Category: Local

Santa Paula Art Museum — Inbox Art Exhibit: ‘Celebrating Nature: Paintings by Allied Artists of the Santa Monica Mountains and Seashore’ on view through Nov. 9, more upcoming events

by Community Contributor • October 23, 2025 • Comments Off

Allied Artists of the Santa Monica Mountains and Seashore was founded in the early 1990s to support and promote the hard-fought conservation of the Santa Monica Mountains National Recreation Area, established in 1978. The SMMNRA encompasses over 156,000 acres that stretch east to west from Griffith Park in Los Angeles County to Point Mugu State Park in Ventura County. With 46 miles of scenic coastline, over 500 miles of trails, and a vast array of native flora, fauna, and culturally significant sites, the SMMNRA is the largest urban national recreation are in the world, bordering the second-largest city in the United States.

SBCC School of Extended Learning — Rediscover your creative spark

by Community Contributor • October 23, 2025 • Comments Off

SANTA BARBARA — This fall, SBCC School of Extended Learning invites older adults to discover or rediscover their creative potential. Whether you are a complete beginner or an experienced artist looking to refine your skills, the Older Adults Program offers expert instruction in a welcoming environment, with free art classes designed specifically for adults age 55 and over.

Two of the program’s exceptional eight-week courses are launching the week of October 20, with spots still available:

Museum of Contemporary Art Santa Barbara (MCASB) — Leaf into Fall Feast Mode

by Community Contributor • October 23, 2025 • Comments Off

Fall is Feasting Season

Join us in celebrating:

(The Art of Mexcal)

Filipino American History Month

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

by Community Contributor • October 23, 2025 • Comments Off

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.

Ventura Music Festival — Festival feedback, exciting encores!

by Community Contributor • October 23, 2025 • Comments Off

Dear Friends,

As we wrap this incredible 30th season, we’d love to hear about the concert(s) you attended. Your feedback helps us shape what comes next – artists, venues, start times, even the snacks!

California Student Aid Commission launches the 2026-27 Statewide Financial Aid Cycle at Ventura College

by Community Contributor • October 23, 2025 • Comments Off

VENTURA — The California Student Aid Commission (CSAC), in partnership with Ventura College and the Ventura College Foundation, kicked off the 2026-27 Statewide Financial Aid Application Cycle at a press conference held on Oct. 1. This event held at Ventura College highlighted the critical role financial aid plays in allowing access and equity for students pursuing higher education across California.

“We chose to launch the 2026-27 financial aid cycle in Ventura because there is something special here,” said Dr. Daisy Gonzales, Executive Director of the California Student Aid Commission. “From being able to support a student to pursue their college dreams, to understanding that financial aid is critical to help students stay enrolled, Ventura has the opportunity to continue its growth in completed financial aid applications while supporting students through their higher education journey.”

Bilingual report — Latest news from the County of Ventura

by Community Contributor • October 23, 2025 • Comments Off

The Ventura County Fire Department will host the 2025 Fallen Firefighters Memorial Ceremony:

Thursday, November 6th
10:00 am to 11:30 a.m.
Ventura County Government Center, 800 S. Victoria Ave., Ventura.

UCSB — The Current — ‘How artistic research preserves cultural memory and care’ and more news, events

by Community Contributor • October 23, 2025 • Comments Off

Artist Kim Garcia’s new LA show “Tender Material” connects family stories with Philippine cultural history.

Downtown Oxnard — It’s Trick-or-Treat time starting tonight…

by Community Contributor • October 23, 2025 • Comments Off

Moorpark College named 2025 Pathway Champion for driving Equity in Transfer Success

by Community Contributor • October 23, 2025 • Comments Off

MOORPARK — At Moorpark College, transfer isn’t just a hope—it’s a plan. This year, the college’s work to remove barriers, close equity gaps and accelerate student success has earned it statewide recognition as a 2025 Pathway Champion of Transfer. This honor presented by the Campaign for College Opportunity recognizes colleges with the top numbers of Associate Degrees for Transfer (ADTs) awarded relative to full-time student enrollment.

Through California’s Associate Degree for Transfer (ADT) program, which guarantees CSU admission for students who complete aligned coursework, more than 450,000 degrees have been awarded statewide. At Moorpark, a focused and equity-driven rollout of the ADT has helped more students, especially those from families and neighborhoods who face extra hurdles getting to college, reach their transfer goals.

Santa Barbara County Food Action Network (SBCFAN) — Join Our Monthly Giving Challenge – Every Dollar Counts!

by Community Contributor • October 23, 2025 • Comments Off

Right now, our Central Coast faces a critical task:
we must strengthen our own community resilience and adaptation because our larger government, health, environmental, and economic systems are increasingly unpredictable.

At Santa Barbara County Food Action Network (SBCFAN), we know that when food is produced and purchased locally, our entire community benefits. Farmers, ranchers, and fisherfolk keep their livelihoods, we reduce transportation-caused pollution, and local dollars stay in our community.

But this shift cannot wait. The challenges of climate change, rising costs, poor health, and inequitable access to food are already here. Our community needs action now.

That’s why we’re asking you to join us as a monthly donor.
Your consistent support helps us:

Adelante Charter School of Santa Barbara celebrates five years of transformative leadership under executive director Javier Bolívar

by Community Contributor • October 23, 2025 • Comments Off

SANTA BARBARA — Adelante Charter School of Santa Barbara proudly celebrates five years of leadership under Executive Director Javier Bolívar, whose vision, resilience, and unwavering dedication have guided the school through a period of remarkable growth and renewal.

Bolívar’s journey to education is both inspiring and deeply human. Born and raised in Venezuela, he grew up the youngest of four in a close-knit family shaped by love, creativity, and perseverance. His mother, a stay-at-home mom and talented seamstress, and his father, a public employee, instilled in him humility, respect, and the belief that kindness is a strength. The loss of two older brothers while they were in college profoundly influenced Bolívar’s empathy and his commitment to live with purpose.

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

by Community Contributor • October 23, 2025 • Comments Off

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.”

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

by Community Contributor • October 23, 2025 • Comments Off

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.

Legacies of Hope Dinner lights a candle for People Helping People

by Community Contributor • October 23, 2025 • Comments Off

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.

Museum of Contemporary Art Santa Barbara — Save Art Save Democracy

by Community Contributor • October 23, 2025 • Comments Off

MCASB Launches Future Fund
in 50th-Anniversary Campaign

Art and free speech are essential to a healthy democracy—Museum of Contemporary Art Santa Barbara (MCASB) calls on our communities across Santa Barbara and the Central Coast to help safeguard the region’s only dedicated, free contemporary art museum. Once again communities are in crisis—and this time, artists and art institutions are on the front line standing up against authoritarianism. Join us!

Retired Allan Hancock College instructor Nancy Jo Ward selected for XV Florence Biennale

by Community Contributor • October 23, 2025 • Comments Off

SANTA MARIA — Retired Allan Hancock College Graphic Design Professor Nancy Jo Ward has been selected to exhibit her mixed-media work at the XV Florence Biennale in Florence, Italy, Oct. 18–26, 2025.

Ward, who recently concluded 27 years of service at Hancock, will present three works— titled Anna-Louise, Katerina and Selia—at the prestigious international exhibition. Her invitation places her among an international roster of more than 500 artists and designers more than 80 countries.

Ward’s practice blends digital technology with traditional materials to explore psychological portraiture, memory, identity and the aesthetics of post-internet culture, an approach that aligns with the Biennale 2025 theme, “The Eternal Union Between Light and Darkness.”

Join CEC, SBHS students, elected officials and local climate champions on Nov. 8 for our next Youth Climate Workshop on climate advocacy, more upcoming events

by Community Contributor • October 23, 2025 • Comments Off

Students in grades six through 12 who want to take meaningful climate action are invited to a FREE, hands-on workshop at CEC’s Environmental Hub, co-hosted by CEC and Santa Barbara High School’s Environmental Advocacy Club. In this session, we will dive into environmental policy advocacy, break down the public comment process, and show you how to use your voice to stand up for climate justice.

Ventura County Office of Education — Test Scores Rise, New Welding Center, Hackathon, and more…

by Community Contributor • October 21, 2025 • Comments Off

Ventura County students are making gains in both math and English language arts, according to the latest scores from the California Assessment of Student Performance and Progress (CAASPP). The percentage of students countywide who met or exceeded state standards in the 2024-2025 school year is up by 1.3% in math and 1.9% in English. This is the fourth consecutive year of improvement since scores dipped during the pandemic. You can find CAASPP scores for individual schools and school districts at this link.

UCSB — The Current — ‘Novel membrane gel from UCSB offers new tool for breast cancer research’ and more news, events

by Community Contributor • October 21, 2025 • Comments Off

Researchers created an algae-based gel for studying mammary epithelial cells, which form milk-producing ducts and glands in healthy breast tissue and can transform into cancer cells.

Bilingual report — Application deadlines near for Hancock’s BSN Pathway and EMT Program

by Community Contributor • October 21, 2025 • Comments Off

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.

County of Ventura Supervisor Jeff Gorell — County of Ventura takes position opposing Zone Zero and Fire Risk Maps one-size-fits-all approach by State of California

by Community Contributor • October 21, 2025 • Comments Off

“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.”

Community Environmental Council (CEC) — Action Alert Success: Santa Barbara County votes to end new oil drilling and begin the process to phase out existing oil operations

by Community Contributor • October 21, 2025 • Comments Off

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.

Allan Hancock College English instructor publishes new thriller novel ‘Sea of Glass’

by Community Contributor • October 21, 2025 • Comments Off

SANTA MARIA — Allan Hancock College adjunct English instructor Patrick Shattuck has published his latest novel, Sea of Glass, a contemporary thriller infused with elements of magical realism.

The book tells the story of Shannon Delaney, a teenager overshadowed by her brilliant twin sister and caught in a web of secrets, shifting loyalties and a mysterious glowing glass orb that reveals haunting visions of love, loss and truth.

“I’ve always been a storyteller—I was that kid in class who everyone wanted to hear read first,” said Shattuck. “Now, as both a teacher and writer, I still love creating stories that keep readers turning the pages and looking for what comes next.”

Friendship Center Adult Day Care Center in Santa Barbara announces upcoming events

by Community Contributor • October 21, 2025 • Comments Off

PURCHASE TICKETS DID SOMENONE SAY PRIZES!? Be ready to enter the silent auction and raffle drawing at the Halloween Disco! Prize opportunities include: ?? 1 RAFFLE TICKET: $25 ?????????? 5 RAFFLE TICKETS: $100 ????? SILENT AUCTION: PRICES VARY DEPENDING ON…

Bilingual report — Workforce Development Board of Ventura County launches PEER Up Grant Program to empower individuals with disabilities

by Community Contributor • October 21, 2025 • Comments Off

OXNARD — The Workforce Development Board of Ventura County (WDBVC) is proud to announce the launch of Professional Empowerment and Employment Resources (PEER) Up, a groundbreaking new program designed to close the employment and wage gaps for individuals with disabilities in Ventura County. PEER Up is a workforce development initiative that provides paid work experience, mentorship, and inclusive job connections to help participants build confidence and thrive in today’s workforce.

Ventura Housing invites Ventura County artists to create public art for new affordable housing community

by Community Contributor • October 21, 2025 • Comments Off

VENTURA — Ventura Housing is inviting Ventura County artists to help bring beauty and meaning to its affordable housing community, Valentine Road Apartments.

As part of its commitment to integrating art into community spaces, Ventura Housing seeks artworks that inspire, uplift, and reflect the voices of residents. This project reflects Ventura Housing’s belief that art is an essential part of what makes a home. By bringing creativity and color into shared spaces, the Valentine Road public art initiative aims to spark pride, connection, and healing among residents.

Bilingual report — City of Santa Paula recognized with Statewide Award for Excellence

by Community Contributor • October 21, 2025 • Comments Off

SANTA PAULA — The City of Santa Paula has been honored by the League of California Cities as one of only 11 cities statewide to receive the distinguished 2025 Helen Putnam Award for Excellence. Santa Paula earned this recognition in the category of Enhancing Public Trust, Ethics, and Community Involvement for its innovative efforts to strengthen civic engagement, transparency, and ethical governance.

Santa Barbara City College launches three new certification pathways in Phys Ed.

by Community Contributor • October 21, 2025 • Comments Off

SANTA BARBARA — Santa Barbara City College’s (SBCC) Physical Education Department is proud to announce the launch of three innovative certification pathways designed to meet growing workforce needs in sports, fitness, and healthcare industries: Youth Coaching, Fitness Trainer, and Pre-Sports Medicine. The certifications launched this Fall semester and registration for Spring 2026 begins Friday, Dec. 12.

Lumina Alliance welcomes former Hope Chest Team to launch new thrift store supporting survivors

by Community Contributor • October 21, 2025 • Comments Off

SAN LUIS OBISPO — Lumina Alliance is proud to announce the upcoming grand opening of Lumina Thrift, a new thrift store in San Luis Obispo, opening at 545 Higuera Street across from Fred & Betty’s on Nov. 17. This new venture brings together Lumina’s mission of supporting survivors with the expertise of a highly respected team known for running one of the most beloved thrift stores in the area.

The entire team, both staff and core volunteers, previously worked at the Hope Chest thrift store, and will continue to bring their professionalism, warmth, and reputation for selecting quality donations to Lumina Thrift. With their help, the shop will continue to be a thoughtfully curated and community-loved destination, now with proceeds supporting Lumina Alliance’s no-cost services for survivors of sexual assault and intimate partner violence.

Central Coast Alliance for a Sustainable Economy (CAUSE) — We’re Hiring! Join the movement for justice on the Central Coast

by Community Contributor • October 21, 2025 • Comments Off

At CAUSE, we believe that real change begins at the local level – when everyday people come together to organize, speak out, and build collective power in our communities.

Here on the Central Coast – and across the state and nation – we face urgent challenges. But we have the power to defend what matters and push for local progress that reflects our values. That’s why we are hiring.

Family Service Agency announces open availability for Senior Services

by Community Contributor • October 21, 2025 • Comments Off

SANTA BARBARA — Family Service Agency (FSA) is announcing that its senior services programs have openings for new clients. There are currently no waiting lists for services for the first time in years! FSA’s Senior Services programs include senior and caregiver counseling, case management, and the Program to Encourage Active Rewarding Lives for Seniors (PEARLS). FSA operates these programs countywide, including in Santa Maria at the Santa Maria Valley Youth & Family Center and in Guadalupe at The Little House By The Park.

The Teaching Zoo at Moorpark College wins prestigious Animal Exhibit Award of Excellence

by Community Contributor • October 21, 2025 • Comments Off

MOORPARK — The Teaching Zoo at Moorpark College has received the Animal Exhibit Award of Excellence from the Zoological Association of America (ZAA), a national honor recognizing Annual Awards Banquet, recognizing the zoo’s excellence in new and unique live animal display, exhibit design and construction.

Presented annually at the ZAA Awards Banquet, the Animal Exhibit Award of Excellence places Moorpark College’s Teaching Zoo alongside some of the most respected wildlife facilities in the country. The ZAA, a leading accrediting body in zoological care, awards the recognition to exhibits that demonstrate excellence in enriching animal lives, engaging the public and advancing conservation education.

Community Environmental Council (CEC) — Honoring Paul Relis: A Trailblazer Who Shaped the Environmental Movement

by Community Contributor • October 21, 2025 • Comments Off

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.

Bilingual report — Adelante Charter School, a 2025 California Distinguished School, celebrates 25 years of Dual-Language Program

by Community Contributor • October 20, 2025 • Comments Off

SANTA BARBARA — This fall, Adelante Charter School, a 2025 California Distinguished School and a Spanish dual-language immersion program, will celebrate its 25th anniversary by honoring individuals who have been instrumental to its success and growth. The honorees include the school’s inaugural board members, whose vision and dedication made history in Santa Barbara County, along with local philanthropist Jim Kearns.

Bilingual report — Office of Traffic Safety awards $193,516.00 grant to the City of Ventura for Bicycle and Pedestrian Safety Program

by Community Contributor • October 20, 2025 • Comments Off

“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.”

CLU announces FABulous Fall Lecture Series

by Community Contributor • October 20, 2025 • Comments Off

THOUSAND OAKS — For details on the series and to register, go to: https://www.callutheran.edu/centers/lifelong-learning/fifty-better/lecture-series.html

Lectures are $10 each. Bundle the entire series (12 lectures) for just $85. Or “build-your-own bundle” – choose 5 lectures for $40.

Half of the lectures offered this fall can be attended in-person at our Thousand Oaks campus (parking is free and accessible). All lectures are recorded and can be attended virtually.

Bilingual report — Ventura Fire Department celebrates 150 years of service

by Community Contributor • October 20, 2025 • Comments Off

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 — Community Raises 21,419 diapers for Local Diaper Bank

by Community Contributor • October 20, 2025 • Comments Off

“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.

Community Environmental Council (CEC) — Your facility could support your community during a disaster — Learn How

by Community Contributor • October 20, 2025 • Comments Off

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.

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