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Vol. 16, No. 25 – Sept 6 – Sept 19, 2023 – Forever Homes Wanted

Hi: I’m Trip, a 7-month-old Shepherd X on the hunt for an active home with another pup that I can play with. I have a whimsical puppy energy that makes everyone who meets me smile. I like playing with other dogs and also love making new human friends. I enjoy a good game of fetch but I would also be content going on a run with my people. If you’re interested in meeting me, please fill out an online application. Canine Adoption and Rescue League C.A.R.L.

https://carldogs.org/
CARL Adoption Center-call 644-7387 for more information.

 


 

 

Hi: I’m Zeus a 5-year-old Neutered Male Siberian Husky

I was found in Fillmore. You can see what a great addition I would be to your family.

Shelter: VCAS Camarillo Animal Shelter Animal ID: A832578

Vol. 16, No. 25 – Sept 6 – Sept 19, 2023 – As I See It

The Ventura County Fair made about $6.7 million this year. This is slightly less than last year’s $6.9 million. Ticket revenue was slightly up and parking was slightly down from last year. Carnival proceeds fell to about $3.6 million, nearly $230,000 less than last year.

The preliminary revenue numbers reported by the fair included $2.62 million in admissions; $3.55 million in carnival proceeds; $511,300 in parking; and $6.68 million in total revenue.

Inmate Number P01135809

What struck me as a little odd is Trump’s bond was set as $200,000 and he put 10% down and had a bond company guarantee the balance. This is usually done by people who can’t afford to cover their bond. Could it be that Trump doesn’t have $200,000?

Joseph Biggs, a former military service member who helped lead efforts by the Proud Boys to take over the U.S. Capitol on Jan. 6, 2021, was sentenced to 17 years in prison for seditious conspiracy and other crimes committed during the riot more than two years ago.

Ethan Nordean, 32, was sentenced to 18 years for a more serious seditious conspiracy charge.

Even though Bigg’s sentence is far below the 33-year sentence sought by prosecutors, I’m very happy with it. I’m a proud boy because our democracy is working so well finding and prosecuting many of the people who tried to overthrow our country.

US District Judge Timothy Kelly told Biggs that the events of the day broke a long political tradition. He said, “If we don’t have a peaceful transfer of power in this country, we don’t have anything.”

Just before jury selection was to begin in their trial, the remaining three defendants in the theft of more than half a million dollars from the Ventura County Fairgrounds on August 10th last year changed their pleas to guilty. They also admitted to 16 special allegations regarding the theft from the fair administration building. It’s still hard to believe it was so easy for them to steal almost $600,000.

Hopefully the dying of our sea dwellers is coming to an end. Algae that produce domoic acid along the Southern California coast have kept marine mammal rescue groups busy, but the blooms have diminished. Marine mammal centers treated hundreds of animals during what the National Oceanic and Atmospheric Administration said was the most severe algal bloom on record in a geographic region. It was so sad to see ocean dwellers dying.

Muslims in eastern Pakistan went on a rampage over allegations that a Christian man had desecrated the Quran, demolishing the man’s house, burning churches and damaging several other homes, police and local Christians said. Perhaps this was a bit of an overreaction.

San Francisco’s Roman Catholic archdiocese filed for bankruptcy, saying the filing is necessary to manage more than 500 lawsuits alleging child sexual abuse by church officials. The Chapter 11 protection filing will stop all legal actions against the archdiocese and thus allow it to develop a settlement plan with abuse survivors.

I hope that Ventura can support the many cannabis stores that will be opening here. Cannabis stores in other communities are already suffering financially. Just don’t know if there is this much need.

Three people were killed in a racially motivated attack after a gunman targeted Black people at a Dollar General store in Jacksonville, Florida, in one of several weekend shootings that again shocked Americans in public places.

A judge has refused to dismiss the case against a father who helped his son obtain a gun license three years before authorities say the younger man fatally shot seven people at a 2022 Fourth of July parade in suburban Chicago. Illinois prosecutors charged Robert Crimo Jr. because he had alleged helped his son, Robert Crimo III, obtain a gun license even though the then 19-year-old had threatened violence. Perhaps this type action can help reduce gun deaths at least a little.

City of Ventura names William “Bill” Ayub as the new City Manager

Ayub’s career began in 1985 as a police cadet and reserve police officer.

The City of Ventura is pleased to announce the appointment of William “Bill” Ayub as the new City Manager, effective August 8, 2023. With a diverse and extensive law enforcement background and a strong commitment to public service, Ayub brings a wealth of experience and leadership to his new role.

Ayub brings over 37 years of progressively responsible law enforcement experience, including nearly 15 years in management, most of which was with the County of Ventura. He served as the Sheriff of Ventura County for over four years until his retirement in January 2023.

“We are thrilled to welcome Bill Ayub as our new City Manager. His exceptional track record of collaborative leadership and dedication to uplifting the community fit perfectly with our city’s values,” said Mayor Joe Schroeder. “We are confident that he will lead with integrity, foster positive connections in our community, and provide a visionary direction that will propel Ventura towards an exciting and prosperous future.”

Ayub’s career began in 1985 as a police cadet and reserve police officer with the Santa Paula Police Department. Over the years, he has held various positions, including serving as a police officer in the City of North Las Vegas, Nevada, and the City of Port Hueneme before joining the Ventura County Sheriff’s Office in 1996.

“I am honored and excited to take on the role of City Manager for the City of Ventura,” said William Ayub, a long-time Ventura resident. “Serving in the city I call home means a great deal to me. I look forward to working alongside the talented team here to build on Ventura’s strengths, tackle challenges, and uplift our residents’ overall quality of life while promoting a culture of collaboration and responsiveness.”

Apart from his professional achievements, Ayub has a long history of volunteerism, including supporting little league as an assistant coach and serving on the board of directors. He has also been an active member of the Ventura Sheriff K9 Foundation and remains involved with organizations such as the Southern California Law Enforcement Torch Run for Special Olympics and the Board of Directors for Casa Pacifica Centers for Children and Families.

Ayub holds a Bachelor of Science degree in Psychology from the California State University at Northridge, a Master of Science in Emergency Services Administration from the California State University at Long Beach, and an Associate of Science in Administration of Justice from Ventura Community College.

As the City Manager, Ayub will earn a base salary of $280,000, and his total compensation with benefits will be $351,130.

The Housing Authority of the City of San Buenaventura is excited to announce the appointment of Jeff Lambert

Jeff Lambert returns to Ventura.

The Board of Commissioners (BOC) for the Housing Authority of the City of San Buenaventura (HACSB) is delighted to announce the appointment of Jeffrey “Jeff” Lambert as the new Chief Executive Officer for the HACSB. Lambert brings a wealth of experience and expertise in housing planning, policy development, and community engagement to his new role. Jeff succeeds Denise Wise who is retiring after serving the organization for 12 years.

Jeffrey Lambert is a skilled leader and community development professional who has a wealth of public service experience. In his previous posts, he served as the Community Development Director for the City of Ventura and the City of Oxnard. While at the City of Ventura, Jeff worked closely with the Housing Authority on various affordable housing developments including the Westview Village community, which is in the process of completing its third phase of a major renovation project later this year. Jeff most recently held the position of Chief Operation Officer for the Ventura County Community Foundation. Lambert holds a degree in Psychology and Political Science from Clark University, in Massachusetts and a master’s degree in urban planning from the University of Southern California.

Lambert’s appointment comes after the BOC went out for a second search, after an unsuccessful search earlier this year. This national search attracted candidates from all over the country, and Jeff was one of two candidates that were invited for final interviews. The final interviews included interviews with community stakeholders, the Citywide Resident Advisory Board, and Executive Staff.

John Polanskey, the Chair of the board, is ecstatic that the BOC was able to successfully reach an agreement with Mr. Lambert. “The entire Board of Commissioners is looking forward to partnering with Mr. Lambert and HACSB’s talented team to continue the vital work of providing safe, decent, and affordable housing opportunities and support services to help meet the needs of the most vulnerable residents in the City of Ventura”, said Polanskey.

Jeff, eager to get started in the new role stated, “I have had the pleasure of working with and following the great work of the Housing Authority for more than a decade. I am thrilled to join this amazing team and to continue to work to serve our residents and the Ventura community. I cannot wait to get started!”.

“I am excited about the next phase of growth that the Housing Authority is entering, and Jeff will be able to lead the agency in its next phase of development, said outgoing CEO, Denise Wise.

Jeff Lambert will resume his post on August 28, 2023, with a starting salary of $225,000.

The HACSB is the largest residential landlord in the City of Ventura with more than 1,480 Housing Choice Vouchers and 1097 affordable rental units. The mission of the Housing Authority of the City of San Buenaventura is to provide and develop quality affordable housing for eligible low-income residents of Ventura County and to establish strong partnerships necessary for HACSB customers to achieve personal goals related to literacy and education; health and wellness; and job training and employment leading to personal growth and economic self-sufficiency.

Upcoming new and exciting mental health fundraiser events

The Return to Bard Mansion Halloween Fundraiser will be an upcoming formal night out.

by Carol Leish, MA

The Turning Point Foundation in Ventura is having two upcoming fundraising events. These events will be fun events to be able to help to provide: hope, a haven, and healing to improve the quality of lives for those in need of help. The Mission Statement of the Turning Point Foundation is: ‘To improve the quality of life for adults experiencing serious mental illness, addiction, lack of housing, and inadequate physical health care.’

Exploration Mental Health will be an upcoming Scavenger Hunt. Participants will visit unique locations in Ventura, Oxnard, and Camarillo that relate to mental health. The mission will be to complete tasks along the way. Prizes will be awarded to various winners!

An email with the event map will be sent out on September 8th, 2023 at 10:00am to the email addresses provided at checkout. September 8th will be your start date and time. Remember to check your spam and junk folders. You will have from September 8th to September 13th, 2023 at 5:00pm to complete the scavenger hunt. The top 5 players (winners) to correctly finish first will receive their choice of prizes (listed below). The prized are valued between $150-$200. All other players who correctly complete the hunt by the deadline will receive consolation prizes. Only registered players will receive the event hunt map and are eligible to win.

The prizes for the scavenger hunt include: 1) A $150 Costco Gift Card; 2) A $200 Patagonia Gift Card; 3) Magic Castel VIP Guest Pass for 4; and 4) various trips (whale watching and going to local islands), by Island Packers Visit: www.turningpointfoundation.org/explorationmentalhealth to register for the excitement!

The Return to Bard Mansion Halloween Fundraiser will be an upcoming formal night out (October 28th starting at 6:30pm), in what is known as a haunted mansion! You will gain exclusive access to the Bard Family’s 1912 Mansion, which is located on the Port Hueneme Naval Base. It will be an unforgettable evening that will include a dinner (prime rib, chicken plicata or vegetarian), with either wine, water or coffee or tea, and dessert. Magic from the Magic Castle magician Ron Saylor will highlight the evening. Comedy will be provided by, Big Tom. Ghost tours and a Silent Auction will also be included! You will be able to explore parts of the mansion that most people have never seen. This will include seeing the attic and the basement.

All proceeds from this Halloween Fundraiser event on October 28th benefit the Turning Point Foundation. To register, visit: www.turningpointfoundation.or/bardmansionhalloween. While having fun, you will be helping those who are becoming more hopeful through having a haven and receiving healing through the services that Turning Point Foundation provides to them.

Wings Over Camarillo Air Show

Visitors got to witness breathtaking aerobatic maneuvers. Photos by Daniel Jackson and Janie Tran

Wings Over Camarillo Air Show, the premier air show on the Central Coast of California.

Took place on August 19. This year’s event was filled with captivating performances, static aircraft displays, family-friendly activities, and a touch of history.

Visitors got to witness breathtaking aerobatic maneuvers as skilled stunt pilots take to the skies, showcasing an array of thrilling moves such as loops, rolls, spins, hammerheads, and stalls. But that’s not all – the event was more than just high-flying entertainment. Attendees explored a diverse collection of static aircraft models, offering an up-close look at aviation history and innovation.

Families got to enjoy hands-on experiences that cater to all ages, from watching drones and UAVs take flight to participating in interactive STEM activities that shed light on aviation, aerospace, and STEM fields.

History buffs found a highlight in the 82nd Airborne Division 505th Reenactment Camp, a unit recognized by the California Historical Group. This camp pays tribute to World War II combat soldiers, and this year’s event proudly features their historical reenactments.

Adding to the excitement was the inclusion of a motorcycle and classic car show, offering a dynamic blend of aviation and automotive enthusiasts. As the day unfolded, an impressive lineup of performances takes center stage, including the USAF Wings of Blue Parachute Team, P-51 Mustang Fly-B, and the Ventura Sheriff HH-60L Helicopter Water Drop.

Amidst the action, the event paid homage to the C-46, the largest operational twin-engine aircraft in American service during WWII. The C-46 made history by ferrying crucial supplies over the treacherous Himalayan Mountains, a feat known as “Flying the Hump.” The iconic China Doll aircraft, built in 1945, stands as a rare survivor from that era.

With a blend of heart-pounding aerobatics, historical reenactments, engaging STEM displays, and a nod to aviation history, the Wings Over Camarillo Air Show delivered an unforgettable experience for attendees of all ages. Don’t miss the chance to be part of this thrilling and educational event that celebrates the wonders of flight and the spirit of exploration again next year!

Art & Street Painting Festival Harbor

The festival gives visitors an opportunity to enjoy street painting.

The 15th Annual Ventura Art & Street Painting Festival returns to picturesque Ventura Harbor Village on September 9th & 10th, 2023 from 10 AM to 5 PM. www.venturaartfestival.com.

Presented by Ventura County Art Events, Inc., the Ventura Art & Street Painting Festival boosts 30 curated artist vendors showcasing their art in Ventura Harbor Village. Works of art include paintings, pottery, photography, and jewelry — all available for purchase.  Additionally, the sidewalks along the Ventura Harbor Village promenade and Fisherman’s Memorial will be the canvas for more than 20 talented and colorful chalk artists, creating murals ranging from 10×5 ft. to 10×10 ft. in size.  Well known chalk artists, Clif Gold, Julio Jimenez and Rod Tryon, plan to attend.

The festival gives visitors an opportunity to enjoy art, street painting, and the beauty of the Ventura County coast.  Admission & parking are free.

Said Barbara Hinton, Executive Director of the Ventura Art & Street Painting Festival “The street painters are working in real time right before your very eyes.”

The Ventura Art & Street Painting festival weekend at Ventura Harbor Village highlights live seaside music on the Village Promenade Stage all weekend long including versatile entertainer, Preston Smith, a legend in the Southern California music scene, on September 9, 2023 from noon-3 PM. Visitors can also take in a performance by reggae favorite Tony Lee and Forbidden Fruit, who plan to bring their pop reggae style, that is both infectious and fun for the entire family, from Noon-3 PM on September 10.

A benefit for FOOD Share of Ventura County, Ventura Art & Street Painting Festival has raised over $60,000 for FOOD Share of Ventura County over the years according to Ventura County Art Events, Inc. For more festival details or to get involved visit www.venturaartfestival.com.

The destination is the picture-perfect weekend getaway for couples, friends, and families. While at the festival, visit Ventura Harbor Village art galleries and even more unique maker spaces, eateries and a new wine tasting room. For additional information regarding Village galleries art demonstrations and activities, visit VenturaHarborVillage.com.

Tickets on Sale for “Pier Under the Stars”

Raise funds to get the historic Ventura Pier reopened. Photo by Michael Gordon

Tickets are now on sale for Pier Under the Stars—the 28th annual benefit for the historic Ventura Pier on Saturday, October 7th, from 4-7pm. Each year more than 500 residents and visitors attend this beachfront culinary event adjacent to the pier to sample the county’s best food, wine and spirits provided by over 25 area businesses. This year the event is needed more than ever to raise funds to get the historic Ventura Pier reopened.

Restaurants, cafes, wineries and breweries serve their signature dishes and beverages from tented booths along the seaside Promenade while guests enjoy live music and dancing under the stars and an amazing silent auction.

The sell-out event hosted by Pier into the Future–-a non-profit organization-

“is a much anticipated community gathering of friends that raises funds for our beloved Pier”, said Pier Into the Future Executive Director Jenise Wagar-Hernandez. The organization was founded by a group of dedicated

community leaders, in partnership with the City of Ventura, to establish an endowment fund to maintain and enhance the historic Ventura Pier for future generations to enjoy. The organization has contributed over $1,128,000 to the City of Ventura over the last 30 years to enhance the Pier.

General admission tickets are $95 and include food and beverage tasting and a commemorative Pier wine glass. A limited number of VIP tickets are offered at $185. VIP tickets include all of the benefits associated with General Admission, plus a reserved seat at a VIP table along the promenade and a special wine tasting in the VIP area.

Tickets are available on line at www.eventbrite.com.

Visit www.pierintothefuture.org for more information.

Annual “Back-to-School” Gift~Away Event

The pirate and mermaid themed event made a big splash with the families.

Kids & Families Together (K&FT) – Heart 2 Heart Program set sail on Saturday, August 12th, with all pirates and mermaids on board for their 13th Annual Back-to-School Gift~Away Event! This year’s event was sponsored by the Port of Hueneme, and The Gene Haas Foundation. The event was graciously hosted at The Assistance League of Ventura County. Over 100 children and 60 families attended the event.

The pirate and mermaid themed back-to-school event made a big splash with the families being served by programs at K&FT. Young mermaids, pirates, and even a few princesses, arrived to pick out their own backpacks and school supplies that were gifted by generous sponsors and donors. “Our community provided for these families in a way that is most needed, with day-to-day essentials”, said Jeni Futvoye, Community Resource Manager. The event theme, coupled with the beautiful weather and dedicated volunteers, provided a gathering for the families that was filled with support and light-heartedness. Each child was welcomed by a group of “professional” pirates and a fairy. The families enjoyed using their “treasure map” throughout the event to discover art projects, cuddle Xander bunnies, clothing, household goods, and more. Carl the DJ kept the mood light and F-U-N, playing hits the children would recognize, and dance to if the mood struck! At the end of the journey, children turned in their treasure map to pick out a special gift from the treasure chest.

One of caregiver commented after the event … “First and foremost, I wanted to express my deep gratitude for the event you hosted on Saturday. The experience was truly amazing, and we really enjoyed ourselves! The kindness shown to us by everyone was heartwarming, and we felt a genuine sense of love. My kids were talking about the event the whole entire day!”

K&FT is grateful to the generous sponsors and donors who made this event possible: The Port of Hueneme, Gene Haas Foundation, Assistance League of Ventura County, CarMax – Oxnard, Lavender Life Company, Pierpont Racquet Club, Ventura Downtown Lions Club, St. Maximillian Kolbe Church, Soroptimist International of Conejo Valley, Forty Leaguers, TruckStop, Above the Bar Entertainment, Bell Arts Factory-Michele Foster, Cal Lutheran University, LBA Realty, Meathead Movers, SoCal Honda Dealers, Key Club of Oxnard, and our wonderful community of individual donors.

Thanks to the 45 volunteers who worked so hard helping to prepare for this event by organizing donations and filling backpacks, those who helped with setting up and decorating, distributing donations, at the gratitude table, and art project during our event…making the event joyful and a memorable experience for all!

“Kids & Families Together – Heart 2 Heart Program is doing what we do best… providing meaningful and positive experiences meant to last a lifetime.” – commented Carrie McAuliffe Sandoval- K&FT staff and Heart 2 Heart co-founder.

 

Vol. 16, No. 24 – Aug 23 – Sept 5, 2023 – Scamp Club

DJ short for “Don Juan” loves to get into things like crawling in a dryer to be able to snuggle with warm clean clothes. He also gets into wastebaskets if they’re not closed tight. He likes sitting in a basket for bicycle rides and chasing squirrels. He’s a “chick magnet” when he takes walks with his owner. He’s a real sweetie and loves to snuggle.