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Category: Seniors
C.A.R.L. announces new board, kicks off year-end giving season
SANTA PAULA — The season of giving has officially begun at Canine Adoption and Rescue League (C.A.R.L.). Last week, the charity hosted its third annual “Pupsgiving,” whereby C.A.R.L. supporters donated $25 each for a Thanksgiving meal for the non-profit’s 50-plus dogs currently available for adoption at its Santa Paula-based sanctuary.
Canines housed at C.A.R.L. had a healthy heaping of turkey, mashed potatoes and carrots with peas, which the new Governance Board members at C.A.R.L. personally delivered to each dog.
Bilingual report — City of Ventura’s Foul Weather Shelter Plan reactivated for 2025
VENTURA — To prepare for upcoming winter weather, the City of Ventura has reactivated its Foul Weather Shelter Plan to provide temporary shelter and “stay warm” packs to Ventura’s most vulnerable residents during extreme weather events, such as severe rain, high winds, or low temperatures. Effective December 1, 2025, the The Foul Weather Shelter Plan will run through March 31, 2026.
To date, more than 4,650 meals have been provided, 280 stay warm packs distributed, and over 435 individuals have received shelter through the program.
“Ventura has an active community of local social service providers and nonprofits that work together to serve the needs of our most vulnerable population,” said Housing Services Manager Leona Rollins. “This program is needed now more than ever to help protect those who face the harshest impacts of winter weather.”
El Concilio Family Services — Together, We Build Dreams—Giving Tuesday 2025
SBCC introduces upcoming improvements to its School of Extended Learning
SANTA BARBARA — The Santa Barbara City College (SBCC) School of Extended Learning is excited to announce that a number of previously offered fee-based classes are now FREE! The long-standing fee-based program is transitioning to a fully free noncredit model. This change means that many of the same high-quality classes students have enjoyed for years will now be available at no cost.
Many of these classes are now part of the Wellness for Older Adults program, which is open to students 18 years or older and focuses on health and lifelong learning. Students will continue to enjoy the same engaging instructors and community connections, now with expanded access for all.
December at the Santa Paula Art Museum
Season’s Greetings!
We’re feeling extra thankful after November’s premiere party for The 16th Art About Agriculture Exhibition, which drew 200 guests despite the rain. We’re also delighted to share that seven artworks sold during the exhibit’s opening week! You can see the show now through March 8, 2026.
This year has been the Museum’s busiest yet thanks to the support of our donors, members, and volunteers, and we’re excited to close 2025 with some extra-special events. Scroll down to learn more.
Bilingual report — 805UNDOCUFUND newsletter update — Major Advocacy Wins & Giving Tuesday 2025/Principales Logros en Defensa y Martes de Donaciones 2025
Major Advocacy Wins & Giving Tuesday 2025/Principales Logros en Defensa y Martes de Donaciones 2025 Community Win #1: Santa Barbara County Halts Transfers & Layoffs Victoria de la Comunidad #1: El Condado de Santa Bárbara Detiene Traslados y Despidos On…
Guest commentary — Indivisible updates + actions: the Black Friday blackout (Nov. 27 through Dec. 1), a message to Trump’s corporate collaborators, more…
This week, we’re getting out votes for a massive special election in Tennessee and calling on you to put the pressure on three of Trump’s biggest corporate collaborators. Before we jump into your to-dos, here’s Ezra to explain why We Ain’t Buying It this weekend (Nov. 27 through Dec. 1)!
Bilingual guest commentary by Kaiser Permanente — Holiday Food Safety: Essential tips for preventing foodborne illness
Holiday gatherings are a time for celebration, family, and, of course, delicious food. However, with the hustle and bustle that comes with hosting, food safety can sometimes be overlooked. Understanding how bacteria grow and knowing the best practices for selecting, handling, serving, and storing food can help keep everyone healthy during your festivities.
A Season of Giving: Port of Hueneme donates 1,000 turkeys to local families across Ventura County
PORT HUENEME — This year, the Port of Hueneme is celebrating a powerful season of giving with a series of hosted and partner-supported community events across Ventura County. In total, the Port helped distribute approximately 1,000 frozen turkeys and holiday meal kits to military families, seniors, farmworkers, local residents, and community members.
Throughout November, Port Commissioners, staff, volunteers, and sponsors came together to support multiple food distributions, each focused on uplifting and empowering families during the holiday season. These efforts included the Drive Out Hunger military and veterans meal giveaway, local community holiday distributions, and nonprofit-supported events across Oxnard and Port Hueneme, ensuring families from all backgrounds could enjoy a holiday meal at home.
Bilingual report — Ventura County Public Health — Tips for practicing safe food handling during Thanksgiving
VENTURA COUNTY — This Thanksgiving, add fresh flavors to your holiday meal while preventing foodborne illness with practical tips from Ventura County Public Health (VCPH) and Ventura County Resource Management Agency Environmental Health Division (EH).
Bilingual report — Ventura businesses invited to join Window Wonderland
VENTURA — The City of Ventura’s Economic Development team is inviting local businesses to participate in the 2025 Window Wonderland program. This festive initiative encourages storefronts throughout Ventura to celebrate the season with creative holiday window displays that brighten commercial corridors and inspire residents to shop locally.
Businesses are also invited to take part in this year’s photo submission opportunity. By sharing photos of their decorated storefronts, participants will be entered for a chance to win free advertising opportunities. Photos may be submitted now throughout December, and winners will be announced in January 2026.
“Ventura is filled with creativity, and our local businesses help set the tone for the season,” said Economic Development Manager Meredith Hart. “Window Wonderland is a fun way to showcase that spirit while encouraging residents and visitors to explore and support our shopping districts.”
Music Academy of the West — With Gratitude This Thanksgiving
Dear Friend of the Music Academy,
As we enter this season of gratitude, all of us at the Music Academy of the West thank you for being a valued part of our community. Your presence—whether in the audience, at our events, or in support of our young artists—brings joy and meaning to everything we do.
This Thanksgiving, we’re reflecting on the extraordinary moments we shared this summer. From welcoming our largest class of 150 fellows to presenting vibrant performances across Santa Barbara, the 2025 Summer Music Festival & School was filled with energy, discovery, and connection.
AMR Ventura County urges families to recognize ‘holiday heart syndrome’ as seasonal cardiac risks rise
VENTURA COUNTY — As holiday gatherings begin and alcohol consumption increases, American Medical Response Ventura County (AMR) and Gold Coast Ambulance are encouraging families to recognize the signs of “holiday heart syndrome,” a condition that occurs more frequently between Thanksgiving and New Year’s. Heavier alcohol use, rich foods, emotional stress and delayed care are key contributors to the seasonal rise in cases.
During the holiday season, individuals may disregard mild or atypical cardiac symptoms, attributing them to fatigue or stress associated with festivities. As the manifestations of holiday heart syndrome can be subtle and easily missed, it is essential to remain vigilant and seek prompt medical evaluation; early intervention may safeguard cardiovascular health and prove lifesaving.
Ventura County Arts Council — CALL TO ARTISTS: ‘The Sound of Silence’ at the Atrium Gallery
“The Sound of Silence,” featuring lead artist Cheyenne Proctor, is one in a series of art exhibitions addressing mental health that is part of VibeWell Ventura County, a county-wide initiative that uses art and culture to raise awareness of mental health conditions. VCAC invites submissions from local artists to be juried for potential display alongside the lead artist. Monetary prizes will be awarded to first, second, and third place winners. All levels welcome.
Bilingual report — Single-Parent Allan Hancock College students receive free Thanksgiving meals
provided students who are single parents with a?turkey?and other Thanksgiving meal items free of charge.
A total of 105 individuals and families stopped by the Hancock EOPS+ program’s Fall Harvest Turkey Giveaway booth outside the college’s Santa Maria campus and Lompoc Valley Center on Nov. 25, where Hancock staff provided them with everything needed to prepare a Thanksgiving meal. The packages included a?turkey, potatoes, beans, cranberry sauce, rolls, stuffing, pumpkin pie, whipped cream, and butter. Turkey?preparation and cooking instructions were also included.?
VCCF Power of Purpose – November 2025
Dear Ventura County Community Foundation Family,
Yesterday, I was unexpectedly transported back to the very beginning of my career. I was 21, attending my first Chamber of Commerce meeting, nervous beyond words. In my attempt to discreetly stab a grape from my fruit salad with a plastic fork as everyone was making their introductions, it slipped, flew across the table, and landed directly in Michael Towbes’ lap.
He looked up at me with such kindness and without judgment as he picked up the grape, handed it gently back to me, and said, with a twinkle in his eye, “I think this might belong to you.” I am sure I turned the deepest shade of red imaginable, and I have avoided eating grapes with a plastic fork ever since.
Celebrate the holiday season at the Museum of Ventura County
Title: People in Decorated Car on Parade.
Annual Poinsettia Festival Parade of decorated cars. Thanksgiving Day. (date unknown)
Identifier: 10300 – From the MVC Research Library Digitized Photographs
Ventura County Credit Union gifts $75,000 to the Health Care Foundation for Ventura County as part of 75th anniversary celebration
VENTURA COUNTY — Ventura County Credit Union (VCCU) has awarded a $75,000 donation to the Health Care Foundation for Ventura County, underscoring the importance of investing in organizations that enhance community well-being. This contribution is part of VCCU’s $750,000 giving campaign in honor of the credit union’s 75th anniversary.
The Health Care Foundation is the ninth nonprofit to receive funding through VCCU’s “Year of Giving” campaign. The ceremonial check presentation took place Wednesday, Nov. 19, at Ventura County Medical Center in Ventura.
Celebrate The Most Wonderful Time Of The Year In Lompoc Along California’s Central Coast
LOMPOC — It’s the most wonderful time of the year in Lompoc! If you’re headed to California’s Central Coast for a holiday escape, you’re in for a treat. Our town lights up with festive events, delicious bites, handcrafted gifts, and cozy winter moments. Whether you’re craving a family getaway, a romantic weekend, or a cheerful adventure with your besties, Lompoc has something for every type of holiday traveler.
The holidays don’t need to be hectic. Here, the season slows down. Enjoy relaxed small-town charm, a full lineup of family-friendly activities, specialty shopping, and more than 30 local wine-tasting venues. Then settle in for a restful evening at one of Lompoc’s comfy hotels. Ready to plan? Let’s unwrap the best of the season!
Hundreds enjoy People Helping People’s Thanksgiving Food Distribution in Santa Ynez, Los Alamos Valleys
SOLVANG — The Thanksgiving Food Distribution at People Helping People, an annual holiday ritual, is a team effort with 66 students, teachers, PHP staff, seasoned volunteers and new recruits joining together to share the bounty of the Santa Ynez and Los Alamos Valleys with the most vulnerable.
Twenty fourth-grade students from the Santa Ynez Valley Christian Academy, led by their teacher Bridget Morrell, got a first-hand lesson in giving by helping organize the can goods donated by public and private schools all over the Valley and bingo players at the Chumash Casino Resort.
Bilingual report — Santa Paula Police Dept. — Holiday safety tips to prevent being a crime victim
SANTA PAULA — The Santa Paula Police Department is reaching out with helpful tips to make our community safer during the upcoming holidays especially for shoppers, retailers, and travelers.
Bilingual report — The latest news from the County of Ventura
6th Annual Holiday Food & Toy Drive Happening Dec. 6th!
The Ventura County Harbor Department and Harbor & Beach Community Alliance (HBCA) are teaming up to spread holiday cheer this season by hosting the 6th Annual Holiday Food & Toy Drive from 10 a.m. to 4 p.m. on December 6, 2025 at the Harbor Landing parking lot off Harbor Blvd.
The Holiday Food & Toy Drive will benefit Food Share of Ventura County and the Spark of Love Toy Drive, an annual effort coordinated by local fire departments which provide toys to thousands of children each year.
On the day of the event, donations will be accepted at a drop-off location at the Harbor Landing parking lot, located at the Channel Islands Boulevard and Harbor Boulevard intersection. Volunteers will be there to safely accept the donations and provide them to Food Share and the Spark of Love Toy Drive.
Bilingual report — Office of Traffic Safety awards $185,000 grant to the Ventura Police Department for Traffic Enforcement Program to increase safety on roads
“We are grateful to receive this grant, which will strengthen our traffic enforcement efforts and improve road safety,” said Traffic Sergeant Mark Knackstedt. “Through a combination of education and enforcement efforts, our goal is to reduce dangerous driving behaviors, prevent crashes, and make our roads safer for everyone.”
Ventura County Community Foundation names Leah Lacayo new board chair, honors legacy of outgoing chair Sean L. Leonard
CAMARILLO — Following four years serving as the Ventura County Community Foundation’s (VCCF) board chair, Sean L. Leonard, President & CEO of S.L. Leonard & Associates, is handing over the reins to incoming chair Leah Lacayo.
During his tenure, Leonard helped steward nearly $80 million in grantmaking to Ventura County and beyond, through VCCF’s work during the pandemic, and community efforts such as the creation of the Ventura County Neighbors Support Fund, disaster response during the Mountain Fire and winter storms of 2023 and championing early childhood education through the Isabella Project. Through his dedication and leadership, he supported the foundation in grantmaking to local nonprofits, lifting up causes from animal welfare to environmental protection to the arts and more, as well as encouraging the academic dreams of hundreds of local students through VCCF’s Scholarship Program.
Brokaw Ranch company invests $500,000 to fuel revolving loan fund for affordable housing
VENTURA COUNTY — Housing Trust Fund Ventura County (Housing Trust Fund VC) has received a $500,000 investment from Brokaw Ranch Company, a multi-generational family farm that has been part of Ventura County’s agricultural heritage for more than six decades. This community impact investment towards Housing Trust Fund VC’s Everyone Deserves a Home Revolving Loan Fund will help the organization continue to support the development of affordable housing for those who contribute to the fabric of Ventura County’s economy and community.
“Our family sees this as a win-win proposition. This investment contributes to the health and vitality of Ventura County and nets us some interest income. We have long admired the work of Housing Trust Fund Ventura County and hope others will join us in supporting their efforts,” said Deborah Brokaw Jackson, President, Brokaw Ranch Company.
Bilingual report — Ventura County Board of Supervisors approve new ordinance to prohibit overnight parking and camping near farmland
VENTURA — On Tuesday, Nov. 18, the Ventura County Board of Supervisors voted unanimously to pass a new local ordinance that will ban overnight parking and camping on certain roads next to farmland in County unincorporated areas. The goal is to protect local agriculture and the environment, while also ensuring public safety. The new ordinance, which was approved during the regular meeting for the Board of Supervisors, goes into effect January 1, 2026.
County of Ventura District 2 Supervisor Jeff Gorell — Historic permitting reform package passes unanimously
I’m pleased to share that the Ventura County Board of Supervisors unanimously approved a major initiative to strengthen and modernize our planning, zoning, and permitting systems. I want to express my sincere appreciation for the thoughtful input I received from many of you—your experiences and feedback were instrumental in shaping this effort.
The package that I brought forward with Supervisor Matt LaVere, is designed to make our permitting processes more efficient, transparent, and customer-focused for residents, homeowners, and local businesses.
Ventura County Leadership Academy welcomes new board members
We are excited to welcome Mark Stadler, alum of VCLA Cohort XXVII to the VCLA Board. With over 37 years of dedicated service in law enforcement, Mark has been a vital part of community safety and crisis intervention efforts. He has served as the Senior Program Administrator of the Ventura County Law Enforcement Crisis Intervention Team (CIT) for the past 10 years, following his retirement as a Commander of the Ventura Police Department. A founding member of the CIT program 25 years ago, Mark holds a Bachelor’s degree in Criminology and a Master’s degree in Organizational Management from the University of La Verne. He is also an instructor at the Ventura County Criminal Justice Training Center, a senior adjunct professor at the University of La Verne, and serves on the Advisory Board of the California Crisis Intervention Training Association (CACITA).
Speaker Rivas, Pro Tem Limón, Asm. Bennett, lawmakers visit Ventura County farm
Assembly and Senate leaders heard directly from farmers in Ventura County who are innovating and succeeding, and discussed ways to support workers and deliver solutions that continue to uplift the agricultural sector
SOUTHERN CALIFORNIA — Assembly Speaker Robert Rivas joined Senate President Pro Tem Monique Limón, California Farm Bureau President Shannon Douglass, Assembly Agriculture Committee Chair Esmeralda Soria, Assemblymembers Steve Bennett and Avelino Valencia, and Senator Henry Stern and Senate Agriculture Committee Chair Melissa Hurtado at a Ventura County avocado farm, discussing how the state can continue to support farmers and agricultural innovation as federal policies threaten farmworkers and grocery costs.
Ventura Music Festival — Thankful for Music in Ventura!
As we enter Thanksgiving week, all of us at Ventura Music Festival are filled with gratitude. Because of you—our growing community of followers, audiences, ticket buyers, and donors—we achieved something extraordinary this year: tripling our concerts from 10 to 30 and bringing more music to more people in more ways than ever before. Your support is the engine behind every performance, every new partnership, and every moment of connection we create for our county.
Drive Out Hunger – Port of Hueneme hosts Thanksgiving Meal Giveaway for Active Military & Veterans
PORT OF HUENEME — The Port of Hueneme, California, proudly hosted its annual Drive Out Hunger Thanksgiving Meal Giveaway today, providing 450 frozen turkeys and full holiday meal kits to active-duty military members and veterans from across Ventura County. The drive-thru event reflects the Port’s deep commitment to serving those who serve the nation.
First Amendment Coalition represents Buen Vecino in lawsuit for public records about high-profile immigration raids in Ventura County
SAN RAFAEL — On behalf of nonprofit community organization Buen Vecino (in Simi Valley), the First Amendment Coalition, with attorneys Gregory Pleasants and Shaffy Moeel, filed a Public Records Act lawsuit against Ventura County and its sheriff to compel disclosure of video footage showing what deputy sheriffs did at a controversial immigration enforcement operation.
Ventura County Civic Alliance Nov. 15, 2025 Livable Communities Newsletter
This year’s State of the Region event was an overview of the report by Tony Basotti, and panel with District Attorney Erik Nasarenko, Amgen Executive Director of Global Government Affairs Chad Petit, Port District CEO & Director Kristin Decas, and Oxnard City Manager Alex Nguyen, who gave their perspectives on issues in the report.
This venture is crucial to the dissemination of information to the community and leaders in business, education, and government, who are instrumental in planning the county’s future. We are grateful to our sponsors whose support is integral to this important project.
As always, let us know what you think.?
Stacy Roscoe
More Ways to Give with VCCF: Stock Donations
VENTURA COUNTY — As we enter the season of giving, there’s a wonderful way to make your generosity go even further: donating appreciated stock to the Ventura County Community Foundation.
Gifting stock is not only a powerful way to support the causes you care about, it may also offer meaningful tax advantages. By donating appreciated securities, you may be able to avoid capital-gains tax and receive a charitable deduction for the full fair market value of your gift. It’s a true win-win for you and for our Ventura County community.
County of Ventura District 2 Supervisor Jeff Gorell — Storm update
Dear Neighbors,
The National Weather Service is forecasting a series of storms heading toward Ventura County beginning late Thursday and continuing through Sunday. With significant rainfall expected, I want to ensure you have the latest information to stay prepared and safe. Read a full update about the weather event at VCEmergency.com.
Evacuation Warnings are in effect for the following areas 6:00 pm Thursday, November 13 ? 6:00 pm Sunday, November 16, 2025:
Mountain Fire Burn Area – Upgraded from Advisory to Evacuation Warning
Matilija Canyon / North Fork, Camino Cielo
Bilingual report — County of Santa Barbara — Second wave of storm arrives late Friday (Nov. 14). Heavier rain anticipated for south Santa Barbara County, Santa Ynez Mountains
Storm Update
A series of storms is moving through Santa Barbara County. The first storm has passed, and a second storm is expected late Friday, November 14, into Saturday, November 15.
During the first storm, the South County received about 2–4 inches of rain, with some areas in the Santa Ynez Mountains getting over 5 inches overnight. North County saw about 1–2 inches. The storm caused localized flooding, downed trees, and rocks and debris on roads.
The second storm is expected to bring 2–3 inches of rain to South County and 3–6 inches to the Santa Ynez Mountains. North County will likely receive less rain than other parts of the county. According to the National Weather Service, this storm will produce heavier bursts of rain over short periods, unlike the steady rain from the first storm. A Flood Watch will be in effect for most of Santa Barbara County from 1AM – 10PM on Saturday, November 15, 2025.
Santa Paula Art Museum — “Art About Agriculture” Premieres Saturday, Nov. 15, more events
Saturday, November 15, from 4 PM to 6 PM
SPAM Members $5 • Non-members $10
Feast your eyes on 48 fresh works of art by contemporary California artists during the premiere of Art About Agriculture on Saturday, November 15! This popular biennial exhibit explores the many facets of agriculture through art—from workers to water, from machinery to fields, to the food that fills our plates. Mingle with the artists, and enjoy beer, wine, and hors d’oeuvres during the premiere party. All of the artworks will be available for purchase.
The 16th Art About Agriculture Exhibition will be on view from November 15, 2025, to March 8, 2026. This exhibition is sponsored by Brokaw Ranch Company.
MORE INFO
Nyeland Promise Noticias
It’s been a little while since our last newsletter, but we’re so happy to reconnect with you! So much has been happening in our beloved Nyeland Acres from new programs to inspiring community moments that continue to remind us why we do what we do.
At Nyeland Promise, our mission remains the same: to build a healthier, stronger, and more united community through compassion, empowerment, and opportunity. Whether it’s through our Cafecito con los Vecinos senior gatherings, Comadres Unidas women’s empowerment group or our continued outreach for families, every effort is made possible because of you — our dedicated neighbors, volunteers, and partners.
Coalition for Family Harmony in Oxnard marks 50 years of service to survivors
OXNARD — This October, during Domestic Violence Awareness Month, the Coalition for Family Harmony marks its 50th anniversary — a milestone in its long-standing commitment to serving survivors of domestic violence and sexual assault throughout Ventura County.
The organization traces its roots back to 1975, when it was founded as a crisis phone hotline by Roz McGrath, a pioneering social justice advocate known for her tireless work defending human rights and supporting underserved communities. What began as a grassroots effort from McGrath’s vision and activism has since grown into a robust, multilingual agency offering comprehensive services including shelter, legal advocacy, trauma counseling, prevention education, and 24/7 crisis intervention.
Ventura County Credit Union celebrates 75 years of service with $75,000 gift to Moorpark College Foundation
VENTURA COUNTY — In celebration of its 75th anniversary, Ventura County Credit Union (VCCU) continues its “Year of Giving” with a $75,000 donation to the Moorpark College Foundation, presented during VCCU Employee Development Day at the credit union’s corporate headquarters on Oct. 13, 2025.
Dr. Julius Sokenu, president of Moorpark College, and Debi Klein, executive director of the Moorpark College Foundation, accepted the donation on behalf of the college. The funds will directly support student success initiatives, scholarships and innovative academic programs that continue to make Moorpark College one of the top community colleges in California.
Bilingual report — Registration open for Winter, Spring classes at Allan Hancock College
SANTA MARIA — Allan Hancock College is inviting new and returning students to register now for winter and spring 2026 classes, which offer hundreds of opportunities to earn a degree, transfer to a university, gain job skills or explore new interests.
Open registration for both terms began Nov. 6, with classes available in a wide range of subjects and flexible formats across Hancock’s Santa Maria campus, Lompoc Valley Center, and online. Winter session classes begin Dec. 15, and spring semester classes start Jan. 20.
“Winter and spring are great times for students to stay on track, get ahead, or start something new,” said Allan Hancock College Superintendent/President Kevin G. Walthers, Ph.D. “We want our students to know that Hancock is here to help them earn a degree, train for their career or continue their education by transferring to a university.”
Bilingual report — Nov. 18 Santa Barbara County Board of Supervisors meeting
The next regular meeting of the
County Board of Supervisors is scheduled for 9 a.m. Tuesday, November 18, 2025
Joseph Centeno Betteravia Government Administration Building
Board Hearing Room
511 East Lakeside Parkway, Santa Maria
The public may participate virtually or in person at the County Board Hearing Room in Santa Barbara or Santa Maria.
County of Ventura — Ocean Water Quality Monitoring Report: Potential storm water runoff contamination
VENTURA — As part of the Ventura County Ocean Water Quality Monitoring Program, the Environmental Health Division (Division) is providing the following precautionary information to the public.?Rainfall that is significant enough to result in runoff can flow into storm drains, channels, creeks, and rivers that empty onto the beaches of Ventura County.?In general, 0.2 inches (2 tenths of an inch) of rainfall may be enough to create significant runoff conditions.?
Communities across California call unscientific regulation of cancer-causing 1,3-D racist. Demand phaseout of fumigants and 1-mile buffer zones around schools
OXNARD — A news conference will be held at 12:30 p.m. Tuesday, Nov. 18 at Plaza Park in Oxnard about the Department of Pesticide Regulation’s new 1,3-dichloropropene (1,3-D) regulation and new data showing large increases in highly hazardous fumigant use near schools and daycares.
Celebrate curiosity, community, and connection at the Museum of Ventura County
(Nov. 11) we honor all who have served our country with courage, dedication, and sacrifice. Thank you to our Veterans.
Free eye exams, glasses for San Luis Obispo community members in need
SAN LUIS OBISPO — More than 70 California Conservation Corpsmembers and San Luis Obispo residents received free eye exams and, if needed, free prescription glasses on Nov. 6-7 thanks to a partnership between VSP Eyes of Hope and the California Conservation Corps. Many of the prescription glasses were made the same day on board the mobile clinic, allowing patients to receive eye care and eyewear in the same visit.
75th annual Santa Paula holiday parade honors hometown Veteran, youth sports coach Rey Frutos on Nov. 28
SANTA PAULA — Santa Paula’s cherished holiday tradition returns as the 75th Annual Santa Paula Holiday Parade lights up Main Street on Friday, November 28, from 7:00 PM to 8:30 PM — one of the only nighttime parades in Ventura County with nearly 50 floats and vehicles lit up with holiday cheer. This year’s parade honors Grand Marshal Rey Frutos, known in the community for his lifelong dedication, mentorship, and positive impact on generations of Santa Paula youth. His leadership and commitment to service embody the true spirit of the holidays — giving back and lifting others.
Join Hospice of Santa Barbara in celebrating 42nd annual Light Up a Life ceremonies, honoring loved ones this holiday season
SANTA BARBARA — Hospice of Santa Barbara (HSB) is honored to invite the community to its 42nd Annual Light Up a Life ceremonies. This cherished holiday tradition returns to offer a warm, uniting space for the communities of Goleta, Santa Barbara, Montecito, and Carpinteria to remember and honor the loved ones whose absence is felt during the holiday season. The ceremonies are free and open to the public.
While the holiday season is often associated with joy, it frequently stirs a complex mix of feelings. For individuals navigating this time while grieving a loss, the emotions can be especially raw. HSB understands that this period requires both remembrance and support, which is why we proudly host Light Up a Life annually to honor those who are deeply missed.
Community Invited to the annual Veterans Day Ceremony at Santa Barbara Cemetery on Nov. 11
This year will feature the first ever performance of “The Veteran,” by Barry De Vorzon. De Vorzon is an American composer, singer, songwriter, and record producer. He co-founded recording studio Valiant Records and made a name for himself as a film and television score composer, becoming a Grammy Award winner, Academy Award nominee, and a six-time Daytime Emmy Award winner. His tune, “Nadia’s Theme,” was released by A&M Records for the television soap opera The Young and the Restless, hitting No. 8 on the U.S. Top 40 that year. The title “Nadia’s Theme” was given to the song after the ABC television network used it in a montage of gymnast Nadia Com?neci’s performances during the 1976 Olympics. He later composed the tune, “It’s Christmas Once Again in Santa Barbara,” in honor of the town and the people he learned to love after moving to California from New York City. The song was later re-recorded with various other city names, including San Diego and San Francisco.