Family, Government, Health, Local, News, Public Safety

County of Ventura 2025 Medical Examiner’s Office Overdose Report

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2,097 deaths were reported to the Ventura County Medical Examiner’s Office during the 2025 calendar year. Jurisdiction was accepted for 1,078 of these deaths, requiring further investigation and certification. Postmortem examinations were performed on 796 cases. Of the cases investigated, 216 deaths were due to overdose with illicit drugs, medications, alcohol or other substances.

Of the 216 overdose deaths, 199 were accidents, 14 were suicides, two deaths were of undetermined manner, and one death was a homicide. Of these overdose deaths, men accounted for 154 deaths (71.3%) and women accounted for 62 deaths (28.7%).

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

CLU School of Management — (On April 8) you can make a difference!

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THOUSAND OAKS — Hope Gonzalez is the kind of student every institution strives to support – and donors like you make it possible. She launched her first business while still in high school and came to Cal Lutheran’s School of Management with the support of a generous scholarship. What followed is exactly what your support enables.

Hope did not limit her education to the classroom. She immersed herself in speaking events, took on leadership roles in student organizations, competed in high-stakes competitions, represented major brands as a campus ambassador, and participated in transformative field experiences. She seized every opportunity and turned them into momentum.

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

Bilingual report — Economic Development Collaborative (EDC) free event and webinar schedule

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EN ESPAÑOL: PRESENCIAL: QUICKBOOKS ESENCIAL Y DESARROLLO DE HABILIDADES: TALLER INTERACTIVO PARA NEGOCIOS PRESENTADO POR LA CIUDAD DE OXNARD

9 de abril a las 9:00 am

Acompañe a la ciudad de Oxnard, al Colaborativo de Desarrollo Económico y a Accelerate CA en este taller práctico e interactivo, diseñado tanto para usuarios principiantes y usuarios expertos de QuickBooks en Oxnard. Si está comenzando desde cero o lleva años utilizando QuickBooks y desea perfeccionar sus habilidades, esta sesión abordará las funciones esenciales y explorará temas más avanzados en función de las preguntas de los participantes. Registro: 8:30 am. Dirección: Biblioteca Pública de Oxnard – Biblioteca Principal, 251 S A St, Oxnard, CA 93030. El programa Accelerate California: Inclusive Innovation Hub (Accelerate CA) está financiado por el Estado de California y administrado por el Defensor de la Pequeña Empresa de California (CalOSBA, por sus siglas en inglés). Precio: GRATIS.

HAGA CLIC AQUÍ PARA INSCRIBIRSE

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Business, Cultural, Educación, Education, Elections, En español, familia, Family, Local, Locales, News, Noticias

Bilingual report — You’ve Got Mail! Important Mail on the Way to Voters for the June 2, 2026 Gubernatorial Primary Election

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VENTURA COUNTY — Even though the June 2nd Gubernatorial Primary election is two months away, active registered voters in Ventura County can expect to begin receiving important election-related mail from the County Elections office in the next few weeks.

It starts with the 60-day voter information postcard, which will arrive in early April, approximately 60 days before Election Day. The postcard provides information about receiving and returning your vote by mail ballot, and the vote center daily schedule for those who prefer to vote in person.

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

Sullivan Goss Gallery in Santa Barbara — Meredith Books Abbott’s New Art Book

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SANTA BARBARA — Following a multi-year effort to gather images of paintings by one of Santa Barbara’s best known and most beloved plein air painters, Sullivan Goss is proud to announce the publication of the first hardbound monograph devoted to the art of MEREDITH BROOKS ABBOTT.

Beautifully bound in sage green linen with soft gold debossed type and with 145 full color plates plus assorted illustrations, the gallery hopes that the book will be as treasured as the artist has been over her long career. Almost six decades of painting are represented.

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Business, Government, Local, Locales, News, Noticias

Bilingual report — Roadway improvements planned for State Route 34 for enhanced traffic safety

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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. The improvements, which will take placealong State Route 34 (SR-34) will include two new bus stops, new right and left-turn lanes, and a new traffic signal at the entrance of the housing development. Additionally, minor roadway widening, drainage upgrades, updated signage and striping, and the addition of a bike lane will occur. 

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Business, Cultural, Education, Local, News, Women

Women United Education Awards Luncheon (June 4) keynote speaker announcement – Gracelia Casillas

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VENTURA COUNTY — United Way of Ventura County’s Women United Education Awards Luncheon will once again be honoring single mothers who are pursuing their education with Graciela Casillas as the Keynote Speaker. “We are so excited to have Graciela speak about her inspiring journey as a World Champion Boxer, an educator, and a mother” said President & CEO of United Way of Ventura County, Mitchel Sloan.

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Commentary, Cultural, Education, Local, News

Guest contribution — A Requiem for Rudy: A Ventura County Perspective

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“Call Rudy. (123) 456-0911. Mary B.”

Circa 2003, I found this note in my campus mailbox at California State University Channel Islands (CSUCI). Mary B. was a family therapist, former Oxnard school board official, and an alumna, almost certainly in Chicano Studies, of San Fernando Valley State College (SFVSC) before it was renamed California State University at Northridge (CSUN).

The year before, Maria De La Luz, a colleague in the advising department at my campus, forwarded me and Lillian, a Chicana faculty camarada, a June 5, 2002, email from Dr. Rodolfo “Rudy” F. Acuña—with the subject heading California State University Channel Islands—originally sent to non-profit, private, and public Ventura County employees and managers in education, defense, healthcare, and law enforcement. Many people copied in the missive were Chicana/o Movement products of the 1960s and ’70s, a good number CSUN-Chicana/o Studies alumni like Mary B., for whom el movimiento never ended.

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

Museum of Contemporary Art Santa Barbara — Arte Del Pueblo 2026 Application is open!

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The time you all have been waiting for has arrived!

The Arte Del Pueblo Application is now OPEN. Click the link HERE to access it.

Friendly reminder.
– Please read the application in its entirety before submitting.
– Make sure all your information is correct. What ends up being submitted is what we will end up printing on your artwork’s label.
– Completing this application DOES NOT guarantee you a spot in the exhibition. You MUST drop off your artwork on a drop off date.

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

Bilingual report — Help Ventura County Vote – Apply to be an Elections Worker for the June 2, 2026 Gubernatorial Primary Election

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VENTURA COUNTY — Ahead of every major election cycle, the Ventura County Elections Division hires hundreds of local community members to serve as the temporary elections workers that play a key role in ensuring elections are executed in a safe, secure, and efficient manner. From working at a vote center, verifying signatures, transporting mail ballots, and providing information on the voter assistance hotline, there are many opportunities to get involved with the upcoming June 2, 2026 Gubernatorial Primary Election.

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Business, Commentary, Health, Local, News, Technology

Central Coast sees major climate progress in New Community Environmental Council Impact Report

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SANTA BARBARA — The Community Environmental Council (CEC) released its 2021-2025 Impact Report, marking the conclusion of its most ambitious strategic plan and highlighting the power of community-driven climate action across the Central Coast.

The report reflects five years of progress advancing clean energy, climate-smart agriculture, and community resilience — despite significant challenges including the COVID-19 pandemic, shifting federal policies, and the loss of more than $1.5 million in anticipated federal climate funding.

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Business, Health, Local, News

Hospice Of Santa Barbara welcomes new board member, Trenton Hammel

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SANTA BARBARA — Hospice of Santa Barbara (HSB) is pleased to officially announce Trenton Hammel as a member of its Board of Directors. Trenton has been serving on the board since July 2025, contributing his expertise and leadership to advance HSB’s mission.

Trent Hammel is a local seasoned financial professional with over 20 years of experience serving families, foundations, and institutions in the Santa Barbara community. He currently serves as a Senior Wealth Strategist at Northern Trust, where he works with his clients to develop and coordinate personalized financial, philanthropic, and legacy strategies. His work is grounded in trust, collaboration, and a deep understanding of the values that guide long-term planning and generational wealth planning.

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

Explore Lompoc — Your budget-friendly guide to Lompoc on California’s Central Coast

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LOMPOC — Colorful murals, crave-worthy wines, and fresh-air adventures—all without breaking the bank.

Set between rolling hills and the Pacific, Lompoc is your launchpad for adventure. Explore the charming downtown, sip local wines, hike scenic trails, or catch a rocket lighting up the sky from nearby Vandenberg Space Force Base.

Things to Do That Won’t Break the Bank

Lompoc offers plenty of memorable experiences that don’t require a big budget. From outdoor adventures to local culture, there’s something for every visitor to enjoy.

Historic and Cultural Experiences: La Purísima Mission

La Purísima Mission State Historic Park is one of California’s most fully restored Spanish missions, set amid rolling hills and oak-studded landscapes.

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

People Helping People — First Women’s Legacy of Giving Luncheon has Impactful Beginning

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SANTA YNEZ VALLEY — A sea of women in yellow gathered to the brighten the lives of clients of People Helping People at the inaugural luncheon for the Women’s Legacy of Giving in the Santa Ynez Valley. Guests were encouraged to wear yellow to symbolize warmth, hope, and shared light. 

 The leadership of philanthropist Linda Johansen helped galvanize 72 women to join PHP’s newly formed Women’s giving circle. “When women come together, we are powerful and we can do amazing things,” Johansen told guests. 

“A heartfelt and sincere thank you to Linda Johansen for her unwavering dedication to the Santa Ynez Valley and People Helping People “said Erica Jane Flores, CEO of PHP. “Women’s Legacy of Giving is a reflection of her vision, leadership, and deep care for this community – we are truly grateful.”

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Business, Commentary, Cultural, Education, Events, Family, Government, Local, News, Public Safety

County of Ventura District 2 Supervisor Jeff Gorell — Introducing the 2026 “Great Navigators” of District 2

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You are invited to attend the 2nd Annual Supervisorial Leadership and Excellence Awards on May 7, from 5:30–7:30 PM at the Amgen campus in Thousand Oaks.

Join us as we celebrate the “Great Navigators” of our community—these exceptional honorees representing Education, Public Safety, Community Leadership, Prosperity, and Environmentalism. Each awardee reflects the very best of Ventura County—an educator shaping future leaders, a first responder dedicated to keeping our communities safe, a community leader making an impact on the lives of many, an innovator strengthening our local economy, and a community garden collective advancing sustainability, local food access, and environmental stewardship.

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

My Way Home in Oxnard announces April, May workshops

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Join us for a free series of workshops designed to help you build knowledge and practical skills. This month’s topics include our HUD-approved Homebuyer Workshop, Estate Planning, and a Beginner’s Guide to Couponing. Whether you’re preparing to buy a home, planning for the future, or looking for ways to save on everyday expenses, these sessions offer practical tools you can use right away.

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

Museum of Ventura County — April at the Museum and Remembering Ivor Davis

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We are saddened to share the news that Ivor Davis, the legendary journalist and host of the Up Close and Personal program at the Museum of Ventura County, passed away on March 29, 2026. We are deeply grateful for the time he spent at the Museum, sharing his stories and interviewing notable guests.

Since 2017, Ivor shared his life in journalism through more than 20 appearances at MVC, becoming a familiar and welcoming presence. Both longtime followers and newcomers were always eager to hear his stories about true crime, music, and history.

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Business, Education, Finance, Local, News

CLU Steven Dorfman Center for Innovation & Entrepreneurship — Funding for startups: DIG 2026 applications now open

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We’re now accepting applications for the 2026 Dorfman Incubator Grants (DIG). Startups can apply for $5,000 to $50,000 in non-dilutive grant funding. Ideal candidates have a connection to Cal Lutheran as a student, alum, startup affiliated with Hub101 programs, employee or employer of Cal Lutheran students.

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

Bilingual report — County of Ventura Ocean Water Quality Monitoring Report: Potential storm water runoff contamination

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VENTURA — As part of the Ventura County Ocean Water Quality Monitoring Program, the Environmental Health Division (Division) is providing the following precautionary information to the public. Rainfall that is significant enough to result in runoff can flow into storm drains, channels, creeks, and rivers that empty onto the beaches of Ventura County. 

In general, 0.2 inches (2 tenths of an inch) of rainfall may be enough to create significant runoff conditions. 

There is a potential for storm water runoff to carry disease causing bacteria to the beaches and into the ocean water.

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

Bilingual report — Ventura City Council meetings return to Council Chambers beginning April 14

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VENTURA — The City of Ventura will resume hosting City Council meetings in Council Chambers beginning Tuesday, April 14, following the completion of accessibility upgrades. 

Council Chambers had been temporarily closed to allow for improvements that enhance access and usability for all participants. Since August 2025, meetings have been held at the Wright Event Center at Ventura College.

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

Oxnard launches Arts, Culture & Creativity Month on April 1 featuring new cultural district

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OXNARD — The Oxnard arts community will officially launch Arts, Culture & Creativity Month this April with a vibrant public celebration of the newly designated Downtown Oxnard Cultural District—bringing together artists, cultural leaders, and community stakeholders for a dynamic kickoff event on Wednesday, April 1 at the Oxnard Transit Center.

Hosted by the City of Oxnard, Downtown Oxnard Improvement Association (DOIA), and Oxnard Performing Arts Center Nonprofit (OPAC), the event will transform the Transit Center into a lively hub of creativity. Attendees will experience interactive art activations, live performances, and a special lowrider on exhibit—alongside refreshments and opportunities to connect with the artists and organizations shaping the district.

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

Ventura County Office of Education — Science Fair & Mock Trial Results, Why Equity Matters, DC Advocacy, and more

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Why Equity Matters in Our Schools
Dr. César Morales, Ventura County Superintendent of Schools

Despite what you may have heard, equity in education is a straightforward, commonsense idea. It’s simply acknowledging that some students face more challenges than others. These can range from poverty and disabilities to language barriers or trauma at home.

Whatever their struggles, all students deserve the chance to succeed in school – and that’s what equity is all about. As you can see in this graphic, equity and equality are not the same thing.

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

Downtown celebrates Arts, Culture & Creativity Month

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First Thursdays Food Trucks rolls back into Plaza Park on April 2nd, launching the 2026 season with an all-out, big hair, new wave, neon night, ’80s-throwback party featuring live music by The Beta Macks. The food truck lineup is a savory and sweet fleet of the best mobile eats in the 805. And don’t forget to hit up the makers market – imagine it like The Galleria Mall – you’ll see all your friends there! 

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Business, Commentary, Government, Local, News

Ventura County Taxpayers Association (VCTA) — VCMS: County launches $180M PLA before study concludes

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On Tuesday, March 24, 2026, the Board voted 5-0 to move forward with a massive construction project under a Project Labor Agreement (PLA). This decision was made despite a promised key study that isn’t even finished yet.

The Broken Promise of 2020

Back in 2020, a different group of Supervisors started a $90 million pilot study. The plan was to build four small projects to compare union-only contracts (PLAs) against regular competitive bidding. The Board promised they wouldn’t expand these union-only rules until a full “cost and performance study” was finished.

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