“Ray’s positive impact on ensuring that current and future water needs of our customers are met cannot be overstated,” says TWSD General Manager Mark Norris. “His leadership was instrumental in pushing forward the start of construction of the Pure Water Project’s Advanced Water Purification Facility under the Las Virgenes-Triunfo Joint Powers Authority. The facility will serve customers for decades to come.”
Over the past several weeks, our community invested in a healthier, more resilient future.
From the Santa Barbara Earth Day Festival to our Spring Appeal, we saw hundreds of people step forward to support climate action and community resilience across the Central Coast.
Thank you.
Because of supporters like you, this campaign outperformed recent years and raised meaningful support for the work ahead.
At a moment when so much progress feels uncertain, that kind of community investment matters deeply.
THOUSAND OAKS — The Kingsmen Shakespeare Festival launched in 1997 with the professional production of “A Midsummer Night’s Dream” and the goal of presenting the magical comedy every decade with a different theme. Now, as the Kingsmen Shakespeare Company celebrates its milestone 30th year, it will again honor the tradition. This summer’s production of “A Midsummer Night’s Dream” is set in the 1920s jazz and gangster world of Chicago and will run June 19 to July 5. “Hamlet” is the second production, July 10 to 26, and will be set in the late 19th century. All performances are at 8 p.m., Friday through Sunday, in Kingsmen Park on the California Lutheran University campus.
From farmworker fields in California to war in Vietnam to a doctoral degree in history, Fabros is UCSB’s oldest Ph.D. recipient.
Read more about his story
VENTURA — As the Fourth of July approaches, people in sensitive groups should be cautious about elevated levels of air pollution caused by fireworks.
Fireworks emit fine particles including soot and ash that can cause serious health effects. Children, older adults and people who are pregnant or have respiratory or heart conditions are the most at risk.
SANTA PAULA — More than 3,000 attendees packed Historic Main Street for the June edition of Cruise Night 2026 on Friday, June 5 — one of the strongest turnouts in the event’s 25-year history.
Hundreds of classic cars filled the street as families, car enthusiasts, and visitors from across Ventura, Santa Barbara, and Los Angeles counties came together for a free evening of community, culture, and live music by Ventura County-based bandRed Rock Road. Downtown shops and restaurants stayed open late, bringing the city’s historic core to life well into the evening.
“We are absolutely thrilled by the incredible community response to the Cruise Night on June 5. More than 3,000 attendees came out to celebrate on Main Street, and the energy was electric from start to finish. Seeing so many families, car enthusiasts and visitors from across the region come together in historic downtown Santa Paula reminds us exactly why this 25-year tradition matters. We can’t wait to see everyone again on August 7.”
VENTURA COUNTY — Michelle Ascencion, Ventura County Clerk-Recorder and Registrar of Voters, announced the schedule for the One Percent Manual Tally audit of the June 2, 2026, Gubernatorial Primary Election. A mandated process under the California Elections Code (§15360), the One Percent Manual Tally audit is conducted during the Official Canvass period and involves a meticulous hand count of ballots from randomly selected batches of ballots tabulated through the end of Election Night. The manual tally counts are compared to the electronically compiled results to confirm the equipment’s correct tabulation of the ballots.
The audit process officially begins on June 11 at 9:00 AM and is expected to be completed no later than June 23, 2026. Members of the public and media are welcome to observe.
SANTA MARIA — This summer, PCPA invites audiences to enjoy a season of inspiring true stories, family-friendly adventures, and memorable music. Performances run from June 11 through August 23 at the Marian Theatre in Santa Maria and the Solvang Festival Theater. Experience the true-life triumph of Come From Away, the magic of Frozen, the excitement of Luchadora!, and the energy of Beehive. This season promises theatrical experiences that will move, delight, and inspire, both under the stars and on stage.
SANTA MARIA — Thirty-two recruits graduated from Allan Hancock College’s Basic?Law?Enforcement?Academy June 10 at the college’s Public Safety Training Complex in Lompoc.
The graduating recruits of Class #26-131 gathered with their friends and families to celebrate the completion of more than 872 training hours required to graduate from the academy and enter careers as peace officers. All?of the recruits have already been hired by Central Coast?law?enforcement?agencies.?
“This is the end of your academic training here at the academy, but your career and your training are far from over,” Arroyo Grande Police Chief David Culver told the graduates. “The real work is just beginning.”
SANTA BARBARA — Live music, health screenings, and hundreds of smiling faces: it’s almost time for the 35th Annual Senior Expo of Santa Barbara! The largest active aging fair in Santa Barbara County returns on Wednesday, October 14, 2026 from 9 a.m. to 12 p.m. at the Earl Warren Showgrounds. The deadline to register as a sponsor or exhibitor is August 1, 2026.
Exhibitor registration opens Monday, June 15, and space is expected to fill quickly! Organizations that serve older adults and caregivers are encouraged to register early to secure their booth. With over 110 exhibitors, the Expo offers a valuable opportunity to connect directly with community members and network with local aging service providers.
VENTURA — United Way of Ventura County (UWVC) has been awarded two grants totaling $2.1 million from the Ventura County Continuum of Care Alliance. Both grants are from the State of California’s Homeless Housing Assistance and Prevention Program (HHAP) Round 6 for Homeless Prevention and Rapid Re-Housing. This funding will bolster key programs, including Home Safe which aims to place homeless and keep them housed as well as the county-wide Landlord Engagement Program (LEP), which aims to increase housing stock and utilize existing housing vouchers and subsidies provided by local jurisdictions and community partners.
LOMPOC — If your ideal summer getaway includes scenic beaches, local wine, outdoor adventure, and a slower pace, Lompoc deserves a spot on your Central
Coast itinerary. Located along California’s scenic Highway 1 corridor, Lompoc offers a refreshing mix of laid-back charm and unforgettable experiences.
One day you can hike through California history, the next you can sip Pinot Noir, watch a rocket launch, or relax at the beach with a famous burger in hand.
Whether you’re planning a long weekend or a full summer road trip, here are seven great ways to experience Lompoc this season.
Friday Nights Under the Stars at the Santa Barbara County Courthouse Sunken Garden
July 10 – August 28 | 8:30 PM
(No screening on Friday, August 7 due to Fiesta)
UCSB Arts & Lectures and the Santa Barbara County Office of Arts & Culture present the 2026 FREE Summer Cinema lineup: “Mixtapes & Misfits,” seven films powered by iconic music, big emotions and unforgettable characters who refuse to fit the mold. Screenings take place Friday evenings at 8:30 p.m. from July 10 through August 28, under the stars at the Santa Barbara County Courthouse Sunken Garden (no film on Friday, August 7 due to Fiesta).
This year’s lineup includes: Pretty in Pink, Say Anything…, La Bamba, Rushmore, Love & Basketball, Napoleon Dynamite and Hairspray. Begun in 2010, this collaboration between Arts & Lectures and the County Office of Arts & Culture has become a cherished Santa Barbara summertime tradition.
OXNARD — The City of Oxnard Recreation and Community Services announces registration open for 2026 Camp Serendipity ‘Summer Day Camp’ from June 22 through Aug. 14. Open to children 5 to 12 years of age.
Click here for more information.
17.7 million Americans live in communities too road-poor to evacuate safely.
Read more about the threshold
SANTA BARBARA — Family Service Agency of Santa Barbara County has received a $200,000 grant from the Women’s Fund of Santa Barbara to fund its school-based mental health program over the 2026- 27 and 2027-28 academic years. The two-year gap funding will enable FSA to continue to provide mental health screenings, crisis response, and counseling for local students.
SANTA BARBARA — As a child, Stephen Hughes took an Orff class at a local music school, where he fell in love with music. This inspired him to take piano lessons and later join the band and choir throughout his school years.
“In school or out, I’ve been involved in music ever since,” Hughes said.
Today, Hughes directs the Nick Rail Summer Band Camp, one of the Santa Barbara Education Foundation’s signature summer programs (SBEF). Over the years, he has watched students grow not only as musicians, but also as teammates, leaders, and friends.
“Not only do they learn a lot and keep their musicianship going into the summer, but students come back for years, wear their band camp shirts all throughout the school year, and talk about experiences from the camp with me in school,” Hughes shared.
VENTURA — The City of Ventura is seeking residents interested in making a difference in their community to apply for vacancies on several boards, commissions, and committees that play a vital role in shaping the city’s future.
Residents have the opportunity to help influence local programs, policies, and services by serving on advisory bodies, including:
Parallel Histories: Ventura County during the US Revolution
As the United States commemorates the 250th anniversary of the Declaration of Independence, Parallel Histories explores what was unfolding at the same time in Ventura County. While British colonialism and the Revolutionary War reshaped the East Coast, California, not yet part of the United States, was being transformed by Spain.
READ MORE
Patriotic Threads: Textiles, Tapestries, & T-Shirts
Patriotic Threads explores how textiles have long served as powerful expressions of national identity. Through handcrafted works, the exhibit reveals how textiles and design embody patriotism and collective memory.
READ MORE
It’s the most wonderful time of the year. For graduates, especially. Commencement season has arrived.
Read more about commencement
WESTLAKE VILLAGE — June, July, and August are the peak months for childhood drownings, according to the Centers for Disease Control and Prevention. The Yarrow Family YMCA branch of the Southeast Ventura YMCA is hosting free water-safety classes for ages 5 through 12 with little or no water experience.
YMCA’s Safety Around Water (SAW) program offers multiple sessions. The 12-class session runs from June 29 through July 16. Classes take place on Mondays and Wednesdays from 5:30 p.m. to 6:00 p.m.
Two-week sessions of eight classes each are from June 8 through June 17 and from June 22 through July 2, with a number of afternoon class times available.
This May 5, the Port of Hueneme celebrated its 89th birthday with cake and a special preview of the Richard Bard Founders Plaza Memorial. Thank you to everyone who joined us in celebrating the Port and its rich history!
The City of Santa Paula is now accepting applications for a City Management Fellow through the American Connection Corps AmeriCorps program!
This paid service opportunity offers hands-on experience in local government while making a meaningful impact in the community.
Thank You!
To all who joined us for last week’s Cleaver & Clark Commons Grand Opening and to those who helped make this new affordable housing possible, we share our gratitude.
THOUSAND OAKS — The Ventura County Fire Department announced today that Truck 29 has officially been placed into service, enhancing fire protection and technical rescue capabilities for the Santa Clara River Valley and the entire county.
Truck 29 is a new 100-foot tractor-drawn aerial apparatus manufactured by Rosenbauer and equipped with specialized tools and equipment designed to support highly technical rescue operations and structure fire response throughout the region.
Until the completion of the new Fire Station 29 in Santa Paula, Truck 29 will temporarily operate out of Fire Station 27 in Fillmore.
Dear Artists Community,
We are overwhelmed with gratitude, this year we reached maximum capacity on the very first day of drop off, May 26th. This is a true testament to the incredible talent and enthusiasm within our community, and we could not be more grateful.
As of May 27th, we are no longer accepting any additional submissions.
VENTURA — Ventura County Business Women (VCBW), the county’s fastest-growing professional women’s network with over 6,600 members, announces its June 2026 event lineup designed to support women entrepreneurs through authentic connection, strategic collaboration, and personal empowerment.
With a diverse range of in-person and virtual opportunities, June’s calendar offers businesswomen across Ventura County multiple touchpoints for networking, skill development and community building—from signature morning networking events and a brand-new pop-up gathering in Ojai to an expert panel experience.
VENTURA COUNTY — Ventura County Animal Services (VCAS) is participating in the 3rd Annual California Adopt-A-Pet Day on Saturday, June 6th, 2026, from 1:00pm – 6:00pm at the Camarillo and Simi Valley Animal Shelters. This is a statewide adoption event with over 150 participating shelters.
The goal of the event is to adopt out as many animals into loving homes as possible. To help remove adoption barriers, VCAS is waiving all adoption fees!
Last year VCAS adopted out a record 60 animals during this statewide event, and they hope to break this record as VCAS remains overcapacity.
How do we protect Santa Barbara’s beloved coastline amid rising seas and a changing climate?
Next week, join us for June’s Climate Fridays Santa Barbara to hear directly from local leaders working toward climate and coastal resilience. Melissa Hetrick, the City of Santa Barbara’s adaptation and resilience manager, will share updates on the Waterfront Adaptation Plan.
OXNARD — The Mestizo Folklórico Dance Company presents Fiesta Folklórica, marking its 45th anniversary with two shows at the Oxnard College Performing Arts Building, located at 4000 S. Rose Avenue.
The performances will take place on Saturday, May 30 at 7:30 pm and Sunday, May 31 at 4:30 pm.
For information on advanced online ticket sales, please visit: https://oxnard.vbotickets.com/event/mestizo_dance_company_presents_fiesta_folkl%C3%B3rica/192913, or you can scan the QR code or click on the link on the poster.
Tickets will also be available at the door one hour before each show.
SANTA PAULA — On Friday, May 29, 2026, from 5-8 p.m., the men and women of the Santa Paula Police Department will be serving meals with the staff at Parque 1055 Restaurant at its Tip-A-Cop event, benefitting Special Olympics. Police Department officers and professional staff will be volunteering their time to earn tips that support local Special Olympics athletes. Proceeds collected will be donated to Special Olympics.
PISMO BEACH — The Rotary Club of Pismo Beach Five Cities has donated more than $13,000 to Judkins Middle School to give its graduating eighth graders the celebration they deserve. On Monday, May 26th, the Class of 2026 will enjoy an exclusive, full-day outing at Boomers— courtesy of the club’s year-long fundraising efforts and the community’s generous support.
The gift comes after budget constraints forced the cancellation of what had long been a beloved end-of-year tradition: a class trip to Magic Mountain. With that milestone gone, eighth graders faced graduating without any special send-off. The Rotary Club decided to change that.
“Every kid deserves to be celebrated as they make this big leap to high school,” said Jenny Dierck, a parent and club member involved in organizing the event. “We’ve been working hard all year to make this happen, and we couldn’t be more excited to give these students a day they’ll always remember.”
Thursday, June 4, 2026
California Lutheran University
Gilbert Sports & Fitness Center
130 Overton Ct, Thousand Oaks, CA 91360
11:30 a.m. – 2:00 p.m.
SANTA MARIA — Allan Hancock College celebrated the achievements of 1,196?graduating students at the college’s 105th?commencement?ceremony.
“No matter what path brought you to this moment, you should be proud of what you have accomplished,” Hancock Board of Trustees President Hilda Zacarias said to the more than 600 graduates who participated in the May 22 ceremony, which took place on the college’s athletics field at its Santa Maria campus. “Wherever your path leads, know that you leave here with knowledge, experience, confidence, and the ability to create opportunity for yourselves and for others.”
Designed to pair you with the financial expertise and right amount of capital you need to move your business forward, the Economic Development Collaborative works with more than 30 professional advisors and a full-time loan fund director, available to local businesses at no cost.
The EDC’s Business Development Loan Fund stimulates job creation and economic activity by providing small businesses with greater access to capital and specialized technical business assistance. The fund is open to businesses in all industry sectors and is supported by funds from the U.S. Department of Commerce, the cities and County of Ventura, and private capital. This loan fund makes available long-term, affordable financing to new and existing businesses throughout Ventura and Santa Barbara County.
CAMARILLO — The Ventura County Community College District (VCCCD) this week celebrated the achievements of more than 5,000 graduates during commencement ceremonies held across its three colleges: Moorpark College, Oxnard College and Ventura College on May 20, May 21 and May 22.
The Class of 2026 earned a collective 4,768 certificates and 8,237 degrees, reflecting thousands of hours of academic study, hands-on training, internships, clinical experience and workforce preparation. Graduates will continue serving communities throughout Ventura County as educators, healthcare professionals, first responders, skilled technical workers, business leaders and community advocates.
This year’s graduates represent the diversity, resilience and ambition of Ventura County. Many balanced academics with jobs, family responsibilities and community leadership while pursuing certificates and degrees designed to open doors to transfer opportunities and high-demand careers.
Looking to stretch your budget a little further? Join us for this beginner-friendly workshop where you’ll learn simple, realistic ways to save on groceries and household items. We’ll cover couponing basics, where to find coupons, how to stack coupons with sales, smart strategies to maximize your savings and more! Perfect for individuals and families ready to make the most of every dollar!
THOUSAND OAKS — The Ventura County Fire Department is proud to announce the graduation of Academy 63.
Please join us at the date, time, and location below as we welcome our newest firefighters and celebrate their hard work, commitment, and dedication in completing our 20-week firefighter academy.
SANTA MARIA — Hundreds of students and donors gathered at the Joe White Memorial Gymnasium on May 21 to celebrate the Allan Hancock College Foundation’s annual?scholarship?awards.
This year, 409 students received 578?scholarships totaling $725,000— the most awarded in the foundation’s 49-year history, and a 20 percent increase over the previous year.
“Scholarships do more than help students pay for college. They create opportunities, remove barriers, and remind students that their community believes in their potential,” said Jon Hooten, Ph.D., executive director of college advancement and the Allan Hancock College Foundation. “It’s inspiring to see so many students recognized for their dedication, perseverance, and academic success.”
SOMIS — AMCAL Multi-Housing, Inc. in partnership with the County of Ventura will be performing off-Site roadway improvements to the recently completed Somis Ranch Apartments to enhance safety for future residents, as well as the general public. As previously announced on the April 2d press release, the project will include construction of two new bus stops, new right- and left-turn lanes, a new traffic signal at the entrance to the housing development, roadway widening, drainage upgrades, updated signage and striping, and the addition of a bike lane. These improvements are designed to enhance safety and accessibility for residents and the traveling public along SR-34.
Wildfire, drought and insect infestations are causing forests to emit more greenhouse gasses than carbon-credit systems currently account for.
Read more about the risks
CAMARILLO — Epidemiologist. Oncologist. Physician-scientist. CSU Channel Islands (CSUCI) Health Science major Bryan Magana has big plans for the future.
Magana, who will graduate from CSUCI on Saturday, May 23, also minored in Chemistry and Biology. In the Fall, he will attend Johns Hopkins Bloomberg School of Public Health to pursue a Master of Health Science degree in Epidemiology. From there, he plans to earn an M.D./Ph.D. and ultimately build a career that combines treating cancer patients with conducting oncology research.
A first-generation college student and the son of Mexican immigrants, Magana grew up in Fillmore, California, where he excelled academically and athletically at Fillmore High School. Although he was accepted to several California State University campuses, he chose CSUCI because of its small class sizes, affordability, and the opportunity to build meaningful relationships with faculty.
“I know all of my professors personally,” Magana said. “The class sizes are small enough that I was able to develop connections with them and ask questions about graduate school, career paths, and future opportunities.”
?The Ventura County Farmworker Housing Study and Action Plan is a collaborative, countywide effort launched by the County of Ventura in partnership with House Farm Workers!, designed to understand and address the urgent housing needs of the county’s farmworker community – needs shaped by long-standing shortages, rising housing costs, and the essential role farm workers play in sustaining the region’s agricultural economy.
PORT HUENEME — The Port of Hueneme recently convened global trade leaders, agricultural exporters, and partners for its 13th Annual World Trade Month event, celebrating the Port’s agricultural roots while highlighting its role as a critical gateway for U.S. exports.
This year’s theme underscored the Port’s legacy as “the Port that the farmers built,” honoring generations of Ventura County growers who have relied on the Port to bring their products to international markets. Today, that legacy continues through the Port’s leadership in moving fresh produce, nursery stock, specialty crops, and automobiles to high-value destinations worldwide with unmatched speed and efficiency.
“This event celebrates the partnerships that power global trade. It’s a reminder that what happens at our Port reaches far beyond our shoreline, supporting jobs, economies, and connections around the world,” said Vice President Mary Anne Rooney.
NYELAND ACRES — Nyeland Promise is proud to announce that its “Safe Travels in Nyeland Acres” initiative has been recognized with the prestigious 2026 Carmen Ramirez Award for Equity by the Southern California Association of Governments (SCAG) during the 2026 Regional Conference and General Assembly
The Carmen Ramirez Award for Equity honors projects and collaborations that advance equity and improve outcomes for historically underserved and marginalized communities across Southern California. The award is named in honor of the late Ventura County Supervisor Carmen Ramirez, a tireless champion for social justice, sustainability, and underserved communities.
SANTA PAULA — One Step A La Vez proudly celebrated an unforgettable evening of recognition and community support at the Best of Heritage Valley Awards presented by the Santa Paula Chamber of Commerce, held at the beautiful Palazzio Event Center.
One Step A La Vez was honored with 1st Place – Best Community Service Organization in the Santa Clara River Valley, a recognition that reflects the incredible trust and support of the community we are privileged to serve.
In addition to this top honor, One Step A La Vez was also recognized with:
2nd Place – Best Children’s Activities / Center
3rd Place – Best Non-Profit Organization
VENTURA COUNTY — Cabrillo Economic Development Corporation (Cabrillo EDC), the region’s leading affordable housing developer, announces the launch of its inaugural Summer to Remember program, an eight-week youth enrichment initiative in partnership with the Boys & Girls Clubs of Greater Oxnard and Port Hueneme designed to support children and teens living in affordable housing communities managed by Cabrillo EDC across Ventura County.
“We are excited to partner with Cabrillo Economic Development Corporation to bring a Summer to Remember to life for young people in our community. This partnership allows us to meet kids where they are, providing safe, engaging, and enriching summer experiences that support learning, confidence, and connection. When organizations come together with a shared commitment to youth and families, the impact is powerful and lasting,” said Erin Antrim, CEO of the Boys & Girls Clubs of Greater Oxnard and Port Hueneme
Cerca de ti
(Close to you)
Play in Spanish
?Written by Conchi León?
Directed by Juliana Acosta
