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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.

Vol. 16, No. 24 – Aug 23 – Sept 5, 2023 – The Pet Page

• Ventura County Animal Services (VCAS) is thrilled to announce their participation in Clear The Shelters, the nationwide pet adoption event organized by NBC Universal. This one-day pet adoption event will be held on Saturday, August 26th, 2023, from 11:00am – 5:00pm at both the Camarillo and Simi Valley Animal Shelters. Shelter Director, Jackie Rose, says “The goal of Clear The Shelters is to find a loving home for every available animal in our care!”

To assist residents with the initial cost associated with adopting a shelter animal, VCAS will be waiving all pet adoption fees, though a small pet license fee may apply. Adoption gifts provided by Hill’s Science Diet, VCA Animal Hospital, and Assemblymember Steve Bennett.

Eventgoers are encouraged to preview shelter animals online at www.vcas.us/pets to see who they may be interested in adopting. Shelter officials estimate there will be over 300 animals to choose from at this event, including dogs, puppies, cats, kittens, rabbits, and other furry friends. “With the shelter running at 110% capacity, Clear The Shelters could not have come at a better time!” Said Marketing Manager, Randy Friedman.

VCAS wishes to remind everyone that promotions do not guarantee the adoption of a shelter pet and that all interested parties must participate in the full adoption process to ensure the best possible matches are made.

• National Dog Day is on August 26, so celebrate your furry friends in the best ways possible way. Dogs have been with us for at least 14,000 years. Take them for a nice walk, treat them their favorite food and toys. A great opportunity to adopt a dog.

Dogs are a man’s best friend for a reason, so why not celebrate them? These furry friends range in all different shapes, sizes, and breeds. There is a dog out there for everyone! Whether you like big dogs or small dogs, every pup should be celebrated on National Dog Day.

This holiday was created in 2004 by Colleen Paige, a Pet & Family Lifestyle Expert and animal advocate. She created this day so that all dogs can be celebrated and also to draw attention to the number of dogs in shelters and to encourage adoption to those who have yet to find a place to call home. August 26 is significant to Colleen because it is the day her family adopted her Sheltie when she was 10 years old.

Since the first celebration in 2004, National Dog Day has grown and is now celebrated across the world. In 2013 the holiday was written into New York legislation and can be seen on the New York State Senate’s website.

On August 12, Shih Tzu Amelia held a Paw-ty to celebrate her 13th birthday. She invited all of her dog friends who were told they could bring their humans. Pizza, salad and drinks were served plus a dog cake and a human cake.

Amelia lives at Portside Ventura Harbor so when mom Chris takes her for a walk she gets to enjoy the harbor and the boats sailing by.

Buenaventura Art Association’s gallery host three divergent artists

Separated Only by a Curtain, hard maple – John Parker

Creative self-expression unites three artists whose divergent subject and media choices will yield concurrent solo exhibitions Sept. 1-Oct. 28 in Studio 99, Buenaventura Art Association’s gallery and headquarters at Bell Arts Factory in Ventura.

They are Jennifer Krosp of Ventura, John Parker of Camarillo and Bonny Butler, who lives in Oxnard. Krosp and Butler are painters; Parker carves and incises maple hardwood wall art.

Bonny Butler in her home studio

All three plan to be on hand to discuss their artworks and techniques at First Friday open gallery receptions 6-9 p.m. on Sept. 1 and Oct. 6 and during several open studio hours for Ventura’s annual ArtWalk, slated 11 a.m.-7 p.m. Sept. 23 and 24.

Buenaventura Art Association, founded in 1954, occupies Studio 99 at 432 N. Ventura Ave., which is open noon-4 p.m. Fridays and Saturdays, and has an outlet at Harbor Village Gallery & Gifts and a display at SpiceTopia, a Main Street retail store.

Harbor Village Gallery & Gifts, at 1559 Spinnaker Drive, Suite 106, in Ventura Harbor, is open 11 a.m.-6 p.m. seven days a week. SpiceTopia, at 576 E. Main St., is also open daily, but the hours vary.

For more about BAA and its programs, call the gallery at 805-648-1235 or visit buenaventuraartassociation.org