Author: Community Contributor

Speak Out on May 13 to Support Climate Action and Ensure Oil Drilling Has an End Date

by Community Contributor • May 12, 2025 • Comments Off

On Tuesday, May 13, the County of Santa Barbara Board of Supervisors will hear a staff presentation on the potential to prohibit new oil drilling and phase out oil operations in Santa Barbara County. This is a critical opportunity to advocate for a cleaner future for the California Central Coast.

By pledging to phase out oil drilling, Santa Barbara has the chance to be a climate leader and demonstrate a clear commitment to a healthier, cleaner county for all. Help us ensure oil drilling in our county has an end date.

To learn more about the hearing, explore the agenda here and the staff report here. Our agenda item, Address Emissions from Oil and Gas Operations, is the eighth and final item on the agenda. See the Learn More section below for additional background information and resources.

Guest contribution — Planned Parenthood California Central Coast Workers vote to authorize a strike over unfair labor practices

by Community Contributor • May 12, 2025 • Comments Off

CALIFORNIA CENTRAL COAST – Frontline healthcare workers at Planned Parenthood California Central Coast (PPCCC) have voted to authorize a strike over management’s unfair labor practices and refusal to address the urgent short-staffing crisis. The workers overwhelmingly approved the strike with a 100% vote following months of failed negotiations and continued bad-faith bargaining by Planned Parenthood management.

Bilingual report — Santa Paula Councilmember Jenny Crosswhite appointed SCAG Second Vice President

by Community Contributor • May 12, 2025 • Comments Off

SANTA PAULA — The City of Santa Paula proudly announces the appointment of Councilmember and former two-time Mayor Jenny Crosswhite as Second Vice President of the Southern California Association of Governments (SCAG), the largest metropolitan planning organization in the United States. Crosswhite’s appointment was formally confirmed at SCAG’s General Assembly on May 1, 2025.

39th Annual California Strawberry Festival (May 17-18) — Strawberry Treats And Family Fun

by Community Contributor • May 12, 2025 • Comments Off

… Every year, strawberry lovers look forward to the festival’s tasty strawberry-themed food and beverages while enjoying a fun, family-friendly atmosphere filled with live entertainment, carnival rides, arts and crafts and other activities. Hours are 10:00 a.m. to 6:30 p.m., both days.

Over 50 food and beverage vendors will serve a variety of treats, including strawberry-themed nachos, chocolate-dipped strawberries, strawberry funnel cakes, strawberry kabobs, strawberry popcorn, and strawberry margaritas and beer. Festivalgoers can visit the Strawberry Shortcake Experience where they can build their own berry dessert for $7.

Guest commentary — Hospice of Santa Barbara — Missing Mom on Mother’s Day

by Community Contributor • May 12, 2025 • Comments Off

SANTA BARBARA — The annual celebration of Mother’s Day is meant to be a commemoration of the nurturing nature of mothers. The day is often filled with family get-togethers, luncheons, flowers and handmade gifts and cards.

For others, however, Mother’s Day can be a bittersweet reminder for those who have lost their mothers and mothers who have lost a child, turning a joyful holiday into one filled with pain and grief.

Suzanne Grimmesey of Santa Barbara knows this all too well as this will be the second Mother’s Day without her mother Elaine.

“My mom passed away a little over a year and it has been a time of growth and learning about my own identity in the world without her,” said Grimmesey. “Who am I without my mom? I’ve been a daughter my entire life and now, without either of my parents, am I still a daughter? I know I am, but It feels different now.”

Ventura County Community Development Corporation (VCCDC) — Estate Planning, Down Payment Assistance and More

by Community Contributor • May 12, 2025 • Comments Off

13th Annual Homeownership Conference – Saturday, June 28th

We’re proud to present the 13th Annual A New Way Home Homeownership Conference, our premier event dedicated to empowering individuals and families on their path to homeownership, now back in person! This year, we bring together industry experts, community leaders, and local resources to provide invaluable insights, workshops, and tools that can help you achieve the dream of owning a home. If you want to ditch rent and become a homeowner this conference is for you!

Bilingual commentary — Going to Mars vs. Fighting Climate Change

by Community Contributor • May 9, 2025 • Comments Off

Advocates of establishing colonies on Mars (Elon Musk immediately comes to mind) contend that we must develop these outposts on this red planetary soil to ensure the viability of humankind. If we do not colonize our celestial neighbor, they argue, then we will certainly face extinction, given the increasing uninhabitability of our mother planet.

Critics pounce on this logic, saying that the likely cause of the multitude of terrestrial disasters we face is due to climate change. And rather than investing those billions of dollars in “escaping” to Mars, we need to focus on reversing the decades of climate destruction caused by fossil fuels, the Trump administration notwithstanding.

Port of Hueneme Community Newsletter

by Community Contributor • May 9, 2025 • Comments Off

The Port of Hueneme proudly acknowledges April as Autism Acceptance Month. The Board of Harbor Commissioners passed a resolution recognizing this important month, which was received by the Autism Society Ventura County (ASVC).

We were also honored to sponsor the 13th Annual Aut2Run on April 27th — a meaningful event hosted by ASVC and attended by over 3,000 people. Aut2Run promotes awareness and acceptance for autistic individuals and their families.

CSUCI Announces Jessica Lavariega Monforti as New Provost

by Community Contributor • May 9, 2025 • Comments Off

A first-generation college graduate and former community college transfer student, Lavariega Monforti exemplifies the mission and values of CSUCI. Her extensive leadership experience includes previous roles as Vice Provost and Accreditation Liaison Officer at CSUCI, Dean of the College of Arts & Sciences at California Lutheran University, Chair of Political Science at Pace University, and Associate Dean for the College of Social and Behavioral Sciences at the University of Texas–Pan American.

SEEAG’s Gill’s Onions’ ‘Double Your Impact Challenge’

by Community Contributor • May 9, 2025 • Comments Off

VENTURA — Gill’s Onions will match all donations up to $15,000 for every dollar donated to Students for Eco-Education and Agriculture (SEEAG) through the end of May as part of SEEAG’s 6th Annual Double Your Impact Challenge.

All proceeds benefit SEEAG’s Farm-to-Food Lab program in Ventura and Santa Barbara counties. The program builds awareness and appreciation among grade schoolers for agriculture and the importance of eating healthy. It combines classroom learning with farm field trips and hands-on learning that includes water, plant, and soil science activities—all at no cost to students, teachers or schools.

“The Double Your Impact Challenge helps keep our program free,” says Caitlin Paulus-Case, SEEAG’s executive director. “Gill’s Onions’ generosity and all those who donate during May will help ensure our ability to provide the no-cost program during this coming school year.”

Allan Hancock College’s Rodeo Team ends season on a high note

by Community Contributor • May 9, 2025 • Comments Off

SANTA MARIA — Allan Hancock College’s Rodeo Team finished its 2025 season with an impressive list of awards and accomplishments.

The team’s final competition took place at the National Intercollegiate Rodeo Association’s (NIRA) West Coast Regional Finals in Las Vegas, Nevada, on May 2-4. Hancock freshman breakaway roper Molly Pole had a 3.4-second run and placed fifth out of 88 breakaway ropers. Hancock sophomore Cody French and his team roping partner Haleigh Grant went 8.0 seconds to win the team roping category.

Ventura EcoFest 2025 draws thousands to celebrate Earth Day and sustainability

by Community Contributor • May 9, 2025 • Comments Off

“We’re grateful to our incredible community for showing up and showing heart,” said Lisa Hildebrand, Executive Director, Ventura Charter School. “EcoFest is more than just a celebration, it’s a powerful reminder of how small actions, taken together, can shape a more sustainable future.” Guests of all ages enjoyed a rich array of experiences, including:

From free film screenings and public talks to advocacy meetups, Community Environmental Council’s Environmental Hub is a space where community members can gather, learn, and lead

by Community Contributor • May 9, 2025 • Comments Off

Immerse yourself in an evening of Wild Hope.

Through captivating storytelling, the PBS series Wild Hope

explores bold climate solutions, showcases nature’s resilience, and sparks renewed hope for the future of our planet. We invite you to join us for special screenings and an evening of inspiration, emceed by local author and Pulitzer Prize winner Ed Humes.

Thursday, May 15, 6:30 – 8:00 p.m.

CEC’s Environmental Hub

1219 State St., Santa Barbara

County of Santa Barbara Board of Supervisors meeting of May 13 to discuss environmental health service fees, options to address emissions from oil & gas operations

by Community Contributor • May 9, 2025 • Comments Off

The next regular meeting of the
County Board of Supervisors is scheduled for
9 a.m. Tuesday, May 13, 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.

Santa Barbara Symphony Youth Ensembles to perform free season finale concerts May 24, 25

by Community Contributor • May 9, 2025 • Comments Off

SANTA BARBARA — The Santa Barbara Symphony Youth Ensembles will cap off their 2024/25 season with a pair of FREE community concerts. The community is invited to witness the talent and dedication of more than 100 student musicians across three orchestra levels, ranging in age from 9 – 18.

Cottage Health President Emeritus Ron Werft Honored with national award from American Hospital Association

by Community Contributor • May 9, 2025 • Comments Off

SANTA BARBARA — Cottage Health is proud to announce that Ron Werft, former President and CEO and now president emeritus has received the American Hospital Association’s (AHA) 2025 Board of Trustees Award. The national recognition honors individuals or groups who have made substantial and noteworthy contributions to the mission and work of the AHA on behalf of the hospital field. Werft was presented with the award on May 5 during the AHA Annual Membership Meeting in Washington, D.C.

Museum of Contemporary Art Santa Barbara (MCASB) announces ‘When Light and Sound Become Form’ on May 10, other upcoming events

by Community Contributor • May 8, 2025 • Comments Off

Saturday, May 10th, 2025
10:00am PST // 1:00pm EST

COLOR, LIGHT, MOTION, EPISODE 28

Co-presenters Frederick Janka and Dr. JoAnn Kuchera-Morin will be discussing four objects from the David Bermant Foundation Collection: Nam June Paik, Participation TV, 1969; Otto Piene, Light Ballet I; Marcel Duchamp, Rotorelief (optical discs) 1935-1953, edition c. 1965, and Alejandro & Moira Sina, Spinning Shaft 1978, 1983.

Bilingual report — Ventura Police Officers’ Association opens 2025 Dee Dowell Memorial Scholarship

by Community Contributor • May 8, 2025 • Comments Off

“For over two decades, this scholarship has honored the legacy of Sergeant Darlon ‘Dee’ Dowell by investing in the educational journeys of students committed to service,” said Corporal Joseph Metz, President of the VPOA. “We are proud to continue that tradition and help inspire the next generation of public safety professionals.”

Bilingual report — County of Ventura announces Mountain Fire Debris Removal Fully Complete for Properties Enrolled in the County-led Debris Removal Program

by Community Contributor • May 8, 2025 • Comments Off

“Our Environmental Health Division team, along with our hired contractors and State partners, approached this effort with great care as we managed the program and supported property owners throughout the process”, said Charles Genkel, Environmental Health Division Director. “This wasn’t just about clearing debris. It was about helping people take an important step toward healing and recovery. As we move into the rebuilding phase, the County remains committed to supporting property owners every step of the way.”

Bilingual report — Economic Development Collaborative (EDC) honoring Asian American, Native Hawaiian and Pacific Islander Heritage Month

by Community Contributor • May 8, 2025 • Comments Off

The Economic Development Collaborative would like to recognize National Asian American, Native Hawaiian and Pacific Islander (AANHPI) Heritage Month. Observed annually in May, AANHPI Heritage Month is a time to reflect upon and celebrate the remarkable role of the AANHPI community in our nation’s history. To commemorate AANHPI Heritage Month, the Small Business Administration highlights resources, funding and training available to all AANHPI-owned small businesses and entrepreneurs.

The EDC is proud to support our community by providing professional technical assistance through our Small Business Development Center. Our NO-COST advising areas include:

Santa Paula Art Museum — California Art Club’s ‘Plein Air Visions’ opens Saturday, May 10, other upcoming events

by Community Contributor • May 8, 2025 • Comments Off

Premiere Party: California Art Club’s “Plein Air Visions”

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Saturday, May 10, 2025, from 4 PM to 6 PM

$5 SPAM members, $10 Non-members

We didn’t quite plan for the entire Museum to be filled with art by members of the California Art Club, but we’re not mad now that it has happened! On Saturday, May 10, join us for the premiere of “Plein Air Visions,” featuring two dozen current CAC members. You’ll also enjoy CAC Signature Artist Anne Ward’s solo exhibition, “Painted Seasons,” and a mini-exhibit of works by historic CAC members Jessie Arms Botke and Cornelis Botke.

UCSB — The Current — ‘Bridge to a Bright Future Undergraduates walk FUERTE’s wild path toward environmental careers’ and more news, events

by Community Contributor • May 8, 2025 • Comments Off

Building future careers in STEM, students in the FUERTE program travel to the Eastern Sierra to explore nature, gain field experience and learn from top scientists.

Read more about FUERTE in this special multimedia feature.

Santa Barbara’s Music Academy of the West announcing the arrival of Jun Kaneko’s Monumental Sculpture

by Community Contributor • May 8, 2025 • Comments Off

The Music Academy of the West is proud to welcome Untitled, Head, a monumental sculpture by internationally acclaimed artist Jun Kaneko, now installed on the Academy’s Fé Bland Plaza. Standing 13 feet tall and weighing nearly 2,000 pounds, the cast bronze work rests atop a stainless-steel base, offering visitors a rare opportunity to experience Kaneko’s artistry up close before it takes center stage in two major Music Academy performances at The Granada Theatre.

NeighborWorks America selects Cabrillo EDC CEO Victoria Brady for NeighborWorks Achieving Excellence Program, in collaboration with Harvard University

by Community Contributor • May 6, 2025 • Comments Off

VENTURA — NeighborWorks America is proud to announce that Victoria Brady, Chief Executive Officer of Cabrillo Economic Development Corporation (CEDC) in Ventura is one of 50 leaders selected for the NeighborWorks Achieving Excellence Program, conducted in collaboration with the John F. Kennedy School of Government at Harvard University.

The NeighborWorks Achieving Excellence Program is a 16-month program that equips executives with the skills to advance their organization’s performance. Each participant identifies and clearly defines a specific challenge or opportunity critical to their organization’s success then spends the program addressing that challenge.

“It is both an honor and a vital opportunity to be selected for the NeighborWorks Achieving Excellence Program. As we face growing challenges in providing affordable housing, collaboration with leaders across the industry is essential. Through this program, I look forward to working alongside innovative minds and leverage shared insights to create impactful solutions that strengthen our community and ensure access to safe, affordable homes for all,” said Victoria Brady, CEO of CEDC.

Ventura County Taxpayers Association (VCTA) — the California Mileage tax, more news

by Community Contributor • May 6, 2025 • Comments Off

The Ventura County Taxpayers Association opposes the proposed California mileage tax for vehicles for several reasons.

We acknowledge that the gasoline excise tax finances 80% of California road repairs. The state collects $1.28B per month from this tax. Yet, it doesn’t seem to be enough for Sacramento. (In fairness, only $600M per month is for road repairs. The other $680M goes to different purposes. See a breakdown below).

United Way of Ventura County announces author Sharrell Jackson as Women United Luncheon keynote speaker on May 30

by Community Contributor • May 6, 2025 • Comments Off

VENTURA COUNTY — We’re thrilled to announce Scharrell Jackson, celebrated author with over 25 years of executive leadership experience, as our keynote speaker for the Women United Education Awards Luncheon on Friday, May 30th at Cal Lutheran University. Scharrell is a champion of United Way’s collective community impact work, and we are honored to have her join us! Get your tickets today!

Bilingual report — County of Ventura Building & Safety Division joins International Code Council for the celebration of Building Safety Month 2025

by Community Contributor • May 6, 2025 • Comments Off

VENTURA — In honor of the 45th annual Building Safety Month, the Resource Management Agency’s Building & Safety Division will host an Open House on Thursday, May 8 from 2pm to 4pm at the Ventura County Government Center’s Hall of…

CSUCI Class of 2025 Commencement ceremonies set for Saturday, May 17

by Community Contributor • May 6, 2025 • Comments Off

CAMARILLO — CSU Channel Islands (CSUCI) will celebrate the graduating Class of 2025 during two ceremonies at 9 a.m. and 2 p.m. on Saturday, May 17, 2025.

Almost 1,500 of the 2,198 students eligible to graduate will participate during one of the ceremonies. Students will participate in either the morning or afternoon ceremony depending on their academic major. Over 550 students will graduate with academic honors.

Free carnival ride tickets offered through Conejo Valley Days’ ‘Read & Ride’

by Community Contributor • May 6, 2025 • Comments Off

THOUSAND OAKS — Conejo Valley Days (CVD) is offering free carnival ride passes to students who take part in its “Read & Ride” literacy program. CVD, in conjunction with carnival operator Kastl Amusements, is encouraging kids in kindergarten through 12th grade to read by offering ride passes for use at the festival (June 19 through 29 at Conejo Creek Park South in Thousand Oaks).

Children must read three books approved by their teacher and their parent, write a brief summary of each book on a Read & Ride form (available on the CVD website) and have his or her parent and teacher sign the completed form. Students bring the form to the Kastl Amusements information booth inside the CVD site where the child will receive a pass good for three free rides of their choice. Kindergarten-age kids can draw pictures about their books on the back of the form. Homeschoolers can also take part in the program. Kids in all school districts are eligible.

UCSB — The Current — ‘New frontiers for well-being in Antarctica and isolated spaces’ and more news, events

by Community Contributor • May 6, 2025 • Comments Off

Media Arts and Technology doctoral students are helping to pioneer AI tools supporting mental health in Antarctica and other extreme environments.

Chelsea Henriod joins Sherfina Advisors

by Community Contributor • May 6, 2025 • Comments Off

NEWBURY PARK — Financial advisory firm Sherfina Advisors is pleased to welcome Chelsea Henriod to the firm’s team of experienced financial professionals.

A native of Camarillo, Henriod worked as a financial advisor for Edward Jones for 6 years prior to joining Sherfina Advisors. She uses goal-based investment strategies to help her clients successfully prepare for and live through retirement, save for their children or grandchildren’s education, manage estate plans, and prepare for the unexpected.

Through advanced technology and support, Henriod ensures her clients receive the most current and comprehensive guidance. She also works with other trusted professionals such as accountants and estate attorneys to develop complete, tailored financial strategies.

CLU’s deadline extended: Non-dilutive funding for startups: DIG 2025 applications

by Community Contributor • May 5, 2025 • Comments Off

Application deadline extended to Friday, May 16, 2025.

We’re now accepting applications for the 2025 Dorfman Incubator Grants (DIG). Startups can apply for $5,000 to $50,000 in non-dilutive grant funding. Ideal candidates have a connection to Cal Lutheran as a student, alum, employee or employer of Cal Lutheran students.

Ventura County Grand Jury announces release of its report addressing refund delays in the Property Tax Assessment and Collection System

by Community Contributor • May 5, 2025 • Comments Off

VENTURA — The Ventura County Property Tax Assessment and Collection System is highly complex and interdependent. The Assessor’s department utilizes Oasis software to identify, track, and assess the value of property. Pertinent data are integrated with the Orbit system, which is used by the Auditor-Controller and Treasurer-Tax Collector departments. These departments use Orbit software to determine tax rates, calculate property taxes, prepare the tax bills, apply payments, and distribute funds to over 400 government agencies.

Economic Development Collaborative (EDC) free event and webinar schedule

by Community Contributor • May 5, 2025 • Comments Off

IN-PERSON EVENT: DIGITAL MARKETING STRATEGIES TO ATTRACT AND GAIN MORE CUSTOMERS

May 7 @ 8:30 am

Whether you are a seasoned marketer or just starting out, this workshop is tailored to equip you with actionable marketing strategies that will deliver results. Don’t miss this opportunity to elevate your marketing game and attract and gain more customers. Join SCORE Ventura County, City of Thousand Oaks and EDC for this insight-packed workshop that will dive into the key elements of digital marketing to help attract and gain more customers. Address: Thousand Oaks City Hall, 2100 Thousand Oaks Blvd., Thousand Oaks, CA 91362.

CLICK HERE TO REGISTER

Ventura County Grand Jury announces release of its report Water Rates for the City of Ventura and the Underground Dam in Foster Park

by Community Contributor • May 5, 2025 • Comments Off

VENTURA — The City of Ventura supplies water to its residents from three main sources: the Ventura River, Lake Casitas, and three groundwater sources.

In the early 1900s, an underground dam was built across the Ventura River in Foster Park to supply water to the growing city of Ventura. However, construction of the dam was halted about 300 feet short of the design due to the increasing depth of bedrock and rising inflow of groundwater.

Community Colleges of Ventura County Uplift LGBTQIA+ graduates at third annual Lavender Celebration

by Community Contributor • May 5, 2025 • Comments Off

Now in its third year, Lavender Graduation has become a beloved tradition that fills students and employees alike with anticipation. The ceremony and afterparty reception, hosted in a rotation among the three colleges, was initially created in the 2022-23 academic year to be an inclusive graduation celebration that honors the achievements and identities of LGBTQIA+ students across the district. Since its inaugural year, the event has continued to draw a guest list of graduates, continuing students, and their supporters, as well as the LGBTQIA+ community members and allies employed by the district as faculty, classified professionals, and administrators.

Cottage Health partners with clearway health to launch specialty pharmacy program

by Community Contributor • May 5, 2025 • Comments Off

SANTA BARBARA — Cottage Health has partnered with Clearway Health, a specialty pharmacy services company, to develop a specialty pharmacy program that enhances patient access to medications with concierge-level service at a lower cost. This collaboration brings personalized pharmacy support to Cottage Health’s specialty outpatient clinics, enhancing patient access to medications.

The program is designed to simplify the prescription process by assisting with insurance approvals, financial assistance, medication delivery, and ongoing support, making it easier for patients to manage their treatment without delays or added stress.

Bilingual report — Ventura PD urges drivers to stay alert during National Motorcycle Safety Awareness Month

by Community Contributor • May 5, 2025 • Comments Off

VENTURA — With the return of warmer weather and an increase in motorcycles on the road, Ventura PD reminds drivers to share the road, reduce crashes, and help save lives throughout May, recognized nationally as Motorcycle Safety Awareness Month.

“Motorcycles can easily be overlooked in traffic, making it essential to check your mirrors and blind spots carefully,” said Corporal David Curtis. “A simple second glance can prevent a tragedy. Unlike drivers in cars, motorcyclists lack the protection of a vehicle frame. We all share the responsibility to help keep our roads safe.”

LULAC commemorates Cinco de Mayo by calling on all Americans to defend the Constitution and uphold civil rights

by Community Contributor • May 5, 2025 • Comments Off

Nation’s Oldest and Largest Latino Civil Rights Organization Honors the Lessons of History and Urges the Nation to Stand Against Injustice in All Its Forms

Washington, D.C. – On this Cinco de Mayo, the League of United Latin American Citizens (LULAC) commemorates the historic victory of the outnumbered and outgunned Mexican forces who, against all odds, defeated the French army at the Battle of Puebla in 1862. Their triumph was not merely military. It stood for national dignity, justice, and self-determination despite overwhelming power. Today, LULAC calls upon every American to reflect on that legacy and its enduring meaning for our nation at this pivotal moment.

Bilingual report — Santa Paula Police Dept. — Safety Tips for Cinco De Mayo

by Community Contributor • May 5, 2025 • Comments Off

SANTA PAULA — The Santa Paula Police Department invites those who are attending festivities to celebrate responsibly during the weekend leading up to Cinco De Mayo, which is Monday, May 5th.

Residents, business owners, and drivers are encouraged to be vigilant and report drunk drivers by dialing 911. If you are driving to Cinco De May celebrations over the next several days, please make responsible choices and designate a sober driver to get you home. Rideshare and public transportation are also available.

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