Category: News

Bilingual report — Economic Development Collaborative (EDC) — California Competes Tax Credit Program

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The California Competes Tax Credit (CCTC) is an income tax credit available to businesses that want to locate in California or stay and grow in California. Businesses of any industry, size or location compete for over $180 million available in tax credits by applying in one of the three application periods each year. Applicants will be analyzed based on fourteen different factors of evaluation, including number of full-time jobs being created, amount of investment and strategic importance to the state or region.

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Guest contribution — Seminal court ruling certifies class action against cannabis grower for odor nuisance

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SANTA BARBARA — In a landmark legal victory, a California judge has certified a class action lawsuit against Valley Crest, a commercial cannabis cultivation facility in Carpinteria, allowing residential property owners within a one-mile radius of the operation to collectively seek damages for the persistent and pervasive cannabis odors invading their properties. This ruling is the first of its kind in California, setting a powerful precedent for future cases against cannabis growers who fail to control malodors impacting residential communities.

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Allan Hancock College hosts ‘Pathways to Success’ networking event

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The event aimed to strengthen relationships between educators and local employers, enhancing the college-to-workforce pipeline.

Approximately 300 attendees participated, including representatives from 16 industry sectors, Hancock faculty and staff, Career and Technical Education (CTE) Advisory Committee members, area high school educators and other community members.

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UCSB — The Current — ‘Spanish-language writers and the making of a U.S. literary tradition’ and more news, events

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Professor Emeritus Víctor Fuentes’ new book, “Florilegio,” traces centuries of Spanish-language literature in the U.S. — spanning from the 16th to the mid-20th century — revealing a deep and often overlooked literary tradition.  

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Assemblymember Steve Bennett (D-Ventura) — California to launch bike highway pilot program under Bennett bill

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Bike highways offer an important alternative to residents seeking relief from rising gas prices and those working to lower their carbon footprint. In June 2022, Caltrans released a Bay Area Bike Highway Study that identifies feasible opportunities to add these corridors and incorporates best practices most suitable for the region.

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Museum of Contemporary Art Santa Barbara (MCASB) — It’s time for a recap!

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Museum of Contemporary Art Santa Barbara hosted the Nobody Owns The Beach – 10th Anniversary by David Horvitz Shop last Friday, February 21, 2025 at The Culver Hotel.

The celebration was filled with laughter, music and shopping throughout the night to raise critical funds for MCASB. It was a lovely sight seeing many people from different places come together for the purpose of celebrating the 10th anniversary of this amazing piece!

We want to thank those who came and supported us at the event. The museum appreciates you all for showing up in a time like this when the Los Angeles Arts Community needs us the most.

A special thanks to: The Culver Hotel, Bibi Ji and Ysidro

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2025 Ventura County Mock Trial Winners – High School Division

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VENTURA COUNTY — Trinity Pacific Christian School and Royal High School took the top two spots in the high school division of the 2025 Ventura County Mock Trial competition, which was held over two weekends at the Ventura County Government Center’s Hall of Justice. This marks the third year in a row that Trinity Pacific has come in first.

Twenty-two high schools and 525 students from throughout Ventura County participated in Mock Trial this year. The winning teams were announced at an awards ceremony this evening at the Ventura County Office of Education. Here’s how the eight highest-scoring high school teams ranked:

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Museum of Ventura County — New Beginnings & Lasting Legacies

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Have you ever wondered what 1920s fire engines looked like? Or what kind of festivities made up a parade in the year 1900? Discover interesting histories of Ventura County through MVC’s digitized archives—browse thousands of photographs, documents, and oral histories.
Visit the Digital Archives HERE.

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Children and Family Bereavement Needs on the Rise at Hospice of Santa Barbara

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SANTA BARBARA — It’s not just adults who are impacted by grief and loss in our community. Children are as well. One in five children will experience the death of someone close to them by age 18, and one in twenty children will experience the death of one or both parents before reaching adulthood. Although death and grief are inevitable parts of life, these statistics highlight just how many children are impacted. Children are especially vulnerable when they lose a close loved one, and without professional support, grief can be especially paralyzing and overwhelming.

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Bilingual report — Santa Paula Businesses invited to provide feedback for City’s Strategic Plan Update

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This session is specifically designed for businesses located along Harvard Blvd., but all Santa Paula businesses are welcome to attend. The feedback gathered during this discussion will be presented to the City Council as they consider updates to the Santa Paula Strategic Plan, which outlines the City’s vision and goals for the next two years, guiding decisions on economic development, infrastructure improvements, public safety, and community programs.

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Bilingual report — Allan Hancock College offers short-term Spring classes

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SANTA MARIA — Allan Hancock College is encouraging students to earn additional college credits by enrolling in?short-term?spring?classes, which start on March 24. 

Registration is underway for?short-term?spring?classes?in English, mathematics, history, anthropology, art appreciation, and more. Many of the?classes?are offered online and can be completed in just eight weeks.?? 

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Bilingual report — City of Santa Paula looks to expand bike and pedestrian network with Santa Paula Trail Connectivity Project

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Jonathan Royas. “By expanding bike and pedestrian access, we’re not only creating a healthier, more connected city, but also ensuring safer, more accessible routes for everyone. We look forward to community input as we shape this project together.”

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United Way of Ventura County — Women United Education Awards on May 30 to honor and assist single moms

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Recipients of the Women United Education Award are single mothers who are completing their associate degree and transferring to a four-year university or technical program and have children under the age of eighteen living in the home. This financial award may be used to offset any costs associated with efforts to attain higher education, including tuition, books, childcare, and transportation.

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Assemblymember Steve Bennett (D-Ventura) bill to create accessibility committee for state parks

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Since the turn of the century, we have seen major advancements towards the inclusion of disabled people in public society. However, the remnants of overlooking this underrepresented demographic continues to affect all visitors of our parks. Thus, a dedicated advisory body to support the Director of California State Parks in enhancing accessibility for the state’s lands can be helpful in remedying the systemic issue.

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Ventura County Fire Dept. and CAL FIRE to conduct rescheduled prescribed burn in Adams Canyon on March 4

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THOUSAND OAKS — The Ventura County Fire Department (VCFD) and the California Department of Forestry and Fire Protection (CAL FIRE) plan to conduct a prescribed burn in Adams Canyon, north of Santa Paula, on March 4, 2025, weather permitting. This controlled burn is part of ongoing efforts to improve ecosystem health and reduce wildfire risk. This prescribed burn was initially scheduled for November 18-21, 2024.

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UCSB ‘The Current’ — ‘Avocado cultivation’s ancient origins hold lessons for a changing climate’ and more news, events

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Anthropologists Amber VanDerwarker and Doug Kennett present new research about the history of avocado domestication, highlighting a popular tree crop of major economic importance.

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Collaborating for a Brighter Future: FIRST Robotics Competition Dives into Innovation at The Port Hueneme

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This year’s FIRST Robotics DIVE theme dared students to journey into the depths of the ocean and navigate challenges that mirror the complexities of underwater exploration. From maneuvering intricate mazes, collecting elusive treasures, and overcoming seemingly impossible obstacles, these young innovators used this year’s competition to showcase their technical prowess and creative thinking skills. Beyond the technical challenges the DIVE theme emphasized the critical importance of ecology and STEAM (Science, Technology, Engineering, Art, and Mathematics) education through exploration of our underwater world and allowed students to gain a deeper appreciation and understanding of our planet’s vast and vital aquatic ecosystems and the ever important need to protect them.

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Economic Development Collaborative (EDC) announces free event, webinar schedule

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SCORE VENTURA COUNTY: QUICKBOOKS ONLINE SETUP AND CUSTOMIZATION FOR SMALL BUSINESSES

March 4 @ 10:030 am

Join Accounting Expert & QuickBooks Online ProAdvisor and EDC Small Business Development Center Advisor Juliana Ramirez as she guides small business owners through the initial setup and customization of QuickBooks Online. Learn how to tailor QuickBooks to fit your specific business needs, including setting up your chart of accounts, customizing invoices and organizing your expense categories for efficient tracking. 

CLICK HERE TO REGISTER

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Ventura County Taxpayers Association (VCTA) releases 1st quarter economic report

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With 2024 behind us, we can now assess whether any shifts in the momentum of regional economic growth have occurred in early 2025.

The County’s labor market generated 4,692 jobs in 2024, representing a growth rate of 1.5 percent, which was similar to the aggregate of other Southern California Counties.

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Bilingual report — Local arts or cultural nonprofits (in Ventura) can apply for over $100,000 in grants

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“The Cultural Funding Grant Program plays a vital role in fostering our arts community, expanding cultural access, and supporting economic growth,” said Recreation Manager Rebecca Ellis. “We encourage Ventura-based nonprofit cultural and arts organizations to apply for this funding opportunity.” 

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Make Waves and Shell-Ebrate Ocean-Inspired Adventure at the 10th Annual “March Is Mermaid Month” at Ventura Harbor Village

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Throughout the month of March 2025, visitors can immerse themselves in a whimsical, water-inspired world featuring live entertainment, ocean-themed treats, and exclusive seaside shopping specials. Set against the stunning backdrop of the Ventura Harbor coastline, this annual event invites mermaid enthusiasts, pirates, and ocean lovers alike to dive into a sea of unforgettable experiences.

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Ventura County Community Foundation announces funding opportunities

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Bert M. and Mildred O. Dahl Fund – Open Now

Grants from the Bert M. and Mildred O. Dahl Fund are to be used in Ventura County for general charitable purposes to benefit the youth of Oak View, California. Nonprofit organizations must be establishing or assisting programs for the youth of Oak View. This may include the construction and maintenance of facilities for such programs.

Barbara Barnard Smith Fund for World Musics – Open Now

Grants from the Barbara Barnard Smith Fund for World Musics are to support live performances or programs representing non-Western musics.

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Costuming students from Moorpark Theatre Arts Program stitch together employment and industry accolades

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MOORPARK — The Moorpark College Theatre Arts and Film, Television, and Media Arts programs recently hosted their annual advisory board meeting, where industry professionals and college faculty collaborate to ensure programs align with industry and workforce needs. During the meeting, faculty member and professional costumer Haleh Risdana proudly highlighted the industry successes and recognitions of several outstanding students: Marina Wagner, Evelyn Rogers, Rhiann Olshane, Kristen Fernandez, and Noa Walker.

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Palmera at Camarillo Village celebrates its grand opening ribbon cutting ceremony

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CAMARILLO — The West Ventura County Business Alliance (WVCBA), the chamber of commerce advocating for businesses in Camarillo and Oxnard, is celebrating the grand opening of Palmera at Camarillo Village by Williams Homes located at 530 S. Lewis Road in Camarillo.

The resort-style community features 285 townhouses with exclusive resident amenities including a state-of-the-art Community Recreation Center, two swimming pools and spas, and plenty of visitor parking. Also coming soon is Camarillo Village, a retail and mixed-use area right next door.

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Friendship Center — The Friendly Finch March newsletter

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With sunshine peeking through the trees and filling our courtyard with energy, it’s the perfect time for something exciting—and Friendship Center is ready to welcome it with bells and whistles!

On March 18th, we’re officially opening the Carpinteria Healthy Aging Hub! This innovative satellite program captures our day program expertise and brings it right to the heart of town. Hosted at the Lynda Fairly Carpinteria Arts Center on Tuesdays and Fridays, this program will offer connection, support, and engaging activities for older adults and caregivers in this special seaside community. We can’t wait to welcome new friends through our doors!

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Registration Open For Conejo/Simi Valley YMCA’s Model United Nations Middle Schoolers Program

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Model United Nations, which runs through May 4, brings students together with their peers from across California to discuss international issues, discover other cultures, develop life-enhancing skills and make new friends

The Yarrow Family YMCA delegation meets on Tuesdays from 5:15 p.m. to 6:30 p.m. (31105 Thousand Oaks Blvd., Westlake Village). The Simi Valley Family YMCA delegation meets on Tuesdays from 5:45 p.m. to 7:00 p.m. (3200 Cochran Street, Simi Valley). Delegates should bring a laptop or tablet to each meeting.

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El Concilio Family Services is seeking nominations for the 35th annual Latino Leadership Awards

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OXNARD — El Concilio Family Services is seeking nominations for the 35th annual El Concilio’s Latino Leadership Awards, to be presented in September 2025.

These awards honor outstanding Latino leaders who have made significant contributions to their communities. Join us in recognizing excellence and inspiring leadership. 

Nominate by May 15, 2025.

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Bilingual commentary — Writing Well with Modern Tools

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In last week’s article, I wrote about the importance of learning how to write well.

In this article, I could focus on how to write well as if I were writing to an audience from only three years ago. And if I were to do that, I would issue the same tedious advice about cooking up an outline for a piece of writing, creating a strong introductory thesis, and ensuring that we use correct grammar and syntax.

But a powerful new writing tool has appeared on the literary horizon within the last couple of years. Artificial intelligence (AI) has thoroughly revolutionized the art of writing. This substantially modifies the advice that is traditionally dispensed to writers at all levels of proficiency. 

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Santa Barbara County Food Action Network — Urgent: Help SBCFAN Weather the Funding Freeze

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Dear Friends,

The federal funding freeze is impacting nonprofits across the country, and while we thought SBCFAN would be spared—since we don’t receive federal funds—we are now feeling the ripple effects. Many funding institutions have redirected their support to organizations that lost federal funding, leaving gaps for others–including us.

We cannot afford to slow down. We are at a pivotal moment, with ready to launch projects that will create jobs, generate income, and reinvest in our local food economy:

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Housing Trust Fund Ventura County hosts annual meeting, announces $58M pipeline to fund affordable housing

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VENTURA COUNTY — Housing Trust Fund Ventura County (Housing Trust Fund VC) welcomed a full room of community leaders to its Annual Meeting on February 27th at the Westview II Community Room in Ventura. The event highlighted key milestones, including a $58 million pipeline to fund affordable housing and $44.2 million raised since 2013, resulting in 1,780 affordable apartments and homes committed, funded, and produced throughout Ventura County. Attendees had the opportunity to provide feedback and ask questions regarding Housing Trust Fund VC’s products and services while gaining insights into the organization’s impact.

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Bilingual report — County of Santa Barbara Board of Supervisors meeting on March 4 — Topics Include: Task Force for Roadside Vending; Arroyo Hondo Bridge as a County Historic Landmark; Budget Status Report

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The next meeting of the County Board of Supervisors is scheduled for 
9 a.m. Tuesday, March 4, 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. 

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

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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!

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

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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.

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Bilingual report — Ventura Police teen Explorer Program accepting new applications

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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. 

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

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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.” 

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

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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. 

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