Category: Local

Economic Development Collaborative (EDC) — NEW Export Strategy Preperation Course

by Community Contributor • February 27, 2025 • Comments Off

The Economic Development Collaborative (EDC) is excited to introduce Mastering Export Strategy Preparation, a NO-COST course designed to equip you with the knowledge and skills needed to succeed in international trade! This course is jointly organized EDC and the EDC Small Business Development Center (SBDC).

This six-week course will equip participants with the knowledge and skills to develop and implement successful export strategies. It combines theoretical concepts with practical applications, utilizing resources from government agencies supporting U.S. exporters, AI-powered exercises and technical assistance from trade experts.

A NO-COST One-Of-A-Kind Six-Week Course Completed at Your Own Pace!

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

by Community Contributor • February 27, 2025 • Comments Off

This year’s Black History Month has once again provided many opportunities to pause, reflect and learn more about the incomparable contributions made by African Americans in all spheres of life. And as it pertains to housing, while many will be aware of the ‘GI Bill’, perhaps not so many will be aware of its stark inequities which continue to have profound effects on the lack of intergenerational wealth building through homeownership.

For veterans coming home after brave and honorable service in World War II, The Servicemen’s Readjustment Act of 1944 – better known as the GI Bill – was envisioned as a pathway back and up into society for the millions returning to civilian life. One of the best-known components of that leveling up legislation was access to low interest financing. But for 1.3M African American heroes, the promise of homeownership was a dream denied with less than 1% successfully securing those life changing down payments and mortgages.

Bilingual report — Ventura Police teen Explorer Program accepting new applications

by Community Contributor • February 27, 2025 • Comments Off

VENTURA — The Ventura Police Department (VPD) is excited to announce that applications are now open for the next class of its teen Explorer Program. Apply online at www.cityofventura.ca.gov/Explorers.

Since its launch, the program has successfully mentored over 50 local students, with 8 graduates going on to become part-time police cadets and many more pursuing law enforcement and public service-related education. Since its launch in 2022, Explorers have contributed more than 4,200 hours of volunteer service in Ventura County, assisting at community events like the Aut2Run, X-Games, Strawberry Festival, Ventura County Fair, and dozens of Ventura PD events.

Port of Hueneme Dock Talk February Community Newsletter

by Community Contributor • February 27, 2025 • Comments Off

The Port of Hueneme celebrates Black History Month as an essential time to recognize and celebrate the significant contributions and achievements of Black Americans throughout history. It serves as a reminder to reflect on and address the ongoing challenges and systemic inequalities that Black Americans face today.

Join us as we honor the resilience, strength, and enduring spirit of Black Americans and educate current and future generations about the diverse and dynamic history so that we may help foster greater understanding, empathy, and unity among all citizens.

Bilingual report — Allan Hancock College’s Ann Foxworthy Gallery presents retrospective exhibition of Kam Jacoby photographic works

by Community Contributor • February 27, 2025 • Comments Off

Spanning 40 years of Jacoby’s career, the exhibition takes visitors on a visual journey from his early days as a student to his evolution as a professional photographer and educator. Jacoby’s work reveals a boundless curiosity, capturing beauty in everyday moments, patterns in nature, and the quiet dignity of historical or abandoned spaces.

“These groups of work are selections from over 40 years of photography,” said Jacoby. “Some projects were completed in a matter of hours or days, while others have developed over years. With each project, I set simple parameters—like camera choice or geographic area—to create a framework for exploration.”

UCSB — The Current — ‘Empathic education’ may unlock STEM learning success for all and more news

by Community Contributor • February 27, 2025 • Comments Off

Professor Sharon Tettagah demonstrates how considering learner preferences for receiving educational content can create a more inclusive and effective educational experience.

Ventura County Coastal Association of REALTORS® (VCCAR) names new CEO

by Community Contributor • February 27, 2025 • Comments Off

Holden brings a decade of association management experience, with a strong track record of leading strategic initiatives while overseeing daily operations, staff, and member services. His expertise spans professional development, member engagement, and strategic planning—making him a strong fit to lead VCCAR into the future. Most recently, he served as Chief Operating Officer (COO) at East Tennessee REALTORS®, a 6,300-member association serving 12 counties.

SEEAG receives $135,000 funding from Uplift Central Coast

by Community Contributor • February 26, 2025 • Comments Off

The funds will enable SEEAG to provide 1,000 high school students with SEEAG’s three-part STEM career exploration program. Students who take part in STEM Career Pathways in Agriculture are introduced to agricultural career options, experience real-world career exposure during farm field trips, connect with industry professionals and learn about educational pathways to pursue their future in agriculture.

Bilingual report — Economic Development Collaborative (EDC) — City of Simi Valley Business Assistance Loan Fund

by Community Contributor • February 26, 2025 • Comments Off

The City of Simi Valley Loan Fund is a low-interest loan program that’s designed to help businesses recover from the impacts of COVID-19. Available through the Economic Development Collaborative and funded by the City of Simi Valley, small business owners who have had difficulty obtaining pandemic resources and traditional bank lending can now access local, professional assistance and capital.

March at the Santa Paula Art Museum

by Community Contributor • February 26, 2025 • Comments Off

Saturday, March 15, 2025, from 4 PM to 6 PM

$5 SPAM members, $10 Non-members

The Santa Paula Art Museum will mark the start of spring with the premiere of “Painted Seasons,” a stunning solo exhibition by Ojai artist Anne Ward. Ward, who grew up in the Westchester neighborhood of Los Angeles, is obsessed with light, color, and pattern. It was while working in France as assistant to the director on the film “French Kiss” that Anne realized her love of painting outdoors. Primarily self-taught, Ward has been painting and exhibiting her work for over 30 years.

The upcoming exhibit features over 50 paintings teeming with life and joy and painted in oil, acrylic, and gouache. The majority of the artworks will be available for purchase. “Painted Seasons” will be on view from March 15, 2025, to July 6, 2025.

Respected healthcare leader Scott Wester selected as president and CEO of Cottage Health

by Community Contributor • February 26, 2025 • Comments Off

SANTA BARBARA — The Cottage Health Board of Directors has selected experienced healthcare leader Scott Wester, MHA, as Cottage Health’s next president and CEO. Mr. Wester will assume his post April 7, 2025.

Cottage Health chose Mr. Wester after an extensive national search. He replaces Ron Werft, MHA, who will retire after 38 years at Cottage Health, the last 25 as president and CEO.

Driving into the Future: Port of Hueneme and NYK Line sign historic MOU to launch Green Automotive Shipping Corridor

by Community Contributor • February 25, 2025 • Comments Off

PORT HUENEME — In a monumental step toward sustainability and environmental stewardship, the Port of Hueneme and NYK Line have signed a Memorandum of Understanding (MOU) to establish a Green Automotive Shipping Corridor between Japan and Southern California. The signing ceremony took place on February 12, 2025, at the Port of Hueneme, marking the continuation of an exciting collaboration aimed at driving both innovation and environmental progress.

Teatro de las Américas — Regreso a mi Cuba | Improvisadas | Movie Night

by Community Contributor • February 25, 2025 • Comments Off

Regreso a mi Cuba

Cuba: My Return

Obra en español con subtítulos en inglés / Play in Spanish with English subtitles.

Una inmigrante regresa a su patria después de 54 años de ausencia.

An immigrant returns to her motherland after being gone for 54 years.

Bilingual report — County of Ventura Board of Supervisors vote to support new state legislation for fire safety

by Community Contributor • February 25, 2025 • Comments Off

We have experienced devastating fires in the last seven years and this bill aims to address the issues we have seen in water delivery,” stated 1st District Supervisor Matt LaVere. ““Supporting AB 367 is a critical step toward ensuring our community has the resources needed to fight fires even in the most challenging circumstances.”

Women’s Economic Ventures and the City of Goleta announce Business of Care Program Awardees

by Community Contributor • February 25, 2025 • Comments Off

GOLETA — Women’s Economic Ventures (WEV) and the City of Goleta recently partnered together to address the childcare crisis in our region through the “Business of Care” program. Eleven home-based childcare business owners joined a six-week training course designed to bolster their business growth and provide them with essential skills such as record keeping, basic finance, and marketing. Program participants will receive a supend for their business which will be awarded at a ceremony at the Goleta Community Center on Wednesday March 12, 2025 at 6pm.

Social Justice Fund for Ventura County — Awareness and Gratitude

by Community Contributor • February 25, 2025 • Comments Off

Hope in Their Hands

January was Human Trafficking Awareness Month. Years ago, Alia Azariah, Social Justice Fellow, was trafficked as a young girl here in Ventura County … a victim, a survivor, her story heartbreaking and unfortunately to this day not uncommon.

But her story has evolved … resilience, healing, justice … hope. Now a powerful change agent, Alia is an unrelenting force and advocate for vulnerable and trafficked children and shares her story nationally and globally.

SBCC Awarded Grant from Uplift Central Coast Coalition

by Community Contributor • February 25, 2025 • Comments Off

“With gratitude to the Uplift Central Coast Coalition through the State’s California Jobs First program and our Ocean Collective partners, SBCC will lead the way in enhancing the Blue Economy in Santa Barbara County,” said Superintendent/President Erika Endrijonas, Ph.D. “This grant takes us one step closer to expanding our local economy and developing yet another sustainable workforce pipeline. We are excited to get to work!”

TOArts welcomes new officers and celebrates Matthew Burke appointment to its Board of Directors

by Community Contributor • February 25, 2025 • Comments Off

Al Lowe has been appointed as the new Board Chair, succeeding David Mead who remains an active board member, while Keith Wintermute steps into the role of Treasurer. Kyle Rohrbach continues his leadership as Vice Chair, and Janet Scherr remains in her position as Secretary. Each officer brings a wealth of experience and commitment to advancing TOArts’ mission of enriching the cultural vitality of Ventura County and the surrounding community.

Bilingual report — Ventura County Office of Education — February 2025 update

by Community Contributor • February 24, 2025 • Comments Off

On March 11, the Ventura County Office of Education will present our 5th annual Equity Conference. Since we launched the event in 2021, its purpose has been to ensure that all students can use the power of education to build a foundation for a happy and successful life. Opening the door to that opportunity requires acknowledging that students come to our classrooms with a variety of challenges based on their family backgrounds and life experiences. In many cases, they need additional help and support to thrive in school and beyond.

Teatro de las Américas — Heard the buzz about our production of Regreso a mi CUBA? — March 7-15

by Community Contributor • February 24, 2025 • Comments Off

Have you heard the buzz about Teatro De Las Americas’s spectacular production of Regreso a mi CUBA? It’s an event you absolutely can’t miss! Secure your seat today by grabbing your tickets online. Join us for an unforgettable experience!

County of Ventura Medical Examiner’s Office — Special Report: 2024 Fatal Overdoses

by Community Contributor • February 24, 2025 • Comments Off

VENTURA — 1,931 deaths were reported to the Ventura County Medical Examiner’s Office during the 2024 calendar year. Jurisdiction was accepted for 903 of these deaths, requiring further investigation and certification. Postmortem examinations were performed on 701 cases. Of the cases investigated, 200 deaths were due to overdose with illicit drugs medications, alcohol or other substances.

Of the 200 overdose deaths, 183 were accidents, 15 were suicides and two deaths were of undetermined manner. Of these overdose deaths, men accounted for 145 deaths (72.5%) and women accounted for 55 deaths (27.5%).

Bilingual report — New Services Announced at Ventura County Clerk and Recorder Office in Thousand Oaks

by Community Contributor • February 24, 2025 • Comments Off

THOUSAND OAKS — Michelle Ascencion, Ventura County Clerk-Recorder & Registrar of Voters, has announced the expansion of services at the Clerk and Recorder East County Office in Thousand Oaks.

Along with the existing services typically provided by the County Clerk – including vital records, marriage licenses and ceremonies, and fictitious business names – County Recorder services are also now available. Customers will now be able to record deeds, mortgage documents, and court decrees at the Thousand Oaks office, as well as file California Environmental Quality Act (CEQA) documents such as environmental impact reports, mitigated negative declarations, notices of determination/exemption, and California Department of Fish and Wildlife receipts.

Bilingual report — City of Santa Paula Designates Historic Tower Theater as a City Landmark

by Community Contributor • February 21, 2025 • Comments Off

SANTA PAULA — The City of Santa Paula proudly announces the official designation of the Tower Theater, located at 982 E. Main Street, as a City Historic Landmark. The Santa Paula City Council adopted Ordinance No. 1341 following a unanimous vote on February 19, 2025, recognizing the Tower Theater’s rich history and architectural significance.

First opened as the Elektra Theatre in 1911, the Tower Theater has served as a cornerstone of Santa Paula’s cultural and entertainment history. The building, Ventura County’s oldest purpose-built movie theater, has undergone various transformations, including its time as the Mission Theatre, Columbia Theatre, and Lyric Theatre, before being rebranded as the Tower Theater in 1940. Over the years, it played a pivotal role in providing Spanish-language programming for Santa Paula’s Mexican-origin community, making it a symbol of inclusivity and cultural representation.

Bilingual commentary — Who Represents the Spirit of California?

by Community Contributor • February 21, 2025 • Comments Off

We might find ourselves asking, “What is this ‘Spirit of California’” we hear about sometimes? We might surmise that the Spirit of California is the melting pot of our cultures, ideas, perspectives, and dreams. Indeed, we are a unique tapestry woven together by the threads of our diversity and progressive and dynamic history.

But it might be more accurate for us to ask, “Who is the Spirit of California?”

The Spirit of California is actually the embodiment of a mythology that reaches back into the mists of time and has surprising origins, especially considering the history of California.

Santa Barbara Quakers join interfaith challenge to Department of Homeland Security’s rescission of sensitive locations policy

by Community Contributor • February 21, 2025 • Comments Off

SANTA BARBARA — Friends General Conference (FGC), a national Quaker organization, joined multiple religious organizations in challenging the Department of Homeland Security’s (DHS) reversal of the sensitive locations policy, which previously limited immigration enforcement actions at places of worship. The Santa Barbara Friends Meeting (SBFM) as an affiliate of FGC, joined this legal challenge.

We are an unprogrammed meeting of Quakers and we reaffirm that our house of worship serves as a sanctuary for all. The belief that God is within every person has powerful ramifications.

Bilingual report — Economic Development Collaborative (EDC) — Honoring Black History Month

by Community Contributor • February 21, 2025 • Comments Off

The Economic Development Collaborative would like to recognize the month of February as Black History Month. This month is dedicated to honoring and celebrating the contributions of Black Americans throughout history. During this time, and throughout the entire year, the EDC is committed to supporting Black-owned small businesses. The following are a handful of programs* that provide support for Black-owned small businesses:

Transgender Unity March to be held March 1 in Santa Barbara

by Community Contributor • February 21, 2025 • Comments Off

SANTA BARBARA — On Saturday, March 1st, 2025, the Santa Barbara community will stand in solidarity with a nationwide movement advocating for the rights and dignity of transgender people. The Transgender Unity March will take place at De La Guerra Plaza at noon, 20 East De la Guerra inviting transgender individuals, allies, and community members to join in support of equality and justice.

Across the country, transgender people are facing increasing threats, including policies that restrict access to healthcare, limit mobility, and endanger lives. The Transgender Unity March is a direct response to this growing discrimination, offering a platform for voices to rise against these injustices and for the community to demand action.