Category: Government

Bilingual report — County of Ventura salutes veterans with new flag display and exhibit celebrating service

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VENTURA — In recognition of Veterans Day, the County of Ventura is proudly honoring those who have served in the U.S. Armed Forces through a series of first-time public tributes, including a Veterans Portrait Exhibition, flag installation, and participation in the nationwide Operation Green Light campaign.

“As a county, we’re proud to recognize the veterans who live and work in our community,” said Fourth District Supervisor Janice Parvin, Chair of the Board of Supervisors. “These tributes are a way to show our ongoing gratitude to those who have served our country through military service.”

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Economic Development Collaborative (EDC) free event and webinar schedule

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SCORE: STARTING A CONSULTING/ COACHING/ ADVISORY BUSINESS: PART 1

November 12 @ 10:00 am

So, you want to be a consultant/coach/advisor. You have heard about charging $100, $200 or much more per hour. Do the math. 2000 working hours per year, and that means $200 to $400 thousand per year. There is an old saying: in theory, there is no difference between theory and reality; In reality, there is. This program is all about reality. What is the truth about being a consultant? How much can you really make? What are the pitfalls? What do you have to do to be successful? The seminar leader is Steve Epner. He started and built a consulting practice from a solo shop to over 200 professionals. After he sold the practice, he continued to be asked to help various companies, including Boeing. Learn the reality and what mistakes to avoid so that you can have a successful business and enjoy years of working in a great environment. For the right person with the right personality, there is no better way to live. Price: $10.00.

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Ventura County Fire Dept. — Hot tire debris dislodged by extreme winds determined as cause of the Mountain Fire

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THOUSAND OAKS — Arson investigators determined the likely cause of the Mountain Fire was extreme wind dislodging a pocket of covered, hot tire debris from an earlier fire, the Ventura County Fire Department announced Nov. 7.

“The Mountain Fire was devastating to our community,” Fire Chief Dustin Gardner said. “To everyone affected by the fire, you have our continuing support. Neighbors to all of us here in Ventura County lost homes and possessions, including irreplaceable photos and keepsakes. Others were forced to flee, not knowing whether they would have homes to come back to. It was heartbreaking and the emotional scars of this fire will last long after the homes are rebuilt.”

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Project Commencement of the Adaptive Reuse Affordable Housing Project at 3055 De La Vina Street

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SANTA BARBARA — The Housing Authority of the City of Santa Barbara (HACSB) marked a major milestone with the commencement of its latest affordable housing development — an adaptive reuse project that will transform the former Quality Inn at 3055 De La Vina Street into permanent supportive housing.

The redevelopment exemplified HACSB’s creative approach to addressing Santa Barbara’s critical housing shortage by repurposing existing properties into high-quality, service-enriched affordable housing. Neighbors, local officials, community partners, and housing advocates gathered to celebrate this milestone achievement.

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County of Ventura District 2 Supervisor Jeff Gorell — Borderline Day of Remembrance

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(Nov. 7), we honored the precious lives of the twelve Borderline victims, along with the survivors and first responders whose courage and compassion continue to inspire our community.

These names represent incredible people. Each left behind a legacy of kindness, love, and friendship that continues to live on in the hearts of all who knew them — and in the spirit of unity that has strengthened our community ever since.

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Central Coast Climate Leaders Meet with Rep. Carbajal

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On Monday, the Community Environmental Council (CEC) co-hosted an urgent listening session with Congressman Salud Carbajal, bringing together more than 20 environmental non-profit leaders from across the Central Coast.

The discussion — “The Impact of Federal Disinvestment and Anti-Climate Policies” — explored the real impacts of federal rollbacks, anti-climate policies, and abrupt funding losses that have put millions of dollars in regional climate projects at risk, threatening years of progress across the Central Coast.

Concerns were also raised over new offshore drilling threats, weakened environmental safeguards, and a growing erosion of public trust and morale as communities struggle to plan amid shifting federal priorities.

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County of Ventura District 2 Supervisor Jeff Gorell — One Year After the Mountain Fire

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As I reflect on one year since the November 6, 2024 Mountain Fire, my heart is with the many residents who lost so much. Time has passed, but the weight of the fire still impacts many. The pain and loss remain real and are a heavy burden each day for those still rebuilding their lives.

Over the past year, I have witnessed incredible resilience. Neighbors have lifted each other up, volunteers have given their time and hearts, and local organizations continue to help families recover. The strength, kindness, and determination shown across this community are what make Ventura County such a special place to call home.

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Bilingual report — County Registrar of Voters announces semifinal official Nov. 4 election night results

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VENTURA COUNTY — Ventura County Semifinal Official Election Night Results for the November 4, 2025 Statewide Special Election were posted on Vote.VenturaCounty.gov at 1:15 a.m. the morning of November 5. Statewide results are available on the Secretary of State’s website, sos.ca.gov/elections.

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Bilingual report — Donate gifts to Ventura’s Santa to a Senior program

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VENTURA — The City of Ventura invites residents to help spread holiday cheer by participating in the annual Santa to a Senior program. Beginning Thursday, November 13, through Wednesday, December 10, 2025, community members can donate gifts to help brighten the season for local seniors aged 60 and above who are connected to the Ventura Avenue Adult Center’s Senior Nutrition Program.

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Bilingual report — City of Ventura adopts Climate Action and Resilience Plan

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VENTURA — The City of Ventura is proud to announce the adoption of its Climate Action and Resilience Plan (CARP), approved by the City Council on October 21, 2025. The plan outlines the City’s strategies to reduce greenhouse gas emissions, prepare for climate-related hazards, and strengthen community resilience to the impacts of climate change.

Developed by the City’s Community Development and Public Works Environmental Sustainability staff, the CARP was prepared in conjunction with the General Plan Update to ensure that climate action is integrated into all aspects of City planning and decision-making.

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Bilingual report — City of Ventura freezes water and sewer collection fees for customers impacted by federal government shutdown

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“Ventura is a community that looks out for one another,” said Mayor Dr. Jeannette Sanchez-Palacios. “This action reflects our shared commitment to compassion, service, and ensuring that no one goes without essential water service during a time of hardship.”

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San Luis Obispo County releases Assessor’s Annual Report

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SAN LUIS OBISPO — It is my pleasure to present the 2025-26 Assessor’s Office Annual Report. This report contains information based upon the assessment roll produced by my office each year in accordance with state law and regulations. All properties identified and valued as part of the assessment roll serve as the basis for local property taxes.

The annual assessment roll captures the changes in value for all properties during the prior year. For 2025-26, San Luis Obispo County experienced a moderate increase in values of 4.74%.

This increase is fairly consistent with the average increase of 4.62% across the 58 California counties.

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Economic Development Collaborative (EDC) free event and webinar schedule

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IN-PERSON EVENT: AI UNLOCKED: SHAPING THE FUTURE

November 7 @ 12:30 pm

Join the Scheinfeld Center for Entrepreneurship and Innovation and Economic Development Collaborative to learn about how Santa Barbara County businesses are expanding the AI frontier, creating both challenges and opportunities for the workforce.

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Bilingual report — Ventura Fire Chief David Endaya announces retirement

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Since becoming an emergency first responder in 1994 and joining Ventura Fire in 1996 as an Emergency Paramedic, Endaya has advanced through every rank in the department before being selected as Fire Chief in 2014.

“Serving the City of Ventura as Fire Chief has been one of the greatest honors of my career,” said Chief Endaya. “I am proud of what we have accomplished and deeply grateful for the dedication, professionalism, and heart of the men and women of the Ventura Fire Department.”

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Bilingual report — Annual Mussel Quarantine Lifted for Ventura County; Advisory Remains in Place for Humboldt County and Northern Channel Islands

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VENTURA — The California Department of Public Health (CDPH) announced that the annual quarantine on mussels gathered by sport harvesters from California’s coastal waters ended on midnight on Friday, October 31, 2025, for the California coast, including Ventura County. Shellfish advisories remain in place for sport-harvested razor clams from Humboldt County and for sport-harvested mussels, clams, scallops, and oysters from the Northern Channel Islands.

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Congresswoman Julia Brownley (D-CA 26th District) — Important Voter Information for California’s Special Election on Nov. 4

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Election Day is right around the corner! With just five days until California’s statewide special election on Tuesday, November 4, I want to make sure you have the information you need about what’s on the ballot and how you can vote.

Proposition 50 is a legislative Constitutional Amendment that authorizes temporary changes to Congressional District maps in response to Texas’ partisan redistricting. It was placed on the ballot by the California State Legislature.

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Bilingual report — Economic Development Collaborative (EDC) — NO-COST Webinar: Immigrant Rights in California Child Care Settings webinars on Nov. 4, 6 and 14

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Immigrant Rights in California Child Care Settings – for families with children in child care and child care providers working in various California child care programs:

This training will provide:

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Bilingual commentary — Waiting For a Bus

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This morning I confidently strolled out to catch a bus not far from my home. Yes, I own a car, but I often take a bus to my destination, regardless. It’s free for people my age, and it gives me an excuse to get in some walking for the day. 

I’ve been riding the bus in my area for several years, so I know the system well. To my credit, and to that of the bus system, I never missed a medical or other important appointment whenever I took the bus. Part of that is sheer good fortune, but I also build in “time cushions” to my more crucial itineraries by allowing extra time.

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Port of Hueneme Dock Talk October 2025

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The Port of Hueneme was proud to support the Farmworker Health and Wellness Fair at Oxnard College on October 10th, connecting our local farmworker community with essential health resources, wellness services, and support programs.

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Gold Coast Health Plan appoints new chief operating officer

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CAMARILLO — Gold Coast Health Plan (GCHP) today announced the appointment of Suma Simcoe as its new Chief Operating Officer (COO), effective Oct. 15.

“Suma brings a wealth of operational expertise, deep understanding of managed care, and a proven record of turning complex challenges into sustainable results,” said Dr. Felix Nuñez, GCHP’s chief executive officer. “Her leadership will help strengthen our infrastructure and ensure we continue to deliver high-quality, member-centered care for Ventura County. We are thrilled to welcome her to the team.”

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Bilingual report — County of Santa Barbara Nov. 4 Board of Supervisors Meeting

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The next regular meeting of the
 County Board of Supervisors is scheduled for 
9 a.m. Tuesday, November 4, 2025
County Administration Building
Board Hearing Room, 4th Floor
105 East Anapamu Street, Santa Barbara
The public may participate virtually or in person at the County Board Hearing Room in Santa Barbara or Santa Maria. 

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Bilingual report — City of Santa Paula launches fall pavement improvement plan

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SANTA PAULA — The City of Santa Paula will launch its Fall 2025 Pavement Improvement Project on Friday, October 31, 2025, continuing the City’s commitment to maintaining safe, accessible, and well-maintained streets. The project will enhance roadway safety, extend pavement life, and improve accessibility throughout the community. Work is expected to continue through Wednesday, November 26, 2025, lasting approximately four weeks.

The Fall 2025 Pavement Improvement Project will include resurfacing, striping, and accessibility upgrades along several key corridors — Main Street, McKevett Road, Teague Drive, Teracina Drive, Loma Vista Drive, Vuelta Place, and Mill Street. These coordinated efforts will provide smoother, safer travel for motorists, pedestrians, and cyclists throughout Santa Paula, with Main Street serving as the project’s primary focus area.

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Now’s the time to VOTE: Vote early and avoid the Election Day rush!

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VENTURA COUNTY — With the Nov. 4, 2025 Statewide Special Election quickly approaching, Ventura County Clerk-Recorder and Registrar of Voters Michelle Ascencion and the Elections team are preparing for the busy final voting days, with Election Day itself expected to be the busiest.

To avoid last-minute voting stress, voters are encouraged to take advantage of early voting opportunities now available. Nine Vote Center sites across Ventura County opened October 25 for in-person voting, late registration, ballot drop-off, and more. Another nine Vote Center locations will open Saturday, November 1.

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Bilingual report — Preserve the past, inspire the future at the Olivas Adobe

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VENTURA — The City of Ventura invites residents to attend the Olivas Adobe Volunteer Open House on Sunday, November 9, 2025, from 1:00 to 2:00 p.m. at Olivas Adobe Historical Park, located at 4500 Olivas Park Drive. Admission is free.

Volunteers play a vital role in preserving and sharing the history of the Olivas Adobe, Ventura’s only remaining Monterey-style adobe home from the Rancho era. At the open house, attendees can explore a variety of volunteer opportunities and learn how to help bring history to life for visitors of all ages.

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Community Environmental Council (CEC) — Claim up to $20,000 toward an EV!

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You can still claim up to $20,000 when you switch to an electric vehicle, and CEC can help you figure out which programs you qualify for and which incentives you can stack for maximum savings.
Here’s a breakdown of the key state and local programs offering rebates and incentives. These can be applied to an EV purchase or lease.

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Artwork by a Medea Creek middle schooler selected to appear in 2026 Metropolitan Water District Calendar

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OAK PARK — Artwork by 13-year-old Micah Aliling, currently an 8th grader at Medea Creek Middle School in Oak Park, was selected by the Metropolitan Water District of Southern California (MWD) to appear in its printed 2026 calendar and digital library.

MWD delivers 1.5 billion gallons of water daily to 19 million people in Southern California. Earlier this year, it invited students across its six-county service area, including those in the Triunfo Water & Sanitation District (TWSD), to submit water conservation-themed artwork for its “Being Water Wise Is…”  Student Art Calendar Contest. This marks the fourth consecutive year that a student from Oak Park has had their artwork featured in the calendar.

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Bilingual report — Ventura County Supervisors pass resolution pressing State to revise wildfire regulations and restore local control

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The resolution comes in response to growing concern over proposed state defensible space rules. The Board expressed concerns that the rules could result in significant costs for homeowners and local governments without addressing local needs.

“Wildfire prevention is a top priority for Ventura County, but one-size-fits-all rules don’t work,” said District 4 Supervisor Janice Parvin, Chair of the Board of Supervisors. “We need solutions that are both effective and realistic for our communities. This resolution shows our commitment to keeping residents safe without putting an unfair burden on them.”

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Bilingual report — City of Ventura issues Proposition 218 notice on proposed water and wastewater rate adjustments

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With critical upgrades needed to aging systems and new state requirements ahead, Ventura Water is updating its rates to ensure reliable service for years to come.

Approximately every five years, independent financial and rate experts analyze system needs and develop rates that are adequate, fair, and cost justified. This process ensures Ventura Water can maintain reliable service, meet legal requirements, and prepare for future needs.

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Ventura Port District welcomes new Commissioner Bill Anderson, announces reappointment of Commissioner Chris Stephens

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 “We are thrilled to welcome Commissioner Anderson to the Board, as his unique perspective and dedication to public service will help guide the Harbor’s continued growth.” said Mike Blumenberg, Chair of Ventura Port District Board of Commissioners. “We also congratulate Commissioner Stephens on his reappointment and his continued commitment to maintain a strong foundation of experience and leadership. Together, our Board is well-positioned to lead with vision and purpose,” Blumenberg added.

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Three New Members Join The Ventura College Foundation Board, Including Acting Ventura College President

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VENTURA — Three new board members joined the Ventura College Foundation board of directors, including Dr. Luca E. Lewis, acting president of Ventura College. Lewis was previously vice president of Student Affairs at Ventura College. He brings over 22 years of experience in community college education.

“By fostering innovation, operational excellence, and teaching and learning excellence, I strive to create an environment with my colleagues where Ventura College can advance its mission, empower students, and strengthen our diverse communities in which we serve,” says Lewis.

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Bilingual report — Ventura Police volunteers to begin proactive scans for credit card skimming devices

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VENTURA — The Ventura Police Department is expanding its crime prevention efforts by launching a new initiative that empowers Volunteers in Policing (VIPs) to conduct routine inspections for illegal credit card skimming devices at gas stations throughout the city.

Using specialized handheld Skim Scan devices, trained volunteers will help safeguard residents from electronic theft by checking fuel pumps and other unattended card readers for hidden hardware designed to steal payment information.

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Economic Development Collaborative (EDC) free event and webinar schedule

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IN-PERSON EVENT: AI UNLOCKED: SHAPING THE FUTURE

November 7 @ 12:30 pm

Join the Scheinfeld Center for Entrepreneurship and Innovation and Economic Development Collaborative to learn about how Santa Barbara County businesses are expanding the AI frontier, creating both challenges and opportunities for the workforce. At AI Unlocked: Shaping the Future, business leaders, students, faculty and employees will come together to explore how AI is transforming local industries—and the future-ready skills everyone will need to succeed. Through real-world insights, you’ll learn how businesses are adapting, what employers are looking for, and how to navigate your own path to AI literacy. Whether you’re running a business, preparing for your career or teaching and supporting students, this conversation will give you the tools and perspective to keep pace in an AI-driven world. Address: SBCC West Campus, Fe Bland Forum (BC Building Forum), 721 Cliff Drive, Santa Barbara, CA 93109.

CLICK HERE TO REGISTER

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805UndocuFund — New public art markers to honor sites of ICE Kidnappings in Thousand Oaks

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THOUSAND OAKS — In a powerful act of remembrance and resistance, a series of art markers was installed in Thousand Oaks to commemorate locations where individuals were taken by Immigration and Customs Enforcement (ICE). The installation honors the lives disrupted by these actions and the resilience of the local immigrant community, 805UndocuFund reported in a media release.

The event was held on Hampshire Road between Thousand Oaks Boulevard and Royal Oaks Drive. Community members, artists, and advocates gathered to recognize the significance of the moment and the collective effort behind the project.

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Building Bridges – Port of Paita (Peru) sends delegation to the Port of Hueneme to build on Sister Port Relationship

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PORT HUENEME — The Port of Hueneme, California, and the Port of Paita, Peru, are proud to announce the signing of a Memorandum of Understanding (MOU) establishing a Sister Port relationship through the U.S. Department of State’s Sister Ports Program. This partnership aims to advance cooperation, trade development, and the exchange of best practices between the two ports, reflecting a shared commitment to global connectivity and sustainable growth.

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Bilingual report — County of Ventura celebrates 25 employees for combined 720 years of public service

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VENTURA — On Tuesday, October 21, during their regular meeting, the Board of Supervisors proudly recognized 25 dedicated employees for reaching the milestone of 25 or more years of continuous public service. Collectively, these individuals represent a remarkable 720 years of commitment to serving Ventura County residents.

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Bilingual report — Now’s the Time to Vote! Ventura County Vote Centers opening this Saturday are a Resource for Voter Assistance

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VENTURA — Saturday, Oct. 25, 2025 is opening day for nine vote centers located throughout Ventura County for the Nov. 4 Statewide Special Election. Nine additional vote centers will open the following Saturday, Nov. 1. Vote center hours are 9:00 AM to 5:00 PM every day until Nov. 3, and 7:00 AM to 8:00 PM on Election Day, Nov. 4.

“With this being a special election, the vote center locations may be different from those used in past elections,” County Clerk-Recorder and Registrar of Voters, Michelle Ascencion, said. “Please check your County Voter Information Guide, the insert in your vote by mail ballot, or the County Elections website at Vote.VenturaCounty.gov, to find the list of vote center sites that are opening this week.”

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Jackie Carrera, Ashley Costa, and Das Williams to be honored at 2026 LEAP Awards

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GOLETA — Jackie Carrera, President and CEO of the Santa Barbara Foundation, and Ashley Costa, Executive Director of the Lompoc Valley Community Healthcare Organization, will be honored at the 2026 LEAP Awards, alongside Das Williams, who will be recognized as Distinguished Alumnus.

The 2026 LEAP Awards will be a milestone celebration of LEAP’s 55th anniversary as a nonprofit and 50 years of its Children’s Center. For the first time in six years, the event will be held in person at the stunning Hilton Santa Barbara Beachfront Resort on Saturday, February 28, 2026. The brunch will bring together community leaders, philanthropists, and partners who believe in creating thriving futures for children and families.

“As we celebrate 55 years of service, we are honored to recognize Jackie Carrera, Ashley Costa, and LEAP alumnus Das Williams. Each, in their own way, has strengthened families, lifted voices, and inspired children to shine. Their leadership reflects the very heart of LEAP’s mission, and we are proud to celebrate them alongside our community,” said Lori Goodman, LEAP CEO.

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