PORT HUENEME — Over 10,000 attendees went Banana’s at the Port’s 11th Annual Banana Festival celebrated a diverse working waterfront. The Festival offered attendees a unique opportunity to experience one of the most efficient and effective working waterfronts on the West Coast.
LOMPOC — Discover the festive spirit in and around Lompoc with family-friendly fall harvest events, pumpkin patches, seasonal shopping and spooky Halloween activities! Here’s our roundup of a few favorites to try this season! www.explorelompoc.com
OXNARD — OPAC (Oxnard Performing Arts Center Corporation) is excited to announce its annual Día de los Muertos Celebration, a two-part event that will culminate on Saturday, Nov. 2, 2024, from 4-9 pm at the Oxnard Performing Arts & Convention Center. Admission is free and open to the public.
This year, the celebration extends with a month-long Día de los Muertos Community Altar at The Collection at RiverPark in Oxnard, running from October 1 – November 2, 2024. This vibrant display titled “Recuérdame” (Remember Me) is hosted in partnership with The Collection and will be located between Lazy Dog and the Cheesecake Factory. The community is invited to honor their loved ones by participating in a heartfelt tribute to those who have passed.
“We’re so thankful to our community for stepping up for local educators,” said Brianna Johnson, a realtor for Village Properties and supplies drive committee co-chair. “These funds will help us continue our mission of supporting Santa Barbara teachers with much needed educational items to help students thrive.”
“Watching OLLI over the years, we had problems now and then with equipment and we’ve got older people in these classes, not kids, so why not get some more comfortable furniture and new computer equipment and screens,” Paul said. “I thought, ‘I’ve got some retirement money, why not donate it?’”
Written by: Alvaro Saar Rios
Directed by: Alina Ceñal
Imagine the Chinese legend Hua Mulan set in the world of lucha libre—Mexican wrestling. The discovery of a worn pink wrestling mask prompts Nana Lupita, a Wisconsin grandmother, to share her tale about growing up in 1960s Texas. As her tale unfolds, Lupita’s life as a teen tomboy comes alive—bike riding with her friends Leopold and Liesl, working at her father’s flower stand and lucha libre. When a World Championship match is announced, Lupita anticipates seeing it until she discovers her ailing father is one of the wrestlers. With the help of a magical mask maker, Lupita secretly trains to take her father’s place. She soon finds it difficult keeping her secret from her friends and, most importantly, her father.
The program, supported locally by the Santa Paula Parks & Recreation Department and the Santa Paula Police Activities League, is funded by the California Police Activities League (PAL) and bolstered by $100,000 in American Rescue Plan Act (ARPA) funds allocated by the Santa Paula City Council. YARA offers hands-on training that directly positions participants for apprenticeships and job opportunities in traditional and emerging workforce sectors.
In her latest book, the digital artist and scholar examines the intersection of art, technology and activism.
We are excited to invite John Maier, CEO at Bose Professional to be our next guest in our Forward Together webinar series.
Discover how Maier turned his passion for music and the gear used to create, record, perform and broadcast it into a career in business. More recently, he has led the carveout of Bose Professional from Bose Corporation and will discuss the unique challenges of separating a division from an established business and re-branding that business.
CAMARILLO — A Computer Science alumnus now working in cybersecurity and a not-for-profit health organization that has partnered with CSU Channel Islands (CSUCI) for nearly 20 years will be honored on Sept. 28 at CSUCI’s 2024 President’s Dinner at the…
Dual Enrollment programs bring college courses to high schools across the county CAMARILLO — Educators from the Ventura County Community College District (VCCCD) and the Ventura County Office of Education (VCOE) gathered for a pivotal Community of Practice event at…
was driving with my husband and three beautiful daughters when I found out, and I yelled and started dancing around in the car,” Smith, 44, said. “Then, honestly, I started to cry. Because it’s so hard to go back to school later in life, when some of your friends are talking about retiring.”
SANTA PAULA — The City of Santa Paula Parks and Recreation Department would like to share with the community a variety of exciting activities, events, and volunteer opportunities happening throughout the fall and winter seasons. Whether you’re looking to get involved, enjoy the festivities, or give back to your community, there’s something for everyone.
Upcoming Events:
“The Commission for Women is deeply committed to the well-being of women and children in our community,” said Geordie Scully, First District Commissioner for the Santa Barbara County Commission for Women. “We have chosen to support LEAP’s Diaper bank to bring awareness about LEAP’s effort to provide the basic necessities babies need for a healthy start. We also hope this encourages donations to the only diaper bank in our county.”
Dear Neighbors,
I hope this message finds you well! I am excited to share some important and exciting events happening in the coming weeks that I believe will benefit our community.
I especially want to highlight our Home Insurance Town Hall, taking place on October 15 from 6:00 – 8:00 pm at the Ventura County Fire Headquarters. This event is a great opportunity for residents to learn more about the ever-changing landscape of home insurance, especially in areas impacted by wildfire risk. I’ll be joined by Assemblymember Jacqui Irwin, State Deputy Insurance Commissioner Julia Juarez, fire officials and members of the Conejo, Simi and Moorpark Realtors Association. We encourage you to attend and get your questions answered directly from the experts.
As always, my office is here to serve you. Don’t hesitate to reach out if you have any questions, concerns, or suggestions. I look forward to seeing you at an upcoming event. My sons and I are pictured at the Wings Over Camarillo Festival. The highlight was the STEM center my son Steven really enjoyed.
Here’s to staying informed and prepared as we continue to strengthen and support our community together!
Kind regards,
Jeff
This is a very busy and exciting time of the year for the Social Justice Fund for Ventura County (SJFVC). We are currently in the process of reviewing and selecting our 2024-2025 Social Justice Fellows! The applicants have proposed solutions to address a wide range of issues, including but not limited to: environmental justice, youth gang intervention, LGBTQ+ rights, food insecurity, and education equity. While there are many more candidates and issues which merit funding that we cannot support, we are constantly reminded of the critical needs the Social Justice Fund is meeting.
SANTA BARBARA COUNTY — Family Service Agency (FSA) of Santa Barbara County and Youthwell are pleased to announce a new slate of suicide prevention workshops called QPR that will teach participants three steps to help save a life from suicide. Last year, over 580 Santa Barbara County residents received this free, two-hour training.
In a pair of recent papers, David W. Lawson and his team at UCSB’s Applied Evolutionary Anthropology Lab shed light on possible explanations for gender bias. Their research was carried out in an urbanizing rural community in northwestern Tanzania.
CAMARILLO — Casa Pacifica, the largest nonprofit provider of children’s and adolescent mental health services in Ventura and Santa Barbara Counties, celebrated the grand opening of its new supportive housing for transitional age youth (ages 18-25) on September 13. The new housing is one of the first in Ventura County to address the needs of young adults who are transitioning from public systems such as foster care or juvenile justice or who are at a high risk of homelessness.
The Curse of the Vampire: Tales from the Book of Nosferatu
Members-Only Event
Thursday, September 19
5:00 pm – 7:00 pm
@Museum of Ventura County
100 E. Main St., Ventura
In honor of the unveiling of the Museum of Ventura County’s newest upcoming exhibition, we invite our valued MVC Members to join us for a private preview and chance to meet the artists.
The Curse of the Vampire: Tales from the Book of Nosferatu is a collaboration between the Museum of Ventura County and three regional artists. It will showcase a new curation of George Stuart Historical Figures® in dialogue with comic book- and cartoon-inspired artworks by Paula Pugh and Weshoyot Alvitre. Members, please register for this event HERE. If you are interested in becoming a member, click HERE.
OXNARD — The Channel Islands Maritime Museum is excited to announce a new partnership with the Zachari Dunes hotel, located just over a mile from the museum’s home in Channel Islands Harbor. This collaboration, beginning on September 17, 2024, brings a unique maritime experience to hotel guests with the installation of a spectacular tall ship model exhibit in the hotel’s lobby. The first ship to be displayed is the San Felipe, a famed Spanish galleon that sailed from 1690 to 1705, offering a glimpse into that captivating period of maritime history.
VENTURA — The City of Ventura is excited to announce the groundbreaking of the Westpark Skatepark Expansion Project. On Friday, September 13, City officials, local dignitaries, and project partners gathered to celebrate the start of construction. The skatepark at 450 W. Harrison Ave will officially close for construction on Monday, September 23, with completion slated for Spring 2025.
Does your arts or culture organization or group have a project for which you’d like to apply for a grant, or do other fundraising, but lack 501(c)(3) status? Fiscal sponsorship may be an option.
Santa Barbara Arts Collaborative programs and fund development officer Adrienne De Guevara will present this FREE, 1-hour virtual workshop. Registration required.
Register now
Join the City of Port Hueneme and EDC Small Business Development Center Advisors Luisa Arzate & Miguel Alfaro! Learn how to:
Establish a business in Port Hueneme
Create a powerful brand identity by defining your mission, vision and values
Craft a cohesive visual and verbal identity
Analyze market trends and competitor strategies using AI to refine your brand positioning and ensure consistency across all platforms
VENTURA COUNTY — Scouting America (formerly Ventura County Council Boy Scouts of America), Ventura County Council (SAVCC) has rebranded in name, in line with the announcement that the national organization will officially transition in name from Boy Scouts of America to Scouting America in early 2025, as it celebrates its 115th anniversary.
The name change reflects the organization’s ongoing commitment to welcome every youth and family to experience the benefits of scouting. The announcement comes as the organization also celebrates the fifth anniversary of welcoming girls into Cub Scouting and Scouts BSA programs. Nationally, Scouting America currently serves more than 176,000 girls and young women across all programs, including over 6,000 who have earned the rank of Eagle Scout. The local SAVCC has served over 4,500 youth (including non-Scouts), 779 adult leaders, and sends more than 5,000 kids to camp each year since its founding in 1921, just 11 years after the creation of the national organization.
“Children are especially vulnerable to injuries in a crash if they are in the wrong type of car seat for their age and size or if the car seat is improperly installed,” said Sergeant Mark Knackstedt. “We are dedicated to helping parents and caregivers safeguard their children on the road.”
Saturday, September 14, 2024 • 4 PM to 6 PM
$5 SPAM Members • $10 Non-members
Don’t miss the premiere of Gail Pidduck’s “8² + 10” on Saturday, September 14! Over the past two years, as Pidduck found herself approaching her 74th birthday, the Santa Paula artist gave herself the goal of creating 74 new paintings, 40 of which she selected for this show. With no restrictions as to subject matter, Pidduck let the dimensions of the paintings, 8 inches square, provide the unifying ingredient. Meet the artist and enjoy beer, wine, and hors d’oeuvres during the premiere party from 4 PM to 6 PM.
“8² + 10” will be on view through January 12, 2025. All of the artworks will be available for purchase.
VENTURA — The City of Ventura invites community members to review and provide input on the updated Land Use Designation Map as part of the General Plan Update, a 25-year blueprint for guiding Ventura’s future growth and development. The survey is available for feedback until Monday, October 21, 2024, and various participation opportunities will be available in addition to the survey.
The proclamation, introduced by 3rd District Supervisor Joan Hartmann and co-sponsored by 2nd District Supervisor Laura Capps, acknowledges the critical issue of diaper need – the inability to afford enough clean diapers. It highlights the adverse impact this has on the health and well-being of children and families. National surveys conducted by the National Diaper Bank Network (NDBN) indicate that nearly one in two families struggle with diaper need, with many parents being forced to skip meals or delay changing diapers to extend their supply.
VENTURA COUNTY — 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 cultural, social and/or education needs of the Ventura County community. The application process will open Sept. 2 and will close Sept. 30, 2024 at 5 p.m.
The AlloSphere opens to the public with “Sketches of Sensorium,” a multisensory installation exploring ocean fragility and resilience through art and science. Shows are every second Thursday and fourth Saturday.
You may have heard the news that Sable (formerly Exxon) has out-maneuvered the County in the oil pipeline dispute by revising its plans to move the safety valves underground, and outside of our jurisdiction. This will likely lead to a restarting of offshore oil drilling at the Santa Ynez Unit off of Gaviota.
Those of us who were here during the Refugio Oil Spill in 2015 know what is now at stake, and how deeply terrifying that news is.
CAMARILLO — CSU Channel Islands (CSUCI) is one of the most affordable universities in the West according to Washington Monthly’s 2024 annual College Guide.
CSUCI ranked 24th out of 201 colleges and universities in the western region on the “Best Bang for Your Buck” list, climbing two rungs from its 2023 ranking. Each year, the Washington Monthly creates a region-by-region ranking of public, private nonprofit, and for-profit colleges in its “Best Bang for your Buck” category, based on how well an institution helps students attain marketable degrees at affordable prices.
“I am proud of how CSUCI opens doors to higher education for individuals who may not have previously considered higher education. A degree not only transforms their lives but also uplifts their families and contributes to greater social mobility,” said President Richard Yao. “This recognition reflects our commitment to empowering students and enhancing communities through education.”
Saturday, September 14, 2024 • 4 PM to 6 PM
$5 SPAM Members • $10 Non-members
Setting to work on her newest series of paintings in 2023, longtime Santa Paula artist Gail Pidduck found herself with a childlike desire to “just make art.” Her adult sensibilities insisted on a focus. Pidduck compromised with the decision to use 8″ x 8″ panels as the constraint for her paintings, while allowing herself to paint anything she wanted. Thus, “8².” The “+ 10?” 8² + 10 = 74, Pidduck’s age when the exhibit hangs, and her goal to produce 74 new paintings from which 40 will be exhibited. Join us for the premiere of Gail Pidduck’s “8² + 10” on Saturday, September 14. The exhibit will be on view through January 12, 2025. All of the artworks will be available for purchase.
The exhibition situates Puccinelli’s career within the constellation of his local and regional contemporaries.
Read more about the art opening
SANTA BARBARA — Often overlooked, mental health is a crucial aspect of a healthy childhood. Understanding emotions and developing effective coping strategies are essential milestones in a child’s social and emotional development. Mental wellness doesn’t simply mean the absence of a mental health disorder. It involves children being able to manage emotions, develop, and sustain a quality of life that includes everything from friendships to sports to family relationships. During the exciting early weeks of a new school year, parents have a valuable opportunity to tune in to their child’s mental health.
WESTLAKE VILLAGE — The Southeast Ventura County YMCA is one of nine YMCAs to share a portion of a $20 million donation from Ballmer Group to the California State Alliance of YMCAs. The funding will take place over three years and will be used to expand the YMCAs’ ability to provide programs to low-income youth. The Southeast Ventura County YMCA will receive $165,000.
SANTA BARBARA — In celebration of Latino Conservation Week, Santa Barbara Botanic Garden is excited to host a range of bilingual events from Sept. 14 to Sept. 22, 2024. These events are an invitation for the Latino community and others to enjoy the outdoors together and participate in activities that help preserve our natural resources. In 2014, the Hispanic Access Foundation, through its Latino Conservation Week celebration, has recognized the Latino community’s vital contributions to conservation and environmental stewardship while expanding opportunities for outdoor engagement.
“We understand that the community is eager to start enjoying the Sports Park, and we share that excitement,” said Greg Barnes, Director of Parks and Recreation for the City of Santa Paula. “It’s essential that we open the park when the facilities are in the best possible condition. The additional time spent ensuring the health of the turf and finalizing other details will pay off in the long run, allowing residents to fully enjoy the space without concerns about damaging newly installed turf.”
William Davies King’s new book covers Nobel Prize-winning playwright Eugene O’Neill masterpiece of American drama, “Long Day’s Journey into Night,” and the context of its creation.
CAMARILLO — CSU Channel Islands (CSUCI) students majoring in a STEM (science, technology, engineering or mathematics) field have a chance to shadow NASA planetary scientists, thanks to a $375,000 grant procured by Assistant Professor of Physics Kevin Hayakawa.
All CSUCI undergraduates are eligible to apply, but should submit their application by Aug. 30 at tinyurl.com/H2O-App. Students can be STEM majors or planning to pursue a STEM major.
SANTA BARBARA — ¡Viva el Arte de Santa Bárbara! (Viva) is excited to announce its highly anticipated 2024-2025 season, featuring an outstanding lineup of Latin American performers guaranteed to captivate audiences across Santa Barbara County.
This season, Viva will present five acclaimed acts that exemplify the vibrant and diverse cultural heritage of Latin America.
United Way thanks all who made this a spectacular evening!
We’re pleased to share with you our latest video highlighting our Community Impact programs.
Learn more about Women United, VITA, United to End Homelessness VC, Stuff the Bus, and Building Healthy Smiles initiatives and the outcomes we’ve accomplished together!
Please hit play to take a look!
Celebrate the exhibition A Legacy of Giving: The Lady Leslie and Lord Paul Ridley-Tree Collection with free admission for all (1 – 4 pm) with related art activities, family gallery guides, docent tours, music, and refreshments. This event also coincides with SBMA’s Free 2nd Sunday for Tri-County Residents (Santa Barbara, Ventura, San Luis Obispo) (11 – 5 pm).
When it comes to shark conservation, scientists say size should matter after a global study finds that the sharks most affected by fishing are also the most important for healthy oceans.
A Back to School Message
From Dr. César Morales, Ventura County Superintendent of Schools
The start of the new school year is always a magical time as classrooms and schoolyards come roaring back to life after summer break. Ventura County’s public school system serves nearly 125,000 students and provides a comprehensive range of educational services. This school year will see expanded learning opportunities for students of all ages, from the continued expansion of transitional kindergarten (TK) to new career education options. Some of the most exciting new initiatives are highlighted in my annual back to school message, which I invite you to read at this link.
9th Annual Labor Day Tractor Fair
Monday, September 2
11:00 am – 2:00 pm
@Agriculture Museum
926 Railroad Ave., Santa Paula
Join us for the Agriculture Museum’s 9th Annual Labor Day Tractor Fair on September 2nd, immediately following the Santa Paula Labor Day Parade. This beloved community event celebrates Santa Paula’s diverse agricultural heritage with family-friendly activities, live music by Whole Hog, captivating presentations and tours, and a deep appreciation for our local farming culture. Thank you to Topa Topa Flywheelers for helping make this event possible. For more information click HERE!
SANTA MARIA — Allan Hancock College is expanding its popular “Bulldog Bow-WOW” event into a weeklong series of fun and informative activities for new and returning students.
The college’s “Week of Welcome”, or WOW, will take place from Aug. 26-30 and include workshops and activities designed to get students off to a successful start at Hancock. Students who participate each day will have the opportunity to meet with faculty and staff, learn about programs and services, win prizes, get free food, connect with their peers, and more.
“Hancock’s Week of Welcome will connect new and returning students with the resources and tools they need to set themselves up for a successful fall semester and beyond,” said Hancock Superintendent/President Kevin G. Walthers.
VENTURA — In a June 17 meeting, the Ventura College Foundation Board of Directors approved three new board members for the 2024-25 term.
One of the new board members is Dr. Claudia Lourido-Habib, president of Ventura College, who began her tenure at the college earlier this month.
“I’m so excited to be part of both the college and the foundation,” says Lourido-Habib. “These two arms of education have had a strong partnership for 40 years since the foundation began. As the college heads towards its 100th anniversary in 2025, we’ll continue to work together to remove educational barriers and give students the tools and hope they need to succeed.”
THOUSAND OAKS — The Southeast Ventura County YMCA is taking signups for its Adventure Guides’ program for the 2024-25 school year. A free kick-off BBQ and information night will take place at the Conejo Valley YMCA in Thousand Oaks (4031 N. Moorpark Rd.) on Saturday, August 24 from 5:00 p.m. to 8:30 p.m.
Adventure Guides is for parents and their children (ages 5-11). It is designed to enhance the quality of family time and support and strengthen the communication between parent and child at an early age.
