Category: Business

Sweet Sixteen: Port of Hueneme earns prestigious Excellence in Financial Reporting Award for 16th straight year

by Community Contributor • August 14, 2026 • Comments Off

PORT HUENEME — The Government Finance Officers Association of the United States and Canada (GFOA) has awarded the Certificate of Achievement for Excellence in Financial Reporting to the Oxnard Harbor District – Port of Hueneme for the sixteenth consecutive year. This year’s award, which recognizes the strength of the Port’s comprehensive financial report for the fiscal year that ended on June 30, 2025, is the highest form of recognition teams can achieve in governmental accounting and financial reporting.

“We are honored to receive this recognition because we know accountability matters,” said Jason Hodge, President of the Oxnard Harbor District Board of Commissioners. “We prioritize accuracy and transparency and do all we can to serve as a vital economic engine for our region.”

Ten Little Graduates, One Big Milestone: LEAP’s Lompoc Children’s Center hosts inaugural Preschool Graduation

by Community Contributor • August 14, 2026 • Comments Off

More than 60 family members gathered to celebrate the graduating preschoolers as they received their promotion certificates and goodie bags, proudly smiled for family photos, and shared cake after the ceremony. This fall, the students will continue their educational journeys at Miguelito Elementary School, Clarence Ruth Elementary School, La Cañada Elementary School, and Buena Vista Elementary School.

Two new members join the Ventura College Foundation Board

by Community Contributor • August 14, 2026 • Comments Off

VENTURA — New board member Denise Sindelar is the founder and principal project manager of Sindelar Art Consulting in Ventura. …

As the new Associated Students of Ventura College (ASVC) President, Briana Becerra serves on the foundation board, acting as the primary liaison between students and the college and district administration. Becerra, a communication major, also serves as the official spokesperson for ASVC and the broader Ventura College student body.

Friendship Center Adult Day Care Center in Santa Barbara — Throwback Thursday!

by Community Contributor • August 14, 2026 • Comments Off

This year, we’re celebrating 50 years of serving our community, and this week marks another special milestone in our journey.

Forty-seven years ago, Friendship Center officially became a registered nonprofit organization, laying the foundation for the organization we know and love today.

For five decades, Friendship Center has been a place of care, connection, and community for older adults living with dementia and their families. Through the years, our programs have grown and changed, but our commitment to creating a welcoming, compassionate, and dignified place for our members has remained at the heart of everything we do.

Farm Bureau of Ventura County — Agri-Tech Fair VIP Tix now available

by Community Contributor • August 14, 2026 • Comments Off

For a $50+ donation, you’ll unlock our exclusive VIP Package and enjoy special day-of perks, including:

Ventura County Animals Services (VCAS) — Clear the Shelters — FREE adoptions, Saturday 8-22-26!

by Community Contributor • August 14, 2026 • Comments Off

VCAS is participating in Clear the Shelters on Saturday, August 22nd, 2026. This nationwide event is our largest pet adoption event of the year. 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 Saturday, August 22nd!

Work Progressing on 70-Acre Agromin-Limoneira Green Waste Processing Center in Santa Paula

by Community Contributor • August 13, 2026 • Comments Off

SANTA PAULA — The land has been cleared for a 70-acre, state-of-the-art commercial composting center on Limoneira Company property in Santa Paula. The joint venture project by Limoneira Company and Agromin marks an expansion from the existing 15-acre green waste composting site at the location that has been in operation by Agromin since 2004.

The expanded site is expected to begin operations in the second half of 2027 and will be capable of processing about 295,000 tons of organic waste per year into compost and mulch. The current facility, which remains operating while construction is underway, is the only permitted commercial composting center in Ventura County.

Cottage Health listed as a 2026 PEOPLE Companies that Care

by Community Contributor • August 13, 2026 • Comments Off

SANTA BARBARA — Great Place To Work® and PEOPLE magazine have honored Cottage Health as one of the 2026 PEOPLE® Companies that Care. The recognition places Cottage Health among organizations nationwide recognized for their workplace culture and commitment to employees and communities.

The Companies that Care list is highly competitive and is based largely on employee surveys about their workplace experience. Honorees were selected based on their ability to care for employees, families, and the communities where they operate.

Bilingual report — City of Ventura nomination period officially closes for 2026 Municipal Election

by Community Contributor • August 13, 2026 • Comments Off

VENTURA — The City of Ventura has officially concluded the nomination period for candidates seeking election to the Ventura City Council in the November 3, 2026, General Municipal Election.

The nomination period for City Council Districts 1, 4, 5, and 6 closed at 5:00 p.m. on Friday, August 7. Because the incumbent in District 6 did not file for re-election, the nomination period for District 6 was extended for five days and closed today, Wednesday, August 12, at 5:00 p.m., in accordance with the California Elections Code.

Ventura Land Trust — Shop our Wild & Scenic Film Festival Silent Auction from home!

by Community Contributor • August 13, 2026 • Comments Off

The Wild & Scenic Film Festival silent auction is going online! The Wild & Scenic film festival is almost here and this year, you can shop our famous silent auction, right from your living room!

Starting August 15 at 8:00 a.m., you’ll have two full weeks to bid on an exciting selection of items and experiences—all from the comfort of home. Find your favorites, place your bids, and help support Ventura Land Trust while you shop. Let the bidding begin!

Housing Authority of the City of Santa Barbara (HACSB) graduates 14 resident teens from Summer program

by Community Contributor • August 12, 2026 • Comments Off

SANTA BARBARA — The Housing Authority of the City of Santa Barbara (HACSB) recently celebrated the graduation of 14 students from its free, four-week Preparación, Bienestar y Cultura (PBC) summer program. Designed for HACSB residents entering grades 9–12, the program equips students with the tools, resources, and experiences needed to prepare for college, careers, and future success. Since its launch four years ago, 65 students have completed the program.

PBC provides a well-rounded experience that promotes educational achievement, social-emotional wellness, and cultural awareness. Throughout the four-week program, students participate in college tours, educational field trips, community service projects, and interactive workshops. Participants also earn community service hours and receive a backpack filled with school supplies to help them begin the academic year prepared.

Bilingual report — CenCal Health recognizes local health centers for expanding access to care across the Central Coast

by Community Contributor • August 12, 2026 • Comments Off

SANTA BARBARA — From farmworker families and tribal communities to children receiving care at school and people facing housing challenges, federally qualified health centers across the Central Coast provide residents with essential health services. During National Health Center Week, Aug. 2-8, CenCal Health, the Medi-Cal managed care plan for Santa Barbara and San Luis Obispo counties, is recognizing five health center partners whose work helps expand access to care across the region.

“Health centers are often the first place people turn when they need care, and for many families, they are a trusted ally at every stage of life,” said Marina Owen, CEO of CenCal Health. “Their work extends beyond the exam room, helping neighbors navigate health challenges, access supportive services and build a foundation for long-term well-being.”

Mitch Rosenberg again named among Southern California’s Top Financial Security Professionals by Forbes

by Community Contributor • August 12, 2026 • Comments Off

THOUSAND OAKS — Mitch Rosenberg, CFP®, CLU®, MSFS, AEP® CEPA®, AIF®, of the San Fernando Valley Office of New York Life has recently been named to the Forbes | Shook Best-in-State Financial Security Professionals 2026 list. Rosenberg was ranked #8 among financial security professionals in Southern California, recognized for the trusted guidance he provides to individuals, families, and business owners as they navigate life’s biggest financial decisions.

Economic Development Collaborative (EDC) free event and webinar schedule

by Community Contributor • August 11, 2026 • Comments Off

STRATEGIC INTELLIGENCE: LEARN ANYTHING FASTER WITH NOTEBOOKLM

August 11 @ 10:00 am

Successful businesses make better decisions because they have better information. In this webinar, you’ll learn how to use NotebookLM to conduct competitive analysis, refine pricing, accelerate SEO and AEO, and synthesize large amounts of research into simple summaries and action steps. You’ll also learn how to use AI to create executive briefs, reports, and slide decks quickly, helping you make smarter strategic decisions in less time. This session is ideal for business owners looking to leverage AI for research, planning, and strategic growth. Price: FREE.

CLICK HERE TO REGISTER

Community Environmental Council (CEC) — Planning Your Fall Meetings?

by Community Contributor • August 11, 2026 • Comments Off

Whether you’re planning a board meeting, strategic retreat, volunteer training, film screening, public forum, or year-end gathering, The Environmental Hub provides a welcoming space designed to help mission-driven organizations connect, collaborate, and inspire action.

Located on State Street in the heart of Santa Barbara, The Hub features flexible meeting spaces, built-in AV, a catering kitchen, and competitive non-profit pricing. Every booking also supports the Community Environmental Council’s work to advance climate solutions across the Central Coast.

Santa Barbara Museum of Art — Basil Kincaid Visits SBMA for Talk, Artist Workshop

by Community Contributor • August 11, 2026 • Comments Off

Basil Kincaid, whose work is featured in the exhibition Remixed, joins SBMA Assistant Curator Lauren Karazija, to explore ancestry, connection and conversation. Crafted from salvaged fabrics, quilts offer far more than physical warmth—they retain the indelible traces of past lives. Describing quilting as a “spiritual technology,” Kincaid engages in a dialogue across time and space through lived-in materials charged with the enduring energy of loved ones. Tickets are selling quickly; reserve yours today at sbma.net.

Ventura Music Festival — The Power in Partnership

by Community Contributor • August 11, 2026 • Comments Off

Community partners are essential to the vitality and success of the Ventura Music Festival. Whether through corporate sponsorships that help bring world-class artists to our stage or collaborative programming with fellow cultural organizations, these partnerships strengthen our community and enrich the Festival experience for audiences throughout the region. Simply put, what we do would not be possible without the generosity, vision, and support of these extraordinary partners.

Ventura Harbor Village invites music lovers to experience free seaside live music all month long

by Community Contributor • August 11, 2026 • Comments Off

VENTURA — Sit back, relax and continue to enjoy summer at Ventura Harbor Village with a menagerie of free, family-friendly, live weekly music throughout August 2026 on the seaside Promenade Stage at the waterfront. www.VenturaHarborVillage.com

The ongoing music series showcases a dockside selection of top-notch musicians who present a variety of genres, including Pop, Rock and coastal surf rock. Welcome the perfect coastal day with live music from 1 – 4 PM. Take in a scenic view by the water as talented local musicians set the scene with a mix of lively and laid-back tunes. Whether you’re dining at a waterfront restaurant or simply soaking up the ocean breeze, the vibrant music adds the perfect soundtrack to your visit.

United Way of Ventura County — The latest news for you

by Community Contributor • August 11, 2026 • Comments Off

We are excited to share some of our auction items with you! You’ll want to join us to honor our awardees. You’ll need to join us to bid on our auction items. Regardless of why you come, please come! We can’t wait to see our old friends and meet new ones. All monies raised from our Spirit Awards Gala ensures we can continue serving the underserved in Ventura County.

SBCC Superintendent/President, Dr. Erika Endrijonas, shares gratitude to the campus community for demonstrating strong financial progress

by Community Contributor • August 11, 2026 • Comments Off

“Since I began in August, 2023, the message was clear from the SBCC Board of Trustees: ‘We need to address the structural deficit of the college,’” shared Superintendent/President Dr. Erika Endrijonas, who also sent a thank-you email to all employees. “This meant painful, yet decisive and strategic decisions needed to be made – ones that were not always popular with employees (faculty and staff) – and now, three years later, I have to thank every single employee for their hard work, determination and trust in me and my fellow leaders to get on a trajectory for a healthier financial future for the college. I cannot thank our amazing SBCC team enough … Thank you!”

Cottage Health Emergency Departments earn prestigious Emergency Nurses Association Lantern Award

by Community Contributor • August 11, 2026 • Comments Off

The Lantern Award honors emergency departments that foster collaboration and continuous improvement while maintaining high standards for patient care, safety and staff engagement. SBCH and SYVCH are among 126 emergency departments selected for the recognition this year.

“This recognition reflects the extraordinary skill, compassion and teamwork our emergency department staff bring to every patient, every day,” said Laura Canfield, Chief Nursing Officer at Cottage Health. “Their commitment to patients and to one another is reflected in the high-quality emergency care they provide every day.”

Humane Society of Ventura County welcomes Jessica Pfahler as new director of development

by Community Contributor • August 11, 2026 • Comments Off

Pfahler brings more than 10 years of experience in development and fundraising to HSVC. Most recently, she served as director of alumni relations and annual giving at the University of Redlands, where she led a collaborative strategy uniting alumni relations and annual giving efforts, and provided strategic direction to the university’s alumni board. Prior to that role, she served as the university’s director of annual giving, overseeing a team focused on achieving fundraising and alumni participation goals

Santa Barbara Museum of Art to present 2027 Gala on Feb. 20. Sponsorships are available but going fast

by Community Contributor • August 11, 2026 • Comments Off

WHAT: The third annual Santa Barbara Museum of Art Gala, formerly known as the Gilded Gala, is an evening of timeless elegance in celebration of the Santa Barbara Museum of Art’s commitment to art, education, and community. This signature fundraising event brings the community together to support the Museum’s mission of integrating art into our lives.

Museum of Ventura County — What’s New & What’s Next at MVC

by Community Contributor • August 11, 2026 • Comments Off

Visit the Museum of Ventura County for FREE this August! Thanks to the generous support of Linda and John Zaruka and MVC Friends, all visitors can enjoy free admission throughout the month.

Community Environmental Council (CEC) — Strengthening Our Team for the Work Ahead

by Community Contributor • August 11, 2026 • Comments Off

At the Community Environmental Council (CEC), our impact depends on people who bring the expertise, leadership, and commitment needed to advance practical climate solutions across the Central Coast.

We’re pleased to welcome two new members to CEC’s Board of Directors, Angela Antenore and Dr. Paasha Mahdavi. Together, they bring deep experience in environmental justice, public policy, governance, and organizational leadership that will help guide CEC’s work in the years ahead.

We’re also excited to welcome three new staff members whose expertise will strengthen programs and partnerships across our region: Development Officer Renee Freeman, Climate-Smart Agriculture Program Manager Brian Sweeney, and Climate Projects Associate Sachi Shiroma.

My Way Home — Don’t Miss Our Upcoming Workshops!

by Community Contributor • August 11, 2026 • Comments Off

Whether you’re preparing to buy your first home, looking to strengthen your finances, or want to learn how to protect your home and assets, we have a class for you! Join us for our upcoming workshops and gain valuable knowledge, resources, and guidance to help you reach your goals.

Check out our upcoming dates and register today!

Registration continues as Allan Hancock College prepares to begin fall classes on Aug. 17

by Community Contributor • August 10, 2026 • Comments Off

SANTA MARIA — As the start of the fall semester approaches, Allan Hancock College is encouraging students to take advantage of the opportunity to enroll before classes begin Aug. 17. With hundreds of credit and noncredit courses available, students can explore new interests, prepare for transfer, earn a certificate or train for an in-demand career.

“Education has the power to change lives, and every semester is an opportunity for students to take the next step toward their future,” said Hancock Superintendent/President Kevin G. Walthers, Ph.D. “Our faculty and staff are ready to help students make the most of that opportunity.”

Bilingual report — Economic Development Collaborative (EDC) — City of Ventura Business Assistance Loan Fund

by Community Contributor • August 10, 2026 • Comments Off

Having trouble viewing this email? Click here
Para leer este boletín en español, haga clic aquí.

Bilingual report — Ventura City Council election update

by Community Contributor • August 10, 2026 • Comments Off

VENTURA — The City of Ventura announces that Councilmember Jim Duran, District 6, did not file nomination papers to seek re-election by the close of the nomination period.

Pursuant to California Elections Code section 10225, because the incumbent did not file nomination papers by the close of the nomination period at 5:00 p.m. on Friday, August 7, 2026, the nomination period for the District 6 City Council seat is automatically extended five calendar days. Eligible candidates, other than the incumbent, may file nomination papers until 5:00 p.m. on Wednesday, August 12, 2026.

Music Academy of the West in Santa Barbara — Announcing the 2026 Winners of the Marilyn Horne Song Competition

by Community Contributor • August 10, 2026 • Comments Off

SANTA BARBARA — The Music Academy of the West is proud to announce the winners of the 2026 Marilyn Horne Song Competition, recognizing the extraordinary artistry and collaboration of its 2026 Lehrer Vocal Institute fellows. This cornerstone event of the Summer Music Festival & School offers young musicians a platform to shine through world-class performance, interpretation, and musical partnership.

Bilingual report — Ventura County — List of Elected Offices in Extended Nomination Period for November 3, 2026 General Election

by Community Contributor • August 10, 2026 • Comments Off

VENTURA COUNTY — Ventura County Clerk-Recorder and Registrar of Voters Michelle Ascencion announced the extension of the nomination period for the following offices that are scheduled to be voted on in the November 3, 2026 General Election. Per state law (CA Elec Code § 8027), the nomination period for the below offices is extended when an eligible incumbent officer does not file nomination papers before the August 7, 2026, 5:00 PM deadline.

Nominations for these offices have a five-day extension period that closes on Wednesday, August 12, 2026, at 5 PM:

Guest Commentary — Ventura County Taxpayers Association (VCTA) — Ventura County Office of Education Update — Accountability

by Community Contributor • August 10, 2026 • Comments Off

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

Structural Governance Gaps Are the Center Question

El Concilio Family Services in Oxnard — Celebrate with us at the 36th Latino Leadership Awards on Oct. 2. RSVP NOW! Sponsorships available

by Community Contributor • August 7, 2026 • Comments Off

OXNARD — El Concilio Family Services invites you to join us as we celebrate 36 years of recognizing exceptional Latino leadership. Featuring the inspiring artwork “Healing in Color” as seen through the Eyes of Youth, this special evening brings together community partners, supporters, and leaders committed to creating a brighter future. We hope you’ll join us on Oct. 2, 2026, to honor our award recipients and invest in programs that make a lasting difference in the lives of local families.

Port of Hueneme — DOCK TALK – Community Newsletter – July 2026 Recap

by Community Contributor • August 7, 2026 • Comments Off

The Port of Hueneme was proud to co-host Stars, Stripes & Sounds: America 250 alongside the City of Oxnard and the Oxnard Downtowners Foundation at Plaza Park. The community celebration commemorated the nation’s 250th
anniversary with local bands, classic cars, and family activities.

CAUSE — Join Unidos 805 and build power this election season

by Community Contributor • August 7, 2026 • Comments Off

This fall, we have the power to push back against cuts to essential services, address the skyrocketing cost of living, and respond to the fear our communities have faced at the hands of ICE and the federal government over the past year and a half. To do so, we have to make sure people get out and make their voices heard at the ballot box.

CAUSE is a founding member of Unidos 805, a coalition dedicated to building an intergenerational movement that creates lasting political, social, environmental, and economic change across the Central Coast. Together, we’re growing the collective power of our organizations, our leaders, and our communities to shape a future where everyone can thrive.

With a major election just months away, Unidos 805 is hiring phone bankers and canvassers to help build the people-powered movement needed to advance policies rooted in our communities’ values.

Bilingual report — Santa Paula Police Dept. — Back to School traffic safety awareness

by Community Contributor • August 7, 2026 • Comments Off

SANTA PAULA — As the beginning of the new school year approaches next week, the Santa Paula Police Department reminds residents, parents, students, and school staff to practice caution and safety in observance of drivers, pedestrians, bicyclists, and school buses.

The first day of school is August 12, 2026. Vehicle and pedestrian traffic will be impacted during drop-off and pickup times. Here are helpful tips for back to school traffic safety:

Friendship Adult Day Care Center — The Friendly Finch — August 2026

by Community Contributor • August 7, 2026 • Comments Off

Three years, woohoo!

On July 17th, I celebrated my third anniversary as Executive Director of Friendship Center. Fittingly, it was spent surrounded by longtime friends, new supporters, our remarkable staff and Board, and so many of you at our second annual Summer Polo Soirée. It was a fabulous afternoon and a wonderful reminder of just how much this community believes in our mission. Thank you for making it such a joyful success!

The three-year mark in my role, and almost ninth year of being as part of the Friendship Center family, has me feeling particularly reflective about how I first showed up here.

Community Environmental Council (CEC)’s Fall Climate Stewards course starts Sept. 15, more upcoming events

by Community Contributor • August 7, 2026 • Comments Off

Since launching the course, CEC has certified 256 CEC Climate Stewards — a growing, interconnected network of alumni who are putting what they’ve learned into practice. This diverse mix of educators, non-profit leaders, students, retirees, business owners, and climate allies are tackling challenges ranging from local policy change to plastic pollution to wildfire resilience.

Hot August happenings in downtown Oxnard…

by Community Contributor • August 7, 2026 • Comments Off

CLICK HERE FOR THE ENTIRE NEWSLETTER

Ventura Harbor Village celebrates the Summer with waterfront & island adventures, live entertainment, whale watching, coastal dining, shopping & relaxation

by Community Contributor • August 5, 2026 • Comments Off

VENTURA — Summer is in full swing at Ventura Harbor Village, Southern California’s premier seaside destination where visitors can savor ocean breezes, fresh coastal cuisine, boutique shopping, family-friendly entertainment, and unforgettable adventures on the water. Whether planning a day trip or weekend getaway, Ventura Harbor Village offers the perfect blend of relaxation and recreation along Ventura’s picturesque waterfront. www.VenturaHarborVillage.com

California Lutheran University School of Management — Explore CESI’s Ventura County Social Issues Database

by Community Contributor • August 5, 2026 • Comments Off

Ventura County, like many other places in California, brings affluence and poverty together across its neighborhoods. Deep, persistent inequalities continue to threaten the future of Ventura County’s children and communities.

The following infographic data from the CESI Database exposes some of these critical gaps. Take a look at the information provided, and do not forget that poverty is a byproduct of our economic system and can be eliminated by investing in ourselves and, most importantly, in our children.

Bilingual report — August 2026 County of Santa Barbara Newsletter

by Community Contributor • August 5, 2026 • Comments Off

Guest commentary — Ventura County Taxpayers Association (VCTA) — Should you be concerned by the clear slowdown in labor force growth in Ventura County?

by Community Contributor • August 5, 2026 • Comments Off

The labor force represents all residents in the jurisdiction who voluntarily seek employment. Not all residents seek employment because they (1) are not of age, (2) are retired, (3) are not capable of working, or (4) simply choose not to participate in the workforce.

Teatro de las Américas announces — Nube Obscura | Jumpers | Patty Soria En Concierto | Nos Traen Cortitios 2026

by Community Contributor • August 3, 2026 • Comments Off

Nube Obscura ¡El cortometraje realizado durante el Taller de Cine del Teatro de las Américas 2025 ya está disponible para verse en YouTube! The short film produced during the Teatro de las Américas 2025 Film Workshop is now available to…

Cottage Rehabilitation Hospital’s Junior Wheelchair Sports Camp wraps up transformative week of sports, confidence and connection

by Community Contributor • August 3, 2026 • Comments Off

SANTA BARBARA — Cottage Rehabilitation Hospital recently concluded another successful Junior Wheelchair Sports Camp, bringing together youth with physical disabilities for a week of adapted sports and recreation at the UCSB Recreation Center. Held July 13-16, the camp welcomed approximately…

Ventura County Fire Department announces Kylie Tillema as Fire Marshal

by Community Contributor • August 3, 2026 • Comments Off

“Kylie brings outstanding technical expertise, proven leadership, and a deep commitment to public safety,” said Fire Chief Dustin Gardner. “Her experience in fire prevention, code enforcement, and community risk reduction, combined with her passion for developing future fire service professionals, makes her an exceptional addition to our leadership team. Fire prevention is one of the most effective ways we protect our communities, and I am confident Kylie will help us continue building a safer, more resilient Ventura County.”

Bilingual report — Santa Clara River Valley Communities to host Health Care Future Forum

by Community Contributor • July 31, 2026 • Comments Off

VENTURA — As the Ventura County Health Care Agency (HCA) approaches the August 18, 2026, Board of Supervisors meeting, HCA is finalizing its strategic review of continued health care service options for the Santa Clara River Valley (SCRV) and Santa Paula Hospital (SPH). With state-mandated 2030 seismic deadlines approaching, this work provides a timely opportunity to redesign healthcare delivery to be more sustainable, accessible, and responsive to residents.

HCA has engaged the consulting firm Health Management Associates (HMA) to support the health care planning for SCRV. HMA is a national independent research and consulting firm that focuses on publicly-financed health care.

One Step A La Vez in Fillmore — Back to School Backpack Drive

by Community Contributor • July 31, 2026 • Comments Off

… One Step A La Vez is passionate about serving the needs of our community, particularly those of underserved teens and families who may lack the necessary resources to excel in their education. With the new school year fast approaching, we are gearing up to provide backpacks filled with essential school supplies to teens in need. Our goal is not only to equip these children with the tools they need to succeed academically but also to alleviate some of the financial burdens faced by their families.

Rachel Guettler Joins California Lutheran University as Vice President for Growth and Advancement

by Community Contributor • July 31, 2026 • Comments Off

THOUSAND OAKS — For over 20 years, Rachel Guettler, Ed.D., has built her career in philanthropy, student enrollment and leadership coaching. She will bring this expertise to her new position as the vice president for growth and advancement at California Lutheran University. Guettler will start Aug. 17 as the senior leader responsible for advancing the university’s enrollment strategies and leading institutional growth through fundraising, partnerships and external engagement.

“A leader in development and growth in higher education, Rachel has a strong mission-driven approach and background in relationship-building that aligns with Cal Lutheran’s vision and values,” said Laureen Hill, M.D., MBA, chief strategy and growth officer.

LEAP — For Art’s Sake: Process Art builds lifelong skills for preschoolers

by Community Contributor • July 30, 2026 • Comments Off

GOLETA — Tiny hands covered in paint. A sculpture made of sticks, feathers, and toilet paper rolls. A masterpiece that looks nothing like anyone else’s. At LEAP’s Children’s Centers, this isn’t a random art activity—it’s a strategic approach to early childhood development.

On July 28, LEAP’s Process Art Show at its Phelps Children’s Center showcased artwork created by children ranging from two years old through Pre-K. Students experimented with materials, made their own choices, solved problems, and expressed their ideas freely—creating one-of-a-kind works of art.

At LEAP, children engage in both product art and process art, each offering unique opportunities for learning and development.

Friendship Adult Day Care Center in Santa Barbara — You Helped Us Surpass Our Goal—Thank YOU!

by Community Contributor • July 30, 2026 • Comments Off

Thank you for making Friendship Center’s 50th Anniversary Summer Polo Soirée an incredible success!
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Together, our Summer Polo Soirée and Summer Campaign raised over $75,000, exceeding our fundraising goal and helping provide compassionate daytime care for older adults living with dementia in South Santa Barbara County.

Hospice Of Santa Barbara welcomes new board member, Mindy Denson

by Community Contributor • July 30, 2026 • Comments Off

SANTA BARBARA — Hospice of Santa Barbara (HSB) is proud to welcome Mindy Denson as the newest member of its Board of Directors. Denson joins the leadership team with a long history of local engagement and a deep commitment to supporting the organization’s compassionate mission.

Mindy has spent more than 30 years in Santa Barbara working in substance abuse counseling and retail management. Moving from Cleveland, Ohio, Mindy attended UCSB and after completing graduate school, she worked for Santa Barbara and San Mateo Counties counseling individuals and groups with alcohol/drug problems.

Community Environmental Council (CEC) — Building a More Circular Central Coast. See upcoming events

by Community Contributor • July 30, 2026 • Comments Off

Discover how CEC is reducing waste at the source, and how you can help create a circular future.

Guest commentary — Ventura County Taxpayers Association (VCTA) — ‘Why Ventura County Must Vote Yes on Proposition 43’

by Community Contributor • July 30, 2026 • Comments Off

For nearly half a century, Proposition 13 has served as California’s bedrock defense against unsustainable taxation and fiscal overreach. By capping property tax rates and establishing clear supermajority vote requirements for special taxes, voters created a stable framework designed to keep homeowners in their homes and ensure local governments live within their means.

However, over the past decade, judicial rulings have eroded these core taxpayer protections.

Ventura College Foundation raises $7.1 million during ‘Invest in Success’ fundraising campaign

by Community Contributor • July 29, 2026 • Comments Off

VENTURA — The Ventura College Foundation announced it surpassed the $7 million goal of its “Invest in Success” fundraising campaign by $117,289.

The Invest in Success campaign was launched when the Ventura College Foundation Board of Directors approved a plan to sustain the long-term future of the VC Promise Program and Basic Needs Centers.

“Ventura College exists because our community believes that education has the power to transform lives. The outstanding success of the Invest in Success campaign is a powerful reflection of that shared commitment in action. Together, Ventura College, the Ventura College Foundation, and our generous donors are ensuring that financial hardship doesn’t stand between a student and the opportunity to access education and pursue their educational goals,” says Dr. Luca E. Lewis, Ventura College president.

Museum of Contemporary Art Santa Barbara (MCASB) — Culture & Creativity : Arte del Pueblo & 3 Solo Shows Highlights

by Community Contributor • July 29, 2026 • Comments Off

More than 200 local artists, three powerful solo exhibitions, and a community that keeps showing up.

Guest commentary — Trump Administration proposal would slash oil industry cleanup protections and put public lands at risk

by Community Contributor • July 29, 2026 • Comments Off

Proposed rollback comes as BLM considers leasing 36,000 acres in California, including lands bordering Carrizo Plain National Monument. (Public comment due Aug. 24).

CENTRAL COAST — The Bureau of Land Management (BLM) is proposing changes to federal oil and gas leasing regulations that would sharply reduce the financial assurances, or bonding, requirements for drilling companies and expand opportunities to lease public lands for development.

Bilingual report — Ventura County Area Agency on Aging’s Farmers’ Market Discount Cards Distribution begins in August

by Community Contributor • July 29, 2026 • Comments Off

VENTURA — The Ventura County Area Agency on Aging, a division of the Human Services Agency, is starting its annual distribution of discount cards to be used at participating Farmers’ Markets. Adults over the age of 60 who are on a limited income and meet the eligibility guidelines may receive this free benefit.

Cards are only available while supplies last at each distribution point. They can be used to purchase up to $50 in fresh, nutritious, unprocessed, locally grown fruits, vegetables, honey and herbs.

City Impact in Oxnard opens call for exhibitors at Thrive Together 2026

by Community Contributor • July 29, 2026 • Comments Off

OXNARD — City Impact, Inc., a Ventura County-based nonprofit dedicated to serving at-promise youth and families since 1995, today announced that exhibitor tables are now available for local small businesses and vendors at the Thrive Together Awards 2026, the organization’s signature annual celebration of entrepreneurship, innovation and community impact.

The Thrive Together Awards will take place on Thursday, September 24, 2026, from 5:00–9:00 PM at the Museum of Ventura County, 100 E. Main St., Ventura.

Bilingual report — People’s Self Help Housing July 2026 e-newsletter

by Community Contributor • July 29, 2026 • Comments Off

The overwhelmingly bipartisan supported and much awaited 21st Century ROAD to Housing Act is now law and with it comes a raft of improved regulations and access to financing fit, as the name implies, for this century. Those provisions include:

Billions of dollars of unlocked bank equity allowed to invest in low-income housing tax credit funded projects

Reauthorization and reforms of housing production programs.

Increases to FHA multifamily statutory loan limits.

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