Elections, Finance, Local, News, Youth

Performing Arts Scholarship Foundation in Santa Barbara selects 14 finalists for annual music competition

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SANTA BARBARA — Fourteen talented instrumentalists and vocalists will vie for thousands of dollars in scholarships at the Performing Arts Scholarship Foundation’s (PASF) annual competition on April 27. The finalists were selected through auditions held March 28 and 29 at the Music Academy of the West’s Weinmann Hall in Montecito.

The PASF Audition Committee, comprised of Board President Deborah Bertling, Board Secretary Erin Bonski-Evans, and Directors Jill Felber, Dr. David McKee, and Kristine Pacheco-Bernt, carefully chose the finalists from a competitive field of adult and youth musicians. This year’s auditions featured several contenders for the newly introduced Junior Vocal Division, which is dedicated to vocalists under the age of 17.

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

Annual César Chávez Memorial March & Citizenship Fair to be held April 6, 2025 in Oxnard

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OXNARD — The annual César Chávez Memorial March & Citizenship Fair will be held April 6, 2025 in Oxnard.

Sponsored by the Port of Hueneme, the City of Oxnard and the Inlakech Cultural Arts Center, marchers will gather at 10 a.m. Sunday, April 6 at Cesar Chavez School, 200 N. Juanita Ave., Oxnard, to begin the march to La Colonia Gym, 195 No. Marquita St., Oxnard.

“We will visit the César Chávez Memorial site (Childhood Home),” organizers reported.

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

April’s full of fun activities downtown Oxnard

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First Thursdays retunrs April 3rd with amazing eats, sweet treats, and good vibes as some of the best local food trucks roll in! @thesoulrevival_band will entertain with a soulful R&B set. Also participating is a group of CSU Long Beach grad students hosting a Community Resource Booth featuring free info, coffee & pasteries, and prize drawing! Learn about local services and share your thoughts on what matters to you and your family.
Thurs, April 3rd, 5 PM – 9 PM at Plaza Park, 500 South C Street

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Business, Family, Health, Local, News, Seniors

Friendship Adult Day Care Center in Santa Barbara — The Friendly Finch: April

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March was a month of exciting growth here at Friendship Center!

We welcomed several new faces to our incredible team, bringing us to nearly 25 staff members strong. And the momentum doesn’t stop there— we’ve just completed the second month of offering our new transportation service, and we’re two weeks into offering programs at the Carpinteria Healthy Aging Hub!

These new offerings are a direct response to what you, our families and community, have told us you need. We’re building not just with our hearts, but with intention and care—because we believe in doing what works, and doing it with love.

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Entertainment, Events, Local, Locales, News, Noticias, Seniors, Women, Youth

Bilingual report — Ventura Music Under the Stars tickets go on sale May 6

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“This year, we’re introducing a few changes to our annual concert series, all aimed at enhancing the experience for everyone,” said Recreation Manager Rebecca Ellis. “As part of our efforts to streamline all our recreation programs, we are now aligning ticket prices with our standard resident and non-resident fee structure. Additional changes to this year’s program include eliminating printed and mailed tickets with a streamlined check-in service on the day of the event. 

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Business, Education, En español, Family, Government, Health, Home, Local, Locales, News, Noticias, Public Safety

Bilingual report — Wildfire season is year-round: Ventura Fire Department urges ongoing defensible space compliance

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VENTURA — The Ventura Fire Department urges property owners to take proactive steps in wildfire prevention by maintaining flammable grass, trees, and shrubs as part of the annual Fire Hazard Reduction Program (FHRP).

“With recent devastating fires reminding Southern California of the ever-present fire danger, the need for year-round defensible space has never been more urgent,” shared Fire Chief David Endaya. “Wildfires can spread rapidly in Ventura’s dry, drought-prone conditions, and keeping properties clear is critical to reducing structure loss and protecting lives.”

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Education, Family, Local, News, Youth

Ventura County Office of Education — Teacher of the Year for VCOE-Operated Schools is announced

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Dallas Ipach, who has dedicated his career to teaching students who face significant social, emotional, and behavioral challenges, has been named the 2025 Teacher of the Year for schools operated by the Ventura County Office of Education (VCOE). Mr. Ipach will now have the opportunity to compete for the Ventura County Teacher of the Year award, which is accepting nominations until May 2.

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Business, Commentary, Cultural, Education, Entertainment, Events, Family, Local, News

Museum of Contemporary Art Santa Barbara — Hop Into April with Us!

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You’re all welcome to join us on April 3rd for a FREE painting workshop with artist Champagne Smoke!

Champagne Smoke is an artist, author and educator bringing creativity to life through storytelling and immersive art experiences. As the visionary behind Lotus Dynasty, she merges African American and Asian influences, unveiling untold stories from the past and present. Through her work, she invites audiences to explore a world where culture, history, and imagination collide. Follow Champagne Smoke on Instagram @vivrantbloom to see more of her work!

Peppermint Parlor is across from Sephora!

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Business, Education, Entertainment, Events, Family, Health, Home, Local, News, Seniors, Women, Youth

Community Environmental Council (CEC) — Celebrate Earth Month with Us!

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Connect with a community of activists.
Join us on the first Friday of each month, when local climate activists, students, and community members gather to exchange information about regional climate issues and opportunities for action. This month, Santa Barbara organizations will share Earth month actions that the community can take part in, including Sable pipeline advocacy opportunities.
Friday, April 4, 3:30 – 5:00 p.m.
CEC’s Environmental Hub
1219 State St., Santa Barbara

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Business, Local, News, Women

Quinn Fiduciary Services in Santa Barbara celebrates 10th anniversary

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Founded in 2015 by Jackie Quinn, Quinn Fiduciary Services specializes in trust and estate administration and in safeguarding the financial and overall well-being of seniors and at-risk adults. Fiduciaries Tamara Skov and Shannon Dalton purchased the company in 2023 and are now the firm’s managing members and owners, while Quinn remains involved as a consultant.

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Business, Commentary, Cultural, Education, Events, Family, Health, Local, News, Seniors, Women, Youth

Community Environmental Council (CEC) to co-host 55th annual Santa Barbara Earth Day Festival on April 26, 27, more news

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As Federal climate leadership stalls, cities, states, and local organizations are taking action to build climate resilience from the ground up. In this vein, the Community Environmental Council (CEC) remains committed to fostering grassroots climate action along California’s Central Coast.

This month, CEC is proud to co-host the 55th annual Santa Barbara Earth Day Festival, an opportunity to educate, advocate, and mobilize around climate action. The theme for Earth Day 2025 is Our Power, Our Planet, inviting everyone around the globe to unite behind renewable energy, and to triple the global generation of clean electricity by 2030. 

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

8 things you can only do in Lompoc on California’s Central Coast

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LOMPOC — Tucked away on California’s stunning Central Coast, Lompoc is the kind of place that surprises you—in the best way possible. From sipping some of the world’s best Pinot Noir to watching rockets blast into space, this charming town is packed with unexpected adventures. Ready to explore? Here are 8 amazing things you can only do in Lompoc.

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Business, Cultural, Education, Family, Finance, Home, Local, News, Seniors, Women, Youth

Mechanics Bank announced as presenting sponsor of the 2025 Builder Games for the Second Year $15,000 sponsorship to benefit the Supportive Housing Program and Camino Scholars of People’s Self-Help Housing

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“We are immensely grateful to see the return of Mechanics Bank as our Presenting Sponsor this year,” said Ken Trigueiro CEO & President. “They’ve consistently been a huge supporter of the event and even more so of the residents who will ultimately benefit from their generosity. They are a key player in the success of the Builder Games, and we are proud to have them stand beside us as we continue to raise funds for these vital programs.”

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Business, Cultural, Education, En español, familia, Family, Local, Locales, News, Noticias, Seniors, Women, Youth

Bilingual report — Ventura’s Guide to summer camps, events, classes, and more!

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VENTURA — The Parks & Recreation Summer Activity Guide is now available online at www.cityofventura.ca.gov/ActivityGuide. Registration begins Tuesday, April 8, 2025, at 12:00 p.m. and will be available online, over the phone, or in person at City Hall, Room 226, 501 Poli Street. Registration information and policies are on page 6.

The Summer Activity Guide offers a diverse range of youth summer camps and programs for all ages from June through August. Exciting special events await, including the highly anticipated 4th of July Street Fair and the captivating Music Under the Stars concert series. Community members can also explore aquatic activities such as sailing, kayaking, standup paddleboarding, or swim lessons. There are also various arts and cultural options like tours to museums, productions, and local landmarks. 

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

Official artwork revealed for 39th Annual California Strawberry Festival

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OXNARD — Helen Reyes’ winning artwork for the 39th Annual California Strawberry Festival was revealed at an April 1 gathering of dignitaries and festival sponsors at Yolanda’s Mexican Café in Oxnard. The luncheon officially kicks off activities for the 2025 festival celebration taking place May 17 and 18 at the Ventura County Fairgrounds.

Reyes takes home a $2,000 grand prize and VIP tickets to the festival.

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

Bilingual report — Apply to Ventura’s council advisory groups through new online portal

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“We are thrilled to introduce this new tool as part of our ongoing efforts to enhance transparency and community involvement,” said City Clerk Michael MacDonald. “This is an exciting step forward in helping more residents take an active role in shaping Ventura’s future.”

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

Bilingual report — City of Santa Paula Reminds Businesses About Sales Rate Update and Deadline for Measure R Oversight Committee

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SANTA PAULA — The City of Santa Paula is reminding residents and business owners of several important updates related to Measure R, the local sales tax initiative approved by voters in November 2024. These updates include a change in the City’s sales tax rate, the formation of a community oversight committee, and an invitation for residents to help ensure accountability and transparency in how new revenues are used.

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Business, Education, Finance, Government, Local, News

Economic Development Collaborative (EDC) free event and webinar schedule

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SCORE VENTURA COUNTY: QUICKBOOKS ONLINE & BEST ACCOUNTING PRACTICES – LIVE Q&A & HANDS-ON TRAINING

April 1 @ 10:00 am

Join Accounting Expert & QuickBooks Online ProAdvisor and EDC Small Business Development Center Advisor Juliana Ramirez of JR Bookkeeping for an interactive, hands-on webinar designed to help you master QuickBooks Online and improve your accounting practices. Each session will explore key bookkeeping and financial management topics, but more importantly, this is your opportunity to ask specific questions and get them answered live! Whether you need help with bank reconciliations, financial reports, invoicing, expense tracking or QuickBooks Online setup, Juliana will provide real-time solutions and live demonstrations to ensure you walk away with clarity and confidence.

CLICK HERE TO REGISTER

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Business, Cultural, Educación, Education, En español, Entertainment, Events, Government, Local, Locales, News, Noticias, Seniors, Women, Youth

Applications open for Ventura’s Special Event Grant Program

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VENTURA — The City of Ventura is now accepting applications for its Special Event Grant Program (SEGP), designed to support community events for local residents. To be eligible, applicants must be nonprofit organizations based in the City of Ventura with 501(c)(3) status.

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Business, Commentary, Cultural, Educación, Education, En español, Events, familia, Family, Government, Home, Local, Locales, News, Noticias, Seniors, Women, Youth

Bilingual report — The latest news from the County of Ventura

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Coming Soon! New web addresses for County websites

The County of Ventura has officially begun the migration of county websites to the new .gov domain – venturacounty.gov.?
The transition to the new address complies with CA State Assembly Bill 1637, which was passed in 2024 and requires local governments to have a .gov domain by or before 2029. The transition to the new address will provide enhanced cybersecurity and easily identify the County’s online presence for residents, businesses, and visitors.

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

April at the Santa Paula Art Museum

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15th Anniversary Gala and Fundraiser

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Saturday, April 5, 2025, from 4 PM to 6 PM

$125 per person

Join us Saturday evening for our 15th Anniversary Gala and Fundraiser! We’re celebrating 15 years of the Santa Paula Art Museum, and raising critical funds for our community arts education programs. Enjoy live music by Angelo Divino, a petite art auction, delicious hors d’oeuvres and signature cocktail, and more. We will also present the 2025 Mary Alice Orcutt Henderson Visionary Award to David Schwabauer. Advance ticket purchase is recommended. Cocktail attire is encouraged.

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Local

Bilingual report — In Honor of César Chávez Day: Vigil for Migrant Families throughout Central Coast on March 31

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CENTRAL COAST — This César Chávez Day, communities across the Central Coast are coming together to
honor his legacy that uplifts the voices of immigrant communities and the broad struggle
of working-class families through peaceful vigils. Join us in reflection, resistance, and
unity. …

Vigil Locations Across the 805:
• Santa Barbara: Santa Barbara City Hall – 735 Anacapa St.
• Lompoc: Ryan Memorial Park – 900 W Ocean Ave.
• Santa Maria: Santa Maria City Hall – 110 E Cook St.
• Oxnard: Oxnard City Hall – 305 W 3rd St.
• Ventura: Ventura City Hall – 501 Poli St.
• Santa Paula: Santa Paula City Hall – 970 Ventura St.

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

Por La Vida y La Dignidad (For Life & Dignity): A peaceful march to end deportations and win a living wage for farmworkers to be held March 30 in Santa Maria

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SANTA MARIA — For the past year, Alianza Campesina has been advocating for fair and dignified wages for farmworkers, many of whom struggle to survive on low pay while also facing the dangers of pesticide exposure and the harsh effects of climate change, and natural disasters. Now, farmworkers and the broader immigrant community face an even greater threat — the fear of family separation and the ongoing uncertainty caused by increased immigration presence in our communities.

This César Chávez Day, Alianza Campesina is demanding an end to deportations and ICE presence in our communities while urging the Santa Barbara County Board of Supervisors to pass a living wage for farmworkers. We invite community members, advocates, and allies to join us in a peaceful march as we demand justice, dignity, and safety for all.

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

Guest commentary — CC Was One of Us, Fought for Us and Spoke on behalf of Us. (Oxnard Library presentation on March 29)

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CSU Professor Dr. Frank P. Barajas will present “Cesar Chavez’s Life and Legacy in Oxnard” from 2 to 3 p.m. Saturday, March 29 at the Oxnard Public Library, 251 So. A., St. Oxnard. Learn about the life of famed worker’s rights advocate Cesar Chavez and his connections to the Oxnard Community.

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Commentary, Cultural, Educación, Education, En español, Government, Local, Locales, News, Noticias

Bilingual commentary — Rafting Ants: Lessons for Survival

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The past few weeks have alarmed many of us who contemplate the future of our country. Yes, we’ve always had disagreements among ourselves. We’ve discussed issues and argued with each other. But over the past few years, our discord has devolved into a mean-spirited battle between liberals and conservatives, governments and disadvantaged groups, globalists and nationalists, the religious and the secularists, oligarchs and common citizens.

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