Category: Business

3C-REN Celebrates Successful 2023 with over $800,000 in Energy-Saving Incentives Serving over 500 Homes in the Tri-County Region

by Community Contributor • January 31, 2024 • Comments Off

CENTRAL COAST — Throughout 2023, 3C-REN (Tri-County Regional Energy Network), a partnership between the Counties of San Luis Obispo, Santa Barbara and Ventura, served more than 500 homes in the region with energy-saving projects, representing a local investment of over $800,000 via incentives paid out to projects. 3C-REN also upskilled hundreds of local workers and supported design and trade professionals adjusting to new, more efficient building codes.

“We are very proud of the work we accomplished and the energy-saving projects we completed in 2023 as we move our region closer to meeting local and state climate goals,” said Marisa Hanson-Lopez, 3C-REN Multifamily Program Manager. “As we continue to provide new opportunities to save money and energy, we encourage residents and businesses to get in touch when replacing furnaces, air conditioners, water heaters, windows and more. 3C-REN incentives for these systems can lower energy bills while creating healthier, more comfortable homes that are better for the planet. We know it can be confusing, but we can help!”

Economic Development Collaborative (EDC) — Emergency Preparedness Guide for Small Businesses and Nonprofits

by Community Contributor • January 30, 2024 • Comments Off

The Economic Development Collaborative is proud to support Pacific Coast Business Times’ Emergency Preparedness guide. The guide is designed to help small businesses and nonprofit organizations prepare for natural disasters and be aware of recovery options.

If disaster strikes, is your business prepared? View the report HERE.

UCSB — The Current — ‘Extreme drought hits grasslands and shrublands harder than anticipated’ and more news, events

by Community Contributor • January 30, 2024 • Comments Off

A global experiment covering 100 sites, undertaken to generate a baseline understanding of the potential losses of plant productivity in these vital ecosystems, quantifies the impacts of extreme drought across six continents.

Bilingual report — Ventura County Board of Supervisors approve adoption of Disability Access Strategic Plan

by Community Contributor • January 29, 2024 • Comments Off

VENTURA — Through unanimous vote during the regular meeting on Tuesday, January 23, the Ventura County Board of Supervisors approved the adoption of a 2024-2027 County Disability Access Strategic Plan. The plan outlines key goals that advocate for increased transportation options, ensuring digital accessibility, enhancing physical access to facilities, prioritizing community relationships, education, and emergency preparedness. The plan is the first of its kind for the County of Ventura and represents a comprehensive and forward-thinking approach to fostering a more inclusive and accessible community.

“This strategic plan will provide a strong foundation for the County’s work in disability access,” stated Supervisor Kelly Long, Chair of the Board of Supervisors. “I appreciate the internal and external focus on expanding disability access within our local community and finding new and innovative ways to partner with the community.”

Economic Development Collaborative (EDC) free event and webinar schedule

by Community Contributor • January 29, 2024 • Comments Off

SCORE VENTURA COUNTY: FRANCHISING 101 FOR VETERANS

January 31 @ 1:00 pm

Did you know that 1 out of 7 franchises is owned by a Veteran? Franchises appreciate the mindset and skills that military professionals possess and in appreciation, reward them with discounts and incentives if they are awarded a franchise. There are many misconceptions surrounding franchises and how a successful placement works. Also, with thousands of brands across nearly 100 categories, how would one really know which one is right for them? If a franchise is something you are thinking about for now, or someday this webinar is for you.

CLICK HERE TO REGISTER

805 CoWorking Collective launches to offer flexible workspaces from Westlake to Santa Barbara

by Community Contributor • January 29, 2024 • Comments Off

SANTA BARBARA — Remote and hybrid workers traveling in Ventura and Santa Barbara counties can now access flexible office spaces at multiple points along U.S. Route 101 under the newly launched 805 CoWorking Collective.

Comprised of four coworking spaces on the Central Coast, the Collective spans almost 60 miles from Westlake to Santa Barbara. Member spaces are Workzones in Santa Barbara, Coastal Coworking in Ventura, Collab District in Camarillo, and Hub101 in Westlake Village.

All of the spaces offer drop-in day passes to members and non-members alike. Travelers who are members of any one space within the 805 CoWorking Collective will receive discounted day passes when they visit the other flex spaces. Non-members pay standard rates.

“With so many people working from home or in a hybrid work model, being able to access a professional space for a few hours or a day while traveling is far superior to working out of a coffee shop,” said Pam Tanase, the Collective’s organizer and Workzones cofounder. “The 805 CoWorking Collective has been created to give people more options when they travel along the 101 to support their flexible workspace needs.”

Triunfo Water & Sanitation District 2023 Year in Review

by Community Contributor • January 29, 2024 • Comments Off

WESTLAKE VILLAGE — The welcomed rainfall in 2023 shored up Triunfo Water & Sanitation District’s supply and put the district on a solid foundation for 2024.

60th Anniversary

The rainy weather helped celebrate TWSD’s 60th anniversary in 2023. The rain prompted TWSD to rescind its Stage 1 Water Shortage restrictions implemented because of the drought, although permanent water restrictions remain in place.

“Last year’s storm events brought a very different picture to our ongoing drought status,” says Jane Nye, TWSD 2023 board chair. “Unprecedented winter storms replenished water supplies throughout the state, and we hope that this year will deliver the same.”

Ventura County Animal Services — We did it! 205 beds donated in 36 hours thanks to you!

by Community Contributor • January 29, 2024 • Comments Off

WE DID IT! Thanks to you! 205 dog beds were donated in just 36 HOURS by shelter supporters in the community! The folks at Kuranda said, “We’ve NEVER seen a donation drive this big go this fast!” They asked how we did it, and we told them we have a close-knit community of animal lovers who know us, trust us, and believe in our lifesaving mission! That’s how we did it!

Thank you to ALL who donated to this Donation Bed Drive! Will be having a Build-A-Bed event on Saturday, February 3rd, 2024. Stay tuned for event details.

Jalama Beach in Lompoc: California’s Best-Kept Secret For Sun And Surf

by Community Contributor • January 29, 2024 • Comments Off

LOMPOC — Situated on California’s gorgeous central coast, Lompoc’s Jalama Beach is waiting to be discovered. With its wild beauty, rugged charm, and off-the-beaten-path location, this beach offers an authentic California experience unlike any other. Join us on a journey as we explore the allure of Jalama Beach and why it’s perfect for your next beach adventure. https://explorelompoc.com/jalama-beach/

Bilingual report — Donald Aguilar Appointed Santa Paula Chief of Police

by Community Contributor • January 26, 2024 • Comments Off

SANTA PAULA — The City of Santa Paula is pleased to announce the appointment of Donald Aguilar as the City’s permanent Chief of Police. With an illustrious, nearly four-decade career in law enforcement and a proven track record of leadership in Santa Paula, Chief Aguilar brings a unique combination of local knowledge and experience to the Santa Paula community.

“Chief Aguilar has provided stability and effective leadership to the Santa Paula Police Department and has earned the respect and support of our community during his term as our Interim Chief,” said Mayor Leslie Cornejo. “His vision for public safety aligns seamlessly with our core values as a City. I am confident that under Chief Aguilar’s leadership, we will continue to build on the progress we’ve been making to strengthen our Police Department.”

Bilingual report — Economic Development Collaborative (EDC) releases 2023 Community Impact Report

by Community Contributor • January 26, 2024 • Comments Off

We are delighted to present our 2023 Community Impact Report with the theme “Connecting Communities: Partnering for Progress.” Our extensive partnerships, spanning multiple counties and sectors, involve a diverse range of public and private stakeholders at local, state and federal levels. This inclusivity informs our ability to construct an economy fostering broadly shared prosperity. At the Economic Development Collaborative, collaboration defines our purpose, enhancing our impact and outcomes. As we enter 2024, we anticipate continuing our mission, building upon existing alliances and forging connections with new partners.

MVC Adds Three New Members to its Esteemed Board of Directors

by Community Contributor • January 25, 2024 • Comments Off

VENTURA COUNTY — The Museum of Ventura County is pleased to announce the appointment of three distinguished individuals to its Board of Directors, each bringing a wealth of experience and expertise to contribute to the cultural enrichment and growth of the Museum and our county.

Camarillo broker installed as Realtor association president

by Community Contributor • January 25, 2024 • Comments Off

CAMARILLO — Camarillo resident Cami Pinsak was recently installed as the 2024 president of the Ventura County Coastal Association of Realtors. Pinsak is the broker-owner of Realty ONE Group Summit, which has offices in Camarillo and Ventura, and has been a Realtor for nearly 18 years.

A Camarillo resident since 1999, Pinsak has been part of the VCCAR leadership team since 2017 when she was first elected to the association’s Board of Directors. She has also served as VCCAR’s treasurer, first vice president and president-elect. She is also a director for the statewide California Association of Realtors and was named VCCAR’s Broker/Manager of the Year Award in 2016.

Explore Lompoc Announces 2024 Events & Festivals

by Community Contributor • January 25, 2024 • Comments Off

LOMPOC — Dive into the New Year in Lompoc! From now until December 31, 2024, we have a calendar brimming with fun events. Throughout the year, immerse yourself in the small town charm of Lompoc while you indulge in local cuisine, explore vibrant flower fields, discover history and art, find unique festivals and more. Whether you’re exploring the craft of winemaking or taking a step back into history, the Lompoc Valley has it all.

Here’s a sneak peek into some of the standout Lompoc events of 2024. Check our event calendar for all events and the most current information.

Celina Zacarias Elected as 1st Latina Woman to Serve as President of the Oxnard Harbor District, 2024-2025

by Community Contributor • January 24, 2024 • Comments Off

PORT HUENEME — On January 16, 2024, the Oxnard Harbor District elected Celina Zacarias as the President of the Board of Harbor Commissioners. Zacarias will be the first Latina woman to hold this top post and brings a unique perspective of community engagement, workforce development, and education with her extensive experience serving as Executive Director of Community & Government Relations at California State University Channel Islands (CSUCI).

“It is truly an honor to serve as the President of the Oxnard Harbor District Board of Harbor Commissioners,” said Commissioner Zacarias. “From the beginning of my time as a commissioner, it has been and continues to be my commitment and the commitment of my fellow Commissioners to strengthen our community through educational and workforce opportunities both now and in the future. I will continue the Port’s mission to support our customers, provide impactful community outreach, and serve as an economic force in Ventura County.”

California Nature Art Museum in Solvang — New Name; New Era — Exciting Future

by Community Contributor • January 24, 2024 • Comments Off

The Wildling Museum is now the California Nature Art Museum

Venerable Solvang Mainstay Celebrates the Natural Beauty and Diversity of the Golden State through Art, Education, and Conservation

Ventura County Animal Services — Donate a Dog Bed to VCAS

by Community Contributor • January 24, 2024 • Comments Off

Every few years Ventura County Animal Services holds a Dog Bed Donation Drive to replace kennel beds that have become damaged due to the wear and tear of thousands of animals. We need 205 beds to replace all beds at the Camarillo and Simi Valley Shelter. Will you donate a dog bed?

Visit www.vcas.us/DogBedDonation to donate a bed directly to the shelter. On this page you will find the exact type of bed our dogs need, and you’ll see how many beds have already been purchased. Beds are automatically shipped to the Camarillo Shelter. Feel free to leave an “In Memory of” or “In Honor of” message when checking out. Thank you so much for your support!

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

by Community Contributor • January 24, 2024 • Comments Off

The California Labor Market Information Division has released its December 2023 report, showing little change for Ventura County in net industry employment—up by only 100 jobs, November to December, and no change to the unemployment rate, at 4.7%. That rate puts Ventura County ahead of the state as a whole, which is at 5.1% unadjusted, though trailing the U.S. average at 3.5%.

There are a couple of indicators that especially disappoint this month, specifically, the total Labor Force and the total number of employed workers. The total labor force is down, month-over-month, by 2,300, to 417,400. That’s 6,400 fewer workers in the total labor force since prior to the pandemic. More concerning is the decline by 11,200 employed workers over the same time.

Bilingual report — January News from People’s Self-Help Housing (PSHHC)

by Community Contributor • January 23, 2024 • Comments Off

In California, 2023 saw the passage of a number of pieces of legislation to ease the production and delivery of affordable housing to our region. One such success, was SB4 which now provides a streamlined process for religious organizations and nonprofit colleges to develop affordable housing on their property. People’s Self-Help Housing is now one of the first developers to evaluate the application of this new law in our partnership with College United Methodist Church in Ventura. Part of the streamlining afforded by SB4 includes the ability to streamline the CEQA process when land is to be developed for affordable housing.

DignityMoves in Santa Barbara receives $100,000 grant from the James M. Cox Foundation

by Community Contributor • January 22, 2024 • Comments Off

SANTA BARBARA — DignityMoves’s Santa Barbara Capital Campaign has been awarded a $100,000 grant from the James M. Cox Foundation. The Foundation is the charitable arm of Cox Enterprises, parent company of Cox Communications, and named after the company’s founder. The funds will support a housing community called “La Posada Village,” with the goal of reducing homelessness in Santa Barbara County.

“DignityMoves is honored to be the recipient of a James M. Cox Foundation grant. We are incredibly grateful for this type of community support. Without partners like Cox, we cannot help as many people as we do,” said Jack Lorenz, Regional Advancement Director for DignityMoves.

Economic Development Collaborative (EDC) free event and webinar schedule

by Community Contributor • January 22, 2024 • Comments Off

AI FOR SMALL BUSINESS 101: HOW TO LEVERAGE AI TO ACCELERATE YOUR BUSINESS GROWTH

January 24 @ 12:00 pm

Explore the real-world applications of AI. Don’t miss out on unlocking the potential of AI for your business success. Offered in partnership with EDC, WEV and SCORE. Spanish interpretation will be available.

CLICK HERE TO REGISTER

EN ESPAÑOL: IA PARA NEGOCIOS 101: CÓMO APROVECHAR LA IA PARA ACELERAR EL CRECIMIENTO DE TU NEGOCIO

24 de enero a las 12:00 pm

Explora las aplicaciones de la IA en el mundo real. No te pierdas la oportunidad de desbloquear el potencial de la IA para el éxito de tu negocio. Ofrecido en asociación con EDC, WEV y SCORE. Habrá interpretación al español.

HAGA CLIC AQUÍ PARA INSCRIBIRSE

Santa Barbara County First District Supervisor Das Williams — Mapping our Justice and Mental Healthcare System

by Community Contributor • January 22, 2024 • Comments Off

This coming Tuesday at the Board of Supervisors we will discuss a report showing that our County has a higher-than-average jail incarceration rate compared to the rest of California, and hear an update on efforts to better manage the population of the jail. The most basic service in government is public safety, but it does not make us safe when some people are ending up in jail, or coming back to it, because of a lack of mental health services. We have a moral imperative to improve the situation. But we also have a financial need as well.

Oxnard Harbor District Commissioners name Celina L. Zacarias to serve as new president

by Community Contributor • January 19, 2024 • Comments Off

PORT HUENEME — On January 16, 2024, the Port of Hueneme welcomed new leadership as the Board of the Oxnard Harbor District voted Celina L. Zacarias to serve as President for 2024.

Bilingual report — The latest news from the County of Ventura

by Community Contributor • January 18, 2024 • Comments Off

Volunteers Needed: Point In Time Homeless Count
The Ventura County Continuum of Care needs volunteers for the upcoming Point In Time Homeless count on January 24th! The count serves as a crucial tool for understanding the extent and nature of homelessness within the region while securing critical federal funding.

Conducted annually, this count provides a snapshot of the homeless population on a specific day (January 24th), aiding policy makers, service providers, and advocates in assessing the effectiveness of current interventions and shaping future strategies. The data collected helps identify trends, allocate resources more effectively, and measure progress towards addressing homelessness in Ventura County.

Museum of Ventura County Gratefully Acknowledges Community Support and Announces Changes in Admission Policy

by Community Contributor • January 18, 2024 • Comments Off

VENTURA COUNTY — The Museum of Ventura County extends heartfelt gratitude to our vibrant community for its unwavering generosity, allowing us to offer free admission throughout 2023. As we look ahead to the new year, the Museum of Ventura County, Downtown Ventura location, will undergo a transition in its admission policy beginning February 1, 2024. The grant that has sustained free admission will conclude, necessitating a shift to a sustainable funding model.

Starting February 1, 2024, the Museum of Ventura County, Downtown Ventura, will implement the following admission fees:

Agromin Receives $10 Million Grant From CalRecycle To Turn Food Waste And Yard Waste Into Compost

by Community Contributor • January 18, 2024 • Comments Off

OXNARD — Agromin, California’s largest organic waste recycler, received a $10 million grant from CalRecycle’s Organics Grant Program to help communities turn more of their food waste and yard waste into compost.

CalRecycle’s Organics Grant Program is a statewide effort to expand and build new organic recycling facilities, allowing more waste to be recycled instead of ending up in landfills where it emits greenhouse gases.

“The grant funds will help Agromin move forward on expanding our composting facility at Limoneira Ranch in Santa Paula,” says Bill Camarillo, Agromin CEO. “We’re currently processing over one million tons of organic waste a year. Once the expansion is complete, we’ll be able to boost that amount to almost 300,000.”

38th Annual California Strawberry Festival Seeks Sponsors & Exhibitors

by Community Contributor • January 18, 2024 • Comments Off

VENTURA — The 38th Annual California Strawberry Festival is seeking corporate sponsors and commercial exhibitors. The festival is taking place May 18 and 19 at the Ventura County Fairgrounds in Ventura.

Last year, the family-friendly festival drew more than 57,000 visitors from throughout Southern California including Los Angeles, Ventura, San Bernardino, Kern, Santa Barbara and Orange counties.

Courtney Cazenave Joins Family Service Agency Board of Directors

by Community Contributor • January 18, 2024 • Comments Off

SANTA BARBARA — Family Service Agency (FSA) of Santa Barbara County, also known as Santa Maria Valley Youth and Family Center and Guadalupe’s Little House By The Park, is pleased to announce the appointment of Courtney Cazenave to its Board of Directors.

Cazenave retired from her position as an administrative office professional for the Santa Barbara County Sheriff’s Department earlier this year. She has 18 years of administration and operations experience.

A Guadalupe resident, Cazenave is looking forward to using her skills to make a difference in the community. She has been a Court-Appointed Special Advocate since 2020. She has previously volunteered for the Special Olympics, elections, and the Homeless Count from 2019
to 2021.

SEEAG Introduces Visionaries Circle LEAGUE²

by Community Contributor • January 17, 2024 • Comments Off

VENTURA — Students for Eco-Education and Agriculture (SEEAG) is introducing its Visionaries Circle LEAGUE² (Leaders in Agriculture United for Educational Excellence) membership to recognize its premier donors who have shown support for SEEAG’s youth agricultural and nutrition education programs and Farm Day community education and outreach events. SEEAG’s focus is to educate students and the public about the farm origins of food, healthy eating, and the importance of local agriculture. Many of these donors have been involved in SEEAG since its first program was introduced almost 16 years ago.

“SEEAG has been extremely fortunate to have a dedicated, loyal donor base whose contributions have made a real difference in SEEAG’s ability to offer the cost-free programming we do. Without them, we would not be able to reach thousands of students every year,” says Mary Maranville, the nonprofit’s Founder and CEO.

People’s Self-Help Housing breaks ground on new affordable housing in Santa Ynez Valley

by Community Contributor • January 17, 2024 • Comments Off

SANTA BARBARA — Last week, People’s Self-Help Housing (PSHH) broke ground on its newest affordable housing: Buellton Garden Apartments.

Located at 10 & 12 McMurray Road in Buellton, near essential services, this new development is comprised of 89 units. Including one-, two-, and three-bedroom units for low-income households, it features a welcoming community room, well-resourced learning center, and onsite supportive services for residents.

“We are thrilled to bring more affordable housing to the community members of the Santa Ynez Valley with our first ever project in Buellton,” said Ken Trigueiro, PSHH CEO & President. “We look forward to watching this site develop and come to life over the next couple years. It’s been a long time in the making, and we are grateful to officially have shovels in the ground.”