Good morning, Ventura.

On Thursday, the California State Parks Foundation announced winners of its state parks photo contest, and Ventura’s Brian Filoteo won the Recreation and Activities category with his dynamic shot at Pfeiffer Big Sur State Park.

Each winner will receive a California Explorer Vehicle Day Use Annual Pass and be featured in the 2027 calendar—highlighting the region’s creative talent.

More than 100 Western grebes were pushed to shore by an oil slick off the Ventura coast, and teams from International Bird Rescue and Santa Barbara Wildlife Care Network began urgent efforts to treat the birds.

Rescuers expect hundreds more may beach—prompting a mission that could cost over $200,000—and they are relying on community donations since the slick does not qualify for state or federal funds.

Rebuilding is underway after a mountain fire scorched 19,904 acres near Balcom Canyon Road and destroyed 243 structures—nearly 190 homes in Camarillo and Somis—with debris removal now complete on 133 properties; several people were injured during the blaze that started on November 6th. The fire's impact continues to drive recovery efforts in affected Ventura communities.

Nearly a year after the Mountain Fire destroyed their homes, the Bauer family in Las Posas Estates is waiting for county approval to rebuild in the hills above Camarillo—Candy and Jim Lingl have already poured a new foundation for their home.

This marks a step forward in recovery for two families affected by the blaze.