Dear VC CoLAB Members and Supporters:
I want to share an important update with you directly.
After seven years serving as Executive Director, I have made the difficult decision to leave VC CoLAB. I have accepted the position of CEO of the Farm Bureau of Ventura County, where I will continue advocacy work with a focused emphasis on agriculture.
In case you missed it,
The art world has this essay on repeat, have you read it? Would love to hear your thoughts.
“American art is suffering a polycrisis that combines a lack of belief in and support for its artists born after 1975, the structural de-centering of artists in the art industry, and the subsequent stagnation and possible breakdown of formal innovation in art.” New York Real Estate and the Ruin of American Art by Josh Kline
Researchers in Ania Bleszynski Jayich’s lab use a mechanical resonator to enable greater entanglement for potentially more powerful sensors.
Read more about the diamonds
THOUSAND OAKS — Hope Gonzalez is the kind of student every institution strives to support – and donors like you make it possible. She launched her first business while still in high school and came to Cal Lutheran’s School of Management with the support of a generous scholarship. What followed is exactly what your support enables.
Hope did not limit her education to the classroom. She immersed herself in speaking events, took on leadership roles in student organizations, competed in high-stakes competitions, represented major brands as a campus ambassador, and participated in transformative field experiences. She seized every opportunity and turned them into momentum.
EN ESPAÑOL: PRESENCIAL: QUICKBOOKS ESENCIAL Y DESARROLLO DE HABILIDADES: TALLER INTERACTIVO PARA NEGOCIOS PRESENTADO POR LA CIUDAD DE OXNARD
9 de abril a las 9:00 am
Acompañe a la ciudad de Oxnard, al Colaborativo de Desarrollo Económico y a Accelerate CA en este taller práctico e interactivo, diseñado tanto para usuarios principiantes y usuarios expertos de QuickBooks en Oxnard. Si está comenzando desde cero o lleva años utilizando QuickBooks y desea perfeccionar sus habilidades, esta sesión abordará las funciones esenciales y explorará temas más avanzados en función de las preguntas de los participantes. Registro: 8:30 am. Dirección: Biblioteca Pública de Oxnard – Biblioteca Principal, 251 S A St, Oxnard, CA 93030. El programa Accelerate California: Inclusive Innovation Hub (Accelerate CA) está financiado por el Estado de California y administrado por el Defensor de la Pequeña Empresa de California (CalOSBA, por sus siglas en inglés). Precio: GRATIS.
HAGA CLIC AQUÍ PARA INSCRIBIRSE
VENTURA COUNTY — Even though the June 2nd Gubernatorial Primary election is two months away, active registered voters in Ventura County can expect to begin receiving important election-related mail from the County Elections office in the next few weeks.
It starts with the 60-day voter information postcard, which will arrive in early April, approximately 60 days before Election Day. The postcard provides information about receiving and returning your vote by mail ballot, and the vote center daily schedule for those who prefer to vote in person.
SANTA BARBARA — Following a multi-year effort to gather images of paintings by one of Santa Barbara’s best known and most beloved plein air painters, Sullivan Goss is proud to announce the publication of the first hardbound monograph devoted to the art of MEREDITH BROOKS ABBOTT.
Beautifully bound in sage green linen with soft gold debossed type and with 145 full color plates plus assorted illustrations, the gallery hopes that the book will be as treasured as the artist has been over her long career. Almost six decades of painting are represented.
VENTURA COUNTY — United Way of Ventura County’s Women United Education Awards Luncheon will once again be honoring single mothers who are pursuing their education with Graciela Casillas as the Keynote Speaker. “We are so excited to have Graciela speak about her inspiring journey as a World Champion Boxer, an educator, and a mother” said President & CEO of United Way of Ventura County, Mitchel Sloan.
“Call Rudy. (123) 456-0911. Mary B.”
Circa 2003, I found this note in my campus mailbox at California State University Channel Islands (CSUCI). Mary B. was a family therapist, former Oxnard school board official, and an alumna, almost certainly in Chicano Studies, of San Fernando Valley State College (SFVSC) before it was renamed California State University at Northridge (CSUN).
The year before, Maria De La Luz, a colleague in the advising department at my campus, forwarded me and Lillian, a Chicana faculty camarada, a June 5, 2002, email from Dr. Rodolfo “Rudy” F. Acuña—with the subject heading California State University Channel Islands—originally sent to non-profit, private, and public Ventura County employees and managers in education, defense, healthcare, and law enforcement. Many people copied in the missive were Chicana/o Movement products of the 1960s and ’70s, a good number CSUN-Chicana/o Studies alumni like Mary B., for whom el movimiento never ended.
The time you all have been waiting for has arrived!
The Arte Del Pueblo Application is now OPEN. Click the link HERE to access it.
Friendly reminder.
– Please read the application in its entirety before submitting.
– Make sure all your information is correct. What ends up being submitted is what we will end up printing on your artwork’s label.
– Completing this application DOES NOT guarantee you a spot in the exhibition. You MUST drop off your artwork on a drop off date.
LOMPOC — Colorful murals, crave-worthy wines, and fresh-air adventures—all without breaking the bank.
Set between rolling hills and the Pacific, Lompoc is your launchpad for adventure. Explore the charming downtown, sip local wines, hike scenic trails, or catch a rocket lighting up the sky from nearby Vandenberg Space Force Base.
Things to Do That Won’t Break the Bank
Lompoc offers plenty of memorable experiences that don’t require a big budget. From outdoor adventures to local culture, there’s something for every visitor to enjoy.
Historic and Cultural Experiences: La Purísima Mission
La Purísima Mission State Historic Park is one of California’s most fully restored Spanish missions, set amid rolling hills and oak-studded landscapes.
SANTA YNEZ VALLEY — A sea of women in yellow gathered to the brighten the lives of clients of People Helping People at the inaugural luncheon for the Women’s Legacy of Giving in the Santa Ynez Valley. Guests were encouraged to wear yellow to symbolize warmth, hope, and shared light.
The leadership of philanthropist Linda Johansen helped galvanize 72 women to join PHP’s newly formed Women’s giving circle. “When women come together, we are powerful and we can do amazing things,” Johansen told guests.
“A heartfelt and sincere thank you to Linda Johansen for her unwavering dedication to the Santa Ynez Valley and People Helping People “said Erica Jane Flores, CEO of PHP. “Women’s Legacy of Giving is a reflection of her vision, leadership, and deep care for this community – we are truly grateful.”
You are invited to attend the 2nd Annual Supervisorial Leadership and Excellence Awards on May 7, from 5:30–7:30 PM at the Amgen campus in Thousand Oaks.
Join us as we celebrate the “Great Navigators” of our community—these exceptional honorees representing Education, Public Safety, Community Leadership, Prosperity, and Environmentalism. Each awardee reflects the very best of Ventura County—an educator shaping future leaders, a first responder dedicated to keeping our communities safe, a community leader making an impact on the lives of many, an innovator strengthening our local economy, and a community garden collective advancing sustainability, local food access, and environmental stewardship.
Join us for a free series of workshops designed to help you build knowledge and practical skills. This month’s topics include our HUD-approved Homebuyer Workshop, Estate Planning, and a Beginner’s Guide to Couponing. Whether you’re preparing to buy a home, planning for the future, or looking for ways to save on everyday expenses, these sessions offer practical tools you can use right away.
We are saddened to share the news that Ivor Davis, the legendary journalist and host of the Up Close and Personal program at the Museum of Ventura County, passed away on March 29, 2026. We are deeply grateful for the time he spent at the Museum, sharing his stories and interviewing notable guests.
Since 2017, Ivor shared his life in journalism through more than 20 appearances at MVC, becoming a familiar and welcoming presence. Both longtime followers and newcomers were always eager to hear his stories about true crime, music, and history.
We’re now accepting applications for the 2026 Dorfman Incubator Grants (DIG). Startups can apply for $5,000 to $50,000 in non-dilutive grant funding. Ideal candidates have a connection to Cal Lutheran as a student, alum, startup affiliated with Hub101 programs, employee or employer of Cal Lutheran students.
OXNARD — The Oxnard arts community will officially launch Arts, Culture & Creativity Month this April with a vibrant public celebration of the newly designated Downtown Oxnard Cultural District—bringing together artists, cultural leaders, and community stakeholders for a dynamic kickoff event on Wednesday, April 1 at the Oxnard Transit Center.
Hosted by the City of Oxnard, Downtown Oxnard Improvement Association (DOIA), and Oxnard Performing Arts Center Nonprofit (OPAC), the event will transform the Transit Center into a lively hub of creativity. Attendees will experience interactive art activations, live performances, and a special lowrider on exhibit—alongside refreshments and opportunities to connect with the artists and organizations shaping the district.
Why Equity Matters in Our Schools
Dr. César Morales, Ventura County Superintendent of Schools
Despite what you may have heard, equity in education is a straightforward, commonsense idea. It’s simply acknowledging that some students face more challenges than others. These can range from poverty and disabilities to language barriers or trauma at home.
Whatever their struggles, all students deserve the chance to succeed in school – and that’s what equity is all about. As you can see in this graphic, equity and equality are not the same thing.
First Thursdays Food Trucks rolls back into Plaza Park on April 2nd, launching the 2026 season with an all-out, big hair, new wave, neon night, ’80s-throwback party featuring live music by The Beta Macks. The food truck lineup is a savory and sweet fleet of the best mobile eats in the 805. And don’t forget to hit up the makers market – imagine it like The Galleria Mall – you’ll see all your friends there!
VENTURA — Ventura College is proud to announce that the Ventura College Stan Weisel Tutoring Center has been awarded Level One Certification as a tutor training program by the internationally recognized College Reading and Learning Association (CRLA).
The Tutoring Center has worked hard to develop a tutor training program that meets CRLA’s rigorous standards and has successfully completed the International Tutor Training Program Certification (ITTPC) peer review process. Achieving certification means that the Tutoring Center has met CRLA’s high standards for tutor selection, training, direct service, and evaluation as an integral part of their overall tutoring program.
Central Coast residents invited to join Spring 2026 climate action training SANTA BARBARA — The Community Environmental Council (CEC) has opened enrollment for the Spring 2026 Climate Stewards certification course to engage, inspire, and activate individuals on the Central Coast to join…
The organization has elected Shelly Gable, David Morrison, Javier Read de Alaniz and Kelly Caylor to its 2025 class of fellows.
Join the Community Environmental Council (CEC) at our Earth Month events to jump into the local climate movement, connect with your community, and take meaningful action together. From festivals and celebrations to lectures and workshops — there’s something for everyone. Browse the full April events line-up below.
VENTURA COUNTY — Dr. Cesar Morales, Ventura County Superintendent of Schools, is pleased to announce the winners of the 2026 Ventura County Science Fair awards, which were presented at a ceremony this evening at the Ventura County Office of Education (VCOE) in Camarillo. Awards were given in a variety of scientific categories, including microbiology, engineering and chemistry. The winning entries were selected by about 80 local science, engineering, and education professionals who volunteered their time as judges.
FUNDAMENTALS OF FOOD BUSINESSES
April 2 @ 12:00 pm
Fundamentals of Food Businesses gives an overview of the various food business structures. From Cottage Food Law (which allows preparing approved foods at home) to full-service restaurants and everything in between. This webinar will allow attendees to explore their ideas, consider different models for their food business dream, and see the steps for each, as well as the phasing from one to another. This webinar is for anyone interested in bringing a food product to market and entering the food industry. Offered as a Zoom meeting so that attendees can ask questions during the presentation. Price: FREE.
County of Ventura appoints new Director of the Health Care Agency
Dr. John Fankhauser has been appointed Director of the Ventura County Health Care Agency. Fankhauser has served as the Interim Director for the Health Care Agency since January 2026. Prior to his role as Interim Director for the Health Care Agency, Fankhauser served as Chief Executive Officer for the Ventura County Medical Center (VCMC) and Santa Paula Hospital since 2019, a role he continued to hold while also serving as the Interim Director.
“Dr. Fankhauser has consistently shown a deep commitment to public service, paired with the depth of expertise needed to lead complex medical systems,” said Dr. Sevet Johnson, County Executive Officer. “His leadership in managing large-scale health care operations and his deep commitment to addressing community needs positions Dr. Fankhauser to make a meaningful and continued positive impact on our health care system. His record of strong health care leadership and experience make him exceptionally well-prepared to serve as the Director for the Health Care Agency.”
VENTURA COUNTY — On March 28, thousands of Ventura County neighbors will come together along with millions of Americans across the country in a nationwide day of nonviolent protest at the third No Kings National Day of Action. There are more than 3,000 events nationwide.
Once again, the local coalition of pro-democracy organizers from Indivisible Ventura, Justice For All Ventura County, and 50501 VC are hosting the No Kings Ventura County event March 28, from 10 AM to Noon, at the Ventura County Government Center, on the corner of S. Victoria Ave. and Telegraph Rd. in Ventura.
Ever felt FOMO watching millions take to the streets for change? Now’s your chance to lock in.
We’re building a space to turn local power into real impact – right here in our community. Join us to learn how we can connect national movements like No Kings Day and May Day, and take action for an economy and democracy that work for all of us – not just the wealthy few.
Join our prep meeting on Zoom this Thursday, March 26 at 6PM!
You’ll learn how to support upcoming national actions in ways that fit you – whether that’s creating posters, dropping off flyers at local businesses and community centers, or inviting friends to march alongside you.
No Kings Day | March 28, 2026
A day to stand together and defend our communities against unjust and harmful policies. Our country belongs to the people – not to strongmen, billionaires, or those who aim to rule through fear and division.
About 10 years ago, we were promised a hands-free existence in our interactions with technology. No longer would we have to use our nimble fingers to laboriously type text into keyboards, either digital or physical, they told us. Now, the tech bros assured us, we would be able to use our voices to provide input to the vast network of devices in our homes, at work, or on the road.
El Concilio Family Services is now accepting nominations for the 36th Annual Latino Leadership Awards. Under this year’s theme, “Leadership, Art & Hope: Inspiring the Next Generation,” we seek to recognize individuals whose leadership and contributions are shaping a stronger, more vibrant community. We encourage you to submit nominations and help us highlight those who inspire others through service, innovation, and cultural impact. Submit your nomination by May 15, 2026.
Link on image above.
SOUTHERN CALIFORNIA — Dr. Rodolfo ‘Rudy” Acuña, an historian and leading educator in the field of Chicano/a Studies at California State University, Northridge, died March 23 at the age of 93.”
“We are saddened to inform you that Dr. Rudy Acuña, founding Chair of our (Chicano/a Studies de CSUN) department passed away today.” wrote Gabriel Gutierrez, department chair. “We are indebted to his many contributions and will forever carry with us the many lessons learned. We will share more information as it becomes available.¡Dr. Rodolfo Acuña, Presente!”
An obituary entry in EternalEverlasting provided additional details on March 24.
In partnership with the City of Camarillo, the Economic Development Collaborative has launched the City of Camarillo Business Assistance Loan Fund. This low-interest program is specifically designed to prioritize the vibrant business community in the City of Camarillo. Start-ups can get the necessary capital to launch their ventures and established businesses can secure funds to fuel their growth. With abundant opportunities for collaboration, a diverse customer base and an environment of innovation, Camarillo is a perfect place to start or grow your business.
SANTA YNEZ VALLEY — A sea of women in yellow gathered to the brighten the lives of clients of People Helping People at the inaugural luncheon for the Women’s Legacy of Giving in the Santa Ynez Valley. Guests were encouraged to wear yellow to symbolize warmth, hope, and shared light.
The leadership of philanthropist Linda Johansen helped galvanize 72 women to join PHP’s newly formed Women’s giving circle. “When women come together, we are powerful and we can do amazing things,” Johansen told guests.
Click here for the entire media release en español SANTA MARIA — An Allan Hancock College piano faculty member is taking her talents to one of the world’s most prestigious stages after winning an international music competition with a fellow…
“As a safeguard to homeowner’s records, in 2013, the Ventura County Recorder’s office worked with the District Attorney’s office to identify the document types criminals typically use in committing real estate fraud. We began mailing out Fraud Prevention Advisory Notices to property owners immediately after one of those documents was recorded in our office, and we were one of the first counties in the entire state to do so,” said Michelle Ascencion, County Clerk-Recorder & Registrar of Voters. “We now mail on average over 4,000 notices a year.”
We are thrilled to announce that Arte del Pueblo is returning to the Museum of Contemporary Art Santa Barbara for its third year and this summer, we are going bigger than ever.
Estamos emocionados de anunciar que Arte del Pueblo regresa al Museo de Arte Contemporáneo de Santa Barbara para su tercer año ¡y este verano lo haremos más grande que nunca!
VENTURA — Ventura County Community College District (VCCCD) Chancellor RickMacLennan is pleased to announce that there are three (3) finalists moving forward in the search process for the next President of Ventura College.
Listed below are candidate biographies and campus forums information. College faculty, staff, administration, and community members are invited to attend.
VENTURA — The Ventura County Board of Supervisors, on Tuesday, March 24, received an update from County agencies on a series of measures to improve customer service, modernize policies, and streamline the County’s permitting process. The goal of the improvements is to make it easier for residents and businesses to complete building projects while reducing delays and confusion. The report to the Board reflects an ongoing commitment to improving how the County delivers services that directly affect daily life.
Led by UCSB researchers, a pioneering, multi-campus initiative brings natural history collections into the era of AI, big data and networked databases.
Read more about the Big Bee Project
“One of the most precious gems of California Lutheran University is our reputation,” John Nunes, president of Cal Lutheran, said. “It’s a gift bequeathed to us by our founders and by those who have stewarded this mission for decades. Dr. Hill’s remarkable, God-given gifts shine at the intersection of highbrow strategizing and everyday operations. This is as rare as it is necessary in this complex academic environment.”
It’s that exciting time of year when I get to invite all high school students in grades 9-12 throughout California’s 26th Congressional District to participate in the Congressional Art Competition!
This is a fantastic opportunity for our region’s youth to showcase their creativity and talent. The winning artwork will be publicly displayed in the U.S. Capitol Building for a year, along with winners from across the nation. Additionally, the first-place winner and a parent/guardian will be flown to Washington, DC for the unveiling of the exhibit. Three honorable mention entries will also be on display in my district offices.
The deadline to submit artwork is Thursday, April 16, 2026!
CAMARILLO — The Ventura County Community College District (VCCCD) proudly recognizes Ariane Perez, Office Assistant at Oxnard College, as the 2026 Classified Employee of the Year. The annual award celebrates the excellence, professionalism and dedication of classified professionals who make an exceptional impact across the Community Colleges of Ventura County.
“These individuals have earned the commendation of their peers and represent the best of VCCCD classified employees,” said Gabriela Torres, board chair of the VCCCD. “Ariane’s dedication to removing barriers for first-generation and underrepresented students is exactly the kind of commitment that makes our colleges exceptional.”
VENTURA — With handmade ceramic bowls and homemade soup in hand, 5th graders at Ventura Charter School raised $1,190 for local farmworker families on February 6th, capping a semester spent studying the very community they were raising money for. More than 100 guests attended the third annual Empty Bowl Fundraiser, where students served homemade soup in handcrafted ceramic bowls that guests purchased to take home, raising funds for the cause. They also hosted an art gallery of human rights posters and spoke directly with guests about why the work mattered. All proceeds were donated to Friends of Field Workers and House Farm Workers Now, two organizations supporting the Ventura County farmworker community.
One of the great privileges of my work is the chance to speak with service members and military families. Each conversation reminds me just how often they are asked to uproot their lives: moving from base to base, state to state, sometimes across the world. Beyond the logistics of finding a new home, packing and unpacking boxes, the real disruptions run deeper. Every move means enrolling children in new schools, locating the nearest grocery store, finding a dentist who is taking new patients, discovering a new congregation, meeting new neighbors, finding where to get a haircut, identifying a reliable plumber, even deciding, once again, where to put the Christmas tree. Individually, these tasks may seem small, but repeatedly layered together, they can create isolation, instability, and lost opportunities. But these moves, at least, come with the support structures of the military.
THOUSAND OAKS — California Lutheran University’s Board of Regents has appointed Attorney Melinda Guzman and longtime Ventura County nonprofit leader Kate McLean to its diverse board of thought leaders. The new members bring decades of legal, civic and nonprofit leadership experience to the university’s governing body.
“The Board of Regents’ focus is the success of Cal Lutheran and its students, faculty and staff,” Ann Boynton, chair of the Board of Regents, said. “Kate and Melinda bring a deep commitment and desire to use their skills and experiences to support our mission. I am so grateful to them for their enthusiasm and look forward to working closely with them.”
Researchers join an international effort to better understand early biological influences on neurodevelopment.
ORT HUENEME — The City of Port Hueneme and the Port of Hueneme successfully hosted their third annual Sea Splash Color Dash 5K this weekend, drawing a vibrant crowd of community members for a day centered on wellness, connection, and coastal fun.
More than 800 participants gathered at Hueneme Beach before setting off along the coastal scenic beachfront course, running, walking, and celebrating as they were doused in colorful powder along the route. The high-energy event brought together families, local organizations, and visitors of all ages.
IN-PERSON EVENT: SMALL BUSINESS START-UP BASICS
March 25 @ 8:30 am
Join SCORE, City of Thousand Oaks, Economic Development Collaborative and Accelerate CA in this information-packed workshop that will help you assess whether starting a small business is right for you and consider the various options for starting a business, legal structures, and business plan basics. Address: City of Thousand Oaks, Oak & Park Room, 2100 Thousand Oaks Blvd, Thousand Oaks, CA 91362. The Accelerate California: Inclusive Innovation Hub (Accelerate CA Hub) is funded by the State of California and administered by CalOSBA. Price: FREE.
CLICK HERE TO REGISTER
