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County of Santa Barbara May 2025 Newsletter
Category: Local
Bilingual report — Economic Development Collaborative (EDC) — National Small Business Week
For more than 50 years, the U.S. Small Business Administration (SBA) has celebrated National Small Business Week (NSBW), which recognizes the critical contributions of America’s entrepreneurs and small business owners. NSBW is co-hosted by SCORE, mentors to America’s small businesses and a resource partner of SBA.
Join us in celebrating National Small Business Week and participate in the NO-COST SBA National Small Business Week 2-Day Virtual Summit throughout the week! The event will cover information to help you START, GROW and EXPAND your small business.
SBA National Small Business Week 2-Day Virtual Summit
May 6 and May 7 @ 7:00 am PST
This year’s event will include educational presentations by experts, exhibit booths, NO-COST business resources, multiple peer-to-peer networking rooms and expert business advice from SCORE mentors. The event is NO-COST to view for both established and aspiring business owners. However, you must first register to gain entry.
CLICK HERE TO REGISTER
County of Ventura District 2 Supervisor Jeff Gorell — ou’re Invited to Celebrate Our Community’s Great Navigators – Limited Tickets Remaining!
I’m excited to share that we’re just a couple of weeks away from the 1st Annual District 2 Supervisorial Leadership and Excellence Awards—a signature event recognizing some of the most inspiring and impactful leaders in our community.
The event will take place Wednesday, May 21 from
5:00–7:00 PM at Amgen in Thousand Oaks.
This inaugural celebration will honor the “Great Navigators” of District 2—exceptional individuals who have demonstrated leadership in Public Safety, Education, Prosperity & Economy, Conservation & Environmentalism,and Community Leadership. These honorees have gone above and beyond to serve others and strengthen Ventura County.
UCSB — The Current — ALL-VIDEO EDITION: Press Play on Our Research Rewind
Restoring Dunes to Protect Shores
Marine Science Institute researchers have found that restored dunes at Santa Monica Beach can help protect that section of California’s coast from the severe storms and sea-level rise that come with a warming ocean.
Watch to learn about dune restoration
Lumina Nights: Dancing with Our Stars Raises Over $122,000 for local survivors—and the Dancing Isn’t Over Yet
SAN LUIS OBISPO — Lumina Nights: Dancing with Our Stars has already raised over $122,000 for Lumina Alliance—and the competition is just heating up. As the three-night event kicks off tonight at the Pavilion on the Lake in Atascadero, guests will continue “voting” for their favorite dancers by donating—each dollar a vote of support for local survivors of sexual assault and intimate partner violence.
Local stars have been hard at work fundraising, with County Supervisor Heather Moreno leading at nearly $35,000, followed by Rob Garcia of Corvus Wealth Advisors with $32,000, and Mary Verdin of Verdin Marketing at $24,000. Fellow dancers Eric Yun (Community West Bank), LeBren Harris (Downtown SLO), and Jennifer Idler (Idler’s Home) are also lighting up the stage with passion and purpose.
Santa Barbara Cottage Hospital and Goleta Valley Cottage Hospital earn an ‘A’ Hospital Safety Grade from The Leapfrog Group
SANTA BARBARA — Santa Barbara Cottage Hospital (SBCH) and Goleta Valley Cottage Hospital (GVCH) both earned an “A” Hospital Safety Grade from The Leapfrog Group, an independent national nonprofit watchdog focused on patient safety.
Leapfrog assigns an “A,” through “F” grade to hospitals across the country based on over 30 quality and safety performance measures and the systems hospitals have in place to prevent patient harm.
“This recognition speaks to our team’s commitment to safety and excellence,” said Scott Wester, President & CEO of Cottage Health. “It is a reflection of our work to provide a safe and healing environment for patients.
CSUCI receives the national ‘Opportunity Colleges and Universities’ designation
“Hundreds of institutions nationwide are providing students an excellent opportunity to use higher education as a springboard to a better life,” said Ted Mitchell, president of ACE. “The Student Access and Earnings Classification highlights the depth and breadth of schools where student success is front and center.”
Senior Concerns Seeks Volunteers for 31st Annual Love Run
volunteer for the 31st Annual Love Run, presented by Logix Federal Credit Union, which will take place on Sunday, June 1, in Westlake Village.
One of the largest 5K/10K events in the Conejo Valley, the Love Run, draws more than 2,000 participants and 500 spectators annually. Volunteers are essential to making the event a success, helping raise funds to provide nutritious meals to homebound seniors through Senior Concerns’ Meals On Wheels program.
“Volunteers are the heart and driving force behind the Love Run,” says Andrea Gallagher, president of Senior Concerns. “Event volunteers do more than just help on race day- they ensure thousands of meals reach homebound seniors throughout the year. That impact is priceless.”
Bilingual report — Ventura County Animals Services (VCAS) — Shelter at 135% Capacity! FREE dog adoptions through Mother’s Day (5/11)
We are at 135% capacity in our dog kennels. To help relieve overcrowding we are holding a free dog adoption promotion* through Sunday, May 11th, 2025 at both the Camarillo and Simi Valley Shelters.
Santa Barbara Performing Arts Scholarship Foundation names 2025 music competition winners
SANTA BARBARA — Eight talented, young musicians and vocalists took home a total of $36,000 in scholarships Sunday, April 27, after competing in the annual music contest organized by the Performing Arts Scholarship Foundation.
A professional panel of judges selected first and second place winners in the Adult Instrumental, Junior Instrumental, Adult Vocal and newly added Junior Vocal categories. Fourteen finalists competed at the event. Awards ranged from $500 to $6,000. The contest took place in Lehmann Hall at Music Academy of the West in Montecito.
People’s Self-Help Housing (PSHHC) 2025 Builder Games Raises over $125,000 for Resident Programs
CENTRAL COAST – This past weekend, People’s Self-Help Housing (PSHH) hosted the 2025 Builder Games. Presented by Mechanics Bank, eight teams competed in a series of fun building-related challenges to imaginatively transform a standard 4’x 4’ playhouse into a child’s dream.
Winning this year’s title of ‘Builder Games Champion’ and the ‘People’s Choice Award’ was first-time competitor Tricamo Construction for their “Chicken Coop”. The ‘Judge’s Choice Award’ was awarded to BMA Mechanical+, another team new to this year’s Games, for their inventive recreation of the iconic San Luis Obispo landmark, Frank’s Hot Dogs Restaurant.
Bilingual report — Economic Development Collaborative (EDC) — Funding Opprotunity for City of Oxnard Business Owners
The City of Oxnard and the Economic Development Collaborative have partnered to support small business owners! With a low-interest rate, terms designed for businesses and NO-COST professional advising, this fund is perfect for those who haven’t been unable to qualify for traditional bank loans.
Bilingual report — The latest news from the County of Ventura
CARE Act Town Hall Meeting on Mental Health and Support Services
Join the County of Ventura and the Ventura County Superior Court for an upcoming *CARE Act Town Hall Meeting* to learn about a new program offering voluntary support and treatment for individuals facing serious mental health and substance use challenges.
This informative session will cover eligibility, the petition process, and how the Community Assistance, Recovery, and Empowerment (CARE) Act is being implemented locally to connect people with the care they need.
Date: Thursday, May 15, 2025
Time: 6:00 – 7:30 p.m.
Location: Ventura County Government Center
Hall of Administration – Lower Plaza Assembly Room, 800 S. Victoria Ave., Ventura, CA 93009
Or Join via Zoom:
Meeting ID: 814 194 7530
Passcode: 484640
Download Zoom at: zoom.us/download
**Spanish interpretation will be provided.
Speakers include representatives from the Ventura County Superior Court, County Counsel, Public Defender’s Office, and Behavioral Health, all working together to support residents through this new state program.
LEARN MORE
Downtown Oxnard — Fiesta time is here!
First Thursdays celebrates Cinco de Mayo with over a dozen trucks, DJs, and a local makers marketplace. Food starts at 5pm at Plaza Park, 500 South C Street
Museum of Contemporary Art Santa Barbara — LA Art Trips & Artist Opportunities
There are still a few spots left to join us on Saturday May 3, departing Santa Barbara at 9:00 am.
Our LA adventure begins with a Pace gallery director guided tour of legendary Light and Space artist Robert Irwin In Los Angeles, an exhibition of work produced between 1960 and 1971, marking the first exhibition of Irwin’s work mounted by Pace since the artist’s death in 2023 and his first posthumous presentation in California. We’ll enjoy our boxed lunches in the gallery garden then head to Marciano Foundation for Lightscape: Doug Aitken, and a special screening of Aitken’s FRONTIER followed by a conversation between Ed Ruscha and Aitken. A very full and rewarding day of art and ideas – register here!
Bilingual report — Don’t Miss Your Flight! Get a Certified Copy of Your Birth Certificate to Apply for a REAL ID or Passport
VENTURA — Ventura County Clerk-Recorder Michelle Ascencion is reminding residents that starting May 7, 2025, the federal government will require a REAL ID, U.S. passport, or other federally approved identification to board domestic flights.
To apply for a REAL ID or passport, applicants must provide proof of U.S. citizenship—most commonly, a certified copy of their birth certificate. This must be obtained from the county where the individual was born.
Bilingual report — Twelve cadets graduated from Allan Hancock College’s CORE Custody Academy
“Today is not an ending, but rather a beginning,” said Santa Barbara County Sheriff’s Office Chief Deputy Vincent Wasilewski. “It is the beginning of a career in one of the most demanding and rewarding professions anywhere.”
All 12 graduates of CORE Academy Class #19 completed a comprehensive California Standards and Training for Corrections course consisting of 260 hours of instruction. The six-week academy is designed to prepare students to work as correctional officers. Some of the instruction included emergency planning in a custody facility, report writing, ethics, investigation procedures, contraband, arrest and control, physical fitness training, CPR/First Aid and emergency vehicle operations.
Defending Public Education in a Time of Uncertainty
Public education is facing an unprecedented challenge. As political rhetoric intensifies, the U.S. Department of Education has come under attack, with calls for its elimination shaking the foundation of our nation’s commitment to equitable learning opportunities. Yet, despite these challenges, the focus of Ventura County educators remains clear: ensuring the well-being and success of students.
At this time, when public education is under scrutiny, our schools need unwavering support from the communities they serve. The narrative around education must shift from one of division to one of shared responsibility and appreciation. We need to reinforce the idea that teaching is not just a profession, but a privilege—one that shapes the future of our society. Strong, compassionate educators and leaders remain essential to guiding our schools through these uncertain times.
Public education is facing an unprecedented challenge. As political rhetoric intensifies, the U.S. Department of Education has come under attack, with calls for its elimination shaking the foundation of our nation’s commitment to equitable learning opportunities. Yet, despite these challenges, the focus of Ventura County educators remains clear: ensuring the well-being and success of students.
At this time, when public education is under scrutiny, our schools need unwavering support from the communities they serve. The narrative around education must shift from one of division to one of shared responsibility and appreciation. We need to reinforce the idea that teaching is not just a profession, but a privilege—one that shapes the future of our society. Strong, compassionate educators and leaders remain essential to guiding our schools through these uncertain times.
Celebrity Readers in Ventura County will Take 5 and Read to Kids! starting May 2
VENTURA COUNTY — The ninth annual Take 5 and Read to Kids! campaign will kick-off May 2nd at preschools, childcare centers, and public libraries throughout Ventura County. First 5 Ventura County hosts these free community events to help raise awareness about the importance of early childhood literacy for the more than 55,000 children in Ventura County who are age 5 and younger. For more information, visit www.first5ventura.org/talk-read-sing
Allan Hancock College’s Career and Technical Education (CTE) students shine at state SkillsUSA competition
SANTA MARIA — Students in Allan Hancock College’s Career and Technical Education (CTE) programs took home a staggering 50 gold, silver, and bronze medals from the statewide SkillsUSA competition in Ontario, California, earlier this month.
A record-breaking 40 Hancock students who participated in this year’s competition earned gold medals across 25 categories, including cybersecurity, architecture, welding, crime scene investigation, web design, and more.
In addition, seven Hancock students earned silver medals and three earned bronze medals.
“The work and dedication of our SkillsUSA students demonstrates their drive to succeed and their passion for their career pathways,” said Hancock Administration of Justice Instructor Kurt Kruse, who attended the competition as a SkillsUSA coach. “As an instructor, I was proud of every student who competed.”?
CAUSE hiring Summer interns — and it’s PAID
At CAUSE, building the next generation of community leaders isn’t just part of our vision – it is our vision. We believe our future lies with young people grounded in justice, ready to defend the progress we’ve made and fight for a more just and sustainable future in the Central Coast.
From June 16 to August 8, we’re looking for two interns to join our team and the fight for housing justice, workers’ rights, and environmental justice. These part-time internships are 10 hours weekly, with a pay rate of $20/hour. Whether you’re drawn to policy or building grassroots people power through organizing, this is your chance to build skills, grow your leadership, and make a real impact.
We’re now accepting applications for two dynamic, 8-week paid internship positions:
Bilingual report — The Agriculture Appreciation Curriculum teaches 3rd grade students a culture of healthy eating and shows them a path to STEM Education
VENTURA — Early education about food helps young people see the value of eating fruits and vegetables instead of ultra-processed foods. A fun program helps 3rd grade students learn where their food comes from, the science of agriculture, and related career opportunities. Students for Eco-Education and Agriculture (SEEAG) provides a Farm-to-Table Laboratory that teaches children in Ventura, Los Angeles, and Santa Barbara counties in California, thanks to a grant from Kaiser Permanente.
United Way of Ventura County secures $1.7 million in funding to address homelessness
VENTURA — United Way of Ventura County (UWVC) has been awarded two grants totaling $1.7 million from the Ventura County Continuum of Care Alliance. Both grants are from the State of California’s Homeless Housing, Assistance and Prevention Program (HHAP) Round 5 for Homeless Prevention, and Rapid Re-Housing. This funding will bolster key programs, including Home Safe which aims to place homeless and keep them housed as well as the countywide Landlord Engagement Program (LEP), which aims to increase housing stock and utilize existing housing vouchers and subsidies provided by local jurisdictions and community partners. By recruiting and retaining landlords willing to assist, the program seeks to prevent and end homelessness in the community.
CSUCI awards area business and non-profit partners during Connections Breakfast
CAMARILLO — Representatives from area businesses, the non-profit sector, the health industry, and a faculty member from the campus were recognized as valuable partners to CSU Channel Islands (CSUCI) during the annual CSUCI Connections Breakfast.
The sold-out event took place on campus where participants had a chance to mingle and look over student research projects on display before sitting down to breakfast and welcome remarks from CSUCI Vice President for Advancement Richard LeRoy and President Richard Yao.
Bilingual report — City of Ventura names David Dickey as next Chief of Police
“We are excited to welcome Chief Dickey as the next leader of the Ventura Police Department,” said City Manager Bill Ayub. “His extensive experience, collaborative leadership style, and dedication to the community make him well-equipped to address evolving public safety challenges with professionalism.”
Bilingual report — County of Ventura appoints Roger Robinson new Human Services Agency Director
VENTURA — The County of Ventura has named Roger Robinson as the new director for the Ventura County Human Service Agency. Robinson was selected following an extensive recruitment process, which included both internal and external candidates. He steps into the role following the retirement of former director Melissa Livingston this month.
UCSB — The Current — ‘Coralations’ Q&A with author Melody Jue and more news, events
Author Melody Jue, an associate professor of English, departs from common coral narratives in her new collection of essays.
Read more about the book
Ventura County Students Dazzle at Industry and Education: Student Project Showcase
VENTURA COUNTY — More than 100 middle and high schoolers from throughout Ventura County marveled industry professionals last Thursday with their innovation and technical talent at the first annual Industry and Education: Student Project Showcase in Camarillo. The event brought together students, educators, and industry leaders to highlight the ingenuity of local youth and the importance of providing educational opportunities that can lead to local manufacturing careers.
Ventura Harbor Village launches Seaside Vacay Giveaway 2025
VENTURA — Ventura Harbor Village is thrilled to announce the Seaside Vacay Giveaway for 2025! One lucky winner will receive a coastal getaway experience at Ventura’s seaside playground – Ventura Harbor Village valued at over $1,000, and packed with seaside fun, a two-night harbor stay, waterfront dining, shopping, and on the water adventure.
SBCC Board votes to move forward with Physical Education Building replacement with $34 Million in state matching funds
SANTA BARBARA — The Santa Barbara City College (SBCC) Board voted 5-1-0-1 (one board member was absent) on Thursday, April 17, to move forward with replacing the Physical Education (PE) Building on the Cliff Drive East Campus. The priority of the PE building replacement project is due to $34 million matching state funds that would expire in the coming year if not utilized. The $34 million would add to the Measure P Bond Extension’s $198 million and maximize facility improvements.
“We are grateful to our community for passing the Measure P Bond Extension by 66 percent,” said SBCC Board President Jonathan Abboud. “The Physical Education building is being done first because of $34 million in state matching funds that expire in June 2025 if not used — this is money we do not want to lose. Another $71 million from the bond, 36 percent, would go towards this project’s estimated $105 million total cost.”
Economic Development Collaborative (EDC) free event and webinar schedule
AND GAIN MORE CUSTOMERS
May 7 @ 8:30 am
Whether you are a seasoned marketer or just starting out, this workshop is tailored to equip you with actionable marketing strategies that will deliver results. Don’t miss this opportunity to elevate your marketing game and attract and gain more customers. Join SCORE Ventura County, City of Thousand Oaks and EDC for this insight-packed workshop that will dive into the key elements of digital marketing to help attract and gain more customers. Address: Thousand Oaks City Hall, 2100 Thousand Oaks Blvd., Thousand Oaks, CA 91362.
CLICK HERE TO REGISTER
Bilingual report Allan Hancock College hosts art, music, dance and film events (and ?Folklórico Invitational Concert) May 1 through 19
Hancock will host the 2025 Folklórico Invitational concert and dance performance on May 1-3 at 7 p.m. in Boyd Concert Hall (bldg. F) on the Santa Maria campus. Performers include Hancock students, as well as talented dancers from Righetti, Pioneer Valley and Santa Maria high schools, as well as members of the community. Tickets are $10 each and are available at https://www.hancockcollege.edu/pathways/creative-arts/tickets.php.
Strawberries Rule at 39th Annual California Strawberry Festival, May 17 and 18
VENTURA — More than a million and a half strawberries will be eaten over two days during the 39thAnnual California Strawberry Festival, May 17 and 18 at the Ventura County Fairgrounds(10 W. Harbor Blvd., Ventura, CA 93001).
Many of the 50 food vendors at the festival will serve strawberry-themed offerings. Festival goers can treat themselves to such treats as chocolate-covered strawberries, strawberry-topped funnel cakes, strawberry pizza, strawberry nachos, deep-fried strawberries, berry kabobs, strawberry tacos and strawberry beer, margaritas and smoothies.
Ventura Music Festival — Tickets on sale now for Ottmar Liebert in concert on June 27, more upcoming events
Friday, June 27 at 7:00 PM
The Majestic Ventura Theater
One of the most successful instrumental artists of the past decades, Ottmar Liebert has been entertaining audiences around the world for decades with his unforgettable, signature Nouveau Flamenco sound that blends elegance, passion, and global rhythms. Don’t miss this world-renowned guitarist as he creates a spellbinding atmosphere with every note!
Museum of Contemporary Art Santa Barbara — The Art Awards Are Back on July 13, more news
Museum of Contemporary Art Santa Barbara Presents
The 2025 Art Awards
Mary Heebner
Dr. JoAnn Kuchera-Morin
Gabriela Ruiz
Manjari Sharma
Diana Thater
Family Service Agency Event Highlights Critical Need for Youth Mental Health Support in Santa Maria
SANTA MARIA — More than 50 community leaders, school administrators, local government representatives, and concerned parents gathered on April 10th at the Santa Maria Public Library for Family Service Agency’s (FSA) impactful luncheon focused on youth mental health. The event showcased FSA’s comprehensive approach to supporting youth mental health across Santa Barbara County and highlighted the organization’s significant impact in the community.
“We all need help sometimes, and FSA is universal in their approach in that FSA serves the entire county and communities in which they live, meaning there is ‘no wrong door’ to access services for anyone in need,” said Teressa Johnes, FSA board member, during her opening remarks. Johnes emphasized FSA’s unique ability to serve individuals across the entire lifespan, from prenatal care to senior services for those in their golden years.
VCCCD Marketing Teams Honored in Public Relations Awards Ceremony
CAMARILLO — In a year where authentic storytelling and cultural relevance stood out as creative imperatives, the marketing teams at Ventura College and the District Administrative Center (DAC) rose to the occasion. At the 2025 Community College Public Relations Organization (CCPRO) Pro Awards, both teams were honored for campaigns that didn’t just communicate—but connected.
CCPRO is a statewide professional organization that supports marketing, public relations, and communications professionals at California’s community colleges. The group provides opportunities for professional development, resource sharing, and collaboration across districts. Its annual Pro Awards recognize outstanding work in areas like media relations, advertising, design, and crisis communication.
Ventura County Community Development Corp. Community Matters Newsletter – April 2025
Spring into homeownership – this is the season of renewal and growth and we’re pleased to share exciting updates and opportunities that support your path to homeownership. This month’s newsletter highlights important program changes, upcoming events, and valuable resources available to individuals and families throughout the communities we serve. Whether you’re just starting your journey or looking for support to take the next step, VCCDC is here to help guide and empower you every step of the way!
Ventura County Taxpayer Foundation — Get the Economic Outlook Report
Download the 2025 Economic Outlook Report presented at our April 17th VCTF event.
?
This comprehensive report is presented by Dr. Mark Schniepp from the California Economic Forecast.
UCSB — The Current — ‘Alcohol marketing ushered in a golden age of drinking in America’ and more news, events
Cultural historian Lisa Jacobson’s new book tells the complicated and fascinating story of how alcoholic beverages morphed from disreputable habit to ubiquitous facet of American life.
Bilingual report — Viva el Arte de Santa Barbara presents Ballet Nepantla: A Fusion of Ballet, Contemporary, and Mexican Folklórico May 16-18
SANTA BARBARA — Join ¡Viva el Arte de Santa Bárbara! (Viva) for three free community performances by Ballet Nepantla.
Ballet Nepantla
THREE FREE PUBLIC PERFORMANCES
Friday, May 16 | 7 PM | Isla Vista School, 6875 El Colegio Rd, Goleta
Saturday, May 17 | 7 PM | Guadalupe City Hall, 918 Obispo St, Guadalupe, CA
Sunday, May 18 | 6 PM | The Marjorie Luke Theatre, 721 E Cota St, Santa Barbara
Ballet Nepantla combines classic ballet and contemporary dance with traditional Mexican folklórico, creating a truly special production. Founders Andrea Guajardo and Martín Rodríguez envisioned a new form of expression that fused these two distinct dance traditions, creating an aesthetic that reflects the historical, cultural, and social realities of a broader narrative of being Mexican, Mexican American, immigrant, and trans-cultural.
Bilingual commentary — Young People vs. Boomers Using AI
Recently I was helping my eldest grandson with some technical homework he had in his college class. I was flipping through the index of his massive reference book, the way I used to do it in my college days. Meanwhile, he nonchalantly typed in a few words to an app on his phone and rapidly found the answer to the question that we were seeking.
Boomer grandpa asked Generation-Z grandson how he did that. Without batting an eye, he informed me that he was using AI.
Join us outside the Santa Maria Strawberry Festival on April 27 – Justice Can’t Wait
This May Day, we’re showing up loud and clear in solidarity with farmworkers at the Santa Maria Strawberry Festival, and we want you there with us.
While the festival celebrates strawberries, it leaves out the very people who make the harvest possible. Farmworkers power a multi-billion-dollar industry in California, yet they’re still fighting for wages they can live on.
This isn’t just about fairness – it’s about people power. And when we show up together, we shift what’s possible through our collective voice and power.
Port of Hueneme, shipping lines, corporate leaders receive awards
VENTURA — International industry leaders came together at Alta Sea at the Port of Los Angeles April 16 for the annual Protecting Blue Whales and Blue Skies (BWBS) Awards Ceremony, which recognized the top-performing shipping lines for the 2024 season and celebrated 10 seasons of the program.
The busiest container port in the Western Hemisphere offered a fitting place to recognize shipping industry leaders who move cargo all over the globe for their exemplary efforts in the most impactful BWBS season yet.
May at the Santa Paula Art Museum
Premiere Party:
“Plein Air Visions”
Presented by the California Art Club
Saturday, May 10, 2025, from 4 PM to 6 PM
$5 Members, $10 Non-members
The prestigious California Art Club was established in 1909 by early California Impressionists to promote the practice of traditional fine arts in the fields of painting, drawing, and sculpture. “Plein Air Visions” will feature 35 contemporary plein air paintings by two dozen current CAC members. The group exhibition celebrates the immediacy and spontaneity of the plein air technique in capturing the ever-changing light, colors, and moods of the California landscape. All of the paintings will be available for purchase.
Samara Harris joins Reicker, Pfau, Pyle and McRoy
SANTA BARBARA — Samara Harris, a corporate and real estate attorney with experience working on a variety of complex transactions, recently joined the premier, full-service law firm Reicker, Pfau, Pyle & McRoy.
Harris joined Reicker Pfau on March 17 as an associate in the firm’s Transactions Department. Her practice focuses primarily on mergers and acquisitions, real estate transactions and general contract and corporate matters.
A graduate of the University of Southern California, Harris has represented a wide range of clients, including private equity funds, public companies, developers, individuals, and hotel companies in connection with complex real estate deals. These transactions have included the acquisition, disposition, financing, leasing, land banking and franchising of diverse real estate assets, such as multifamily and residential developments, student housing, mixed-use developments, retail centers, hotels and single-family homes.
CI Fiduciary Group celebrates 10th anniversary
SANTA BARBARA — Channel Islands Fiduciary Group, a company that offers private, professional fiduciary services for elders and dependent adults, is celebrating 10 years in business.
Founded by Courtney DeSoto, J.D., CLPF, NCG, TEP, Channel Islands Fiduciary Group offers a comprehensive range of fiduciary services to support populations that include at-risk seniors, people who wish to age in their own homes, individuals suffering from mental and/or emotional challenges, those suffering from substance use disorder, adults vulnerable to exploitation or abuse, and isolated adults. DeSoto provides services as a successor trustee, executor and agent on a power of attorney for finances and/or healthcare. She also serves by court appointment in conservatorships and probate administration proceedings.
Bilingual reports — Economic Development Collaborative (EDC) — GRANT OPPORTUNITY for California Restaurants, Food Trucks and Caterers
RESTAURANTS CARE RESILIENCE FUND
Restaurants Care, a nonprofit program of the California Restaurant Foundation, has awarded $7.3 million in grants to 1,603 independent restaurants across California—supporting burger joints, taquerias, bakeries and more. In 2025, Restaurants Care is offering two grant opportunities to help restaurants thrive: $10,000 grants for LA County restaurants and food trucks impacted by the 2025 LA Fires and $5,000 grants for restaurants and commercial caterers in select CA counties (including Ventura & Santa Barbara!) to build resilience. Restaurants Care was created in 2017 as a safety net for food and beverage workers. To learn more about their fund for food and beverage workers, click here.
Bilingual report — El Concilio Family Services — Celebrate the power of trees!
This Arbor Day, let’s get planting! Whether you plant a tree, grow native plants, or start a community garden, every green effort helps create cleaner air, cooler neighborhoods, and thriving ecosystems.
Ready to make an impact?
Museum of Contemporary Art Santa Barbara celebrating Earth Day with Cole Sternberg
“In 1969, the devastating images of a massive oil spill from an oil platform off Santa Barbara’s coast galvanized California into action and caught the attention of the rest of the nation, including Senator Gaylord Nelson, founder of Earth Day, who visited Santa Barbara shortly after the spill. The resulting swell of outrage and concern gave rise to the first Earth Day in 1970” (and our colleagues at the Community Environmental Council).