Category: Business

Economic Development Collaborative (EDC) — Honoring Native American Heritage Month

by Community Contributor • November 17, 2023 • Comments Off

Native American Heritage Month is a time to honor, learn and stand united in appreciation of the invaluable contributions of Native Americans, Alaska Natives and Native Hawaiians. Celebrating the rich history and vibrant cultures of Native American communities is critical for fostering understanding, preserving cultures and promoting unity across our nation. The EDC is dedicated to providing equitable access to resources, advising and capital. Since 2010, the EDC has helped generate over $130 million in revenue to Native American businesses.

The EDC is proud to support the community by providing professional technical assistance in English and Spanish through our Small Business Development Center. Our NO-COST advising areas include:

2023 Ventura Harbor Event Highlights: ‘Hula Holiday’ Themed Boat Parade, Winter Wonderland & Holiday Marketplace, Santa Paddle & Holiday Cruises!

by Community Contributor • November 16, 2023 • Comments Off

VENTURA — It’s beginning to look a lot like a true SEAside holiday, and Ventura Harbor Village, located off scenic California Highway 101, is making waves. The waterfront destination has an unforgettable lineup of holiday celebrations this November and December.

It’s time to exchange snow for sand and winter boots for flip flops and hula your way Ventura Harbor Village. On tap are the destination’s dazzling Small Business Saturday Celebration, Ventura Harbor’s 46th Annual Parade of Lights & Fireworks,, the “Must SEA” Winter Wonderland & Holiday Marketplace, Santa Paddle, and festive Holiday Boat Cruises.

Festive folks from near and far engage in all things merry and bright amid the sun and sparkle of ocean-inspired decorations in a color palette of twinkling blue, aqua, and green beachy hues.

Bilingual report — The latest news from the County of Ventura

by Community Contributor • November 16, 2023 • Comments Off

2023 State of the County: A Triumph in Safety and Progress
Celebrating 150 years as a County, on November 2nd, community members gathered at the iconic Ronald Reagan Presidential Library for the State of the County address by CEO Dr. Sevet Johnson. In a visionary speech, Dr. Johnson delivered an update on the County’s programs, initiatives and future endeavors.

Dr. Johnson also proudly highlighted the County’s achievements and distinction as not only fiscally healthy but as the “safest large county in the State of California.”

Cottage Children’s Medical Center Hosts Holiday Toy Drive

by Community Contributor • November 16, 2023 • Comments Off

SANTA BARBARA — Cottage Children’s Medical Center (CCMC) is hosting its annual holiday toy drive to bring some extra joy to pediatric patients during the holiday season and throughout the year. The community is encouraged to participate in the toy drive by donating new, unwrapped toys, games and supplies for activities.

There are three ways to participate in the holiday toy drive:

In-Person Drop-Off: Purchase toys and drop-off the unwrapped gifts at the front entrance of Santa Barbara Cottage Hospital (400 W. Pueblo St.) on Tuesday, December 5 from 11:30 a.m. to 1:30 p.m. and Wednesday, December 20 from 2 p.m. to 4 p.m.

Contactless Delivery: Purchase toys, supplies and gift cards through our wish list at MyRegistry.com by searching for Cottage Children’s Medical Center.

Donate: Make a monetary contribution to help purchase toys by visiting cottagechildrens.org/cmn/donate

People’s Self-Help Housing Receives Michael McGuire Award for Excellence in Community Partnership

by Community Contributor • November 16, 2023 • Comments Off

CENTRAL COAST – People’s Self-Help Housing (PSHH) has been recognized by the Ventura County Community Development Corporation (VCCDC) as the recipient of their Michael McGuire Award for Excellence in Community Partnership.
Each year, VCCDC honors individuals and organizations for their contributions to improving the lives of families and individuals through investment of time, resources, and advocacy, thereby underscoring important community engagement, visionary leadership, and lifetime of excellence. At this year’s Annual Awards Ceremony, ‘Leading People Home’, PSHH was selected for this prestigious recognition for their dedication to building robust, inclusive communities and offering affordable housing solutions to those in need.

“We are so humbled and honored to have received this award,” said Ken Trigueiro CEO & President, “Thank you to VCCDC for their acknowledgement of our organization. We are proud to be selected with four other incredible individuals who are all working in the joint effort to positively affect our communities.”

Attorney Aaron Lee Arndt recognized for service to U.S. thalidomide survivors

by Community Contributor • November 16, 2023 • Comments Off

SANTA BARBARA — Aaron Lee Arndt, a partner at the Santa Barbara-based law firm Foley Bezek Behle & Curtis, has been recognized by the nonprofit organization US Thalidomide Survivors for his service on behalf of Americans disabled by the now-banned drug.

Arndt, whose own mother was impacted by thalidomide after her mother took the drug during pregnancy, received a certificate of recognition for his “dedication to the mission and commitment to those in the United States affected by thalidomide who still await justice.” Arndt serves on the board of directors of the non-profit and works toward the organization’s central task of advocating for all those Americans who have been affected by thalidomide.

UCSB — The Current — A ‘Paris Agreement’ for plastic could slash plastic pollution to almost zero and more news, events

by Community Contributor • November 16, 2023 • Comments Off

A comprehensive new analysis leverages AI to lay out how a UN plastics treaty — currently under negotiation — can achieve nearly zero plastic waste by 2040. Without intervention, say scientists, plastic pollution is set to rise 60% by 2050.

VCCDC Community Matters Newsletter – November 2023

by Community Contributor • November 15, 2023 • Comments Off

“From the first phone call that I made, I could tell they were really interested in doing anything they could to help me… fortunately that program (California Mortgage Relief) did work for me and now I don’t have to worry those past due bills and I don’t have to sell my home”.

Back in March 2020, the projects that Tobey had lined up for work were cancelled due to COVID leaving him essentially unemployed and unable to pay the property taxes on his home. Tobey applied for the California Mortgage Relief and was denied for reasons unclear to him. He sought out help and connected with the U.S. Department of Housing and Urban Development (HUD) who referred him to VCCDC, a HUD-approved housing counseling agency. At VCCDC, HUD-Certified Homeownership Specialist, Gabriela Muñoz, helped guide Tobey through the appeal process which consisted of document submissions and numerous calls and emails during a span of about 2 months. We are happy to report that Tobey was approved to receive funds from the California Mortgage Relief Program which has allowed him to stay in his home!

“I would recommend [VCCDC] to anyone….whether to purchase a home or in my case keeping what I already had. They’re amazing give them a try”.

If you have fallen behind on your mortgage or property tax payments, or a concerned you will, contact VCCDC to explore your options. Our dedicated team will provide information about the different options available to you including the California Mortgage Relief Program which offers up to $80,000 in assistance to homeowners who have fallen behind on their mortgage payments, property taxes, reverse mortgage or have a COVID related deferred mortgage loan .

Economic Development Collaborative (EDC) — Attend the Concept Development Meeting on Nov.29!

by Community Contributor • November 15, 2023 • Comments Off

In the summer of 2024, ANTX-Coastal Trident will be conducted to facilitate concept demonstrations and field experiments in the following technology areas:

Critical infrastructure security, threat mitigation, and incident response
In-service engineering, maintenance and sustainment of surface fleet and expeditionary combat systems
Port and maritime domain awareness, data fusion and decision support
Augmented and virtual reality modeling, simulation and digital engineering
Unmanned systems applications, implementation and countermeasures

Bilingual report — November News from People’s Self-Help Housing

by Community Contributor • November 15, 2023 • Comments Off

Dear Friend,
Previously living in an unheated trailer, with no running water or basic sanitary amenities, this month a family of seven moved into PSHH affordable housing. These are the moments we work for, these are the significant victories where we can all pause and celebrate.

And while despite our collective best efforts, the scale of the housing crisis seems only to increase, for those who do not have the assurance of a safe and comfortable place to call home, our work continues.

The upcoming weeks give us so many opportunities to express our gratitude. So, whether you are a fellow houser, a funder, a policy maker, a developer, an elected official, a voter, a donor, or any one of the myriad partners needed to bring solutions to the over 15,000 people patiently waiting on our housing lists, during this season of thankfulness, I want express my appreciation for your dedication and service.

Christmas Tree Fundraiser: Proceeds Fund SEEAG’s Ag-Education For Kids, Preorder Now For Dec. 2 Pickup

by Community Contributor • November 15, 2023 • Comments Off

VENTURA — Sustainably forested silver-tip fir trees from Northern California will be available for pickup on Saturday, December 2 during “Christmas At The Farm” at Petty Ranch (11971 Darling Rd.) in Ventura. Proceeds from the Christmas tree fundraiser will help fund Students for Eco-Education and Agriculture (SEEAG) agriculture education and healthy eating programs for kids in Ventura County.

Trees are available from 8:00 a.m. to 1:00 p.m. on December 2 or can be delivered ($75 delivery charge). Free hot cocoa and cookies will be served. Local vendors will be on hand at a pop-up holiday market.

The trees were donated by Rob Paulus, a retired Cal Fire Battalion Chief, and his family to support SEEAG and its ag-education efforts. Paulus has a 200-acre parcel of private land near the northern Sierra Nevada mountain range. He thins the overgrown forest on the property to reduce the risk of forest fires and to help restore the natural environment.

“By purchasing your Christmas tree from SEEAG you’re supporting the education of thousands of students and improving the natural forest landscape, says Mary Maranville, SEEAG founder and CEO. “We thank Rob and his family for their wonderful donation.”

Ventura County Civic Alliance — Livable Communities Newsletter – Nov. 15, 2023

by Community Contributor • November 15, 2023 • Comments Off

This quarter’s Livable Communities Newsletter offers key data from the just released State of the Region report. This data is packaged to shed light on the Ventura County Civic Alliance 3Es: the Economy, the Environment, and social Equity.

Let us know what you think.

Bilingual report — Workforce Development Board (WDB) of Ventura County is pairing skilled workers with Employers!

by Community Contributor • November 15, 2023 • Comments Off

VENTURA COUNTY — With the closure of California Youth Authority facility in Camarillo, many talented workers have been left jobless and in search of the next step in their careers. Originally 93 affected workers, 45 are remaining and using the Workforce Development Board of Ventura County to find local jobs.

One of the key Business Solutions the WDB offers is working to help reunite and relocate workers with employers who have available jobs and to help them find a valuable team member.

Bilingual report — Oxnard Announces Community Meeting Dates (Nov. 15, Dec. 5, 13) for Customers to Learn About City’s Environmental Resources Services, Operational Costs, and Rate Adjustments

by Community Contributor • November 14, 2023 • Comments Off

OXNARD — The City of Oxnard is hosting a series of meetings (Nov. 15, Dec. 5, 13) for community members to learn more about the City’s Environmental Resources (ER) Division, which protects public health and the environment by safely and efficiently disposing of trash and recyclables, and ensures compliance with local, State and federal laws relating to trash disposal and recycling.

Oxnard’s ER services include collecting, sorting, processing, and disposing of waste six days a week for 34,154 residential properties and 16,378 commercial customers, which includes apartment buildings. The division handles approximately 294,938 tons of waste annually and recycles approximately 12,918 tons of material and 14,177 tons of organics, which includes green waste and food scraps. Combined, this weight is almost as heavy as the Empire State building.

Big Brothers Big Sisters of Ventura County Named Bank of America’s 2023 Neighborhood Champion®

by Community Contributor • November 14, 2023 • Comments Off

VENTURA — Bank of America today announced Big Brothers Big Sisters of Ventura County as the 2023 Neighborhood Champion® awardee for its work providing mentorship to youth facing adversity across Ventura County. Big Brothers Big Sisters of Ventura County will apply the Neighborhood Champion $50,000 multi-year grant and leadership training towards expanding its Mentor Academy one-to-one mentorship for at least 20 more underserved youth.

Neighborhood Champions is part of the bank’s Neighborhood Builders program — one of the largest philanthropic investments into nonprofit leadership development in the nation. As a Neighborhood Champion, Big Brothers Big Sisters of Ventura County also will receive leadership training for its executive director and an emerging staff member delivered by experts in the nonprofit sector on topics like human capital management, increasing financial sustainability, and storytelling.

UCSB — The Current — ‘A ‘fish cartel’ for Africa could benefit the countries, and their seas’ and more news, events

by Community Contributor • November 14, 2023 • Comments Off

By organizing and selling access to their fisheries as a unit, African nations can make more from their fisheries on the global market, while protecting their seas’ biodiversity.

Bilingual report — Ventura County Animal Services — Fee-Waived Husky Adoptions end Sunday!

by Community Contributor • November 14, 2023 • Comments Off

It’s Husky Week at Ventura County Animal Services! Husky Week is a week-long celebration of Siberian Huskies which includes education about the breed and, of course, FEE-WAIVED adoptions! Husky Week ends Sunday, November 19th, 2023. Visit www.vcas.us/huskyweek to view all Siberian Huskies. When you’re ready to adopt, you can either schedule an appointment at www.vcas.us/adopt, or simply come down to the shelter during normal business hours of 1:00pm – 6:00pm, Tuesday – Sunday.

If you’re unable to adopt, please help spreading the word to friends and family. With over 40 Siberian Huskies in our care, it is critical to find homes for as many as possible! Please note that pet promotions do not guarantee the adoption of a shelter pet. All interested parties must participate in the full adoption process to help ensure the best possible matches are made!

Economic Development Collaborative (EDC) free event and webinar schedule

by Community Contributor • November 14, 2023 • Comments Off

SCORE VENTURA COUNTY: WHAT YOU NEED TO KNOW ABOUT SBA LOANS

November 16 @ 10:30 am

Does your business need extra capital? Join Beatriz Devis of the SBA Los Angeles District Office in this free webinar to learn more about SBA lending, the different types of loan programs, how the programs work, eligibility, overview of application process and free assistance available to help you with your loan proposal.

CLICK HERE TO REGISTER

District 2 Supervisor Jeff Gorell — Launch of Gold Team Ventura County

by Community Contributor • November 13, 2023 • Comments Off

THOUSAND OAKS — Local leaders gathered at the Amgen Global Headquarters in Thousand Oaks today to announce and launch a regional job creation initiative developed by County Supervisor Jeff Gorell.

“Gold Team Ventura County” brings together elected, business, labor, utility and other leaders to engage targeted CEOs and industries to move or expand jobs to Ventura County. “Local elected officials at all the levels – city, county, state and federal – need to join forces and lead the effort on local economic development and job creations,” said Supervisor Gorell. “Supported by business experts and other important stakeholders, elected leaders can best open doors and start important dialogues with CEOs on job attraction or expansion. We need to do more to showcase Ventura County as the place to for key industries to grow the jobs of the future, and Gold Team Ventura County will do that.”

Guest contribution — Farmworker communities call new regulation of cancer-causing pesticide racist

by Community Contributor • November 9, 2023 • Comments Off

The Department of Pesticide Regulation allows for 14 times more 1,3-dichloropropene in the air than the official State cancer risk level

OXNARD — (On Nov. 8) dozens of concerned Central Coast and San Joaquin Valley residents gathered at the La placita de Oxnard to protest a new regulation of a cancer-causing pesticide that is the fourth most used in the Ventura County, 1,3-dichloropropene. The speakers at the rally included Ana Rosa Rizo-Centino, Kari Aist, Maria Navarro, Maria Trejo, Carmelo Castañeda, Rocio Madrigal, Eulalia Mendoza, Bill Allayaud, and Ron Whitehurst. All made their feelings clear: this new regulation does not protect farmworker communities and is racist. Video of the event can be seen here: https://www.facebook.com/100077352068463/videos/1275332433143901.

Port of Hueneme’s Consecutive Wins Represents the Ability to Reach Highest Standards in Government Finance Reporting

by Community Contributor • November 9, 2023 • Comments Off

PORT HUENEME — The recognition streak continues for the 13th consecutive year! The Oxnard Harbor District was awarded a Certificate of Achievement for Excellence in Financial Reporting from the Government Finance Officers Association (GFOA) of the United States and Canada. This award was given to the Oxnard Harbor District, which owns the Port of Hueneme, for its Annual Comprehensive Financial Report (ACFR) for the fiscal year that ended on June 30, 2022.

“I am extremely proud of the hard-working financial team we have at the Port of Hueneme,” said Jess Herrera, President of the Oxnard Harbor District. “They have consistently demonstrated an obligation to uphold program and industry standards which is important to our stakeholders who have entrusted us to be fiscally responsible by maintaining a high level of professionalism, transparency, and experience.”

CSUCI Psychology faculty member researches burnout in academia

by Community Contributor • November 8, 2023 • Comments Off

CAMARILLO — The job just doesn’t seem as rewarding as it was. There’s no time for your family anymore. You’re irritable and have trouble working up enough energy to be productive.

People from all professions will recognize the signs of burnout, but there are stressors and causes of burnout that are unique to academia, especially after the pandemic.

“We were doing our teaching under an emergency situation for a few years with online versus in-person teaching,” said CSU Channel Islands (CSUCI) Associate Professor of Psychology Melissa Soenke. “I’ll be looking at our culture of overwork and the life we’re finding post-pandemic. We’ve seen it with health care and people working in therapeutic settings, but there is not a ton of research on academic burnout.”

Santa Barbara County First District Supervisor Das Williams — A New Connection for Cuyama

by Community Contributor • November 7, 2023 • Comments Off

Last week I had the honor of cutting the ribbon on one of the County’s largest bridge projects in 40 years. Cuyama deals with a lot more extreme weather than the rest of us in Santa Barbara County, and this bridge creates an important connection for emergency access during storms. This area also has a higher poverty rate than the rest of the County, and Cuyamans have been at the mercy of two multi-national corporations over access to water. That one of the most significant bridge projects in County Public Works history was completed in Cuyama shows that we’re here for them.

Workzones CEO Pam Tanase inducted into Claremont-Mudd-Scripps Hall of Fame

by Community Contributor • November 7, 2023 • Comments Off

SANTA BARBARA — Pam Tanase, who helped launch one of Santa Barbara’s first coworking spaces, Workzones, more than a decade ago, was recently inducted into the Ted Ducey Claremont-Mudd-Scripps Hall of Fame at Claremont McKenna College, her alma mater.

The Ted Ducey CMS Hall of Fame recognizes outstanding athletes, scholars and leaders within Claremont-Mudd-Scripps, an NCAA Division III athletic program comprised of student-athletes from three of the Claremont Colleges: Claremont McKenna, Harvey Mudd, and Scripps Colleges.

Ventura Land Trust donors, volunteers honored at Supporter Spotlight event

by Community Contributor • November 7, 2023 • Comments Off

VENTURA — Ventura Land Trust (VLT) honored distinguished donors and volunteers at its annual Supporter Spotlight event on Friday, November 3rd. Ventura Land Trust supporters joined the VLT Board of Trustees and staff members for happy hour and dinner while celebrating the 2023 VLT accomplishments and community impact.

UCSB — The Current — ‘Celebrating the legacy of Walter Capps’ and more news, events

by Community Contributor • November 7, 2023 • Comments Off

The religious studies professor turned politician will be remembered in a special event hosted by the Walter H. Capps Center for the Study of Ethics, Religion, and Public Life.

Moorpark College Named 2023 Champion of Higher Education for Excellence in Transfer

by Community Contributor • November 7, 2023 • Comments Off

MOORPARK — Moorpark College has been named a 2023 Champion of Higher Education for Excellence in Transfer by The Campaign for College Opportunity (CCO). This recognition acknowledges the college’s exemplary work in advancing the Associate Degree for Transfer (ADT) program, a vital pathway that simplifies the transfer process for students and increases student success rates.

During the live honoree announcement on Nov. 1, the CCO revealed the 27 California Community Colleges and California State University campuses that have demonstrated outstanding commitment to improving transfer rates for students. Of the 27 institutions recognized, only 12 community colleges, including Moorpark, were acknowledged for excellence in transfer rates.

Economic Development Collaborative (EDC) free event and webinar schedule

by Community Contributor • November 6, 2023 • Comments Off

SBA: INTRO TO GOVT CONTRACTING – CERTIFICATION

November 7 @ 10:00 am

This webinar will provide a brief overview of SBA programs and services, with an emphasis on SBA’s federal contracting resources! Have you considered, is government contracting a good fit for your business? This will be an intro to small business certification programs. Government contracts are a tremendous financial opportunity for small businesses, and the U.S. government is the largest customer in the world. It buys all types of products and services — in both large and small quantities — and it’s required by law to consider buying from small businesses. The SBA has several contracting assistance programs, and federal contracting resources available to assist entrepreneurs. This is a great opportunity to get any questions you may have answered and find out about the multiple resources available to help you on your way to small business success. SBA programs and services are extended to the public on a nondiscriminatory basis. For reasonable accommodation request please send an email to lado@sba.gov at least 7 days in advance.

CLICK HERE TO REGISTER

People’s Self Help Housing — First Look: 2022-23 Impact Report | Primera vista: Informe de Impacto Anual

by Community Contributor • November 6, 2023 • Comments Off

We invite you to take a look at our 2022-23 Impact Report, a compilation of the top milestones from this past year! For the first time, this report is available in both English & Spanish. Together, we are building so much more than housing!

The Aspen Institute Again Names Moorpark, Oxnard, and Ventura Colleges among Top 150 U.S. Community Colleges Eligible for the 2025 Aspen Prize

by Community Contributor • November 6, 2023 • Comments Off

CAMARILLO — The Aspen Institute has again named Moorpark, Oxnard, and Ventura colleges among the 150 institutions eligible to compete for the $1 million Aspen Prize for Community College Excellence, the nation’s signature recognition of high achievement and performance among two-year 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.

Santa Barbara County First District Supervisor Das Williams — Preparing for Wildfires

by Community Contributor • October 31, 2023 • Comments Off

Wildfire Insurance and Preparedness I hear frequently about the acute level of crisis homeowners are facing when it comes to wildfire insurance — rates are going up dramatically, and in many cases, homeowners don’t have options because insurance companies aren’t…

Bilingual report — Economic Development Collaborative (EDC) — National Veterans Small Business Week

by Community Contributor • October 31, 2023 • Comments Off

The Economic Development Collaborative would like to recognize National Veteran’s Small Business Week. The EDC is dedicated to providing equal access to resources, advising and capital to all business owners. Since 2010, the EDC has provided over 3,000 hours of one-of-one business advising to Veteran-Owned businesses and has helped generate over $1 Billion in revenue.

The EDC is proud to support the community by providing professional technical assistance in English and Spanish through our Small Business Development Center. Our NO-COST advising areas include:

Amigos805 taking Fall break Nov. 1 through 6

by Amigos805.com • October 31, 2023 • Comments Off

Amigos805.com will be taking a short Fall break starting Wednesday, Nov. 1, back Monday, Nov. 6. Wishing you all a wonderful, safe and memorable Dia de Los Muertos celebration this week.

Economic Development Collaborative (EDC) free event and webinar schedule

by Community Contributor • October 30, 2023 • Comments Off

CMTC: PRODUCTIVITY AND COST REDUCTION TECHNOLOGY SOLUTIONS FOR CALIFORNIA MANUFACTURERS

November 1 @ 11:00 am

Changing environments requires efforts to enhance productivity, reduce errors and evaluate automaton to free up valuable human resources for higher-value initiatives. Enterprise Resource Planning has evolved to more than a financial or manufacturing system. Businesses are now able to improve their business insights, increase levels of efficiency, and enable reduction in operational costs. With centralized data, businesses can identify improvement opportunities and mine their data to achieve market advantages.

CLICK HERE TO REGISTER

Teacher’s Fund in Santa Barbara Celebrates Another Milestone: Over $2.1 Million in 21 Years Raised for Local Schools

by Community Contributor • October 26, 2023 • Comments Off

SANTA BARBARA — The Teacher’s Fund celebrated its 21st year by hitting a significant milestone thanks to strong community support during its annual Supplies Drive: the non-profit serving Santa Barbara-area educators surpassed $2.1 million.

The Teacher’s Fund set an ambitious goal this year for its drive – and far exceeded it, thanks to the generosity of residents, local business leaders and entrepreneurs who answered the call to give back. In all, they raised more than $75,000 during this year’s drive.

Bilingual report — Economic Development Collaborative (EDC) — Honoring National Women’s Small Business Month

by Community Contributor • October 25, 2023 • Comments Off

The Economic Development Collaborative would like to recognize National Women’s Small Business Month. The EDC has supported over 875 Women owned small businesses this year alone and has helped generate over 100 jobs. The EDC is dedicated in supporting women with achieving their business goals.

The EDC is proud to support the community by providing professional technical assistance in English and Spanish through our Small Business Development Center. Our NO-COST advising areas include:

Launchpoint in Goleta Granted Patent For Hybrid Power System in Electric Flight

by Community Contributor • October 25, 2023 • Comments Off

GOLETA — LaunchPoint Electric Propulsion Solutions, Inc. (“LaunchPoint”), a pioneer in advanced aerospace electric power generation and propulsion technologies, announced today the grant of US Patent 11,738,875 B2 “Lightweight, High-Efficiency, Energy-Dense, Hybrid Power System for Reliable Electric Flight”. This patent is a significant milestone in LaunchPoint’s greater mission to revolutionize electric flight and propel the aerospace industry into a new era of efficiency and reliability.

Apricot Lane Farms Added to the Ventura County Farm Day Lineup

by Community Contributor • October 25, 2023 • Comments Off

VENTURA — Apricot Lane Farms, the home of the award-winning “Biggest Little Farm” documentary, is a participant in the 11th Annual Ventura County Farm Day, Saturday, November 4. The farm was added this week.

The Moorpark farm is offering free Farm Day Tours on a first come, first served basis. Pre-registration is required to enter the farm—use this Eventbrite link. Parking is limited, so carpooling is suggested.

Founded in 2011 by John and Molly Chester, Apricot Lane Farms currently spans 234 acres of countryside in Moorpark. It cultivates more than 200 varieties of fruits and vegetables; and raises sheep, cows, pigs, chickens and ducks with care and respect. The farm is Certified Organic and Biodynamic.

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

by Community Contributor • October 24, 2023 • Comments Off

Labor Market Report for September 2023

The California Labor Market Information Division released its September 2023 report earlier this month, showing moderate improvement across all the major labor market indicators. Ventura County gained a total of 2,800 industry jobs, helping to lower the unemployment rate from 4.7% in August to 4.5% in September.

While those are positive indicators for the economy, more interesting was the increase in the total labor force by 5,900 workers, now at 418,800, an encouraging upsurge but still 2,300 workers shy of our pre-pandemic level in September 2019. It appears now that most of the workers that dropped out during COVID are back, except—and this is significant—for those who aged out of the labor force or left the region entirely. The “aging out” piece might be the biggest part of the story, as the demographics show we are aging as a region.

Port of Hueneme DOCK TALK — October 2023

by Community Contributor • October 23, 2023 • Comments Off

Yellow banana wigs, boat rides, sounds of a tropical steel drum band and perfect late summer weather got the party started at the Port for the 10th Annual Banana Festival!
READ MORE

Bilingual report — October News from Peoples’ Self-Help Housing (PSHH)

by Community Contributor • October 23, 2023 • Comments Off

We were thrilled to join the Housing Authority of San Luis Obispo and El Camino Homeless Organization (ECHO) at the ribbon cutting for their Project Homekey housing in Paso Robles! This site provides 28 rooms of emergency shelter and 60 permanently supportive units of affordable housing.

People’s Self Help Housing — Dana Reserve Nipomo – Your input needed today!

by Community Contributor • October 23, 2023 • Comments Off

This Monday October 24, at 1:00PM, our County Planning Commission has invited public input to discuss a project that will allow People’s Self-Help Housing (PSHH) to develop 104 units of affordable rental housing within the overall Dana Reserve master-planned community.

This is so YOUR opinion can be voiced, in addition to the group who have already expressed their point of view.

Located west of US Highway 101 in Nipomo, and named the Dana Reserve, the overall project includes 104 units of deed-restricted affordable housing that would be developed and operated by PSHH. If approved, the developer will gift this land to our organization, which will bring much-needed affordable housing for Nipomo, a welcoming community that is key to so many who live, work, and recreate along the Central Coast.

Ventura County Civic Alliance — Panelist announced for 2023 State of the Region Report on Nov. 1

by Community Contributor • October 23, 2023 • Comments Off

Panelists include: Vanessa Bechtel of the Ventura County Community Foundation, Dr. Sevet Johnson of the County of Ventura, Chris Meissner of the Meissner Corporation, Dr. Richard Yao of CSUCI, and keynote speaker Tony Biasotti of the Ventura County Star.

Housing Authority of the City of Santa Barbara Executive Director/CEO honored as National Association of Housing and Redevelopment Officials Fellow

by Community Contributor • October 23, 2023 • Comments Off

SANTA BARBARA — The Housing Authority of the City of Santa Barbara proudly announces that its Executive Director/CEO, Rob L. Fredericks, has been installed as a NAHRO Fellow by the National Association of Housing and Redevelopment Officials (NAHRO) on Saturday, October 7, 2023 at its National Conference in New Orleans, LA. This prestigious recognition underscores Mr. Fredericks’ longstanding commitment to enhancing housing conditions and fostering sustainability for the Santa Barbara community.

Economic Development Collaborative (EDC) —free event and webinar schedule

by Community Contributor • October 23, 2023 • Comments Off

IN-PERSON EVENT: LOS ANGELES REGIONAL VBOC, LOS ANGELES SBA, INLAND EMPIRE/ORANGE COUNTY SBA, LONG BEACH SBDC AND INLAND EMPIRE APEX ACCELERATORS: VETERAN CERTIFICATION AND GOVERNMENT CONTRACTING WORKSHOP

October 30 @ 3:00 pm

Please Join the Los Angeles Regional VBOC, Los Angeles SBA, Inland Empire/Orange County SBA, Long Beach SBDC and Inland Empire Apex Accelerators, for this in-person informative workshop that will provide you with an introduction into what is involved in getting started with contracting with the Federal/State Government. In addition, they will cover the process to obtain your Government Certifications. Topics to be discussed include: Identifying your industry and getting registered, Small business certifications and eligibility with an emphasis on Veteran-owned businesses, Marketing to the Government, Finding contracting opportunities, Regulations and Resources! Address: 4900 E Conant St bldg. O-2, Long Beach CA 90808-1746.

United Way of Ventura County — Now seeking volunteers to provide free tax preparation for low-income earners

by Community Contributor • October 19, 2023 • Comments Off

VITA volunteers to provide free tax preparation for low-income earners

Help low-income families and individuals improve their financial stability. Consider joining our Volunteer Income Tax Assistance (VITA) team of tax preparers and interviewers for the 2023 tax year. Volunteers prepare federal and state tax returns at no cost, assisting clients access the tax credits to which they are eligible. Services will be provided at multiple sites across Ventura County offering the opportunity to volunteer during the day, in the evening, or on Saturday. Volunteers are asked to commit four hours per week during the VITA tax season, February 1st – April 30th. Volunteers work in teams led by an experienced tax preparer. Virtual preparation of taxes is also available.

Learn About the Ventura County Grand Jury: Jurors Available for Speaking Events

by Community Contributor • October 19, 2023 • Comments Off

VENTURA COUNTY — The Ventura County Grand Jury seeks opportunities to speak to community organizations, non-profit organizations, and similar groups as part of its education outreach program.

The Grand Jury investigates matters affecting aspects of government in Ventura County. The Jury comprises 19 citizens who are impaneled by the Presiding Judge of the SuperiorCourt and serve as a “voice and conscience” of Ventura County residents concerning their local governments.

Guest contribution — New weight loss program at Crystal Chiropractic in Goleta harnesses laser technology for exceptional results

by Community Contributor • October 18, 2023 • Comments Off

GOLETA — A newly launched weight loss and aesthetics program at the Goleta-based chiropractic office Crystal Chiropractic, uses the latest innovation in body slimming technology to help patients reach their goals.

Treatments utilize Invisa-RED(tm) TECHNOLOGY, a safe, non-invasive and painless alternative to traditional fat reduction procedures. These laser treatments are cost effective, providing clients with real results in a matter of weeks, said Dr. Crystal A. Galvan, owner of Crystal Chiropractic.

“I am excited to bring this service to our community, to help improve not only my own patients’ lives but the community as a whole,” Dr. Galvan said. “Many of my patients who are unable to lose weight in a traditional setting will now have an opportunity to improve their health with the newest technology, professional products and personal attention that we have to offer.”

UCSB — The Current — ‘Love and care outside normativity’ — a new art show immerses viewers in queer placemaking’ and more news, events

by Community Contributor • October 17, 2023 • Comments Off

Curated by art history graduate students Graham Feyl and Sylvia Faichney, the exhibition — now on view at UCSB’s Art, Design & Architecture Museum — reimagines spaces such as discos, dive bars, living rooms and bathrooms through the lens of queer placemaking.

Take A Self-Guided Tour of Lompoc Murals Along California’s Central Coast

by Community Contributor • October 17, 2023 • Comments Off

LOMPOC — Travel often uncovers hidden treasures in the most unexpected places, and Lompoc’s outdoor mural gallery is one of these delightful finds. If you’re a fan of art, history, and exploration, you’re in for a treat with this self-guided tour of Lompoc’s murals. Join us as we wander through the streets and unveil the captivating stories and creativity that adorn the city’s walls.

Economic Development Collaborative (EDC) free event and webinar schedule

by Community Contributor • October 16, 2023 • Comments Off

IN-PERSON EVENT: ARTIFICIAL INTELLIGENCE FOR SMALL BUSINESS

October 21 @ 10:00 am

The symposium will provide an introduction to AI and discuss tools and technologies with an overview of cutting-edge AI tools and platforms tailored for small businesses. Real-Life Case Studies will examine successful AI implementations in small businesses across diverse industries. They will also discuss AI-driven marketing and Sales Strategies, where you will discover how AI can supercharge your marketing campaigns, customer engagement and sales conversion rates. The key to prosperity is to reframe your thinking and leverage AI as a strategic tool to increase productivity. Join the NO-COST symposium to learn how! Location: Santa Barbara City College – West Campus, BC-Forum.

CLICK HERE TO REGISTER

Ventura County Civic Alliance — Registration now open for 2023 State of the Region Report Release Event

by Community Contributor • October 16, 2023 • Comments Off

REGISTRATION NOW OPEN! 2023 State of the Region Report Release Event Wednesday, November 1, 2023 8:00 AM – 11:00 Buffet Breakfast Included Doors open 8:00 AM Program starts 8:30 AM V.C. Office of Education Conference Center 5100 Adolfo Road, Camarillo…

Arlington Financial Advisors in Santa Barbara welcomes Ally Meier

by Community Contributor • October 16, 2023 • Comments Off

SANTA BARBARA — Arlington Financial Advisors, a local financial planning company working with individuals to secure long-term peace of mind, is pleased to welcome Ally Meier, CFP ™, to the firm.

A Certified Financial Planner, Meier will be responsible for partnering with clients to ensure they are able to achieve their financial goals. Meier brings expertise in wealth accumulation, employee stock plans, insurance needs, optimizing debt structures, retirement planning, tax strategies and estate planning. She has worked in the financial services industry for over 7 years.

Bilingual report — The latest news from the County of Ventura

by Community Contributor • October 16, 2023 • Comments Off

Mountains to Sea Jubilee – Celebrating 150 Years of VC!
Join us for a FREE family festival celebrating Ventura County’s 150th anniversary! The festival will take place in Santa Paula on Saturday, October 21 from 11:00 am – 3:00 pm.

Activities will include live entertainment on multiple stages, a kids’ zone, food trucks, arts & crafts stations, and more!

While you enjoy the fun, don’t miss the opening of the special 150th Anniversary museum exhibit! The Agricultural Museum in Santa Paula will host the opening for Ventura County: The Place We Call Home – a special reflection on our county.

Housing Trust Fund Ventura County announces approval of a $1.5 million acquisition loan for College Community Courts

by Community Contributor • October 12, 2023 • Comments Off

VENTURA — Housing Trust Fund Ventura County (Housing Trust Fund VC) announces the approval of a $1,500,000 predevelopment loan to help fund College Community Courts, a People’s Self-Help Housing Corporation (PSHHC) affordable housing development in Ventura. With construction set to begin in late 2024, the new multi-family housing community will provide 57 affordable units for farmworkers and their families.

Ventura County Animal Services (VCAS) Partners with DocuPet!

by Community Contributor • October 11, 2023 • Comments Off

VENTURA COUNTY — Ventura County Animal Services (VCAS) is thrilled to announce its partnership with DocuPet, a world-leading pet profile, lost pet, and licensing platform, making pet licensing more accessible and valuable than ever for residents. DocuPet is known for its innovative HomeSafe™ 24/7 lost pet service, offering residents an effective pet identification and reunification program that prioritizes keeping pets out of shelters and reuniting them with their owners.

While pet licensing is mandatory for all dogs in Ventura County (over 4 month) and cats (over 4 months) who live in the cities of Moorpark and Oxnard, many pet owners have not been consistent with this requirement. With the introduction of this exciting partnership, DocuPet and VCAS aim to attract more community pet owners to participate in the program.

Bilingual commentary — Economic Development Collaborative (EDC) — Don’t miss the 2023 State of the County celebrating the Ventura County’s 150th Anniversary!

by Community Contributor • October 10, 2023 • Comments Off

CELEBRATING 150 YEARS

Don’t miss the 2023 State of the County celebrating the County’s 150th Anniversary! Keynote speaker and County Executive Officer Dr. Sevet Johnson will share an update and unforgettable message followed by a networking reception under Air Force One.

2023 State of the County

The 2023 State of the County will be held at the Ronald Reagan Presidential Library on Thursday, November 2. Event cost is $50. Free Livestream will be available at https://stateofthecounty.ventura.org and on the County of Ventura’s Facebook page HERE starting at 5:30 pm.

When

Thursday November 2, 2023

4:30 pm – 8:30 pm

Santa Barbara County First District Supervisor Das Williams

by Community Contributor • October 10, 2023 • Comments Off

I want to provide an update to you on the potential Public Safety Power Shutoff (PSPS) event under consideration by Southern California Edison that may begin as soon as Wednesday, October 11.

?This event is due to predicted high winds and the increased risk of wildfires in parts of the South Coast. This outage may begin as soon as 10/11/2023, though it may occur earlier or later depending on actual weather conditions. If you live or work in or near this area, you should make preparations for a possible multiple-day power outage.

The current potential PSPS power shutoffs include some areas of Montecito and Santa Barbara. To find out if you may be affected, you can input your address on SCE’s map tool here.

UCSB — The Current — Charmaine Chua is named a 2023 Freedom Scholar

by Community Contributor • October 10, 2023 • Comments Off

Reducing fishing gear could save whales with low impacts to California’s crab fishermen

Economic Development Collaborative (EDC) free event and webinar schedule

by Community Contributor • October 9, 2023 • Comments Off

IN-PERSON EVENT: ARTIFICIAL INTELLIGENCE FOR SMALL BUSINESS

October 21 @ 10:00 am

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