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Bilingual report — Allan Hancock College celebrates graduates at 2026 commencement ceremony
SANTA MARIA — Allan Hancock College celebrated the achievements of 1,196?graduating students at the college’s 105th?commencement?ceremony.
“No matter what path brought you to this moment, you should be proud of what you have accomplished,” Hancock Board of Trustees President Hilda Zacarias said to the more than 600 graduates who participated in the May 22 ceremony, which took place on the college’s athletics field at its Santa Maria campus. “Wherever your path leads, know that you leave here with knowledge, experience, confidence, and the ability to create opportunity for yourselves and for others.”
Bilingual report — Economic Development Collaborative (EDC) — Get the capital you need to move your business forward
Designed to pair you with the financial expertise and right amount of capital you need to move your business forward, the Economic Development Collaborative works with more than 30 professional advisors and a full-time loan fund director, available to local businesses at no cost.
The EDC’s Business Development Loan Fund stimulates job creation and economic activity by providing small businesses with greater access to capital and specialized technical business assistance. The fund is open to businesses in all industry sectors and is supported by funds from the U.S. Department of Commerce, the cities and County of Ventura, and private capital. This loan fund makes available long-term, affordable financing to new and existing businesses throughout Ventura and Santa Barbara County.
Community Colleges of Ventura proudly celebrates more than 5,000 graduates during 2026 commencement ceremonies
CAMARILLO — The Ventura County Community College District (VCCCD) this week celebrated the achievements of more than 5,000 graduates during commencement ceremonies held across its three colleges: Moorpark College, Oxnard College and Ventura College on May 20, May 21 and May 22.
The Class of 2026 earned a collective 4,768 certificates and 8,237 degrees, reflecting thousands of hours of academic study, hands-on training, internships, clinical experience and workforce preparation. Graduates will continue serving communities throughout Ventura County as educators, healthcare professionals, first responders, skilled technical workers, business leaders and community advocates.
This year’s graduates represent the diversity, resilience and ambition of Ventura County. Many balanced academics with jobs, family responsibilities and community leadership while pursuing certificates and degrees designed to open doors to transfer opportunities and high-demand careers.
Teatro de las Américas — Did you get your tickets to Cerca de ti? (June 12-28)
Booking your tickets for our upcoming events has never been easier! Visit our website now to quickly secure your seats for an unforgettable experience. Don’t miss out—book your tickets online today!
Warm regards,
Teatro De Las Americas
My Way Home — Smart Shopping Starts Here: Couponing Webinar
Looking to stretch your budget a little further? Join us for this beginner-friendly workshop where you’ll learn simple, realistic ways to save on groceries and household items. We’ll cover couponing basics, where to find coupons, how to stack coupons with sales, smart strategies to maximize your savings and more! Perfect for individuals and families ready to make the most of every dollar!
Ventura County Fire Department to hold Academy 63 Graduation on June 18
THOUSAND OAKS — The Ventura County Fire Department is proud to announce the graduation of Academy 63.
Please join us at the date, time, and location below as we welcome our newest firefighters and celebrate their hard work, commitment, and dedication in completing our 20-week firefighter academy.
Bilingual report — Allan Hancock College Foundation awards $725,000 at annual scholarship ceremony
SANTA MARIA — Hundreds of students and donors gathered at the Joe White Memorial Gymnasium on May 21 to celebrate the Allan Hancock College Foundation’s annual?scholarship?awards.
This year, 409 students received 578?scholarships totaling $725,000— the most awarded in the foundation’s 49-year history, and a 20 percent increase over the previous year.
“Scholarships do more than help students pay for college. They create opportunities, remove barriers, and remind students that their community believes in their potential,” said Jon Hooten, Ph.D., executive director of college advancement and the Allan Hancock College Foundation. “It’s inspiring to see so many students recognized for their dedication, perseverance, and academic success.”
Bilingual report — Roadway improvements planned for State Route 34 for enhanced traffic safety
SOMIS — AMCAL Multi-Housing, Inc. in partnership with the County of Ventura will be performing off-Site roadway improvements to the recently completed Somis Ranch Apartments to enhance safety for future residents, as well as the general public. As previously announced on the April 2d press release, the project will include construction of two new bus stops, new right- and left-turn lanes, a new traffic signal at the entrance to the housing development, roadway widening, drainage upgrades, updated signage and striping, and the addition of a bike lane. These improvements are designed to enhance safety and accessibility for residents and the traveling public along SR-34.
Cottage Health welcomes Laurie Siegel to Board of Directors
SANTA BARBARA — Cottage Health is pleased to announce the appointment of Laurie Siegel to its Board of Directors. Siegel is President of LAS Advisory Services and brings extensive experience in executive leadership and governance.
At LAS Advisory Services, Siegel advises leaders on aligning teams, organizations and cultures in support of strategic and operational goals.
UCSB — The Current — ‘Carbon markets underestimate the risks U.S. forests face from climate change’ and other events, stories
Wildfire, drought and insect infestations are causing forests to emit more greenhouse gasses than carbon-credit systems currently account for.
Read more about the risks
CSU Channel Islands (CSUCI) Health Science Major Bryan Magana to pursue a future in cancer research and medicine
CAMARILLO — Epidemiologist. Oncologist. Physician-scientist. CSU Channel Islands (CSUCI) Health Science major Bryan Magana has big plans for the future.
Magana, who will graduate from CSUCI on Saturday, May 23, also minored in Chemistry and Biology. In the Fall, he will attend Johns Hopkins Bloomberg School of Public Health to pursue a Master of Health Science degree in Epidemiology. From there, he plans to earn an M.D./Ph.D. and ultimately build a career that combines treating cancer patients with conducting oncology research.
A first-generation college student and the son of Mexican immigrants, Magana grew up in Fillmore, California, where he excelled academically and athletically at Fillmore High School. Although he was accepted to several California State University campuses, he chose CSUCI because of its small class sizes, affordability, and the opportunity to build meaningful relationships with faculty.
“I know all of my professors personally,” Magana said. “The class sizes are small enough that I was able to develop connections with them and ask questions about graduate school, career paths, and future opportunities.”
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Bilingual report — Ventura County Farmworker Housing Study and Action Plan public review draft available
?The Ventura County Farmworker Housing Study and Action Plan is a collaborative, countywide effort launched by the County of Ventura in partnership with House Farm Workers!, designed to understand and address the urgent housing needs of the county’s farmworker community – needs shaped by long-standing shortages, rising housing costs, and the essential role farm workers play in sustaining the region’s agricultural economy.
Bilingual commentary — Goddesses and the Month of May
Last week I wrote about reasons to celebrate the month of May. But I’ve since learned another significant aspect of this glorious month.
Have we ever wondered about the origin of the name of this month? Many of us might surmise that it has something to do with the maypole, that wooden artifact that was part of European folk festivals. It might have been associated with paganism in Germany during the Iron Age, but we’re just not sure about this in our attempt to reach back to the obscure past.
In Spanish, the month of “May” is “mayo” (not capitalized). Like much of Spanish, this is derived from Latin, in which the word “Maius” means “Maia’s month.” But then of course we find ourselves asking, “Who is Maia?”
Charting the Future: The Port of Hueneme hosts 13th Annual World Trade Month Summit on International Trade
PORT HUENEME — The Port of Hueneme recently convened global trade leaders, agricultural exporters, and partners for its 13th Annual World Trade Month event, celebrating the Port’s agricultural roots while highlighting its role as a critical gateway for U.S. exports.
This year’s theme underscored the Port’s legacy as “the Port that the farmers built,” honoring generations of Ventura County growers who have relied on the Port to bring their products to international markets. Today, that legacy continues through the Port’s leadership in moving fresh produce, nursery stock, specialty crops, and automobiles to high-value destinations worldwide with unmatched speed and efficiency.
“This event celebrates the partnerships that power global trade. It’s a reminder that what happens at our Port reaches far beyond our shoreline, supporting jobs, economies, and connections around the world,” said Vice President Mary Anne Rooney.
Nyeland Promise receives SCAG’s 2026 Carmen Ramirez Award for Equity
NYELAND ACRES — Nyeland Promise is proud to announce that its “Safe Travels in Nyeland Acres” initiative has been recognized with the prestigious 2026 Carmen Ramirez Award for Equity by the Southern California Association of Governments (SCAG) during the 2026 Regional Conference and General Assembly
The Carmen Ramirez Award for Equity honors projects and collaborations that advance equity and improve outcomes for historically underserved and marginalized communities across Southern California. The award is named in honor of the late Ventura County Supervisor Carmen Ramirez, a tireless champion for social justice, sustainability, and underserved communities.
One Step A La Vez receives top honors at the Santa Paula Chamber of Commerce Awards
SANTA PAULA — One Step A La Vez proudly celebrated an unforgettable evening of recognition and community support at the Best of Heritage Valley Awards presented by the Santa Paula Chamber of Commerce, held at the beautiful Palazzio Event Center.
One Step A La Vez was honored with 1st Place – Best Community Service Organization in the Santa Clara River Valley, a recognition that reflects the incredible trust and support of the community we are privileged to serve.
In addition to this top honor, One Step A La Vez was also recognized with:
2nd Place – Best Children’s Activities / Center
3rd Place – Best Non-Profit Organization
Cabrillo Economic Development Corp. launches inaugural ‘Summer to Remember’ Youth Enrichment Program in Ventura County
VENTURA COUNTY — Cabrillo Economic Development Corporation (Cabrillo EDC), the region’s leading affordable housing developer, announces the launch of its inaugural Summer to Remember program, an eight-week youth enrichment initiative in partnership with the Boys & Girls Clubs of Greater Oxnard and Port Hueneme designed to support children and teens living in affordable housing communities managed by Cabrillo EDC across Ventura County.
“We are excited to partner with Cabrillo Economic Development Corporation to bring a Summer to Remember to life for young people in our community. This partnership allows us to meet kids where they are, providing safe, engaging, and enriching summer experiences that support learning, confidence, and connection. When organizations come together with a shared commitment to youth and families, the impact is powerful and lasting,” said Erin Antrim, CEO of the Boys & Girls Clubs of Greater Oxnard and Port Hueneme
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Teatro de las Américas — Cerca de ti | Clase de yoga | Solicitamos director
Cerca de ti
(Close to you)
Play in Spanish
?Written by Conchi León?
Directed by Juliana Acosta
Bilingual report — Now’s the Time to Vote! Ventura County Vote Centers Open Saturday, May 23
VENTURA COUNTY — The June 2, 2026 Gubernatorial Primary Election vote centers open this Saturday, May 23, 2026 in cities located throughout Ventura County. A total of 11 vote centers including the Elections Office at the Ventura County Government Center will be available to all voters every day – including Memorial Day – until and on Election Day. An additional 42 vote centers will open the following Saturday, May 30. All vote centers are open 9:00 AM to 5:00 PM daily until June 1, and then 7:00 AM to 8:00 PM on Election Day, June 2.
Ventura College Foundation distributes a record $1,037,741 in scholarships
VENTURA — For the fourth consecutive year, the Ventura College Foundation distributed a record amount of scholarship funding to students. A total of $1,037,741 in scholarships was awarded to students during the foundation’s 37th Annual Scholarship Awards ceremony, May 16, at the Ventura College Sportsplex Field.
The foundation presented 537 scholarships for the 2026-27 academic year.
Of the amount awarded, $932,860 went toward general scholarships, $42,313 supported career education and $10,068 went for paramedic training. Other scholarships included $42,500 from the Port of Hueneme Workforce Development and $10,000 for Courage to Dream students. The scholarship funds benefited 393 student recipients, many of whom received multiple awards.
SBCC honors grads, welcomes community to its 77th annual commencement ceremony
SANTA BARBARA — Santa Barbara City College (SBCC) is proud to announce its 77th Annual Commencement Ceremony, to be held on Friday, May 22, at 5 p.m. at the college’s La Playa Stadium. This cherished event marks the culmination of years of hard work and academic achievement, and SBCC warmly welcomes the community – including families and friends of graduates – to join in this special celebration.
Bilingual report — Allan Hancock College unveils new interactive art installation by Emerita Nancy Jo Ward
SANTA MARIA — Allan Hancock College celebrated the unveiling of “IllumiNation,” a new large-scale interactive art installation created by Fine Arts Professor Emerita Nancy Jo Ward, during a special ceremony held May 19 inside the college’s Fine Arts Complex.
Installed on the second floor of the Fine Arts Complex near Room 209, the immersive piece uses light, color, motion, and abstract forms to transform the hallway into a dynamic artistic environment that invites reflection and interaction.
“I wanted it to feel like a form of communication or language,” Ward said. “Something that invites curiosity and creates a calming, welcoming space for people.”
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Bilingual report — City of Santa Paula recognizes graduates of Future Leaders Academy Cohort II
SANTA PAULA — The City of Santa Paula proudly celebrated the graduation of the Future Leaders Academy Cohort II during a special ceremony held yesterday evening at Parque 1055, recognizing a dedicated group of residents, community members, committee and commission members, and local leaders who successfully completed the City’s civic leadership and community engagement program.
Building on the success of the inaugural cohort, the Future Leaders Academy Cohort II brought together 15 participants over the course of an eight-week program designed to educate and engage community members through an in-depth look at City government, operations, services, and local decision-making.
UCSB — The Current — ‘Early complex life clung to oxygenated seafloors for hundreds of millions of years’ and more news, events
The oldest eukaryotes that have been found lived exclusively on the seafloor and already used oxygen. The discovery overturns certain long-held assumptions about the group while corroborating others.
Read more about the discovery
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Bilingual report — Allan Hancock College honors 16 retiring faculty and staff
SANTA MARIA — On May 20, Allan Hancock College honored the dedication and service of 16 retiring faculty and staff members during a heartfelt ceremony that celebrated decades of contributions to student success.??
?This year’s retirees, who contributed a combined 323 years of service to the college, include full and part-time faculty members, classified staff and other employees from the college’s many programs and departments.
“Our retiring employees have devoted years of talent, care, and hard work to supporting our students and strengthening this college community,” said Hancock Superintendent/President Kevin G. Walthers, Ph.D. “Their influence can be seen not only in the programs they helped build, but in the countless lives they impacted along the way.”
Triplet Sisters to Graduate from CSU Channel Islands (CSUCI)
CAMARILLO — Among the nearly 1,600 graduates participating in the May 23 commencement ceremonies at CSU Channel Islands (CSUCI) are identical triplet sisters Whitley, Jasmine, and Ashleigh Williams.
The sisters have attended CSUCI since their freshman year, choosing the University after falling in love with its lush beauty and proximity to the ocean.
Originally from Perris in Riverside County, the trio are earning degrees in different fields. Whitley is a psychology major, Jasmine studied political science, and Ashleigh focused on anthropology.
Santa Paula Chamber of Commerce Celebrates 64th Annual “Best of Santa Paula” Awards
SANTA PAULA — The Santa Paula Chamber of Commerce gathered with the community Thursday evening at the Palazzio Event Center to honor the recipients of its 64th Annual “Best of Santa Paula” Awards — celebrating the individuals, businesses, and organizations whose commitment to excellence, service, and community vitality defines what makes Santa Paula exceptional.
This year’s celebration was the Chamber’s most inclusive awards event to date, with the evening also featuring the announcement of the 2026 Best of Heritage Valley winners — chosen through community-wide public voting and recognizing outstanding businesses and community contributors across the broader Heritage Valley region, which includes Fillmore and Piru. A full list of Best of Heritage Valley winners is available at www.santapaulachamber.com/best-of-hv-winners
United Way of Ventura County — VITA Program Volunteers prepare thousands of free tax returns resulting in $2,300,000+ in refunds
VENTURA — Tax season is over and many low- to moderate-income Ventura County residents took advantage of ways to put more money back in their pocket with the help of Volunteer Income Tax Assistance Program (VITA) led by United Way of Ventura County in partnership with the County of Ventura Human Services Agency and the IRS.
Throughout February to April 30, 2026, trained VITA volunteer tax preparers helped working families and individuals file their state and federal tax returns and access the tax credits for which they are eligible. Households earning up to $69,000 are eligible to use the free services.
$11 Million State Homekey+ Grant will end homelessness for 30 Families
OXNARD — California Governor Gavin Newsom recently announced the award of just over $11.7 million from the State’s Homekey+ program to the County of Santa Barbara, in partnership with DignityMoves, to support the development of a new housing community dedicated to families experiencing homelessness. $9,000,000 will fund construction of the village, with $2,000,000 funding wraparound services. DignityMoves has also raised $5,000,000 for construction and will raise an additional $2,000,000 for services.
The new “Family Village” will include 30 units designed specifically to serve families with children, providing a safe, stable environment alongside supportive services aimed at helping residents transition into permanent housing. The Family Village is proposed for development on County-owned land currently used as an overflow parking lot within the County’s Calle Real campus in the eastern Goleta Valley. This project comes at a critical time, as Santa Barbara County has the highest rate of child poverty in California.