Business, Cultural, Family, Finance, Home, Local, News

People’s Self-Help Housing Fundraiser brings together over 150 donors & sponsors in Support of Resident Programs community event highlights the impact of giving back

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CENTRAL COAST — People’s Self-Help Housing (PSHH) has tallied the final numbers for their annual fundraiser, the Builder Games, presented by Mechanics Bank, which they hosted at the end of April. Meeting a new record, they brought in over $125,000 net through the support of over 150 community donors and sponsors. Proceeds from the event directly benefit PSHH residents through its programs and services.  

Significant gifts from the event include a $10,000 Presenting Sponsorship from Mechanics Bank. Also giving an additional $10,000 during the paddle raise was individual donor Marcelle Kardush, matched by another $10,000 thanks to event attendees and a generous donation from Mission Bank.  

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Business, Cultural, Educación, Education, familia, Family, Local, Locales, News, Noticias

Bilingual report — County of Ventura awarded over $93M to support expansion of Behavioral Health infrastructure

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The competitive grant will support the development of three major behavioral health projects that will expand access to care throughout the region: the Lewis Road Mental Health Rehabilitation Center (MHRC), the East County Crisis Stabilization Unit (CSU), and the East County Psychiatric Health Facility (PHF).

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Business, Family, Finance, Government, Local, News, Public Safety

Ventura County Fire Secures $1 Million Grant to Strengthen Wildfire Resilience in High-Risk Communities

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THOUSAND OAKS — The Ventura County Fire Department, in partnership with District 2 Supervisor Jeff Gorell, has secured a $1 million grant from the Santa Monica Mountain Conservancy to enhance wildfire prevention and preparedness across the Santa Monica Mountains region of Ventura County.

The grant, unanimously approved by the conservancy board Monday night, will fund comprehensive wildfire resilience efforts, including recruiting and support for new Firewise Communities, strategic fuel reduction across more than 150 acres, enhanced public education efforts and the acquisition of a water tender to improve firefighting capabilities.

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Business, Education, Events, Family, Local, News, Youth

Southeast Ventura County YMCA branches taking Summer Camp sign-ups

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WESTLAKE VILLAGE —  Signups for summer camp at the Southeast Ventura County YMCA branches are underway. Camp runs from June 9 to August 7 through the Simi Valley Family YMCA and from June 16 to August 15 through the Yarrow Family YMCA.

Campers in TK to 5th grade can attend day camp full-time (four to five days a week) or part-time (two to three days a week) for the entire camp session or selected weeks.

Activities include sports, swimming (under the supervision of Red Cross-certified YMCA lifeguards), arts and crafts, dance, cooking and weekly themed activities based on the campers’ age group. The child-to-counselor ratio is 14 to 1.

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Local

Ventura County Leadership Academy raises over $22,000 to support families Iimpacted by Mountain Fire

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VENTURA — More than 150 community members gathered together on Friday, April 25th at the Museum of Ventura County’s Agriculture Museum in Santa Paula for Trivia Night at the Museum, hosted by the 30th cohort of the Ventura County Leadership Academy (VCLA). The fundraiser raised over $22,000 to support families still rebuilding after the Mountain Fire, a disaster that destroyed homes and livelihoods in the Camarillo area—most of whom have been left without access to FEMA and other types of federal aid that are based on the overall size of any given disaster.

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Business, Cultural, Education, Entertainment, Events, Family, Local, News, Seniors, Women, Youth

Museum of Ventura County — Pardon our dust – A fresh exhibit (and fun events!) are on the way

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BEHIND-THE-SCENES – Stories of Hearst Castle

Tuesday, June 3
11:30 a.m. – 1:30 p.m.
@Museum of Ventura County
100 E. Main Street., Ventura

Join MClub & Museum of Ventura County for an informative Lunch & Learn with Architectural historian Victoria Kastner. Kastner will share many behind-the-scenes stories about Hearst Castle at San Simeon— examining its buildings, gardens, swimming pools, and glamorous guests. She will also reveal new information about Julia Morgan—its talented architect—and Julia’s unique collaboration with her influential client, William Randolph Hearst.

Victoria Kastner was the official historian at Hearst Castle for nearly three decades. In addition to her new biography about its talented architect (Julia Morgan: An Intimate Biography of the Trailblazing Architect), she has also written three volumes chronicling its fascinating history: Hearst Castle: The Biography of a Country House; Hearst’s San Simeon: The Gardens and the Land; and Hearst Ranch: Family, Land, and Legacy. Ms. Kastner has a Master’s Degree in Public History with a specialty in architectural history from the University of California at Santa Barbara, and a Master’s Degree in Museum Management from George Washington University. She has also published works on the Beverly Hills Hotel, Bernard Maybeck’s Palace of Fine Arts in San Francisco, and the novels of Charles Dickens. Purchase your tickets HERE.

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Cultural, Educación, Education, En español, familia, Family, Local, Locales, News, Noticias, Youth

Bilingual report — Allan Hancock College honors noncredit students at recognition ceremony

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SANTA MARIA — Allan Hancock College celebrated the achievements of its noncredit students at its annual Noncredit Recognition Ceremony on Friday, May 9, at the college’s Santa Maria campus.

The celebration, held in Boyd Concert Hall, highlighted the perseverance and accomplishments of students who completed noncredit certificate programs, earned their GEDs, completed English Language Development (ELDN) courses, or achieved U.S. citizenship through the college’s noncredit offerings.

More than 200 students completed noncredit programs at Hancock during the 2025 academic year.

“This event shines a light on the hard work and determination of our noncredit students, many of whom have overcome significant personal and academic obstacles to reach their goals,” said Hancock Superintendent/President Kevin G. Walthers. “We’re proud to celebrate their success and the life-changing impact of these programs.”

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Business, Education, Finance, Government, Local, News

Economic Development Collaborative (EDC) free event and webinar schedule

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HYBRID WORKSHOP: MARKETING IN A DIGITAL WORLD

May 20 @ 5:00 pm

Join SCORE Ventura County and EDC for this insight-packed workshop which aims to educate business owners on the importance of marketing in a changing world where social media runs things. Participants will learn about the benefits of digital marketing and how these benefits will help grow your client base. This is a Hybrid Workshop: You can attend in person with the presenter at Chase Bank, 2181 N Rose Ave, Oxnard, CA 93036, or online via Zoom.

CLICK HERE TO REGISTER

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Business, Education, Finance, Government, Local, News, Youth

Ventura County celebrates record-breaking graduation from Skilled Trades Program

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VENTURA COUNTY — The Workforce Development Board of Ventura County (WDBVC) celebrates the graduation of its latest and largest cohort from the High Road Construction Careers (HRCC) pre-apprenticeship program. The comprehensive, no-cost initiative equips residents of Ventura, Santa Barbara, and San Luis Obispo Counties with the necessary skills and connections before embarking on apprenticeship training, and ultimately a career in the building and construction trades. 

“This was an amazing career opportunity for me,” said Lois Person-Effinger, a recent HRCC graduate. “There are so many variations of construction [within the program] … electrical, plumbing, carpentry, so I feel like it has something for everyone.” 

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Business, Cultural, En español, familia, Family, Government, Local, Locales, News, Noticias, Public Safety

Bilingual report — Ventura Police Department honors officers during National Police Week

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VENTURA — During National Police Week, happening May 11–17, the City of Ventura recognizes the people behind the badge and the vital roles they play in making our community safer and stronger. Behind every call for help, traffic stop, or community event is a Ventura Police Department employee working with purpose, compassion, and resolve. 

“National Police Week is a powerful reminder of the commitment our officers make every day and of the very real risks they face to protect our community,” said Interim Police Chief Tony Lee. “Our employees are our most valuable asset, and the work they do is the backbone of public safety in Ventura. We are deeply grateful for their service, sacrifice, and resilience.” 

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Business, Family, Government, Health, Local, News, Seniors, Women, Youth

Speak Out on May 13 to Support Climate Action and Ensure Oil Drilling Has an End Date

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On Tuesday, May 13, the County of Santa Barbara Board of Supervisors will hear a staff presentation on the potential to prohibit new oil drilling and phase out oil operations in Santa Barbara County. This is a critical opportunity to advocate for a cleaner future for the California Central Coast.

By pledging to phase out oil drilling, Santa Barbara has the chance to be a climate leader and demonstrate a clear commitment to a healthier, cleaner county for all. Help us ensure oil drilling in our county has an end date.

To learn more about the hearing, explore the agenda here and the staff report here. Our agenda item, Address Emissions from Oil and Gas Operations, is the eighth and final item on the agenda. See the Learn More section below for additional background information and resources.

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Business, Commentary, Finance, Health, Local, News

Guest contribution — Planned Parenthood California Central Coast Workers vote to authorize a strike over unfair labor practices

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CALIFORNIA CENTRAL COAST – Frontline healthcare workers at Planned Parenthood California Central Coast (PPCCC) have voted to authorize a strike over management’s unfair labor practices and refusal to address the urgent short-staffing crisis. The workers overwhelmingly approved the strike with a 100% vote following months of failed negotiations and continued bad-faith bargaining by Planned Parenthood management.

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Business, Government, Local, News, Women

Bilingual report — Santa Paula Councilmember Jenny Crosswhite appointed SCAG Second Vice President

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SANTA PAULA — The City of Santa Paula proudly announces the appointment of Councilmember and former two-time Mayor Jenny Crosswhite as Second Vice President of the Southern California Association of Governments (SCAG), the largest metropolitan planning organization in the United States. Crosswhite’s appointment was formally confirmed at SCAG’s General Assembly on May 1, 2025.

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Business, Education, Events, Family, Local, News, Seniors, Women, Youth

39th Annual California Strawberry Festival (May 17-18) — Strawberry Treats And Family Fun

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… Every year, strawberry lovers look forward to the festival’s tasty strawberry-themed food and beverages while enjoying a fun, family-friendly atmosphere filled with live entertainment, carnival rides, arts and crafts and other activities. Hours are 10:00 a.m. to 6:30 p.m., both days.

Over 50 food and beverage vendors will serve a variety of treats, including strawberry-themed nachos, chocolate-dipped strawberries, strawberry funnel cakes, strawberry kabobs, strawberry popcorn, and strawberry margaritas and beer. Festivalgoers can visit the Strawberry Shortcake Experience where they can build their own berry dessert for $7.

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Commentary, Family, Local, News, Opinion

Guest commentary — Hospice of Santa Barbara — Missing Mom on Mother’s Day

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SANTA BARBARA — The annual celebration of Mother’s Day is meant to be a commemoration of the nurturing nature of mothers. The day is often filled with family get-togethers, luncheons, flowers and handmade gifts and cards. 

For others, however, Mother’s Day can be a bittersweet reminder for those who have lost their mothers and mothers who have lost a child, turning a joyful holiday into one filled with pain and grief. 

Suzanne Grimmesey of Santa Barbara knows this all too well as this will be the second Mother’s Day without her mother Elaine. 

“My mom passed away a little over a year and it has been a time of growth and learning about my own identity in the world without her,” said Grimmesey.  “Who am I without my mom?  I’ve been a daughter my entire life and now, without either of my parents, am I still a daughter? I know I am, but It feels different now.”

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Business, Cultural, Events, Family, Local, News, Seniors, Women, Youth

Ventura County Community Development Corporation (VCCDC) — Estate Planning, Down Payment Assistance and More

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13th Annual Homeownership Conference – Saturday, June 28th

We’re proud to present the 13th Annual A New Way Home Homeownership Conference, our premier event dedicated to empowering individuals and families on their path to homeownership, now back in person! This year, we bring together industry experts, community leaders, and local resources to provide invaluable insights, workshops, and tools that can help you achieve the dream of owning a home. If you want to ditch rent and become a homeowner this conference is for you!

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Commentary, Cultural, En español, Local, Locales, News, Noticias, Opinion

Bilingual commentary — Going to Mars vs. Fighting Climate Change

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Advocates of establishing colonies on Mars (Elon Musk immediately comes to mind) contend that we must develop these outposts on this red planetary soil to ensure the viability of humankind. If we do not colonize our celestial neighbor, they argue, then we will certainly face extinction, given the increasing uninhabitability of our mother planet. 

Critics pounce on this logic, saying that the likely cause of the multitude of terrestrial disasters we face is due to climate change. And rather than investing those billions of dollars in “escaping” to Mars, we need to focus on reversing the decades of climate destruction caused by fossil fuels, the Trump administration notwithstanding. 

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Business, Commentary, Cultural, Education, Entertainment, Events, Family, Government, Local, News, Seniors, Women, Youth

Port of Hueneme Community Newsletter

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The Port of Hueneme proudly acknowledges April as Autism Acceptance Month. The Board of Harbor Commissioners passed a resolution recognizing this important month, which was received by the Autism Society Ventura County (ASVC).

We were also honored to sponsor the 13th Annual Aut2Run on April 27th — a meaningful event hosted by ASVC and attended by over 3,000 people. Aut2Run promotes awareness and acceptance for autistic individuals and their families.

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Business, Cultural, Education, Local, News, Youth

CSUCI Announces Jessica Lavariega Monforti as New Provost

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A first-generation college graduate and former community college transfer student, Lavariega Monforti exemplifies the mission and values of CSUCI. Her extensive leadership experience includes previous roles as Vice Provost and Accreditation Liaison Officer at CSUCI, Dean of the College of Arts & Sciences at California Lutheran University, Chair of Political Science at Pace University, and Associate Dean for the College of Social and Behavioral Sciences at the University of Texas–Pan American.

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Business, Cultural, Education, Family, Finance, Local, News, Women, Youth

SEEAG’s Gill’s Onions’ ‘Double Your Impact Challenge’

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VENTURA — Gill’s Onions will match all donations up to $15,000 for every dollar donated to Students for Eco-Education and Agriculture (SEEAG) through the end of May as part of SEEAG’s 6th Annual Double Your Impact Challenge. 

All proceeds benefit SEEAG’s Farm-to-Food Lab program in Ventura and Santa Barbara counties. The program builds awareness and appreciation among grade schoolers for agriculture and the importance of eating healthy. It combines classroom learning with farm field trips and hands-on learning that includes water, plant, and soil science activities—all at no cost to students, teachers or schools.

“The Double Your Impact Challenge helps keep our program free,” says Caitlin Paulus-Case, SEEAG’s executive director. “Gill’s Onions’ generosity and all those who donate during May will help ensure our ability to provide the no-cost program during this coming school year.”

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Cultural, Education, Family, Local, News, Youth

Allan Hancock College’s Rodeo Team ends season on a high note

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SANTA MARIA — Allan Hancock College’s Rodeo Team finished its 2025 season with an impressive list of awards and accomplishments.

The team’s final competition took place at the National Intercollegiate Rodeo Association’s (NIRA) West Coast Regional Finals in Las Vegas, Nevada, on May 2-4. Hancock freshman breakaway roper Molly Pole had a 3.4-second run and placed fifth out of 88 breakaway ropers. Hancock sophomore Cody French and his team roping partner Haleigh Grant went 8.0 seconds to win the team roping category.

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Education, Entertainment, Events, Family, Health, Local, News, Seniors, Women, Youth

Ventura EcoFest 2025 draws thousands to celebrate Earth Day and sustainability

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“We’re grateful to our incredible community for showing up and showing heart,” said Lisa Hildebrand, Executive Director, Ventura Charter School. “EcoFest is more than just a celebration, it’s a powerful reminder of how small actions, taken together, can shape a more sustainable future.” Guests of all ages enjoyed a rich array of experiences, including:

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Business, Education, Entertainment, Events, Family, Health, Local, News, Seniors, Women, Youth

From free film screenings and public talks to advocacy meetups, Community Environmental Council’s Environmental Hub is a space where community members can gather, learn, and lead

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Immerse yourself in an evening of Wild Hope.

Through captivating storytelling, the PBS series Wild Hope

explores bold climate solutions, showcases nature’s resilience, and sparks renewed hope for the future of our planet. We invite you to join us for special screenings and an evening of inspiration, emceed by local author and Pulitzer Prize winner Ed Humes.

Thursday, May 15, 6:30 – 8:00 p.m.

CEC’s Environmental Hub

1219 State St., Santa Barbara

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Business, Cultural, Events, Government, Health, Home, Local, News, Public Safety

County of Santa Barbara Board of Supervisors meeting of May 13 to discuss environmental health service fees, options to address emissions from oil & gas operations

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The next regular meeting of the
County Board of Supervisors is scheduled for 
9 a.m. Tuesday, May 13, 2025
Joseph Centeno Betteravia Government Administration Building
Board Hearing Room
511 East Lakeside Parkway, Santa Maria
The public may participate virtually, or in person at the County Board Hearing Room in Santa Barbara or Santa Maria. 

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Cultural, Education, Entertainment, Events, Family, Local, News, Youth

Santa Barbara Symphony Youth Ensembles to perform free season finale concerts May 24, 25

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SANTA BARBARA — The Santa Barbara Symphony Youth Ensembles will cap off their 2024/25 season with a pair of FREE community concerts. The community is invited to witness the talent and dedication of more than 100 student musicians across three orchestra levels, ranging in age from 9 – 18.

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Business, Health, Local, News

Cottage Health President Emeritus Ron Werft Honored with national award from American Hospital Association

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SANTA BARBARA — Cottage Health is proud to announce that Ron Werft, former President and CEO and now president emeritus has received the American Hospital Association’s (AHA) 2025 Board of Trustees Award. The national recognition honors individuals or groups who have made substantial and noteworthy contributions to the mission and work of the AHA on behalf of the hospital field. Werft was presented with the award on May 5 during the AHA Annual Membership Meeting in Washington, D.C.

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Cultural, Education, Entertainment, Events, Family, Local, News, Seniors, Women, Youth

Museum of Contemporary Art Santa Barbara (MCASB) announces ‘When Light and Sound Become Form’ on May 10, other upcoming events

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Saturday, May 10th, 2025
10:00am PST // 1:00pm EST    

COLOR, LIGHT, MOTION, EPISODE 28

Co-presenters Frederick Janka and Dr. JoAnn Kuchera-Morin will be discussing four objects from the David Bermant Foundation Collection: Nam June Paik, Participation TV, 1969; Otto Piene, Light Ballet I; Marcel Duchamp, Rotorelief (optical discs) 1935-1953, edition c. 1965, and Alejandro & Moira Sina, Spinning Shaft 1978, 1983.

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Business, Cultural, Educación, Education, En español, familia, Family, Finance, Government, Local, Locales, News, Noticias, Youth

Bilingual report — Ventura Police Officers’ Association opens 2025 Dee Dowell Memorial Scholarship

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“For over two decades, this scholarship has honored the legacy of Sergeant Darlon ‘Dee’ Dowell by investing in the educational journeys of students committed to service,” said Corporal Joseph Metz, President of the VPOA. “We are proud to continue that tradition and help inspire the next generation of public safety professionals.” 

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Business, Cultural, En español, familia, Family, Government, Health, Home, Local, Locales, News, Noticias, Salud, Seniors, Women, Youth

Bilingual report — County of Ventura announces Mountain Fire Debris Removal Fully Complete for Properties Enrolled in the County-led Debris Removal Program

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“Our Environmental Health Division team, along with our hired contractors and State partners, approached this effort with great care as we managed the program and supported property owners throughout the process”, said Charles Genkel, Environmental Health Division Director. “This wasn’t just about clearing debris. It was about helping people take an important step toward healing and recovery. As we move into the rebuilding phase, the County remains committed to supporting property owners every step of the way.” 

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Business, Education, Family, Finance, Government, Local, News, Seniors, Women, Youth

Bilingual report — Economic Development Collaborative (EDC) honoring Asian American, Native Hawaiian and Pacific Islander Heritage Month

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The Economic Development Collaborative would like to recognize National Asian American, Native Hawaiian and Pacific Islander (AANHPI) Heritage Month. Observed annually in May, AANHPI Heritage Month is a time to reflect upon and celebrate the remarkable role of the AANHPI community in our nation’s history. To commemorate AANHPI Heritage Month, the Small Business Administration highlights resources, funding and training available to all AANHPI-owned small businesses and entrepreneurs.

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

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