Category: Business

First District Supervisor Das Williams — County Budget Funds Bluffs Preservation, Homelessness Reduction, and More

by Community Contributor • June 13, 2024 • Comments Off

This week the Board of Supervisors voted unanimously to adopt the 2024-2025 County Budget. Due to rising costs and lingering State budget challenges, we took a tough approach this year to limit new expenditures. Despite that, this budget contains a remarkable trend against borrowing from our future. That means continuing to fund our roads to maintain the quality index, continuing homelessness reduction programs, and investing in technology and environmental preservation initiatives to move us closer to meeting climate change goals. Making progress on all of these things will take more than just a couple years of work; they require sustained efforts. Check out the video above to see some of the highlights of the Budget.

Ventura County Animal Services — Career opportunity for a third veterinarian to join our team!

by Community Contributor • June 13, 2024 • Comments Off

VENTURA COUNTY — Ventura County Animal Services (VCAS) has an exciting opportunity for a third veterinarian to join our team!

Our hospital is staffed with an incredible group of talented and passionate veterinary professionals who are dedicated to improving the health and well-being of the animals in our care and within our community. And while we take our job very seriously, we have a lot of fun and know how to have a good time along the way!

Ventura County Grand Jury Announces Release of its Report “Building Better Together: Suggestions for Smoother Permitting Processes”

by Community Contributor • June 13, 2024 • Comments Off

VENTURA — In response to public complaints, the 2023-2024 Ventura County Grand Jury researched the difficult and lengthy process to approve building projects in the cities of Oxnard and Ventura.

The complexity of a project mirrors that of the approval process. A development project, like a multi-unit housing project, may take years, involving land use guidelines, laws, environmental regulations, public hearings and detailed plan assessments by multiple city departments. The process for permitting an Accessory Dwelling Unit (ADU) can be less complex.

Guest contribution — Ventura County nurses and health care professionals to hold ‘Speak Out’ to save Santa Paula Hospital ICU and birthing center from closure

by Community Contributor • June 13, 2024 • Comments Off

“As an OB nurse at SPH, I have witnessed numerous deliveries within 30 minutes of arrival,” said Carol Lundstrom, RN in the birthing center unit at SPH. “With our unit closed women risk unattended roadside deliveries while on the way to Ventura County Medical Center. There are so many things that can go wrong with a delivery such as pre-eclampsia and hypertensive crisis, where the pregnant woman could seize or have a stroke, or a postpartum hemorrhage where a woman can lose up to half the volume of their blood, or an infant who needs resuscitation. All of these scenarios, require immediate and intensive care by knowledgeable physicians and nurses with specializations in obstetrics.”

Guest contribution — Can you support Friendship Center?

by Community Contributor • June 13, 2024 • Comments Off

We’re 80% of the way to reaching our Spring Campaign goal of $25,000! We just need a few more donors to push us to (or past) our goal; will you help us close the gap and continue providing low-cost, high quality to our beloved senior friends?

Oxnard Salsa Festival (July 27-28) — Give Dad The Spicy Gift Of Salsa Tasting

by Community Contributor • June 13, 2024 • Comments Off

Museum of Ventura County’s Ventura campus is open and showcasing new exhibitions!

by Community Contributor • June 12, 2024 • Comments Off

NOW OPEN — InnoVision: Ventura County

Artists to Watch

InnoVision is an interactive exhibition that highlights the work of nine Ventura County artists. Through their innovative use of common materials, they create installations that reflect their personal visions and views of current issues such as the environment, immigration, identity, the housing shortage, and changing land usage in Ventura County.

Women’s Economic Ventures Chosen as 2024 California Nonprofit of the Year by State Senator Monique Limon

by Community Contributor • June 12, 2024 • Comments Off

SANTA BARBARA AND VENTURA COUNTIES — Women’s Economic Ventures (WEV) is proud to announce it has been selected as a 2024 California Nonprofit of the Year by California state senator, the Honorable Monique Limon (District 19).

WEV is one of more than one hundred nonprofits to be honored by their state senators and assemblymembers for their outstanding contributions to the communities they serve.

As a nonprofit dedicated to the economic empowerment of women since 1991, WEV has provided business training and small business advisory services to more than 20,000 people throughout Santa Barbara and Ventura counties. It has made more than $10 million in small business loans and grants, and helped nearly 6,000 local businesses start or expand, generating an estimated $598 million in annual sales and sustaining or creating nearly 12,000 local jobs. Business courses, programs and loans are provided in both English and Spanish.

Santa Paula City Council Reviews Accelerated $19 Million Pavement Management Plan to Address Resident Concerns on Road Conditions

by Community Contributor • June 12, 2024 • Comments Off

SANTA PAULA — On May 15, the Santa Paula Public Works Department returned to the City Council to present options for the second five-year cycle of the City’s Pavement Management Plan (PMP). The PMP outlines all regular street maintenance and repair work throughout the City to increase road quality.

The first five-year cycle of the PMP, adopted in 2020, prioritized repairs and maintenance for some of Santa Paula’s worst major thoroughfares, including Harvard Boulevard. Although the City will have addressed 35.6 centerline miles of streets out of 55 with the completion of Phase I, Santa Paula residents still identify poor road conditions in the City as their top concern in a recent community survey and through recent engagement efforts through Santa Paula Speaks.

Ventura College Foundation Distributes Over $636,000 In Scholarships

by Community Contributor • June 12, 2024 • Comments Off

VENTURA — The Ventura College Foundation presented 421 scholarships for the 2024-25 academic year totaling $636,017 during its 35th Annual Scholarship Awards ceremony, May 16, at the Ventura College Sportsplex Field.

Of the 230 scholarship recipients, many received multiple scholarships. Of the amount awarded, $583,884 went to general scholarships, $29,110 was awarded to students focusing on agriculture, advanced manufacturing, diesel mechanics or veterinary tech careers and $23,023 went to students in paramedic studies.

Continuing students received an average of $2,417 in scholarships while students transferring to four-year universities received an average of $3,557. At a minimum, each student received a $1,000 scholarship.

Moorpark College Advances to Top 10 in National Competition for $1 Million Prize

by Community Contributor • June 12, 2024 • Comments Off

MOORPARK — Moorpark College has been named a top 10 finalist for the 2025 Aspen Prize for Community College Excellence. Presented by The Aspen Institute College Excellence Program, the $1 million award is the nation’s signature recognition of strong performance among community colleges. The institutions selected for this honor stand out among more than 1,000 community colleges nationwide as having high and improving levels of student success, as well as equitable outcomes for Black and Hispanic students and those from lower-income backgrounds.

Moorpark College was a finalist in the 2023-24 award cycle, ultimately placing third for the Aspen Prize for Community College Excellence.

DignityMoves Success Propelled by Partnership with Women’s Fund of Santa Barbara

by Community Contributor • June 11, 2024 • Comments Off

SANTA BARBARA — DignityMoves, the organization that has partnered with Santa Barbara County and Good Samaritan Shelter, has received tremendous community and philanthropic support in its effort to reduce homelessness and provide essential services to those in need.

DignityMoves’ appreciates one of our early “believers” whose initial support in 2022 of $75,000 provided both credibility and much positive public attention.

Bilingual report — Ventura names Mike Shaffer as the new Chief Technology Officer

by Community Contributor • June 11, 2024 • Comments Off

VENTURA — After a competitive, nationwide recruitment, the City of Ventura has selected Mike Shaffer as the new Chief Technology Officer in the Information Technology (IT) Department.

“Mike brings over 15 years of experience in public sector technology and already has a deep understanding of our City’s needs,” shared City Manager Bill Ayub. “With a proven track record of implementing innovative solutions that drive efficiency and improve user experience, I am confident that Mike will lead Ventura’s technological future with excellence and vision.”

Economic Development Collaborative (EDC) free event and webinar schedule

by Community Contributor • June 10, 2024 • Comments Off

SBA AND SCORE: SBA CHAT WITH SCORE BUSINESS MENTORS

June 11 @ 9:00 am

Join the SBA and SCORE Business Mentors as they discuss resources to help you with your small business goals. Some of the workshop topics are SBA Resources and How to access them, SCORE Business Mentor Panel and so much more! Bring your coffee and questions to this free virtual event. SBA programs and services are extended to the public on a non-discriminatory basis. To request reasonable accommodations, please email lado@sba.gov at least 7 days in advance.

CLICK HERE TO REGISTER

CSUCI alumnus Miriam Herrejon is the newest Deputy Labor Commissioner for the State of California

by Community Contributor • June 7, 2024 • Comments Off

CAMARILLO — Class of 2019 Political Science alumnus Miriam Herrejon has just started what she calls her “dream job” as a Deputy Labor Commissioner for the State of California.

Nobody is more surprised and thrilled than she is.

“I didn’t even know what the Department of Industrial Relations was,” said Herrejon, 27, who was the first in her family to graduate from college.

Herrejon learned about the position from CSU Channel Islands (CSUCI) Political Science adjunct professor Tim Allison, J.D., who recognized that his former student would be a perfect fit for job.

“Miriam Herrejon had extensive experience in working with farm labor recruitment, hiring and contract negotiation,” Allison said. “When I heard about this position, I immediately thought of her. She will be incredible as a deputy labor commissioner.”

Port of Hueneme — Make a Splash Joining us at Our World Oceans Day on June 11

by Community Contributor • June 7, 2024 • Comments Off

THIS EVENT WILL INCLUDE:
Special announcement of Port of Hueneme’s decarbonization target date.
A keynote panel of organizations that align with the Port’s mission of growing a blue economy.
Blue Whales Blue Skies Award Ceremony for customers slowing ships and saving whales.
Friend of the Port Award Ceremony for port partners making a difference.

Museum of Ventura County’s Exhibitions Opening (on June 8), more news

by Community Contributor • June 7, 2024 • Comments Off

You’re invited to join us for an Exhibition Opening! We will be celebrating the unveiling of our two new exhibitions: Masters from the Museum of Ventura County Collection and InnoVision: Ventura County Artists to Watch! Join us to enjoy the opening of these unique and innovative art exhibitions, which showcase the past, present, and future of art in Ventura County. Cash bar and food truck, Indulgia, will be available! Dress to impress! This is a FREE community event, please register HERE.

Exhibition Opening made possible in part by Amigo Event Rentals, Hofer Properties, HP Media, In The Mix Events, Kirby Subaru of Ventura, Peirano’s, Ventura Auto Center, Ventura County Balloons, Ventura County Credit Union, and Ventura Spirits.
RSVP TODAY!

Bilingual report — Join us for the June 11 Santa Barbara County Board of Supervisors FY 2024-25 Budget Hearing

by Community Contributor • June 6, 2024 • Comments Off

Reuniones de la Junta de Supervisores en español
(Board of Supervisors’ Meetings in Spanish)

El Condado de Santa Bárbara está ofreciendo interpretación en español de las reuniones de la Junta de Supervisores. Véalo en vivo en nuestro canal de YouTube en español, o las personas suscritas a la televisión por cable pueden acceder a la programación secundaria de audio (SAP) en los ajustes de idioma.
Aún se requiere pedir con anticipación la interpretación de los comentarios públicos en español. Para proporcionar comentarios públicos en español, póngase en contacto con la Secretaría de la Junta llamando al (805) 568-2240 antes de las 4:00 p.m. del viernes anterior a la reunión de la Junta.

Santa Barbara County Board of Supervisors’ meetings are available in Spanish. Watch live on our Spanish YouTube Channel, or Cable TV subscribers can access Secondary Audio Programming (SAP) in language settings.

Advance requests are still needed to interpret public comment originating in Spanish. To provide public comment in Spanish, contact the Clerk of the Board at (805) 568-2240, before 4:00 p.m. the Friday before the Board meeting.

CLU School of Management — Watch and Explore 4th short video of ‘Economic Impact of Undocumented Immigrants — Separating Myths From Realities’

by Community Contributor • June 6, 2024 • Comments Off

View this email in your browser Watch the Highlights of the Conference “Separating Myths From Realities” and Discover the Challenges Undocumented Immigrants Face in California We are delighted to present the fourth short video in our series that brings attention…

Ventura County Community Development Corp. (VCCDC) — It’s Homeownership Month!

by Community Contributor • June 6, 2024 • Comments Off

June is a special month at VCCDC, it’s National Homeownership Month! It’s a great time to highlight the impact of homeownership especially as one of the best tools to build wealth for low- and moderate- income families.

At the core of our mission is the belief that a home is more than a place to live. It is the cornerstone of any individual’s and family’s economic, environmental and social well being.

Bilingual report — Economic Development Collaborative (EDC) announces Economic Development Collaborative Delivers Financial Assistance for Worker Training in Ventura County

by Community Contributor • June 6, 2024 • Comments Off

CAMARILLO, Calif. – The Economic Development Collaborative (EDC) proudly announces the renewal of its contract with the Employment Training Panel (ETP), providing financial assistance to Ventura County employers to offset the cost of worker training and fostering economic growth within California.

ETP funding offers a unique opportunity for employers to invest in customized job skills training, reducing the financial burden associated with employee development and allowing businesses to leverage their tax contributions to the California Unemployment Fund. By determining their own training needs, companies enhance their competitiveness, boost employee productivity and upskill their workforce with industry and job-specific skills. This beneficial initiative also creates opportunities for employees to advance their careers within their current organization.

Coalition for Clean Air Announces California Clean Air Day 2024 Microgrant Program

by Community Contributor • June 6, 2024 • Comments Off

Nonprofit organizations and government agencies are encouraged to partner and apply for grants of up to $1,000 to support their California Clean Air Day projects. Eligible projects must take place within the seven days leading up to or following October 2, 2024, California Clean Air Day.

Program Requirements:

Bilingual report — Ventura Police Officers’ Association announces 2024 Dee Dowell Memorial Scholarship

by Community Contributor • June 6, 2024 • Comments Off

VENTURA — The Ventura Police Officers’ Association (VPOA) is proud to announce the 2024 Dee Dowell Memorial Scholarship Program, with over $7,000 in scholarships to be awarded to deserving recipients. The application deadline is June 30, 2024.

“It is a privilege to honor the legacy of Sergeant Darlon Dowell by supporting the educational goals of our local students,” said Corporal Joseph Metz, President of the VPOA. “For over 20 years, this scholarship has enabled us to give back to our community and inspire the next generation of public servants.”

The scholarship will be awarded to three applicants who aspire to pursue careers in law enforcement. Funds can be used for college tuition, books, and other educational expenses.

County of Santa Barbara June Newsletter

by Community Contributor • June 6, 2024 • Comments Off

County Board of Supervisors Budget Hearing Set for
June 11

The County of Santa Barbara has released its Recommended Budget for Fiscal Year 2024-25. Check out some of the highlights of the budget by clicking the play button, and join us on June 11 for the County’s Budget Hearing.

Allan Hancock College’s Paramedic Academy celebrates first graduating class

by Community Contributor • June 6, 2024 • Comments Off

Graduating students are employed with local agencies like the San Luis Obispo Fire Department and the Santa Barbara County Fire Department.

“Be better each and every day,” Santa Barbara County Fire Department Chief Mark Hartwig told the students. “Take a break today and pat yourself on the back. Celebrate for a second, and then set for yourself the next lofty goal.”

Assemblymember Steve Bennett selects Housing Trust And Ventura County as 2024 Nonprofit of the Year

by Community Contributor • June 6, 2024 • Comments Off

“We are honored to be recognized as Nonprofit of the Year 2024 by Assemblymember Bennett. This award reflects the tireless efforts of our team and our community of supporters who are dedicated to making affordable housing a reality because we believe that everyone deserves a home. This recognition strengthens our commitment to building stronger, more equitable communities, and we look forward to continuing our impactful work,” said Linda Braunschweiger, CEO of the Housing Trust Fund Ventura County.

Guide to Lompoc’s Arts and Culture Scene

by Community Contributor • June 6, 2024 • Comments Off

LOMPOC — Lompoc is a small city with a big heart for arts and culture. From the historic La Purisima Mission to the vibrant murals of Old Town, there’s something for everyone to enjoy. With a unique blend of Native American, Spanish, and Mexican influences, Lompoc is a captivating destination for history buffs, art enthusiasts, or anyone looking for a unique and enriching experience. Let’s dive into the arts and cultural attractions that make Lompoc a can’t-miss city on California’s Central Coast. Visit www.ExploreLompoc.com

First District Supervisor Das Williams — Fire safety, Swimming into Summer

by Community Contributor • June 5, 2024 • Comments Off

This week, the Santa Barbara County Fire Department and local fire jurisdictions announced the beginning of the 2024 High Fire Season for all areas of Santa Barbara County.

This is a great reminder of steps you can take to prepare for wildfires:

Maintain Vegetation Clearance: Individuals are advised to maintain proper vegetation clearance around structures to minimize fire risks.
Review and become acquainted with the “Ready! Set! Go!” wildfire action plan, which outlines crucial steps for preparedness and response in the event of a wildfire. For more details, please visit www.sbcfire.com.
Wildfire smoke and ash contain very small particles called particulate matter, which harm the lungs and heart. The best protection against wildfire smoke is to stay indoors as much as possible, ideally in a well-sealed “clean air room” with an air purifier. The Air Pollution Control District (APCD) provides instructions to create a “clean air room” on their website. APCD’s website also provides countywide hourly air quality conditions. People are also encouraged to sign up for Air Quality Alerts issued during wildfires.

People’s Self-Help Housing Receives $50,000 Wells Fargo Foundation Grant for New Resident Financial Program

by Community Contributor • June 5, 2024 • Comments Off

CENTRAL COAST — People’s Self-Help Housing (PSHH) has received a $50,000 grant from Wells Fargo Foundation to jumpstart the new pilot program Wealth Warrior: 2024 Financial Health and Housing for PSHH residents at the Los Adobes de Maria property in Santa Maria.

The three-month financial literacy program, taught by financial educator and author Linda Garcia, will target 25 USDA farmworker households and aims to empower participants to overcome potential financial trauma. By offering practical knowledge and actionable tactics for long-term financial planning, residents will be provided the tools to create a legacy of financial stability and prosperity for their families through wise investment practices and begin building their own stock portfolios.

Oxnard Salsa Festival Is Back This Year

by Community Contributor • June 4, 2024 • Comments Off

Tickets go on sale June 6th at 12 p.m.

Bilingual report — City of Ventura secures major grant for VenturaWaterPure

by Community Contributor • June 4, 2024 • Comments Off

VENTURA — The City of Ventura is excited to announce that after a national competitive solicitation process, the U.S. Bureau of Reclamation (USBR) awarded the City an additional $30 million under its WaterSMART large-scale water recyclingprogram to support the VenturaWaterPure project.

Housing Trust Fund Ventura County announces $25,000 grant from Mechanics Bank in support of affordable housing

by Community Contributor • June 4, 2024 • Comments Off

VENTURA COUNTY — Housing Trust Fund Ventura County (Housing Trust Fund VC) has been awarded a $25,000 operating grant from Mechanics Bank in support of affordable housing in Ventura County. The new funds will be used to support new loan program development and operations as Housing Trust Fund VC continues to increase affordable housing options throughout Ventura County by leveraging public-private partnerships to provide low cost, flexible loans early in the housing development cycle. The grant is part of the Mechanics Bank Corporate Giving Program which aims to support community development financial institutions and nonprofit organizations that directly support low- to moderate-income individuals, families and communities.

“Mechanics Bank has been a supporter for many years. Their Corporate Giving Program is an important catalyst for change in our community,” said Housing Trust Fund Ventura County CEO Linda Braunschweiger, “We are grateful to have their continued support as we work to bring more affordable housing to Ventura County.”

UCSB — The Current — ‘UC Santa Barbara leads $9 million research project on ocean cycles’ and more news, events

by Community Contributor • June 4, 2024 • Comments Off

Spanning 11 institutions, the effort will investigate the ocean’s carbon, oxygen and heat cycles over the next five years.

Allan Hancock College offers free Bulldog Express Workshops from June 10 through July 30

by Community Contributor • June 4, 2024 • Comments Off

Happening at both the Santa Maria campus and Lompoc Valley Center, the workshops will assist new, continuing, and Hancock Promise students with admissions, FAFSA and California Dream Act applications, new student orientation, first-semester planning, class registration, financial aid review, and navigating the myHancock student portal. Campus tours will be offered every 30 minutes, and student success workshops will also be available Tuesdays from 4 – 5 p.m. Bulldog Express additionally offers a “Next Steps Workshop” where students will learn how to get a student ID card, purchase a parking permit, set up their myHancock e-mail address, receive free textbooks, and more.

Ventura County Community Development Corp.’s 12th Annual Virtual Homeownership Conference on June 22

by Community Contributor • June 4, 2024 • Comments Off

12th Annual Virtual Homeownership Conference A New Way Home Saturday, June 22 l 9:00am – 2:30pm On Zoom FREE! ASL INTERPRETATION AVAILABLE TRADUCCIÓN AL ESPAÑOL DISPONIBLE REGISTER NOW EXPERIENCE THE ULTIMATE VIRTUAL CONFERENCE FOR HOMEBUYERS Join us for a…

Economic Development Collaborative (EDC) Free Event and Webinar Schedule

by Community Contributor • June 3, 2024 • Comments Off

CMTC: CMTC CYBERSECURITY TRAINING SERIES: LOGICAL ACCESS CONTROL VIA MICROSOFT’S AGDLP

June 6 @ 10:00 am

With support from the DoD, CMTC is offering a series of no-cost Cybersecurity Trainings for executives, operations and IT. Starting May 21st and ending June 27th, the trainings will be delivered on Tuesdays and Thursdays @ 10:00 – 11:30 AM PT. Each of the 12 trainings will focus on a specific cybersecurity topic.

CLICK HERE TO REGISTER

Women’s Economic Ventures Unveils 2023 Impact Report at Event that Celebrates Strategic Community Partnerships Dedicated to Economic Equity

by Community Contributor • June 3, 2024 • Comments Off

VENTURA AND SANTA BARBARA COUNTIES — Women’s Economic Ventures (WEV) has announced the release of its 2023 Impact Report, highlighting significant strides in empowering women entrepreneurs in Ventura and Santa Barbara counties. The event, held at the Ventura County Community Foundation, saw attendance from key stakeholders, community leaders, and representatives from partnering organizations, showcasing the collective effort to support women’s economic independence and financial literacy in the region.

Ventura Engineer Mohammed A. Hasan receives national recognition

by Community Contributor • May 31, 2024 • Comments Off

MILWAUKEE, WISC. — The American Academy of Water Resources Engineers has honored Mohammed A. Hasan, a prominent Ventura civil and environmental engineer for his outstanding contribution to water resources engineering.

The induction ceremony was held at the 2024 World Environmental and Water Resources Congress in Milwaukee, Wisc. He was awarded the credential, BC.WRE, board-certified water resources engineer. The BC.WRE is the highest post-license certification one can attain in the water resources engineering profession, and it is an accredited program by the Council of Engineering & Scientific Specialty Boards (CESB). The BC.WRE demonstrates specialty expertise beyond professional licensure, strong professional ethics, and a commitment to life-long learning and continuing professional development.

City of Ventura names Tim Fiske as the new Chief Building Official

by Community Contributor • May 31, 2024 • Comments Off

VENTURA — The City of Ventura is pleased to announce the appointment of Tim Fiske as the new Chief Building Official in the Community Development Department. Mr. Fiske, who joined the City of Ventura in 2019, brings a wealth of experience and expertise to his role. Over the years, he has held several key positions within the department, including Building Inspector, Senior Building Inspector, Building Inspection Supervisor, and Building Division Supervisor.

“We welcome Tim Fiske as our new Chief Building Official. Tim’s extensive experience and commitment to innovation have already significantly impacted our department,” said Rachel Dimond, Community Development Director. His vision for a customer service-oriented division aligns perfectly with our goals of promoting safety and economic development in Ventura. We look forward to seeing continued positive changes under his leadership.”

WVCBA Presents Oxnard’s State of the City Address

by Community Contributor • May 31, 2024 • Comments Off

OXNARD — The West Ventura County Business Alliance is proud to present Oxnard Mayor John C. Zaragoza’s 2024 State of the City address on Friday, June 14. He will discuss the city’s financial stability and balanced budget, continued progress made on the City Council’s priorities, and economic development.

“Despite the economic challenges that we and many other cities are facing, Oxnard continues to make slow and steady progress. I’m excited to provide updates on Council priorities such as paving our roads, improving our service delivery, and the positive impacts that our hard work is bringing to our business community, ” said Mayor Zaragoza.

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