Q:Reader Linda Mc writes “why are there all of those cones at the lot at Harbor Dr. and Schooner Dr.?
A: The City has started to make the parking lot at Schooner and Harbor ready for the boats that have to be moved from the dry docks on Anchors Way because the pipes for the project are going right through the dry dock lot on the water side. The mediums on Schooner have been shortened and some landscaping areas have been paved to accommodate some of the larger boats to get into the lot.
As we know more about the project we will report it.
Rubicon Theatre is thrilled to announce “Dine & Delight” a private Winemaker’s Dinner hosted by Water’s Edge Restaurant on the Ventura Harbor featuring a 5-course menu created by award-winning Executive Chef Alex Montoya, with wine pairings from Caymus Vineyards.
Guests will enjoy a live musical performance by Broadway veteran and Rubicon artist Jennifer Leigh Warren during the main course. Plus, there will be a live auction at the end of the evening for a chance to win a trip for two to the wine country.
The event takes place on Tuesday, July 25th at 5:30 pm. This exceptional culinary event promises an evening of exquisite flavors, delightful wine pairings, live musical entertainment, and an opportunity to support the artistic and educational programs of Rubicon.
Tickets are $225 per person, which includes a $70 tax-deductible donation to Rubicon Theatre, and proceeds benefit Rubicon Theatre Company’s upcoming 25th Anniversary Season. Limited seats are available. For tickets, more information and sponsorship opportunities, visit www.rubicontheatre.org/dine-delight-2023 or contact Rubicon Development Coordinator Araceli Aggarwal by email [email protected] or phone (805) 667-2912, ext. 246.
By attending “Dine & Delight,” guests are directly contributing to the growth and success of Rubicon’s artistic and educational initiatives, enabling the theatre to continue inspiring and enriching the Ventura County community through the transformative power of theatre.
Says Rubicon Board President Doug Halter, “Guests will not only savor the local culinary delights, but also enjoy musical entertainment, creating an immersive experience that celebrates the intersection of gourmet cuisine, exceptional wines, and the arts.”
Two electric scooters were stolen from Chamber office.
In a surprising turn of events, GOGO, a local startup dedicated to providing eco-friendly transportation solutions, faced a setback when two of their electric scooters were stolen in a brazen smash-and-grab incident at the Ventura Chamber of Commerce. However, GOGO refuses to let this incident deter their mission. Instead, they are turning this adversity into an opportunity for growth and resilience.
The incident took place in the early hours of Friday, July 7, when a shattered window revealed the theft of the two electric scooters. GOGO’s team was initially shocked by this unexpected blow, but they quickly rallied together to demonstrate their unwavering commitment to the community and their determination to overcome challenges.
Founder and CEO Luciano Morales expressed the team’s reaction, saying, “While we are deeply saddened by this incident, we see it as a test of our resilience and determination. Our focus has always been on providing convenient and eco-friendly transportation options for our community, and we won’t let this setback deter us from our mission.”
Rather than dwell on the negative, GOGO is using this incident as an opportunity to highlight the importance of supporting local businesses in Ventura and showcasing the spirit of entrepreneurship. They aim to inspire others by sharing their journey of resilience and their commitment to making a positive impact on the community.
Despite the setback, GOGO remains dedicated to their vision of transforming transportation in Ventura. They are actively working with local law enforcement to recover the stolen scooters and ensure the safety and security of their fleet. In the face of adversity, the team is more determined than ever to provide residents and visitors with sustainable and efficient transportation options.
GOGO invites the community to join them in this inspiring journey. By supporting local startups and championing eco-friendly initiatives, Ventura residents can contribute to the growth and vibrancy of the city.
For more information about GOGO and their mission, please visit their website at RideGOGOelectric.com or follow them on Instagram @rideGOGOelectric. Together, let us turn adversity into opportunity and build a stronger and more resilient community.
Bikes, scooters, strollers, and wagons are welcome at the parade.
It’s a celebration by the sea! The City of Ventura’s annual 4th of July Street Fair and Pushem-Pullem Parade returns on Tuesday, July 4, 2023, from 10:00 a.m. to 4:00 p.m. in Ventura’s Downtown District.
The Pushem-Pullem Parade, presented by the Rotary Club of East Ventura, will begin at 10:00 a.m. on Main Street in front of Cemetery Memorial Park and continue into the Street Fair in Downtown Ventura. No registration is required.
This year’s Street Fair features artisan vendors, a car exhibit, food trucks, live entertainment, a kids’ activity area, and more. Attendees can also enjoy Downtown’s local shops and outdoor dining as part of Main Street Moves.
Both events are free to attend. Bikes, scooters, strollers, and wagons are welcome at the parade. Motorized vehicles are not allowed. A complimentary Bike Valet, courtesy of the City of Ventura Transportation Division and Bike Ventura, will be located at the corner of Main Street and South Chestnut Street from 10:00 a.m. to 4:00 p.m.
The Classic Car Exhibit will feature over 80 beautiful vehicles displayed on South Oak Street and South Palm Street from 10:00 a.m. to 4:00 p.m. Live entertainment, including local bands and community group performances, will take place at the intersection of California Street and Main Street.
Visit www.cityofventura.ca.gov/StreetFair for more details, including parking information and event maps.
For further event questions, contact Recreation Coordinator Allyson DesBaillets at [email protected] or 805-654-7749.
A combination of factors added to the problem over many years. Photos by Joseph Seemayer @jseemayerphoto
The city will receive $16.2 million to complete an old project to relocate the parking lot and crumbling bike path farther inland at Surfers Point. The California Coastal Conservancy approved the $16.2 million for the work. It is the second phase of a project that started well over a decade ago.
Surfrider started advocating for the project in the 1990’s. Paul Jenkin, Ventura campaign coordinator at the Surfrider Foundation stated “We are really happy to see that we are finally going to see it constructed.”
The project moves the publicly owned bike path and parking lot around 70 feet inland to prevent even more erosion.
A combination of factors added to the problem over many years. The project will go out for bidding later this year with construction expected to start in fall 2024.
The non-competitive, segmented run started at Ventura City Hall.
by Joseph Seemayer @jseemayerphoto
On Thursday, June 8, Ventura Police officers and staff participated in the Special Olympics Law Enforcement Torch Run held from 7:30 a.m. – 9:30 a.m.
The non-competitive, segmented run started at the steps of the Ventura City Hall located at 501 Poli St. Runners carried the Special Olympics’ Torch, also known as the “Flame of Hope,” through the streets of Ventura, passing it off to the Oxnard Police Department to continue the run throughout Ventura County.
“The Flame of Hope symbolizes a celebration of diversity and the spirit of Special Olympics athletes who remain committed to putting in the work to compete and represent their communities,” said Sergeant Ryan Reynosa, Special Olympics Liaison with the Ventura Police Department. “I am so thankful to be part of Team Ventura PD, working together to raise funds and increase awareness and acceptance for these incredible athletes locally.”
The Law Enforcement Torch Run is the largest awareness and grassroots fundraiser for Special Olympics. In Southern California, it consists of nine different legs, spanning from San Luis Obispo to San Diego. Legs are completed in conjunction with Special Olympics athletes and various members of law enforcement agencies from throughout the region.
Community members can support financially by making a donation to “Team Ventura PD” at www.CityofVentura.ca.gov/LETR.
Alan Salazar: Chumash Tribal Elder, Mike Murray: Deputy Superintendent for Programs Channel Islands, Robert Schwemmer: Maritine Heritage Program Regional Coordinator, Harry Rabin: Field Advisor “Heal the Ocean”
by Patricia Schallert
Tomol Paddlers
A free event was presented at Patagonia on June 15. Patagonia served food and drinks and their main focus was on building community awareness with a plan to build two Tomal canoes, and what that means to the Tataviam and Chumash Communities in Ventura. Patagonia also held a screening of the documentary “Chumash Powered” along with a fundraiser around the Tomol canoe builds.
Chumash tribal Elder Alan Salazar presented his life as a storyteller. As a Chumash Elder Alan Salazar, tells stories about his Chumash and Tataviam ancestors to anyone who will listen. He spoke about traditional plank boat building techniques to guests of Patagonia.
In his stories, Salazar, echoes words spoken by his Native American ancestors: tales of a grandmother oak, and the Sky Coyote, a rainbow bridge and how his Chumash and Tataviam tribes came to be. He presented his family story of the Tataviam and Chumash families who were brought to the San Fernando Mission around 1803 and he presented a lively explanation on the close extension of Indian tribes and Tomol paddlers crossing the channel to Santa Cruz Island.
Alan Salazar Chumash Tribal Elder blessing the audience
In his stories about the Tomol paddlers he reflects: “The Tomol comes to life in the dark of night and she helps connect her paddlers to one another, sensing energy even in pitch black waters as it crosses the channel to Santa Cruz Island.” A Tomol canoe is a “Plank Ocean canoe” and two will be built in Ventura. The Tomol is traditionally made of redwood logs, large enough to build a canoe. Using traditional tools, it will be hollowed out carefully by removing the inner wood, leaving the outer layers intact to form the canoe. The exterior of the hull will be carved into a shape that will be streamlined and seaworthy with the crossbeams providing support and strength. Finishing touches of smooth sanding on the Tomol canoe surfaces will seal it and make it waterproof for crossing the channel. Traditionally Chumash people used natural materials like tar and pine pitch to seal the canoe and make it watertight.
Hundreds of years ago, the native island Chumash traveled these ancient waters for hunting, fishing, and trading.
The Channel Islands Harbor Art Festival will return for its 17th year on July 8 – 9.
The art festival hosts both local and regional artists displaying their own original artwork in all mediums of fine art and fine craft. The artwork that will be presented includes ceramics, glass, jewelry, mixed media, paintings, etc.
The hours are from 10:00 am until 5:00 pm on both Saturday and Sunday. Admission and parking are free. Harbor Landing, 2800 Harbor Blvd., at the corner of Channel Islands Blvd., in Oxnard.
Presented by West Coast Artists. For more information visit WestCoastArtists.com or call 818-813-4478.
Just doing what she’s told and staying on the walkway.
Ron Barrett tried to coax her back into the harbor.
On June 17, a pregnant sea lion decided she would rather spend time on the promenade at Portside Ventura Harbor. When it became obvious, she wasn’t going back in the water the volunteer folks from the Channel Islands Marine & Wildlife Institute Rescue (CIMWI) came out to try to get her back into the water but she refused to budge.
Volunteer Seri McClendon, who was on-site, stated “Marine mammals are federally protected under the Marine Mammal Protection Act. Violations can result in a civil penalty up to $11,000 as well as criminal penalties up to $100,000 and imprisonment of up to a year or both. It is important to keep both people and pets away from stranded animals. If pets are around the area, make sure they are on a leash.”
She went on “Not all animals that seem stranded need human intervention. It is normal for seals and sea lions to come out of the water to rest, digest and sun themselves and mothers often leave their pups onshore while they are foraging at sea. It is in the best interest of these wild animals to have the least amount of human interaction as possible.”
19-year-old Venturan Kiana Casey hardly left for 2-days trying to get help for the sea lion.
After lots of people trying to get her back in the water she just decided it was time to get back in so she just got up and went back in. A happy ending.
CIMWI is a part of the Marine Mammal Health and Stranding Response Program under the direction of NOAA’s National Marine Fisheries Service. Dedicated to positively impacting conservation through marine mammal rescue, rehabilitation, research and education to promote ocean and human health. CIMWI serves Santa Barbara & Ventura counties in Southern California.
CIMWI has responded to over 500 live sea lions exhibiting signs of domoic acid and over 100 dead sea lions in Santa Barbara and Ventura counties. There have been over 20 live common dolphin strandings which succumb quickly to the neuro toxin. The toll for dead dolphins is up to 100. The numbers for live and dead stranded marine mammals suspected of having domoic acid rises by the hour.
It is important to keep both people and pets away from the stranded animal. If pets are around the area, make sure they are on a leash. These animals are easily stressed by humans and pets.
Do not touch, feed, harass, cover, pour water on, coax/drag/push into the water or out of the surf zone, allow dogs near or take selfies with the animal. These are wild animals and they may bite!
Observe the animal from a minimum of 50 feet (the length of a school bus). Keep people and pets away from the stranded animal. Note the animal’s physical characteristics and condition. Determine the exact location of the animal. Be as accurate as possible and note any landmarks so CIMWI’s rescue team can easily find the animal.
Call the CIMWI Rescue Hotline at (805) 567-1505. Provide your name, phone number, specific information about the animal and its location.
Marine mammals are federally protected under the Marine Mammal Protection Act. Violations can result in a civil penalty up to 11,000 as well as criminal penalties up to $100,000 and imprisonment of up to a year or both.
Please consider volunteering or donating to CIMWI to help with the rescue program. https://www.cimwi.org/
Foto: 61 Happy volunteers after 4-5 hours. Photos by Patricia Schallert and Michael Gordon
44 Four years of art school to do this?
On Saturday, June 24, Portside Ventura Harbor presented Playhouses by the Sea with Habitat for Humanity of Ventura Harbor (building homes, communities& hope) There was construction and painting of three beautiful playhouses for military and veteran families. A wonderful opportunity to give back to our community and make a positive impact. Each playhouse was pre-cut and took 4-5 hours to assemble and paint.
Portside, Habitat and Ventura volunteers joined together to make Gabby’s Playhouse theme for the Feliciano Family, Pirate theme for the Munoz Family and Jungle Theme for the Blanding Family.
Playhouse Builds are special in that participants get to interact with military and veteran families who arrive at the end of the day to receive their playhouses. In many cases, the playhouses are a surprise to the children, and getting to see their reactions was priceless.
The event also featured a captivating 4-hour live performance by Teresa Russell, along with a free breakfast and lunch of wonderful sandwiches and sides provided Portside’s Harbor Mart
Playhouse Build team members also received a Habitat Ventura t-shirt.
Habitat stated “We’re building a county where everyone has a safe, decent place to live. We build and sell affordable homes, offer critical health and safety repairs for low-income homeowners, offer financial education, and advocate for policies that create more housing for struggling families.”
“Our Playhouse Build Days are a unique building opportunity for teams to work together to construct and decorate children’s playhouses, which are then donated to military and veteran families in Ventura County. Proceeds raised by Playhouse Build Days provide direct support for our programs that help struggling families obtain safe, affordable housing.”
How can you sign up to host a Playhouse Build day? Contact Crystal Star at [email protected].
