SANTA BARBARA — The Housing Authority of the City of Santa Barbara is pleased to announce that Dave Gustafson and Patricia “Pat” Wheatley have been appointed to its Board of Commissioners. As retired Housing and Redevelopment Manager and Assistant Community…
Category: Business
Santa Barbara Museum of Natural History Appoints Dennis Allen as a New Trustee
SANTA BARBARA — Dennis Allen is board Chairman of Allen Construction, a general contracting firm, specializing in environmentally-friendly, custom residential and commercial buildings. Dennis is active in local community organizations, including the local chapter of the American Institute of Architects,…
Centerpoint Mall To Open New Free Indoor Playground on Oct. 27. Joins Lazer Broadcasting to Raise Funds For Children’s Hospital
Oxnard Chamber of Commerce to lead a ribbon-cutting ceremony while students from area schools to enjoy the new indoor playground OXNARD — Centerpoint Mall is set to open its new PlayTime Free Indoor Playground on Friday, October 27 at 11 a.m. To celebrate the…
CenCal Health Earns Excellent Rating and Recognition among California’s Medicaid Plans
SANTA BARBARA — CenCal Health rated in the top 5 percent of Medicaid plans nationally for 2 important areas of care, and in the top 10 percent for an additional 12 areas of care according to the most recent state…
Local Engineers Provide Career Advice at Cal State Northridge
NORTHRIDGE — Two local engineers from Ventura County have made a presentation at California State University, Northridge for career guidance to students. It was arranged by the student chapter of The American Society of Civil Engineers at the University. Engineering students of…
Women’s Economic Ventures Honors Trailblazer and Business of the Year Award Winners at “Empowerment is Priceless” Fundraiser
Annual event raises more than $400,000 to support local entrepreneurs SANTA BARBARA — Women’s Economic Ventures (WEV) welcomed close to 400 guests and raised more than $400,000 at their Empowerment is Priceless event held on October 10th at the Fess Parker…
Ferguson Case Orr Paterson Announces New Partner
VENTURA COUNTY — Ferguson Case Orr Paterson LLP (FCOP), Ventura County’s largest law firm, is pleased to announce that Joshua S. Hopstone has been elevated to partner, beginning Jan. 1, 2018. In his seven years at FCOP, Hopstone has built…
New Board Members Bring Higher Education Experience to EDC-VC
VENTURA COUNTY — Dr. Greg Gillespie, chancellor, Ventura County Community College District and Ysabel Trinidad, vice president for finance and administration at California State University Channel Islands are the newest Economic Development Collaborative–Ventura County board members. “Greg and Ysabel each…
Ferguson Case Orr Paterson Attorney to Receive Ventura County Bar Association’s Public Service Award
VENTURA COUNTY — Ferguson Case Orr Paterson LLP (FCOP) attorney Joseph L. Strohman, Jr. has been named by the Ventura County Bar Association (VCBA) as this year’s recipient of the Ben E. Nordman Public Service Award. The honor is in…
Governor Signs Jackson Bill to Provide Job-Protected Leave for New Parents
SACRAMENTO – In a signing ceremony today focusing on legislation that affects women, children and families and attended by members of the California Legislative Women’s Caucus, Governor Jerry Brown signed a bill by State Senator Hannah-Beth Jackson (D-Santa Barbara) that will allow…
Bill to Extend Solar Thermal Program Signed by Governor Brown
Law Will Incentivize Solar Energy to Reduce Natural Gas Use SACRAMENTO — Governor Brown signed AB 797 (Irwin) into law yesterday afternoon. The bill previously passed the Assembly by a bipartisan vote of 45-19 and the Senate with a bipartisan 30-10…
Small Business Development Center Adds New Advisor who specializes in business, corporate law
CENTRAL COAST — The Small Business Development Center of Ventura and Santa Barbara Counties, which provides free one-on-one consulting to help strengthen the bottom lines of area companies, has added attorney Joyce Wallach as a new consultant to its roster…
Pre-applications for 70 Apartments at Casas De Los Carneros Apartments Affordable Housing Now Being Accepted by Peoples’ Self-Help Housing
GOLETA — As Peoples’ Self-Help Housing continues to work on the Casas De Los Carneros Apartments multi-family housing development, time for prospective renters to apply for a spot in one of the site’s one, two, and three-bedroom apartments is fast-approaching. Scheduled…
San Miguel Families Receive Keys to New Homes Built Through Peoples’ Self-Help Housing Home Ownership Program
SAN MIGUEL — After 14 months of hard work, the big day finally arrived for eight San Miguel families with dreams of home ownership. Thanks to Peoples’ Self-Help Housing’s (PSHH) Owner Builder Program, and a lot of elbow grease, eight…
Heroes of Hospice of Santa Barbara Honored at Awards Luncheon
SANTA BARBARA — Hospice of Santa Barbara was pleased to recognize and celebrate the heroes in our community last Wednesday at its “Jewels by the Sea” luncheon and awards ceremony, held at the Four Seasons Biltmore, Coral Casino. As part of…
Boys & Girls Clubs of Greater Conejo Valley Announce New Chief Executive Officer
AGOURA — The Boys & Girls Clubs of Greater Conejo Valley is pleased to announce the appointment of their new CEO, Dr. Crystal N?one. Before joining the Boys & Girls Clubs, Dr. N?one served as the Chief Executive Officer of…
Nov. 14 — Ventura County Community Development Corporation hosts free credit & budgeting for the holidays workshop
VENTURA COUNTY — With over 54% of consumers using some type of credit and/or loan to finance their holiday expenses it’s easy to see how consumers can get wrapped up in holiday debt. Ventura County Community Development Corporation (VCCDC) hopes to…
Feria de Educación Financiera el 17 de noviembre en Oxnard
OXNARD — Feria de Educación Financiera el 16 y 17 de noviembre en el Consulado de México en Oxnard, 3151 W. 5th St., Oxnard. 805.8738, ext. 131 para más información.
Dec. 1 — MVS School of Business & Economics Speaker Series tackles questions of prescription drug costs and medical ethics
CAMARILLO — Why is the cost of prescription drugs so high? Should the parents of a critically disabled infant be allowed to consent to experimental treatment even if the doctors say no? And when is a prescription for medical marijuana appropriate?…
VCCDC update for Sept. 29
September 2017 From House to Home Client Highlight For Aimee Shapiro her new home is more than just a place it’s the feeling of freedom, independence and peace. Homeownership wasn’t something that Aimee, a single mother of two boys, thought…
EDC-VC Business Line update for Sept. 29
Click here for the entire e-newsletter Chairman’s Message Cheryl Heitmann is EDC-VC board chair and Ventura City Councilwoman Celebrating the Power of Women Entrepreneurs in Ventura County October is National Women’s Small Business Month, which calls us to…
Museum of Ventura County update for Sept. 28
Museum of Ventura County Elects New Board The Museum of Ventura County announced Tuesday that it has elected a new board of directors who will direct the museum’s fundraising, exhibits and programming, connecting the community with the history and culture…
Pacific Premier Banking on Student Futures
CENTRAL COAST — When it comes to building a healthy life filled with opportunity, Pacific Premier is banking on the bright futures of students who live at Peoples’ Self-Help Housing (PSHH) properties. Knowing that being able to live in safe,…
Gold Coast Health Plan Helps Fund the Ventura County Area Agency on Aging’s Fall Prevention Program
Medi-Cal Plan Awards $50,000 to Local Health Care Agency CAMARILLO — Gold Coast Health Plan has awarded $50,000 to the Ventura County Area Agency on Aging’s Fall Prevention Program through its Community Health Investments initiative. The award supports supervisor John C.…
Gold Coast Transit District Presents Contest Winner with New Beach Cruiser
OXNARD — Gold Coast Transit District (GCTD) presented Rebecca Kajumba with her new beach cruiser after her photo was randomly selected as the winner of the District’s Dump the Pump Summer Selfie Contest. Launched in June, the annual Dump the Pump…
EDC-VC’s Small Business Development Center Director Recognized as ‘State Star’
VENTURA COUNTY — Ray Bowman, director of the Small Business Development Center of Ventura and Santa Barbara Counties, recently received the Association of Small Business Development Centers coveted “State Star” Award in recognition of his contributions to the state SBDC program.…
CAPS Media Center update for Sept. 20
News and Events September Radio Orientation/Training will be held September 27 & 28 at 6pm The two-part class will provide you with all the tools and techniques you need to produce your own show. Training sessions are held the 4th Wednesday…
Embassy Suites by Hilton Mandalay Beach Hotel & Resort Announces Appointment of Jacob Anthony Bernard as Executive Chef
OXNARD — The Embassy Suites by Hilton Mandalay Beach Resort is pleased to announce the appointment of Jacob Anthony Bernard as Chef de Cuisine. Bernard has worked for Hilton Hotels since 2014 and recently served as Sous Chef at the Embassy…
Bilingual commentary: The Dilemma of the DREAMers
By David Magallanes / Guest contributor David Magallanes Recently, the unfortunate residents of south Texas and then south Florida knew that storms were brewing and growing before they struck. Similarly, this country’s DREAMers, who had been afforded protection from deportation…
City of Oxnard Cultural and Community Services update for Sept. 14
Visit https://www.oxnard.org for more information September 2017 DEPARTMENT NEWS OXNARD PAL HELPS KIDS START THE SCHOOL YEAR PREPARED! The Oxnard Police Activities League (PAL) recently expanded on its Back-to-School Outreach program by providing free backpacks to students at Haycox School…
Jackson’s SB 63, New Parent Leave Act, Passes Off Senate Floor, Heads to Governor’s Desk
SACRAMENTO — SB 63, a bill authored by State Senator Hannah-Beth Jackson (D-Santa Barbara) to provide 12 weeks of unpaid, job-protected maternity and paternity leave for Californians who work for smaller employers of 20 or more, passed the Assembly floor today on…
Bills Aiming to secure California from Cyberattacks Reach Governor’s Desk
SACRAMENTO – The California State Legislature passed two bills designed to help further secure California’s valuable network from cybercriminals. Assemblymember Jacqui Irwin, Chair of the Select Committee on Cybersecurity, has authored AB 531 and AB 1022, which provides more tools for…
Bill to Extend Solar Thermal Program Passes California Legislature
Bill to Incentivize Solar Energy to Reduce Natural Gas Use Headed to Governor’s Desk SACRAMENTO—The California Legislature passed AB 797 (Irwin) this afternoon. With the bipartisan vote in the Assembly of 45-19 today and the Senate’s bipartisan 30-10 vote on…
Economic Development Collaborative–Ventura County’s SBDC Expands Roster of Advisors
VENTURA COUNTY — The Economic Development Collaborative-Ventura County has added Jay Tsao to its team of 30-plus advisors providing free one-on-one consulting to local businesses to help area companies strengthen and grow their bottom line. Tsao’s expertise in international trade…
Jackson Bills SB 44 and SB 290 Pass Assembly Floor and Head to Governor’s Desk
SACRAMENTO – Two key coastal protection bills authored by State Senator Hannah-Beth Jackson (D-Santa Barbara) , SB 44 (Coastal Oil Wells) and SB 290 (Marine Entanglement), passed the Assembly floor with a 76-0 vote and 60-15 vote, respectively on Sept. 7 Senate…
‘Back to School Drive’ Drops Off Back to School Items at Franklin Elementary
SANTA BARBARA COUNTY — Franklin Elementary School students grinned and giggled as City National Bank and United Way of Santa Barbara County (UWSBC) staff recently outfitted them with backpacks and classroom supplies to get them ready for the new school…
Three Gold Coast Transit District Operators Reach Prestigious Driving Milestones
OXNARD — Gold Coast Transit District (GCTD) recognized three of its bus operators for joining the prestigious One Million Mile Club and Two Million Mile Club, as determined by the National Safety Council, during today’s Board of Directors’ meeting. The former recognizes professional drivers…
Twin Vee PowerCats, Inc. Donates Boat to Boys & Girls Clubs of Greater Conejo Valley
Proceeds of boat raffle to provide financial assistance to local families in need Fort Pierce, FL – Twin Vee PowerCats, Inc. (Symbol: TVPC) pledged the donation of one of their popular boat models to the Boys & Girls Clubs of…
Ferguson Case Orr Paterson Launches New Website
VENTURA COUNTY — Ventura County’s largest law firm, Ferguson Case Orr Paterson, recently launched its new website at www.fcoplaw.com. Designed to offer quick and easy access to essential information, the new site features a more comprehensive profile of the firm’s…
Oct. 12 — Assemblymember Irwin to host a series of Workshops for Women
SACRAMENTO – ssemblymember Jacqui Irwin (D-Thousand Oaks) is hosting a series of workshops aimed at guiding women through current issues that affect them on a daily basis. The workshops are being held at the Ventura County Community Foundation at 4001…
Oct. 18 — Solvang 50 Home Challenge Kicks Off at City Hall
SOLVANG — Solvang residents may be able to take advantage of free home energy assessments, group discounts, cash rebates and low interest financing for home energy efficiency upgrades as part of the 50 Home Challenge. The 50 Home Challenge is…
Oct. 18 — VC BNI presents “Legally Referred #6” a business networking mixer
OXNARD — VC BNI presents “Legally Referred #6” a business networking mixer. Wednesday, October 18, from 5 to 7 pm, at The Law Offices Of Peyman & Rahnama (555 South A Street, Oxnard, Ca.). FREE event open to all. More…
Oct. 18 — Solvang 50 Home Challenge Kick-Off Party – emPower Santa Barbara County
SOLVANG — Enjoy an evening with friends and neighbors to hear how the 50 Home Challenge is improving homes and communities through energy efficiency! The County of Santa Barbara’s emPower program is teaming up with CHERP (Community Home Energy Retrofit…
Oct. 22 — Conejo Dems Learn About Fake Money and All the President’s Bankers
Facebook Twitter Web Upcoming Events for Conejo Dems Conejo Valley Democratic Club Meeting Please Note that the Date and Time of Our Big Fundraiser, The Garden Party, Has Been Changed to: Sunday, October 22nd from 1:00 to 3:00…
Oct. 24 — ‘The Effects of Medi-Cal on Homeownership’ workshop to be held in Oxnard
Free workshop hosted by Ventura County Community Development Corporation VENTURA COUNTY — Under a federal law not widely known to consumers, the State of California must seek repayment from the estates of certain Medi-Cal members after they die. What does this…
Oct. 27 — Global from the Get-Go: Global Manufacturing for Startups Summit Clarifies the Path from Prototype to Market
SANTA BARBARA — Join your entrepreneurial-minded peers at the Global Manufacturing for Startups Summit later this month, hosted by the Santa Barbara City College Scheinfeld Center for Entrepreneurship & Innovation. The Summit will be held from 8:30 a.m. – 2:15…
Oct. 28 — Coastal Housing Partnership to Present Saturday Home Buying Fair at Ventura Beach Marriott
VENTURA — Local employees have the opportunity to get started on their path to home ownership on Saturday, October 28, when nonprofit Coastal Housing Partnership will host a Home Buying Fair at the Ventura Beach Marriott, 2055 Harbor Boulevard, from…
Hygiena expands distribution operations in Latin America
Purchase of PMR and creation of Hygiena Mexico establishes permanent base in Mexico City CAMARILLO — Hygiena, a Warburg Pincus portfolio company that specializes in rapid food safety and environmental sanitation testing, today announced that it has acquired Pruebas Microbiologicas Rapidas (PMR),…
CALSEIA Presents Assemblymember Jacqui Irwin with Legislator of the Year Award
Over 150 Local Workers Traveled to Sacramento to Thank the Southern California Legislator for her Clean Energy Leadership SACRAMENTO — At its annual Solar and Storage Worker Day, the California Solar Energy Industries Association (CALSEIA) honored Assemblymember Jacqui Irwin (D-Thousand Oaks) for…
Heroes in our Community Celebrated at Heroes of Hospice of Santa Barbara Luncheon at the Four Seasons Biltmore, Coral Casino
SANTA BARBARA — Hospice of Santa Barbara is proud and privileged to celebrate the 2017 Heroes of Hospice of Santa Barbara “Jewels by the Sea” at the Four Seasons Biltmore, Coral Casino. This year, the organization will honor the Flower…
Assemblymember Jacqui Irwin, Attorney General Xavier Becerra provide update on child identity theft law
SACRAMENTO — Assemblymember Jacqui Irwin (D-Thousand Oaks) and California Attorney General Xavier Becerra provided an update on child identity theft law (AB 1580), which now allows parents, legal guardians or conservators to freeze the credit of children and incapacitated adults. The Attorney…
Assemblymember Irwin co-hosted Military and Veterans Expo and Job Fair
SACRAMENTO – Assemblymember Jacqui Irwin (D-Thousand Oaks) co-hosted a Military Expo and Job Fair with the Ventura County Military Collaborative on Aug. 26. This was the sixth consecutive year the expo was held and the first that our office hosted the…
Take Advantage of our 2017 Hispanic Heritage Month Special Advertising Offer
Hispanic Heritage Month (September 15 through October 15) is fast approaching and now is the time for you to take advantage of our Special Advertising offer, not only for September-October, but for the rest of the year. Support Amigos805 with our…
Embassy Suites by Hilton Mandalay Beach Hotel & Resort Announces Appointment of Tiffany Davis as General Manager
OXNARD — The Embassy Suites by Hilton Mandalay Beach Resort is pleased to announce the appointment of Tiffany Davis as General Manager. Davis has over 18 years of hospitality experience with Hilton Worldwide. She has served in many managerial positions during…
SurfMedia Communications Announces Three New Team Members
SANTA BARBARA — SurfMedia Communications is pleased to welcome Andy Silverman as a new Account Executive. Silverman has spent the last four and a half years in marketing roles at Montecito Bank & Trust, most recently serving as Marketing Supervisor.…
Latino News Notes: Pew Research Center reports on DACA, immigrant moms, views of Trump
Click here on the entire e-newsletter September 01, 2017 DACA has shielded nearly 790,000 young unauthorized immigrants from deportation Nearly 790,000 young unauthorized immigrants have received work permits and deportation relief through the federal government’s Deferred Action for Childhood Arrivals program…
Jackson Introduces Bill to Address Sexual Harassment in the Venture Capital Industry
SACRAMENTO – Today, State Senator Hannah-Beth Jackson (D-Santa Barbara) announced she will be introducing legislation to prohibit sexual harassment in the venture capital industry. Jackson will be amending a prior bill to address this issue, SB 224, once the California Legislature returns…
Ventura County Civic Alliance update for Aug. 15
Livable Communities Newsletter Vol. 11, No. 43 August 2017 Quick Links – See the Current State of the Region Report – Last Quarter’s Newsletter Join us at the Ventura County Civic Alliance! Welcome to Our Summer 2017 Livable Communities Newsletter! While…
Santa Barbara Neighborhood Clinics Celebrates National Health Center Week with Free Health Screenings and Vaccinations
National Campaign Celebrates the Key to Healthier Communities SANTA BARBARA — On Monday, August 14th Santa Barbara Neighborhood Clinics (SBNC) will hold a “Pop Up” Clinic where William Sansum Diabetes Center will provide free blood pressure and hemoglobin A1c screenings.…
Three Associates Promoted to Partner at Beach Cowdrey Jenkins
OXNARD — The law firm Beach Cowdrey Jenkins, LLP, has promoted three of its attorneys to the position of partner. Darryl Hottinger, Mindee Stekkinger and David Loy, who were each promoted from the position of associate, all practice in the…
Reiter Affiliated Companies and Oxnard College Co-Host Semillas Para El Éxito: Una Tarde de Aprendizaje
Photos by Anthony Sandoval from ARS Visuals See video below Local Business and Community College Collaborate To Encourage Early Planning For College and Increase Awareness of Resources Available to First Generation Students OXNARD — To help families and their children learn about…
Gold Coast Health Plan Appoints New Chief Medical Officer
Veteran Health Care Professional Selected for Medi-Cal Plan’s CMO Role CAMARILLO — Gold Coast Health Plan (GCHP) today announced that Dr. Nancy Wharfield has assumed the role of chief medical officer (CMO) effective immediately. Wharfield had previously served as the Plan’s associate…
Museum of Ventura County update for Aug. 10
A message from the Interim Executive Director Once again, the Museum owes you – our patrons, volunteers, members and benefactors – a debt of gratitude for your stalwart support. A crowd of about 40 Museum supporters attended the Ventura City Council…
WEV’s New League of Extraordinary Women Kickoff Unites Local Women to Strengthen Women Business Owners in Ventura County
VENTURA — Women’s Economic Ventures (WEV) hosted a group of influential women leaders from Ventura County at the kick off of their new League of Extraordinary Women held at the Atmore Ranch on Tuesday, July 25th. More than 50 guests…
Museum of Ventura County: Ventura City Council to finalize Museum funding on Aug. 7
A message from the Interim Executive Director On Monday, August 7, at 6 p.m., the Ventura City Council will take action on a recommendation to approve a funding agreement that will finalize $125,000 for the Museum over the next six…
Launch a Business in One Semester at SBCC; Scheinfeld Center Enterprise Launch Course Now Enrolling
SANTA BARBARA — Anyone with a business idea can lay the groundwork for launching a business in a single semester through the Enterprise Launch course offered at the Santa Barbara City College Scheinfeld Center for Entrepreneurship & Innovation. Fall enrollments are…
VCCDC receives $40,000 from Wells Fargo to help families in Ventura County achieve homeownership and financial stability
VENTURA COUNTY — The Ventura County Community Development Corporation (VCCDC) was recently awarded a $40,000 grant by Wells Fargo Bank for its Changing Lives Through Homeownership Program which provides homebuyer education and counseling services to low-to moderate income families in Ventura and Santa Barbara…
City of Oxnard INCO Hosts Mayor’s “State of the Neighborhoods” Address on Sept. 6
OXNARD — On Wednesday, September 6, 2017, the Inter-Neighborhood Council Organization (INCO) will host a special meeting to listen to Mayor Tim Flynn give a “State of the Neighborhoods” presentation. The INCO meeting will take place at the Performing Arts Center (PACC),…
Sept. 19 — Home Buying Fair
SANTA BARBARA COUNTY — Coastal Housing Partnership is hosting a Home Buying Fair designed to help local employees on their path to home ownership. Whether you are ready to buy a home, getting back into the market, or simply dreaming…
Sept. 19 — Ventura County Community Development Corporation hosts free Estate Planning Workshop
VENTURA COUNTY — Ventura County Community Development Corporation (VCCDC) will host a free educational workshop open to anyone interested in learning more about Estate Planning. This workshop is part of VCCDC’s “From House to Home” Homeowner Workshops which are designed to…
Sept. 21 — Ventura County Housing Trust to present ‘Housing Our Agricultural Workforce’ fundraiser
CAMARILLO — Non-profit affordable housing partner, Ventura County Housing Trust Fund, announces their annual fundraising event on September 21st, 5-9 pm at the Camarillo Ranch. This year’s focus is on Housing Our Agricultural Workforce. The event includes farm-to-table dinner by…
VCCCD and Santa Paula Unified School District Enter Dual Enrollment Partnership Agreement
CAMARILLO — The Ventura County Community College District (VCCCD) and the Santa Paula Unified School District (SPUSD) established a College and Career Access Pathways (CCAP) partnership agreement under the regulations of Assembly Bill 288 (AB 288). Effective Jan. 1, 2016, AB…
Museum of Ventura County: A message from the Interim Executive Director
With deep gratitude to our community, I’m delighted to report to you that (July 25) the Ventura County Board of Supervisors approved a one-time contribution of $125,000 to help fund the Museum of Ventura County’s reorganization plan to stem a five-year…
Downtown Ventura Farmers’ Market to Close During the Ventura County Fair Parade
VENTURA — The Downtown Ventura Farmers’ Market will close during the Ventura County Fair Parade on Saturday, August 5 and will reopen again the following Saturday, August 12. The Downtown Ventura Saturday Farmers’ Market runs from 8:30 a.m. to 12 noon…
SBCC International Business Among First to be Recognized for Advancing Student Social Mobility & Economic Outcomes
SBCC students increase earnings after participating in International Business and Trade program SANTA BARBARA – Santa Barbara City College’s International Business program earned Strong Workforce Stars recognition in the Global Trade and Logistics sector for its International Business program because students…
Ventura County Certified Farmers’ Market Shares a Perspective on the Effects of the Drought
VENTURA COUNTY – The California drought has taken a toll on cities and individuals and especially those in farming. Farmers with the Ventura County Certified Farmers’ Market Association share their perspective on the long-lasting drought. Greg Mitchell with Blue Ridge Honey…
CSU Trustees approve next phase of University Glen on CSUCI campus
CAMARILLO — The CSU Board of Trustees has given final approval to the next phase of the CI 2025 Vision Plan during the CSU Board of Trustees meeting held this week, giving a green light to development of 32 acres of…
CenCal Health Welcomes Nicole Bennett as Community Outreach Coordinator
SANTA BARBARA / SAN LUIS OBISPO COUNTIES — CenCal Health is pleased to announce Nicole Bennett as its new Community Outreach Coordinator, covering both Santa Barbara and San Luis Obispo Counties. Bennett will be based in the San Luis Obispo CenCal…
American Heart Association Hires New Executive Director for Central Coast
Monica Merryman brings breadth of experience and passion for the non-profit sector SANTA BARBARA — The American Heart Association, the world’s leading voluntary organization dedicated to building healthier lives, free of cardiovascular diseases and stroke, concluded a thorough and extensive…
Volunteers Beautify Peoples’ Self-Help Housing Property in Los Osos During NeighborWorks Week
LOS OSOS — In recognition of NeighborWorks Week, held June 3-10, Peoples’ Self-Help Housing (PSHH) hosted a community service day on June 9 at South Bay Apartments in Los Osos. It was one of more than 200 events nationwide that gathered…
EDC-VC Business Line: President’s Message
Click here for the entire e-newsletter President’s Message Bruce Stenslie It’s good news that increasingly we’re seeing national media and politicos as well as corporate leaders championing the value and return on investment for early child education. Consider, for example,…
Aug. 23 — El Centrito Family Learning Centers to hold Executive Director Meet & Greet / Open House
OXNARD — El Centrito Family Learning Centers will hold an Executive Director Meet & Greet / Open House at 5:30 p.m. Wednesday, Aug. 23 at 450 S. K St., Room 111, Oxnard. Learn all about El Centrito Family Learning Centers Programs…
Aug. 24 — Bilingual report: Farmworker Fair in August– Feria Campesina en Agosto
OXNARD — FARMWORKERS! . . . JOIN US FOR THE FARMWORKER FAIR – FERIA CAMPESINA ON THURSDAY, AUGUST 24, FROM 1 P.M. TO 4 P.M. AT THE AMERICA’S JOB CENTER OF CALIFORNIA, 2901 NORTH VENTURA ROAD IN OXNARD. DON’T MISS THE…
26 de agosto — Invitación a la conferencia ‘Planificando un mejor futuro financiero’
OXNARD — Invitación a la conferencia “Planificando un mejor futuro financiero,” 26 de agosto, 2017, 2pm a 4pm, Consulado de Mexico, 3151 W. Fifth St., Oxnard.
Gold Coast Health Plan to Invest $1.5 Million in Ventura County Programs
Medi-Cal Plan to Fund 16 Programs that Focus on Access to Health Care, Food and Housing CAMARILLO — Gold Coast Health Plan (GCHP) is awarding $1.5 million in grants to organizations throughout Ventura County for programs that focus on access to…
KCLU journalist wins 3rd national award
Society of Professional Journalists honors fire story WASHINGTON, D.C. — KCLU Radio News Director Lance Orozco received a national award for excellence in journalism on Friday. Orozco picked up the 2016 National Society of Professional Journalists Sigma Delta Chi Award for…
Ferguson Case Orr Paterson Attorney Appointed to State Bar Committee
VENTURA — Attorney John Andersen, a partner with the law firm Ferguson Case Orr Paterson, has been appointed to the executive committee of the Trusts and Estates Section of the State Bar of California, commonly referred to as TEXCOM. Anderson is a certified specialist in estate…
Todd Broussard Joins Peoples’ Self-Help Housing as New Director of Construction
SAN LUIS OBISPO — Peoples’ Self-Help Housing (PSHH) welcomes Todd Broussard as new Director of Construction, overseeing the entire rental development construction department. Broussard has years of construction and development management experience through employment with jurisdictions such as the City of…
Gold Coast Health Plan Partners with Camarillo Health Care District
CAMARILLO — Gold Coast Health Plan (GCHP) and the Camarillo Health Care District (CHCD) on June 14 announced the signing of a one-year contract to launch a pilot program geared at strengthening the commitment of both organizations to provide quality health care.…
Pacific Coast Business Times announce Latino Business Awards winners. Celebration is July 20
July 20 from 5:50-7:30 p.m. at Crowne Plaza Ventura Beach CONGRATULATIONS TO THIS YEAR’S WINNERS: Arturo Hernandez Ventura County Community College District Danna Tejada-Baquero Cuesta College William Flores Antioch University Santa Barbara Veronica Guerrero California Lutheran University April Sanchez VCCF Scholarship…
First Santa Barbara Renovation Completed Under Funding Program to Preserve Affordable Housing for Local Families
Pearl Gardens is one of two affordable family housing properties that the Housing Authority of the City of Santa Barbara recently completed. SANTA BARBARA — As an early adopter of a U.S. Department of Housing and Urban Development (HUD) program designed…
Peoples’ Self-Help Housing Announces Cindy Magliari as New Assistant Controller
SAN LUIS OBISPO —Peoples’ Self-Help Housing is pleased to welcome Cindy Magliari as new Assistant Controller of the fiscal department. Cindy has lived and worked in the San Luis Obispo area for more than 30 years and comes to PSHH…
State Sen. Jackson, Assemblymember Limón praise decision to study cleaner alternatives to Puente Power Project
SACRAMENTO — State Senator Hannah-Beth Jackson (D-Santa Barbara) and Assemblymember Monique Limón (D-Santa Barbara) praised the recent decision by the California Energy Commission to allow the California Independent System Operator (CalISO) to study the feasibility of clean energy alternatives to the…
Santa Barbara City College launches the School of Extended Learning
Dr. Melissa V. Moreno appointed to serve as Vice President Santa Barbara City College is pleased to proceed with a reorganization of our existing noncredit and fee-based programs to better meet the needs of our community. These programs are being…
Peoples’ Self-Help Housing Starts Rehabilitation on Valentine Court Affordable Senior Housing Complex
SANTA MARIA — On June 12, Peoples’ Self-Help Housing (PSHH) will begin to rehabilitate Valentine Court Apartments with upgrades including energy efficiency improvements, new paint, appliances, and an expansion of the community building. Valentine Court is a 35-unit senior affordable…
Consortium Media + Public Relations announces two new team members
VENTURA — Consortium Media + Public Relations (CM+PR), a brand development agency in Ventura, has added two professionals to its team. CM+PR combines advertising, public relations, creative, web, social media and promotions in its services to a wide range of…
State Sen. Jackson honors Ventura-based Ohana Pet Hospital as Small Business of the Year
SACRAMENTO – State Senator Hannah-Beth Jackson (D-Santa Barbara) has chosen Ventura-based small business Ohana Pet Hospital as her 2017 Small Business of the Year. Ohana Pet Hospital is a veterinary hospital that specializes in medical, surgical, dental and wellness health care for…
California law firm Beach Cowdrey Owen announces name change to Beach Cowdrey Jenkins
OXNARD — Prominent California law firm Beach Cowdrey Owen, which has offices in Ventura County and Sacramento, has officially changed its name to Beach Cowdrey Jenkins, LLP, following the promotion of attorney Spencer Jenkins to named partner and partner Melinda Owen’s transition to “of counsel” to the firm. “Spencer is an aggressive, successful trial lawyer who continually excels in…
July 20 — Pacific Coast Business Times to present ‘Latino Business Awards’
SANTA BARBARA — Pacific Coast Business Times, the region’s leading business news publication, is recognizing one of the leading segments in the Tri-Counties. This special section is accompanied by an evening reception to honor the winners on Thursday, July 20 from…
Bilingual report: July 25 — Free Fair Housing Workshop Hosted by VCCDC & the Housing Rights Center
OXNARD — The Ventura County Community Development Corporation (VCCDC) will be hosting a Fair Housing workshop in collaboration with the Housing Rights Center on Tuesday, July 25th at 6pm at the VCCDC Home Ownership Center located at 2231 Sturgis Road, Suite…
July 10 — State Sen. Jackson, Go-Biz to host California Competes Business Tax Credit workshop in Ventura
VENTURA — State Senator Hannah-Beth Jackson (D-Santa Barbara) will host a free workshop on Monday, July 10th to help members of the business community understand the process of applying for income tax credits designed to save money, create jobs and contribute to local…
VCCDC’s 5th annual Homeownership Fair on June 24 offers families opportunities to own a home even as home prices rise
VENTURA COUNTY — “I sat on the bench, waiting for the bus to arrive, eating my cold lunch. ‘What am I doing?’ I asked myself. I didn’t know if this was going to work. ‘Am I wasting my time?’” This was…
June 24 — VCCDC to present 5th annual Homeownership Fair in Oxnard
OXNARD — The Ventura County Community Development Corp. will present its 5th annual Homeownership Fair from 11 a.m. to3 p.m. Saturday, June 24at the Centerpoint Mall, 2655 Saviers Road, Oxnard. You are cordially invited 25+ booths with homeownership information & resources:…
EDC-VC Expands Small Business Development Center’s Roster
VENTURA COUNTY – The Economic Development Collaborative-Ventura County has added four new consultants to their team of 30-plus advisors providing free one-on-one consulting to local businesses to help area companies strengthen and grow their bottom line. The new advisors include…
508 Webinar founder and recent WEV graduate Toni Funck delivers accessible webinars to the deaf and hard of hearing
VENTURA — Toni Funck launched 508 Webinar in October 2016. It wasn’t however until she signed up for Women’s Economic Ventures’ SET course that Toni really saw the potential for her online business. “I was already successfully operating my webinar business…
Hundreds of Hopeful Homebuyers Tour Nonprofit Coastal Housing Partnership’s Home Buyers Fair
Two more fairs planned for organization’s 30th Anniversary year CENTRAL COAST — Hundreds of South Coast employees came through Coastal Housing Partnership’s Home Buying Fair May 6 and found a wealth of information on making the often elusive dream of local…
Gold Coast Transit District breaks ground on new Operations and Maintenance Facility
OXNARD — Gold Coast Transit District (GCTD), Ventura County’s largest provider of public transit, broke ground Wednesday on the future home of its new Operations and Maintenance facility that will support future transit needs for thousands of riders in Ventura County.…
UCSB Chancellor Yang Speaks out on fossil fuel divestment, endorses campaign
SANTA BARBARA — On May 11 at noon in Cheadle Hall, the UCSB campus administration building, Vice Chancellor of Student Affairs Margaret Klawunn issued a statement on behalf of Chancellor Henry T. Yang both endorsing the fossil fuel divestment campaign, Fossil…
Local Contractors Recognized for Energy Efficient Projects
SANTA BARBARA — Four local contractors are being recognized for their dedication, professionalism and service assisting Central Coast residents in making energy-efficient upgrades to their homes. This year’s recipients of emPower Central Coast’s second annual Contractor Recognition Awards are Solarponics, CK…
Santa Barbara City College’s vocational nursing program named #5 best LVN program in California by PracticalNursing.org
Practicalnursing.org evaluated California’s 129 state-approved LVN schools, which includes community colleges, technical centers, private career training schools and vocational schools. The website’s team analyzed overall pass rates of the NCLEX-PN, the exam used by state boards that tests proficiency and knowledge…
Builders Circle Signifies Mark of Excellence for Peoples’ Self-Help Housing Partners
SANTA BARBARA — Peoples’ Self-Help Housing (PSHH) has created a category of recognition that distinguishes those partners who work alongside the nonprofit to ensure more affordable housing along the Central Coast. The Builders Circle is a prestigious group of contractors, designers…
Assemblymember Limón committed to protecting healthcare
By Assemblymember Monique Limón (D-Santa Barbara) Recent actions taken at the federal level around health care would have serious consequences for California. The new law could strip health care coverage from as many as 24 million Americans—4.6 million of which are…
The Annex draws local favorite, Los Angeles and San Diego brands ahead of fall debut
OXNARD — The Annex, the 16,000-square-foot public market-style space located within The Collection at RiverPark, has announced the addition of four new food concepts to join its tenant roster of microshops, boutiques and eateries ahead of its fall grand opening. New…
Peoples’ Self-Help Housing Announces New Board Member Nick Tompkins
SANTA BARBARA — Peoples’ Self-Help Housing is excited to welcome Nick Tompkins as a new member to the Board of Directors. Nick is a sixth generation Central Coast native, a Fresno State University graduate, and brings more than 38 years of…
June 27 — Free workshop focus on hot energy efficiency ideas to keep homes cool
County emPower Program to Host Workshop in North County SANTA BARBARA — With temperatures heating up, the County of Santa Barbara emPower program is hosting a workshop to help homeowners achieve energy efficiency. The free workshop is 5:30-7 p.m. Tuesday, June 27…
Veteran Traffic Professional Joins Hasan Consultants
VENTURA — Richard L. Herrera, a well-known traffic expert in the greater Los Angeles and tri-counties area, has joined Hasan Consultants. He will be in charge of the Traffic and Transportation group at Hasan. Herrera just left the County of Ventura…
Two Distinguished Project Managers Join S.L. Leonard & Associates’ Team
CAMARILLO — S.L. Leonard & Associates, a project management firm based in Camarillo, has hired two very talented project managers to join its team. With more than 30 years of building experience, John Matthews joins as a senior project manager.…
Rep. Carbajal Tours Affordable Housing with Housing Authority as Federal Cuts Loom
SANTA BARBARA – With federal funding for affordable housing facing deep cuts, the Housing Authority of the City of Santa Barbara (HACSB) recently gave 24th District Rep. Salud Carbajal a tour of key housing properties, programs and an overview of…
A Protein-Packed PODS® Container Fights Hunger in Ventura County on April 20
VENTURA COUNTY — On April 20th, PODS is hosting a “Peanut Butter Drive” to pack a PODS container full of the protein-rich kitchen staples and help end hunger in Ventura County. The moving and storage leader is partnering with KVTA…
Ventura County Community Development Corporation (VCCDC) will host a free ‘Estate Planning’ workshop on May 30
VENTURA COUNTY – Ventura County Community Development Corporation (VCCDC) will host a free educational workshop open to anyone interested in learning more about Estate Planning. This workshop is part of VCCDC’s “From House to Home” Homeowner Workshops which are designed to…
“Solarthon” Block Party on May 20 Will Install Solar Power Systems on Six Peoples’ Self-Help Housing Homes in Atascadero
ATASCADERO — On Saturday, May 20, a group of volunteers, job trainees, community leaders, and residents will install no-cost rooftop solar panel systems on six homes of the Peoples’ Self Help Housing Atascadero Triangle neighborhood as part of the Solarthon Block…
April 28 — Los Angeles consuls general from Canada and Mexico to speak about NAFTA at CSUCI
CAMARILLO — Consuls General to Canada and Mexico will give their perspectives on the North American Free Trade Agreement (NAFTA) during an upcoming presentation at CSU Channel Islands (CSUCI). The public is invited to “NAFTA’s Economic Progress 2017” from 10 a.m. to 3…
LULAC Disappointed with Trump Administration’s Failure to Ban Toxic Pesticides on Eve of César Chavez Day
WASHINGTON, D.C. – This week, the Environmental Protection Agency (EPA) declined to ban chlorpyrifos – a dangerous pesticide widely used in agriculture and linked to many health hazards, particularly neurological damage in children. Last year, LULAC joined other health, environmental, and civil rights…
State Sen. Hannah-Beth Jackson introduces bill to encourage building of innovative affordable housing for seniors
SACRAMENTO – Inspired by Rona Barrett’s efforts building the Golden Inn and Village, a housing project for low-income seniors in Solvang in Santa Barbara County, State Sen. Hannah-Beth Jackson (D-Santa Barbara) has introduced a bill to encourage the building of similar affordable…
Ventura County Medi-Cal Managed Care Commission Hires Chief Diversity Officer
Industry Veteran and Diversity Expert Joins Gold Coast Health Plan CAMARILLO — The Ventura County Medi-Cal Managed Care Commission (VCMMCC) today announced that Douglas C. Freeman has accepted the position of chief diversity officer (CDO), at Gold Coast Health Plan (GCHP). Mr. Freeman…
Project Manager Acts as Principal for A Day
CAMARILLO — Reaching out to her community, local resident Perla Hernandez Lastra was recently Principal for A Day at Wilson High School in Long Beach. “It was humbling to witness the tremendous amount of work it takes to successfully run…
State Sen. Hannah-Beth Jackson bill to provide job-protected leave for new parents passes out of committee
SACRAMENTO — As momentum continues to grow nationwide for stronger family leave policies, a bill by State Sen. Hannah-Beth Jackson (D-Santa Barbara) to ensure that more Californians can take leave to care for a newborn without the fear of losing their jobs has passed…
CenCal Health Welcomes Two New Members to their Board of Directors
SANTA BARBARA AND SAN LUIS OBISPO COUNTIES — CenCal Health is pleased to welcome two new board members, Douglas Metz, M.D., and Mark Lisa, to their Board of Directors. Douglas Metz, M.D., currently serves as the Deputy Director of Primary…
Dole Packaged Foods Receives 2017 Rose Parade Sweepstakes Trophy in Presentation Event, March 21
WESTLAKE VILLAGE — Dole Packaged Foods will be accepting its seventh Tournament of Roses float award in a ceremony at its headquarters in Westlake Village on Tuesday March 21st. Dole’s float, “Spirit of Hawaii,” won the Sweepstakes Trophy for most…
Gold Coast Transit District Says THANKS on Transit Driver Appreciation Day on March 17
VENTURA COUNTY — Gold Coast Transit District along with transit agencies across the country are saying THANKS on Friday, March 17th, in celebration of Transit Driver Appreciation Day. Please join the District in doing the same. Bus operators are experts in…
Ventura County Board of Supervisors Presents Laguna Farms With Health Champion Award
Local Farming Company Recognized for Workplace Wellness OXNARD — Laguna Farms, berry grower in Ventura County and affiliate of Reiter Affiliated Companies, will receive the ‘Health Champion’ award on March 7, 2017 at the Board of Supervisors meeting for their commitment…
Nomi Wagner wins 34th annual California Strawberry Festival Official Poster Contest
OXNARD — Using a unique medium that combines traditional watercolor painting with fine art digital technology, artist Nomi Wagner of Oxnard won the California Strawberry Festival 34th Annual Poster Contest. Nomi’s winning entry was revealed today to dignitaries and Festival sponsors gathered…
Heal Your Heart: Can a Gift Help Prevent Heart Disease?
SANTA BARBARA — What goes into maintaining a healthy heart? Is it just the physical heart muscle and circulation that matters, or is there an active emotional component? Can the simple act of conveying your best wishes and intentions make…
Ventura Brand Development Firm Adds Social Media, Public Relations expert
VENTURA — Consortium Media + Public Relations (CM+PR), a firm specializing in integrating marketing, branding, media relations, multimedia and social media, has added nationally known social media strategist and writer Emily Savage to its team. Savage is a journalist, social…
April 3 — With “Eat Local” Focus, Pioneering Community Magazine Organization with Editions Across North America Celebrates 15 Years Edible Ojai & Ventura County Marks Milestone Anniversary
VENTURA COUNTY — Regional magazine Edible Ojai & Ventura County, part of Edible Communities–the James Beard Foundation award-winning family of 100 locally owned and licensed food magazines—is celebrating its 15th anniversary this spring. It’s a milestone shared by its parent…
Bilingual report: Ventura County’s Indigenous Language Radio Station Launches on FM
OXNARD — The Mixteco/Indigena Community Organizing Project (MICOP) is thrilled to announce that our indigenous language radio station, Radio Indigena, can now be reached on your FM dial. After three years of careful preparation, training, and initial internet broadcasting, Radio Indigena…
April 4 — Ben & Jerry’s at The Collection at RiverPark Serves Fans Fun Flavors and Free Ice Cream
OXNARD — Ben & Jerry’s fans can mark April 4th on their calendars as the 2017 Ben & Jerry-est day of the year: Free Cone Day! For the past 38 years, Ben & Jerry’s has opened Scoop Shops to dish…
March 22 — “Pay to Play” the new Social Media Reality? And How Can You “Play to Win?” – Changing the Rules of Marketing
OXNARD — Are your company’s marketing skills hitting the mark? The way companies promote brands affects their ability to navigate social media in 2017. This is the topic of the March 22 Public Relations Society of America Gold Coast Chapter…
Bilingual report: California Earned Income Tax Credit (CalEITC) Means Money Back for Working Californians
California’s working families may be eligible to receive money back through tax credits that can be claimed simply by filing a tax return on or before April 18. Between the state California Earned Income Tax Credit (CalEITC) and the companion…
Oxnard to be Featured on National Public Travel Television Series
Family Travel with Colleen Kelly to film in Oxnard this March OXNARD — Oxnard’s golden beaches, attractions, majestic offshore Islands, picturesque Channel Islands Harbor its diverse restaurants and more will be featured on Family Travel with Colleen Kelly, a popular national public…
Centerpoint Mall Offers Sweetheart Shopping And Dining Spots For Valentine’s Day
OXNARD — Centerpoint Mall retailers have many sweetheart spots to shop and dine at the more than 34 retail, specialty, entertainment and restaurants ranging from apparel and jewelry to candy and gift cards, among others. Centerpoint Mall is the popular…
The Collection at RiverPark diners take journey to Mediterranean with debut of Luna Grill
OXNARD — The Collection at RiverPark has announced today that Luna Grill will open in March, making it the first restaurant of the new year to join the center’s rapidly growing directory of eateries. Luna Grill puts a fresh twist…
Ventura County Legislators Urge Reevaluation of Puente Power Project
SACRAMENTO – As the California Energy Commission undertakes multiple days of hearings in Oxnard regarding the proposed Puente Power Project, Senator Hannah-Beth Jackson (D-Santa Barbara),Assemblymember Monique Limón (D-Santa Barbara), and Senator Henry Stern (D-Canoga Park) have released the following statements urging commissioners to pause and reevaluate…
Local Businesses to Host Job Shadow Day for Academy Students
Young Learners Get Real-World View into Professions OXNARD – Twelve local businesses will host students from the Oxnard Union High School District Linked Learning academies for a job shadowing project aimed at introducing young people to potential career paths aligned with…
Three Ferguson Case Orr Paterson Attorneys Recognized as “Rising Stars”
CENTRAL COAST — Ferguson Case Orr Paterson LLP, Ventura County’s largest law firm, is pleased to announce attorneys Jesse Cahill, Douglas Goldwater and Kymberley Peck have been named to this year’s Rising Stars list of Super Lawyers. This is a…
Gene Haas Foundation Awards $185,000 to Boys & Girls Clubs of Greater Oxnard and Port Hueneme
OXNARD — The Gene Haas Foundation recently awarded $185,000 to the Boys & Girls Clubs of Greater Oxnard and Port Hueneme in support of the Club’s many programs, including STEM education (science, technology, engineering and math), and life-enhancing programs such…
Three Ferguson Case Orr Paterson Attorneys Named to Super Lawyers List
CENTRAL COAST — Ferguson Case Orr Paterson announced that three of their attorneys, Michael Case, Wendy Lascher, and Theodore England, have been named to the 2017 Super Lawyers list. All three attorneys are repeat honorees. Super Lawyers is a rating…
Latino News Notes: Pew Research Center Hispanic Trends
By the Pew Research Center Click here for the entire newsletter Unauthorized immigrants covered by DACA face uncertain future 115th Congress sets new high for racial, ethnic diversity Blacks and Hispanics face extra challenges in getting home loans Less than…
Gold Coast Transit District’s Robert Lurie, Director of Fleet and Facilities, retires after 35 years
OXNARD — After nearly 35 years of dedicated service, Gold Coast Transit District’s Robert Lurie, Director of Fleet and Facilities has retired. Lurie joined GCTD (then known as SCAT) in March of 1982 as a mechanic and by 1986 he was…
LinkedIn Officially Endorses SBCC Career Skills Institute
SANTA BARBARA — SBCC Career Skills Institute is proud to announce its endorsement by LinkedIn for its outstanding efforts to build a better future for the community’s workforce and employers. The Career Skills Institute and LinkedIn share the common goal…