Good morning, Ventura.

SpaceX launched its Falcon 9 rocket yesterday from Vandenberg Space Force Base in Santa Barbara County to deploy 24 Starlink satellites into low-Earth orbit (local enthusiasts watched online).

The launch was part of a week set before the Starship flight from South Texas.

Federal officials expedited fracking approval at Platform Gilda off Ventura County under emergency powers, while safety concerns persist over DCOR LLC's delayed decommissioning of Platform Habitat after a May 11 fire — prompting local environmental advocates to warn of potential risks to workers and marine life.

Direct Relief is working with first responders to track emergency supply needs as the Sandy Fire continues near Simi Valley and forces evacuations in Ventura County.

Crews remain focused on protecting homes and slowing the fire's spread.

On May 15, a wildfire covering nearly 17000 acres continued burning across Santa Rosa Island near Ford Point after rescuers airlifted a 67-year-old mariner from his burning sailboat; federal park staff were evacuated and the island remains closed to the public (the largest wildfire this year).

Ventura County schools superintendent César Morales returned his unauthorized $16K bonus paid in 2024 after he missed state law requiring board approval.

Morales disclosed the error on May 15 and will work with the board to improve oversight.