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

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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. 

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

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

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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.

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Business, Events, Health, Local, News

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

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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.

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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

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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.

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Family, Government, Home, Local, News

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

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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.

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Cultural, Events, Family, Local, Youth

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

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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.

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Business, Local, News

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

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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.

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Business, Local, News, Women

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

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 “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.” 

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

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

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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.

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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

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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.

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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

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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:

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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

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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…

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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

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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.”

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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

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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.

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Commentary, Family, Food, Health, Local, News

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

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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.

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Business, Education, Finance, Government, Local, News

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

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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

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Business, Family, Home, Local, News

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

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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.

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Cultural, Education, Local, News, Youth

Cal State Channel Islands earns new Intentionally Thriving Institution Designation of the Seal of Excelencia for impact in preparing and connecting students to the workforce

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CAMARILLO — Excelencia in Education, a national leader in catalyzing institutional transformation for student success in higher education, announced that California State University Channel Islands (CSUCI) has earned the new Intentionally Thriving Institution (ITI) designation of the Seal of Excelencia. Cal State Channel Islands is one of the first institutions to earn the ITI designation, which extends impact beyond the educational pathway and recognizes positive impact in preparing students for, and connecting them to, the workforce.

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Business, Cultural, En español, Family, Health, Local, Locales, News, Noticias, Salud, Seniors, Women, Youth

Bilingual report — Gold Coast Health Plan launches Total Care Advantage: A new plan for people with both Medi-Cal and Medicare

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CAMARILLO — Starting (Oct. 1), Ventura County residents with both Medi-Cal and Medicare coverage will be able to choose to have their care coordinated under one integrated plan from Gold Coast Health Plan (GCHP).

GCHP Total Care Advantage (HMO D-SNP) is a Medicare Advantage Special Needs Plan for low-income seniors and people with disabilities who qualify for both Medicare and Medi-Cal – known as Medi-Medi members. Total Care Advantage is designed to support members by offering care coordination to help with accessing needed services, scheduling appointments, and managing chronic conditions.

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Cultural, Education, Local, News, Seniors, Women, Youth

CSUCI/Osher Lifelong Learning Institute (OLLI) announces Fall classes

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CAMARILLO — Experience the Joy of Learning with OLLI at CSUCI

The Osher Lifelong Learning Institute (OLLI) at Cal State University Channel Islands (CSUCI) is dedicated to enriching the lives of lifelong learners by providing opportunities for intellectual stimulation and social connection designed for adults aged 50+. We are thrilled to announce our Fall II catalog, featuring a fascinating selection of nine 6-week courses. Dive into a diverse range of topics, from health and longevity to international relations, art history, literature, anthropology, and more!

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Commentary, Cultural, Education, Immigration, Local, News, Seniors, Women, Youth

Central Coast Alliance United for a Sustainable Economy (CAUSE) — Together we made Raising Justice possible!

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Our growing base of community champions – YOU! – raised more funds than ever at our annual community celebration and fundraiser!

Raising Justice showed us what a vibrant community of movement friends can do when we come together to uplift housing justice, environmental justice, and fight for immigrant worker power.

No one can do this work alone. Each year Raising Justice plays a central role in uplifting the organizing our region deserves — and this year’s success belongs to all of us.

Whether you joined us in person or chipped from afar — whether you’re an event sponsor, donor, grassroots leaders, partner, staff, volunteer, or table host — YOU truly help make it all happen – T H A N K Y O U!

The beautiful array of community contributions we witnessed at Raising Justice are what keep our grassroots organizing strong at a time when we need it most.

With gratitude for the grassroots,

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Cultural, Education, Local, News, Youth

Adelante Charter School in Santa Barbara achieves unprecedented test score gains

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SANTA BARBARA — Adelante Charter School, Santa Barbara’s dual-language immersion K–6 program, has achieved one of the most remarkable academic turnarounds in California this year — earning double-digit gains in both English and math proficiency and recognition as a 2025 California Distinguished School.

In the 2025 state assessments, Adelante students boosted English Language Arts proficiency by 13 points and Math proficiency by more than 16 points in a single year — far exceeding statewide averages, where annual growth typically ranges from two to four percentage points.

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Commentary, Cultural, Educación, Education, En español, Events, familia, Family, Finance, Government, Health, Home, Immigration, Local, Locales, News, Noticias, Salud, Seniors, Women, Youth

Bilingual report — 805UndocuFund Fall 2025 Newsletter

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  We hope this newsletter finds you well and safe. We are pleased to share with you our latest updates on the 805UndocuFund’s efforts in taking charge of the newly operated Rapid Response Network. Previously owned by CAUSE, we have trained over 1,000 volunteers throughout the tri-county since the beginning of 2025. To date, we have almost reached our fund goal & immediately having been dispersed $478,000 to 388 families! All our successes could not have been achieved without the support from the community.

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