Category: Business

Joe Weiland named board president at The Land Trust for Santa Barbara County

Joseph R. Weiland, managing partner of independent advisory firm Arlington Financial Advisors, has been appointed president of the Board of Trustees of The Land Trust for Santa Barbara County.

Weiland, a Certified Financial Planner and 30-year veteran of the financial services industry, joined The Land Trust’s board in 2018. As president he will lead more than a dozen fellow trustees from the community whose expertise ranges from agriculture, law and finance, to teaching, biology, and planning.

Bilingual report — City of Oxnard Issues Credit to Utility Customers; Also Cuts Current Utility Rates to Exclude Infrastructure Use Fee

In a series of decisions that culminated in its final ruling in July of 2021 regarding the City of Oxnard’s Infrastructure Use Fee (IUF), the Ventura County Superior Court ordered the City to reimburse its utility funds a total of $36.5 million over a three-year period and to remove the IUF from utility charges effective June of 2021. 

The City is going beyond that by making those changes retroactive as of January 2020 and issuing a credit to all utility customers.

Santa Barbara First District Supervisor Das Williams — Homeless Encampments Funding, Los Padres Closure, CWPP, & COVID-19 Update

(Aug. 31), our Board approved nearly $1.5 million in American Result Plan Act funding to implement an expanded Encampment Resolution Strategy to eliminate homeless encampments in the county. This is in addition to the work and $48 million in funding that has been invested in the 2020-2021 Fiscal Year. The outcomes of some of this work and funding over the last 6 months are detailed on the slide below. All of the Supervisors were in full agreement that encampments are not safe for those who live in them or the residents who live in the vicinity of them and we all expressed our eagerness to solve this problem. In order to move those who live in encampments out of those encampments, we need places for them to go. I have, personally, been working hard to determine locations, such as empty parking lots, where we can put temporary housing to move folks into a more safe and clean setting as we work on placing them in permanent housing. If you have a location we could put temporary housing and are interested in partnering with the County, please let me know.

Bilingual report — County of Ventura COVID-19 Update for Aug. 31, 2021

Since Monday, there are 242 new COVID-19 cases reported and 3,835 new tests performed. There are 125 people hospitalized, 22 in the ICU. There have been 2 additional deaths of two males ages 60 and 74. Our thoughts are with the family and friends of those who have passed away.

76.9% of Ventura County’s population 12+ has received the first dose.
78.6% of Ventura County’s population 18+ has received the first dose.
68.5% of Ventura County’s population 12+ are fully vaccinated.

Anyone age 12 and older can get vaccinated for free in Ventura County. Anyone who is immunocompromised 12 or older can get a booster at any vaccine location.

Find information about COVID-19 vaccines and testing at www.vcrecovers.org

CSUCI Professor of Finance to Travel to Vietnam on Fulbright Scholarship

Vietnam has always fascinated CSU Channel Islands (CSUCI) Professor of Finance Priscilla Liang, Ph.D.  

Born in China, Liang has long been a student of Asian Pacific financial markets and finds Vietnam’s socialist-oriented market economy perched on the precipice of change.  

“I recall a brief trip during which we stopped in Vietnam. There was construction everywhere,” Liang said. “It was chaotic and exciting and vibrant. I thought, this is like China 30 years ago, with the seeming contradiction of communist slogans posted right next door to McDonald’s.”  

Air District Seeks Candidates for Hearing Board

The Ventura County Air Pollution Control District (APCD) is seeking an attorney and a public member interested in serving on APCD’s Hearing Board. Candidates for the attorneymember position must be active members of the StateBar of California.

The Hearing Board is a quasi-judicial body that acts upon petitions submitted by operators of air pollutionemission sources, APCD staff, and   the public. It conducts public hearings and makes various decisionsregarding air pollution sources in Ventura County.Typical decisions made by the Hearing Board include whether temporary relief from APCD      rules should be issued; whether the APCD’s denial, suspension orconditional granting of a permit was warranted; and determining whether a Permit to Operate should berevoked.

Bilingual report — COVID-19 Update for Aug. 30, 2021

Since Friday, there are 469 new COVID-19 cases reported and 12,366 new tests performed. There are 134 people hospitalized, 23 in the ICU. There have been 2 additional deaths of a 85 year old male and an 84 year old female. Our thoughts are with the family and friends of those who have passed away.

76.7% of Ventura County’s population 12+ has received the first dose.
78.5% of Ventura County’s population 18+ has received the first dose.
68.4% of Ventura County’s population 12+ are fully vaccinated.

Anyone age 12 and older can get vaccinated for free in Ventura County. Anyone who is immunocompromised 12 or older can get a booster at any vaccine location.
No appointment is needed at County Public Health vaccine clinics. View the schedule at www.vcrecovers.org/vaccine
Schedule an appointment at MyTurn.ca.gov or call 833-422-4255
Visit www.vaccines.gov or call 1-800-232-0233 to find additional vaccine locations including pharmacies and other health care providers.

Find information about COVID-19 vaccines and testing at www.vcrecovers.org

Economic Development Collaborative (EDC) — Free Webinar Schedule

The Economic Development Collaborative encourages you to sign up for our no-cost webinars. Space is limited. Register today!

CROSS-BORDER ECOMMERCE STRATEGY & OMNICHANNEL MANAGEMENT

August 31 @ 10:00 am

How to create a cross-border ecommerce website that will suit your customers’ needs, what are the different factors that influence the cost of e-commerce project, and how to build your omnichannel management.

CLICK HERE TO REGISTER

Update on County of Ventura Santa Clara River Clean Up Effort

Supervisors LaVere and Ramirez, Districts 1 and 5, are the representatives for the area of the Task Force effort to address Santa Clara River bottom encampments. They, individually, and along with members of their staff, have accompanied the County Executive Officer, Sheriff, and County public health and other staff several times to see for themselves the encampments. They have observed the accumulation of trash and debris in the Santa Clara River bottom. They also recently went with the County’s Backpack Medicine team which offers help and services to the people living in the watershed. This is being done ahead of a major clean-up effort that is planned to take place in September. The County Executive team is leading the effort coordinating with the Sheriff’s office, Ventura and Oxnard Police, and Public Works Agency staff to make access easier and to clear pathways for the future clean-up event. More clearing of brush and vegetation, which pose a fire danger, will occur after the sites which are abandoned have been removed.

Attorney Chandra Beaton Receives San Fernando Valley Business Journal’s Valued Mentor Award

LightGabler attorney Chandra Beaton was one of six professionals honored as a Valued Mentor of 2021 by the San Fernando Valley Business Journal. The honorees were announced at an August 19 event.

The award was created last year to honor executives who mentor others in their profession and help ready the next generation of leaders; an effort made even more critical during COVID when opportunities for professional development became more challenging. 

Jerry Hannula named SBCC Interim Athletic Director

Santa Barbara City College is pleased to announce that Mr. Jerry Hannula has been selected to serve as Interim Athletic Director.

Originally from Morro Bay, Calif, Hannula earned a bachelor’s degree in Sports Information from the University of Southern California with an emphasis in public relations, and a master’s degree in kinesiology from California State University Long Beach with an emphasis in sport management.

Dr. Kindred Murillo named Interim President/Superintendent of SBCC for 2021-22

At their meeting on August 26, the Santa Barbara City College Board of Trustees announced that Dr. Kindred Murillo has been selected to serve as Interim Superintendent/President of SBCC. The contract will be for a one-year appointment beginning September 7, 2021.

Board president, Dr. Peter Haslund, praised Murillo’s experience and selection, “I think we have a winner! Kindred Murillo is a thoroughly experienced Superintendent/President who models the idea of collaborative engagement in the decision-making process. I really look forward to working with her.”

CSUCI faculty members receive PCBT’s Spirit of Small Business Advocate Award

The Pacific Coast Business Times has awarded CSU Channel Islands (CSUCI) Associate Professor of Marketing Ekin Pehlivan and Cynthia Sherman, Director of the University’s Entrepreneurship & Small Business Institute (ESBI) and Assistant Professor of Management, a 2021 Spirit of Small Business Advocate award.

The award was given in recognition of the pairs work in developing and implementing the Micro-Internship program. The program helped CSUCI students gain valuable job experience and local small businesses and nonprofits survive during the COVID-19 pandemic.

Mental Wellness Center Welcomes Scott Lochridge to its Board of Directors

The Mental Wellness Center announces the addition of Scott Lochridge to its Board of Directors. Scott Lochridge is an executive and strategic advisor to multinational corporations, nonprofits, and early-stage companies. He has over four decades of experience working with CEOs and executive teams to create and scale highly effective organizations, develop dynamic strategies for growth, create new capabilities, pursue new market opportunities, achieve sustainable operating & financial performance, and lead major change initiatives.

Bilingual report — City Manager Alexander Nguyen Appoints Betsy George as Oxnard’s Chief Financial Officer; Announces Finance Department’s Leadership Team

The City of Oxnard announced the appointment of Betsy George as the Finance Department’s new Chief Financial Officer (CFO). She is joined by the City’s Budget Manager Beth Vo, who has been appointed to serve as Interim Assistant CFO, and new Assistant CFO Mark Sewell to round out the department’s leadership team.

“It’s great that we are adding experienced professionals to lead our Finance Department, while also promoting one of our most dedicated, hard-working team members into a leadership role,” said City Manager Alexander Nguyen. “I look forward to the continued progress of the Finance Department under Ms. George’s leadership.”

Bilingual report — County of Ventura COVID-19 Update for Aug. 24, 2021

Since Tuesday, there are 196 new COVID-19 cases reported and 4,319 new tests performed. There are 145 people hospitalized, 32 in the ICU. There have been 3 additional deaths of a 82 year old male, 84 year old female, and a 97 year old male. Our thoughts are with the family and friends of those who have passed away.

76.1% of Ventura County’s population 12+ has received the first dose.
78% of Ventura County’s population 18+ has received the first dose.
67.7% of Ventura County’s population 12+ are fully vaccinated.

Find information about COVID-19 vaccines and testing at www.vcrecovers.org

Santa Paula Museum of Art announces upcoming events Aug. 28, 29; Sept. 4, 9, 14, 16 _ Hope You Can Make It!

Saturday, August 28, 2021, from 4 PM to 6 PM

There are only a few weeks left to enjoy NorCal artist Michelle Jung’s immersive exhibition, Making Waves, and Saturday, August 28, is the perfect time to see it. The artist will be on hand for the exhibit’s closing reception from 4:00 p.m. to 6:00 p.m. Admission to the event is free for everyone. Meet the artist and spend the evening meditating on the beauty and drama of the Pacific coast. Making Waves is on view now through September 12, 2021.

Bilingual report — Oxnard Cultural Relations Commission Accepting Nominations for 2021 Community Recognition Awards Program

The City’s Community Relations Commission (CRC) announces that nominations are now being accepted for the 2021 Community Recognition Awards Program. Since 1989 the CRC awards program has recognized deserving individuals and groups that have furthered human relations in the Oxnard community.

“Going through 2020 and heading into 2021, a year full of uncertainty, fear, devastation, and of great need, many organizations and individuals stepped up to lend a hand. These unselfish acts of kindness, and demonstration of love, support, and care towards others during uncharted times deserves recognition from this great city,” said CRC Chair Adam Lopez.

Bilingual report — COVID-19 Update for Aug. 24, 2021

Since Monday, there are 259 new COVID-19 cases reported and 3,985 new tests performed. There are 147 people hospitalized, 34 in the ICU. There have been 2 additional deaths of a 56 year old female and a 60 year old male. Our thoughts are with the family and friends of those who have passed away.

76.0% of Ventura County’s population 12+ has received the first dose.
77.8% of Ventura County’s population 18+ has received the first dose.
67.5% of Ventura County’s population 12+ are fully vaccinated.

For more information visit www.vcrecovers.org

Ventura County Community Development Corporation — VCCDC Community Matters Newsletter – August 2021

We sat down with our very valued long-time client and volunteer, Yolanda Duarte, and asked her about her journey with VCCDC. Take a look at her experience below!

Tell us about yourself!
My name is Yolanda and I am a single mom. I’ve been living here in California for 24 years and my dream has always been to own a home. VCCDC helped me to achieve that dream!

Port of Hueneme — Exciting Day for Clean Air – Port’s Goal to Become a Zero Emission Hub

When a blueprint is created, it identifies and outlines a plan of action with the big picture in mind. In the case of the Port of Hueneme, their “blueprint project” known as SPARC (Sustainable Power Advancement & Resiliency for our Community) was created to chart a pathway to zero emission operations which is the Port’s overall long-term goal for air quality improvement and climate change adaptation. The plan will include an attainable timeline for the complete transition to a zero emission Port operation.

“This project will be an essential element in charting the Port’s pathway to a zero-emission future as part of the Port’s commitment to being a steward of the local environment,” said Jason Hodge, Oxnard Harbor District President. “The Port recognizes the urgency of addressing the climate crisis facing the globe and is undertaking multiple projects to facilitate reducing air pollutant and greenhouse gas emissions from Port operations.”

The Collection at RiverPark offers community fun all fall

The Collection at RiverPark offers shopping, dining and entertainment opportunities for all interests and tastes in a spacious, open-air atmosphere. To add to the fun, this fall the shopping center is hosting a variety of events and experiences for the community to enjoy.

“We have so many exciting things happening at The Collection this fall,” said the shopping center’s Marketing Manager, Jill Almonia. “There’s fun for all ages, and with so much to eat, drink, see and do, you’ll stop by for an event and end up wanting to spend the whole day exploring.”

Attorney Joshua S. Smith Joins Employment Law Firm LightGabler

Attorney Joshua S. Smith has joined the Camarillo employment law firm LightGabler.

Smith comes to the firm with a diverse legal background with experience in civil litigation, land use, water law, environmental law matters, public agency representation and contract drafting and negotiation. He previously was an associate with Arnold LaRochelle Mathews VanConas & Zirbel LLP.

Bilingual report — Ventura County Public Health Issues New Health Order Requiring Masking Indoors

Ventura County Public Health has issued a new health order requiring all individuals, regardless of vaccination status, to wear face coverings when indoors in public settings, with limited exceptions. This order will take effect at 11:59 p.m. Friday, August 20, 2021. Businesses and other public entities have until 11:59 p.m. on Monday, August 23, 2021, to comply. The order will be in effect until 11:59 pm on September 19, 2021, or until it is extended, rescinded, superseded, or amended by the Health Officer. “As of today, we reached a rate of 28 cases per 100,000, a 40% increase. I hope that this order will increase mask usage in Ventura County. I expect that this will have a beneficial effect on the increase in COVID-19 infections we are seeing,” said Public Health Officer Doctor Robert Levin.

Community Environmental Council Partners With California Climate Action Corps On Youth Initiative to Make Electric Vehicles More Accessible

The Community Environmental Council (CEC) is proud to announce a new collaboration with the California Climate Action Corps (CalCAC) to engage youth in efforts to make electric vehicles more accessible to low-income communities. 

With support through CalCAC’s Summer Program, CEC worked with two other climate-focused organizations in the state – Ecology Action  and Regeneración – Pájaro Valley Climate Action – to select six Electric Vehicle Equity Fellows from a pool of applicants. CalCAC, the country’s first state-level climate service corps, empowers individuals in California to serve, volunteer, and take concrete climate action in their own communities. Statewide, there are 236 fellows across 78 host partners in California. 

CSUCI Students finish on top in global Business Strategy Game

A team of four CSU Channel Islands (CSUCI) Business students tied for first place in the international Business Strategy Game (BSG), beating out more than 600 teams from 56 colleges from across the globe.  

The BSG is an online competition pitting teams of college students against each other in running imaginary footwear companies. Each team is responsible for making decisions regarding production, shipping and inventory, corporate social responsibility, pricing and marketing, finance, worker compensation, and other aspects of management. 

Bilingual report — COVID-19 Update for Aug. 23, 2021

Since Friday, there are 701 new COVID-19 cases reported and 12,169 new tests performed. There are 158 people hospitalized, 37 in the ICU. There have been 4 additional deaths of a 81 year old female, 67 year old male, 72 year old male, 63 year old male. Our thoughts are with the family and friends of those who have passed away.

75.9% of Ventura County’s population 12+ has received the first dose.
77.7% of Ventura County’s population 18+ has received the first dose.
67.4% of Ventura County’s population 12+ are fully vaccinated.

For more information visit www.vcrecovers.org

Triunfo Water & Sanitation District Encourages Water Customers To Use Automated Water System To Track Water Usage

he Triunfo Water & Sanitation District is encouraging its nearly 13,000 Oak Park potable water customers to use the automated water meters on their property to track and conserve water usage.

Automated water meters were first introduced in the district in 2015 with a system upgrade two years ago. A total of 4,600 meters are installed on all Oak Park residential and commercial properties receiving potable water from the district. The meters enable customers to monitor their water use in real-time and set alarms to warn of excessive consumption.

Draughtsmen Aleworks Named 2021 Small Business of the Year for 37th Assembly District

Assemblymember Steve Bennett (D-Ventura) has selected Draughtsmen Aleworks as the 2021 Small Business of the Year for the 37th Assembly District.

Draughtsmen Aleworks opened its first taproom in Goleta, CA in 2015, focusing on craft beer. Since then, not only has the brewery expanded locations to Santa Barbara and continued to grow its beer selections, but its products have also increased to offer innovative cider and hopped tea brews. Most recently, Draughtsmen Aleworks ventured into wine making, becoming one of the first breweries to cater to both beer and wine fans.

Farm to table ingredients are on the menu at Baja Bay Surf N’ Taco in Ventura Harbor Village: off of California Highway 101

Inspired by the coastal cuisine of Ensenada, Baja California, the new owners of Baja Bay Surf N’ Taco in Ventura Harbor Village are dishing up a fresh menu featuring savory  Mexican fare.  Entrees originate from their Mom’s Baja style home-cooked meals and her experience working in a fish factory in Baja, California where she shared her authentic recipes. 

“We were inspired to open up a Mexican restaurant in Ventura Harbor Village because of our love and passion for cooking homemade Mexican food.  We dreamed of one day having our own restaurant which has now become a reality,” says Co-owners Rick Magana and his wife Christina.

Family Service Agency Welcomes Paul Cordeiro to Board of Directors

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 Paul Cordeiro to its Board of Directors.

“Paul’s extensive experience in K-12 education will be a huge asset to our agency,” said Lisa Brabo, FSA Executive Director. “Paul has made substantial improvements to education and positive contributions to the community. We’re very happy he’s joining our board!”

Bilingual commentary — Will Electric Cars Save Us from Ourselves?

The infrastructure bill passed by the United States Senate last week has been hailed as a bipartisan victory. It was passed in the face of fierce opposition from a considerable number of Senate Republicans, regardless of how much the bill stands to benefit their constituents. After all, why make President Biden look good when you can make him look bad? 

But enough Republican senators saw an opportunity to make things better for the country despite the usual threats from a certain former president. The bill is not yet signed into law, but it is expected to end up on President Biden’s desk for his signature after further discussions.

Bilingual report — County of Ventura COVID-19 Update for Aug. 19, 2021

Since Wednesday, there are 224 new COVID-19 cases reported and 4,851 new tests performed. There are 147 people hospitalized, 32 in the ICU. There has been 1 additional death of a 55 year old female. Our thoughts are with the family and friends of those who have passed away.

75.4% of Ventura County’s population 12+ has received the first dose.
77.3% of Ventura County’s population 18+ has received the first dose.
67.0% of Ventura County’s population 12+ are fully vaccinated.

Over 1 million vaccine doses have been administered to Ventura County residents.

For more information visit www.vcrecovers.org

Economic Development Collaborative (EDC) — EDC SBDC Advisor Named Regional State Star

Anthony Elliott, CPA is a forensic “royalty audit” specialist with more than 30 years of public and corporate accounting experience. He consults with EDC SBDC small business clients on a broad range of finance, accounting and tax related topics, including business startup assistance, business plan and financial projection development, access to capital, disaster recovery, due diligence and business acquisition analysis, profitability, break even and cash flow analysis, sales and income tax compliance issues and other financial advisory services.

Bilingual report — COVID-19 Update for Aug. 18, 2021

Since Tuesday, there are 255 new COVID-19 cases reported and 4,772 new tests performed. There are 143 people hospitalized, 31 in the ICU. There has been 1 additional death of a 63 year old male. Our thoughts are with the family and friends of those who have passed away.

75.2% of Ventura County’s population 12+ has received the first dose.
77.2% of Ventura County’s population 18+ has received the first dose.
66.8% of Ventura County’s population 12+ are fully vaccinated.

For more information visit www.vcrecovers.org

Economic Development Collaborative (EDC) — Ventura County COVID-19 Business Assistance Grant Program

The County of Ventura is launching a fourth COVID-19 Business Assistance
Grant Program for business and nonprofit organizations that did NOT receive a grant during any of the County’s previous business grant programs. Businesses and nonprofits based in Ventura County may be eligible for a $10,000 grant.
The County Board of Supervisors has supported more than $65 million in grants to help local businesses move forward.

Bilingual report — Post-Census Redistricting Process Underway in Ventura County

The County of Ventura’s Board of Supervisors has announced a series of upcoming public meetings on the County’s redistricting process, which is underway in every county in California and involves the redrawing of district lines to balance the population in each of the County’s five supervisorial districts. The process occurs every 10 years with the release of new U.S. Census data to ensure that each Board member represents about the same number of constituents.

Bilingual report — Ventura County Public Works Agency Recognizes 2021 Employees of The Year

Yunsheng Su, PhD, Luis Negrete, and Matt Maechler were recently named 2021 Employees of the Year for their outstanding job performance at Ventura County Public Works Agency (VCPWA). 

“We are so honored at VCPWA to have so many talented, hardworking individuals on our team that are devoted to excellence,” said Agency Director Jeff Pratt.  “Our award recipients and nominees are essential examples of VCPWA’s mission to be leaders in providing effective, innovative and sustainable public works services.”  

Celebrating 3 years at VCPWA, Matt Maechler was named Manager of the Year for his work with the Design & Construction team within the Roads & Transportation department.  

August News from People’s Self-Help Housing

Though we’ve battled and made strides against the pandemic, it’s not over yet. Even more persistent and stubborn though, has been the pandemic of unaffordable housing, which People’s continues to combat against on a daily basis. While the latter pandemic has no single vaccine, a very effective one for inoculating against housing cost unaffordability for the most vulnerable income groups among us, including our communities’ frontline, essential, wage-earner workforce, is the Federal Low-Income Housing Tax Credit (LIHTC) program. 

Ventura County Clerk-Recorder, Registrar of Voters Mark Lunn Announces Important Details Regarding September 14, 2021 California Gubernatorial Recall Election

The September 14, 2021 California Gubernatorial Recall Election has been declared an all Vote By Mail election by the state. County Clerk-Recorder, Registrar of Voters Lunn stated, “With the emergence of the Delta variant, I encourage all voters to use the Vote By Mail ballot they receive at home to take advantage of the health and safety measures that voting by mail provides.”

Santa Paula Art Museum — Place Your Bids!

The Santa Paula Art Museum’s biggest fundraiser of the year is happening now! Register to bid on Bidsquare.com. Then place your bids on any of 21 stunning works of art by some of our region’s most popular historic and contemporary artists. (Catch a glimpse of a few of our auction items below).

You can also purchase raffle tickets for your chance to win one of two paintings by historic Santa Paula artist Jessie Arms Botke! All proceeds from the auction and raffle benefit the Museum and the thousands of students and visitors it serves each year.

Economic Development Collaborative (EDC) — Free Webinar Schedule

The Economic Development Collaborative encourages you to sign up for our no-cost webinars. Space is limited. Register today! 

ARE YOU READY FOR EVICTION PROTECTIONS TO END?

August 27 @ 12:00 pm

Will you be ready for eviction protections to end? Join the EDC for a free webinar that will review timeless recommendations that will help BOTH TENANTS AND LANDLORDS prepare for eviction protections to expire. EDC Small Business Development Center Legal, Financial and Strategic Advisors will provide actionable items for both parties on:
Assessing your business finances
Evaluating your business options
Planning for negotiations

Bilingual report — County of Ventura Santa Clara River Clean Up Effort

We have heard from many of you having concerns about encampments of individuals facing homelessness in our County. We understand these problems have become especially acute in the Santa Clara River. In this notice, we want to share our current and future efforts, in partnership with the cities of Oxnard and Ventura, to address these challenges.

John H. Howard named California’s top trial attorney of the year

John H. Howard, a Ventura County-based personal injury attorney with the law firm Lowthorp, Richards, McMillan, Miller & Templeman, has been named trial lawyer of the year by the California Chapter of the American Board of Trial Advocates (CAL-ABOTA).

Howard’s selection is widely regarded as the highest honor a California trial lawyer can receive. It’s also the first time a trial attorney from the Ventura, Santa Barbara and San Luis Obispo-county region has received the annual award, which dates back to 1962.

Information Meetings For Southeast Ventura County YMCA’s Youth & Government

Information meetings are scheduled for the Southeast Ventura County YMCA’s three Youth & Government Model Legislature & Court delegation programs. Youth & Government is an opportunity for high school students to learn how government works and join other Youth & Government delegations from around California in a major conference in the legislative chambers at the State Capitol in Sacramento.

The Conejo Valley YMCA Youth & Government (serving Thousand Oaks and Moorpark) will host its information meeting on Wednesday, September 1 from 6:00 p.m. to 7:00 p.m. Email for location: conejoyandg@gmail.com.

Family Service Agency Names Alexander Murkison to Board of Directors

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 Alexander Murkison to its Board of Directors.

Alexander Murkison is the Advancement Associate at Midland School in Los Olivos. A recent graduate of Allan Hancock College,Alex is particularly passionate about mental health support in schools, and is an advocate and activist in the local community.

Santa Paula Art Museum Online Art Auction Starts Monday

The Santa Paula Art Museum’s biggest fundraiser of the year starts Monday, August 16, and it’s all online! Bid on 21 stunning works of art by some of our region’s most popular historic and contemporary artists. You can preview the auction items and preregister to bid online on Bidsquare.com now. The auction artworks are also currently on display at the Museum during regular business hours.

You can even purchase raffle tickets for your chance to win one of the two paintings pictured below by historic Santa Paula artist Jessie Arms Botke! All proceeds from the auction and raffle benefit the Museum and the thousands of visitors it serves each year.

Museum of Contemporary Art Santa Barbara — BEST OF 2021 | Vote MCASB for Best Museum

Voting has opened for the Santa Barbara Independent’s Best of
Santa Barbara 2021 Readers’ Poll

2021 has not been easy, but MCASB persevered! From collaborating with local artists to record attendance for our recent exhibition, Shana Moulton: The Invisible Seventh is the Mystic Column, we have been actively working on enriching the Museum experience for everyone. But it doesn’t stop there! We look forward to sharing our plans for upcoming exhibitions, special guest talks, dinners, yoga, shopping events and more.

Ventura County Civic Alliance — Livable Communities Newsletter for Aug. 15, 2021

See the 3 articles below that address the following issues:

1. EQUITY – CAFWD (California Forward) pulled together a session on May 13 entitled: Building Equitable Economies that featured eight Inland Empire / Central Valley community leaders who are passionate about making sure that equity is a key component in the rebuilding of a post-pandemic economy. Dozens of key words, concepts, situations, and actions that are critical to understanding the task at hand were shared to help give leaders the material required to set goals and develop the necessary plans to reach those goals. 

Bilingual report — County of Ventura COVID-19 Update for Aug. 13

There are 289 new COVID-19 cases reported since Wednesday and 4,481 new tests performed. There are 123 people hospitalized, 30 in the ICU. There have been 0 additional deaths.

66.3.% of Ventura County’s community members 12+ are fully vaccinated.

California information
64.1% of California community members 12+ are fully vaccinated.

For more information visit www.vcrecovers.org

Mental Wellness Center Welcomes Alice Villarreal Redit to Board of Directors

The Mental Wellness Center (MWC) announces the addition of Alice Villarreal Redit to their Board of Directors. 

Villarreal Redit has been employed with the Housing Authority of the City of Santa Barbara since 1997. She worked for 10 years in the Authority’s Housing Management Department before joining the Resident Services team in 2007. As Resident Programs Supervisor, she is responsible for overseeing the operations of the department and ensuring the coordination and delivery of supportive services to families, seniors, youth and disabled individuals. Villarreal Redit is passionate about affordable housing and social justice. She is a former Mental Health Commissioner and is deeply involved in community efforts to promote social equity.

Clinicas del Camino Real Inc. — Survey Demonstrates Patient Motivation To Receive The COVID-19 Vaccine

To better understand why patients elected to receive the COVID-19 vaccine, Clinicas del Camino Real, Inc. (CDCR) surveyed 429 patients in Ventura County who received a vaccine to understand their motivations better. 

The survey results show that 37% of the patients reported that they received the COVID-19 vaccine as a precaution, 11.4% because a family member urged them to be vaccinated and 12.8% because of a doctor recommendation,  7% because of an employer recommendation and 6.5% because of a medical condition, 4.2% because of something they heard on the news and 0.9% because of travel.  The remaining patients had other reasons. 

Bilingual report — August 12, 2021 – COVID-19 Update for Aug. 12, 2021

There are 166 new COVID-19 cases reported since Wednesday and 4,475 new tests performed. There are 121 people hospitalized, 27 in the ICU. There has been 1 additional death, 49 year old male. Our thoughts and sincere condolences to the loved ones of those that have passed away.

74.4% of Ventura County’s population 12+ has received the first dose.
66.2.% of Ventura County’s population 12+ has been fully vaccinated.
76.5% of Ventura County’s population 18+ has received the first dose.

For more information visit www.vcrecovers.org

Moorpark College Work-Based Learning Program Championed by Congresswoman Julia Brownley

Moorpark College’s Work-Based Learning Program, a paid internship that connects students with local employers, is one of nine programs potentially to benefit from more than $20.6 million requested by Congresswoman Julia Brownley (D-CA 26th District) for Ventura County. Before the pandemic, the program, launched in 2018, annually served 250 students. The $225,000 in funds would provide an additional 150 students with $1,500 in paid internships while they earn college credit. 

“I’m proud that so many of our community’s priorities were included in this first round of the appropriations process,” said Congresswoman Brownley. “Our work is only now beginning, and as these projects make it through the legislative process I will continue to fight for Ventura County’s priorities.” 

The Collection at RiverPark welcomes several new tenants

The Collection at RiverPark, a 650,000-square-foot, open-air shopping center, is growing once again, with the addition of eight new businesses that will be opening their doors throughout the rest of the year. This marks a continued trend of success for The Collection, which has celebrated several grand openings in the past year.

New tenants opening soon at The Collection include PizzaMan Dan’s, Red Door Escape Room, Bowlero (a 32,000-square-foot venue), King and Queen Cantina, Salons by JC, Keller Williams and Exer Urgent Care.

Offshore Aviation Completes Test Flight of More Than 90 Minutes with LaunchPoint’s Hybrid UAS Propulsion System

Three months after introducing their revolutionary, hybrid GenSet technology for drones, Santa Barbara-based LaunchPoint Electric Propulsion Solutions, Inc. (“LaunchPoint”) announced today in collaboration with Offshore Aviation, the success of their extended flight trials.

Offshore tested their advanced unmanned quadcopter aircraft, the OA-8C (ER) Dragonfly, fitted with LaunchPoint’s integrated 5.5 kW hybrid-electric HPS055 GenSet. With LaunchPoint’s flight-extending technology, the Dragonfly’s hover endurance increased to more than 90 minutes in 90-degree Fahrenheit ambient temperature conditions without refueling, effectively tripling the range of current battery-powered drones on the market. In both forward flight and in lower temperatures, endurance is expected to increase. The weight of the test configuration flown was reported at 62 lbs. (28.1 kg) empty with 13 lbs. (5.9 kg) of fuel. The total weight at take-off was 75 lbs. (34.1 kg).

Announcing Melissa Baffa as Ventura Land Trust Executive Director

The Ventura Land Trust is pleased to announce that Melissa Baffa has been selected by the Board of Trustees as its new Executive Director. Her appointment comes at a time of historic expansion for Ventura Land Trust, which in the past year has grown to hold nearly 4,000 acres of land designated for conservation and public access in Ventura County. 

VCCCD Board Approves Mandatory COVID-19 Vaccinations for Students and Employees

After thorough discussion and research, the Ventura County Community College District Board of Trustees unanimously approved the policy COVID-19 Vaccine Requirement for Employees and Students at its Aug. 10 meeting. The policy requires that everyone who accesses in-person, on-site campus/District programs or who participates in off-site District/college services in person will be required to be vaccinated against COVID-19. The goal is to protect the health and well-being of students, faculty, staff, administrators and the communities VCCCD serves, as well as maintain higher education access and attainment for the District’s approximately 31,000 students.

Effective Oct. 15, the mandate allows time for unvaccinated employees, students and the public to complete two-dose vaccines. The mandate recommends immediate implementation with the vaccines the Food and Drug Administration approved under Emergency Use Authorization, including those from Pfizer-BioNTech, Moderna and Janssen (Johnson & Johnson).

Pack that PODS® Container with Backpacks for Big Brothers Big Sisters Ventura County

PODS Moving & Storage Ventura County, are putting their benevolent spirit to good use once again. They have partnered with Cumulus Media & Big Brothers Big Sisters (BBBS) to provide over 200 backpacks for children in Ventura County who need them most. PODS Moving & Storage have agreed to match each backpack donated by Ventura County supporters, helping students in our community!

August 2021 will be an exciting time for most children who are starting or reentering local schools, but it can be a daunting time for parents when extra school supplies cost more than they have. “PODS Moving & Storage, are delighted to be helping students in need in Ventura County, hence this Pack the PODS Container with Backpacks initiative!” said Steve Yapp, owner. “We are always looking for ways that PODS Moving & Storage can make a difference in our community and there is no better way to support our youth than with their education”.

Port of Hueneme Dock Talk Enewsletter – August 2021

Military Appreciation Mixer
Thursday, August 19, 2021
5:00-6:30PM
Channel Islands Maritime Museum
3900 Bluefin Cir, Oxnard, CA 93035
Hosted by the Port of Hueneme
Free admission! Enjoy food and beverages while honoring our military and networking with local leaders and business owners!
Questions: WVCBA (805) 983-6118