Author: Community Contributor

Guest commentary — VCTA: Bankruptcy happens gradually, then suddenly

by Community Contributor • November 20, 2025 • Comments Off

Editor’s note: Amigos805 welcomes local guest columns, letters to the editor and other submissions from our readers. All opinions expressed in submitted material are those of the author and do not necessarily represent the viewpoint of Amigos805.

The Ventura County Taxpayers Association (VCTA) has long supported responsible stewardship of County resources and transparent oversight of the Ventura County Medical System (VCMS). As we prepare to address the Board of Supervisors, it has become increasingly clear that VCMS is facing a financial crisis — one driven not by outside forces, but by management’s persistent failure to address its ongoing structural cash-flow deficit.

The Core Problem: A Structural Cash-Flow Deficit Getting Worse …

Santa Paula Police Dept. participates in ‘No Shave November’ supporting those with cancer

by Community Contributor • November 20, 2025 • Comments Off

SANTA PAULA — The Santa Paula Police Department has once again launched “No Shave November” to support local charities that assist with those battling cancer. Police officers are growing their facial hair to help “grow” cancer awareness. The Santa Paula Police Officers Association (SPPOA) is coordinating this campaign, receiving donations from all Police Department employees in order to participate. The fundraising campaign will finish at the end of the month. Employees will be allowed to grow their facial hair fully and neatly trimmed over the next few months.

Bilingual report — City of Ventura searches for next Fire Chief to lead an all-hazards department

by Community Contributor • November 20, 2025 • Comments Off

VENTURA — The City of Ventura has opened recruitment for its next Fire Chief, seeking a progressive and collaborative leader to guide one of California’s oldest fire departments.

Ventura’s Fire Department responds to more than 18,000 calls each year from six stations serving a diverse coastal community of over 110,000 residents. Rooted in a legacy dating back to 1875, the department has evolved into a modern, all-hazards agency known for its commitment to preparedness, prevention, and professional service.

Bilingual report — Ventura County Office of Education — Ventura County students are making gains! A chat with Trudy Arriaga, logo contest winners, and more

by Community Contributor • November 19, 2025 • Comments Off

Dr. César Morales, Ventura County Superintendent of Schools, is pleased to report that local students are making improvements in attendance, graduation rates, and academic performance according to new data from the 2025 California School Dashboard.

Ventura County’s graduation rate of 90.5% for 2025 has improved by 7.2 percentage points since 2021 and is 3.0 percentage points better than the statewide rate. Ventura County’s chronic absenteeism rate of 17.7% for 2025 marks the third consecutive year of improvement and is 1.7 percentage points better than the statewide rate. Ventura County students have also improved their performance in both Math and English on the state CAASPP assessment. Click here for more local highlights.

‘Smile Bus Grand Reveal’ — New Santa Barbara Neighborhood Clinics’ Mobile Dental Bus Brings Additional Dental Care to Greater Santa Barbara

by Community Contributor • November 19, 2025 • Comments Off

SANTA BARBARA — Santa Barbara Neighborhood Clinics (SBNC) successfully unveiled its new “Smile Bus” Mobile Dental vehicle on Tuesday, Nov. 18 at the Santa Barbara City lot at Leadbetter Beach. The event brought together local officials, SBNC supporters and friends, and SBNC leadership and staff to celebrate the expansion of mobile dental care in the Greater Santa Barbara community.

Smile Bus Interior.
Dental care is important for kids to maintain good teeth and gum health, ensure that they can chew and speak properly, and establish lifelong healthy habits. Dental care is important for overall healthcare because oral health is directly linked to general health. Dental decay is the leading disease in children worldwide. Nationally, over 34 million school hours are missed each year due to dental-related treatment.

Health Care Foundation for Ventura County is an Action for Women’s Health Awardee

by Community Contributor • November 19, 2025 • Comments Off

VENTURA — Health Care Foundation for Ventura County has been announced as one of 80+ organizations that were awarded funding through Action for Women’s Health, a $250 million global open call, launched in 2024 to support organizations working to improve women’s mental and physical health around the world.

Although women make up half of the world’s population, they face inequities in nearly every aspect of their health. Women’s health is chronically underfunded and under-researched, and even when resources and solutions do exist, they often aren’t reaching the women who need them.

Ventura County Fire Dept. awarded grant to enhance child passenger safety

by Community Contributor • November 19, 2025 • Comments Off

THOUSAND OAKS — The Ventura County Fire Department (VCFD) has received a $95,000 grant from the California Office of Traffic Safety (OTS) to expand its child passenger safety initiatives. The grant runs through September 2026 and funding supports programs that reduce injuries and fatalities among children in motor vehicle crashes by promoting proper car seat use throughout Ventura County.

The grant will allow VCFD to continue its collaboration with Safe Kids Ventura County, led by Ventura County Public Health, to educate parents and caregivers, distribute child safety seats to families in need, and train new Child Passenger Safety Technicians (CPSTs).

County of Ventura District 2 Supervisor Jeff Gorell — Historic permitting reform package passes unanimously

by Community Contributor • November 19, 2025 • Comments Off

I’m pleased to share that the Ventura County Board of Supervisors unanimously approved a major initiative to strengthen and modernize our planning, zoning, and permitting systems. I want to express my sincere appreciation for the thoughtful input I received from many of you—your experiences and feedback were instrumental in shaping this effort.

The package that I brought forward with Supervisor Matt LaVere, is designed to make our permitting processes more efficient, transparent, and customer-focused for residents, homeowners, and local businesses.

Ventura County Leadership Academy welcomes new board members

by Community Contributor • November 19, 2025 • Comments Off

We are excited to welcome Mark Stadler, alum of VCLA Cohort XXVII to the VCLA Board. With over 37 years of dedicated service in law enforcement, Mark has been a vital part of community safety and crisis intervention efforts. He has served as the Senior Program Administrator of the Ventura County Law Enforcement Crisis Intervention Team (CIT) for the past 10 years, following his retirement as a Commander of the Ventura Police Department. A founding member of the CIT program 25 years ago, Mark holds a Bachelor’s degree in Criminology and a Master’s degree in Organizational Management from the University of La Verne. He is also an instructor at the Ventura County Criminal Justice Training Center, a senior adjunct professor at the University of La Verne, and serves on the Advisory Board of the California Crisis Intervention Training Association (CACITA).

Speaker Rivas, Pro Tem Limón, Asm. Bennett, lawmakers visit Ventura County farm

by Community Contributor • November 19, 2025 • Comments Off

Assembly and Senate leaders heard directly from farmers in Ventura County who are innovating and succeeding, and discussed ways to support workers and deliver solutions that continue to uplift the agricultural sector

SOUTHERN CALIFORNIA — Assembly Speaker Robert Rivas joined Senate President Pro Tem Monique Limón, California Farm Bureau President Shannon Douglass, Assembly Agriculture Committee Chair Esmeralda Soria, Assemblymembers Steve Bennett and Avelino Valencia, and Senator Henry Stern and Senate Agriculture Committee Chair Melissa Hurtado at a Ventura County avocado farm, discussing how the state can continue to support farmers and agricultural innovation as federal policies threaten farmworkers and grocery costs.

Ventura Music Festival — Thankful for Music in Ventura!

by Community Contributor • November 19, 2025 • Comments Off

As we enter Thanksgiving week, all of us at Ventura Music Festival are filled with gratitude. Because of you—our growing community of followers, audiences, ticket buyers, and donors—we achieved something extraordinary this year: tripling our concerts from 10 to 30 and bringing more music to more people in more ways than ever before. Your support is the engine behind every performance, every new partnership, and every moment of connection we create for our county.

Ventura County Taxpayers Foundation — Fall Economic Report for 2025

by Community Contributor • November 18, 2025 • Comments Off

Economic growth is positive in the County but there is concern because the general economy is contributing less to the broader Southern California economy. Over the last 15 years, Ventura County’s contribution to gross regional economic activity for the aggregate of Los Angeles, Orange, Riverside and San Bernardino Counties has been in a continuous decline.

The percentage of gross county product contributed by Ventura County as a percent of total Southern California gross product has declined from 5.5 percent in 2007 to 4.0 percent in 2024. The rate of growth remains positive, but it has consistently lagged the aggregate growth of the other four counties.

This is largely due to much lower employment and population growth, and less new development of residential and non-residential structures. SOAR has been a principal impediment to growth in the region. It has largely limited organic growth and discouraged new in-migrating business growth.

Economic Development Collaborative (EDC) free event and webinar schedule

by Community Contributor • November 18, 2025 • Comments Off

SCORE: STARTING A NONPROFIT: A STEP-BY-STEP

November 18 @ 1:00 pm

Ready to turn your vision into reality? Join SCORE for a practical workshop that offers step-by-step guidance on establishing a nonprofit public charity. Ideal for those who have already decided to form a nonprofit, this session covers the essential stages from conception to achieving tax-exempt status and beyond. Price: $10.00.

CLICK HERE TO REGISTER

Farm Bureau of Ventura County — USDA Damage Survery and FSA Resources

by Community Contributor • November 18, 2025 • Comments Off

With the significant rain we have received and more on the way, the USDA is investigating whether damage has occurred to agricultural operators in our County.

If you have suffered damage to your agricultural crops, structures, land, or equipment due to excessive rain this month please complete the form linked below and return it to the agricultural commissioner’s office:

Drive Out Hunger – Port of Hueneme hosts Thanksgiving Meal Giveaway for Active Military & Veterans

by Community Contributor • November 18, 2025 • Comments Off

PORT OF HUENEME — The Port of Hueneme, California, proudly hosted its annual Drive Out Hunger Thanksgiving Meal Giveaway today, providing 450 frozen turkeys and full holiday meal kits to active-duty military members and veterans from across Ventura County. The drive-thru event reflects the Port’s deep commitment to serving those who serve the nation.

UCSB — The Current — ‘Hotter than your average spa: Rising temps in Amazon lakes sound alarm over climate change’ and more news, events

by Community Contributor • November 18, 2025 • Comments Off

UCSB researchers contribute to an international account of extreme droughts and water temperatures in the Amazon basin.

First Amendment Coalition represents Buen Vecino in lawsuit for public records about high-profile immigration raids in Ventura County

by Community Contributor • November 17, 2025 • Comments Off

SAN RAFAEL — On behalf of nonprofit community organization Buen Vecino (in Simi Valley), the First Amendment Coalition, with attorneys Gregory Pleasants and Shaffy Moeel, filed a Public Records Act lawsuit against Ventura County and its sheriff to compel disclosure of video footage showing what deputy sheriffs did at a controversial immigration enforcement operation.

Cash for College 2-day event (Nov. 19-20) travels to Paso Robles High School to assist students with financial air applications

by Community Contributor • November 17, 2025 • Comments Off

The event will provide seniors from Paso Robles, Liberty and Independence high schools with hands-on support to complete their Free Application for Federal Student Aid (FAFSA) or California Dream Act applications before the upcoming priority deadline.

Ventura County Civic Alliance Nov. 15, 2025 Livable Communities Newsletter

by Community Contributor • November 17, 2025 • Comments Off

This year’s State of the Region event was an overview of the report by Tony Basotti, and panel with District Attorney Erik Nasarenko, Amgen Executive Director of Global Government Affairs Chad Petit, Port District CEO & Director Kristin Decas, and Oxnard City Manager Alex Nguyen, who gave their perspectives on issues in the report.

This venture is crucial to the dissemination of information to the community and leaders in business, education, and government, who are instrumental in planning the county’s future. We are grateful to our sponsors whose support is integral to this important project.

As always, let us know what you think.?
Stacy Roscoe

More Ways to Give with VCCF: Stock Donations

by Community Contributor • November 17, 2025 • Comments Off

VENTURA COUNTY — As we enter the season of giving, there’s a wonderful way to make your generosity go even further: donating appreciated stock to the Ventura County Community Foundation.

Gifting stock is not only a powerful way to support the causes you care about, it may also offer meaningful tax advantages. By donating appreciated securities, you may be able to avoid capital-gains tax and receive a charitable deduction for the full fair market value of your gift. It’s a true win-win for you and for our Ventura County community.

Bilingual commentary — The Mysterious Realm of Mushrooms

by Community Contributor • November 14, 2025 • Comments Off

Many of us don’t think too much about mushrooms, except in terms of how they mysteriously appear in the fall, or how they might enhance a meal that we are preparing.

I believe most of us see mushrooms as a curiosity. They seem to emerge enigmatically from out of nowhere for a season before disappearing into that mysterious realm from whence they came.

County of Ventura District 2 Supervisor Jeff Gorell — Storm update

by Community Contributor • November 14, 2025 • Comments Off

Dear Neighbors,

The National Weather Service is forecasting a series of storms heading toward Ventura County beginning late Thursday and continuing through Sunday. With significant rainfall expected, I want to ensure you have the latest information to stay prepared and safe. Read a full update about the weather event at VCEmergency.com.

Evacuation Warnings are in effect for the following areas 6:00 pm Thursday, November 13 ? 6:00 pm Sunday, November 16, 2025:

Mountain Fire Burn Area – Upgraded from Advisory to Evacuation Warning
Matilija Canyon / North Fork, Camino Cielo

Bilingual report — County of Santa Barbara — Second wave of storm arrives late Friday (Nov. 14). Heavier rain anticipated for south Santa Barbara County, Santa Ynez Mountains

by Community Contributor • November 14, 2025 • Comments Off

Storm Update
A series of storms is moving through Santa Barbara County. The first storm has passed, and a second storm is expected late Friday, November 14, into Saturday, November 15.

During the first storm, the South County received about 2–4 inches of rain, with some areas in the Santa Ynez Mountains getting over 5 inches overnight. North County saw about 1–2 inches. The storm caused localized flooding, downed trees, and rocks and debris on roads.

The second storm is expected to bring 2–3 inches of rain to South County and 3–6 inches to the Santa Ynez Mountains. North County will likely receive less rain than other parts of the county. According to the National Weather Service, this storm will produce heavier bursts of rain over short periods, unlike the steady rain from the first storm. A Flood Watch will be in effect for most of Santa Barbara County from 1AM – 10PM on Saturday, November 15, 2025.

Ventura County Schools make progress in attendance, graduation rate and academic performance

by Community Contributor • November 14, 2025 • Comments Off

Ventura County schools are continuing to make improvements in attendance, graduation rates, academic performance, and other measures, according to new data from the 2025 California School Dashboard released today by the California Department of Education.

Guest commentary — CAUSE — A bad deal for Oxnard

by Community Contributor • November 14, 2025 • Comments Off

On Tuesday, November 18th, the Oxnard City Council faces a defining choice: will they stand with our community or take a bad deal from a polluting corporation that has spent decades deceiving and putting profit before people? Join us at City Council on Tuesday at 6:00 PM to make your voice heard and stand up for environmental justice in Oxnard.

Santa Paula Art Museum — “Art About Agriculture” Premieres Saturday, Nov. 15, more events

by Community Contributor • November 14, 2025 • Comments Off

Saturday, November 15, from 4 PM to 6 PM

SPAM Members $5 • Non-members $10

Feast your eyes on 48 fresh works of art by contemporary California artists during the premiere of Art About Agriculture on Saturday, November 15! This popular biennial exhibit explores the many facets of agriculture through art—from workers to water, from machinery to fields, to the food that fills our plates. Mingle with the artists, and enjoy beer, wine, and hors d’oeuvres during the premiere party. All of the artworks will be available for purchase.

The 16th Art About Agriculture Exhibition will be on view from November 15, 2025, to March 8, 2026. This exhibition is sponsored by Brokaw Ranch Company.

MORE INFO

Nyeland Promise Noticias

by Community Contributor • November 14, 2025 • Comments Off

It’s been a little while since our last newsletter, but we’re so happy to reconnect with you! So much has been happening in our beloved Nyeland Acres from new programs to inspiring community moments that continue to remind us why we do what we do.

At Nyeland Promise, our mission remains the same: to build a healthier, stronger, and more united community through compassion, empowerment, and opportunity. Whether it’s through our Cafecito con los Vecinos senior gatherings, Comadres Unidas women’s empowerment group or our continued outreach for families, every effort is made possible because of you — our dedicated neighbors, volunteers, and partners.

Coalition for Family Harmony in Oxnard marks 50 years of service to survivors

by Community Contributor • November 14, 2025 • Comments Off

OXNARD — This October, during Domestic Violence Awareness Month, the Coalition for Family Harmony marks its 50th anniversary — a milestone in its long-standing commitment to serving survivors of domestic violence and sexual assault throughout Ventura County.

The organization traces its roots back to 1975, when it was founded as a crisis phone hotline by Roz McGrath, a pioneering social justice advocate known for her tireless work defending human rights and supporting underserved communities. What began as a grassroots effort from McGrath’s vision and activism has since grown into a robust, multilingual agency offering comprehensive services including shelter, legal advocacy, trauma counseling, prevention education, and 24/7 crisis intervention.

Ventura County Credit Union celebrates 75 years of service with $75,000 gift to Moorpark College Foundation

by Community Contributor • November 14, 2025 • Comments Off

VENTURA COUNTY — In celebration of its 75th anniversary, Ventura County Credit Union (VCCU) continues its “Year of Giving” with a $75,000 donation to the Moorpark College Foundation, presented during VCCU Employee Development Day at the credit union’s corporate headquarters on Oct. 13, 2025.

Dr. Julius Sokenu, president of Moorpark College, and Debi Klein, executive director of the Moorpark College Foundation, accepted the donation on behalf of the college. The funds will directly support student success initiatives, scholarships and innovative academic programs that continue to make Moorpark College one of the top community colleges in California.

Bilingual report — Registration open for Winter, Spring classes at Allan Hancock College

by Community Contributor • November 14, 2025 • Comments Off

SANTA MARIA — Allan Hancock College is inviting new and returning students to register now for winter and spring 2026 classes, which offer hundreds of opportunities to earn a degree, transfer to a university, gain job skills or explore new interests.

Open registration for both terms began Nov. 6, with classes available in a wide range of subjects and flexible formats across Hancock’s Santa Maria campus, Lompoc Valley Center, and online. Winter session classes begin Dec. 15, and spring semester classes start Jan. 20.

“Winter and spring are great times for students to stay on track, get ahead, or start something new,” said Allan Hancock College Superintendent/President Kevin G. Walthers, Ph.D. “We want our students to know that Hancock is here to help them earn a degree, train for their career or continue their education by transferring to a university.”

Bilingual report — Nov. 18 Santa Barbara County Board of Supervisors meeting

by Community Contributor • November 14, 2025 • Comments Off

The next regular meeting of the
County Board of Supervisors is scheduled for 9 a.m. Tuesday, November 18, 2025
Joseph Centeno Betteravia Government Administration Building
Board Hearing Room
511 East Lakeside Parkway, Santa Maria
The public may participate virtually or in person at the County Board Hearing Room in Santa Barbara or Santa Maria.

Southeast Ventura County YMCA receives $20,000 contribution from U.S. Bank

by Community Contributor • November 14, 2025 • Comments Off

WESTLAKE VILLAGE — The Southeast Ventura County YMCA announced it received a $20,000 contribution from U.S. Bank.

The funding will be used to fund the YMCA’s Find My Genius after-school and summer programs. Find My Genius is free for low- and moderate-income students who are not reading at grade level. It aids the young scholars’ academic and social-emotional learning through reading and math instruction, healthy meals, physical exercise and enrichment opportunities.

Habitat Ventura and volunteers honor Military and Veterans at 4th Annual Playhouse Build Blitz, presented by Bank of America

by Community Contributor • November 14, 2025 • Comments Off

VENTURA — More than 150 volunteers and community partners gathered to honor Veterans at Bank of America’s Corporate Office for Habitat for Humanity of Ventura County’s Fourth Annual Playhouse Build Blitz, presented by Bank of America. Teams of volunteers worked side by side for 5+ hours painting and decorating children’s playhouses, each tailored to the interests of a local military family. By the afternoon, families arrived to receive their new playhouses, complete with themes ranging from dinosaurs and gardens to princess castles. In all, 18 families and their children experienced the joy of receiving a playhouse built just for them.

UCSB — The Current — ‘Vast collection of historic American music released via UCSB Library partnership with Dust-to-Digital Foundation’ and more news, events

by Community Contributor • November 13, 2025 • Comments Off

Thousands of rare and uniquely American songs from the Jazz Age and the Great Depression are available for free listening.

County of Ventura — Ocean Water Quality Monitoring Report: Potential storm water runoff contamination

by Community Contributor • November 13, 2025 • Comments Off

VENTURA — As part of the Ventura County Ocean Water Quality Monitoring Program, the Environmental Health Division (Division) is providing the following precautionary information to the public.?Rainfall that is significant enough to result in runoff can flow into storm drains, channels, creeks, and rivers that empty onto the beaches of Ventura County.?In general, 0.2 inches (2 tenths of an inch) of rainfall may be enough to create significant runoff conditions.?

Bilingual report — City of Ventura releases 13th Ventura Voices episode highlighting community sustainability programs. Hosted by Alejandra Belalcázar

by Community Contributor • November 13, 2025 • Comments Off

VENTURA — The City of Ventura has released a new episode of Ventura Voices titled “All Things Sustainability: Ventura’s Community Programs in Action.” Hosted by Communications Specialist Alejandra Belalcázar, the episode explores how Ventura’s Environmental Sustainability Division has evolved from its early recycling initiatives in the 1990s into a multifaceted team leading communitywide efforts in waste reduction, clean energy, and long-term climate planning.

Bilingual report — County of Ventura receives national 2025 IT Excellence Award

by Community Contributor • November 13, 2025 • Comments Off

VENTURA — The County of Ventura has been recognized with a 2025 Information Technology Excellence Award by Info-Tech Research Group, a national organization that highlights advancements in information technology governance, operations and service delivery across the public and private sectors.

Economic Development Collaborative (EDC) — Thrive Together: Entrepreneurs Supporting Youth in Ventura County

by Community Contributor • November 13, 2025 • Comments Off

Join City Impact for their Thrive Together Fundraising Event to celebrate local entrepreneurs driving change and enjoy a powerful art show created by the young artists within the community. This event is more than a gathering. It’s a commitment to uplifting entrepreneurs, empowering youth and strengthening the community.

Your presence supports opportunities that spark innovation, fuel creativity and build a brighter future.

Location: Sterling Hills Golf Club, 901 Sterling Hills Dr, Camarillo, CA 93010
Date and time: Tuesday, November 18, from 5:00 PM – 9:00 PM

Pricing: $85

For more information, CLICK HERE

Nyeland Promise honored as Champion for Social Justice

by Community Contributor • November 12, 2025 • Comments Off

NYELAND ACRES — Nyeland Promise, a grassroots nonprofit\ dedicated to uplifting the residents of Nyeland Acres through education, health, and community empowerment, has been named a Champion for Social Justice by the Association of Fundraising Professionals (AFP) Santa Barbara/Ventura Counties. This recognition celebrates organizations that are breaking barriers, fostering equity, and creating lasting change through community-driven leadership.

Communities across California call unscientific regulation of cancer-causing 1,3-D racist. Demand phaseout of fumigants and 1-mile buffer zones around schools

by Community Contributor • November 12, 2025 • Comments Off

OXNARD — A news conference will be held at 12:30 p.m. Tuesday, Nov. 18 at Plaza Park in Oxnard about the Department of Pesticide Regulation’s new 1,3-dichloropropene (1,3-D) regulation and new data showing large increases in highly hazardous fumigant use near schools and daycares.

Celebrate curiosity, community, and connection at the Museum of Ventura County

by Community Contributor • November 12, 2025 • Comments Off

(Nov. 11) we honor all who have served our country with courage, dedication, and sacrifice. Thank you to our Veterans.

Ventura Superior Court launches Court-Ordered Civil Mediation Program

by Community Contributor • November 12, 2025 • Comments Off

VENTURA — The Ventura Superior Court announces the launch of the Court-Ordered Civil Mediation Program.

Beginning November 10, 2025, civil lawsuits with amounts in controversy of $50,000 or less per plaintiff may be ordered to mediation at the Court’s discretion. Subject to the Court’s approval, parties may also voluntarily agree to participate in court-ordered mediation regardless of the amount in controversy.

Free eye exams, glasses for San Luis Obispo community members in need

by Community Contributor • November 12, 2025 • Comments Off

SAN LUIS OBISPO — More than 70 California Conservation Corpsmembers and San Luis Obispo residents received free eye exams and, if needed, free prescription glasses on Nov. 6-7 thanks to a partnership between VSP Eyes of Hope and the California Conservation Corps. Many of the prescription glasses were made the same day on board the mobile clinic, allowing patients to receive eye care and eyewear in the same visit.

75th annual Santa Paula holiday parade honors hometown Veteran, youth sports coach Rey Frutos on Nov. 28

by Community Contributor • November 12, 2025 • Comments Off

SANTA PAULA — Santa Paula’s cherished holiday tradition returns as the 75th Annual Santa Paula Holiday Parade lights up Main Street on Friday, November 28, from 7:00 PM to 8:30 PM — one of the only nighttime parades in Ventura County with nearly 50 floats and vehicles lit up with holiday cheer. This year’s parade honors Grand Marshal Rey Frutos, known in the community for his lifelong dedication, mentorship, and positive impact on generations of Santa Paula youth. His leadership and commitment to service embody the true spirit of the holidays — giving back and lifting others.

Join Hospice of Santa Barbara in celebrating 42nd annual Light Up a Life ceremonies, honoring loved ones this holiday season

by Community Contributor • November 12, 2025 • Comments Off

SANTA BARBARA — Hospice of Santa Barbara (HSB) is honored to invite the community to its 42nd Annual Light Up a Life ceremonies. This cherished holiday tradition returns to offer a warm, uniting space for the communities of Goleta, Santa Barbara, Montecito, and Carpinteria to remember and honor the loved ones whose absence is felt during the holiday season. The ceremonies are free and open to the public.

While the holiday season is often associated with joy, it frequently stirs a complex mix of feelings. For individuals navigating this time while grieving a loss, the emotions can be especially raw. HSB understands that this period requires both remembrance and support, which is why we proudly host Light Up a Life annually to honor those who are deeply missed.

Congresswoman Julia Brownley (D-CA 26th District) — Honoring Our Nation’s Veterans

by Community Contributor • November 11, 2025 • Comments Off

On this day and every day, I extend my heartfelt gratitude to our veterans and their families for their extraordinary courage, sacrifice, and service to our country.

More than 40,000 veterans and their loved ones call Ventura County and the Conejo Valley home, and I am proud to work on their behalf in Congress. Honoring our veterans is a responsibility that never ends, and neither does the work to ensure they receive the care, benefits, and support they have earned.

As Ranking Member of the House Veterans’ Affairs Subcommittee on Health, one of my top priorities is to identify disparities in care for veterans and to introduce, advocate for, and pass legislation that closes those gaps.

County of Ventura District 2 Supervisor Jeff Gorell — Thank You Veterans!

by Community Contributor • November 11, 2025 • Comments Off

As a third-generation U.S. Navy Veteran, I’m filled with deep gratitude today for all who have worn the uniform in defense of our nation and the freedoms we hold dear.

My grandfather fought in World War II, my father served in Vietnam, and my own service was during the War on Terror — with two tours in Afghanistan.

Through those experiences, I had the honor of serving alongside remarkable people whose courage, sacrifice, and strength continue to inspire me every day. Their example reminds me that true leadership is rooted in service — in putting others before oneself and standing together for something greater.

Here in Ventura County, our Veteran Services Office carries that same spirit forward, helping veterans, their dependents, and survivors navigate federal, state, and local benefits.

If you are a veteran in need of support, please visit Ventura County Veterans Services.

Community Invited to the annual Veterans Day Ceremony at Santa Barbara Cemetery on Nov. 11

by Community Contributor • November 10, 2025 • Comments Off

This year will feature the first ever performance of “The Veteran,” by Barry De Vorzon. De Vorzon is an American composer, singer, songwriter, and record producer. He co-founded recording studio Valiant Records and made a name for himself as a film and television score composer, becoming a Grammy Award winner, Academy Award nominee, and a six-time Daytime Emmy Award winner. His tune, “Nadia’s Theme,” was released by A&M Records for the television soap opera The Young and the Restless, hitting No. 8 on the U.S. Top 40 that year. The title “Nadia’s Theme” was given to the song after the ABC television network used it in a montage of gymnast Nadia Com?neci’s performances during the 1976 Olympics. He later composed the tune, “It’s Christmas Once Again in Santa Barbara,” in honor of the town and the people he learned to love after moving to California from New York City. The song was later re-recorded with various other city names, including San Diego and San Francisco.

Bilingual report — County of Ventura salutes veterans with new flag display and exhibit celebrating service

by Community Contributor • November 10, 2025 • Comments Off

VENTURA — In recognition of Veterans Day, the County of Ventura is proudly honoring those who have served in the U.S. Armed Forces through a series of first-time public tributes, including a Veterans Portrait Exhibition, flag installation, and participation in the nationwide Operation Green Light campaign.

“As a county, we’re proud to recognize the veterans who live and work in our community,” said Fourth District Supervisor Janice Parvin, Chair of the Board of Supervisors. “These tributes are a way to show our ongoing gratitude to those who have served our country through military service.”

Economic Development Collaborative (EDC) free event and webinar schedule

by Community Contributor • November 10, 2025 • Comments Off

SCORE: STARTING A CONSULTING/ COACHING/ ADVISORY BUSINESS: PART 1

November 12 @ 10:00 am

So, you want to be a consultant/coach/advisor. You have heard about charging $100, $200 or much more per hour. Do the math. 2000 working hours per year, and that means $200 to $400 thousand per year. There is an old saying: in theory, there is no difference between theory and reality; In reality, there is. This program is all about reality. What is the truth about being a consultant? How much can you really make? What are the pitfalls? What do you have to do to be successful? The seminar leader is Steve Epner. He started and built a consulting practice from a solo shop to over 200 professionals. After he sold the practice, he continued to be asked to help various companies, including Boeing. Learn the reality and what mistakes to avoid so that you can have a successful business and enjoy years of working in a great environment. For the right person with the right personality, there is no better way to live. Price: $10.00.

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