Category: Family

Bilingual commentary — Grandparents Are from Mars

by Community Contributor • July 17, 2025 • Comments Off

My sister “Ana” told me recently about a disjointed exchange she had with her granddaughter, “Sandra.”

Sandra and her brother “George” were home from their last full day of school before summer break. Thinking back on her own experiences in the 1950s, Ana asked them if any of their classmates had brought an apple for the teacher.

They both regarded her with wide-eyed, perplexed astonishment, saying “nooooo…,” emitting a tone of concern as if they thought their grandma was slipping into the first stages of dementia.

Bilingual report — City of Oxnard appoints Brenda Lopez as Housing Director

by Community Contributor • July 17, 2025 • Comments Off

Oxnard City Manager Alexander Nguyen stated, “We’re excited for Brenda to lead the Housing Department. Her housing policy knowledge and years of service to the Oxnard community will be an asset in addressing two of the State’s most pressing issues—housing and homelessness, which remain increasingly vital as we face both federal and state budget cuts.”

Bilingual report — El Concilio Family Services to hold Mobile Immigration Clinic in Santa Paula on July 24

by Community Contributor • July 17, 2025 • Comments Off

SANTA PAULA — El Concilio Family Services will hold mobil clinic from 2 to 8 p.m. Thursday, July 24 at Puente de Vida Church, 203 S. 8th St., Santa Paula

“Let El Concilio help you stay protected and prepared! Our Mobile Immigration Clinic offers on-site assistance with:

Resident Card Renewal Applications (Form I-90
Application submission support
Bilingual staff ready to help (English/Spanish)

Santa Paula Art Museum — The Art Auction Fundraiser is Aug. 6

by Community Contributor • July 17, 2025 • Comments Off

Join us for an unforgettable afternoon at the Santa Paula Art Museum’s 15th Annual Fine Art Auction Fundraiser on Saturday, August 16! Dozens of stunning artworks by historic and contemporary California artists will be up for bid, including museum-worthy pieces by Meredith Brooks Abbott, Jessie and Cornelis Botke, Robert Clunie, Paul Grimm, Douglas Shively, and many more. Plus, enjoy delicious hors d’oeuvres catered by Parque 1055 while you browse.

Museum of Ventura County announces new board leadership, welcomes new Board Members and COO

by Community Contributor • July 15, 2025 • Comments Off

VENTURA COUNTY — The Museum of Ventura County (Museum) is proud to announce the appointment of Dr. Richard Rush as chair and Al Lowe as vice-chair of its board of directors. Both esteemed community leaders and longtime Camarillo residents have served on the Museum’s board since 2017 and played instrumental roles in the organization’s recent strategic repositioning.

Dr. Rush, president emeritus of California State University Channel Islands (CSUCI), brings a deep legacy of educational leadership and civic engagement to his new role as board chair. A visionary administrator, Dr. Rush was the founding president of CSUCI, where he forged lasting connections between the university and the broader Ventura County community. His academic background includes a Ph.D. in English Renaissance Literature and a master’s degree in English Literature from UCLA.

Social Justice Fund for Ventura County (SJFVC) — Call for Fellows – Submit Your Application!

by Community Contributor • July 15, 2025 • Comments Off

Social Justice Fellows (past and present), guided by our talented mentors and coaches, tackle these and many more challenges to improve Ventura County for all of us!

Become a Social Justice Fellow!

Ventura County Credit Union amplifies support for VCCDC with additional $150,000 donation through FHLBank partnership

by Community Contributor • July 15, 2025 • Comments Off

“We’re proud to deepen our support for VCCDC through this incredible opportunity provided by FHLBank,” said Linda Rossi, president and CEO of VCCU. “Together, we’re not just celebrating our 75th year — we’re investing in the future of Ventura County by helping more families access the resources they need to achieve homeownership and financial stability.”

United Way of Northern Arizona — One week left to drop off donations for Stuff the Bus

by Community Contributor • July 14, 2025 • Comments Off

SUPPORT A LOCAL COLLECTION DRIVE

The final day to drop off donations will be Friday, July 18th. Help us reach our goal of donating 1,000 backpacks stuffed with essential school supplies for homeless middle schoolers in Ventura County. When dropping off your donation, look for the pop-up bus and stop sign. Please note that only brand-new school supplies will be accepted.

The Museum of Contemporary Art Santa Barbara — The 2025 Art Award – Revealed!

by Community Contributor • July 14, 2025 • Comments Off

Ry Rocklen (b. 1978, Los Angeles, CA) is an American sculptor. His sculptures, born out of an array of found and readymade objects, reflect his pursuit of the sublime in the things we take for granted.

Rocklen participated in the critically acclaimed MCASB exhibition Home Show, Revisited in 2011.
Ancient Art Award (Cup from a torch-holder, Cyprus, 6th century BCE from The Met Collection)
2025
6 x 8.75 x 2.75
Ceramic, glaze, glaze decal
Edition of 5
Exclusive to the Art Award recipients.

LULAC hails Federal Court Victory preserving Birthright Citizenship in the United States

by Community Contributor • July 11, 2025 • Comments Off

WASHINGTON, D.C. — The League of United Latin American Citizens (LULAC) (July 10) celebrates a landmark decision by U.S. District Judge Joseph Laplante of New Hampshire, who issued a ruling blocking the Trump administration’s executive order seeking to strip automatic birthright citizenship from children born in the United States to undocumented parents. This decision marks a crucial victory for members of LULAC, the first organization to file a lawsuit challenging the administration’s attempt to undermine one of the most fundamental rights enshrined in the U.S. Constitution.

Pew Research Center’s Race & Ethnicity report — Birthright citizenship, deportation worries and Trump’s 2024 voter coalition

by Community Contributor • July 11, 2025 • Comments Off

U.S. public is split on birthright citizenship for people whose parents immigrated illegally

Half of U.S. adults say people born in the United States to parents who immigrated illegally should have U.S. citizenship, while 49% say they should not. By contrast, nearly all say people born in the country to U.S.-born parents (95%) or to parents who immigrated legally (94%) should be citizens.
Related: Trump’s executive order on birthright citizenship draws more disapproval than approval

United Way of Ventura County announces 20th Annual Spirit Award recipients

by Community Contributor • July 11, 2025 • Comments Off

VENTURA COUNTY — United Way of Ventura County is pleased to announce the 20th Annual Spirit Award Recipients. These awards honor our Founding members. Every year since 2005, individuals and organizations who embody the qualities of Milton M. Teague, Douglas Shively, and Roy Pinkerton are selected for this prestigious honor. This year we will also award our President’s Award. The awards and awardees are list below:

The Milton M. Teague Award is given to a board member for outstanding community volunteerism, voted on by their peers. This year we proudly give this award to Tim Harrington.
Douglas Shively Award for Outstanding Community Impact is given to individuals who have served our community through our unique programs. This year we proudly give this award to Mayur Patel who is a champion of our Homelessness Initiative.
Roy Pinkerton Award for Top Corporate Citizenship goes to Procter & Gamble for their support through their corporate giving campaign, and sponsorship!
Cal Lutheran University will be honored with the President’s Award for their leadership and partnership with United Way’s Community Impact programs including Women United.

Community Environmental Council in Santa Barbara releases report on impact of climate action

by Community Contributor • July 11, 2025 • Comments Off

SANTA BARBARA — The Community Environmental Council (CEC) has released its most recent Impact Report, which shares key highlights of how CEC is converting a historically oil producing region to one that is regenerative and renewable. The report is accessible at cecsb.org/impact

At a time when the federal administration’s regressive climate policies threaten to unravel years of progress, California serves as a critical safeguard, and its stance will determine whether the United States advances or regresses by decades in climate protection. Central Coast communities play a vital role by providing courage, backbone, and proof of concept that strengthen and inform statewide policies.

Ventura County Air Pollution Control District doubles old car buyback payments

by Community Contributor • July 10, 2025 • Comments Off

VENTURA COUNTY — The Ventura County Air Pollution Control District has doubled the amount it pays residents to retire old vehicles to $2,000 and expanded the eligible model years to 2003 or older.

Before the change, the Old Car Buyback Program offered $1,000 per vehicle with model years of 1997 or older.

Bilingual report — City of Ventura releases 12th episode of Ventura Voices podcast featuring new Police Chief David Dickey

by Community Contributor • July 9, 2025 • Comments Off

VENTURA — The City of Ventura is excited to announce the release of Episode 12 of its Ventura Voices podcast, now available on Spotify, Apple Podcasts, Amazon Music, and YouTube. This latest episode features a conversation between City Manager Bill Ayub and Ventura’s new Chief of Police, David Dickey.

In this engaging interview, Chief Dickey shares how he got his start in law enforcement, what inspired his journey to Ventura, and his vision for the future of the Ventura Police Department. He discusses the importance of community policing, building public trust, and investing in strategies that strengthen neighborhood safety.

Bilingual report — People’s Self-Health Housing — Cleaver & Clark Commons in SLO: Pre-Applications Available Now | Cleaver & Clark Commons: Las pre-solicitudes estarán disponibles ahora

by Community Contributor • July 8, 2025 • Comments Off

Eligibility:

Households earning at or below 60% of the Area Median Income
Visit pshhc.org/CCC to view income limits
14 units are set aside for agricultural worker households earning 30 to 60% of the AMI

Ventura Music Festival — Hot Tickets, Cool Shows – July at Ventura Music Festival

by Community Contributor • July 7, 2025 • Comments Off

Due to unforeseen circumstances outside of Ventura Music Festival’s control, the July 25th Big Bad Voodoo Daddy concert and opening act from The Barrelhouse Wailers will now take place indoors at the Ventura College Performing Arts Center (PAC). While this new location means a smaller audience capacity, it also ensures a more comfortable and intimate show experience for everyone. Here’s what you need to know:

Bilingual report — Enjoy the Fourth of July, but do so in a Safe Way to Prevent Injury and Harm

by Community Contributor • July 2, 2025 • Comments Off

As families in Ventura County are looking forward to celebrating America’s birthday during the upcoming Fourth of July weekend, it’s important to know that it’s OK to have fun under the sun, but without putting your health at risk and causing long-lasting injuries.

That’s especially true when it comes to fireworks, grilling and drinking alcohol, according to health experts.

“Celebrating the Fourth of July holiday is a special time many of us treasure dearly and look forward to every year,” said Dr. Juan Cruz, an internal medicine physician with Kaiser Permanente in Oxnard. “But I can’t stress enough the importance of celebrating responsibly and keeping safety in mind to ensure this festive holiday will be accident- and injury-free.”

Bilingual report — Santa Paula Police Dept. — Upcoming Fourth of July Holiday / Fireworks Enforcement

by Community Contributor • July 2, 2025 • Comments Off

The Santa Paula Police Departments reminds residents of the dangers of setting off fireworks leading up to and including the Fourth of July holiday. Extra patrols by police officers through the end of the holiday will be focusing on enforcement for those found in possession of any “safe and sane” or illegal fireworks.

Every year, the numbers of fireworks calls reported to the Santa Paula Police Department Dispatch Center rises significantly the days prior to and including Fourth of July holiday. Due to the increases in these calls for service, we ask for your patience as patrol officers respond to the high number of calls we will be experiencing.

Pierre Claeyssens Veterans Foundation hosts free patriotic outdoor concert with Santa Barbara’s Prime Time Band on July 4

by Community Contributor • July 2, 2025 • Comments Off

SANTA BARBARA — The Pierre Claeyssens Veterans Foundation (PCVF) invites the community to celebrate Independence Day with a free, family-friendly concert featuring Santa Barbara’s beloved 80-member Prime Time Band on Friday, July 4th at 5:00 PM at the Santa Barbara County Courthouse Sunken Gardens (1100 Anacapa Street, Santa Barbara, CA 93101).

Enjoy an uplifting afternoon of music that honors the spirit of freedom and the heroes who defend it. The concert program includes stirring tributes to military valor—with iconic themes from Band of Brothers and Top Gun—as well as fan-favorite selections from Wicked, How to Train Your Dragon, The Magnificent Seven, and classic patriotic sing-alongs.

Bilingual report — Teatro de las Américas — VCCF Power of Purpose – June 2025

by Community Contributor • July 2, 2025 • Comments Off

Bilingual theater course for girls and boys during which they will create an original story inspired by the characters of El Chavo del Ocho

Santa Paula Animal Rescue Center (SPARC) participating in Bissell Empty the Shelters Summer Adoption Event

by Community Contributor • July 2, 2025 • Comments Off

SANTA PAULA — Santa Paula Animal Rescue Center (SPARC), 705 E. Santa Barbara St., will participate in Bissell Pet Foundation’s Summer 2025 National Empty the Shelters Event from July 5-19, 2025, offering no-cost adoptions for dogs and cats, six months and older. All adoptable pets will be spayed/neutered, microchipped, and vaccinated up to date.

BISSELL Pet Foundation’s Empty the Shelter, the nation’s largest funded adoption event – returns this summer from July 5-19, 2025. This lifesaving initiative helps make adoption more affordable by sponsoring reduced fees of $70 or less. Since 2016, Empty the Shelters has helped more than 324,000 pets find loving homes.

“Shelters across the country are once again at a breaking point. They are facing record intakes and limited space. Too often, loving, healthy pets are at risk, but our communities hold the key to their future,” said Cathy Bissell, Founder of BISSELL Pet Foundation. “Our Summer National Empty the Shelters is more than an adoption event—it’s a movement to support local shelters and save lives together. It’s an opportunity to change a pet’s life—and your own. Together, we can give every pet the future they deserve.”

Service Alert for GCTD Passengers: Service changes start Sunday, July 6, 2025

by Community Contributor • July 2, 2025 • Comments Off

OXNARD — Gold Coast Transit District (GCTD) will implement biannual service changes on Sunday, July 6, 2025. The service adjustments are designed to enhance travel efficiency and address overcrowding due to increased ridership. Effective January 6, 2025, through January 3, 2026, these updates are part of GCTD’s commitment to providing a safe, reliable, and convenient transit experience for all passengers.

Sponsorship opportunities available for United Way of Ventura County 80th anniversary Gala on Aug. 23

by Community Contributor • July 2, 2025 • Comments Off

We have come so far together! With you, we celebrate our 80th anniversary this year.Since opening our doors in April 1945, United Way has become a driving force for local impact — helping tens of thousands of residents rise above poverty, gain access to housing, education, and health services — all to build better futures.

To mark this milestone, we are hosting a special 80th Anniversary edition of our annual Spirit Awards Gala on Saturday, August 23, recognizing the people and partnerships that have fueled its mission — and inviting the community to shape its future. The more of you that are there, the more to celebrate!

Bilingual report — City of Ventura — Month-long celebration highlights the impact of parks and recreation

by Community Contributor • July 2, 2025 • Comments Off

VENTURA — This July, the City of Ventura proudly joins communities across the country in celebrating the 40th anniversary of National Park and Recreation Month. This year’s theme, “Build Together, Play Together,” shines a spotlight on the vital role that local parks, open spaces, and recreational programs play in creating a strong, healthy, and connected community.

Help United Way of Ventura County provide backpacks with essential school supplies for 1,000 local homeless youth

by Community Contributor • July 2, 2025 • Comments Off

Help United Way of Ventura County provide backpacks with essential school supplies for 1,000 local homeless youth

SUPPORT OUR ONLINE SCHOOL SUPPLY DRIVE

Our online school supply drive closes on Wednesday, July 9th. When you purchase supplies online through Roonga, the donations will be shipped directly to us to fill backpacks for at-risk students in Ventura County. Our Roonga Drive includes a bundle where you can purchase a brand-new backpack filled with school supplies for $21.30. For less than $22, you can help pave the path to academic success for a homeless student. Click the link here or scan the QR code below to purchase supplies to donate. Thank you so much to those who have already donated!

July at the Santa Paula Art Museum

by Community Contributor • July 2, 2025 • Comments Off

Saturday, July 12, 2025, from 4 PM to 6 PM

$5 SPAM Members • $10 Non-members

Join us for the premiere of “Celebrating Nature: Paintings by Allied Artists of the Santa Monica Mountains and Seashore,” a vibrant exhibition that showcases the wild and breathtaking spirit of the Santa Monica Mountains National Recreation Area. The show kicks off with a premiere party on Saturday, July 12. Mingle with the artists, enjoy light refreshments, and be among the first to view (and purchase!) stunning original artworks.

The exhibit features 42 original paintings by artists Robin Angelides, Ruth Askren, Liz Blum, Steve Brown, John von Buelow, Larry Deeds, Jessica Falcone, Karen Fedderson, Susan Flanigan, Marian Fortunati, Barbara Freund, Carole Garland, Russell Hunziker, Virginia Kamhi, Nora Koerber, Timothy Kitz, Monica List, Nathan Mellott, Jane Mick, Rachel Sylvers, Bonnie Taylor, Laura Wambsgans, and Sharon Weaver.

“Celebrating Nature” will be on view from July 12 to November 9, 2025.

Museum of Contemporary Arts Santa Barbara — LAST CHANCE!! Art Awards 2025 is coming up!

by Community Contributor • July 2, 2025 • Comments Off

Don’t miss out on this opportunity to celebrate our amazing 2025 Art Award Recipients! You will be able to ascend the iconic tile staircase in the heart of Santa Barbara to the Arts Terrace at Paseo Nuevo, in your most mythical and legendary look.

We will begin The 2025 Art Awards celebration with a reception at the museum followed by a short award ceremony in the Center Stage Theater, and an al fresco buffet dinner and open bar. Guests will have early access to new limited editions, silent auction, as well as after hours access to the museum and the wildly popular and critically acclaimed community exhibition Arte del Pueblo.
Purchase Tickets Here

Friendship Center — The Friendly Finch: July

by Community Contributor • July 2, 2025 • Comments Off

Dear Families & Friends,

So, I have some news….

We didn’t hit our $50,000 goal for the 2025 Spring Appeal…..

WE SURPASSED IT by raising $52,000! You surpassed it! This was one of our most successful spring campaigns to date, and it couldn’t have come at a more important time. With membership levels and activity scheduling at an all-time high, your support is helping us meet the immediate, growing needs of our community. We received gifts from 106 generous donors, including:

Bilingual report — Prepare now to reduce the impact of wildfire smoke

by Community Contributor • July 2, 2025 • Comments Off

CENTRAL COAST — The Santa Barbara County, San Luis Obispo County, and Ventura County Air Pollution Control Districts (APCD) encourage residents to prepare for potential poor air quality caused by smoke, now that the area has entered peak wildfire season.

Smoke and ash from wildfires contain very small particles known as particulate matter that can travel hundreds of miles. These particles harm the lungs and heart and can cause coughing, wheezing, breathing difficulty, chest pain, nausea and, in severe instances, premature mortality. People with heart or lung disease, older adults, kids and pregnant women are especially sensitive.

Bilingual report — The latest news from the County of Ventura

by Community Contributor • July 1, 2025 • Comments Off

Thank you for staying up-to-date on news at the County of Ventura! Want to sign up for our newsletter?

Community members who are not already subscribed may sign up to receive our newsletter in English here and in Spanish here.

Hospice of Santa Barbara Announces Donation from the Santa Ynez Band of Chumash Indians

by Community Contributor • July 1, 2025 • Comments Off

SANTA BARBARA — The Santa Ynez Band of Chumash Indians has made a generous donation of $15,000 to Hospice of Santa Barbara, supporting ongoing patient care services for approximately 800 people annually in the Santa Barbara community. Patient care services encompass medical care management, volunteer support, anticipatory grief counseling, spiritual care, bereavement care management, and quality of life stipends.

“Hospice of Santa Barbara fills a critical need in the community, providing vital care and services to patients and their families,” said Kenneth Kahn, Tribal Chairman for the Santa Ynez Band of Chumash Indians. “Our tribe is proud to support their efforts,” Kahm also shared.

Girls Inc. of Carpinteria celebrates leadership and welcomes new board members

by Community Contributor • July 1, 2025 • Comments Off

CARPINTERIA — Girls Inc. of Carpinteria is proud to announce the acceptance of two leadership staff into prestigious national leadership programs and the addition of two exceptional women to its Board of Directors, deepening the organization’s commitment to strong, smart, and bold leadership at every level.

Melissa Cornejo, Campus-Based Program Manager at Girls Inc. of Carpinteria, has been selected to join the newest cohort of the Girls Inc. National Leadership Accelerator Program—an intensive, year-long professional development experience designed to strengthen leadership across the Girls Inc. network. This program supports and cultivates the next generation of organizational leaders through targeted learning opportunities, collaborative peer communities, and hands-on skill-building to expand each participant’s leadership capacity.

VCCF Power of Purpose – June 2025

by Community Contributor • July 1, 2025 • Comments Off

What a welcome! From the incredible VCCF staff, board members, donors, and nonprofit partners to the friendly barista at Old New York Deli & Bakery, I’ve felt an immediate sense of home and belonging here in Ventura County. I want to take a moment to share my reflections on my first 100-plus days and the deep hope and responsibility I feel stepping into this role.

After 22 years as CEO of a community foundation in Northern California, I stepped down last July in search of one final adventure—something meaningful to carry me into retirement with purpose. Vanessa and I have been friends and colleagues for over 10 years, and when she heard I was exploring what might come next, she invited me to Ventura County. From the moment I arrived, I was struck by the dedication, humility, and heart of this community. I knew I had found something special.

Island Packers announces Summer 2025 schedule

by Community Contributor • July 1, 2025 • Comments Off

VENTURA — In celebration of Summer and its 57th Anniversary last month, Island Packers, the official concessionaire to the Channel Islands National Park, is expanding its non-landing schedule to include Summer Whale Watching excursions from June – mid-September, 2025 to view some truly extraordinary, magnificent mammals.

Bilingual report — Valentine Road Apartments unveils first renovated units at Ventura County’s largest Homekey Project

by Community Contributor • July 1, 2025 • Comments Off

VENTURA — The Valentine Road Apartments unveiled the first of its newly renovated units during a progress celebration at the largest Homekey initiative in Ventura County, marking a major milestone in the region’s efforts to address homelessness through permanent supportive housing.

Led by the Housing Authority of the City of San Buenaventura (HACSB), the Valentine Road Apartments are the result of a $32 million Homekey award secured in 2023 through the California Department of Housing and Community Development. That funding marked the largest Homekey grant in both City and County history and initiated the conversion of the 142-room hotel into 134 studio apartments for individuals experiencing or at risk of homelessness.

People’s Self-Help Housing welcomes new director of home ownership

by Community Contributor • June 30, 2025 • Comments Off

CENTRAL COAST — People’s Self-Help Housing’s (PSHH) has announced a new Director of Homeownership: Emily Baranek.

As the Director of Homeownership, Emily leads a team of dedicated professionals working to make the dream of homeownership a reality for families across the Central Coast of California. With over two decades of experience in new home design, construction, and affordable real estate development, she brings a wealth of practical knowledge and strategic insight to PSHH.

“I am incredibly proud of the years spent working and learning with Habitat for Humanity. Providing affordable homeownership opportunities for our friends and neighbors throughout the Central Coast is a true passion of mine,” said Baranek. “I have always felt that homeownership is more than just a roof over your head – it’s a foundation for stability, growth and meaningful connection, and I am absolutely thrilled to be joining People’s Self-Help Housing in this shared mission.”

Bilingual report — CenCal Health — Proposed Federal Medicaid cuts harmful to community health and local economy

by Community Contributor • June 27, 2025 • Comments Off

SANTA BARBARA — CenCal Health, the Medicaid managed care plan for Santa Barbara and San Luis Obispo counties, provides health insurance to over 242,000 low-income people on the Central Coast. Recent federal proposals to reduce Medicaid funding and constrict eligibility would negatively impact local hospitals, healthcare providers, businesses, and thousands of area residents.

Bilingual report — Gold Coast Health Plan announces inaugural grant awards to expand health care access across Ventura County

by Community Contributor • June 27, 2025 • Comments Off

CAMARILLO — Gold Coast Health Plan (GCHP) (on June 25) announced the inaugural recipients of its new Resilience, Innovation, Sustainability & Equity (RISE) Grant Program—a three-year initiative with an initial commitment of $21.9 million dollars and second- and third-year opportunities for applications. The program is aimed at strengthening Ventura County’s health care infrastructure and improving access to care for Medi-Cal members.

El Concilio Family Services — Honoring 50 Years of Impact & Leadership. Sponsorships, early bird tickets available

by Community Contributor • June 27, 2025 • Comments Off

Join us for an unforgettable evening Sept. 25) as we celebrate the 50th anniversary
of El Concilio Family Services recognizing our legacy of empowering families, bridging communities, and creating brighter futures through citizenship, immigration services and youth leadership development. And recognizing the outstanding Latino Leadership Honorees for 2025.

Downtown Oxnard — Phone call from Art, press 1 to accept…

by Community Contributor • June 27, 2025 • Comments Off

The Downtown Oxnard Improvement Association presents “Re-Dial: In Memoriam of the Payphone,” a one-night-only art reception on Saturday, June 28, 2025, at 519 South C St. from 6 pm – 9 pm.

This free public event celebrates the imaginative spirit of 11 local artists who reimagined abandoned payphones throughout downtown, turning relics of the past into striking works of street art.

Oxnard Film Society — Three films in July: A French Mystery. An American Independent Doc. And a British Comedy

by Community Contributor • June 27, 2025 • Comments Off

In July we will be screening three films on consecutive Mondays starting with WHEN FALL IS COMING on July 7, a French mystery thriller. On July 14 a Special Screening of AMERICAN AGITATOR, the Fred Ross story, an American independent film with a Q/A post screening. And on July 21 THE BALLAD OF WALLIS ISLAND, a British comedy. Screening August 4 will be NYTimes Critics’ Pick, CAUGHT BY THE TIDES, from Chinese auteur, Jia Zhang-ke.

Exploring Lompoc, California’s Native Roots

by Community Contributor • June 27, 2025 • Comments Off

LOMPOC — History lovers and cultural enthusiasts, don’t miss your chance to get up close and personal with one of California’s most storied regions! Long before Lompoc became known for its colorful murals and lush wine country, it was part of a vast territory (over 7,000 square miles!) inhabited by the Chumash people. These Indigenous communities thrived along California’s Central Coast for thousands of years, leaving behind a legacy of art, innovation, and resilience.

The Chumash were skilled artisans, engineers, and seafarers whose traditions and innovations continue to inspire today. Here’s how you can immerse yourself in their incredible history and culture while visiting Lompoc and its surrounding areas.

Museum of Contemporary Art Santa Barbara (MCASB) — Arte del Pueblo Assembly (Hope to see you this evening)

by Community Contributor • June 26, 2025 • Comments Off

In the spirit of community and creativity, we warmly invite you to join us tomorrow for the Arte Del Pueblo Assembly, a gathering where artists and art lovers can connect, support one another, and engage in meaningful dialogue.

Come together in this open forum to reflect on the state of contemporary art today, share your voice, and uplift each other’s visions. Let’s build bridges through mindful conversation and collective inspiration.

Your presence and perspective matter, see you there!

Bilingual report — Ronald Miller II appointed Chief Probation Officer for the Ventura County Probation Agency

by Community Contributor • June 26, 2025 • Comments Off

“We’re very excited to welcome Ronald Miller to our team as he steps into this important leadership role,” shared 4th District Supervisor, Janice Parvin, Chair of the Board of Supervisors. “We’re confident that his longstanding experience and proven leadership will guide the agency forward with success. His deep commitment to community investment, combined with an extensive career in law enforcement, makes him exceptionally well-suited to lead the Ventura County Probation Agency.”

Bilingual report — County of Santa Barbara Board of Supervisors to hold meeting

by Community Contributor • June 26, 2025 • Comments Off

View this email online The next regular meeting of the County Board of Supervisors is scheduled for 9 a.m. Tuesday, July 1, 2025 County Administration Building Board Hearing Room, Fourth Floor 105 East Anapamu Street, Santa Barbara The public may participate…

Summer Bucket List in Lompoc: Your Guide to Sunshine-Fueled Fun

by Community Contributor • June 26, 2025 • Comments Off

LOMPOC — Ready to make this summer unforgettablke? Lompoc is calling! From flower fields to fine wine, skydives to sunsets, this Central Coast gem is full of sunny advenfures. Whether your’re planning a weekend escape or a season-long staycation, this summer bucket list will help you squeeze every drop of fun of your Lompoc days.

Let’s dive in!

Please join the Santa Barbara Trust for Historic Preservation for opening of a new exhibit at Casa de la Guerra, ‘Telling Stories of Mexican California: Real Life & Myth Making’ from June 26 through Aug. 31

by Community Contributor • June 25, 2025 • Comments Off

SANTA BARBARA — Though it lasted less than three decades, California’s Mexican period (1822–1846) helped shape the distribution of land, wealth, and power after California officially entered the union in 1850.

Telling Stories of Mexican California reflects on this past, and how romanticized retellings made lasting impacts on the state’s culture and popular understandings of its history.

Bilingual report — Santa Paula celebrates a successful State of the City event

by Community Contributor • June 25, 2025 • Comments Off

SANTA PAULA — The City of Santa Paula proudly hosted its first independent State of the City event on June 12, 2025, marking a departure from previous joint events traditionally held with the Chamber of Commerce. With more than 176 guests in attendance, the evening was a vibrant celebration of community, progress, and civic engagement, and by all accounts, a resounding success.

Held at the Ventura County Agriculture Museum, the evening began with a festive outdoor reception featuring live folklórico dancing by Proyecto Esperanza, musical performances by local group Chucumite, and hors d’oeuvres provided by local favorites including Flight 126, El Capricho, Mr. Shrimp, and Parque 1055. The community came together to enjoy food, music, and connection before moving indoors for formal remarks and presentations.

SEEAG’s Summer Celebration on Aug. 16 to honor local farmers, support ag education and raise funds for proposed new 2.5 acre educational farm campus

by Community Contributor • June 25, 2025 • Comments Off

The Summer Celebration will be held at the Ventura County Agricultural Museum in Santa Paula. Guests will enjoy the flavors of summer with brunch stations, appetizers, and locally crafted beverages curated by Seasons Catering—featuring fresh, locally sourced ingredients from SEEAG’s farm partners and artisanal products from Ventura and Santa Barbara counties. Attendees can learn about SEEAG’s programs, be the first to view its vision for its new farm campus, explore the museum’s current exhibition, enjoy live music, and participate in a live auction.

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