Museum of Ventura County — Special Pricing – Art Workshop with InnoVision Artist Elisa Torres

Explore the art of nicho-making with Elisa Torres, a featured artist in our InnoVision exhibition. In this workshop, you’ll create a nicho, which is often used to honor loved ones, particularly during Día de los Muertos. Elisa will guide you through crafting your own unique nicho.

Elisa Torres’s work blends Mexican and Latinx traditions with a deep celebration of community and collective memory. Her art transforms cultural identity into tangible expressions of heritage. This rare opportunity offers insight into Torres’s creative process, where participants can explore the significance of turning ideas into meaningful, spiritual creations.

Bilingual report — Allan Hancock College receives provisional approval to offer Bachelor’s degree

SANTA MARIA — Allan Hancock College reached a historic milestone with the provisional approval from the California Community Colleges Chancellor’s Office for its Bachelor of Science (B.S.) degree in Applied Professional Studies. Provisional approval means the program has cleared key initial requirements and is one step closer to being finalized.

This milestone represents a significant achievement in the college’s ongoing commitment to providing affordable and accessible higher education to Central Coast students. Hancock could begin offering the four-year degree to students as early as the fall of 2026 if final approval is granted. 

CSUCI to host its first-ever Homecoming Week with parades, pep rallies, comedy and a street fair

“As we celebrate our 22nd year, our first-ever Homecoming signals a milestone in the maturity of our campus,” said Vice President for Advancement Ritchie LeRoy. “With over 26,826 alumni, this moment is about more than just nostalgia—it’s about building on tradition and deepening the connection between our alumni, our mission, and our students.”

Giant Troll by Renowned International ‘Recycling Artist’ Thomas Dambo to be Installed at California Nature Art Museum in Solvang

SOLVANG — The California Nature Art Museum (formerly the Wildling Museum) is pleased to announce its most ambitious project to date which is commissioning Thomas Dambo, a world-renowned Danish artist who specializes in creating large, whimsical trolls made
from recycled materials, to build his first

permanent troll in California. Dambo who is celebrated for his imaginative and colossal sculptures, breathes new life into discarded resources, showcasing the boundless potential hidden within the world’s trash cans. The recycling artist chose to install his first permanent troll in Solvang, the Danish Capital of America, at the California Nature Art Museum. With the community’s help, this troll, whose name, back- story, and design will be kept a mystery until “she” (the only clue that has been revealed to date) will be constructed and installed in the latter half of January 2025.

Ventura Police Dept. — Bilingual report — National Teen Driver Safety Week: Parents are key to keeping teens safe behind the wheel

VENTURA — National Teen Driver Safety Week is October 20-26 and the Ventura Police Department urges parents and caregivers to talk with their teens about the rules of the road and how safe driving saves lives. 

Car crashes are a leading cause of death for teens aged 15-18 years old in the United States. According to the National Highway Traffic Safety Administration, there were 2,514 people killed in crashes involving a teen driver in 2022. In California, young drivers were involved in nearly 12% of all fatal crashes in 2022, despite accounting for only 5% of all licensed drivers in the U.S.

Ventura County Community Development Corp. (VCCDC) offers upcoming workshops

October 19 —
HUD-Approved Homebuyer Workshop
Online
9:00am – 3:00pm

October 22 — 
Personal Loan Program – Advancing Communities Orientation
Online and In-person
6:00pm – English

Programa de préstamo personales: orientación de Comunidades Avanzando
En línea y en persona
7:00pm – español

October 26 —
HUD-Approved Homebuyer Workshop
Bakersfield
10:00am – 3:00pm English
10:00am – 3:00pm Español

Dr. Jane Varner, Family Medicine, Joins Cottage Primary Care – Santa Barbara

Dr. Jane Varner is a family medicine physician with more than two decades of experience and will also serve as Medical Director for all of the Cottage Primary Care locations. Formerly with the Palo Alto Foundation Medical Group, Dr. Varner has demonstrated a deep commitment to patient-centered care. She completed her medical degree at Eastern Virginia Medical School and a residency in Family Medicine at the Medical College of Pennsylvania/Hahnemann University, where she served as Chief Resident.

County of Ventura District 2 Supervisor Jeff Gorell — Home Insurance Town Hall Recap

Dear Panelists and Participants,

I want to take a moment to sincerely thank you for your participation in last night’s Home Insurance Town Hall. Your presence and insights were invaluable, and I believe the event truly made a difference in helping our community navigate the complexities of home insurance, especially in areas impacted by wildfire risk.

For those who were unable to attend or wish to revisit the discussion, the recording of the event is available at the following link: www.youtube.com/@vcd2super/streams. Please feel free to share this with others who might benefit.

Agromin Launches ‘Healthy Soil Heroes’

OXNARD — Agromin, California’s largest organics waste recycler and manufacturer of earth-friendly soil products, has launched its “Healthy Soil Heroes,” ambassador program by partnering with five founding members. The founding members represent a diverse range of agricultural and community-focused businesses, including a native plant nursery, flower farm, community garden, agricultural education ambassadors and an edible garden design company.

“We created Healthy Soil Heroes as a way to recognize businesses and nonprofits that are promoting sustainable gardening, farming and landscaping practices,” says Bill Camarillo, Agromin’s CEO. “They are creating healthy food, beautifying landscapes and improving our planet.”

Fall into an amazing event(s) at the Museum of Ventura County!

Play Date in the Children’s Garden

Friday, October 25
2:00 pm – 4:00 pm
@Museum of Ventura County
100 E. Main St., Ventura

Join us for a Play Date in the Garden with Pinaysphere, where kids can learn about Filipino culture by crafting their own bahay kubo which is a traditional Filipino house built on stilts. This playful activity celebrates the simplicity and creativity of these iconic homes, known for their adaptability and resourcefulness. Led by Pinaysphere, an organization dedicated to empowering Filipino women and youth through art and culture, this event will be filled with fun, learning, and creativity as we explore the beauty of Filipino heritage together! Adult supervision required, register at no charge HERE!

UCSB — The Current — ‘Promoting Latiné excellence: A Q&A with inaugural HSI director Veronica Fematt’ and more news, events

Tasked with uniting efforts across campus to enhance “servingness” — an HSI model that goes beyond enrollment numbers to truly support the success of Latiné — Fematt characterized the establishment of the new role as a “significant step forward” for the campus.

Bilingual report — Economic Development Collaborative (EDC) — Ventura County’s Computer Basics Program Empowers Hundreds of Novice Learners; Free Replication Toolkit Now Available

VENTURA COUNTY — The Ventura County Computer Basics program has been transforming lives by providing essential digital skills to over 450 participants to date. The program was launched by the Economic Development Collaborative (EDC) to train and empower individuals underserved by current upskilling opportunities and who have little to no experience with computers, enabling them to confidently navigate the digital world, improve their job prospects and increase their earning potential. Now, EDC has created a Computer Basics Course Replication Toolkit that can be used by anyone to expand the impact of the course and get the critical curriculum to more people across the state.

Bilingual report — County of Ventura’s Fleet Services honored with national awards for sustainability and excellence

“We are beyond proud of our Fleet Services team for earning these national accolades,” stated Chair of the Board Kelly Long. “Each award reflects not just technical achievements, but the team’s genuine commitment to making a difference—for the environment, for our community, and for future generations.”

Bilingual report — City of Ventura selects new public information officer and communications manager

“Jen has been an essential member of our team, consistently demonstrating her leadership in communication and public relations,” said City Manager Bill Ayub. “Her dedication to the City’s mission, combined with her innovative approach to public engagement, makes her the perfect fit for this role. I am confident that under her leadership, our communications will continue to thrive and effectively connect our community.” 

Annual Housing Santa Barbara Day on Oct. 19 to offer free housing resources for County residents

SANTA BARBARA — Residents of Santa Barbara County are invited to join Housing Santa Barbara Day 2024 on Saturday, October 19th, from 10:00 a.m. to 2:00 p.m. at De La Guerra Plaza. This free annual event, hosted by 2nd Story Associates, the nonprofit affiliate of the Housing Authority of the City of Santa Barbara (HACSB), aims to connect community members with local affordable housing nonprofits and service providers. 

Attendees will have the opportunity to participate in workshops covering a range of topics including Career Planning, Affordable Home Ownership, Housing Application Assistance, Down Payment Assistance, Accessory Dwelling Units (ADU), Financial Literacy and more. Additionally, there will be trolley tours showcasing affordable housing developments.

Economic Development Collaborative (EDC) free event and webinar schedule

DOD, CMTC AND CASCADE: CMTC & CASCADE CYBERSECURITY TRAINING SERIES: HOW TO MANAGE CLOUD PROVIDERS

October 15 @ 10:00 am

With support from the DoD, CMTC and CASCADE offer a series of no-cost Cybersecurity Trainings for executives, operations and IT. Starting September 19th and ending November 5th, the trainings will be delivered on Tuesdays and Thursdays @ 10:00 AM – 12:00 PM PT. Each of the 14 trainings will focus on a specific cybersecurity topic.

CLICK HERE TO REGISTER

Cottage Primary Care — Santa Ynez Valley welcomes new physicians

SOLVANG — Cottage Primary Care is pleased to share that providers Roger I. Lane, MD, FACP and Pablo Rojas, PA-C, have moved offices to Cottage Primary Care—Santa Ynez Valley, located at 1992 Old Mission Dr., Suite 140, in Solvang (in the New Frontiers shopping center). In addition, the practice welcomes Nicole Sheikholeslami, MD, to the team.

This move will bring the entire Cottage Primary Care—Santa Ynez Valley medical team together in one convenient location, providing more space and updated facilities. Dr. Lane, Pablo Rojas, PA-C and the practice’s newest physician Dr. Sheikholeslami, join Kathryn Brewer, MD and Janina Meissner-Frisk, DO, in offering comprehensive primary care services to patients at this office.

County of Ventura District 2 Supervisor Jeff Gorell — Home Insurance Town Hall Reminder October 15, 6-8 pm

Dear Neighbors,

I hope this message finds you well! I am writing to share a reminder of the Home Insurance Town Hall that is taking place Tuesday, October 15 from 6:00 to 8:00 pm at Ventura County Fire Headquarters located at 2400 Conejo Spectrum Street in Newbury Park.

If you plan to attend please RSVP today by emailing SupervisorGorell@ventura.org. A live stream of the event will also be offered on my YouTube page at the following link: www.youtube.com/@vcd2super/streams. Simply visit the link at 6 pm to view the live event or watch the recording at a time that is convenient for you.

Reclaiming Our Space, an Indigenous Peoples’ Day Celebration at Santa Barbara City College

SANTA BARBARA — Santa Barbara City College (SBCC) iRaices: First Year and Beyond! Program – in partnership with local Chumash and Indigenous community leaders – invites the community to a special Indigenous Peoples’ Day Celebration on Monday, October 14 from 5 p.m. to 7 p.m. Come learn about the significance and symbolism of the Chumash signage located on SBCC’s West Campus Bluffs and enjoy a panel discussion with Annette Cordero, Stephen Franco, Dr. Maura Sullivan and Solange Aguilar.

First District Supervisor Das Williams — New Clean Energy For 60,000 Central Coast Homes

I am beyond excited to announce a big win for our climate and the Central Coast. Yesterday, Central Coast Community Energy (3CE) cut the ribbon on the Victory Pass and Arica Solar and Storage projects.

This project delivers 100 megawatts of solar and 25 megawatts of battery storage. That adds up to 5% of the total Central Coast electricity load. And on top of that, this project was completed ahead of schedule and created over 1,000 union jobs.

Bilingual report — County of Ventura appoints Esteban Rodriguez as new Animal Services Director

VENTURA — The County of Ventura has selected Esteban Rodriguez as Director for Ventura County Animal Services. The appointment follows an extensive recruitment process, which included both internal and external candidates. Rodriguez succeeds former director, Jackie Rose, who retired from the agency in May.

Discover Fall Adventure Hotspots In Lompoc On California’s Central Coast

LOMPOC — As another spectacular summer fades into a crisp, cool fall, there’s no better time to explore the adventurous side of Lompoc! Get your adrenaline pumping with an exciting array of activities in and around the city. Start planning a trip packed with excitement, including skydiving, horse safaris, kitesurfing, and more!

Recipient of National Philanthropy Day Awards Ventura County revealed

VENTURA COUNTY — Founder of The Greater Contribution, Karon Wright, has been selected as an Honoree for the 2024 National Philanthropy Day Awards as Volunteer of the Year, Ventura County. 

The Association of Fundraising Professionals Santa Barbara/Ventura Counties Chapter NPD nomination committee will be presenting her with the honor at an awards ceremony Tuesday, October 29 at 5:00pm at the Santa Barbara Zoo (500 Ninos Drive, SB, CA 93103).

Bilingual report — Ventura County Office of Education — New Podcast Launches, Cell Phone Survey Results, Student Art Competitions, and more…

I’m excited to share a new way for you to stay connected to our schools and informed about the critical role they play in our community. The Ventura County Office of Education is launching a new podcast that’s all about public education in Ventura County.

The “Focus on Education” podcast will highlight the many ways my office and our local schools are serving students and expanding educational opportunities. Each month, we’ll introduce you to the education superstars who are making a difference for kids in academics, career preparation, emotional well-being, and beyond.

Bilingual commentary — The Siren Call of the Gig Economy

Over the past few years, the siren call of the gig economy has captivated the imagination and creativity of young adults. The lure of “being your own boss,” “setting your own hours,” and the promise of having the freedom to travel the world while you pursue your “dream job” is too much for many of them to resist. 

For many dreamers coming of age, the enticement of immediate income and flexible work hours, along with the chance to skip college with all its debt obligation, is seductively appealing. 

Teatro de las Américas — Luchadora! | Nos Traen Cortitos: Selección Oficial | Recital: Muero por Vivir

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.

Ventura College Foundation is Now Accepting Scholarship Applications

VENTURA — The Ventura College Foundation is now accepting scholarship applications for the 2025-26 school year.

November 29 is the application deadline for the Paramedic and Career Education scholarships. The deadline for all other scholarships is January 20, 2025. Scholarship recipients will be notified in April 2025 and receive their scholarship proceeds after August 1.

Students currently enrolled at Ventura College in the 2024-2025 academic year and who have completed at least six units in the semester they submit an application, are eligible to apply. Units earned in previous semesters at Ventura College count towards the unit requirement.

Healthcare Workers at Adventist Health Vote to Ratify Contract, Including 14% Raises, $23/Hour Minimum Wage, and Fully-Paid Family Healthcare

SAN LUIS OBISPO — Approximately 400 frontline healthcare workers at Sierra Vista Regional Medical Center in San Luis Obispo and Twin Cities Community Hospital in Templeton have ratified a new contract this week. The agreement includes a 14% wage increase over the next three years, a $23 minimum wage, and fully-paid family healthcare. Caregivers at these two hospitals are the only ones to have fully-paid family healthcare at Adventist-owned hospitals nationwide.

In a time when healthcare workers are leaving the industry for better pay and less stress, this contract at these Adventist hospitals marks a strong commitment to attracting and retaining caregivers in the San Luis Obispo communities that Adventist serves.

Somis Ranch Apartment announces available farm worker apartments

SOMIS — We are excited to announce the availability of farm worker apartments in Somis! Interested individuals are encouraged to apply by visiting www.somisranchapts.com and clicking on “Join the Interest List.” A member of our team will reach out to applicants in the order of their interest to conduct pre-eligibility screenings, schedule interviews, and provide a list of required items for the applicant interviews.

Bilingual report — Economic Development Collaborative (EDC) — Honoring National Women’s Small Business Month

The Economic Development Collaborative would like to recognize National Women’s Small Business Month. In the most recent program year (October 1, 2023 – September 30, 2024), EDC supported over 1,700 women-owned small businesses and female/male-owned businesses. The EDC is dedicated to helping women achieve their business goals.

The EDC is proud to support the community by providing professional technical assistance in English and Spanish through our Small Business Development Center. Our NO-COST advising areas include:

Bilingual report — Pedestrian safety starts with you: Stay alert to protect people walking

VENTURA — October is National Pedestrian Safety Month and the Ventura Police Department reminds drivers to slow down and be alert for people walking on our roads. By taking extra precautions, you can help protect pedestrians and reduce the risk of crashes and injuries. 

Since January 1, 2023, the Ventura Police Department has responded to 2,470 traffic collisions, including 106 involving pedestrians. These incidents resulted in 915 injuries and five fatalities. Of the pedestrian collisions, three were fatal, and 99 resulted in injury. The high number of pedestrian casualties underscores the urgent need for improved awareness and safety measures for those walking in Ventura.

Housing Authority of the City of Santa Barbara wins prestigious NAHRO National Awards

SANTA BARBARA — The Housing Authority of the City of Santa Barbara (HACSB)  has received two Awards of Merit from the National Association of Housing and Redevelopment Officials (NAHRO) during the 2024 NAHRO National Conference. These distinguished awards recognize HACSB’s dedication to the local community, showcasing its innovative approaches to affordable housing and its impactful programs aimed at supporting youth.

One805 Mourns the Loss of Board Member, Colleague and Friend, Tony Pighetti

SANTA BARBARA — One805 mourns the loss of our board member, colleague and friend, Tony Pighetti, who was a tireless advocate for the mental wellness of our First Responders. A retired firefighter with 30 years in the City of Santa Barbara Fire Department, Tony selflessly volunteered his time and talents to ensure our bravest, among whom he was counted and loved, had resources to help them get counseling and support.

The City of San Luis Obispo and People’s Self-Help Housing start construction on Project Homekey at former Motel 6

“The need is greater than ever to serve these at-risk populations,” said Ken Trigueiro, PSHH CEO & President. “To provide a stable and supportive place to live is the first step in moving the needle on homelessness and this project does just that. We are grateful that the City reached out to us to pursue a Homekey project with the intent of delivering permanent supportive housing and we look forward to the continued collaboration to bring these individuals home.”

Bilingual report — 12th Annual Ventura County Farm Day – Nov. 2

VENTURA COUNTY — Over 15 farms, ranches and agricultural organizations will open their doors to the public for the 12th Annual Ventura County Farm Day, Saturday, November 2 from 10 a.m. to 3 p.m.  Those who attend will experience a day of free agricultural activities and tours and learn about the origins of their food.   

“We often don’t think about what it takes to grow, harvest and deliver produce to the market,” says Caitlin Paulus-Case, Students for Eco-Education and Agriculture (SEEAG) executive director. SEEAG is the nonprofit that hosts Ventura County Farm Day each year. “Hundreds of dedicated farm workers are behind every piece of fruit or vegetable we buy at the store.”

Ventura County Air Pollution Control District seeks alternates for Hearing Board

VENTURA — The Ventura County Air Pollution Control District is seeking three county residents to serve as alternate members of its Hearing Board:

A medical professional with specialized skills, training or interest in environmental, community or occupational/toxicological medicine
A professional engineer licensed in California
A member of the public
An alternate serves when the regular member with the same expertise is not available. The alternate’s term aligns with that of the regular member. Regular members are appointed to three-year terms.

UCSB — The Current — ‘Professor Denise Montell wins second NIH Pioneer Award, receiving $5.5 million for immune therapy research’ and more news, events

The award is part of the NIH’s High-Risk, High-Reward Research program. Montell will use the funds to test a new treatment her group is developing for cancer and other diseases, such as antibiotic-resistant bacteria.

Bilingual report — OPAC debuts ¡ÁNDALE!: Wellness + Creativity for Everyone – A Free Monthly Series for Mental Health and Well-being

OXNARD — Take a break, rejuvenate, and get creative with ¡ÁNDALE!: Wellness + Creativity for Everyone, a new monthly series presented by OPAC, the Oxnard Performing Arts Center Corporation, focused on supporting mental health and wellness through artistic expression and self-care. The event is offered bilingually, free and open to all, creating space where relaxation, creativity, and community connection come together.

The first event will take place on Saturday, October 19, 2024 from 1-3 PM at Community Center Park East (located behind the Oxnard Performing Arts Center). Each session features three different activities designed to engage participants in creative and calming experiences. This month yoga, sound baths and art-making will be offered. Attendees will spend 30 minutes at each activity, for a total of two hours of immersive wellness.

Economic Development Collaborative (EDC) free event and webinar schedule

DOD, CMTC AND CASCADE: CMTC & CASCADE CYBERSECURITY TRAINING SERIES: NETWORK SECURITY REFERENCE ARCHITECTURE

October 8 @ 10:00 am

With support from the DoD, CMTC and CASCADE offer a series of no-cost Cybersecurity Trainings for executives, operations and IT. Starting September 19th and ending November 5th, the trainings will be delivered on Tuesdays and Thursdays @ 10:00 AM – 12:00 PM PT. Each of the 14 trainings will focus on a specific cybersecurity topic.

CLICK HERE TO REGISTER

Southeast Ventura County YMCA Gala Raises Over $400,000 To Support YMCA Youth Programs; Celebrates The YMCA’s 60th Anniversary

WESTLAKE VILLAGE — The Southeast Ventura County YMCA’s 60th Anniversary Gala raised $402,055 to support YMCA youth programs. The event was held outdoors on September 21 at the Four Seasons Hotel in Westlake Village. It attracted over 300 guests and featured a reception, gourmet dinner, silent and live auctions and after-party. Actor Neal McDonough hosted the evening.

The gala looked back on the YMCA’s 60 years beginning when Western movie star Joel McCrea and his wife, Frances, donated part of their ranch between Thousand Oaks and Moorpark that would later become the Conejo Valley Family YMCA.

Bilingual report — Economic Development Collaborative (EDC) — Just Released! Notice of Funding Opportunity from Uplift

Uplift Central Coast — the six-county coalition led by REACH, the Monterey Bay Economic Partnership and Economic Development Collaborative — is pleased to announce the release of a Notice of Funding Opportunity (NOFO) for the Catalyst Predevelopment Phase of work.

This funding opportunity marks a significant step in supporting projects that will drive economic resilience, environmental sustainability and equitable growth in the region, in line with the California Jobs First initiative and the strategies developed as part of Uplift’s Regional Plan Part II Report.

Bilingual report — Ventura County Park Dept. announces launch of the Ojai Valley Trail Paving Project

VENTURA — The County of Ventura is excited to announce the upcoming paving project for the Ojai Valley Trail, set to commence this month. This essential project aims to enhance safety, accessibility, and overall enjoyment for the community and visitors alike.