features

  • SpeakUp Scholars bridges the gap between languages

    “¡Hola estudiantes!” is what one may hear when they scroll through their Instagram Reels and reach the account of SpeakUp Scholars. Whether it’s through daily video lessons or free tutoring lessons, SpeakUp Scholars is a student-led nonprofit organization that aims to support individuals who are learning English as their second language. High schoolers from…

  • The “amazing” Tei Street encourages NPHS students

    Students participated in “no backpack day,” an event designed to rebuild relationships after summer break. Throughout the rotation of activities and assembly, students had the opportunity to hear from Tei Street, international speaker, trainer and educational consultant share her motivational stories and advice.  “I give students the same messaging that I gave my own…

  • “Moms Club” exposes school board controversies

    On Aug. 30, 805SpeakEasy, local parent-activist group, hosted a screening of “Moms Club.” Community members gathered at New Thought Now! Spiritual Center in Westlake Village, sharing snacks and thoughts before watching the film.  “Moms Club” is an investigative documentary produced by Rocky Romero and Miranda Winters featuring a group of suburban moms in Southern…

  • Art Trek $5 Fridays foster accessible creativity

    The sound of laughter and bustling conversation harmonize as a muse for creativity, as community members of all ages gathered in Newbury Park’s hidden gem, Art Trek. The last Friday of every month, Art Trek hosts $5 Fridays, an open-house event where participants pay $5 for entry to use multi-medium art supplies. On Sept.…

  • “Relay for Life” unites the Conejo Valley community

    For the past 41 years, the community has gathered to support each other in a fight against cancer, hosting their annual Relay For Life Fun Run at California Lutheran University.  Having experienced losing her mom to cancer and being a cancer survivor herself, Christy Warner, event leader, takes pride in organizing and putting together…

  • European holiday festival celebrates culture and community at the Oaks

    European holiday festival celebrates culture and community at the Oaks

    On Dec. 6, the Oaks Mall was transformed into a historical winter wonderland, representing European holiday culture and offering a traditional marketplace experience packed with authentic foods, unique vendors and live entertainment, all supporting non-profit organizations. Traditional European cuisine was scattered across the “Festive Garden” and “Le French Quarter” centers, offering warm beverages like…

  • Organizations allow volunteers to spread the holiday joy

    Organizations allow volunteers to spread the holiday joy

    Ventura County is home to many different organizations that provide volunteer and service opportunities year round, especially during the holiday season. Whether it is allowing underprivileged children to experience a Thanksgiving dinner or hosting toy drives, these organizations allow people of all ages to play a role in the community during the festivity-filled seasons.…

  • Día de los Muertos celebrates ancestors and traditions

    Día de los Muertos celebrates ancestors and traditions

    The festival of Día de los Muertos, or Day of the Dead, is celebrated all around the world, primarily in certain parts of Mexico and other latino countries, as well as right here in Newbury Park. Día de los Muertos is a vibrant holiday celebrated in remembrance of those who have passed on. On…

  • Falling in love with seasonal snacks

    November is truly one of the most breathtaking months as winter creeps in, and fall slowly comes to an end. As Trader Joe’s is famously affordable and privately labeled, there is immense popularity among their seasonal foods–especially the hospitable and warm fall flavors.  I wanted to focus my tastebuds on cozy flavors and foods…

  • Jill Magnante enjoys a fine balance in last year of teaching

    Jill Magnante enjoys a fine balance in last year of teaching

    Rohinton Mistry, the author of “A Fine Balance,” says that there is “no such thing as an uninteresting life.” Jill Magnante, the Middle Years Program [MYP] Coordinator and IB Literature teacher at Newbury Park High School [NPHS], is living proof of this quote. As an avid reader, former theater star and Midwesterner, Magnante has…