Category: Business

Bilingual report — Ventura County Board of Supervisors approves new program to support veterans and first responders

by Community Contributor • March 26, 2026 • Comments Off

VENTURA — The Ventura County Board of Supervisors approved the establishment of a new program during its regular meeting on Tuesday, March 24, with The Veteran Mentor Project, Inc., a nonprofit organization that provides peer support and transition services for veterans and first responders. Ventura County Behavioral Health, in collaboration with The Veteran Mentor Project, will lead the program, with services scheduled to begin April 1, 2026, and continue through March 31, 2029. The partnership will support local veterans and first responders as they transition to civilian life through the Veterans Mentorship Program.

California Lutheran University taps pandemic response leader as chief strategy and growth officer

by Community Contributor • March 26, 2026 • Comments Off

“One of the most precious gems of California Lutheran University is our reputation,” John Nunes, president of Cal Lutheran, said. “It’s a gift bequeathed to us by our founders and by those who have stewarded this mission for decades. Dr. Hill’s remarkable, God-given gifts shine at the intersection of highbrow strategizing and everyday operations. This is as rare as it is necessary in this complex academic environment.”

Congresswoman Julia Brownley (D-CA) — ttention High School Artists! The 2026 Congressional Art Competition is Here!

by Community Contributor • March 26, 2026 • Comments Off

It’s that exciting time of year when I get to invite all high school students in grades 9-12 throughout California’s 26th Congressional District to participate in the Congressional Art Competition!

This is a fantastic opportunity for our region’s youth to showcase their creativity and talent. The winning artwork will be publicly displayed in the U.S. Capitol Building for a year, along with winners from across the nation. Additionally, the first-place winner and a parent/guardian will be flown to Washington, DC for the unveiling of the exhibit. Three honorable mention entries will also be on display in my district offices.

The deadline to submit artwork is Thursday, April 16, 2026!

Classified Employees of the Year celebrated cross the Ventura County Community College District

by Community Contributor • March 26, 2026 • Comments Off

CAMARILLO — The Ventura County Community College District (VCCCD) proudly recognizes Ariane Perez, Office Assistant at Oxnard College, as the 2026 Classified Employee of the Year. The annual award celebrates the excellence, professionalism and dedication of classified professionals who make an exceptional impact across the Community Colleges of Ventura County.

“These individuals have earned the commendation of their peers and represent the best of VCCCD classified employees,” said Gabriela Torres, board chair of the VCCCD. “Ariane’s dedication to removing barriers for first-generation and underrepresented students is exactly the kind of commitment that makes our colleges exceptional.”

AMR Ventura County and Gold Coast Ambulance named 2026 Tuberculosis Elimination Heroes for supporting Directly Observed Therapy program

by Community Contributor • March 25, 2026 • Comments Off

VENTURA COUNTY — As California continues to see significantly more cases of tuberculosis (TB) than any other state in the nation, a local partnership in Ventura County is being recognized for helping buck that trend. Thanks in part to the dedicated efforts of American Medical Response Ventura County (AMR) and Gold Coast Ambulance (GCA), Ventura County’s TB rates remain below the state average — earning the agencies the distinction of being named TB Elimination Heroes, Class of 2026.

Bilingual report — People’s Self-Health Housing eNewsletter – March 2026

by Community Contributor • March 24, 2026 • Comments Off

One of the great privileges of my work is the chance to speak with service members and military families. Each conversation reminds me just how often they are asked to uproot their lives: moving from base to base, state to state, sometimes across the world. Beyond the logistics of finding a new home, packing and unpacking boxes, the real disruptions run deeper. Every move means enrolling children in new schools, locating the nearest grocery store, finding a dentist who is taking new patients, discovering a new congregation, meeting new neighbors, finding where to get a haircut, identifying a reliable plumber, even deciding, once again, where to put the Christmas tree. Individually, these tasks may seem small, but repeatedly layered together, they can create isolation, instability, and lost opportunities. But these moves, at least, come with the support structures of the military.

California Lutheran University expands Board of Regents

by Community Contributor • March 24, 2026 • Comments Off

THOUSAND OAKS — California Lutheran University’s Board of Regents has appointed Attorney Melinda Guzman and longtime Ventura County nonprofit leader Kate McLean to its diverse board of thought leaders. The new members bring decades of legal, civic and nonprofit leadership experience to the university’s governing body.

“The Board of Regents’ focus is the success of Cal Lutheran and its students, faculty and staff,” Ann Boynton, chair of the Board of Regents, said. “Kate and Melinda bring a deep commitment and desire to use their skills and experiences to support our mission. I am so grateful to them for their enthusiasm and look forward to working closely with them.”

People’s Self-Health Housing — The Blueprint – March 2026

by Community Contributor • March 24, 2026 • Comments Off

Housing advocates nationally are hoping that 2026 will be the pivotal year for affordable housing.

The U.S. Senate has passed the 21st Century ROAD to Housing Act with an overwhelming 89–10 bipartisan vote. This marks the most significant federal housing reform in decades and brings together the Housing for the 21st Century Act and the ROAD to Housing Act. Combined it has more than 40 provisions aimed at boosting supply, lowering costs, and modernizing how homes get built.

The new legislation directly addresses one of the biggest issues: we simply don’t have enough homes. Our nation needs housing of every kind — for renters, first?time buyers, families, seniors, and people with disabilities. The new bill aims to tackle this shortage by making it easier, faster, and less expensive to build.

Cabrillo Economic Development Corp. closes financing on Camino De Salud, bringing 49 units of supportive affordable housing to the Ojai Valley

by Community Contributor • March 24, 2026 • Comments Off

OJAI — Cabrillo Economic Development Corporation (Cabrillo EDC) announced today the successful closing of financing for Camino De Salud, a 49-unit supportive affordable housing development in the unincorporated Ojai Valley community of Mira Monte. Located at 11432 North Ventura Avenue, Camino De Salud will reserve half of its units for residents who are experiencing homelessness and have been high health users. The remaining units will serve low-income residents earning 50 percent or less of the area median income.

“The data on housing affordability in Ventura County is sobering, but every statistic represents a real person striving for stability and dignity,” said Victoria Brady, Chief Executive Officer. “Our work is about creating places where people can access the care, support and opportunity they need to rebuild their lives. That has always been the heart of Cabrillo EDC.”

Port of Hueneme — Running on Sunshine: Sea Splash Color Dash 5k returns in full color

by Community Contributor • March 23, 2026 • Comments Off

ORT HUENEME — The City of Port Hueneme and the Port of Hueneme successfully hosted their third annual Sea Splash Color Dash 5K this weekend, drawing a vibrant crowd of community members for a day centered on wellness, connection, and coastal fun.

More than 800 participants gathered at Hueneme Beach before setting off along the coastal scenic beachfront course, running, walking, and celebrating as they were doused in colorful powder along the route. The high-energy event brought together families, local organizations, and visitors of all ages.

Economic Development Collaborative (EDC) free event and webinar schedule

by Community Contributor • March 23, 2026 • Comments Off

IN-PERSON EVENT: SMALL BUSINESS START-UP BASICS

March 25 @ 8:30 am

Join SCORE, City of Thousand Oaks, Economic Development Collaborative and Accelerate CA in this information-packed workshop that will help you assess whether starting a small business is right for you and consider the various options for starting a business, legal structures, and business plan basics. Address: City of Thousand Oaks, Oak & Park Room, 2100 Thousand Oaks Blvd, Thousand Oaks, CA 91362. The Accelerate California: Inclusive Innovation Hub (Accelerate CA Hub) is funded by the State of California and administered by CalOSBA. Price: FREE.

CLICK HERE TO REGISTER

Bilingual report — Ventura County Continuum of Care announces 11.8% reduction in 2026 Homeless Point in Time Count

by Community Contributor • March 23, 2026 • Comments Off

VENTURA — The Ventura County Continuum of Care (VC CoC) has reported preliminary results for the 2026 Ventura County Homeless Point in Time Count. Conducted on January 28, 2026, the count identified 1,755 individuals experiencing homelessness – a decrease of 235 people or 11.8% from 2024. Since 2023, homelessness in Ventura County has decreased by 28%.

The results reflect positive outcomes based on investments in permanent supportive housing, homelessness prevention programs, and encampment response efforts. The Ventura County Homelessness Plan (Plan) presented to the Ventura County Board of Supervisors in December 2023 provides detailed action areas, goals, and objectives that support this continued progress in reducing homelessness.

County of Ventura District 2 Supervisor Jeff Gorell — 28% Decrease in Homelessness Reported in Ventura County Since 2023

by Community Contributor • March 23, 2026 • Comments Off

Encouraging progress in Ventura County. The 2026 Point-in-Time Count shows a 28% reduction in homelessness since 2023—a meaningful step forward driven by investments in housing, prevention, and coordinated community efforts.

Behind every number in this report is a person—someone whose life is changing for the better. This progress reflects a strong, community-wide commitment to expanding housing, strengthening prevention, and meeting people where they are. We’re grateful to the many partners making this work possible.

While encouraged by these results, we remain focused on the goal: ensuring every person in Ventura County has stability, dignity, and a place to call home.

Click here to learn more.

CSUCI to host 2026 Ventura County Agricultural Education Summit on March 27

by Community Contributor • March 23, 2026 • Comments Off

CAMARILLO — Ventura County Farm to School will host the 2026 Agricultural Education Summit at CSU Channel Islands, bringing together educators, farmers, students, and community leaders for a day of learning, collaboration, and innovation focused on the region’s agriculture industry.

The summit will take place Friday, March 27, 2026, at CSU Channel Islands’ Grand Salon, featuring hands-on workshops, expert-led discussions, and networking opportunities designed to strengthen agricultural education across Ventura County.

Massive Central Coast Drilling Plan advances with more than 175,000 comments in opposition

by Community Contributor • March 23, 2026 • Comments Off

CENTRAL COAST — The public comment period has closed on the Bureau of Land Management’s proposal to expand oil and gas leasing across Central California, drawing approximately 175,000 comments in opposition from community members, organizations, and local stakeholders.

The proposal would open up roughly 850,000 acres of public lands and federal mineral estate to potential oil drilling and fracking across Santa Barbara, Ventura, San Luis Obispo, Kern, and surrounding counties, including areas near neighborhoods, recreation lands, and critical water resources.

Guest contribution — New bill targets toxic ‘Forever Chemicals’ on California Crops

by Community Contributor • March 23, 2026 • Comments Off

AB 1603 sets a timeline to end PFAS pesticides by 2035. Group sights report that show counties at risk include Santa Barbara, San Luis Obispo and Ventura counties

SALINAS — Currently, an estimated 2.5 million pounds of toxic PFAS “forever chemicals” pesticides are used annually on California crops, resulting in PFAS residues on produce consumed across the nation. California Assemblymember Nick Schultz (D–44) has introduced AB 1603, legislation to phase out PFAS pesticides. Co-sponsored by the Environmental Working Group, the statewide coalition Californians for Pesticide Reform, Pesticide Action & Agroecology Network, and the Center for Environmental Health, the bill would establish a progressive timeline to end use of PFAS pesticides in California by 2035, while giving growers time for transition to safer alternatives.

Nate’s Place awarded $5.71 million state grant to build new recovery campus and youth wellness center

by Community Contributor • March 23, 2026 • Comments Off

VENTURA — Nate’s Place, A Wellness and Recovery Center, a nonprofit serving youth and young adults across Ventura County, has been awarded a $5.71 million grant through the California Department of Health Care Services (DHCS) Behavioral Health Continuum Infrastructure Program (BHCIP) to build a significantly expanded youth wellness and recovery campus.

Ventura County Fire Dept. — Chuck Scherrei Promoted to Deputy Chief

by Community Contributor • March 23, 2026 • Comments Off

THOUSAND OAKS — The Ventura County Fire Department (VCFD) today announced the promotion of Chuck Scherrei to Deputy Fire Chief, a key leadership position responsible for day-to-day service delivery across the department.

Scherrei’s promotion marks a significant milestone in a distinguished career dedicated to public safety, leadership development, and service to the Ventura County community.

Oxnard joining other cities nationwide to rename annual César Chávez event on March 22 in light of allegations linked to the farm labor leader

by Community Contributor • March 20, 2026 • Comments Off

Groups move swiftly nationwide to remove images, honors for César Chávez, while others promote access to sexual assault and mental health counseling services

OXNARD — Oxnard is joining other cities nationwide in renaming their annual César Chávez celebration in light of the sexual assault allegations linked to the late farm labor leader.

“March for Justice! March for Farmworkers rights! Sunday March 22, 2026 at the Oxnard Performing Arts Center, 800 Hobson Way, Oxnard. The events starts at 3:30 pm.,” according to a Facebook post by Javier Gomez, founder of the Inlakech Cultural Arts Center in Oxnard.

Since early this month, cities across the nation either canceled or renamed their celebrations ahead of the labor leader’s birthday on March 31, 2026. Their actions followed news of a potential explosive story by a national publication that was first reported by the San Antonio Express-News on March 6, 2026. The reports focused on revelations of a “sensitive matter” involving Chavez.

Those reports were confirmed when an extensive story by the New York Times was published on March 18 detailing allegations of years of sexual abuse by Chavez of minors and sexual assault incidents involving farmworkers rights labor leader Dolores Huerta. Huerta confirmed those assaults in the story.

Bilingual commentary — Making America Lose the Race

by Community Contributor • March 20, 2026 • Comments Off

Imagine a government that insists that we make America great again by driving updated, fancy versions of 1950s vehicles. By sabotaging the push to convert our transportation to electric-powered vehicles, the current administration in Washington, D.C., has, in effect, handed the keys of a prosperous kingdom to international competitors.

Electric vehicles (EVs) are not just a “green fad” dreamt up by radical liberals. While the U.S. demurs, the rest of the world realizes that the future of the planet, and of industry, rests on its ability to advance in the production of reasonably priced EVs for the masses.

Congresswoman Julia Brownley (D-CA 26th District) — Need a Passport? Join me at the Passport Fair in Camarillo on Sat., April 11

by Community Contributor • March 20, 2026 • Comments Off

Helping residents across Ventura County and the Conejo Valley access federal services is one of the most important parts of my work in Congress. If you are considering traveling abroad, it is imperative that you keep your passport up to date. It’s important to note that some countries require that your passport be valid six months beyond the date of your trip.

I want to make sure that obtaining or renewing a passport is made as easy as possible. For that reason, I am hosting a Passport Fair on Saturday, April 11, from 9:00 AM to 3:00 PM, at the Ventura County Office of Education, located at 5100 Adolfo Road, Camarillo, CA 93012.

Central Coast Alliance for a Sustainable Economy (CAUSE) — New Housing Protections in Ventura County: Know Your Rights

by Community Contributor • March 20, 2026 • Comments Off

Our tenant organizing in Ventura County has led to exciting wins to protect renters in our communities.

Many tenants are forced to live with unsafe or poor conditions as if it’s normal. Small issues – like a broken stove or a leaking faucet – often go unrepaired, even after being reported multiple times. Over time, these problems get worse and can make a home unsafe, putting families’ health at risk.

Women’s Economic Ventures celebrates International Women’s Day with community eaders, Entrepreneur Story, and Trailblazer Award

by Community Contributor • March 19, 2026 • Comments Off

VENTURA & SANTA BARBARA COUNTIES — In celebration of International Women’s Day, Women’s Economic Ventures (WEV) brought together community leaders, entrepreneurs, donors, and partners for a special event honoring women’s leadership and the power of investing in women’s economic opportunity.

Held on March 5 at Spanish Hills Club in Camarillo, the gathering highlighted WEV’s mission to support women facing barriers to financial self-sufficiency through entrepreneurship and financial education. The program also recognized the organization’s 35th anniversary and the ongoing impact of investing in women and women-led businesses.

Senate Leader Monique Limón recognizes Elena Brokaw as 2026 Woman of the Year

by Community Contributor • March 19, 2026 • Comments Off

SANTA PAULA — The Santa Paula Chamber of Commerce is proud to announce that Board Chair Elena Brokaw has been recognized by Senate Leader Monique Limón as one of Ventura County’s 2026 Women of the Year. The recognition honors Brokaw’s leadership and her contributions to strengthening cultural engagement, community connection, and regional collaboration across Ventura County.

Brokaw serves as the Barbara Barnard Smith Chief Executive Officer of the Museum of Ventura County, where she has helped expand access to arts, history, and educational programming while building partnerships with public agencies, nonprofit organizations, and local businesses. Her leadership has supported increased community participation in cultural initiatives and enhanced opportunities for residents and visitors to connect with Ventura County’s heritage.

Asm. Bennett announces UFW Leader, housing attorney Barbara Macri-Ortiz as 2026 Woman of the Year

by Community Contributor • March 19, 2026 • Comments Off

SACRAMENTO — Assemblymember Steve Bennett (D-Oxnard) announces (March 16) that he has selected Barbara Macri-Ortiz as his 2026 Woman of the Year. In observation of Women’s History Month, the California Legislative Women’s Caucus allows state legislators to select a Woman of the Year. Accompanied by her son, Macri-Ortiz joins Asm. Bennett today in Sacramento for the Woman of the Year floor ceremony.

An attorney in private practice in Oxnard, Macri-Ortiz specializes in all aspects of affordable housing development, land use, and landlord-tenant law. Throughout her 39-year legal career she has focused on issues of importance to farm workers and other low wage workers.

Bilingual report — Ventura County Executive Officer Dr. Sevet Johnson named 42nd District’s 2026 Woman of the Year

by Community Contributor • March 19, 2026 • Comments Off

VENTURA — Ventura County Executive Officer Dr. Sevet Johnson has been honored as the 2026 Woman of the Year by Assemblymember Jacqui Irwin. She was recognized by the 42nd District Assemblymember for being part of “Women Making History”.

UCSB — The Current — ‘Regional leaders discuss education, industry, energy and housing’ and more news, events

by Community Contributor • March 19, 2026 • Comments Off

At a partnership summit hosted by the nonprofit REACH, leaders from across Santa Barbara and San Luis Obispo counties convened on campus with an eye toward collaboration and innovation.

Music Academy of the West in Santa Barbara announces new artistic leadership to guide next era of growth

by Community Contributor • March 19, 2026 • Comments Off

Creative & Artistic Advisor Conor Hanick and Vice President of Artistic Planning Indigo Fischer to support long-range artistic planning ahead of the Academy’s 80th Anniversary and new Music Education Center

United Way of Ventura County — The latest news for you

by Community Contributor • March 19, 2026 • Comments Off

Will you join us to make a difference in the lives of our neighbors? Make your gift today !80 for $80

County of Ventura District 2 Supervisor Jeff Gorell — Heat advisory for Ventura County through Friday

by Community Contributor • March 18, 2026 • Comments Off

The Ventura County Sheriff’s Office of Emergency Services, Public Health Office, and the National Weather Service are monitoring a prolonged heat event through Friday, March 20.

?? Temperatures are expected to be up to 25° above normal, with inland areas reaching the 90s and even 100s.

Cottage Health welcomes Neuro-Oncologist Dr. Douglas E. Ney

by Community Contributor • March 18, 2026 • Comments Off

SANTA BARBARA — Dr. Douglas E. Ney, a board-certified neurologist and neuro-oncologist, has joined the Cottage Neurosciences Clinic, expanding access to specialized neuro-oncology care for patients across the Central Coast.

Dr. Ney specializes in the diagnosis and treatment of brain tumors and neurologic complications of cancer and works closely with multidisciplinary teams to support coordinated care. He will practice alongside Dr. Richard Chung, Dr. Nicole Moayeri, Dr. Brian Walcott, and physician assistant David Barsky.

Habitat Ventura’s Women Build 2026 mobilizes community to provide necessary repairs for senior residents

by Community Contributor • March 18, 2026 • Comments Off

NEWBURY PARK — Habitat for Humanity of Ventura County (Habitat Ventura) brought together more than 70 volunteers this International Women’s Day weekend for its annual Women Build event presented by Bank of America. On Saturday, March 7, volunteers gathered at a senior mobile home park in Newbury Park to complete critical repairs on six mobile homes for the senior community. Throughout the day, volunteers worked side-by-side completing interior and exterior repairs, painting, replacing stairs, and addressing any additional needs that required support.

Cottage Health appoints Ryan Kelly as chief innovation officer

by Community Contributor • March 18, 2026 • Comments Off

SANTA BARBARA — Cottage Health has appointed Ryan Kelly, Ph.D., as its first Chief Innovation Officer, a newly established role designed to advance innovation across the health system and strengthen strategic partnerships.

Knight Real Estate Group names Mike Day director of operations

by Community Contributor • March 18, 2026 • Comments Off

SANTA BARBARA — Knight Real Estate Group, one of Santa Barbara’s top producing real estate teams and an affiliate of Berkshire Hathaway HomeServices California Properties, has announced that longtime real estate professional Mike Day has joined the firm as Director of Operations.

Day brings nearly three decades of real estate industry experience to the role, along with a strong background in technology and operational leadership. In his position with Knight Real Estate Group, he will oversee team operations, marketing systems, and business infrastructure while also working directly with buyers and sellers throughout Santa Barbara County.

Museum of Ventura County — Celebrating 2026 Women of the Year in Ventura County

by Community Contributor • March 18, 2026 • Comments Off

The Museum of Ventura County’s Board of Directors and staff are proud to celebrate two remarkable women whose leadership and dedication strengthen our organization and community. Dr. Sevet Johnson, MVC Board Member, and Elena Brokaw, MVC’s Barbara Barnard Smith CEO, have each been recognized as 2026 Women of the Year.

Down the Rabbit Hole Craft Beer & Music Charity Festival on June 20 seeks sponsors and artisan vendors

by Community Contributor • March 17, 2026 • Comments Off

THOUSAND OAKS — The Down the Rabbit Hole Craft Beer & Music Charity Festival, set for Saturday, June 20 in Thousand Oaks, is seeking sponsors and artisan vendors. Now in its 5th year, the festival is tripling in size to include the entire south parking lot of The Oaks Mall (156 W. Hillcrest Dr.) across from Pedals & Pints Brewing Company.

Proceeds from the festival go to the Ventura County Fire Department’s Widows, Orphans and Assistance Fund and Westlake Village Rotary Club nonprofits.

Economic Development Collaborative (EDC) free event and webinar schedule

by Community Contributor • March 16, 2026 • Comments Off

IN-PERSON EVENT: SMALL BUSINESS START-UP BASICS

March 25 @ 8:30 am

CLICK HERE TO REGISTER

Community Environmental Council (CEC) — Stop Replacing and Start Repairing at Repair Cafe Santa Barbara in March 21

by Community Contributor • March 16, 2026 • Comments Off

Join us at Repair Cafe Santa Barbara to give your broken items a second life. This is a simple, but impactful way to take meaningful climate action that benefits you and the planet. By making small, conscious choices, we can all contribute to a more sustainable future.

Bilingual report — County of Ventura partners with Naval Base Ventura County to relocate Purple Heart monument

by Community Contributor • March 16, 2026 • Comments Off

VENTURA — A partnership between the County of Ventura and Naval Base Ventura County has led to the successful relocation and installation of the Military Order of the Purple Heart monument to the Veterans Memorial at the Ventura County Government Center, creating a prominent public space to honor service members wounded or killed in combat.

The monument, originally located on the golf course at Naval Base Ventura County, recognizes Purple Heart recipients, however the location of the installation provided limited visibility to the broader community. To expand public access, the Military Order of the Purple Heart offered to donate the monument to the County so it could be relocated to a more accessible location.

Bilingual report — City of Santa Paula breaks ground on Santa Paula Creek Bridge Project

by Community Contributor • March 16, 2026 • Comments Off

SANTA PAULA — The City of Santa Paula marked an important milestone on March 3 with a groundbreaking ceremony for the Santa Paula Creek Bridge, a project that will improve access, connectivity, and safety while establishing a connection over the Santa Paula Creek.

Mayor Carlos Juarez, Vice Mayor Jenny Crosswhite, Councilmember Pedro Chavez, City Manager Dan Singer, and Deputy City Manager Aminah Mears were in attendance to celebrate the start of construction, along with City of Santa Paula department directors, staff members, project partners, and community members.

Bilingual report — County of Ventura announces artist team (Elisa Torres) for landmark Moon Ditch Mural Project

by Community Contributor • March 13, 2026 • Comments Off

VENTURA — The County of Ventura, in partnership with Studio Channel Islands Art Center, is proud to announce the selection of the lead artist and artist team for the Moon Ditch Mural Project, a public art initiative that will transform a nearly mile-long flood control channel into one of the largest murals in Ventura County. Elisa Torres, an accomplished Oxnard-based muralist, painter, and cultural strategist has been selected to lead artistic work on the project. Visible from Highway 101 and passenger rail lines, the Moon Ditch mural will be seen by tens of thousands daily and serve as a cultural landmark for years to come.

Ventura County Community Foundation presenting ‘Isabella Project’ Lunch & Learn on March 26

by Community Contributor • March 13, 2026 • Comments Off

The Ventura County Community Foundation is collaborating with over 150 community partners for our Highest-Quality Early Childhood Education initiative in Santa Paula, known as the “Isabella Project.” We invite you to learn more about the different committee members and groups dedicated to removing all barriers to accessing highest-quality early childhood education in our community.

Bilingual report — City of Ventura launches local coastal program update to strengthen coastal resilience

by Community Contributor • March 12, 2026 • Comments Off

Click here for the entire media release en español VENTURA — The City of Ventura is beginning an update to its Local Coastal Program (LCP), the long-range plan that guides land use, development, and resource protection within Ventura’s Coastal Zone.…

Santa Barbara Cottage Hospital Foundation’s 2026 Party of the Year raises $810,000 to support Cottage Children’s Medical Center

by Community Contributor • March 12, 2026 • Comments Off

SANTA BARBARA — The Santa Barbara Cottage Hospital Foundation (SBCHF) held its annual Party of the Year on March 7, 2026, at the Ritz-Carlton Bacara in Goleta. With more than 500 guests in attendance, the black-tie event raised over $810,000 in support of Cottage Children’s Medical Center.

The Party of the Year recognizes healthcare professionals and celebrates donors whose generosity strengthens high?quality pediatric care across the region. The event’s program featured remarks from Heather Hambleton and Lisa Iscovich, the Party of the Year event co-chairs; Eric Seale, Chair of the Cottage Health Board of Directors; Scott Wester, President and CEO of Cottage Health; and Dr. Miriam Parsa, Chief Pediatric Medical Officer for Cottage Children’s Medical Center. Guests also enjoyed an enchanting performance by State Street Ballet.

UCSB — The Current — ‘Tiffany Chung’s exhibition at the AD&A Museum maps history within deep geological time’ and more news, events

by Community Contributor • March 12, 2026 • Comments Off

The first comprehensive museum survey of the Vietnamese American artist brings together more than 70 works spanning 25 years of research-driven practice.

‘SEA’ What’s exciting & new In 2026 at Ventura Harbor Village

by Community Contributor • March 12, 2026 • Comments Off

VENTURA — Ventura Harbor Village announces a wave of new visitor amenities in 2026. Situated just off scenic Highway 1 and the 101 freeway, the waterfront destination invites locals and travelers alike to take in the views and soak up the waterfront lifestyle with expanded dining, new artsy retailers and wine releases, beauty collaborations and more, making Ventura Harbor Village a must-visit coastal hotspot.

“These exciting additions reflect the spirit of Ventura Harbor Village – creative, welcoming, and deeply connected to the coastal experience,” said Brian Pendleton, Ventura Port District General Manager. “In 2026, we’re delighted to offer even more ways for guests to eat, sip, relax, and enjoy the Harbor seaside.”

Bilingual report — Economic Development Collaborative (EDC) — Calling all California business owners: Verizon has a $5,000 grant opportunity for you!

by Community Contributor • March 12, 2026 • Comments Off

To complement the hundreds of FREE resources available through Verizon Small Business Digital Ready, Verizon, in partnership with LISC, is awarding $5,000 grants to 25 small businesses based in California to help them sustain and grow their businesses. The grant will be awarded directly to selected business owners and does not need to be repaid.

Who Can Apply?

Guest contribution — From 1948 to Today — Flowers By Paulann Stands as one of Oxnard’s living landmarks

by Community Contributor • March 11, 2026 • Comments Off

OXNARD — In the years following World War II, the city of Oxnard was experiencing a new chapter of growth. Returning veterans were building families, downtown storefronts were reopening, and small businesses were becoming the backbone of a rapidly evolving community.

Amid this moment of renewal, a new florist shop appeared on North A Street—a shop that would go on to become one of the city’s longest-standing businesses.

Bilingual report — Economic Development Collaborative (EDC) — California Competes Tax Credit Program

by Community Contributor • March 11, 2026 • Comments Off

The California Competes Tax Credit (CCTC) is an income tax credit 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 fourteen different factors of evaluation, including number of full-time jobs being created, amount of investment and strategic importance to the state or region.

Bilingual report — County of Ventura awarded $5.6 Million through State Homeless Housing, Assistance and Prevention program

by Community Contributor • March 11, 2026 • Comments Off

VENTURA — The County of Ventura and the Ventura County Continuum of Care have been awarded $5.6 million through Round 6 of California’s Homeless Housing, Assistance and Prevention (HHAP) program, a statewide effort to support regional strategies that prevent and end homelessness. The award was announced on March 2 by Governor Gavin Newsom and the California Department of Housing and Community Development (HCD). The County of Ventura was among 20 regions statewide included in this latest round of awards.

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