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OxnardOxnard Celebrates Mexico’s Independence
Downtown Oxnard turned red, white, and green this past weekend as our city came together for Fiestas Patrias, organized this year by Radio La M. Neighbors lined the streets for the parade, and the ceremonial "Cry for Independence" echoed through the heart of town — a tradition that means so much to so many families here in the 805. Oxnard's Mexican roots run deep, and celebrations like this aren't just about a date on the calendar. They're about abuelos sharing stories with grandkids, local vendors and musicians getting their moment, and the whole community — longtime residents and newcomers alike — feeling at home. Big thanks to Vida Newspaper for spotlighting the festivities. If you missed it, keep an eye out for next year's celebration. And if you went, share your photos with us — we'd love to feature your view of the fiesta.
OxnardShooting Victims Survived in Oxnard
Neighbors, a scary situation unfolded Saturday evening near Edison Drive and McWane Boulevard, and we're grateful to report the outcome wasn't worse. Oxnard Police responded around 5:32 p.m. to reports of a suspicious person with a rifle, and shortly after, a 30-year-old man was dropped off at a local hospital by a private party with injuries from the incident. Both victims, we're relieved to learn, survived. We know headlines like this can rattle a neighborhood, especially when they land close to home. It's a reminder that our first responders move fast, and that community members often step up in ways we never expect. The Vida Newspaper has been following the details closely, and we're glad they're keeping Oxnard informed. If you saw or heard anything in that area Saturday evening, reach out to OPD. And let's keep looking out for one another — that's what makes the 805 feel like home.
OxnardMan Sentenced to Prison for Killing His Father
A Simi Valley family is facing an unthinkable loss, and this week a judge delivered the final chapter in the criminal case. Gerardo Arroyo Almanza, 37, was sentenced to 39 years 4 months to life in state prison for the murder of his father, Alfredo Arroyo Sancen. Almanza had pleaded guilty in August to second-degree murder and three counts of criminal threats, according to the Ventura County District Attorney's Office. We share this not to dwell on the worst of it, but because Ventura County is our home, and what happens in one corner of the 805 ripples through all of us. Domestic violence and family tragedy can feel private, yet they touch neighbors, coworkers, and entire communities. If you or someone you know is in crisis, help is available — reach out to local resources or call 988. Thanks to Vida Newspaper for keeping the community informed on this difficult case.
OxnardOxnard Police Chief Jason Benites Announces Retirement
Big news out of the Oxnard Police Department this week — Chief Jason Benites has announced he'll retire after 33 years of service, with his final day on the job set for November 3 and his official retirement date November 4. That's more than three decades of showing up for this city, and whatever your feelings about policing, 33 years in one department is a rare kind of commitment. The transition is already in motion: City Manager Alexander Nguyen is appointing Assistant Chief Rocky to step into the leadership role, keeping things steady as the department turns the page. Vida Newspaper had the story first, and it's worth a read for anyone who follows how our city government works. If you've crossed paths with Chief Benites over the years — at a community meeting, a coffee with a cop, or just around town — it's a good moment to wish him well. Oxnard's a tight-knit place, and leadership changes at the top of our police department ripple through the whole community.
OxnardCrowning the Queen of Mexican Independence
If you drove through downtown Oxnard last weekend, you probably caught a glimpse of red, white, and green spilling out of the Marez Events Center. Radio La M put together this year's Fiestas Patrias celebration, and the heart of the night was crowning the queen who will represent Mexican Independence in our community. These celebrations are more than pageantry. Oxnard's Mexican roots run deep, and Fiestas Patrias is one of the ways our neighbors pass that heritage down to the next generation — through music, food, and young people stepping into roles of pride and responsibility. Having a local station like Radio La M organize it keeps the tradition rooted right here at home. Alicia T. Basurto served as Master of Ceremonies, and Vida Newspaper has the full recap. If you missed it, keep an eye out for next year's festivities — this is one of those Oxnard traditions worth showing up for.
OxnardHearing to change Cesar Chavez Drive in Oxnard
Oxnard neighbors, heads up: the name of Cesar Chavez Drive is back on the table. At the Sept. 15 city council meeting, members will hold a public hearing at 6 p.m. so residents can weigh in on a proposal Councilmember Gabe Teran first raised back in April. Whatever side you land on, this is one of those local decisions that touches daily life — addresses, mail, business signage, and the story we tell about our streets. Cesar Chavez's legacy is personal here in Ventura County, where farmworker history runs deep through our fields and families. Renaming a road is never just about a sign; it's about whose story we honor and how we move forward together. Vida Newspaper has been following the proposal since spring, and now it's our turn to show up and be heard. Mark your calendar for Sept. 15, 6 p.m. at Oxnard City Hall. Whether you speak for three minutes or just listen, your voice matters. See you there, Oxnard.
OxnardSeptember is Pedestrian Safety Month: Look Out for One Another
September is Pedestrian Safety Month, and the Oxnard Police Department is asking all of us to slow down, look twice, and watch out for each other on our streets. With pedestrian fatalities on the rise nationwide—2025 saw the largest annual increase ever recorded, according to the Governors Highway Safety Association—this reminder hits close to home. Our coastal community is full of walkers, joggers, and families heading to school or the beach, and every one of us deserves to get where we're going safely. This month, let's make a simple pledge: put down the phone, obey the crosswalks, and yield to folks on foot. Whether you're behind the wheel or walking yourself, a little patience goes a long way. Vida Newspaper highlighted this important initiative, and we're glad they did. Let's look out for one another, Oxnard—because a safe street is a happy street.
OxnardCounty of Ventura honors 25 longtime employees representing 680 years of public service
It’s not every day you see a room full of people who’ve collectively given nearly seven centuries to public service—but that’s exactly what happened at the Ventura County Board of Supervisors meeting on August 18. Twenty-five employees were honored for hitting the 25, 30, and 35-year marks with county agencies, and together, their careers add up to a staggering 680 years. For us here in Oxnard and across the 805, that kind of dedication means our roads, parks, health services, and public safety systems are in the hands of people who truly know their stuff. Vida Newspaper reported on the ceremony, which was a heartfelt reminder that behind every county department is a neighbor who chose to stay and serve. These are the folks who’ve seen our community grow, weathered challenges, and kept things running through it all. So next time you visit a county office or drive through a well-kept street, tip your hat to one of these long-timers—they’ve earned it, and then some.
OxnardHelping customers at Panadería Vanessa
For 36 years, Panadería Vanessa on A Street has been more than a bakery — it's a morning ritual for Oxnard families. Every day, Julissa Suarez and Lluvia Chavez greet customers with warm smiles, handing over fresh pan Mexicano that carries the taste of home. Their dedication is a reminder of the small businesses that stitch our community together. In an era of chain stores, places like Panadería Vanessa keep our heritage alive. The aroma of conchas and bolillos isn't just comfort — it's tradition. As reported by Vida Newspaper, this anniversary celebrates not just survival, but thriving through generations of loyal customers. Next time you're on A Street, stop by and say hi to Julissa and Lluvia. They'll send you off with something sweet and a smile that makes Oxnard feel like a small town.
OxnardSummit to help farmworkers
This Saturday, our community comes together to mark one year since the Glasshouse Raids shook Oxnard. It's been a heavy 12 months, with Ventura County Defensa and countless volunteers standing strong through it all. For those of us who saw the helicopters overhead and heard the shouts in the streets, this anniversary hits close to home. The summit isn't just about remembering—it's about mapping a way forward, ensuring farmworkers' rights are protected and that Jaime Alanís Garcia's loss leads to real change. If you're in Oxnard, you know the fields are the backbone of our county. This summit is a chance to hear from organizers, share stories, and find out how you can support the families still dealing with the aftermath. Vida Newspaper has been covering this fight from day one, and they'll be there to help amplify the voices that matter. Whether you're a farmworker, a neighbor, or just someone who cares, this is a moment to show up and be part of the solution.
OxnardHumane Society of Ventura County Welcomes Jessica Pfahler as New Director of Development
Big news from the Humane Society of Ventura County, and it’s a warm welcome for Jessica Pfahler as the new Director of Development. For those of us in Oxnard and across the 805, this is more than a staff change—it’s a promise that our furry friends will keep getting the care they deserve. Jessica steps in at a time when shelters are busier than ever, and her work behind the scenes will help fund everything from medical treatments to adoption events right here in our community. We know how much this county loves its animals—just look at the packed adoption fairs and the volunteers who show up every weekend. With Jessica’s leadership, the HSVC can build stronger ties with local donors and supporters, ensuring no pet is left behind. We spotted this story in Vida Newspaper, and it’s a reminder that good things are happening for our four-legged neighbors. Here’s to a bright future under Jessica’s guidance!
OxnardVentura County Clerk-Recorder Partners with California Office of the Secretary of State to Host One-Day Apostille PopUp Shop on Sept. 10, 2026
Good news for anyone who's ever needed an apostille without the headache of a trip to Sacramento: the Ventura County Clerk-Recorder is bringing back its one-day Apostille Pop-Up Shop on Thursday, Sept. 10, 2026, at the Ventura County Government Center. For the second year in a row, they're teaming up with the California Secretary of State's office to offer same-day certification of official documents—think birth certificates, marriage licenses, and business filings—right here in our own backyard. And this year, they're adding a new service: Domestic Partnership Registration, so couples can handle that paperwork locally too. It's a small but mighty convenience that saves locals time, gas, and a whole lot of bureaucratic hassle. Whether you're a new business owner needing to certify documents for overseas deals, a family preparing adoption papers, or a couple registering a domestic partnership, this pop-up is a practical resource for the 805. The event runs from 9 a.m. to 3 p.m., and appointments are encouraged—check the Clerk-Recorder's website for details. Vida Newspaper first shared the news, and we're glad they did. Mark your calendar, spread the word, and take advantage of this rare chance to skip the long drive to the capital. It's government working for us, right here at home.
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