Author: Community Contributor

Gabe Grandcolas named president of the Santa Barbara Athletic Round Table Board of Directors

by  •  • Comments Off on Gabe Grandcolas named president of the Santa Barbara Athletic Round Table Board of Directors

SANTA BARBARA — The Santa Barbara Athletic Round Table (SBART) is pleased to announce that Santa Barbara native Gabe Grandcolas has been named president of its board of directors, taking on a leadership role with an organization that has supported and celebrated local student-athletes for nearly 60 years.

Grandcolas brings deep roots in the Santa Barbara community to the role. He graduated from Santa Barbara High School, where he was a high school baseball pitcher, before heading to the University of Southern California’s Marshall School of Business, where he graduated cum laude. As the Sales Director with the Knight Real Estate Group, Grandcolas built his reputation on careful listening, creative problem-solving and giving clients a clear understanding of their options, whether they are selling a family property or looking to call the greater Santa Barbara area home.

Read more →

UCSB Associated Students executive appointed to Isla Vista Government Board of Directors

by  •  • Comments Off on UCSB Associated Students executive appointed to Isla Vista Government Board of Directors

SANTA BARBARA —  Noah Luken, the 2026-27 Associated Students of UCSB’s Executive Vice President of Local Affairs, has been appointed to serve on the Isla Vista Community Services District (CSD or IVCSD) board of directors. Luken will fill the remaining term of Director Edward Pilotte, a recent graduate of UC Santa Barbara.  

“I applied for the IVCSD Board of Directors to bridge the institutional gap between the two most influential public-facing entities in Isla Vista — Associated Students and the Community Services District,”  said Luken, a fourth-year economics and philosophy double major at UCSB. “This will allow for greater collaboration and coordinated efforts when addressing issues faced by students and Isla Vista residents.”

Read more →

Last chance to become a Community Environmental Council (CEC) Climate Steward this fall!

by  •  • Comments Off on Last chance to become a Community Environmental Council (CEC) Climate Steward this fall!

Over seven weeks, you’ll explore the science and solutions behind the climate crisis facing our region, hear from local experts and climate leaders, and connect with others who want to make a difference. You’ll have chances to put what you learn into practice through hands-on field experiences and a stewardship project centered on an issue you care about. You don’t have to do it alone — we’ll be there to guide you!

Read more →

Bilingual report — Following 33 Years of Public Service, Oxnard Police Chief Jason Benites announces retirement; Assistant Chief Rocky Marquez named as next police chief

by  •  • Comments Off on Bilingual report — Following 33 Years of Public Service, Oxnard Police Chief Jason Benites announces retirement; Assistant Chief Rocky Marquez named as next police chief

“On behalf of the Oxnard community, we thank Chief Benites for his steadfast leadership of the department over the past six years and his decades of service dedicated to keeping Oxnard safe,” said Nguyen. “We’re fortunate to have strong leadership within our Police Department, and I am confident that Rocky Marquez will continue the department’s commitment to excellence and service to our community as our next Police Chief.”

Read more →

Guest contribution — Celebrating 15 Years of the Salena Bracamontes Insurance Agency

by  •  • Comments Off on Guest contribution — Celebrating 15 Years of the Salena Bracamontes Insurance Agency

VENTURA — Fifteen years ago, Salena Bracamontes took a leap into business ownership and opened the doors to her own State Farm agency. Today, she’s built so much more than a successful business with the Salena Bracamontes Insurance Agency, she’s built a dedicated team, lasting relationships with clients, and a reputation for showing up for the people and community she cares about.

Read more →

Santa Barbara area businesses collecting diapers for babies in need

by  •  • Comments Off on Santa Barbara area businesses collecting diapers for babies in need

SANTA BARBARA — For families with babies and toddlers, diapers are not optional—but for too many families across Santa Barbara County, having enough diapers each month can be a serious financial challenge. In recognition of National Diaper Need Awareness week, LEAP is calling on community members to help ensure local families have access to this basic necessity by donating diapers and wipes through its annual month-long community diaper drive.

“Every donation helps us put diapers in the hands of parents who need them most,” said Lori Goodman, CEO of LEAP. “Together, we can relieve some of the daily stress families face and make sure babies across our county have the healthy start they deserve.”

Read more →

Community Food Pantry at Girls Inc. relocating to Carpinteria Children’s Project

by  •  • Comments Off on Community Food Pantry at Girls Inc. relocating to Carpinteria Children’s Project

CARPINTERIA — Girls Inc. of Carpinteria is happy to announce that their on-campus community food pantry will be relocating and transitioning into the care of trusted community partner Carpinteria Children’s Project. 

Over the coming weeks, team members from both organizations will work closely together to ensure a seamless transition that provides members of the Carpinteria community with continued access to household necessities and kitchen staples. 

The decision to transfer stewardship of the food pantry is one that allows Girls Inc. of Carpinteria to focus its resources on impacting girls in the community and continuing its core mission of inspiring all girls to be strong, smart, and bold. 

Read more →

Bilingual report — City of Camarillo Business Assistance Loans now Available

by  •  • Comments Off on Bilingual report — City of Camarillo Business Assistance Loans now Available

In partnership with the City of Camarillo, the Economic Development Collaborative has launched the City of Camarillo Business Assistance Loan Fund. This low-interest program is specifically designed to prioritize the vibrant business community in the City of Camarillo. Start-ups can get the necessary capital to launch their ventures and established businesses can secure funds to fuel their growth. With abundant opportunities for collaboration, a diverse customer base and an environment of innovation, Camarillo is a perfect place to start or grow your business.

Read more →

Friendship Center Adult Day Care Center in Santa Barbara — The Friendly Finch: September 2026

by  •  • Comments Off on Friendship Center Adult Day Care Center in Santa Barbara — The Friendly Finch: September 2026

I am writing this letter whilst attending the National Adult Day Services Association conference with our Program Director (recently promoted!), Nerely, and Lead Program Specialist/Volunteer Coordinator, Mary. We are thrilled to be here learning about ways to further improve and expand FC’s programs and services, but do forgive any lack of cohesion in this letter, as traveling to Providence took us more plane time than my trips to and from school in Australia. Four legs of flight, a cross-state-lines Uber, and we are here!

Read more →

County of Santa Barbara and City of SB Housing Authorities seeking help from county renters and rental property owners to show true cost of rental housing

by  •  • Comments Off on County of Santa Barbara and City of SB Housing Authorities seeking help from county renters and rental property owners to show true cost of rental housing

SANTA BARBARA — The City and County Housing Authorities are asking community members to complete a short rental market survey.

A SB County-wide request is being made to renters and rental property owners to complete a short rental market survey to help determine the true cost of rental housing.

Read more →

Downtown Oxnard — See upcoming events here

by  •  • Comments Off on Downtown Oxnard — See upcoming events here

First Thursdays Food Trucks returns to Downtown Oxnard this Thursday, Sept. 3rd!  Dinner, dessert, drinks — and plenty of choices all in one place. Grab your crew and make a night of it in Downtown Oxnard!
Live music + 13 Food Trucks + Marketplace

Read more →

Housing Trust Fund Ventura County announces $500,000 loan for a 21-unit supportive housing development in Santa Paula

by  •  • Comments Off on Housing Trust Fund Ventura County announces $500,000 loan for a 21-unit supportive housing development in Santa Paula

“Predevelopment financing is often the hardest capital to secure, but it’s what allows a project like Gateway Grove to move from an idea to groundbreaking,” said Linda Braunschweiger, CEO of Housing Trust Fund Ventura County. “By stepping in early, we’re helping the Santa Paula Housing Authority, Many Mansions, and Homes & Hope turn a vacant motel into 21 homes for people who need them most, including veterans who have served our country.”

Read more →

VCCF scholarship season surpasses $2 million milestone in awards

by  •  • Comments Off on VCCF scholarship season surpasses $2 million milestone in awards

CAMARILLO — The Ventura County Community Foundation Scholarship Program has awarded $2,009,312 to students across the county for the 2026 season, exceeding the nonprofit’s past scholarship grantmaking record.

“As another incredible scholarship season closes and we enter a new school year, we are proud to celebrate the hard work and promise of the students this program exists to serve,” said Kirsti Vomund, VCCF scholarship director. “This year, we awarded 610 scholarships to 441 students, making this our biggest award year ever!”

Read more →

United Way of Ventura County — Thank you for making our Spirit Awards Gala a success!

by  •  • Comments Off on United Way of Ventura County — Thank you for making our Spirit Awards Gala a success!

This special event would not be possible without our incredible award recipients and the meaningful work they do for our Ventura County community, as well as our presenters, sponsors, donors, performers, volunteers, vendors, and United Way staff. We are so grateful for your support and partnership in making this celebration a success!

Read more →

Commercial Fishermen of Santa Barbara receives over $500,000 from State Coastal Conservancy to launch the Ocean Collective with SBCC

by  •  • Comments Off on Commercial Fishermen of Santa Barbara receives over $500,000 from State Coastal Conservancy to launch the Ocean Collective with SBCC

SANTA BARBARA — The Commercial Fishermen of Santa Barbara (CFSB) has been awarded $507,500 from the California State Coastal Conservancy to launch the Ocean Collective, a partnership dedicated to building career pathways and shared infrastructure for the region’s Blue Economy. SCC funding comes from the voter approved Safe Drinking Water, Wildfire Prevention, Drought Preparedness, and Clean Air Bond Act of 2024 (a.k.a. “2024 Climate Bond” or “Proposition 4”).

Read more →

Housing Authority Executive Director/CEO Rob Fredericks announces planned retirement at end of 2027

by  •  • Comments Off on Housing Authority Executive Director/CEO Rob Fredericks announces planned retirement at end of 2027

SANTA BARBARA — Rob Fredericks, Executive Director and CEO of the Housing Authority of the City of Santa Barbara, has announced his intent to retire at the end of December 2027, following more than three decades of service to the Housing Authority and nearly twelve years as its Executive Director/CEO.

Fredericks shared his planned retirement with the Housing Authority Commission to provide ample time for a thoughtful, orderly, and successful leadership transition. The advance notice will allow the Commission to develop a recruitment and transition plan for the agency’s next Executive Director/CEO, while ensuring continued stability for the residents, participants, staff, partners, and community members who depend on the Housing Authority’s work.

Read more →

Guest contribution — TruNorth Jets — Book Vacations 90 Days Prior to Takeoff

by  •  • Comments Off on Guest contribution — TruNorth Jets — Book Vacations 90 Days Prior to Takeoff

SANTA ROSA VALLEY — With the holidays less than 90 days out, now is the prime time to consider booking arrangements in order to maximize savings on costs as well as time.

Typically, the Wednesday before Thanksgiving is the busiest travel day of the year in the U.S. If you plan to travel on that day, you will definitely need to get ahead of the holiday rush. Booking ahead allows you more flexibility to adjust travel dates if necessary and can help lessen the stress of having to book everything last minute.

Additionally, as the holidays near, flight prices will increase as availability dwindles and demand escalates. By securing bookings in advance, travelers increase their likelihood to secure the best pricing for their trips.

Read more →

Santa Paula Chamber of Commerce announces action-packed September event calendar

by  •  • Comments Off on Santa Paula Chamber of Commerce announces action-packed September event calendar

SANTA PAULA — The Santa Paula Chamber of Commerce is pleased to announce a robust lineup of community events throughout September 2026. From the beloved monthly Cruise Night — kicking off a festive Labor Day weekend — to a Candidates Forum ahead of the November election, a ribbon cutting celebrating new housing investment and a downtown business mixer, September promises to be one of the most active and community-centered months of the year in historic Santa Paula.

Read more →

September at the Santa Paula Art Museum

by  •  • Comments Off on September at the Santa Paula Art Museum

This month, Free Family Day returns! Plus, don’t miss the premiere of Gail Faulkner: A Lasting Impression, an artist talk with Ojai artists Wrona Gall and Ted Gall, more than a dozen new classes, and more.

Read more →

SEEAG receives $40,000 AgWest Farm Credit Grant For Southbank Learning Farm

by  •  • Comments Off on SEEAG receives $40,000 AgWest Farm Credit Grant For Southbank Learning Farm

VENTURA — Students for Eco-Education and Agriculture (SEEAG) has received a $40,000 grant from AgWest Farm Credit to help prepare and develop the organization’s new Southbank Learning Farm, a 3.63-acre agricultural education and workforce development site located behind the Ventura County Juvenile Facilities in Oxnard.

The grant will support the development of a unique community resource where agriculture serves as a catalyst for education, career exploration, food security, environmental stewardship, and new opportunities for local youth.

Read more →

New all-organic nursery opens in Ojai, serving Central Coast farmers

by  •  • Comments Off on New all-organic nursery opens in Ojai, serving Central Coast farmers

“We are thrilled to welcome Midpoint Organic Transplants to the Ojai food and farming community,” said Whitney Clapper, Co-Founder and Executive Director of Farmhand Foundation. “By providing organic farmers with the high-quality starts they need to keep growing healthy food, Midpoint is filling a vital role in our regional food system. Having this resource close to home strengthens our local growers, supports the continued production of fresh, thoughtfully grown food, and helps build a more resilient agricultural community for the future. Farmhand Foundation was proud to help Midpoint get off the ground through grant writing, encouragement, and plenty of cheerleading along the way, and we look forward to continuing to support their work however we can as they grow.”

Read more →

Housing Authority of the City of Santa Barbara Earns A+ Credit Rating from S&P Global

by  •  • Comments Off on Housing Authority of the City of Santa Barbara Earns A+ Credit Rating from S&P Global

For HACSB, however, the rating is not simply a measure of financial strength. It is another tool to advance the agency’s mission. HACSB measures success in human terms: more families with safe and stable homes, more seniors able to age with dignity, stronger neighborhoods, and more residents connected to opportunities and pathways to self-sufficiency.

Read more →

Governor Signs Bennett’s bill for water adjudication proof of mailing

by  •  • Comments Off on Governor Signs Bennett’s bill for water adjudication proof of mailing

“AB 2125 protects small farmers and individual water rights holders by ensuring they are properly notified of adjudications that impact their rights,” said Assemblymember Steve Bennett. “In Ventura County, the Las Posas adjudication affected thousands of residents, many of whom never received notice.”

Read more →

CSUCI joins national AI research effort through DOE Genesis Mission Award

by  •  • Comments Off on CSUCI joins national AI research effort through DOE Genesis Mission Award

“It is especially exciting to win a place for CSUCI in a fiercely competitive grant sought after by our nation’s greatest science institutions. Only 5% of applications were selected for funding,” said Feister. “This honor is a testament to the strength of the research being done at CSUCI and the expertise of our faculty. We may be a small institution, but we’re doing research that can make a meaningful contribution to some of the nation’s most ambitious scientific and technological efforts.”

Read more →

My Way Home — FREE Reverse Mortgage Counseling

by  •  • Comments Off on My Way Home — FREE Reverse Mortgage Counseling

Are you a homeowner age 62 or older?

You may have questions about how your home can support your financial goals during retirement.

My Way Home offers free reverse mortgage counseling to help senior homeowners understand how a reverse mortgage works and whether it may be right for their individual situation.

Read more →

Santa Barbara Museum of Art (SBMA) — 1st Thursday Special Event: Robot Karaoke

by  •  • Comments Off on Santa Barbara Museum of Art (SBMA) — 1st Thursday Special Event: Robot Karaoke

Exhibitions & Events
Sept 1 – 13
Sing Karaoke and
Create Your Own Art!
‘Robot Karaoke’ written in bold yellow and blue text over an image of silhouetted people singing karaoke.
Image courtesy of Jamie Brew
ROBOT KARAOKE
Thursday, September 3, 5 – 8 pm
On your 1st Thursday Art Walk, sing songs you know with never-before-sung lyrics generated from bizarre Internet datasets. Spam emails to the tune of “Sweet Caroline” OkCupid profiles in the style of “Pink Pony Club” The choice is yours! Comedian and writer Jamie Brew creates parodies for you to perform in real time using software from the utmost frontier of karaoke research. This event celebrates the final month of the special exhibition RANDOM-ACCESS MEMORY: Internet Art. FREE.
LEARN MORE

Read more →

County of Ventura District 2 Supervisor Jeff Gorell — Local Girl Scout Honored with USA Medal of Honor

by  •  • Comments Off on County of Ventura District 2 Supervisor Jeff Gorell — Local Girl Scout Honored with USA Medal of Honor

Earlier this year, the local 6th grader was attending a Girl Scout camporee when her best friend and fellow Scout suddenly began choking on a marshmallow and couldn’t breathe. Without hesitation, Gemma recognized the emergency and sprang into action. She administered back blows, successfully clearing the obstruction. She then stayed by her friend’s side, comforting and reassuring her until adults arrived.

Read more →

Signups underway for Southeast Ventura County’s YMCA’s Youth & Government Programs; Deadline is Sept. 16

by  •  • Comments Off on Signups underway for Southeast Ventura County’s YMCA’s Youth & Government Programs; Deadline is Sept. 16

For over 75 years, California YMCA Youth & Government has provided high school youth with a learning program modeling California’s legislature and courts. The program offers teen participants the opportunity to learn how government works, collaborate with others, make new friends and build skills such as critical thinking, persuasive public speaking, writing and research.

Read more →

Bilingual report — The latest news from the County of Ventura

by  •  • Comments Off on Bilingual report — The latest news from the County of Ventura

Help the County Plan for Disasters – Share your feedback!

What hazards concern you most in Ventura County and what should we be doing now to prepare for them?

That’s what Ventura County’s Hazard Mitigation Plan is all about. Simply put, it’s a roadmap for identifying the disasters most likely to impact our communities and taking steps before they happen to reduce damage and protect the people, places and services we rely on. And we need your input!

Take our short survey by September 15th and tell us

Read more →

Cabrillo Economic Development Corp., Boys & Girls Clubs of Greater Oxnard and Port Hueneme complete inaugural Summer to Remember program

by  •  • Comments Off on Cabrillo Economic Development Corp., Boys & Girls Clubs of Greater Oxnard and Port Hueneme complete inaugural Summer to Remember program

VENTURA COUNTY — Cabrillo Economic Development Corporation (Cabrillo EDC) and the Boys & Girls Clubs of Greater Oxnard and Port Hueneme announced the successful completion of their inaugural Summer to Remember program, an eight-week enrichment initiative that served 15 children living at Dolores Huerta Gardens Apartments in Oxnard from June 22 through August 14. The program brought free, on-site academic support, recreation and creative programming directly to the community where these children live, marking Cabrillo EDC’s first partnership that expands summer services for young residents.

Read more →

Bilingual commentary — The Dust Bowl: A Warning for Modern America

by  •  • Comments Off on Bilingual commentary — The Dust Bowl: A Warning for Modern America

A couple of weeks ago, I randomly chose a book to read from one of the “little libraries” that people put up in their front yards. Despite considering myself somewhat of an optimist, a book by Timothy Egan, The Worst Hard Time, caught my eye. 

This book is about the Great American Dust Bowl, that period of our history marked by immense environmental, economic, and agricultural hardship. The Dust Bowl coincided with the Great Depression, something that my parents and grandparents lived through—and fortunately survived. 

Read more →

Guest contribution — Moorpark Moms for Progressive Values — Follow-Up on Moorpark’s Flock Cameras

by  •  • Comments Off on Guest contribution — Moorpark Moms for Progressive Values — Follow-Up on Moorpark’s Flock Cameras

One of California’s safest cities is preparing for a September debate over why its 15 fixed Flock license plate reader cameras remain in place after Ventura County data was made available to out-of-state and federal agencies in violation of California law.

During a one-month period in early 2025, out-of-state agencies ran more than 364,000 searches against the Ventura County Sheriff’s Office’s Flock network, even though VCSO believed national access had been disabled since 2023. Immigration enforcement was referenced in the justifications for 299 searches. Flock has acknowledged that the access was unauthorized but said its technical logs cannot fully explain how it occurred.

Read more →

Come Home to Friendship Center: Our 50th Anniversary Reunion

by  •  • Comments Off on Come Home to Friendship Center: Our 50th Anniversary Reunion

Friendship Center is 50! Wow!

For 35 years this September, I have the joy of being part of this very special community. Many of you receiving this email, I know personally. I’ve had the privilege of connecting with so many members, families, and friends through my many roles at Friendship Center, from directing our buses and taking members on field trips to leading our Connections program, working at our Montecito and Goleta locations, running the Gold Program, and now serving as our Membership Liaison.

Read more →

Bilingual report — County of Ventura honors 25 longtime employees representing 680 years of public service

by  •  • Comments Off on Bilingual report — County of Ventura honors 25 longtime employees representing 680 years of public service

VENTURA — The Ventura County Board of Supervisors recently recognized twenty-five County of Ventura employees for their longstanding commitment to public service and whose careers collectively span 680 years. Celebrated during the Board of Supervisors regular meeting on Tuesday, August 18, the employees marked career milestones of 25, 30 and 35 years of employment with County agencies. Over the course of their careers, the employees have helped deliver essential services, respond to changing community needs, and provide the experience and expertise that keep County operations moving forward.

With each honoree marking at least 25 years of County service, their careers represent decades of institutional knowledge and commitment to public service that have helped shape the programs and services Ventura County residents rely on today.

Read more →

Bilingual report — Peoples’ Self-Help Housing (PSHH) August 2026 newsletter

by  •  • Comments Off on Bilingual report — Peoples’ Self-Help Housing (PSHH) August 2026 newsletter

Lea en español | Received this from a friend? Subscribe! eNewsletter | August 2026 Here’s to 56 years! This month, nearly 200 People’s team members from throughout the Central Coast came together to mark the milestone. Friend, The coming months will…

Read more →

Museum of Ventura County — Taste of History Ticket Sales Close Sept. 1 + Upcoming Events at the Ag

by  •  • Comments Off on Museum of Ventura County — Taste of History Ticket Sales Close Sept. 1 + Upcoming Events at the Ag

Thursday, September 10 | 5:30–9:30 PM
Sherwood Country Club, Thousand Oaks

Step back into the glamour of the 1920s for an unforgettable evening celebrating Ventura County’s remarkable role in the early days of filmmaking. Join us for Taste of History: The Silent Movie Era, featuring fine dining, vintage-inspired cocktails, live entertainment, dancing, and an exciting live auction.

The evening will also feature the presentation of the Museum of Ventura County’s Lifetime Achievement Awards honoring Chuck Cohen and Joanie Young. Celebrate their extraordinary contributions to Ventura County and their lasting impact on our community.

Read more →

One Step A La Vez 2nd Quarter Update

by  •  • Comments Off on One Step A La Vez 2nd Quarter Update

One Step A La Vez is in an important season of growth, reflection, and renewal. As we look toward the future, we also want to honor the people whose dedication and service have helped shape our organization. We extend our heartfelt gratitude to Amanda Garza, Diana Madrigal and Yuliana Suarez, who recently departed One Step after many years of commitment to our youth, families, and community. Their time, energy, care, and talents have left a lasting impact, and we are deeply grateful for all they contributed to One Step’s journey.

Read more →

Bilingual report — Three additional birds test positive for West Nile Virus in Ventura County

by  •  • Comments Off on Bilingual report — Three additional birds test positive for West Nile Virus in Ventura County

VENTURA — The Ventura County Environmental Health Division (Division) received confirmation from the California Department of Public Health that a bird collected in the city of Camarillo on August 1, 2026, and two birds collected in the city of Ventura on August 3, 2026, tested positive for West Nile virus (WNV). All mosquito breeding sources in the area where the birds were collected will be inspected and treated if evidence of mosquito breeding is observed. Ventura County Public Health and Environmental Health are closely monitoring WNV activity, including the increase in WNV cases and the recent WNV-related death in Los Angeles County.

Public Health confirms that no human cases of WNV have been identified to date in 2026 in Ventura County.

Read more →

UCSB — The Current — ‘Deep learning refines how bionic eyes communicate with the brain’ and more news

by  •  • Comments Off on UCSB — The Current — ‘Deep learning refines how bionic eyes communicate with the brain’ and more news

Computer scientist Michael Beyeler and colleagues use a deep-learning model to design patterns of electrical stimulation for electrodes temporarily implanted in a blind participant’s brain.

Read more about the findings

Read more →

Food Share to break ground on future home of Ventura County’s Food Bank

by  •  • Comments Off on Food Share to break ground on future home of Ventura County’s Food Bank

OXNARD — Food Share of Ventura County invites the entire community to celebrate a historic milestone in the fight against hunger as the organization breaks ground on the future home of Ventura County’s food bank on Friday, September 11, 2026, from 3:00–5:00 p.m. at 1425 Mariner Drive in Oxnard.

The free community celebration will mark the ceremonial groundbreaking of Food Share’s new 85,000-square-foot facility, a transformational project designed to dramatically expand the organization’s capacity to serve Ventura County for decades to come.

The groundbreaking is part of Feeding Our Future, Food Share’s $50 million capital campaign to build a food bank capable of meeting both today’s unprecedented need and the needs of a growing community well into the future.

Read more →

Leadership Ventura County unveils new identity, launches expanded programming across the county

by  •  • Comments Off on Leadership Ventura County unveils new identity, launches expanded programming across the county

VENTURA COUNTY — Over 200 community leaders, alumni and partners gathered Thursday, Aug. 20th, at the Ventura County Office of Education for The Big Reveal Party, where the organization formerly known as Ventura County Leadership Academy introduced its new name, Leadership Ventura County, alongside an expanded slate of leadership programming built to reach more of Ventura County.

While Leadership Ventura County’s new identity marks a visible change, organization leaders say the programming behind it is the real story: a broader, more accessible approach to developing leaders across the region.

“Our new name, Leadership Ventura County, is really about access,” said Pattie Braga, Executive Director. “With Leadership Class, Leadership Explore, Leadership Elevate, and Leadership Connect, we now have programs tailored to where someone is at personally or within their career, whether that’s a nine-month deep dive or a first step into their community. This next chapter is about opening that door wider for more people across the county.”

Read more →

Santa Barbara to host Inaugural California Ocean Summit (on Dec. 9-11), uniting the State’s Top Ocean Scientists, Policymakers, Investors and Innovators

by  •  • Comments Off on Santa Barbara to host Inaugural California Ocean Summit (on Dec. 9-11), uniting the State’s Top Ocean Scientists, Policymakers, Investors and Innovators

SANTA BARBARA — Registration is now open for the inaugural California Ocean Summit, a landmark three-day convening taking place December 9–11, 2026, in Santa Barbara. Bringing together leading ocean scientists, policymakers, investors, innovators, and advocates from across California and beyond, the Summit will showcase solutions, mobilize capital toward ocean impact, and build the cross-sector relationships needed to turn shared ambition into coordinated ocean action.

Read more →

CSUCI unveils refreshed brand identity rooted in opportunity, connection and a distinctive sense of place

by  •  • Comments Off on CSUCI unveils refreshed brand identity rooted in opportunity, connection and a distinctive sense of place

CAMARILLO — Cal State Channel Islands (CSUCI) on Aug. 24 unveiled a refreshed brand that celebrates the University’s distinctive sense of place while giving CSUCI a unified voice, visuals, and digital presence for the future.

The refreshed brand is part of a broader effort to strengthen how CSUCI communicates its distinctive value to prospective and current students, employees, alumni, donors, community partners, and the region. More than a new visual identity, the work clarifies CSUCI’s institutional identity, the value of a CSUCI education, and the experiences that distinguish the University.

Read more →

City of Santa Paula opens cooling center amid high temperatures

by  •  • Comments Off on City of Santa Paula opens cooling center amid high temperatures

SANTA PAULA — With temperatures expected to reach 90 degrees or higher for several consecutive days this week, the City of Santa Paula will open a cooling center at the Santa Paula Community Center to provide residents with a place to find relief from the heat.

The cooling center will be located in the front lobby of the Santa Paula Community Center, 530 W. Main St., Santa Paula, and will be available Monday through Friday from 10:00 a.m. to 5:00 p.m.

Read more →

Hospice of Santa Barbara announces 2026 Heroes of Hospice Award recipients

by  •  • Comments Off on Hospice of Santa Barbara announces 2026 Heroes of Hospice Award recipients

SANTA BARBARA — Hospice of Santa Barbara (HSB) is honored to announce the 2026 Heroes of Hospice award recipients, recognized for their outstanding service and dedication to the health and well-being of our community. The honorees will be celebrated at Hospice of Santa Barbara’s 14th Annual Heroes of Hospice (HOH) luncheon on Sunday, Sept. 27, 2026, from 11:00 AM to 1:30 PM at the Hilton Santa Barbara Beachfront Resort. Inspired by poet Mary Oliver’s timeless question, “Tell me, what is it you plan to do with your one wild and precious life?”, this year’s Heroes of Hospice luncheon will be a celebration of the people we love, the ordinary moments that give life meaning, and the simple joys that become our most treasured memories.  This year’s Heroes of Hospice Award recipients are:

Read more →

Bilingual report — VSP Eyes of Hope, SEE International provided free eye exams and glasses to more than 100 Santa Maria and Lompoc residents

by  •  • Comments Off on Bilingual report — VSP Eyes of Hope, SEE International provided free eye exams and glasses to more than 100 Santa Maria and Lompoc residents

partnered with SEE International’s local SEE Vision Care program and the County of Santa Barbara Health Department to bring free eye exams and prescription glasses to over 100 Santa Maria and Lompoc residents without access to vision care. In recognition of National Eye Exam Month, a 40-foot VSP Eyes of Hope mobile clinic and volunteer eye doctors stopped at the Santa Maria Health Center on Aug. 20 and the Lompoc Health Center on Aug. 21, providing comprehensive exams and on-site eyewear selection at no cost to patients.

Read more →

Santa Barbara Neighborhood Clinics’ dental program marks landmark year in community health, saving thousands from emergency rooms and costly procedures

by  •  • Comments Off on Santa Barbara Neighborhood Clinics’ dental program marks landmark year in community health, saving thousands from emergency rooms and costly procedures

SANTA BARBARA — Santa Barbara Neighborhood Clinics (SBNC) is highlighting a year of significant impact for its dental program, releasing 2025 data that underscores its role as a critical safety net for the region. With 23,846 patient encounters over the past year, the clinics provided everything from routine cleanings to advanced procedures such as root canal therapy and dental implants for nearly 6,800 unique patients.

In a community with high caries (cavity) risk and non-fluoridated water, SBNC has focused heavily on preventative care to break the cycle of lifelong dental decay. 

Read more →

Santa Barbara Cottage Hospital’s Brain & Spinal Tumor Program earns Joint Commission recertification

by  •  • Comments Off on Santa Barbara Cottage Hospital’s Brain & Spinal Tumor Program earns Joint Commission recertification

SANTA BARBARA — Santa Barbara Cottage Hospital’s Brain & Spinal Tumor Program has earned recertification from The Joint Commission, maintaining its Gold Seal of Approval® for Brain Tumor Certification.

The certification recognizes healthcare organizations that provide clinical programs across the continuum of brain tumor care and use clinical outcomes and performance measures to identify opportunities to improve care, as well as to educate and prepare patients and their caregivers for discharge.

“For patients and their families, a brain or spinal tumor diagnosis can be an overwhelming experience,” said Nicole Moayeri, MD, Medical Director of Cottage Health’s Santa Barbara Neuroscience Institute. “This recertification reflects the quality, expertise and compassion we strive to provide and gives patients added confidence in the specialized care and support they receive.”

Read more →

Commununity Environmental Council (CEC) — Join CEC: We’re Hiring an Office Manager & Board Liaison

by  •  • Comments Off on Commununity Environmental Council (CEC) — Join CEC: We’re Hiring an Office Manager & Board Liaison

If working in the heart of downtown Santa Barbara, surrounded by climate changemakers, passionate board members and mission-driven organizations sounds like your kind of workplace, CEC may have the opportunity for you. We’re hiring an Office Manager & Board Liaison to play a central role in the day-to-day life of our organization and office.

Read more →

Bilingual report — Students ages 20 to 98 find friendship, creativity and lifelong learning through Allan Hancock College Community Education

by  •  • Comments Off on Bilingual report — Students ages 20 to 98 find friendship, creativity and lifelong learning through Allan Hancock College Community Education

SANTA MARIA — Students separated by?nearly eight?decades gather around sewing machines inside Mary Jo Gabel’s Community Education classroom at Allan Hancock College. Some are learning to thread a needle for the first time. Others have been sewing for years.?Together, they have found far more than sewing techniques. It’s a place where creativity,?friendship?and lifelong learning bring generations together.

Among them is 98-year-old Rae Gibbs,?one of Hancock’s oldest current students. Gibbs?has spent more than three decades taking Community Education classes at Hancock. Recently, classmates gathered to celebrate her birthday with cake,?laughter?and songs, recognizing not only another year of life but a student whose enthusiasm for learning continues to inspire those around her.

Read more →

Port of Hueneme — Notice: Potential Delays on Hueneme Road

by  •  • Comments Off on Port of Hueneme — Notice: Potential Delays on Hueneme Road

PORT HUENEME — Please be aware that California Highway Patrol (CHP) is assisting the California Air Resources Board (CARB) with air quality monitoring and compliance inspections at three locations outside the Port.

These activities may cause delays on Hueneme Road.

We have been informed that the operations will take place (Aug. 25 and 26).

Read more →

Central Coast Alliance for a Sustainable Economy (CAUSE) — Turn out Tuesday, Aug. 25 in Santa Barbara: No surveillance in our communities!

by  •  • Comments Off on Central Coast Alliance for a Sustainable Economy (CAUSE) — Turn out Tuesday, Aug. 25 in Santa Barbara: No surveillance in our communities!

Because of growing community opposition to mass surveillance, Santa Barbara has decided to terminate its contract with Flock, and Flock’s cameras are scheduled to be shut off citywide today, August 24. We’re grateful to the coalition of multi-issue groups across Santa Barbara who have been leading this effort, and to the City administration for moving swiftly and decisively to end the Flock contract. … But we need to keep pushing. Our message to the City Council is simple: Don’t replace Flock with Verkada.

Join us tomorrow in Santa Barbara at City Council at 2 PM (735 Anacapa Street).

The City is now moving toward a contract with Verkada Inc. to provide replacement automated license plate reader (ALPR) technology. We learned about this over the weekend, and the City has announced that it “will be switching to [Verkada] technology.”

Read more →

Rebozo Festival Inc. announces 2027 grant application now open

by  •  • Comments Off on Rebozo Festival Inc. announces 2027 grant application now open

CAMARILLO — Rebozo Festival Inc., is pleased to announce that awards of up to $20,000 will be granted to qualified non-profit organizations that focus on the cultural, social and/or educational needs of the Ventura County community. The application process will open September 1st and will close September 30th, 2026, at 5:00 pm.

Rebozo Festival, Inc., encourages non-profit organizations that meet the following requirements to apply:  Nominated organizations must be located in Ventura County serving primarily Ventura County Latino residents and must be an IRS 501©(3) non-profit organization/institution or operate under the fiscal sponsorship of a qualified organization/institution.

Read more →

Bilingual commentary — National Debt: Should We Be Concerned?

by  •  • Comments Off on Bilingual commentary — National Debt: Should We Be Concerned?

This morning I woke up to the disconcerting news that our national debt had attained an ominous level: $40 trillion dollars (that’s $40,000,000,000,000). Sure, it sounds like a lot of money, but what exactly does that portend for us, our children, and our grandchildren?

Lots of bad things, as it turns out. Apparently, the United States can bury itself in debt just as individuals can. What happens when we as individuals find ourselves drowning in debt?

Our credit rating drops because we can no longer be trusted with fiscal management. So too the United States.

Read more →

Making Waves: Port of Hueneme hosts ‘Sustaining the Seas Summit’ in recognition of World Oceans Day

by  •  • Comments Off on Making Waves: Port of Hueneme hosts ‘Sustaining the Seas Summit’ in recognition of World Oceans Day

PORT HUENEME — The Port of Hueneme marked World Oceans Day with its fourth annual “Sustaining the Seas Summit” on Tuesday, August 18, at the Channel Islands Maritime Museum in Oxnard.

The Summit brought together Port of Hueneme staff, environmentalists, maritime companies, and community organizations for robust discussions on sustainability and the challenges facing the world’s oceans.
 
“We have an ambitious but achievable goal to reach zero-emissions status at the Port of Hueneme by 2030,” said Oxnard Harbor District Board President Jason Hodge. “As leaders in clean port operations, it’s exciting to bring together leading minds in environmental stewardship in pursuit of real progress when it comes to protecting our oceans.”

Read more →

Bilingual report — Ventura County Board of Supervisors approves renaming Ventura Family Justice Center in honor of late Judge Colleen Toy White

by  •  • Comments Off on Bilingual report — Ventura County Board of Supervisors approves renaming Ventura Family Justice Center in honor of late Judge Colleen Toy White

VENTURA — The Ventura County Board of Supervisors unanimously approved renaming the Ventura County Family Justice Center in Ventura as the Judge Colleen Toy White Family Justice Center, honoring the late Ventura County Superior Court Judge whose decades of public service transformed how the county supports victims and other vulnerable members of the community.

Judge White devoted 41 years to serving the people of Ventura County, including 18 years with the Ventura County District Attorney’s Office, where she served for 10 years as Chief Assistant District Attorney. She was elected to the Ventura County Superior Court in 1994 and served 23 years on the bench before retiring in 2017. During her judicial career, she served as Presiding Judge, Assistant Presiding Judge and Family Law Supervising Judge.

Read more →

Santa Paula Art Museum — Inbox Art Exhibit: Pam Grau’s ‘A Woman’s Painted Journey’

by  •  • Comments Off on Santa Paula Art Museum — Inbox Art Exhibit: Pam Grau’s ‘A Woman’s Painted Journey’

For decades, I worked primarily as a non-representational painter, creating heavily textured abstract works rooted in emotion and material exploration. Several years ago, however, a health crisis forced me to step away from many of the toxic materials I had relied upon. What initially felt like a loss became an unexpected opportunity—a chance to rethink not only my process, but the very nature of my self-expression.

Out of that transition emerged a new visual language that combines digital tools with hand-painted papers, collage, drawing, photography, and paint. These works blend traditional and contemporary processes into layered visual narratives inspired by travel, gardens, changing seasons, nature walks, and the quiet beauty of everyday life.

Read more →