Category: Finance

Bilingual report — SEE International celebrates $100,000 endowment gift from Greater Goleta Santa Barbara Lions Club

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GOLETA — Local nonprofit SEE International celebrated on June 23 a $100,000 endowed gift from the Greater Goleta Santa Barbara Lions Club during a community event held at the organization’s SEE Vision Care clinic in Goleta.

The gift will support SEE Vision Care (SVC), SEE International’s local program providing free eye care services to uninsured and underinsured individuals throughout Santa Barbara and Ventura Counties. Through five clinic locations, a mobile vision clinic, and community outreach events, SVC provides vision screenings, comprehensive eye exams, prescription glasses, and sight-restoring surgeries at no cost to qualifying patients.

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Grocery Outlet launches 16th Annual ‘Independence from Hunger’ Campaign to benefit Camarillo Community Church, Catholic Charities of Los Angeles and Salvation Army in Ventura County

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This year, Grocery Outlet is expanding the reach of IFH through a new partnership with Feeding America, allowing customers to donate online to support hunger-relief efforts on a national scale. In-store donations will continue to benefit Feeding America network members, including local food banks and partner agencies, reinforcing Grocery Outlet’s community-driven approach to giving back. The organizations include Camarillo Community Church, Catholic Charities of Los Angeles, and Salvation Army in Ventura County.

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Friendship Center Adult Day Care Center in Santa Barbara — Join Our Summer Campaign

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This year, as we celebrate 50 years of service, we’ve combined our Summer Polo Soirée with our Summer Campaign to make an even greater impact. Join us in making a difference. Whether you attend the event or make a donation, your support helps ensure local seniors living with dementia and their families receive the care and support they deserve.

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Ventura County Animal Services announces Kitten Food Drive

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We’ve had so many kittens come into our care that our VCAS Foster Families are already running out of kitten food. To help keep our foster families stocked with critical food, we’re doing a quick Kitten Food Drive.

Food donated through our Kitten Food Drive – Amazon Wish List will be delivered directly to the Camarillo Shelter where our foster families will pick up from.

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Cabrillo Economic Development Corp. breaks ground on Camino de Salud in the Ojai Valley

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VENTURA COUNTY — Cabrillo Economic Development Corporation (Cabrillo EDC) on June 5 celebrated the groundbreaking of Camino De Salud, a 49-unit supportive affordable housing development in the unincorporated Ojai Valley community of Mira Monte. Camino De Salud will reserve half of its units for residents who are experiencing homelessness and have been high health users with the remaining units serving residents earning 50 percent or less of the area median income.

“It’s truly a pleasure to be here in the beautiful Ojai Valley to celebrate the groundbreaking of Camino de Salud. A project whose very name reflects what the community stands for: health, opportunity and a pathway forward,” said Victoria Brady, Chief Executive Officer. “We’re building opportunity, we’re building a stronger, more connected community.”

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Bilingual report — Ventura County Board of Supervisors approves balanced budget for fiscal year 2026-2027

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“The adoption of this budget reflects our commitment to responsible stewardship of taxpayer dollars while continuing to invest in the services Ventura County residents rely on every day,” stated Chair of the Board Jeff Gorell. “This balanced budget maintains our strong fiscal foundation, supports public safety, infrastructure, health and human services, and positions our county to meet both current needs and future challenges. At a time when changes in state and federal funding are creating new challenges for counties across California, Ventura County remains focused on fiscal discipline, strategic planning, and delivering high-quality services to our residents.”

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Oxnard City Council places Measure O renewal on Nov. 3, 2026 ballot for voters to decide whether to maintain locally-controlled funding source

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OXNARD — The Oxnard City Council voted on June 16, 2026, to place the “City of Oxnard Public Safety, Financial Stability Measure (No Tax Rate Increase)” on the November 3, 2026 ballot, providing Oxnard voters the opportunity to choose whether to continue the City’s existing Measure O sales tax beyond its current expiration date in March 2029.

Measure O is a locally-controlled ½ cent sales tax that was approved by 65% of Oxnard voters in 2008. It has provided funding for a range of City services, including police and fire protection, 911 emergency response, street and alley maintenance, youth and senior programs, homelessness response, and other community programs. Measure O is currently scheduled to expire in March 2029 unless renewed by voters.

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Bilingual report — Community leaders named as 2026 Hancock Honors Recipients

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SANTA MARIA — The Allan Hancock College Foundation announced the recipients of the 2026 Hancock Honors, presented by CoastHills Credit Union. The annual celebration, set for Sept. 12, recognizes individuals and organizations whose leadership, philanthropy and service have made a lasting impact on the college and the communities it serves.?

This year’s honorees are educator and Allan Hancock College?alumna?Dr. Nicolasa “Niki” Sandoval, pioneering Santa Barbara County winemaker and philanthropist Fred Brander and the Melsheimer Family, longtime supporters of education and workforce development on the Central Coast.

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County of Ventura District 2 Supervisor Jeff Gorell — Grant Awarded for Leisure Village Wildfire Resilience and Floodplain Restoration Initiative

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I am pleased to share that the Santa Monica Mountains Conservancy has approved a quarter of a million dollar grant for the Leisure Village Wildfire Resilience and Floodplain Restoration Initiative. This funding will help remove highly flammable invasive Arundo vegetation adjacent to Leisure Village, reducing wildfire risk while improving floodplain function and environmental health.

As a member of the Santa Monica Mountains Conservancy Board, I appreciate the Conservancy’s continued investment in projects that enhance public safety, strengthen community resilience, and protect our natural resources throughout Ventura County.

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Economic Development Collaborative (EDC) free event and webinar schedule

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STRATEGIC INTELLIGENCE: LEARN ANYTHING FASTER WITH NOTEBOOKLM

June 18 @ 10:00 am

Successful businesses make better decisions because they have better information. In this webinar, you’ll learn how to use NotebookLM to conduct competitive analysis, refine pricing, accelerate SEO and AEO, and synthesize large amounts of research into simple summaries and action steps. You’ll also learn how to use AI to create executive briefs, reports, and slide decks quickly, helping you make smarter strategic decisions in less time. This session is ideal for business owners looking to leverage AI for research, planning, and strategic growth. Price: FREE.

CLICK HERE TO REGISTER

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Bilingual report — Economic Development Collaborative (EDC) — City of Camarillo Business Assistance Loans Now Available!

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In partnership with the City of Camarillo, the Economic Development Collaborative has launched the City of Camarillo Business Assistance Loan Fund. This low-interest program is specifically designed to prioritize the vibrant business community in the City of Camarillo. Start-ups can get the necessary capital to launch their ventures and established businesses can secure funds to fuel their growth. With abundant opportunities for collaboration, a diverse customer base and an environment of innovation, Camarillo is a perfect place to start or grow your business.

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Lumina Alliance’s Light the Way Campaign in San Luis Obispo reaches $1.9 million milestone to sustain critical survivor services

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Launched in response to growing uncertainty surrounding federal and state funding, the campaign was designed to help sustain life-changing programs that provide safety, healing, and prevention throughout San Luis Obispo County. With nearly 50% of Lumina Alliance’s budget historically supported by government funding, the campaign focuses on building long-term community investment to ensure survivors continue to have access to 24/7 crisis support, emergency shelter, transitional housing, therapy, advocacy, and prevention education.

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Southeast Ventura County YMCA seeks school supply donations for its drive on July 10

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WESTLAKE VILLAGE — The Southeast Ventura County YMCA is holding a school supply donation drive through July 10.

The goal is to fill 230 backpacks with donated items for young scholars participating in the Y’s “Find My Genius” summer learning program. The program serves low- and moderate-income students who are not reading at grade level in the Conejo Valley and Simi Valley school districts.

Needed are newly purchased pencils, pencil boxes, 24-pack crayons, wide-ruled composition notebooks, spiral notebooks, colored pencils, erasers, pocket folders, glue sticks and hand sanitizers.

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McCarthy Companies in Ventura delivering 60 affordable homes to Burbank

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VENTURA — McCarthy Companies has been selected to provide Preconstruction and General Contracting services for The Village at Fairview, a 100% affordable multifamily development in Burbank. Developed in partnership with Burbank Housing Corporation (BHC) and Homes and Hope, The Village at Fairview will deliver 60 affordable homes at 2321-2335 North Fairview Street, with all units reserved for income-qualified families.

Design development commenced in April of 2026 and construction groundbreaking is anticipated for Q1 of 2027.

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Housing Trust Fund Ventura County announces new long-term financing program to expand affordable housing production in the region

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VENTURA COUNTY — Housing Trust Fund Ventura County (HTFVC), in collaboration with the Southern California Association of Governments (SCAG), announced the launch of a new Residual Receipts Loan Fund, a long-term financing program designed to accelerate the production of high-quality affordable housing while supporting developments that advance equity, financial sustainability, and long-term community benefit. Applications are currently being accepted until 5:00 PM on July 2, 2026. Learn more at https://www.housingtrustfundvc.org/residual-receipts-loan-program/

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Bilingual report — Ventura Housing marks completion of the largest Homekey housing project in Ventura County history

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VENTURA — Ventura Housing, in partnership with the City of Ventura and the County of Ventura, is pleased to announce the grand opening and 100% occupancy of Valentine Road Apartments. The development transformed a former La Quinta Inn into 134 units of permanent supportive housing through a $32 million Homekey grant from the State of California. The Valentine Road Apartments represent the largest Homekey Project completed in both the City and County of Ventura and is a cornerstone of the regional and statewide effort to address homelessness through permanent supportive housing.

According to the Ventura County Continuum of Care’s 2026 Point-in-Time Count, homelessness in Ventura County declined 11.8% from 2025 and 28% since 2023. The report attributes part of that decline to the expansion of permanent supportive housing countywide, including the 134 units at Valentine Road Apartments.

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bioProtonics Inc. appoints medical device executive A. Burton Tripathi as CEO; announces successful bridge financing

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SANTA BARBARA — bioProtonics, an innovator in advanced medical imaging platforms and proprietary Magnetic Resonance Histology (MRH) technology, today announced the appointment of A. Burton Tripathi, PhD as Chief Executive Officer. Alongside this key leadership addition, the company has completed an initial closing of bridge financing, positioning it for accelerated clinical development.

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Community Environmental Council (CEC) — Thank you for showing up for the Central Coast

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Over the past several weeks, our community invested in a healthier, more resilient future.

From the Santa Barbara Earth Day Festival to our Spring Appeal, we saw hundreds of people step forward to support climate action and community resilience across the Central Coast.

Thank you.

Because of supporters like you, this campaign outperformed recent years and raised meaningful support for the work ahead.

At a moment when so much progress feels uncertain, that kind of community investment matters deeply.

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Pismo Beach Five Cities Rotary Club donates over $13,000 to give Judkins Middle School 8th Graders a graduation send-off

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PISMO BEACH  — The Rotary Club of Pismo Beach Five Cities has donated more than $13,000 to Judkins Middle School to give its graduating eighth graders the celebration they deserve. On Monday, May 26th, the Class of 2026 will enjoy an exclusive, full-day outing at Boomers— courtesy of the club’s year-long fundraising efforts and the community’s generous support.

The gift comes after budget constraints forced the cancellation of what had long been a beloved end-of-year tradition: a class trip to Magic Mountain. With that milestone gone, eighth graders faced graduating without any special send-off. The Rotary Club decided to change that.

“Every kid deserves to be celebrated as they make this big leap to high school,” said Jenny Dierck, a parent and club member involved in organizing the event. “We’ve been working hard all year to make this happen, and we couldn’t be more excited to give these students a day they’ll always remember.”

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Bilingual report — Economic Development Collaborative (EDC) — Get the capital you need to move your business forward

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Designed to pair you with the financial expertise and right amount of capital you need to move your business forward, the Economic Development Collaborative works with more than 30 professional advisors and a full-time loan fund director, available to local businesses at no cost.
The EDC’s Business Development Loan Fund stimulates job creation and economic activity by providing small businesses with greater access to capital and specialized technical business assistance. The fund is open to businesses in all industry sectors and is supported by funds from the U.S. Department of Commerce, the cities and County of Ventura, and private capital. This loan fund makes available long-term, affordable financing to new and existing businesses throughout Ventura and Santa Barbara County.

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Charting the Future: The Port of Hueneme hosts 13th Annual World Trade Month Summit on International Trade

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PORT HUENEME — The Port of Hueneme recently convened global trade leaders, agricultural exporters, and partners for its 13th Annual World Trade Month event, celebrating the Port’s agricultural roots while highlighting its role as a critical gateway for U.S. exports.

This year’s theme underscored the Port’s legacy as “the Port that the farmers built,” honoring generations of Ventura County growers who have relied on the Port to bring their products to international markets. Today, that legacy continues through the Port’s leadership in moving fresh produce, nursery stock, specialty crops, and automobiles to high-value destinations worldwide with unmatched speed and efficiency.
 
“This event celebrates the partnerships that power global trade. It’s a reminder that what happens at our Port reaches far beyond our shoreline, supporting jobs, economies, and connections around the world,” said Vice President Mary Anne Rooney.

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One Step A La Vez receives top honors at the Santa Paula Chamber of Commerce Awards

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SANTA PAULA — One Step A La Vez proudly celebrated an unforgettable evening of recognition and community support at the Best of Heritage Valley Awards presented by the Santa Paula Chamber of Commerce, held at the beautiful Palazzio Event Center.

One Step A La Vez  was honored with 1st Place – Best Community Service Organization in the Santa Clara River Valley, a recognition that reflects the incredible trust and support of the community we are privileged to serve.

In addition to this top honor, One Step A La Vez was also recognized with:

2nd Place – Best Children’s Activities / Center
3rd Place – Best Non-Profit Organization

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Ventura College Foundation distributes a record $1,037,741 in scholarships

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VENTURA  — For the fourth consecutive year, the Ventura College Foundation distributed a record amount of scholarship funding to students. A total of $1,037,741 in scholarships was awarded to students during the foundation’s 37th Annual Scholarship Awards ceremony, May 16, at the Ventura College Sportsplex Field.

The foundation presented 537 scholarships for the 2026-27 academic year.

Of the amount awarded, $932,860 went toward general scholarships, $42,313 supported career education and $10,068 went for paramedic training. Other scholarships included $42,500 from the Port of Hueneme Workforce Development and $10,000 for Courage to Dream students. The scholarship funds benefited 393 student recipients, many of whom received multiple awards.

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United Way of Ventura County — VITA Program Volunteers prepare thousands of free tax returns resulting in $2,300,000+ in refunds

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VENTURA — Tax season is over and many low- to moderate-income Ventura County residents took advantage of ways to put more money back in their pocket with the help of Volunteer Income Tax Assistance Program (VITA) led by United Way of Ventura County in partnership with the County of Ventura Human Services Agency and the IRS.

Throughout February to April 30, 2026, trained VITA volunteer tax preparers helped working families and individuals file their state and federal tax returns and access the tax credits for which they are eligible. Households earning up to $69,000 are eligible to use the free services.

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Allan Hancock College celebrates 2026 Transfer stars

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SANTA MARIA — Allan Hancock College celebrated the 2026 graduates who will continue their education at four-year universities at its annual University Transfer Stars Celebration on May 15 at the college’s Santa Maria campus. 

Hosted each year by Hancock’s University Transfer Center, the event allowed Hancock’s transfer students to celebrate their achievements with their friends and family as they prepare for a new chapter in their educational journeys. More than 200 “transfer stars” were invited to this year’s celebration. 

Participating students, many wearing apparel from their respective universities, received a commemorative?transfer?medallion, took photos with their soon-to-be university peers, and listened to messages of support from Hancock staff and their fellow?transfer?students. 

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Save-the-Date of Saturday, August 29, 2026 for our 21st Annual Spirit Awards Gala!

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We can’t wait to celebrate our stars in the community with you! Mark it on your calendar today! Partners, individuals, corporations, donors, and volunteers! We celebrate your support with awards for your gifts of time, talent, treasure, AND your Spirit! We are already working on the silent auction too!

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Women’s Fund of Santa Barbara to grant $1.275 million, supporting nonprofits amid funding challenges

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SANTA BARBARA — The power of collective giving was on full display at the Lobero Theatre on May 13 when the Women’s Fund of Santa Barbara awarded a record $1,275,000 in grants to 10 local nonprofits. Grants ranged in size from $60,000 to $200,000. These grants will provide essential mental health therapy, youth counseling and mentorship, reproductive healthcare services for women, meals and wellness checks for seniors, transportation for foster children, door-to-door assistance for seniors and adults with disabilities, a truck to transport surplus food to nonprofits, and a supportive dormitory for women struggling with addiction.

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Scholarship winners of SEEAG’s first ‘Fields of Innovation in Agriculture Research Competition’ selected

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VENTURA — Winners of the first Students for Eco-Education and Agriculture (SEEAG) “Fields of Innovation in Agriculture Research Competition” were selected on May 2.

High schoolers in grades 10 through 12 from 6 different schools interested in applying STEM solutions to agricultural problems participated in the six-week, guided online competition. The competition culminated in an in-person final showcase at CSU Channel Islands, held alongside the 18th Annual CSUCI Student Research Conference.

“By bringing SEEAG’s student finalists to CSUCI, we connected them directly to the college research environment while giving them a platform to present their own work,” says Caitlin Paulus Case, SEEAG executive director. “It’s an experience that builds confidence and strengthens real-world communication skills.”

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Housing Trust Fund Ventura County breaks fundraising record at seventh annual Compassion Campaign

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VENTURA COUNTY — Housing Trust Fund Ventura County (Housing Trust Fund VC) announced that its 7th Annual Compassion Campaign raised more than $200,000, a new record for the organization. Held Thursday, May 7 at Walnut Grove at Tierra Rejada in Moorpark, the event brought together more than 200 community members, business leaders, and elected officials under the theme “The Sweetest Investment,” a reflection of the lasting returns that local commitment to affordable housing generates for the entire region.

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People’s Self-Help Housing launches ASCEND Fund to support affordable housing resident entrepreneurs

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CENTRAL COAST — People’s Self-Help Housing (PSHH) will host the launch of the ASCEND Fund on May 13, 2026 at the nonprofit’s San Luis Obispo headquarters, introducing a new initiative designed to support residents pursuing entrepreneurship, education, and professional advancement. 

The ASCEND Fund – standing for Agency, Skills, Capacity, Entrepreneurship, Network, and Direction – will provide micro-grants to individuals living in PSHH properties who are working to build businesses, grow professionally, or further their entrepreneurial education. 
 
“We see ASCEND as a bridge between our residents and the broader business community,” said Ken Trigueiro, CEO of People’s Self-Help Housing. “We’re here for our residents who are entrepreneurs and future leaders; and when we invest in their growth, we’re investing in a stronger, more resilient Central Coast economy for everyone.” 

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Bilingual report — People’s Self Help Housing — RSVP by May 15. Join us to celebrate new affordable housing in Grover Beach on May 20

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Located at 1206 West Grand Avenue and 164 South 13th Street in the City of Grover Beach, Cleaver & Clark Commons is comprised of 53 affordable, multifamily housing units for households at or below 60% of the Area Median Income (AMI).

The property has 14 units set aside for farmworker households at 30-60% of AMI, 21 units are set aside for project-based vouchers administered through HASLO, and 6 units are set aside for people who are homeless or at risk of homelessness.

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Presidio Neighborhood launches new brand and website highlighting past, present and future

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SANTA BARBARA — The Presidio Neighborhood, the historic district surrounding El Presidio de Santa Bárbara, has launched a new brand identity and website aimed at strengthening its visibility as a cultural and commercial destination in downtown Santa Barbara.

The refresh is part of a multi-year planning effort led by the Santa Barbara Trust for Historic Preservation (SBTHP), which acquired stewardship of the Presidio Neighborhood initiative in 2022. The updated branding includes a new logo, visual identity, and an expanded website highlighting the district’s history, businesses, cultural organizations, and public events.

“The Presidio Neighborhood is a place where historic charm and vibrant creativity intertwine—where live performances fill intimate spaces, galleries radiate bold expression, and cafés, boutiques, and restaurants blend seamlessly into a living canvas—inviting visitors to step in, linger, and be inspired. We look forward to seeing you,” said Cecilia Martini-Muth, Director of Marketing at the Lobero Theatre and a Presidio Neighborhood Advisory Council member.

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Bilingual report — Santa Paula sees sizeable decrease in homelessness 2026 Point-in-Time count results

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SANTA PAULA — The City of Santa Paula is pleased to share positive results from the 2026 Ventura County Homeless Point in Time Count, which indicate a 21.5% decrease in the total number of unsheltered and sheltered individuals experiencing homelessness in the City, when compared to 2025.

The Point-in-Time Count, conducted annually across Ventura County, provides a snapshot of homelessness in the community and helps guide funding, services, and policy decisions. Santa Paula’s results reflect meaningful local progress.

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Community Environmental Council (CEC) — Final days: we can’t go back

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We’re in the final days of our Spring Appeal, and we’re still working to reach our $75,000 goal by May 15.

We’re close — and every gift matters right now.

We are seeing renewed efforts to expand fossil fuels and roll back climate progress, even here on the Central Coast.

We’ve come too far to go back.

Your gift today will be matched dollar-for-dollar, but only for a short time.

Give now. Your gift will be doubled. ?

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Steaming Ahead: Port of Hueneme secures $11.25M Federal Grant to expand capacity and modernize infrastructure

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PORT HUENEME — The Port of Hueneme was awarded $11,250,000 in federal funding on April 28 through the U.S. Department of Transportation’s Maritime Administration (MARAD) as part of the competitive Port Infrastructure Development Program (PIDP). The investment brings needed wharf and berth upgrades to streamline operations at one of the nation’s leading hubs for fresh produce and automobiles.

“Strategic investments like this ensure the Port of Hueneme remains a reliable, forward-looking gateway for global trade,” said Jason Hodge, President of the Oxnard Harbor District Board of Harbor Commissioners. “This funding will allow us to continue delivering economic value for our region while supporting a more resilient national supply chain.”

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Santa Barbara Trust for Historic Preservation opens new exhibit at Casa de la Guerra exploring housing discrimination and its lasting impacts

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SANTA BARBARA — The Santa Barbara Trust for Historic Preservation (SBTHP) announces the opening of a new exhibit, Fine Print, Hard Lines: Housing and Exclusion in Santa Barbara, which examines how discriminatory housing policies and practices have shaped the city’s past and continue to influence the community today.

On view at Casa de la Guerra, Fine Print, Hard Lines explores the use of restrictive covenants and other exclusionary practices embedded in historical “fine print” that limited who could buy, rent, or reside in certain neighborhoods. Through a compelling mix of primary sources including property records, real estate advertisements, newspaper articles, and historic maps, the exhibit reveals how these practices produced lasting social inequities and barriers that still affect the lived experiences of Santa Barbara residents.

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Women’s Fund in Santa Barbara set to distribute $1,375,000 grants pool in 2026

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SANTA BARBARA — The Women’s Fund of Santa Barbara is gearing up to distribute $1,375,000 to local nonprofits that address the critical needs of women, children, and families in south Santa Barbara County. Since 2004, nearly $13 Million has been awarded to 163 local nonprofits. Grants will be announced at the Celebration of Grants on May 13 at the Lobero Theatre.

Each year, the Women’s Fund Research Committee develops and presents a ballot of projects proposed by local agencies. Members then cast their votes to determine which projects will receive funding.

“This large grants pool not only reflects the remarkable generosity of our 1,450+ members but also their commitment to our community,” says Women’s Fund Board Chair Carolyn Jabs. “It also demonstrates the power of collective giving. By combining our contributions, we magnify the impact of every member’s donation so we can give significant grants to nonprofits with projects that benefit vulnerable women, children, and families. ”

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Santa Barbara Trust Company adds local real estate expert

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SANTA BARBARA — Santa Barbara Trust Company has welcomed Raegan Erdman as a new trust administrator associate.

Raegan has more than 20 years of experience guiding clients through complex financial and real estate matters, especially in the larger Santa Barbara community. Her background spans escrow, lending, luxury real estate operations and property management, bringing a wealth of experience to the team.

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Music Academy of the West in Santa Barbara unveils ‘The Muse’

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SANTA BARBARA—The Music Academy of the West has revealed updated details behind The Muse, its forthcoming Music Education Center in the heart of downtown Santa Barbara — an architecturally ambitious project designed not just to house music, but to make inspiration visible, tangible, and shared across the city. On May 7, from 5 to 8 p.m., the public is invited to step inside that vision during a special Sneak Peek at The Muse as part of Santa Barbara’s 1st Thursday Art Walk.

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Economic Development Collaborative (EDC) — In-Person Event (May 7): 12th Annual Orange County World Trade Week Forum

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12TH ANNUAL ORANGE COUNTY WORLD TRADE WEEK FORUM

Join the District Export Council for an evening filled with world-class keynote speakers, engaging panel discussions, and unparalleled business-to-business networking opportunities at the 12th Annual World Trade Week Forum Event. This is your chance to connect with key trade organizations, international business groups, and extensive global resources available in Southern California.

Presented by the District Export Council of Southern California and supported by key partners, including the Greater Irvine Chamber of Commerce and WITOC, this gathering is essential for those ready to embrace the future of international trade. Don’t miss this opportunity to propel your trade ambitions forward!

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Community Environmental Council (CEC) — You showed up for Earth Day — what comes next?

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This weekend, thousands of people came together on the Central Coast for the Santa Barbara Earth Day Festival.

Together, we celebrated, connected, and recommitted to building a healthier, more resilient future.

Thank you for being part of it.

To carry this momentum forward, CEC is working to raise $75,000 by May 15 — and every gift will be matched dollar-for-dollar.

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Workforce Development Board of Ventura County (WDBVC) honored with 2026 WIOA Trailblazer Award

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VENTURA — The Workforce Development Board of Ventura County (WDBVC), a regional public workforce agency, has been awarded the prestigious 2026 WIOA Trailblazer Award by the National Association of Workforce Boards (NAWB). This national recognition, out of 570 boards across the United States, highlights WDBVC’s outstanding leadership, community partnerships, and innovative approach to workforce development.

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‘Pickleball for a Purpose,’ a community tournament was held at The Picklr Santa Barbara in support of DignityMoves

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SANTA BARBARA — Bartron Real Estate Group on April 25 hosted Pickleball for a Purpose at The Picklr Santa Barbara, the city’s newest indoor facility. The event brought the community together for a fun-filled and meaningful tournament in support of DignityMoves.

The Tournament—Players competed in a lively round robin format with rotating partners, ensuring everyone had plenty of time on the court. With guaranteed games and additional rounds for top competitors, the energy stayed high, and the matches kept everyone engaged from start to finish.

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Bilingual report — County of Ventura seeks public input on upcoming Prohousing Designation application

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VENTURA — The County of Ventura is inviting public input as it prepares to apply for the State of California’s Prohousing Designation, a program that recognizes jurisdictions that go beyond state housing laws to accelerate housing production and reduce barriers to development. On April 28, 2026, the Ventura County Board of Supervisors will consider adoption of a resolution at 10:30 a.m., authorizing the County to apply for, and participate in the program, marking the start of the public process. The hearing of the item at the Board of Supervisors meeting represents the first opportunity for community members to share input on the proposed application.

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