 14, 17, 18, 19, 20, 21, 22 & 23. The fare is $24 per adult, $ 22 per senior (55+), and $18 per child.

Bilingual report — City of Ventura reflects on eight years since the Thomas Fire with rebuild progress and safety improvements

VENTURA — This week marks the eighth anniversary of the Thomas Fire, one of the most destructive wildfires in California history. Since 2017, the City of Ventura has remained focused on supporting impacted homeowners, strengthening wildfire preparedness, and improving the transparency of the rebuilding process.

As of November 2025, 404 homes have been completely rebuilt and approved for occupancy, 31 permits are under active construction, and another 18 more are under plan review. The City’s Thomas Fire Rebuild Overlay Zone, established in 2018 to support recovery by reducing fees, simplifying development standards, and providing greater design flexibility, will expire on December 31, 2025. Property owners who wish to rebuild under these provisions must submit a complete and substantial building permit application, including all required plans, before the expiration date.

Bilingual report — County of Santa Barbara Board of Supervisors to meet on Dec. 9

View this email online The next regular meeting of the  County Board of Supervisors is scheduled for  10 a.m. Tuesday, December 9, 2025 County Administration Building Board Hearing Room, 4th Floor 105 East Anapamu Street, Santa Barbara The public may participate…

Music Academy of the West — A first look at our downtown music education center and its impact

As we imagine the future of music, community, and creative belonging in Santa Barbara, I’m thrilled to share an exciting update on the Academy’s Music Education Center. This visionary new hub at 901 State Street—made possible by a landmark $20 million commitment from Academy Board Member and Music Education Center Founding Contributor Cheryl Goldberg—reflects the Music Academy’s belief in music as a powerful force for connection, inspiration, and the cultural vitality of our city. 

YMCA’s ‘Gifts of Hope’ donation drive for Mountain and Los Angeles fire victims through Dec. 9

WESTLAKE VILLAGE — The Southeast Ventura County YMCA is seeking holiday gift donations for those impacted by the Mountain and Los Angeles Fires. Its Gifts of Hope holiday shopping experience is on December 10 at the Yarrow Family YMCA. It will provide parents and guardians who lost their homes in the fires an opportunity to “shop” for new, donated gifts for their children at no cost.

Senior Concerns’ Golf Tournament rallies critical support for area seniors & family caregivers

THOUSAND OAKS — Senior Concerns, a leading nonprofit serving older adults and family caregivers throughout western Los Angeles and eastern Ventura counties, held its 4th Annual “Par and Away” Golf Tournament presented by Logix Federal Credit Union on November 18 at Moorpark Country Club. 

More than 200 golfers, sponsors, and supporters participated to raise critical funds for programs that support seniors across the region.

The tournament featured breakfast, the Los Angeles Rams Cheerleaders, a putting contest, on-course games and activities, and exceptional food and drink vendors throughout the day. An awards dinner with former Los Angeles Dodgers catcher and two-time World Series Champion, and former manager of the Los Angeles Angels, Mike Scioscia, and auctioneer Zack Krone led the live auction.  

Friendship Adult Day Services — The Friendly Finch: December

How is it December… who did this?!? Between the holiday closures and the quick pace of this past month, it felt like we blinked and it was over. With three program closure days in November, and three again in December, I know how challenging that change in schedule can be for caregivers juggling a hundred things at once. That’s why I’m especially proud that this month, we’re once again offering three free Saturday respite days as a holiday gift to caregivers: a gift of time.

C.A.R.L. announces new board, kicks off year-end giving season

SANTA PAULA — The season of giving has officially begun at Canine Adoption and Rescue League (C.A.R.L.). Last week, the charity hosted its third annual “Pupsgiving,” whereby C.A.R.L. supporters donated $25 each for a Thanksgiving meal for the non-profit’s 50-plus dogs currently available for adoption at its Santa Paula-based sanctuary.

Canines housed at C.A.R.L. had a healthy heaping of turkey, mashed potatoes and carrots with peas, which the new Governance Board members at C.A.R.L. personally delivered to each dog.

Bilingual report — City of Ventura’s Foul Weather Shelter Plan reactivated for 2025

VENTURA — To prepare for upcoming winter weather, the City of Ventura has reactivated its Foul Weather Shelter Plan to provide temporary shelter and “stay warm” packs to Ventura’s most vulnerable residents during extreme weather events, such as severe rain, high winds, or low temperatures. Effective December 1, 2025, the The Foul Weather Shelter Plan will run through March 31, 2026.

To date, more than 4,650 meals have been provided, 280 stay warm packs distributed, and over 435 individuals have received shelter through the program.

“Ventura has an active community of local social service providers and nonprofits that work together to serve the needs of our most vulnerable population,” said Housing Services Manager Leona Rollins. “This program is needed now more than ever to help protect those who face the harshest impacts of winter weather.”

Ventura County Animal Shelter — Donate Locally this Giving Tuesday!

Dear Animal Lover,

We’re asking for your support this Giving Tuesday. Your local donation to Ventura County Animal Services funds countless lifesaving programs and initiatives.

Your gift directly impacts thousands of animals in our care and in the community.

Thank you for your support,
Ventura County Animal Services

Santa Barbara Estate Planning Council announces the election of Justin Anderson, president, and Courtney DeSoto, vice president

SANTA BARBARA —Santa Barbara Estate Planning Council is pleased to announce the recent election of two new leaders. Justin Anderson, CFP, CLU, CRC, partner of Santa Barbara-based Channel Wealth, has been elected President. Anderson, who previously served as the Council’s…

SBCC introduces upcoming improvements to its School of Extended Learning

SANTA BARBARA — The Santa Barbara City College (SBCC) School of Extended Learning is excited to announce that a number of previously offered fee-based classes are now FREE!  The long-standing fee-based program is transitioning to a fully free noncredit model. This change means that many of the same high-quality classes students have enjoyed for years will now be available at no cost.

Many of these classes are now part of the Wellness for Older Adults program, which is open to students 18 years or older and focuses on health and lifelong learning. Students will continue to enjoy the same engaging instructors and community connections, now with expanded access for all.

December at the Santa Paula Art Museum

Season’s Greetings!

We’re feeling extra thankful after November’s premiere party for The 16th Art About Agriculture Exhibition, which drew 200 guests despite the rain. We’re also delighted to share that seven artworks sold during the exhibit’s opening week! You can see the show now through March 8, 2026.

This year has been the Museum’s busiest yet thanks to the support of our donors, members, and volunteers, and we’re excited to close 2025 with some extra-special events. Scroll down to learn more.

Community Colleges of Ventura County earn innovation honor from Ventura Chamber

CAMARILLO — Big ideas are reshaping what’s possible for students and their future careers across Ventura County. At the 2025 Poinsettia Awards Luncheon, the Ventura County Community College District will be honored with this year’s Innovation Award. Presented by the Ventura Chamber of Commerce, this recognition highlights the ongoing work of the Community Colleges of Ventura County to advance student success and opportunity through forward-thinking pathways and transformative programs.

The annual Poinsettia Awards celebrates excellence in business, public service, and education, honoring individuals and organizations who are making a lasting difference in the Ventura community.

“To be honored by the Ventura Chamber of Commerce is a powerful affirmation that our work is making a real difference,” said Rick MacLennan, chancellor of the Community Colleges of Ventura County. “It tells us that the innovation happening across our colleges is not only visible: it’s valued, and it’s meeting the needs of the community we’re proud to serve every day.”