VENTURA COUNTY — Dr. Cesar Morales, Ventura County Superintendent of Schools, is pleased to announce that Mesa Union School is the winner of the middle school division of the 2026 Ventura County Mock Trial. Mesa Union School earned the highest score in the final round of competition, held this afternoon at the Ventura County Office of Education in Camarillo. Second place went to Hillside Middle School.
More than a dozen bills across the Senate and Assembly will advance home hardening, expand beneficial fire, unlock financing, and accelerate innovation to better protect California from future megafires
VENTURA — The Ventura College Foundation brought together more than 100 community leaders, donors, and advocates at its “Celebration of Success” on the Ventura College campus—an afternoon that honored 15 outstanding “Pirates of Distinction,” and issued a call to action to complete its $7 million “Invest in Success” fundraising campaign.
Thanks to the generous support of Ventura County Credit Union, admission to the Museum of Ventura County is FREE in March. This support allows more visitors to explore Ventura County’s history, art, and cultural heritage.
VENTURA — The Ventura County Board of Supervisors, during their regular meeting on Tuesday, March 3, unanimously approved the acceptance of a $250,000 donation from the Ventura Friends of the Library (VFOL) to support the E.P. Foster Library Building Forward Grant Project. The donation will help meet required local matching funds for the state-funded renovation project at the E.P. Foster Library in downtown Ventura. As part of the action, the Board also authorized the necessary budget adjustments to formally receive and allocate the funds, with no additional cost to the County’s General Fund.
“My husband and I (and our family) were truly inspired by the quality of care and the number of lives touched by SBNC. It is the community’s “little engine that could,” powered by dedicated physicians and staff who lead with compassion and respectfully treat everyone who crosses their threshold,” said Monica Wyatt. “We were deeply moved by how seamlessly SBNC is woven into the fabric of this community – a place where families can access care close to home, where children and seniors are treated with dignity, and where high-quality healthcare is available to all, regardless of income or race.”
VENTURA COUNTY — Trinity Pacific Christian School and Oak Park High School took the top two spots in the high school division of the 2026 Ventura County Mock Trial competition, which was held over two weekends at the Ventura County Government Center’s Hall of Justice. This marks the fourth year in a row that Trinity Pacific has come in first.
“This partnership represents a unique opportunity to transform an underutilized farm site into a vibrant educational resource that benefits both our community and local youth,” said Chair of the Board Jeff Gorell. “By connecting young people with agriculture, workforce skills, and service to others, we are creating meaningful pathways for growth, responsibility, and future employment. At the same time, the program will help strengthen food security by growing fresh produce that can support local organizations and families in need.”
VENTURA — At its March 3 meeting, the Ventura County Board of Supervisors approved a 20-year, $0 per year lease agreement between Students for Eco-Education and Agriculture (SEEAG) and the County of Ventura to develop an educational farm on 3.63 acres of arable land located behind the Ventura County Juvenile Facilities property in Oxnard.
In collaboration with the County of Ventura and the Ventura County Probation Agency (VCPA), SEEAG will establish the Southbank Learning Farm, a community-driven space where justice-involved youth will engage in hands-on farming and food education and career pathway development, while growing fresh, healthy produce to support local food access initiatives.
GOLETA — LEAP: Learn. Engage. Advocate. Partner. celebrated its 55th anniversary as a nonprofit — and 50 years of providing high-quality childcare — at the 2026 LEAP Awards Brunch on Saturday, February 28, at the Hilton Santa Barbara Beachfront Resort. The event raised $81,715 to support LEAP’s programs and services for children and families across Santa Barbara County.
SANTA BARBARA — The Housing Authority of the City of Santa Barbara (HACSB), in partnership with its nonprofit affiliate, 2nd Story Associates, invites the Santa Barbara community to help furnish 31 newly renovated studio apartments at 3055 De La Vina Street. This adaptive reuse project will provide new long-term homes for 31 chronically homeless or formerly homeless people in Santa Barbara, with a grand opening scheduled for June 2026.
If you are — or know — a student in grades 6–12 who cares about the future of our coastlines, wildlife, and communities, this is the moment to spring into climate action. Join the Community Environmental Council (CEC), Santa Barbara High School’s Environmental Advocacy Club, and the Sierra Club Santa Barbara-Ventura Chapter for a free, interactive Youth Climate Workshop designed to turn passion into tangible impact.
SCORE: HOW TO DEVELOP A NETWORKING STRATEGY TO GENERATE NEW REFERRAL PARTNERS
March 5 @ 5:00 pm
Giving referral partners clarity on who you serve will keep you top of mind when they are in front of your ICP. The more specific, the better chance of them identifying and introducing you. Price: FREE.
CLICK HERE TO REGISTER
“The lack of available housing, not just affordable housing, but available housing, is the single largest impediment to economic growth and prosperity in our region,” said Stephanie Caldwell, President & CEO of the Ventura Chamber of Commerce. “As Ken Trigueiro said, ‘Affordable housing is where the jobs go at night’.” These words framed the core theme of the morning: if workers cannot afford to live here, Ventura County’s economy cannot thrive.
As we step into March and the first hints of spring begin to emerge, I find myself reflecting on all the beauty surrounding us, especially you, our community foundation family, who make Ventura County so very special to me.
There is truly so much to love about our community. Yes, the natural beauty is breathtaking. But even more powerful is the way our community shows up for one another. Time and again, we have demonstrated a deep and steady care for our neighbors, a willingness to collaborate, and a shared commitment to strengthening the place we call home. That spirit—resilient, generous, and hopeful—is what makes this region extraordinary, and is something I see reflected every day in my colleagues at your community foundation.
VENTURA — The Ventura County Board of Supervisors (March 3) approved a measure brought forward by Chair Jeff Gorell to pause the proposed transition of the Area Agency on Aging (AAA) away from County administration, allowing additional time for public engagement and a deliberate evaluation of service delivery options.
“This measure asks the Board to pause the current process that began late last year and would allow the County to divest itself of responsibility for administering programs under the Area Agency on Aging,” said Chair Gorell.
SANTA PAULA — Flock Safety, the provider of Automated License Plate Readers (ALPR) to law enforcement, has announced, through audit logs within their ALPR platform, it has confirmed access by out of state law enforcement for a period of time. As a result, Ventura County Law enforcement agencies, including the Santa Paula Police Department, had their ALPR networks inadvertently accessible by out of state law enforcement agencies. Flock Safety has accepted accountability and implemented plans to address the issue.
LOMPOC — Looking for a getaway that’s equal parts adventure and awe? Lompoc has it all — charming downtown streets, vibrant outdoor murals, scenic coastlines, local wine tasting, and wide-open spaces perfect for exploring. But the real showstopper? Watching a rocket launch streak into the California sky. It’s a must-see experience that adds a thrilling twist to any visit, and there’s no better place to catch it than here, where the Pacific meets one of the West Coast’s busiest spaceports.
Emprendedoras de Guardería is Women’s Economic Ventures’ (WEV) NO-COST 8-week Spanish business training program designed for licensed, home-based child care providers in Ventura County. The program supports providers in growing and strengthening their businesses through culturally responsive training, coaching and peer support.
Participants will also have the opportunity to apply for a $5,000 stipend to invest in their child care business.
WEV is currently inviting interested providers to complete their Spanish interest form HERE.
LOMPOC — Framed by vineyard-covered hills and the Pacific Ocean, Lompoc, California is an ideal destination for couples looking to reconnect through great food, creative culture, and wide-open space. From spa indulgence to wine tastings and late-night eats, Lompoc delivers a weekend that feels effortless, intimate, and memorable. As you plan your trip, consider this weekend itinerary:
Dr. Cesar Morales, Ventura County Superintendent of Schools, is pleased to announce the eight high school teams that will move on to the semifinal round of the 2026 Ventura County Mock Trial competition. Twenty-four local high schools fielded teams in the initial Mock Trial rounds held last weekend at the Hall of Justice at the Ventura County Government Center. The following eight high school teams had the highest scores and will advance to the semifinals:
Earlier this month, a large banner featuring Trump’s glaring face was unfurled outside the U.S. Department of Justice headquarters. It included the words “Make America Safe Again.” Naturally, questionable actions like these spur the sale of hats with the acronym “MASA.” These letters are a play on the famous acronym MAGA that proclaims the necessity of making America great “again,” as if winning World War II, passing civil rights legislation, and landing the first men on the moon were not enough to deem our country to be “great.”
For Mexican Americans, the word “masa” has a deep resonance with the Indigenous aspects of our culture. It’s something we can really sink our teeth into—namely, tamales.
CAMARILLO — Gold Coast Health Plan (GCHP) today announced that applications are now open for the second year of its Resilience, Innovation, Sustainability & Equity (RISE) Grant Program. GCHP will award one-year grants of up to $400,000 to help providers and community-based organizations support Medi-Cal members in navigating federal changes to coverage requirements.
“For years, we have worked on cultivating an enhanced sense of urgency in how Sacramento discusses wildfire prevention in the built environment,” said Asm. Bennett. “We remain committed to pursuing and supporting proven methods that reduce loss of life and property and give our communities greater chances in surviving fast-moving blazes. I’m proud to author a bill package that focuses on community resilience and is informed by firsthand experience of AD-38 residents following the Mountain and Thomas fires.”
We’re feeling lucky at the Museum in March!
We’re channeling Santa Paula artists Jessie and Cornelis Botke in the photo above as we dance into a brand-new month at the Santa Paula Art Museum. Join us for a green-themed Free Family Day on Sunday, March 1, and mark your calendars for the premiere of Cornelis Botke: Painter of the Western Scene on Saturday, March 14!
Scroll down to see all of our March events and classes.
SANTA BARBARA — Cottage Health has been named to Becker’s 165 Top Places to Work in Healthcare List for 2026.
The recognition highlights organizations that make their people a priority and foster environments where caregivers feel supported, valued and empowered. Becker’s noted that these organizations invest deeply in their teams through competitive benefits, professional development opportunities, inclusive workplaces and resources that support work-life balance.
Climate disasters like extreme heat, wildfires, poor air quality, and flooding can strike our region at any time. Community Resilience Hubs are trusted, local spaces — like schools and libraries — that support neighborhoods before, during, and after climate disasters. Each Hub is unique and offers services and resources for the specific needs of the community.
Help support THE non-profit organization
that advocates tirelessly for you, your business,
and the residents of Ventura County
We’re excited to present you the culmination of five years of collective labor – published in the fall – we’re now celebrating and excited to share our publication with events in Mexico City, Los Angeles, Oaxaca City, Santa Maria, and Santa Barbara!
Join us on Saturday, February 28, 2026 from 7-10 pm at The Culver Hotel, Culver City for a conversation with the curators, artists, and contributors that made this publication possible!
For the 12th consecutive year, the City of Ventura earned budget awards from both the California Society of Municipal Finance Officers (CSMFO) and the Government Finance Officers Association of the United States and Canada (GFOA). CSMFO presented the Operating Budget Meritorious Award for Fiscal Year 2025–2026, and GFOA honored the City with its Distinguished Budget Presentation Award, the organization’s highest recognition.
New research co-authored by Roark Chao demonstrates a new micro–light-emitting diode design that improves both efficiency and beam directionality.
OXNARD — The Collection at RiverPark is inviting Ventura County to embrace the start of spring with an itinerary filled with family-friendly activities. Whether it’s snagging a selfie with the Spring Bunny or a day of crafts, visitors of all ages can look forward to beloved springtime traditions in a warm and vibrant community hub.
From wildfires and flooding to extreme heat, Southern California communities are facing intensifying climate challenges. Southern California Edison (SCE) — the electric utility company that delivers power to homes and businesses across the Central Coast — is working toward providing safe, reliable service and preparing for increasing climate risks.
The next regular meeting of the
County Board of Supervisors is scheduled for
9 a.m. Tuesday, March 3, 2026
County Administration Building
Board Hearing Room, Fourth Floor
105 East Anapamu Street, Santa Barbara
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Weintraub is a Certified Financial Planner (CFP®) with more than 40 years of experience in financial planning and investment management, bringing deep industry knowledge and governance experience to the Board.
Currently, Weintraub is a Partner in the Santa Barbara office of Cerity Partners, a leading independent wealth management and financial advisory firm in the United States. He provides comprehensive financial advice and oversight, with a focus on integrated financial planning and long-term wealth strategies.
SANTA MARIA — Allan Hancock College is inviting the community to enjoy a series of live musical performances this spring featuring student musicians, faculty artists, and special guest performers in Boyd Concert Hall (bldg. F) on the Santa Maria campus.
These performances are open to the public on the following dates, times, and locations:
VENTURA — Seafood lovers are invited to Ventura Harbor Village to celebrate National Clam Chowder Day on Wednesday, February 25 with $5 bowls of chowder from seven participating restaurants. (While supplies last.) Nestled along the picturesque Southern California coastline, Ventura Harbor Village, offers the perfect scenic setting to enjoy this classic coastal comfort dish, while dining alongside the fishing vessels, looking out towards the snow-capped Topa Topa mountains, and basking in the West Coast winter sunshine!
IN-PERSON EVENT: FROM SKILLED EMPLOYEE TO TEAM LEADER: SUPERVISORY & LEADERSHIP FUNDAMENTALS
February 25 @ 8:00 am
You were promoted because you’re great at your work. Now you’re responsible for making sure others do it well, and that requires a completely different skill set. Join the Workforce Development Board of Ventura County and the Economic Development Collaborative for a focused, high-impact course designed for skilled employees who have recently moved into a supervisory role. This course bridges the gap between “doing the work” and “leading the work,” helping participants transition from operator to process leader. Check-in: 8:00 – 8:30 am. Address: Workforce Development Board of Ventura County Office, 3rd Floor, 2901 North Ventura Road, Oxnard. Price: FREE.
CLICK HERE TO REGISTER
VENTURA — Celebrating its 40th year, the California Strawberry Festival returns Saturday and Sunday, May 16 and 17 at the Ventura County Fairgrounds (10 W. Harbor Blvd., Ventura, CA 93001). The family-friendly event features Strawberry-themed favorites, including strawberry nachos, chocolate-dipped strawberries, strawberry kabobs, strawberry popcorn, margaritas and more.
Festival goers can also enjoy nearly 150 arts and crafts vendors, an expanded Strawberryland for kids, live entertainment on three stages, carnival rides, and a “build-your-own” Strawberry Shortcake Experience.
WESTLAKE VILLAGE — Signups for summer camp at the Southeast Ventura County YMCA branches are underway with camp locations at the Yarrow Family YMCA in Westlake Village, Simi Valley Family YMCA day camp sites and at the Conejo Valley YMCA.
“We’re happy to bring summer camp back to the Conejo Valley YMCA site,” Katie Oberman, Yarrow Family YMCA child care senior program director. “It has a perfect outdoor space for games, water sports and nature hikes, and indoor spaces for STEM activities and arts and crafts.”
The book by Mario T. García, a distinguished professor of Chicano/a studies and of history, is the first comprehensive text on Rupert García’s life and art.
THOUSAND OAKS — California Lutheran University scholar-athlete Camden Hyde been named to the Allstate NACDA Good Works Team (Winter). The junior men’s basketball player is being honored by the Allstate National Association of Collegiate Directors of Athletics (NACDA ) for his leadership in community service, academics and athletics. Annually, 60 student-athletes throughout the country are recognized for the fall, winter and spring seasons.
Last month we were honored to receive an award from a regional organization focused on economic development.
As essential infrastructure, just like transportation, public health, water systems, and energy grids, housing underpins our economy and is the very foundation upon which every vibrant community is built.
But the persistent shortage of affordable homes continues to challenge our region.
In less than 30 days, our community has witnessed yet another violent physical attack against individuals bearing witness to ICE activity in Santa Barbara County.
Created and directed by acclaimed choreographer and artistic leader Karen Parks, CEO and Artistic Director of Stagebound, Inc., Decolonized: The Matriarchs is a multidisciplinary performance that reclaims and elevates the Black female narrative through expressive movement, voice, and storytelling. Parks is widely recognized for her work exploring themes of identity, culture, and healing through the performing arts. Her work has been featured throughout California and beyond, engaging audiences in meaningful dialogue around history, resilience, and empowerment.
I am infuriated that ICE is using taxpayer dollars to brutalize and kill Americans. No one should have to live in fear.
I voted NO to granting ICE billions of taxpayer dollars without proper oversight, and now I am demanding that DHS implement common sense guardrails to protect the constitutional rights of all of us.
Registered nurse members of National Nurses United, the nation’s largest union and professional association of RNs, are naming federal immigration enforcement agencies as among the country’s top public health threats, and demanding through national coordinated protests on Thursday, Feb. 19 that Congress stop funding Immigration and Customs Enforcement (ICE) and Customs and Border Patrol (CBP) and move to abolish ICE for the health and safety of patients and communities. Nurses also blame hospital executives for failing to clearly side with nurses and immigrant patients by acting to keep ICE out of hospitals.
