Category: Seniors

Friendship Adult Day Services — The Friendly Finch: November

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Sitting down to write about what I’m most grateful for during this month of gratitude, I can’t help but feel unbelievably lucky that my “daily place of being” is Friendship Center, a beautiful space filled with laughter, compassion, and purpose. Every day, I get to be around the people you love and care about most, which fills me and my team with so much honor and pride.

This past month has been one for the books and, yes, I know I say that a lot…. Earlier in October I had the honor of speaking on a national panel as one of seven organizations in the country recognized for innovative dementia care. This experience was great to learn even more about the dementia care landscape and solidified how truly unique we are. Did you know there are fewer than a thousand day programs in the U.S. that offer dementia care, let alone specialize in it?!

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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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Friendship Center Adult Day Services — Halloween Disco was a success because of YOU!

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success! With nearly 120 guests, Halloween Disco was a night to remember, filled with incredible dance moves, tasty treats, fun company, and the best costumes around. Because of your generosity we were SO close to reaching our goal, in the end raising $56,239 to directly support our programs.

Know that it is not to late to donate during our Fall Fundraising campaign! It could be YOU who closes our gap to goal, ensuring our compassionate and engaging care for seniors living with dementia continues strong! If you did not get a chance to donate yet this season, or had a blast booging the night away at Halloween Disco DONATE HERE.

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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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Santa Paula Art Museum — Free Family Day: Día de los Muertos on Nov. 2

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Sunday, November 2, from 12 PM to 3 PM
Free for all ages

Guests of all ages are invited to celebrate Día de los Muertos at three locations in downtown Santa Paula on Sunday, November 2! Visit the Santa Paula Art Museum, Santa Paula Cemetery, and the Agriculture Museum and enjoy hands-on crafts, altar and art displays, face painting, and much more. Admission is free and all materials are provided. Hours and activities vary by location. Follow the link below for full details.

Free Family Day at the Santa Paula Art Museum is sponsored by Gold Coast Health Plan and The Smith-Hobson Foundation Fund.

MORE INFO?

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Ventura County Neighbors Support Fund matching opportunity announced

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CAMARILLO — Momentum is building with the announcement of a new matching opportunity for the Ventura County Neighbors Support Fund, a community-wide effort to support local families and small businesses experiencing sudden hardship and disruption. Through the generosity of the Brokaw Family Fund, donations up to a total of $50,000 will be matched, doubling impact for this vital humanitarian effort that offers a coordinated and trusted way for residents to step up and support one another.

“The Brokaw Family Fund normally focuses on bettering the lives of farm workers but now all our immigrant neighbors are threatened,” said Ellen Brokaw. “Non-profits are overwhelmed with requests from families for life-sustaining help. We hope this challenge will inspire others to contribute whatever they can to help all our neighbors in need.”

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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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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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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

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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.

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SBCC School of Extended Learning — Rediscover your creative spark

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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:

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

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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:

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Museum of Contemporary Art Santa Barbara — Save Art Save Democracy

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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!

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

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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…

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

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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.

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Family Service Agency announces open availability for Senior Services

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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.

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

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“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.”

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CLU announces FABulous Fall Lecture Series

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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. 

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

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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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The Gallegly Center at California Lutheran University empowers students to become leaders in civic public discourse

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THOUSAND OAKS — We are excited about the opportunity for California Lutheran University to provide nonpartisan thought-leadership through the Elton and Janice Gallegly Center for Public Service and Civil Engagement on the main campus. This center will play a pivotal role in students’ collegiate experience by helping to develop the critical academic skills and broad perspectives necessary for constructive dialogue and civil public discourse. This scholarly engagement will empower them to pursue careers of meaningful public service and informed civic engagement.

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No Kings Day rallies planned on Oct. 18 throughout the 805 region

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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.

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Bilingual report — Getting the flu vaccine is critically important this flu season

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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:

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Oxnard College marks 50 years of service to Ventura County with new programs, academic milestones and campus celebration

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OXNARD —Oxnard College is celebrating its 50th anniversary this academic year, reflecting on five decades of empowering students, shaping careers and strengthening Ventura County. The milestone was marked on September 25 with the unveiling of a new campus mural by alumna Elisa Torres and her team of student artists.

Funded by the Oxnard College Foundation, the mural depicts the people, places and traditions that have defined Oxnard and the college’s role in the community over the last half-century. The college first opened its doors in 1975 after local families, community leaders and activists came together to advocate for equitable access to higher education in Oxnard.

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Bilingual report — Gold Coast Health Plan launches Total Care Advantage: A new plan for people with both Medi-Cal and Medicare

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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.

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CSUCI/Osher Lifelong Learning Institute (OLLI) announces Fall classes

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CAMARILLO — Experience the Joy of Learning with OLLI at CSUCI

The Osher Lifelong Learning Institute (OLLI) at Cal State University Channel Islands (CSUCI) is dedicated to enriching the lives of lifelong learners by providing opportunities for intellectual stimulation and social connection designed for adults aged 50+. We are thrilled to announce our Fall II catalog, featuring a fascinating selection of nine 6-week courses. Dive into a diverse range of topics, from health and longevity to international relations, art history, literature, anthropology, and more!

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Central Coast Alliance United for a Sustainable Economy (CAUSE) — Together we made Raising Justice possible!

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Our growing base of community champions – YOU! – raised more funds than ever at our annual community celebration and fundraiser!

Raising Justice showed us what a vibrant community of movement friends can do when we come together to uplift housing justice, environmental justice, and fight for immigrant worker power.

No one can do this work alone. Each year Raising Justice plays a central role in uplifting the organizing our region deserves — and this year’s success belongs to all of us.

Whether you joined us in person or chipped from afar — whether you’re an event sponsor, donor, grassroots leaders, partner, staff, volunteer, or table host — YOU truly help make it all happen – T H A N K Y O U!

The beautiful array of community contributions we witnessed at Raising Justice are what keep our grassroots organizing strong at a time when we need it most.

With gratitude for the grassroots,

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Bilingual report — 805UndocuFund Fall 2025 Newsletter

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  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.

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Fall Into Fun By The Sea: October events at Ventura Harbor Village

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VENTURA — Ventura Harbor Village kicks off October seaside sunshine and embraces the spirit of the season with a full lineup of events. From an EV Car Show, to hallowed-themed family activities with witches, and doggies, and zombies, Ventura Harbor Village sets the stage for plenty of options to participate this October for a sparkling and spooktacular good time!  venturaharborvillage.com/events

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Bilingual report — County of Ventura — Ocean Water Quality Monitoring Report: Potential Storm Water Runoff Contamination

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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. 

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Museum of Contemporary Art Santa Barbara — DJ Javier San Milano Drive now open!

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Hello Community!

We had a blast spending time with you all this past Sunday at the opening reception of San Milano Drive! We want to thank you all for bringing the good vibes!

Big shoutout to our vendors who kept us fed, hydrated, and kept the jams flowing. Also a HUGE thanks to the amazing volunteers that made this event possible.

Special thanks to our media partners Santa Barbara Magazine, KCLU, and LUM Art Magazine.

If you haven’t seen Santa Barbara Independent’s Fall Arts Preview, read more about the exhibition.

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Community Environmental Council (CEC) — Thank you for supporting local climate action at CEC’s Green Gala

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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.

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Congresswoman Julia Brownley (D-CA 26th District) — Trump Has Shut Down the Government (Again)

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(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.

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Friendship Center Adult Day Services — The Friendly Finch: October

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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.

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VCCF Power of Purpose – September 2025

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(Sept. 30) marks the last day of our fiscal year. For me, this moment always invites deep reflection, offers a pause for gratitude, and serves as a joyful reminder to celebrate all we’ve accomplished together.

This year, because of you, we contributed nearly $14 million to make our community a better place for all. Together, you mobilized to raise close to $1.5 million for those who lost their homes in the Mountain Fire, ensuring that critical support reached those most affected. Collectively, you awarded nearly $2 million in scholarships to help local students pursue their educational and career aspirations. You stood by families facing financial hardship to ensure their beloved pets were cared for; you provided groceries for thousands of households; and you strengthened local small businesses by supporting education, access to small business loans, and consulting services to navigate complex challenges. These are just a few of the many ways you’ve served our community.

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Museum of Ventura County — Play Date in the Garden with Pinaysphere, more news, events

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Join us for a vibrant Play Date in the Garden with Pinaysphere, where kids dive into Filipino culture by crafting their own bahay kubo! A bahay kubo is a traditional Filipino house built on stilts, made from natural materials like bamboo and coconut fibers, showcasing Filipino ingenuity, sustainability, and community spirit. This playful activity celebrates the simplicity and creativity of these iconic homes, known for their adaptability and resourcefulness. Led by Pinaysphere, an organization dedicated to empowering Filipino women and youth through art and culture, this event will be filled with fun, learning, and creativity as we explore the beauty of Filipino heritage together! Register online HERE.

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Port of Hueneme — Banana Fest makes Waves!

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PORT HUENEME —The Port of Hueneme’s 12th Annual Banana Festival set a new attendance record this past Saturday, welcoming more than 13,000 community members for a day of music, food, tours, and family fun.This year’s theme, “Making Workforce Waves Through Global Trade,” spotlighted the people who turn ships and cargo into local careers and opportunity.

Festivalgoers enjoyed banana-inspired treats, live performances from Instone Live, Morie & the Heavy Hitters, Savor, and The Brandon Ragan Project, and family-friendly activities like the kids’ zone and pie-eating contest. Land and sea tours offered a rare behind-the-scenes glimpse to the Port’s operations, showing firsthand how bananas, cars, and other global goods move through Ventura County’s only deep-water harbor.

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