Category: Business

Bilingual report — County of Ventura awarded nearly $28 million for permanent supportive housing development

This substantial investment will create 88 permanent supportive housing units for individuals experiencing homelessness. In addition, one unit will be reserved for a resident property manager to provide on-site support and security. The development will also include community gathering spaces and offices for case managers and support staff, fostering a welcoming and supportive environment for residents.

“This funding marks an important milestone in our efforts to address homelessness in Ventura County by providing safe, stable, and supportive housing for vulnerable residents,” said Supervisor Janice Parvin, Chair of the Ventura County Board of Supervisors. “We remain dedicated to working closely with our partners to bring this project to fruition and enhance the quality of life for those in need.”

Pacific Wildlife Care begins construction on new Wildlife Rehabilitation Center in San Luis Obispo

SAN LUIS OBISPO — Pacific Wildlife Care (PWC) is thrilled to announce that construction has officially begun on the Kim and Derrel Ridenour Wildlife Rehabilitation Center at 385 Buckley Road, San Luis Obispo. This marks the next major milestone following the successful Phase One of the Campaign for Wildlife, which raised more than $11.7 million to establish a permanent home for wildlife care and ensure long-term sustainability for wildlife care.

The start of construction is the culmination of more than five years of planning, collaboration, and community support. Phase I of the project includes:

Congresswoman Julia Brownley (D-CA 26th District) — The Republican Agenda: An Attack on Women’s Health and Rights

President Trump and Republicans in Congress are advancing an onslaught of anti-woman, anti-reproductive freedom policies that dismantle women’s health care and strip away women’s rights. These policies that defund Planned Parenthood are effectively nothing less than a backdoor abortion ban and are part of a long-term agenda to shut down health centers, cut off access to birth control and cancer screenings, and ban abortion nationwide. If successful, these efforts will only worsen the abortion access crisis created by the Dobbs decision and state bans, making it harder for women everywhere to get the care they need, when they need it.

Bilingual report — Aug. 26 County of Santa Barbara Board of Supervisors Meeting. Topics Include: Retail Food Facility Fees, County Support for State Legislation Prohibiting Masking and Requiring Identification Displayed of Law Enforcement Officials, Open Space Element

The next regular meeting of the
County Board of Supervisors is scheduled for 
9 a.m. Tuesday, August 26, 2025
Joseph Centeno Betteravia Government Administration Building
Board Hearing Room
511 East Lakeside Parkway, Santa Maria 
The public may participate virtually or in person at the County Board Hearing Room
in Santa Barbara or Santa Maria. 

Cal Lutheran begins 2025-26 Academic Year with improved student experience

THOUSAND OAKS — The 2025-2026 school year begins at California Lutheran University on Aug. 25 with over 1,000 incoming undergraduate and graduate students.

To better serve students and their families by connecting some of the most critical campus offices that support student enrollment and graduation needs, the university has established a new Student Central.This convenient location brings together Academic and Registrar Services, Student Accounts and Financial Aid, all under one roof where students can register for classes and check financial aid and account balances.

The latest news from County of Ventura District 2 Supervisor Jeff Gorell

Dear Neighbors,

As a new school year begins, I want to wish our local students and families a wonderful start and remind everyone to stay safe on the roadways. In this newsletter, you’ll find important updates, resources, and details about upcoming community events—I hope you’ll join me.

Warm regards,
Jeff

Jeff Gorell, Ventura County Supervisor, District 2
SupevisorGorell@ventura.org

Bilingual report — Ventura County Medical Center Family Medicine Residency retains No. 2 ranking nationally in Doximity’s 2025–2026 Residency Navigator

“Our Family Medicine Residency stands out nationally because we train residents in the full scope of family medicine, including primary care, women’s health, emergency medicine, hospital care, surgery, trauma, and community outreach,” said Dr. Jacob David, Program Director. “We’ve launched innovative programs like palliative care and addiction medicine to fill critical gaps in local services, attracting mission-driven physicians committed to serving underserved communities.”

McCarthy Companies awarded preconstruction contract for a new affordable housing community for Housing Authority of the City of Santa Barbara

SANTA BARBARA — McCarthy Companies has been selected by the Housing Authority of the City of Santa Barbara (HACSB) to provide preconstruction services for the development of Monteria Village in Santa Barbara. The recently signed contract will lay the groundwork for a transformative affordable housing project that will replace a 28-unit HUD-assisted public housing development built in 1973 and add 52 new affordable apartments on Santa Barbara’s Westside for a total of 80 affordable multifamily units. The development leverages HUD’s Rental Assistance Demonstration (RAD) program, which enabled HACSB to successfully reposition its entire HUD-assisted public housing inventory to access equity funding for rehabilitation and improvements.

Museum of Ventura County — Tractors, Traditions & Family Fun This Labor Day!

Join us for the Agriculture Museum’s 10th Annual Labor Day Tractor Fair on September 1st, immediately following the Santa Paula Parade. This beloved community event celebrates Santa Paula’s rich agricultural heritage with family-friendly activities, live music by the Van Allen Twins, captivating presentations and tours, and a deep appreciation for our local farming culture.

The fair offers a fresh perspective on bridging farming’s past, present, and future through engaging exhibits and interactive activities. It aims to unite our community, promote sustainable farming practices, and inspire the next generation to explore rewarding careers in agriculture.

Bilingual report — Santa Paula Creek Flood Risk Management Project accepting public comments through Aug. 25

Santa Paula Creek is a tributary to the Santa Clara River located along the east side of the City of Santa Paula. The project aims to reduce flood risk and enhance community safety. Following two early public scoping meetings held in July, the public is encouraged to provide feedback to help guide the study’s scope, shape possible measures and alternatives, and assess potential environmental impacts.

Ventura Music Festival returns Oct. 12 through 19

Tickets are already selling fast, and many concerts are expected to sell out! Don’t miss the last concerts of Ventura Music Festival’s 30 for 30 – a celebration of the music and community we’ve shared with Ventura since our debut festival in 1995! Take a look at the October lineup below and order your tickets today.

Community Environmental Council (CEC) — Your electric vehicle tax credit disappears on Sept. 30

You have less than 50 days to lock in major savings on an electric vehicle before federal incentives disappear. Right now, you can get up to $7,500 off a new EV or plug-in hybrid, or up to $4,000 off a used one through IRS Clean Vehicle Tax Credits.

When Congress passed the “Big Beautiful Bill,” they slashed the program’s timeline, moving its expiration date up to September 30, 2025 instead of 2032. That means buyers only have a short window left to take advantage of these savings before they’re gone for good.

13th Annual luncheon to honor community award recipients and feature Keynote speaker David Kessler at the Rosewood Miramar Beach Resort

“CenCal Health is an incredible partner to Hospice of Santa Barbara and provides access to high-quality health services, along with education and outreach, for thousands of low-income and marginalized families in Santa Barbara County,” said David Selberg, CEO of HSB. “They know that our entire community thrives when we all achieve optimal health together.”

People’s Self-Help Housing Celebrates 55th Anniversary

CENTRAL COAST — This month, People’s Self-Help Housing (PSHH) celebrated 55 years as an organization. To commemorate this historic milestone, staff gathered to reminisce on past achievements and to look forward to the next half century. 
“What a privilege for an organization to celebrate 55 years,” said Ken Trigueiro, PSHH CEO & President. “From our origins on the heels of the seminal Fair Housing Act of 1968 to today, we have been proud to participate in the numerous partnerships that have brought tens of thousands of units of affordable housing to the Central Coast.” 

Pete Parker named Ventura College Foundation director of development

“While the Ventura College Foundation has created a significant impact, needs continue to grow,” says Parker. “Students seek financial support at a high rate, and campus programs are continually expanded. The foundation must regularly generate new support to help fund current initiatives and pave the way toward future special campaigns. Every person, company, community group, and foundation is a potential donor. My job is to connect as many as possible to Ventura College.”

The Housing Authority of the City of Santa Barbara and 2nd Story Associates provided school supplies to low-income youth and their families

SANTA BARBARA — The Housing Authority of the City of Santa Barbara (HACSB), in partnership with its nonprofit affiliate, 2nd Story Associates, hosted its 13th Annual Tools for School event on Saturday, August 9, 2025 at Presidio Springs Community Room (721 Laguna Street, Santa Barbara). At this year’s event, HACSB distributed around 400 backpacks filled with school supplies to approximately 200 families, ensuring local students had the resources they need to start the school year prepared.

People’s Self-Help Housing Releases 2025-2030 Strategic Plan Five-year plan shares commitment to expanding housing access

“With over a year and a half in the making, this plan has been thoroughly and carefully crafted to highlight the organizational values of PSHH and more importantly, provide more housing access throughout the Central Coast,” said Ken Trigueiro, PSHH CEO & President. “We are proud to share and use this plan as our guide for the next five years, and we invite our supporters and partners to join us as we build a more just and compassionate future, one home and one life at a time.”

Community Environmental Council (CEC) — There’s still time to join CEC’s next Climate Stewards cohort starting Sept. 9!

You’re not the only one ready to take action for our planet’s future — and you don’t have to do it alone. CEC’s Climate Stewards certification course equips everyday people with the knowledge, tools, and network of activists to lead equitable climate solutions right where they live.

This is your chance to find your place in the climate movement. Through the 8-week course, you’ll explore the science and psychology of climate change, participate in hands-on field trips, and design a custom Stewardship Project that’s meaningful to you and supports climate resilience.

Santa Barbara Cottage Hospital Foundation appoints Lynn Fitzgibbons, MD, as Craig Mally and Louise Stewart, MD, Endowed Chair in Graduate Medical Education

“Dr. Fitzgibbons exemplifies the compassionate leadership and clinical excellence that elevate graduate medical education at Cottage Health,” said Scott Wester, President and CEO of Cottage Health. “Her impact as a mentor, physician, and leader is felt across our organization and the broader community. We are proud to recognize her with this endowed chair as she continues to shape the future of medicine.”

Ventura County Animal Services — Clear the Shelters — FREE adoptions this Saturday 8/23!

This Saturday is Clear the Shelters, our largest pet adoption event of the year!  Last year, 77 animals found loving homes, and were aiming to top that number this Saturday.  We’ll be opening extra early at 11:00am, with early-bird adoption sign-ups starting at 7:00am at the Camarillo Shelter.

Adoptions will be FREE, and adopters will go home with lots of free gifts from event sponsors.  Animals go home spayed or neutered, vaccinated, flea-treated, and come with a FREE first vet visit!

Browse the DOGS, CATS, and BUNNIES in our care to see who you’d like to take home this Saturday!

Community Colleges of Ventura County ranked among Top 25 in State for Student ROI

CAMARILLO — All three Community Colleges of Ventura County—Moorpark, Oxnard and Ventura—ranked among the Top 25 in California for return on investment, according to a new College Futures Foundation report on economic mobility. The Golden Returnsreport, which measures how quickly students recoup educational costs through post-enrollment earnings, placed Moorpark at #7, Oxnard at #9 and Ventura at #19 statewide.

The analysis was conducted in partnership between the College Futures Foundation and the HEA group, a research and consulting agency focused on college access, value and economic mobility. The comparison covered 327 public, private nonprofit and for-profit community and career colleges across 12 California economic regions.

Economic Development Collaborative (EDC) free event and webinar schedule

SBA: MYSBA CERTIFICATION TRAINING: NAVIGATING THE APPLICATION PROCESS

August 21 @ 11:00 am

This webinar will assist small business owners who have successfully submitted a MySBA certification application to navigate the application process. Presenters will discuss how to respond and resubmit an application that has been “Returned to Business”, responses to requests for information (RFI), and other frequently asked questions. 

CLICK HERE TO REGISTER

17 teens graduate from Housing Authority of the City of Santa Barbara’s “Preparación, Bienestar y Cultura” (Preparation, Well-being and Culture) Program with a focus on career and college prep

SANTA BARBARA — The Housing Authority of the City of Santa Barbara (HACSB), in coordination with 2nd Story Associates, has completed its “Preparación, Bienestar y Cultura” (Preparation, Well-being and Culture) free four-week summer initiative focused on “life preparation” with 17 teens graduating from the program.

The program provides focused activities that promote educational opportunities, social-emotional support, and cultural awareness. The program allows students to participate in a variety of field trips, earn community service hours, participate in college tours, as well as receive a free backpack and school supplies. 

Bilingual report — City of Santa Paula clarifies status on ACLU lawsuit participation) challenging the federal government’s immigration enforcement activities)

… To clarify, the City of Santa Paula was not invited to participate in the lawsuit. The most recent group of cities to join was added on August 8, 2025, and Santa Paula was not among them. The City is not privy to the Los Angeles City Attorney’s litigation strategy or procedural decisions.

We recognize that this is an important issue for many in our community, and Council has received messages from residents urging the City to join the lawsuit or take other related action. While the City is not a party to this case, Council continues to evaluate issues and opportunities related to protecting the rights and well-being of all Santa Paula residents.

Taking Flight: Port of Hueneme conducts aerial drone exercise to boost security

PORT HUENEME — Geopolitical tensions led to increased maritime security threats in 2024. Attacks, cyberthreats, extreme weather events, and other potential dangers underscore the critical importance of robust security training and strong emergency preparedness programs to safeguard global trade and ensure community safety.  

It was against this backdrop that officials from the Port of Hueneme recently conducted the organization’s Coastal Trident Security Exercise.

Ventura County Civic Alliance — Livable Communities Newsletter — Aug. 15, 2025

In previous issues we have examined the needs for housing for varied segments of our community and different approaches to solving them. This issue covers an at an often neglected area: the need for housing for at-risk young adults. 20% of those from the foster system experience homelessness the day they age out, and 50% experience homelessness within 18 months. Close to 60% of California’s community college students are housing insecure.

People Helping People announces 2025–2026 Board Leadership & new strategic priorities

Becky Barieau will continue her dedicated service as Board President, bringing steady leadership and a deep commitment to community well-being. John Kuelbs, a longtime supporter and visionary philanthropist, will assume the role of Vice President. Joyce Talmadge will continue as Board Secretary, offering consistency and strong organizational stewardship, while Francisca Escobar will serve another term as Treasurer, providing thoughtful fiscal oversight during a time of growth and investment.

Bilingual report — Santa Paula’s regional influence grows as Mayor Chavez and city leaders secure key roles on countywide boards

SANTA PAULA — The City of Santa Paula is proud to highlight the growing regional leadership of its elected officials as they continue to secure influential roles on countywide and regional boards, ensuring Santa Paula’s voice is strongly represented in critical policy decisions.

Bilingual report — Ventura Police join national ‘Drive Sober or Get Pulled Over’ campaign to prevent drunk driving crashes

VENTURA — Starting August 13 and running through September 1, the Ventura Police Department will participate in the national Drive Sober or Get Pulled Over enforcement campaign, in partnership with the U.S. Department of Transportation’s National Highway Traffic Safety Administration (NHTSA). 

This high-visibility campaign focuses on stopping impaired drivers and preventing the types of deadly crashes often seen over Labor Day weekend. Additional officers will be on patrol looking for drivers under the influence of alcohol or drugs. 

Pacific Lutheran Theological Seminary’s New Rector is California Lutheran University Spiritual Leader

THOUSAND OAKS — The Rev. Colleen Windham-Hughes, Ph.D., a longtime professor and spiritual leader at California Lutheran University, has been appointed the rector of Pacific Lutheran Theological Seminary (PLTS), part of Cal Lutheran. PLTS is the only Lutheran Evangelical Lutheran Church in America seminary in the western half of the United States and a founding member of the Graduate Theological Union.

The Museum of Contemporary Art Santa Barbara announces the Call for Entries Winners 2025-2026!

Congratulations to:

Godofredo Astudillo & Dannah Mari Hidalgo 

Their exhibition will be on view at our satellite location, The Riviera Beach House. We look forward to share their powerful and evocative work with the public. 

Bilingual report — MICOP — Ventura County Residents to Urge Board of Supervisors to Support Immigrant Families Following ICE Raids

VENTURA — On Tuesday, August 12, immigrant and farmworker rights organizers, advocates, and community members will rally at the Ventura County Board of Supervisors meeting to call for the county to invest in legal support for the immigrant community following the recent ICE raids at the Glass House facility in Camarillo.

Residents are urging the Board to adopt two key proposals backed by 805 Immigrant:

 $1 million for Ventura County residents facing deportation to keep families together
$1 million in legal support for eligible immigrant families seeking to adjust their status

Economic Development Collaborative (EDC) free event and webinar schedule

IN-PERSON EVENT: INSURANCE FOR SMALL BUSINESSES

August 13 @ 8:30 am

Join SCORE Ventura County, City of Thousand Oaks and Economic Development Collaborative to learn about insurance from somebody who is not trying to sell you something! Insurance contracts are written by attorneys, but not all insurance agents can explain them in simple terms. In layman’s terms, this workshop will briefly overview the types of coverages available and what most businesses need. Address: Thousand Oaks City Hall, 2100 Thousand Oaks Blvd, Thousand Oaks, CA 91362.

CLICK HERE TO REGISTER

Air Quality Alert issued for Ventura County on Aug. 8

VENTURA — The Ventura County Air Pollution Control District is issuing an Air Quality Alert because of unhealthy air quality conditions caused by the Canyon Fire. Impacted areas may include, but are not limited to, Piru, Fillmore and Santa Paula.

Smoke from the Canyon Fire has caused air quality to fall into the unhealthy range for the general population, as measured by the U.S. Environmental Protection Agency Air Quality Index (AQI). Smoke and ash from wildfires contain very small particles — particulate matter with a diameter of 2.5 micrometers or less — that can harm the lungs and heart.

Preserving History with a New Vision: SBTHP Reveals Updated Brand

SANTA BARBARA — The Santa Barbara Trust for Historic Preservation (SBTHP) is pleased to announce some exciting news. We’ve embarked on a journey to refresh our brand identity, and we’re excited to unveil a new look that better reflects our evolving mission and celebrates the rich history and cultures of Santa Barbara County.

This rebrand isn’t just about a new logo; it’s about breathing new life into our visual presence to create a timeless, enduring, and inclusive brand. Our goal is to inspire a new generation of preservation advocates and connect with a wider audience, from lifelong history enthusiasts to those just discovering Santa Barbara’s past and ongoing cultural heritage.

CLU — ‘Ask Gumby’ Earns Future Campus Award for Innovative Student Guidance

THOUSAND OAKS — California Lutheran University has been recognized with the Tambellini Future Campus Award for its groundbreaking AI initiative, “Ask Gumby.” Developed by the university’s Information Technology team, the AI-powered chatbot was created through a strategic, campuswide effort and significant in-house software development to enhance student support and success.

The award was presented at the Future Campus™ Summit, held August 5–6 in New York City, honoring institutions that are reimagining the role of technology in higher education.

Farm Bureau of Ventura County — Have you registered to attend 2025 Agri-Tech Fair on Sept. 23

Have You Registered To Attend? Our 2025 Ventura County Agri-Tech Fair is just over a month away. It will take place on September 23, 2025, at The Holiday Inn North Oxnard (formerly the Marriott). The VC Agri-Tech Fair is the…

Community Environmental Council recruits Fall Class of Climate Stewards

“We need local climate leaders — now more than ever,” said Kathi King, Course Instructor and CEC’s Director of Outreach and Education. “The Climate Stewards Course provides the perfect avenue for impassioned individuals to start making change in their community, workplace, or school. The course truly has something for everyone because anyone can propel the climate movement — students, non-profit staff, entrepreneurs, retirees, teachers, community members, and many others. Our community holds immense power to create a groundswell of change, and our Climate Stewards program fosters the connection, confidence, and inspiration needed to unleash it.”

Bilingual report — Ventura County Community Foundation — Exciting Update on Ventura County Neighbors Support Fund

This simple truth is at the heart of the Ventura County Neighbors Support Fund. It reflects our core belief that every person matters, and that even the smallest act of kindness can spark hope and make a meaningful difference in the life of another.

Since launching this collaborative effort with our partners just one week ago, we have seen an outpouring of love and support. Because of you, more than $105,000 has already been donated (including pledges) to help our neighbors. We have also received heartfelt messages filled with encouragement, personal stories of resilience, and moving affirmations that this fund is both timely and deeply needed. Your generosity is not only financial, but also a powerful reminder that we are not alone, and that our community stands together.

El Concilio Family Services — 50th Anniversary Early Bird Ticket Price ~10 days left

Don’t miss your chance to secure the early bird price for a seat at our upcoming Fundraiser, celebrating our 50th Anniversary and the 35th Latino Leadership Awards! Reserve your spot today and join us for an unforgettable evening of celebration, recognition, and community. Act now—early bird pricing ends soon!

Single tickets for UCSB Arts & Lectures 2025-2026 season go on sale Tuesday, Aug. 19 at 10 a.m.

UCSB Arts & Lectures presents its 66th season of world-class cultural and artistic events, from stimulating lectures and animated conversations with today’s thought leaders to brilliant performances by the world’s most accomplished dancers, singers, musicians and performers. Single (non-subscription) tickets for UCSB Arts & Lectures’ 2025-2026 season go on sale Tuesday, August 19 at 10 a.m.

How to revitalize your soil and landscape after a fire

Homeowners and businesses whose landscapes were damaged or destroyed by the recent wildfires should begin taking steps to prevent erosion before fall and winter rains by repairing the soil and adding nutrients to promote plant growth, says Rick Wilson, Ph.D., chief science officer at Agromin, the largest organic waste recycler and compost and mulch producer in California.

Ventura County Community Foundation (VCCF) — Power of Purpose – August 2025

Summer Greetings from the VCCF Scholarship Program!

We’re thrilled to share that 2025 has been another record-breaking year for the VCCF Scholarship Program. Thanks to the generosity of our community, we awarded 569 scholarships to 412 students, totaling $1,838,986.60 — the highest amount ever granted. More than 30 awardees received the maximum scholarship of $10,000, paving the way for them to fully pursue their dreams.

Ventura County Arts Council announces grant opportunity for Arts Orgs: VibeWell Ventura County Arts & Mental Health

The VibeWell VC grant program supports Ventura County-based 501(c)(3) nonprofit arts and cultural organizations in delivering programs that increase mental health awareness through creative experiences. Priority funding goes to arts organizations with explicit arts missions, though other nonprofits may apply if partnering with local arts organizations or artists.