Business, Commentary, Cultural, Education, En español, Entertainment, Events, Family, Immigration, Local, Locales, News, Noticias, Seniors, Women, Youth

805UndocuFund — Freedom Music Fest brings together music and solidarity in support of immigrant families on May 17

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SANTA BARBARA — The regional Mexican music community is coming together for a powerful evening of music, solidarity, and support for immigrant families through the inaugural Freedom Music Fest, featuring performances by Larry Hernández, Régulo Caro, and Roberto Tapia.

A portion of the event proceeds will benefit 805UndocuFund, a nonprofit organization providing direct financial assistance to immigrant families impacted by recent ICE raids and climate-induced disasters while also advocating for long-term systems change at the policy level.

All donated proceeds received by 805UndocuFund will directly support the organization’s Emergency Assistance Fund, which provides immediate relief to families affected by immigration enforcement throughout California’s Central Coast. Since launching the Emergency Assistance Fund in April 2025, 805UndocuFund has distributed more than $1 million in direct assistance to impacted families across the region.

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Business, Cultural, Education, Events, Finance, Local, News, Women

Women’s Fund of Santa Barbara to grant $1.275 million, supporting nonprofits amid funding challenges

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SANTA BARBARA — The power of collective giving was on full display at the Lobero Theatre on May 13 when the Women’s Fund of Santa Barbara awarded a record $1,275,000 in grants to 10 local nonprofits. Grants ranged in size from $60,000 to $200,000. These grants will provide essential mental health therapy, youth counseling and mentorship, reproductive healthcare services for women, meals and wellness checks for seniors, transportation for foster children, door-to-door assistance for seniors and adults with disabilities, a truck to transport surplus food to nonprofits, and a supportive dormitory for women struggling with addiction.

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Cultural, Education, Finance, Local, News, Youth

Scholarship winners of SEEAG’s first ‘Fields of Innovation in Agriculture Research Competition’ selected

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VENTURA — Winners of the first Students for Eco-Education and Agriculture (SEEAG) “Fields of Innovation in Agriculture Research Competition” were selected on May 2.

High schoolers in grades 10 through 12 from 6 different schools interested in applying STEM solutions to agricultural problems participated in the six-week, guided online competition. The competition culminated in an in-person final showcase at CSU Channel Islands, held alongside the 18th Annual CSUCI Student Research Conference.

“By bringing SEEAG’s student finalists to CSUCI, we connected them directly to the college research environment while giving them a platform to present their own work,” says Caitlin Paulus Case, SEEAG executive director. “It’s an experience that builds confidence and strengthens real-world communication skills.”

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El Concilio Family Services — Nominations deadline is May 15

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OXNARD — For 35 years, El Concilio has celebrated Latino leadership throughout Ventura County… who have made a substantial impact in their communities.
These individuals have enhanced the lives of the underprivileged… through their contributions to education, volunteerism, health and wellness, advocacy, and more.

Do you know a Leader in your community who has significantly influenced the lives of the Latino community?

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Educación, Education, En español, Government, Local, Locales, News, Noticias

Bilingual report — Now’s the Time to VOTE: Ventura County Elections Division shares commonly asked questions and answers for June 2 Gubernatorial Primary

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VENTURA COUNTY —  With the June 2, 2026 Gubernatorial Primary Election underway, Ventura County Clerk-Recorder and Registrar of Voters Michelle Ascencion and her team are answering some of the common questions about the election that voters have been asking.

“Because every election is unique, each election generates its own set of questions,” Registrar Ascencion said.

“For example, the first thing voters notice when opening their mail ballot is that the ballot size is unusually large, and voters may wonder why that is,” she said. “This election is the first gubernatorial primary in California without an incumbent for governor since 2018, along with other termed-out seats at the State level. An open seat tends to draw a lot of hopefuls – there are about 60 candidates for governor alone!”

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Cultural, Education, En español, Family, Local, Locales, News, Noticias, Public Safety, Women

Bilingual report — Registration underway for Allan Hancock College’s annual Women’s Fire Camp

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SANTA MARIA — Allan Hancock College invites women ages 15-25 to get a first-hand look at life as a firefighter at Hancock’s annual Women’s Fire Camp. The camp will be held May 30 from 9 a.m. to 5 p.m. at the college’s Public Safety Training Complex (PSTC) in Lompoc.

Women who sign up for this event will work with staff from Hancock’s fire technology program and the college’s state-certified Fire Academy. Several female Hancock College Fire Academy graduates, who are now professional firefighters, will be on hand to share their knowledge and experience. Participants will take part in various team-building exercises and hands-on training with the techniques and equipment used by firefighters.

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Business, Cultural, Entertainment, Events, Family, Local, News, Seniors, Women, Youth

Local businesses and organizations partner with Bike the Coast Ventura ahead of inaugural event on June 13

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VENTURA — Bike the Coast Ventura will be hosting their inaugural event on June 13, showcasing the charm of the Ventura community. The event has put a strong emphasis on its local involvement, focusing on building partnerships with businesses and organizations within the Ventura region and authentically connected to the community. Registration for the 2026 event is now open.

This year’s sponsors and partners include Visit Ventura, Downtown Ventura Association, Ventura Coast Brewing Company and Ventura Coast Cycling. The event has also partnered with local charity organizations, including The Los Angeles Chapter of National MS and the Downtown Ventura Foundation. The event will also host Ventura-based band The GAMBLE at their free Finish Festival, which will also include various local food, drink and vendors for riders, spectators and community members to all enjoy. 

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Business, Events, Family, Finance, Home, Local, News

Housing Trust Fund Ventura County breaks fundraising record at seventh annual Compassion Campaign

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VENTURA COUNTY — Housing Trust Fund Ventura County (Housing Trust Fund VC) announced that its 7th Annual Compassion Campaign raised more than $200,000, a new record for the organization. Held Thursday, May 7 at Walnut Grove at Tierra Rejada in Moorpark, the event brought together more than 200 community members, business leaders, and elected officials under the theme “The Sweetest Investment,” a reflection of the lasting returns that local commitment to affordable housing generates for the entire region.

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Moorpark College President Dr. Julius O. Sokenu Named Man of the Year by Greater Conejo Valley Chamber of Commerce

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CAMARILLO — The Ventura County Community College District (VCCCD) congratulates Dr. Julius O. Sokenu, president of Moorpark College, on being named Man of the Year by the Greater Conejo Valley Chamber of Commerce. Dr. Sokenu will be recognized at the Chamber’s annual Recognition Gala — Journeys of Excellence — on Friday, May 15, 2026, from 6 p.m. to 9 p.m. at the Hyatt Regency Westlake.

The award recognizes Dr. Sokenu’s nearly two decades of service to Moorpark College and his commitment to expanding student access, strengthening workforce readiness and advancing the region’s educational infrastructure. He has served as college president since 2021, leading a campus of over 400 faculty and staff that serves more than 14,000 students annually.

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Cultural, Education, Family, Local, News, Youth

Ventura County Community College District honors LGBTQIA+ graduates as Lavender Graduation returns to its roots

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CAMARILLO — Three years ago, Oxnard College hosted the first Lavender Graduation in the history of the Community Colleges of Ventura County. On May 1, 2026, the celebration returned to the Performing Arts Building with its corridor of employee allies and a giant inflatable rainbow that welcomed attendees home.

Lavender Graduation has become a beloved districtwide tradition, rotating annually among Moorpark, Oxnard and Ventura colleges since its creation in the 2022-23 academic year. Designed to celebrate the achievements and identities of LGBTQIA+ students across the district, this year’s return to Oxnard College marked a full-circle moment for a program that has grown each year since its founding.

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Business, Cultural, Education, Local, News

Community Environmental Council (CEC) — Join us for a community salon cohosted by CEC and TedxSantaBarbara (May 27), other events

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Hope is not passive — it’s built through collective action, conversation, and courage. TEDxSantaBarbara and the Community Environmental Council (CEC) are hosting an evening of active hope in the face of the climate crisis. Join us at The Hub for “Climate Action: Energized by Hope” to explore how truth, voice, vision, and sustained action can help us move from eco-anxiety to meaningful impact.

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Education, Family, Local, News, Youth

Register for YMCA Adventure Guides in Simi Valley and Conejo Valley

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WESTLAKE VILLAGE — The Southeast Ventura County YMCA is taking signups for its Adventure Guides/Y-Trailblazers programs in Simi and Conejo valleys for the 2026-27 school year.

Organized through the Simi Valley Family YMCA and the Yarrow Family YMCA branches, YMCA Adventure Guides/Y-Trailblazers programs are for parents and their children, ages 5–11. The program runs from August 2026 through June 2027.

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Business, Local, News, Women

Santa Paula Chamber of Commerce announces new leadership appointments

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SANTA PAULA — The Santa Paula Chamber of Commerce has named two accomplished community members to lead the organization forward: Deirdre Weaver, a longtime Santa Paula business owner, educator and Chamber board member, as Interim Executive Director, and Chloe Rahimzadeh Lurie, an arts administrator and civic leader, as Operations Manager. Together, the two appointments represent a deliberate investment in local knowledge, operational credibility and community trust as the Chamber is focused squarely on deepening its service to Santa Paula’s business community. 

“We are absolutely delighted to welcome Deirdre and Chloe to the Santa Paula Chamber of Commerce. Both bring exactly the passion, drive, and deep commitment to the city and community of Santa Paula that will help our Chamber thrive and serve our business community with excellence. This is a tremendously exciting step forward for the Chamber, and we look forward to the energy and leadership they will each bring,” states Elena Brokaw, Chair of the Board, Santa Paula Chamber of Commerce. 

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Cultural, Education, Entertainment, Events, Family, Local, News, Seniors, Women, Youth

Museum of Ventura County — First look at two new exhibits – Join us on June 5th

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Parallel Histories: Ventura County during the US Revolution

As the United States commemorates the 250th anniversary of the Declaration of Independence, Parallel Histories explores what was unfolding at the same time in Ventura County. While British colonialism and the Revolutionary War reshaped the East Coast, California, not yet part of the United States, was being transformed by Spain.

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Patriotic Threads: Textiles, Tapestries, & T-Shirts

Patriotic Threads explores how textiles have long served as powerful expressions of national identity. Through handcrafted works, the exhibit reveals how textiles and design embody patriotism and collective memory.

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RSVP REQUESTED

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Business, Cultural, Government, Local, News

Community Environmental Council (CEC) — You have until May 18 to share your input on coastal flooding and erosion solutions

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There’s still time to weigh in, but the deadline is coming up fast. Community members are encouraged to complete the Waterfront Adaptation Survey by Monday, May 18 to help shape the long-term future of Santa Barbara’s Waterfront.

The Waterfront Adaptation Plan looks ahead to the next 30 years, focusing on how to prepare for coastal flooding, shoreline erosion, and sea level rise. At the same time, it aims to protect and enhance what makes the waterfront so important to the community: beach access, recreation, boating, natural habitats, and essential coastal infrastructure.

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Business, Cultural, Education, Local, News, Youth

Ventura College Students complete landmark study abroad program in Loreto, Mexico

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VENTURA — Ventura College made history this spring break when eleven students participated in the college’s inaugural study abroad program, traveling to Loreto, Mexico — Ventura’s sister city — for a week-long immersive, cross-disciplinary experience. Led by Professor of Sociology Daniella Graves and Professor of Biology Kammy Algiers, the program marked a milestone year in the making.

“This trip has been such an enriching experience. There couldn’t have been a better fit for our Ventura College students,” said Professor Graves. The program originated three years ago when Ventura Sister City Association board member Mark Urwick connected with Ventura College faculty about a potential collaboration. Ventura, California, and Loreto, Mexico, have been sister cities since 2015, sharing a rich mission heritage that gave students the opportunity to explore historical landmarks and reflect on their lasting cultural impact. Ventura College officially approved the program this year, bringing the vision to life.

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Commentary, Cultural, Education, Family, Government, Local, News, Youth

Ventura County Office of Education — 2026 Teacher of the Year, Battle of the Books Winners, and more!

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The Ventura County Office of Education is thrilled to announce that John Beck, an English teacher from Pacifica High School in the Oxnard Union High School District, is the 2026 Ventura County Teacher of the Year! Mr. Beck received the news this week when his family members joined representatives from VCOE and OUHSD in a surprise visit to his classroom.

Mr. Beck has been teaching for 21 years and has been at Pacifica for 13. His classroom is known for a positive atmosphere where students feel comfortable and confident in themselves as they engage in academic discussions.

“In a diverse community like ours, where students bring a wide range of experiences, languages, and aspirations into the classroom, my goal is to create an environment where every student sees themselves as a capable reader, writer, and thinker,” Mr. Beck said. His program is built to ensure equitable access to engaging, rigorous learning experiences that prepare students for success inside and outside the classroom.
Learn More about Mr. Beck

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Business, Commentary, Cultural, Education, Family, Finance, Health, Home, Local, News, Seniors, Women, Youth

People’s Self-Help Housing launches ASCEND Fund to support affordable housing resident entrepreneurs

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CENTRAL COAST — People’s Self-Help Housing (PSHH) will host the launch of the ASCEND Fund on May 13, 2026 at the nonprofit’s San Luis Obispo headquarters, introducing a new initiative designed to support residents pursuing entrepreneurship, education, and professional advancement. 

The ASCEND Fund – standing for Agency, Skills, Capacity, Entrepreneurship, Network, and Direction – will provide micro-grants to individuals living in PSHH properties who are working to build businesses, grow professionally, or further their entrepreneurial education. 
 
“We see ASCEND as a bridge between our residents and the broader business community,” said Ken Trigueiro, CEO of People’s Self-Help Housing. “We’re here for our residents who are entrepreneurs and future leaders; and when we invest in their growth, we’re investing in a stronger, more resilient Central Coast economy for everyone.” 

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Business, Cultural, En español, familia, Family, Finance, Home, Local, Locales, News, Noticias, Seniors, Women, Youth

Bilingual report — People’s Self Help Housing — RSVP by May 15. Join us to celebrate new affordable housing in Grover Beach on May 20

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Located at 1206 West Grand Avenue and 164 South 13th Street in the City of Grover Beach, Cleaver & Clark Commons is comprised of 53 affordable, multifamily housing units for households at or below 60% of the Area Median Income (AMI).

The property has 14 units set aside for farmworker households at 30-60% of AMI, 21 units are set aside for project-based vouchers administered through HASLO, and 6 units are set aside for people who are homeless or at risk of homelessness.

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Business, Commentary, Cultural, Education, Finance, Local, News

Presidio Neighborhood launches new brand and website highlighting past, present and future

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SANTA BARBARA — The Presidio Neighborhood, the historic district surrounding El Presidio de Santa Bárbara, has launched a new brand identity and website aimed at strengthening its visibility as a cultural and commercial destination in downtown Santa Barbara.

The refresh is part of a multi-year planning effort led by the Santa Barbara Trust for Historic Preservation (SBTHP), which acquired stewardship of the Presidio Neighborhood initiative in 2022. The updated branding includes a new logo, visual identity, and an expanded website highlighting the district’s history, businesses, cultural organizations, and public events.

“The Presidio Neighborhood is a place where historic charm and vibrant creativity intertwine—where live performances fill intimate spaces, galleries radiate bold expression, and cafés, boutiques, and restaurants blend seamlessly into a living canvas—inviting visitors to step in, linger, and be inspired. We look forward to seeing you,” said Cecilia Martini-Muth, Director of Marketing at the Lobero Theatre and a Presidio Neighborhood Advisory Council member.

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Bilingual report — Santa Paula sees sizeable decrease in homelessness 2026 Point-in-Time count results

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SANTA PAULA — The City of Santa Paula is pleased to share positive results from the 2026 Ventura County Homeless Point in Time Count, which indicate a 21.5% decrease in the total number of unsheltered and sheltered individuals experiencing homelessness in the City, when compared to 2025.

The Point-in-Time Count, conducted annually across Ventura County, provides a snapshot of homelessness in the community and helps guide funding, services, and policy decisions. Santa Paula’s results reflect meaningful local progress.

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New Thought Now Spiritual Center marks grand opening on May 14 in Thousand Oaks

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THOUSAND OAKS — A beloved spiritual community is stepping into a new chapter of inspiration.

New Thought Now!, formerly The Global Truth Center, will mark its official launch with a ribbon cutting ceremony May 14th at 4:30pm (880 Hampshire Road, Suite W, Westlake Village), bringing together local dignitaries and community members for a memorable afternoon of celebration, entertainment and refreshments. 

“It’s all about honoring where we’ve been, celebrating where we are, and opening the door to what comes next,” says Spiritual Director Dr. James Mellon, adding that “The new name reflects an evolving vision—one that honors the roots and relationships that have shaped this community while continuing to grow alongside the people it serves.”

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Community Environmental Council (CEC) — Final days: we can’t go back

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We’re in the final days of our Spring Appeal, and we’re still working to reach our $75,000 goal by May 15.

We’re close — and every gift matters right now.

We are seeing renewed efforts to expand fossil fuels and roll back climate progress, even here on the Central Coast.

We’ve come too far to go back.

Your gift today will be matched dollar-for-dollar, but only for a short time.

Give now. Your gift will be doubled. ?

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Business, Cultural, Education, Local, News, Women

CSUCI’s Jennifer Raymond honored with inaugural CSU Fong and Fetterly Staff Award

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CAMARILLO — California State University Channel Islands (CSUCI) proudly celebrates Jennifer Raymond, Community Partnership Lead for the Center for Community Engagement, as a recipient of the inaugural Trustee Wenda Fong and Mr. Daniel Fetterly Staff Award. The inaugural award marks the first systemwide recognition program dedicated exclusively to California State University (CSU) staff for their exemplary contributions and dedication to student success and institutional excellence.

Raymond received the First Generation Belonging and Community honor, recognizing her work to foster a strong sense of belonging and support for first-generation students.

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Commentary, Cultural, En español, Events, Family, Local, News, Opinion

Bilingual commentary — May Is a Month for Optimism

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We have good reasons to be optimistic about the month of May. Historically, May has been a month of events that are truly worth celebrating. Let’s review some of those cherished milestones.

To kick things off, World War II effectively ended on May 8, 1945. This singular event in history is known as VE Day (Victory in Europe Day), commemorating the day that the German Nazis surrendered, without conditions, to the Allies. 

Looking back a couple of hundred years, the first successful smallpox vaccination was made available to the public in May of 1796. That is not a typo—it was not in 1976! The English physician Dr. Edward Jenner used cowpox, a virus that infects humans via rodents and domestic cats, to provide immunity against the dangerous smallpox virus. 

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Business, Finance, Government, Local, News, Public Safety

Steaming Ahead: Port of Hueneme secures $11.25M Federal Grant to expand capacity and modernize infrastructure

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PORT HUENEME — The Port of Hueneme was awarded $11,250,000 in federal funding on April 28 through the U.S. Department of Transportation’s Maritime Administration (MARAD) as part of the competitive Port Infrastructure Development Program (PIDP). The investment brings needed wharf and berth upgrades to streamline operations at one of the nation’s leading hubs for fresh produce and automobiles.

“Strategic investments like this ensure the Port of Hueneme remains a reliable, forward-looking gateway for global trade,” said Jason Hodge, President of the Oxnard Harbor District Board of Harbor Commissioners. “This funding will allow us to continue delivering economic value for our region while supporting a more resilient national supply chain.”

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Bilingual report — Ventura County Health Care Agency announces new VCMC/SPH Director

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VENTURA — Ventura County Health Care Agency (HCA) (on May 6) announced the appointment of Danielle Gabele, DNP, RN, as Chief Executive Officer of Ventura County Medical Center (VCMC) and Santa Paula Hospital (SPH), effective May 10, 2026.

Dr. Gabele holds a Doctor of Nursing Practice degree and serves as President-Elect of the Association of California Nurse Leaders. She is also pursuing a Master of Health Administration degree at the University of Cincinnati.

“Dr. Gabele is a proven leader with a deep commitment to patient-centered care and clinical excellence,” said [Dr. John Fankhauser, HCA Director]. “Her collaborative approach and operational expertise make her exceptionally well-suited to lead VCMC and Santa Paula Hospital into the future.”

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