Category: News

Bilingual report — Viva el Arte de Santa Barbara returns with three free performances by Las Guaracheras on March 14, 15, 16

by Community Contributor • March 13, 2025 • Comments Off

SANTA BARBARA — ¡Viva el Arte de Santa Bárbara! (Viva) returns with another exciting free community event. Enjoy three free exhilarating performances from female salsa sextet, Las Gauracheras.

Las Guaracheras

THREE FREE PUBLIC PERFORMANCES

Friday, March 14 | 7 PM | Isla Vista School, 6875 El Colegio Rd, Goleta
Saturday, March 15 | 7 PM | Guadalupe City Hall, 918 Obispo St, Guadalupe, CA
Sunday, March 16 | 6 PM | The Marjorie Luke Theatre, 721 E Cota St, Santa Barbara
Las Guaracheras, originally from the Colombian city of Cali, embrace improvisation as an unpredictable musical tool, weaving it into the fabric of each song. This improvisational approach, inspired by Latin jazz, is woven throughout their performances, offering each instrument a chance to shine.

Bilingual commentary — Trumpian Economics

by Community Contributor • March 13, 2025 • Comments Off

Along with some of the keenest minds in economics, I find myself shaking my head in disbelief at the economic gyrations that Donald Trump is concocting. As he announces punishing tariffs on our trading partners and allies, under the pretext of “fentanyl imports and illegal immigration,” we watch incredulously as the stock market jumps off a cliff.

American industry and businesses find themselves feeling their way in the dark as they attempt to plan for the future. Hiring and investing are likely going to stall as the uncertainty deepens. Economic policy seems to shift on a daily—and sometimes hourly—basis.

Much of the electorate “trusts in Trump” because he is, after all, “a businessman.”

But businessmen are not economists. …

Bilingual report — Economic Development Collaborative (EDC) — Deadline Extended! Physical Disaster Loans for Recent Fires

by Community Contributor • March 13, 2025 • Comments Off

Mountain Fire: SBA acted under its own authority to declare a disaster in response to a request SBA received from Gov. Gavin Newsom’s authorized representative, Director Nancy Ward, of the California Office of Emergency Services on November 25. The disaster declaration makes low-interest federal disaster loans available to residents and businesses the counties of Ventura, Santa Barbara, Los Angeles and Kern who were affected by the Mountain Fire that began November 6.

Wildfires and Straight-line Winds: SBA Administrator Isabel Casillas Guzman announced that low-interest federal disaster loans are now available to Southern California businesses, homeowners, renters and private nonprofit (PNP) organizations following President Joe Biden’s major disaster declaration. The declaration covers Los Angeles and the contiguous counties of Kern, Orange, San Bernardino, and Ventura due to wildfires and straight-line winds that began on January 7.

Santa Barbara County Board of Supervisors meeting of March 18 — Topics Include: 2025 Women’s History Month Service Awards, Santa Barbara Bowl Annual Report, Cannabis Odor Ordinance Amendments, Update on Cannabis Taxation, Compliance, and Enforcement

by Community Contributor • March 13, 2025 • Comments Off

The next regular meeting of the
County Board of Supervisors is scheduled for
9 a.m. Tuesday, March 18, 2025
County Administration Building
Board Hearing Room, Fourth Floor
105 East Anapamu Street, Santa Barbara
The public may participate virtually, or in person at the County Board Hearing Room in Santa Barbara or Santa Maria.

Volunteers in Ventura County Help Those with Low-Moderate Incomes File for Available Tax Credits Through VITA Program

by Community Contributor • March 13, 2025 • Comments Off

VENTURA — Tax season is upon us and low- to moderate-income Ventura County residents are encouraged to take advantage of ways to put more money back in their pocket with the help of United Way of Ventura County’s (UWVC) Volunteer Income Tax Assistance Program (VITA).

Throughout March to April 30, 2024, trained VITA volunteer tax preparers will help working families and individuals file their state and federal tax return and access the tax credits to which they are eligible. Households earning up to $67,000 are eligible to use the free services.

To have your return prepared and e-filed VIRTUALLY by a tax preparation volunteer visit GetYourRefund.org/vcunitedway to upload tax documents using either computer or cell phone.

Women’s Economic Ventures hosts inspiring International Women’s Day event honoring Trailblazers and Women’s Economic Independence

by Community Contributor • March 13, 2025 • Comments Off

“This event is about more than just celebration; it’s about action,” said Nicki Parr, WEV’s CEO. “Economic independence is not just a personal achievement—it’s a pathway to social change. When women build businesses, they change communities: generating revenue, creating jobs and contributing significantly to the local economy.”

Santa Barbara Cottage Hospital Foundation’s 2025 Tiara Ball Raises $730,000 to Support Emergency and Critical Care Services

by Community Contributor • March 13, 2025 • Comments Off

Tiara Ball recognizes healthcare professionals and celebrates donors for their commitment to healthcare in the region. The event’s program featured remarks from Heather Hambleton and Lisa Iscovich, Tiara Ball event co-chairs; Eric Seale, Chair of the Cottage Health Board of Directors; Dr. Anne Rodriguez, Chief of Medical Staff; and Ron Werft, President and CEO of Cottage Health. The special honorees for the evening were Ron and Mary Werft, who were celebrated for their leadership and service to Cottage Health and the Tiara Ball event for over two decades.

VCCCD and TK-12 leaders unite to expand dual enrollment opportunities

by Community Contributor • March 13, 2025 • Comments Off

CAMARILLO — The Ventura County Community College District (VCCCD) and the Ventura County Office of Education (VCOE) co-hosted their fourth Community of Practice on March 7. Held at Oxnard College, the event brought together TK-12 and community college leaders to discuss dual enrollment opportunities. With 7,000 local high school students already benefiting from dual enrollment this year, discussions focused on expanding access and creating seamless transitions from high school to college and careers.

Bilingual report — Ventura County Clerk and Recorder Michelle Ascencion named 38th Assembly District’s ‘2025 Woman of the Year’

by Community Contributor • March 13, 2025 • Comments Off

Assemblymember Bennett, who represents Camarillo, Fillmore, Ojai, Oxnard, Port Hueneme, Santa Paula, and Ventura, selected Ascencion and highlighted her exceptional leadership and dedication to the Ventura County community. The annual award is presented in recognition of outstanding contributions by women leaders as part of the California Legislative Women’s Caucus’ Women’s History Month commemorations.

Santa Paula Arts Museum — Anne Ward’s ‘Painted Seasons’ opens this weekend

by Community Contributor • March 13, 2025 • Comments Off

Premiere Party: Anne Ward’s “Painted Seasons”
?
?Saturday, March 15, 2025, from 4 PM to 6 PM
$5 SPAM members, $10 Non-members

Don’t miss the much-awaited premiere of Ojai artist Anne Ward’s “Painted Seasons” on Saturday, March 15! Ward, who grew up in the Westchester neighborhood of Los Angeles, is obsessed with light, color, shape, and pattern. It was while working in France as an 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 exhibition features 55 paintings bursting with hope 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.

Classes on Southern California’s evolving mystique, dance, and medicinal plants all part of OLLI’s Spring II session

by Community Contributor • March 13, 2025 • Comments Off

“California’s Coastal Imaginary: Management of Our Coast in Three Acts” – a class tracking the evolving image of Southern California through the years – is one of the offerings for CSU Channel Islands (CSUCI)’s Osher Lifelong Learning Institute (OLLI) Spring II session, which runs from March 24 to May 2.

UCSB — The Current — ‘Award-winning documentary explores the unfinished tale of DDT’ and more news, events

by Community Contributor • March 13, 2025 • Comments Off

The film details Professor David Valentine’s discovery and investigation, with Los Angeles Times reporter Rosanna Xia, of toxic waste dumping off the Southern California coast.

Read more about “Out of Plain Sight”

VCFD Firefighters are now operating from new Fire Station 34

by Community Contributor • March 13, 2025 • Comments Off

THOUSAND OAKS — Firefighters have moved into Ventura County Fire Dept.’s brand-new Fire Station 34, located at Avenida de los Arboles and Mountclef Blvd. in Thousand Oaks. This state-of-the-art facility enhances our ability to serve the community with modern amenities and room for future growth.

Santa Barbara’s Music Academy of the West announces recipient of the Alumni Performance Award, sponsored by the Luria/Budgor Family Foundation

by Community Contributor • March 12, 2025 • Comments Off

SANTA BARBARA — Now in its 78th season, the Music Academy of the West continues its commitment to supporting its alumni as they advance their careers. The Academy proudly announces the winner of the 2025 Alumni Performance Award, sponsored by the Luria/Budgor Family Foundation. This prestigious award offers a distinctive performance opportunity that honors the artist’s artistic journey while aligning with the Music Academy’s mission to foster meaningful alumni engagement.

The Music Academy of the West is proud to announce clarinetist Gerbrich Meijer as the recipient of the 2025 Alumni Performance Award. A three-time Music Academy fellow (’20, ’21, ’22), Meijer is rapidly gaining international recognition as a chamber musician, soloist, and orchestral performer.

Dianne McKay honored as California Assembly District 42 ‘Woman of the Year’

by Community Contributor • March 12, 2025 • Comments Off

THOUSAND OAKS — Dianne McKay, president of Mustang Marketing — a full-service strategic marketing agency in Ventura County — was honored as District 42 Assemblymember Jacqui Irwin’s Woman of the Year on March 11 at a ceremony in Sacramento.

A thrice-elected trustee for the Ventura County Community College District, McKay is a highly regarded leader in Ventura County — often called upon to consult on crisis communications; build, strengthen or repair community and government relations on behalf of clients; and to provide her expertise on panels ranging from business to marketing to leadership.

Bilingual report — City of Santa Paula Invites Community to Help Shape Council’s 2025-2027 Strategic Plan during series of meetings from March 19 through April 2

by Community Contributor • March 11, 2025 • Comments Off

The Strategic Plan serves as a roadmap, setting clear goals and guiding decisions that impact everyday life in Santa Paula. It ensures City resources are allocated effectively while fostering transparency and accountability. Building on the progress made through the 2023-2025 Strategic Plan, which addressed key areas such as infrastructure improvements, public safety, and economic development, the new plan will reflect evolving community needs and opportunities.

“Santa Paula is growing, evolving, and planning for the future—and your voice is essential in helping us shape community priorities,” said Mayor Pedro A. Chavez. “The 2025-2027 Strategic Plan is more than just a blueprint: it’s a shared vision built by the community, for the community. I invite you to join the conversation, share your ideas, and help set the course for a stronger, more economically prosperous Santa Paula. The future starts with us—so let’s plan it together!”

Bilingual report — County of Ventura announces transition of county websites to new .gov website domain

by Community Contributor • March 11, 2025 • Comments Off

“We are pleased to make this move to a .gov domain, which signals to our community that the County of Ventura is committed to cybersecurity and generating public trust,” said Terry Theobald, Chief Information Officer. “Our new domain will provide an easily identifiable and reliable resource for anyone looking to interact with county government online.”

Honor Ventura County’s Vietnam Veterans Tell Their Story?

by Community Contributor • March 11, 2025 • Comments Off

The Oxnard Film Society (EIN: 20-5734347) is proud to present We Remember: Ventura County to Vietnam and Back, a powerful exhibition honoring Ventura County’s Vietnam War veterans. However, we need your support to raise $12,500 to bring this exhibition to life.

Housing Trust Fund Ventura County Approves Over $6.5 million in Loans to Create 118 New Affordable Housing Units

by Community Contributor • March 11, 2025 • Comments Off

VENTURA COUNTY — Housing Trust Fund Ventura County (Housing Trust Fund VC) announces the approval of two loans for a combined $6,726,038 to create 118 new affordable housing units in Ventura County with two new developments, the Casa Aliento Apartments and Camino De Salud. Community Development Partners will be the recipient of a $1,726,038 bridge loan for 69 affordable units located in Central Oxnard called Casa Aliento Apartments.

Protecting Blue Whales and Blue Skies (BWBS) Program’s 10th year yields big environmental gains

by Community Contributor • March 11, 2025 • Comments Off

VENTURA — Research results show that the 10th annual season of the Protecting Blue Whales and Blue Skies (BWBS) Program in 2024 reduced the risk of deadly ship strikes to whales by 50%, underwater noise by 38%, smog-forming pollution by 1,400 tons and greenhouse gases by nearly 50,000 metric tons along the California coast.

UCSB — The Current — ‘SeaSketch helps stakeholders explore changes to MPAs’ and more news, events

by Community Contributor • March 11, 2025 • Comments Off

The open-source marine spatial planning platform is poised to assist with updates to California’s Marine Protected Areas.

UCSB Arts & Lectures Miller McCune Executive Director Celesta M. Billeci honored by Santa Barbara South Coast Chamber of Commerce

by Community Contributor • March 11, 2025 • Comments Off

SANTA BARBARA — The Santa Barbara South Coast Chamber of Commerce honored Celesta M. Billeci with their Visionary Arts Leadership Award on Friday, February 21, as part of the Regional Business Awards Gala. Hundreds of local leaders gathered at the Hilton Santa Barbara Beachfront Resort for the annual event, which honors the outstanding achievements of individuals and businesses that continue to make a significant impact in the local community. The Chamber recognized nine honorees for their outstanding contributions to the region’s business community, including seven organizations and two individuals.

Economic Development Collaborative (EDC) free event and webinar schedule

by Community Contributor • March 10, 2025 • Comments Off

SCORE: DISTRIBUTION & FULFILLMENT WITH AMAZON

March 11 @ 12:00 pm

Learn how to enhance your product distribution and fulfillment using Amazon’s extensive logistics network, improving efficiency and customer satisfaction for your business. This presentation will discuss Amazon’s comprehensive supply chain, including Fulfillment by Amazon, Amazon Shipping and other programs. We’ll discuss key topics, such as managing your inventory effectively and how to turn returned products into sales opportunities. Finally, discover tips and tricks for leveraging Amazon’s comprehensive suite of resources and programs tailored to support small businesses, ensuring you have the tools to help enable your success. Sponsored by Amazon.

CLICK HERE TO REGISTER

Ventura County Office of Education announces middle school winners of the 2025 Ventura County Mock Trial

by Community Contributor • March 10, 2025 • Comments Off

VENTURA COUNTY — Valley View Middle School in Simi Valley is the winner of the middle school division of the 2025 Ventura County Mock Trial competition after earning the highest score in the final round yesterday. Mesa Union School came in second place. The winners were announced at an awards ceremony yesterday at the Ventura County Office of Education in Camarillo. Here’s how the top five teams placed:

Guest contribution — (March 7) Marks 31 Years Without Justice: Family Seeks Answers in the Unsolved Murder of Eric Velasquez

by Community Contributor • March 10, 2025 • Comments Off

SANTA PAULA — 31 years have passed since the tragic murder of Eric Velasquez, a bright and ambitious 21-year-old student from Ventura, California, whose life was cut short on March 7, 1994. Despite the time that has elapsed, his case remains unsolved, and his family continues their relentless pursuit of justice.

Eric was known for his academic achievements, artistic talents, and kind heart. He was pursuing a degree in business with dreams of attending law school before his life was tragically taken. On the night of his murder, Eric was walking to his car in Santa Paula after dropping a friend off when he was shot and killed.

For decades, his family has endured the unimaginable pain of losing their beloved son and brother. Eric’s mother, Susan Ventura, has worked tirelessly to keep his memory alive and to seek justice. Her persistence led to the Governor of California offering a $50,000 reward for information leading to an arrest and conviction in Eric’s case.

Bilingual report — Community Partners in Caring to present Santa Maria Valley Senior Expo on March 14

by Community Contributor • March 10, 2025 • Comments Off

SANTA MARIA — Community Partners in Caring will present the Santa Maria Valley Senior Expo from 9 a.m. to noon Friday, March 14 at Allan Hancock College, 800 S. College Drive, Santa Maria, in the Joe White Memorial Gymnasium.

This event will connect the Santa Maria Valley residents to resources, products and services that will benefit those who are aging, are living with a disability or families caring for a loved one is in need of assistance. This is an opportunity to introduce the community to a variety of services all in one location, which may otherwise take them days to find.

Both for profit and non profit businesses are able to register as exhibitors and will be from a variety of industries including: health, legal, insurance, caregiving, medical devices, health checks, prosthetics, therapy, pet care, assisted and independent living facilities and so much more.

CLICK HERE FOR MORE EXHIBITOR REGISTRATON INFORMATION

Bilingual report — Economic Development Collaborative (EDC) honoring Women’s History Month

by Community Contributor • March 10, 2025 • Comments Off

The Economic Development Collaborative would like to recognize Women’s History Month. This month is dedicated to honoring and celebrating the contributions of women throughout history. During this time and throughout the entire year, the EDC is committed to supporting women in achieving their business goals.

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

Ventura County Fire Dept. — Thomas ‘Tommy’ James Daniel Minadeo — 1992-2025

by Community Contributor • March 10, 2025 • Comments Off

“Tommy was part of our fire family for nearly 10 years, standing shoulder-to-shoulder with us in response to our community’s public safety needs,” Fire Chief Dustin Gardner said. “We now stand with Tommy’s mother, Diana Minadeo; fiancé, Vanessa Gubbels; brother, Anthony; and his sister, in grieving his passing and supporting each other.”

Meghan Woodsome promoted to managing partner at Reicker, Pfau, Pyle and McRoy law firm

by Community Contributor • March 10, 2025 • Comments Off

Woodsome joined Ricker Pfau’s litigation department in 2017. She has been a partner with the firm since 2021 and became a member of the firm’s Management Committee in 2023. Woodsome practices in both state and federal court. Her areas of expertise include contract, M&A, and other business disputes.

Sarah Reznick of Sherfina Advisors earns Certified Exit Planning Advisor credential

by Community Contributor • March 10, 2025 • Comments Off

Reznick has worked as a financial advisor for over 17 years. She launched Sherfina Advisors in 2024. In addition to the CEPA credential, Reznick is a Certified Financial Planner (CFP®), Chartered Financial Consultant (ChFC®), and a Chartered Retirement Planning Counselor (CRPCTM). She holds a B.A. in Economics from the University of California, Irvine.

Ventura County Arts Council — NEW GRANT Opportunity for Arts Nonprofits!

by Community Contributor • March 10, 2025 • Comments Off

With a grant from the National Endowment for the Arts (NEA) and a match from the County of Ventura, the Ventura County Arts Council’s Supporting & Sustaining Arts and Culture (SSAC) program will offer eight grants of up to $10,000 to small, 501(c)(3) arts organizations in Ventura County that demonstrate a commitment to working in underserved and under-resourced communities and neighborhoods

Gold Coast Health Plan announces appointment of Marlen Torres as Chief Member Experience and External Affairs Officer

by Community Contributor • March 7, 2025 • Comments Off

CAMARILLO — Gold Coast Health Plan (GCHP) (on March 4) announced the appointment of Marlen Torres as its Chief Member Experience and External Affairs Officer. In this key role, Ms. Torres serves as the leader and visionary for member satisfaction and engagement, with the goal of ensuring the best health outcomes, greatest access, and superior member experience for GCHP members.

“Marlen’s leadership and vision for enhancing the member experience and her ability to forge meaningful external partnerships make her the ideal choice for this critical role,” said Dr. Felix Nuñez, GCHP’s acting chief executive officer (CEO). “Her years of experience in public policy and community engagement here in Ventura County will be instrumental as we continue to connect our members with high-quality care.”

Cancer Support Community Valley/Ventura/Santa Barbara seeking Community Outreach Coordinator

by Community Contributor • March 7, 2025 • Comments Off

CENTRAL COAST — Cancer Support Community Valley/Ventura/Santa Barbara is seeking a part-time Community Outreach Coordinator to expand awareness of their programs supporting cancer patients and their families. This role involves engaging with healthcare providers and community organizations, participating in outreach events, and managing marketing materials. The position requires bilingual Spanish fluency, strong communication and organizational skills, and a flexible schedule. Compensation is $21-22 per hour. Interested candidates should send their resumes to jobs@cancersupportvvsb.org