SANTA BARBARA – Carl Steinberg has been appointed as a new board member to The Duncan Group (TDG), the affiliate property management nonprofit for Peoples’ Self-Help Housing (PSHH) developed rental properties. Steinberg’s real estate experience and passion for the well-being…
Category: Business
SBCC Center for Lifelong Learning Receives Top National Awards for Excellence in Marketing
SANTA BARBARA — Santa Barbara City College Center for Lifelong Learning (the CLL) received the Excellence in Marketing Award from Learning Resources Network (LERN), the world’s largest professional association in continuing education and lifelong learning. LERN announced the CLL as the top winner for…
New Advisor to Help Launch Spanish-Language Program for Small Business Development Center
CENTRAL COAST — The Small Business Development Center of Ventura and Santa Barbara Counties (SBDC), which provides free one-on-one consulting to help strengthen the bottom lines of area companies, has recently added a bilingual advisor with experience helping Spanish-language businesses.…
FOOD Share CEO Chosen for Tournament of Roses Parade
VENTURA COUNTY — FOOD Share of Ventura County President and CEO, Bonnie Atmore, has been selected by Dole Packaged Foods to represent the regional food bank and national hunger relief network, Feeding America, in the 128th Tournament of Roses Parade…
Jan. 19 — EDC-VC Annual Meeting Focuses on Sustainable Water Solutions
CAMARILLO — As Ventura County enters its sixth year of drought, the 20th annual meeting of the Economic Development Collaborative-Ventura County (EDC-VC) will explore the theme “Drowning in Drought: Sustainable Water Solutions.” Featured will be keynote speakers Susan Mulligan, general manager, Calleguas…
Catch the “ELF on the GO” Holiday Bus!
Ride Gold Coast Transit District’s Decorated Holiday Bus this December OXNARD — Gold Coast Transit District (GCTD) is excited to announce that a specially decorated holiday bus will be traveling the streets of Oxnard, Ventura, Port Hueneme and Ojai this…
New Clinical Leadership at CenCal Health
SANTA BARBARA — Dr. Takashi Wada, Director of the Santa Barbara County Public Health Department, is joining CenCal Health as Deputy Chief Medical Officer. Dr. Wada will join Dr. Darryl Leong, from Care First Health Plan in Los Angeles, who will…
SolRio Organization for Climate Change Mitigation Inc. Proposes Plan for Solar-Powered Desalination at SONGS
SAN CLEMENTE – SolRio Organization for Climate Change Mitigation Inc. has proposed a large-scale solar-powered desalination project at the decommissioned San Onofre Nuclear Generation Station. SunRiver has the potential to produce 1.1 billion gallons of potable water daily by utilizing water…
Aera Energy celebrates Giving Tuesday with a check to the United Way of Ventura County
VENTURA — Local oil company Aera Energy LLC is celebrating the spirit of the season in a big way! In alignment with the global day of giving, the company celebrated their employee contributions and made a donation to the United Way…
EDC-VC Joins California Trade Delegation Trip to China
CAMARILLO – As part of the ongoing effort to increase trade and investment, particularly in California’s renewable energy and clean tech sectors, the Governor’s Office of Business and Economic Development (GO-Biz) and the California Energy Commission recently led a delegation…
Gold Coast Transit District, Announces Partnership with the Department of Homeland Security (DHS) on the “If You See Something Say Something™” Campaign
VENTURA COUNTY — Gold Coast Transit District, Ventura County’s largest public transit provider announced their partnership with the public awareness campaign of the Department of Homeland Security (DHS), “If You See Something, Say Something™.” “If You See Something, Say Something™” posters…
PODS® Tri-Counties culminates year of giving at CAN-tree Collection food drive
OXNARD – PODS Tri-Counties owner Steve Yapp’s passion for his community knows no bounds. This year alone, he has contributed monetary and in-kind donations in the form of moving and storage services to more than 97 local non-profits, which is…
EDC-VC announces board expansion
CAMARILLO — The Economic Development Collaborative-Ventura County announces the addition of Amy Fonzo and Ron Galaviz to its board of directors. Fonzo, manager of external relations at California Resources Corporation, brings a unique blend of leadership, strategic planning and professional experience to…
Peoples’ Self-Help Housing Thanks its Partners with Central Coast Events
CENTRAL COAST — Peoples’ Self-Help Housing hosted two cocktail events, “Thanking Our Partners,” for its major community supporters in October. The events were held at Ventana Grill in Pismo Beach and Blush in Santa Barbara – Oct. 7 and 21, respectively –…
SBCC Career Skills Institute Partners with Local Industry to Provide Free Career Advancement Training to Employees and Job Seekers
Over 25 certificate programs deliver huge return on small investment of time SANTA BARBARA – The growing need for competitive skills in the local and global economy has placed mounting pressure on job seekers, business owners, and employees. The Career Skills Institute…
Gold Coast Health Plan Signs Contract with New Pharmacy Benefit Manager
Ventura County’s Medi-Cal Plan to Begin Partnership with OptumRx in 2017 CAMARILLO — Gold Coast Health Plan (GCHP) has finalized its contract with OptumRx to manage the prescription drug benefits for the Plan’s more than 207,000 members. Starting next year, the Minnesota-based…
Ferguson Case Orr Paterson Announces Two New Partners
VENTURA — Ferguson Case Orr Paterson LLP (FCOP), Ventura County’s largest law firm, is pleased to announce John Hribar and Lane Lopez as new partners. Hribar’s practice is focused on appeals and civil litigation; Lopez specializes in tax law, business…
emPower Continues Celebrating Energy Action Month Beyond October
VENTURA — With Energy Action Month in October coming to a close, emPower Central Coast is challenging the community to continue taking care of the little loose ends that together are having real consequences on home energy bills. Energy Action Month…
Small Business Development Center Expands Advisor Roster
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 law attorney Virginia Fuentes as a new consultant to its…
Union Bank Grants $10,000 to Peoples’ Self-Help Housing Programs
CENTRAL COAST — Peoples’ Self-Help Housing (PSHH) announced it has been generously awarded a $10,000 grant from Union Bank in support of the nonprofit’s Youth Education Enhancement Program (YEEP), focusing on improving the literacy, English and math skills of student residents. Union Bank…
Spring Registration for SBCC Career Skills Institute Opens Dec. 13
Spring Semester features more than 50 classes and the opportunity to earn Digital Badges in 19 career advancement areas SANTA BARBARA — SBCC Career Skills Institute is pleased to announce that registration begins December 13 for over 50 short courses…
Homeowner Workshop on Dec. 6 Provides Tips for a Warm and Efficient Home
SANTA BARBARA — With temperatures quickly dropping, the County-operated emPower Central Coast program is inviting homeowners to its free home energy efficiency workshop Dec. 6 to discuss home upgrades that will keep you comfortable no matter the season. The workshop will be…
Jensen Design & Survey Hires Cal Poly San Luis Obispo’s Top Talent
CENTRAL COAST — Engineering design firms with innovative projects are always on the hunt for the best talent coming from the top schools in the state. Jensen Design & Survey, Inc. (JDS), a full-service civil engineering, surveying, planning, and construction…
Hispanic Heritage Month: One month is not enough
Too many issues and events to squeeze into one month of reflection and celebration By Frank X. Moraga / Amigos805 Many folks wonder why Hispanic Heritage Month is divided between September and October. Yes, at least we get a month,…
Annual Safety Awards Day Recognized by Gold Coast Transit District
OXNARD — On October 5th Gold Coast Transit District celebrated its Annual Safety Awards Day. Each year, GCTD recognizes those drivers who have achieved a track record of safe driving as well as members of the “Million Mile Club” who have…
E.P. Foster Library presents ‘California’s Water Crisis and Solutions’ on Oct. 9
VENTURA — E.P. Foster Library presents “California’s Water Crisis and Solutions” with engineer and local author Mohammed A. Hasan from 2 to 4 p.m. Sunday, Oct. 9 at the E.P. Foster Library, 651 E. Main St., Ventura, Topping Room. “There is a…
EDC-VC’s Small Business Development Center Receives Funds for Doing What Matters for Jobs & the Economy Initiative
CENTRAL COAST — The Business & Entrepreneurship Center at Cuesta College (BEC) recently awarded $25,000 to the Economic Development Center-Ventura County’s Small Business Development Center (SBDC) as part of the Doing What Matters for Jobs & the Economy initiative. The funding,…
Sponsorships Available and Auction Items Needed for BGCOP’s 27th Annual Donald K. Facciano Kids Auction & Gala
OXNARD — The Boys & Girls Clubs of Greater Oxnard and Port Hueneme is seeking the help of individuals and businesses to donate items for auction and sponsors for the upcoming 27th Annual Donald K. Facciano Kids Auction & Gala.…
Santa Barbara Neighborhood Clinics Receives National Award for Innovation in Care
SANTA BARBARA — Santa Barbara Neighborhood Clinics was honored by BD, Direct Relief and the National Association of Community Health Centers (NACHC) with an Innovations in Care Award at the 2016 Community Health Institute and EXPO in Chicago. Part of the…
MAC Set to Open New Location at The Collection at RiverPark
OXNARD — The Collection at RiverPark announced today that internationally renowned cosmetic brand MAC would be joining the line-up of shopping options. MAC is known for its professional grade make-up, cult following and trendsetting collaborations. Originally created for professional makeup…
A bill by State Sen. Hannah-Beth Jackson to help disabled veterans who work in California Schools heads to the Governor
SACRAMENTO — A bill by State Sen. Hannah-Beth Jackson (D-Santa Barbara) to help disabled veterans who are transitioning from military service into a new career working in California’s public schools passed off the Assembly floor today on a bipartisan, 65-0 vote…
VCCDC Receives $35,000 From Wells Fargo To Help Women In Ventura County Achieve Homeownership & Financial Stability
VENTURA COUNTY — The Ventura County Community Development Corporation (VCCDC) was recently awarded a $35,000 grant by Wells Fargo to support its Mi Casa Mi Hogar (My House My Home) Program which is designed to assist a highly vulnerable population – women…
Elderly Couple Stores 50 Years of Memories in Donated PODS Container after Losing their Home
CENTRAL COAST — With 50 years of Hank and Helen Kawecki’s memories packed into boxes and stacked into their neighbor’s garage, friends of the couple knew that more room would be needed to help the couple store and move their…
Peoples’ Self-Help Housing and Duncan Group Welcomes, Bids Farewell to Board Members
SANTA BARBARA — Peoples’ Self-Help Housing (PSHH) and its affiliate nonprofit property management agent, The Duncan Group (TDG), would like to thank retiring board member B. Ray Gateley, as well as welcome newly elected members Paula Johnson and Menka Sethi.…
EDD to present ‘State Labor Law and Payroll Tax Seminar’ on Aug. 23
SIMI VALLEY — The EDC-VC and EDD will present “Get it Right from the Start — State Labor Law and Payroll Tax Seminar” from 9 a.m. to 3:30 p.m. Thursday, Aug. 23 at the Simi Valley Public Library, 2969 Tapo Canyon…
Local PODS Puts Oxnard Union High Schools Football Training Camp Fundraising in Scoring Position
OXNARD — Local PODS moving and storage may make a winning season for Oxnard Union High School’s football teams by donating containers and services for the football boosters’ yearly fundraiser at this summer’s Dallas Cowboys Training Camp in Oxnard. Two…
Oxnard Convention & Visitors Bureau Appoints New Executive Director
OXNARD — The Oxnard Convention & Visitors Bureau is pleased to announce the appointment of its new Executive Director, Joshua Travers. Travers brings a diverse background in program management, strategic planning and community engagement to the Bureau. Over the past two…
Union Bank donation makes local ‘Tools for School’ Event possible
SANTA BARBARA — While the Housing Authority of the City of Santa Barbara (HACSB) provides innovative housing and services in the community, its nonprofit affiliate, 2nd Story Associates, helps fill gaps to help local families succeed. Thanks to a generous donation…
Rabobank Donates $7,500 for Peoples’ Self-Help Housing Youth Education Program
CENTRAL COAST — Rabobank has presented Peoples’ Self-Help Housing (PSHH) with a $7,500 grant in support of the nonprofit’s Youth Education Enhancement Program (YEEP), focusing on improving the literacy, English and math skills of student residents. Rabobank regularly supports nonprofit…
“Breaking News–How to Get Your Local Story Covered” – Local News Moguls Share Important Tips at July PRSA Gold Coast Chapter Meeting
CENTRAL COAST — What makes a news story pitch perfect? Local broadcast media managers focus on this and other aspects of getting stories into the news at the next PRSA Gold Coast Chapter meeting, July 27. Mark Danielson, General Manager,…
State Budget Includes $22 Million for Assemblymember Irwin’s UC Innovation Initiative
SACRAMENTO — $22 million in funding for the UC Innovation and Entrepreneurship Initiative proposed by Assemblymember Jacqui Irwin (D-Thousand Oaks) has been included in the 2016-17 budget signed by Governor Brown. Irwin’s legislation, which has been touted as a “Job Creator”…
Women’s Economic Ventures (WEV) Welcomes 14 Entrepreneurs into the World of Business
SANTA BARBARA — Women’s Economic Ventures (WEV) recently celebrated the accomplishments of 22 women and men who have successfully completed WEV’s Santa Maria-based Advanced Spanish Self-Employment Training (SSET) course with a graduation ceremony held at the United Domestic Workers (UDW)…
Women’s Economic Ventures (WEV) Welcomes 11 Entrepreneurs into the World of Business
SANTA BARBARA — Women’s Economic Ventures (WEV) recently celebrated the accomplishments of 11 women and men who successfully completed WEV’s Ventura County-based Advanced Spanish Self-Employment Training (SSET) course with a graduation ceremony held at National University in Oxnard. After 14…
Bilingual report: Mohammed Hasan’s ‘Drought Is Not a Four-Letter Word’ has been translated into Spanish
VENTURA — “Drought Is Not a Four-Letter Word,” a 52-page book that describes the state’s water issues, has been translated into Spanish, according to author Mohammed A. Hasan. “Sequia: La realidad sin frontera: La guía ciudadana sobre nuevas agues” comes at an important…
Ventura County Public Works Agency announces Michaela Brown as new Director of Water and Sanitation Department
VENTURA COUNTY — The Ventura County Public Works Agency has named Michaela Brown as the Director of the Agency’s Water and Sanitation Department. Brown is scheduled to start on June 20. Brown brings more than 25 years of in-depth engineering…
Ventura County Public Works Agency Appoints J. Tabin Cosio New Central Services Director
VENTURA COUNTY — The Ventura County Public Works Agency appointed J. Tabin Cosio as Director of Central Services. Cosio replaces Janice Turner, who served the VCPWA for 35 years and retired earlier this year. As director of the Ventura County…
Jensen Design & Survey Engineering Los Angeles Rams Facilities Under Extreme Deadlines
THOUSAND OAKS — Jensen Design & Survey (JDS) announced that the engineering firm is completing the planning, survey, engineering and permitting for new temporary athletic facilities for the Los Angeles Rams football team, which is returning to Southern California and…
The Collection at RiverPark next free summer concert, ‘Rock the Collection’ on July 14
OXNARD — The Collection at RiverPark is encouraging the community to bring their lawn chairs and picnic blankets, while they kick back, relax and enjoy a series of free live music acts for its Rock the Collection concert events. Kicking…
Women’s Economic Ventures seeking full-time bilingual program assistant
CENTRAL COAST — WEV is hiring a full-time bilingual Program Assistant to work out of its Santa Barbara OR Ventura office beginning in June. Position’s Purpose: A bilingual (English/Spanish), enthusiastic, detail-oriented and helpful individual acts as the first point of…
PSHH College Club lends homebuilders a hand for NeighborWorks Week 2016
CENTRAL COAST — Fifteen current and past students from Peoples’ Self-Help Housing’s College Club, their parents and community members volunteered Sunday, June 12, assisting 11 families with assignments around their new homes through PSHH’s Self-Help Home Ownership Program. The students…
Peoples’ Self-Help Housing Promotes Anna Vela-Villicana to Housing Specialist
CENTRAL COAST — Peoples’ Self-Help Housing is proud to announce the promotion of Anna Vela-Villicana to Housing Specialist for the Home Ownership Department. Vela-Villicana is stepping into the vital new role as PSHH continues to expand to meet the still growing demand…
Just Being Healthy in Today’s Mobile World
Just Being Healthy (JBH) will participate in the 5th annual Global Wellness Day, an international day to celebrate wellness and healthy living, by working to improve a person’s total body wellness caused by the stressors of life, and in many…
Ground Breaking Gives Potential Residents First Look at New Home
CARPINTERIA — Steadfast Carpinteria Senior, LLC and Seniority, Inc. commemorated the ground breaking of GranVida, Carpinteria’s first senior assisted living and memory care community. The new community is an amazing example of corporate responsibility as an adaptive reuse of an…
Peoples’ Self-Help Housing Receives Support for Homeless Placement and Services from The Community Foundation San Luis Obispo County
SANTA BARBARA — Peoples’ Self-Help Housing (PSHH) has received a $10,000 grant from The Community Foundation San Luis Obispo County (CFSLOCO) to aid with the transition of 15 homeless families into permanent housing with support services and providing 75 households…
Peoples’ Self-Help Housing Breaks Ground on Affordable Santa Barbara Apartments
SANTA BARBARA — Peoples’ Self-Help Housing broke ground on its newest 40-unit affordable housing development Jardin de las Rosas, near downtown Santa Barbara, at a June 1 ceremony. The development at 510 North Salsipuedes St. will feature a community center,…
Mental Wellness Center Welcomes Andrea Carnaghe as New Board Chair
SANTA BARBARA— The Mental Wellness Center is proud to announce Andrea Carnaghe as the organization’s new board chair. The Mental Wellness Center is a private, non-profit organization providing recovery, education, and support services for individuals affected by mental illness including…
Writer, biologist Rene Corado to be keynote speaker at VCCDC 4th annual Homeownership Fair on June 25
OXNARD — Writer, biologist Rene Corado will be the keynote speaker at VCCDC 4th annual Homeownership Fair from 11 a.m. to 3 p.m. Saturday, June 25 at the VCCDC Homeownership Center, 2231 Sturgis Road, Oxnard. Rene is the author of…
Women’s Economic Ventures (WEV) Honors 78 Business Training Graduates
CENTRAL COAST — Women’s Economic Ventures (WEV) celebrated the accomplishments of 78 women and men who have successfully completed WEV’s Self-Employment Training program during a ceremony held at the New Vic Theater in Santa Barbara the evening of May 17th.…
Beat the Summer Heat Without Hurting your Wallet
CENTRAL COAST — Temperatures are on the rise and summer is just around the corner. But you won’t have to keep your home’s air conditioning unit cranked up throughout the coming months just to stay cool. In fact, with a…
VCCDC Celebrates 15 Years of Changing Lives Through Homeownership
An accomplished local activist, Rodney Fernandez made it his life’s work to achieve the impossible. The Ventura County Community Development Corporation (VCCDC) was founded by Rodney as a way to bring together private financing and public funding to bring homeownership…
Visiting Nurse & Hospice Care Welcomes Michelle Dahlkemper and Lailain McGrath
SANTA BARBARA — Visiting Nurse & Hospice Care (VNHC) is pleased to announce the addition of Michelle Dahlkemper as Chief Operating Officer. Dahlkemper brings sixteen years of experience as a registered nurse with extensive experience in post-acute healthcare including palliative…
33rd annual California Strawberry Festival (May 21-22) benefits local charities, students
OXNARD — The 2016 California Strawberry Festival gets underway with its 33rd seasonal celebration May 21 and 22 on 15 picturesque acres at Strawberry Meadows of College Park in Oxnard. Ranked nationwide among the top outdoor Festivals, the event boasts strawberries…
CenCal Health Presents Dignity Health with Healthcare Innovation Award for Outstanding Care and Service
SANTA BARBARA / SAN LUIS OBISPO — CenCal Health, the health care program serving low-income residents of Santa Barbara and San Luis Obispo counties, presented a Healthcare Innovation Award to Dignity Health at their board meeting on May 18. The…
Women’s Economic Ventures Presents Trailblazer and Business of the Year Awards at “Empowerment is Priceless” Event
VENTURA — Nearly 300 women and men attended non-profit Women’s Economic Ventures’ (WEV) annual Empowerment is Priceless event held on May 12th at the Crowne Plaza Ventura Beach Hotel in Ventura. The breakfast fundraiser recognized WEV’s 2016 Trailblazer, Business of…
Women’s Economic Ventures (WEV) Celebrates 25th Anniversary with Santa Barbara Client Business Expo
SANTA BARBARA — In honor of Women’s Economic Ventures’ (WEV) 25th anniversary, the Santa Barbara community gathered to support local small businesses and network at a celebratory WEV Client Business Expo. Thirty vendors—past and present WEV Loan recipients, Thrive in…
Celebrate World Trade Week on May 18
PORT HUENEME — A celebration of “World Trade Week” will be held from 11:30 a.m.to1:30 p.m. Wednesday, May 18 at the Port of Hueneme, 333 Ponoma Road, Port Hueneme. Hear from the business community at this special program and luncheon.…
VCMMCC Signals Rejection of Pharmacy Benefit Manager Selection
Commissioners to be More Active in the Selection Process CAMARILLO — The Ventura County Medi-Cal Managed Care Commission (VCMMCC) directed staff to prepare an agenda item for an upcoming special meeting formally rejecting all current bids received for the pharmacy benefit manager…
World Affairs Leader Selected for Leadership Mission to Israel
CENTRAL COAST — The World Affairs Councils of America — California Central Coast is pleased to announce that the Chairman Emeritus and Citizen Diplomat, Michael Phillip, has been invited to participate in a Leadership Mission to Israel during the first week…
Gold Coast Health Plan Gets Green Light from State to Repay County Loan
Ventura County’s Medi-Cal Plan in Strong Financial Position CAMARILLO — As a continuing sign of its strong financial performance, Gold Coast Health Plan (GCHP) received approval from the state Department of Health Care Services (DHCS) to repay a $7.2 million line…
City National Bank fortifies EDC-VC Loan Fund with $250,000 to help local businesses
CAMARILLO, Calif. – City National Bank presented a check for $250,000 to the Economic Development Collaborative-Ventura County’s Business Development Loan Fund at the organization’s 19th Annual Meeting recently held in Camarillo. This funding is in addition to $250,000 provided by City…
Women’s Economic Ventures Guides Spanish-Speaking Entrepreneurs toward Small Business Success
For many in the Latino community, owning a small business is part of the American dream. Becoming an entrepreneur signifies economic stability and opportunity. Yet regardless of ethnic background, the challenges to owning a business are many and the risk…
Deja Que Women’s Economic Ventures Ilumine el Camino Hacia el Éxito de tu Pequeño Negocio
¿Sueñas con abrir o mejorar tu propio pequeño negocio? Para muchos en la comunidad Latina, tener un pequeño negocio es parte del Sueño Americano. Ser emprendedor(a) nos significa estabilidad económica y la posibilidad de abrir puertas a oportunidades antes consideradas…
Graduados de Women’s Economic Ventures Toman un Paso Hacia el Éxito con el Curso de Capacitación Empresarial de WEV en Español
Hay un dicho que dice “un viaje de mil millas, empieza con un solo paso”. El miércoles, 24 de febrero, Women’s Economic Ventures (WEV) celebró los primeros pasos tomados por 10 mujeres y hombres que se graduaron del curso Básico…
Seasonal Savings At Centerpoint Mall For Springtime and Easter
OXNARD — Centerpoint Mall is downtown’s spot to shop for Springtime and Easter with more than 49 retail, specialty, entertainment and dining options. Centerpoint Mall is the ideal shopping destination to get that perfect present by Easter on Sunday, March…
UCSB to present expert mediator ‘Kenneth R. Feinberg on March 16
SANTA BARBARA — UCSB to present “Kenneth R. Feinberg Unconventional Responses to Unique Catastrophes: Tailoring the Law to Meet the Challenges” at 7;30 p.m. Wednesday, March 16 at The New Vic. Expert mediator Feinberg is renowned for wisely allocating compensation…
Consortium Media welcomes Briana Frank, Melina Esparza to brand development agency
VENTURA — Consortium Media, an award-winning brand development agency for local, regional and nationally-recognized businesses, non-profits and government agencies, announces the addition of two new employees to its dynamic team. Multimedia Specialist Briana Frank’s scope of responsibilities includes project management,…
49 Oxnard High School students participate in National Groundhog Job Shadow Day Event
Congresswoman Julia Brownley phones in from Washington, D.C. OXNARD — A total of 18 businesses in the Esplanade financial area of Oxnard hosted 49 Oxnard High School sophomore academy students for a Job Shadow day from 8:30 a.m. to 12:30 p.m. The…
Food Processing Holds Opportunities for Ventura County: Newly released feasibility study highlights how the county’s agricultural sector can grow
VENTURA COUNTY — Food processing in Ventura County is currently estimated to support about 1,480 jobs. That number could jump to between 2,680 and 5,450 new jobs, with relatively small-scale development, according to the Economic Development Collaborative-Ventura County’s new feasibility…
SCORE Hispanic Program to present ‘Risks of Not Incorporating a Restaurant’ presentation on Feb. 25
OXNARD — SCORE will present the free workshop “Risks of Not Incorporating a Restaurant,” in SPANISH Only, at 7 a.m. Thursday, Feb. 25 at the Oxnard Heritage Cultural Center, 141 W. Fifth St., Suite E, Oxnard. Call Carlos Delgado at 805-816-7387…
The Collection at RiverPark expands fashion empire adding Victoria’s Secret to its growing retail roster
OXNARD — The Collection at RiverPark, Oxnard’s premier retail, dining and entertainment destination, announced this week that Victoria’s Secret will join its budding line-up of fashion retailers this summer. Victoria’s Secret is the largest retailer of women’s lingerie and other…
emPower Hosts Free Energy Efficient Furnace Workshop in Santa Maria on Jan. 19
Jan. 19 workshop to be held at Veterans Memorial Building SANTA MARIA — With Santa Barbara County now firmly in winter, emPower Central Coast will be offering advice and information on selecting a new high-efficiency furnace during a free, Jan. 19 workshop. …
Peoples’ Self-Help Housing Welcomes New Project Manager
Peoples’ Self-Help Housing (PSHH) has hired Toby Seiler as Project Manager to its Multi-Family Housing Development (MHD) Department, announced PSHH President & CEO John Fowler Working out of PSHH’s San Luis Obispo headquarters, Seiler will be responsible for project management…
Shoppers Make Mad Dash To Christmas Shopping Finish Line, Centerpoint Mall Offers Many Deals And Savings
/ Centerpoint Mall As the last week of Christmas shopping gets into full swing, millions of people are still finalizing their shopping lists. And to help meet the last-minute Christmas crush, Centerpoint Mall has many deals and savings at the…
Women’s Economic Ventures to present free Spanish Self-Employment Training Orientation in Ventura County
/ Women’s Economic Ventures Have you wanted to run your own business, but don’t know where to start? Or do you already own a business and want to expand? Learn how to make those dreams a reality with Women’s Economic…
Local news briefs
OXNARD — El Concilio Family Services is seeking nominations for 2016 Latino Leadership Awards. The deadline is 5 p.m. Tuesday, Dec. 15 The 27th annual Latino Leadership Awards will recognize individuals and business partnerships that have made significant contributions to…
Local news briefs
SANTA BARBARA — Award-winning author Reyna Grande will be presented with UCSB’s 12th annual Luis Leal Literature Award during a ceremony at 4 p.m. Wednesday, Nov. 4, in the McCune Conference Room, 6020 Humanities and Social Sciences Building at UCSB.…
Business: WEV to present free Spanish self-employment sessions
Orientations will be held Nov. 4 in Oxnard, Nov. 11 in Fillmore and Nov. 12 in Ventura From Amigos805 staff reports Women’s Economic Ventures (WEV). will hold free, one-hour informational sessions facilitated by Spanish Program Coordinator Leticia Sandoval in Ventura…
Local business information
> The EDC-VC and EDD will present a “Federal / State Basic Payroll Tax Seminar” from 9 a.m. to 3:30 p.m. Tuesday, Nov. 3 at the Ventura EDD Tax Office, 4820 McGrath St., Suite 200, Ventura. Participants will receive information…
Kenya Rodriguez joins Girls Inc. of Carpinteria as new Eureka! and Teen Coordinator
CAPINTERIA — Girls Inc. of Carpinteria has announced that Kenya Rodriguez, a former volunteer for the organization, has been named its new Eureka! and teen coordinator. In her new role, Rodriguez will design, implement and manage summer programming at UCSB, monthly meetings and…
Finance: Bill to close the gender wage gap passes off Assembly floor
State Sen. Jackson’s SB 358 would be the strongest equal pay law in the nation From Amigos805 staff reports With women in California making 84 cents for every dollar a man earns, an effort to address pay inequality recently passed…
Local business information
> Ventura SCORE will present the free seminar “Improve your website design and add videos and extra punch” from 6 to 9 p.m. Thursday, Sept. 10 at the Ventura Community Foundation Non-Profit Center, 4001 Mission Oaks Blvd., Camarillo. Click here to…
Guest commentary: On the ‘Bacon Trail’ — Part 1
Exposing Historical Myopia 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. By Rodolfo F.…
Bilingual report: Women’s Economic Ventures graduates Step into Success with WEV Self Employment Training Program
Spanish orientations sessions for next class to be held Aug. 20, 26 Women’s Economic Ventures (WEV) on Aug. 12 celebrated the accomplishments of fourteen men and women graduating from the WEV en Español’s Basic Self-Employment Training (SET) program, the organization…
Commentary: Peoples’ Self-Help Housing helps to fight summer brain drain
By Frank X. Moraga / Amigos805 With statistics showing that children lose one to three months of learning during the summer when they are out of school, it’s vital that parents find alternatives to keep those young minds active and…
Local business information
> Ventura SCORE will present the small business workshop “How to manage your time and become more effective” at 8:30 a.m. Wednesday, July 1 at the SCORE Office Thousand Oaks, 516 Pennsfield Place, Suite 206. Learn how you can free…
Women’s Economic Ventures to present free Spanish self-employment training orientation in Ventura County on July 1
VENTURA COUNTY — Women’s Economic Ventures will present free Spanish self-employment training orientation in Ventura County. Have you wanted to run your own business, but don’t know where to start? Or do you already own a business and want to expand?…
Commentary: June is a time for new faces at two area nonprofit organizations
By Frank X. Moraga / Amigos805 While change is in the air for two 805 area nonprofits, the new faces of those organizations will be quite familiar to local residents. Marcos Vargas has left his position as executive director of…
Local news briefs
VENTURA — The Ventura College Foundation awarded more than $563,000 in scholarships to 284 Ventura College students in May, the organization reported in a media release. Awards ranged from $500 to $9,500 and were presented by the foundation to recipients…
Finance: Consuls general from Asian countries to visit CSUCI
Panel talk to focus on how local businesses can trade with emerging Asian markets CAMARILLO — Small and medium-sized businesses in Ventura County can and should be trading with emerging Asian markets, according to CSU Channel Islands (CI) economic expert…
Local business information
> The Maritime Advanced Systems & Technology (MAST) will hold an open house and technology expo starting at 8:30 a.m. Wednesday, June 10 at the Port of Hueneme, 333 Ponoma St., Port Hueneme. MAST fosters leading-edge technological innovation and integration…
SBCC MESA Program’s transfers surpass 100 mark
SANTA BARBARA — Santa Barbara City College’s MESA (Mathematics, Engineering, Science Achievement) Program reached a milestone this spring surpassing the 100-student mark for members who successfully completed their studies at SBCC and will or have transferred to four-year colleges or…
May cover story: Helping youth make the right lifestyle choices
Santa Barbara Healthy Futures program seeks to improve health options for Latino, other youth in the region By Frank X. Moraga / Amigos805 One in five children between the ages of 6 and 17 is now considered overweight in the…
Commentary: El Concilio Family Services to present Latino Leadership Awards
By Frank X. Moraga / Amigos805 From a university professor and a Vietnam veteran to a successful high school senior, El Concilio Family Services will honor a wide variety of deserving community leaders and programs as it presents its annual…
Local news
CARPINTERIA — Girls Inc. of Carpinteria, a nonprofit organization seeking to inspire girls to be strong, smart and bold, recently hosted its Eureka! College Road Trip, with a group of local eighth-grade students spending Spring Break exploring college campuses between…
Finance: Household budget building how-to
By Metro Editorial Services (MS) The majority of families must live on budgets. Heads of households where money is no object may be able to spend at will, but many men and women must develop budgets so their families’ everyday…
Local business information
> The CLU Center for Entrepreneurship will presernt “Startup Weekend Conejo Valley” at 6:30 p.m. Friday, May 1 at the Huddle Campus. The day after the Cal Lutheran New Venture Competition finals, the first Startup Weekend Conejo Valley will be…
Local business information
> The Economic Development Collaborative — Ventura County has launched its “Virtual Business Advisor,” a web-based economic development tool at http://www.qlbs.com/Qonline/EDC/ The free assessment and business assistance program is for businesses of any size, in any industry. EDC-VC is hosting…
Local news briefs
CARPINTERIA — Girls Inc. of Carpinteria has announced that Arianna Lopez, an 18-year-old senior and a long-time Girls Inc. of Carpinteria participant, has been selected as a 2015 scholarship winner in the competitive Girls Inc. National Scholar Program. She was…
Finance: Rebounding from a late start to retirement savings
By Metro Editorial Services (MS) Some people do not have the ability to begin saving for retirement early on. Others may have brushed retirement savings aside for so long that they are now worried that it’s too late to begin…
Local business information
> The Office of Assemblymember Jacqui Irwin, District 44, has announced a regional workshop designed to help business owners understand the application process to apply for the “California Competes Tax Credit” from 10 a.m. to noon Friday, March 6 at…
First CEO of Homeboy Industries to speak at CLU’s Corporate Leaders Breakfast on March 3
THOUSAND OAKS — Thomas Vozzo of Thousand Oaks, the first CEO of Homeboy Industries, will discuss his efforts to make the nonprofit more self-sufficient at California Lutheran University’s Corporate Leaders Breakfast in Agoura Hills at 8 a.m. Tuesday, March 3 at the…
February cover story: Season of love — and money
Tax season is upon us. Time to gather documents, look at filing options By Frank X. Moraga / Amigos805 Yes, February is here. Time to start thinking about getting that Valentine’s Day gift or even last-minute planning for that spring…
Finance: 2015 industry outlook
By Metro Editorial Services (MS) As much of the world slowly recovers from the far-reaching economic downturn that began in 2008, the International Monetary Fund has predicted a 3.2 percent growth for the global economy in 2015. Some countries, including…
Local business information
> Anna McRoberts, president of Air Bud Entertainment, will kick off the CSU Channel Islands Spring 2015 Speakers Series at noon Friday, Feb. 6 at Malibu Hall 100. Air Bud Entertainment includes a post-production company, a visual effects company and…
Daniela Ramirez reports on fundraising campaign to launch ‘Eco AlterNATIVE tours: Indigenous Owned Business’
OXNARD — “We are excited to share with you our dream of launching Eco alterNATIVE Tours Sierra Tarahumara, an Indigenous Cultural Tour Company! We have launched a fundraising campaign to start this amazing project,” Daniela Ramirez reported in a media release.…
Tracy Perez has been selected as chair of the Ventura County Civic Alliance
CAMARILLO — Tracy Perez has been selected as chair of the Ventura County Civic Alliance Executive Committee, the organization reported Tuesday in a media release. Perez is a lifelong resident of Ventura County, born and raised in Oxnard. She brings more…
Women’s Economic Ventures to hold free Spanish-language Self-Employment Training orientation sessions in Ventura County on Jan. 17, 20 and 27
VENTURA COUNTY— Women’s Economic Ventures (WEV) Women’s Business Center is holding free informational orientation sessions in Ventura County to help you determine your readiness for one of WEV’s business courses, the organization reported in a media release. Orientation is required…
Bilingual commentary: The new age of marketing
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. By David Magallanes / Guest contributor Much…
Contributing to a successful new year
Wishing loyal Amigos805 readers a very Happy Holiday Season and a Very Safe and Prosperous New Year. The new year often brings changes so we are pleased to introduce a couple of options that will make it easier for our…
Forum on ‘California Crossroads Tour: Taking Back our Health and Communities’ to be held Jan. 14 in Oxnard
OXNARD – “When Governor Jerry Brown began his historic fourth term this month, he vowed to position California as a leader in the fight against climate change, in part by moving the state to 50 percent renewable energy by 2030.…
Finance: How senior donors can avoid scams
By Metro Editorial Services (MS) Con artists masquerading as charities can victimize anyone, but seniors are especially vulnerable to such criminals. Men and women who perpetrate charitable fraud often target older men and women, feeling that seniors are more likely…
Local business information
> State Treasurer John Chiang to be keynote speaker at Economic Development Collaborative — Ventura County annual meeting from 3 to 7 p.m. Thursday, Jan. 15 at the Spanish Hills Country Club, 999 Crestview Ave., Camarillo. Chiang will talk about…
Women’s Economic Ventures honors Spanish Self-Employment Training fall graduates
Next orientation begins Jan. 6 SANTA BARBARA — A ceremony was recently held in honor of 12 new local entrepreneurs who graduated from the Spanish Self-Employment Training Course offered by Women’s Economic Ventures’ (WEV) Women’s Business Center, the organization reported…
Peoples’ Self-Help Housing, USDA hand house keys to 12 Atascadero families
ATASCADERO — Twelve families who worked together to build the majority of their brand new homes under the supervision of Peoples’ Self-Help Housing (PSHH) received the keys to their homes during a ceremony held on Dec. 4, the organization reported this…
Guest commentary: Women’s Economic Ventures encourages shoppers to buy gifts from local businesses this holiday season
SANTA BARBARA — As the holidays are approaching, many are thinking of the right gift to give friends and family members. Many people plan to head to the mall or department stores to purchase this season’s hottest items, but Women’s…
December cover story: Holiday charity event ready to hit the streets
Santa to the Sea Half-Marathon on Dec. 14 to benefit numerous charities in the region By Frank X. Moraga / Amigos805 It’s beginning to look a lot like — breathing hard, wheezing, thirst and aching muscles. Yes, ’tis the season…
Finance: 7 tips for keeping holiday budgets (and your holiday spirit) intact
By Metro Editorial Services (MS) “No one is so poor that he can’t give a smile, nor so rich that he doesn’t need it.” — Anonymous Holidays are exciting — family visits and special once-a-year meals, celebrating traditions together…
Local business information
> Mark Sylvester, ambassador for 805connect and CEO of introNetworks, will present the talk “Do connections really matter?” at 6 p.m. Wednesday, Dec. 3 at the Cal Lutheran Westlake Center, 31416 Agoura Road, Westlake Village. Sylvester has been building online…
November cover story: Groups in region busy helping those in need
Food banks, private businesses, others lending aid this holiday season By Frank X. Moraga / Amigos805 While hunger and finding a safe and warm place to sleep remain year-round challenges for many people in the 805 region, the need is…
Local news briefs
SAN LUIS OBISPO — SLO RISE (Respect, Inspire, Support, Empower) has announced a change in office hours to meet funding cuts and increasing demand, the organization reported in a media release. “This decision was made after much deliberation,” Jennifer Adams,…
Business: Career opportunities abound in the nonprofit sector
By Metro Editorial Services (MS) Nonprofit organizations require the talents of many different types of workers and not just those looking to volunteer. According to the National Center for Charitable Statistics, more than 1.4 million nonprofit organizations operate within the…
Local business information
> The Service Corps of Retired Executives (SCORE) will present its next “Hispano Mixer” from 5:30 to 7 p.m. Friday, Nov. 7 at the Heritage Cultural Center, 141 W. Fifth St., Suite E, downtown Oxnard. Patty Centurion of Surepath Financial…
Local news briefs
SANTA BARBARA — Foodbank of Santa Barbara County is seeking produce donors and volunteers for the Foodbank Backyard Bounty Day on Saturday, Oct. 25. Foodbank is calling out to community members with harvest sites (orchards or gardens) in south Santa…
Guest commentary: From Selena to Cristela: Our moment is now
By Miguel Orzoco / Guest contributor Nearly 20 years ago the Latino community lost one of its greatest performers. Selena Quintanilla Perez, the embodiment of our aspirations and dreams, was tragically taken away. She was only 23 years old. We…
Bilingual commentary: Trust, permission and sales
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. By David Magallanes / Guest contributor As…
Business: The benefits of business podcasting
By Metro Editorial Services (MS) mall businesses, understand the importance of establishing an online presence. Identifying new content strategies can help keep a company’s name and business motto fresh in the minds of consumers. Search engine optimization, or SEO, and…
Local business information
> The California Employment Development Department will present an “Employee or Independent Contractor Seminar” from 9 a.m. to noon Tuesday, Oct. 7 at the EDD Tax Office, 4820 McGrath St., Suite 200, the organization reported. The seminar will include information…
Bilingual report: SCORE to present Hispano Mixer on Sept. 26 in Oxnard
OXNARD — SCORE will present a Hispano Mixer from 5:30 to 9 p.m. Friday, Sept. 26 at the Heritage Cultural Center, 141 W. 5th St., Suite E, Oxnard. Learn networking techniques in order to better your business and personal life,…
Ventura County Housing Trust Fund issues $900,000 notice of funding availability for farm worker housing
VENTURA COUNTY — The Ventura County Housing Trust Fund (VCHTF) has announce the issuance of its third Notice of Funding Availability (NOFA) for the development of affordable housing in Ventura County, the organization reported in a media release. Linda Braunschweiger,…
California EDD to present ‘Farmworker Fair — Faria Campesino’ on Sept. 7
OXNARD — The California Employment Development Department will present a “Farmworker Fair — Faria Campesino” from noon to 4 p.m. Sunday, Sept. 7 at the EDD’s West Oxnard Job & Career Center, 636 S. Ventura Road, Oxnard, the organization reported.…
Business: Start a recession-resistant business
By Metro Editorial Services (MS) The latest statistics from the Small Business Administration indicate that two-thirds of new businesses survive two years, while about 45 percent survive four years. Such odds inspire curiosity as to how entrepreneurs have the gumption…
Local business news
> The Economic Development Collaborative-Ventura County has announced a free listing in 805CONNECT. 805connect is a comprehensive database created to provide an official directory and networking platform to connect all businesses in the 805 area code. More than a simple…
Ventura Harley-Davidson will match every dollar donated until Friday to El Centrito STEAM Fundraising Challenge
By El Centrito Family Learning Centers OXNARD — Ventura Harley-Davidson gave El Centrito and our families a second chance to meet the $5,000 goal for our 5 Days to Raise campaign. When Ventura Harley-Davidson heard that our final fundraising total fell…
Local news briefs
CAMARILLO — CSU Channel Islands (CI) hosted its second Migrant Summer Leadership Institute (MSLI) for migrant high school students and their parents from July 11-26, university officials reported in a media release. The institute, funded through a grant from the…
Business: Switch jobs with grace, decorum
By Metro Editorial Services (MS) Women leave jobs for various reasons. Some women cite disparities in pay, an inability to advance through the company or incompatibility with a particular place of business as their reasons for seeking new employment, while…
Local business information
> The Economic Development Collaborative-Ventura County has launched an enhanced website to ensure that business leaders can easily and efficiently access the latest information to help their companies grow, the organization reported in a media release. The site, www.edc-vc.com, has…
Commentary: Santa Barbara at-risk students get help from $7,500 Bank of America grant
By Frank X. Moraga / Amigos805 With a success rate of 79 to 84 percent for students completing college courses with a C grade or better, compared to the college-wide rate of 67 to 70 percent, the Santa Barbara City…
Local news briefs
CAMARILLO — A grant from Edison International, parent company of Southern California Edison (SCE), will fund student scholarships in science, technology, engineering and mathematics (STEM) and an energy conservation innovation lab at CSU Channel Islands (CI), university officials reported June…
CSU Channel Islands’ Henry L. Lacayo Institute receives Edison International grant
CAMARILLO — A grant from Edison International, parent company of Southern California Edison (SCE), will fund student scholarships in science, technology, engineering, and mathematics (STEM) and an energy conservation innovation lab at CSU Channel Islands (CI), university officials reported Wednesday in a…
Business: How to impress when hosting a business dinner
By Metro Editorial Services (MS) Hosting a business dinner is both an honor and a responsibility. Employers typically entrust only their most valued employees with the responsibility of hosting a business dinner, and such opportunities are not to be taken…