Celebrate all things nature & gardening with this two-day event (March 3-4)
Author: Community Contributor
Make Waves and Shell-Ebrate Ocean-Inspired Adventure at the 10th Annual “March Is Mermaid Month” at Ventura Harbor Village
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.
Ventura County Community Foundation announces funding opportunities
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.
Costuming students from Moorpark Theatre Arts Program stitch together employment and industry accolades
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.
Palmera at Camarillo Village celebrates its grand opening ribbon cutting ceremony
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.
Friendship Center — The Friendly Finch March newsletter
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!
Registration Open For Conejo/Simi Valley YMCA’s Model United Nations Middle Schoolers Program
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.
El Concilio Family Services is seeking nominations for the 35th annual Latino Leadership Awards
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.
Bilingual commentary — Writing Well with Modern Tools
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.
Santa Barbara County Food Action Network — Urgent: Help SBCFAN Weather the Funding Freeze
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:
Bilingual report — The latest news from the County of Ventura
Thank you for staying up-to-date on news at the County of Ventura! Want to sign up for our newsletter?
Community members who are not already subscribed may sign up to receive our newsletter in English here and in Spanish here.
Housing Trust Fund Ventura County hosts annual meeting, announces $58M pipeline to fund affordable housing
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.
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
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.
Economic Development Collaborative (EDC) — NEW Export Strategy Preperation Course
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!
Bilingual report — February News from People’s Self-Help Housing
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.
Bilingual report — Ventura Police teen Explorer Program accepting new applications
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.
Port of Hueneme Dock Talk February Community Newsletter
The Port of Hueneme celebrates Black History Month as an essential time to recognize and celebrate the significant contributions and achievements of Black Americans throughout history. It serves as a reminder to reflect on and address the ongoing challenges and systemic inequalities that Black Americans face today.
Join us as we honor the resilience, strength, and enduring spirit of Black Americans and educate current and future generations about the diverse and dynamic history so that we may help foster greater understanding, empathy, and unity among all citizens.
Bilingual report — Allan Hancock College’s Ann Foxworthy Gallery presents retrospective exhibition of Kam Jacoby photographic works
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.”
UCSB — The Current — ‘Empathic education’ may unlock STEM learning success for all and more news
Professor Sharon Tettagah demonstrates how considering learner preferences for receiving educational content can create a more inclusive and effective educational experience.
Ventura County Coastal Association of REALTORS® (VCCAR) names new CEO
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.
SEEAG receives $135,000 funding from Uplift Central Coast
The funds will enable SEEAG to provide 1,000 high school students with SEEAG’s three-part STEM career exploration program. Students who take part in STEM Career Pathways in Agriculture are introduced to agricultural career options, experience real-world career exposure during farm field trips, connect with industry professionals and learn about educational pathways to pursue their future in agriculture.
Bilingual report — Economic Development Collaborative (EDC) — City of Simi Valley Business Assistance Loan Fund
The City of Simi Valley Loan Fund is a low-interest loan program that’s designed to help businesses recover from the impacts of COVID-19. Available through the Economic Development Collaborative and funded by the City of Simi Valley, small business owners who have had difficulty obtaining pandemic resources and traditional bank lending can now access local, professional assistance and capital.
March at the Santa Paula Art Museum
Saturday, March 15, 2025, from 4 PM to 6 PM
$5 SPAM members, $10 Non-members
The Santa Paula Art Museum will mark the start of spring with the premiere of “Painted Seasons,” a stunning solo exhibition by Ojai artist Anne Ward. Ward, who grew up in the Westchester neighborhood of Los Angeles, is obsessed with light, color, and pattern. It was while working in France as assistant to the director on the film “French Kiss” that Anne realized her love of painting outdoors. Primarily self-taught, Ward has been painting and exhibiting her work for over 30 years.
The upcoming exhibit features over 50 paintings teeming with life and joy and painted in oil, acrylic, and gouache. The majority of the artworks will be available for purchase. “Painted Seasons” will be on view from March 15, 2025, to July 6, 2025.
Respected healthcare leader Scott Wester selected as president and CEO of Cottage Health
SANTA BARBARA — The Cottage Health Board of Directors has selected experienced healthcare leader Scott Wester, MHA, as Cottage Health’s next president and CEO. Mr. Wester will assume his post April 7, 2025.
Cottage Health chose Mr. Wester after an extensive national search. He replaces Ron Werft, MHA, who will retire after 38 years at Cottage Health, the last 25 as president and CEO.
Driving into the Future: Port of Hueneme and NYK Line sign historic MOU to launch Green Automotive Shipping Corridor
PORT HUENEME — In a monumental step toward sustainability and environmental stewardship, the Port of Hueneme and NYK Line have signed a Memorandum of Understanding (MOU) to establish a Green Automotive Shipping Corridor between Japan and Southern California. The signing ceremony took place on February 12, 2025, at the Port of Hueneme, marking the continuation of an exciting collaboration aimed at driving both innovation and environmental progress.
Teatro de las Américas — Regreso a mi Cuba | Improvisadas | Movie Night
Regreso a mi Cuba
Cuba: My Return
Obra en español con subtítulos en inglés / Play in Spanish with English subtitles.
Una inmigrante regresa a su patria después de 54 años de ausencia.
An immigrant returns to her motherland after being gone for 54 years.
Bilingual report — County of Ventura Board of Supervisors vote to support new state legislation for fire safety
We have experienced devastating fires in the last seven years and this bill aims to address the issues we have seen in water delivery,” stated 1st District Supervisor Matt LaVere. ““Supporting AB 367 is a critical step toward ensuring our community has the resources needed to fight fires even in the most challenging circumstances.”
Women’s Economic Ventures and the City of Goleta announce Business of Care Program Awardees
GOLETA — Women’s Economic Ventures (WEV) and the City of Goleta recently partnered together to address the childcare crisis in our region through the “Business of Care” program. Eleven home-based childcare business owners joined a six-week training course designed to bolster their business growth and provide them with essential skills such as record keeping, basic finance, and marketing. Program participants will receive a supend for their business which will be awarded at a ceremony at the Goleta Community Center on Wednesday March 12, 2025 at 6pm.
Social Justice Fund for Ventura County — Awareness and Gratitude
Hope in Their Hands
January was Human Trafficking Awareness Month. Years ago, Alia Azariah, Social Justice Fellow, was trafficked as a young girl here in Ventura County … a victim, a survivor, her story heartbreaking and unfortunately to this day not uncommon.
But her story has evolved … resilience, healing, justice … hope. Now a powerful change agent, Alia is an unrelenting force and advocate for vulnerable and trafficked children and shares her story nationally and globally.
SBCC Awarded Grant from Uplift Central Coast Coalition
“With gratitude to the Uplift Central Coast Coalition through the State’s California Jobs First program and our Ocean Collective partners, SBCC will lead the way in enhancing the Blue Economy in Santa Barbara County,” said Superintendent/President Erika Endrijonas, Ph.D. “This grant takes us one step closer to expanding our local economy and developing yet another sustainable workforce pipeline. We are excited to get to work!”
TOArts welcomes new officers and celebrates Matthew Burke appointment to its Board of Directors
Al Lowe has been appointed as the new Board Chair, succeeding David Mead who remains an active board member, while Keith Wintermute steps into the role of Treasurer. Kyle Rohrbach continues his leadership as Vice Chair, and Janet Scherr remains in her position as Secretary. Each officer brings a wealth of experience and commitment to advancing TOArts’ mission of enriching the cultural vitality of Ventura County and the surrounding community.
Bilingual report — Ventura County Office of Education — February 2025 update
On March 11, the Ventura County Office of Education will present our 5th annual Equity Conference. Since we launched the event in 2021, its purpose has been to ensure that all students can use the power of education to build a foundation for a happy and successful life. Opening the door to that opportunity requires acknowledging that students come to our classrooms with a variety of challenges based on their family backgrounds and life experiences. In many cases, they need additional help and support to thrive in school and beyond.
Teatro de las Américas — Heard the buzz about our production of Regreso a mi CUBA? — March 7-15
Have you heard the buzz about Teatro De Las Americas’s spectacular production of Regreso a mi CUBA? It’s an event you absolutely can’t miss! Secure your seat today by grabbing your tickets online. Join us for an unforgettable experience!
County of Ventura Medical Examiner’s Office — Special Report: 2024 Fatal Overdoses
VENTURA — 1,931 deaths were reported to the Ventura County Medical Examiner’s Office during the 2024 calendar year. Jurisdiction was accepted for 903 of these deaths, requiring further investigation and certification. Postmortem examinations were performed on 701 cases. Of the cases investigated, 200 deaths were due to overdose with illicit drugs medications, alcohol or other substances.
Of the 200 overdose deaths, 183 were accidents, 15 were suicides and two deaths were of undetermined manner. Of these overdose deaths, men accounted for 145 deaths (72.5%) and women accounted for 55 deaths (27.5%).
Bilingual report — New Services Announced at Ventura County Clerk and Recorder Office in Thousand Oaks
THOUSAND OAKS — Michelle Ascencion, Ventura County Clerk-Recorder & Registrar of Voters, has announced the expansion of services at the Clerk and Recorder East County Office in Thousand Oaks.
Along with the existing services typically provided by the County Clerk – including vital records, marriage licenses and ceremonies, and fictitious business names – County Recorder services are also now available. Customers will now be able to record deeds, mortgage documents, and court decrees at the Thousand Oaks office, as well as file California Environmental Quality Act (CEQA) documents such as environmental impact reports, mitigated negative declarations, notices of determination/exemption, and California Department of Fish and Wildlife receipts.
Bilingual report — City of Santa Paula Designates Historic Tower Theater as a City Landmark
SANTA PAULA — The City of Santa Paula proudly announces the official designation of the Tower Theater, located at 982 E. Main Street, as a City Historic Landmark. The Santa Paula City Council adopted Ordinance No. 1341 following a unanimous vote on February 19, 2025, recognizing the Tower Theater’s rich history and architectural significance.
First opened as the Elektra Theatre in 1911, the Tower Theater has served as a cornerstone of Santa Paula’s cultural and entertainment history. The building, Ventura County’s oldest purpose-built movie theater, has undergone various transformations, including its time as the Mission Theatre, Columbia Theatre, and Lyric Theatre, before being rebranded as the Tower Theater in 1940. Over the years, it played a pivotal role in providing Spanish-language programming for Santa Paula’s Mexican-origin community, making it a symbol of inclusivity and cultural representation.
Bilingual commentary — Who Represents the Spirit of California?
We might find ourselves asking, “What is this ‘Spirit of California’” we hear about sometimes? We might surmise that the Spirit of California is the melting pot of our cultures, ideas, perspectives, and dreams. Indeed, we are a unique tapestry woven together by the threads of our diversity and progressive and dynamic history.
But it might be more accurate for us to ask, “Who is the Spirit of California?”
The Spirit of California is actually the embodiment of a mythology that reaches back into the mists of time and has surprising origins, especially considering the history of California.
Santa Barbara Quakers join interfaith challenge to Department of Homeland Security’s rescission of sensitive locations policy
SANTA BARBARA — Friends General Conference (FGC), a national Quaker organization, joined multiple religious organizations in challenging the Department of Homeland Security’s (DHS) reversal of the sensitive locations policy, which previously limited immigration enforcement actions at places of worship. The Santa Barbara Friends Meeting (SBFM) as an affiliate of FGC, joined this legal challenge.
We are an unprogrammed meeting of Quakers and we reaffirm that our house of worship serves as a sanctuary for all. The belief that God is within every person has powerful ramifications.
Bilingual report — Economic Development Collaborative (EDC) — Honoring Black History Month
The Economic Development Collaborative would like to recognize the month of February as Black History Month. This month is dedicated to honoring and celebrating the contributions of Black Americans throughout history. During this time, and throughout the entire year, the EDC is committed to supporting Black-owned small businesses. The following are a handful of programs* that provide support for Black-owned small businesses:
Transgender Unity March to be held March 1 in Santa Barbara
SANTA BARBARA — On Saturday, March 1st, 2025, the Santa Barbara community will stand in solidarity with a nationwide movement advocating for the rights and dignity of transgender people. The Transgender Unity March will take place at De La Guerra Plaza at noon, 20 East De la Guerra inviting transgender individuals, allies, and community members to join in support of equality and justice.
Across the country, transgender people are facing increasing threats, including policies that restrict access to healthcare, limit mobility, and endanger lives. The Transgender Unity March is a direct response to this growing discrimination, offering a platform for voices to rise against these injustices and for the community to demand action.
Ventura County Credit Union Kicks Off 75th Anniversary by Giving Back $750,000 to Local Nonprofits
VENTURA COUNTY — Ventura County Credit Union (VCCU) is celebrating 75 years of service to the community by giving back in a big way—donating $750,000 to 10 local nonprofits that make a difference in the lives of Ventura County residents. Kicking off this milestone initiative, VCCU has awarded the first two donations to Food Share of Ventura County and Turning Point Foundation, two organizations dedicated to supporting the most vulnerable members of the community.
Bilingual report — Ventura Police to hold DUI checkpoint on Friday, Feb. 21
VENTURA — The Ventura Police Department Traffic Unit will conduct a DUI checkpoint at an undisclosed location within the city limits on Friday, February 21, 2025 from 8:00 p.m. to 2:00 a.m.
DUI checkpoint locations are chosen based on data showing incidents of impaired driving-related crashes. The primary purpose of checkpoints is not to make arrests, but to promote public safety by deterring residents from driving impaired. During the checkpoint, officers will look for signs that drivers are under the influence of alcohol and/or drugs.
Bilingual report — County of Santa Barbara Board of Supervisors to meet on Feb. 25 to discuss Health Center Board Annual Report; Sable Offshore Corporation’s Change of Owner, Operator, and Guarantor; Compensation for Elected Officials
The next meeting of the County Board of Supervisors is scheduled for
9 a.m. Tuesday, February 25, 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.
CLU School of Management Center’s For Economics of Social Issues — One Week Left to Register & Join Community Conversation – 2025 Conference
The Center for Economics of Social Issues invites you to register now for its upcoming conference, which will be held on February 28th at California Lutheran University’s campus. We implore you to come and see what is going on around you. The conference will release a comprehensive study that sheds light on the urgent challenges of enjoying a dignified life on the central coast of California.
Bilingual report — Allan Hancock College buries time capsule at Lompoc Valley Center
LOMPOC — Allan Hancock College staff, faculty and students gathered at the college’s Lompoc Valley Center to bury a time capsule in celebration of the LVC on Feb. 18.
The metal time capsule, which was designed and fabricated by Hancock welding professor Gabriel Marquez, contains more than 20 items gathered by college staff and faculty that represent history at the college between 2020 and 2024. The capsule will be unearthed in 2049 when the LVC celebrates its 50th anniversary.
Prom attire donations needed through April 11 at Simi and Yarrow YMCAs
SIMI VALLEY — The Simi Valley Family YMCA, Yarrow Family YMCA and Soroptimist International of Simi Valley are hosting a Prom Closet at the two branches of the Southeast Ventura County YMCA. Donations of clean, gently used or new formal wear for use by high schoolers attending prom are being accepted. Items can be dropped off at the Simi Valley Family YMCA (3200 Cochran St.) between now and March 21 and through April 11 at the Yarrow Family YMCA (31105 E. Thousand Oaks Blvd., Westlake Village).
The Women’s Fund of Santa Barbara announces record grants pool of $1,250,000 for 2025
SANTA BARBARA — The Women’s Fund of Santa Barbara is excited to announce a grants pool of $1,250,000. On May 20, at the Celebration of Grants at the Lobero Theatre, the money will be distributed to local nonprofits for programs addressing the critical needs of women, children, and families in south Santa Barbara County.
The record-breaking grants pool makes the Women’s Fund one of the largest collective giving circles in the country. Since its founding by 12 local women in 2004, the organization has grown to over 1,400 members and has awarded nearly $13 million to nonprofits in the community over the past 20 years.
UCSB — The Current — ‘Topological quantum processor marks breakthrough in computing’ and more news, events
Microsoft team led by UC Santa Barbara physicists unveils first-of-its-kind topological qubit, paving the way for a more fault-tolerant quantum computer.
CSUCI receives prestigious Carnegie designation
CSUCI joins 11 of the 23 campuses in the California State University system that have received the new Carnegie designation and is among 216 RCU universities across the country.
The RCU designation is a new classification intended to recognize institutions of higher education that have conducted a significant amount of valuable research but have previously been overlooked. Awardees spend at least $2.5 million on research on average in a single year, and this designation aims to acknowledge the growing research efforts in institutions that may not fit the criteria for a traditional “Research 1” (R1) status.
Rodeo donates to local charities in San Luis Obispo County
“Creston Classic Rodeo is pleased to present these funds to support local efforts to fill the needs of the Creston Community,” said CCR President Tom Bordonaro. “These funds will go a long way to building a facility for all Crestonians to enjoy as well as continue the over 60 year tradition of providing a pool for Creston kids.”
Museum of Ventura County announces upcoming Culture & Agriculture programs
Saturday, February 22
11:00 am – 2:00 pm
@Agriculture Museum
926 Railroad Ave., Santa Paula
Explore the Agriculture Museum’s Helen K. Pidduck Garden and learn how to use the basic elements of earth, wind, fire, and water in home gardening strategies to support sustainable agriculture. Learn how to plan and create a productive food garden that thrives in Ventura County’s coastal climate. There will be a presentation at 11:30 am given by UC Master Gardener Terry Garman. This will be followed by two hands-on workshops: putting together an irrigation system and effective composting techniques.
Ventura County Fire Dept. — Division Chief Barry Parker promoted to assistant fire chief of the Support Services Bureau
Parker’s promotion marks a significant milestone in his distinguished 30-year career. Recognizing his dedication and leadership, Fire Chief Gardner stated, “Barry has consistently risen above expectations and stands in a league of his own. With this well-earned promotion, we are thrilled to recognize his unwavering commitment and professionalism.”
Former Santa Barbara PASF winner Alexander Lipay takes home two Grammy Awards
Lipay won the awards for Best Classical Compendium 2024 and Best Orchestral Performance 2024 at the 67th Annual Grammy Awards ceremony in Los Angeles earlier this month alongside the Los Angeles Philharmonic and conductor Gustavo Dudamel. The awards recognized the orchestra’s recording of Revolución Diamantina, a ballet score by renowned Mexican composer Gabriela Ortiz. Lipay engineered the recording alongside his father, Dmitriy Lipay.
Join us at our next Community Environmental Council (CEC) Youth Climate Workshop: Sustainable Fashion on March 1
In this workshop, we’ll focus on the impacts of the fashion industry and what we can do to lighten our footprint. Come meet local experts and enjoy fun activities!
Registration opens March 10 for CSU Channel Island’s Osher Lifelong Learning Institute (OLLI) spring classes
In OLLI at CSUCI’s Spring II session, you can enjoy fascinating courses without the stress of grades or tests. Explore subjects including world history, physical geography, music, philosophy, environmental studies, and more—all for the joy of learning! We are also excited to offer even more flexibility with early morning and late afternoon classes, making it easier to fit learning into your schedule.
Bilingual report — Educators, families, and members of the community are invited to attend the Ventura County Office of Education Equity Conference on March 11
This free event will feature a variety of speakers and workshops in English and Spanish on increasing opportunities and removing obstacles for all students. Food, drinks, and language interpretation will be provided.
Keynote Presentation
We are thrilled to have a keynote presentation from Shane Safir and Dr. Jamila Dugan, the authors of Street Data, the landmark book about rethinking the ways data can be used to promote equity in schools.
CSUCI to celebrate education with Black communities on Super Sunday on Feb. 23
CAMARILLO — CSU Channel Islands (CSUCI) will join other CSU campuses across California on Feb. 23 for Super Sunday, a day when predominately Black and African American faith-based organizations gather to stress the importance of preparing for college.
This year’s Super Sunday event will be held from 2 to 4 p.m. at the Oxnard Performing Arts Center (OPAC) at 800 Hobson Way in Oxnard. Super Sunday will include food, activities and entertainment, as well remarks from CSUCI President Richard Yao. Staff members from CSUCI will be available to provide information on the application and admission process for prospective CSUCI students.?
“Super Sunday in this iteration is designed to bring together community in celebration of the importance of education in our own backyard,” said CSUCI Vice President for Student Affairs Eboni Ford-Turnbow. “I look forward to how this event continues to grow and how community relationships support our students.”
UCSB — The Current — ‘Predicting seasonal changes in river networks’ and more news, events
A team led by research associate Jeff Prancevic provides the first ever predictions for the dynamic flooding and emptying of stream networks.
Read more about their findings
Guest contribution — Take To The Great Outdoors For Island Packers Winter Whale Watching And Excursions To The Channel Islands National Park And National Marine Sanctuary!
VENTURA — A winter whale watch excursion is the perfect way to gather with family and friends to witness the inspiring migration of Pacific Gray whales as they travel through the Santa Barbara Channel near Anacapa and Santa Cruz Island.
“This mammoth migration of more than 20,000 whales and 6,000 miles continues to remain a major attraction in Southern California,” said President Cherryl Connally of Island Packers. “Located in scenic Ventura Harbor Village, we invite visitors to plan on booking this “must-see” experience soon as part of their fun for the entire family Spring Break activities. “
Ventura County Civic Alliance February Livable Communities Newsletter
Volume 20 / Number 73 / February 2025 Your Livable Communities Newsletter VISIT OUR WEBSITE For almost 20 years, the Ventura County Civic Alliance Livable Communities working group has been publishing its quarterly newsletter. These newsletters were grounded by the American…
Ventura County Community Foundation — From the Heart — The New Look of VCCF
The Ventura County Community Foundation, your community foundation, has been in awe of this county’s love and generosity since we first opened our doors in 1987, and when we come together and bring our passions and talents to support our neighbors, anything is possible. From community leadership to philanthropic consulting, we work hand-in-hand with our neighbors to envision an engaged and thriving community inspired by growing generosity.
We invite you to visit our brand-new website and get to know your community foundation below. You may learn something new about the good work happening in your community! Thank you for joining us on this exciting journey into the future of philanthropy in Ventura County.
Nicholas ‘Scott’ Vincent joins the Board of Directors for the Foundation for Cottage Rehabilitation & Goleta Valley Cottage Hospitals
Vincent holds a Bachelor of Arts in Economics from Bucknell University and earned a J.D. from the University of San Diego School of Law. He served as legal counsel for numerous departments at the City of Santa Barbara from 2004 until his retirement in 2018.
His previous board experience includes serving on various committees with the Foundation for Santa Barbara City College for ten years, including a four-year term as Board President. He is also active in volunteering and fundraising for several local charities such as Calm, the Alzheimer’s Association and Transition House.
Ventura County Superintendent of Schools Dr. César Morales honored with CALSA M.A.S. Award
VENTURA COUNTY — Dr. César Morales, Ventura County Superintendent of Schools, was recognized last week by the California Association of Latino Superintendents & Administrators (CALSA) for his outstanding contributions to educational leadership. Dr. Morales received the prestigious M.A.S. Award—representing Mentorship, Advocacy, and Sponsorship—during the CALSA aPODERar Symposium in San Francisco.
The award was presented by Dr. Terry Walker, Director of the CALSA Women’s Leadership Network, who commended Dr. Morales for his commitment to creating opportunities for advancement in educational leadership.
Bilingual commentary — Learning to Write Well
Outside forces are conditioning our young people to absorb information from dubious sources via sound bites and swipes across tiny screens. As a result, it has become more challenging than ever to convince them that learning how to write—and write well—is increasingly important.
We could list countless indisputable reasons for the importance of learning how to write well. Among all those reasons for young people in particular, there are two that should serve as potent inducements: academic success and career advancement.
LULAC Officially Launches El Pueblo Unido: A Resource Guide for Community Leaders
LULAC is proud to announce the official launch of El Pueblo Unido: A Resource Guide for Community Leaders—a vital tool designed to help key institutions navigate recent policy changes impacting immigrant communities.
This guide builds on El Escudo: Immigrant Rights and Resources Toolkit, which we launched just a few weeks ago. El Escudo serves as a one-stop shop for immigrants to understand their rights, prepare for potential deportation, and access critical resources. True to LULAC’s legacy of using El Escudo—“the shield”—to protect Latino communities from injustice, this latest resource shifts the focus to empowering community leaders so they can support and defend those most vulnerable.