Category: familia

Bilingual report — Ventura County Public Health confirms first Measles case in Ventura County since 2017

by Community Contributor • August 7, 2026 • Comments Off

VENTURA COUNTY — Ventura County Public Health (VCPH) has confirmed a positive case of measles related to international travel. This is the first confirmed case in the county since 2017. VCPH is conducting a thorough investigation and working closely with healthcare providers and exposed contacts to prevent further transmission. Measles is a highly contagious viral disease that spreads through coughing, sneezing, and airborne particles. The virus can remain in the air for up to two hours after an infected person leaves a room. Unvaccinated or undervaccinated individuals are especially at risk of infection. If you have been fully vaccinated or were born before 1957, your risk of infection is extremely low.

Bilingual report — Santa Paula Police Dept. — Back to School traffic safety awareness

by Community Contributor • August 7, 2026 • Comments Off

SANTA PAULA — As the beginning of the new school year approaches next week, the Santa Paula Police Department reminds residents, parents, students, and school staff to practice caution and safety in observance of drivers, pedestrians, bicyclists, and school buses.

The first day of school is August 12, 2026. Vehicle and pedestrian traffic will be impacted during drop-off and pickup times. Here are helpful tips for back to school traffic safety:

Bilingual report — Astronaut Dr. José Hernández will be the special guest at the South Oxnard Library Block Party and Mural Celebration on Aug. 22

by Community Contributor • August 3, 2026 • Comments Off

Come celebrate South Oxnard’s newest mural.

Bilingual report — Santa Clara River Valley Communities to host Health Care Future Forum

by Community Contributor • July 31, 2026 • Comments Off

VENTURA — As the Ventura County Health Care Agency (HCA) approaches the August 18, 2026, Board of Supervisors meeting, HCA is finalizing its strategic review of continued health care service options for the Santa Clara River Valley (SCRV) and Santa Paula Hospital (SPH). With state-mandated 2030 seismic deadlines approaching, this work provides a timely opportunity to redesign healthcare delivery to be more sustainable, accessible, and responsive to residents.

HCA has engaged the consulting firm Health Management Associates (HMA) to support the health care planning for SCRV. HMA is a national independent research and consulting firm that focuses on publicly-financed health care.

Bilingual guest commentary by Kaiser Permanente — Want your child to succeed in school? Start with these healthy habits

by Community Contributor • July 31, 2026 • Comments Off

As families across Ventura County prepare for the new school year, parents can take a few simple steps to help their children start strong both academically and emotionally, according to a local health expert.

“Getting ready for school is about more than buying supplies,” said Dr. Kristina Kang, a pediatrician with Kaiser Permanente in Camarillo. “Healthy habits, routine medical care and open communication with your child’s doctor can make a big difference in their success throughout the new school year.”

Bilingual report — Ventura County Area Agency on Aging’s Farmers’ Market Discount Cards Distribution begins in August

by Community Contributor • July 29, 2026 • Comments Off

VENTURA — The Ventura County Area Agency on Aging, a division of the Human Services Agency, is starting its annual distribution of discount cards to be used at participating Farmers’ Markets. Adults over the age of 60 who are on a limited income and meet the eligibility guidelines may receive this free benefit.

Cards are only available while supplies last at each distribution point. They can be used to purchase up to $50 in fresh, nutritious, unprocessed, locally grown fruits, vegetables, honey and herbs.

Bilingual report — People’s Self Help Housing July 2026 e-newsletter

by Community Contributor • July 29, 2026 • Comments Off

The overwhelmingly bipartisan supported and much awaited 21st Century ROAD to Housing Act is now law and with it comes a raft of improved regulations and access to financing fit, as the name implies, for this century. Those provisions include:

Billions of dollars of unlocked bank equity allowed to invest in low-income housing tax credit funded projects

Reauthorization and reforms of housing production programs.

Increases to FHA multifamily statutory loan limits.

Bilingual report — Ventura County Department of Child Support Services celebrates Child Support Awareness Month with ‘Strong Families Start with Support’

by Community Contributor • July 27, 2026 • Comments Off

CAMARILLO — The Ventura County Department of Child Support Services (VCDCSS) invites the community to celebrate Child Support Awareness Month throughout August with this year’s theme, “Strong Families Start with Support.” As part of the celebration, VCDCSS will host Family Connections Day on Thursday, August 6, 2026, from 3:00 p.m. to 5:00 p.m. in the VCDCSS parking lot.

Hosted by the Ventura County Department of Child Support, this free event will bring together families for educational workshops, community resources, and family-friendly activities that promote financial well-being, child safety, and strong family connections. The event reflects VCDCSS’s ongoing commitment to supporting parents, strengthening families, and helping children thrive.

Metallica Scholars Initiative (MSI) renews support for llan Hancock College’s Fire Academy

by Community Contributor • July 24, 2026 • Comments Off

SANTA MARIA — For a second consecutive year, Allan Hancock College’s Fire Academy will receive $50,000 through the Metallica Scholars Initiative (MSI) to provide protective equipment and scholarships, helping reduce financial barriers for students pursuing careers in firefighting.

“Programs like the Metallica Scholars Initiative continue to create meaningful opportunities for our students while helping address California’s workforce needs,” said Hancock Superintendent/President Kevin G. Walthers, Ph.D. “This continued investment helps ensure more students can complete their training and begin careers serving their communities.”

Bilingual report — The latest news from the County of Ventura

by Community Contributor • July 24, 2026 • Comments Off

Looking for your next career opportunity? Join us for the 2026 County of Ventura Career & Resource Expo + Candidate Connect on Wednesday, August 26, from 11:00 a.m. to 2:00 p.m. in the Government Center Courtyard between the Hall of Administration and the Hall of Justice.

This free event is open to everyone and offers the chance to explore careers in technology, public safety, healthcare, engineering, environmental services and many other fields.

Meet representatives from County departments and agencies, learn about current job opportunities and, new this year, visit the Candidate Connect booth to speak directly with County recruiters and get your questions answered.

Whether you’re considering a career change, entering the workforce or looking for your next opportunity in public service, this event is a great place to start.

Bilingual report — Third Local Bird Tests Positive for West Nile Virus in Ventura County

by Community Contributor • July 20, 2026 • Comments Off

VENTURA —The Ventura County Environmental Health Division (Division) received confirmation from the California Department of Public Health that a bird collected on July 2nd, 2026, from the city of Thousand Oaks, tested positive for West Nile Virus (WNV). WNV is established in Ventura County and additional WNV positives are expected.Ventura County Public Health confirms that no human cases have been identified to date in 2026.

Bilingual report — Extreme heat warning within Ventura County

by Community Contributor • July 15, 2026 • Comments Off

VENTURA COUNTY — The National Weather Service in Los Angeles/Oxnard has issued a widespread extreme heat warning for … through Thursday, July 16, 2026. Temperatures in the interior valleys and mountain areas are expected to exceed the 100-degree mark for a prolonged period, with relatively poor overnight recovery in the mountains and foothills. A heat advisory has been issued for the coastal plains, where temperatures are expected to reach between 90 and 100 degrees.

High temperatures may create a dangerous situation in which heat-related illness is possible. Residents are encouraged to: drink plenty of fluids, stay in air-conditioned rooms, stay out of the sun, check on relatives and neighbors, take extra precautions if working or spending time outside, and wear lightweight and loose-fitting clothing. When possible, reschedule strenuous activities to early morning or evening.

Bilingual report — Mosquito sample tests positive for West Nile Virus in Ventura County

by Community Contributor • July 10, 2026 • Comments Off

VENTURA — The Ventura County Environmental Health Division (Division) received confirmation from the California Department of Public Health that mosquitoes collected from the City of Fillmore on June 17th, 2026, tested positive for West Nile Virus (WNV). WNV is established in Ventura County and additional WNV positives are expected. This is the first mosquito sample collected in 2026 from Ventura County to test positive for WNV. Ventura County Public Health confirms that no human cases have been identified to date in 2026.

Bilingual report — City of Ventura releases Fall Parks and Recreation Activity Guide

by Community Contributor • July 9, 2026 • Comments Off

The City of Ventura Parks and Recreation Department’s Fall Activity Guide is now available, featuring hundreds of classes, programs, and events taking place from September through January.

Registration opens Tuesday, August 4, 2026, at 12:00 p.m. Residents can register online, by phone, or in person at Ventura City Hall (501 Poli Street, Room 226). Registration information and policies are available on page 43 of the guide.

The Fall Activity Guide offers activities for all ages and interests, including ceramics, cooking, creative writing, parent-and-child classes, pet wellness, fitness, sports, and more. Check out several free new workshops focused on Financial Literacy and Health and Safety on pages 10-11.

Bilingual report — Ventura County Office of Education — Summer Reading, Constitution Day, Civic Tours, and More

by Community Contributor • July 8, 2026 • Comments Off

Get fun summer reading ideas, activities, and more from the VCOE Library’s Summer Reading Extravaganza. Click here to check out local libraries’ summer reading programs and get online access to free full-length young adult novels. Also, find out how summer readers can earn free ride tickets for the Ventura County Fair.

Ventura County Air Pollution Control District — $1.97M available for heavy-duty electric trucks

by Community Contributor • July 8, 2026 • Comments Off

VENTURA — Nearly $2 million in grant funding is available to help replace heavy-duty diesel trucks based in Ventura County with equivalent battery-electric models and install charging stations.

The Ventura County Air Pollution Control District was awarded $1.97 million from the U.S. Environmental Protection Agency Diesel Emission Reduction Act (DERA) Program to help fund replacement projects. Recipients need to cover at least half of the project costs.

Bilingual report — Teatro de las Américas — Bilingual stop-motion animation workshop for children (July 6-24)

by Community Contributor • July 2, 2026 • Comments Off

Bilingual stop-motion animation workshop for children. *** Taller bilingüe de animación cuadro por cuadro para niños.

Bilingual guest commentary by Kaiser Permanente — From fireworks to heat waves: Health expert outlines July 4 safety MustKnows

by Community Contributor • July 2, 2026 • Comments Off

As Fourth of July celebrations approach across Southern California, families are preparing for a day filled with barbecues, pool parties and fireworks—traditions many look forward to all year.

But health experts are reminding the public that the holiday also brings a spike in preventable injuries.

“People love this holiday because it brings everyone together,” said Dr. Kimberly Petrick, a family medicine physician with Kaiser Permanente Southern California. “Still, a little caution goes a long way in keeping the day festive instead of stressful.”

Bilingual report — County of Santa Barbara July 2026 Newsletter — Keep your Pets Safe This Fourth of July, more news

by Community Contributor • July 1, 2026 • Comments Off

Bilingual report — Economic Development Collaborative (EDC) — Financing available for child care providers

by Community Contributor • June 30, 2026 • Comments Off

Supporting our county’s future and the next generation’s education and career success starts with quality preschool programs. Historically, Ventura County has had too few licensed commercial child care and preschool spaces to meet demand. The Economic Development Collaborative and First 5 Ventura County are committed to building more child care and early childhood education capacity in our community through the Child Care Investment Loan Fund.

Ventura County Health Care Agency reminds community to be aware of health care-related scams

by Community Contributor • June 29, 2026 • Comments Off

VENTURA — The Ventura County Health Care Agency (HCA) is sharing important information with patients, families, and community members about a health care payment scam that has affected hospital patients and families.

In these scams, an individual falsely claiming to be a representative of a hospital contacts a patient or patient’s family member and requests immediate payment for a medical service, patient transfer, or other health care-related expenses. These calls and situations can be stressful and may be designed to create a sense of urgency during an already difficult time for families.

Bilingual report — City of Oxnard hosts groundbreaking ceremony for the Campus Park Activation Project on June 26

by Amigos805.com • June 26, 2026 • Comments Off

OXNARD — The City of Oxnard will celebrate the groundbreaking of the Campus Park Activation Project on Friday, June 26, 2026, at 11 a.m. at the future Campus Park site, located at 350 S. K St. on the former Oxnard High School campus—marking a major milestone in the transformation of this long-anticipated community space.

“This groundbreaking achievement is a significant milestone made possible through years of collaboration, the involvement of community members who never gave up, and the City’s dedication to securing grant funding and bringing this project to life,” said Mayor Luis A. Mc Arthur. “Today, we celebrate the start of a long-awaited investment in our community that will deliver lasting benefits for our youth and future generations.”

Bilingual report — People’s Self Help Housing June 2026 eNewsletter

by Community Contributor • June 26, 2026 • Comments Off

In 1970, when People’s Self-Help Housing was founded, our work began with a simple but powerful idea: as our name indicates, help people build their own homes. Through this mutual self-help model, we have worked alongside 1,200 amazing families who built their own homes. But as the needs of our communities evolved, so did we. In the mid-80s we moved into developing multifamily housing for rent and since then have constructed 63 vibrant neighborhoods throughout the Central Coast.

Bilingual report — SEE International celebrates $100,000 endowment gift from Greater Goleta Santa Barbara Lions Club

by Community Contributor • June 25, 2026 • Comments Off

GOLETA — Local nonprofit SEE International celebrated on June 23 a $100,000 endowed gift from the Greater Goleta Santa Barbara Lions Club during a community event held at the organization’s SEE Vision Care clinic in Goleta.

The gift will support SEE Vision Care (SVC), SEE International’s local program providing free eye care services to uninsured and underinsured individuals throughout Santa Barbara and Ventura Counties. Through five clinic locations, a mobile vision clinic, and community outreach events, SVC provides vision screenings, comprehensive eye exams, prescription glasses, and sight-restoring surgeries at no cost to qualifying patients.

Bilingual report — County of Ventura invites public to celebrate (on June 27) completion of landmark Moon Ditch Mural

by Community Contributor • June 25, 2026 • Comments Off

VENTURA — The County of Ventura invites the public to celebrate the completion of the Moon Ditch Mural, a landmark public art project that has transformed a flood control channel into one of the largest murals in the United States. Spanning approximately 3,400 linear feet (about two-thirds of a mile), the project was created through a partnership of local artists, volunteers, community organizations, and County agencies, demonstrating how participation in the arts can foster connection, support mental well-being, and inspire environmental stewardship.

Bilingual report — Community invited to the 35th annual Juneteenth Freedom Day celebration on June 20

by Community Contributor • June 18, 2026 • Comments Off

“For 35 years, the Juneteenth Freedom Day Celebration has brought together our Ventura County community to honor history, celebrate culture, and embrace the values of freedom and unity,” said Bruce Stewart, President of the Ventura County Juneteenth Celebration. “We are proud to continue this tradition and remain committed to ensuring that future generations understand the importance of Juneteenth and the contributions of African Americans to our nation and our community.”

Bilingual report — Teatro de las América — Cerca de ti (Close to you), obra en español/play in Spanish continuing through June 28

by Community Contributor • June 18, 2026 • Comments Off

In 2080, there will be androids to satisfy your emotional needs. Who wouldn’t want to get the “love vaccine”? An author laments not having been a prophet in her own land and orders her little bonsai tree to report an interruption in her streaming of the acceptance of a major literary award. For a writer, there’s always the possibility of “killing off” a character, but what do you do when the protagonist demands that you write a few extra pages so she can deeply feel the pain and seek healing once the story ends?

Bilingual report — Ventura County Board of Supervisors approves balanced budget for fiscal year 2026-2027

by Community Contributor • June 17, 2026 • Comments Off

“The adoption of this budget reflects our commitment to responsible stewardship of taxpayer dollars while continuing to invest in the services Ventura County residents rely on every day,” stated Chair of the Board Jeff Gorell. “This balanced budget maintains our strong fiscal foundation, supports public safety, infrastructure, health and human services, and positions our county to meet both current needs and future challenges. At a time when changes in state and federal funding are creating new challenges for counties across California, Ventura County remains focused on fiscal discipline, strategic planning, and delivering high-quality services to our residents.”

Allan Hancock College Board of Trustees place local funding measure on November 2026 ballot

by Community Contributor • June 17, 2026 • Comments Off

SANTA MARIA — The Allan Hancock College Board of Trustees voted unanimously June 16 to place a local facilities funding measure on the November 3, 2026, ballot, allowing voters throughout the Allan Hancock Joint Community College District to consider whether to authorize funding for repairs, upgrades and modernization projects at the college’s facilities.

If approved by voters, the measure would authorize up to $290 million in locally controlled general obligation bonds to improve and modernize projects at Allan Hancock College locations throughout the district.

Bilingual report — Ventura County Board Of Supervisors approves construction of new playground at Steckel Park

by Community Contributor • June 17, 2026 • Comments Off

VENTURA — The Ventura County Board of Supervisors, during their regular meeting on Tuesday, June 9, approved construction of a new playground at Steckel Park, marking a major investment in recreation, accessibility, and family-friendly amenities at one of the County’s most popular parks.

Ventura County Farmworker Housing Study and Action Plan Public Review Draft available. Comments due by June 22

by Community Contributor • June 13, 2026 • Comments Off

Ventura County Farmworker Housing Study & Action Plan, Public Review Draft, is now available. Provide comments by June 22, 2026

El Estudio y Plan de Acción sobre Vivienda para Trabajadores Agrícolas del Condado de Ventura, Revisión Pública Borrador, está disponible. Proporcionar comentarios antes del 22 de junio de 2026.

Bilingual report — Ventura County Office of Education — Inspiring Stories from the Ventura County Class of 2026

by Community Contributor • June 13, 2026 • Comments Off

At the end of each school year, the Ventura County Office of Education takes the opportunity to shine a spotlight on some of the remarkable students graduating from local high schools. Every year, we’re amazed by the stories we receive of students who have overcome great odds and achieved incredible things on the road to their high school diploma.

This year is no different, and we’re excited to profile just a few students who demonstrate the resilience, dedication and drive of the Ventura County Class of 2026. Among our featured graduates are a young man who journeyed alone from Mexico in search of a better life and a young woman whose family fled Ukraine to find safety and opportunity in Ventura County.

805 UndocuFund — One Year Later: Remembering the June 10 Raids and the Road to Glass House Farms

by Community Contributor • June 13, 2026 • Comments Off

Dear Friends & Supporters,

June marks one year since Border Patrol carried out a series of immigration enforcement operations across Ventura County, reaching the Central Coast for the first time since the early 1990s.

Between June 10 and June 14, 2025, at least 95 community members were taken from their workplaces, homes, and families. Fear spread quickly throughout the region as workers stayed home, parents worried about their children, and entire communities braced for what might come next.

What many did not know at the time was that these raids were a warning of something far more devastating.

Together, we remember…

Bilingual report — Couple celebrates 20 years of learning together through Allan Hancock College’s Community Education Art Classes

by Community Contributor • June 13, 2026 • Comments Off

SANTA MARIA — For the past 20 years, Nick and Deborah Carpenter have shared a tradition that has become an important part of their lives: taking Community Education art classes together at Allan Hancock College.

Over two decades, the couple has explored a variety of creative pursuits through the college’s tuition-free art offerings, developing new skills while building lasting memories. Among their most meaningful projects were creating the rings they later exchanged on their wedding day.

Bilingual report — County of Ventura Public Health Department attains national reaccreditation

by Community Contributor • June 13, 2026 • Comments Off

VENTURA COUNTY — Ventura County Public Health (VCPH) on May 29 announced it has successfully completed a rigorous process to maintain national accreditation status through the Public Health Accreditation Board (PHAB). This announcement follows PHAB’s national release, recognizing 14 health departments across the country for achieving accreditation or reaccreditation. As the first local health department in California to earn PHAB accreditation in 2014, VCPH continues to lead ahead among the other local health departments by meeting national standards and demonstrating excellence in protecting community wellness and delivering high?quality public health services. In California, 29 out of 61 local health departments are accredited by PHAB. By maintaining its accreditation for another five years, VCPH has demonstrated that it meets or exceeds PHAB’s quality standards and continues to improve in its efforts to protect the health of all Ventura County residents.

Bilingual report — Guidelines for Santa Paula 4th of July Fireworks Event

by Community Contributor • June 13, 2026 • Comments Off

SANTA PAULA — In advance of the Fourth of July Holiday and Fireworks event, the City of Santa Paula and the Santa Paula Police Department are announcing schedule and guidelines for those making plans to attend the fireworks show at Santa Paula Creek Sports Park at Harvest.

Please be aware, as with any community fireworks show, there will be extended traffic delays upon exiting the event for those who choose to drive a vehicle and park it in spaces available at Santa Paula Creek Sports Park.

Bilingual report — Allan Hancock College hosts EMS and Paramedics graduations

by Community Contributor • June 13, 2026 • Comments Off

SANTA MARIA — Allan Hancock College celebrated a new group of graduates from its emergency medical services and paramedicine academies May 29.

The college hosted two separate ceremonies for both programs at its Public Safety Training Complex in Lompoc.

“Today marks the culmination of their dedication, sacrifice and hard work,” Hancock EMS and Paramedicine Coordinator Sean Newton said. “They are ready to serve their communities with skill and compassion.”

Bilingual report — Ventura Housing marks completion of the largest Homekey housing project in Ventura County history

by Community Contributor • June 13, 2026 • Comments Off

VENTURA — Ventura Housing, in partnership with the City of Ventura and the County of Ventura, is pleased to announce the grand opening and 100% occupancy of Valentine Road Apartments. The development transformed a former La Quinta Inn into 134 units of permanent supportive housing through a $32 million Homekey grant from the State of California. The Valentine Road Apartments represent the largest Homekey Project completed in both the City and County of Ventura and is a cornerstone of the regional and statewide effort to address homelessness through permanent supportive housing.

According to the Ventura County Continuum of Care’s 2026 Point-in-Time Count, homelessness in Ventura County declined 11.8% from 2025 and 28% since 2023. The report attributes part of that decline to the expansion of permanent supportive housing countywide, including the 134 units at Valentine Road Apartments.

32 recruits graduate from Allan Hancock College’s Law Enforcement Academy

by Community Contributor • June 12, 2026 • Comments Off

SANTA MARIA — Thirty-two recruits graduated from Allan Hancock College’s Basic?Law?Enforcement?Academy June 10 at the college’s Public Safety Training Complex in Lompoc.

The graduating recruits of Class #26-131 gathered with their friends and families to celebrate the completion of more than 872 training hours required to graduate from the academy and enter careers as peace officers. All?of the recruits have already been hired by Central Coast?law?enforcement?agencies.?

“This is the end of your academic training here at the academy, but your career and your training are far from over,” Arroyo Grande Police Chief David Culver told the graduates. “The real work is just beginning.”

Bilingual report — Mestizo Folklórico Dance Company presents Fiesta Folklórica at Oxnard College on May 30, 31

by Community Contributor • May 27, 2026 • Comments Off

OXNARD — The Mestizo Folklórico Dance Company presents Fiesta Folklórica, marking its 45th anniversary with two shows at the Oxnard College Performing Arts Building, located at 4000 S. Rose Avenue.

The performances will take place on Saturday, May 30 at 7:30 pm and Sunday, May 31 at 4:30 pm.

For information on advanced online ticket sales, please visit: https://oxnard.vbotickets.com/event/mestizo_dance_company_presents_fiesta_folkl%C3%B3rica/192913, or you can scan the QR code or click on the link on the poster.

Tickets will also be available at the door one hour before each show.

Bilingual report — Santa Paula Police Department partners with Parque 1055 Restaurant to host Tip-A-Cop for Special Olympics on May 29

by Community Contributor • May 27, 2026 • Comments Off

SANTA PAULA — On Friday, May 29, 2026, from 5-8 p.m., the men and women of the Santa Paula Police Department will be serving meals with the staff at Parque 1055 Restaurant at its Tip-A-Cop event, benefitting Special Olympics. Police Department officers and professional staff will be volunteering their time to earn tips that support local Special Olympics athletes. Proceeds collected will be donated to Special Olympics.

Bilingual report — Ventura County Farmworker Housing Study and Action Plan public review draft available

by Community Contributor • May 22, 2026 • Comments Off

?The Ventura County Farmworker Housing Study and Action Plan is a collaborative, countywide effort launched by the County of Ventura in partnership with House Farm Workers!, designed to understand and address the urgent housing needs of the county’s farmworker community – needs shaped by long-standing shortages, rising housing costs, and the essential role farm workers play in sustaining the region’s agricultural economy.

Teatro de las Américas — Cerca de ti | Clase de yoga | Solicitamos director

by Community Contributor • May 22, 2026 • Comments Off

Cerca de ti

(Close to you)

Play in Spanish

?Written by Conchi León?

Directed by Juliana Acosta

Bilingual report — City of Santa Paula recognizes graduates of Future Leaders Academy Cohort II

by Community Contributor • May 21, 2026 • Comments Off

SANTA PAULA — The City of Santa Paula proudly celebrated the graduation of the Future Leaders Academy Cohort II during a special ceremony held yesterday evening at Parque 1055, recognizing a dedicated group of residents, community members, committee and commission members, and local leaders who successfully completed the City’s civic leadership and community engagement program.

Building on the success of the inaugural cohort, the Future Leaders Academy Cohort II brought together 15 participants over the course of an eight-week program designed to educate and engage community members through an in-depth look at City government, operations, services, and local decision-making.

Bilingual report — Thirty cadets graduate from Allan Hancock College’s Fire Academy

by Community Contributor • May 18, 2026 • Comments Off

SANTA MARIA — Thirty cadets graduated from Allan Hancock College’s Fire Academy on May 15 at the college’s Public Safety Training Complex in Lompoc.

The ceremony marked the end of a rigorous 18-week academy consisting of 788 hours of classroom and field instruction for the cadets in Battalion 157. The ceremony was also an acknowledgment that the cadets had not only completed that training but also met and exceeded the state and national certification training standards for Firefighter I Certification.

“Congratulations to our cadets, who have endured a rigorous training program to sit in front of you today,” said Hancock Superintendent/President Kevin G. Walthers, Ph.D.

Bilingual commentary — The Dark Side of the Cradle

by Community Contributor • May 14, 2026 • Comments Off

My favorite libraries lately are those that constitute the network of the Little Free Library movement. This is a global phenomenon with the motto: “Take a book; share a book.” Anyone is free to open the little protective door that protects the books in these micro-sized libraries. They dot some neighborhoods in front of participants’ homes and invite the passerby to peruse the collection and borrow or replace a book. Collections typically vary from around five to twenty-five books.

I’ve always enjoyed sharing and circulating books, so this program suits me perfectly. I often choose novels, introducing me to new authors and styles of writing.

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.

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.

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.”

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.

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