Author: Community Contributor

CSUCI to confer honorary doctorates on regional leaders Javier Gomez and Cynthia Herrera

by Community Contributor • April 24, 2026 • Comments Off

CAMARILLO — California State University Channel Islands (CSUCI) will honor two distinguished leaders whose contributions have advanced education, culture, and community impact across Ventura County. Mr. Javier Gomez and Dr. Cynthia Herrera will receive honorary doctorates at CSUCI’s 2026 Commencement ceremonies on May 23.

“It is a privilege to recognize Mr. Javier Gomez and Dr. Cynthia Herrera, whose lifelong dedication to education, culture, and community has uplifted countless individuals across our region,” said CSUCI Interim President Susan Andrzejewski. “Their work reflects the heart of CSU Channel Islands, and their stories will inspire our graduates to lead with purpose and compassion.”

Bilingual commentary — The Blessings and Burdens of a Home

by Community Contributor • April 24, 2026 • Comments Off

We often hear of the plight of young people who are despairing of ever owning a home. We can’t blame them. It is not because they “don’t work hard enough.” Many of them, I’m sure, work longer hours than some of us in the boomer generation ever did. But we boomers grew up in very different economic times. We were riding the winds of a post-war boom that formed a very favorable backdrop for our economic lives.

The keys of a first home represent “adulthood” and the ultimate fulfillment of the American Dream. The milestone is celebrated with parties and social media high-fives. But what many younger people may not thoroughly understand is that a home is both a blessing and a burden.

Teacher of the Year for VCOE-Operated Schools is announced

by Community Contributor • April 24, 2026 • Comments Off

VENTURA COUNTY — Mackenzie Holland, who has dedicated her career to teaching students with extensive support needs, has been named the 2026 Teacher of the Year for schools operated by the Ventura County Office of Education (VCOE). Ms. Holland will now have the opportunity to compete for the Ventura County Teacher of the Year award.

Holland learned this morning that she was being honored at VCOE’s Dorothy Boswell School in Ventura, which serves young adults with special needs. Shegot a big surprise as she walked into a conference room to find her colleagues waiting for her, along with Dr. César Morales, Ventura County Superintendent of Schools. Also on hand to break the good news were Associate Superintendent of Student Services Dr. Consuelo Hernandez Williams, Boswell Principal Dr. Amy Stencler, and Director of County Program Support & Accountability Christina Mahone.

TOArts launches Junior Creators Conservatory for middle school artists

by Community Contributor • April 24, 2026 • Comments Off

THOUSAND OAKS — TOArts is launching the Junior Creators Conservatory, its first program designed specifically for middle school students, creating a new entry point for young artists to explore and develop their creativity.

The new program expands TOArts’ commitment to building a continuous arts pathway, from early exposure to pre-professional training, by offering students earlier access to mentorship, skill-building, and creative exploration. Designed for students not yet eligible for the high school-focused Creators Conservatory, the Junior Conservatory fills a critical gap in arts education at a formative stage.

Bilingual report — Community Environmental Council’s (CEC) — Step into the action at the 56th Santa Barbara Earth Day Festival!

by Community Contributor • April 23, 2026 • Comments Off

On Saturday, April 25 (11:00 a.m. – 8:00 p.m.) and Sunday, April 26 (11:00 a.m. – 7:00 p.m.), Alameda Park will come alive for the Santa Barbara Earth Day Festival, one of the longest-running Earth Day gatherings in the country. Presented by the Community Environmental Council (CEC) and CarpEvents, this free festival is a reminder of the reason we started this work 56 years ago: to empower our communities to take meaningful local action for the future of our Central Coast.

This year’s theme — Our Power, Our Planet — calls on all of us to stand together in support of clean air, clean water, renewable energy, and a thriving planet for generations to come. Amid federal rollbacks and climate challenges, this message resonates louder than ever.

Festival-goers can also enjoy live music, a plant-forward Food Court and Beer Garden (featuring reusable cups), a Kids Zone, and over 200 eco-friendly exhibitors throughout the festival. We invite you to step into the action and find the CEC team at:

Bilingual report — County of Ventura seeks public input on upcoming Prohousing Designation application

by Community Contributor • April 23, 2026 • Comments Off

VENTURA — The County of Ventura is inviting public input as it prepares to apply for the State of California’s Prohousing Designation, a program that recognizes jurisdictions that go beyond state housing laws to accelerate housing production and reduce barriers to development. On April 28, 2026, the Ventura County Board of Supervisors will consider adoption of a resolution at 10:30 a.m., authorizing the County to apply for, and participate in the program, marking the start of the public process. The hearing of the item at the Board of Supervisors meeting represents the first opportunity for community members to share input on the proposed application.

Community Environmental Council (CEC) — From oil spill to Earth Day — and what comes next

by Community Contributor • April 23, 2026 • Comments Off

More than 50 years ago, a devastating oil spill off our coast sparked a powerful movement.
In 1970, our community came together to organize one of the first Earth Day celebrations — and the Community Environmental Council was born.

This weekend, we will gather again.

Earth Day is a reminder of what’s possible when a community comes together to demand change and build solutions.

But today, we are once again facing efforts to expand fossil fuels and roll back progress.

40th Annual California Strawberry Festival offers strawberry treats and family fun

by Community Contributor • April 23, 2026 • Comments Off

VENTURA — The 40th Annual California Strawberry Festival is set for Saturday and Sunday, May 16 and 17, at the Ventura County Fairgrounds (10 W. Harbor Blvd., Ventura, CA 93001). The festival is the ultimate experience for strawberry lovers. It is filled with tasty strawberry-themed food and beverages, live entertainment, carnival rides, an artisan and crafters area, and other activities, all in a fun, family-friendly atmosphere. Hours are 10:00 a.m. to 6:30 p.m., both days.

Museum of Contemporary Art Santa Barbara — Last Lotus Bloom Circle Series Session this Friday!

by Community Contributor • April 23, 2026 • Comments Off

As we are halfway through the week I just want to hop on here an remind you all of the closing session of the Lotus Bloom Circle Series facilitated by wellness artist Khaatia Vantiger.

Session 4: The Blossoms – Legacy/Community

Guest contribution — Cottage Health’s COPE Intensive Outpatient Programs provide flexible behavioral health and substance use care

by Community Contributor • April 23, 2026 • Comments Off

SANTA BARBARA — COPE (Cottage Outpatient Program Experience) Intensive Outpatient Programs (IOP) provides flexible, accessible behavioral health services for individuals seeking treatment for substance use disorders and mental health conditions across the Central Coast and throughout California.

Santa Barbara City College releases first annual Citizens’ Bond Oversight Committee Report for Measure P Bond Extension

by Community Contributor • April 23, 2026 • Comments Off

SANTA BARBARA — Santa Barbara City College (SBCC) announced the release of the first annual report from the Measure P Citizens’ Bond Oversight Committee (CBOC), providing the community with a transparent update on how voter-approved bond funds are being managed and invested up to December 31, 2025. Click here to see the full report in English and Spanish: CBOC.SBCC.edu

UCSB — The Current — ‘Clean’ beauty products for textured hair often contain hidden hazards’ and more news, events

by Community Contributor • April 23, 2026 • Comments Off

New research suggests that for consumers with textured hair, the “clean” label may not always equal “chemical-free.”

Housing Authority of the City of Santa Barbara breaks ground on 46 unit affordable housing development 15 South Hope Avenue

by Community Contributor • April 23, 2026 • Comments Off

SANTA BARBARA — The Housing Authority of the City of Santa Barbara (HACSB) held a groundbreaking ceremony for its newest affordable housing development located at 15 South Hope Avenue on Wednesday, April 22. This new construction, multifamily rental housing project will provide 46 affordable units and represents a major step in addressing the region’s housing needs. Neighbors, local officials, community partners, and housing advocates gathered to celebrate this milestone.

Bipartisan opposition halts effort to weaken Endangered Species Act, safeguarding wildlife along California’s Central Coast

by Community Contributor • April 23, 2026 • Comments Off

CENTRAL COAST — After widespread opposition from constituents and conservation groups, House leaders have indefinitely postponed a vote on the “ESA Amendments Act” (H.R. 1897), a proposal that would have gutted the Endangered Species Act. The bill was pulled from consideration on April 22 moments before it was scheduled for a vote, after mounting concerns about its impact on more than 1,700 protected plant and animal species across the country.

Bilingual report — Registration is now open for the Ventura County Farmworker Housing Study and Action Plan Feedback Sessions

by Community Contributor • April 22, 2026 • Comments Off

The Ventura County Farmworker Housing Study and Action Plan is a collaborative, countywide effort launched by the County of Ventura in partnership with House Farm Workers!, designed to understand and address the urgent housing needs of the county’s farmworker community – needs shaped by long-standing shortages, rising housing costs, and the essential role farm workers play in sustaining the region’s agricultural economy.

Central Coast Alliance United for a Sustainable Economy (CAUSE) — Speak Out (April 21) to protect families’ Housing

by Community Contributor • April 21, 2026 • Comments Off

Time is running out. The deadline to weigh in on a major federal housing proposal is tomorrow – and what happens next could determine whether thousands of families can stay in their homes. The Trump administration’s attacks on immigrant families are spreading to impact affordable housing for children and others living in mixed-status homes.

Right now, federal policy allows families with mixed immigration status to stay together and receive housing assistance for members of the family who are eligible. The new proposed policy would end that.

If finalized, it would shift to an “all-or-nothing” rule: If even one person in a household isn’t eligible, the entire family could lose housing assistance.

UCSB — The Current — ‘UCSB’s David Gross wins Special Breakthrough Prize in Fundamental Physics’ and more news, events

by Community Contributor • April 21, 2026 • Comments Off

Popularly known as the “Oscars® of Science,” the award honors scientists whose discoveries are significantly driving growth of human knowledge.

Economic Development Collaborative (EDC) free event and webinar schedule

by Community Contributor • April 20, 2026 • Comments Off

IN-PERSON: STOP GUESSING: UNDERSTAND YOUR BUSINESS NUMBERS WITH QUICKBOOKS REPORTS

April 21 @ 8:30 am

QuickBooks Online can generate dozens of reports, but which ones truly matter for running and growing your business? Join SCORE Ventura, City of Ventura, Accelerate CA and Economic Development Collaborative in this practical workshop, business owners will learn how to create and interpret the most important financial reports on QuickBooks Online. Whether you are new to QuickBooks or have been using it for years, understanding your financial reports is essential for making informed decisions and managing your business with confidence. Participants will explore a few of the most critical reports every business owner should review regularly and learn how to interpret the numbers behind them. Check-in: 8:00 am – Coffee and Pastries Provided; Event starts at 8:30 am. Address: Ventura City Hall | 501 Poli St, Ventura, CA 93001 | Community Room. #202. Price: FREE.

CLICK HERE TO REGISTER

Ventura County Community College District joins National Entrepreneurship Pilot to expand access to business financing education

by Community Contributor • April 20, 2026 • Comments Off

CAMARILLO — The Ventura County Community College District (VCCCD) is hosting “Foundations of Financing for Entrepreneurs,” a free workshop today at the HIVE Autonomous Innovation Center in Camarillo.

The workshop is part of a national pilot program, CEED to Success, designed to expand entrepreneurship and business financing education to underserved founders. As part of this initiative, VCCCD is partnering with the program’s founder, Baker Hill, through its Center for Entrepreneurship and Economic Development (CEED) and a partnership with the National Association for Community College Entrepreneurship (NACCE).

Startup Day Channel Islands brings one-day entrepreneurial experience to Ventura County

by Community Contributor • April 20, 2026 • Comments Off

CAMARILLO — Aspiring entrepreneurs across Ventura County will have the opportunity to develop and pitch business ideas in just one day at Startup Day Channel Islands, taking place Friday, April 24, from 8 a.m. to 6 p.m. at California State…

Bilingual report — Former U.S. Poet Laureate Juan Felipe Herrera to visit Allan Hancock College for reading and workshop

by Community Contributor • April 20, 2026 • Comments Off

SANTA MARIA — Allan Hancock College will welcome acclaimed poet and former U.S. Poet Laureate Juan Felipe Herrera for a special poetry reading and community zine workshop April 24 from 4 to 6 p.m. in Boyd Concert Hall (bldg. F) on the Santa Maria campus.

The free event, which is open to the public, will offer attendees the opportunity to hear from one of the nation’s most influential literary voices and participate in a collaborative, hands-on creative workshop.

Herrera, the son of farmworkers, was born in Fowler, California, and has spent more than five decades shaping American poetry through his writing, teaching, and community engagement. He served as Poet Laureate of the United States from 2015 to 2017, becoming the first Mexican American to hold the position, and previously served as California’s Poet Laureate.

Bilingual report — Teatro de las Américas 34th Anniversary / 34 Aniversario, more news

by Community Contributor • April 17, 2026 • Comments Off

Teatro de las Américas

34th Anniversary

Dinner/Concert Fundraiser

Teatro de las Américas is celebrating its 34th anniversary as the only organization dedicated to Spanish-language theater on the Central Coast, and we invite friends, volunteers, and anyone interested in supporting the arts and culture in our community to join us for our annual benefit event.

Bilingual commentary — Modern Echoes of the Apollo Program

by Community Contributor • April 17, 2026 • Comments Off

Watching Artemis II loop around the Moon and come home felt like I too had “come home.” Some of us in my generation used to get up at 3 a.m. to watch the electrifying launches of the missions with god-like names: Mercury, Gemini, and Apollo. We would watch with focused fascination the black-and-white images on our small TV screens, never imagining that our grandchildren some 50 years later would be seeing mesmerizing high-definition, full-color feeds of the lunar surface on large high-tech screens during their moonshot. It all felt like a powerful injection of déjà vu. It wasn’t just about the hardware or the physics; it was that energy of the thrill of returning to the Moon.

California Lutheran University — Now Available: 2026 Housing Conference Coverage

by Community Contributor • April 17, 2026 • Comments Off

CESI’s 2026 conference, “California’s Housing Crisis: Roots of the Problem and What Lies Ahead,” is now fully available—bringing together opening remarks, cutting-edge research, a dynamic panel, and candid Q&A throughout.

Explore three short highlight videos tackling housing affordability, economic inequality, and the mounting pressures facing communities across California.

This is more than a recap—it’s a call to action. Join the conversation, challenge the status quo, and help drive the long-overdue change Californians deserve.

Watch CESI Conference!

Dr. Vejas Skripkus joins Cottage Primary Care–Santa Barbara–Bath St.

by Community Contributor • April 17, 2026 • Comments Off

SANTA BARBARA —. Vejas Skripkus, a board-certified physician specializing in family medicine, has joined Cottage Primary Care – Santa Barbara – Bath St., where he practices alongside Dr. Barry Statner, Dr. Nastassia Sylvestre, Dr. Brett Trzcinski and Dr. Jane Varner.

Bilingual report — County of Ventura employees mark milestones across decades of public impact

by Community Contributor • April 17, 2026 • Comments Off

VENTURA — More than six centuries of public service were recognized this week as the County of Ventura honored 24 employees reaching career milestones of 25 to 35 years. Their combined 660 years of service reflect decades of experience supporting essential programs and services across the county. The recognition took place during the April 14 meeting of the Board of Supervisors.

Museum of Ventura County — Two exhibitions ending April 26

by Community Contributor • April 17, 2026 • Comments Off

The Museum of Ventura County extends beyond its galleries. Through community events, school tours, and outreach programs, we connect with people across Ventura County in ways that spark curiosity.

Over the past 12 months, we have reached more than 10,000 people through these experiences. Communities come together to share and reflect. Students see their local history in a new way. Families engage with one another through hands-on activities.

This is what the Museum does. We connect people through the shared stories of Ventura County.

Bilingual report — County of Ventura Ocean Water Quality Monitoring Report

by Community Contributor • April 17, 2026 • Comments Off

VENTURA — Ocean water quality results from samples collected this week indicate that ocean water quality at the following Ventura County beach sampling locations failed to meet State standards for bacteria:

Rincon Beach – South of Creek

Surfer’s Knoll Beach

Over 300 teens and their parents shop at Prom Closet at local YMCAS

by Community Contributor • April 17, 2026 • Comments Off

WESTLAKE VILLAGE — Over 300 teens and their parents selected free prom attire at Prom Closets at the two branches of the Southeast Ventura County YMCA. Prom Closets were held at the Simi Valley Family YMCA and Yarrow Family YMCA in Westlake Village. Both Prom Closets were filled with donated, gently used and new formal wear for use by high schoolers at their prom.

For the past three years, the Southeast Ventura County YMCA and its branches have partnered with the Simi Valley Soroptimist Club to hold a Prom Closet at both YMCA sites.

Bilingual report — Election observation schedule released for June 2, 2026 Gubernatorial Primary Election

by Community Contributor • April 17, 2026 • Comments Off

VENTURA COUNTY — The Ventura County Elections Division released its Election Observation Schedule, outlining the dates, times, and descriptions of observable activities, for the upcoming June 2nd election.

Bilingual report — Santa Paula Police Chief Advisory Committee application period opens

by Community Contributor • April 16, 2026 • Comments Off

SANTA PAULA — The Santa Paula Police Department is currently accepting applications for the Police Chief Advisory Committee. Those interested in applying can do so online. The application is open to residents or business owners in the City of Santa Paula.

The Police Chief Advisory Committee will be comprised of 5-7 members from the community. The committee may take on roles including but not limited to: reviewing policies and practices, community concerns, and recommending public safety strategies. The committee’s purpose is advisory only, and it will not act in an oversight capacity.

Ventura County Taxpayers Association (VCTA) 2026 Economic Outlook Report is HERE!

by Community Contributor • April 16, 2026 • Comments Off

Download the 2026 Economic Outlook Report presented at our April 14th VCTF event.

This comprehensive report is presented by Dr. Mark Schniepp from the California Economic Forecast.

13th annual Ventura County Farm Day draws large crowds

by Community Contributor • April 15, 2026 • Comments Off

VENTURA — The 13th Annual Ventura County Farm Day drew over 7,300 visitors to 18 local farms, ranches and agricultural venues across Ventura County. The number of visitors for the April 11 event was the largest since the annual event began.

Almost 10,000 vegetable seedlings donated by Plantel Nurseries were distributed at Duda Farms and Petty Ranch, two participating farms.

United Way of Ventura County announces sponsorship opportunities for 2026 Stuff the Bus

by Community Contributor • April 15, 2026 • Comments Off

Dear Friends of our Ventura County kids, Nearly 9,500 youth have been identified by the Ventura County Office of Education as homeless in Ventura County. Help us support local youth experiencing homelessness as they head back to school. Your contribution…

California Nature Art Museum welcomes Jessica Tade as new executive director

by Community Contributor • April 14, 2026 • Comments Off

SOLVANG — The California Nature Art Museum (CalNAM) is pleased to welcome Jessica Tade as the organization’s new executive director. In this role, Tade will provide strategic leadership as she guides the museum through its next phase of growth and impact.

“We are thrilled that Jessica will be bringing her vast experience and leadership to the California Nature Art Museum as we begin the next chapter of our storied history,” said CalNAM Board President Kevin Patterson. “Her vision and creativity will continue to grow the museum’s impact, deepen our connection with the community, and inspire greater appreciation for the intersection of art and the natural world. We are confident that under her leadership, CalNAM will reach new heights and build on its legacy as a vibrant cultural and educational resource.”

UCSB — The Current — ‘How information disorder shapes global politics’ and more news, events

by Community Contributor • April 14, 2026 • Comments Off

n a media environment where creating content and spreading false or misleading material is easy, perception is everything. Political scientist Julia Morse examines how these dynamics play out in the international arena.

Community Environmental Council (CEC) — This is what’s at stake on the Central Coast

by Community Contributor • April 14, 2026 • Comments Off

Across the country, we’re seeing renewed efforts to expand fossil fuels and lock in decades of climate risk.

Here on the Central Coast, we know what that means.

We’ve seen what happens when systems fail — and we’ve spent decades building something better.

To protect that progress, CEC is working to raise $75,000 by May 15 — and your gift will be matched dollar-for-dollar.

We can’t go back.

Protect our progress ?

Economic Development Collaborative (EDC) free event and webinar schedule

by Community Contributor • April 13, 2026 • Comments Off

IN-PERSON WORKSHOP: AI FOR SMALL BUSINESS: 10 USE CASES YOU CAN APPLY THIS MONTH

April 17 @ 8:30 am

Join SCORE, the City of Moorpark, the Economic Development Collaborative, and Accelerate CA for this information-packed workshop. Turn AI from buzzword into business results. Learn practical, low-cost tools and tips for marketing, sales, and operations, no IT or coding background needed. Leave with prompts, checklists and a 30-day action plan. Note: A free or paid Generative AI Account (e.g. ChatGPT, Claude, Gemini, Co-Pilot) is required to get the most out of the hands-on portions of this workshop. Bring a fully charged laptop or device with your selected AI application installed and signed in to your account. Address: Moorpark City Hall | 323 Science Dr, Moorpark, CA 93021. The Accelerate California: Inclusive Innovation Hub (Accelerate CA Hub) is funded by the State of California and administered by CalOSBA. Price: FREE.

CLICK HERE TO REGISTER

Bilingual report — 805 UNCOCUFund — Urgent: Stop the $460M Jail Expansion – Protect Our Immigrant Community

by Community Contributor • April 13, 2026 • Comments Off

The Santa Barbara County Board of Supervisors is currently considering a massive $460 million proposal (including long-term financing and staffing) to expand the North Branch Jail by 1½ housing units, adding 384 beds. We are calling on the Board to reject this overreach and limit the addition to just one housing unit (256 beds).

The Board’s current plan would more than double the capacity of the Santa Maria jail, locking our County into decades of crushing debt and soaring operational costs. Our County is facing $23 million in cuts to social and safety-net programs next fiscal year and a $66 million deficit over the next 5 years.

The Human Cost: A Devastating Blow to Our Immigrant Community

Beyond the fiscal irresponsibility, this expansion poses a direct threat to our immigrant neighbors. Our jails already hold many non-violent residents, including those struggling with mental health or substance use disorders, who do not need to be incarcerated to ensure public safety.

Meet the Development Team at the Museum of Ventura County

by Community Contributor • April 13, 2026 • Comments Off

Hi, I’m Heather Williams, Chief Development Officer at the Museum of Ventura County.

First and foremost, thank you for your support of the Museum. It’s people like you who help keep our mission, vision, and purpose alive.

I wanted to reach out to introduce myself and our team. You may know our Barbara Barnard Smith CEO, Elena Brokaw, but you may not know us, the development team. We’re the ones who call to thank you for your donations, send your tax letters, answer your membership questions, and most importantly, build and sustain the funding plan for the Museum of Ventura County.

Our small but mighty team wouldn’t be able to do what we do without you. Each quarter, we’ll send an email like this one highlighting wins that you, our MVC community, made possible.

National Association of Women Business Owners, Santa Barbara chapter (NAWBO-SB) to honor outstanding women at 12th annual Bravo Awards Ceremony

by Community Contributor • April 13, 2026 • Comments Off

SANTA BARBARA — The National Association of Women Business Owners, Santa Barbara chapter (NAWBO-SB) is proud to announce the 12th Annual BRAVO Awards, celebrating the accomplishments of outstanding women in the Santa Barbara community. President Dr. Mary Jean Vignone and President-Elect Annika Jensen will be co-hosting an engaging luncheon to honor nine incredible winners.

The event will take place on April 30, 2026, at The Leta Hotel (Tapestry Collection by Hilton) in Goleta. This year’s theme, “Business in Bloom”, celebrates the remarkable growth, resilience, and impact of the women in the Santa Barbara community.

‘Let Us Entertain You Seaside’ with free live music all month long at Ventura Harbor Village

by Community Contributor • April 13, 2026 • Comments Off

VENTURA — Ventura Harbor Village is setting the stage for a menagerie of free, family-friendly, live weekly music throughout April 2026 on the seaside Promenade Stage at the waterfront. The ongoing music series showcases a dockside selection of top-notch musicians who present a variety of genres, including Pop, Rock and coastal surf rock.

Enjoy the perfect coastal day with live music from 1 – 4 PM. Relax by the water as talented local musicians set the scene with a mix of lively and

laid-back tunes.

Whether you’re dining at a waterfront restaurant or simply soaking up the ocean breeze, the vibrant music adds the perfect soundtrack to your visit.

Bilingual report — Ocean Water Quality Monitoring Report: Potential storm water runoff contamination

by Community Contributor • April 13, 2026 • 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.

Santa Paula Art Museum — Celebrate 16 years with us: Anniversary party & fundraiser on April 18

by Community Contributor • April 13, 2026 • Comments Off

Join us at the Santa Paula Art Museum’s Plein Air Anniversary Party on the outdoor patio at Parque 1055! Celebrate 16 years of art, community, and creativity as we honor the Shively, Clark, and Gunderson families for their incredible longstanding support.

Enjoy hors d’oeuvres and handcrafted cocktails while watching live painting by several of our Cole Creativity Center teaching artists, and bid on their original works in a silent auction. All proceeds support the Museum’s arts education programs, which provide 1,600 hours of arts instruction to more than 6,000 K-12 students every year.

Bilingual report — Museum of Contemporary Art Santa Barbara x DJ Javier Tee Dropping Soon

by Community Contributor • April 13, 2026 • Comments Off

Hi Friends!

I have a cool announcement for you!

In honor of DJ Javier’s exhibition San Milano Drive, we are so happy to be launching our very own MCASB x DJ Javier t-shirt!

This tee will only be available for $35 at pre-sale, so make sure to get yours now.

Pre-sale ends April 20th, price will go up to $45.

Community Environmental Council (CEC) — Final Call: Spring Climate Stewards Course starts this Wednesday!

by Community Contributor • April 13, 2026 • Comments Off

The Central Coast is counting on people like you to step up for a climate-safe future. CEC’s Climate Stewards Certification Program, in partnership with the University of California Environmental Stewards program, gives you the tools to launch and lead climate solutions in your neighborhood. Starting this Wednesday, April 15, join a cohort of community members, professionals, students, and retirees who are done waiting on the sidelines and ready to lead.

Bilingual report — Santa Paula City Council opts not to advance cannabis ballot measure

by Community Contributor • April 13, 2026 • Comments Off

SANTA PAULA — At a Special Meeting held on April 6, 2026, the Santa Paula City Council convened at the Community Center to consider the feasibility of placing a potential ballot measure before voters related to the regulation of commercial cannabis activities within the City. Ultimately, the City Council voted 4-1 not to place the measure on the upcoming November ballot.

The discussion was aligned with the City Council’s Strategic Goal of Economic Development, as permitting commercial cannabis activities, specifically retail storefronts, would provide opportunities to increase the City’s revenue base, create local jobs, and activate vacant commercial spaces.

Bilingual report — Ventura’s Music Under the Stars tickets go on sale May 12

by Community Contributor • April 13, 2026 • Comments Off

VENTURA — Music Under the Stars returns to the Olivas Adobe Historical Park this summer with eight outdoor concerts on Saturdays from July through August. Tickets go on sale May 12, 2026, at 12:00 p.m. PST.

The City encourages people to purchase tickets online, as many concerts sell out quickly. While tickets are also available by phone or in person, please note that customer service may not be able to accommodate all requests promptly due to high demand. Purchasing tickets online ensures the fastest and most reliable way to secure seats.

Mixteco / Indigena Community Organizing Project (MICOP) — From the Fields to Fair Pay: New report demands change

by Community Contributor • April 10, 2026 • Comments Off

SANTA MARIA – Alianza Campesina (on April 8) held a press conference to unveil new statewide research. The report builds on years of organizing led by Central Coast farmworkers fighting for living wages and safer, more dignified workplaces.

“Just a week ago, California took a step in the right direction, identifying March 31st as Farmworker Day, but now that everyone has collectively recognized the importance of celebrating farmworkers across the state, we need to follow up with action because farmworkers need more than just celebration. They need a living wage, and that is why we are gathered here today, to demonstrate that implementing a living wage is viable and is long overdue,” Erica Diaz Cervantes, Associate Policy Director with CAUSE.

Bilingual commentary — Humanoid Robots and the Future of Work

by Community Contributor • April 10, 2026 • Comments Off

We are all generally aware that the explosion of AI in our lives represents both a blessing and a threat. Some of the dangers are real, and some are imagined. We might also be conscious of the currently outsized impact that AI is having on white-collar careers such as computer programming.

But whereas the college-bound and college graduates are particularly acutely aware of the disruptive nature of AI, it’s beginning to dawn on many of us that the threat we’re sensing is only the proverbial tip of the iceberg.

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