The patterns captured in a newly developed non-linear model reveal whether plants are ‘water savers’ or ‘water spenders.’
UCSB — The Current — ‘A nuanced model of soil moisture illuminates plant behavior and climate patterns’ and more news, events
Museum of Ventura County announces new board leadership, welcomes new Board Members and COO
VENTURA COUNTY — The Museum of Ventura County (Museum) is proud to announce the appointment of Dr. Richard Rush as chair and Al Lowe as vice-chair of its board of directors. Both esteemed community leaders and longtime Camarillo residents have served on the Museum’s board since 2017 and played instrumental roles in the organization’s recent strategic repositioning.
Dr. Rush, president emeritus of California State University Channel Islands (CSUCI), brings a deep legacy of educational leadership and civic engagement to his new role as board chair. A visionary administrator, Dr. Rush was the founding president of CSUCI, where he forged lasting connections between the university and the broader Ventura County community. His academic background includes a Ph.D. in English Renaissance Literature and a master’s degree in English Literature from UCLA.
Social Justice Fund for Ventura County (SJFVC) — Call for Fellows – Submit Your Application!
Social Justice Fellows (past and present), guided by our talented mentors and coaches, tackle these and many more challenges to improve Ventura County for all of us!
Become a Social Justice Fellow!
Ventura County Credit Union amplifies support for VCCDC with additional $150,000 donation through FHLBank partnership
“We’re proud to deepen our support for VCCDC through this incredible opportunity provided by FHLBank,” said Linda Rossi, president and CEO of VCCU. “Together, we’re not just celebrating our 75th year — we’re investing in the future of Ventura County by helping more families access the resources they need to achieve homeownership and financial stability.”
Ronald L. Miller II sworn in as Ventura County’s Chief Probation Officer
VENTURA — Ronald L. Miller II was officially sworn in, on Monday, July 14, 2025, as Chief Probation Officer of the Ventura County Probation Agency. The Ventura County Board of Supervisors appointed Miller to the position on June 24, 2025, following an extensive statewide recruitment process.
Chief Miller brings more than 35 years of experience in probation services, having previously served as the Chief Probation Officer in Riverside County. In that role, he led more than 1,000 staff members and oversaw the management of multiple juvenile facilities. He has also held numerous leadership positions within the field, including serving as the Southern Region Chair for the Chief Probation Officers of California.
“I’m honored to step into this role and serve the people of Ventura County,” said Chief Miller. “I look forward to working with our dedicated team and community partners to enhance public safety, support rehabilitation, and promote long-term positive change.”
Moorpark College Theatre Arts announces the addition of new faculty from the entertainment industry
MOORPARK — The Moorpark College Theatre Arts Department is pleased to announce the addition of new faculty members to assist students in their entertainment career paths. Casting Director Jane Flowers will be teaching Audition Techniques and Tim Hornor will be teaching Improvisational Comedy this upcoming Fall 2025 semester.
After receiving her MFA from UCLA in Acting, Jane Flowers transitioned into casting in 2011. She has been nominated for two Artios Awards which celebrates excellence in casting for TV, film, theatre and commercials. Her casting credits include “Daisy Jones and the Six” (Amazon), “Seal Team” (CBS), “Dreamquil” (independent feature) starring Elizabeth Banks and John C. Reilly, and “Die Hart” (Roku) starring Kevin Hart, Katherine Hahn, Anna Garcia and J.K. Simmons. She is a member of the Casting Society of America.
Economic Development Collaborative (EDC) free event and webinar schedule
SCORE: FUND YOUR BUSINESS WITH SPONSORS, EVEN IF YOU’RE JUST STARTING OUT
July 15 @ 10:00 am
Would you like to do what you love and have someone else foot the bill? Have you ever considered corporate sponsors for your business, show, book, charity, speaking engagements or events? If you answered yes to any of these questions, this webinar is for you! America’s most successful companies partner with sponsors. Why not you? Linda Hollander can help you. She is the author of the #1 best-selling book, Corporate Sponsorship in 3 Easy Steps, and the CEO of Sponsor Concierge. Linda has consulted with many entrepreneurs to help them profit from the awesome power of corporate sponsors and has 20 years of experience in business. Her corporate sponsors have included Microsoft, Wells Fargo, Epson, Citibank, FedEx, Health Net, Southwest Airlines, Bank of America, Staples, American Airlines, Walmart and IBM.
Business, Cultural, Educación, Education, En español, Government, Immigration, Local, Locales, News, Noticias, Public Safety, Seniors, Women, Youth
County of Santa Barbara July 15 Board of Supervisors added item — Discussion on Recent Immigration and Customs Enforcement (ICE) Activities in Santa Barbara County
Summary:
The Board will discuss recent Immigration and Customs Enforcement (ICE) operations in Santa Barbara County and hear from the public. Specifically, the Board will review federal enforcement actions that took place near Carpinteria on July 10, 2025, and in Santa Maria in early June. The discussion will include the community impact of these actions and any Board direction on this item.
United Way of Northern Arizona — One week left to drop off donations for Stuff the Bus
SUPPORT A LOCAL COLLECTION DRIVE
The final day to drop off donations will be Friday, July 18th. Help us reach our goal of donating 1,000 backpacks stuffed with essential school supplies for homeless middle schoolers in Ventura County. When dropping off your donation, look for the pop-up bus and stop sign. Please note that only brand-new school supplies will be accepted.
The Museum of Contemporary Art Santa Barbara — The 2025 Art Award – Revealed!
Ry Rocklen (b. 1978, Los Angeles, CA) is an American sculptor. His sculptures, born out of an array of found and readymade objects, reflect his pursuit of the sublime in the things we take for granted.
Rocklen participated in the critically acclaimed MCASB exhibition Home Show, Revisited in 2011.
Ancient Art Award (Cup from a torch-holder, Cyprus, 6th century BCE from The Met Collection)
2025
6 x 8.75 x 2.75
Ceramic, glaze, glaze decal
Edition of 5
Exclusive to the Art Award recipients.
Cottage Health names Matthew Morgan as Chief Financial Officer
SANTA BARBARA — Cottage Health appoints Matthew (Matt) Morgan, MBA, FHFMA, FACHE, as Senior Vice President and Chief Financial Officer (CFO), effective August 19, 2025.
Matt brings more than two decades of healthcare financial leadership and a proven ability to drive performance through strategic alignment and data-driven decision-making. Most recently serving as Vice President and Chief Financial Officer at Montage Health in Monterey, CA.
Bilingual report — City of Ventura — Help shape public art at Surfers Point
VENTURA — The City of Ventura invites residents and community members to help select the final artistic direction for the new seat wall tile artwork at Surfers Point. Take the quick, three-question survey now through July 27, 2025, at our website
Based on prior community input, the City has narrowed down the top color styles and theme options for the future tile artwork. Now, the public can help guide the final direction before the City launches a Call to Artists in early fall 2025.
“We’re excited to hear from the community about the final color palettes and themes, “ said Emily Fox, Assistant Parks & Recreation Director. “Their input will help guide the artists in creating designs that truly reflect the community’s values and vision for this public artwork.”
Mixteco / Indigena Community Organizing Project (MICOP) members on scene at ICE immigration raid in Camarillo. Please see related stories
(Editor’s note: Federal agents wearing military camouflage gear raided a state-licensed marijuana nursery located between Camarillo and Oxnard on Thursday, July 11. The federal agents then used smoke and chemical canisters after a growing number of protesters attempted to block the arrests of workers, according to various media reports.)
Images and content below courtesy of the Mixteco / Indigena Community Organizing Project (MICOP). Please see related news stories below.
From MICOP’s Radio Indígena Facebook Live: We have some team members still on site waiting (as of Friday morning, July 11) for ICE to leave to provide transportation to community members trapped. This has been going on for at least 12 hours. This is the moment ICE agents shot teargas at unarmed community members as they prepared to leave the area.
Bilingual report — Kaiser Permanente — A remarkable recovery, surviving cancer against the odds
As she was halfway around the world in New Zealand when her fight against cancer began, Santamaría would soon launch a journey that would bring her back to her California roots and back to Kaiser Permanente for care that she credits for her survival. She shares her story as a beacon of hope.
Santamaría is the associate vice president of strategy at California Lutheran University, where her role encompasses driving diversity, equity, inclusion, justice and belonging initiatives to deliver optimal offerings to students through partnerships with local businesses, nonprofits, municipalities and healthcare organizations.
Susan A. Andrzejewski appointed interim president of California State University Channel Islands
SANTA BARBARA — California State University (CSU) Chancellor Mildred García has appointed Susan A. Andrzejewski to serve as California State University Channel Islands’ interim president. Andrzejewski, who currently serves as the university’s dean of the Martin V. Smith School of Business & Economics, will begin her new appointment on August 4, 2025.
“Dr. Andrzejewski is an innovative and collaborative leader, recognized for advancing student success through data-informed initiatives, experiential learning and regional partnerships,” said Chancellor García. “In addition, she has been a trusted and strategic partner to outgoing President Richard Yao, demonstrating impressive university-wide leadership and undeniable strategic acumen. With her strong connections to CSU Channel Islands and outstanding professional skills and personal qualities, Dr. Andrzejewski is the ideal person to lead the university through this time of transition.”
Business, Commentary, Cultural, Family, Government, Immigration, Local, News, Politics, Public Safety, Seniors, Veterans, Women, Youth
LULAC hails Federal Court Victory preserving Birthright Citizenship in the United States
WASHINGTON, D.C. — The League of United Latin American Citizens (LULAC) (July 10) celebrates a landmark decision by U.S. District Judge Joseph Laplante of New Hampshire, who issued a ruling blocking the Trump administration’s executive order seeking to strip automatic birthright citizenship from children born in the United States to undocumented parents. This decision marks a crucial victory for members of LULAC, the first organization to file a lawsuit challenging the administration’s attempt to undermine one of the most fundamental rights enshrined in the U.S. Constitution.
Pew Research Center’s Race & Ethnicity report — Birthright citizenship, deportation worries and Trump’s 2024 voter coalition
U.S. public is split on birthright citizenship for people whose parents immigrated illegally
Half of U.S. adults say people born in the United States to parents who immigrated illegally should have U.S. citizenship, while 49% say they should not. By contrast, nearly all say people born in the country to U.S.-born parents (95%) or to parents who immigrated legally (94%) should be citizens.
Related: Trump’s executive order on birthright citizenship draws more disapproval than approval
Ventura Harbor Village makes waves with a full lineup of Summer fun
VENTURA — A summer road trip to California’s Central Coast isn’t complete without a stop at Ventura Harbor Village—a sun-kissed seaside escape offering postcard-perfect sunsets, salty breezes, and a lively mix of coastal experiences. This July and August, Ventura Harbor Village invites locals and travelers alike to soak up the season with a vibrant array of mid-week events, live music, dining, and seaside adventures. https://www.venturaharborvillage.com/
Plan a perfect summer day and beat the heat to enjoy unforgettable moments along the waterfront. Guests can indulge in fresh coastal cuisine, wine tastings, one-of-a-kind boutique shopping, and ocean activities like paddle boating, electric boats, and kayaking. Free midweek parking and engaging events make it even easier to plan a visit.
United Way of Ventura County announces 20th Annual Spirit Award recipients
VENTURA COUNTY — United Way of Ventura County is pleased to announce the 20th Annual Spirit Award Recipients. These awards honor our Founding members. Every year since 2005, individuals and organizations who embody the qualities of Milton M. Teague, Douglas Shively, and Roy Pinkerton are selected for this prestigious honor. This year we will also award our President’s Award. The awards and awardees are list below:
The Milton M. Teague Award is given to a board member for outstanding community volunteerism, voted on by their peers. This year we proudly give this award to Tim Harrington.
Douglas Shively Award for Outstanding Community Impact is given to individuals who have served our community through our unique programs. This year we proudly give this award to Mayur Patel who is a champion of our Homelessness Initiative.
Roy Pinkerton Award for Top Corporate Citizenship goes to Procter & Gamble for their support through their corporate giving campaign, and sponsorship!
Cal Lutheran University will be honored with the President’s Award for their leadership and partnership with United Way’s Community Impact programs including Women United.
Friendship Center to host Polo Fundraiser on July 18
Didn’t snag your Polo ticket in time!? Not to worry!
Due to an increase in demand we have been able to extend our ticket sales for Friendship Center’s Polo Fundraiser on July 18th. However, don’t wait too long!! The new deadline to purchase tickets is just under one week away and a limited quantity is available.
Community Environmental Council in Santa Barbara releases report on impact of climate action
SANTA BARBARA — The Community Environmental Council (CEC) has released its most recent Impact Report, which shares key highlights of how CEC is converting a historically oil producing region to one that is regenerative and renewable. The report is accessible at cecsb.org/impact
At a time when the federal administration’s regressive climate policies threaten to unravel years of progress, California serves as a critical safeguard, and its stance will determine whether the United States advances or regresses by decades in climate protection. Central Coast communities play a vital role by providing courage, backbone, and proof of concept that strengthen and inform statewide policies.
Business, Cultural, Education, En español, Events, Government, Health, Local, News, Seniors, Women, Youth
Bilingual report — County of Santa Barbara Board of Supervisors to meet on July 15
Reuniones de la Junta de Supervisores en español
(Board of Supervisors’ Meetings in Spanish)
El Condado de Santa Bárbara está ofreciendo interpretación en español de las reuniones de la Junta de Supervisores. Véalo en vivo en nuestro canal de YouTube en español, o las personas suscritas a la televisión por cable pueden acceder a la programación secundaria de audio (SAP) en los ajustes de idioma.
Aún se requiere pedir con anticipación la interpretación de los comentarios públicos en español. Para proporcionar comentarios públicos en español, póngase en contacto con la Secretaría de la Junta llamando al (805) 568-2240 antes de las 4:00 p.m. del viernes anterior a la reunión de la Junta.
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.
Advance requests are still needed to interpret public comment originating in Spanish. To provide public comment in Spanish, contact the Clerk of the Board at (805) 568-2240, before 4:00 p.m. the Friday before the Board meeting.
Ventura County Air Pollution Control District doubles old car buyback payments
VENTURA COUNTY — The Ventura County Air Pollution Control District has doubled the amount it pays residents to retire old vehicles to $2,000 and expanded the eligible model years to 2003 or older.
Before the change, the Old Car Buyback Program offered $1,000 per vehicle with model years of 1997 or older.
16th Annual Asian American Film Series opens July 11 at the historic Alhecama Theatre in Santa Barbara. Continues through July 25
SANTA BARBARA — Please join the Santa Barbara Trust for Historic Preservation (SBTHP) on three Friday evenings in July for our sixteenth-annual Asian American Film Series at the historic Alhecama Theatre.
The Santa Barbara Trust for Historic Preservation’s 2025 Asian American Film Series (AAFS) features four recently released, captivating documentary films that were carefully selected by SBTHP’s Asian American Affinity Group. Whether you’re a film enthusiast, a supporter of lifting AAPI perspectives and voices, or just looking for an inspiring and entertaining cinematic experience, this year’s AAFS will not disappoint!
UCSB — The Current — Could America break apart? UCSB expert explores the possibility
In his latest book, political economist Benjamin Cohen examines the global and domestic pressures driving nations, including the U.S., toward fragmentation.
Business, Cultural, Education, En español, familia, Family, Government, Local, Locales, News, Noticias
Bilingual report — City of Ventura releases 12th episode of Ventura Voices podcast featuring new Police Chief David Dickey
VENTURA — The City of Ventura is excited to announce the release of Episode 12 of its Ventura Voices podcast, now available on Spotify, Apple Podcasts, Amazon Music, and YouTube. This latest episode features a conversation between City Manager Bill Ayub and Ventura’s new Chief of Police, David Dickey.
In this engaging interview, Chief Dickey shares how he got his start in law enforcement, what inspired his journey to Ventura, and his vision for the future of the Ventura Police Department. He discusses the importance of community policing, building public trust, and investing in strategies that strengthen neighborhood safety.
Women’s Economic Ventures (WEV)’s Consulting helps local entrepreneurs strengthen their businesses and communities
CENTRAL COAST — From coffee shops and beauty salons to startups and design studios, local small businesses power our economy—and Women’s Economic Ventures (WEV) is helping them grow stronger every day. Running a business can be exciting—but also overwhelming. Many entrepreneurs face challenges like financial stress, lack of strategic planning, or simply not knowing where to turn for support. That’s where WEV comes in.
Museum of Ventura County — Brushstrokes of History: Local Artists, Legendary Stories
Book Your Holiday Event at the Museum!
Join us at the Museum of Ventura County or the Agriculture Museum for your holiday events. Spend the night enjoying delicious food from DJs catering, dancing the night away with In The Mix Djs and lighting, set in one of two exciting venues. Party Package includes: Gourmet Buffet Dinner. Venue rental. Tables, chairs, linens, dinning needs. DJ with lighting package. No host bar (drink tickets available for additional fee). 100 person minimum. $150 per person
Book today – August 31 for the month of November, December, or January and receive a 20% discount on a Membership! Contact Kristy Rogers at krogers@venturamuseum.org to book today.
Bilingual report — People’s Self-Health Housing — Cleaver & Clark Commons in SLO: Pre-Applications Available Now | Cleaver & Clark Commons: Las pre-solicitudes estarán disponibles ahora
Eligibility:
Households earning at or below 60% of the Area Median Income
Visit pshhc.org/CCC to view income limits
14 units are set aside for agricultural worker households earning 30 to 60% of the AMI
United Way of Ventura County — LAST CHANCE TO SUPPORT OUR ONLINE SCHOOL SUPPLY DRIVE
There are two days left to shop our online Roonga Drive, which closes on Wednesday, July 9th. If you would like to support Stuff the Bus but can’t find the time to shop for supplies in-person, our online drive is meant for you. All school supplies purchased online through Roonga will be shipped directly to us to fill backpacks for at-risk students in Ventura County. Our Roonga Drive includes a bundle where you can purchase a brand-new backpack filled with school supplies for $21.30. For less than $22, you can help pave the path to academic success for a homeless student.
Thank you so much to those who have already donated! Since the start of our 2025 campaign, we have received enough Roonga donations to send over 60 homeless middle school students back to school with a brand-new backpack and school supplies that include pencils, pens, markers, paper, a notebook, and more.
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To access our Roonga Drive, click the link here or scan the QR code below.