Category: Cultural

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.

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.

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.

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.

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.

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 — 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.

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.

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.

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.”

Bilingual report — Santa Barbara Transgender Advocacy Network to hold rally, procession on Nov. 22 for Transgender Day of Remembrance

by Community Contributor • November 10, 2025 • Comments Off

SANTA BARBARA — The Santa Barbara Transgender Advocacy Network (SBTAN) invites the community to come together in solidarity for Transgender Day of Remembrance (TDOR) on Saturday, November 22 at 2:00 p.m. at De La Guerra Plaza in downtown Santa Barbara.

Participants will gather at the plaza and then march down State Street carrying signs bearing the names of transgender individuals lost to violence this year. This annual observance honors their memory and calls attention to the urgent need for equality, safety, and dignity for all transgender people.

From Kindergarten to College: Adelante celebrates 25 Years of bilingual achievement

by Community Contributor • November 10, 2025 • Comments Off

SANTA BARBARA — Adelante Charter School celebrated its 25th anniversary on Saturday, November 1, at The Hub Downtown, honoring the Founding Board of Directors and longtime arts supporter Jim Kearns for their enduring contributions to bilingual education in Santa Barbara. The milestone event brought together 150 guests, including families, alumni, educators, and community leaders, to celebrate 25 years of excellence in dual-language education.

The evening opened with a warm welcome from Adelante alumni Isaiah Zermeno and Isabella Lopez-Solis, both students at Santa Barbara Junior High who began their educational journey together at Adelante in kindergarten.

Teatro de las Américas — Don’t miss your chance to see Nos Traen Cortitos 2025 on Nov. 14, 15

by Community Contributor • November 10, 2025 • Comments Off

Don’t miss your chance to see Nos Traen Cortitos 2025! Tickets are still available, but they’re selling fast. You can skip straight to the front of our line and secure your tickets by visiting our website.

County of Ventura District 2 Supervisor Jeff Gorell — Borderline Day of Remembrance

by Community Contributor • November 7, 2025 • Comments Off

(Nov. 7), we honored the precious lives of the twelve Borderline victims, along with the survivors and first responders whose courage and compassion continue to inspire our community.

These names represent incredible people. Each left behind a legacy of kindness, love, and friendship that continues to live on in the hearts of all who knew them — and in the spirit of unity that has strengthened our community ever since.

Lumina Alliance’s Fatima Cervantes honored with statewide award for teen dating violence prevention

by Community Contributor • November 6, 2025 • Comments Off

Cervantes recognized for innovative, effective healthy relationship strategies among justice-impacted youth in San Luis Obispo

GARDEN GROVE — The California Partnership to End Domestic Violence (the Partnership), a coalition representing over 1,000 survivors, advocates, organizations, and allied individuals, today honored Lumina Alliance’s Bilingual Client & Justice Systems Relations Advocate Fatima Cervantes with the Planting the Seeds Award. The award celebrates people who have engaged in intergenerational domestic violence prevention education, contributing to healthy relationships and communities. The Partnership recognized Cervantes for building strong relationships with justice-impacted youth in San Luis Obispo County, as well as providing innovative lessons for discussing healthy communication and setting boundaries.

Bilingual commentary— Learning French

by Community Contributor • November 6, 2025 • Comments Off

French is in my blood.

No, not in the form of French family origins, if 23andMe has anything to say about it, but rather the French language courses through my veins. As far as I’m concerned, French is an undeniable part of my linguistic DNA.

Bilingual report — County of Santa Barbara November 2025 Newsletter

by Community Contributor • November 6, 2025 • Comments Off

If you need food assistance, the County has partnered with the Foodbank of Santa Barbara County to target food distribution efforts throughout the county. These events provide free fresh groceries and produce. Everyone is welcome, and no registration is required.

UCSB — The Current — ‘Michael Gurven reframes aging as evolutionary success’ and more news, events

by Community Contributor • November 6, 2025 • Comments Off

In his new book, the anthropologist redefines aging as an evolutionary achievement, challenging a youth-obsessed culture to see the later decades of life as vital to our collective survival.

County of Ventura District 2 Supervisor Jeff Gorell — One Year After the Mountain Fire

by Community Contributor • November 6, 2025 • Comments Off

As I reflect on one year since the November 6, 2024 Mountain Fire, my heart is with the many residents who lost so much. Time has passed, but the weight of the fire still impacts many. The pain and loss remain real and are a heavy burden each day for those still rebuilding their lives.

Over the past year, I have witnessed incredible resilience. Neighbors have lifted each other up, volunteers have given their time and hearts, and local organizations continue to help families recover. The strength, kindness, and determination shown across this community are what make Ventura County such a special place to call home.

Bilingual report — Cal Poly, San Luis Obispo accepting applications for two bachelor’s degree programs at Allan Hancock College’s Santa Maria campus

by Community Contributor • November 6, 2025 • Comments Off

SANTA MARIA — Cal Poly, San Luis Obispo is now accepting applications for two bachelor’s degree programs offered on Allan Hancock College’s Santa Maria campus. Applications for both programs — Business Administration and Sociology — are open through Dec. 1, with classes beginning in fall 2026.

The degree pathways are part of a broader Cal Poly at Hancock initiative, announced earlier this year, which allows Central Coast students to earn a Cal Poly degree without commuting to San Luis Obispo. The programs bring Cal Poly faculty and coursework directly to Hancock’s Santa Maria campus, providing students with a flexible, affordable, and high-quality educational experience close to home.

UCSB — The Current — “In ‘Digital Exhaustion,’ Paul Leonardi shares how to make technology work for you” and more news, events

by Community Contributor • November 4, 2025 • Comments Off

Leonardi’s new book focuses on how people use innovative tools to organize more effectively, increase efficiency and improve knowledge sharing within organizations.

Bilingual report — Ventura Fire Chief David Endaya announces retirement

by Community Contributor • November 3, 2025 • Comments Off

Since becoming an emergency first responder in 1994 and joining Ventura Fire in 1996 as an Emergency Paramedic, Endaya has advanced through every rank in the department before being selected as Fire Chief in 2014.

“Serving the City of Ventura as Fire Chief has been one of the greatest honors of my career,” said Chief Endaya. “I am proud of what we have accomplished and deeply grateful for the dedication, professionalism, and heart of the men and women of the Ventura Fire Department.”

Bilingual report — Annual Mussel Quarantine Lifted for Ventura County; Advisory Remains in Place for Humboldt County and Northern Channel Islands

by Community Contributor • November 3, 2025 • Comments Off

VENTURA — The California Department of Public Health (CDPH) announced that the annual quarantine on mussels gathered by sport harvesters from California’s coastal waters ended on midnight on Friday, October 31, 2025, for the California coast, including Ventura County. Shellfish advisories remain in place for sport-harvested razor clams from Humboldt County and for sport-harvested mussels, clams, scallops, and oysters from the Northern Channel Islands.

Bilingual report — Economic Development Collaborative (EDC) — NO-COST Webinar: Immigrant Rights in California Child Care Settings webinars on Nov. 4, 6 and 14

by Community Contributor • November 3, 2025 • Comments Off

Immigrant Rights in California Child Care Settings – for families with children in child care and child care providers working in various California child care programs:

This training will provide:

Santa Paula Art Museum — Free Family Day: Día de los Muertos on Nov. 2

by Community Contributor • November 2, 2025 • Comments Off

Sunday, November 2, from 12 PM to 3 PM
Free for all ages

Guests of all ages are invited to celebrate Día de los Muertos at three locations in downtown Santa Paula on Sunday, November 2! Visit the Santa Paula Art Museum, Santa Paula Cemetery, and the Agriculture Museum and enjoy hands-on crafts, altar and art displays, face painting, and much more. Admission is free and all materials are provided. Hours and activities vary by location. Follow the link below for full details.

Free Family Day at the Santa Paula Art Museum is sponsored by Gold Coast Health Plan and The Smith-Hobson Foundation Fund.

MORE INFO?