Category: Cultural

Ventura County Community College District honors LGBTQIA+ graduates as Lavender Graduation returns to its roots

by Community Contributor • May 14, 2026 • Comments Off

CAMARILLO — Three years ago, Oxnard College hosted the first Lavender Graduation in the history of the Community Colleges of Ventura County. On May 1, 2026, the celebration returned to the Performing Arts Building with its corridor of employee allies and a giant inflatable rainbow that welcomed attendees home.

Lavender Graduation has become a beloved districtwide tradition, rotating annually among Moorpark, Oxnard and Ventura colleges since its creation in the 2022-23 academic year. Designed to celebrate the achievements and identities of LGBTQIA+ students across the district, this year’s return to Oxnard College marked a full-circle moment for a program that has grown each year since its founding.

Community Environmental Council (CEC) — Join us for a community salon cohosted by CEC and TedxSantaBarbara (May 27), other events

by Community Contributor • May 14, 2026 • Comments Off

Hope is not passive — it’s built through collective action, conversation, and courage. TEDxSantaBarbara and the Community Environmental Council (CEC) are hosting an evening of active hope in the face of the climate crisis. Join us at The Hub for “Climate Action: Energized by Hope” to explore how truth, voice, vision, and sustained action can help us move from eco-anxiety to meaningful impact.

UCSB — The Current — College of Engineering launches UCSB’s first fully online master’s degree program’ and more news, events

by Community Contributor • May 14, 2026 • Comments Off

The format is structured so that students can continue to work while earning an engineering degree, regardless of geographic location or time zone.

Museum of Ventura County — First look at two new exhibits – Join us on June 5th

by Community Contributor • May 14, 2026 • Comments Off

Parallel Histories: Ventura County during the US Revolution

As the United States commemorates the 250th anniversary of the Declaration of Independence, Parallel Histories explores what was unfolding at the same time in Ventura County. While British colonialism and the Revolutionary War reshaped the East Coast, California, not yet part of the United States, was being transformed by Spain.

Patriotic Threads: Textiles, Tapestries, & T-Shirts

Patriotic Threads explores how textiles have long served as powerful expressions of national identity. Through handcrafted works, the exhibit reveals how textiles and design embody patriotism and collective memory.

RSVP REQUESTED

Ventura Music Festival — Save 20% on tickets!

by Community Contributor • May 14, 2026 • Comments Off

Ticket sales have opened to the public at venturamusicfestival.org with a 20% early bird savings, using the code: EARLY2026

Community Environmental Council (CEC) — You have until May 18 to share your input on coastal flooding and erosion solutions

by Community Contributor • May 14, 2026 • Comments Off

There’s still time to weigh in, but the deadline is coming up fast. Community members are encouraged to complete the Waterfront Adaptation Survey by Monday, May 18 to help shape the long-term future of Santa Barbara’s Waterfront.

The Waterfront Adaptation Plan looks ahead to the next 30 years, focusing on how to prepare for coastal flooding, shoreline erosion, and sea level rise. At the same time, it aims to protect and enhance what makes the waterfront so important to the community: beach access, recreation, boating, natural habitats, and essential coastal infrastructure.

Ventura College Students complete landmark study abroad program in Loreto, Mexico

by Community Contributor • May 13, 2026 • Comments Off

VENTURA — Ventura College made history this spring break when eleven students participated in the college’s inaugural study abroad program, traveling to Loreto, Mexico — Ventura’s sister city — for a week-long immersive, cross-disciplinary experience. Led by Professor of Sociology Daniella Graves and Professor of Biology Kammy Algiers, the program marked a milestone year in the making.

“This trip has been such an enriching experience. There couldn’t have been a better fit for our Ventura College students,” said Professor Graves. The program originated three years ago when Ventura Sister City Association board member Mark Urwick connected with Ventura College faculty about a potential collaboration. Ventura, California, and Loreto, Mexico, have been sister cities since 2015, sharing a rich mission heritage that gave students the opportunity to explore historical landmarks and reflect on their lasting cultural impact. Ventura College officially approved the program this year, bringing the vision to life.

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.”

Bilingual report — People’s Self Help Housing — RSVP by May 15. Join us to celebrate new affordable housing in Grover Beach on May 20

by Community Contributor • May 13, 2026 • Comments Off

Located at 1206 West Grand Avenue and 164 South 13th Street in the City of Grover Beach, Cleaver & Clark Commons is comprised of 53 affordable, multifamily housing units for households at or below 60% of the Area Median Income (AMI).

The property has 14 units set aside for farmworker households at 30-60% of AMI, 21 units are set aside for project-based vouchers administered through HASLO, and 6 units are set aside for people who are homeless or at risk of homelessness.

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.

Bilingual report — Santa Paula sees sizeable decrease in homelessness 2026 Point-in-Time count results

by Community Contributor • May 13, 2026 • Comments Off

SANTA PAULA — The City of Santa Paula is pleased to share positive results from the 2026 Ventura County Homeless Point in Time Count, which indicate a 21.5% decrease in the total number of unsheltered and sheltered individuals experiencing homelessness in the City, when compared to 2025.

The Point-in-Time Count, conducted annually across Ventura County, provides a snapshot of homelessness in the community and helps guide funding, services, and policy decisions. Santa Paula’s results reflect meaningful local progress.

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.

CSUCI’s Jennifer Raymond honored with inaugural CSU Fong and Fetterly Staff Award

by Community Contributor • May 11, 2026 • Comments Off

CAMARILLO — California State University Channel Islands (CSUCI) proudly celebrates Jennifer Raymond, Community Partnership Lead for the Center for Community Engagement, as a recipient of the inaugural Trustee Wenda Fong and Mr. Daniel Fetterly Staff Award. The inaugural award marks the first systemwide recognition program dedicated exclusively to California State University (CSU) staff for their exemplary contributions and dedication to student success and institutional excellence.

Raymond received the First Generation Belonging and Community honor, recognizing her work to foster a strong sense of belonging and support for first-generation students.

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.

Bilingual report — Ventura County Health Care Agency announces new VCMC/SPH Director

by Community Contributor • May 8, 2026 • Comments Off

VENTURA — Ventura County Health Care Agency (HCA) (on May 6) announced the appointment of Danielle Gabele, DNP, RN, as Chief Executive Officer of Ventura County Medical Center (VCMC) and Santa Paula Hospital (SPH), effective May 10, 2026.

Dr. Gabele holds a Doctor of Nursing Practice degree and serves as President-Elect of the Association of California Nurse Leaders. She is also pursuing a Master of Health Administration degree at the University of Cincinnati.

“Dr. Gabele is a proven leader with a deep commitment to patient-centered care and clinical excellence,” said [Dr. John Fankhauser, HCA Director]. “Her collaborative approach and operational expertise make her exceptionally well-suited to lead VCMC and Santa Paula Hospital into the future.”

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.

Free seaside live music series takes center stage all month long In May 2026 at Ventura Harbor Village

by Community Contributor • May 8, 2026 • Comments Off

VENTURA — Setting the stage to linger longer, Ventura Harbor Village is continuing its live entertainment series of free, family-friendly music on the Seaside Promenade at the waterfront throughout May 2026. 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.

Revel in 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.

Habitat for Humanity of Ventura County celebrates 40 years of service, community and homes

by Community Contributor • May 7, 2026 • Comments Off

VENTURA COUNTY — Habitat for Humanity of Ventura County announced it will mark its 40th anniversary, celebrating four decades operating on a simple but urgent mission that brings people together to build homes, communities and hope. What began in the mid-1980s from community-based roots has grown into one of the region’s most enduring forces for affordable homeownership, partnering with families across 14 cities. Over four decades, that work has touched more than 20,000 volunteers, donors, and community members.

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.

Santa Barbara Neighborhood Clinics and the Good Neighbors Founders hold Donor Appreciation Reception

by Community Contributor • May 7, 2026 • Comments Off

SANTA BARBARA — On May 5, the Santa Barbara Neighborhood Clinics (SBNC) Board of Directors and the Good Neighbors Founders hosted a Donor Appreciation Reception at the Santa Barbara Club. The evening honored a historic $5 million donation from the Wyatt Family, the largest philanthropic contribution from an individual family in the organization’s history.

During the event, CEO Mahdi Ashrafian shared remarks alongside special guests, the Wyatt Family, for an inspiring evening highlighting their leadership gift and the naming of the Wyatt Family Health Center. This transformational gift will fund the completion of SBNC’s new flagship facility on the Westside, which is expected to increase the organization’s patient capacity by over 40%, serving an additional 8,300 community members annually.

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.

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.

UCSB — The Current — ‘On Fire Talk: Mass Deportation as Racial Engineering (May 7)’ and more news, events

by Community Contributor • May 6, 2026 • Comments Off

Thursday, May 7
Ahilan T. Arulanantham of the UCLA School of Law discusses the role of race discrimination in immigration and refugee policy.

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.”

Ventura Charter School’s 15th Annual EcoFest draws 2,500 in celebration of Students, Sustainability and Community

by Community Contributor • May 6, 2026 • Comments Off

VENTURA — Ventura Charter School welcomed an estimated 2,500 attendees to its 15th Annual EcoFest on Sunday, April 26, as students, families, local businesses and community organizations gathered on the school’s Ventura campus to celebrate sustainability and demonstrate what a school rooted in its community looks like in practice.

All proceeds from booth fees, sponsorships, the silent auction and raffle ticket sales go directly to student programs and educational enrichment at Ventura Charter School.

Bilingual report — County of Santa Barbara May 2026 Newsletter

by Community Contributor • May 6, 2026 • Comments Off

View this email online

Bilingual report — Allan Hancock College honors noncredit students at recognition ceremony

by Community Contributor • May 5, 2026 • Comments Off

SANTA MARIA — Allan Hancock College celebrated the achievements of its noncredit students at its annual Noncredit Recognition Ceremony May 1 at the college’s Santa Maria campus.

The celebration, held in Boyd Concert Hall, highlighted the perseverance and accomplishments of students who completed noncredit certificate programs, including family childcare license preparation, commercial truck driving and income tax preparation. The ceremony also recognized students who completed English Language Development (ELDN) courses, earned their GED Equivalency Certificate or achieved U.S. citizenship through the college’s noncredit offerings. More than 426 certificates were completed in noncredit programs at Hancock during the 2025–2026 academic year.

“Noncredit programs are essential to ensuring that education remains accessible to everyone in our community,” said Hancock Superintendent/President Kevin G. Walthers, Ph.D. “These students are a powerful example of what can be achieved when opportunity meets determination.”

Bilingual report — Third Space Sauna is coming to Rincon County Beach starting May 8

by Community Contributor • May 5, 2026 • Comments Off

SANTA BARBARA — Third Space Sauna, Santa Barbara’s first community sauna and cold plunge, is bringing its custom Finnish cedar barrel sauna to Rincon Beach for the first time this weekend.

On May 8th and 9th, the public is invited to drop in Friday and Saturday to meet founders Joey Mcguinness and Eli Pearlman, sweat it out in a 12-foot cedar sauna, take a plunge in the cold Pacific, and hang out on one of the most iconic stretches of coastline in California.

Third Space partnered with Santa Barbara County Parks with a goal to bring community wellness to public land as a service for everyone, not just those who can afford a resort day.

“We started Third Space to create a place where people can gather and connect,” said co-founder Joey McGuinness.

Bilingual report — Now’s the time to VOTE in the June 2, 2026 Gubernatorial Primary Election!

by Community Contributor • May 4, 2026 • Comments Off

VENTURA COUNTY — Michelle Ascencion, the Ventura County Clerk-Recorder & Registrar of Voters, announced the May 4thcommencement of voting activities for the June 2, 2026 Gubernatorial Primary Election.

El Concilio Family Services — Check out our video on May 15 deadline for 23rd annual Latino Leadership Award nominations

by Community Contributor • May 4, 2026 • Comments Off

Celebrate leadership. Inspire community.

For over 35 years, El Concilio Family Services has honored outstanding Latino leaders across Ventura County who are making a meaningful difference through education, advocacy, volunteerism, health, and more. Know someone who is uplifting others and creating impact?

Bilingual report — Allan Hancock College Foundation welcomes two alumni to board of directors

by Community Contributor • May 4, 2026 • Comments Off

SANTA MARIA — The Allan Hancock College Foundation has appointed two AHC alumni to its board of directors, further strengthening its mission to support student success and expand educational opportunities across the Central Coast.

In addition to being proud Hancock graduates, Claudia Ortiz and Luis Servin also bring a combined wealth of experience in community leadership, workforce development and education advocacy to the Foundation.

Music Academy of the West in Santa Barbara unveils ‘The Muse’

by Community Contributor • May 4, 2026 • Comments Off

SANTA BARBARA—The Music Academy of the West has revealed updated details behind The Muse, its forthcoming Music Education Center in the heart of downtown Santa Barbara — an architecturally ambitious project designed not just to house music, but to make inspiration visible, tangible, and shared across the city. On May 7, from 5 to 8 p.m., the public is invited to step inside that vision during a special Sneak Peek at The Muse as part of Santa Barbara’s 1st Thursday Art Walk.

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.”

Ventura County Arts Council — $5k and $10k grants available for artists – APPLY NOW by June 1st!

by Community Contributor • May 4, 2026 • Comments Off

Are you an individual artist who has a unique artistic vision, a sustained commitment to creative practice, and engages to make an impact on the cultural ecosystem in your community? If so, this grant opportunity is for you!

The California Arts Council’s Individual Artists Fellowship program uplifts and celebrates California artists across all disciplines and traditions, highlights their excellence, and acknowledges their leadership in shaping traditional and contemporary cultures.

The online grant application deadline is June 1, 2026 at 5:00 p.m.

Central Coast United for a Sustainable Economy (CAUSE) — Join May Day Actions on the Central Coast. See other events

by Community Contributor • May 1, 2026 • Comments Off

VENTURA COUNTY — May Day – also known as International Workers’ Day – is Friday, May 1, 2026, and we’re inviting you to take part in a powerful day of action across Ventura and Santa Barbara counties.

On May 1, workers, students, and families across the Central Coast will come together for a coordinated day of rallies and marches as part of a nationwide mobilization spanning more than 1,000 cities. Rooted in grassroots energy and a growing movement of economic noncooperation, communities are taking a collective stand – walking out of workplaces, classrooms, and stores – to demand a future that puts people over profit.

This “No Work, No School, No Shopping” action highlights the strength of everyday people united in solidarity with communities facing impossible choices amid escalating ICE raids and rising authoritarianism, while corporate profits continue to rise. From the fields to classrooms to city streets, the message across the Central Coast is clear: ICE OUT OF THE 805.

Bilingual commentary — The Art of Individual and Global Respect

by Community Contributor • May 1, 2026 • Comments Off

In kindergarten, children are taught to respect each other. The youngsters are taught to “be nice” to their classmates, avoid name-calling and, above all, respect them.

But along the way, as children grow older, something goes terribly wrong. We would think that as adults we would have figured out that hostile, demeaning language online and face-to-face do nothing to promote amity and forward progress.

Unfortunately, too many adults with angry schoolyard aggression enter our civic and political spheres, where they have the power to inflict irreparable damage and lasting chaos. This is very much the scenario that we are witnessing in real time. Too often it seems as if the policies that guide our current government’s agenda are cruelty, belligerence, and hate. Disrespect for others is a troubling and pervasive element of executive orders, legislative bills, presidential tweets, and official pronouncements.

Port of Hueneme — DOCK TALK – Community Newsletter – April 2026

by Community Contributor • May 1, 2026 • Comments Off

The Oxnard Harbor District proudly celebrated Earth Day along side the MERITO Foundation at the Ventura Earth Day Festival in downtown Ventura.

The Port continues its charge to Zero Emissions by 2030 as we utilize electric cargo handling equipment, solar arrays, emissions capture barges, and real-time air quality monitoring.

Mixteco Indigena Community Organization Project (MICOP) — No Work, No School, No Shopping: Oxnard May Day Calls for ICE Out of the 805 on May 1

by Community Contributor • May 1, 2026 • Comments Off

OXNARD — On May 1, 2026, workers, students, and families will join local organizations in Downtown Oxnard for a May Day Rally and March, as part of the May Day Strong Movement in over 1,000 cities nationwide to demand a country that puts people over profit. The action is part of a coordinated “No Work, No School, No Shopping” pledge to demonstrate solidarity with community members who continue to choose between basic needs amid increased fear due to ICE enforcement, while corporations and billionaires grow their wealth. Across California’s Central Coast, we rise together with one clear demand: ICE OUT OF THE 805.

Santa Barbara Education Foundation celebrates 40 years and raises over $300,000 for local students

by Community Contributor • May 1, 2026 • Comments Off

SANTA BARBARA — On Thursday, April 23, the Santa Barbara Education Foundation (SBEF) hosted its 40th Celebration, marking four decades of impact in support of students and public schools in the Santa Barbara Unified School District. The milestone event welcomed over 200 guests and brought together community leaders, educators, and supporters to honor the people and programs shaping student success.

Thanks to the community’s generosity, the event raised more than $300,000, marking a record-breaking fundraiser for the organization. Highlights included a transformational $100,000 gift from Sara Miller McCune through the Léni Fund supporting the BRAVO! afterschool music program, a $10,000 lead gift from the John C. Mithun Foundation, and a $15,000 matching gift announced by keynote speaker Angel Martinez in support of teachers.

Bilingual report — Latest news from the County of Ventura

by Community Contributor • May 1, 2026 • Comments Off

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UCSB — The Current — ‘Grackle research reveals behavioral flexibility and adaptation in action’

by Community Contributor • May 1, 2026 • Comments Off

With the Grackle Project, researcher Corina Logan is trying to understand how the highly social birds adapt to a variety of human-made environments.

Bilingual report — City of Ventura launches Small Business Week with events supporting local businesses

by Community Contributor • April 30, 2026 • Comments Off

VENTURA — The City of Ventura’s Economic Development team is celebrating Small Business Week, May 4-8, with a series of events and opportunities designed to support and connect the local business community.

“Small businesses are a vital part of Ventura’s economy and what makes our community unique,” said Meredith Hart, Economic Development Manager for the City of Ventura. “We’re committed to providing the resources, connections, and tools they need to succeed.”

Senior Concerns in Thousand Oaks seeks volunteer engagement advisor to strengthen community impact

by Community Contributor • April 30, 2026 • Comments Off

THOUSAND OAKS — Senior Concerns is seeking an experienced business or community leader to serve as a Volunteer Engagement Advisor, in pro bono leadership role designed to support and strengthen its network of more than 440 volunteers.

The organization invites retired or semi-retired professionals looking to give back in a meaningful way to contribute approximately 10 hours per week in a flexible, collaborative environment.

Bilingual report — Peoples’ Self-Help Housing (PSHH) e-newsletter April 2026

by Amigos805.com • April 30, 2026 • Comments Off

Earlier this month, the crew aboard the Orion spacecraft made history, traveling farther from Earth than any humans before them. It was special to follow Pilot Victor Glover among them, as the fourth Cal Poly SLO fellow alumni who studied in our organization’s headquarters home town, and went on to become an astronaut. Like many others, I had the privilege of listening live to the transmissions between the astronauts 252,760 miles from home and the science team at NASA’s Johnson Space Center. The technology enabling that achievement was extraordinary of course, but what struck me most was not the machinery – it was the communication.

Moorpark College Theatre Arts announces auditions for ‘The Importance of Being Earnest’

by Community Contributor • April 30, 2026 • Comments Off

MOORPARK — The Moorpark College Theatre Arts Department is pleased to announce auditions for its upcoming Summer 2026 production of the classic Oscar Wilde comedy, The Importance of Being Earnest. Preliminary auditions will be held Tuesday, May 12, from 3:30–6 p.m. and Wednesday, May 13, from 6–10 p.m., with callbacks on Thursday, May 14, from 6–10 p.m. in the Studio Theatre, Room PA-100, of the Performing Arts Center on the Moorpark College campus.

Anyone interested in auditioning should be prepared to read from the script from audition sides posted on the Moorpark College Theatre Arts website at:moorparkcollege.edu/departments/academic/theatre-arts/auditions-and-rehearsals.

Ventura College celebrates with ‘Onward!’ event this Thursday, April 30 — Honoring legendary comic artists The Brothers Hernandez

by Community Contributor • April 29, 2026 • Comments Off

VENTURA — Ventura College invites the community to Onward! A Legacy of Heritage and Hope, a centennial celebration on Thursday, April 30, from 5:30 to 8:30 p.m. at the Wright Event Center at Ventura College.

The evening will launch a printed anthology featuring creative work from alumni, students, and community members — and will honor five outstanding Ventura College alumni with the inaugural VC Heritage & Hope Award.

The City of Ventura highlights Bicycle Safety Month with coordinated safety efforts

by Community Contributor • April 29, 2026 • Comments Off

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UCSB — The Current — ‘Sociologist Waverly Duck tapped to lead prominent journal’ and more news, events

by Community Contributor • April 28, 2026 • Comments Off

For the first time in the journal’s history, a UCSB professor sits at the helm of Sociology of Race & Ethnicity, a flagship publication and the most widely read outside the discipline.