Category: Seniors

100 artists unite for OPAC’s 2025 Día de los Muertos with El Velorio. Opening reception Oct. 2

OXNARD — This year’s altar is inspired by the monarch butterfly, a powerful symbol of the soul, transformation, and migration. In a city shaped by immigrant stories, the theme highlights the beauty and resilience of movement across borders. In Mexican tradition, the monarchs’ annual arrival in central Mexico each fall is believed to carry the spirits of departed loved ones back to earth, making them a cherished emblem of Día de los Muertos. Community members are invited to submit a photo of a departed loved one to be lovingly displayed. The Opening Reception will feature a ceremonial Aztec blessing and dance and a performance by Ballet Folklórico Mestizo of Oxnard College. 

Port of Hueneme — Bunches of Fun — The Banana Festival (Sept. 27) is Back!

The Port of Hueneme invites the community to the 12th Annual Banana Festival (10 a.m. to 5 p.m. Saturday, Sept. 27, a free family-friendly celebration of the Port’s famous bananas and the other global goods like blueberries and automobiles that cross its docks each day.

This unique event honors international trade and the hardworking local workforce that makes it all possible. Guests can enjoy banana-themed bites, blueberry-inspired concoctions, behind-the-scenes Port tours, local vendors, arts & crafts, and more.

Pre-sale tickets (ending Oct. 1) now available for Panteón Fest in Oxnard

This year, with the help of Allee and Sue, we’re excited to present Vuelo de las Almas—an art gallery showcasing works by over 20 artists, each created on a wooden monarch butterfly canvas. The gallery will be held inside the Chapel, with a meet-and-greet hosted by Allee and Sue at 5 PM.

Santa Paula Art Museum — Come Hang Out With Us!

Creative Hang with

The One Oh One

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Wednesday, September 24, from 6 PM to 9 PM

Free for everyone (food not included)

We’re excited to host The One Oh One’s September Creative Hang inside SPAM’s Cole Creativity Center! Mingle with fellow creatives while you enjoy live music by Matterform band. Anna’s Cider and brewLab Craft will keep you hydrated, and Chavas Tacos will be serving up yummy bites. The event is free for everyone (food is not included).

MORE INFO

Bilingual report — Ventura County residents are highly encouraged to take action to prevent mosquito breeding after recent rainfall

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. 

Bilingual report — September News from People’s Self-Help Housing

  Lea en español | Received this from a friend? Subscribe! eNewsletter September 2025 It’s back-to-school season for our Camino Scholars! With a gift of $55/month, students will have the tools and support to build their confidence, stay engaged with their studies, and succeed all year long.…

Explore Lompoc — Where the vibe stays chill, even after dark

LOMPOC — Here in Lompoc, nightlife is about easy going good times. A relaxed drink with friends. A late bite after a day of wine tasting or hiking. Maybe some live music or a laid-back DJ set. You won’t find velvet ropes or booming nightclubs, but you will find a few friendly places to hang out and unwind when the sun goes down.

Ready for a mellow night out? These local spots keep the lights on just a little longer.

Bilingual report — Santa Paula Aims to Strengthen Community Protections Through Legal and Local Action

SANTA PAULA — The City of Santa Paula wishes to update the community on recent City Council actions concerning immigration-related issues and federal litigation. Last month, the City issued a statement clarifying that it had not been invited to join…

Cottage Health raises awareness for Sepsis Awareness Month

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.

Museum of Ventura County — Enfoque Guided Exhibit Tours in Santa Paula, more events

Enfoque Guided Exhibit Tours

Sunday, September 21
1 – 2 p.m.
@the Agriculture Museum
926 Railroad Avenue, Santa Paula

Join us for a free, public tour of Enfoque led by members of our Latino Advisory Committee and Museum Docents. In a relaxed and reflective tour setting, explore themes of cultural identity through powerful images and stories—share perspectives, spark insight, and connect. Find out more information HERE.

Bilingual report — City of Ventura seeks applicants for Ventura Council for Seniors

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)

Panteón Fest, a celebration of Día De Los Muertos, will be held at Oxnard’s Heritage Square on Oct. 11

At Panteón Fest, Aztec drumbeats honor the departed, and traditional music fills the air. The desfilada procession brings the community together, with themed displays and entertainment, and a theatrical play showcases the traditions of Día De Los Muertos.

Bilingual report — Ventura Police Department launches community questionnaire to help shape next strategic plan

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. 

Bilingual report — Ventura County Area Agency on Aging to help with Medicare Open Enrollment

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.

Ventura Music Festival — Blues TOMORROW, more music next month!

From our friends at Ojai Underground, and sponsored by Ventura Music Festival, join us for THE CHRIS O’LEARY BAND. A devastatingly soulful vocalist, dynamic harmonica master, and superlative songwriter, Chris O’Leary is among the blues and roots world’s most talented unsung heroes.

Cabrillo Economic Development Corp. celebrates completion of Dolores Huerta Gardens Apartments: A new chapter for affordable housing in Oxnard

VENTURA COUNTY — Community leaders, elected officials, and labor rights icon Dolores Huerta gathered on Sept. 5, 2025, to celebrate the grand opening of Dolores Huerta Gardens Apartments. This new affordable housing development from Cabrillo Economic Development Corporation (Cabrillo EDC) brings 58 units specifically for farmworkers, veterans, and low-income families to Ventura County. 

Named in honor of legendary civil rights activist Dolores Huerta, the new development reflects her lifelong fight for justice, equity, and the empowerment of working families. This property not only expands access to safe, affordable housing, but also stands as a symbol of resilience, dignity, and community transformation. 

“Dolores Huerta Gardens is a foundation for families to build brighter futures,” said Victoria Brady, CEO of Cabrillo EDC. “This community reflects our deep commitment to providing safe, affordable housing for those who need it most, and to creating spaces where residents can truly thrive.” 

Bilingual commentary — Why Read a Challenging Book?

Let’s try to imagine an exploratory mission deep in the heart of the local library.

That is exactly what I conducted last week among the ghosts of the paper card catalogs that now haunt the modern library visitor. I felt like a hunter, seeking out a book that would mysteriously reach out to me and demand that I read it—or at least consider it. 

Anonymous Heroes / Héroes Anónimos exhibit opening reception to be held at the Mexican Consulate in Oxnard on Sept. 12

OXNARD — … Anonymous Heroes / Héroes Anónimos highlights 29 selections from the Santa Paula Art Museum’s permanent collection, paying tribute to the resilience, creativity, and essential contributions of our farm workers. These “everyday heroes,” often unrecognized in historybooks, have shaped the cultural and economic fabric of Ventura County and beyond. Artists featured include: Carlos Almaraz, Judy Baca, Cornelis Botke, Sergio Hernandez, TonyJankowski, Xavier Montes, John Nichols, Gail Pidduck, Wihimina Puisifer, Kay B. Snodgrass, Eloy Torres, and Robert von Sternberg.

“Each image and artwork in this exhibition reminds us that behind every cultivated field and harvest lies a story of sacrifice, perseverance, and love for family,” reflects Ricardo Santana Velázquez, Consul of Mexico in Oxnard. “These are the stories of women and men who,even amid the challenges of the migratory context, continue to sow the future with their hands and unwavering spirit.”

Viva el Arte de Santa Barbara Presents Grupo Bella: A unique experience of blending the old Musica De Raiz with new and fresh sounds Sept. 18 through 21

FOUR FREE PUBLIC PERFORMANCES 

Thursday, September 18 | 7 PM | Carpinteria Vets Memorial Building

Friday, September 19 | 7 PM  Isla Vista Elementary

Saturday, September 20 | 7 PM | Guadalupe City Hall

Sunday, September 21 | 6 PM | Marjorie Luke Theatre

Every Bottle, Every visit, every order: Folded Hills donates 100% of Friday sales in September to Hospice of Santa Barbara

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. 

Bilingual report — Gold Coast Health Plan achieves nationally recognized health equity accreditation

NCQA’s Health Equity Accreditation evaluates how well an organization complies with standards in the following areas: organizational readiness; race / ethnicity, language, gender identity and sexual orientation; access and availability of language services; practitioner network cultural responsiveness; culturally and linguistically appropriate services programs; and reducing health care disparities.

Bilingual report — Step up for safer streets: Ventura recognizes September as Pedestrian Safety Month

VENTURA — September is Pedestrian Safety Month in California, and the City of Ventura reminds drivers and walkers alike to take extra care when sharing streets. Whether you’re heading to school, work, or enjoying Ventura’s neighborhoods, walking should always be a safe and easy option. 

According to the Governors Highway Safety Association, 7,148 pedestrians were killed in traffic collisions across the United States in 2024. In California alone, pedestrian deaths account for over 24% of all traffic-related fatalities. 

Rebozo Festival announces 2026 Grant Application now open

CAMARILLO — Rebozo Festival, Inc., is pleased to announce that awards of up to $30,000 will be granted to qualified non-profit organizations that focus on the cultural, social and/or educational needs of the Ventura County community. The application process will open September 4th and will close September 30th, 2025, at 5:00 pm.

Bilingual report from City of Ventura — Step back in time at the Olivas Adobe’s Rancho Days on Sept. 14

VENTURA — The City of Ventura invites the community to travel back to the 1800s during Rancho Days at Olivas Adobe Historical Park on Sunday, September 14, from 11:00 a.m. to 3:00 p.m. This free, family-friendly celebration brings to life the rich history and heritage of Ventura’s early pioneers and indigenous peoples.

Guests can enjoy an afternoon of live music, dancing, storytelling, games, and hands-on activities that capture the spirit of Rancho San Miguel, the historic property that is now Olivas Adobe Historical Park.

Marking Labor Day, farmworkers and community members march in Santa Ynez Valley Wine Country to demand a living wage for Santa Barbara County’s agriculture industry

LOS OLIVOS — As the nation celebrated Labor Day, farmworkers in Santa Barbara County remindED the public that the fight for workers’ rights and dignity is far from over. On Saturday, August 30, 2025, just ahead of Labor Day, farmworkers and community supporters marched through Los Olivos to demand living wages and safe working conditions in the region’s world-famous wine industry. On a busy weekend for tasting rooms in Santa Ynez Valley wine country, community members marched to remind the public of the labor behind the expensive bottles of wine they enjoy on their days off.

Oxnard Film Society — Our Fall Season begins on Monday, September 15 with a French comedy/drama, LES MUSICIENS

Just a reminder to our patrons that I personally preview each film to insure a great viewing experience each and every Monday screening.
?Our Film Series screens (usually) two films each month, on the first and third Mondays at 3:30pm and 6:30pm at Plaza Cinemas in downtown Oxnard.
We will continue our mission of providing the best of world cinema to the Oxnard and Ventura County community and supporting local filmmakers.
Thanks, George J. Sandoval, Executive Director

Museum of Contemporary Art Santa Barbara — Santa Barbara Magazine – Surf Bayan Summer into fall!

We trust you have enjoyed the Surf Bayan Summer brought to us by the Santa Barbara Magazine’s collaboration with DJ Javier with this collectible artist special issue. We’re grateful to the Santa Barbara Magazine team and congratulate them on their 50th anniversary summer issue.

If you haven’t read DJ Javier’s story it’s not too late! Click the button below for the digital version of the magazine and keep those freewheeling beachy summer art vibes on deck just a little bit longer.

We’ve just started installation for DJ Javier: San Milano Drive and look forward to welcoming you back to the museum this fall!

Downtown Oxnard — Make it a September to remember with cultural celebrations and foodie experiences downtown

Food Truck lineup:
Otra Vis Barbecue
Coolichi Sushi y Mariscos
Takumi
Cheesecake Plugg Caffe
Juarez Tacos
J&K Catering
Happy Place
Coyote Elote
Little Tony’s Wood Fired Pizza
Pupusería La Llama
La Chaparrita
Tacos Santa Cruz
La Picosita
Jimbo’s Funnel Cakes

Bilingual report — County of Santa Barbara Board of Supervisors meeting on Sept. 9. Topics Include: Responses to Grand Jury Report on South Coast Housing Crisis, more

Santa Barbara County Board of Supervisors’ meetings are available in Spanish. Watch live on our Spanish YouTube Channel, or Cable TV subscribers can access Secondary Audio Programming (SAP) in language settings.

Discover Lompoc, California’s Museums: A fun-filled tour though local history, art & culture

LOMPOC — Whether you’re a history buff, art lover, marine life enthusiast, or just looking for something fun to do on your next visit, Lompoc’s museums have you covered. From immersive historical landmarks to hands-on learning experiences, Lompoc offers a rich lineup of museums and cultural spots worth exploring. Here’s your guide to the best museums in town—each one full of personality, local flavor, and unexpected artifacts and exhibits.

September at the Santa Paula Art Museum

Harvey Cusworth’s “Visions of Conejo Valley and the Malibu Coast”
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Saturday, September 13, from 4 PM to 6 PM
$5 SPAM Members • $10 Non-members

Experience the beauty of Ventura County through the eyes of award-winning Thousand Oaks artist Harvey Cusworth. Inspired by California’s distinctive natural light, Cusworth’s expressive oil paintings explore the dynamic between light, color, and form.

Museum of Ventura County — Thank You for Joining Us at Tractor Fair. See What’s Next!

The Agriculture Museum thanks everyone who joined us for the 10th Annual Labor Day Tractor Fair. Together, we celebrated Santa Paula’s rich agricultural heritage with a day filled with family-friendly activities, lively music, fascinating presentations, and a true spirit of community.

This year’s fair honored farming’s past, present, and future, showcasing the innovation and dedication that continue to shape Ventura County’s agricultural legacy. We are grateful for the opportunity to bring our community together, promote sustainable farming practices, and inspire the next generation to explore rewarding careers in agriculture.

A special thank you to our community partners, vendors, volunteers and staff. We couldn’t have done it without you!

Community Environmental Council (CEC) — Last chance to register for CEC’s Climate Stewards Course!

From organizing restoration projects to hosting educational podcasts, CEC Climate Stewards are sparking a wave of climate action across California’s Central Coast. If you’re ready to make a real difference in your community, the Climate Stewards certification program is your chance to start.

Register today and get ready to gain the knowledge, tools, confidence, and network to drive impactful change where it matters most.

Friendship Center — The Friendly Finch: September Newsletter

As this newsletter reaches you, I’ll be away on a little vacation- surely missing my friends and coworkers here at Friendship Center! But I also know how important it is to take time to recharge and fill my cup so that I can be able to best support my team and our beloved organization.

In a way, family caregivers are essentially running a full-time business themselves, however they are (most often) without employees, a clearly defined handbook of operations, or nights and weekends off

El Concilio Family Services receives $75,000 surprise donation from Ventura County Credit Union in honor of VCCU 75th anniversary

CAMARILLO — El Concilio Family Services is thrilled to announce a transformational surprise gift of $75,000 from Ventura County Credit Union (VCCU). The generous donation was unveiled during VCCU’s ribbon-cutting ceremony for its new Camarillo branch, creating a powerful moment of celebration and partnership.

“We are deeply grateful to Ventura County Credit Union for their extraordinary generosity and their belief in our mission,” said Yvonne R. Gutierrez, Executive Director of El Concilio Family Services. “With so many outstanding organizations doing important and inspiring work, it means so much that VCCU chose to invest in us. This gift will allow us to stretch our resources further, expand our services, and bring even more support and hope to the communities we serve.”

Labor Day Protest: Santa Barbara joins nationwide resistance against billionaire exploitation

SANTA BARBARA — On Labor Day, Monday, September 1, at 11:00 a.m., community members will gather at De La Guerra Plaza in Santa Barbara as part of a nationwide day of protest to honor working people and stand strong against billionaire exploitation and corporate domination.

Across the country, workers, students, parents, and neighbors are rising up to demand dignity, justice, and investment in people — not billionaire empires.

The Santa Barbara event will include protest songs, chants, stories from the community, and opportunities for students and others to share how economic injustice impacts their families and communities. Participants are encouraged to bring signs, water, and their voices. Limited seating and sign-making supplies will be available.

Bilingual report — Mixteco/Indigena Community Organizing Project — Wine Country Convening on Aug. 30 for Farmworker Justice

LOS OLIVOS — This Labor Day weekend, community members, in solidarity with farmworkers, will flood the streets of Los Olivos in a unified and powerful march to demand justice, dignity, and most of all, a living wage for farmworkers. Farmworkers are the backbone of Santa Barbara County’s wine industry, fueling Santa Barbara County’s economy once again not only through agricultural production but through lucrative wine tasting and tourism. Yet, they continue to face low wages, unsafe working conditions, and the constant threat of detention and deportation. Earlier this year,  Santa Barbara County Supervisors voted to raise their own salaries, boldly maintaining that hard work deserves higher pay. We agree. The time is now. A living wage for farmworkers today.