Category: Business

Big Savings Available on Heat Pumps for Central Coast Residents

by Community Contributor • March 6, 2023 • Comments Off

C-REN (Tri-County Regional Energy Network), 3CE (Central Coast Community Energy), and TECH Clean California are offering generous incentives for residents who upgrade their natural gas furnace or water heaters to high-efficiency, all-electric heat pumps. These programs can be combined with Federal tax credits for massive savings that can lead to lower energy bills, more comfortable homes, and reduced carbon emissions.

Heat pumps are about three times more efficient than their natural gas counterparts and have the added benefit of increased safety by removing natural gas combustion from the home. Additionally, a heat pump that replaces a central furnace also adds air conditioning to the home in one appliance, as HVAC heat pumps provide both heating and cooling.

SBCC announces finalists for Superintendent/President

by Community Contributor • March 6, 2023 • Comments Off

Santa Barbara City College (SBCC) announces the selection of three finalists for the position of Superintendent/President. The finalists for the position are Erika Endrijonas, Ph.D., current Superintendent/President of Pasadena City College; Richard Storti, Ph.D., current Executive Vice Chancellor of San Mateo County Community College District; and Katrina VanderWoude, Ph.D., current Vice Chancellor of Los Angeles Community College District.

Read more about the Superintendent/President candidates here.

The candidates were chosen by a 19-member screening committee comprised of credit and non-credit students, faculty, classified professionals and administrators; the SBCC Foundation; community members; and members of the SBCC Board of Trustees. The Superintendent/President search committee unanimously identified the finalists through an extensive screening process that began in November, 2022. Since January 20, 2023, the committee reviewed 36 candidate applications and conducted Zoom interviews of 14 candidates, followed by in-person interviews of eight semi-finalists.

Bilingual report — Economic Development Collaborative (EDC) — California Competes Tax Credit Program Application March 6, 2023 – March 20, 2023

by Community Contributor • March 6, 2023 • Comments Off

The California Competes Tax Credit (CCTC) is an income tax credit available to businesses that want to locate in California or stay and grow in California. Businesses of any industry, size, or location compete for over $180 million available in tax credits by applying in one of the three application periods each year. Applicants will be analyzed based on twelve different factors of evaluation, including number of full-time jobs being created, amount of investment, and strategic importance to the state or region.

Application Period Timeline: For the remainder of the 2022-2023, applications for the California Competes Tax Credit will be accepted during the following periods:

March 6, 2023 – March 20, 2023

Bilingual report — Gold Coast Health Plan Appoints Dr. Felix Nuñez its New Chief Medical Officer

by Community Contributor • March 3, 2023 • Comments Off

CAMARILLO — Gold Coast Health Plan (GCHP) on March 2 announced the appointment of Dr. Felix Nuñez as its new Chief Medical Officer (CMO), effective immediately.

Dr. Nuñez is an accomplished board-certified family physician and health care leader who brings to Ventura County the experience and expertise gained over more than 25 years of leadership in managed care and health care delivery. A proud native Angeleno and Mexican-American, Dr. Nuñez is passionate about improving health care access and quality of care for underserved and vulnerable populations.

“Dr. Nuñez is an innovator and creative problem solver, a thought and action leader, and above all, his work is dedicated to the communities we serve,” said Nick Liguori, GCHP’s chief executive officer. “We are honored to have him join our executive team and look forward to his leadership as the Medi-Cal program evolves to serve the broad needs of its most vulnerable populations.”

***

CAMARILLO – – Gold Coast Health Plan (GCHP) anunció el 2 de marzo el nombramiento del Dr. Felix Nuñez como su nuevo Director Médico (CMO, por sus siglas en inglés), con efectos inmediatos.

El Dr. Nuñez es un experto médico de familia certificado por la junta y líder en atención de salud que aporta al Condado de Ventura la experiencia y conocimientos adquiridos a lo largo de más de 25 años de liderazgo en atención administrada y prestación de salud. Orgulloso de ser nativo de Los Angeles y mexicano-estadounidense, al Dr. Nuñez le apasiona mejorar el acceso a la atención médica y la calidad de atención para las poblaciones desatendidas y vulnerables.

“El Dr. Nuñez es un innovador y una persona creativa en la resolución de problemas, un líder de pensamiento y acción, y sobre todo, su tarea está dedicada a las comunidades a las que servimos”, dijo Nick Liguori, director ejecutivo de GCHP. “Para nosotros es un honor que se una a nuestro equipo ejecutivo y estamos deseosos de su liderazgo conforme evoluciona el programa de Medi-Cal para servir las necesidades amplias de sus poblaciones más vulnerables”.

OLLI classes include examination of local agricultural history through the lens of farm labor

by Community Contributor • March 3, 2023 • Comments Off

A new course offered by Osher Lifelong Learning Institute (OLLI) at CSU Channel Islands (CSUCI) during its Spring II 2023 session will examine the history of Ventura County agriculture through the lens of farm labor.

Registration for all courses opens March 6, and classes will take place between March 20 and May 5. OLLI at CSUCI allows adults aged 50 and up to take university-level courses without concern about grades, career preparation or degree requirements.

Theresa Avila, an Assistant Professor at CSUCI who teaches non-Western Art History, will present “Ventura County Agrarian Labor History,” which will include agricultural practices and worker strikes. Students will tour the traveling Smithsonian exhibition “Dolores Huerta: Revolution in the Fields/Revolución en los Campos,” a contemporary art exhibit called “Stories of Labor From the Fields of Ventura County” and a display on local Bracero history at CSUCI.

“I’m interested in looking broadly at agrarian history and labor movements that happened and what motivated them because they speak to the industries being developed here and help us understand our ties us to national history, issues and labor movements,” said Avila, whose grandfather was a farmer in the Imperial Valley. “My hope is that the participants will develop a better understanding of and appreciation for the community that surrounds the campus.”

Andrew Palomares, Deputy Executive Director, CFO/CAO, retires from the Port of Hueneme

by Community Contributor • March 2, 2023 • Comments Off

Following a 15-year stellar career of public service and organizational leadership, Andrew Palomares, the Port of Hueneme’s Deputy Executive Director, Chief Financial and Chief Administrative Officer had announced his planned retirement effective Friday, March 3, 2023.

Andrew Palomares said: “I couldn’t have made a better choice than to spend the balance of my 45 years in the workforce with a career at the Port. It truly cares about jobs, the environment, and its surrounding neighborhoods. I have had more than great executive leadership, supportive Boards of Harbor Commissioners, and a very talented and memorable work family over the years. I will miss them all yet looking forward to the next chapters of my life.”

“The leadership of Andrew Palomares is truly an example of leading the Port as an organization focused on its people, customers, and community through “People First” approach in its performance excellence, which is the key to success at our Port.” said Jess Herrera, President of the Oxnard Harbor District.

Thousand Oaks’ Wild Oaks Country Music Festival Seeks Sponsors & Vendors

by Community Contributor • March 2, 2023 • Comments Off

Wild Oaks Country Music Festival taking place June 3 is seeking sponsors and vendors. The festival is being held at Conejo Creek Park South in Thousand Oaks.

On the Wild Oaks stage will be chart-topping Craig Morgan performing such hits as “Bonfire,” “Almost Home,” “Redneck Yacht Club,” “International Harvester,” “That’s What I Love About Sunday” and “The Father, My Son and The Holy Ghost.”

Ventura County nurses and health care professionals to hold vigil at 6 p.m. Feb. 28 highlighting issues that jeopardize patient care

by Community Contributor • February 28, 2023 • Comments Off

Registered nurses and healthcare professional who work with the County of Ventura will hold a vigil at 6 p.m. Tuesday, Feb. 28, to demand county management address ongoing staffing and retention problems which have intensified over the past few months and jeopardize patient care, announced California Nurses Association/National Nurses United (CNA/NNU) today.

“Nurses and health care professionals have been demanding that county administrators address staff recruitment and retention problems,” said Gina Parcon, and ICU RN at Santa Paula Hospital. “The current nursing and health care staff is stretched beyond our limits and yet is continuously being asked to do more and more with less resources and people. We know the County of Ventura has the resources to provide for safe staffing levels and provide compensation and benefits that will attract a new generation of nurses and health care worker talent for this community. Then we can provide the best and safest possible patient care.”

CLU School of Management announces upcoming events on March 1, 24, 28

by Community Contributor • February 28, 2023 • Comments Off

MPPA Policy Talk Series Presents…
Revisiting Integration Policies in the United States: From Patchwork Policies to a Systematic Approach
Wednesday, March 1 | 6:00 – 7:00 pm (PT) | In Person
Join Dr. Wa’ed Alshoubaki as she discusses integration policies in the United States while distinguishing between immigrants and refugees in terms of the logistics of their integration.

Assistant Professor at the University of Jordan. Expertise in public policy with ongoing research on immigration and refugee resettlements in the Middle East, Europe, and the United States.

International Women’s Day on March 8 is a special cause for celebration for Thousand Oaks non-profit

by Community Contributor • February 28, 2023 • Comments Off

This year’s International Women’s Day theme of “Innovation and technology for gender equality” is a special cause for celebration to The Greater Contribution, a Thousand Oaks non-profit that provides women in Uganda with a hand up, not a hand out.

For the past 17 years, the organization’s grassroots fundraising here at home has empowered thousands of women in remote villages of Uganda, Africa, with micro loans so that they can start their own businesses, lift their families out of poverty, and elevate their status in a culture that has oppressed them for generations.

On International Women’s Day March 8th, The Greater Contribution will be celebrating a new milestone as it reaches a record of 26,076 loans issued to date, with a remarkable 93% repayment rate. And for every woman enrolled in the program, an additional seven people are aided by their triumphs.

“Upon competition of a two-year curriculum where we provide literacy and business skills training, along with mentoring and peer counseling, our women borrowers enjoy dignity with their successes,” says founder Karon Wright. “That translates into more gender equality in the workplace, or food on the table, and a chance for their children to attend school.”

Economic Development Collaborative (EDC) free event and webinar schedule

by Community Contributor • February 27, 2023 • Comments Off

SBA: HUBZONE CERTIFICATION WORKSHOP

February 28 @ 11:30 am

Join the Small Business Administration (SBA) Los Angeles District Office for a virtual workshop to increase your potential for federal contract opportunities through the Historically Underutilized Business Zone (HUBZone) Program. The SBA HUBZone Program mission is to promote job growth, capital investment, and economic development to Historically Underutilized Business Zones (HUBZone) by providing contracting assistance to small businesses located in these economically distressed communities. Attendees will also have the opportunity to ask questions related to this program. SBA programs and services are extended to the public on a nondiscriminatory basis. For reasonable accommodation request please send an email to LADO@SBA.GOV at least 7 days in advance.

CLICK HERE TO REGISTER

County of Ventura News Update for Feb. 24, 2023

by Community Contributor • February 24, 2023 • Comments Off

Storm Update

A winter storm has been forecast to bring heavy rain and snowfall through Saturday, February 25. Evacuation warnings have been issued by the Ventura County Sheriff’s Office of Emergency Services for the areas of concern in the County.

For updated incident information, please visit www.vcemergency.com.

Santa Barbara County First District Supervisor Das Williams — Winter Storm Warning, Big Strides to Fight Climate Change

by Community Contributor • February 24, 2023 • Comments Off

Winter weather conditions are forecast for Santa Barbara County starting 2/21/23 through the weekend. The National Weather Service has issued a High Wind Warning for coastal areas from Point Conception to the San Marcos Pass, effective from 2/21/23 at 6 p.m. to 6 am on 2/22/23. A Winter Storm Warning was also issued by the National Weather Service for the county’s interior mountains and is in effect from 2/22/23 at 4 am to 4 pm on 2/25/23.

Extreme cold temperatures, continued wind, and rain are possible through the weekend. Snow levels are forecast for lower elevations and may impact transportation routes including potentially Highway 154 and Highway 166 (Cuyama area). The lowest snow levels in the county are forecast to be roughly 1,500 feet for interior mountains and the Cuyama Valley. Countywide the snow level is forecast to be 2,000 feet-2,500 feet. This weather system will also bring very cold temperatures throughout the county. Gale force winds are also expected at sea. More weather forecast information is available at: https://www.weather.gov/lox/

Precautions and tips to stay safe:
Be careful when driving through wet and potentially snowy road conditions. Roads may be slippery. Drive slowly and be careful. When possible avoid routes that may be impacted by winter weather.
Strong winds can cause power outages. Charge important electronic devices and be prepared in case an unannounced power outage occurs.
Secure belongings that could get impacted by strong winds such as outdoor furniture.
Take care of those who might not be aware of the cold weather hazard or be able to react accordingly – especially the elderly, young children, and pets.
Avoid areas and roadways that appear to be flooding.
Be aware of your surroundings and travel routes. Leave the area if you don’t feel safe and conditions permit safe travel.

Dolores Huerta to attend Smithsonian exhibition events on March 8

by Community Contributor • February 24, 2023 • Comments Off

The only Southern California display of a traveling Smithsonian exhibition on Dolores Huerta will open Wednesday, March 8, at CSU Channel Islands (CSUCI) with a daylong series of events featuring the 92-year-old civil rights activist reading to children and discussing activism with local leaders.

“Dolores Huerta: Revolution in the Fields/Revolución en los Campos” will run through May 7 in the John Spoor Broome Library Exhibition Hall.

The exhibition shares the compelling story of Huerta and the farmworkers movement of the 1960s and 1970s. Featuring text in English and Spanish, it explores Huerta’s public life as a co-founder of the United Farm Workers Union and what led her to become a Latina civil rights icon. She tirelessly led the fight for racial and labor justice along Cesar Chavez and continues to this day.

“As a Hispanic Serving Institution, it is important that the campus create culturally relevant programming that contributes to all students’ success. The Center for Community Engagement, in partnership with the Broome Library, saw an opportunity to do just that with the hosting of this traveling exhibition that introduces Dolores Huerta’s work as a civil rights icon to the next generation of young leaders and keeps her legacy of activism alive,” said Pilar Pacheco, Director of the Center for Community Engagement. “This is especially important at a time when so much of history is being silenced and erased. Hers is a voice and story that is to be celebrated today and always.”

Museum of Ventura County — Black History Month Feature + Lee Herrick Poetry Reading Video

by Community Contributor • February 24, 2023 • Comments Off

In celebration of Black History Month, Ventura County NAACP President Regina Hatcher-Crawford spoke with MVC Executive Director Elena Brokaw.
Hatcher-Crawford was recognized as the California Senate Woman of the Year for District 19 in 2021. In this interview, Hatcher-Crawford shares insights about her career as a grassroots activist and talks about the legacy of leadership in the Hatcher family.

Hatcher-Crawford’s father, John R. Hatcher III, an Air Force veteran, activist, and civil rights leader, served as President of the NAACP in Ventura County for almost four decades. Hatcher-Crawford talks about the distinct honor that was recently bestowed on her father with the renaming of The US Post Office at 1961 North C Street in Oxnard to the John R. Hatcher III Post Office Building.

Santa Paula Elected Officials Step Up to Serve on Regional Boards

by Community Contributor • February 24, 2023 • Comments Off

In January, Councilmember Jenny Crosswhite was appointed Vice Chair of the Ventura Local Agency Formation Commission (Ventura LAFCo) and board member for District 47 of the Southern California Association of Governments (SCAG), representing the cities of Santa Paula, Ventura, Ojai and Fillmore. These positions will enable the City to actively participate in matters that not only affect Santa Paula, but also communities throughout the region, providing direct input in decision-making processes that impact Southern California as a whole.

“I am honored to have the opportunity to amplify the voices of all Ventura County residents through my participation in Ventura LAFCo and SCAG,” said Councilmember Jenny Crosswhite. “My goal is to ensure that the unique needs and perspectives of our communities are considered while working with my fellow elected officials to build a comprehensive plan for our region’s future.”

Social Justice Fund for Ventura County — February update

by Community Contributor • February 24, 2023 • Comments Off

As we progress through this year, the SJFVC is thankful for the beautiful green hills, the incredible progress made by our Fellows, and the exciting updates from our SJFVC team:

The SJFVC team met to plan and set goals for 2023.Building on the accomplishments and support of the donors and community members in 2022, we plan to continue to fund up to 5 Fellows in 2023, reinforce our coaching and training efforts for the Fellows, and hold in-person events. Our next in-person event will be held in Nyeland Acres to support that community and the efforts our Fellow Brenda Heredia is making to bring health services to the area. There will also be a celebratory event for the Fellows in the Fall. We will be sending out dates soon!

UCSB — The Current — ‘Celebrating Black Creators’

by Community Contributor • February 24, 2023 • Comments Off

A new Carsey-Wolf Center initiative shines a light on the influence and impact of Black artists.

Big Brothers Big Sisters of Ventura County’s Golf Classic announces 50th Anniversary Celebration: Title Sponsor Needed!

by Community Contributor • February 22, 2023 • Comments Off

Big Brothers Big Sisters of Ventura County (BBSVC) is seeking a philanthropically-minded Title Sponsor to help commemorate the 50th anniversary of the agency’s annual Golf Classic. BBSVC’s Golf Classic is the organization’s top-performing event, which delivers the funds necessary to support mentoring programs for over 1000 youth facing adversity in Ventura County.

This year’s tournament will be held on Monday, May 8, 2023. The BBSVC Golf Classic is returning to The Spanish Hills Club in Camarillo for a day of golf, entertainment, giveaways, auctions, and the 50th Anniversary After-Party. “A Title Sponsor who aligns with our agency’s mission of youth mentorship would help BBSVC make a powerful statement that we are ready to come together as a community to support youth connectivity, individual youth success, and youth mental health,” says BBSVC CEO Danica Selvaggio.

Shell-ebrate All Things Mermaid At 8th Annual ‘March is Mermaid Month’ At Ventura Harbor Village in Ventura

by Community Contributor • February 21, 2023 • Comments Off

VENTURA — A tail of a good time awaits mermaids and mermen as they return to the sea for the 8th Annual “March Is Mermaid Month” at Ventura Harbor Village, a mer-mazing, month-long celebration. All events are FREE to the public…

The Toland Group Named Marketing Agency of Record for the Ventura County Fairgrounds

by Community Contributor • February 21, 2023 • Comments Off

The Ventura County Fairgrounds & Event Center announces it has named The Toland Group as its official Agency of Record (AOR) after a competitive bid process. As the Fairgrounds’ marketing and public relations AOR, The Toland Group will be responsible for developing robust marketing and advertising strategies for events, managing partnerships with the media, and spearheading community outreach efforts.

Effective immediately, all media inquiries will go through Megan Hook of The Toland Group atmedia@venturacountyfair.org or 805-469-0055.

“We are thrilled to have The Toland Group, a local agency, on board to help us build on our marketing programs and media presence. Their experience with large-scale events meets the needs of the fairgrounds and we are excited about this new partnership,” said Stacy Rianda, Chief Executive Officer of the Ventura County Fairgrounds.

SBCC’s The Bridge Newsletter — February 2023

by Community Contributor • February 21, 2023 • Comments Off

SBCC director Creative Writing, Activities Director, RISE Peer Tutor+Mentor Project, and Editor of Open Fruit, Joshua Escobar, was recently awarded the 2023 Bo Huston Prize for his works, Califorkya Voltage, XXOX FM and Bareback Nightfall. Joshua was awarded $2,000 and editorial support for one year leading to publication of an original book. The award is given annually to honor Bo Huston (1959-1993), author of four books, including The Dream Life.

Economic Development Collaborative (EDC) free event and webinar schedule

by Community Contributor • February 21, 2023 • Comments Off

ECONOMIC OPPORTUNITY GRANT PROGRAM: PHASE 1

The Economic Opportunity Grant (EOG) Program is for microbusinesses located in the County of Los Angeles that have been hardest hit in the pandemic. Phase 1 will only allow microbusinesses who have been the hardest hit in the pandemic to apply to the first round offering $2,500 grants. These grants are funded in part through the California Office of the Small Business Advocate. Additional rounds will be determined based on funding availability. Application will be open until February 23 or until funds are expended.

Ventura County Disaster Recovery Center Changes Location

by Community Contributor • February 21, 2023 • Comments Off

The Ventura County Disaster Recovery Center will be open in a new location starting today, February 21, so residents who were affected by the severe storms and flooding can update their FEMA applications.

2022 Santa Barbara Fair & Expo wins 15 awards at the Western Fairs Association’s annual convention

by Community Contributor • February 21, 2023 • Comments Off

We are proud to announce that the Santa Barbara Fair & Expo, “MEET ME AT THE FAIR” theme held in April 2022 and produced by Earl Warren Showgrounds has won 15 awards for the “small fair category – under 50,000 attendance” at the Western Fairs Association’s annual convention and trade show.

Bilingual report — Economic Development Collaborative (EDC) — Honoring Black History Month

by Community Contributor • February 21, 2023 • Comments Off

The Economic Development Collaborative would like to recognize the month of February as Black History Month. This month is dedicated to honoring and celebrating the contributions of Black Americans throughout history. During this time, and throughout the entire year, the EDC is committed to supporting Black-owned small businesses. The EDC strives to provide equitable access and inclusive services, leading to stronger economic outcomes that support businesses and our region as a whole. The following are a handful of programs that provide support for Black-owned small businesses:

February News from People’s Self-Help Housing

by Community Contributor • February 16, 2023 • Comments Off

Dear Friend,
Out of the 67,000 mortgages insured by the GI Bill, less than 100 went to African Americans. Black History Month gives us the opportunity to learn more, and sit longer with hard to absorb facts such as these.

Here are two more. According to the Pew Charitable Trusts and data derived from the US Census Bureau:

In 2022, 74.6% of White households owned their homes, compared with 45.3% of Black households
In 1960, the White homeownership rate was 65%, and the Black rate was 38%
The gap is widening.

Homeownership is often referred to as the ‘American Dream’ but this ‘dream deferred’ is what is behind the crushing poverty of so many of our citizens. As a housing developer, we see the positive effects every day of what takes place happen when the opposite happens when the dream is realized.

Thank you for your support of affordable housing in your neighborhood,

Mustang Marketing adds award-winning journalist to its public relations team

by Community Contributor • February 16, 2023 • Comments Off

Mustang Marketing, Ventura County’s premier full-service marketing agency, has hired award-winning journalist Dawn Megli to join its public relations team, the agency announced on Wednesday, Feb. 15.

In her new role as communications specialist, Megli will be responsible for working with the director of marketing to implement public relations strategies for clients, developing media and county relationships, and writing content to support clients’ communications goals.

Bilingual report — Be a Hero: Plant Trees with the City of Santa Paula to Celebrate Arbor Day!

by Community Contributor • February 16, 2023 • Comments Off

The City of Santa Paula is excited to begin its annual celebration of Arbor Day this March! The City is planning a month of celebration with fun-filled events that promote tree planting efforts throughout the community. The City invites residents to “Plant a Tree, Be a Hero” and participate in the upcoming ceremonies.

“Arbor Day is an opportunity for us to come together as a community and celebrate the vital role trees play in our environment, our health and our daily lives,” said Parks and Recreation Director Greg Barnes. “We are proud to be hosting a month-long celebration of Arbor Day this March and invite everyone to join us in planting, learning about and appreciating the beauty and benefits of trees.”

Ventura County Civic Alliance — Livable Communities Newsletter – February 15, 2023

by Community Contributor • February 15, 2023 • Comments Off

In our first article, Dawn Dyer makes the case that the addition of higher-density infill housing is good for the community and is exactly what should be happening at this point in the housing cycle. This data filled analysis is compelling.

Next, Kerry Roscoe has created a pictorial review of what diverse higher-density housing looks like in Ventura. These developments are more than big boxes.

Finally, Vanessa Rauschenberger discusses Fear of Congestion. We may think there’s nothing we can do to avoid congestion, except to slow growth or build more lanes and parking lots to accommodate it. Vanessa believes that that we should consider the alternatives.

Let us know what you think at Info@CivicAlliance.org

Thanks,

Stacy Roscoe

Ventura Land Trust Launches 20th Anniversary Year with Community Birthday Party on Feb. 24

by Community Contributor • February 15, 2023 • Comments Off

Ventura Land Trust (VLT) will celebrate 20 years of land conservation in 2023, starting with a free community birthday party on Friday, February 24 at Topa Topa Brewing Company (4880 Colt Street, Ventura, 93003) from 6-9 pm.

The birthday party will include the reveal of the winners of VLT’s inaugural Art Contest, a look back at milestones through the organization’s history, a sneak peek of gear that will be on sale at the April 8th Gear Garage Sale, family games, and of course, birthday cake.

Ventura Land Trust was founded in 2003 as Ventura Hillsides Conservancy by community members who sought to protect the iconic hillsides to the north of Ventura from development.

FEMA/State Disaster Recovery Centers closing this week in SLO, Santa Barbara, remaining open in Santa Maria, Ventura

by Community Contributor • February 13, 2023 • Comments Off

Two FEMA/State Disaster Recovery Centers will permanently close this week:

February 14th – 7:00pm

Veterans Hall

801 Grand Street

San Luis Obispo

February 15 – 7:00pm

Direct Relief

6200 Wallace Becknell Road

Santa Barbara

Economic Development Collaborative (EDC) Free Event and Webinar Schedule

by Community Contributor • February 13, 2023 • Comments Off

FREE BUSINESS RESOURCES FAIR

February 15 @ 11:00 am

Learn about business training, employee recruitment, funding and microgrant opportunities, mentorship and other resources. Receive 1 on 1 support from the EDC, Santa Barbara Foundation, SCORE, the Workforce Development Board and WEV. All community members are welcome to this bilingual (Spanish/English) event. Space is limited, and registration is required. Register for a specific timeslot.

CLICK HERE TO REGISTER

VCCU supports financial inclusion with employee promotion and new hire

by Community Contributor • February 10, 2023 • Comments Off

To support Ventura County Credit Union’s ongoing efforts to ensure representation of all community members as it works to boost financial wellness and inclusion, the credit union has promoted Arturo Zaragoza to director of financial equity programs and hired Jaime Doniaz as financial inclusion and education manager.

Zaragoza has served as a branch manager at VCCU for nine years and has more than 16 years of experience working in the financial services industry. His efforts to support the financial well-being and inclusion of diverse individuals and groups throughout the community have earned him recognition and awards from the Pacific Coast Business Times, Oxnard High School District, Consulate of Mexico and Oxnard Chamber of Commerce. He is also a Ventura County Leadership Academy graduate, advisory board member for the UCSB Customer Experience Program, Food Share volunteer and youth soccer coach.

The Central Coast Climate Justice Network Announces Network Manager

by Community Contributor • February 10, 2023 • Comments Off

Since its launch in 2018, the Central Coast Climate Justice Network (CCCJN) has grown into a strong community partnership with over a dozen participating organizations spanning the California Central Coast region. As CCCJN continues to expand its environmental and social justice work this year, the organization is proud to announce Ana Rosa Rizo-Centino as its new Network Manager.

CCCJN is a collaboration of organizations and community leaders committed to a climate movement that advances social, economic, racial, and environmental justice for Ventura and Santa Barbara Counties. By forging a regional partnership between social justice, anti-racism and environmental movements, the network expands the region’s collective power to advance restorative actions and systems change. The organization’s work centers on communities who bear the greatest burden of climate change impacts.

Community Environmental Council Welcomes New Staff and Board Members, Elects New Slate of Board Officers

by Community Contributor • February 10, 2023 • Comments Off

The Community Environmental Council (CEC) continues to expand upon its mission to tackle pressing climate impacts across California’s Central Coast region, and recently welcomed five new staff members and one new board member to its growing roster. In addition, the Board elected a new slate of Ocers.

New to the Board this year is Christopher Knowlton, former staff writer and London Bureau Chief for Fortune Magazine and the retired president of Knowlton Brothers Inc. See bio below. CEC’s Board of Directors is composed of 16 community leaders with a diverse breadth of experience in business management, non-profit governance and financial oversight, providing strong direction and leadership to help CEC fulfill its mission.

FEMA/State Disaster Recovery Center opens in Ventura

by Community Contributor • February 9, 2023 • Comments Off

A new FEMA/State Disaster Recovery Center has opened in Ventura County, where residents who were affected by the severe storms and flooding can register for assistance, update their FEMA application and learn about state and county programs or other community resources available.

CLU’s Center for Economic Research and Forecasting (CERF) to present 2023 Ventura County Economic Forecast on Feb. 21

by Community Contributor • February 9, 2023 • Comments Off

The Center for Economic Research and Forecasting (CERF) at California Lutheran University will provide an in-depth analysis of the county’s economic performance through COVID-19 and into the post-pandemic environment at 8:30 .m. Tuesday, Feb. 21 at the Janet & Ray Scherr Forum Theatre, Thousand Oaks.

Registration deadline is Feb. 10 to attend Ventura County Elections Division’s Language Accessibility Advisory Committee (LAAC) Public Meeting meeting on Feb. 14

by Community Contributor • February 9, 2023 • Comments Off

The Ventura County Elections Division invites you to join our February 2023 Language Accessibility Advisory Committee (LAAC) meeting to be held on Tuesday, Feb. 14, 2023, from 10:30 a.m. to 11:00 a.m. We are requesting the publics assistance in reaching out to the limited English-speaking community to provide important voting information within Ventura County. We will be conducting the meeting via the Zoom web conference platform. I

Want to Get Married? County Clerk-Recorder’s Office Prepares for a Busy Valentine’s Day

by Community Contributor • February 9, 2023 • Comments Off

Love is in the air as Ventura County Clerk Recorder and Registrar of Voters Michelle Ascencion and the County Clerk staff are preparing for the Valentine’s Day rush in marriage appointments on February 14.

They advise anyone needing marriage services that day to book their appointment right away.

“Valentine’s Day is always our busiest day for weddings,” Ms. Ascencion said. “It’s very romantic to get married on Valentine’s Day.”

Top things to do in Lompoc on Valentine’s Day

by Community Contributor • February 9, 2023 • Comments Off

The super sweet time of the year is almost upon us. If you’re feeling the love this Valentine’s Day, head to Lompoc, California for a romantic getaway! Take a scenic drive through the beautiful flower fields, spend a cozy evening at a nearby winery sipping on local wines, indulge in a delicious dinner for two at one of our top restaurants, and more!

If you’re in or around Lompoc on Feb. 14, 2023, you might want to consider taking your special sweetheart to one of the area’s Valentine’s Day events.

No matter what you end up doing, enjoy it—and one another! Here’s to you. Here’s to love.

Santa Barbara County Food Action Network — Flood Recovery Funding for the Food System

by Community Contributor • February 9, 2023 • Comments Off

Was your farm, ranch, fishery, or food business impacted by the January 2023 floods in Santa Barbara County? We have compiled a list of resources for financial support below to help ensure our local food system makes it through this crisis.

SBCFAN is also tracking and monitoring the impacts of natural disasters, such as the recent floods in our local food community, and would like to hear from you. Please complete our brief survey. This data will help support advocacy for more emergency relief and inform how we can best support you. Together, we can build a resilient food system.

Bilingual report — Economic Development Collaborative (EDC) — Bruce Stenslie Selected as Business Leader of the Year

by Community Contributor • February 8, 2023 • Comments Off

Bruce and his team of advisors and staff have worked diligently for years helping small businesses in the counties of Ventura, Santa Barbara and Los Angeles. They have helped countless number of businesses throughout many disasters and the current COVID-19 pandemic. VCLA’s recognition of Bruce as the 2023 Business Leader of the Year is a representation of how hard Bruce and his team worked and continues to help the small business community.

Under Bruce’s leadership, in 2022 the EDC has counseled over 1,657 entrepreneurs and helped approve over $73 million in access to capital for small businesses across the region.

Cottage Health Appoints Lorenzo Olivarez Jr., Vice President of Finance

by Community Contributor • February 8, 2023 • Comments Off

Following a national search, Cottage Health has named Lorenzo Olivarez Jr. to the role of Vice President of Finance.

Olivarez most recently served as Division Chief Financial 0fficer/Sr. Vice President at Baptist St. Anthony’s Health System in Amarillo, TX, where he oversaw financial management of multiple medical centers, clinics and physician groups and was recognized as Ardent CFO of the Year.

“We welcome Lorenzo to Cottage Health and Santa Barbara,” Kristin Tufvesson, Senior Vice President & Chief Financial Officer, said. “His extensive knowledge of healthcare finance and proven leadership experience will be instrumental in providing oversight and strategic direction to ensure Cottage Health’s fiscal responsibility and continue strong financial stewardship to help grow programs and services for the community. We are very fortunate to have him in this important leadership position.”

Bilingual report — Economic Development Collaborative (EDC) — NEW COVID-19 Prevention Non-Emergency Regulations

by Community Contributor • February 7, 2023 • Comments Off

On December 15, 2022, the Occupational Safety and Health Standards Board voted to adopt non-emergency COVID-19 prevention regulations. These regulations took effect on February 3, 2023 and will remain in effect for two years after the effective date, except for the recordkeeping subsections that will remain in effect for three years.

These regulations include some of the same requirements found in the COVID-19 Prevention Emergency Temporary Standards (ETS), as well as new provisions aimed at making it easier for employers to provide consistent protections to workers and allow for flexibility if changes are made to guidance in the future from the California Department of Public Health.

Note: These regulations apply to most workers in California who are not covered by the Aerosol Transmissible Diseases standard.

Bilingual report — County of Ventura reaches settlement with CoLAB regarding 2024 General Plan

by Community Contributor • February 7, 2023 • Comments Off

The County of Ventura (“County”), the Ventura County Coalition of Labor, Agriculture and Business (CoLAB), and the Ventura County Agricultural Association (VCAA) are pleased to announce the settlement of CoLAB’s and VCAA’s lawsuit challenging the County’s approval of the 2040 Ventura County General Plan (General Plan). Resolution of the lawsuit resulted from constructive discussions involving multiple County officials including Agricultural Commissioner Ed Williams, Resource Management Agency Director Kim Prillhart, Planning Director Dave Ward, as well as CoLAB’s Executive Director Louise Lampara, VCAA’s President and General Counsel Robert Roy, and members of Ventura County’s agricultural community.

“Agriculture has played a central role in our County’s history, and it is imperative we work with the agricultural community to ensure it remains a thriving feature of our local community for years to come,” stated Supervisor Matt LaVere, Chair of the Board of Supervisors. “I look forward to continuing conversations about how the County can best support our farmers, ranchers, and farmworkers.”

Bilingual report — Ventura County Public Works Agency Awarded $3.49m Grant for Pedestrian Improvement Project

by Community Contributor • February 7, 2023 • Comments Off

Today the Ventura County Board of Supervisors approved the acceptance of active transportation program cycle 6 grant funds for the Saticoy pedestrian project. This is the second state-sponsored Active Transportation Plan grant awarded to Ventura County Public Works Agency, and the $3.49m grant will be used for the Saticoy Area pedestrian improvement project, which was identified as the top priority project in the Saticoy Active Transportation Plan.

Housing Authority Honors Good Samaritan Shelter as 2022 Outstanding Community Partner of the Year

by Community Contributor • February 7, 2023 • Comments Off

The Housing Authority of the City of Santa Barbara (HACSB) honored Good Samaritan Shelter as its 2022 Outstanding Community Partner of the Year. The Housing Authority created its annual partner award as a way of recognizing and thanking organizations and businesses that help change lives for the better. The supportive services provided to clients through partners such as Good Samaritan Shelter are an essential part of the Housing Authority’s holistic service delivery approach.

Good Samaritan is a key partner in HACSB’s efforts to ensure the community’s most vulnerable clients who are homeless, obtain a safe place to call home. While the Housing Authority provides the housing or rental subsidy with landlords to these individuals or families, Good Samaritan provides the initial services to connect them with HACSB and to further ensure they have services to remain stably housed.

“This partnership has proven so successful that our agency was one of the first Public Housing Authorities to achieve full utilization of the Emergency Housing Vouchers throughout the nation,” said Rob Fredericks, HACSB Executive Director and CEO. “We look forward to crafting further solutions together so that we can locally address homeless issues throughout Santa Barbara.”

Bilingual report — Ventura County Public Works Agency battles a growing problem of illegal dumping that costs taxpayers millions of dollars in clean-up costs

by Community Contributor • February 6, 2023 • Comments Off

Illegal dumping is a serious problem for the communities in Ventura County. Waste poses an environmental threat to both humans and wildlife. Illegal dumping, along with a $3,000 fine plus clean-up costs and community service, can be avoided by locating the proper information on disposal and recycling options. Ventura County Public Works Agency’s “Don’t Dump On Me, VC!” campaign encourages the community to keep Ventura County beautiful by providing information on simple and easy ways to dispose of waste.

Economic Development Collaborative (EDC) — Free event and webinar schedule

by Community Contributor • February 6, 2023 • Comments Off

FREE BUSINESS RESOURCES FAIR

February 15 @ 11:00 am

CLICK HERE TO REGISTER

Bilingual report — Ventura County Language Accessibility Advisory Committee (LAAC) Accepting New Applications for 2023

by Community Contributor • February 6, 2023 • Comments Off

The Ventura County Elections Division is seeking applications for its Language Accessibility Advisory Committee (LAAC). This committee is part of the federal and state-mandated outreach requirements to ensure all voters are included in the election process.

Ventura County’s diverse community of voters includes those who speak Spanish, Chinese, Vietnamese, Tagalog and Gujarati proficiently but who may be less practiced in English. Elections is looking for volunteers who have experience with these language-diverse communities and are also interested in elections, to provide insight and ideas on how to best serve these communities. The LAAC will be reviewing past distribution of election information and materials and discuss the direct accessibility for all Ventura County voters.

$412,500 distributed to 55 entrepreneurs in Santa Barbara County through WEV’s Emprendimiento Program

by Community Contributor • February 6, 2023 • Comments Off

On January 26th, Women’s Economic Ventures (WEV) hosted an Award Ceremony at the Santa Barbara Library Faulkner Gallery and distributed $412,500 to entrepreneurial Hispanic and Indigenous Santa Barbara County community members. Fifty-five Emprendimiento Program participants successfully completed WEV’s free, 8-week business training program taught in Spanish and applied for grant funding. Each graduate received a $7,500 microgrant award to grow their existing small business. Emprendimiento Program information, including enrollment for the upcoming Ventura County cohort, visit www.wevonline.org/classes-resources/emprendimiento/ .

Eric Seale Joins Cottage Health Board of Directors

by Community Contributor • February 6, 2023 • Comments Off

Eric Seale has joined the volunteer Board of Directors for Cottage Health, a not-for-profit leader in providing advanced medical care to California’s Central Coast region.

Seale is a managing partner at Accufy Analytics, a financial software firm specializing in renewable energy financing structures. He holds a master’s degree in finance from the MIT Sloan School of Management in Cambridge, Massachusetts, and a bachelor’s degree in electrical engineering and computer science from Princeton University in New Jersey.

Bilingual report — County of Ventura News update for Feb. 3

by Community Contributor • February 3, 2023 • Comments Off

FEMA Individual Assistance for Storm Recovery Efforts

The January storms resulted in widespread damage across Ventura County, prompting Sheriff Jim Fryhoff to sign a Proclamation of Local Emergency. This proclamation was later ratified by the Ventura County Board of Supervisors and sent to the California Governor requesting his support for the Major Disaster Declaration. Subsequently, and with unanimous support of local congressional delegates, a Major Disaster Declaration was authorized by President Biden, to include Ventura County. This Major Disaster Declaration is key to activating various disaster assistance programs for residents, businesses and public agencies. As a result of those efforts, we are excited to announce that Ventura County has been awarded a Major Disaster Declaration and area residents may be eligible for FEMA Individual Assistance, as well as assistance from other state and federal agencies.

How to apply:

Save the Date: Santa Barbara’s Flagship Earth Day Festival Returns to Alameda Park April 29 and 30, 2023

by Amigos805.com • February 2, 2023 • Comments Off

Two-day festival includes the longest running green car show in the U.S. SANTA BARBARA — After a three-year hiatus, Earth Day returns to Alameda Park on Saturday, April 29 from 11am to 7pm and Sunday, April 30 from 11am to…

Bilingual report — Economic Development Collaborative (EDC) — BEWARE of SBA Related Scams

by Community Contributor • February 2, 2023 • Comments Off

Recently, people have been receiving emails and/or calls from people claiming to be from the Small Business Administration offering “Economic Injury Disaster Loan (EIDL) Forgiveness”.

EIDL loans CANNOT be forgiven and there is NO EIDL forgiveness program. Please be cautious of anyone reaching out claiming that they can provide loan forgiveness.

REMEMBER: DO NOT provide personal and financial data to anyone you don’t know!

Helpful Tips

Farm Bureau of Ventura County — Upcoming events in VC!

by Community Contributor • February 2, 2023 • Comments Off

The Center for Economic Research and Forecasting (CERF) at California Lutheran University will present the latest Ventura County economic forecast at the County’s premier networking event. CERF will provide in-depth analysis of the county’s economic performance through COVID-19 and into the post-pandemic environment. CERF will also present its award-winning forecasts for the United States and California. The event will provide important context for individuals and organizations operating in the current policy environment. Featured speakers will include: Kimberly Strassel, member of The Wall Street Journal editorial board, and Matthew Fienup, Executive Director of CERF.

UCSB — The Current — ‘When Flood Follows Fire’ and more news, events

by Community Contributor • February 2, 2023 • Comments Off

Geographers, climate scientists and ecologists weigh in on the risks of debris flows following large storms.

CLU School of Management — Announcing the Keynote Speaker & Panelists!

by Community Contributor • February 2, 2023 • Comments Off

Susana Cruickshank
President of the Centre for International Cooperation and Public Management Studies (CECIG)
Susana Cruickshank currently directs the civil society organization Centre for International Cooperation and Public Management Studies (CECIG), where she works on projects that accompany the day laborer population in the states of Morelos and San Luis Potosí and, as part of the “National Network of Day Labourers and Agricultural Day Labourers,” in Oaxaca, Sinaloa, Guanajuato, Chiapas, Guerrero, and other states. Her work at CECIG includes extensive research to produce comprehensive diagnoses and proposals on agricultural day laborers’ living, working, and wage conditions.

Bilingual report — Cottage Health Launches Spanish Virtual Care

by Community Contributor • February 1, 2023 • Comments Off

To help increase access to care, Cottage Health is excited to announce that Cottage Virtual Care is now offered in Spanish. Launching today for California residents, Cottage Virtual Care – Spanish is always open, offering 24/7 coverage for virtual care visits.

Anyone can visit cottagehealth.org/atencion-virtual using a smartphone, tablet or computer to start a visit in Spanish. Patients start by creating an account and entering their symptoms and health information. Choose from an online interview or have a video consultation with a Cottage Health provider. Within an hour, users receive a treatment plan, and – if needed – prescriptions are automatically sent to a pharmacy of choice.

CLU School of Management — Upward — Community Newsletter

by Community Contributor • February 1, 2023 • Comments Off

California Lutheran University’s School of Management continues to provide a stimulating environment for our learners and the community around us, even in these unusual times. Today, we are once again happy to share a selection of exciting news, updates, and upcoming events with our communities in Southern California and beyond.

We encourage you to stay current on what’s going on at the School of Management by following our Showcase page on LinkedIn.

37th Annual California Strawberry Festival Call for Applicants: Makers of Unique, Quality Handcrafted Artwork and Craft items

by Community Contributor • February 1, 2023 • Comments Off

The 37th Annual California Strawberry Festival is accepting applications from individual makers of quality, handcrafted works by artists and crafters for this year’s festival taking place May 20 and 21 at the festival’s new location, the Ventura County Fairgrounds. The deadline to submit an application is February 13.

January/February 2023 Friendly Finch Friendship Center’s Bi-Monthly Newsletter

by Community Contributor • February 1, 2023 • Comments Off

Dear Families & Friends,

As we embrace the new year… I always choose a word to set my intentions and expectations for the year ahead, in 2023 my word is “Imagine.” Not just because I love the Beatles and John Lennon, however “Imagine” is a reflection on 2022 and hopes for the year 2023.

“Imagine all the people…”
I have high hopes for this new year. 2023 is the year of reconnection and to “come together” after all these difficult times due to the pandemic. I’m so thrilled that once again our Festival of Hearts will be an “in person” event after a two-year hiatus. I believe there have been missed opportunities and we’re hungry for this reconnection. It seems as though we used to ‘meet-up’ more often and we were always going from point A to B. As crazy as this may sound I kind of miss it. We are back in the world, needing to reconnect. This year I believe is the time to reassess how we do that and what type of world we truly want to be part of.

California unveils bold plan to sustainably manage pests and eliminate high-risk pesticides by 2050

by Community Contributor • January 30, 2023 • Comments Off

State leaders on Jan. 26 unveiled a roadmap of ambitious goals and actions to accelerate California’s transition to sustainable pest management and eliminate prioritized high-risk pesticides by 2050. The Sustainable Pest Management Roadmap for California (SPM Roadmap) was developed by a cross-sector Work Group of stakeholders facilitated by the Department of Pesticide Regulation (DPR) with the California Environmental Protection Agency (CALEPA) and the California Department of Food and Agriculture (CDFA). It charts a course toward sustainable pest management in agricultural and urban settings. Documents available at https://www.cdpr.ca.gov/docs/sustainable_pest_management_roadmap/

Bilingual report — County of Ventura announces new scholarship for EV workforce development

by Community Contributor • January 30, 2023 • Comments Off

Ventura County Regional Energy Alliance (VCREA) and Central Coast Clean Cities Coalition (C5) are pleased to announce the “Power Your Future” Scholarship, open to all state-certified general electricians in the central coast tri-county region.

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