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

Bilingual report — City of Santa Paula Designates Historic Tower Theater as a City Landmark

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SANTA PAULA — The City of Santa Paula proudly announces the official designation of the Tower Theater, located at 982 E. Main Street, as a City Historic Landmark. The Santa Paula City Council adopted Ordinance No. 1341 following a unanimous vote on February 19, 2025, recognizing the Tower Theater’s rich history and architectural significance.

First opened as the Elektra Theatre in 1911, the Tower Theater has served as a cornerstone of Santa Paula’s cultural and entertainment history. The building, Ventura County’s oldest purpose-built movie theater, has undergone various transformations, including its time as the Mission Theatre, Columbia Theatre, and Lyric Theatre, before being rebranded as the Tower Theater in 1940. Over the years, it played a pivotal role in providing Spanish-language programming for Santa Paula’s Mexican-origin community, making it a symbol of inclusivity and cultural representation.

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

Bilingual commentary — Who Represents the Spirit of California?

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We might find ourselves asking, “What is this ‘Spirit of California’” we hear about sometimes? We might surmise that the Spirit of California is the melting pot of our cultures, ideas, perspectives, and dreams. Indeed, we are a unique tapestry woven together by the threads of our diversity and progressive and dynamic history.

But it might be more accurate for us to ask, “Who is the Spirit of California?” 

The Spirit of California is actually the embodiment of a mythology that reaches back into the mists of time and has surprising origins, especially considering the history of California.

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Commentary, Cultural, Family, Government, Immigration, Local, News, Public Safety, Seniors, Women, Youth

Santa Barbara Quakers join interfaith challenge to Department of Homeland Security’s rescission of sensitive locations policy

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SANTA BARBARA — Friends General Conference (FGC), a national Quaker organization, joined multiple religious organizations in challenging the Department of Homeland Security’s (DHS) reversal of the sensitive locations policy, which previously limited immigration enforcement actions at places of worship. The Santa Barbara Friends Meeting (SBFM) as an affiliate of FGC, joined this legal challenge.

We are an unprogrammed meeting of Quakers and we reaffirm that our house of worship serves as a sanctuary for all. The belief that God is within every person has powerful ramifications.

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

Bilingual report — Economic Development Collaborative (EDC) — Honoring Black History Month

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The Economic Development Collaborative would like to recognize the month of February as Black History Month. This month is dedicated to honoring and celebrating the contributions of Black Americans throughout history. During this time, and throughout the entire year, the EDC is committed to supporting Black-owned small businesses. The following are a handful of programs* that provide support for Black-owned small businesses:

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

Transgender Unity March to be held March 1 in Santa Barbara

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SANTA BARBARA — On Saturday, March 1st, 2025, the Santa Barbara community will stand in solidarity with a nationwide movement advocating for the rights and dignity of transgender people. The Transgender Unity March will take place at De La Guerra Plaza at noon, 20 East De la Guerra inviting transgender individuals, allies, and community members to join in support of equality and justice.

Across the country, transgender people are facing increasing threats, including policies that restrict access to healthcare, limit mobility, and endanger lives. The Transgender Unity March is a direct response to this growing discrimination, offering a platform for voices to rise against these injustices and for the community to demand action.

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Business, Family, Finance, Health, Local, News, Seniors, Women, Youth

Ventura County Credit Union Kicks Off 75th Anniversary by Giving Back $750,000 to Local Nonprofits

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VENTURA COUNTY — Ventura County Credit Union (VCCU) is celebrating 75 years of service to the community by giving back in a big way—donating $750,000 to 10 local nonprofits that make a difference in the lives of Ventura County residents. Kicking off this milestone initiative, VCCU has awarded the first two donations to Food Share of Ventura County and Turning Point Foundation, two organizations dedicated to supporting the most vulnerable members of the community.

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

Bilingual report — Ventura Police to hold DUI checkpoint on Friday, Feb. 21

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VENTURA — The Ventura Police Department Traffic Unit will conduct a DUI checkpoint at an undisclosed location within the city limits on Friday, February 21, 2025 from 8:00 p.m. to 2:00 a.m. 

DUI checkpoint locations are chosen based on data showing incidents of impaired driving-related crashes. The primary purpose of checkpoints is not to make arrests, but to promote public safety by deterring residents from driving impaired. During the checkpoint, officers will look for signs that drivers are under the influence of alcohol and/or drugs. 

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Business, Cultural, Education, En español, Events, Finance, Government, Local, News, Noticias

Bilingual report — County of Santa Barbara Board of Supervisors to meet on Feb. 25 to discuss Health Center Board Annual Report; Sable Offshore Corporation’s Change of Owner, Operator, and Guarantor; Compensation for Elected Officials

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The next meeting of the County Board of Supervisors is scheduled for 
9 a.m. Tuesday, February 25, 2025
County Administration Building
Board Hearing Room, Fourth Floor
105 East Anapamu Street, Santa Barbara
The public may participate virtually, or in person at the County Board Hearing Room in Santa Barbara or Santa Maria. 

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Business, Education, Health, Local, News, Seniors, Women, Youth

CLU School of Management Center’s For Economics of Social Issues — One Week Left to Register & Join Community Conversation – 2025 Conference

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The Center for Economics of Social Issues invites you to register now for its upcoming conference, which will be held on February 28th at California Lutheran University’s campus. We implore you to come and see what is going on around you. The conference will release a comprehensive study that sheds light on the urgent challenges of enjoying a dignified life on the central coast of California. 

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Business, Cultural, Education, En español, Local, News, Youth

Bilingual report — Allan Hancock College buries time capsule at Lompoc Valley Center

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LOMPOC — Allan Hancock College staff, faculty and students gathered at the college’s Lompoc Valley Center to bury a time capsule in celebration of the LVC on Feb. 18.  

The metal time capsule, which was designed and fabricated by Hancock welding professor Gabriel Marquez, contains more than 20 items gathered by college staff and faculty that represent history at the college between 2020 and 2024. The capsule will be unearthed in 2049 when the LVC celebrates its 50th anniversary. 

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Business, Cultural, Finance, Local, News, Women

The Women’s Fund of Santa Barbara announces record grants pool of $1,250,000 for 2025

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SANTA BARBARA — The Women’s Fund of Santa Barbara is excited to announce a grants pool of $1,250,000. On May 20, at the Celebration of Grants at the Lobero Theatre, the money will be distributed to local nonprofits for programs addressing the critical needs of women, children, and families in south Santa Barbara County.  

The record-breaking grants pool makes the Women’s Fund one of the largest collective giving circles in the country. Since its founding by 12 local women in 2004, the organization has grown to over 1,400 members and has awarded nearly $13 million to nonprofits in the community over the past 20 years.

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Business, Cultural, Education, Local, News, Youth

CSUCI receives prestigious Carnegie designation

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CSUCI joins 11 of the 23 campuses in the California State University system that have received the new Carnegie designation and is among 216 RCU universities across the country.  

The RCU designation is a new classification intended to recognize institutions of higher education that have conducted a significant amount of valuable research but have previously been overlooked.  Awardees spend at least $2.5 million on research on average in a single year, and this designation aims to acknowledge the growing research efforts in institutions that may not fit the criteria for a traditional “Research 1” (R1) status. 

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Business, Cultural, Family, Finance, Government, Local, News

Rodeo donates to local charities in San Luis Obispo County

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“Creston Classic Rodeo is pleased to present these funds to support local efforts to fill the needs of the Creston Community,” said CCR President Tom Bordonaro. “These funds will go a long way to building a facility for all Crestonians to enjoy as well as continue the over 60 year tradition of providing a pool for Creston kids.”

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

Museum of Ventura County announces upcoming Culture & Agriculture programs

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Saturday, February 22

11:00 am – 2:00 pm

@Agriculture Museum

926 Railroad Ave., Santa Paula

Explore the Agriculture Museum’s Helen K. Pidduck Garden and learn how to use the basic elements of earth, wind, fire, and water in home gardening strategies to support sustainable agriculture. Learn how to plan and create a productive food garden that thrives in Ventura County’s coastal climate. There will be a presentation at 11:30 am given by UC Master Gardener Terry Garman. This will be followed by two hands-on workshops: putting together an irrigation system and effective composting techniques.

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Business, Government, Local, News, Public Safety

Ventura County Fire Dept. —  Division Chief Barry Parker promoted to assistant fire chief of the Support Services Bureau

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Parker’s promotion marks a significant milestone in his distinguished 30-year career. Recognizing his dedication and leadership, Fire Chief Gardner stated, “Barry has consistently risen above expectations and stands in a league of his own. With this well-earned promotion, we are thrilled to recognize his unwavering commitment and professionalism.”

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Cultural, Education, Entertainment, Events, Local, News

Former Santa Barbara PASF winner Alexander Lipay takes home two Grammy Awards

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Lipay won the awards for Best Classical Compendium 2024 and Best Orchestral Performance 2024 at the 67th Annual Grammy Awards ceremony in Los Angeles earlier this month alongside the Los Angeles Philharmonic and conductor Gustavo Dudamel. The awards recognized the orchestra’s recording of Revolución Diamantina, a ballet score by renowned Mexican composer Gabriela Ortiz. Lipay engineered the recording alongside his father, Dmitriy Lipay.

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

Registration opens March 10 for CSU Channel Island’s Osher Lifelong Learning Institute (OLLI) spring classes

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In OLLI at CSUCI’s Spring II session, you can enjoy fascinating courses without the stress of grades or tests. Explore subjects including world history, physical geography, music, philosophy, environmental studies, and more—all for the joy of learning!  We are also excited to offer even more flexibility with early morning and late afternoon classes, making it easier to fit learning into your schedule.

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Cultural, Educación, Education, En español, Events, familia, Family, Government, Local, Locales, News, Noticias, Youth

Bilingual report — Educators, families, and members of the community are invited to attend the Ventura County Office of Education Equity Conference on March 11

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This free event will feature a variety of speakers and workshops in English and Spanish on increasing opportunities and removing obstacles for all students. Food, drinks, and language interpretation will be provided.

Keynote Presentation

We are thrilled to have a keynote presentation from Shane Safir and Dr. Jamila Dugan, the authors of Street Data, the landmark book about rethinking the ways data can be used to promote equity in schools.

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

CSUCI to celebrate education with Black communities on Super Sunday on Feb. 23

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CAMARILLO —  CSU Channel Islands (CSUCI) will join other CSU campuses across California on Feb. 23 for Super Sunday, a day when predominately Black and African American faith-based organizations gather to stress the importance of preparing for college.  

This year’s Super Sunday event will be held from 2 to 4 p.m. at the Oxnard Performing Arts Center (OPAC) at 800 Hobson Way in Oxnard. Super Sunday will include food, activities and entertainment, as well remarks from CSUCI President Richard Yao. Staff members from CSUCI will be available to provide information on the application and admission process for prospective CSUCI students.? 

“Super Sunday in this iteration is designed to bring together community in celebration of the importance of education in our own backyard,” said CSUCI Vice President for Student Affairs Eboni Ford-Turnbow. “I look forward to how this event continues to grow and how community relationships support our students.” 

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

Guest contribution — Take To The Great Outdoors For Island Packers Winter Whale Watching And Excursions To The Channel Islands National Park And National Marine Sanctuary!

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VENTURA — A winter whale watch excursion is the perfect way to gather with family and friends to witness the inspiring migration of Pacific Gray whales as they travel through the Santa Barbara Channel near Anacapa and Santa Cruz Island.

“This mammoth migration of more than 20,000 whales and 6,000 miles continues to remain a major attraction in Southern California,” said President Cherryl Connally of Island Packers.  “Located in scenic Ventura Harbor Village, we invite visitors to plan on booking this “must-see” experience soon as part of their fun for the entire family Spring Break activities. “

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

Ventura County Civic Alliance February Livable Communities Newsletter

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Volume 20 / Number 73 / February 2025 Your Livable Communities Newsletter VISIT OUR WEBSITE For almost 20 years, the Ventura County Civic Alliance Livable Communities working group has been publishing its quarterly newsletter. These newsletters were grounded by the American…

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

Ventura County Community Foundation — From the Heart — The New Look of VCCF

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The Ventura County Community Foundation, your community foundation, has been in awe of this county’s love and generosity since we first opened our doors in 1987, and when we come together and bring our passions and talents to support our neighbors, anything is possible. From community leadership to philanthropic consulting, we work hand-in-hand with our neighbors to envision an engaged and thriving community inspired by growing generosity.

We invite you to visit our brand-new website and get to know your community foundation below. You may learn something new about the good work happening in your community! Thank you for joining us on this exciting journey into the future of philanthropy in Ventura County.

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

Nicholas ‘Scott’ Vincent joins the Board of Directors for the Foundation for Cottage Rehabilitation & Goleta Valley Cottage Hospitals

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Vincent holds a Bachelor of Arts in Economics from Bucknell University and earned a J.D. from the University of San Diego School of Law. He served as legal counsel for numerous departments at the City of Santa Barbara from 2004 until his retirement in 2018.

His previous board experience includes serving on various committees with the Foundation for Santa Barbara City College for ten years, including a four-year term as Board President. He is also active in volunteering and fundraising for several local charities such as Calm, the Alzheimer’s Association and Transition House.

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

Ventura County Superintendent of Schools Dr. César Morales honored with CALSA M.A.S. Award

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VENTURA COUNTY — Dr. César Morales, Ventura County Superintendent of Schools, was recognized last week by the California Association of Latino Superintendents & Administrators (CALSA) for his outstanding contributions to educational leadership. Dr. Morales received the prestigious M.A.S. Award—representing Mentorship, Advocacy, and Sponsorship—during the CALSA aPODERar Symposium in San Francisco.

The award was presented by Dr. Terry Walker, Director of the CALSA Women’s Leadership Network, who commended Dr. Morales for his commitment to creating opportunities for advancement in educational leadership.

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Commentary, Education, Local, Opinion

Bilingual commentary — Learning to Write Well

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Outside forces are conditioning our young people to absorb information from dubious sources via sound bites and swipes across tiny screens. As a result, it has become more challenging than ever to convince them that learning how to write—and write well—is increasingly important.

We could list countless indisputable reasons for the importance of learning how to write well. Among all those reasons for young people in particular, there are two that should serve as potent inducements: academic success and career advancement.

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Cultural, Education, Family, Government, Immigration, Local, News, Seniors, Women, Youth

LULAC Officially Launches El Pueblo Unido: A Resource Guide for Community Leaders

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LULAC is proud to announce the official launch of El Pueblo Unido: A Resource Guide for Community Leaders—a vital tool designed to help key institutions navigate recent policy changes impacting immigrant communities.

This guide builds on El Escudo: Immigrant Rights and Resources Toolkit, which we launched just a few weeks ago. El Escudo serves as a one-stop shop for immigrants to understand their rights, prepare for potential deportation, and access critical resources. True to LULAC’s legacy of using El Escudo—“the shield”—to protect Latino communities from injustice, this latest resource shifts the focus to empowering community leaders so they can support and defend those most vulnerable.

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Business, Cultural, Education, Events, Family, Finance, Government, Local, News

CLU — Two weeks left to register ‘Affording a Dignified Life on the Central Coast of California: Challenges & Opportunities’ conference

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The Center for Economics of Social Issues invites you to register now for its upcoming conference, which will be held on February 28th at California Lutheran University’s campus. We implore you to come and see what is going on around you. The conference will release a comprehensive study that sheds light on the urgent challenges of enjoying a dignified life on the central coast of California.

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