• Back-to-School Distribution
• World Oceans Day — 4th Annual
• Classic Car Show
• 13th Annual Banana Festival — Sept. 26, 2026
Port of Hueneme Dock Talk Community Newsletter — August 2026 Recap
Category: Education
Community Food Pantry at Girls Inc. relocating to Carpinteria Children’s Project
CARPINTERIA — Girls Inc. of Carpinteria is happy to announce that their on-campus community food pantry will be relocating and transitioning into the care of trusted community partner Carpinteria Children’s Project.
Over the coming weeks, team members from both organizations will work closely together to ensure a seamless transition that provides members of the Carpinteria community with continued access to household necessities and kitchen staples.
The decision to transfer stewardship of the food pantry is one that allows Girls Inc. of Carpinteria to focus its resources on impacting girls in the community and continuing its core mission of inspiring all girls to be strong, smart, and bold.
Downtown Oxnard — See upcoming events here
First Thursdays Food Trucks returns to Downtown Oxnard this Thursday, Sept. 3rd! Dinner, dessert, drinks — and plenty of choices all in one place. Grab your crew and make a night of it in Downtown Oxnard!
Live music + 13 Food Trucks + Marketplace
VCCF scholarship season surpasses $2 million milestone in awards
CAMARILLO — The Ventura County Community Foundation Scholarship Program has awarded $2,009,312 to students across the county for the 2026 season, exceeding the nonprofit’s past scholarship grantmaking record.
“As another incredible scholarship season closes and we enter a new school year, we are proud to celebrate the hard work and promise of the students this program exists to serve,” said Kirsti Vomund, VCCF scholarship director. “This year, we awarded 610 scholarships to 441 students, making this our biggest award year ever!”
United Way of Ventura County — Thank you for making our Spirit Awards Gala a success!
This special event would not be possible without our incredible award recipients and the meaningful work they do for our Ventura County community, as well as our presenters, sponsors, donors, performers, volunteers, vendors, and United Way staff. We are so grateful for your support and partnership in making this celebration a success!
Commercial Fishermen of Santa Barbara receives over $500,000 from State Coastal Conservancy to launch the Ocean Collective with SBCC
SANTA BARBARA — The Commercial Fishermen of Santa Barbara (CFSB) has been awarded $507,500 from the California State Coastal Conservancy to launch the Ocean Collective, a partnership dedicated to building career pathways and shared infrastructure for the region’s Blue Economy. SCC funding comes from the voter approved Safe Drinking Water, Wildfire Prevention, Drought Preparedness, and Clean Air Bond Act of 2024 (a.k.a. “2024 Climate Bond” or “Proposition 4”).
Santa Paula Chamber of Commerce announces action-packed September event calendar
SANTA PAULA — The Santa Paula Chamber of Commerce is pleased to announce a robust lineup of community events throughout September 2026. From the beloved monthly Cruise Night — kicking off a festive Labor Day weekend — to a Candidates Forum ahead of the November election, a ribbon cutting celebrating new housing investment and a downtown business mixer, September promises to be one of the most active and community-centered months of the year in historic Santa Paula.
September at the Santa Paula Art Museum
This month, Free Family Day returns! Plus, don’t miss the premiere of Gail Faulkner: A Lasting Impression, an artist talk with Ojai artists Wrona Gall and Ted Gall, more than a dozen new classes, and more.
SEEAG receives $40,000 AgWest Farm Credit Grant For Southbank Learning Farm
VENTURA — Students for Eco-Education and Agriculture (SEEAG) has received a $40,000 grant from AgWest Farm Credit to help prepare and develop the organization’s new Southbank Learning Farm, a 3.63-acre agricultural education and workforce development site located behind the Ventura County Juvenile Facilities in Oxnard.
The grant will support the development of a unique community resource where agriculture serves as a catalyst for education, career exploration, food security, environmental stewardship, and new opportunities for local youth.
UCSB — The Current — ‘We’ll always love Dolly Parton, Dollyologist explains’ and more news
Classicist Helen Morales discusses Parton’s radical empathy and the cultural power that let her hold contradictions — and people — together.
Bilingual report — September 2026 County of Santa Barbara Newsletter
CSUCI joins national AI research effort through DOE Genesis Mission Award
“It is especially exciting to win a place for CSUCI in a fiercely competitive grant sought after by our nation’s greatest science institutions. Only 5% of applications were selected for funding,” said Feister. “This honor is a testament to the strength of the research being done at CSUCI and the expertise of our faculty. We may be a small institution, but we’re doing research that can make a meaningful contribution to some of the nation’s most ambitious scientific and technological efforts.”
My Way Home — FREE Reverse Mortgage Counseling
Are you a homeowner age 62 or older?
You may have questions about how your home can support your financial goals during retirement.
My Way Home offers free reverse mortgage counseling to help senior homeowners understand how a reverse mortgage works and whether it may be right for their individual situation.
Santa Barbara Museum of Art (SBMA) — 1st Thursday Special Event: Robot Karaoke
Exhibitions & Events
Sept 1 – 13
Sing Karaoke and
Create Your Own Art!
‘Robot Karaoke’ written in bold yellow and blue text over an image of silhouetted people singing karaoke.
Image courtesy of Jamie Brew
ROBOT KARAOKE
Thursday, September 3, 5 – 8 pm
On your 1st Thursday Art Walk, sing songs you know with never-before-sung lyrics generated from bizarre Internet datasets. Spam emails to the tune of “Sweet Caroline” OkCupid profiles in the style of “Pink Pony Club” The choice is yours! Comedian and writer Jamie Brew creates parodies for you to perform in real time using software from the utmost frontier of karaoke research. This event celebrates the final month of the special exhibition RANDOM-ACCESS MEMORY: Internet Art. FREE.
LEARN MORE
County of Ventura District 2 Supervisor Jeff Gorell — Local Girl Scout Honored with USA Medal of Honor
Earlier this year, the local 6th grader was attending a Girl Scout camporee when her best friend and fellow Scout suddenly began choking on a marshmallow and couldn’t breathe. Without hesitation, Gemma recognized the emergency and sprang into action. She administered back blows, successfully clearing the obstruction. She then stayed by her friend’s side, comforting and reassuring her until adults arrived.
Signups underway for Southeast Ventura County’s YMCA’s Youth & Government Programs; Deadline is Sept. 16
For over 75 years, California YMCA Youth & Government has provided high school youth with a learning program modeling California’s legislature and courts. The program offers teen participants the opportunity to learn how government works, collaborate with others, make new friends and build skills such as critical thinking, persuasive public speaking, writing and research.
Bilingual report — The latest news from the County of Ventura
Help the County Plan for Disasters – Share your feedback!
What hazards concern you most in Ventura County and what should we be doing now to prepare for them?
That’s what Ventura County’s Hazard Mitigation Plan is all about. Simply put, it’s a roadmap for identifying the disasters most likely to impact our communities and taking steps before they happen to reduce damage and protect the people, places and services we rely on. And we need your input!
Take our short survey by September 15th and tell us
Cabrillo Economic Development Corp., Boys & Girls Clubs of Greater Oxnard and Port Hueneme complete inaugural Summer to Remember program
VENTURA COUNTY — Cabrillo Economic Development Corporation (Cabrillo EDC) and the Boys & Girls Clubs of Greater Oxnard and Port Hueneme announced the successful completion of their inaugural Summer to Remember program, an eight-week enrichment initiative that served 15 children living at Dolores Huerta Gardens Apartments in Oxnard from June 22 through August 14. The program brought free, on-site academic support, recreation and creative programming directly to the community where these children live, marking Cabrillo EDC’s first partnership that expands summer services for young residents.
Bilingual commentary — The Dust Bowl: A Warning for Modern America
A couple of weeks ago, I randomly chose a book to read from one of the “little libraries” that people put up in their front yards. Despite considering myself somewhat of an optimist, a book by Timothy Egan, The Worst Hard Time, caught my eye.
This book is about the Great American Dust Bowl, that period of our history marked by immense environmental, economic, and agricultural hardship. The Dust Bowl coincided with the Great Depression, something that my parents and grandparents lived through—and fortunately survived.
Bilingual report — Peoples’ Self-Help Housing (PSHH) August 2026 newsletter
Lea en español | Received this from a friend? Subscribe! eNewsletter | August 2026 Here’s to 56 years! This month, nearly 200 People’s team members from throughout the Central Coast came together to mark the milestone. Friend, The coming months will…
Museum of Ventura County — Taste of History Ticket Sales Close Sept. 1 + Upcoming Events at the Ag
Thursday, September 10 | 5:30–9:30 PM
Sherwood Country Club, Thousand Oaks
Step back into the glamour of the 1920s for an unforgettable evening celebrating Ventura County’s remarkable role in the early days of filmmaking. Join us for Taste of History: The Silent Movie Era, featuring fine dining, vintage-inspired cocktails, live entertainment, dancing, and an exciting live auction.
The evening will also feature the presentation of the Museum of Ventura County’s Lifetime Achievement Awards honoring Chuck Cohen and Joanie Young. Celebrate their extraordinary contributions to Ventura County and their lasting impact on our community.
One Step A La Vez 2nd Quarter Update
One Step A La Vez is in an important season of growth, reflection, and renewal. As we look toward the future, we also want to honor the people whose dedication and service have helped shape our organization. We extend our heartfelt gratitude to Amanda Garza, Diana Madrigal and Yuliana Suarez, who recently departed One Step after many years of commitment to our youth, families, and community. Their time, energy, care, and talents have left a lasting impact, and we are deeply grateful for all they contributed to One Step’s journey.
Bilingual report — Three additional birds test positive for West Nile Virus in Ventura County
VENTURA — The Ventura County Environmental Health Division (Division) received confirmation from the California Department of Public Health that a bird collected in the city of Camarillo on August 1, 2026, and two birds collected in the city of Ventura on August 3, 2026, tested positive for West Nile virus (WNV). All mosquito breeding sources in the area where the birds were collected will be inspected and treated if evidence of mosquito breeding is observed. Ventura County Public Health and Environmental Health are closely monitoring WNV activity, including the increase in WNV cases and the recent WNV-related death in Los Angeles County.
Public Health confirms that no human cases of WNV have been identified to date in 2026 in Ventura County.
UCSB — The Current — ‘Deep learning refines how bionic eyes communicate with the brain’ and more news
Computer scientist Michael Beyeler and colleagues use a deep-learning model to design patterns of electrical stimulation for electrodes temporarily implanted in a blind participant’s brain.
Read more about the findings
El Concilio Family Services — Early Bird Prices going fast!
Only one week left to secure Early Bird pricing for the 36th Latino Leadership Awards. Join El Concilio Family Services on Friday, October 2, 2026, and reserve your seats before prices increase on September 2.
Leadership Ventura County unveils new identity, launches expanded programming across the county
VENTURA COUNTY — Over 200 community leaders, alumni and partners gathered Thursday, Aug. 20th, at the Ventura County Office of Education for The Big Reveal Party, where the organization formerly known as Ventura County Leadership Academy introduced its new name, Leadership Ventura County, alongside an expanded slate of leadership programming built to reach more of Ventura County.
While Leadership Ventura County’s new identity marks a visible change, organization leaders say the programming behind it is the real story: a broader, more accessible approach to developing leaders across the region.
“Our new name, Leadership Ventura County, is really about access,” said Pattie Braga, Executive Director. “With Leadership Class, Leadership Explore, Leadership Elevate, and Leadership Connect, we now have programs tailored to where someone is at personally or within their career, whether that’s a nine-month deep dive or a first step into their community. This next chapter is about opening that door wider for more people across the county.”
Santa Barbara to host Inaugural California Ocean Summit (on Dec. 9-11), uniting the State’s Top Ocean Scientists, Policymakers, Investors and Innovators
SANTA BARBARA — Registration is now open for the inaugural California Ocean Summit, a landmark three-day convening taking place December 9–11, 2026, in Santa Barbara. Bringing together leading ocean scientists, policymakers, investors, innovators, and advocates from across California and beyond, the Summit will showcase solutions, mobilize capital toward ocean impact, and build the cross-sector relationships needed to turn shared ambition into coordinated ocean action.
CSUCI unveils refreshed brand identity rooted in opportunity, connection and a distinctive sense of place
CAMARILLO — Cal State Channel Islands (CSUCI) on Aug. 24 unveiled a refreshed brand that celebrates the University’s distinctive sense of place while giving CSUCI a unified voice, visuals, and digital presence for the future.
The refreshed brand is part of a broader effort to strengthen how CSUCI communicates its distinctive value to prospective and current students, employees, alumni, donors, community partners, and the region. More than a new visual identity, the work clarifies CSUCI’s institutional identity, the value of a CSUCI education, and the experiences that distinguish the University.
Commununity Environmental Council (CEC) — Join CEC: We’re Hiring an Office Manager & Board Liaison
If working in the heart of downtown Santa Barbara, surrounded by climate changemakers, passionate board members and mission-driven organizations sounds like your kind of workplace, CEC may have the opportunity for you. We’re hiring an Office Manager & Board Liaison to play a central role in the day-to-day life of our organization and office.
Bilingual report — Students ages 20 to 98 find friendship, creativity and lifelong learning through Allan Hancock College Community Education
SANTA MARIA — Students separated by?nearly eight?decades gather around sewing machines inside Mary Jo Gabel’s Community Education classroom at Allan Hancock College. Some are learning to thread a needle for the first time. Others have been sewing for years.?Together, they have found far more than sewing techniques. It’s a place where creativity,?friendship?and lifelong learning bring generations together.
Among them is 98-year-old Rae Gibbs,?one of Hancock’s oldest current students. Gibbs?has spent more than three decades taking Community Education classes at Hancock. Recently, classmates gathered to celebrate her birthday with cake,?laughter?and songs, recognizing not only another year of life but a student whose enthusiasm for learning continues to inspire those around her.
Rebozo Festival Inc. announces 2027 grant application now open
CAMARILLO — Rebozo Festival Inc., is pleased to announce that awards of up to $20,000 will be granted to qualified non-profit organizations that focus on the cultural, social and/or educational needs of the Ventura County community. The application process will open September 1st and will close September 30th, 2026, at 5:00 pm.
Rebozo Festival, Inc., encourages non-profit organizations that meet the following requirements to apply: Nominated organizations must be located in Ventura County serving primarily Ventura County Latino residents and must be an IRS 501©(3) non-profit organization/institution or operate under the fiscal sponsorship of a qualified organization/institution.
Bilingual commentary — National Debt: Should We Be Concerned?
This morning I woke up to the disconcerting news that our national debt had attained an ominous level: $40 trillion dollars (that’s $40,000,000,000,000). Sure, it sounds like a lot of money, but what exactly does that portend for us, our children, and our grandchildren?
Lots of bad things, as it turns out. Apparently, the United States can bury itself in debt just as individuals can. What happens when we as individuals find ourselves drowning in debt?
Our credit rating drops because we can no longer be trusted with fiscal management. So too the United States.
Making Waves: Port of Hueneme hosts ‘Sustaining the Seas Summit’ in recognition of World Oceans Day
PORT HUENEME — The Port of Hueneme marked World Oceans Day with its fourth annual “Sustaining the Seas Summit” on Tuesday, August 18, at the Channel Islands Maritime Museum in Oxnard.
The Summit brought together Port of Hueneme staff, environmentalists, maritime companies, and community organizations for robust discussions on sustainability and the challenges facing the world’s oceans.
“We have an ambitious but achievable goal to reach zero-emissions status at the Port of Hueneme by 2030,” said Oxnard Harbor District Board President Jason Hodge. “As leaders in clean port operations, it’s exciting to bring together leading minds in environmental stewardship in pursuit of real progress when it comes to protecting our oceans.”
City Impacts in Oxnard invites partners for Thrive Together 2026 on Sept. 24
… The evening brings together more than 200 community members, business leaders and families for an Entrepreneur Awards Ceremony, Youth Art and Business Showcase, along with a BBQ dinner, live music, art auction and networking. City Impact is now inviting local businesses, foundations and community partners to sponsor the event and stand alongside the Hispanic entrepreneurs and young artists it celebrates.
“Every sponsor at Thrive Together becomes part of the story we’re telling about Ventura County’s small business community,” said Cynthia Torres, Executive Director of City Impact. “Their support directly funds the mentorship, wellness resources and creative programs that help our young people and entrepreneurs grow.”
Bilingual report — 8th Annual Santa Barbara County Farm Day (Sept. 19) brings farmers and the public together
SANTA BARBARA — Ever wonder where great-tasting fruits and vegetables are grown? Find out at the 8th Annual Santa Barbara County Farm Day, Saturday, September 19. Visit farms in Santa Barbara County to learn how fruits, nuts, produce and wine are produced, harvested and delivered.
Twenty farms and agricultural organizations will open their doors from 10:00 a.m. to 3:00 p.m. during Santa Barbara Farm Day. Guests will experience behind-the-scenes farm tours, tractor rides, produce tastings and giveaways, and plenty of kid-friendly exhibits all at no cost.
Ag participants this year range from large, international agricultural operations to family-run, organic farms.
Ventura College Athletics unveils new brand identity and spirit logo
VENTURA — Ventura College Athletics has unveiled a new visual identity and spirit logo, bringing a bold, unified look to all the teams and programs that make up Pirate Athletics. Developed through a collaborative process involving student athletes, athletics staff, college leadership, and key stakeholders, this refreshed look honors the past while making way for the future with a modern, unmistakably Pirate brand.
“Our athletics tradition is an important part of the Ventura College story, and this new identity honors that history while giving our student-athletes, coaches and supporters a renewed sense of pride and connection to the college,” said Luca E. Lewis, president of Ventura College. “It reflects who we are today and the direction we are headed—grounded in tradition, connected to our community and committed to a future of continued excellence. This is a meaningful expression of our enduring legacy and our vision for the future.”
Bilingual report — Ventura County Assessor’s Office issues public advisory regarding false property tax claims targeting seniors
VENTURA — The Ventura County Assessor‘s Office warns seniors and all local property owners about a current trend regarding misinformation on reducing or freezing property taxes. The Assessor’s Office has received numerous calls, emails, and in-person visits from property owners inquiring about a supposed federal program that allegedly freezes property taxes. This misinformation is being spread through fraudulent online claims, social media posts, and scam phone calls encouraging property owners to file a non-existent federal IRS form “1098-SR” to reduce or freeze property taxes. No such form exists, and these messages are not legitimate.
SBCC’s Fall Semester starts Monday, Aug. 24
SANTA BARBARA — Santa Barbara City College welcomes students of all ages, attending in-person or via its extensive selection of online courses, on its first day of classes, Monday, August 24.
From recent high school graduates enrolling in college for the first time, to career-minded students desiring two- or four-year areas of study and beyond, SBCC’s credit programs provide multiple pathways to earn a degree, certificate or transfer.
Adult learners are equally empowered through the School of Extended Learning’s programs, working on their vocational skills, GED, ESL or exploring various creative offerings.
Hilda Zacarías, longtime Allan Hancock College Board of Trustee, announces resignation
SANTA MARIA — Hilda Zacarías announced her resignation from the Allan Hancock College Board of Trustees at their meeting on Tuesday, August 18, effective immediately. After 14 years of service on the board, Zacarías is moving outside the area she represented as a trustee.
“I have often said that my tenure as a trustee of Allan Hancock College has been my favorite public service,” said Zacarias. “This is not the same college I first came to in 1986, and it is not the same college I joined as a trustee in 2012. I have witnessed both individual and institutional transformation, and I am proud to have supported policies that strengthened our inclusive and enriching community of learning.”
Ventura County Clerk-Recorder partners with California Office of the Secretary of State to host One-Day Apostille PopUp Shop on Sept. 10, 2026
VENTURA COUNTY — The Ventura County Clerk-Recorder is partnering with the California Office of the Secretary of State (SOS), to bring back the popular Apostille Pop-Up Shop to the Ventura County Government Center, on Thursday, September 10, from 9 AM to 3 PM.
SOS Pop-Up Shops are one-day events held throughout the year in counties across the state to provide customers with the convenience of accessing in-person Apostille services without traveling to SOS offices in Sacramento or Los Angeles.
Port of Hueneme hosts regional dive teams for advanced maritime search-and-rescue training
PORT HUENEME — Seven regional bomb squad and search-and-rescue dive teams including Ventura County Sheriff’s Office Bomb/Arson Unit and Search & Rescue, Los Angeles Police Department Bomb Squad, Los Angeles Sheriff’s Department Search and Rescue, Santa Barbara Sheriff’s Office Search and Recovery, and Riverside County Sheriff Search and Rescue recently gathered at the Port of Hueneme for an Advanced Naval Technology Exercise (ANTX)-Coastal Trident Event DELTA, a four-day exercise focused on underwater operations and emerging technologies.
Bilingual report — Economic Development Collaborative (EDC) free event and webinar schedule
EN ESPAÑOL: INTRODUCCIÓN A LA INTELIGENCIA ARTIFICIAL PARA PEQUEÑOS NEGOCIOS
August 24 @ 6:00 pm
Este taller introduce a los propietarios de pequeñas empresas a los fundamentos de la Inteligencia Artificial y cómo puede aplicarse en las operaciones diarias de un negocio. Los participantes aprenderán qué es la IA, cómo la utilizan actualmente las empresas y dónde puede generar un mayor impacto. La sesión incluirá ejemplos prácticos relacionados con marketing, servicio al cliente, creación de contenido, productividad y crecimiento empresarial. Precio: GRATIS.
HAGA CLIC PARA REGISTRARSE
SB Museum of Art — Basil Kincaid Visits SBMA for Talk, Artist Workshop
Basil Kincaid, whose work is featured in the exhibition Remixed, joins SBMA Assistant Curator Lauren Karazija, to explore ancestry, connection and conversation. Crafted from salvaged fabrics, quilts offer far more than physical warmth—they retain the indelible traces of past lives. Describing quilting as a “spiritual technology,” Kincaid engages in a dialogue across time and space through lived-in materials charged with the enduring energy of loved ones. Tickets are selling quickly; reserve yours today at sbma.net.
Bilingual report — My Way Home — Last chance to RSVP for Aug. 18 Community Focus Group: Accessory Dwelling Units
My Way Home is in the early planning stages of exploring a new ADU program focused on education and financing. We’re hosting a virtual Community Focus Group to hear your experiences, questions, and ideas. Your input will help us understand what our community needs and help shape a program designed to better serve Ventura County.
Community Focus Group: Accessory Dwelling Units
El Concilio Family Services in Oxnard announces 36th annual Latino Leadership Awards Fundraising Campaign
OXNARD — El Concilio Family Services has officially launched its fundraising and sponsorship drive for the upcoming 36th Annual Latino Leadership Awards. Established in 1990, the awards recognize outstanding individuals and businesses that have made substantial contributions to uplifting Ventura County’s Latino community.
“Our donors deserve to know that their generosity translates directly into high-quality, professional support for local agricultural and service-sector families,” said Yvonne R. Gutierrez, Executive Director. “The Latino Leadership Awards allow us to honor local excellence while raising vital funding to keep our immigration and education services responsive, credible, and fully accountable.”
Santa Paula Latino Town Hall — Please Join Us: Defend health care in the Santa Clara Valley – 10:30 am August 18
You are invited to make public comment before the Ventura County Board of Supervisors and stand with our community in defending hospital-level health care in the Santa Clara Valley.
Tuesday, August 18, 2026 – 10:30 a.m.
Ventura County Board of Supervisors Meeting
Board of Supervisors Meeting Room
Hall of Administration
800 S. Victoria Avenue
Ventura, CA 93009
Ventura County Civic Alliance (VCCA) Aug. 15, 2026 Livable Communities Newsletter
Can Ventura County Still Take Care of its Own?
On Monday morning, September 14, the Ventura County Civic Alliance will host our Future of the Region conference in Camarillo. The conference theme is “Can Ventura County Still Take Care of its Own?” and we will dive into demographic shifts impacting our region.
Ventura County, like many parts of the state and nation, is experiencing a decline in the birth rate leading to changes in healthcare with an aging population, impacts to education from declining enrollment and the overall economy as we lose young workers. These and other challenges impact every city in the County.
Guest contribution — Farmworkers and advocates, including legendary civil rights icon Dolores Huerta, rally at the State Capitol to demand accountability from California’s pesticide regulator
The hearing room was full, with more than 110 Californians from across the state present, including those from the Central Coast. Many traveled hours from home, as far away as Ventura, taking a day from work and rising before dawn to attend the 2½ hour hearing. Community members called on lawmakers to confront the Dept. of Pesticide Regulation’s conflicts of interest and failure to protect the public.
Guest commentary — Allá En El Rancho Grande: Ventura County, One Big Plantation
The past, present, and future exist concurrently. History matters because the present and past manifest in the now. This is why historical events such as the 1942 Sleepy Lagoon Case of the Zoot Suiters and the Deportation Campaigns of the 1930s speak to us today in relation to the overcharging and over-sentencing of convicted ethnic Mexicans regarding the former and the vicious Gestapo kidnappings of the U.S. Immigration and Customs Enforcement (ICE) agency with the latter.
Ten Little Graduates, One Big Milestone: LEAP’s Lompoc Children’s Center hosts inaugural Preschool Graduation
More than 60 family members gathered to celebrate the graduating preschoolers as they received their promotion certificates and goodie bags, proudly smiled for family photos, and shared cake after the ceremony. This fall, the students will continue their educational journeys at Miguelito Elementary School, Clarence Ruth Elementary School, La Cañada Elementary School, and Buena Vista Elementary School.
Two new members join the Ventura College Foundation Board
VENTURA — New board member Denise Sindelar is the founder and principal project manager of Sindelar Art Consulting in Ventura. …
As the new Associated Students of Ventura College (ASVC) President, Briana Becerra serves on the foundation board, acting as the primary liaison between students and the college and district administration. Becerra, a communication major, also serves as the official spokesperson for ASVC and the broader Ventura College student body.
The United Way of Ventura County — The latest news for you
Stuff the Bus results are in! THANK YOU to:
Our Sponsors – Gene Haas Foundation and California Resources Corporation, Bank of America, Raypak, GSMS, California Lutheran University-Fifty and Better
Housing Authority of the City of Santa Barbara (HACSB) graduates 14 resident teens from Summer program
SANTA BARBARA — The Housing Authority of the City of Santa Barbara (HACSB) recently celebrated the graduation of 14 students from its free, four-week Preparación, Bienestar y Cultura (PBC) summer program. Designed for HACSB residents entering grades 9–12, the program equips students with the tools, resources, and experiences needed to prepare for college, careers, and future success. Since its launch four years ago, 65 students have completed the program.
PBC provides a well-rounded experience that promotes educational achievement, social-emotional wellness, and cultural awareness. Throughout the four-week program, students participate in college tours, educational field trips, community service projects, and interactive workshops. Participants also earn community service hours and receive a backpack filled with school supplies to help them begin the academic year prepared.
Bilingual report — CenCal Health recognizes local health centers for expanding access to care across the Central Coast
SANTA BARBARA — From farmworker families and tribal communities to children receiving care at school and people facing housing challenges, federally qualified health centers across the Central Coast provide residents with essential health services. During National Health Center Week, Aug. 2-8, CenCal Health, the Medi-Cal managed care plan for Santa Barbara and San Luis Obispo counties, is recognizing five health center partners whose work helps expand access to care across the region.
“Health centers are often the first place people turn when they need care, and for many families, they are a trusted ally at every stage of life,” said Marina Owen, CEO of CenCal Health. “Their work extends beyond the exam room, helping neighbors navigate health challenges, access supportive services and build a foundation for long-term well-being.”
UCSB — The Current — ‘Sarah Rosalena creates monumental textile work for LACMA’s new galleries’ and more news, events
The artist and professor’s 27-foot piece was commissioned by the Los Angeles County Museum of Art for permanent display in its new David Geffen Galleries.
Read more about the textile
Economic Development Collaborative (EDC) free event and webinar schedule
STRATEGIC INTELLIGENCE: LEARN ANYTHING FASTER WITH NOTEBOOKLM
August 11 @ 10:00 am
Successful businesses make better decisions because they have better information. In this webinar, you’ll learn how to use NotebookLM to conduct competitive analysis, refine pricing, accelerate SEO and AEO, and synthesize large amounts of research into simple summaries and action steps. You’ll also learn how to use AI to create executive briefs, reports, and slide decks quickly, helping you make smarter strategic decisions in less time. This session is ideal for business owners looking to leverage AI for research, planning, and strategic growth. Price: FREE.
CLICK HERE TO REGISTER
Community Environmental Council (CEC) — Planning Your Fall Meetings?
Whether you’re planning a board meeting, strategic retreat, volunteer training, film screening, public forum, or year-end gathering, The Environmental Hub provides a welcoming space designed to help mission-driven organizations connect, collaborate, and inspire action.
Located on State Street in the heart of Santa Barbara, The Hub features flexible meeting spaces, built-in AV, a catering kitchen, and competitive non-profit pricing. Every booking also supports the Community Environmental Council’s work to advance climate solutions across the Central Coast.
Santa Barbara Museum of Art — Basil Kincaid Visits SBMA for Talk, Artist Workshop
Basil Kincaid, whose work is featured in the exhibition Remixed, joins SBMA Assistant Curator Lauren Karazija, to explore ancestry, connection and conversation. Crafted from salvaged fabrics, quilts offer far more than physical warmth—they retain the indelible traces of past lives. Describing quilting as a “spiritual technology,” Kincaid engages in a dialogue across time and space through lived-in materials charged with the enduring energy of loved ones. Tickets are selling quickly; reserve yours today at sbma.net.
New York Times bestselling author to headline Hospice of Santa Barbara’s signature fundraising event on Sept. 27 celebrating ‘One Wild and Precious Life’
Centered around the theme “One Wild and Precious Life,” this year’s event celebrates the everyday moments that quietly become life’s greatest treasures—and the people who make them unforgettable. Inspired by Mary Oliver’s timeless question, the luncheon invites guests to reflect on love, resilience, hope, and the everyday experiences that ultimately remind us what matters most. Few contemporary writers have explored those themes with more honesty and compassion than Cheryl Strayed.
SBCC Superintendent/President, Dr. Erika Endrijonas, shares gratitude to the campus community for demonstrating strong financial progress
“Since I began in August, 2023, the message was clear from the SBCC Board of Trustees: ‘We need to address the structural deficit of the college,’” shared Superintendent/President Dr. Erika Endrijonas, who also sent a thank-you email to all employees. “This meant painful, yet decisive and strategic decisions needed to be made – ones that were not always popular with employees (faculty and staff) – and now, three years later, I have to thank every single employee for their hard work, determination and trust in me and my fellow leaders to get on a trajectory for a healthier financial future for the college. I cannot thank our amazing SBCC team enough … Thank you!”