Commentary, Cultural, Educación, Education, En español, familia, Family, Health, Local, Locales, News, Noticias, Public Safety, Youth

Bilingual guest commentary by Kaiser Permanente — Halloween Safety: Simple Steps to Keep the Holiday Fun and Injury-Free

by  • 

As Halloween draws near, children across Southern California are eagerly preparing for a night of costumes, candy and neighborhood adventures.

While the excitement of trick-or-treating is hard to match, parents can take a few simple precautions to help ensure the holiday remains both memorable and safe.

According to Dr. Kristina Kang a pediatrician with Kaiser Permanente in Camarillo, a little preparation can go a long way toward preventing common Halloween-related injuries and health concerns.

Among others, she recommends:

Read more →

Commentary, Cultural, Education, En español, Entertainment, Events, Family, Local, News

Oxnard College will commemorate Día de los Muertos on Oct. 28

by  • 

OXNARD — Join us Wednesday, Oct. 28, from 4:00 pm – 8:30 pm in front of the Performing Arts Building (PAB) for a vibrant, family-friendly Día de los Muertos celebration at Oxnard College. Enjoy free food, cultural dances, live music, colorful altars honoring loved ones, and fun activities for children and families. Come celebrate our Hispanic culture, community, and tradition with us for an evening of connection, remembrance, and celebration! This FREE event is open to all!

Read more →

Commentary, Cultural, Elections, En español, Government, Local, Locales, News, Noticias

Bilingual report — County of Ventura — Important information as voting for the Nov. 3 Gubernatorial General Election approaches the last day: NOW’S THE TIME TO VOTE!

by  • 

VENTURA COUNTY — Voters are encouraged to take advantage of the last few days of early voting ahead of Election Day on Tuesday, November 3, to avoid the last minute pressure and potentially long lines at vote centers on Election Day.

“People should think of Election Day as the LAST day to vote, not THE day to vote,” said Michelle Ascecncion, County Clerk-Recorder and Registrar of Voters.

“So many unforeseen things can happen – a rainstorm, a flat tire, an illness or accident – that can derail your plans to go vote on Election Day,” Ascencion continued. “VOTE EARLY and check it off your list of things to do!”

Read more →

Business, Education, Local, News, Public Safety, Youth

Ventura Charter School moves 21st annual Campout to Campus amid October heat, keeping a tradition rooted in 1969 on track

by  • 

VENTURA — When high temperatures made Steckel Park unsafe for this year’s campout, Ventura Charter School’s campout committee moved the 21st Annual Campout to the school’s own campus. That kept one of the school’s longest-running traditions going for students in grades K-8, their families and staff. The three- day event ran October 7 through 9 as originally planned, with outdoor programming, shared meals and student-led campfires. Campout is one of several annual traditions through which the school pursues its mission to engage every student in meaningful and supportive learning experiences.

Read more →

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

Bilingual report — Ventura County residents urged to eliminate standing water following recent rainfall to prevent mosquito breeding

by  • 

VENTURA — Following last week’s rainfall and with warmer temperatures expected this week, the Ventura County Environmental Health Division (Division) is urging residents to eliminate standing water around their homes and properties to prevent mosquito breeding and reduce the risk of mosquito-borne diseases, including West Nile virus (WNV). The reminder comes as the California Department of Public Health reports West Nile virus activity at a five-year high statewide.

Standing water left in outdoor containers can quickly become a breeding source for mosquitoes. In as little as seven days, mosquito eggs can hatch, larvae can develop, and adult mosquitoes can emerge. With mosquito activity continuing into the fall, recent rainfall, and warmer temperatures may contribute to increased mosquito populations throughout Ventura County.

Read more →

Business, Cultural, Educación, Education, En español, Events, Finance, Government, Local, Locales, News, Noticias

Economic Development Collaborative (EDC) free event and webinar schedule

by  • 

CLAUDE 102: PROJECTS, ARTIFACTS, SOPS & WORKFLOWS

October 29 @ 10:00 am

If you’ve mastered the basics of AI prompting, it’s time to take the next step. In this interactive 90-minute workshop, you’ll learn how to transform Claude from a simple chatbot into a reliable business partner that helps you organize projects, create reusable business assets, document processes, and automate everyday tasks. You’ll discover practical strategies to reduce repetitive work while maintaining consistency across your business. This course is designed specifically for small business owners, entrepreneurs, and professionals. Facilitated by: Deborah Deras, EDC SBDC Marketing Advisor, International Speaker, Author, AI Educator, Professor & Doctoral Scholar researching the impact of AI on Small Businesses. Price: FREE.

CLICK HERE TO REGISTER

Read more →

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

Date announced for the 14th annual Ventura County Farm Day (May 8, 2027)

by  • 

VENTURA — Students for Eco-Education and Agriculture (SEEAG) announced that the 14th annual Ventura County Farm Day will take place Saturday, May 8, 2027.

Farm Day is a free, interactive experience where the public visits farms and other agricultural venues throughout the county. It offers behind-the-scenes tours, tractor rides, produce tastings and giveaways, and kid-friendly activities while visitors learn first-hand how food is grown, harvested and delivered to stores locally and around the world.

Read more →

Business, Cultural, Educación, Education, En español, Entertainment, Events, familia, Family, Local, Locales, News, Noticias, Women

Bilingual report — Women’s Economic Ventures to celebrate 35 years of impact with 35 for 35 Business Showcase 

by  • 

VENTURA — Women’s Economic Ventures (WEV) will celebrate 35 years of empowering women and strengthening local economies with its 35 for 35 Business Showcase on Tuesday, December 8, from 3 to 6 p.m. at the Museum of Ventura County. Open to the public, the event will spotlight 35 WEV-supported businesses and bring together entrepreneurs, supporters, and community members to celebrate the people and partnerships that have shaped WEV’s legacy since 1991. 

For 35 years, WEV has helped women build the knowledge, confidence, and connections to pursue entrepreneurship and greater financial independence. Behind that work are generations of business owners who have turned ideas into livelihoods, created jobs, supported their families, and contributed to the vitality of Santa Barbara and Ventura counties. The showcase will bring that legacy to life through the businesses and people at its heart. 

Read more →

Business, Commentary, Family, Finance, Home, Local, News, Seniors, Women, Youth

People’s Self-Help Housing now accepting applications for Skylight Homes: New for-sale homes in Santa Maria

by  • 

CENTRAL COAST — People’s Self-Help Housing (PSHH) has begun construction on Skylight Homes: a new, for-sale, single-family subdivision in Santa Maria. Interested buyers are encouraged to sign up for the interest list and attend a mandatory Agricultural Worker Project Presentation to begin the application process.  

Located at 3170 Santa Maria Way, Skylight Homes will consist of 49 new homes, built over two phases of construction. The subdivision is surrounded by existing single-family neighborhoods, shopping centers, schools, and community parks. Each home will come with: 

Read more →

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

Ventura Music Festival — That’s a wrap on the Fall series. We’d love your feedback!

by  • 

The Board and Staff of the Festival value your feedback! If you attended any of the Fall Series concerts as a patron or a volunteer, please fill out our short survey. You’ll automatically be entered to win a pair of tickets to Chanticleer or a 2027 standard concert of your choice!

Read more →

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

Bilingual report — People’s Self Help Housing October 2026 e-newsletter

by  • 

Our newest owner-builders are beginning their homeownership journey at Mission Gardens II in San Miguel! This new development is bringing 14 new single-story homes for first-time homebuyers to the community, with each household contributing over 1,600 hours of construction labor in lieu of a down payment. Learn more about Mission Gardens II and our build your own home program at pshhc.org!

Read more →

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

Housing Authority of the City of Santa Barbara celebrates Grand Opening of Bella Vista Affordable Housing Development

by  • 

SANTA BARBARA — The Housing Authority of the City of Santa Barbara (HACSB) celebrated the grand opening of Bella Vista, its new affordable housing development at 200 North La Cumbre Road, with a ribbon-cutting ceremony yesterday.

The 48-unit development provides affordable rental housing for families with low and very low incomes, offering a mix of one-, two- and three-bedroom apartments. All units are subsidized through Section 8 Project-Based Vouchers, allowing residents to pay 30% of their income toward rent.

Read more →

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

Bilingual report — Economic Development Collaborative (EDC) — Financing available for Child Care Providers

by  • 

Supporting our county’s future and the next generation’s education and career success starts with quality preschool programs. Historically, Ventura County has had too few licensed commercial child care and preschool spaces to meet demand. The Economic Development Collaborative and First 5 Ventura County are committed to building more child care and early childhood education capacity in our community through the Child Care Investment Loan Fund.

The Ventura County Office of Education and Child Care Planning Council has documented that Ventura County is as many as 50,000 childcare slots short. Only 36 percent of children ages 0-14 whose parents are in the workforce have access to a licensed child care space. Further, studies find that children who are most likely to benefit from a high-quality preschool program are least likely to attend.

Read more →

Business, Cultural, En español, Government, Health, Local, News

Ventura County Public Works Agency announces Matthew Ehret as Director of Watershed Protection

by  • 

Ehret brings more than 24 years of public works experience, with an extensive background in engineering, construction management, flood control, and infrastructure development. Most recently, he served as Deputy Director of Watershed Protection’s Design & Construction Division, where he oversaw major capital improvement projects, emergency projects, and environmental services.

Read more →

Business, Cultural, Education, Local, News, Youth

CSUCI Expands Academic Offerings with New Degree Programs

by  • 

CAMARILLO — Cal State Channel Islands (CSUCI) is expanding its academic offerings with new degree programs designed to connect students with emerging fields, community needs, and evolving career opportunities.

The University’s new programs include bachelor degrees in Sustainable Agriculture, Black Studies, Spanish-English Translation and Interpretation, and Statistics, and a master’s in Psychology degree. Together, the offerings emphasize interdisciplinary study, applied learning, and preparation for careers in fields ranging from agriculture and data science to research, public policy and language services.

Read more →

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

Explore Lompoc — News from Lompoc: Explore Space Country at Vandenberg’s Space And Missile Technology Center

by  • 

LOMPOC — The countdown ends.  Engines ignite. A rocket climbs into the sky, leaving a bright trail above the California coast.

For a few unforgettable moments, all eyes are on the sky.  In Lompoc, this kind of space-age excitement is part of the destination.

Welcome to Space Country, where you can watch a launch, explore the technology behind the missions, and get an up-close look at space history at the Space and Missile Technology Center (SAMTEC).

Read more →

Business, Commentary, Cultural, Family, Finance, Home, Local, News, Seniors, Women, Youth

Central Coast Alliance United for A Sustainable Economy (CAUSE) — Years of organizing. A historic victory for Santa Barbara tenants

by  • 

The fight for rent stabilization in Santa Barbara has been years in the making, built by our community that keeps showing up, organizing, and building power together.Through long meetings, countless conversations, public comments, and years of organizing, we kept showing up and building power together. And last week, that persistence paid off: Santa Barbara City Council adopted the rent stabilization ordinance!

Make a one-time or monthly donation to help us keep building on this historic victory!

Read more →

Commentary, Cultural, Education, Entertainment, Events, Local, News

Allan Hancock College’s Ann Foxworthy Gallery showcasing the transformative power of art in ‘After the Cut,’ a new exhibition featuring works by artists Raphaele Cohen-Bacry and Juan Manuel Perez Salaza on display through Dec. 2

by  • 

Through a variety of artistic media, Cohen-Bacry and Perez Salazar use cutting both literally and conceptually to bring together fragments of materials, images and ideas. Their works reveal traces of what existed before while inviting viewers to consider how destruction, alteration and reconstruction can lead to new creative possibilities.

Read more →

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

Community Environmental Council (CEC) to present Free Youth Climate Workshop for Students on Oct. 24. More upcoming events

by  • 

The climate decisions we make today will affect our communities for decades to come. Young people deserve a say in shaping their future — and at the Community Environmental Council’s (CEC) Youth Climate Workshop, students can learn how to make their voices heard and take action in their communities.

Co-hosted with 805 Action, this free workshop invites students in grades 5–12 to explore how they can influence local climate policy and help shape a more sustainable future.

Read more →

Cultural, Education, En español, Entertainment, Events, familia, Family, Local, Locales, News, Noticias, Seniors, Women, Youth

Bilingual report — Santa Barbara Museum of Art — Celebrate Día de los Muertos with a Free Family Day on Oct. 25

by  • 

SANTA BARBARA — For the 37th year, the Santa Barbara Museum of Art honors the Mexican tradition of remembering the dead with a display of altars, created by students in the Museum’s school and outreach programs and local community groups from 11 a.m. to 4 p.m. Sunday, Oct. 25. The Art Learning Lab will offer Día de los Muertos-inspired art activities for all ages on the Front Terrace.

Explore a vibrant display of community-created altars, engage in hands-on art activities for all ages, and enjoy a festive Calenda procession featuring traditional music and dance from Oaxaca and Guerrero.

Read more →

Business, Local, News, Women

Catherine Brozowski, Chuck Flacks, and Dr. Jesus Fandino to be honored at the 2027 LEAP Awards

by  • 

GOLETA — Catherine Brozowski, Executive Director of the Audacious Foundation, and Chuck Flacks, Homelessness Services Coordinator for the City of Goleta and former president of LEAP’s Board of Directors, will be honored at the 2027 LEAP Awards, alongside Dr. Jesus Fandino, who will be recognized as Distinguished Alumnus.

The 2027 LEAP Awards Luncheon will be held at the stunning Hilton Santa Barbara Beachfront Resort on Friday, February 26, 2027. The lunch will bring together community leaders, philanthropists, and partners who believe in creating thriving futures for children and families.

Tickets and tables are on sale now and may be purchased online at: https://leapcentralcoast.org/event/2027-leap-awards/

Read more →

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

‘Frightmare Forest’ brings Halloween scares back to Allan Hancock College Oct. 24, 30, 31

by  • 

SANTA MARIA — A frightening fall tradition is returning to Allan Hancock College.

After drawing thrill-seekers to the Santa Maria campus last fall, the Hancock men’s basketball program is bringing back its “Frightmare Forest”, a three-acre haunted maze designed to give visitors a Halloween scare while supporting Bulldog basketball.

The maze will be located at Hancock’s baseball and softball complex, next to the college vineyard at 800 South College Drive. Visitors will navigate a thrilling course filled with twists, scares and spooky surprises as they attempt to make it through Frightmare Forest.

Read more →

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

Oxnard Performing Arts Center to present 7th Annual Día de los Muertos Celebration on Oct. 25

by  • 

OXNARD — Join us for a mesmerizing and heartfelt celebration of life and remembrance at OPAC’s 7th Annual Día de los Muertos Celebration from 5 to 9 p.m. Sunday, Oct. 25 at 800 Hobson Way, Oxnard.

For seven years, we’ve gathered in the heart of Oxnard to honor our ancestors and celebrate the rich traditions of Mexican culture.

Immerse yourself in a vibrant experience filled with colorful calacas, beautifully adorned ofrendas, captivating performances, local food vendors, and the warmth of community. Whether you’re new to this tradition or have celebrated with us for years, all are welcome to come together, honor those who came before us, and embrace the beauty of life, remembrance, and tradition.

Read more →

Business, Education, Finance, Local, News, Women

Women’s Economic Ventures celebrates 35 Years, recognizes Trailblazer Awardee Kelly Mooney and WEV’s Giving Circle the League of Extraordinary Women

by  • 

SANTA BARBARA — On Oct. 7, WEV brought together community members, philanthropists and advocates at La Cumbre Country Club for its annual League of Extraordinary Women Luncheon in recognition of National Give to Women & Girls Day. The gathering celebrated the collective generosity that makes WEV’s work possible and called attention to the importance of investing in women’s economic futures.

Since its founding in 1991, WEV has worked to ensure women have access to the education, training, financial resources and support they need to shape their own futures. That work matters not only to individual women, but also to the families and communities strengthened when women have greater financial security and more choices.

Read more →

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

Bilingual report — Ventura County Office of Education Alternative Education honored with Golden Bell Award

by  • 

The Ventura County Office of Education is being honored with the prestigious Golden Bell Award from the California School Boards Association for its Alternative Education program, which serves students who have been expelled, are involved with the justice system, or face serious obstacles in school.

Read more →

Business, Cultural, Education, Family, Local, News, Religion

Celebrate Día de los Muertos: Visit the 2026 Community Altar at The Collection at Riverpark through Nov. 2

by  • 

OXNARD — Join us in honoring the rich traditions of Día de los Muertos with a heartfelt community altar, created in partnership with the Oxnard Performing Arts Center Nonprofit (OPAC). This meaningful installation offers a space to celebrate, remember, and connect with loved ones who have passed.

Read more →

Local

Economic Development Collaborative (EDC) free event and webinar schedule

by  • 

IN-PERSON: VENDER EXPO: FOR THE CREATIVE ECONOMY

October 20 @ 1:00 pm

Connect with General Services Administration (GSA) Procurement and other departments to learn about doing business with the County of Ventura. Join us to explore registering to receive county bid notifications, submitting competitive proposals and bids, vendor requirements and the contracting process, getting bid ready with EDC SBDC business advisors, and upcoming creative business/Artist opportunities. Price: FREE. Address: Ventura County Government Center, Hall of Administration, 800 S. Victoria, Ventura, CA 93009.

CLICK HERE TO REGISTER

Read more →

Business, Commentary, Education, Government, Health, Local, News, Public Safety

Guest contribution — County of Ventura District 2 Supervisor Jeff Gorell — Holding Southern California Edison Accountable

by  • 

Ventura County residents should not have to choose between wildfire safety and reliable electricity. Southern California Edison’s (SCE) Public Safety Power Shutoffs (PSPS) have left families, businesses, and entire communities facing prolonged outages, often with little certainty about when power will be restored.

While preventing wildfires must remain a top priority, the frequency, duration, and disruption of these shutoffs demand greater accountability. That is why I have made it a priority to challenge SCE, secure meaningful improvements, and advocate for long-term solutions that better protect our communities.

Read more →

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

Panteón Fest returns to Oxnard for its Fourth Annual Día de los Muertos Celebration on Oct. 17

by  • 

OXNARD — Pipiripau will host the fourth annual Panteón Fest on Saturday, Oct. 17, at Heritage Square in downtown Oxnard from 1:00 to 9:00 PM. This year’s festival pays homage to Chespirito, the beloved Mexican comedian and creator of El Chavo del Ocho and El Chapulín Colorado.

“Panteón Fest is about bringing our community together to celebrate our culture, remember where we come from, and create something meaningful for the next generation,” said co-founders Rolando and Heriberto Rubalcava.

Read more →

Commentary, Cultural, En español, familia, Family, Local, Locales, News, Noticias

Bilingual commentary — The Joys of Meal Preparation with Family

by  • 

Gathering around the dinner table is one of life’s greatest pleasures, but I recently discovered how I could make these events even more joyful.

For years, I carried the entire weight of these gatherings on my own shoulders. I used to shop, prep, and cook everything by myself, treating dinner as a solo performance while they hung around and watched me as their appetites grew. Eventually, I realized the true joy of a family meal isn’t just in the eating after waiting what must seem like an eternity to them—it is found in the beautiful, chaotic collaboration of preparing it together.

Read more →

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

Wells Fargo invests $100,000 to support People’s Self-Help Housing Education Program

by  • 

CENTRAL COAST — People’s Self-Help Housing (PSHH)  has received a generous $100,000 grant from Wells Fargo in support of Central Coast students enrolled in their education program and to help launch their newest Learning Center at Buellton Garden Apartments.
 
For families with school-aged children, PSHH’s eight onsite Learning Centers offer a safe, engaging environment where students receive homework assistance, participate in enrichment activities, build confidence, and develop skills that support long-term academic success. These year-round services are all provided at no cost to the families, thanks to partners like Wells Fargo.

Read more →

Business, Cultural, Education, Entertainment, Family, Government, Local, News, Technology, Women, Youth

Port of Hueneme — DOCK TALK – Community Newsletter – October 2026

by  • 

The Port of Hueneme’s 13th Annual Banana Festival set a second consecutive attendance record as nearly 19,000 guests came to the Port for a celebratory day of live music, banana treats, tours, a classic car show, and family-friendly fun. This year’s theme, “Gateway to the World,” highlighted the Port’s role in connecting local consumers to global goods and markets.

Read more →

Business, Government, Local, News, Public Safety, Seniors, Women, Youth

City of Ventura prepares emergency winter shelter ahead of anticipated El Niño storms

by  • 

VENTURA — As the City of Ventura prepares for potential El Niño storms this fall and winter, plans are underway to provide emergency shelter for individuals experiencing homelessness during severe weather. The El Niño Winter Shelter will be activated when forecasts indicate flash flooding, including anticipated rainfall exceeding half an inch per hour, to provide safety to unsheltered individuals living in riverbeds and other flood-prone areas. 

Located at the National Guard Armory at 1270 Arundell Avenue, the shelter will provide up to 120 emergency beds during extreme rainfall events between October 15, 2026, through April 15, 2027. 

Read more →

Business, Commentary, Education, Family, Government, Health, Home, Local, News, Public Safety

County of Ventura District 2 Supervisor Jeff Gorell — Community Alert: Red Flag Warning, Strong Santa Ana Winds & Potential SCE Power Shutoffs

by  • 

Ventura County is preparing for the first Santa Ana wind event of the season, with strong winds, hot and dry conditions, and an elevated risk of wildfires expected across the region. Residents are encouraged to prepare for potential Southern California Edison (SCE) power outages, take necessary safety precautions, and stay informed as weather conditions evolve throughout the week.

The National Weather Service has issued a Red Flag Warning from Thursday, October 15, at 6:00 a.m. through Friday, October 16, at 10:00 p.m. This wind event is expected to bring sustained winds of 25–40 mph, with gusts potentially exceeding 50 mph across our valleys, coastal communities, and mountain areas.

Read more →

Business, Commentary, Education, Family, Local, News, Public Safety, Women, Youth

Girls Inc. of Carpinteria stands ready to activate as resilience hub as El Niño brings uncertainty

by  • 

CARPINTERIA — Girls Inc. of Carpinteria is reaffirming the organization’s commitment to emergency preparedness and community resilience as El Niño brings uncertainty about unpredictable and potentially dangerous weather.

The Girls Inc. of Carpinteria (GIC) campus, located at 5315 Foothill Rd. in Carpinteria, is well-equipped in the event of an emergency — with large indoor and outdoor spaces, an industrial-sized kitchen stocked with necessities, and basic supplies at the ready.

Under normal circumstances, these features equip GIC to serve the more than 700 girls and young women who access their programs each year. In the event of an emergency, they would allow the organization to respond to a crisis by offering food, shelter, and other resiliency resources.

Read more →

Business, Cultural, Education, Government, Local, News, Women

Allan Hancock College Board of Trustees has selected Hancock Elisa Pardo to fill Area 1 seat

by  • 

SANTA MARIA — The Allan Hancock College Board of Trustees has selected Hancock alum and longtime community leader Elisa Pardo to represent Trustee Area 1, filling the vacancy left by outgoing trustee Hilda Zacarías.

The board selected Pardo during a special meeting Oct. 9, and she was officially sworn in at its Oct. 13 regular meeting at Santa Ynez Valley High School.

Read more →

Business, Education, Finance, Local, News

Economic Development Collaborative (EDC) — New Prospectus: The Central Coast: Built to Prove What’s Next in Advanced Aviation

by  • 

Economic Development Collaborative (EDC), Monterey Bay Economic Partnership (MBEP), REACH, and Uplift Central Coast are pleased to share the new Autonomous Systems and Advanced Air Mobility Prospectus.

The prospectus highlights the Central Coast’s strengths across Santa Cruz, San Benito, Monterey, San Luis Obispo, Santa Barbara and Ventura counties, bringing together the companies, testing infrastructure, research assets and talent pipelines supporting the region’s next generation of aircraft.
For More Information Click Here

Read more →

Business, Commentary, Cultural, Education, Health, Local, News, Youth

UCSB — The Current — ‘Brain surgery by autonomous robot? It’s possible — and could save lives’ and more news, events

by  • 

With a federal grant from the Advanced Projects Research Agency for Health, researchers are working to bring soft robotics to cardiovascular surgery with a method that combines maximum precision with minimal harm.

Read more about robot brain surgery

Read more →

Business, Family, Finance, Home, Local, News

People’s Self-Health Housing — Hammers at the ready: New Self-Help Homeownership Development underway in San Miguel

by  • 

CENTRAL COAST — At Mission Gardens II, a group of 14 owner-builders have begun building their own homes through the People’s Self-Help Housing (PSHH) mutual self-help program. 

Located in San Miguel, San Luis Obispo County, this new development is seeing the future homeowners construct 14 single-story homes located at the end of N Street. Each home is set to have three or four bedrooms, two bathrooms, and a two-car garage. They will also be equipped with energy-efficient features, PV solar, and drought-tolerant landscaping.

Read more →

Business, Education, Local, News

Moorpark College and CSUCI launch new Cybersecurity Bachelor’s Degree Programs to meet growing regional and national demand

by  • 

MOORPARK — Moorpark College and Cal State Channel Islands (CSUCI) (on Oct. 12) announced the Spring 2027 launch of two new bachelor’s degree programs in cybersecurity, marking a significant milestone in higher education for Ventura County and the broader region. The programs respond directly to an urgent national demand for skilled cybersecurity professionals—a workforce gap projected to reach hundreds of thousands of unfilled positions across the United States.

“The future of higher education depends on our ability to work together, respond to the evolving needs of our communities, and create meaningful opportunities for students,” said Dr. Rick MacLennan, Chancellor of the Ventura County Community College District. “This collaboration reflects what is possible when our institutions align their strengths to expand educational pathways, support regional workforce needs, and prepare students for an increasingly complex and interconnected world.”

Read more →

Cultural, Educación, Education, En español, Local, Locales, News, Noticias, Veterans, Youth

Bilingual report — Veterans find community through noncredit art class at Allan Hancock College

by  • 

SANTA MARIA — When Allan Hancock College Community Education introduced its new Image Transfers from Photographs course, instructor and U.S. Navy veteran Helen Boursier expected to bring together students interested in art and creativity.?

What she did not expect was that the class would become a gathering place for seven veterans representing more than six decades of combined military service.?

“I wasn’t surprised to see so many veterans in the class because I already knew several of them through the local veteran community, but I was incredibly pleased that they decided to sign up,” Boursier said. “It was especially rewarding to hear that they enjoyed the experience and wanted to know when I would be teaching the class again.”

Read more →

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

Santa Barbara Museum of Art Exhibitions & Events Oct. 13 through 25

by  • 

Celebrate Día de los Muertos with a Free Family Day
Sunday, October 25
11 am – 4 pm

Explore a vibrant display of community-created altars, engage in hands-on art activities for all ages, and enjoy a festive Calenda procession featuring traditional music and dance from Oaxaca and Guerrero.
Now in its third year, the procession, produced by the Museum of Contemporary Art Santa Barbara, celebrates Mexican traditions while bringing the community together in a joyful expression of remembrance, culture, and connection.

Read more →

Business, Health, Local, News, Women

HASC celebrates Cottage Nurse Paula Gallucci as a 2026 My SoCal Hospital Hero

by  • 

 SANTA BARBARA — Cottage Health is proud to announce that Paula Gallucci, BSN, RN, CCRN, Manager, Medical Intensive Care Unit, has been selected as a 2026 My SoCal Hospital Hero by the Hospital Association of Southern California (HASC). The honor recognizes employees across Southern California hospitals who contribute to outstanding patient care through embodying excellence, compassion and dedication in their work every day.

Paula was chosen for her extraordinary impact on patients, colleagues and the hospital community. She leads with a unique combination of clinical rigor, creative energy and boundless compassion. In a high-stakes environment, she brings the steady, inspired leadership that transforms a critical care unit into a place where people want to work – and patients and families feel genuinely cared for.

Read more →

Business, En español, Finance, Government, Local, Locales, News, Noticias

Bilingual report — Santa Paula City Council adopts resolution opposing Proposition 43

by  • 

SANTA PAULA — At its Oct. 7, 2026 meeting, the Santa Paula City Council voted unanimously (5-0) to adopt Resolution No. 7635, formally opposing Proposition 43, a statewide ballot measure appearing before California voters on November 3, 2026.

The action follows a request from the League of California Cities (Cal Cities) encouraging cities to consider opposing the measure. Proposition 43 would increase the voter-approval requirement for voter-initiated local special taxes from a simple majority to two-thirds, potentially making it more difficult for communities to approve dedicated funding for local services and priorities.

Read more →

Business, Commentary, Cultural, Government, Health, Local, News

Central Coast joins 1.6 million+ voices calling for Roadless Rule protections

by  • 

CENTRAL COAST — With the closing of the final public comment period last week, more than 1.6 million people—including more than one thousand Central Coast residents—voiced their support for keeping the Roadless Rule in place. The rule — which the Trump administration is proposing to repeal—protects some of the country’s last intact backcountry forests, including 635,106 acres across 37 inventoried roadless areas in Los Padres National Forest.

The latest comment period on the Trump administration’s proposal to rescind the 2001 Roadless Area Conservation Rule closed October 6.

Read more →

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

Dog adoptions up 42% at the HSVC, and a new program is open to 805 residents

by  • 

OJAI — Not everyone can take a shelter dog home, but almost anyone can give one a few hours away from the kennel. The Humane Society of Ventura County (HSVC) is officially rolling out its Dog Day Out program to the public. Community members can take a dog out for a hike, a ride or a quiet afternoon at home, with no foster or adoption commitment.

HSVC is giving more dogs homes, and faster. Through August, dog adoptions are up 42% over the same period last year (223 compared with 157), and half of adopted dogs now go home within 14 days, compared with 24 days last year. HSVC hopes Dog Day Out — a program used by shelters nationwide and linked in research to higher adoption rates — will keep this momentum going and help its longest-staying dogs find homes.

Read more →

Business, Cultural, familia, Family, Finance, Government, Home, Local, Locales, News, Noticias, Seniors, Women, Youth

Bilingual report — Santa Paula City Council approves temporary pause on certain RV parking enforcement

by  • 

SANTA PAULA — The City of Santa Paula is temporarily pausing enforcement of certain recreational vehicle (RV) parking regulations following a unanimous (5-0) City Council decision on October 7, 2026. The temporary pause allows the City to review its existing ordinance and explore potential updates with input from the community. The decision follows ongoing public comments and concerns from residents regarding RV parking restrictions and their impact on the community.

Read more →

Business, Commentary, Entertainment, Events, Local, News

The Welcome Room in Ventura publishes latest newsletter — Extra Extra! Read All About Us!

by  • 

We’ll be holding two shows over the next month at the Rubicon Theatre. Let’s keep the streak alive! Come out and support and share these events with your “peeps”.

• Thursday, Oct 27: Good Company. Hosted by Lachlan Patterson with Aida Rodriguez, Francisco Ramos, Chris Estrada and Chad Goes Deep. Benefitting Westside Community Development Corporation. Get tickets

• Monday, Nov 2 — The Line-Up of Extraordinary Women with Laurie Kilmartin, Aparna Nancherla, Beth Stelling and Emily Catalano. Benefitting Women’s Economic Ventures. LOW TICKET WARNING: Get tickets

Read more →

Business, Commentary, Cultural, Educación, Education, En español, familia, Government, Health, Immigration, Local, Locales, News, Noticias, Seniors, Women, Youth

Bilingual guest contribution — 805 UNDOCUFund — Operation Safe California targets the Central Coast-100 community members disappeared in five days

by  • 

Thank you for standing with us during these increasingly difficult times. At 805UndocuFund, our mission has always been rooted in protecting the dignity and safety of undocumented and mixed-status families across Ventura, Santa Barbara, and San Luis Obispo counties. Today, that work is more urgent than ever.

Read more →

Business, Family, Health, Local, News, Youth

Santa Barbara Neighborhood Clinics’ Medical Mobile Unit to provide low-cost sports physicals at UC Santa Barbara on Oct. 14

by  • 

SANTA BARBARA — Santa Barbara Neighborhood Clinics (SBNC) announced today that its Medical Mobile Unit will be visiting the University of California, Santa Barbara (UCSB) on October 14th to provide on-campus sports physicals for students preparing to participate in club sports.

For many college students, completing a sports physical is a routine step toward joined campus athletics. However, out-of-pocket costs can present an unexpected financial barrier for students without adequate insurance coverage, potentially preventing them from joining teams, staying active, and fully engaging in campus life.

Read more →

Business, Commentary, Cultural, Education, Family, Government, Immigration, Local, News, Public Safety, Seniors, Women, Youth

Central Coast United for a Sustainable Economy (CAUSE) — Our communities, our power

by  • 

CENTRAL COAST — For nearly two years, immigrant communities across the Central Coast have faced kidnapping, family separation, and escalating violence at the hands of ICE. And now, as Californians begin to vote, ICE activity is surging – in an attempt to bring more fear and intimidation into our communities.

As of Tuesday afternoon, at least 32 of our neighbors in the region have been taken by ICE this week. Parents. Neighbors. Workers. Families torn apart.

But we are not powerless. We know how to respond. We know how to protect each other. We know how to organize. And we know that information is power.

Read more →

Business, Commentary, Cultural, Educación, Education, En español, Local, Locales, News, Noticias, Opinion

Bilingual commentary — The Tragedy of Linguistic Decay

by  • 

At times I scan newsworthy social media notifications that appear on my phone. One thing has become abundantly clear to me: the posts I see are a window into the linguistic decay that has been settling into our American culture.

I am struck by the paucity of commentary that is written well. The overwhelming majority of the posts offer a glimpse into the atrocious grammar and spelling that are a regular feature of our national discourse. This widespread deterioration of the English language, by which we communicate with each other, raises a seriously unsettling question about our society: why have we allowed ourselves to embrace and normalize this consistently sloppy writing?

Read more →