Does your arts or culture organization or group have a project for which you’d like to apply for a grant, or do other fundraising, but lack 501(c)(3) status? Fiscal sponsorship may be an option.
Santa Barbara Arts Collaborative programs and fund development officer Adrienne De Guevara will present this FREE, 1-hour virtual workshop. Registration required.
Register now
PORT OF HUENEME — The Port of Hueneme’s operations team joined by other Port staff, Port tenants, vessels, labor, Port partners, Naval Base Ventura County (NBVC), and numerous public safety agencies led a training at the Port this Monday to evaluate the impact that a Maritime Security (MARSEC) level increase would have on the Port’s operations, placing an emphasis on safety, security and community partnerships. This year’s training focused on the Port’s ability to react to a proposed threat to cargo. The training was conducted over a morning and afternoon session.
Join the City of Port Hueneme and EDC Small Business Development Center Advisors Luisa Arzate & Miguel Alfaro! Learn how to:
Establish a business in Port Hueneme
Create a powerful brand identity by defining your mission, vision and values
Craft a cohesive visual and verbal identity
Analyze market trends and competitor strategies using AI to refine your brand positioning and ensure consistency across all platforms
“Children are especially vulnerable to injuries in a crash if they are in the wrong type of car seat for their age and size or if the car seat is improperly installed,” said Sergeant Mark Knackstedt. “We are dedicated to helping parents and caregivers safeguard their children on the road.”
VENTURA — The Resource Management Agency’s (RMA) Planning Division, in partnership with House Farm Workers!, published the results of a countywide survey of agricultural employers, farmworkers, and stakeholders. This completes a major milestone in the Ventura County Farmworker Housing Study and Action Plan, highlighting the farmworker community and their housing needs.
“The commitment by the County, all ten cities and Ventura County Transportation Commission (VCTC) to help fund, facilitate and share the knowledge learned from our local agricultural operators and farmworkers will be instrumental to our next step of this project – to develop recommendations for the production of farmworker housing across our County,” said Dave Ward, Planning Director for the Resource Management Agency.
Now that the summer is coming to an end, travel plans for the holidays are underway for many of you. If you are considering traveling abroad, it is imperative that you keep your passport up to date. It’s important to note that some countries require that your passport be valid six months beyond the date of your trip.
As your representative in Congress, I want to make sure that obtaining or renewing a passport is made as easy as possible. For that reason, I am hosting a Passport Fair on Saturday, September 21, from 9:00 AM to 3:00 PM, at the Ventura County Office of Education, located at 5189 Verdugo Way, Camarillo, CA 93012.
SANTA PAULA — The City of Santa Paula proudly announced the successful completion of the Harvard Boulevard Infrastructure Improvement Project at a community ribbon-cutting ceremony held August 31, 2024. This transformative project, which spanned nearly two years, marks a significant milestone in the city’s commitment to enhancing infrastructure and ensuring reliable services for its residents.
SACRAMENTO – The California Legislature has passed a significant piece of legislation that would require electric vehicle (EV) charging companies to share information across their networks. This new requirement would benefit EV drivers nationwide. If signed by Governor Gavin Newsom, Assembly Bill (AB) 2697, by Assemblymember Jacqui Irwin, would direct the California Energy Commission (CEC) to adopt network roaming standards. These standards would be applied to major EV charging network providers that manage 100 or more publicly available chargers and will help EV drivers locate and use charging stations. The legislation comes as a result of Assemblymember Irwin’s personal charging experiences, as well as ongoing news stories highlighting the lack of reliable and accessible charging infrastructure in California.
All eligible citizens are encouraged to register to vote in anticipation of the upcoming Presidential General Election to be held on Tuesday, November 5th.
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VENTURA — The City of Ventura invites community members to review and provide input on the updated Land Use Designation Map as part of the General Plan Update, a 25-year blueprint for guiding Ventura’s future growth and development. The survey is available for feedback until Monday, October 21, 2024, and various participation opportunities will be available in addition to the survey.
The proclamation, introduced by 3rd District Supervisor Joan Hartmann and co-sponsored by 2nd District Supervisor Laura Capps, acknowledges the critical issue of diaper need – the inability to afford enough clean diapers. It highlights the adverse impact this has on the health and well-being of children and families. National surveys conducted by the National Diaper Bank Network (NDBN) indicate that nearly one in two families struggle with diaper need, with many parents being forced to skip meals or delay changing diapers to extend their supply.
DISASTER DECLARATION FOR SMALL BUSINESSES ECONOMICALLY IMPACTED BY THE JULY LAKE FIRE
The U.S. Small Business Administration (SBA) declared a disaster on September 4 for damages to businesses resulting from the Lake Fire, which occurred from July 5 – August 4, 2024. This is an opportunity for business owners to apply for working capital for those who were economically impacted by the Lake Fire. The deadline to apply for economic injury is June 6, 2025.
Counties Impacted by the Disaster Declaration
SBA assistance is available in Santa Barbara, Ventura, Kern and San Luis Obispo counties.
SACRAMENTO — Francisco Sánchez Jr., associate administrator for the Office of Disaster Recovery and Resilience at the Small Business Administration, (on Sept. 11) reminded California small businesses of the Oct. 10, 2024, deadline to apply for an SBA federal disaster loan for economic injury caused by the December 2023 Storm and Flooding in Ventura County that occurred Dec. 21-23, 2023.
According to Sánchez, small nonfarm businesses, small agricultural cooperatives, small businesses engaged in aquaculture and most private nonprofit organizations of any size may apply for Economic Injury Disaster Loans of up to $2 million to help meet working capital needs caused by the disaster. “Economic Injury Disaster Loans may be used to pay fixed debts, payroll, accounts payable and other bills that cannot be paid because of the disaster’s impact. Economic injury assistance is available regardless of whether the applicant suffered any property damage,” Sánchez said.
SCORE: BUSINESS FORMATION UNCOVERED: NAVIGATING BUSINESS STRUCTURES
September 10 @ 10:30 am
This business formation webinar is tailored to help entrepreneurs and business owners thoroughly understand the advantages and disadvantages of each entity type (sole proprietor, LLC, s-corp.) from legal separate entities, tax reporting structures, non-tax paying entities, liabilities, asset protection and more.
CLICK HERE TO REGISTER
VENTURA — The County of Ventura Resource Management Agency (RMA) is excited to announce the appointment of Imosemen Omiunu as the Public Information Officer, a newly created position for the agency. This appointment was made by RMA Director Rob Mullane after a comprehensive recruitment process.
Omiunu brings nearly a decade of experience in community engagement, digital marketing, community outreach, event management, and social media management from both the public and private sectors. Most recently, she served as a Resident Director for the University of California, Santa Barbara in the University’s Residential and Community Living Department.
You may have heard the news that Sable (formerly Exxon) has out-maneuvered the County in the oil pipeline dispute by revising its plans to move the safety valves underground, and outside of our jurisdiction. This will likely lead to a restarting of offshore oil drilling at the Santa Ynez Unit off of Gaviota.
Those of us who were here during the Refugio Oil Spill in 2015 know what is now at stake, and how deeply terrifying that news is.
SANTA BARBARA — Often overlooked, mental health is a crucial aspect of a healthy childhood. Understanding emotions and developing effective coping strategies are essential milestones in a child’s social and emotional development. Mental wellness doesn’t simply mean the absence of a mental health disorder. It involves children being able to manage emotions, develop, and sustain a quality of life that includes everything from friendships to sports to family relationships. During the exciting early weeks of a new school year, parents have a valuable opportunity to tune in to their child’s mental health.
VENTURA — The Ventura Police Department Traffic Unit will conduct a DUI checkpoint at an undisclosed location within the city limits on Friday, September 6, 2024, from 7:00 p.m. to 2:00 a.m.
DUI checkpoint locations are chosen based on data showing incidents of impaired driving-related crashes. The primary purpose of checkpoints is not to make arrests, but to promote public safety by deterring residents from driving impaired.
During the checkpoint, officers will look for signs that drivers are under the influence of alcohol and/or drugs.
SCORE: EFFICIENT INVENTORY MANAGEMENT WITH QUICKBOOKS ONLINE
September 3 @ 10:30 am
Discover how to manage your inventory efficiently using QuickBooks Online. Accounting Expert & QuickBooks Online ProAdvisor, Juliana Ramirez from JR Bookkeeping will demonstrate how to track inventory levels, set up reorder points and analyze inventory costs to maximize profitability.
CLICK HERE TO REGISTER
“We understand that the community is eager to start enjoying the Sports Park, and we share that excitement,” said Greg Barnes, Director of Parks and Recreation for the City of Santa Paula. “It’s essential that we open the park when the facilities are in the best possible condition. The additional time spent ensuring the health of the turf and finalizing other details will pay off in the long run, allowing residents to fully enjoy the space without concerns about damaging newly installed turf.”
“Our roadways are extremely busy, and everyone deserves to reach their destination safely,” said Sergeant Mark Knackstedt. “It’s crucial for drivers to stay alert and watch out for pedestrians. Slow down, avoid distractions, and never drive impaired. Safety on our streets is a collective effort, and we all have a part to play.”
VENTURA — The City of Ventura invites artists and artist organizations to participate in a new public art initiative to beautify large trash bins near the coast. Selected artists will be uniquely able to beautify four trash bins along the Pier and Promenade area. Online applications are now open through Friday, September 13, 2024, at 5:00 p.m. at www.cityofventura.ca.gov/PublicArt.
William Davies King’s new book covers Nobel Prize-winning playwright Eugene O’Neill masterpiece of American drama, “Long Day’s Journey into Night,” and the context of its creation.
SANTA MARIA — Seven cadets graduated from Allan Hancock College’s CORE Custody Academy on Aug. 23 during a ceremony held at the college’s Public Safety Training Complex in Lompoc.?
“You are the beginning of a career in one of the most demanding fields out there,” said Santa Barbara County Sheriff Bill Brown. “Your choice to serve your community is honorable and admirable.”
OXNARD — The Downtown Oxnard Improvement Association (DOIA) and Oxnard Performing Arts Center Corporation (OPAC) are thrilled to announce the installation of a new mural titled “Don’t Forget The Neighborhood,” created by renowned Santa Barbara-based muralist D.J. Javier. This striking mural, located under the Third Street Bridge in Downtown Oxnard, serves as a powerful visual representation of the city’s diverse and dynamic community and will be installed Monday through Friday, August 25-30, 2025.
SBA: WOMEN OWNED SMALL BUSINESS OFFICE HOUR FOR RFIS
August 27 @ 8:30 am
Do you have a Request for Information (RFI) from the WOSB Certification Review team? The Women-Owned Small Business Program is excited to announce a new webinar series: WOSB Office Hour for RFIs! This series is intended for applicants who have applied to become WOSB/EDWOSB certified and who have received a Request for Information (RFIs) from the certification review team but are unsure of how to proceed in responding to the RFI. Participants will have the opportunity to ask questions in an open forum about responding to RFIs from members of the WOSB Program staff. Sessions will be held virtually every Tuesday and Thursday at 8:30 am.
County of Ventura to hold public listening session on Request for Proposal for local ambulance services
On Wednesday, September 4, 2024, from 4:00 PM – 5:00 PM, the County Executive Office will conduct an in-person and online listening session to solicit comments from stakeholders and the public on the initial draft Request for Proposal (RFP) for an Exclusive Emergency Ground Ambulance Transport and Related Medical Services Provider. Written and verbal comments will be considered in the final draft submitted to the Ventura County Board of Supervisors.
Your voice is important and your port wants to hear it!
Join us next Tuesday, August 27 at the Port of Hueneme 333 Ponoma St. from 12PM – 6PM for the Port’s final draft presentation for feedback before adoption of the plan.
To comment and review the draft visit: https://www.portofhueneme.org/10-year-strategic-plan/
We are facing a critical situation at Ventura County Animal Services. Due to a recent 140% kennel capacity issue, a severe illness has taken hold within our dog population, with several cases escalating to pneumonia. To control the outbreak and ensure the recovery of our sick dogs, we urgently need to increase adoptions.
“Emily’s extensive experience in local government, combined with her deep commitment to our community, will bring transformative leadership to our department,” said Stacey Zarazua, Parks and Recreation Director. “Her talent for guiding complex projects and creating sustainable strategies will be invaluable as we continue to enhance the quality of life in Ventura.”
VENTURA COUNTY — The Ventura County Biotech Trade Delegation reaches a significant milestone as it wraps up its successful visit to India. Initiated by Ventura County District 2 Supervisor Jeff Gorell and organized in collaboration with BioScience Alliance Founder and Chairman Brent Reinke, EDC Small Business Development Center (SBDC) Director Dr. Ray Bowman and EDC SBDC Trade Specialist Simona Filip Racek, CGBP, this mission profoundly strengthens ties between Ventura County’s thriving biotech sector and India’s rapidly expanding biotechnology market.
The mission was made possible with support from the U.S. Commercial Service Offices in Ventura County, New Delhi, Bengaluru and Hyderabad, the California Governor’s Office of Business and Economic Development and the Organization of Women in International Trade Orange County.
VENTURA COUNTY — The Ventura County Civil Grand Jury seeks opportunities to speak to community organizations, non-profit organizations, and similar groups as part of its education outreach program.
The Civil 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 Superior Court and serve as a “voice and conscience” of Ventura County residents concerning their local governments.
A Back to School Message
From Dr. César Morales, Ventura County Superintendent of Schools
The start of the new school year is always a magical time as classrooms and schoolyards come roaring back to life after summer break. Ventura County’s public school system serves nearly 125,000 students and provides a comprehensive range of educational services. This school year will see expanded learning opportunities for students of all ages, from the continued expansion of transitional kindergarten (TK) to new career education options. Some of the most exciting new initiatives are highlighted in my annual back to school message, which I invite you to read at this link.
VENTURA — The City of Ventura is introducing Ventura Connects, a new online portal that makes it easier for residents to report issues like potholes, graffiti, and debris. This platform improves accessibility to request types, visibility of requests and reports, and provides real-time updates.
“Our goal is to offer exceptional customer service and make it simple for residents to report issues and track the progress of their requests. Ventura Connects represents a new way for community members to interact with City services,” said City Manager Bill Ayub. “It also demonstrates our dedication to leveraging technology to enhance city service, ensuring the transparency and accountability our residents expect and deserve.”
Ventura Connects offers a mobile-frie
IN-PERSON EVENT: SCORE VENTURA COUNTY IN-PERSON EVENT:THE BUSINESS MODEL CANVAS- A FASTER WAY TO A BUSINESS PLAN
August 21 @ 8:30 am
Join SCORE Ventura County for a dynamic workshop on mastering the Business Model Canvas. This session begins with an exploration of essential business planning fundamentals. Following this, you’ll engage in a hands-on demonstration of the Business Model Canvas, a powerful graphical tool for crafting and refining business strategies. Participants will receive a blank Business Model Canvas template and will have the opportunity to complete it, time permitting, with guidance, during the workshop. Don’t miss this chance to learn practical skills that can help enhance your business planning and strategy execution. Reserve your spot today to unlock new insights and propel your business forward! Address: Thousand Oaks City Hall, Oak & Park Room, 3rd Floor, 2100 Thousand Oaks Blvd., Thousand Oaks, CA 91362.
CLICK HERE TO REGISTER
EDC has partnered with EnGen, a virtual learning platform, to deliver career-aligned English upskilling at NO-COST to Ventura County immigrants, refugees and speakers of other languages. Unlike other training programs, workers do not need Social Security Numbers and are only required to make the minimum wage of $15.50 per hour to qualify for training.
SACRAMENTO — Assemblymember Jacqui Irwin is pleased to announce the Governor’s signing of AB 1779, which restores a lapsed jurisdictional law (Penal Code 786.5) allowing county prosecutors to charge related incidents of Organized Retail Theft (ORT) in a single county superior court. AB 1779 was part of the Assembly’s bi-partisan “Californians Together Against Retail Crime” bill package addressing issues related to theft and drug offenses.
Have you ever wondered what happens when you call 9-1-1 in a time of need?
Santa Barbara City Fire Chief Chris Mailles told an incredible story today about what used to happen when he was a 9-1-1 dispatcher some years ago. Dispatchers had to take the calls of those in distress, write furious notes, thumb through filing cabinet drawers to locate an address, carefully read maps, and then decide which department to hand off the dispatch request to based on where the emergency was taking place.
While today computers have made this process faster, the closest ambulance or fire truck is not always the one sent to your emergency. Which side of a boundary your emergency is at still determines which department responds, costing precious seconds of time that can make the difference between saving lives or being too late.
Now all that is changing. This Wednesday we celebrated the graduation of the first-ever class of emergency dispatchers from the County’s Regional Fire Communications Center Dispatch Academy.
This impressive group of 18 graduates is well-trained to the highest emergency standards.
They can provide life-saving instructions over the phone, including CPR and cardiac arrest procedures while emergency personnel are en route.
We all owe a great thanks to the Fire Chiefs of our local departments and districts, who have taken the lead to improve this system. In doing so, they are showing us that regional cooperation is the answer.
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We are still accepting applications for the Social Justice Fellowships Program.
We will host an Applicant Workshop on Thursday, August 22, at 6:30pm.
Our leadership will answer questions and guide applicants in writing quality requests. Interested candidates, please join us.
Our history is included below, and application details are here: Grant Process – SJFVC
For more information, please send questions or referrals to our Program Manager, Jonathan Macaranas, at info@socialjusticefundvc.org.
