Category: Business

Ventura County Community Development Corp. — 17 years in a garage and now HOME

It’s easy to get overwhelmed by all of the obstacles that loom ahead of a home purchase and too often we count ourselves out of the possibility of becoming homeowners one day. Yet in 2016, the Torres Family decided that they were going to try. It wasn’t an easy start. Mayra Torres, mom of three, had to resort to gathering coins from their money jar to afford a babysitter while they attended their first Homebuyer Workshop with VCCDC. They started from the very beginning; learning how to budget and starting the slow process of building up their credit score. Last month, after diligently working for almost 6 years (and many many homeownership coaching sessions later), the Torres Family moved out of the garage they had been living in for 17 years and closed on their very own home purchase.

“A week before we closed our purchase, we went to see the house [for our final inspection] and I remember I went to the yard which has fruit trees and I picked up a lemon and I brought the lemon home. When I cut the lemon, it was so emotional because this was a lemon that is mine, I don’t have to buy it at the store. It is so amazing to have a place that you can say is yours.” – Mayra

Pictured: the Torres Family in their new kitchen

The Torres Family will be sharing their journey at this year’s conference. Don’t let the mountain of obstacles stop you from starting your homeownership journey. The dream really can become your reality.

Economic Development Collaborative (EDC) — Honoring Asian American, Native Hawaiian, and Pacific Islander Heritage Month

The Economic Development Collaborative would like to recognize National Asian American, Native Hawaiian and Pacific Islander (AANHPI) Heritage Month. Observed annually in May, AANHPI Heritage Month is a time to reflect upon and celebrate the remarkable role of the AANHPI community in our nation’s history. To commemorate AANHPI Heritage Month, the Small Business Administration highlights resources, funding, and training available to all AANHPI-owned small businesses and entrepreneurs.

The EDC is proud to support our community by providing professional technical assistance through our Small Business Development Center. Our NO-COST advising areas include:

Bilingual report — Metrolink Offers New Summer Promotions

SOUTHERN CALIFORNIA — With a Summer of Adventure in mind, Metrolink is introducing a new weekday ticket option, the $15 Summer Pass, in addition to a $10 Holiday Pass. “Memorial Day may be the official start to summer, but it’s…

Quinn Fiduciary Services welcomes new fiduciary associate Tamara Skov

Tamara Skov, a former health care executive and non-profit manager has joined local estate management firm Quinn Fiduciary Services as an associate fiduciary.

Skov, a California Licensed Professional Fiduciary, has worked extensively in non-profit management and charitable gift planning, balancing the mission of the non-profit with the needs and interests of donors.

Letter to the Editor — Please protect our families and our water by voting Yes on A and B!

As a California registered Civil Engineer for the US Navy I was responsible for the execution of hundreds of Environmental Security projects.  Please join me in rejecting Big Oil’s attempt to overturn the bipartisan water protections that our Democrat and Republican Supervisors put in place. The Big Oil fliers that flood our mailboxes and ads that flood our TVs and even web sites are paid for by Chevron’s $6,000,000 campaign. The Oil campaign is funded by their price gouging which, thank God, is under US House Investigation. Chevron’s gouging got them $73 BILLION in profit in the year ending in March – a 92% increase year over year.

Economic Development Collaborative (EDC) — Economic 411 Labor Market Report

The California Labor Market Information Division (LMID) released its April 2022 report on Friday, showing an extraordinary improvement in the unemployment rate, down all the way from an already unprecedented low of 3.5% in March to 3.0% in April. Though rather than being encouraged by that data, we’re more convinced than ever that the unemployment rate in the COVID recovery era is all but meaningless as an indicator of our regional economic condition.

For the April data, click here. For our commentary on it all, or on why we’ve mostly given up on the unemployment rate as a measure of recovery, please read on.

Mara Rodriguez of Moorpark College Named California Community Colleges Classified Employee of the Year

California Community Colleges Board of Governors has selected Mara Rodriguez, zoo development coordinator at America’s Teaching Zoo at Moorpark College, as the 2022 State Classified Employee of the Year. This annual award recognizes the classified employees in the California community college system who demonstrate the highest level of commitment to student success and the mission of California Community Colleges.

“This recognition speaks to Mara’s relentless dedication to our students and the colleges they attend. She epitomizes service to others and the greater community, as she is always excited to speak on behalf of the Zoo and its mission,” said Chancellor Greg Gillespie.

Economic Development Collaborative (EDC) — Free Webinar Schedule

STARTING YOUR BUSINESS IN LOMPOC

May 26 @ 12:00 pm

Turn your 2022 business goals into a realty! Join the EDC SBDC, the Small Business Development Center serving Santa Barbara County, the City of Lompoc and the Lompoc Valley Chamber of Commerce in this FREE webinar to learn more about starting your business in Lompoc.

CLICK HERE TO REGISTER

Ventura County Community Development Corp. — Announcing our Keynote Speaker for 10th Annual Homeownership Virtual Conference

VCCDC is excited to announce that this year’s Keynote Speaker will be Tiena Johnson Hall, Executive Director of the California Housing Finance Agency (CalHFA).

Johnson Hall, who has been a member of CalHFA’s Board of Directors since November 2014, has served as a Senior Vice President and Manager of Community Development Finance for BBVA Compass Bancshares inc. since October 2014. Prior to that, she has held various housing positions in both the private and public sectors.

CalHFA has helped more than 201,000 low- and moderate-income homebuyers with $32.6 billion in first mortgages and used $6.1 billion in financing for the construction and preservation of more than 70,000 affordable rental housing units throughout the state.

Don’t miss the opportunity to hear her presentation and register below now!

Economic Development Collaborative (EDC) — New Retirement Savings Requirement for Small Businesses

Did you know that any employer with at least five California-based employees, at least one of whom is age eighteen, that doesn’t already offer a workplace retirement savings vehicle will be required by state law to do so by June 30, 2022?

Businesses can either begin offering retirement savings through the private market or through CalSavers!

The CalSavers program ensures nearly all Californians have access to a workplace retirement savings program by offering employees a completely voluntary, low cost, portable retirement savings vehicle with professionally managed investments and oversight from a public, transparent board of directors, chaired by the California State Treasurer.

Ventura College Foundation Distributes More Than $750,000 In Scholarships

The Ventura College Foundation presented scholarships to 240 students for the 2022-2023 academic year during its 33rd Annual Scholarship Awards ceremony, May 13, at the Ventura College Athletic Center. There were 446 scholarships awarded, including nine new scholarships, totaling $756,908. Last year’s distribution amount was $652,758.

Scholarships ranged from an average of over $2,400 for continuing students to an average of $4,200 for students who are transferring to four-year universities in the Fall. Many students received multiple scholarships.

‘CBS Sunday Morning’ features historic Montecito estate listed for $39.995 million

A historic Montecito mansion whose former guests include Albert Einstein, Winston Churchill and John F. Kennedy, was the featured backdrop to CBS Sunday Morning’s annual “By Design” edition Sunday.

The grand El Fureidis estate, famous for its appearance in the 1983 movie “Scarface,” is one of the most exceptional properties in an area renowned for its opulent homes and celebrity residents. Designed by celebrated architect Bertram Goodhue, the almost 12,000-square-foot home resembles a classic Roman villa and is set among 10 acres of Persian-style water gardens, lush landscaping, and terraces with stunning views of the Pacific Ocean.

Award-winning television host Jane Pauley anchored Sunday’s program from the estate. El Fureidis is currently on the market for $39,995 million. The listing is held by Riskin Partners Estates Group, the luxury division of Montecito-based Village Properties.

Rick MacLennan, Ed.D., to be Considered as New VCCCD Chancellor

CAMARILLO — After a nationwide search for a new chancellor who will work with the Ventura County Community College District board of trustees to ensure its approximately 31,000 students and nearly 1,900 employees are successful, the board will be placing an item on the agenda for its next regular meeting on June 14 to approve an employment agreement with Dr. Rick MacLennan to be the incoming chancellor beginning on July 1, 2022. 

“Moorpark College, Oxnard College and Ventura College each have excellent reputations in the community for their strong academic programs and services. The Chancellor Search Committee was vigilant in their pursuit of a candidate who would continue to build our District’s foundation of excellence,” said Board Chair Dianne McKay.  

“I am excited and deeply honored to be selected as the next chancellor of the Ventura County Community College District,” said MacLennan. “It is a privilege to become a part of VCCCD’s long and rich history of serving its diverse communities as a beacon of hope and opportunity for better lives and livelihoods. I look forward to working in partnership with the board of trustees, faculty and staff, students and community stakeholders in pursuit of our mission and values.” 

Rotary Club of Montecito Foundation Donates to ShelterBox, Direct Relief

The Rotary Club of Montecito Foundation has donated $10,500 each to two humanitarian relief organizations that are offering direct medical and shelter supplies and support to the people of Ukraine during this time of war and crisis. ShelterBoxUSA and Direct Relief not only respond to times of great need around the entire world, but the groups have also provided comfort and help to the greater Santa Barbara County.

ShelterBox, founded in 2000, has given shelter and other essentials like blankets, cooking sets, and mosquito nets to more than two million people around the world. It has responded to over 300 disasters across 100 countries. Learn more about the organization at www.shelterboxusa.org.

Ventura County Animal Services — National Adoption Weekend – Pet Promo ($50/$25)

VCAS is thrilled to participate in the Best Friends Animal Society nationwide pet adoption event this weekend, Friday, May 20th – Sunday, May 22nd. Best Friends has partnered with Bounty to help ABSORB a portion of adoption fees during National Adoption Weekend. $50 off each dog adoption and $25 off each cat adoption. (Regular adoption fees are $90 for dogs and $80 for cats.) As always, promotions do not guarantee the adoption of a shelter pet. All interested parties must participate in the full adoption process to ensure the best possible matches are made. Promotions do not include the cost of a pet license if applicable.

First District Supervisor Das Williams — Eastside Clean Up May 21, Section 8 Vouchers, Aerial Mapping, and more

Bring friends and family to for a morning of community improvement and beautification. Activities to include litter clean-up, graffiti removal, and reporting illegal dumping and abandoned shopping carts for pick-up.
All equipment provided (including gloves).

United Way VITA Tax Program Helps Local Residents Receive Over $2.5 Million Back in Refunds

United Way of Santa Barbara County’s (UWSBC) Volunteer Income Tax Assistance Program (VITA) helped local residents receive over $2,678,237 back in refunds this year.

From February 2nd to April 18th, a team of 40 volunteers worked under United Way management at four locations throughout the County, providing free tax filing services to families and individuals making $67,000 or less annually. Locations included: United Way of Santa Barbara County, Immigrant Hope, the Eastside Library, and the Goleta Valley Community Center.

Bilingual report — May 17, 2022 COVID-19 & County Update

Our Emergency Medical Services team is unlike any other! Especially during the pandemic, they have risen to the challenge and balanced continued COVID-19 response with everyday emergencies. Last week, the Board of Supervisors presented a resolution celebrating National EMS Week to recognize first responders, emergency medical technicians, paramedics, emergency medical dispatchers, administrators, emergency nurses and physicians, and trained members of the public. Thank you EMS!

Economic Development Collaborative (EDC) — Free Webinar Schedule

VENTURA COUNTY SCORE: IMPROVE YOUR GOOGLE RANK: BEING FOUND AND CHOSEN ONLINE

May 17 @ 10:30 am

In this workshop, you will learn how to improve your business’s chance of being found in relevant online searches. SCORE will cover the building blocks of bringing exposure to your Google My Business listing and how to leverage the Google local pack ranking algorithm to show up above your competitors online. You won’t want to miss this webinar!

CLICK HERE TO REGISTER

The Housing Authority of the City of Santa Barbara Limited Waitlist Section 8 Voucher Program Date Extended to June 17

The Housing Authority of the City of Santa Barbara (HACSB) announces a limited waitlist opening for its Section 8 Voucher Program. The waitlist will be extended to June 17, 2022.

Section 8 Vouchers are issued to qualifying applicants allowing them to choose a unit to rent from private landlords. Participants pay a portion of their income toward rent, directly to the landlord, and the remainder of the contract rent is paid to the landlord by the Housing Authority. 

Ventura Harbor Village Announces Seaside Vacay Giveaway 2022 Just In Time For Summer

With summer almost here, Ventura Harbor Village, situated  off of California’s picturesque Highway 101, is celebrating the season with an incredible coastal experience that will be awarded to one lucky winner as part of the Seaside Vacay Giveaway 2022, valued at over $650. Deadline to submit a survey to be entered to win is Tuesday, May 31, 2022.

The prize  highlights a grand prize two-night stay at Four Points by Sheraton Ventura Harbor Resort, a complimentary excursion for two to Channel Islands National Park via Islands Packers, a $50 credit each for dining, shopping, and toward sweet summer treats at available Ventura Harbor Village locally-owned businesses.  

People’s Self-Help Housing — Camino Scholars Spring Silent Auction: Bidding Open Now!

Help our students blossom by participating in our virtual silent auction! Bidding will be open from today, May 16 at 12PM through Sunday, May 22 at 5PM, where you can choose from an exciting selection of local goods, services and experiences. All proceeds will support Camino Scholars, the education program of People’s Self-Help Housing.

Ventura County Community Development Corp. — Registration Now Open for Home Ownership Virtual Conference

want all your homeownership questions answered but did you know it is also the beginning of a life-changing journey that could impact generations of your family?!

If you’re ready to learn, connect and find a way to financial security, you’re in the right place. Most people come to us feeling like homeownership is impossible, but with over 2,000 families successfully purchasing homes, and countless more engaged on the path, we can confidently be the hope that you need to keeping working toward your dreams. Through resources like our Homeownership Conference, we can help you find “a new way home”.

Now it’s your turn. Don’t miss this chance to find your way home. Check out our website for information and register early.

Triunfo Water & Sanitation District Outlines Outdoor Watering Restrictions For Its Oak Park Customers

Triunfo Water & Sanitation District is providing details of how its potable water customers can comply with the one-day-per-week watering restriction ordered by the Metropolitan Water District of Southern California, effective June 1. Triunfo provides drinking water to all residences and businesses in Oak Park.

“With multiple water suppliers in the Conejo Valley, we felt it was important to reach out to our Oak Park customers with specific guidelines for them to follow,” says Mark Norris, Triunfo’s general manager.

Ventura County Civic Alliance — Livable Communities Newsletter – May 15, 2022

The 2021 State of the Region report helps us understand transportation barriers that impact Ventura County’s growth as a truly livable community.

Sixteen years ago, when we pulled together our first Livable Communities Newsletter, we committed to build on The American Institute of Architects (AIA) 10 Principles for Livable Communities. Over the years we have worked to stay true to that commitment. 

EPA Announces $48 Million WIFIA Loan to Expand Water Supplies in Oxnard

The U.S. Environmental Protection Agency (EPA) on May 13 announced a $48 million Water Infrastructure Finance and Innovation Act (WIFIA) loan to the City of Oxnard, California, to support its Aquifer Storage Recovery Project. With this WIFIA loan, EPA is helping to expand the city’s recycled water supply to help secure a climate-resilient and reliable water service for over 200,000 people. 

“Communities across the west—including in Oxnard, California—are facing sustained water challenges as a result of climate change and the worst megadrought in a millennium. This challenge calls for using multiple tools, including recycling our water to get more use from every drop,” said EPA Assistant Administrator for Water Radhika Fox. “EPA is proud to provide this $48 million loan to help Oxnard expand water reuse. We are working to bring the benefits of water infrastructure investment to communities from coast to coast with $50 billion in through the Bipartisan Infrastructure Law.”

Ventura County APCD Acquires Optical Gas Imaging Technology for Enhanced Inspections in the County

The Ventura County Air Pollution Control District (APCD) is excited to announce their new handheld optical gas imaging (OGI) infrared camera technology for enhanced inspection for use in crude oil and natural gas processing facilities and landfills.

SEEAG Kicks Off Gill’s Onions’ ‘Double Your Impact Challenge’

Gill’s Onions will match all donations up to $12,500 for every dollar donated to Students for Eco-Education and Agriculture (SEEAG) during May as part of SEEAG’s third annual Double Your Impact Challenge. 

“The generosity of our friends at Gill’s Onions means SEEAG will receive as much as $25,000 to support our Farm Lab program,” says Mary Maranville, SEEAG’s founder and CEO.  “Farm Lab is a combination of classroom learning and farm field trips where students learn all about the origins of their food, particularly locally-grown food. The money raised will enable us to reach more students across Ventura and Santa Barbara counties.”

Livingston’s Grief Support for Children and Young Teens

Many children and teens have experienced the death of a loved one during the pandemic. This is a difficult time for anyone grieving a loss. Livingston’s Grief and Bereavement Program recognizes the value children and teens receive from sharing their grief experience with their peers. Our groups provide support, connection and validation that they are not alone. 

The Good Grief Club meets the 1st and 3rd Tuesday of every month from 5:30 to 7 pm
The Young Teen Group meets the 2nd and 4th Tuesday of every month from 5:30 to 6:30 pm
If you would like to register a child or young teen for a support group, please contact Stacia Sickle at 805-389-6870 x452 or at ssickle@lmvna.org.

County of Ventura COVID-19 & County Update

Since Tuesday, May 3rd, 780 new COVID-19 cases have been reported and 20,474 new tests completed. There are 15 people hospitalized and 3 in the ICU.

There have been 6 new deaths of a 55 year old female, 63 year old male, 66 year old male, 71 year old female, 75 year old female, and a 94 year old female. We extend our sincere condolences to the family and loved ones of the community members who have passed away.

The R-effective for Ventura County is 1.13, which means that the spread of COVID is likely increasing. The R-effective for California is 1.04.

With the uptick in COVID-19 cases in CA, it’s important to take steps to protect yourself. Community members at higher risk of severe illness are encouraged to take additional precautions.

New Hires Lead the way at the Mental Wellness Center

The Mental Wellness Center (MWC) is celebrating 75 years of providing mental health services to the people of Santa Barbara. 

For 30 of those years, Annmarie Cameron has served as the organization’s CEO, nurturing it from a small to mid-sized nonprofit that serves thousands of people every year. 

“We’ve expanded the way we approach our work,” Cameron said. “We aim to catch people earlier rather than waiting for them to become mentally unwell. We understand the value of early intervention and prevention, the sooner you address it, the better the outcomes are.” 

SBCC’s Scheinfeld Center announces student winners of its 12th Annual Scheinfeld New Venture Challenge

The Scheinfeld New Venture Challenge business plan and pitch competition returned for its 12th season on Friday, April 29, showcasing some of our region’s most exciting and innovative college and high school student entrepreneurs. The event was live-streamed on YouTube, and videos from the college and high school competitions can be viewed on the Scheinfeld New Venture Challenge website. 

Students from Santa Barbara City College (SBCC) kicked off the collegiate tier of the event, followed by the high school tier, which featured students from San Marcos High School, Anacapa School, Santa Barbara High School and Cabrillo High School. The aspiring entrepreneurs competed for over $15,000 in cash awards and startup support.

Union Bank Grants $10,000 to United Way of Santa Barbara County

Union Bank, as part of its Community Recovery Program, has announced its decision to award $10,000 to United Way’s Young Leaders Society in Santa Barbara County, making Union Bank the largest supporter of the affinity group this year. 

Union Bank is a longtime supporter of United Way community programs and initiatives, including the organization’s Fun in the Sun summer learning program and crisis response and recovery efforts. The bank engages with the organization year-round, with many of its employees representing Union Bank in United Way affiliate groups and various volunteer opportunities. 

In response to the COVID-19 pandemic, Union Bank was one of the first organizations to partner with United Way to support community-wide crisis response efforts. With their support, United Way was able to broaden reach and impact for thousands of local residents and families. 

Economic Development Collaborative (EDC) — Free Webinar Schedule

VENTURA COUNTY SCORE: HOW TO RECORD IN QUICKBOOKS ONLINE FROM THIRD PARTY COMPANIES

May 10 @ 10:30 am

This live, interactive webinar session is designed to help you understand the features, functions and benefits of QuickBooks Online for small business owners as well as assist you in implementing accounting best practices to manage your business finance. This webinar will concentrate on steps to properly record payroll transactions that are administered by third party companies like ADP and Paychex. Juliana Ramirez from JR Bookkeeping will live answer your questions related to the subject matter including live demonstrations.

Ventura County Community Foundation Awards $192,556 to Ventura College Foundation To Support Ventura College’s Veterinary Technology Program

The Ventura County Community Foundation (VCCF) awarded $192,556 to the Ventura College Foundation to help support the Ventura College’s Veterinary Technology Program. The two-year vet program is a partnership between the Ohana Pet Hospital and the college that began in 2021 and takes place adjacent to Ventura College’s East Campus in Santa Paula.

The VCCF conducted an Animal Welfare Needs Assessment for Ventura County. This assessment showed, among other things, the need for more veterinarian professionals including qualified vet technicians in Ventura County. 

First District Supervisor Das Williams — Get Rid of Your Gasoline Bill, Fire Safety, & Eastside Neighborhood Cleanup

Join me for a Education Community Forum (on May 11) on EV incentives for residents hosted in collaboration with my office, Central Coast Community Energy(CCCE) & Community Environmental Council(CEC)

LaunchPoint Returns to the World’s Leading International Technical Event on Vertical Flight Technology

LaunchPoint Electric Propulsion Solutions, Inc. is pleased to announce its return to the Vertical Flight Society’s (VFS) 78th Annual Forum and Technology Display, being held in Fort Worth, Texas, USA from May 10 to 12, 2022. The LaunchPoint Team is co-presenting two technical papers in the electric vertical takeoff and landing (eVTOL) Technical Session I on Tuesday morning, May 10. Michael Ricci, LaunchPoint’s Chief Technology Officer and co-founder is also co-instructing the VFS’s signature Short Course on Electric VTOL Technology.

Celebration of World Trade Week at the Port of Hueneme Highlights Importance of Green Tech and Blue Economy

Trade consuls from around the world, high-ranking Department of Commerce officials, local elected officials, business leaders, and maritime industry experts gathered at the Port of Hueneme to present an important program with a special focus on environment, green technology, and the economy as it relates to the marine realm.

The 10th annual World Trade Week event, “Green Tech and Blue Economy,” was held at the Port of Hueneme on May 3, 2022 and welcomed over 100 people from around the globe with an interest and involvement in international trade.

VCCCD Names Three Finalists for Chancellor

The Ventura County Community College District (VCCCD) board of trustees announces its three final candidates for the position of chancellor. A nationwide search was conducted to replace Chancellor Greg Gillespie, who is retiring at the end of June. The finalists are, in alphabetical order: Cory Clasemann, Ph.D., vice president for student success, Ivy Tech Community College of Indiana; Lee Lambert, J.D., chancellor, Pima Community College District; Rick MacLennan, Ed.D., former president, Northern Idaho Community College.

“The Chancellor’s Search Committee conducted the search understanding just how critical this position is to the students and employees of the District, Moorpark College, Oxnard College and Ventura College. The board of trustees especially recognizes and appreciates the work of this hard-working committee. Their dedication to a thorough and extensive process led to three finalists for board consideration,” said Board Chair Dianne McKay.

Bilingual report — City of Oxnard Partnership With Amazon Gets Local Residents Hired

With Amazon’s new Oxnard fulfillment center officially open for business, the City of Oxnard highlights how its partnership with Amazon ensured local residents got hired.

In October 2020, when Amazon announced it was building a new fulfillment center that would create more than 1,500 new, full-time jobs with industry-leading pay and benefits, the City began to work with Amazon to notify and prepare Oxnard residents for these much needed jobs. Through this collaboration over the past year, about 60% of Amazon’s new hires at the fulfillment center are from the City of Oxnard.

Kids Club Returns to The Collection

Throughout the summer, The Collection at Riverpark will be offering a series of Kids Club events, sponsored by Sunny Smiles Dentistry for Children and Young Adults. Full of kid-friendly fun, these events will be free and open to all the community’s youngsters and their families.

The Kids Clubs will be held from 10:30 a.m. to noon on the grass at Collection Park and take place on the following Wednesday mornings: June 22, July 6, July 13, July 20 and Aug. 3. 

Village Properties’ David Kim Discusses Residential Housing Trends at UCSB 2022 Economic Summit

David Kim, a local realtor and former president of the Santa Barbara Association of Realtors, offered a “boots on the ground” assessment of the region’s residential real estate market during the 2022 South County Economic Summit on Wednesday, May 4, at the Granada Theater.
Kim, who works for the Santa Barbara area’s largest independent real estate company Village Properties, was one of five guest speakers at the annual summit, organized by the University of California, Santa Barbara’s Economic Forecast Project. The Department of Economics at UCSB established the project in 1981 to provide the community with information on economic, demographic, and regional business trends in the Santa Barbara, Ventura and San Luis Obispo County areas.

Bilingual report — County of Ventura Update – COVID-19

(On May 2), the Consulate of Mexico in Oxnard and the County of Ventura Human Service Agency’s Farmworker Resource Program inaugurated a new Integral Service Window for Origin and Indigenous Peoples of Mexico Abroad, titled VAIPOIME in Spanish. The new service window will connect farmworkers of indigenous origins to information and resources about labor laws, resolutions to workplace issues, and services provided by the Mexican government to their communities abroad. Services will be available in English, Spanish, Mixteco and Zapoteco. This is only the third VAIPOIME in the nation and the first in collaboration with a government agency.

Two AMR Ventura County team members honored for excellence

Two American Medical Response Ventura County team members, paramedic Robert Sebree and retired paramedic William “Sterling” Johnson, were awarded for their exceptional efforts on behalf of the community. Sebree was honored with a Star of Life Award from the American Ambulance Association, as well as a Clinical Excellence Award from California EMS Authority. Johnson received California EMS Authority’s Distinguished Service Medal.

Economic Development Collaborative (EDC) — EDC and Uplift Central Coast Developing Inclusive Coalition to Access CERF

The six-county Uplift Central Coast Coalition—led by the Economic Development Collaborative, REACH and Monterey Bay Economic Partnership (MBEP)—is excited to announce its continued partnership to develop an application and secure our region’s share of California’s new $600 million Community Economic Resilience Fund (CERF).

The six county region as defined by the state for the CERF program and funding includes Ventura, Santa Barbara, San Luis Obispo, Monterey, Santa Cruz and San Benito.

The purpose of CERF is to support new plans and strategies to diversify local economies and develop sustainable industries that create high-quality, broadly accessible jobs for all Californians.

Economic Development Collaborative (EDC) Free Webinar Schedule

VENTURA COUNTY SCORE: FRANCHISE OWNERSHIP 101

May 04 @ 10:30 am

Starting a business through a franchise is often the shortest path to profitability, and some of them require as little as $60K to start and can operate out of a home office. But where do you start? Join SCORE to learn franchising basics, including the array of categories, investment levels, and ownership options available, and how to go about defining your vision to make sure you’re selecting the RIGHT fit for YOU! 

Bilingual report — Farm workers strike J&G Berry Farms in Santa Maria

A farmworker strike for the agriculture company J&G Berry Farms is taking place today in Santa Maria, California with the support of non-profit organizations, Mixteco/Indigena Community Organizing Project. 
 
Farm workers of J&G Berry Farms are on strike today to demand fair wages due to an increase of cost of living. They are currently getting paid $2.50 per box of strawberries. Collective workers are demanding the following in order to sustain themselves:
 
1. Increase in strawberry boxes to $3.50
2. Or a pay of $18.00 per hour 

The Housing Authority of the City of Santa Barbara Announces Limited Waitlist Opening for Section 8 Voucher Program

The Housing Authority of the City of Santa Barbara (HACSB) announces a limited waitlist opening for its Section 8 Voucher Program. The waitlist will be open from Monday, May 2, 2022 to June 1, 2022.

Section 8 Vouchers are issued to qualifying applicants allowing them to choose a unit to rent from private landlords. Participants pay a portion of their income toward rent, directly to the landlord, and the remainder of the contract rent is paid to the landlord by the Housing Authority. 

Bilingual report — Economic Development Collaborative (EDC) — National Small Business Week

For more than 60 years, the president of the United States has recognized the National Small Business Week (NSBW) as May 1 – 7, 2022. NSBW recognizes the critical contributions of America’s entrepreneurs and small business owners.

Join us in celebrating National Small Business Week and participate in the following events throughout the week! These events are free (provided by the Fresno SBDC Network) and will cover different information that will help you START, GROW and EXPAND your small business.

Para leer este boletín en español, haga clic aquí

VCCDC Community Matters Newsletter – April 2022

April is Fair Housing Month and this year is the 54th anniversary of the Fair Housing Act, the landmark civil rights law signed by President Lyndon B. Johnson on April 11,1968, that made discrimination in housing transactions unlawful.?The Fair Housing Act prohibits discrimination in housing due to race, color, national origin, religion, sex (including gender identity and sexual orientation), disability, and familial status. Click the link below to learn more about the Fair Housing Act, and read our newsletter for more information on our workshops being held this month in English and Spanish.

Leticia Martinez joins DT Law Partners as Senior Associate Attorney

DT Law Partners is pleased to welcome Leticia Martinez to the firm’s team of experienced estate planning and business litigation attorneys.

Martinez has worked as an estate planning attorney for almost two decades. Her practice focuses on providing clients with a holistic approach to family and business planning, while simultaneously protecting client assets and creating lasting legacies. Her areas of expertise include estate planning, trust administration, conservatorships, probate litigation and civil litigation matters. She joins DT Law Partners as a senior associate attorney.

Bilingual report — County of Ventura County launches community survey on County Seal redesign

The County of Ventura invites the community to provide input on the County Seal redesign. A survey has been launched today for residents to select their preferred design and/or upload their own design at www.ventura.org/seal. The survey will be available until May 17, 2022. The Board will review final considerations at the May 24, 2022, Board of Supervisors meeting.

Congresswoman Julia Brownley presents $250,000 to CSUCI for a Native American and Indigenous Studies Program

CSU Channel Islands (CSUCI) will begin working to develop a new Native American and Indigenous Studies academic program thanks to a $250,000 check presented to the University by Congresswoman Julia Brownley recently.

The presentation ceremony took place Thursday, April 21 in the President’s Courtyard where about 20 campus and community members gathered to hear remarks from Brownley, President Richard Yao, Ph.D., Provost Mitch Avila, Ph.D., and Chumash elder Raudel Bañuelos, who holds an honorary Doctor of Letters from CSUCI.

Bañuelos began the ceremony with a traditional Chumash blessing, filling the courtyard with the smell of sage as he fanned the fragrant herb with an eagle feather and honored the east, west, north and south, all living beings, and the Chumash ancestors.

Port of Hueneme — REGISTER TODAY: World Trade Week Event Next Tuesday – May 3

Trade consuls from around the world, high-ranking Department of Commerce officials, local elected officials, business leaders and maritime industry experts will gather to present an important program with a special focus on environment, green technology and economics related to the marine realm.

Bilingual report — County of Ventura Update – COVID-19

This morning, Congresswoman Julia Brownley presented the County of Ventura’s Harbor Director Michael Tripp with a check for $15 million for the bi-annual maintenance dredging of the Channel Islands Harbor. This critical funding will meet the dredging needs at the harbor, which is essential to keeping the harbor open for industries that drive our local economy, including fisheries and tourism. These funds will also help to replenish local beaches and address coastal erosion at the Naval Base.

Economic Development Collaborative (EDC) — Free Webinar Schedule

U.S. COMMERCIAL SERVICE: FROM LOCAL TO GLOBAL: CELEBRATING DIVERSITY: SHOWCASING THE INTERNATIONAL SUCCESS OF ARAB AND MIDDLE EASTERN-OWNED AND LED BUSINESSES

April 27 @ 11:00 am

In celebration of National Arab American Heritage Month, join the U.S. Commercial Service for the third session of their “From Local to Global: Celebrating Diversity” event series, as we feature a dynamic panel of Arab and Middle Eastern American founders and leaders from Southern California based companies, who will share how they have successfully grown their businesses internationally. Learn about the opportunities to seek out, as well as the challenges to avoid as you launch or expand your international business. Receive information and resources that will help you chart your path to global sales and expansion success.

CLICK HERE TO REGISTER

SBCC announces judges for April 29 Scheinfeld New Venture Challenge

The Santa Barbara City College Scheinfeld Center for Entrepreneurship & Innovation has announced the lineup of judges who will decide the fortunes of the finalists in the 12th Annual Scheinfeld New Venture Challenge (NVC) business plan and pitch competition to be live-streamed on April 29, 2022. College and high school finalists from Santa Barbara County will compete for their chance at receiving over $15,000 in start-up cash and in-kind startup support.

The Scheinfeld NVC is divided into two tiers: Tier One for high school students and Tier Two for college students. Independent judges will select up to 10 finalists from each tier based on their business plan submissions, and each finalist will then pitch their concept at the virtual Scheinfeld NVC pitch competition. Prosperous entrepreneurs, angel investors and c-suite executives will select the top three winners in each tier.

With Fire Season Approaching, It’s Time to Reduce Your Risk, Clear Brush

After a dry winter, Ventura County is approaching an early fire season. That means it’s even more important for residents to clear brush from around their homes and businesses by June 1.

“Six of California’s largest and most devastating fires have burned since 2020. The threat of wildfires will not diminish, so it’s crucial we find ways to reduce risk and increase safety.” Says Ventura County Fire Chief Dustin Gardner.

Community Environmental Council announces full Santa Barbara Earth Day schedule for April 23

The community will gather in person for the first time since 2019 to celebrate Earth Day. Community Environmental Council (CEC) is hosting the free one-day event, in and around the Arlington Theatre from 10 a.m. to 5 p.m. on Saturday, April 23. An evening concert, a separate ticketed event, will begin at 7:30 p.m. 

Earth Day 2022 will highlight the critical role CEC has played across the region for more than 50 years, shining a light on the system changes, policy implementation and individual action needed to meet the urgency of the climate crisis. Key to this is the Annual Climate Leadership Summit, which starts at 3 p.m. The Summit will feature climate actions that organizations and individuals are undertaking throughout the region, with an emphasis on nurturing strategies that leverage intergenerational connections. Eric Cardenas, CEO of LOACOM, will act as the program’s emcee and co-facilitate the Climate Leadership Summit with CEC CEO Sigrid Wright.

The community is encouraged to ride and bike to the event, as well as bring reusable water bottles as water stations will be provided.