Must-have information on the latest homeownership & financial topics
Category: Business
Jan. 28 — Economic Development Collaborative (EDC) to present Free Webinar — Digital Marketing Strategies for Measurable Results
Museum of Ventura County — Last chance as we move into 2022…
Dear Friend of the Museum,
If you have already made a contribution to the Museum of Ventura County –
THANK YOU VERY MUCH for your support!
If you haven’t, please consider that a gift can help us serve this community with:
Virtual and in-person school tours
Free events
Virtual and in-person discussions and interviews
Historical articles, lectures and videos
Exhibits
Support programs
Free admission to both sites
and much much more!
Oxnard College Named 2021 Equity Champion of Higher Education
The Campaign for College Opportunity named Oxnard College a 2021 Equity Champion of Higher Education for its Excellence in Transfer for Latino students through Associate Degrees for Transfer (ADT). Oxnard College, which has a predominantly Latino student body, offers 31 ADT programs covering a wide range of subject areas. These programs meet minimum eligibility requirements for admission to a California State University and guarantee students’ acceptance.
The college’s Latino students obtain ADTs at a rate 2.3% higher than the campus-wide average, reported the California-based nonprofit that advocates for equity in higher education.
“Oxnard College’s efforts to increase transfer rates among Latino students will help lift a generation of families into Ventura County’s middle class,” said Oscar Cobian, vice president of student development. “We’re committed to providing the transfer services and resources our students need to achieve their educational aspirations.”
The college has been a Hispanic-Serving Institution since its inception in 1975. In 2020, it received a $3 million grant from the U.S. Department of Education to increase equitable student outcomes among Latino and low-income students as they pursue their career and transfer goals.
Gold Coast Health Plan Announces New Chief Executive Officer
Gold Coast Health Plan (GCHP) announced (on Dec. 10) that its governing board has appointed Nick Liguori as chief executive officer of the Ventura County Medi-Cal plan effective Feb. 1.
At its monthly meeting on Dec. 16, the Ventura County Medi-Cal Managed Care Commission (VCMMCC) approved a three-year contract with Mr. Liguori. The contract runs through Jan. 31, 2025.
“We are thrilled to have Nick lead Gold Coast Health Plan for the next three years,” said Dee Pupa, VCMMCC chair and deputy director of managed care at the Ventura County Health Care Agency. “His vast experience as a leader at health plans that focused on serving vulnerable populations will be an asset to Gold Coast Health Plan’s members and providers as the Medi-Cal program undergoes transformational changes in the coming years.”
Community Environmental Council Increases Impact With New Staff
The Community Environmental Council (CEC) is pleased to announce the addition of new staff members who are meeting this urgent moment in the climate crisis. Each new member represents strengthened resilience within the organization and in the climate work at hand.
Bilingual report — New County Clerk-Recorder Software Provides Speed, Efficiency, Security for Public and Employees
In the 22 years that David Valenzuela has been in the County Clerk-Recorder’s office, he has seen many changes in the procedures and technology for processing Ventura County’s hundreds of thousands of vital records and property documents each year.
“When I started in 1999, we were using a system called AtPac, which was high-tech for that time. However, it was not as robust as we first thought,” Valenzuela, now the Clerk-Recorder Division Manager, said. “In 2003, we implemented a new system called AmCad, and in 2006, we had a major upgrade, and we have kept this system for the last 15 years.”
Ventura County Community College District Elects New Board Officers
The Ventura County Community College District Board of Trustees elected longtime Trustee Dianne B. McKay as board chair during the District’s Annual Organizational Meeting on Dec. 14. The board elected Trustee Stan Mantooth as vice chair and Chancellor Greg Gillespie as secretary.
McKay and Mantooth will continue to work with Trustees Josh Chancer, Bernardo M. Perez and Gabriela Torres in conducting board business and reviewing and adopting policies that regulate activities in the District and its colleges in Moorpark, Oxnard and Ventura. Student Trustee Bryan Rodriguez, a political science major at Ventura College, will continue to advocate for the District’s approximately 31,000 students. The board of trustees is elected in even-numbered years to four-year terms by Ventura County voters. The student trustee is elected annually through a district-wide student election.
Museum of Contemporary Art Santa Barbara — ’tis the season of giving!
You’re the reason we are looking so merry and bright!
Thank you all for supporting contemporary art and the artists whose passion compels them to create. It is you who challenges our team to bring our best selves in service to our visitors and our community.
We were inspired by so many enthusiastic visitors and supportive collaborators this year. Looking back brings as much wonder as it does gratification. Just take a look at our very first Earth Day Mural – it still takes our breath away!
The team at Museum of Contemporary Art Santa Barbara (MCASB) is working on some truly fantastic exhibitions, events, travel, and educational programs for 2022. MCASB prioritizes accessibility for all, and maintains a steadfast commitment to free admission.
Please consider a year-end donation, which allows us to continue to bring you awe-inspiring, thought-provoking, and beautiful encounters with the art of our time. Our work is only possible because of your support.
Oxnard Harbor District/Port of Hueneme Pass Memorandum of Understanding for Use of Zero-Emission Equipment
To further its commitment to decarbonize operations at the Port of Hueneme, the Oxnard Harbor District voted on December 20th to approve a Memorandum of Understanding (MOU) to provide stevedores with the ability to utilize the district’s existing two new electric terminal tractors (eUTR). These eUTRs are funded through a Zero-and Near zero-Emission Freight Facilities (ZANZEFF) grant project.
“Last month, my fellow Oxnard Harbor Commissioners and I voted unanimously to put us on a path of pursuing a zero-emission future,” said Jason T. Hodge, President of the Oxnard Harbor District that owns the Port of Hueneme. “Our passage of the MOU signals a strong commitment for the continued support of green infrastructure and equipment use at the Port.”
Economic Development Collaborative (EDC) — Sales and Use Tax Exclusion Program for Manufacturers
Sales and Use Tax Exclusion (STE) Program, from the California Alternative Energy and Advanced Transportation Financing Authority, excludes from sales and use taxes purchases of Qualified Property:
if its use is either to process Recycled feedstock or using Recycled feedstock in the production of another product or soil amendment, or
that is used in an Advanced Manufacturing process, or
that is used to manufacture Alternative Source products or Advanced Transportation Technologies.
Eligible manufacturers planning to construct a new manufacturing facility or expand or upgrade a currently existing manufacturing facility may apply to CAEATFA for an STE award, and if approved, the purchases of Qualified Property for the project are not subject to state and local sales and use tax.
Esmeralda Juarez, Ventura College Foundation’s Weekend Marketplace Supervisor, Named A Ventura Chamber Hometown Hero During Annual Poinsettia Awards
Esmeralda Juarez, Ventura College Foundation’s Weekend Marketplace supervisor, was named a Ventura Chamber of Commerce 2021 Hometown Hero during the chamber’s annual Poinsettia Awards Ceremony December 9.
Juarez, who has worked at the Marketplace for 20 years, was honored for her leadership that enabled the Marketplace to remain open and serve the community during the pandemic. For over 35 years, residents have relied on the Marketplace for their everyday goods and fresh produce. The Marketplace also generated almost 100 percent of the operating revenue of the Ventura College Foundation through vendor rental income. When the county shut down on March 13, 2020, the Marketplace closed, leaving the community without an open-air fresh food and goods market and the Ventura College Foundation with only three months of operating cash.
United Way announces departure of President & CEO Eric Harrison to lead United Way of Central and Northeastern Connecticut
United Way of Ventura County (UWVC) announced (Dec. 21) that President and CEO Eric Harrison has notified the Board of Directors of his decision to resign from his role in order to accept the CEO position with United Way of Central and Northeastern Connecticut.
Harrison joined UWVC in December 2014. He will continue to serve Ventura County in his current role through mid-February 2022. The UWVC Board of Directors are in the process of taking the next steps to identify a successor.
SBCC uses federal stimulus funds to erase student debt and offer direct support
Since last August, approximately 1,800 Santa Barbara City College students have received a form of debt relief, and an opportunity to pursue and complete their educational goals, thanks to SBCC’s Fresh Start Initiative and the federal Higher Education Emergency Relief Fund (HEERF).
HEERF funds were allocated to institutions to support students with immediate needs related to the COVID-19 pandemic. One way that SBCC met those needs was by creating the Fresh Start Initiative, allocating $1 million to go directly to students with outstanding balances. Through the initiative, students enrolled in Spring 2020 through Spring 2021 terms impacted by the COVID-19 pandemic were provided with funds to pay off their entire outstanding balance. In addition, students who left SBCC prior to the pandemic who are attempting to re-enroll – and find themselves challenged by COVID-19 related circumstances and restricted from registration due to a pre-pandemic balance – were also provided with Fresh Start monies.
VCCDC Community Matters Newsletter – Dec. 2021 — Empowering Sylvia to Keep Her Very Special Home
80-year-old Sylvia Johnson has lived in her Paso Robles home for 27 years after building it from the ground up alongside her husband after her two children had flown the nest. Tragically, Sylvia’s husband passed away unexpectedly at the age of 55 before the house was finished, leaving Sylvia to continue the build alone. “I was in there every day it was being built,” remembers Sylvia, “and because of losing my husband during that time my home is more special to me than anything.”
When it came to refinancing her home in September of this year, Sylvia felt a little nervous about the process and dreaded reading all the paperwork. When she spoke on the phone with Gaby, VCCDC’s Homeownership Specialist, her fears melted away.
EDC’s Economic 411 Labor Market Report for November 2021
The California Labor Market Information Division (LMID) released its November 2021 report on Friday the 17th, revealing a strong three-month trend of improvements in Ventura County’s unemployment rate, now at 4.4%, down from 5.0% in October. Also showing some positive movement, employment gains were a bit more widely distributed than in prior months, though up in only six of the twelve major subsectors.
What’s a bit more disappointing, however, is the lackluster showing in holiday Retail hiring. While Retail gained 900 jobs in November, we’re actually showing 300 fewer Retail jobs this November than last and we’re off by 3,600 jobs since November 2019. None of this is surprising given the movement to on-line purchasing, but it’s worth reminding that the loss of these temporary holiday jobs has taken a ton of work experience opportunities away from young workers and has reduced opportunity for a boost in family incomes during the holidays. For more commentary on the data, see below; for the monthly detail, the LMID release is here.
Economic Development Collaborative (EDC) — Free Webinar Schedule
The Economic Development Collaborative encourages you to sign up for our partner’s no-cost webinars. Space is limited. Register today!
Housing Trust Fund Ventura County provides $4 million in pre-development construction loan funds for Rancho Sierra Senior Apartments
Housing Trust Fund Ventura County announced today that it is providing a $4 million pre-development construction loan to kick-off the development of Rancho Sierra Senior Apartments (Rancho Sierra), to be built in an unincorporated area adjacent to the City of Camarillo. Rancho Sierra is being developed by Many Mansionswith support from the Area Housing Authority of the County of Ventura to provide affordable housing solutions for low-income seniors in eastern Ventura County.
Planned Parenthood San Luis Obispo Health Center Goes Solar
Planned Parenthood California Central Coast celebrated its first solar electric system at its San Luis Obispo health center, as part of a regional plan to increase its reliance on renewable energy sources. The system is expected to net $250,000 in financial savings over the next 30 years. The project was part of CEC’s Solarize Nonprofit program and was made possible by support from Asteri Solar.
CEC’s Solarize Nonprofit pilot program is designed to help local nonprofits go solar and run off renewable energy without an upfront cost. The program grew out of CEC’s residential Solarize program, which has helped 858 homeowners go solar. The installation at Planned Parenthood was completed in partnership with CEC, funded by Asteri Solar, and installed by local company Solarponics Energy Management Systems.
Bilingual report — County of Ventura Dec. 17, 2021 – COVID-19 Update
Since Wednesday, there are 329 new COVID-19 cases reported and 15,732 new tests performed. There are 75 people hospitalized, 13 in the ICU. There have been 2 additional deaths of a 41 year old male and a 96 year old male. Our sincere condolences to the family and loved ones of the community members who passed away. The R-effective for Ventura County is .96 which means the spread is likely stable.
Get vaccinated at a site near you: www.vaccines.gov.
Find a COVID testing site at www.vcrecovers.org/testing
The County of Ventura’s indoor mask order remains in effect
Bilingual report — $70 Property Tax Break Available for Qualified Homeowners
More than 52,000 Ventura County homeowners may have an extra $70 in their pocket this year, just by filling out a simple form. This week, the Ventura County Assessor mailed Homeowners’ Exemption Claim Forms to over 52,000 homeowners that likely qualify for this property tax break.
The Assessor typically mails a Homeowners’ Exemption Claim to new owners. However, in the busy paperwork shuffle of buying a new home, many property owners miss out on this valuable opportunity. In an effort to maximize property tax savings, the Assessor periodically reaches out to potentially eligible homeowners.
Economic Development Collaborative (EDC) Business Alert — Ways to Market Your Business During the Holidays
The Holiday Season is here! The Economic Development Collaborative (EDC) would like to share some ways small businesses can boost their sales during the holidays and ways you can support local businesses this year.
3 Top Ways to Help Boost Your Small Business Holiday Sales
UCSB — The Current — ‘A Call to Action’ and more news
An exhibit at the library brings to life the public experiences of COVID-19 and Black Lives Matter.
Bilingual report — County Board of Supervisors supports the creation of more than 235 affordable housing units filling critical gap in housing needs for the most vulnerable and expanding behavioral health support
On December 14, the County Board of Supervisors approved actions that support the creation of more than 235 units of new affordable, permanent supportive housing and transitional housing. “Homelessness and mental illness are our two most pressing social issues, and so I’m delighted that our last board meeting of 2021 capped a year of stepping up to provide shelter and affordable housing and services to these vulnerable populations,” said Chair of the Board Linda Parks.
The projects support those experiencing homelessness, at risk of becoming homeless, transition aged youth (age 18-24) and seniors. The Board also supported the expansion of Behavioral Health Mobile Crisis Care Units and the development of a Transitional Age Youth Rapid Response Team to provide mental health support services throughout the County.
“There is a critical need for housing in our communities. The Board action is a huge step in helping to fill that gap,” said County Executive Officer Mike Powers. “In addition to housing, these community members will have access to supportive services to help meet their needs.”
December News from People’s Self-Help Housing
As I reflect over the course we’ve navigated through 2021 together, this has been a year of tremendous progress. Thank you for your gracious and resilient support, we are more grateful than ever to have been so deeply engaged with you. The mission of providing new affordable homes, preserving others, and increasing services to those in most need continues to be a heavy lift, but one made possible because of your partnership.
Bilingual report — Dec. 15, 2021 – COVID-19 Update
Ventura County Public Health will begin offering residents two $25 gift cards ($50) who get a second COVID vaccine dose starting December 14, while supplies last. Residents receiving a first dose will continue to receive one $25 gift card. View Public Health’s vaccine sites here. Shout out to our awesome nurses Ruby (left) and Mallory (right), for their service to our community!
Economic Development Collaborative (EDC) — New Masking Requirements for Businesses
Centers for Disease Control and Prevention:
On July 27, 2021, the Center for Disease Control and Prevention (CDC) issued new masking guidance for fully vaccinated individuals in substantial or high transmission areas. This information can be tracked HERE.
NEW California Department of Public Health:
On December 13, 2021, the California Department of Public Health (CDPH) updated their Guidance for the Use of Face Coverings, requiring universal masking indoors, irrespective of vaccine status, statewide from December 15, 2021 to January 15, 2021.
Boys & Girls Clubs of Greater Conejo Valley Announces New Board Member: Judith Sánchez López
The Boys & Girls Clubs of Greater Conejo Valley (BGCGCV) is excited to announce its newest board member, Judith Sánchez López.
López has over 30 years of experience as an expert in cosmetics and as a high-level executive. She is skilled in leading sales teams in her previous role as Sales Division Manager, now supervising the corporate brand as the Chief Marketing Officer for JAFRA Cosmetics Int’l. She strives to nourish brand relevancy and inspire the brand’s consumers and consultants alike.
United Way of Ventura County — United in compassion
Earlier this month, I celebrated my seventh anniversary with United Way of Ventura County.
Since I started in 2014, our organization has navigated many changes. We moved to a new office in Ventura, took on multiple disaster response and recovery efforts, developed a program to house the homeless in our community, and now we’re helping our neighbors through the pandemic.
Through it all, we’ve remained remarkably resilient. But the source of our resilience is people like you, who care so deeply about your fellow community members. Your generosity and caring inspire us throughout the year.
It’s truly an honor to lead this incredible team, to serve those in need, and to help improve the conditions for all in community. We strive to lead with compassion and unity, rather than division. It’s the United Way.
Bilingual award — City of Oxnard Wins $7.1 Million Grant to Revitalize Durley Park
The City of Oxnard won a $7.1 million grant for improvements to Durley Park as part of Governor Newsom’s “Outdoors for All” initiative to enable all Californians, regardless of zip code or income, to access parks and open space.
The California State Parks’ grant funding will allow the City to invest in restorations to the current Durley Park space and add amenities such as a new area for a bike pump track/skate park, a community track for walkers and joggers, and much more.
“Revitalizing our parks is very important to our community,” said Mayor John Zaragoza. “From Oxnard’s seniors to our youth, everyone’s quality of life improves with access to open-space and recreational opportunities.”
“We’re excited that the State recognized the potential of Durley Park,” said Mayor Pro Tem Bryan MacDonald, whose District 4 includes Durley Park. “With this grant funding, the City is able to add amenities, from picnic areas to athletic fields, that will benefit the whole community.”
Museum of Ventura County — Stuff. Those. Stockings
We are so excited to present our fun new Museum gift shop items, including one of a kind puzzles with rare historical images from the Research Library! If you’re a fan of Arte Para la Gente: The Collected Works of Margaret Garcia come get your own magnet with her beautiful artwork on it. Popular as ever are our MVC paintbrush pens, collect all four! Find these special items at the Museum of Ventura County or the Agriculture Museum in Santa Paula, while supplies last. Both Museums are open from Thursday-Sunday 11am-5pm.
Grand Re-Openings At Simi Valley and Yarrow YMCAs
The Southeast Ventura County YMCA is celebrating a re-opening and major improvements to its Simi Valley branch and the re-opening of the Yarrow Family YMCA in Westlake Village. Tours, kid fun, entertainment, food and other activities will take place Saturday, January 8 at the Simi Valley Family YMCA (3200 Cochran St., Simi Valley) and Saturday, January 22 at the Yarrow Family YMCA (31105 Thousand Oaks Blvd., Westlake Village). Celebration hours are 1:00 p.m. to 4:00 p.m. both days. Free tacos will be served while they last.
Improvements at the Simi Y include an additional group exercise and fitness studio, a small-group training studio, remodeled locker rooms, new equipment, new paint, flooring and energy-efficient lighting. “It’s been years since the Simi Y had these kinds of upgrades,” says Ronnie Stone, President/CEO of the Y. “They were needed to better serve the Simi Valley community.”
Bilingual report — Consulado de Mexico en Oxnard: Control de Armas, Persona del Año 2021 – ¡Vote ahora! / 2021 Arms Control Person of the Year – Vote Now!
The illicit arms trade is a subject of the utmost interest for Mexico and the entire Latin American region due to the violence that this activity brings about. Despite the specific national contexts, the violence caused by arms trafficking has consequences of great magnitude on the quality of life of our populations, as well as, on the development of our countries.
In that regard, last August, the Government of Mexico filed a lawsuit, before a United States federal district court against manufacturers and distributors of firearms, for negligent commercial practices that promote arms trafficking to our country. It is important to point out that the litigation is not against the U.S. government nor against the right of U.S. citizens to own and bear arms in their country (Second Amendment of its Constitution). The aim is to prevent criminal groups from benefiting from this illicit trafficking, that is, the drug cartels who do not have the right to possess and bear arms.
Assemblymember Irwin announces Legislation on Organized Retail Theft Prosecutions
Assemblymember Jacqui Irwin (D – Thousand Oaks) joined Ventura County Sheriff Bill Ayub and Ventura County District Attorney Erik Nasarenko this morning to announce her plans to introduce legislation to respond to the recent occurrences of brazen organized retail theft in California.
“We have all seen the news accounts of store clerks being pistol whipped, shoppers being pepper sprayed, and thieves using sledgehammers to threaten anyone in their way,” shared Assemblymember Irwin. “I will not wait out this holiday season and let these organized groups continue to believe they can prey on California shoppers and retailers with no repercussions.”
Housing Authority City of Santa Barbara Groundbreaking for Vera Cruz Village housing complex taking place Dec. 15
The Housing Authority City of Santa Barbara (HACSB) is pleased to announce that the ground breaking ceremony for Vera Cruz Village, at 116 East Cota Street, will take place on Wednesday, December 15th at 10 a.m. HACSB officials, Mayor Cathy Murrillo, Alejandra Gutierrez, Santa Barbara 1st District City Council Member, Oscar Gutierrez, Santa Barbara 3rd District City Council Member, a representative forCongressman Salud Carbajal and other dignitaries will be onsite with shovels in hand to participate in the official ceremonial launch of the project. Vera Cruz Village represents the HACSB’s latest affordable housing project designated for special needs and homeless individuals in the community. People experiencing homelessness have high rates of chronic mental and physical health conditions, co- occurring disorders, and barriers to receiving health care. Santa Barbara continues to grapple with adequately addressing this issue. The most recent Point-in-Time count completed in January 2020 found 1,897 homeless residents countywide, with 914 (48%) living in the City of Santa Barbara. The chronically homeless in the county rose from 423 to 614, a 45% increase (Santa Barbara County Point in Time Count 2020).
Economic Development Collaborative (EDC) Business Alert — California Competes Tax Credit and Grant Program
The California Competes Tax Credit (CCTC) and Grant Program (CCGP) are available to businesses that want to locate in California or stay and grow in California. Businesses of any industry, size, or location compete for over $180 million available in tax credits by applying in one of the three application periods each year. Applicants will be analyzed based on twelve different factors of evaluation, including number of full-time jobs being created, amount of investment, and strategic importance to the state or region.
Application Period Timeline: For the remainder of the fiscal year 2021-2022, GO-Biz will accept applications for the California Competes Tax Credit during the following periods:
January 3, 2022 – January 24, 2022
March 7, 2022 – March 28, 2022
UCSB — The Current — ‘Ancient Acid Taste Receptors’ and more news
Anindya Ganguly and Craig Montell identify and characterize a sour receptor conserved from fruit flies to humans.
Triunfo Water & Sanitation District Board Member Leon Shapiro Appointed To Ventura Regional Sanitation District Board
Leon Shapiro, a Triunfo Water & Sanitation District (TWSD) board member, was appointed to the Ventura Regional Sanitation District (VRSD) board of directors for a one-year term beginning this month.
The VRSD board is made up of representatives from eight Ventura County cities and a representative from one of five special districts in the county that receive water and wastewater services from VRSD. Shapiro will represent the special districts during his one-year term.
Shapiro has served on the TWSD board since he was appointed in 2018 and subsequently elected in 2020.
Economic Development Collaborative (EDC) — Free Weekly Webinar Schedule
SCORE VENTURA COUNTY: MINDFULNESS FUNDAMENTALS FOR SMALL BUSINESS OWNERS AND STAFF
December 14 @ 10:30 am
In this practical, interactive session, Amy Saltzman M.D. will show you how mindfulness and self-compassion practices can support you during this unusual and stressful time.
CLICK HERE TO REGISTER
Newest members bring financial and economic development expertise to the CSUCI Foundation Board
The CSU Channel Islands (CSUCI) Foundation Board is welcoming two new members with a wealth of experience in banking and community investment opportunities.
The two new members are New Capital LLC Chief Executive Officer Beatriz Olvera Stotzer of Los Angeles and Montecito Bank & Trust Senior Vice President and Director of Community Banking Cari Shore of Ojai.
Interim President Richard Yao, Ph.D., said he is excited to welcome two such accomplished leaders in the community and looks forward to working with them both.
“We are fortunate to have these two innovative and entrepreneurial women join our board,” Yao said. “They not only bring incredible talent, experience and thought leadership to the Foundation, but also are deeply connected in our region and are committed to our mission as a University and to the work of the Foundation Board.”
Museum of Contemporary Art Santa Barbara — Shop for unique holiday gifts @ MCASB | Saturday, Dec. 18
Shop for unique holiday gifts crafted by artists and designers at MCASB’s Gift Studio Pop-Up Holiday Market.
Featuring FREE hands-on holiday craft workshops for the whole family, hot cocoa, and Happy Hour from 2:00-6:00 PM when you can shop with spiked festive drinks in hand, accompanied by a curated DJ set.
FEATURING: Augie’s Agave – Camille K Jewelry – Demi Boelsterli – Monica Epstein – Madeleine Ignon – SlingShot Art Studio – SWEETZER Gourmet Popcorn – Yellow Rat – Rhys Zemeckis
Bilingual report — Dec. 13, 2021 – COVID-19 Update
Since Friday, there are 381 new COVID-19 cases reported and 16,256 new tests performed. There are 50 people hospitalized, 10 in the ICU. There have been 2 additional deaths of males ages 54 and 83. Our sincere condolences to the family and loved ones of the community members who passed away. The R-effectivefor Ventura County is 1.12 which means the spread is likely increasing.
Find a COVID testing site at www.vcrecovers.org/testing. The modified holiday schedule for state testing sites is now available.
Boosters are now available for 16- and 17-year-olds. Find a vaccine site at www.vaccines.gov.
First confirmed case of Omicron COVID-19 variant identified in Ventura County
The County of Ventura Public Health Department has received confirmation of its first case of COVID-19 with mutations consistent with the new Omicron variant (B.1.1.529). The individual, who is a fully vaccinated adult, is self-isolating, and their symptoms are improving without medical care. A small number of close contacts have been identified and, to date, all have tested negative and have no symptoms. The contacts have been asked to follow the quarantine protocol.
“Throughout the pandemic, we have always known there would be more mutations, resulting in the possibility of a more transmissible variant than the Delta variant,” said Public Health Officer Doctor Robert Levin. “While we can’t know for certain the impact of Omicron at this time, the good news is that we already know how to reduce transmission and slow spread. I encourage community members to take the steps that we know offer protection, including getting vaccinated, completing your vaccination series, or getting boosted, getting tested and staying at home if you feel sick or are a close contact, and wearing your mask indoors and at large mega events.”
BBSVC: CEO Lynne West announces retirement after 34 Years
After over 34 years as the Chief Executive Officer of Big Brothers Big Sisters of Ventura County (BBSVC), Lynne West has decided that the timing is right to retire from her role. Over her tenure, Ms. West has led the local agency as well as served as a Big Sisters to her Little, Juanita, for over a decade. She has also sat on state and national committees that have allowed her to use her voice for the betterment of the entire Big Brothers Big Sisters federation.
At the close of 2021, BBSVC is able to celebrate Ms. West’s retirement with the acknowledgement that the local agency will be recognized for achieving Gold Standard, a Big Brothers Big Sisters of America designation for BBBS agencies that go above and beyond best practice standards through youth mentorship.
Bilingual report — Dec. 10, 2021 – COVID-19 Update
The generosity of County employees on full display in Downtown Ventura! Big shout out to all county agencies that helped build a forest of trees contributing to Food Share of Ventura County’s Can Tree Build today! A heartfelt thank you to Food Share all volunteers that make this effort possible. All hands on deck to make sure no family goes hungry this season and throughout the year!
Local PODS® Announces Its Tenth Year of Support for Food Share CAN-tree Food Drive to Help Local Community
Local PODS Moving and Storage will once again support Food Share Ventura County’s CAN-tree event December 9-12 at Figueroa Plaza – Downtown Ventura. This year marks a special 10-year anniversary celebration.
“We’re proud to partner with Food Share for this annual event to help stock the food bank shelves with the extra canned food donations needed to help families through the holidays,” said Steve Yapp, owner of local PODS Moving and Storage. “Food Share helps thousands of food insecure families every holiday season, and we consider it an honor to be able to support their cause.”
PODS local have been supporting Food Share CAN-tree event programs since its origination in 2011. Each year, the community gathers to build a “forest” of can trees built from donated food that will soon be distributed to families for the holidays.
California Transportation Secretary Visits the Port of Hueneme
The Port of Hueneme welcomed California State Transportation Agency Secretary David S. Kim to the Port of Hueneme on Monday, December 6. His visit included discussions with Port workers and customers about how the Port of Hueneme is moving cargo and helping to relieve California’s port congestion.
Secretary Kim also met with Oxnard Harbor Commissioner Jess Herrera, Oxnard Harbor Commissioner Celina Zacarias, CEO & Port Director Kristin Decas and executive level Port officials to discuss how the Port’s growth continues to be one of the strongest economic engines for Ventura County and an environmental leader among the nations’ Ports.
“The Port of Hueneme plays a vital role in California’s transportation system, and I am thankful for the opportunity to see operations up close,” said Secretary Kim. “Governor Gavin Newsom’s Administration is laser-focused on ensuring the efficient movement of goods throughout the state – including the Governor’s executive order specifying actions by state agencies to improve the supply chain – and the Port of Hueneme will continue to be a key part of the state’s freight strategy.”
Bilingual report — Teatro de las Américas — ¡Feliz Navidad y próspero Año Nuevo!
What joy we feel sending you Holiday Greetings. We hope you pass these festive days happy and in good health.
Here goes a report for the years 2020 and 2021.
Cabrillo Economic Development Corporation Announces Newest Board Member
Cabrillo Economic Development Corporation (Cabrillo EDC), the largest developer of affordable homes in Ventura County, announced the appointment of Mayra Ramirez as the newest member of Cabrillo EDC’s Board of Directors.
Originally from Oaxaca, Mexico, Mayra Ramirez is a Food Safety and Occupational Safety Coordinator for a local Agriculture company and is currently working on her Business Management Degree at Oxnard College.
Bilingual report — Ventura County ranked fourth county in the nation in securing FEMA funding for pandemic response
The Federal Emergency Management Agency (FEMA) ranks Ventura County fourth in the nation for securing funding for COVID-19 response. “The County took an aggressive approach in seeking FEMA reimbursement for the County’s $104 million in costs associated with our community-based testing and vaccine efforts in 2020. This approach was an administratively arduous task; however, the benefit was that it allowed our County to maximize the investment back into the community with more than $150 million in local assistance,” said County Executive Officer Mike Powers.
FEMA’s Public Assistance program provides grants to government following a presidential disaster declaration to quickly respond to and recover from major disasters or emergencies. The process to obtain grants is extensive.“It is outstanding. It really says something about our staff that they were able to do the extra work to make this happen. It certainly paid off for members of our community,” said Chair of the Board Supervisor Linda Parks.
People’s Self Help Housing — Got 5 mins? Build a Home for the Holidays!
Each year, our tradition has been to brighten the season with a heartfelt craft for you and your loved ones to make together.
This year’s card represents some of the 5,000+ people who call People’s Self-Help Housing home.
Please enjoy, and thank you for all your support!
Museum of Ventura County — Santa came early to Ventura County!
MVC Gallery Marketplace & Gift Shops
Where you get to bring the Museum home!
Online, at the Museum of Ventura County, and the Agriculture Museum in Santa Paula
10% off for Museum Members!
We are so excited to present our updated online MVC Gallery Marketplace collection! Browse and purchase artworks by local artists Charlene Spiller, Ed Terpening, Gail Faulkner, Jacqueline Woods, Nash Rightmer, and Scott Gordon. The MVC Gallery Marketplace was created to help regional artists sell their works to collectors. The Museum has selected notable artists working in many media, who represent some of the finest work in our county.
SBCC’s Scheinfeld Center crowns “Shark Tank” winner and announces new Economic Growth Accelerator with SBCC Foundation and SCORE
The Scheinfeld Center for Entrepreneurship & Innovation at Santa Barbara City College recently celebrated the conclusion of its 2021 Get REAL Accelerator program with a live broadcast of its “Get REAL Shark Tank.” Inspired by the hit TV show, this version of “Shark Tank” featured three student entrepreneurs who shared their business pitches with a panel of local business leaders hoping to earn their “investment” of a $10,000 prize to help make their plans a reality. John Harmon and his Oil Slick+ Adhesive Remover ultimately won the prize sponsored by Union Bank and will use it to expand his product line into wipes for medical tape adhesive removal, aimed particularly at Type 1 diabetics who wear medical devices, providing an easy way to remove medical tape.
Drop Off Your Christmas Tree At Agromin, Get Free Potting Mix
Agromin, a soil products manufacturer and the green waste recycler for much of Ventura County, is accepting Christmas trees at its locations in Oxnard from December 26 through January 7. Residents who drop off their trees will receive a free bag of potting mix.
Drop off locations and hours are:
Agromin Composting Facility – 6859 Arnold Rd., Oxnard (Hours: Monday – Friday, 7:00 a.m. – 4:30 p.m., Saturday, 7:00 a.m. – 3:00 p.m.)
Agromin Corporate Office – 201 Kinetic Dr. Oxnard (Hours: Monday – Friday, 7:00 a.m. – 4:30 p.m.)
December 2021 Friendly Finch Friendship Center’s Monthly Newsletter
This year, Unity Shoppe, Inc. will continue its proud 25-year tradition of working with Friendship Center to ensure that our members always have a wonderful Christmas/Winter Holiday season.
Unity Shoppe provides special hand-picked gifts for our members based on questionnaires each fills out. Each Friendship Center member receives a present especially chosen and wrapped for them to enjoy during our Annual Holiday Celebration.
These pictures from years past show us the true meaning of friendship and the enjoyment received by our members as they open up their special gifts!
Thank you Unity Shoppe! We appreciate everything you do for us!
Bilingual report — Goleta Water District Holds Public Mapping Hearings
Goleta Water District (GWD) will be reviewing and making initial comments on draft district maps at the next upcoming virtual hearing Thursday, December 9, 2021 at 6:00 p.m. via Zoom. GWD will be transitioning to district- based elections and is inviting all interested persons to participate. Residents and stakeholders are encouraged to participate and help draw district lines by providing public comments via email or phone, or at public hearings. Draft maps are posted on GWD’s website (http://www.goletawater.com/districting) along with more information on how to participate.
Bilingual report — Dec. 6, 2021 – COVID-19 Update
Since Friday, there are 623 new COVID-19 cases reported and 15,079 new tests performed. There are 45 people hospitalized, 7 in the ICU. There have been no additional deaths reported. The R-effective for Ventura County is 1.12 which means the spread is likely increasing.
California Department of Public Health Omicron Fact Sheet
Find a COVID testing location
Get a COVID vaccine or booster shot
Get a copy of your digital vaccine record
76.6% of community members (ages 5+) have received one or more COVID vaccine doses.
70.0% of eligible community members have been fully vaccinated.
76.4% of community members 12+ have been fully vaccinated.
Stay informed at www.vcrecovers.org.
Economic Development Collaborative (EDC) — Free Weekly Webinar Schedule
The Economic Development Collaborative encourages you to sign up for our partner’s no-cost webinars. Space is limited. Register today!
Agromin Launches California Compost To Help Jurisdictions Comply With SB 1383’s Annual Organic Waste Procurement Requirements
Agromin, one of California’s largest organic waste recyclers, has launched California Compost (www.CaliforniaCompost.net) to help California jurisdictions assess, source and procure organic waste tonnage to comply with California SB 1383.
SB 1383 goes into effect January 1, 2022. It is designed to reduce state methane gas emissions to combat climate change by cutting down on the amount of organic waste deposited into landfills. According to CalRecycle, organic waste in landfills accounts for 20 percent of the state’s methane gas emissions. Methane gas is 84 times more potent than carbon dioxide.
Jurisdictions will now be required to procure and use organic waste products such as compost and mulch instead of sending its organic waste to landfills.
Open registration for SBCC Spring 2022 starts Dec. 7
Santa Barbara City College is pleased to announce that registration for Spring 2022 will be open to everyone in the community beginning Tuesday, Dec. 7. Whether the goal is to earn an associate degree, transfer to a four-year university, or enroll in the School of Extended Learning for life enrichment classes, career skills training, a high school diploma or GED, SBCC is committed to help people from all walks of life succeed.
Students can choose from classes that are offered online or in a face-to-face or hybrid format. The Luria Library and the Cartwright Learning Resources Center will also be offering services in-person and online, as will all Student Services.
Ventura County Arts Council — Grants, County Employee Art, COVID Relief Advocacy
As 2021 winds down, we want to thank you for being part of Ventura County’s arts and culture community. Whether you’re an artist, business, organization or supporter of the arts, you’re an important part of our creative economy, and we encourage you to make your voice heard.
You can do this by writing a letter, sending an email or calling your Ventura County Supervisor to let them know that we need a COVID-19 relief fund for artists and arts organization. They want to hear personal stories and experiences from our community. Visit this page to look up your supervisor and their contact info.
Museum of Ventura County — How do you bring your Museum home, you ask?
We are so excited to present our updated MVC Gallery Marketplace collection! Browse and purchase artworks by local artists Charlene Spiller, Ed Terpening, Gail Faulkner, Jacqueline Woods, Nash Rightmer, and Scott Gordon. The MVC Gallery Marketplace was created to help regional artists sell their works to collectors. The Museum has selected notable artists working in many media, who represent some of the finest work in our county.
To receive your new artwork we offer convenient “Pick-Up” or “UPS shipping” options. After you have made your order, a Museum staff member will contact you the next business day to make arrangements for either option. If you need the piece shipped, we will generate a shipping quote for you after receiving your mailing details.
Thank you for choosing to support the Museum of Ventura County and the talented artists of Ventura County!
Museum of Contemporary Art Santa Barbara — Gift Studio 2021 | Holiday Pop-Up Market
Shop for unique holiday gifts crafted by artists and designers at MCASB’s Gift Studio Pop-Up Holiday Market.
This two-day event will feature FREE hands-on holiday craft workshops for the whole family, hot cocoa, and a guided tour of Rosha Yaghmai: Drifters. Don’t miss Happy Hour from 4:00-6:00 PM when you can shop with spiked festive drinks in hand, accompanied by a curated DJ set.
FEATURING: Augie’s Tequila – Camille K Jewelry – Demi Boelsterli – Monica Epstein – Madeleine Ignon – SlingShot Art Studio – SWEETZER Gourmet Popcorn – Yellow Rat – Rhys Zemeckis Read more >>
Bilingual report — Dec. 3, 2021 – COVID-19 Update
Since Wednesday, there are 147 new COVID-19 cases reported and 20,462 new tests performed. There are 38 people hospitalized, 8 in the ICU. There have been 2 new deaths of a 44 year old female and a 68 year old male. Our thoughts and sincere condolences to the loved ones of those that have passed away. The R-effective for Ventura County is .86 which means the spread is likely decreasing.
California Department of Public Health Omicron Fact Sheet
Find a COVID testing location
Get a COVID vaccine or booster shot
76.4% of community members (ages 5+) have received one or more COVID vaccine doses.
69.7% of eligible community members have been fully vaccinated.
76.3% of community members 12+ have been fully vaccinated.
Stay informed at www.vcrecovers.org.
Kaiser Permanente’s 2022 Rose Parade® Float Celebrates ‘A Healthier Future’
Kaiser Permanente’s 2022 Rose Parade® float theme, “A Healthier Future,” celebrates the dedication and talents of our health care heroes and the possibilities that exist when passionate people come together to use their expertise for the greater good. The float embodies the 2022 Tournament of Roses® parade theme, “Dream. Believe. Achieve.,” a celebration that childhood dreams become careers that make the world a better place.
Kaiser Permanente has a total of 39 hospitals and 730 medical offices across its eight operating markets, including Market Street Medical Offices in Ventura, California.