Youth

2019 Fall League registration for United States Youth Volleyball League (USYVL)

The United States Youth Volleyball League (USYVL) is pleased to announce that registration is open for the 2019 Fall Leagues. These signature programs provide a fun, safe, and supervised environment for boys and girls to learn and play volleyball. The Ventura USYVL runs from Wednesday, September 11, 2019 – Saturday, November 2, 2019 on Wednesdays: […] Read More »

Softball All Stars represent Ventura

There were formidable local foes like Moorpark, Westlake-Agoura, and Goleta. by Tom Marshall Realistic expectations were impossible. The Ventura Girls Fastpitch 12u All Stars had previously played a handful of the 33 teams in the USA Softball Western National tournament. There were formidable local foes like Moorpark, Westlake-Agoura, and Goleta. There were also teams from […] Read More »

“Positive Rocks”

The team is there to play winning softball. First published at Parentdugout.com “We try to throw positive rocks at them during games and practices to keep them up. Just a little encouragement or positive reinforcement.” Ruben Segovia is a modern-day coach. He’s been coaching baseball and softball for decades yet retains his trademark high levels of […] Read More »

Non-profit offers several programs for boys and girls to learn and play volleyball

The United States Youth Volleyball League (USYVL) is pleased to announce that registration is open for the 2019 Fall Leagues. These signature programs provide a fun, safe, and supervised environment for boys and girls to learn and play volleyball. The Ventura USYVL runs from Wednesday, September 11, 2019 – Saturday, November 2, 2019 on Wednesdays: […] Read More »

A Night to Remember, a free prom for students with special needs

Dancing it up at last year’s prom. Over 450 students with special needs, 700 students from local high schools and over 1,000 volunteers are expected to celebrate together on this special night the eighth annual Night to Remember. A free prom for students with special needs (ages 12-25) at Ventura County Fairgrounds The night includes […] Read More »

Ventura High School shines at Grand Nationals

The Ventura High Wind Honors Ensemble will be performing their last free public concert of the year on May 23. The Ventura High School (VHS) Honors Wind Ensemble returned from the Dixie Classic Grand Nationals in Atlanta, GA as winners. The VSH group, made up of 52 students, was selected to perform in the prestigious […] Read More »

Chasing Tail Fishing event

Big Ross, John Fuller, John Williams and Bob Loaselle presented the Chasing Tail Fishing event which was held on April 14, on the Ventura Pier. Cassidy Weddle was excited at her great catch. Every year they do a kid’s day on the Ventura pier. Parents bring their children and they teach them how to fish […] Read More »

Cabrillo Jazz Band to perform near and far this Spring

Kids playing jazz, how wonderful! The Cabrillo Middle School Jazz Band has a full performance calendar this Spring with appearances and competitions at a wide variety of events from auctions and carnivals to law firm mixers and graduations. Competitions will take them as far as San Francisco this month alone. The 19-piece jazz group is […] Read More »

Robots battle at Ventura College

The competing team’s robots were required to enter deep space. See end of article for photo descriptions. Article and photos by Richard Lieberman The FIRST Robotics competition held in Ventura commenced to a sizeable crowd cheering the competitors to win the championship and head for the FIRST Robotics Championship held in Houston, Texas, April 17 […] Read More »

YMCA Summer Camp is more than just child care

Leadership abilities that last a lifetime. The Ventura Family YMCA is gearing up for another summer filled with adventure, laughter, and enriching the lives of the Y campers, parents and staff. Summer Camp is more than just child care, Y camp creates a world of good where children find a sense of belonging, and parents […] Read More »

Applications Available for Ventura County Junior Lifeguard Program

Enrollment applications are now available to youth interested in participating in the Ventura County 2019 Junior Lifeguard Program. The Junior Lifeguard Program, sponsored by the Ventura County Harbor Department, offers youth 8 to 15 years of age the opportunity to receive instruction in lifeguard rescue techniques, emergency medical first-aid, ocean sports activity, physical conditioning, marine […] Read More »

Blast off and fly deep into space with Robotics!

Students from a previous competition in heated battle. Photo by Richard Lieberman Get your game on this spring at Ventura College for the FIRST Robotics Competition. Watch 42 high school teams as they form alliances and do battle in order to secure a place at the National Competition in Texas. In its fifth year, this […] Read More »

Operation School Bell® celebrates 25 years of providing clothes to underprivileged children

by Jessica Purdy Assistance League® of Ventura County (ALVC) is proud to celebrate 25 years helping children in the Hueneme Elementary, Ocean View, Oxnard and Ventura Unified School Districts. Since 1993, through our signature philanthropic program called Operation School Bell® (OSB), ALVC volunteers have provided new school clothing to children in need, who have been […] Read More »

“Spread Peace and Love” mural by 50 third graders from Ventura Charter School

In our last issue we had an article and photo regarding the “Spread Peace and Love” mural by 50 third graders from Ventura Charter School of Arts and Global Education. The mural wasn’t very well seen, here it is in all its glory. Read More »

Ventura County Fair announces 10th annual poster contest for county youth

James Lockwood Fair Public Relations and Marketing Director congratulating the 2018 winners. The 2019 Ventura County Fair has announced the Call for Entries for the 10th annual poster contest.  The contest is open to young artists in grades 5 – 12 who reside in Ventura County. The theme of the 2019 Fair is “A Country Fair with Ocean Air” and […] Read More »

We made the mural to spread kindness

Third graders working on their mural “Spread Peace and Love.” Third graders of Ventura Charter School of Global Arts and Education (VCS) have been taking part in a project created by their teachers called, “Moment of Peace.” Days start with a read-aloud story or hands-on activity in the theme of teaching peace. Sometimes students greet […] Read More »

Troop 111 has performed over 4,500 hours of service

Arroyo Verde Park’s unsung heroes. Parks, Recreation & Community Partnerships would like to thank Boy Scout Troop 111. In its three years of existence, Troop 111 has performed over 4,500 hours of service, much of it in the outdoors. The Los Padres Forest has been the recipient of most of their efforts, however, in the […] Read More »

#CheerForParadise Fundraiser brought local rival schools together

Buena High Head Cheer Coach Lauren Lanski ( far left) and Ventura High Cheer Coach Kari Robinson ( far right) with members of the Buena and Ventura high school cheer teams. The Ventura High and Buena High cheer and athletic teams have been accustomed to seeing each other as fierce rivals for decades. However, the […] Read More »

The teen and Foster VC Kids are sharing her story

Keanna and Jaci Johnson from Foster VC Kids love the organization. Keanna, age 18, is sharing the story of her life-long foster experience with the hope of encouraging caring adults to welcome a youth into their home as well as inspiring other foster children. She tells prospective foster/resource parents about the positive impact they could […] Read More »

Eighth grade students work with NASA  

Students to launch experiment to learn about laws of science in space. by Dylan McHenry, Malia Sanchez, and Sara Milesi The eighth grade students at Ventura Missionary School are partnering with NASA and Quest for Space in conducting an experiment hoping to learn more about laws of science in space. “This is a great opportunity […] Read More »

Cabrillo Middle School brings home robotics honors

The Riptide Robotics team from Cabrillo Middle School in Ventura recently participated in the First LEGO League Los Angeles Area Championship Tournament, after winning the Champion’s Award at the Ventura Regionals. They came home with the coveted First LEGO League Research Project Award for the work they did on their project, the “Veggie-Sphere.” This year’s […] Read More »

SEEAG receives California Dept. of Food & Agriculture Grant

The SEEAG initiative will reach 10,000 children. Students for Eco-Education and Agriculture (SEEAG) was selected to receive a $218,684 California Department of Food and Agriculture (CDFA) Specialty Crop Block Grant for SEEAG’s “Ventura County Child Wellness Initiative,” a program that is designed to educate and inspire children to eat healthy by adding locally grown Ventura […] Read More »

Countywide Robotics Competition held in Ventura

Robots being manipulated by student designers and programmers attempting to score points in the robotics competition. Photos by Richard Lieberman by Richard Lieberman On Saturday, October 27, at Holy Cross school in downtown Ventura the Ventura County Office of Education sponsored a VEX Robotics competition for middle and high school students from Ventura County. There were […] Read More »

Vol. 12, No. 3 – Nov 7 – Nov 20, 2018 - Person to (Little) Person

by Jennifer Tipton I asked some younger Venturans, “What is the spookiest part of Halloween?” Eden Felder (Harry Potter) age 6 ½ / 1st grade “People dress up and go trick or treating, they put scary things out and make it spooky, like Jack ‘O Lanterns and sometimes graveyards!” Eden’s favorite candy is Jolly Ranchers, […] Read More »

Application period now open for Edison Scholarship Program

High school seniors who dream of making a difference in the world through STEM studies are invited to apply to Edison International’s $1.2 million Edison Scholars Program. Edison International, the parent company of Southern California Edison, is awarding $40,000 scholarships, paid over four years, to 30 high school students planning to major in science, technology, engineering […] Read More »

Ventura teen chosen to compete on 'Top Chef Junior'

Thirteen year old 8th grade Cabrillo Middle School student Carson Peterson has been chosen from thousands of kids to compete on ‘Top Chef Junior’ airing on Universal Kids for their second season. Top Chef Junior, the cooking competition spun off from the popular Top Chef last year, He is 1 of 11 contestants competing for $50,000 and the […] Read More »

Local schools encouraged to participate in High School Voter Education Weeks

Ventura County Clerk-Recorder, Registrar of Voters Mark Lunn encourages local schools to participate in High School Voter Education Weeks. Lunn stated, “High School Voter Education Weeks provides an opportunity for educators to highlight the electoral process and build excitement among future voters.” The California Education Code designates the last two full weeks in April and […] Read More »

California Coastal Art & Poetry Contest winners on display until Nov. 18

The winning entries from this year’s California Coastal Art & Poetry Contest will be on display at the Channel Islands National Park Robert J. Lagomarsino Visitor Center until November 18. The art and poetry display includes 47 winning pieces from over 2,500 entries. A special unveiling of the artwork occurred on Sept. 15 during Coastal Cleanup […] Read More »

New library card design art contest.

Calling all children and teen artists!!!  The Ventura County Library wants you to design the new children and teen library cards.  The contest will run through September 29.  Only children (ages 5-12) and teens (ages 13-17) are eligible to participate, one entry per person.  All entries must be submitted on a regulated contest form.  You […] Read More »

Incoming first-year students worked to spread mulch

On August 28, California Lutheran University partnered with the City of Ventura and the Ventura Botanical Gardens to help protect and restore the gardens after the devastating Thomas Fire destroyed the area. Incoming first-year students worked to spread mulch around the affected areas to protect the soil from further damage and prepare grounds for new plantings. […] Read More »

PTYA seeks financial support, welcomes new students

For nearly 20 years, the magic of musical theater has been brought to life in Ventura County by a performing arts troupe that has enriched the lives of young participants and their families, and audiences who have enjoyed top notch live productions in their own backyards. Performance Theatre for Young Artists, a nonprofit theater company […] Read More »

From Foothill High to Germany

Annika Fedde represented USA at Laser Radial Youth World Championships. Annika Fedde, senior at Foothill Technology High School in Ventura, headed to Europe to train prior to competing in the Laser Radial Youth World Championships in Kiel, Germany held August 18-25. Annika qualified for the 2018 Worlds through her 2017 results, ending the year ranked […] Read More »

From Foothill High to Germany

Annika Fedde, senior at Foothill Technology High School in Ventura, headed to Europe to train prior to competing in the Laser Radial Youth World Championships in Kiel, Germany held August 18-25. Annika qualified for the 2018 Worlds through her 2017 results, ending the year ranked 3rd youth girl in North America. “I am super excited […] Read More »

Youth stamp fair

Thousands of free stamps, along with games, “swag bags,” door prizes and information people need to be stamp collectors, will be available at the 20th annual Youth Stamp Fair sponsored by the Ventura County Philatelic Society and the Anacapa Middle School Stamp Club on Oct. 6 at the Dudley House Museum, 197 N. Ashwood. The free […] Read More »

Camp Noah is a camp for elementary-age children impacted by disaster

UMCOR805 a program of the California Pacific Conference of the United Methodist Church is hosting Camp Noah. A free day camp from 9 a.m. to 3 p.m. August 6-10th at Ojai United Methodist Church and August 13-17 at College United Methodist Church in Ventura. Camp Noah is a fun, resiliency building and preparedness camp for […] Read More »

Ballet Academy Ventura student walks away with top honors

Olivia Roman, a 12 year old student at the Ballet Academy Ventura (BAV) was awarded a full scholarship to San Francisco Ballet School at the recent California Classics ballet competition. She was selected by a panel of judges and given the award by Yoko Katsumi a member of the San Francisco Ballet School faculty member. […] Read More »

Ventura Family YMCA gearing up for the best summer ever

On June 21, the YMCA hosted the World’s Largest Swimming Lesson, an event that seeks to break the record for largest Swim Lesson Worldwide. Photos by Michael Gordon At the end of the summer, families want to hear their child had “the best summer ever.” To help make that happen, the Ventura Family YMCA is offering […] Read More »

Non-profit offers boys and girls fun, safe, supervised environment for volleyball

The United States Youth Volleyball League (USYVL) today announced that registration for the 2018 fall program in Ventura is open. The instructional volleyball league will provide boys and girls ages 7-15 the opportunity to learn and play volleyball in a fun, safe, and supervised environment. The eight-week developmental league provides participants instruction twice per week […] Read More »

Ventura Police Community Foundation takes 20 local youth to Dodger game

Ventura Police Officers are investing in local youth as Detective Marchetti, Officer Rodriguez, Officer Lopez, Detective Quiorz and Detective Henderson took 20 local youth to the Dodger game on June 15. The effort, funded by the Ventura Police Community Foundation, is part of the Ventura Police Department’s efforts at crime prevention through mentorship of at […] Read More »

Lake Casitas Rowing Light attends Regional Championships

Lake Casitas Rowing Light attended the Regional Championships May 4-6th to secure an invite to the Nationals Championships . The men’s varsity boat got bronze medals bringing them one step closer to an attempt at a National title. Over 2000 athletes competed in this 3-day regional event from almost 40 different teams from all over […] Read More »

Summer Nutrition is available for all community children

Each summer, Ventura Unified School District provides a nutrition program. This program provides lunch at no charge to children 1-18 years of age. Summer Nutrition is not based on income qualification. It is available for all community children regardless of their school year qualification for free and reduced price meals. Lunch will be served June […] Read More »

Rotary Club Of Ventura South holds First Annual Speech Contest for Ventura high schools

The senior winners are Jonathon Saldana, Alaina Hooks and Aspen Levitt. The Rotary Club of Ventura South conducted its first annual speech contest for Ventura high school students with the finals held on Thursday, May 17, at the Tower Club in Oxnard. At the event, the Club awarded more than $4,000 in scholarships for first […] Read More »

Students will present their Environmental Business Plans and will receive awards

On Thursday, May 31, over forty 5th-12th-grade students from six public schools in Ventura and Santa Barbara Counties will be presenting their authored environmental business proposals to a judging panel. Students’ proposals focus on water conservation, energy efficiency, or waste reduction of their school campuses, or educate a community about ocean acidification. The event will […] Read More »

Reaching future Ventura Breeze readers

Ventura Police Commander Rick Murray reading to kids at the Take 5 event at police headquarters. Photo by Michael Gordon Take 5 and Read to Kids! is an annual effort by First 5 Ventura County to raise awareness about the importance of early childhood literacy. On Friday, May 4, more than 55 celebrity readers read to […] Read More »

Help Cabrillo Middle School stay the best in engineering and music

The Rusty Sailors have invented a Microfiber Filter. FIRST® LEGO® League has announced 20 semi-finalist teams that have advanced to the Eighth Annual FIRST® LEGO® League Global Innovation Award. The Rusty Sailors Robotics Team, from Ventura’s Cabrillo Middle School was selected from entries from more than 20 countries and all 50 states for their outstanding […] Read More »

Lifeguard and water safety classes at the YMCA

Looking for a summer job? Check out the Lifeguard and Swim Instructor Certification Courses at the Ventura Family YMCA. Each course will equip you with the tools you need to get a job in Aquatics. Must Register by May 19. Both courses require Pre-requisites. Lifeguarding course includes CPR, First Aid & Oxygen training. Swim instructor […] Read More »

A Night to Remember: A prom for students with special needs

Mission Church is set to sponsor the seventh annual A Night to Remember, a free prom for students with special needs, to be held at the Ventura County Fairgrounds Friday, May 18th beginning at 6:30 p.m. “There is nothing quite like this night and experience for both our guests and volunteers. It’s like a picture […] Read More »

Diversity and promise at Ventura College

Ventura College held the 3rd Annual Diversity in Culture Festival on Wednesday and Thursday, April 11&12. The Diversity in Culture Festival is a free, two-day public event that has been designated by the Ventura College Executive Team as, “Alternative Education Days.” The festival featured a variety of educational opportunities including guest speakers, panel discussions, visual […] Read More »

Casitas Rowing attends US Rowing West Coast Scholastic Championship

For the first time ever, Casitas Rowing attended the US Rowing West Coast Scholastic Championship, a race that focuses its events by school and highlights the participating students. The team entered into 5 events and medaled in every event! Schools medaling were Foothill Technology High School, Ventura High School and Cabrillo Middle School. Visit the […] Read More »

Girl Scout Troop 61135 assist Ventura Land Trust (VLT) and SoCal Gas in planting in the Big Rock Preserve area

Scout Troop Leader Michelle Oberle and scouts Mia Earley, Carlyn Begalla, Kylie Nelson and Scarlett Oberle had a wonderful time as part of Girl Scout Troop 61135 who had the pleasure of assisting the Ventura Land Trust (VLT) and SoCal Gas in planting milkweed and other pollinator friendly plants in the Big Rock Preserve area. […] Read More »

Want to become a scout?

On Friday May 4th, 6pm-9pm at the First United Methodist Church of Ventura 1338 E. Santa Clara St. join scouting registration night. Cub Scouts- ages 5-10, grades k-5th. Now accepting girls and boys learn to do your best in: camping, outdoor activities, being physically fit, making new friends, and team work! parents start a new […] Read More »

City of Ventura After-School Program students visited Ventura College Campus for Field Day

Community support is an important component for student success. Photos by Michael Gordon More than 500 students from the City of Ventura after school programs got a unique college experience on April 11, when they visited the Ventura College (VC) campus for the inaugural Field Day event. Hosted by the VC Department of Intercollegiate Athletics, this […] Read More »

Applications available for high school and college scholarships

The Museum of Ventura County has announced the opening of the application process for its visual arts scholarships. These scholarships are available to any high school senior preparing to enter college in the fall of 2018 or any continuing college level student of the visual arts who is also a Ventura County resident. The total […] Read More »

YMCA Youth and Government Delegates visit Sacramento

YMCA Youth and Government Delegates Julie O’Brien, Youth Programs Director and Wessel Esber, high school senior, stand in front of the Sacramento Capital Building while attending the Model Legislature & Court in Sacramento The trip marked the end of the 2018 Youth and Government Season. “California YMCA Youth and Government is the most enriching high […] Read More »

One in three U.S. children is obese

Importance of keeping kids’ bodies and minds active when out of school was presented by the YMCA on Saturday, April 21. One in three U.S. children is obese, and when summertime hits, kids will be more idle. Research shows that without access to out-of-school physical and learning activities, kids fall behind academically and gain weight […] Read More »

Local youths stands up and speaks out

Charlotte, Hannah and Audrey are outstanding young ladies serving the community. by Jennifer Tipton Hannah Yale age 15, Charlotte Steiger age 16 and Audrey Feist age 15 attended the City Council meeting March 26th with the invitation of Councilmember Cheryl Heitmann. Heitmann along with Mayor Erik Nasarenko and Councilmember Matt LaVere planned to propose a […] Read More »

The "Li’l Circus the Could" brings Circus Arts & interactive Fun to kids of all ages!

Artists Lynne Okun and Michelle Foster will host two Saturday morning workshops and a “First Friday” interactive event featuring the “Li’l Circus that Could” at Bell Arts Factory. Living Dream Arts (https://www.livingdreamarts.org/) of SF Bay Area is sponsoring. The Li’l Circus that could will bring Circus Arts & interactive Fun to kids of all ages! […] Read More »

Music is alive and well at our schools

Cabrillo Middle School Music earned top ratings. The String Orchestra and Wind Ensemble Cabrillo Middle School students earned gold ratings from the Forum Music Festival held on Saturday, March 24th. The festival took place at Whitney High School in Orange County, and was adjudicated by music professors Bob Feller of Biola University and Jeff Jarvis […] Read More »

Panel to share their personal stories at Town Hall

Foster VC Kids, a program of Ventura County’s Children and Family Services, will host a free, informational Town Hall on Saturday, April 21 from 10am to 11:30am at Children and Family Services building ,855 Partridge Drive in Ventura. Residents interested in helping local children and teens are encouraged to attend and learn more about the […] Read More »

McGrath State Beach to host Annual Boy Scouts Camporee

This time McGrath will close to serve the Boy Scouts. McGrath State Beach will host the Ventura County Council Boy Scouts of America, Sespe and Channel Islands District Annual Camporee, from April 20 to 22. The park will close to the public on these dates and will reopen on April 23. Approximately 500 scouts and […] Read More »

Certificate of Merit for excellence in Math and Science presented to young ladies

Several Ventura students were honored by the Society of Women Engineers. The San Buenaventura Chapter of the Society of Women Engineers (SWE) honored 62 female high school juniors from Ventura County with a Certificate of Merit for excellence in Math and Science. Over 125 students, parents and teachers attended the award event held at Moorpark […] Read More »

Deadline for Ventura County Fair Poster Contest

The deadline to submit entries for the 9th annual Fair poster contest will be Friday, April 6. The contest is open to young artists in grades 5 – 12 who reside in Ventura County. The theme of the 2018 Fair is “A Country Fair with Ocean Air” and will serve as the guideline to the […] Read More »

Become a soccer star

Ventura’s AYSO Region 39 will hold upcoming tryouts for its boys’ 12U and girls’ 14U EXTRA teams in April. The boys’ 12U tryouts, for players born 2007 and 2008, will be Sun., April 15 from 2 to 4 p.m. at Huntsinger Park, 1198 S Saticoy Ave., Ventura. The girls’ 14U tryouts, for players born 2005 […] Read More »

VMF Student Jazz Competition

All four delivered compelling interpretations from the jazz standards songbook. by Paul Peterson A curated list of top flight high school jazz talent was showcased at Squashed Grapes, on Sunday, March 18 as they competed for cash prizes and live appearances as The Ventura Music Festival produced their 12th annual Student Jazz Competition. Four young […] Read More »

Seven young women are presented at 61st Annual Debutante Ball

Sophie Buffo, Maddie Kelly, Lauren Powell, Anna Casillas, Hannah George, Jackie King and Sadie McCormic are new debutantes. Seven local young women made their debut as debutantes at the 61st Annual Las Patronas Presentation Ball held at the Ventura Beach Marriott. The Debutantes were presented by their fathers and grandfathers, and celebrated with family and friends […] Read More »

Cypress Place accepting scholarship applications

Ventura High School students Daniela Aranda and Sierra Conboy) were awarded “Senior to Senior Legacy Scholarship” in 2016. When the owners of Cypress Place Senior Living decided to create a scholarship fund for local high school students wanting to pursue a college degree, the Cypress Place Senior Living “Senior to Senior Legacy Scholarship” was created. […] Read More »

Cabrillo Economic Development Corporation has received a $10,000 Edison International grant to help fund the 2018 Rodney Fernandez Leadership Fund STEM Scholarship Program.

The Rodney Fernandez Leadership Fund STEM Scholarship Program, created in 2011, honors the legacy of Rodney Fernandez, Cabrillo’s founder and Executive Director for 30 years (1981–2011). The Scholarship continues Fernandez’s legacy of community building by cultivating the leadership of residents to attain their goals, empower themselves and to take action and improve the quality of […] Read More »

Get your game on and power up with robotics!

Get your game on this spring at Ventura College for the FIRST(For Inspiration and Recognition of Science and Technology) Robotics Competition. Watch 41 high school teams “Power Up” as they form alliances and do battle in order to secure a place at the National Competition in Texas. In its fourth year, this regional competition has […] Read More »

Applications available for Rodney Fernandez Leadership Scholarship

The Rodney Fernandez Leadership Scholarship Program, created in 2011, honors the legacy of Rodney Fernandez, Cabrillo’s founder and Executive Director for 30 years (1981–2011). The Scholarship continues Fernandez’s legacy of community building by cultivating the leadership of residents to attain their goals, empower themselves and to take action and improve the quality of life in […] Read More »

Ventura Boy Scouts and Land Trust Volunteers and preserve Arroyo Verde Park

Volunteers from Ventura Boy Scout Troop 111 and the Ventura Land Trust took action to preserve Arroyo Verde Park after the fire by removing rocks, sticks, and trash from the trails to make them accessible for the public. Read More »

Program connects foster youth and caregivers with local businesses

Foster VC Kids “Businesses With Heart” program offers discounts to help children and their fostering families; increases business and builds goodwill in the community. At a time when the aftereffects of the Thomas Fire are likely to prolong the region’s economic recovery, a new program from Foster VC Kids offers multiple benefits to the community. […] Read More »

Ventura County Fair announces Poster Contest for County Youth

Anna Sorensen, James Lockwood and Jorja Garcia at 2017 poster award presentation. The Ventura County Fair has announced that the 9th annual Fair poster contest will be held for the 2018 Ventura County Fair. The contest is open to young artists in grades 5 – 12 who reside in Ventura County. The theme of the […] Read More »

Kids from the Harmony Project dedicate concert to first responders and victims of Thomas Fire

The student musicians in the Harmony Project of Ventura dedicated their performance during First Friday on February 2, at the Bell Arts Factory to the victims of the Thomas Fire, and to the first responders and firefighters who bravely aided in battling this devastation. “Most of the kids in our program and their families were […] Read More »

Male student of the year

Stephanie Caldwell, Chamber President & CEO, Kiernan Rickard, Nan Drake, Citizen of the Year and David Creswell, VUSD Superintendent celebrating Kiernan’s award. Photo by Richard Lieberman. by Amber Hansen The 20th Annual Poinsettia Awards Luncheon, presented by the Ventura Chamber of Commerce, was held on January 19th of this year at the Ventura Beach Marriott. Kiernan […] Read More »

Phil Gilley imagined a room full of musical instruments

Notes For Notes was the brainchild of Santa Barbara resident Phil Gilley about 11 years ago when, being involved in a Big Brother, Big Sister program he imagined a room full of musical instruments where kids could come in and play them, many for the first time. He had a kid who asked about how […] Read More »

Thirteen young women are 2018 Debutantes!

All of the young women are high school seniors. Seven local young women were introduced at the 61st Annual Las Patronas Tea. The Tea was held at the home of Mrs. Stephen Resnik in Camarillo.The girls were presented to the members of Las Patronas, an auxiliary of Assistance League of Ventura County and their guests. […] Read More »

Thomas Fire art by twelve year old Evin Brown

Twelve year old Evin Brown reflected on the Thomas Fire with his wonderful painting. It is not for sale by his grandparents because it is in their private collection. Read More »

High school Youth and Government delegates of Ventura Family YMCA

The high school Youth and Government delegates of Ventura Family YMCA are on a mission to raise supplies to create care packages for US soldiers overseas. Every year the Youth and Government of California devise a Social Initiative for Y delegations across the state to participate in as part of their #BeTheChange movement. The Ventura […] Read More »

Girls scouts help collect many items for the needy every year

Girl Scout Troop donates socks to the homeless before the cold season. As the weather begins to cool down, local girl scouts teamed up with Ventura’s Hypno Comics Store to donate socks to homeless in need. Girl Scout Troop 61686 annually sets aside a portion of proceeds from their fall product sales of nuts, candy, […] Read More »

Ventura High annual Cardboard Boat Race

On Thursday November 16th Ventura High School had their totally awesome, annual Cardboard Boat Race. It is a long-standing, student run, lunchtime activity. Each team is given a refrigerator box-size piece of cardboard, a roll of duct tape, a yardstick, and a box cutter. They are not allowed to leave their 10‘ x 10‘ area […] Read More »

Oxnard schools participate in Mobile Oilfield Learning Units (MOLU) program

On Nov.1&2 elementary and middle school students from the Ventura and Oxnard school districts participated in the Mobile Oilfield Learning Units (MOLU) program at the Museum of Ventura County and Nov. 3 at Oxnard College. Approximately, 190 students visited the MOLU each day. The unit consists of six self-contained components with curriculum-based, hands-on science, technology, […] Read More »

Coles named Board Chair of Channel Islands YMCA

The Channel Islands YMCA is proud to announce that Robert J. Coles has joined its Board of Directors as the Board Chair. His term began in June, 2017 and runs through May, 2019. Mr. Coles is the President of RJC, Inc., an architectural design and construction management company. Coles has a Bachelor’s of Architecture from […] Read More »

Registration opens for annual Ventura student tour

Two local educators been teaching through travel with their annual 8th grade trip to Washington D.C. Registration has begun for the annual Spring Vacation student tour to the nation’s capital. The trip, which is open to area middle school students in grade 8, has become an “institution” according to many participants. The non-school activity is […] Read More »

Vol. 10, No. 26 – Sept 27 - Oct 10, 2017 - Person to Person

by Jennifer Tipton I asked 6 Ventura Unified School District grads and students about their favorite high school subject and future plans. Andrew Bergum age 19 works at Play It Again Sports Andrew just graduated from Buena High School June 2017. His favorite high school subject was anatomy and physiology, “I loved it so much! […] Read More »

The Ventura Family YMCA celebrates 130 years

“The Ventura Family YMCA is more than a gym, it’s a place of community.” The Ventura Family YMCA opened its doors on September 30, 1887 in a house on the corner of Santa Clara and Oak Street. The Ventura Family YMCA was then known as the YMCA of Ventura County. In the 1940s the Ventura […] Read More »

Ventura Unified School District high school countdown(there are 5 of them – can you name them all?)

by Jennifer Tipton First up – Buena High! Located at 5670 Telegraph Rd., Buena High School opened in 1961. Providing grades 9 – 12, student enrollment is currently 1,895 and Buena is recognized as a California Distinguished School. 22% of Buena grads go directly to a 4-year university and another 47% attend junior college or […] Read More »

SEEAG seeks donations to fund School-to-Farm Field Trips

Students for Eco-Education and Agriculture (SEEAG) is gearing up to teach thousands of schoolchildren about the farm origins of their food during the new school year. Part of the program brings elementary students to SEEAG’s Farm Lab at Petty Ranch in Saticoy where they experience a real working citrus, fig and avocado ranch. SEEAG is […] Read More »

Teen Challenge announces “Walk For Recovery”

Ventura Teen Challenge was established in 1972 and serves the tri-county region of Santa Barbara, San Luis Obispo and Ventura Counties. In 1999 Ventura Teen Challenge moved from a two-story house on Ventura Avenue to a 143-acre property located in the Ventura foothills. They call this property “Miracle Mountain”. Walk For Recovery will be Saturday, […] Read More »

American Academy of Pediatricians updates head lice guidance

In 2015 the American Academy of Pediatrics (AAP) updated its guidance on head lice treatment as new products were introduced after the academy’s 2010 report.  The new report was published in the journal Pediatrics, and it highlights some exciting new developments in the battle against head lice. “Head lice infestation is associated with limited morbidity but causes […] Read More »

Ventura Swim Around the Pier event

Rick Jeffery and Brie Young completed the Swim Around the Pier event that took place Friday, August 18th at the pier. This well attended event was sponsored by the Junior Lifeguards of Ventura. Rick Jeffrey, a member of the YMCA Board of Managers learned to swim just a year ago at the Y. This was […] Read More »

A benefit for Notes for Notes™

A benefit for Notes for Notes™ (N4N™) – Music Making for our Youth – this coming Friday at the Squashed Grapes: Support a remarkable organization that brings music making to youth: Notes for Notes™ (N4N™) is a 501(c)3 non-profit organization that designs, equips, and staffs after-school recording studios inside Boys & Girls Clubs offering youth the opportunity […] Read More »

4H youth affected by Tetrasomy 18p brings market goat to auction

Her summer memories will include her exciting day at the Ventura County Fair. Photo by Amanda Peacock Amelia Gallardo is a special child. She has a rare chromosome 18 abnormality known as Tetrasomy 18p, born with 47 chromosomes instead of 46, which is the typical number. The 14 year old, about to enter Moorpark High School, […] Read More »

Kids’ Arts surfboard raises $800 for program

Teresa and Eric of Duke’s Griddle ’N Grill on Seaward Ave. won the auction bid at $800. Kids’ Arts is excited to announce that Teresa and Eric of Duke’s Griddle ’N Grill on Seaward Ave. won the auction bid at $800.00 for the Kids’ Arts surfboard at the Surf Rodeo event on July 16!! We […] Read More »

Free art class for kids at Buenaventura Gallery Aug. 12

Sign Up for Free Young Artists Class at Buenaventura Gallery! Youth ages 8-14 are welcome to sign up for a free class on Saturday, August 12, 1-3pm. “All the Shades of Gray” will teach youth how to create drama with contrast and texture in painting. Nancy Horwick, a member of Buenaventura Art Association and a […] Read More »

Community Memorial Hospital’s Auxiliary presents annual scholarship awards

Audrey L. Carman has been presented with the Maria Cavallo Scholarship by the Hospital’s Auxiliary for $2,000 and the Audrey Woodburn Scholarship for $2,000. These awards are given to a graduating Junior Volunteer who has served at least 100 hours in the CMH Auxiliary, has maintained a 3.50 GPA or better, and will be attending […] Read More »

Youth Surfari

Twelve teens ages 12-14 visited Ventura for Mary Osborne’s teen overnight “Surfari”. A six day week of surf, adventure, education, motivational celebrity speakers and friendships. The girls were from San Francisco, Orange County, Valencia, Nevada and other cities. Mary stated “ After teaching all ages of youth and adult programs, I realized we are lacking […] Read More »

Junior lifeguard training as captured by George Robertson

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Biotech summer experience

Four students learning the basics of Biotech are Gwen Armstrong, Akaysha Brunker, Mia Rodriques, and Nikolai MollmannFrom. John Daly a volunteer student from CSUCI is instructing them. Photo by Bernie Goldstein From June 26 through June 29th Ventura College hosted selected Buena High School students for the Amgen Foundation’s “Biotech Summer Experience” workshop. The Amgen Biotech […] Read More »

“Rooted in Tradition" expressed in winning poster designs

Anna Sorensen, James Lockwood and Jorja Garcia at poster award presentation. James Lockwood, Publicity-Marketing introduced the 2017 Ventura County Fair poster winners on June 29 in the Fair offices at the Ventura County Fairgrounds. The contest was open to Ventura County youth in grades 5-12. The theme of this year’s fair is “Rooted in Tradition” […] Read More »

Kids N’ Canvas classes at VC Arts Collective Studio Pacific View Mall

Kids N’ Canvas classes scheduled for July 21, 4pm to 5:30pm and August 13, 3pm to 4:30pm at the VC Arts Collective Studio Pacific View Mall second floor, next to Sears.Taught by Lorrie Milton. Enjoy summer fun with a Kid’s sized step by step “Painting Party”. Class price includes all instruction by an experienced artist […] Read More »

The World’s Largest Swimming Lesson sets eighth consecutive Guinness World Record™

On Thursday, June 22nd, tens of thousands of kids and adults at aquatic facilities around the world met for the eighth year in a row to set a new Guinness World Record™. The global record attempt for The World’s Largest Swimming Lesson™ (WLSL) took place locally at the Ventura Family YMCA. Swimming Lessons Save Lives™ […] Read More »

Dee Dowell Memorial Scholarship award winners

Scholarship award winners were all smiles when presented their checks. The Ventura Police Officers Association (VPOA) is pleased to announce the winners of the 14th annual Dee Dowell Memorial Scholarship. The scholarships are to honor Sergeant Darlon “Dee” Dowell, who was shot and killed on August 7, 1978. Sergeant Dowell is the only officer in Ventura’s […] Read More »

YMCA serving as official host location of The World’s Largest Swimming Lesson™

On Thursday, June 22nd, tens of thousands of kids and adults at aquatic facilities around the world will meet for the eighth year in a row to set a new Guinness World Record™. The global record attempt for The World’s Largest Swimming Lesson™ (WLSL), will take place locally at the Ventura Family YMCA, 3760 Telegraph […] Read More »

Knowledge Bowl 2017

Seniors and high school students fought it out in a “Battle of the Ages”. Can youthful vigor and budding brains overcome the life experience of their elders in a match of wits, wisdom, memory and just plain common sense in a Jeopardy-like contest? The Knowledge Bowl is a true “Battle of the Ages,” now in […] Read More »

FOTM Learning To See Outreach Art Showcase June 8 – 30

Come to this celebration of vibrant expression, and see how the rich creativity of artists of the Ojai Valley nurtures and inspires our youth, connecting them to community, nature and the world in which they live.  This exhibit features artwork created with Learning To See Outreach in the 4th, 5th and 6th grades at Meiners […] Read More »

Southern California Edison awards VHS graduating senior Michael Hanson-Morrissey $40,000 scholarship

Southern California Edison awarded Ventura High School graduating senior Michael Hanson- Morrissey $40,000 to help pay for 4 years of college. He will be attending San Diego State. The scholarship is  for students who are planning to study in the field of mathematics, engineering, computer and information systems, natural resources and conservation of physical sciences […] Read More »

The Channel Islands YMCA celebrated the accomplishments of its 130th year

“The Community Collaboration Award is the highest tribute and recognizes a partner for their dedication and outstanding contribution to the mission of the Y – to strengthen the community. Over and above a provision of service, the recipient exemplifies a true partnership, offering participation and a joint interest in our cause. It is an honor […] Read More »

Saint Bonaventure Summer Tee-Off Golf Tournament

Saint Bonaventure High School will host its 1st Summer Tee-Off Golf Tournament on Thursday, June 22 at Moorpark Country Club. All proceeds from the event will support efforts to renovate and upgrade classrooms and educational facilities. Check-in will begin at 11 a.m. with a Texas Scramble shotgun start at noon. Individual entry fee is $125 […] Read More »

Knowledge Bowl 2017

Can youthful vigor and budding brains overcome the life experience of their elders in a match of wits, wisdom, memory and just plain common sense in a Jeopardy-like contest? Come to the Knowledge Bowl and experience a true “Battle of the Ages,” now in its eighth year. This time, four teens from Ventura’s Blue-Ribbon Award […] Read More »

Fun on the farm-summer camp opportunity for youth ages 9-12

Imagine spending a week on the farm learning how to take care of our natural environment! Learn what it means to be sustainable through fun, hands-on activities based around five major themes: Land, Water, Food, Air, and Energy….bake a snack in a solar over, use people power to make a smoothie on a blender bike, […] Read More »

Ventura County Medical Center’s newest volunteers

Starting May 22,  the Ventura County Medical Center’s (VCMC) Emergency Room, operated by Seaside Emergency Associates, Inc. will be accompanied by new, caring faces as high school and college student volunteers begin their positions as Emergency Room Greeters. Volunteers from various schools throughout Ventura County, including Foothill Technology High School, Ventura High School, Camarillo High […] Read More »

The best summer ever starts at Ventura Family YMCA

Ventura Family YMCA is offering day/sleepaway camp to make sure kids and teens in Ventura are adventurous, active and healthy this summer. YMCA camp programs are much like the well known school trips by Allnatt in that they offer youth fun and unique experiences with an opportunity to explore the outdoors, meet new friends, discover […] Read More »

Footworks Youth Ballet presents Classic Swan Lake

Swan Lake is one of the most famous ballets in the classical repertoire Footworks Youth Ballet presents for the first time Tchaikovsky’s famous classical ballet Swan Lake in two full-length performances at the Oxnard Performing Arts Center at 2:00 p.m. on June 3rd and 4th. The tragic love story is about Odette, a princess who […] Read More »

Annual Henry Schwab Violin/Viola final competition concert

The Ventura College Symphony Orchestra, conducted by Robert Lawson, will present the 9th annual Henry Schwab Violin/Viola Final Competition Concert. Three talented young musicians selected at the preliminary audition held on March 25 will perform a classical violin or viola concerto of his or her choice, by memory: Cameron Andras, 18, violist, Hindemith’s Schwanendreher Viola […] Read More »

Students to  receive awards for Sustainability Project Proposals

On Friday June 2, from 5:00 – 7:00 pm, the MERITO Foundation will award prizes to the top fifty 5th-12th grade students from Ventura and Santa Barbara Counties who authored energy efficiency, water conservation, or waste reduction project proposals for their school campuses, or educate a community about ocean acidification. The event will take place […] Read More »

Program provides lunch at no charge to children 1-18

Each summer, the Ventura Unified School District provides a nutrition program. This program provides lunch at no charge to children 1-18 years of age.  Summer Nutrition is not based on income qualification.  It is available for all community children regardless of their school year qualification for free and reduced price meals. Lunch will be available […] Read More »

Ventura kids get ready for summer thanks to YMCA swim programs

Summer is just around the corner and the Ventura Family YMCA encourages children and parents in our community to explore the many benefits of swimming, while also keeping safety top of mind. In Y swim programs, participants can enjoy water sports, enhance or learn new techniques, meet new friends and develop confidence, while also learning […] Read More »

"Spring On" student exhibition at Ventura College Santa Paula through June 1

Ventura College Santa Paula and Santa Paula High School are proud to announce their partnership in curating a spring semester student exhibition, Spring On. The student exhibition opened earlier this month at the Ventura College Santa Paula site (957 Faulkner Road 106, Santa Paula). Created to celebrate and showcase art work created by students, faculty, […] Read More »

A Night to Remember: A prom for students with special needs

Mission Church is set to sponsor the sixth annual A Night to Remember, a free prom for students with special needs, to be held at the Ventura County Fairgrounds on Friday, May 19th beginning at 6:30 p.m. “Right now, there are over 400 special needs guests (ages 12-25) registered for the night, and each will […] Read More »

City of Ventura names 2016-2017 Green School Award winners

Juanamaria Elementary School honored by Ventura City Council. Photo by Michael Gordon. In celebration of Earth Day, the Ventura City Council presented the annual Green School Award for achievement in environmental excellence to students and staff from Juanamaria Elementary School and ATLAS Elementary School. 2017 Watershed Hero Award Winner! These prestigious Green School Awards) were presented […] Read More »

Organization is dedicated to helping families who are battling all forms of cancer

Emanuel Franco and Cory Harper (musicians), Nathaniel Curran and Matt Coulter (Co-Founders of The Young and Brave Foundation), and Mike Morrison and Seth Gibson (Co-Founders of MadeWest Brewery) are supporters of The Young and Brave Foundation. The Young and Brave Foundation is a 501(c)(3) non-profit organization dedicated to helping families who are battling all forms […] Read More »

Girl Scout Camporee 2017

Camporee is a Girl Scout event where more than 6,000 girls Southern California get together to sing, dance, perform live stage performances, participate in outdoor programming, and do fun teambuilding exercises. Girls learn skills such as Stargazing, fire building, safety, how to use a compass, and knot tying. Some girls go for the day while […] Read More »

Ventura Family YMCA wants kids to “Charge into Summer”

On Saturday, April 29, the Ventura Family YMCA is holding a free community event to inspire more kids to keep their minds and bodies active at the annual YMCA’s Healthy Kids Day®, the Y’s national initiative to improve health and well-being for kids and families. The event features activities to motivate and teach families how […] Read More »

High school seniors win college scholarships from Edison

Five high school seniors from Ventura County have each won a $40,000 college scholarship from Edison International in their pursuit of a STEM (science, technology, engineering or math) degree. The students are among 30 students from throughout Southern California Edison’s service territory who were chosen for their academic success and demonstrated financial need as part […] Read More »

Boys & Girls Club making news

March is always an exciting month for the Club.  Not only is spring fast approaching, but it also marks Boys & Girls Club week and the time we come together for their kids during this year’s Power of One/Youth of the Year Celebration.  The event which has evolved over time, has taken on a life […] Read More »

Casitas Rowing makes finals in 27th annual Long Beach Invitational

Recently Casitas Rowing made finals with every squad at the 27th annual Long Beach Invitational. The race that brought in over 24 different rowing teams from 4 different states is a challenging three day event. The Casitas Rowing kids also medaled in 3 events including a Varsity Girls boat seen here with their bronze medals. […] Read More »

Robots descend on Ventura

The future of the world is in the hands of these kids. Article and photos by Richard Lieberman Teams faced off at FIRST (For Inspiration and Recognition of Science and Technology) Robotics regional competition at Ventura College. Teams from Ventura County, Chile and Hawaii compete in the FIRST Robotics competition. The local team is Team […] Read More »

Kids' Arts Ventura celebrate 25 years with Spring Art Show and Auction April 29

Kids’ Arts Ventura is celebrating 25 years of service with a Spring Art Show and Auction on Saturday, April 29th from 4-7pm at the WAV Theater Gallery located at 175 S. Ventura Avenue at Thompson Blvd. Since 1992 Kids’ Arts has been growing young artists and our mission remains: to provide a creative hands-on experience […] Read More »

The Lester Tong Visualization Center

On March 23 a dedication of the Lester Tong Visualization Center at Ventura College Applied Science Center was held.  This 75-seat classroom utilizes a state-of-the-art 3-D dual rear projector system onto an 8′ tall glass “touch screen” where the viewing audience wear powered 3-D glasses.  A 3-D demonstration was held. Lester Tong worked at the […] Read More »

Twelve young women are presented at 60th Annual Debutante Ball

Twelve local young women made their debut as debutantes at the 60th Annual Las Patronas Presentation Ball at the Ventura Beach Marriott.  The Debutantes were presented by their fathers and celebrated with family and friends at the white-tie fundraiser gala.  The guests were welcomed by Las Patronas Chairman, Marila Cook and Ball Chairman, Michele Borchard. […] Read More »

Eagle Scouts honored by Mayor Nasarenko

On March 20 at a packed City Council meeting scout leaders, scouts and family members were all there to honor the scouts who received the highest rank of Eagle Scout that only a very small percentage of scouts achieve. Mayor Nasarenko and scout leaders honored each Eagle Scout. Proud mother Ana Baker (Assistant to the […] Read More »

Ventura Police Department teaches local teens online safety

The Ventura Police Department is teaching local teens, school administrators and others how to stay safe online by providing tools and information to help them use the Internet safely. According to the Pew Internet & American Life Project study, 95% of teens (ages 12 – 17) are online. With access to almost unlimited information and […] Read More »

Dee Dowell Memorial Scholarship Award

The Ventura Police Officers Association (VPOA) is accepting applications for the 14th annual Dee Dowell Memorial Scholarship. The scholarships will be presented in May to honor Sergeant Darlon “Dee” Dowell, who was shot and killed on August 7, 1978. Sergeant Dowell is the only officer in Ventura’s history to die in the line of duty. […] Read More »

Buena High student was the Irish Belle

Amber Nozzi  served as this year’s Irish Belle for the 2017 County Ventura St. Patrick’s Day Parade.. Amber is a senior at Buena High School. She is a scholar-athlete who played volleyball at Buena all four years and will be graduating in June with summa cum laude honors. Nozzi is involved in her school’s Renaissance […] Read More »

Fair accepting entries from artists for poster contest

The 8th annual Ventura County Fair poster contest is now open and accepting entries from artists in grades 5 – 12 who reside in Ventura County. The theme of the 2017 Fair is “Rooted in Tradition” and will serve as the guideline to the imagery. Artwork may be created in any medium but may not […] Read More »

In one day flat they  produced a remarkable music video

Guitarist Laurence Juber, Harmony Project young musicians and Jordan Laby at the sleek blue bus. Photo by Bernie Goldstein The Lennon Bus has provided hundreds of thousands of students and educators with opportunities to tour the bus and get hands on experience with the equipment found on board.  Tours give students an overview of what really […] Read More »

Festival of Talent

Ventura Education Partnership invites members of the community to the 16th annual Festival of Talent to be held on Saturday, Feb. 25 at 7pm at the Ventura High School auditorium.  The theme for the annual All-VUSD talent showcase will be “Rock the World”.  “This year’s theme will celebrate our community’s incredible diversity, as well as […] Read More »

Time to get yourself and/or your kids signed up for a fun, exciting learning experience  

Rubicon offers process-oriented acting classes for kids (beginning at age five) and adults. These programs focus on developing skills and technique, basic theatre terminology, building confidence and stage presence, learning proper voice techniques and developing an awareness of body language through character work, and other fundamental techniques through improvisation, scene study and theatre games. Participants are […] Read More »

The YMCA helping the community in many ways

Volunteers and supporters with the Ventura Family YMCA support local people in need through a variety of charitable drives. About 600 people attended Breakfast with Santa in December, which collected hundreds of toy donations for local low-income families through the ACTION Foundation of Ventura. The YMCA Adventure Guides, a program designed to strengthen the relationship […] Read More »

Ventura Unified School District Female Student of the Year

Aaliyah is planning to become a doctor. by Victoria Usher Many people gathered together to help celebrate the 20th Annual Poinsettia Awards luncheon on Thursday, December 8 which is presented by the Ventura Chamber of Commerce. It was a wonderful time for everyone involved that took place at the Marriott Ventura Beach. It was an […] Read More »

Ventura Music Festival Student Jazz Competition

High school jazz musicians performed for the judges and audience. On Jan. 22, in the Pavilion of the Pierpont Inn judges awarded cash prizes to outstanding Southern California’s best high school jazz musicians as the Ventura Music Festival (VMF) kicks off their new year. This was 11th annual competition for students and was attended by […] Read More »

Girl Scouts of California’s Central Coast Provides Girls with STEM Activities Focusing on Conservation

Girl Scouts of California’s Central Coast (GSCCC), with the support of a $15,000 grant from the Amgen Foundation, has announced the launch of the 2017 Imagine Your STEM Future program, which will provide STEM (Science, Technology, Engineering and Math) activities to approximately 325 low-income girls, ages 5-18 in Ventura County. “We are very excited to […] Read More »

Twenty-four teens with the Ventura Family YMCA were part of the team

The Channel Islands YMCA Youth & Government delegation joined more than 3,500 youth from across the state in Fresno for their second Training & Elections conference held Jan. 14-16 at the Fresno Convention Center. The Youth & Government program offered at YMCAs — including the Santa Barbara, Lompoc, Stuart C. Gildred, and Ventura branches of […] Read More »

Scholarships available for community youth arts programs

Community youth program: free student art scholarships are available for youth 9- 12 years old. The scholarships are at no cost to needy families. The program is for visual arts, music, theatrical, dance, etc. call  479-4000 or nominate a student at www.MusicAndArtForYouth.org. They are non-profit 501 (c) 3 for public benefit and education. Despite school […] Read More »

Public invited to free 11th annual Ventura Music Festival Student Jazz Competition

Judges will award cash prizes to three of Southern California’s best high school jazz musicians as the Ventura Music Festival (VMF) kicks off the new year with free competition performances open to the public on Sunday, January 22, from 2 to 3:30 pm, in the Pavilion of the Pierpont Inn, 550 Sanjon Road. No RSVP […] Read More »

Winter league flag football

Ventura’s growing youth sports league called FuturePro Flag Football is back again. Players of all kinds, including beginner, intermediate and advanced, boys and girls from kindergarten to 8th grade are welcome to join us again in our Winter season. If you are curious about the game of football, then flag football is a safe, exciting […] Read More »

Teen Voice to collect essential items for homeless families

During the month of January the Teen Voice Leadership Club through its “Project Humankindness” is seeking community support to collect essential items for homeless adults and families. Such winter accessories as new socks, scarves, gloves and beanies; such grooming items as nail clippers, disposable razors, combs and hair brushes; and such hygiene items as bars […] Read More »

Kids free 1-week rowing trial with Casitas Rowing Jan. 3

Casitas Rowing will be offering a free 1-week trial for all kids 8th-12th grade to try rowing starting Tuesday January 3rd. Contact www.Casitasrowing.org or 642.2288 to get signed up. There is still time to try a few days. Read More »

Joymaker challenge brings toys to local kids in need

The  Boys & Girls Club provides a positive place for all youth. As a part of their Santa’s Workshop Holiday Party teens at the Boys and Girls Club taught younger club members about giving back. Teens helped younger members wrap gifts which were given to children at Casa Pacifica. The teens have been working with […] Read More »

Fun and Fitness for the Holidays at Skating Plus

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Art classes for kids ages 7 to 12 while their parents shop at the Mall

Fridays & Saturdays 6:00 – 8:00pm. We will help everyone enjoy their shopping experience even more. Kids can come to the Arts Collective Studio for wonderful, busy creative time. Several options will be available for them to choose from.  Parents just need to sign the children in. More information and reservations required  676-1540 or [email protected] […] Read More »

An Hour of Code with DATA Students

by Roxana Llano and Tomas Gaeta Students at DeAnza Academy of Technology and the Arts (DATA) recently had a unique opportunity to collaborate with a nearby elementary school. A group of 35 middle schoolers enrolled in a Computer Science elective were able to teach coding lessons at EP Foster STEM Academy. Students in grades K-5, […] Read More »

Winner of  “Fire Hydrant Award” Essay Contest is Brody Daw

The Ventura City Fire Department announced the winner of the 4th Grade “Fire Hydrant Award” essay contest in a surprise presentation, Monday, Dec. 12 at Mound Elementary School. Brody Daw whose winning essay was selected received the “Fire Hydrant Award” presented by Fire Chief David Endaya and firefighters from Ventura City Fire.  The Fire Hydrant […] Read More »

Brownie Troop 61135 stopped by the Ventura Police Department to donate toys

Daisy and Brownie Troop 61135 stopped by the Ventura Police Department on Nov.28 to donate toys for The Castro Family and Ventura Police Community Foundation Toy Drive.  They were also treated to a tour of the station during which they were able to meet a number of women officers, dispatchers, and civilian staff  including Sgt. […] Read More »

Teen volunteers and women head of households

Soroptimist International of Ventura, a local service club for business and professional women with the goal of making a difference in the lives of women and girls, announces that applications are now available for two scholarships. Women who serve as the primary wage earners for their families and seek assistance to go back to school […] Read More »

Step Up Ventura helps homeless youngsters thrive

Step Up Ventura is a non-profit organization that changes the lives of homeless children by providing resources needed for family stability and early childhood educational success. This month, Step Up Ventura launched their new Outreach Program, focused on helping displaced families address the challenges of raising young children in crisis by positively affecting parent-child relationships […] Read More »

Young women introduced as 2017 Debutantes

Thirteen local young women were introduced at the 60th Annual Las Patronas Tea.  The Tea was held November 19 at the home of Mrs. Jeffrey Douglas in Camarillo. The girls were presented to the members of Las Patronas, an auxiliary of Assistance League of Ventura County and their guests. The Tea is a first in […] Read More »

Veterans shared their lives with high school students

Pacific High School students spent time with veterans learning about history and military life. Which they turned into a school project called “Voices of Veterans”.  The students created a display of the stories including black and white photos. The project was organized by  Pacific High School English teacher Alyssa Soles and teacher Ann Griffin. Several […] Read More »

Ventura Family YMCA Youth & Government Delegates host bill hearing night

The Ventura Family YMCA Youth & Government team introduced and debated three mock bills on Nov. 28 at the California Court of Appeals. The bill hearing night is part of their preparation for the 69th Model Legislature & Court conference held in February in Sacramento, which brings together more than 3,500 youth from across the […] Read More »

USCIS to Present Citizenship Certificates to 60 Young People

U.S. Citizenship and Immigration Services (USCIS) will celebrate the 100th anniversary of the National Park Service (NPS) on Nov. 10 by presenting 60 local kids their citizenship certificates at Channel Islands National Park. This ceremony is representational of the partnership between USCIS and the NPS, and is a step towards our goal of holding at […] Read More »

Ventura City Fire Department hosts event for fourth grade students

More than 1,300 students observed live demonstrations by Ventura City Firefighters performing multiple tasks. Photos by Richard Lieberman On Tuesday, Oct. 18 and Wednesday, Oct. 19, from 9:30 a.m. to 11:30 a.m. the Ventura  City Fire Department held a two-day Fire Safety Days event hosted by the Ventura City Fire Department in collaboration with the Ventura […] Read More »

Catholic Charities of Ventura County holds open house to unveil new food pantry

On Monday, September 19 Catholic Charities of Ventura County had an open house to unveil their new food pantry.  The design and building of the pantry was a collaborative effort with many local businesses and volunteers helping out, including the Seabees of Port Hueneme.  The Seabees volunteers dedicated 500 hours to demolishing the old pantry […] Read More »

 Ian McKeever crowned Homecoming King at Buena High

Mia Mumford, Buena senior and member of the homecoming court, Ian’s teacher Robin Fenstermacher, Ventura County Office of Education (VCOE) Special Education Teacher and Ian McKeever are as happy as can be. Ian McKeever and his family dad Terry, mom Robin and sisters Sydnee and Kaia live in Ventura. Ian has been a Ventura County […] Read More »

Students must apply by Sept. 30 for the YMCA Youth and Government program

High school students interested in a six-month hands-on experience in democracy are encouraged to apply to the Ventura Family YMCA Youth and Government program. Registration closes on Sept. 30. Participants experience first-hand how state government works; fine-tune public speaking, conflict resolution and debating skills; become a leader in the democratic process and increase civic literacy […] Read More »

Vol. 9, No. 25 – September 14 – September 27, 2016 - City Classes

City of Ventura Barranca Vista Imagination Center classes check out hundreds more on web-site Call 658-4726 or 654-7552 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 Street unless otherwise noted Art classes Critters 7-12 years 9/19-10/17 M 4-5:30 pm […] Read More »

Kids in need can get eyeglasses for free from the Eyeglass Factory

The Eyeglass Factory is  very excited to announce that the “Kids Right to Sight” Program, which has been in existence in Santa Barbara for over twenty years, is now also available in both Ventura and Camarillo. This means that school-aged kids in need of eyeglasses, that are 18 years old and under, can now get free […] Read More »

Season 2 of popular, local flag football league starting

Ventura has a new flag football league called FuturePro Flag Football. The first season for FuturePro Flag Football had overwhelming success with 200 players from all over Ventura County that played in all co-ed youth divisions. Players of all kinds, including beginner, intermediate and advanced are welcome to join again in the Fall season. If […] Read More »

Community Memorial Hospital's Auxiliary Presents their Annual Maria Cavallow Scholarship  Awards

On June 13, two $2000.00 Maria Cavallo Scholarship awards were presented.  This awards one or more graduating high school seniors who has served at least 100 hours in the auxiliary, has maintained a 3.50 GPA or better, and who will be attending an accredited college or university and taking courses in the healthcare field. Delyla […] Read More »

Jason Romero strikes twice and local product Ben Silva once to seal the deal for Fusion

by Polo Ascencio Last year the inaugural Ventura County Cup presented by the Ventura County Star, had a lot of drama from minute the first kick until the end in overtime with Fusion coming from behind and taking the inaugural VC Cup. This year the only real drama happened when the lights when out as […] Read More »

Another summer of digital storytelling 

by Elizabeth Rodeno Our summer program, Lights, Camera, Action, a digital storytelling program in conjunction with the city has wrapped. A dozen students worked so hard, explored not just camera, directing and editing but concerned themselves with the finer details of art direction, costume design, hair and make-up. They are leaving the program with a […] Read More »

New West Symphony Harmony Project receives California Arts Council “Artists in Schools” Grant

The New West Symphony announced that it has received a $7,500 grant from the California Arts Council to help underwrite the costs for the Symphony’s Harmony Project for incoming elementary school students. The funding will help defray the costs of salaries for the professional musicians who teach in the program as well as of instruments […] Read More »

Kids’ Art offers a free art program for children ages 5-14 taught by local artists

This surf board was painted by the young artists from “Kids’ Art (Growing Young Artists Since 1992). Kids’ Art offers a free, comprehensive art program for children ages 5-14 taught by local artists. Located in the Arc of Ventura’s Art Room. 295 S. Arcade Dr., Ventura. 628-9150. This surfboard was raffled off at Surf Rodeo […] Read More »

Kudos to the ECTV crew

by Elizabeth Rodeno Congratulations to the ECTV Crew from El Camino High School and their mentor/guru Phil Taggart and Assistant Manny Reynoso, whose program ECTV has won a national award for Best Informational Talk Show Series in the Student Category at the Alliance for Community Media National Conference.  The award will be presented at the […] Read More »

Ventura County Fair Poster Contest winners

A formal presentation was made to the Ventura County Fair Poster Contest winners at the Fair offices. The contest was open to County youth in grades 5 – 12. Pictured are first place winner Madison Lomis, 16 years old  Ventura,  Barbara Quaid  CEO Ventura County Fairgrounds, second place winner Anna Sorensen, 12 years old  Simi […] Read More »

Ventura nonprofit happy to find new home on the avenue with Catholic Charities

Members of the Seabees, Catherine Meek, Executive Director, Lisa Olmstead, Office Manager and Bookkeeper and Sinead Chilton, Marketing Director helped to move School on Wheels. School on Wheels is a 501(c)(3) nonprofit organization founded in 1993 by a retired teacher, who saw firsthand how homeless children struggled to stay focused in school. In 2008, School […] Read More »

Foster kids received their own laptop computer and printer

On July 15 and 16 twenty local transitional-aged foster youth participated in a digital literacy computer training seminar, held at the County of Ventura Human Services Agency. A powerful collaboration between the Ventura County Office of Education, Children’s Services Auxiliary, and Foster VC Kids made this once in a lifetime opportunity available for foster youth […] Read More »

 HACSB celebrates second annual scholarship program recipients

The Housing Authority of the City of San Buenaventura (HACSB) is pleased to announce the award of scholarships to Section 8 tenants or tenants of rental properties owned or affiliated with the Housing Authority through its second Annual Scholarship Program competition. The HACSB Annual Scholarship Program is the result of a partnership with Pacific Western […] Read More »

The CAPS Media Center

by Elizabeth Rodeno CAPS, a 501(c) 3 non-profit organization, is seeking nominees for CAPS Media Board of Directors. This year there are three–at large seats available; two seats for two (2) year terms and one seat for a one (1) year term. Elections will be held in October 2016. We encourage the community at-large and […] Read More »

Knowledge Bowl 2016

Creator of the Knowledge Bowl Suz Montgomery coaches her senior team Clint Jacobs, Don Haskell, Terry McCoy and Mary Ayers. Photo by John Hankins. The seventh annual Knowledge Bowl between seniors versus teens was truly a “Battle of the Ages” on June 6, but they proved to be so evenly sharp that the end was a […] Read More »

$10,000 in Ojai Studio Artist Art Scholarships awarded in city hall reception

Scholarship recipients Hugo Castillo, Marissa Gonzales, Lizbeth Zamora, Logan Werner, Leah Kopp, Ashley Konzmann, Jonathan Weiser, Bailey Huerta, Amber Talbot, and Kayla Petrucci.  Not pictured are Reiko Heartland and Audrey Hernandez. Audrey Hernandez of Nordhoff High School was presented the top Ojai Studio Artists’ 2016 art scholarship at a celebratory reception at the Ojai City […] Read More »

Caitlyn Rose Fastenau receives President’s Volunteer Service Award

Caitlyn Rose Fastenau, Girl Scouts Gold Award recipient and senior at Ventura High School, has been honored for her exemplary volunteer service with a President’s Volunteer Service Award. The award, which recognizes Americans of all ages who have volunteered significant amounts of their time to serve their communities and their country, was granted by The […] Read More »

Golf team members honored

Following a long standing tradition, five local men’s golf clubs have once again presented six high school graduating seniors, who were school golf team members, with a $2000 or $1000 college scholarship. We can only imagine that they benefit from something similar to Ace Golf Netting – Golf Course Netting when practicing for their golf […] Read More »

Ventura High School’s Global Warming Action Team (GWAT) participate in Mountains 2 Beach Marathon cheering competition

On Sunday, May 31 fourteen members of Ventura High School’s Global Warming Action Team (GWAT) and three adult volunteers represented the Ventura Hillsides Conservancy (VHC) in a cheering competition hosted by the Mountains 2 Beach Marathon.  The GWAT members arrived at 5:30 a.m. and danced, sang and cheered for 6.5 hours straight! Thanks to the […] Read More »

Ventura County's Graduating Seniors Impress and Inspire

From the “Ventura County Office of Education” IrieAnn Harris – Buena High School-Unstable home life motivated her to build a better future IrieAnn Harris had no choice but to grow up fast. Due to family problems, she says the responsibility of caring for her three youngest siblings fell primarily to her. “I would get up, […] Read More »

New West Symphony Harmony Project to expand annual summer music camp

The New West Symphony Harmony Project of Ventura County’s Summer Music Camp is expanding to include third through ninth grade students throughout Ventura County. Two two-week sessions will be offered. Students entering grades 3-5 are eligible to participate in the first session taking place Tuesday, July 5 through Friday, July 15. It will provide instruction […] Read More »

Ventura County Fair Poster Contest winners announced

2016 winning poster by 16-year-old Madison Lomis of Ventura All of the Poster Contest entries will be displayed in the Youth Expo The 2016 Ventura County Fair has announced the winners of the 2016 Poster Contest. The contest was open to County youth in grades 5 – 12. 16-year-old Madison Lomis of Ventura rendered the […] Read More »

Ventura County Fusion offers dynamic soccer camps

Ventura County Fusion offers dynamic soccer camps designed for youth players to have fun and develop their soccer skills. The focus is on the fundamentals of soccer with ball familiarity, unopposed activities progressing to small sided games. Fusion soccer camps empower each child to reach his or her maximum potential through customized, one-on-one instruction. Beyond […] Read More »

Casitas Rowing Junior Team honored

The Casitas Rowing Junior Team was honored to receive the Outstanding Sportsmanship Award at their Youth Regional Championships this month. US Rowing awarded these athletes at the regatta that had 39 teams from 6 states and over 1500 competitors. They are now signing up for summer classes 6th-12th grade www.casitasrowing.org. Read More »

Lunch at no charge

Each summer, Ventura Unified School District provides a nutrition program. This program provides lunch at no charge to children 1-18 years of age. Summer Nutrition is not based on income qualification. It is available for all community children regardless of their school year qualification for free and reduced price meals. Lunch will be served June 13th through August […] Read More »

Henry Schwab Violin/Viola Competition

The Ventura College Symphony Orchestra, conducted by Robert Lawson, will present the finalists of the 8th annual Henry Schwab Violin/Viola Competition on June 18. Three talented young violinists, selected March 19th, at the preliminary audition, will each perform by memory, a complete classical Violin Concerto with the Ventura College Symphony Orchestra. The competition honors the memory of Henry Schwab, […] Read More »

Hands-on fun and enriching classes offered this summer for K-12

Wilderness Survival! Green Engineering!  Rocketry!  SAT Prep! Broadway Buddy Camp! Deep Sea Explorations! Learn coding, geography, clay-mation, singing, sewing, chemistry, photography, art, cooking, track and field skills, and paper Mache! Keep your kiddos busy and engaged this summer with these hands-on classes offered by Ventura Education Partnership’s 10th annual Summer Enrichment Academy!  These fee-based classes are open to […] Read More »

Ventura Family YMCA providing scholarships for swim instruction and water safety to underserved community children

As part of the Y’s commitment to reduce drowning rates and keep kids safe in and around the water, the Ventura Family YMCA will provide scholarships for swim instruction and water safety to children from underserved communities in and around Ventura. In addition to learning lifesaving water safety skills, children can increase their physical activity […] Read More »

Cypress Place awards scholarships

When the owners of Cypress Place Senior Living in Ventura decided to create a scholarship fund for local high school students wanting to pursue a college degree, the Cypress Place Senior Living “Senior to Senior” Legacy Scholarship was created. Cypress Place Senior Living is an independent, assisted, and memory care community for seniors.  By awarding […] Read More »

Can you sing?

The Master Chorale Children’s Choir is auditioning now for the fall session.  Classical children’s concert choir. Rehearsal groups graded for ages 6 -18. Award winning choir with concerts at the historic San Buenaventura Mission, tours, and competition festivals, and much more.  Please call for an audition held in Somis, 796-1951 and check their website at […] Read More »

Vista Real Charter High School Class of 2016

by Sheri Long – Vista Real Charter High School Community Liaison Vista Real Charter High School held its 11th annual graduation on May 24. Eighty-three graduates took to the stage in full cap and gown to receive their hard earned diploma. Many of these students accepted their diploma as the first in their family to graduate […] Read More »

Rubicon announces upcoming 2016 summer programs

Director Brian McDonald works with the students from Rubicon’s Theatre Camp. Photo courtesy of Rubicon Theatre Company by Richard Lieberman Brian McDonald Director, and acting instructor at the Rubicon Theatre Company has announced a new season of performance camps and intensives, master classes and workshops. McDonald founder and program director of Rubicon’s Summer Youth Program has […] Read More »

Wheel Fun Rentals renews partnership with Big Brothers Big Sisters

Big sister Ashley Bryant and little sister Roselith enjoying a ride at Wheel Fun Rentals. Wheel Fun Rentals, the number one recreational rental company in the country, announced it is renewing a partnership with Big Brothers Big Sisters for a program called “Biking Buddies.”  For the tenth consecutive year, the Biking Buddies program will provide […] Read More »

2016 Youth Of The Year - Sarah Ruiz

Sarah Ruiz presented an art piece to the Mayor at the City Council meeting where she was honored. At the City Council Meeting on May 9, 2016 – Sarah Ruiz, Boys & Girls Club of Greater Ventura’s 2016 Youth of the Year, was recognized by Mayor Nasarenko and the other council members for her outstanding achievements. […] Read More »

Honoring our foster youth

In  June, 80-90 Ventura County foster youth, ages 17 and older, will be honored at the annual Milestones event held at Cal State University, Channel Islands.  The Milestones event recognizes the achievements that these youth have accomplished throughout the past year. Many of the honorees will be graduating high school, and others will have completed […] Read More »

Girl Scout Troop 61135 from Ventura makes donation to Humane Society in Ojai

Girl Scout Troop 61135 from Ventura (Daisy and Brownie Troop), recently made a donation to the Humane Society in Ojai.  They collected pet food, towels, blankets, and other supplies for the lucky dogs.  They also purchased first aid kits and made blankets for the animals’ cages with some of their cookie earnings. Read More »

Ventura’s Climate Report Card presented by iMatter Youth

Tatum Becker, El Camino High School (ECHS); Joe Yahner, Environmental Services Supervisor City of Ventura; Zayan Reza, ECHS; Sophie Nguyen ECHS; Ventura City Councilmember Cheryl Heitmann; Summeya Islam,ECHS; Olivia Loorz,ECHS and  Sierra Manske,ECHS. by Karen Helen Szatkowski Recently six young women from El Camino High School presented to the Ventura City Council what was a […] Read More »

Local senior wins Lions Club student speaker contest

Miranda Mize will compete in state finals in June. Miranda Mize, a senior at El Camino high school, has won this year’s Lions Club Student Speaker semi-final contest. She will now compete at the state finals on June 4 in Redding, California where she will be competing for the grand prize of $11,000. This year’s […] Read More »

6th Annual Pride Prom of Ventura May 21st at Poinsettia Pavilion

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Free community event held at YMCA

Event held to inspire more kids to keep their minds and bodies active. Photos by Michael Gordon On Saturday, April 30 the Ventura Family YMCA held a free community event to inspire more kids to keep their minds and bodies active. This year marks the 25th annual YMCA’s Healthy Kids Day®, the Y’s national initiative to […] Read More »

Ventura youth running boom

by Matt Hammel, Summerfest 3K/1Mile Youth Co-Race Director It’s common knowledge that physical activity is important for young people.  Regular exercise has been found to reduce the risk of many diseases, including childhood obesity, and has also been linked to higher academic performance.  There isn’t much of a debate regarding the importance of our youth […] Read More »

Film viewing opens discussion about reinventing education

Darcy Duffy and Melissa Watz led the discussion after the film. by Ana K. Gonzalez A viewing of the award winning documentary film Most Likely to Succeed was held at the Poinsettia Pavilion on April 7th. KiteStream, a new online community helped organize the presentation of the film. KiteStream was initiated by Venturan Melissa Wantz, […] Read More »

Robotics stronghold competition held at Ventura College

Ventura High School team members getting ready to defeat all. by Richard Lieberman More than 1000 students from high schools in Southern California participated in a competition utilizing robotic technology to breach moats, shoot large balls, and capture castles during the Robotics Stronghold Competition held at Ventura College in March. Forty-two teams from Southern California […] Read More »

Buena High School Studio A Jazz Band showcases talents

Photo by Michael Gordon On Sunday afternoon, April 17th,  Buena High School Studio A Jazz Band showcased their talents in a performance for Channel Islands Jazz Club at the Pacific Corinthian Yacht Club. This 17 member ensemble was accompanied by local vocalist Jade. Admission and donations benefited a student scholarship to a summer jazz camp […] Read More »

Celebrating “Farm to School”

By Alise Echele, RDN Healthy Schools Project Coordinator Food and Nutrition Services, Ventura Unified School District (VUSD) Locally grown broccoli, purple cauliflower, and cheddar orange cauliflower flooded 250 classrooms in thirteen Ventura Unified schools this March.  As 4,300 students used their five senses to explore these colorful brassica plants, produced by Deardorff Family Farm, hands […] Read More »

Vol. 9, No. 14 – April 13 – April 26, 2016 - City of Ventura classes

City of Ventura Imagination classes check out hundreds more on our web-site Call  658-4726 or 654-7552 to register, if you already have an ACTIVENET account online, visit www.cityofventura.net Classes/Events held the Barranca Vista Center ~ 7050 Ralston Street in Ventura unless otherwise noted Art and Architecture using LEGO®  5-10 years 4/16     Saturday           10 am-12 pm […] Read More »

Soroptimist  announces 85th Anniversary & Scholarship Awards Event

Soroptimist International (SI) of Ventura, a local service club for business and professional women with the goal of making a difference in the lives of women and girls, is celebrating its 85th year of serving the community of Ventura. The celebration will be held in conjunction with its annual scholarship awards. April 16, from 11:30 […] Read More »

YMCA Healthy Kids Day April 30th

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Ventura County – 15 More Beds Needed for Summer Program

Volunteer families are asked to host international exchange students, ages 14-17, who are scheduled to arrive in the U.S. in June/July for a four-week program. Little kids, big kids, no kids…our host families come in all shapes and sizes and include single persons and senior citizens, as well as married couples who are with or without children. Host […] Read More »

Become a Junior Ranger at Channel Islands National Park

In celebration of the National Park Service Centennial, Channel Islands National Park is hosting a special Junior Ranger event on Saturday, April 16, from 10:00 am to 4:00 pm, at the park visitor center in the Ventura Harbor. Children will have the opportunity to participate in four different Junior Ranger programs at the event, allowing them to earn badges […] Read More »

E. P. Foster STEM Academy recorded A Million Acts of Kindness

The E. P. Foster STEM Academy recorded A Million Acts of Kindness in honor of the 150th birthday of the city of Ventura. Each classroom had their own red heart, with papers to fill the heart with acts of kindness between January 19th and February 19th. The month-long event started with PeaceMakers’ week in January […] Read More »

Vista Real Charter High School

Ventura Chamber President and CEO Stephanie Caldwell holds the ribbon while Councilwoman Cheryl Heitmann cuts it at open house. By Sheri Long-Vista Real Community Liaison Although Vista Real’s downtown Ventura location opened in July, we officially celebrated with an Open House and Ribbon Cutting Ceremony on Thursday, March 10th. Students, staff, and community members were […] Read More »

Ventura Family YMCA has many different classes and sports offerings

Registration is now open for youth of all ages to participate in the Ventura Family YMCA’s Spring II Session. This spring the Ventura Family YMCA has many different classes and sports offerings for their local youth including, swimming, ballet, baseball, football, tennis, basketball, and many other sports. This is a great way to give children […] Read More »

Student musicians impressed the judges with their musical skills and maturity

  Five finalists playing as a band at VMF jazz competition after the judging. Ventura Music Festival held their 10th annual Student Jazz Competition at the Wyndham Garden Ventura Pierpont Inn filling the Ventura coastal air with groove and swing. The five finalists (many talented students entered the competition) gathered and showed off their best […] Read More »

Community College Volleyball Tournament in the Harbor

Community College Volleyball Tournament in the Harbor – Ventura, Bakersfield and Pierce College Girls Teams Photo by George Robertson Read More »

Ventura schools held mock city council meetings

To help celebrate Ventura’s 150th anniversary students from Lincoln Elementary and De Anza Academy of Technology and the Arts schools held mock city council meetings on March 11 at city hall. It was nice to have young city council members with fresh ideas. They were able to make 2 major decisions in less than an […] Read More »

Newly groomed volleyball courts in the Ventura Harbor

By George Robertson Glad to see that the community colleges are taking advantage of the newly groomed volleyball courts in the Ventura Harbor.  Can’t wait to see the high school beach volleyball teams playing there. Read More »

Students from  El Camino High School

By Phil Taggart Ventura County Poet Laureate Starting this last September, I started working with students from El Camino High School at Ventura College through the CAPS Media program.  The high school students were to produce a news/magazine show.  They were responsible for all the technical aspects and the content. The attack in Paris followed […] Read More »

VC to help anyone apply for college financial aid at all levels

Ventura College will hold an open house available to all those interested in learning more about the college and its programs and services, as well as those who would like assistance in applying for admission and financial aid. The Ventura College Extravaganza will be held from 9 a.m. to 1 p.m., March 12, at Ventura […] Read More »

Annual engineering challenge event for local middle schools developing interest in STEM

Story and photos by Richard Lieberman The challenge for students from 15 different middle schools in Ventura County was to design a miniature launcher, using only ordinary office and household items. Students then use their designs to launch ping-pong balls at a target. Judged by a panel of Navy and civilian engineers, the students were […] Read More »

Boys & Girls Club fine art members shine

Sharon Fleur, Susie Lawson and Samuel Navarro (crouched down) are proud of the art of the members of the Boys & Girls Club. The National fine arts exhibit program encourages artistic expression among Club members ages 6-18 through nine different categories of visual arts including monochromatic and multi-colored drawing, oil painting and watercolor, printmaking, collage, […] Read More »

Rotary hosts Bake Sale lunch at the Derby Club

Bake sale by VHS Interact raises $2,635 On Feb.10,  the Rotary Club of Ventura Club#691 held their  Annual Ventura High School Rotary Interact Bake Sale lunch at the Derby Club. The baked goods were prepared by members of the Ventura High School Interact Club, 42 strong and auctioned off at the event to raise money […] Read More »

Kids Garden Brigade goes organic

Gerardo Gallegos and Chris Massa show the Brigade how to grow their own vegetables organically. By Gail Field Under a sunny afternoon sky, seven children crouch between the kale and Swiss chard, looking for aphids on the green leaves. Gerardo Gallegos smiles as his eyes scan the community garden, seeing everything. Nearby, white bunnies prick […] Read More »

I really enjoyed the city, mainly because of its cleanness and people.

By Lucia Salemme Vicente I´m a high school student from Mar del Plata, a coastal city in central Argentina. As I am in my summer break I´ve been visiting Ventura for the last week and I have had a great time! I really enjoyed the city, mainly because of its cleanness and people. Every person […] Read More »

YMCA hopes to raise $170,000 in one-month

The Ventura Family YMCA launched its Annual Campaign on Friday, February 5 at the Y, which included over 60 campaign volunteers tasked with raising $170,000 in one-month. Board Chair, Danielle Brinkman-Vera, gave a speech about the importance of campaign and raising funds to support the disadvantaged in the community.  Speaking from her personal experience as […] Read More »

Opera Santa Barbara announces ‘Opera Lab’ Tour of local elementary schools

The Opera Lab, Opera Santa Barbara’s innovative outreach program for children, will tour area elementary schools beginning next month, company officials have announced. Opera Lab sessions will take place in February and March. Additional sessions will be added in late March and early May as needed. The Opera Lab is an interactive program designed to […] Read More »

Ventura College Women’s Basketball honors “Favorite Teachers”

“This honor is particularly special, because the instructors were selected by the students,” said Larry Kennedy, Chair of the Board of Trustees. Ventura County Community College District (VCCCD) Board Trustee Stephen Blum and Chancellor Bernard Luskin joined Ventura College President Greg Gillespie to present the 2016 Favorite Teachers Awards on Saturday, January 16, with a […] Read More »

19th Annual Poinsettia Awards Luncheon for youth of the year

At the 19th Annual Poinsettia Awards Luncheon, presented by the Ventura Chamber of Commerce and held in December the Male Student Of The Year was Justin Lucio who attends Ventura High School. Justin challenges himself by taking a rigorous amount of classwork every semester, earning high marks while also taking classes at the community college […] Read More »

Dear students, parents, teachers, and musicians

By Dean Adams  Lead Trombonist  Director It is time for our second annual Mentor/Protégé program with the Ventura Jazz Orchestra. The Mentor/Protégé Programs purpose is to incorporate students into a professional working and to perform with the Ventura Jazz Orchestra at the Poinsettia Pavilion Ballroom.The idea is to give the protégé real world experience by […] Read More »

YMCA serves all ages and needs

The Channel Islands YMCA Youth & Government delegation joined more than 3,500 youth from across the state in Fresno this weekend for a Training & Elections conference held Jan. 16-18 at the Fresno Convention Center. Twenty-two teens with the Ventura Family YMCA were part of the team. The Youth & Government program offered at YMCAs […] Read More »

Join us for Day 2 of the STEAM + ASPIRE3 event at Foothill Technology High School Sat. Jan. 30th

Join us for Day 2 of the STEAM + ASPIRE3 event this Saturday, January 30th from 1:30-3:00 at Foothill Technology High School in Spirito Hall. Ventura Unified Middle School students from Ancapa, Balboa, Cabrillo, DeAnza (DATA) and Sunset have teamed up with mentors from Foothill Technology High School to design a website and video where students use STEAM to […] Read More »

Ventura College Foundation to award scholarships

Students who receive financial support from VCF tend to have higher completion rates. With its scholarship application deadline on Jan. 24, the Ventura College Foundation (VCF) is welcoming a final flood of applications from Ventura College students who have completed at least 12 units. Foundation officials expect to award more than $400,000 to some 280 […] Read More »

Ventura Chamber of Commerce Student of the Year Awards

At the 19th Annual Poinsettia Awards Luncheon, presented by the Ventura Chamber of Commerce and held in December the Male Student Of The Year was Justin Lucio who attends Ventura High School. Justin challenges himself by taking a rigorous amount of classwork every semester, earning high marks while also taking classes at the community college […] Read More »

Ventura Key Club Sock Drive for homeless

Photo by Ranferi Perea Ventura Key Club is a dedicated and passionate community service club at Ventura High School. Club members have been working for several weeks on collecting socks for their latest service project -a Sock Drive to donate socks to the homeless in Ventura to help them stay warm during the winter. Group […] Read More »

Town Hall Meeting  for Our County, Our Kids

As a foster parent, families can become a link in a lifelong chain. Loving homes can provide the unconditional healing, support and guidance that can help a child and siblings thrive and grow as every child needs. With over 1,000 youth still in need in Ventura County, foster youth from birth to teens especially need […] Read More »

New West Symphony Harmony Project provides music instruction

Music students performed at Bell Arts and Sheridan Way School. Students from the New West Symphony Harmony Project of Ventura County recently presented two concerts in Ventura. On Dec. 10 they performed at Sheridan Way School, to a standing room only crowd. One-hundred students performed. The second concert was on Dec. 12 at the Bell […] Read More »

Lincoln's orchard was started more than 14 years ago

Fourth and fifth graders working on “Gardens of the Dragons” Ventura’s Lincoln Elementary School is a Title 1 school serving a diverse community including one of the largest homeless and home-insecure populations in the county. Its school garden, “Gardens of the Dragons,” is especially important, teaching fourth and fifth graders how to grow food. Agromin […] Read More »

Opera welcomes promising young vocalists

Opera Santa Barbara will welcome four promising young vocalists for 17 weeks of performances, training, and community events under an expansion of its artist residency program early next year. The company’s new Mosher Studio Artist Program will enable four singers and an apprentice vocal coach to take part in Opera Santa Barbara productions, outreach activities […] Read More »

Wish Kid Sarai Celebrates National Believe Day at Macy’s

Katie from Alpha Xi Delta Sorority, Sarai’s family member, Wish Kid Sarai, and Hannah from Alpha Xi Delta made posters to congratulate Sarai on her wish! On Friday, Dec.11, Macy’s and Make-A-Wish celebrated the seventh annual National Believe Day, the cornerstone of the retailer’s annual Believe campaign which helps Make-A-Wish grant wishes to children with […] Read More »

Holiday Toy Drive for local Ventura County children

Currently there are 1,000 children in foster care and thousands of additional low-income kids in Ventura County, and these youth are in need of toys and other gifts this holiday season. In an effort to bring some holiday cheer to these children in need, there are programs that help coordinate through Children and Family Services […] Read More »

Santa Stops by the Ventura Family YMCA

The Y teams up with the ACTION Foundation and the Community Christmas Shoppe to Help Families in Need This Holiday Season The Ventura Family YMCA presents their annual Santa Stops by the Y event on December 12th from 8AM-10AM.  This morning is a community event for children to have their photo taken with Santa and […] Read More »

New West Symphony Harmony Project celebrates the season with free community concert Dec. 12th

Young members of the New West Symphony Harmony Project of Ventura County will present a free concert for the community on Saturday, December 12 at 6:00 pm at Bell Arts Factory, located at 432 N. Ventura Avenue in Ventura. The concert will include classical pieces, jazz tunes and holiday songs performed by 40 students from […] Read More »

Vol. 9, No. 5 – December 9 - December 22, 2015 – CAPS Chat

CAPS Chat – In your community By Elizabeth Rodeno Things are busy at City Hall. Part of CAPS’ mission is to bring local government to the citizens and provide a place for them to share their views and stories. Do you have something to say? Our members do. Whether it be an announcement of an […] Read More »

Kids excel at new German school

Kindergarten students at the German Saturday School show their gratitude for the earth, sky, mountains and trees. By Gail Field Children in Ventura have a new place for learning German, thanks to a new language school serving the area. The German Saturday School, just opened in September, provides classes for children from ages 4 to […] Read More »

Vol. 9, No. 4 – November 25 – December 8, 2015 – Cute Grandkid

Grandma Jill  thinks that her grandson Nathan Young is as cute as they get.  He’s almost 2 and smiling as always even on his first visit to the dentist. His brother was in a previous Breeze. Do you have a grandkid that you think is even cuter? If so send their photo to [email protected] Read More »

Boy Scout Troop 102 wins first prize in Trunk or Treat

Boy Scout Troop 102 participated in a community Trunk or Treat held in conjunction with a Harvest Festival on Oct. 30. On the left Won Jong, Life Scout, Henry Dalton, Tenderfoot Scout and Brandon Peay, Scout.  On the right is Cory Friend, Charter Rep, Gloria Friend, Advancement Chair and Trainer and Zachary Leppaluoto, Scout who […] Read More »

Poster contest winners honored

Photo by Bernie Goldstein The winners of Ventura’s 150th Anniversary poster contest were honored at a special presentation at the beginning of the City Council meeting held on November 16. Upon presentation, the Mayor stated, “It is my pleasure to welcome and provide awards to eight local schoolchildren – the winners of the 150th Anniversary […] Read More »

Ventura Commerce and Education Foundation recognizes local teacher

On Oct. 28, the Ventura Commerce and Education Foundation (VCEF) named Mrs. Patricia “Trisha” Lewis, third-grade teacher at Portola Elementary School in Ventura, October’s Teacher of the Month. VCEF board member, Pattie Braga, along with elected representatives and members of the business community, presented Lewis with a plaque to commemorate the award. Lewis has 30 years of teaching experience […] Read More »

Girl Scout Troop 60385 make surprise visit to Cypress Place Senior Living in Ventura

Members of local Girl Scout Troop 60385 make a surprise visit to Cypress Place Senior Living in Ventura to drop off suitcases they collected for “Suitcases For Kids”, a fundraiser the senior community is holding for local foster children.  Also pictured are Cypress Place residents Pat Weaver (far left) and Neal McKaye (far right). Read More »

Ventura County Ballet Company (VCB) will be presenting “The Nutcracker” this holiday season.

Photo by Michael Gordon Prior to the winter performances, VCB, in partnership with the Ventura County Medical Center Pediatric Oncology Clinic performed excerpts of its annual production of the holiday classic on Nov.9. The dancers were in full costumes. The performance brought smiles and a little holiday magic to local Ventura County children battling and […] Read More »

Poster Contest winners from city's 150th Anniversary Poster Contest by Ventura Friends of the Library

This is the Grand Prize winning poster.  The artist is Sachi Tan.  She is 16, and a Senior at Foothill Technology High School.  The Poster Contest winners from the city’s 150th Anniversary Poster Contest sponsored by the Ventura Friends of the Library have been announced.  They were judged by   Mayor Heitmann, Dr. Michael Babb, Patti […] Read More »

Rotary offering youth leadership opportunity

Are you a Junior or Senior at Ventura High School who would like to be selected as a local ambassador for a 4 day all expenses paid retreat in the beautiful hills of Ojai at Camp Ramah from April 14th – April 17th? The event offers courses not often found in the regular curriculum, including […] Read More »

Ribbon cutting held at YMCA

Photos by John Ferritto On November 6, The Ventura Family YMCA celebrated the grand opening of their 4,000 sq. ft. full-size outdoor basketball court, 1,700 sq. ft. outdoor workout space, and a 1,000 sq. ft. play area for their Children’s Corner with a ribbon cutting ceremony. Members had asked for more outdoor workout spaces and […] Read More »

School students clean up Ventura in Trash-A-Thon Nov. 10th

SCHOOL STUDENTS CLEAN UP VENTURA IN TRASH-A-THON Environmental Fundraiser to be held November 10, 2015 Ventura Charter School of Arts and Global Education will hold its eighth annual Trash-a-Thon on November 10th. Kindergarten through eighth grade students will collect pledges, and in cooperation with the City of Ventura’s Environmental Services division, work to clean up several litter […] Read More »

Soroptimist’s applications available for scholarships

Soroptimist International of Ventura, California, a local service club for business and professional women  announces that applications are now available for two scholarships. Women who serve as the primary wage earners for their families and seek assistance to go back to school or receive special training can apply for the Live your Dream Award to […] Read More »

Ventura Family YMCA Sportsplex grand opening event and spooky Halloween

Get ready for 3 on 3 when Sportsplex is ready for play after grand opening The Ventura Family YMCA is inviting the entire community to the grand opening of their outdoor Sportsplex and Children’s Corner area on Friday, November 6, from 3:00 p.m.-5:00 p.m.  The celebration kick-off begins with a ribbon cutting by the Ventura […] Read More »

Fire Department hosts National Fire Prevention Week

Fourth Graders taught fire safety at training grounds On, October 13, and, October 14, as part of National Fire Prevention Week (Oct. 4-10), the Ventura City Fire Department and the Ventura Unified School District hosted two days of hands-on demonstrations, fire science and fire safety lessons for about 1,500 fourth-grade students, their parents and school […] Read More »

Reel Anglers Guppy Outdoor Program Launch

Reel Anglers Fishing Show invites to all to attend the launch of their “Reel Guppy Outdoor Program” launch and program presentation on Thursday, October 29 from 6:00pm – 9:00pm at Pizza Man Dan’s located at 1601 Victoria Ave. in Oxnard. Throughout the evening, an informational presentation about the new and upcoming program will be given […] Read More »

Ventura Breeze has a new editor

The Ventura Breeze has a new editor 10-year old Evin Brown. Even though he is very young because of his relationship with the Breeze publisher he has been reading the Breeze since he was 2. As his first change to the paper he has decided that classified ads can be on the cover. Read More »

Día de los Muertos at Buena High

The third annual Día de los Muertos event is going to take place on Wednesday, October 28, from 6 – 8 p.m. in the hallways of Buena High School.  Día de los Muertos is a holiday that celebrates the lives of those who have passed in many countries in Latin America.  In Mexico, it is […] Read More »

Fall City of Ventura Classes & Camps

Fall City of Ventura Classes & Camps – check out hundreds more on  web-site. Call 658-4726 or 654-7552 to register, if you already have an account online, visit www.cityofventura.net Classes/Events held the Barranca Vista Center ~ 7050 Ralston St unless otherwise noted. Fridays with Friends: Beach Hike Plein Air  18 years-adult 10/16   F          9:30 […] Read More »

Ventura Family YMCA Youth & Government Program gives insight into the skills gap

Ventura YMCA Youth & Government teens posing in front of the California State Capitol Building. The Ventura Family YMCA is paving the way for the leaders of tomorrow through its Youth & Government program.  Since 1948 this nationwide initiative has been the top youth leadership and development program for 9th through 12th grade high school […] Read More »

How local students have given themselves the best chance to succeed in the new school year

Straight Up staff member Roland Roberts leads an interactive activity/discussion abo with students at El Camino High School. For the past few weeks, we’ve watched as Ventura students, from middle school to college, have been returning to their studies. With the new academic year, young people face new challenges. Some have found ways to find […] Read More »

Ventura County 4-H  launches "Trick Or Treat So Others Can Eat"

Ventura County 4-H Club and FOOD Share, the non-profit organization devoted to feeding those in need in our community, are inviting all youth in Ventura County to join their annual October Youth-Led Food Drive for the month of October through November 13th.   “Trick Or Treat So Others Can Eat” (TOTSOCE) is returning for its 18th […] Read More »

Golfers to raise money for basketball players

Ventura High School will host its 13th Annual Cougar Golf Classic to raise money for the boys and girls basketball program.  The proceeds from the fundraiser will give the teams the ability to purchase new uniforms, training equipment, provide transportation and allow for the program to pay for tournament and summer travel expenses for the […] Read More »

Ventura Buccaneers and the Ventura Packers play for the first time in history

History was made!  This is the first time since the inception of the Ventura Buccaneers, 8 years ago, that these two Ventura teams have meet in competition at the senior division level.  On August 23rd, the Ventura Buccaneers, coached by Jim Duran and The Ventura Packers, coached by Dave Winter, faced off in a competitive […] Read More »

Chumash dwelling constructed in the new Children’s Garden in the County Museum

Enjoying Devin’s success was grandmother Lucille Kress, mom Ana Baker, grandmother Carmen Iraola and of course Devin himself .   On August 30 a ribbon cutting-celebration was held at The Museum of Ventura County for the opening of the Evelyn and Howard Boroughs Children’s Garden, the Museum’s new experiential learning environment for children of all […] Read More »

Cute Grandkids

Grandma Jill thinks that her grandson Nathan Young is as cute as they get.  He’s almost 2 smiling as always even on his first visit to the dentist. His brother was in a previous Breeze. Do you have a grandkid that you think is even cuter? If so send their photo to [email protected] Read More »

Youth & Government runs from September through February and includes weekly meetings

Ventura Family YMCA Youth & Government teens in front of the California State Capitol building where they had the opportunity to practice their legislative skills. The Ventura Family YMCA is paving the way for the leaders of tomorrow through its Youth & Government program.  Since 1948 this nationwide initiative has been the top youth leadership […] Read More »

Golfers to raise money for basketball players

Ventura High School will host its 13th Annual Cougar Golf Classic to raise money for the boys and girls basketball program.  The proceeds from the fundraiser will give the teams the ability to purchase new uniforms, training equipment, provide transportation and allow for the program to pay for tournament and summer travel expenses for the […] Read More »

My favorite go to beach

Irene  has surfed multiple beaches but Ventura is her favorite. Photo by Rich Clark My favorite go to beach by Irene Chiang,16 Ventura beach is my absolute favorite go-to beach. I was coming back from a stressful commercial shoot for a collaboration with Citibank one day and decided to stop by Ventura to relax. I […] Read More »

Fall City of Ventura Classes

Fall City of Ventura Classes check out hundreds more on our web-site Call 658-4726 or 654-7552 to register, if you already have an account online, visit www.cityofventura.net Classes/Events held the Barranca Vista Center ~ 7050 Ralston Street in Ventura unless otherwise noted. Play-Well TEKnologies Jedi Engineering using LEGO®  5-11 years 9/21-11/2         M         3:30-5 pm        $160 […] Read More »

Local youth to compete in international tournament

Mom is right proud of son Chris Robinson-Reinhold Photo by Bernie Goldstein by Sheli Ellsworth If playing billiards well is a sign of an ill-spent youth, 17-year-old Venturean Chris Robinson-Reinhold’s teen life is doomed, but don’t tell him—not before he goes to China to compete in the World Pool-Billiard Association’s Junior 9-Ball Championship. In November, […] Read More »

The girls constantly cheered, consoled and encouraged each other

Top row Coach Nick Garcia, Coach Mike More, Katelyn Kelley, Sierra Garcia, Jessica Mendoza, Abigail Sourwine, Kalyssa Muniz, Kelly More, Coach Jere Dietz. bottom row Jamie Dietz, Jaymes Howard, Rylee Mcdaniel, Courtney Terrazas, Katherine Tafoya, Coach Patrick Tafoya. Not show Jocelyn Hernandez. Ventura Stealers traveled to Seattle Washington July 15-18 for the NSA Western World […] Read More »

Ventura Family YMCA announces outdoor sports court expansion and English as a Second Language classes

The YMCA would like to thank Mike Regan from the Gwendelyn Sexton Foundation, Wood Claeyssens Foundation, David Staples from Staples Construction, Mica Beving of Beving Architecture, Jensen Design & Survey, Inc., and Hampton Fitness for their new facilty. After a year and a half in planning, the Ventura Family YMCA will start building an outdoor […] Read More »

Local teen completes jungle trek in Costa Rica

“Are you sure this is the way to the Ventura Harbor?” Sienna Romero, a 17-year-old teen Foothill Technology High School student from Ventura, recently completed a Summer Expedition with Outward Bound Costa Rica. On the four-week course, she trekked through the remote rainforest of Costa Rica and traveled to Panama to volunteer in sea turtle […] Read More »

Cute Grandkids

Grandma thinks that her granddaughter Bella Pedevillano is pretty darn cute. She is practicing her surf moves on land.  She is a California surfer girl. Do you have a grandkid that you think is even cuter? If so send their photo to [email protected] Read More »

Boogie Nite 5k raises $ 7,000 for Buenaventura High School

The recently finished Boogie Nite 5k race series raised $ 7,000 for Buenaventura High School athletes. Coaches, Melissa and Aaron provided enthusiastic student athletes to this 10-week event as volunteers. Runners and walkers came from as far as Somis and Ojai to participate, and the weather was perfect. Jim and Melissa Avrea of Aloha Steak […] Read More »

Cute Grandkids

Grandma thinks that her granddaughter Bella Pedevillano is pretty darn cute. She is practicing her surf moves on land.  She is a California surfer girl. Do you have a grandkid that you think is even cuter? If so send their photo to [email protected] Read More »

Ventura Friends of the Library poster contest

The Ventura Friends of the Library are sponsoring a poster contest for the City of Ventura’s 150th Anniversary Celebration, April 2, 2016.  The contest is open to all youths who live or go to school in the city of Ventura ages 6 to 18.  Each child who enters a valid submission will receive a Ventura […] Read More »

The New West Symphony Harmony Project of Ventura Back-to-School Fundraiser

The New West Symphony Harmony Project of Ventura Back-to-School Fundraiser is raising funds to provide support to students from Title I schools in Ventura.  Donations will provide school supplies, music books, instruments, and the ability for the Symphony to enroll more students who are currently on the waiting list for the Harmony Project program. The […] Read More »

QPI conference coming to Ventura

In an effort to provide a greater professional and nurturing environment for youth that are in foster care, Foster VC Kids, a division of Ventura County’s Children & Family Services, is working with a new groundbreaking foster parent training module developed to improve the quality of partnership, care, training and support within the child welfare […] Read More »

Storytelling a great success for enthusiastic kids

CAPS Chat By Elizabeth Rodeno CAPS Digital Storytelling Summer 2015 was a great success. Not only did we have 30 enthusiastic kids, we had a group of happy parents and grandparents, some very tired interns and three instructors who let the kids make their magic. We had three great weeks of edutainment. Our news casters […] Read More »

A summer away from school at YMCA camps

A teen volunteer camp counselor with the YMCA helps a young camper into a rock climbing harness. Hundreds of South and Central Coast children and their families are spending their summer away from school at YMCA camps, including sports, specialty, water, sleepaway, family and traditional camps. They Y Summer Camp Programs create opportunities for hundreds […] Read More »

Youth and  suicide prevention

  A forum where facts and myths about suicide are brought to light. The River Community Church, in conjunction with the American Foundation for Suicide Prevention and Didi Hirsch, will be hosting a Student-Oriented Suicide Prevention Seminar. This seminar will focus on youth, because suicide is the second leading cause of death for ages 10-24. More […] Read More »

City of Ventura end of summer classes for youth

Call  658-4726 or 654-7552 to register, if you already have an account online, visit www.cityofventura.net Camps held the Barranca Vista Center,7050 Ralston Street in Ventura unless otherwise noted. Drawing & Painting for Youth  8-14 years 8/27-9/24            Th            3:15-4:30 pm            $64 Explore relevant artists and their styles to create your own acrylic paintings and pencil and […] Read More »

“Free "Learn to Row” on Saturday Aug. 29th @ 8:30am at Lake Casitas

photo by Dani Thole Casitas Rowing is now signing up Boys and Girls 9th-12th grade for the fall High School Rowing Team and kids 6th-8th grade for the fall Middle School Team. PE credits offered for all local Ventura high schools for the team. Practice begins with a “Free Learn to Row” on Saturday August 29th @ 8:30am at […] Read More »