On March 6 a Ventura Chamber Ribbon Cutting was held at J Wolf Catering and BBQ at 2271 N. Ventura Ave. They are committed to serving their guests as much farm to table, organic and non-GMO foods as possible and locally sourced meats and produce.. They are a certified green business.
Ernest Romero- chef/owner was on hand to greet all.
Hours are Tuesday through Friday 8 AM -5 PM, Saturday 8 AM – 2 PM (unless catering) and Sundays and Mondays closed. 628-9416
All that is left at the Fairgrounds of the dirt that was being cleaned from the Montecito mudslides is the equipment and gravel. The private firm American Integrated Services brought the dirt to the Fairgrounds where it was tested and separated to remove toxic elements. The Fairgrounds were being used for this purpose because it owned by the State.
by Shirley Lorraine
Brothers Collide in True West at Elite
A thought-provoking piece by prolific American author Sam Shepard, True West is considered to be Shepard’s “signature” works. The gritty characters are somewhat autobiographical and speak to his preoccupation with the myth of a vanishing West. Elite’s Artistic Director Tom Eubanks directs the 1983 Pulitzer Prize-winning offering.
Austin, a screenwriter, is house-sitting for his mother who is away on vacation to Alaska. Interrupting the flow of his work enters Austin’s estranged older brother, Lee, a bombastic grifter and opportunist. His main occupation is drinking, however, at which he excels. Much to Austin’s dismay, Lee settles in and makes himself at home.
Austin is desperately trying to finish his current script before meeting with his agent, Saul Kimmer, due in the next day. Lee makes an unscheduled appearance and immediately bullies Saul into meeting with him over golf so he can pitch his own story, a Western.
Conflicts arise when Saul agrees to can Austin’s work in favor of Lee’s new story. Both brothers are badly in need of this redemptive contract and tension builds as they struggle to get the completed story on paper. Ultimately, the roles become reversed as they both realize they must see this through to survive. Austin drinks to cope with the situation and Lee begins to see light over the horizon, at least financially.
Mom eventually returns from her trip, dismissing the brother’s tussle and differences. It appears that both sons have been enabling their alcoholic father over the years, which contributes to the emotional conflict. Mom chooses to ignore the reality of the situation completely.
The brothers are played by Aaron Gardner as Austin and Sean Mason as Lee. Both capture the essence of their characters to the core. Gardner comes across as a fairly meek man struggling to provide for his family, while Mason pulls out all the stops as the disheveled drunkard drifter.
Saul Kimmer is given a superb characterization by Buddy Wilds with just the right amount of stereotypical oily persona. His Hawaiian shirts alone exude the essence of the laid-back go-with-the-flow man who can easily be persuaded to change his mind by losing a bet on the golf course. Marilyn Lazik embodies the briefer role of the slightly confused and deluded Mom. Mom’s appearance doesn’t stop the arguing brothers but does add dimension to the overall dysfunctional picture.
The piece highlights the duality of each brother secretly wishing to be in the others’ shoes. Austin wishes he had the freedom on which brother Lee thrives, while Lee expresses his deep-down desire for the stability that Austin enjoys.
True West is billed as a comedy and although there are some laughs throughout, the action and dialogue between the belligerent bully and the home-in-the-suburbs family man takes on a pervasive dark tone accented by dim lighting. A detailed interior setting by Henry House becomes its own character in the play, providing context and a background canvas of stability and warmth that contrasts with the brothers’ situation and actions.
True West runs through March 25. Friday & Saturday eves 8 PM, Sunday matinees 2 p.m. General admission $20. Seniors and students $17. Season subscriptions are also available. Reservations are encouraged. 483-5118 Elite Theatre Company, 2731 Victoria Avenue, Fisherman’s Wharf, Channel Islands Harbor www.elitetheatre.org
Ventura Education Partnership will present the 17th Annual Festival of Talent: “Walking on Sunshine” on Saturday March 24, at 7:00 p.m. The performance is open to the public and showcases the amazing talent of Ventura Unified School District students, staff and family members. Brian McDonald, Rubicon Theatre Company Associate Artistic Director, will direct the show.
Since its inception 17 years ago, the Festival of Talent has raised more than $500,000 for the VEPGrant program, which awards grants to VUSD schools. These small grants have enabled over 500 teachers to provide extra enrichment activities, to acquire new technology, or to undertake innovative projects with their students. The VEPGrant program touches every student who graduates from Ventura Unified, supplementing and enhancing their education.
“We are grateful to live in a community that prioritizes youth and education, that community partners work tirelessly to showcase students’ talents and that sponsors care about strengthening student learning by funding innovative classroom grants. It’s a not to be missed experience!” stated Madhu Bajaj, President, Ventura Education Partnership
This year’s production will feature a variety of acts, including choirs, rock bands, vocalists, cheerleaders, dancers, and a comedian! Don Wood, the show’s original and long-standing Master of Ceremonies, returns, as does Musical Director Miriam Arichea.
“Thanks to the talents of director, Brian McDonald, and musician, Miriam Arichea, Festival of Talent, while performed by amateurs associated with the Ventura Unified School District, is as close to a professional show as one can get. It is a “must see” for all Venturans.” said Bart Bleuel, Kiwanis Member and Chair of Festival of Talent.
Festival of Talent will take place at the Ventura High School auditorium with preshow entertainment beginning at 6:30 p.m. and the show at 7:00 p.m. Tickets are available at all VUSD school sites and online at https://festivaloftalent2018.brownpapertickets.com. For more information, please visit www.VenturaEducationPartnership.org
Ventura Education Partnership continues to welcome new sponsors for the 17th Annual Festival of Talent: Walking on Sunshine. The audience interested in the event and attracted to its advertising will be in excess of 50,000 people. If you are considering becoming a sponsor email Kay Giles at [email protected]. To learn more on how you can help, please visit http://www.venturaeducationpartnership.org/.
Lynn’s Consignments had an official Chamber of Commerce Ribbon Cutting and Grand Opening on Thursday, March 1st. Owner, Lynn Dralle, friends, family, Chamber Members, and community supporters, joined her for this special occasion. Lynn’s new show room is 4000 sq. feet and she features high-quality, very unique furniture and home decor and sells it all on consignment.
Lynn just moved to Ventura and got her love for fun home furnishings from her grandmother who had antique stores in Washington State, which was originally where she thought she would open as well. This special day of March 1, was chosen by Lynn to honor her father who would have turned 84 on that day. Everyone that attended her grand opening received a free copy of her first book “The 100 best things I’ve sold on eBay”.
Store hours are Tuesday through Saturday, 10am-5pm .1975 E. Main St. 628-3289
Jeffrey Alan Suggs, 53, of Ventura, passed away on Friday, March 2 after a long struggle with cancer. Jeff was born in Los, Angeles, on March 24, 1964 to Russell L. Suggs and Barbara J. Suggs. He attended elementary and jr. high school in South Pasadena, CA and finished his education in Ventura, earning his GED.
He enjoyed surfing, fishing, motorcycling, and camping. He worked offshore and in local construction until disabled in a motorcycle accident. He is survived by his mother, Barbara Suggs, sister, Julie Powell and her husband Harold, nephew and niece Cooper and Lauren Powell, and many aunts, uncles and cousins. He was preceded in death by his father Russell Suggs and brother, Greg Suggs.
The family wishes to extend their appreciation to Assisted Home Health Care and Hospice in Ventura for their compassionate care, and to family and friends for their expressions of love. A memorial service will be held on Saturday, March 24 at 2:00 pm at The River Community Church, 889 E. Santa Clara St. In lieu of flowers, please donate to The City Center transitional living program in Ventura at www.thecitycenter.org.
Arrangements are under the direction of the Joseph P. Reardon Funeral Home & Cremation Service, Ventura.
Thank you for your incredible patience as we work on the distribution of the one-time Thomas Fire Benefit Festival checks. Each person/household will receive $750! We can confirm that the checks will be ready Friday, March 16.
There are three distribution centers:
Ventura Residents: Please come to the Downtown Ventura Partners offices at 420 East Santa Clara St. Come only on Friday, March 16 between 1pm-6pm. And on Wed., March 21 through Friday, March 23 from 1pm-6pm. If you cannot make these times, email [email protected] to discuss other arrangements.
Ojai Area Residents: Please go to Help of Ojai’s Community Assistance Program at 108 Fox Street, Oja between 9am-3pm on Friday, March 16. And again 9am-3pm on Monday, March 19 through Wednesday, March 21. Help of Ojai is graciously volunteering to be a pick-up location. Please do not call their office or go to their main offices. If you cannot make these times, please email [email protected] to discuss other arrangements.
Santa Paula/Fillmore Residents: We are finalizing a pick-up location. We have your email addresses and we will be communicating directly with you to provide the location and times.
To collect your check, you must present a form of ID and FEMA paperwork, or (if you don’t have FEMA papers) a utility bill or documents that describe your loss and a valid ID linking yourself to the affected property. Please do not email these documents. Just bring them when you pick up your check.
We appreciate your patience throughout this process! We truly hope this money will help soften the incredible blow you have endured. These funds are to address any unmet needs beyond any insurance payouts or disaster assistance you have received. #VenturaCountyStrong!
The Thomas Fire Benefit Team
Check out hundreds more on web-site.
Call 658-4726 or 654-7553 to register, if you already have an ACTIVENET account online, visit www.cityofventura.net Classes and events held at the Barranca Vista Center ~ 7050 Ralston St. unless otherwise noted
Billy Clower Parent & Me Movement 18 months-2 years with adult
3/16-5/11 F 9-9:45 am $80 #10551
Bond with your child in this 8-week class as they discover movement and expression in a fun upbeat class with weekly themes. Your child will dance, tumble, stretch, play and imagine with instruments and props. Wear comfortable clothes that you can move in. Wear comfortable clothes that you can move in. Instructor Sage Schneiderbauer.At BVC. * No class 4/6.
Billy Clower Broadway Babies 2.5- 5 years
3/16-5/11 F 9:45-10:30 am $80 #10553
This 8-week class introduces your toddler to the world of Broadway Musicals! Students will dance, act and sing along to famous Broadway songs while building confidence in and exploring their talents. Dancers should wear a t-shirt with leggings/shorts and will go barefoot during class. Instructor: Sage Schneiderbauer.
Billy Clower Cirque Du Ballet 3-5 years
3/16-5/11 F 10:30-11:15 am $80 #10555
Step right up for this 8-week Circus themed Ballet Class. Students will learn ballet vocabulary, positions and dance while having fun walking on a tight rope, performing with hula hoops, and being graceful with scarves. They will also gain flexibility with beginning acrobatics and partner stretching. Dancers should wear a leotard or t-shirt with leggings/shorts and will go barefoot and use our classroom set of ballet shoes during class. Instructor: Sage Schneiderbauer.
Spice Blending Workshop
3/18 Su 2-4pm $40+$20 supply fee due to instructor at start of class
In this workshop, students will get to smell and taste all sorts of spice blends from around the world. Make and blend your own dip mixes, rubs or Dukkahs and spice blends. Students receive a notebook of spice blends and directions on what to do with them. Instructor Annie Koretz. To register call 658-4726.
• A 16-year-old boy was hiding in a closet giving updates to a 911 dispatcher during a burglary at his family’s home, when he heard gunshots and his dog suddenly stopped barking.
Des Moines police Cmdr. Doug Jenkins said the first 911 call came in at about 12:20 p.m. Police said the teen was home alone when the break-in happened.
“He heard noises and voices, ran upstairs and hid in closet.”
The family’s 2-year-old German shepherd, Rex, ran downstairs to confront the intruders. The thieves beat the dog, leaving him badly injured.
Even after being bloodied and hurt, Rex still had enough strength left to get back to the teen — his best friend — and protect him as the thieves proceeded into the bedrooms, including the one where the boy was hiding.
Rex came out with the little strength he had left in him and threw himself at them.
The thieves opened fire, shooting Rex multiple times. He was struck in the neck, leg and knee, yet managed to survive. The suspects were no longer in the home when officers arrived.
• Dog food and treat products are being recalled by manufacturers because of possible listeria or salmonella contamination. There has been a series of massive pet-food recalls over possible salmonella, listeria and pentobarbital contamination.
Northwest Naturals, of Portland, is recalling its 5-pound frozen Chicken and Salmon pet food chubs because it may be contaminated with listeria monocytogenes. Product is packaged in 5-pound frozen chubs labeled Chicken and Salmon Dog Food with a UPC code of 0 87316 38440 6. The company says the product was one isolated batch of 94 cases distributed in California, Washington, Texas, Michigan, Georgia, and Rhode Island and sold thru specialty pet-retail stores.
Carnivore Meat Company, of Green Bay, Wisconsin, is recalling 73 cases, of Vital Essentials Freeze-Dried Beef Nibblets Entrée for Dogs pet food, one-pound bags, Lot #13753, because the products may be contaminated with salmonella.
TruPet, of Milford, Ohio, is recalling 2.5-ounce package, Lot # 20190514 13753, of TruDog Treat Me Crunchy Beef Delight Pet treats because they may be contaminated with salmonella.
Gravy Train, Kibbles ’n Bits, Ol’ Roy and Skippy dog foods withdrawn from market over euthanasia drug
Feds, state investigating Tukwila pet food over repeated salmonella contamination
According to the U.S. Food and Drug Administration, both salmonella and listeria can affect animals eating the products, and there is risk to humans from handling contaminated pet products, especially if they have not thoroughly washed their hands after having contact with the products or any surfaces exposed to these products.
• Once again a Shih Tzu did not win best in show at Westminster (Scamp are you listening?). A dog almost as cute a Bichon Frises becomes America’s top dog 2018 when Best In Show was awarded to “GCHP CH Belle Creek’s All I Care About Is Love”.
• By Cesar Millan
Being fostered is a wonderful opportunity for a dog to prepare for his forever home. He will have more one-on-one time with humans, and he can experience more of the world around him instead of being limited to the confines of a shelter. It can significantly increase his chances of fitting in with his next family.
And of course, his foster parents can make sure his new family is the right fit by helping them to understand his energy level, any issues that are being worked on, and any special needs the dog has.
Fostering isn’t just good for the dog – it can do wonders for the human as well! A dog needs daily exercise, and that helps us to get up, get out of the house, and experience simplicity. Dogs help you to appreciate the world around you. They smell the ground so intensely. They look at the trees as though they are seeing them for the first time. It helps us to remember the wonders that we take for granted. So if you’re stressed or anxious, it goes away for that moment when it’s just you and the dog. People say I do magic, but it’s the dogs that do magic. In an instant, they can help you feel calm. They just come in and make it happen without a word.
But I think it’s important that you don’t form too much of an emotional attachment with the dog. Remember, you are preparing the dog to detach himself from you and live with another human. If not, it can be damaging to his relationship with his new family. He can move on, but it will just make it harder for him. The way I think this can be achieved is by switching dogs. They use this system to train dogs for the blind. If people stay with a dog for a month and then get a new one, the dog doesn’t become confused. When he is in his forever home, he will know he is with his new pack! As a professional, I have to do this with dogs I work with. If I am going to help a dog that is not mine, I can’t connect all the way. I need to let the owners finish it!
by Eric Burton-Recreation Supervisor Adult Sports
The field is set for the 2018 Corporate Games with 80 businesses from Ventura, and Santa Barbara Counties registered to participate in the upcoming competition. There will be over 27 different events that will be held over the five weeks of competition. Here is the break-down of competition by division:
Companies participating in the Corporate Games and the general public are invited to attend Opening Ceremonies on Saturday, March 24 from 10am to 2pm at the Ventura Community Park, in Ventura. Enjoy the Business & Fitness Fair, live demonstrations on the mobile stage, food trucks and Family Splash Time at the Aquatic Center. Get your company team and family together for Corporate Games Opening Ceremonies and Torch Lighting! For additional information download our Corporate Games Opening Ceremonies Flyer and visit the City of Ventura’s Corporate Games website where you will find a wealth of information.