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CAPS Media Records and Broadcasts 2024 Candidate Forum

As the 2024 election season approaches, CAPS Media is taking an active role in informing voters through a series of projects. On Thursday, September 12, CAPS crews recorded the candidate forum for Ventura City Council and Ventura Unified School District (VUSD) representatives. The event, hosted by David Maron and organized by the Ventura County League of Women Voters, was held at Cabrillo Middle School.

The forum featured candidates running for City Council in Districts 2, 3, and 7, as well as VUSD board members for Area 2. The candidates for District 2 include Doug Halter and Naz Madaen. For District 3, candidates are Heather Mae Ellinger, Clint Garman, Maricela Reyes, William Cornell, and Ryyn Schumacher. In District 7, the candidates are Erik Eiser, Mario “Alex” Mangone, and Brennan. VUSD board member candidates for Area 2 include James Markas, Sabrena Rodriguez, and David Norrdin.

The complete forum program will be aired on CAPS Media Channel 6 on the following dates:

  • Thursday, Sept 19 @ 6pm
  • Friday, Sept 20 @ 8pm
  • Saturday, Sept 21 @ 10am
  • Sunday, Sept 22 @ 8pm
  • Monday, Sept 23 @ 11am
  • Tuesday, Sept 24 @ 9am
  • Wednesday, Sept 25 @ 7pm
  • Thursday, Sept 26 @ 5pm
  • Friday, Sept 27 @ 9pm
  • Saturday, Sept 28 @ 10am

In addition to recording the forum, CAPS will also produce individual candidate statements for both Ventura City Council and VUSD board candidates. These statements, recorded at the CAPS studio, will air on CAPS Channel 6 leading up to the election on November 5 and will also be available for candidates to use in their own campaigns.

On Thursday, September 19, CAPS Crews will record and live stream Mayor Joe Schroeder’s final “State of the City” address. With his term concluding later this year, the mayor will provide updates on Ventura’s progress and future outlook. This presentation will be broadcast on CAPS Channel 6 and available for streaming on capsmedia.org throughout the month. For specific air dates and times, visit the CAPS website and use the search function to locate the program.

As election day approaches, ballots are scheduled to be mailed to registered voters starting October 7. Voters can drop off their ballots at numerous drop boxes throughout Ventura County, including one located at the CAPS Media Center at 65 Day Road. For more election information, visit the Ventura County Clerk’s website.

For those interested in learning more about CAPS Media and CAPS Radio KPPQ 104.1 FM, monthly orientations are held on the first Monday of every month at 6 p.m. The one-hour overview includes a tour of the CAPS production studio and radio station, plus information on membership benefits. Residents of Ventura County or members of nonprofits are encouraged to join the CAPS Creative Community and explore the opportunities available.

For more information, visit capsmedia.org.

Coastal Cleanup Day: Boosted by New Trash Capture Devices

Gross solid removal device installed by Caltrans, treating stormwater captured by two Ventura County Public Works catch basins in Saticoy. Photo by Hayley Luna

by David Goldstein, Ventura County PWA

This year, volunteers participating in Coastal Cleanup Day on Saturday, September 21, might encounter less litter along the shores than in previous years. Mechanical devices designed to capture trash from stormwater systems are preventing debris from flowing through storm drains and into waterways, helping keep beaches cleaner.

In a collaborative effort, the California Department of Transportation (CalTrans) and the Ventura County Public Works Agency recently installed a “gross solid removal device” to treat runoff from 41 acres in Saticoy, according to Hayley Luna, a manager with the Ventura County Public Works Agency. Similar systems have been installed by Ventura County Public Works in 136 catch basins across sites like Medea Creek, Lindero Creek, Revolon Slough/Beardsley Wash, and the Ventura River Estuary.

Local cities are also stepping up by complying with the California Statewide Trash Amendment, regulations adopted in 2015 by the State Water Resources Control Board to reduce trash in state waters. These rules require cities and counties to prevent trash from entering stormwater systems that drain into rivers, lakes, and coastal waters. “All of the Stormwater Permittees within the County are installing trash capture devices within catch basins,” said David Laak, a Ventura County Public Works manager overseeing the Countywide Stormwater Program. The deadline for full capture device installation in all applicable catch basins is 2030.

Despite these efforts, past Coastal Cleanup events have not shown a significant decrease in the volume of collected litter. This could be because much of the trash gathered—like cigarette butts, food wrappers, and plastic utensils—originates from beachgoers. The amount of litter collected may be more influenced by the number and enthusiasm of volunteers than by upstream collection devices.

Volunteers can participate in this year’s Coastal Cleanup Day by visiting the websites of the Ocean Conservancy or the California Coastal Commission, where they can select a site, read specific instructions, and pre-register for some locations. A waiver of liability is also available online, which volunteers must present at official cleanup sites.

While official sites offer perks like t-shirts, stickers, snacks, and water, volunteers are also encouraged to participate independently by using the Clean Swell app to log the types of litter they collect. Many experienced participants bring their own reusable gloves and buckets to reduce the need for disposable supplies.

This year, the Ventura County Resource Conservation District (RCD) has taken the lead in organizing Ventura County’s cleanup efforts. “We at the RCD felt that it aligned with our core values of conserving natural resources, and our goal to inspire stewardship in current and future generations of Ventura County residents,” explained Heidi Ortloff, the district’s Conservation Education and Outreach Coordinator. The RCD also coordinates two county watershed planning groups, the Ventura River Watershed Council and the Santa Clara River Watershed Committee. For more information on how to participate, visit www.vccoastcleanup.org.

David Goldstein is an Environmental Resource Analyst with the Ventura County Public Works Agency. He can be reached at (805) 658-4312 or [email protected].

Wet Wednesday: A Midweek Sailing Tradition in Ventura Harbor

Image by Janie Tran

by Janie Tran

Every week from April through September, the Ventura Yacht Club (VYC) hosts “Wet Wednesday,” a popular midweek sailing series. Often called “Beer Can Races” at other clubs, this event is open to all sailboats in Ventura Harbor, regardless of size or club affiliation, making it a perfect midweek break for local sailing enthusiasts.

The 2024 season has seen increased participation, with 22 boats registered – up from the previous year. The series is divided into two classes: the faster, competitive A-Class boats with spinnakers and the more relaxed C-Class cruising yachts, many of which are home to liveaboard sailors. Notably, the C-Class has seen the most significant growth in interest and participation this season.

Races take place every Wednesday evening at 6:00 p.m., starting just off the Ventura Harbor entrance. A unique aspect of the event is the “Sunset Rule,” which requires at least one boat in a class to finish before sunset. Afterward, the remaining boats in that class have 30 minutes to complete the course. Because the A-Class boats are faster, they often sail a different course to ensure all boats finish around the same time.

Image by Kimberly Keller

VYC encourages participation, even for non-members. With an active crew list available, anyone interested in sailing can join a crew and take part. Crews typically average around seven sailors per boat, meaning over 150 Venturans participate in the races weekly. Junior sailors are also a common sight, contributing to the growing local sailing talent.

The season wrapped up with the final race on September 11th. Light winds made for a slow, graceful race—more like a ballet compared to the wild, rodeo-like conditions of the previous week. Despite the lack of wind, camaraderie was high, particularly in the C-Class, which even managed to rescue a dropped wine glass during the race. Peter Acutt noted, “That boat has rescued four hats, an entangled seagull, and now a wine glass this season! There has to be an award in the works for those accomplishments.”

After each race, crews gather at VYC for dinner, drinks, and shared stories, ensuring that Wet Wednesday remains a cherished social and sailing tradition in Ventura Harbor.

BAA presents Ventura Mandala (new Artwalk Feature)

Thursday and Friday, September 19 and 20, 10am – 5pm
by Ojai Mandala Artists and Mandala Medicine Movement

Volunteers Needed

BAA is a major sponsor of this new-to-ArtWalk feature, a 40-foot mandala, to be painted on Ventura’s Main St. in front of the San Buenaventura Mission. It will be finished before ArtWalk commences and will be left on the street for one month.

A mandala is a geometric set of patterns, colors, and shapes, usually in the form of a circle. It is used in many faith traditions and represents wholeness, totality, infinity, timelessness, and unity.

Mandala painting has been a long-standing tradition for Ojai Day for more than 30 years with an emphasis on bringing together artists and community members. Foundational to its creation is that it is free and involves people of all ages and all artistic abilities. And now it is coming to Ventura!

Volunteers NeededYou are invited to join the artists and community builders by volunteering to help create the mandala. All ages and all abilities are welcome. You don’t have to be an artist to participate. You are invited to paint but you can also be involved by:

  • Manning the paint table, where you will welcome participants and organize and hand out paints and supplies
  • Setting up and tearing down the prep areas

River Sauvageau, founder of Mandala Medicine Movement, says the biggest need right now is at the paint table. “I am asking for help at the paint table, that is where we need help the most. This does not mean [volunteers] cannot paint, if they want to.”

If you would like to be involved in creating this piece of timeless beauty, whether as a painter with family and friends or a support organizer, please contact River at (805) 669-8058 (text is best) or email at [email protected].

Most of all, just show up, participate, or support the participants on Thursday and Friday, 10am to 5pm or see the finished product during ArtWalk, Saturday and Sunday, Sept. 21 and 22, noon to 5pm on Saturday and 11am to 4pm on Sunday!

Bodhi Salt Kitten Yoga and Adoption Event

Image by Rorozoa on Freepik.

The Humane Society of Ventura County (HSVC) is partnering with Bodhi Salt Yoga for its first-ever kitten yoga and adoption event on Sunday, Sept. 22, from 9 a.m. to 1 p.m. at Bodhi Salt Yoga, 175 S. Ventura Ave., Suite 103B, Ventura. The event promises a day of kitten fun while supporting the HSVC.

This time of year is known as “kitten season,” when warmer temperatures cause more female cats to go into heat. Like many shelters, the HSVC is inundated with kittens during this season. The goal of the event is to find loving homes for many of these baby cats.

Event Schedule:

  • 9–11 a.m.: Kitten meet-and-greets and supervised interactions. A designated area in the smaller studio room will allow potential adopters to interact with the kittens. On-site adoptions will be available with a staff member present. Kittens are available for a $60 adoption fee (regularly $150). Please note that kittens cannot go to their forever homes until after the yoga class. However, you can pre-adopt a kitten before the class to ensure you take home your dream kitty!
  • 11:15 a.m.–12:15 p.m.: Kitten yoga class led by instructor Whitney Carver. This 60-minute, donation-based class will benefit the animals of the HSVC. During the class, kittens will freely roam the space, offering an unforgettable and adorable yoga experience. Space is limited to 24 participants to allow the kittens more room to explore.
  • 12:15–1 p.m.: After the yoga class, pre-adopted kittens can be picked up by their new “pawrents.” Any kittens still available for adoption will remain at the studio until 1 p.m. before returning to the shelter in Ojai.

To reserve your spot, visit BodhiSaltYoga.com/classes or call (805) 628-9099.

National Aviation Day and National Bee Day: A Lesson in Environmental Solutions

by David Goldstein

As National Honeybee Day (August 17) and National Aviation Day (August 19) converge, there’s a lesson to be learned from bees that can apply to one of aviation’s major challenges: greenhouse gas emissions. Observing how some bee populations have stabilized while others remain at risk might offer insights into addressing environmental issues like carbon pollution from air travel.

These two seemingly unrelated topics intersect when purchasing a plane ticket. Many airlines offer an option to buy “carbon offsets,” allowing passengers to fund projects that reduce carbon emissions equivalent to those generated by their flight. If you’re considering this, or buying credits from companies like Terrapass, think of the bees.

Of the 4,000 species of bees in North America, one in four is at risk of extinction, according to the non-profit Bee Conservancy. However, honeybee populations have stabilized, largely due to efforts by the West Coast almond industry, which depends on honeybees for pollination. Washington State University apiary manager Professor Brandon Hopkins noted that almond farmers have been instrumental in supporting beekeepers, leading to the recovery of honeybee populations.

Rick Kushman, spokesperson for the Almond Board of California, explained the reciprocal relationship: “Bees are vital to the almond industry, and almond blossoms provide crucial nutrition to bees.” The almond industry, which shipped 2.7 billion pounds of almonds from California last year, has invested heavily in sustaining bee populations, working closely with beekeepers to offset environmental challenges.

In Ventura County, avocado farmers also rely on beekeepers, but it’s the almond industry that drives the majority of bee-related funding. As the growing season progresses, beekeepers transport hives across the state, following the bloom cycle.

While honeybee populations have been stabilized under human care, the future of other pollinators remains uncertain. Almond farms certified as “bee friendly” by the non-profit Pollinator Partnership, make up 86 percent of the total. These farms implement bee-friendly practices such as planting cover crops and utilizing the “BeeWhere” program, which alerts pesticide applicators of nearby hives.

The partial recovery of bee populations offers a model for addressing other environmental challenges: aligning economic incentives with environmental goals. In the case of air travel, purchasing carbon offsets helps fund projects that would otherwise be unfeasible, just as almond farmers’ reliance on bees spurred their investment in pollinator health.

However, motivation is key. Almond growers were driven by a clear economic threat—declining bee populations posed an immediate risk to their industry. In contrast, the impacts of climate change are more distant and less tangible, despite the relatively low cost of offsetting carbon emissions from a short flight. Meeting the goals of the Paris Climate Accords, for example, could cost up to $13.5 trillion, according to the United Nations International Energy Agency.

Perhaps the bees can remind us that environmental action, whether on a small or global scale, is both an obligation and an opportunity to make a difference.

David Goldstein is an Environmental Resource Analyst with the Ventura County Public Works Agency. He can be reached at (805) 658-4312 or [email protected].

How You Can Help Bees

The Bee Conservancy offers 10 tips to protect bee populations and biodiversity:

  1. Plant nectar-rich flowers in a variety of shapes, sizes, and bloom times.
  2. Avoid synthetic pesticides, herbicides, and fertilizers.
  3. Upload bee observations to their iNaturalist project (https://thebeeconservancy.org/citizen-community-science-for-bees/).
  4. Plant blossoming trees and trees suitable for nesting, such as maple, redbud, and black cherry.
  5. Create a shallow bee bath.
  6. Leave some ground bare for ground-nesting bees.
  7. Don’t trim hollow stems from trees in areas where tree-nesting bees reside.
  8. Educate others about the importance of bees.
  9. Support local beekeepers by purchasing honey and beeswax products.
  10. Donate to The Bee Conservancy to support their work.

Vol. 17, No. 26 – Sept 18 – Oct 1, 2024 – Community Events

Ventura

Ventura’s ArtWalk Features the Best of the Area’s Vibrant Art Scene: Sat, Sept. 21, 12 – 5pm and Sunday, Sept. 22, 11 am – 4 pm. Downtown.

The family-friendly event will feature hundreds of artists in local galleries, businesses, restaurants and on the grounds of Mission Park and the Albinger Museum. Artist booths, popular local bands, aerialists, poetry, dance, a film festival, street painting, puppetry and a children’s area will all be a part of this event run by an enthusiastic all-volunteer team. Live painting and pottery demonstrations will also be featured. This huge, free event unites Ventura’s west side neighborhoods, businesses and arts community in a two-day celebration of the creative spirit. Transit to ArtWalk Ventura and along the route will again be at no cost through the generosity of Gold Coast Transit. Register to participate at www.artwalkventura.org.

Namba Performing Arts Space: 4th Annual Playwrights’ SPLASH Festival Weekend #2 and #3. Namba Performing Arts Space, 47 S. Oak Street.

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.

September 20 – 22
Namba Performing Arts Space is thrilled to announce the second weekend of its 4th Annual Playwrights’ SPLASH Festival, a three-weekend celebration of innovative theater that will run from August 30th through October 20th. This year’s festival brings to Ventura the best of the Hollywood Fringe Festival, featuring eight carefully curated shows that highlight new voices in theater.

Friday, September 20 at 8 PM, The Godmother
Kicking off the second weekend, we are proud to present “The Godmother,” which brings to life the story of Griselda Blanco, one of the most notorious drug lords of her era. Melina Farahani’s solo performance is guided by the intricate direction of the piece, offering a tale of power, sacrifice, and the indomitable bond between mother and son. This show is a profound exploration of family and the human condition.

Saturday, September 21, 8 PM, Mermaid
“Mermaid” intertwines a personal narrative with African mythology. Italome Ohikhuare’s solo show follows a Nigerian-American woman discovering a link between her health and an ancient mermaid goddess. This poignant and magical performance explores themes of identity, heritage, and healing.

Sunday, September 22, 7 PM, Magic for Animals
“Magic For Animals” closes weekend two on Sunday, September 22, at 7 PM, with Liz Toonkel’s witty and insightful one-woman show that blends magic, humor, and activism. Toonkel, who is the actor, writer, and producer, uses allusions to explore pressing issues like animal welfare and climate change, delivering a heartwarming and thought-provoking narrative.

Weekend #3 (October 18 – October 20)

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.

American Foundation for Suicide Prevention’s Out of the Darkness Community Walk: Sat, Sept. 21, Promenade Park near the Ventura Pier

Join the walk to promote the importance of suicide prevention. In 2021, over 420 Out of the Darkness Walks took place in communities and on campuses across the United States, attended by over 80,000 dedicated people who shared their passion for a growing movement. The goal is to spread awareness of what is currently a leading cause of death in the U.S., and let others know they are not alone. Help ensure that mental health is looked upon with equal importance to physical health and continue to bring hope to those affected by suicide. Register: afsp.org/vc.

VACE CAREER and EDUCATION EXPO: Tues, Sept 24, 2:00 – 5:00 pm, VACE Campus 5200 Valentine Road.

This event is FREE and open to the public! This is a GREAT opportunity to meet local business owners and representatives. Someone might need someone with your exact skill set or might know someone else who does. Scan the QR code to register. www.workforceventuracounty.org or www.facebook.com/WDBVC.

The Museum of Ventura County: The Curse of The Vampire. Tales from the Book of Nosferatu. Sept 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, October 19m 8:00 am – 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

Channel Islands Chamber Orchestra: Sun., Sept 22, 3 pm. First United Methodist Church, 1338 E Santa Clara St.

“Season Opener!” Sinfonia concertante in B-flat major by Joseph Haydn (Kimaree Gilad, Oboe; Cavit Celayir-Monezis, Bassoon; Sharon Cooper, Violin; John Fare, Cello)

Concerto in G minor for Organ, Strings and Timpani Francis Poulenc A Midsummer Night’s Dream by Felix Mendelssohn. Tickets are $20 online in advance and

$25 at the door. Students and children under 12 are free!

cichamberorchestra.org/general-admission/p/september22. 

Ventura County Cultural Heritage Board hosts Speaker Session Q&A: Mon, Sept 23, 1:15 p.m. Multi-Purpose Conference Room, Hall of Administration, Ventura County Government Center

Join Us for the Ventura County Cultural Heritage Board Speaker Series! Speaker: Dr. José M. Alamillo will discuss his research on Farmworker Labor Camps and Farmworker Movements in Ventura County, including the nation’s largest bracero camp, Buena Vista Camp, in Oxnard. Don’t miss this insightful presentation!

Chabad of Ventura High Holidays: Crown Plaza Ventura Beach

Rosh Hashanah: October 3 & 4, 10:00 am – 2:00 pm, Shofar at 12:00 pm. Thursday, October 3, 5:30 pm at the Ventura Promenade Beach Playground for “Shofar in the Park.”

Yom Kippur; October 11, 6:30 pm, October 12, 10:00 am – 2:00 pm

Chabad of Ventura services are designed to make everyone feel welcome and at home. The prayers, conducted with Hebrew/English prayer-books, are lively, engaging, and inclusive – spiced with inspiring tunes and insightful explanations throughout – allowing all to absorb the experience at their own level. There is NO CHARGE for seats; your donation is greatly appreciated. Advance reservations are suggested to secure your seat. Reservations can be made online or over the phone. 805-658-7441. www.ChabadVentura.com/HighHolidays

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

Patchwork Show Ventura brings all the charm of a beach town (you can even see the ocean from the show!) including a walkable collection of local shops and restaurants. 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/

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:

Monday Matinees: A Movie Screening Series, First and Third Mondays at 12pm. The Ojai

Library, 111 East Ojai Ave.

The Ojai Library announces the launch of Monday Matinees. The library will be hosting free movie screenings on the first and third Mondays of each month at noon. There will be a special additional screening on Monday, September 30, 2024, to round out the first month.

This program aims to provide a fun and relaxing way for visitors to enjoy a diverse selection of films, ranging from classic favorites to contemporary hits. The movie listings will be posted in the library, ensuring that everyone can stay up to date with upcoming features. For additional information, contact Ron Solórzano, Regional Librarian, at (805) 218-9146 or [email protected].

Ojai Studio Artists Tour: Saturday, Sunday and Monday, October 12 – 14

Always a highlight of the Southern California arts calendar, the (OSA) is back with a three-day “choose-your-own adventure” extravaganza. More than 70 artists open their private spaces over the course of the long weekend in a tour that features paintings, sculptures, fiber arts, collage, jewelry, glass, prints, mixed media and all manner of artworks, all experienced in a variety of intimate and idiosyncratic spaces by members of a community-based nonprofit devoted to celebrating Ojai arts.

Ticket holders get a program and map of participating studios, from back yard wonderlands within walking distance of the town arcade to stone cabins nestled up Sulphur Mountain. Tickets are $20, giving visitors access to all studios over the three-day weekend (and supporting art scholarship programs for Nordhoff High art students). www.ojaistudioartists.org/all-tours/2024-fall-open-studios-tour.

Oxnard:

Beach Cities Neighbors and Newcomers Meeting: Wed, October 2, 9:30 – 11am, PCYC Pacific Corinthian Yacht Club 2600 Harbor Blvd.

Guest speaker and BCNN member, Lisa Mirisola, a recently appointed volunteer member of the Ventura County Clean Air Fund Advisory committee, will present an introduction to local air quality, electric vehicles and fueling technology.  BCNN, Beach Cities Neighbors and Newcomers, meets the first Wednesday of the month. It has dozens of small group off shoots from sports activities, to wine tasting, bridge, games, book groups and more. (www.bcnnwomensclub.org).  

Vol. 17, No. 26 – Sept 18 – Oct 1, 2024 – Forever Homes Wanted

Hi, I’m Louie, a very playful 1-year-8-month-old Terrier mix rescued from a shelter just before my time was up. I was adopted but proved to be too much for my previous family. I’m good with other dogs and cats. I would benefit from having another dog to play with and an active family that can give me the attention I need. I’m friendly, love going for walks, and enjoy playing fetch. I do well in playgroups and like playing with other dogs. Since I was too much for smaller children, I would do best in a home with older, larger children. Please consider me if you’re looking for a new furry family member.

 

Hi, I’m Paxton, a friendly 9-month-old Terrier mix rescued from Kern County. I’m grateful to my sponsors who helped me join CARL’s adoption program. As you can see, I’m a three-legged pup; my front right leg was amputated. While some might see this as a flaw, I believe it makes me special. I’m still an active puppy and eager to spend my future full of love and adventures with someone special. Since I’m a puppy, children in the home should be at least 6 years old. I’m cute, but please ensure you’re ready for the commitment a puppy requires—similar to having a newborn (of the two-legged variety) in the home. It’s a lifelong commitment, not a temporary one where love and attention might fade as I grow.

 

Hi, I’m Finn, a gentle giant Cane Corso/Presa Canario with lots of love to give! I’m almost 7 years old, a very mellow and well-mannered boy who walks well on a leash and listens to commands. I’ve experienced many changes recently, having been abandoned at the kennel. It’s not yet known how I interact with other dogs, as I haven’t participated in playgroups. My compatibility with children or cats is also unknown. I have a heart of gold and will make a great addition to your family.

 

Hi, I’m Ramen, a handsome 2½-year-old Husky/Shepherd mix in need of a new home after my owner sadly passed away. I have a playful personality and enjoy socializing with other dogs during playtime at the kennel. I’m a great walker on a leash and would make an excellent companion for many adventures together.

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.

Little Hands Art Studio

Join VitaArt or a fun-filled weekly art class designed for young artists. Children from 3-5 years-old will explore hands-on, age-appropriate art projects that spark imagination and creativity. Each class will feature exciting activities like painting, sculpting, and crafting, along with story time and playtime to keep little ones engaged and inspired.

  • Mondays, October 7 – November 4, 5 weeks
  • Time: 9-10:30am
  • Fees: $165.
  • Instructor: Kathleen Kaller
  • Materials provided
  • Classes are held outside in our patio

Potty-trained kiddos can be dropped off for independent art-making fun, while all other children are welcome to participate with a parent or guardian. Of course, all parents are encouraged to stay and enjoy the creative process with their child if they wish. www.vitaartcenter.com/fall-2024/little-hands-art-studio.