Category: Commentary

Ventura County Business Women announces June 2026 events

by Community Contributor • June 1, 2026 • Comments Off

VENTURA — Ventura County Business Women (VCBW), the county’s fastest-growing professional women’s network with over 6,600 members, announces its June 2026 event lineup designed to support women entrepreneurs through authentic connection, strategic collaboration, and personal empowerment.

With a diverse range of in-person and virtual opportunities, June’s calendar offers businesswomen across Ventura County multiple touchpoints for networking, skill development and community building—from signature morning networking events and a brand-new pop-up gathering in Ojai to an expert panel experience.

Bilingual commentary — The Higher Education-Industry Gap

by Community Contributor • May 27, 2026 • Comments Off

Throughout my teaching career at a local community college, my colleagues and I correctly assumed that we could teach foundational knowledge and send our students into a stable job market. However, after I retired, two things happened that ruthlessly upset the apple cart: COVID wreaked its havoc, and the explosive launch of the generative chatbot ChatGPT shocked the world by offering practical artificial intelligence to the masses.

UCSB — The Current — Agent of change’ Dennis Assanis inaugurated as UCSB chancellor’ and more news, events

by Community Contributor • May 27, 2026 • Comments Off

View this email online

UCSB — The Current — ‘Carbon markets underestimate the risks U.S. forests face from climate change’ and other events, stories

by Community Contributor • May 26, 2026 • Comments Off

Wildfire, drought and insect infestations are causing forests to emit more greenhouse gasses than carbon-credit systems currently account for.

Bilingual report — Ventura County Farmworker Housing Study and Action Plan public review draft available

by Community Contributor • May 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.

Bilingual commentary — Goddesses and the Month of May

by Community Contributor • May 22, 2026 • Comments Off

Last week I wrote about reasons to celebrate the month of May. But I’ve since learned another significant aspect of this glorious month.

Have we ever wondered about the origin of the name of this month? Many of us might surmise that it has something to do with the maypole, that wooden artifact that was part of European folk festivals. It might have been associated with paganism in Germany during the Iron Age, but we’re just not sure about this in our attempt to reach back to the obscure past.

In Spanish, the month of “May” is “mayo” (not capitalized). Like much of Spanish, this is derived from Latin, in which the word “Maius” means “Maia’s month.” But then of course we find ourselves asking, “Who is Maia?”

Teatro de las Américas — Cerca de ti | Clase de yoga | Solicitamos director

by Community Contributor • May 22, 2026 • Comments Off

Cerca de ti

(Close to you)

Play in Spanish

?Written by Conchi León?

Directed by Juliana Acosta

Ventura College Foundation distributes a record $1,037,741 in scholarships

by Community Contributor • May 22, 2026 • Comments Off

VENTURA — For the fourth consecutive year, the Ventura College Foundation distributed a record amount of scholarship funding to students. A total of $1,037,741 in scholarships was awarded to students during the foundation’s 37th Annual Scholarship Awards ceremony, May 16, at the Ventura College Sportsplex Field.

The foundation presented 537 scholarships for the 2026-27 academic year.

Of the amount awarded, $932,860 went toward general scholarships, $42,313 supported career education and $10,068 went for paramedic training. Other scholarships included $42,500 from the Port of Hueneme Workforce Development and $10,000 for Courage to Dream students. The scholarship funds benefited 393 student recipients, many of whom received multiple awards.

Bilingual report — Allan Hancock College honors 16 retiring faculty and staff

by Community Contributor • May 21, 2026 • Comments Off

SANTA MARIA — On May 20, Allan Hancock College honored the dedication and service of 16 retiring faculty and staff members during a heartfelt ceremony that celebrated decades of contributions to student success.??

?This year’s retirees, who contributed a combined 323 years of service to the college, include full and part-time faculty members, classified staff and other employees from the college’s many programs and departments.

“Our retiring employees have devoted years of talent, care, and hard work to supporting our students and strengthening this college community,” said Hancock Superintendent/President Kevin G. Walthers, Ph.D. “Their influence can be seen not only in the programs they helped build, but in the countless lives they impacted along the way.”

$11 Million State Homekey+ Grant will end homelessness for 30 Families

by Amigos805.com • May 20, 2026 • Comments Off

OXNARD — California Governor Gavin Newsom recently announced the award of just over $11.7 million from the State’s Homekey+ program to the County of Santa Barbara, in partnership with DignityMoves, to support the development of a new housing community dedicated to families experiencing homelessness. $9,000,000 will fund construction of the village, with $2,000,000 funding wraparound services. DignityMoves has also raised $5,000,000 for construction and will raise an additional $2,000,000 for services.

The new “Family Village” will include 30 units designed specifically to serve families with children, providing a safe, stable environment alongside supportive services aimed at helping residents transition into permanent housing. The Family Village is proposed for development on County-owned land currently used as an overflow parking lot within the County’s Calle Real campus in the eastern Goleta Valley. This project comes at a critical time, as Santa Barbara County has the highest rate of child poverty in California.

Age Well Care brings dementia care at home and respite care to families across the Central Coast and Conejo Valley through Nolia Health partnership

by Community Contributor • May 18, 2026 • Comments Off

SANTA BARBARA — Age Well Care, the boutique senior home care agency serving California’s Central Coast and Conejo Valley, has announced its partnership with Nolia Health to deliver dementia care at home and in-home respite care for families living with Alzheimer’s and dementia. The partnership — now active across Santa Barbara County and Ventura County — operates under the Centers for Medicare & Medicaid Services (CMS) Guiding an Improved Dementia Experience (GUIDE) Model, giving eligible Medicare beneficiaries access to Age Well Care’s specialized in-home caregivers.

Just in time for the warmer months ahead, visit Lompoc’s flower fields on California’s Central Coast

by Community Contributor • May 18, 2026 • Comments Off

LOMPOC — n the “Valley of Arts and Flowers,” visitors can now see spectacular patches of colors from spring through fall in the farm fields of Lompoc Valley – Stock, Larkspur, Delphinium, Sweet Pea and Bells of Ireland along with other varieties are grown in abundance by local commercial flower growers.

Where to See Them: The flower fields rotate every year, and are scattered throughout Lompoc Valley. Some can be spotted west of Old Town Lompoc, along Central Avenue, from Floradale Ave. to Union Sugar Ave.

Bilingual commentary — The Dark Side of the Cradle

by Community Contributor • May 14, 2026 • Comments Off

My favorite libraries lately are those that constitute the network of the Little Free Library movement. This is a global phenomenon with the motto: “Take a book; share a book.” Anyone is free to open the little protective door that protects the books in these micro-sized libraries. They dot some neighborhoods in front of participants’ homes and invite the passerby to peruse the collection and borrow or replace a book. Collections typically vary from around five to twenty-five books.

I’ve always enjoyed sharing and circulating books, so this program suits me perfectly. I often choose novels, introducing me to new authors and styles of writing.

Guest commentary — An Injury to One Is an Injury to All

by Community Contributor • May 14, 2026 • Comments Off

At 3 am, Wednesday, May13, 2026, in Ventura County communities, U.S. Department of Homeland Security Investigations agents raided the homes, Gestapo style, of one former and three current VC Defensa volunteers, as well as the organization’s meeting place in downtown Oxnard.

At least twenty-armed HSI agents arrived at each place in military personnel vehicles masked with their firearms and panoplied in full body armor. The agents pounded doors, smashed windows, and battered down entrances.

With warrants, HSI agents ransacked each place and seized computers, mobile phones, and other property while the residents stood outside in the cold handcuffed. No one was arrested.

805UndocuFund — Freedom Music Fest brings together music and solidarity in support of immigrant families on May 17

by Community Contributor • May 14, 2026 • Comments Off

SANTA BARBARA — The regional Mexican music community is coming together for a powerful evening of music, solidarity, and support for immigrant families through the inaugural Freedom Music Fest, featuring performances by Larry Hernández, Régulo Caro, and Roberto Tapia.

A portion of the event proceeds will benefit 805UndocuFund, a nonprofit organization providing direct financial assistance to immigrant families impacted by recent ICE raids and climate-induced disasters while also advocating for long-term systems change at the policy level.

All donated proceeds received by 805UndocuFund will directly support the organization’s Emergency Assistance Fund, which provides immediate relief to families affected by immigration enforcement throughout California’s Central Coast. Since launching the Emergency Assistance Fund in April 2025, 805UndocuFund has distributed more than $1 million in direct assistance to impacted families across the region.

Ventura County Office of Education — 2026 Teacher of the Year, Battle of the Books Winners, and more!

by Community Contributor • May 13, 2026 • Comments Off

The Ventura County Office of Education is thrilled to announce that John Beck, an English teacher from Pacifica High School in the Oxnard Union High School District, is the 2026 Ventura County Teacher of the Year! Mr. Beck received the news this week when his family members joined representatives from VCOE and OUHSD in a surprise visit to his classroom.

Mr. Beck has been teaching for 21 years and has been at Pacifica for 13. His classroom is known for a positive atmosphere where students feel comfortable and confident in themselves as they engage in academic discussions.

“In a diverse community like ours, where students bring a wide range of experiences, languages, and aspirations into the classroom, my goal is to create an environment where every student sees themselves as a capable reader, writer, and thinker,” Mr. Beck said. His program is built to ensure equitable access to engaging, rigorous learning experiences that prepare students for success inside and outside the classroom.
Learn More about Mr. Beck

People’s Self-Help Housing launches ASCEND Fund to support affordable housing resident entrepreneurs

by Community Contributor • May 13, 2026 • Comments Off

CENTRAL COAST — People’s Self-Help Housing (PSHH) will host the launch of the ASCEND Fund on May 13, 2026 at the nonprofit’s San Luis Obispo headquarters, introducing a new initiative designed to support residents pursuing entrepreneurship, education, and professional advancement.

The ASCEND Fund – standing for Agency, Skills, Capacity, Entrepreneurship, Network, and Direction – will provide micro-grants to individuals living in PSHH properties who are working to build businesses, grow professionally, or further their entrepreneurial education.

“We see ASCEND as a bridge between our residents and the broader business community,” said Ken Trigueiro, CEO of People’s Self-Help Housing. “We’re here for our residents who are entrepreneurs and future leaders; and when we invest in their growth, we’re investing in a stronger, more resilient Central Coast economy for everyone.”

Presidio Neighborhood launches new brand and website highlighting past, present and future

by Community Contributor • May 13, 2026 • Comments Off

SANTA BARBARA — The Presidio Neighborhood, the historic district surrounding El Presidio de Santa Bárbara, has launched a new brand identity and website aimed at strengthening its visibility as a cultural and commercial destination in downtown Santa Barbara.

The refresh is part of a multi-year planning effort led by the Santa Barbara Trust for Historic Preservation (SBTHP), which acquired stewardship of the Presidio Neighborhood initiative in 2022. The updated branding includes a new logo, visual identity, and an expanded website highlighting the district’s history, businesses, cultural organizations, and public events.

“The Presidio Neighborhood is a place where historic charm and vibrant creativity intertwine—where live performances fill intimate spaces, galleries radiate bold expression, and cafés, boutiques, and restaurants blend seamlessly into a living canvas—inviting visitors to step in, linger, and be inspired. We look forward to seeing you,” said Cecilia Martini-Muth, Director of Marketing at the Lobero Theatre and a Presidio Neighborhood Advisory Council member.

New Thought Now Spiritual Center marks grand opening on May 14 in Thousand Oaks

by Community Contributor • May 13, 2026 • Comments Off

THOUSAND OAKS — A beloved spiritual community is stepping into a new chapter of inspiration.

New Thought Now!, formerly The Global Truth Center, will mark its official launch with a ribbon cutting ceremony May 14th at 4:30pm (880 Hampshire Road, Suite W, Westlake Village), bringing together local dignitaries and community members for a memorable afternoon of celebration, entertainment and refreshments.

“It’s all about honoring where we’ve been, celebrating where we are, and opening the door to what comes next,” says Spiritual Director Dr. James Mellon, adding that “The new name reflects an evolving vision—one that honors the roots and relationships that have shaped this community while continuing to grow alongside the people it serves.”

UCSB — The Current — ‘Global studies professor wins Fulbright to study energy geopolitics in Taiwan’ and more news, events

by Community Contributor • May 12, 2026 • Comments Off

Jia-Ching Chen will spend a year in Taiwan on a Fulbright U.S. Scholar Award to study geopolitical intersections of energy transition and environmental governance.

Bilingual commentary — May Is a Month for Optimism

by Community Contributor • May 8, 2026 • Comments Off

We have good reasons to be optimistic about the month of May. Historically, May has been a month of events that are truly worth celebrating. Let’s review some of those cherished milestones.

To kick things off, World War II effectively ended on May 8, 1945. This singular event in history is known as VE Day (Victory in Europe Day), commemorating the day that the German Nazis surrendered, without conditions, to the Allies.

Looking back a couple of hundred years, the first successful smallpox vaccination was made available to the public in May of 1796. That is not a typo—it was not in 1976! The English physician Dr. Edward Jenner used cowpox, a virus that infects humans via rodents and domestic cats, to provide immunity against the dangerous smallpox virus.

Santa Barbara Trust for Historic Preservation opens new exhibit at Casa de la Guerra exploring housing discrimination and its lasting impacts

by Community Contributor • May 8, 2026 • Comments Off

SANTA BARBARA — The Santa Barbara Trust for Historic Preservation (SBTHP) announces the opening of a new exhibit, Fine Print, Hard Lines: Housing and Exclusion in Santa Barbara, which examines how discriminatory housing policies and practices have shaped the city’s past and continue to influence the community today.

On view at Casa de la Guerra, Fine Print, Hard Lines explores the use of restrictive covenants and other exclusionary practices embedded in historical “fine print” that limited who could buy, rent, or reside in certain neighborhoods. Through a compelling mix of primary sources including property records, real estate advertisements, newspaper articles, and historic maps, the exhibit reveals how these practices produced lasting social inequities and barriers that still affect the lived experiences of Santa Barbara residents.

Bilingual report — Warm May temperatures signal the start of peak ‘Mosquito Season’ following early mosquito activity in 2026

by Community Contributor • May 7, 2026 • Comments Off

VENTURA — As temperatures continue to rise this May, Ventura County residents are encouraged to take steps to prevent mosquito breeding and protect themselves from bites as peak mosquito season begins. Mosquito activity started earlier than usual this year due to above-average temperatures, including the warmest March on record, along with increased rainfall. In addition to native mosquito species that can transmit West Nile Virus (WNV), the invasive Aedes aegypti mosquito has become established in Ventura County.

Friendship Center Adult Day Care Center in Santa Barbara — The Friendly Finch May 2026 newsletter

by Community Contributor • May 7, 2026 • Comments Off

I don’t know where to start with this intro letter. As much joy as we have in our programs on a daily basis, behind the scenes has been a bit tough for us over the last few months with our renovations, seasonal membership changes, fundraising efforts in what is typically a “slower” season, and so on. Well, April surely gave us the thumbs up that what we are doing is working, and I am so excited I might just jump through your screen as you read this!

For starters, I’m jazzed to share that we have officially launched our 50th Anniversary webpage! Throughout the year, this page will serve as the home for announcements, stories, celebrations, and special events commemorating Friendship Center’s first half century of impact in our community.

UCSB — The Current — ‘Zoot Suit with Live Orchestra (May 8)’ and more news, events

by Community Contributor • May 7, 2026 • Comments Off

Friday, May 8
A screening of the 1981 landmark adaptation by Luis Valdez features accompaniment by a live orchestra.

Guest Commentary — Ventura County Taxpayers Association — Ballot Warning: Prop 1

by Amigos805.com • May 7, 2026 • Comments Off

Why the “Billionaire Tax” Is Just a Beta Test for the Middle Class In November 2026, you’ll be asked to vote on the California Billionaire Tax Act, Proposition 1. The measure proposes taxing the billionaires in the State and using…

Art, Identity, and the Global Game Converge in ‘Once Miradas, Un Balón’ at the Mexican Consulate in Oxnard. Events May 14 through Sept. 4

by Community Contributor • May 6, 2026 • Comments Off

OXNARD — As the 2026 FIFA World Cup approaches, a new exhibition in Oxnard invites the community to explore the game of soccer through a local perspective. The Oxnard Performing Arts Center Corporation (OPAC), in partnership with the Consulado de México en Oxnard, presents Once Miradas, Un Balón (Eleven Gazes, One Ball)—a group exhibition that looks at fútbol as both a cultural presence and a source of artistic inspiration. The exhibit opens to the public with a reception on May 21 from 5:30-8pm and will celebrate (4) youth soccer teams with a custom jersey giveaway and hands-on activities. Once Miradas, Un Balón will be on view from May 14 – September 4, 2026. Gallery hours are 8:30 am to 4:30 pm, Monday-Friday. Admission is free.

Hospice of Santa Barbara announces first Ambassador Spotlight: Jill Nida

by Community Contributor • May 6, 2026 • Comments Off

SANTA BARBARA — For more than three decades, Jill Nida has been a steadfast advocate, volunteer, and champion for Hospice of Santa Barbara (HSB). Her leadership and generosity have helped shape the organization into what it is today, and her personal story is deeply woven into its mission.

Over the past 37 years, Jill has served as Board Chair (twice), Board Member, Auxiliary Member, and Capital Campaign Chair for the Riviera office building. She was also honored as a Hero of Hospice in 2015. She served on the Hospice Foundation Board and is Board Emeritus. She was instrumental in the HSB butterfly logo design and color (aqua). Beyond titles, roles, and responsibilities she has been one of HSB’s most passionate ambassadors in the community, given the unofficial title “Cheerleader Emeritus.”

Public access to Ventura Hills Nature Preserve is under threat due to a lawsuit brought by Chevron and Aera Energy

by Community Contributor • May 5, 2026 • Comments Off

VENTURA — Ventura Land Trust released the following statement on May 4, 20206:

Public access to Ventura Hills Nature Preserve is under threat due to a lawsuit brought by Chevron and Aera Energy.

They claim that allowing the public to use Hall Canyon Road interferes with their asserted legal rights to use the road for oil operations. Chevron and Aera have asked the Court to close Hall Canyon Road and VLT’s trailhead to the public.

Ventura Land Trust is currently in active litigation fighting to keep this vital community asset open to the public. Ventura Hills Nature Preserve is the product of more than 25 years of community effort and public investment. This preserve exists today because people across Ventura came together to ensure it would be preserved and accessible for future generations.

Santa Barbara City College shines light on Mental Health Awareness Month, joins countywide effort

by Community Contributor • May 4, 2026 • Comments Off

SANTA BARBARA — Santa Barbara City College (SBCC) is joining the Santa Barbara County Department of Behavioral Wellness, county residents, businesses, organizations, and community partners in recognizing May as Mental Health Month by participating in the annual Light Up Green. The SBCC Board of Trustees recognized Mental Health Awareness Month with a resolution at their public board meeting on April 23 to formally acknowledge and build awareness.

“We are Lighting up SBCC’s Cliff, Schott, and Wake campuses with Green as a part of a county wide initiative to raise mental health awareness during the month of May,” shared SBCC Mental Health Counselor Lacey Peters, M.A. LMFT. “To further awareness, SBCC is hosting a Mental Health Awareness Event with the Active Minds Club to Destigmatize Mental Health Care on May 6th at 5:30 p.m. at SBCC West Campus BC Forum.”