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Bell Arts Factory Welcomes Art Lovers at Monthly Open House

by Patricia Schallert

Suzanne Rigan, Fabric Artist

On Friday, October 4th, Bell Arts Factory in Ventura hosted its monthly open house as part of the city’s First Friday art events when many local galleries open their doors to the public. A vibrant hub for creativity and artistic expression, Bell Arts Factory showcases the diverse talents of local artists and craftspeople. Housed in a historic building that was once a mattress factory, this unique space has transformed into a thriving community center for art, offering galleries, workshops, and events that foster a strong sense of connection.

Visitors had the opportunity to explore a variety of artistic mediums, including painting, sculpture, and photography, all while supporting local artisans. The center also regularly features exhibitions, open studio events, and art classes for both adults and children, making it a destination for art lovers of all ages.

Artist, Alfredo Gonzalez

With its welcoming atmosphere, Bell Arts Factory encourages collaboration and dialogue between artists and visitors, enriching Ventura’s cultural landscape. Whether you’re looking to appreciate art or tap into your own creative potential, Bell Arts offers an inspiring experience that highlights the power of community and the arts. More than just a gallery, it serves as a creative sanctuary where inspiration and collaboration flourish.

The next open house will be held on November 1st at 6:00 p.m. Bell Arts Factory is located at 432 N. Ventura Ave. www.bellartsfactory.org.

Fantastical Blues: Solo show by Deborah Paulsen

Shimmering Surf – Encaustic, shellac, pigment stick

Running through October 26

Visit Studio 99 @ The Bell Arts Factory where Deborah Paulsen’s “Fantastical Blues” remains on exhibit. One of their best-selling shows this year, Deborah uses hot beeswax and damar resin with added shellac, oil paints and pigment sticks, to create encaustic paintings of ocean and landscapes.

“Layers of the encaustic medium are fused together with a torch so that the colors mix and marble on the panels to create fantastical effects,” Paulsen said. “Although they are based on land and seascapes, the methods used with the encaustic paint create spaces, colors, and textures that are luminescent and sensual as the paint is turned molten, layers are added and subtracted, and patterns are revealed.”

Studio 99’s regular hours are Fridays and Saturdays, noon – 4pm. Entrance to Studio 99 is around the back of the Bell Arts Factory off of Wall St. www.bellartsfactory.org.

 

Vol. 18, No. 02 – Oct 16 – Oct 29, 2024 – Forever Homes Wanted

 

Hi, I’m Santi, an active 1-year, 4-month-old Boxer mix in need of a new home. The other dog in my current home wasn’t too happy with me staying. I’m affectionate, playful, and outgoing. I get along with other dogs, but no cats, please. I respond when called and can sit on command, but I still need some work on leash training. I love being around people and don’t enjoy being left alone. Tennis balls are my favorite! I’m energetic and sometimes bark or jump when I’m excited. I can’t wait to become a cherished member of a loving family.

 

 

Hi, I’m Farrah, a beautiful 2-year-old American/European Doberman Pinscher. I’m looking for a new home because my former family could no longer give me the care I need. I love running, playing, and I get along with other dogs and cats. While I’m good with older children, I’d do best in an adult-only home. I need an experienced, active owner and a house with a big backyard. I can be hyper, stubborn, and jumpy (I can clear baby gates!), but most of all, I’m lovable. I’ll need a patient person who can help me work on my digging, barking, and play-nipping habits.

 

 

Hi, I’m Rudy, an outgoing 6-year-old Pit Bull mix in search of a forever home. I was found on the freeway, and since no one came to claim me, I’m now available for adoption. I’m active and super friendly! I do need some leash training because I get a little too excited when I’m out and about. Come meet me and see what a great guy I am!Forever Hones Wanted

 

 

Hi, I’m Mustard, an active 2-year-old Pit Bull mix looking for a forever home. I was rescued from a shelter, and I’m so grateful for the chance to find my new family. I’m selective with other dogs, so if you already have a fur baby, please bring them along for a meet-and-greet. It’s unknown how I would do with children or cats. I know my breed sometimes gets a bad rap, but I hope you’ll meet me and see for yourself!

All of these amazing pets are being cared for by the Canine Adoption and Rescue League (CARL). Could you provide a forever home for one of these wonderful animals? To read full pet bios and submit an application, visit www.CARLDogs.org or call 805-644-7387

“Visual Dialogue” – by the inkspots of San Buenaventura

A Collection of New Works by Ventura County’s Only Printmaking Group

Established in 2007, the inkspots of San Buenaventura are a group of artists dedicated to creating original prints using a variety of techniques, including etching, collagraph, linocut, monoprint, monotype, woodblock, and digital manipulation. This year, for the first time, the group is unveiling a unique fusion of fabric art and printmaking at their 16th annual exhibition, held at 643 Project Space—an alternative gallery designed to give early-career artists opportunities to exhibit their work.

The “Visual Dialogue” exhibit will feature the works of Christina Altfeld, Margarita Cantú, Beverly Decker, Sarah Fuller, Virginia Furmanski, Bay Hallowell, Melissa Knapp, Sandra McCullough, Inés Monguió, Danelle Moon, Nathanael Read, Leslie Plimpton, and Yasemin Zografos. The artists’ styles are as unique as they are, with members hailing from Ventura, Ojai, Summerland, and Santa Barbara. Some are also members of organizations like the Los Angeles Printmaking Society, the California Society of Printmakers, and the Santa Barbara Printmakers.

The artist opening reception will take place on Nov. 1, from 5–8 p.m. at 643 Project Space, located at 643 Ventura Ave., Ventura, CA 93001.

Gallery hours are Saturdays, Nov. 2, 9, 16, 23, and 30 from 1–4 p.m., and by appointment. For appointments, email [email protected].

A different printmaking demonstration will be held each Saturday in November, showcasing techniques such as collagraph, woodcut, monotype, drypoint, and photopolymer printing.

3rd Annual Ventura Pottery Market & Bowl of Thanks

Join the Ventura Pottery Guild for its Third Annual Pottery Market and Bowl of Thanks on November 9 and 10 from 11 AM to 6 PM at Ventura Harbor Village. The Guild is thrilled to bring this beloved event back to its roots.

Proceeds from the Bowl of Thanks will support Food Share Ventura, which provides meals to 267,000 hungry residents in Ventura County each year. Beautiful bowls, donated by Guild members and local schools, can be purchased for a $25 donation at the Ventura Pottery Gallery. Each purchase includes a punch card for complimentary food samples at participating Harbor Village restaurants. It’s a win-win for everyone involved.

As the gift-giving season approaches, don’t miss the Third Annual Ventura Pottery Market, conveniently located next to the Gallery’s year-round store. Featuring over 40 talented potters, you’ll find a diverse selection of traditional, sculptural, holiday-themed, and whimsical pottery—something for every taste.

The Ventura County Potters’ Guild, a non-profit founded in 1957, is dedicated to promoting ceramic arts through the Gallery, workshops, and monthly meetings. Our meetings are open to the public and often feature live demonstrations and presentations. For more information, visit www.vcpg.org. If you can’t make it to the Gallery, check out our Online Store at www.venturapotteryonline.com.

The Ventura Pottery Gallery is located at 1567 Spinnaker Drive, Suite 105, in Ventura Harbor and is open daily from 11 AM to 6 PM. The Pottery Market will be held outdoors near the Gallery.

 

Vol. 18, No. 02 – Oct 16 – Oct 29, 2024 – Community Events

VENTURA:

Award-winning Documentary, Elemental, Reimagine Wildfire: Wed, Oct 16th, 6:3o pm, Cinemark Century 10.

Critically acclaimed, award-winning documentary. In the wake of deadly fires across the West, ELEMENTAL, REIMAGINE WILDFIRE provides us all with a deeper understanding of the events around use while offering real solutions to live with fire in a hotter drier world. The film will be followed by a Q&A with Executive Producer Ralph Bloemers, Former Ventura County Fire Assistant Chief John McNeil; Director of Conservation and Research Bryant Baker from Los Padres ForestWatch; Head of Wildfire Safety Max Young from the Ventura Regional Fire Safe Council. Advance tickets available here: https://bit.ly/3N5DdRr

Music History – 101: Fri, Oct 18 and Sat, Oct 19, 7 pm. Footlighters Theater Company, Ventura Marina Mobile Home Park. 1215 Anchors Way.

The play, written, directed, and produced by Cheryl Immel. This heartfelt production aims to celebrate the transformative power of music education and the impact caring educators have on young lives, including those often labeled as “troublemakers.”

The audience will witness actors portraying music professors from the McIntosh University of Music, and college students engaging with vibrant music history lessons brought to life. By immersing viewers in the dynamic world of music education, the performance aims to inspire a greater appreciation for the art form and the educators who make it meaningful, leaving everyone with a renewed sense of joy and connection to music. $10.00 HOA members of VMMHP community. $15.00 Non- HOA and Guests. Tickets will be sold at the door. 

The Channel Islands Park Foundation Native Plant Sale: Sat, Oct 26, 9 am – 1 pm., Visitor Center, 1901 Spinnaker Dr., Ventura Harbor.

Ventura County Master Gardeners will be conducting a native plant sale featuring species endemic to the Channel Islands. The sale will be next to the Channel Islands National Park Visitor Center. This is at the end of the Ventura Harbor. www.ciparkfoundation.org.

Docent Yvonne Cherbak, Olivas Adobe’s Victorian Halloween.

Victorian Halloween Olivas Adobe House: Sun, Oct 13, 11 – 3 pm. Olivas Adobe, 4200 Olivas Park Drive.

Learn about Victorian customs and traditions practiced on the Rancho plus a few other Halloween thrills. Free house tours. More Information is available at www.cityofventura.ca.gov/648/Olivas-Adobe-Historical-Park.

Olivas Adobe House Tours: Sun, Oct. 20, 27, Nov. 3,10,17, 24, 11 – 3pm. 4200 Olivas Park Drive.

The Olivas Adobe historic site features the original two-story adobe home of Don Raymundo Olivas built in 1847. Celebrating Ventura’s Rancho and Latino heritage. Located at, Ventura. House tours are $5 for Adults and $3 for children and Seniors. More Information is available at www.cityofventura.ca.gov/648/Olivas-Adobe-Historical-Park.

Namba Performing Arts Space: Fri, Oct 18, Sun Oct 20. Namba Performing Arts Space, 47 S. Oak St.

4th Annual Playwrights’ SPLASH Festival Weekend #3. Mental Health Awareness/Poetry Weekend with “The Funny Thing About A Panic Attack” by Ben Kassoy, “Resilient AF” by Kamakshi Hart, and “Mictlan” by Cristina Glezoro and Martin Arreola, with shows in Spanish and English.

The 2024 Playwrights’ Splash Festival brings new playwrights to Ventura and provides a platform for emerging artists to share their stories. Support for the festival is provided by the City of Ventura Cultural Funding Grant Program and Ventura County Behavioral Health. Tickets for each show are $20 online or $25 at the door. Or purchase a “SPLASH Pass” and see all three shows for $60! Includes a complimentary drink for each show and waives ticket fees. Join us at the SPLASH Festival and support the flourishing performing arts scene in Ventura. Learn more at NambaArts.com.

The Museum of Ventura County: The Curse of The Vampire. Tales from the Book of Nosferatu. Sep. 19 – Nov 17.

The artists have created a spine-tingling, comic-like experience that will thrill anyone fascinated by Dracula and occult storytelling. You’ll be scared, amazed, and completely immersed in a world where imagination meets the supernatural! The Curse of The Vampire: Tales from The Book of Nosferatu is a collaborative exhibition that features seventeen George Stuart Historical Figures enhanced by blown up retro comic book style illustrations created by artists, Paula Pugh and Weshoyot Alvitre. The exhibition brings a fictional story to life, chronicling the rise and fall of a vampire dynasty from Vlad the Impaler (the first alleged vampire) to Dracula to Alexander Cepesi (one of the last vampires). The story unfolds through illustrations created by Pugh and Alvitre in a retro comic book style. www.venturamuseum.org/upcoming-exhibitions.

2024 Ventura Women’s Conference: Sat, Oct 19, 8:00 – 4:00 pm. Poinsettia Pavilion.

The theme is “Wellness Warriors… embrace, empower, energize. Giving you the tools to gently warrior through life with compassion and grace.” Twelve women will speak on their wellness expertise, and over 20 health and wellness vendors will share products and services. Tickets are available at Eventbrite and all proceeds benefit Food Share Ventura. www.venturawomensconference.com

National Association of Watch and Clock Collectors: Sun, Oct 20, 11 am. Campus Student Center of Ventura College, 4667 Telegraph Rd.

Anyone interested in timepieces, both antique and modern, can attend the Ventura County chapter of the National Association of Watch and Clock Collectors meeting for a watch/clock marketplace, lunch, and a presentation on a horological topic.  Bring a watch or clock for a free evaluation. www.nawcc-ch190.com.

The Museum of Ventura County – Play Date in the Children’s Garden with Pinaysphere: Fri, Oct 25, 2:00 – 4:00 pm.

Kids can learn about Filipino culture by crafting their own báhay kúbo, which is a traditional Filipino house built on stilts, made from natural materials like bamboo and coconut fibers, showcasing Filipino ingenuity, sustainability, and community spirit. Adult supervision required. Free registration advised.

Special Announcement – The Agriculture Museum is thrilled to be one of the locations for Santa Paula Theater Center’s GhostWalk 2024! This event begins Oct 11 and runs Fri., Sat., and Sun. through Oct 27. For tickets to this beloved community event, visit www.ghostwalk.com 

Adventure Van Expo: Sat, Oct. 26 from 10 – 5 pm and Sun, Oct 27, 10 – 3 pm. Ventura County Fairgrounds.

The Adventure Van Expo event series offers a space for van builders and connoisseurs to explore van builds, rental companies, accessory vendors, sell their rigs and connect with the van life community. Saturday will be a full day of live music and food and drinks from on-site concessions. Van builders looking to display their work are encouraged to participate in the Adventure Van Expo DIY Contest, which will be viewed by hundreds of eventgoers and rated by van-build experts. Sunday’s Expo continues with the same packed list of vendors, open house vans, live music, food trucks, and local brews. Entry is $5 and camping is for a fee, and you can also sell your van there for a fee (see website for pricing). For more information and to purchase camping tickets visit www.adventurevanexpo.com.

Patchwork Show: Nov 3, 2024, 11 – 5pm, Downtown Ventura.

Over the past 16 years, Patchwork has grown from a small parking lot craft fair into multiple locations including street festivals and large indoor marketplaces. Each location is as unique as the venue and showcases different makers and collaborations that reflect the local environment and community. www.dearhandmadelife.com/patchwork-show/

10th Annual Candlelight Remembrance Service: Thurs, Nov 7, 6 – 8 pm. Joseph Reardon Funeral Home, 757 E. Main St.

Words of comfort and inspirational music. Candlelighting for those that have experienced a loss and wish to remember their loved one in a sacred space. Harpist, Ted Nichelson, 6 – 7 pm. Ceremony 7 – 8 pm. To rsvp, contact 805-653-8623. www.reardonfuneral.com.

Holiday Craft & Gift Festival: Fri., Nov 22-24, 10 – 5 pm, Fri and Sat, and 10 – 4 pm Sun. Ventura County Fairgrounds.

Admission is free with ticket registration at https://venturacraftfestival.com

Ongoing:

Social Golf Club

Actively recruiting new members Men’s golf club. Set Tee times a year in advance for every Tuesday and Thursday at 9 different courses in Ventura County. https://challengersgolfclub.com

Ventura Senior Men’s Group: First and Third Tues each month: 11:30 am – 1:30 pm at Poinsettia Pavilion.

Any man who considers himself in the “senior” category (and many who don’t) might benefit from a visit to the Ventura Senior Men’s Group.  Buffet luncheon with interesting speakers and good friends. Your first lunch is free. We talk about everything except religion and politics. Eligible to all men 50 plus. Call Tom at 805-657-1071 for more information or visit VSMG.net to find out who our speakers will be.

Play Bridge: Every Tues, Wed and Thurs at 12:30 pm.

ACBL-sanctioned duplicate bridge games. All levels of play, and we will guarantee to have a partner for you if you need one. Lessons are available. Tuesday, Wed and Thursday games are held at Temple Beth Torah, Foothill & Kimball Rd, Ventura. Every Saturday at the Ventura Townhouse.  For additional info visit our website at www.vcbridge.org. Contact Rose at [email protected].

Ventura County Philatelic Society: First and third Mon each month – 7:30 pm.

Church of the Foothills, Ventura. For more information, visit https://venturacountyphilatelicsoc.org.

Beach Cleanup: First Sat of every month – 8:30 -10:30 am.

Meet your neighbors and help keep our beach looking fresh. Hosted by Pierpont Beach Community Council in partnership with Surfrider. Meet up at the end of Seward near the beach. (1140 S Seward St). Arrive any time during the timeframe. Fun for the whole family! Supplies provided – BYO water.

Ojai:

I’m Not Vegan, but My Cousin Is: Sat, Oct 26, 2 pm. Ojai Library, 111 East Ojai Ave.

Local author Vivian Chinelli will talk about her book, I’m Not Vegan, but My Cousin Is: Rhymes, Raps and Other Good Stuff About Respecting and Protecting Animals, Our Health and Our Planet. Ojai Mayor Betsy Stix will join Ms. Chinelli to field questions about veganism and plant-based eating..This little book with a big message contains 81 original pieces that are passionate and provocative, sometimes light-hearted, but always informative and inspirational. Free. For additional information, contact Ron Solórzano, Regional Librarian, at (805) 218-9146 or [email protected].

OXNARD:

Fireball Tim’s Wheels & Waves: Channel Islands Maritime Museum. Sundays, 8 – 10 am. 3900 Bluefin Circle.

Lively, free event, held on the first in front of the Museum. Meet Fireball Tim as well as Channel Island Maritime Museum’s Executive Director, Doug Riffenburgh and see both the car show and the museum. www.cimmvc.org.

OPAC debuts ¡ÁNDALE!: Wellness + Creativity for Everyone: Sat, Oct 19, 1- 3 pm, Community Center Park East. 800 Hobson Way, (located behind the Oxnard Performing Arts Center).

A Free Monthly Series for Mental Health and Well-being. Take a break, rejuvenate, and get creative. A new monthly series presented by the Oxnard Performing Arts Center Corporation, focused on supporting mental health and wellness through artistic expression and self-care. The event is offered bilingually, free and open to all, creating space where relaxation, creativity, and community connection come together.This month yoga, sound baths and art-making will be offered. Attendees will spend 30 minutes at each activity, for a total of two hours of immersive wellness.In addition to offering a restorative experience, ¡ÁNDALE! makes it easy for parents to attend by providing free childcare for children ages 5 to 11. This event series is made possible through generous funding from Ventura County Behavioral Health, Mental Health Services Act. For more information visit TheOPAC.org/andale.

Caregivers.org Fundraiser – Spooky Boutique: Sun., Oct 27, 9-3 pm. Hollywood Beach, 112 Los Altos St.

Join artists and vendors for a SPOOKtacular arts and crafts show! Pet costume contest, facepainting, photo booth, raffle prizes.

Día de los Muertos Celebration: Sat, Nov 2, 4-9 pm Oxnard Performing Arts Center, 800 Hobson Way.

OPAC’s Dia de los Muertos expands in 2024 with month-long Community Altar in partnership with The Collection. This year, the celebration extends with a month-long Día de los Muertos Community Altar at The Collection at RiverPark in Oxnard, running from Oct 1 – Nov 2. This vibrant display titled “Recuérdame” (Remember Me) is hosted in partnership with The Collection and will be located between Lazy Dog and the Cheesecake Factory. The community is invited to honor their loved ones by participating in a heartfelt tribute to those who have passed. Admission is free and open to the public. We invite the public to contribute to the Community Altar by sharing photos of loved ones they wish to honor. www.theopac.org.

CAMARILLO:

Channel Islands PC User Group (CIPCUG): Sat, Nov 16., 9:30 am. Online and Live at our temporary location Ventura County Computers, 2175 Goodyear Ave., Unit 117.

Discussion, Tutorial, and Q&A sessions centered around Computers, email,
the Internet, AI, and social media brokers such as X, Facebook, and
Google (due to limited space live attendance is reserved for members). Details for connecting to online events are emailed prior to the event. To receive connection
instructions, sign at www.cipcug.org.

SANTA BARBARA:

Boo at the Zoo: Oct. 18 – 27, 5 – 8 pm. Santa Barbara Zoo.

Get ready for a fun and festive Halloween spell-ebration. While visiting the animals, discover frightfully fun décor, photo ops and trick-or-treating. The ticket for this event includes a Zoo Train ride, mad science experiments, scare zone, dance party, creepy-crawly animal encounters and bounce houses. Additionally, no costume head or face masks will be permitted. Since this is a kid and family-friendly event, please keep costumes child-friendly and do not include gore or realistic weapons. $25 per adult, $18 per child. https://santabarbaraca.com/events/boo-at-the-zoo/

About Dracula: A Comedy of Terrors: Through Oct 27. Ensemble Theatre, 33 West Victoria St.

Ever wondered what would happen if you took Bram Stoker’s legendary vampire tale and put in into a blender with the comedic influences of Mel Brooks, Monty Python and The 39 Steps? That’s just what happens in this lightning-fast, laugh-out-loud 90-minute gender-bending, quick-change magical romp. Famed female vampire hunter Jean Van Helsing and her motley company chase Count Dracula from the English countryside to Transylvania to “other frightening places.” Their antics brim with enough tongue-in-cheek mayhem to fill your cup of giggles. 90 minutes with no intermission. Rating: PG-13. https://etcsb.org/production/dracula-a-comedy-of-terrors.

35th Annual Día de los Muertos Celebration at SBMA and MCASB: Sun, Oct 20, 11 – 4 pm. Santa Barbara Museum of Art, 1130 State St.

The Santa Barbara Museum of Art (SBMA) presents a free family day in celebration of Día de los Muertos in the Museum’s Front Terrace, Family Resource Center, and galleries. For the 35th year, the Museum honors the Mexican tradition of remembering the dead with a variety of family festivities include altar displays, art activities, live music, and dance performances. For the second year, a Day of the Dead Calenda, or procession, will travel from SBMA to the Museum of Contemporary Art Santa Barbara (MCASB). www.sbma.net.

 SANTA PAULA:

Santa Paula Theater Center is proud to announce the 30th anniversary production of GhostWalk 2024: The Spirits of The Old Sycamore Tree. This year’s production will begin at the Santa Paula Train Depot and will follow a walking tour of six ghost stories that circumvent the block between North 10th and 9th Street and East Santa Barbara Street and Railroad Ave.  Phone # 805-525-4645 (messages only). Tickets for Ghostwalk are $15 for Adults, $10 for Children 12 & Under. Additional details are available at www.ghostwalk.com. GhostWalk 2024 will run for three weekends from October 11 through October 27, 2024, with tours running every 15 minutes beginning at 6:30 PM and the final tour at 9:00 PM (the final tour on Sunday is 8:30).

The Bookmark About Libraries and Friends

by Mary Olson

Ventura Friends of the Library will hold their Annual Membership Meeting on Sunday, October 20, 1:00 to 3:00 pm in the Topping Room at E.P. Foster Library.

Our annual meetings are always open to guests who are interested in our organization or our guest speakers!

Our featured speaker will be Elizabeth Moore Kraus who will discuss her book 3 Sisters, 3 Weeks, 3 Countries (Still Talking). This memoir explores the past and present family dynamics that have shaped the lives of three sisters during their three week trip. The sisters decided to travel together to Ireland, England, and Scotland. Family is not always easy, and then adding to that challenge is daily togetherness and the stress of traveling. Elizabeth “Liz” Moore Kraus has lived in Ventura County for over 30 years with her spouse, Dave, and son Brent-Stig. At the age of 42, Liz returned to school to earn an M.A. in English Literature. She is currently teaching at Ventura College and working on two more books. Her book will be available for purchase and signing at the event.

Ventura Friends of the Library supports the libraries of Ventura by selling donated books to raise funds for library programs and materials. The Friends operate a bookstore, 2nd Look Books, in E.P, Foster Library. Open Monday through Saturday, 11:00 am to 4:00 pm and Sunday, 1:00 to 4:00 pm. The Friends also sell books on Amazon and eBay: https://www.ebay.com/str/venturafriendsofthelibrary

Local author Vivian Chinelli will visit the Ojai Library at 2:00 pm on Saturday, October 26, to talk about her book, I’m Not Vegan, but My Cousin Is: Rhymes, Raps and Other Good Stuff About Respecting and Protecting Animals, Our Health and Our Planet. Come and listen to Ms. Chinelli’s clever and riveting rhymes and raps as she delivers her vegan and plant-based message with a snappy beat.

Vivian Chinelli is a retired Kindergarten teacher, author, poet, vegan, plant-based eater, and activist. Ms. Chinelli’s rhymes, and the powerful quotes that accompany them, explore the vegan philosophy of compassion for animals and the positive impacts of plant-based eating on our health and the health of our planet and all its inhabitants. Ojai Mayor Betsy Stix will join Ms. Chinelli to field questions about veganism and plant-based eating.

This event is free and open to the public. For additional information, contact Ron Solórzano, Regional Librarian, at (805) 218-9146 or [email protected].

Spooky happenings at the Library:

Science Spook-tacular Dry Ice Show with Science Heroes! Hill Road Library, Thursday October 17, 3:30 – 4:30 pm. Science and stories collide in this fun, interactive S.T.E.M. program featuring the ‘coolest’ thing in science — DRY ICE!

Come enjoy some Fall fun at the Avenue Library with spooky movies, crafts, and treats! Boo Movie Matinees Saturdays at 12:00 to 3:00 pm: October 19 – Hocus Pocus (PG) October 26 – Hocus Pocus 2 (PG) Crafts and treats are available while supplies last.

Maker Lab at Hill Road Library, Thursday, October 24, 3:30 to 4:30: Create Squishy Circuit Monsters Squishy Circuits uses conductive and insulating play dough to teach the basics of electrical circuits, a perfect blend of play and learning! Come to the Hill Road Library for a ghoulishly good time creating your own little monster with clay and squishy circuits.

The Discover Science Team from the Foothill School of Technology returns to Hill Road Library Saturday, October 19, 11:00 am to noon. Learn how to create a Wind Catcher and harness the power of the wind.

 

Community Council Meetings:

The East Ventura Community Council (EVCC):

Virtual Meeting on Oct. 17 at 7 PM.  Visit the EVCC website at https://eastventura.org/ for the Zoom meeting link.  The agenda includes the East Ventura police report, followed by a guest speaker. The purpose of the EVCC is to encourage residents to understand East Ventura problems, needs and expectations, and to recommend, initiate and/or participate in the development and implementation of programs or solutions. The EVCC facilitates communications between the
community and government or other service agencies.

The College Area Community Council

In-person & Zoom meeting on Wednesday, Oct. 23rd at 7pm.  Community council meetings include speakers and discussion on topics of neighborhood and community interest, including public safety and economic development. Erik Nasarenko, County DA, will speak at the meeting on crime and justice in Vt. County. The meeting will occur in-person at CAPS Media, 65 Day Rd. and by Zoom. CACC represents citizens in the area bounded by Mills Road on the west, Hill Road on the east, city limits in the hillsides on the north, and the 126 Freeway on the south.  Visit the CACC website https://caccventura.com for more information, a Zoom link to the meeting or to be added to the mailing list.

Port Hueneme Celebrates Kevin Brannon as Hero of the Year for His Work with Youth and Conservation

Reel Guppy founder, Kevin Brannon.

On Tuesday, September 3rd, Kevin Brannon was honored with the Port Hueneme Hero of the Year award at a city hall meeting. The event celebrated individuals who have made a meaningful, positive impact on the community. This year, the city recognized two exceptional community members, with Kevin Brannon, founder of Reel Guppy Outdoors, being one of the awardees for his significant contributions.

Over the past 13 years, Kevin’s Reel Guppy Outdoors program has reached more than 7,000 children in Port Hueneme, offering them unique opportunities to learn about wildlife, the environment, and the importance of conservation. His program emphasizes hands-on learning, exposing kids to topics not typically covered in school, while encouraging them to appreciate and protect the natural world.

In addition to his work with Reel Guppy Outdoors, Kevin also leads the Reel Anglers Network, a TV show that educates viewers about outdoor activities and local events. His latest episodes are set to air next month, further expanding his reach and impact.

Kevin’s dedication to inspiring and empowering young people has made him a hero to many, and he continues to strive to make a difference not only in his community but worldwide. As Kevin often says, “With the help of our community, we can achieve anything.” www.reelguppyoutdoors.com.

Vol. 18, No. 02 – Oct 16 – Oct 29, 2024 – Mailbox

Breeze:

Mexico has elected Claudia Sheinbaum’s as their president.This marks two milestones. She is the first female president in Mexico’s history and also the first with Jewish heritage (Jews are less than 1% of the Mexican population). If Mexico can do this America is certainly ready to elect our first female president.

Sheldon Brown


Ventura Breeze

So happy that you continue to print positive local news and the calendar of events. How fortunate we Venturans are to have the Ventura Breeze.

Joanne Kaplan


“I always cook with wine. Sometimes I even add it to the food.”
~ W.C. Fields