VibeWell Ventura County Artist Influencer Partnership Application is Now Open!
Category: Cultural
UCSB — The Current — ‘UCSB physics professors John Martinis and Michel Devoret win 2025 Nobel Prize in Physics’
Selected for the honor alongside UC Berkeley physicist and former advisor John Clarke, they were lauded for work that, according to the Royal Swedish Academy of Sciences, “revealed quantum physics in action.”
Bilingual report — Allan Hancock College students design signs for Nature Preserve
A group of nine students in the college’s art, graphic design and multimedia programs teamed up with fine arts instructor Tellef Tellefson and staff from The Nature Conservancy’s Jack and Laura Dangermond Preserve, located in Lompoc, to design interpretive signage for the Jalama Campground, located adjacent to the preserve.
Bilingual report — Allan Hancock College hosts Career Exploration Day for high school, college students
SANTA MARIA — Allan Hancock College invited more than 1,300 local high school and college students to its Santa Maria campus on Oct. 3 for the college’s annual?Career?Exploration?Day.
The in-person event provided participating students with the opportunity to explore potential career paths and learn more about the college’s academic and career technical education programs.
?“Career Exploration Day gives students a chance to connect with industry professionals,” said Hancock Career Counselor David Hernandez. “It opens their eyes to companies and career paths they might not have considered.”
Teatro de las Americas — Upcoming events
Clases de danza en dos estilos/?
Dance classes in 2 styles:
Folclórico
Con/with Ms. Xochitl
Movement
Con/with Mr. Javier
Niñas y niños de 7 a 14 años / Ages 7-14
(Dependiendo de la cantidad de inscripciones, las clases podrán ser separadas por edad / Depending on enrollment, ages can be divided)
Music Academy of the West in Santa Barbara announcing new Summer Festival Structure launching in 2026
The Festival will open with a new two-week High School Intensive (June 14–25) for accomplished musicians ages 14–18, followed by the celebrated six-weekFellowship Institute (June 27–August 8) for pre-professional musicians ages 18–34. Together, the High School Intensive and Fellowship Institute create a dynamic eight-week Festival filled with concerts, recitals, special events, and educational offerings that position the Music Academy as a leader in training the next generation of classical musicians.
UCSB — The Current — ‘Historic cabins from the early days of Mammoth now serve scientists and students’ and more news, events
The Valentine Reserve team has launched a restoration effort to preserve the camp’s century-old cabins, ensuring they remain a resource for education, research and environmental stewardship well into the future.
Friendship Center Adult Day Services — The Friendly Finch: October
I recently sat down with my dear friend and former Friendship Center colleague, Hope Saxon (who many of you may know has gone on to become a geriatric nurse practitioner!). Our conversation turned into a walk down memory lane, reflecting on how much Friendship Center has changed and grown over the past few years. Of course, I know these changes are happening. I’m living them every day. However, it wasn’t until talking with Hope, who is one of the dear members of our community that has been so close to our organization for so many years (like many of you), that I truly appreciated the magnitude of what’s unfolding.
VCCF Power of Purpose – September 2025
(Sept. 30) marks the last day of our fiscal year. For me, this moment always invites deep reflection, offers a pause for gratitude, and serves as a joyful reminder to celebrate all we’ve accomplished together.
This year, because of you, we contributed nearly $14 million to make our community a better place for all. Together, you mobilized to raise close to $1.5 million for those who lost their homes in the Mountain Fire, ensuring that critical support reached those most affected. Collectively, you awarded nearly $2 million in scholarships to help local students pursue their educational and career aspirations. You stood by families facing financial hardship to ensure their beloved pets were cared for; you provided groceries for thousands of households; and you strengthened local small businesses by supporting education, access to small business loans, and consulting services to navigate complex challenges. These are just a few of the many ways you’ve served our community.
UCSB — The Current — ‘Modern Mexican printmaking at UCSB’ and more news, events
“Mexican Prints” at the Art, Design & Architecture Museum features José Clemente Orozco, David Alfaro Siqueiros, Rufino Tamayo, and fellow artists who shaped 20th-century printmaking.
Museum of Ventura County — Play Date in the Garden with Pinaysphere, more news, events
Join us for a vibrant Play Date in the Garden with Pinaysphere, where kids dive into Filipino culture by crafting their own bahay kubo! A bahay kubo is a traditional Filipino house built on stilts, made from natural materials like bamboo and coconut fibers, showcasing Filipino ingenuity, sustainability, and community spirit. This playful activity celebrates the simplicity and creativity of these iconic homes, known for their adaptability and resourcefulness. Led by Pinaysphere, an organization dedicated to empowering Filipino women and youth through art and culture, this event will be filled with fun, learning, and creativity as we explore the beauty of Filipino heritage together! Register online HERE.
Bilingual report — Mountain Fire Rebuild Permitting Dashboard now available to track permitting progress
VENTURA — As the community moves into long term recovery and rebuilding efforts, the Resource Management Agency (RMA) is pleased to announce the launch of the Mountain Fire Rebuild Permitting Dashboard. This new tool, available on both the Resource Management Agency’s website and the Ventura County Recovers website, allows users to track the rebuild permitting progress of properties affected by the Mountain Fire.
Port of Hueneme — Banana Fest makes Waves!
PORT HUENEME —The Port of Hueneme’s 12th Annual Banana Festival set a new attendance record this past Saturday, welcoming more than 13,000 community members for a day of music, food, tours, and family fun.This year’s theme, “Making Workforce Waves Through Global Trade,” spotlighted the people who turn ships and cargo into local careers and opportunity.
Festivalgoers enjoyed banana-inspired treats, live performances from Instone Live, Morie & the Heavy Hitters, Savor, and The Brandon Ragan Project, and family-friendly activities like the kids’ zone and pie-eating contest. Land and sea tours offered a rare behind-the-scenes glimpse to the Port’s operations, showing firsthand how bananas, cars, and other global goods move through Ventura County’s only deep-water harbor.
Bilingual report — The latest news from the County of Ventura
Thank you for staying up-to-date on news at the County of Ventura! Want to sign up for our newsletter?
Community members who are not already subscribed may sign up to receive our newsletter in English here and in Spanish here.
100 artists unite for OPAC’s 2025 Día de los Muertos with El Velorio. Opening reception Oct. 2
OXNARD — This year’s altar is inspired by the monarch butterfly, a powerful symbol of the soul, transformation, and migration. In a city shaped by immigrant stories, the theme highlights the beauty and resilience of movement across borders. In Mexican tradition, the monarchs’ annual arrival in central Mexico each fall is believed to carry the spirits of departed loved ones back to earth, making them a cherished emblem of Día de los Muertos. Community members are invited to submit a photo of a departed loved one to be lovingly displayed. The Opening Reception will feature a ceremonial Aztec blessing and dance and a performance by Ballet Folklórico Mestizo of Oxnard College.
Bilingual commentary — AI: My Expert Helper
In the ancient past, up to around the end of 2022, I used to grapple with complex technical issues (for me, anyway) as I pursued some of my projects. When I first started building websites, for example, I often found myself stumped by some of the technical barriers that kept emerging in front of me.
When confronted with an intractable problem that appeared insurmountable, I found myself hunting for web pages that would illuminate me and provide the answers I was looking for. Sometimes I succeeded in ferreting out a solution to a dilemma that would sometimes take days to resolve because I often didn’t even know quite what to search for.
Bilingual report — City of Santa Paula announces transition of Deputy City Manager Jonathan Royas
SANTA PAULA — The City of Santa Paula today announced that Deputy City Manager Jonathan Royas will be leaving the City to assume the role of Assistant City Manager for the City of Moorpark. Royas’s last day with Santa Paula will be October 3, 2025.
“Jonathan has served Santa Paula with dedication and skill,” said City Manager Dan Singer. “His leadership on Measure R, American Rescue Plan Act (ARPA) funds, trail connectivity grants, and community engagement work has made a lasting impact. We thank him for his service and wish him well in Moorpark. The City will maintain continuity of operations as we begin the process to fill this role.”
Pre-sale tickets (ending Oct. 1) now available for Panteón Fest in Oxnard
This year, with the help of Allee and Sue, we’re excited to present Vuelo de las Almas—an art gallery showcasing works by over 20 artists, each created on a wooden monarch butterfly canvas. The gallery will be held inside the Chapel, with a meet-and-greet hosted by Allee and Sue at 5 PM.
SBCC’s Dr. Melissa Menendez selected for national HACU Enlace Mid-Level Leadership Program
SANTA BARBARA — The Hispanic Association of Colleges and Universities (HACU) and SBCC are pleased to announce that the third cohort of its Enlace Mid-level Leadership Program includes Santa Barbara City College (SBCC) professor Dr. Melissa Menendez, who was selected along with 39 participants across the nation to begin this fall, 2025.
The six-month leadership development program for mid-level college and university professionals is designed to increase the number, variety and quality of talent in leadership positions at Hispanic-serving Institutions and in higher education overall.
UCSB — The Current — ‘Welcome home, Gauchos’ and more news, events
From move-in activities to a first-ever spirit rally, UC Santa Barbara kicks off a new year with a week’s worth of fun.
Bilingual report — Child Passenger Safety Week: Protect your child with the right car seat
“Every child deserves to travel safely,” Sergeant Mark Knackstedt said. “We urge all parents and caregivers to know for sure that their children are in the right seats and that those seats are installed correctly. Keeping a child in the right seat for their age and size can make all the difference in a crash.”
Bilingual report — Allan Hancock College Superintendent/President Kevin G. Walthers appointed to Santa Maria Fairpark Board
The board oversees the Santa Maria Fairpark, which serves as the premier event center in the Santa Maria Valley. As a subdivision of the California Department of Food and Agriculture, the board is tasked with supporting the community by providing venues for education, recreation, entertainment, and by promoting agriculture, industry, commerce, and tourism.
13th Annual Ventura County Farm Day moves to Spring 2026
“We looked at planting schedules and weather and felt that a move to spring offered many benefits. It means the public can visit farms during the heart of the growing season,” says Caitlin Paulus Case, executive director of Students for Eco-Education and Agriculture (SEEAG), the nonprofit that puts on Ventura County Farm Day each year. “We are expecting more farms to participate with new hands-on experiences and activities.”
Economic Development Collaborative (EDC) — Join us for a NO-COST workshop series for businesses!
Join the City of Oxnard and EDC for this workshop series, which has been developed to help advance business formalization, financial resilience and strategic visibility among small businesses in Ventura County. It addresses core areas where entrepreneurs often face barriers—legal compliance, financial planning, and marketing execution—offering hands-on, actionable training that leads to real outcomes: formal registration, funding readiness and customer growth.
Santa Paula Art Museum — Come Hang Out With Us!
Creative Hang with
The One Oh One
?
Wednesday, September 24, from 6 PM to 9 PM
Free for everyone (food not included)
We’re excited to host The One Oh One’s September Creative Hang inside SPAM’s Cole Creativity Center! Mingle with fellow creatives while you enjoy live music by Matterform band. Anna’s Cider and brewLab Craft will keep you hydrated, and Chavas Tacos will be serving up yummy bites. The event is free for everyone (food is not included).
MORE INFO
Bilingual report — Ventura County residents are highly encouraged to take action to prevent mosquito breeding after recent rainfall
VENTURA — Mosquito activity is expected to increase following the rainfall from the remnants of Tropical Storm Mario. It is important now to prevent mosquito breeding and reduce the chances of being bitten by mosquitoes by emptying objects that collected water during the rain event.
Bilingual report — Ventura County Public Works Agency Welcomes Paul Chan as New Water & Sanitation Director
announce the appointment of Paul Chan, PE, CEM, as the new Director of Water & Sanitation. Chan brings more than 30 years of distinguished leadership in engineering, construction, and facilities management, with an extensive career of service in the U.S. military.
Bilingual report — September News from People’s Self-Help Housing
Lea en español | Received this from a friend? Subscribe! eNewsletter September 2025 It’s back-to-school season for our Camino Scholars! With a gift of $55/month, students will have the tools and support to build their confidence, stay engaged with their studies, and succeed all year long.…
Ventura County Superintendent of School — Hispanic Heritage Month, Logo Contest, College Readiness, and more…
VENTURA COUNTY — Each year, Americans observe National Hispanic Heritage Month from September 15 to October 15. It’s a wonderful opportunity to celebrate the histories, cultures, and contributions of our Hispanic and Latino communities.
In this video message, Dr. César Morales, Ventura County Superintendent of Schools, reflects on the importance of Hispanic Heritage Month and shares some of his favorite family traditions. Keep an eye on VCOE’s social media throughout the month for special messages about Hispanic Heritage Month from our students and staff.
Bilingual report — Church Goals and the Canonization of Saints
The canonization of a saint is the culmination of a process that, in the eyes of the Catholic Church, creates a bridge between human and divine realms. The formal process of canonization has evolved over the centuries from a local affair to an intricate, institutionalized undertaking that is overseen by the pope himself.
Bilingual report — City of Ventura announces Spanish-language Community Emergency Response Team training coming this fall
VENTURA — To expand accessibility and ensure all residents have the opportunity to be prepared for emergencies, the City of Ventura, in collaboration with the Federal Emergency Management Agency (FEMA) and the City of Santa Paula, is offering a full Spanish-language Community Emergency Response Team (CERT) training beginning this October.
The free, hands-on program is open to 40 participants from Ventura and Santa Paula and will run from October 9 through November 15, 2025. Applicants will be accepted on a rolling basis with the application open through Wednesday, October 8, 2025.
Oxnard Film Society — THE MUSICIANS will screen on Sept. 22
“The premise of the film is incredibly fascinating. It’s very rare to see classical music on the big screens… – music, comedy, drama.”
Explore Lompoc — Where the vibe stays chill, even after dark
LOMPOC — Here in Lompoc, nightlife is about easy going good times. A relaxed drink with friends. A late bite after a day of wine tasting or hiking. Maybe some live music or a laid-back DJ set. You won’t find velvet ropes or booming nightclubs, but you will find a few friendly places to hang out and unwind when the sun goes down.
Ready for a mellow night out? These local spots keep the lights on just a little longer.
Bilingual report — County of Santa Barbara Board of Supervisors to meeting on Sept. 23
Reuniones de la Junta de Supervisores en español
(Board of Supervisors’ Meetings in Spanish)
El Condado de Santa Bárbara está ofreciendo interpretación en español de las reuniones de la Junta de Supervisores. Véalo en vivo en nuestro canal de YouTube en español, o las personas suscritas a la televisión por cable pueden acceder a la programación secundaria de audio (SAP) en los ajustes de idioma.
Aún se requiere pedir con anticipación l
Bilingual report — Santa Paula Aims to Strengthen Community Protections Through Legal and Local Action
SANTA PAULA — The City of Santa Paula wishes to update the community on recent City Council actions concerning immigration-related issues and federal litigation. Last month, the City issued a statement clarifying that it had not been invited to join…
SEEAG adds Santa Barbara County Office, student and community agriculture learning programs during 2024-25 School Year
VENTURA — Students for Eco-Education and Agriculture (SEEAG) expanded its reach by opening a new Santa Barbara County office and adding student and community learning programs during the 2024-25 school year.
SEEAG is a nonprofit organization with a mission to connect youth and communities to the farm origins of their food and inspire the next generations of agricultural ambassadors.
Bilingual report — Economic Development Collaborative (EDC) — Join us for a NO-COST workshop series for businesses!
Join the City of Oxnard and EDC for this workshop series, which has been developed to help advance business formalization, financial resilience and strategic visibility among small businesses in Ventura County. It addresses core areas where entrepreneurs often face barriers—legal compliance, financial planning, and marketing execution—offering hands-on, actionable training that leads to real outcomes: formal registration, funding readiness and customer growth.
This 3-workshop series will be conducted in English, with the option to answer questions in Spanish. Hands-on materials will be provided in both English and Spanish.
Historic glamour meets modern philanthropy at the Fashion Show benefiting Hearst Castle and the Monday Club
“This event beautifully demonstrates how community, history, and philanthropy can come together to create lasting impact,” said Doug Jenzen, Executive Director of the Foundation at Hearst Castle. “Funds raised will help conserve two rare 17th-century Peruvian tapestries and keep Hearst Castle’s treasures ready to inspire future generations.”
New West Symphony invites local residents to ‘Adopt-A-Musician’
VENTURA COUNTY — This year, local residents once again have the opportunity to Adopt-A-Musician with the New West Symphony—helping to sustain the cultural arts in Ventura County.
The benefits of adopting a musician include invitations to private rehearsal receptions, access to exclusive events with musicians, special recognition in concert programs, and unique experiences such as sitting on stage with the orchestra during a rehearsal.
Museum of Ventura County — Enfoque Guided Exhibit Tours in Santa Paula, more events
Enfoque Guided Exhibit Tours
Sunday, September 21
1 – 2 p.m.
@the Agriculture Museum
926 Railroad Avenue, Santa Paula
Join us for a free, public tour of Enfoque led by members of our Latino Advisory Committee and Museum Docents. In a relaxed and reflective tour setting, explore themes of cultural identity through powerful images and stories—share perspectives, spark insight, and connect. Find out more information HERE.
Ventura County Credit Union continues ‘Year of Giving’ with $75,000 donation at VCFC ‘Unite to Community Action Ventura’ soccer game
VENTURA COUNTY — In its yearlong celebration of its 75th anniversary, Ventura County Credit Union (VCCU) reaffirmed its deep-rooted commitment to community wellbeing by presenting a $75,000 contribution to Community Action of Ventura County (Community Action VC) during the “VCFC Unite to Community Action Ventura” event on Saturday, Aug. 9. The presentation took place during the highly anticipated Ventura County FC (VCFC) soccer match, at VCCU’s exclusive “Member Soccer Night.”
Bilingual report — Public invited to upcoming Board of Supervisors hearing on the Comprehensive Updates to the County’s Initial Study Assessment Guidelines and CEQA Implementation Manual
VENTURA — The County of Ventura invites the public to attend a Board of Supervisors hearing on Tuesday, September 30, at 1:00 p.m. at 800 S. Victoria Avenue, Ventura, in the County Government Center, Hall of Administration, Board Hearing Room. At the hearing, the Board of Supervisors will consider approval of the County’s California Environmental Quality Act (CEQA) Implementation Manual and the Initial Study Assessment Guidelines (ISAGs), including the supplemental Noise and Vibration Assessment Guidelines. These key documents guide how the County evaluates environmental impacts of proposed projects in the unincorporated areas of the County. The Board will also consider an amendment to the General Plan, which is needed to accompany the updated ISAGs.
California Lutheran University receives more than $2.9 million in grant funding
HOUSAND OAKS — Hundreds of California Lutheran University students will receive additional support for achieving their educational goals, thanks to $2,937,168 in grant funding the university has received in 2025. The grants will increase access to targeted services for students facing financial challenges, provide opportunities for faculty advancement and facilitate building improvement.
“Cal Lutheran is more than a place of working and learning; it is life-giving,” said Cal Lutheran President John Nunes. “To that end, grant funding is an important way for us to strengthen our connection to our community and to provide life-giving academic tools for our students. These grants also enable our faculty to conduct cutting-edge research for the benefit of their field and teaching.”
Bilingual report — City of Ventura seeks applicants for Ventura Council for Seniors
VENTURA — The City of Ventura is now accepting applications for the Ventura Council for Seniors (VCS). This volunteer advisory group advocates for and improves the lives of the city’s older adult residents.
Applicants must:
Be a City of Ventura resident, age 60 or older
Be available to attend monthly meetings, held on the third Tuesday of each month from 4:00 – 5:00 p.m. at the Ventura Avenue Adult Center (550 N. Ventura Avenue)
LEAP receives National Diaper Need Awareness Week Proclamation
SANTA BARBARA — With one in two families struggling with diaper need, many parents are forced to skip meals or delay changing diapers to extend their supply. Fortunately, Santa Barbara County and partner nonprofits are working together to spread awareness and help alleviate the growing need for diapers in our community.
On Tuesday, September 16th, LEAP: Learn. Engage. Advocate. Partner. received a proclamation from the Santa Barbara County Board of Supervisors officially recognizing National Diaper Need Awareness Week, which takes place from September 15-21, 2025.
UCSB — The Current — ‘Scientists tune in to the surf’s hidden signals’ and more news, events
Panteón Fest, a celebration of Día De Los Muertos, will be held at Oxnard’s Heritage Square on Oct. 11
At Panteón Fest, Aztec drumbeats honor the departed, and traditional music fills the air. The desfilada procession brings the community together, with themed displays and entertainment, and a theatrical play showcases the traditions of Día De Los Muertos.
Economic Development Collaborative (EDC) free event and webinar schedule
IN-PERSON EVENT: READY • SET • GROW: SMALL BUSINESS SUCCESS WORKSHOP SERIES
September 16, 23 and 30 @ 9:00 am
Join the City of Oxnard and Economic Development Collaborative for a 3-part series to help business owners improve legal compliance, financial planning and marketing. Participants will receive hands-on, practical training to achieve real results, such as official registration, funding readiness, and customer growth. This 3-workshop series will be conducted in English, with the option to answer questions in Spanish. Hands-on materials will be provided in both languages. Address: Oxnard Main Library, 251 S A St., Oxnard, CA, 93030.
CLICK HERE TO REGISTER
Bilingual report — Ventura Police Department launches community questionnaire to help shape next strategic plan
VENTURA — The Ventura Police Department invites residents, business owners, and community stakeholders to participate in its Strategic Plan Community Questionnaire. This short, accessible feedback form, available in English and Spanish, gives the community a direct voice in shaping the department’s priorities and goals.
Bilingual report — Ventura County Area Agency on Aging to help with Medicare Open Enrollment
VENTURA — With the Medicare Open Enrollment period soon to begin, the Health Insurance Counseling and Advocacy Program (HICAP) – part of the Ventura County Area Agency on Aging, a division of the Human Services Agency – will again be providing countywide resources and help.
Medicare Open Enrollment begins on Oct. 15 and runs through December. 7. HICAP counselors, who are registered by the California Department of Aging, provide free, unbiased Medicare counseling to the public.