Business, Commentary, Education, Health, Local, News

Community Environmental Council (CEC) — Honoring Paul Relis: A Trailblazer Who Shaped the Environmental Movement

by  • 

SANTA BARBARA — (On Oct. 16), we honored Paul Relis, whose vision helped ignite the environmental movement. In the wake of the 1969 oil spill, Paul founded the Community Environmental Council and began a journey that would shape the Central Coast’s environmental legacy for generations.

Paul’s ambition has always been grounded in hope, community, and a deep belief in our collective power to create change. From co-hosting one of the very first Earth Day celebrations in 1970 to pioneering waste management and recycling programs as a California EPA executive, Paul’s influence helped turn Santa Barbara into a beacon for environmental action.

Read more →

Business, Cultural, Education, Family, Local, News, Youth

Bilingual report — Adelante Charter School, a 2025 California Distinguished School, celebrates 25 years of Dual-Language Program

by  • 

SANTA BARBARA — This fall, Adelante Charter School, a 2025 California Distinguished School and a  Spanish dual-language immersion program, will celebrate its 25th anniversary by honoring individuals who have been instrumental to its success and growth. The honorees include the school’s inaugural board members, whose vision and dedication made history in Santa Barbara County, along with local philanthropist Jim Kearns.

Read more →

Business, Cultural, Educación, Education, En español, familia, Family, Government, Health, Local, Locales, News, Noticias, Public Safety, Seniors, Women, Youth

Bilingual report — Office of Traffic Safety awards $193,516.00 grant to the City of Ventura for Bicycle and Pedestrian Safety Program

by  • 

“We are excited to receive this grant, which will allow us to significantly expand our bicycle and pedestrian safety program,” said Principal Civil Engineer Jeff Hereford. “By focusing on education, awareness, and promoting safe practices, we aim to reduce crashes and prevent injuries. Ultimately, we’re working toward building more walkable and bike-friendly neighborhoods where everyone can travel safely and confidently.”

Read more →

Education, Local, News, Seniors, Women, Youth

CLU announces FABulous Fall Lecture Series

by  • 

THOUSAND OAKS — For details on the series and to register, go to: https://www.callutheran.edu/centers/lifelong-learning/fifty-better/lecture-series.html 

Lectures are $10 each. Bundle the entire series (12 lectures) for just $85. Or “build-your-own bundle” – choose 5 lectures for $40. 

Half of the lectures offered this fall can be attended in-person at our Thousand Oaks campus (parking is free and accessible). All lectures are recorded and can be attended virtually. 

Read more →

Business, Cultural, Education, Government, Health, Local, News

Bilingual report — Ventura Fire Department celebrates 150 years of service

by  • 

VENTURA — This year marks the 150th anniversary of the Ventura Fire Department, the oldest fire department in Ventura County and one of the oldest in California. Its legacy began in 1875, when the Monumental Fire Company was formed with 53 volunteer members. Just three years later, in 1878, the newly incorporated City of Ventura officially created the Ventura Fire Department when the Monumental Fire Company turned over all of its equipment to the City. 

In 1915, Ventura hired its first full-time fire chief, beginning the department’s transition from a volunteer organization to a professional fire service. Soon after, paid firefighters were hired, establishing the foundation of the modern agency that continues to protect Ventura today. 

Read more →

Business

Santa Barbara Home Improvement Center Supports Hospice of Santa Barbara with its October Round-Up Campaign

by  • 

SANTA BARBARA — Hospice of Santa Barbara (HSB) announces that the Santa Barbara Home Improvement Center is supporting its mission with a Round-Up Campaign this October. Throughout the entire month, customers are invited to round up their purchases at checkout, directly benefiting Hospice of Santa Barbara’s services. Customers may also make an additional donation to HSB upon checkout. 100% of funds benefit Hospice of Santa Barbara services.

This generous effort directly supports HSB’s mission to provide compassionate care to individuals and families experiencing life-threatening illness or grieving the loss of a loved one at no cost.

“We are deeply grateful to Gary Simpson and the entire Santa Barbara Home Improvement Center team for their continued generosity,” said David Selberg, Hospice of Santa Barbara CEO. 

Read more →

Commentary, Events, Family, Finance, Health, Local, News, Youth

LEAP — Community Raises 21,419 diapers for Local Diaper Bank

by  • 

“LEAP has always believed that when we bring people together, we can solve big challenges. The diaper drives are proof—students, businesses, churches, and organizations all stepped up. Each diaper collected represents relief for a caregiver and comfort for a child, and we are grateful to everyone who made that possible,” said Lori Goodman, CEO of LEAP.

Read more →

Business, Family, Health, Local, News, Public Safety, Seniors, Women, Youth

Community Environmental Council (CEC) — Your facility could support your community during a disaster — Learn How

by  • 

You don’t need to wait for the next disaster to make a meaningful impact. Community Environmental Council’s (CEC) Central Coast Resilience Hubs Accelerator is here to support local leaders who recognize the growing threat of climate disasters and are ready to take action.

If you work with a neighborhood school, church, library, community center, nonprofit, or similar facility, you may be in the perfect position to host a Resilience Hub — a safe space that offers shelter, safety training, clean air, off-grid power, cooling, and/or food before, during, and after a disaster.

Read more →

Business, Commentary, Education, Government, Local, News, Politics, Seniors, Women, Youth

The Gallegly Center at California Lutheran University empowers students to become leaders in civic public discourse

by  • 

THOUSAND OAKS — We are excited about the opportunity for California Lutheran University to provide nonpartisan thought-leadership through the Elton and Janice Gallegly Center for Public Service and Civil Engagement on the main campus. This center will play a pivotal role in students’ collegiate experience by helping to develop the critical academic skills and broad perspectives necessary for constructive dialogue and civil public discourse. This scholarly engagement will empower them to pursue careers of meaningful public service and informed civic engagement.

Read more →

Business, Education, Local, News, Women, Youth

Social Justice Fund for Ventura County’s 2024 Social Justice Fellow Alia Azariah announced as 2025-2026 Obama Foundation Leader

by  • 

CAMARILLO — The Social Justice Fund for Ventura County is pleased to announce that Alia Azariah, 2024 Social Justice Fellow, has been accepted to The Obama Foundation’s Leaders program, joining more than 200 global changemakers for the 2025-2026 class. Following a competitive selection process, Alia will be one of just 101 Leaders participating in the Leaders USA Program, where they will receive training in leadership development and civic engagement to help build their skills and scale their work across public, private, and nonprofit sectors. 

Read more →

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

Bilingual report — From College Tours to Cultural Immersions, REACH Fellows REACH New Heights

by  • 

SANTA BARBARA COUNTY — This summer marked another season of growth, adventure, and celebration for REACH. Fellows toured colleges across California, trekked into the Sierra Nevada on a record four backpacking trips, and immersed themselves in the cultures of Bolivia and Guatemala. Together, these experiences embody REACH’s mission: preparing first-generation students to thrive in higher education while cultivating the resilience, leadership, and vision necessary to succeed in life.

Read more →

Business, Events, Health, Local, News

Community Environmental Council (CEC) — Power Climate Action: Host at CEC’s Environmental Hub

by  • 

Looking for an event venue that aligns with your values and amplifies your impact? The Community Environmental Council’s Environmental Hub offers versatile, eco-friendly spaces for every type of gathering.

Situated in the heart of downtown Santa Barbara, The Hub embodies sustainability and community spirit. Beyond its green design, each event at the Hub supports CEC’s mission to advance bold, scalable solutions to the climate crisis. From intimate meetings and panel discussions to community workshops, networking mixers, and celebrations, your gathering becomes part of a larger movement toward climate resilience and local empowerment.

Read more →

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

Women’s Economic Ventures (WEV) celebrates National Give to Women & Girls Day by honoring Gwyn Lurie and WEV’s League of Extraordinary Women

by  • 

SANTA BARBARA  — Women’s Economic Ventures (WEV) honored National Give to Women & Girls Day on Oct. 7 by celebrating its annual donors, members of the organization’s League of Extraordinary Women, at a luncheon at the Santa Barbara Club. The event brought together community leaders, entrepreneurs, and philanthropists united in the mission to strengthen women’s economic power.

Read more →

Family, Government, Home, Local, News

Inaugural State of Ventura Housing Breakfast inspires hope and collaboration for a more affordable Ventura

by  • 

VENTURA — Ventura Housing (formerly the Housing Authority of the City of San Buenaventura) hosted its sold-out inaugural State of Ventura Housing breakfast on October 9th at The Livery at Rumfish y Vino. Nearly 200 community changemakers, civic leaders, housing champions, and local community partners gathered with a shared mission to ensure that every resident of Ventura has access to safe, stable, and affordable housing. During the event, the agency also debuted its new name and visual identity, as the Housing Authority of the City of San Buenaventura officially became Ventura Housing. The refreshed logo and color palette reflect a modern, approachable brand, and the new name aligns with how residents already refer to the organization, reinforcing its commitment to serving the community.

Read more →

Cultural, Events, Family, Local, Youth

Volunteers honor veterans at Habitat Ventura’s Playhouse Build Blitz, Presented by Bank of America

by  • 

Our 2025 Playhouse Build Blitz will bring together more than 150 local volunteers to decorate custom playhouses to gift to local military and veteran families. This event provides volunteers a unique opportunity to celebrate Veterans Day by thanking military families for their service and helps raise funds for Habitat Ventura’s life-changing programs through sponsorships for the playhouses built by volunteers.

Read more →

Business, Local, News

F.T. “Ted” Muegenburg, Jr. named Lowthorp Richards estate planning chair

by  • 

OXNARD — F.T. “Ted” Muegenburg, Jr., an attorney with deep roots in Ventura County and vast expertise in business, estate planning, and tax law, has been named chair for the Lowthorp Richards, LLP Estate Planning Practice Group. He is one of 1,300 California attorneys certified by the California State Bar as a specialist in trust, estate planning and probate law.

Muegenburg will oversee the Lowthorp Richards team of esteemed estate planning attorneys, including Cristian Arrieta, Steven S. Feder, Brian C. Israel, Jeanne M. Kvale, , and Seth P. Shapiro.

Read more →

Business, Local, News, Women

Westlake Village Mortgage lender Gayle Nagy adds Reverse Mortgage Expert Witness to her credentials

by  • 

 “I enjoy counseling and guiding seniors to help them select the reverse mortgage product that is best suited for their goals and needs,” Nagy said. “Over the years, I have counseled hundreds of seniors about various reverse mortgage options. As my reputation has grown, becoming a reverse mortgage expert witness was a natural extension of my skills, especially as the amount of elder financial fraud litigation increases.” 

Read more →

Business, Cultural, En español, Government, Local, Locales, News, Noticias, Public Safety

Bilingual report — Ventura County Probation Agency welcomes first K-9 officers and partners

by  • 

VENTURA — The Ventura County Probation Agency (VCPA) is proud to announce the assignment of two new K-9 Officers, Virna Mejia and Andy Bernal, and their specially trained  K-9 partners, Inca and Koda. This marks a significant step forward in enhancing the agency’s safety protocols and community service capabilities.

The introduction of K-9 Officers and their canine partners is a strategic initiative designed to strengthen public safety and support probation supervision efforts. This highly skilled K-9 team will focus on detecting illegal substances and weapons during home visits and searches within juvenile facilities. Their presence not only acts as a powerful deterrent against criminal activity but also enhances officer safety and efficiency during field operations.

Read more →

Commentary, Events, Government, Health, Immigration, Local, News, Politics, Public Safety, Seniors, Women, Youth

No Kings Day rallies planned on Oct. 18 throughout the 805 region

by  • 

No Kings Day rallies are planned throughout the Ventura, Santa Barbara and San Luis Obispo counties region on Saturday, Oct. 18, 2025 in protest of the policies of the Trump Administration. The rallies are being organized by Indivisible and supported by a variety of organizations.

“In America, we don’t put up with would-be kings,” Indivisible stated in a variety of posts.

“Our peaceful movement is only getting bigger and stronger. “NO KINGS” is more than just a slogan—it’s the foundation our nation was built upon. Born in the streets, carried by millions in chants and on posters, it echoes from city blocks to rural town squares, uniting people across this country to fight dictatorship together.”

Please see links to local protests, news coverage in the region.

Read more →

Cultural, Educación, Education, En español, familia, Family, Health, Local, Locales, News, Noticias, Salud, Seniors, Women, Youth

Bilingual report — Getting the flu vaccine is critically important this flu season

by  • 

By Kaiser Permanente

If you’re thinking about skipping the flu shot this year, you may want to reconsider!

Scientists and public health officials are preparing for a potentially active flu season in the United States in the coming months, based on recent trends and updated vaccine formulations. Here’s what they say the public should expect:

Read more →

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

Bilingual report — Now’s the Time to Vote! Helpful Vote by Mail Information for the Nov. 4, 2025 Statewide Special Election

by  • 

VENTURA COUNTY — The Ventura County Clerk-Recorder & Registrar of Voters is committed to “Preserving history and protecting democracy for the people of Ventura County, past, present, and future.” More information about the agency’s services is available 24/7 at  ClerkRecorder.venturacounty.gov…

Read more →

Business, Cultural, Educación, Education, familia, Family, Immigration, Local, Locales, News

Local, grassroot Giving Circle reaches $100,000 in gifts to local, Latino-led or Latino-serving non-profit organizations

by  • 

SANTA BARBARA — The Latino Community Foundation’s Santa Barbara Latino Giving Circle (SBLGC) awarded Immigrant Legal Defense Center and 805undocufund a total of $32,000 during their annual Grants Night this month.

“Grants Night is the culmination and celebration of our circle’s annual grant cycle,” said Teresa Alvarez, co-founder of the SBLGC. “Our group’s collective funds are gifted to non-profits that our circle members nominated, elected based on our funding priorities which were Immigr ant Rights & Legal Services Power Building. In today’s climate, we are confident that ILDC and 805 Undocufund will maximize these funds immediately.”

Read more →

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

Oxnard College marks 50 years of service to Ventura County with new programs, academic milestones and campus celebration

by  • 

OXNARD —Oxnard College is celebrating its 50th anniversary this academic year, reflecting on five decades of empowering students, shaping careers and strengthening Ventura County. The milestone was marked on September 25 with the unveiling of a new campus mural by alumna Elisa Torres and her team of student artists.

Funded by the Oxnard College Foundation, the mural depicts the people, places and traditions that have defined Oxnard and the college’s role in the community over the last half-century. The college first opened its doors in 1975 after local families, community leaders and activists came together to advocate for equitable access to higher education in Oxnard.

Read more →

Commentary, Family, Food, Health, Local, News

Southeast Ventura County YMCA launches Thanksgiving Food Drive to Serve 300 Families

by  • 

WESTLAKE VILLAGE — The Southeast Ventura County YMCA is collecting donations to provide Thanksgiving dinners to 300 families facing financial hardship, including families whose children participate in the YMCA’s Find My Genius program and those affected by recent wildfires.

Each family will receive a box filled with food items such as cranberry sauce, stuffing mix, chicken stock and turkey gravy, plus a $60 Ralph’s gift card for a turkey or ham. The YMCA has already identified 100 families to receive Thanksgiving boxes.

Read more →

Business, Education, Finance, Government, Local, News

Economic Development Collaborative (EDC) October/November free event and webinar schedule

by  • 

IN-PERSON EVENT: HOLIDAY MARKETING MADE SIMPLE!

October 23 @ 8:30 am

Join SCORE Ventura County, City of Agoura Hills and Economic Development Collaborative at the Holiday Marketing Made Simple in-person event! The holiday season is the most significant sales opportunity of the year, but without a plan, it can quickly become overwhelming. From social media to printing and email campaigns, the right strategy can help you stand out, attract more customers and boost sales during the busiest shopping months. In this practical and action-focused workshop, we will guide you step by step on how to create a simple holiday marketing plan that saves time and drives results. You’ll walk away with clear strategies to keep your promotions organized, stress-free, and effective, so you can make this your most successful holiday season yet. Address: Agoura Hills Recreation and Event Center, 29900 Ladyface Ct., Agoura Hills, CA 91301.

CLICK HERE TO REGISTER

Read more →

Business, Family, Home, Local, News

Ventura County cities commit $700,000 to Housing Trust Fund Ventura County to support affordable housing

by  • 

VENTURA COUNTY — Housing Trust Fund Ventura County (Housing Trust Fund VC) secured regional support as four cities in Ventura County have allocated $700,000 in funding over 2025 and 2026 towards Housing Trust Fund VC’s Revolving Loan Fund. The four cities are Moorpark, Ventura, Fillmore, and Santa Paula. These commitments are a demonstration of each city’s dedication to housing affordability for all residents in Ventura County and trust in Housing Trust Fund VC’s vision for the future of affordable housing. Since 2013, all ten cities in Ventura County have pledged or contributed to Housing Trust Fund VC or their sister organization, Housing Land Trust Ventura County.

Read more →