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.
Just Days Away — Celebrate 20 Years of Hope!” Time is running out to be part of this special evening! Join us Saturday for Casa De Vida’s 20th Anniversary Dinner & Silent Auction at Ventura Missionary Church. Your support helps…
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.
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.”
SANTA BARBARA and GRAND RAPIDS, Mich. — Santa Barbara City College (SBCC) is adopting Mentavi Health’s Diagnostic Evaluation to provide timely, rigorous ADHD assessments for students seeking academic accommodations. The partnership enables SBCC to reach accommodation decisions faster, when appropriate, and helps students stay on course during the term’s most demanding weeks.
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.
SANTA BARBARA — Cottage Cardiology Clinic is pleased to announce the addition of two new cardiology specialists to its growing team, Dr. Elizabeth J. Hutchins, a board-certified cardiologist specializing in cardio-oncology, and Dr. Chee Yuan Ng, a board-certified cardiac electrophysiologist. Their addition further broadens the clinic’s specialized cardiovascular services for patients across the Central Coast.
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.
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.”
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.
LOS OLIVOS — The Legacies of Hope dinner, was an evening of storytelling and community, gathering many of People Helping People’s most dedicated supporters to the Inn at Mattei’s Tavern in Los Olivos on October 17, 2025.
The highlight of the evening was the presentation of this year’s Luminary Awards, for those who have given in extraordinary ways to support the mission of People Helping People (PHP).
This year’s recipients are the Becky Barieau and Billy Wathen Family, Feed the Valley with Chef Daisy and Greg Ryan, and the Brady Family.
SANTA MARIA — Allan Hancock College is helping local students and healthcare professionals take the next step in their careers with two upcoming program application deadlines — including the college’s new Bachelor of Science in Nursing (BSN) Pathway, developed in partnership with California State University, Channel Islands (CSUCI), and the spring 2026 Emergency Medical Technician (EMT) academy.
“Ventura County supports stronger wildfire safety measures,” said Supervisor Jeff Gorell. “But Sacramento’s one-size-fits-all approach to maps and regulations ignores local realities. Without clear funding, local flexibility, or practical timelines, these rules risk creating another unfunded mandate that burdens homeowners and drives up insurance and housing costs.”
Thanks to your support, on Tuesday, Oct. 21, the Santa Barbara County Board of Supervisors directed staff to develop an ordinance ending new oil drilling in the county. The ordinance process is expected to take about six months. County staff will also begin the process of phasing out existing oil operations by developing an amortization study of existing wells and conducting an environmental review.
SANTA BARBARA — (On Oct. 16), we honored Paul Relis, whose vision helped ignite the environmental movement. In the wake of the 1969 oil spill, Paul founded the Community Environmental Council and began a journey that would shape the Central Coast’s environmental legacy for generations.
Paul’s ambition has always been grounded in hope, community, and a deep belief in our collective power to create change. From co-hosting one of the very first Earth Day celebrations in 1970 to pioneering waste management and recycling programs as a California EPA executive, Paul’s influence helped turn Santa Barbara into a beacon for environmental action.
“We are excited to receive this grant, which will allow us to significantly expand our bicycle and pedestrian safety program,” said Principal Civil Engineer Jeff Hereford. “By focusing on education, awareness, and promoting safe practices, we aim to reduce crashes and prevent injuries. Ultimately, we’re working toward building more walkable and bike-friendly neighborhoods where everyone can travel safely and confidently.”
VENTURA — This year marks the 150th anniversary of the Ventura Fire Department, the oldest fire department in Ventura County and one of the oldest in California. Its legacy began in 1875, when the Monumental Fire Company was formed with 53 volunteer members. Just three years later, in 1878, the newly incorporated City of Ventura officially created the Ventura Fire Department when the Monumental Fire Company turned over all of its equipment to the City.
In 1915, Ventura hired its first full-time fire chief, beginning the department’s transition from a volunteer organization to a professional fire service. Soon after, paid firefighters were hired, establishing the foundation of the modern agency that continues to protect Ventura today.
“LEAP has always believed that when we bring people together, we can solve big challenges. The diaper drives are proof—students, businesses, churches, and organizations all stepped up. Each diaper collected represents relief for a caregiver and comfort for a child, and we are grateful to everyone who made that possible,” said Lori Goodman, CEO of LEAP.
You don’t need to wait for the next disaster to make a meaningful impact. Community Environmental Council’s (CEC) Central Coast Resilience Hubs Accelerator is here to support local leaders who recognize the growing threat of climate disasters and are ready to take action.
If you work with a neighborhood school, church, library, community center, nonprofit, or similar facility, you may be in the perfect position to host a Resilience Hub — a safe space that offers shelter, safety training, clean air, off-grid power, cooling, and/or food before, during, and after a disaster.
Looking for an event venue that aligns with your values and amplifies your impact? The Community Environmental Council’s Environmental Hub offers versatile, eco-friendly spaces for every type of gathering.
Situated in the heart of downtown Santa Barbara, The Hub embodies sustainability and community spirit. Beyond its green design, each event at the Hub supports CEC’s mission to advance bold, scalable solutions to the climate crisis. From intimate meetings and panel discussions to community workshops, networking mixers, and celebrations, your gathering becomes part of a larger movement toward climate resilience and local empowerment.
SACRAMENTO — Assemblymember Gregg Hart (D-Santa Barbara) on Oct. 15 celebrated the signing of Assembly Bill 14 — a landmark law creating the statewide California Protecting Blue Whales and Blue Skies Program.
No Kings Day rallies are planned throughout the Ventura, Santa Barbara and San Luis Obispo counties region on Saturday, Oct. 18, 2025 in protest of the policies of the Trump Administration. The rallies are being organized by Indivisible and supported by a variety of organizations.
“In America, we don’t put up with would-be kings,” Indivisible stated in a variety of posts.
“Our peaceful movement is only getting bigger and stronger. “NO KINGS” is more than just a slogan—it’s the foundation our nation was built upon. Born in the streets, carried by millions in chants and on posters, it echoes from city blocks to rural town squares, uniting people across this country to fight dictatorship together.”
Please see links to local protests, news coverage in the region.
By Kaiser Permanente
If you’re thinking about skipping the flu shot this year, you may want to reconsider!
Scientists and public health officials are preparing for a potentially active flu season in the United States in the coming months, based on recent trends and updated vaccine formulations. Here’s what they say the public should expect:
SANTA BARBARA — Join the Downtown Santa Barbara Improvement Association (DSBIA) in advancing a Balanced, Flexible Design for a Thriving State Street!
The community is invited to sign the petition before the council meeting on Oct. 21.
WESTLAKE VILLAGE — The Southeast Ventura County YMCA is collecting donations to provide Thanksgiving dinners to 300 families facing financial hardship, including families whose children participate in the YMCA’s Find My Genius program and those affected by recent wildfires.
Each family will receive a box filled with food items such as cranberry sauce, stuffing mix, chicken stock and turkey gravy, plus a $60 Ralph’s gift card for a turkey or ham. The YMCA has already identified 100 families to receive Thanksgiving boxes.
CAMARILLO — Starting (Oct. 1), Ventura County residents with both Medi-Cal and Medicare coverage will be able to choose to have their care coordinated under one integrated plan from Gold Coast Health Plan (GCHP).
GCHP Total Care Advantage (HMO D-SNP) is a Medicare Advantage Special Needs Plan for low-income seniors and people with disabilities who qualify for both Medicare and Medi-Cal – known as Medi-Medi members. Total Care Advantage is designed to support members by offering care coordination to help with accessing needed services, scheduling appointments, and managing chronic conditions.
We hope this newsletter finds you well and safe. We are pleased to share with you our latest updates on the 805UndocuFund’s efforts in taking charge of the newly operated Rapid Response Network. Previously owned by CAUSE, we have trained over 1,000 volunteers throughout the tri-county since the beginning of 2025. To date, we have almost reached our fund goal & immediately having been dispersed $478,000 to 388 families! All our successes could not have been achieved without the support from the community.
The legislation ensures fire hydrants work as designed during wildfires by creating baseline standards of emergency preparedness for water districts servicing homes in high fire risk areas of Ventura County as mapped by CAL FIRE.
There is a potential for storm water runoff to carry disease causing bacteria to the beaches and into the ocean water. In addition, storm water runoff can transport physical hazards such as partially submerged tree limbs and logs into the ocean that could result in serious physical injury. Contact with this runoff water will result in an increased risk to human health and should be avoided for at least 72 hours after all rainfall activity has ended.
SACRAMENTO — Gavin Newsom signed into law Assembly Bill 1041(Bennett) which improves patient access to care and boosts small and independent practices by streamlining the physician credentialing process.
For too long, California physicians have faced months-long delays when trying to join health plan networks. These delays are caused by outdated, inconsistent, and duplicative credentialing requirements that vary from plan to plan.
Researchers are working to bring highly sensitive quantum experiments outside of the laboratory.
Commercial refrigeration is among the most energy-intensive operations in the food business, and outdated systems are costing us more than just money. Many older units use refrigerants that contribute significantly to greenhouse gas emissions and climate change.
“An emergency department visit for an older patient often brings about significant life changes that require attention beyond treating the immediate illness or injury,” said Dr. Patrick Glynn, an emergency medicine physician at Cottage Health. “Our team works together across specialties to address urgent needs and ensure older patients have the right support to stay safe and well after their visit.”
We are so grateful to those who joined us last Saturday at CEC’s Green Gala, an inspiring evening of resilience, strength, and climate action.
Together, we raised more than $100,000 to help implement and accelerate bold, equitable solutions to the climate crisis, including wildfire resilience, climate leadership, community safety, and environmental advocacy.
Your partnership strengthens our resolve to meet the climate challenges ahead and propels our dedication to building a safe, resilient, and just world for generations to come.
Thousand Oaks Rotary Street Fair & EV Showcase
Sunday, October 19
9:00 a.m. – 4:00 p.m.
449 N Moorpark Road, Thousand Oaks
Learn more.
(Oct. 1), the federal government entered a “shutdown” caused by a lapse in appropriated resources. Republicans control the House, Senate, and the White House – the three bodies necessary to fund the government. And still, extremists in Congress chose to shut the government down rather than find common ground and negotiate with Congressional Democrats.
In 2019, the Trump administration and Congressional Republicans oversaw the longest government shutdown in U.S. history. In the days leading up to the current shutdown, House Speaker Mike Johnson canceled votes, and the House was not in session to vote on any compromise legislation to keep the government open.
OJAI — At a time when animal welfare nonprofits are playing an increasingly critical role in Ventura County, the Humane Society of Ventura County (HSVC) is strengthening its future with the appointment of Daniel Roselle as its new executive director, effective Oct. 1, 2025.
A trusted community resource since 1932, HSVC provides compassionate care, adoptions, humane investigations and disaster response services for thousands of animals across the region each year. Roselle’s appointment marks an important milestone as the organization continues to expand access to care and build new programs that keep pets safe, healthy and with the people who love them.
I recently sat down with my dear friend and former Friendship Center colleague, Hope Saxon (who many of you may know has gone on to become a geriatric nurse practitioner!). Our conversation turned into a walk down memory lane, reflecting on how much Friendship Center has changed and grown over the past few years. Of course, I know these changes are happening. I’m living them every day. However, it wasn’t until talking with Hope, who is one of the dear members of our community that has been so close to our organization for so many years (like many of you), that I truly appreciated the magnitude of what’s unfolding.
VENTURA — As the community moves into long term recovery and rebuilding efforts, the Resource Management Agency (RMA) is pleased to announce the launch of the Mountain Fire Rebuild Permitting Dashboard. This new tool, available on both the Resource Management Agency’s website and the Ventura County Recovers website, allows users to track the rebuild permitting progress of properties affected by the Mountain Fire.
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Community members who are not already subscribed may sign up to receive our newsletter in English here and in Spanish here.
From move-in activities to a first-ever spirit rally, UC Santa Barbara kicks off a new year with a week’s worth of fun.
The innovative tool, designed specifically for non-expert users, improves airway access and raises survival odds in critical medical emergencies.
SANTA BARBARA — September 23, 2025—Cottage Health has opened Cottage Rheumatology Clinic, a new specialty care clinic within Cottage Medical Group. The clinic expands access to evaluation and treatment for autoimmune and inflammatory conditions.
VENTURA — Mosquito activity is expected to increase following the rainfall from the remnants of Tropical Storm Mario. It is important now to prevent mosquito breeding and reduce the chances of being bitten by mosquitoes by emptying objects that collected water during the rain event.
VENTURA — To expand accessibility and ensure all residents have the opportunity to be prepared for emergencies, the City of Ventura, in collaboration with the Federal Emergency Management Agency (FEMA) and the City of Santa Paula, is offering a full Spanish-language Community Emergency Response Team (CERT) training beginning this October.
The free, hands-on program is open to 40 participants from Ventura and Santa Paula and will run from October 9 through November 15, 2025. Applicants will be accepted on a rolling basis with the application open through Wednesday, October 8, 2025.
Thank you to everyone who joined last night’s Zone 0 Town Hall—both in person and online. I’m especially grateful to our expert panelists for sharing their knowledge and to the Ventura County Fire Department for their hospitality in hosting the event.
If you weren’t able to attend, you can watch the full recording here. You’ll also find links to the panelists’ slides next to their bios below.
The Board of Forestry updated their Frequently Asked Questions Document yesterday, click here to review. I also want to thank those who submitted thoughtful questions during the meeting. My team and I are gathering responses, and I’ll be sharing updates with you soon.
VENTURA — As part of the Ventura County Ocean Water Quality Monitoring Program, the Environmental Health Division (Division) is providing the following precautionary information to the public. Rainfall that is significant enough to result in runoff can flow into storm drains, channels, creeks, and rivers that empty onto the beaches of Ventura County. In general, 0.2 inches (2 tenths of an inch) of rainfall may be enough to create significant runoff conditions.
Reuniones de la Junta de Supervisores en español
(Board of Supervisors’ Meetings in Spanish)
El Condado de Santa Bárbara está ofreciendo interpretación en español de las reuniones de la Junta de Supervisores. Véalo en vivo en nuestro canal de YouTube en español, o las personas suscritas a la televisión por cable pueden acceder a la programación secundaria de audio (SAP) en los ajustes de idioma.
Aún se requiere pedir con anticipación l
“The Wellness Companion Hub is a welcomed and needed resource for students,” said Vice President, Student Services Paloma Arnold. “The reach of SBCC’s The WELL’s work in this online platform — inspired by our very own Student Program Advisor & LCSW, Becky Bean — will increase students’ resources and help educate and save lives. Special thanks to the SBCC Foundation who believed in this project from the beginning. We are so proud!”
SACRAMENTO — The California State Legislature sent Assemblymember Bennett’s AB 367 to the Governor’s desk. The bill would increase the performance of fire hydrants supplying water to Ventura County firefighters in their battles against wildfires. The legislation also raises baseline standards of emergency preparedness for water districts servicing homes in high fire risk areas of Ventura County as mapped by Cal FIRE.
SANTA BARBARA —This September, in recognition of Sepsis Awareness Month and Sepsis Awareness Day on September 13, Cottage Health encourages the community to learn the signs of sepsis and seek prompt medical attention if symptoms appear.
Sepsis occurs when the body’s response to an infection damages its own tissues and organs. If not identified and treated promptly, it can lead to shock, multi-organ failure and even death. Globally, sepsis affects up to 50 million people each year and contributes to nearly 11 million deaths.
VENTURA — The City of Ventura is now accepting applications for the Ventura Council for Seniors (VCS). This volunteer advisory group advocates for and improves the lives of the city’s older adult residents.
Applicants must:
Be a City of Ventura resident, age 60 or older
Be available to attend monthly meetings, held on the third Tuesday of each month from 4:00 – 5:00 p.m. at the Ventura Avenue Adult Center (550 N. Ventura Avenue)
SANTA BARBARA — With one in two families struggling with diaper need, many parents are forced to skip meals or delay changing diapers to extend their supply. Fortunately, Santa Barbara County and partner nonprofits are working together to spread awareness and help alleviate the growing need for diapers in our community.
On Tuesday, September 16th, LEAP: Learn. Engage. Advocate. Partner. received a proclamation from the Santa Barbara County Board of Supervisors officially recognizing National Diaper Need Awareness Week, which takes place from September 15-21, 2025.
VENTURA — The Ventura Police Department invites residents, business owners, and community stakeholders to participate in its Strategic Plan Community Questionnaire. This short, accessible feedback form, available in English and Spanish, gives the community a direct voice in shaping the department’s priorities and goals.
VENTURA — With the Medicare Open Enrollment period soon to begin, the Health Insurance Counseling and Advocacy Program (HICAP) – part of the Ventura County Area Agency on Aging, a division of the Human Services Agency – will again be providing countywide resources and help.
Medicare Open Enrollment begins on Oct. 15 and runs through December. 7. HICAP counselors, who are registered by the California Department of Aging, provide free, unbiased Medicare counseling to the public.
Just one week away is Raising Justice – our 19th annual community celebration and fundraiser! We want you there to celebrate our movement and support tenants, environmental justice, and immigrant workers.
SANTA BARBARA — Every Friday in September, Folded Hills Winery will match 100% of every purchase – whether it’s bottles of wine, visits to the tasting rooms, or orders from the online store—with a donation to Hospice of Santa Barbara. Through its Philanthropy Fridays initiative, made possible by the Kim and Andy Bush Family Foundation, Folded Hills shines a spotlight on local nonprofits and their amazing work. This month, wine lovers have the unique opportunity to raise a glass while supporting Hospice of Santa Barbara’s mission of providing compassionate care to those in need.
SANTA BARBARA — Ventura College is proud to announce the launch of Ventura County’s first Speech-Language Pathology Assistant (SLPA) program, located at the Ventura College East Campus in Santa Paula. The program, which began this fall, exceeded expectations with full enrollment in all first-semester courses within 48 hours, a rare milestone for a brand-new academic offering.
SANTA BARBARA — Hospice of Santa Barbara’s 13th annual Heroes of Hospice luncheon will include a silent art auction, thanks to the generous donation by Suzanne Grimmesey and Edwin Feliciano of three giclée prints by Armenian artist Gevorg Yeghiazaryan. While bids are only available online at https://paybee.io/@hospiceofsb@23, the prints will be on display at this year’s event. Each is valued at as much as $2,000 or higher.
