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Hydro Theory

A vision of Dr. Anna Cho and Rex Regal.

by Patricia Schallert

Hydro Theory is a vision of Dr. Anna Cho and Rex Regal. They believe in “The Theory that ocean experiences, when mindfully facilitated, brings about integration within the self, others, skillsets, and the community verb ‘To just Add Water’ in the life process to enhance healing and growth”.

Rex Regal Founder and Ocean Communities Advisor is a former US Navy SEAL battling over three decades of post traumatic special warfare. As the visionaries of Hydro Theory’s mission, Rex brings an integrated lens to sustaining healing from the water. His professional journey led him to help communities and agencies build their infrastructure, expand their market reach, and enhance their potential. Regal combines his soulful presence and intense passion for healing ocean concepts, to move individuals and communities towards enriching their own lives. He serves Hydro Theory by envisioning creative and practical avenues to help the community reach their potential and break through any barriers that hinder their progress.

Anna is a Licensed Marriage and Family Therapist and Registered Art Therapist and serves as Clinical Supervisor for the new practicum site and training ground through Hydro Theory. She prefers to ride her longboard most of the time but will be grateful for whatever is rideable.

“I want Hydro Theory to provide a training hub for interns, coaches, and the community to raise awareness in mental health issues intersecting into our professions.”

They are a Veteran-run non-profit agency that promotes safe access to the ocean and have been approved as a graduate and doctoral level university training site (practicum). This also includes a team of philanthropic soul surfers who train on land, ocean and virtually to support emotional, physical, and professional development.

As avid surfers and sailors, their vision is to have an inclusive community space that serves as a platform for holistic coaches and teachers, therapists, and volunteer surfers to gather and to collectively share their gifts and talents, as well as share the challenges they try to overcome in their own lives while healing in the ocean.

Their program recently launched “Waves of Grief in partnership with Waves of Grief Collective” at Solimar Beach every second Sunday of the month. Their main offering is to provide solace and a safe space to heal together their losses from the pandemic and to provide help as they opened their Ocean Clinic to not only help in surf skills but to integrate their experience on land.

For Anna, yearning for the ocean is deeply connected to her childhood. It was a conflicting idea for her and so she patiently waited and dedicated a portion of her time attempting to visit the ocean when she could. It became her healing place once her day was complete, or before it had begun.

“I learned that I am an expert learner with the right teacher, and I supplemented the worries and fears around me by cleansing, sometimes tumbling from the ocean.”

What she noticed quickly was that not only was her endurance growing, but the supplement of water quickly became a necessity in survival, and she could not experience it alone.

Other surfers wondered how she came out so much to surf, and all she could think was, ‘How could I not? “This is where I cry, where I get nurtured, where I pray for those I love and lost, while continuing to paddle forward.”

As Anna observed and connected with other surfers, she noticed that everyone has a story to tell, pain they try to paddle away from, and ultimately what everyone ends up with, at the end of the sunset is “Ultimate Stokedness”.

As a mental health clinician experiencing the healing powers of the ocean, Anna and Rex both felt that to be able to sustain healing, it became an important need to be “shared with the community.” The circle of life does not end with pure joy and “feeling stoked”. “It ends with sharing, resonating, transpiring experiences that infect one another.”

The stories in Hydro Theory are generated by the Hydro Community, those who recognize the privilege we have on this coast, to help encourage the community to “Just Add Water” to the mix… and to stir it up with us!

Hydro email: [email protected] 805-8503726

Vol. 16, No. 05 – Nov 30 – Dec 6, 2022 – Horoscopes

ARIES (March 21 to April 19) Your honesty continues to impress everyone who needs reassurance about a project. But be careful you don’t lose patience with those who are still not ready to act.

TAURUS (April 20 to May 20) Pushing others too hard to do things your way could cause resentment and raise more doubts. Instead, take more time to explain why your methods will work.

GEMINI (May 21 to June 20) Be more considerate of those close to you before making a decision that could have a serious effect on their lives. Explain your intentions and ask for their advice.

CANCER (June 21 to July 22) You might have to defend a workplace decision you plan to make. Colleagues might back you up on this, but it’s the facts that will ultimately win the day for you. Good luck!

LEO (July 23 to August 22) The Big Cat’s co-workers might not be doing enough to help get that project finished. Your roars might stir things up, but gentle purrr-suasion will prove to be more effective.

VIRGO (August 23 to September 22) Someone you care for needs help with a problem. Give it lovingly and without judging the situation. Whatever you feel you should know will be revealed later.

LIBRA (September 23 to October 22) While you’re to be admired for how you handled recent workplace problems, be careful not to react the same way to a new situation until all the facts are in.

SCORPIO (October 23 to November 21) Rely on your keen instincts, as well as the facts at hand, when dealing with a troubling situation. Be patient. Take things one step at a time as you work through it.

SAGITTARIUS (November 22 to December 21) Your curiosity leads you to ask questions. However, the answers might not be what you hoped to hear. Don’t reject them without checking them out.

CAPRICORN (December 22 to January 19) Be careful not to tackle a problem without sufficient facts. Even sure-footed Goats need to know where they’ll land before leaping off a mountain path.

AQUARIUS (January 20 to February 18) Appearances can be deceiving. You need to do more investigating before investing your time, let alone your money, in something that might have some hidden flaws.

PISCES (February 19 to March 20) Your recent stand on an issue could make you the focus of more attention than you would like. But you’ll regain your privacy, as well as more time with loved ones, by week’s end.

BORN THIS WEEK: You’re a good friend and a trusted confidante. You would be a wonderful teacher or a respected member of the clergy.

(c) 2022 King Features Synd., Inc.

Ventura Chamber of Commerce honors those who make a difference in the community

The Ventura Chamber of Commerce will recognize outstanding achievements of businesses and individuals who make a difference in our community at the Poinsettia Awards Luncheon. This year marks the 25th Anniversary of this local tradition honoring excellence in business, public service and education.

Presented by the Ventura Chamber, the categories to be recognized are:

· Large Business of the Year- Gold Coast Transit

· Mid-Size Business of the Year- Andria’s Seafood

· Small-Size Business of the Year- JR Bookkeeping

· Innovation Award – CBF Productions

· Non-Profit of the Year- Women’s Economic Ventures

· Young Professional of the Year- Gerry Pantoja

· Ambassador of the Year- Rick Jeffery

· Volunteer of the Year – Oscar Hernandez

· Shining Star Award – Gary Wilde

· Jewel Key Award – Ventura Harbor

· Citizen of the Year – Sandy Smith

Additional awards will be presented by the City of Ventura for excellence in public service and the Ventura Unified School District for excellence in education.

Sponsors for this event include:

The Ventura Auto Center, SoCalGas, Montecito Bank & Trust, Four Points by Sheraton-Ventura Harbor, AMR, EJ Harrison & Sons, Inc, Kaiser Permanente, Southern California Edison, Ventura County Credit Union, Aera, Mustang Marketing, Ventura College, AT&T, Community Memorial Health System, Crowne Plaza Ventura Beach, Shea Homes, Tolman & Wiker- An Assured Partner Agency, CAPS Media, Cumulus Media, Gold Coast Broadcasting, Luners Production Services, Pacific Coast Business Times, Ventura Adult & Continuing Education (VACE) and the Ventura Breeze

These awards acknowledge the best that Ventura has to offer. The Poinsettia Awards Luncheon happens on Thursday, December 8, 11:30am-1:30pm at the Marriott Ventura Beach. The cost to attend is $60 for Chamber members and $80 for the general public. Tickets can be purchased online at venturachamber.com or by calling (805) 643-7222.

The Ventura Chamber of Commerce is a membership-based organization that advocates on behalf of the business community. With 700 members, representing more than 25,000 employees locally, the Chamber engages on a variety of issues that help to drive a strong local economy as The Voice of Business.

Vol. 16, No. 05 – Nov 30 – Dec 6, 2022 – Harbor Patrol Blotter

Wednes 11/9

 4:30am, dispatched to difficulty breathing in the Ventura Marina Community. Officers responded with AMR/VFD to a 73 y/o female with COPD smoking a cigarette and suffering from hypoxia. Patient assessed and transported by AMR.

Thursday 11/10

 5:00pm, received report of local female transient at the launch ramp for theft. The incident investigated and was a misunderstanding by the reporting party.

Friday 11/11

 7:05am, received a Mayday call from the skipper of a 23ft motor vessel taking on water near the breakwall. Officers responded in Rescue B19, dewatered the vessel and towed is safely back to the launch ramp where it was hauled out.

8:44pm, while on patrol in Rescue Boat 19, officers educated fishermen hoop netting for lobster near the breakwall. During the contacts, postside shaft/prop was wrapped with a lobster trap poly line. Officers were able to operate on one prop back to the patrol dock. The line was cleared by officers the next day.

Saturday 11/12

 9:12pm, received a complaint about commercial activity (squid offloading) in the Harbor from a VIM tenant. Officers explained the operation, the industry inconsistency and urgency to catch and offload all hours of the night.

Sunday 11/13

 3:36pm, received report of a vessel accident at VIM F-dock. Officers responded by vehicle and investigated the incident. A 35ft sailboat collided with a moored sailboat, sustaining minor damage to both. The incident is under investigation.

Monday 11/14

 8:21am, received a report of possible human remains in the sand at Harbor Cove Beach. Officers responded and found what were sea lion pelvic/spine bones.

Thursday 11/17

 4:28pm, dispatched to an Ocean Rescue near the Ventura Pier, kite surfer in distress. Officers responded in the Fireboat with State Parks and VFD. The victim was assisted to shore safely, no injuries.

Friday 11/18

 12:30pm, received request to tow a 40ft motor vessel that is slated to be destroyed. Officers were able to conduct tow training with new officers before towing the vessel to the boatyard for haul-out.

9:53pm, dispatched to a fall victim at VIM I-dock. Officers responded with VFD/AMR to a 58 y/o female who fell off her boat and onto the dock. The patient sustained minor injuries and was assisted back onto her boat.

Saturday 11/19

 10:36am, dispatched to a fall victim near Ventura Sport Fishing. Officers responded with VFD/AMR to assist a 71 y/o male with a contusion above his eye from a fall sustained during a strong wind gust. The patient was treated at the scene, transported by AMR to local trauma center.

Sunday 11/20

 9:45am, while on patrol in Rescue B19, officers observed a strong odor of diesel just outside of the harbor. A fishing vessel was off in the distance, but officers were unable to track them down. Officers utilized Marine tracking application and were able to locate the fishing vessel, contact and advise of possible petroleum leak on their vessel. The captain advised he would investigate.

2:55pm, received a “Mayday” call on VHF 16 from a 50ft cabin cruiser. Officers responded assisting Towboat US with call. Vessel towed to fuel dock.

Monday 11/21

 5:35pm, dispatched to a hazardous condition in Portside apartments. A tenant is smelling a petroleum type substance. Fire searched her apartment with gas detection device, but unable to locate leak or source of odor.

 

Vol. 16, No. 05 – Nov 30 – Dec 6, 2022 – As I See It

by Sheldon

To clarify a little confusion, I am still the publisher-editor of the Ventura Breeze. Just not writing my long column, but I have decided to write As I See It, which won’t take nearly as much time. This is the first one. Maybe won’t run in all issues.

Congratulations to our new (one re-elected) city council members:

Liz Campos, Jeannette Sanchez-Palacios, Bill McReynolds and Jim Duran.

President Biden has turned 80, making him the first octogenarian in the Oval Office. Big deal – I’m the first octogenarian publisher-editor of the Ventura Breeze.

According to a recent study, men with higher IQs are more inclined to bet on horse races. They were shown to be more likely to partake in skill-based gambling, such as horse racing, choose more complicated betting options, and spend more money (and I assume lose more money). Don’t misinterpret this – all men who bet on horses do not have a high IQ.

Recently, I cooked a frozen dinner. It said to cook for 16 minutes and 10 seconds. I took a chance and just cooked it for 16 minutes and it was fine. Sometimes in life you just need to take a chance.

Recently a couple was married at a McDonalds. They spared no expense in deciding on McDonalds over In-N-Out.

I purchased range free mayonnaise. Feel good about it, hate to think of mayonnaise cooped up in a little cage.

A 16-year-old recently graduated from Harvard. Big deal, he couldn’t even drive to class. “Mommy, will you drive me to school today. I have 5 physics classes?” It is rumored that he still believes in Santa but also understands how reindeers can fly.

The Anacapa Brewing Company who opened in 2000 – has closed. Like many businesses (especially restaurants), Anacapa faced tough times since the start of COVID. The closing of Main St. to traffic and adding outdoor seating has helped many businesses, but it has become tough for too many.

In cowboy movies the doctor is always an alcoholic and near the end of the movie needs to remove a bullet from the hero. He says, “I can’t do it my hands are shaking.” “You can do it doc.” “I’ll try just give me one more drink.” He finally removes the bullet from John Wayne and is a hero.

Traditional Toy Show at Olivas

Traditional Toy Show at Olivas

olivas1
olivas3
olivas2
olivas4-Mary Thompson teaching John Perram how to rope
olivas5-Susan Chang _ Donna Nelson
olivas1 olivas3 olivas2 olivas4-Mary Thompson teaching John Perram how to rope olivas5-Susan Chang _ Donna Nelson

Photos by Patricia Schallert

On Sunday, November 13, visitors discovered what toys may have been enjoyed by all who lived at the Olivas Adobe through the ages. Docents dressed in costume provided tours of the Olivas property, and the gift shop was open with unique items for purchase.

 

 

Sheldon Where Art Thou?

Regarding my decision to stop writing my column, 87.3% of readers are very upset and 20.2% are very happy that they do not need to spend their valuable time reading every word of my article in every issue just to make sure they still think I’m an idiot. Now, they can send in “their” opinions without calling me an idiot and can also enjoy reading Ventura’s favorite newspaper.

A reader (see below) says my writing is radical left-wing propaganda, which is complete nonsense (maybe I’m a communist also). They are my opinions. As always, I welcome yours.

These are some of what I have written about, hardly propaganda of any sort – again just my opinions:

I believe that Donald Trump is destroying our democracy and our country and is solely responsible for the January 6th insurrection and should end up in prison (for several reasons).

I believe all women have a right to have an abortion. I don’t believe abortion is a moral issue – it’s a religious issue and those who are opposed to it just wish to propagate a particular religion.

I think a she should be able to marry a she and a he should be able to marry a he. They have the same right to be happy just like “real men” like me.

I dislike guns. I do not think that they protect individual owners. They are more apt to be used to commit suicide, family members killing family members (in some cases 6 year old’s accidentally killing their sister or brother).

I think the Supreme Court justices should have term limits (perhaps eight years). The justices don’t make decisions interpreting the constitution – they make decisions on their lifetime of either being conservatives or liberals. Perhaps they should be arbitrarily selected by just grabbing people off the street so we don’t know if they are conservatives or liberals. I also think Clarence Thomas should be removed.

The Constitution needs major revisions – it is completely irrelevant to today’s standards. We need a constitutional convention to start updating and revising it. The first one was held in 1787.

I think TV sports announcers should not wear suits and ties, they’re not doctors.

These are a few of our reader’s comments.

Sheldon

I just read your latest Breeze, where you said it would be the last editorial. I really enjoy reading you Opinion/Editorial page.

It has facts and the source of the facts, something rare in today’s media.
People today tend to follow their favorite news makers without searching for both sides of a situation.

Looking at both sides is just too much work. It makes things simple, but most situations really aren’t simple. Hooray for our side.

And the news businesses do this because it brings sales to advertisers, and profits to the businesses bottom line.

A situation of greed, not truth or balance.

Don’t Let Jerks Get the Best of You
Nelly Wall

Nelly: No one got the best of me just too much work right now. And I never called them jerks.

Dear Sheldon,

I am very sorry to see you are giving up your column, I thoroughly enjoyed reading each issue. The dialog that can create conversations in our community is very important. Although I can understand your frustration with people that are not supportive. It’s a lot of effort.

Thank you for all you have done for the Breeze.

Seri

Seri: Still doing everything else for the Breeze just not this. Nothing to do with “not supportive” readers just too much work right now. Not supportive readersis what freedom of speech is all about.

Dear Ventura Breeze

I want to let you know how thrilled we (We? Do you speak for many?) are to see that
you will no longer be carrying Sheldon’s column.

Most of us are moderate in our politics, and it sickened us to read his radical left wing propaganda in your paper. (Disliking Trump is hardly being radical left wing)

Usually opposing views are welcome in legitimate newspapers, but unfortunately the Ventura Breeze was full of his polarizing false comments. (opposing views have always been welcome but the only ones we ever received are like these that never explained opposing views just criticize me. They are always welcome so send them in).

Since Sheldon is both publisher and editor of this paper, I am sure my letter will not be published. (Well,here it is. Are you disappointed?)

Enjoy the results of election day Sheldon, you will see that most of America will not support the increased crime, inflation, anti-semitism, open borders and high gas prices you appear to ignore.(All Americans do not support these things. Do you know people who do?)

G-d Bless America (That always helps)
Melanie Couture, RN, PHN
Ventura Harbor

Opinions

Say it isn’t so Sheldon!? Your opinion/editorial section is one of my favorite things about the Breeze! Hopefully after a bit of mind rest you’ll be back! You have always been very diplomatic and expressive and I love the way you encourage others to explain and support their side.? Conversation and curiosity are so important, especially these days!

Maggie McKinney

Maggie: One of my favorite things also. Maybe one day again but not for now.

Mr.  Brown.   Your decision to withdraw from your editorial writing is a bad mistake.   You are the only reason I read your paper.   Can’t stand local politics and other nonsense you cover.   Your comments help keep some semblance of reality in your publication.

Bob Lombardi

Bob: Thanks, I think.

Editor:

We pretty much get to choose our own path in life, so if you’re tired of doing your editorial column you’re entitled to take a break. I just hate to think it’s because of some yazoos who don’t quite grasp the concept of free speech.

Yazoos are as entitled to express themselves as anybody else, they just can’t do it well enough to get the point across and thereby resort to quoting bumper stickers, Fox News hosts and the Bible. When that fails, and it almost always does, they loudly demand that the dissenting opinions be modified into something that coincides with their preconceived notions or, more likely, be discontinued.

I always hate to see the perpetually aggrieved get their way, but if it is indeed time to take a break, so be it. Otherwise, get your fanny back behind that keyboard and let the good times roll.

Alfred J. Lewis


Dear Publisher:

Alas and alack, at the news that Mr. Sheldon Brown is hanging up his boots and will no longer be entertaining us with his pertinent comments, criticisms, observations about this crazy world we find ourselves living in, plus all the good stuff that makes a column worth reading.  Don’t forget: the column is called “Opinion/Editorial” and indeed that’s what I enjoyed most about Mr. Brown’s pontifications. Sure not every reader agrees with what he pens: That’s why it’s called Opinion!

A reader who  (as Mr. Brown notes) wrote to say because he doesn’t like what he reads in the Breeze, particularly in the publisher’s column, and is very unhappy with the publication.  I would advise that like minded individuals of that irritable ilk, should first of all try to get real, get a life and be more specific.

For decades some of the greatest newspapers have irritated, excited and inspired readers. That’s what it’s all about:

I have been in the newspaper business all my life and I should remind readers, that’s what publications are supposed to do. Inspire. Irritate, Provoke and entertain.

Didn’t some fella once said something along the lines of :
You can’t please all of the people….all of the time.”

And that’s what Mr. Brown has been doing.

Sheldon, please come home from time to time—all is forgiven!

Ivor Davis, Ventura
Author of: Manson Exposed: A Reporter’s 50-Year Journey into Madness and Murder and The Beatles and Me on Tour 

Ivor: Than you very much, coming from a “real writer” I appreciate it. I know people who don’t write might not appreciate the time involved in writing a simple column. Research, thinking, writing, re-writing are all time consuming and my plate runneth over right now so something had to be removed.

Maybe if I’m bursting to be heard you might hear from me again.

Dear Sheldon,

I have not known you long but I want to say thank you for a job well done. It was a pleasure to meet you and I for one appreciated your writing talent.
Does this mean the Breeze is gone and no one to take the helm?

Always,
Pam Briscoe from Focus on the Masters

Pam: Thank you. The Breeze is not gone and “it’s alive.”

Hi Sheldon

I am going to miss your comments in the Breeze. It has always been my favorite part of the paper. I hope you are well.

Happy Election Day, I hope

Cheryl

When I was a boy I was told that anybody could become President;
I’m beginning to believe it.
~ ‘Clarence Darrow for the Defense’ by Irving Stone.

A surf inspired gala celebration supporting foster youth and families

Guests enjoyed fine food, entertainment and inspiring speeches. Photos by Yana Khiyod

Kids & Families Together hosted their 4th Annual November Fundraising Event Fostering the Next Wave 2022, held on Saturday, November 5th, at the Crowne Plaza Ventura Beach, was a surf inspired fundraising celebration supporting Ventura County foster youth and families. The event raised funds for Kids & Families Together (K&FT) and More Than Conquerors Surf (MTC Surf).

More than 150 guests joined us for this fun and successful event! Guests enjoyed surf inspired music and films during Happy Hour, along with a silent auction filled with a wide variety of items up for bid. The evening’s program included inspiring testimonial speakers and messages from two Ventura County political leaders and a local professional surfer!

Speakers for the event included: an opening and welcome from Ventura County Supervisor Matt LaVere; Sharon Watts Woolley, K&FT’s Board Chair; David & Faith Friedlander, K&FT’s Co-Founders; and Elle Miller, Founder of MTC Surf. Kids & Families Together presented the 4th Annual Founders’ Award to CA State Assemblymember Steve Bennett for his continued support of programs benefitting Ventura County foster youth.

Testimonial speakers included: Dr. Barbara Morris Jensen, adoptive parent supported by K&FT; Gwendolyn Herrera, Assistant Vice President/Branch Manager Union Bank and kinship caregiver supported by K&FT;

Lea Martinez, Ventura County foster/resource parent supported by K&FT and an “MTC Surf family” participating in their monthly surf events; and John Villela, Board Member of MTC Surf.

Featured guest speaker was professional surfer, long board champion and Ventura local, Mary Osborne. We want to thank Mary for stepping in at the last minute to join us. The event closed with a fantastic hula performance by Hula Anyone from Santa Barbara. https://www.hulaanyone.com/ Our event emcee was, Matthew Graczyk. Our event DJ was, Logan Graczyk. https://djmajestic.com/

We gratefully acknowledge our event sponsors! Sponsorship levels were surf themed, recognizing the top big wave surf spots in California and our local favorites here along the Ventura County coast!

Top Level “Maverick Sponsor” at $5,000 was Union Bank. “Rincon, Queen of the Coast Sponsors” at $2,500 were, Assured Partners and Aqua-Flo Supply. “C-Street Sponsors” at $1,000 included, Mission Produce, Gold Coast Health Plan, The Partnership for Safe Families & Communities of Ventura County, Pacific Western Bank, Liz Donnelly Group Re/MAX, Gold Coast Health Plan, Ventura Townehouse, Community Memorial Health System, Sharon Watts Woolley, John Woolley, Marianne Bloom and the Kearney Family Fund. “Mondos Sponsors” at $500 were, Rick & Sheri Ashleman, Dorn & Dr. Kathleen Van Antwerp, the Mullett Family, Robert & Jean Bonar, Lu Setnicka, Kyle & Crystal Cummings, Controlled Elements Heating & A/C, and the Ventura Breeze.

Founded in January 2000, Kids & Families Together serves foster, adoptive, kinship, and birth families throughout Ventura County. For over two decades K&FT has become the leader in providing critical services and support to children who have experienced trauma, abuse, neglect, loss, and multiple placements. K&FT is unique in that we provide counseling services, education, support and strategies to connect caregivers and parents to the children in their care. We wrap our arms around the entire family to help them raise healthy, nurtured children that thrive. To learn more visit – https://www.kidsandfamilies.org/

More Than Conquerors Surf, founded in 2020, serves foster youth in Ventura County by providing them with the opportunity to experience freedom, joy, and confidence through the gift of surfing. MTC Surf’s mission is to provide foster youth with the ultimate surf experience in a safe and fun environment while encouraging personal growth, community, and faith. MTC Surf desires that every child and teen that surfs with them would know that they are fully loved and capable of conquering any current and future challenges they may face. To learn more visit – https://www.mtcsurf.org/

We thank everyone that came out to support this event! Thank You!!!

Missed the event? You can still support by texting the word “Fostering” to 91999 to donate.

A video recap of the event can be viewed on Kids & Families Together’s YouTube Channel … https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=GvTYSC241Kc

City announces new acting Community Development Director

Ms. Zayer has demonstrated a broad range of industry knowledge.

The City of Ventura announced that Neda Zayer has been selected to serve as the acting Community Development Director, effective November 15, 2022. Zayer will succeed Peter Gilli, who came to Ventura in June 2019. Neda Zayer has served as the City’s Assistant Community Development Director since September 2019.

“Mr. Gilli has led the department through unprecedented challenges, transitioning permits online in response to the pandemic, advancing recommendations to improve the development review process, and tackling state-issued mandates like the housing element and land use requirements,” said City Manager Alex D. McIntyre. “Peter brought many valuable initiatives forward in his time with us, and wish him all the best in his next endeavor.”

In the last three years, the Community Development Department has contributed to many important City Council goals. This includes drafting the 2021-2029 Housing Element, adopting an updated Accessory Dwelling Unit ordinance, creating an expanded Permit Services Division and the Housing Services Division, supporting the City’s commercial cannabis applications, improving the historic preservation process, and launching the General Plan Update process.

The Community Development Department is responsible for planning and zoning, building and safety, code enforcement, housing, and redevelopment for the City of Ventura. It ensures that new construction and additions to existing structures meet the policies and guidelines established for public safety, zoning, and development. The department also works closely with various City commissions and committees that help guide and advise the City Council regarding development in Ventura. Community Development has 45 full-time employees and an annual operating budget of over $15.4 million.

“Ms. Zayer has been with the City for three years and demonstrated a broad range of industry knowledge, professional experience, and an inclusive approach that will complement the right blend of skills needed for the next chapter of our Community Development Department,” said McIntyre. “Neda’s leadership style in supporting the organization as well as our residents, businesses, and community partners is a tremendous asset for the City during this transition time.”

New surfing royalty

Competitor nose riding during the Queen of the Cove competition. Photo by Kaili Reynolds

by Amy Brown

With three days of sun, smiles and shredding, professional and amateur surfers came together recently at the Queen of the Cove, the first all-women’s longboard competition held at C Street. Pro surfer Sally Cohen finished first in the pro division with a $6000 purse, and a range of talented women were crowned in age divisions ranging from 50s to 10 and under.

Olivia Willhite, Sierra Cameron and Elieah Boyd share a hug before their next heats.

Amateur surfers had the chance to compete against some of their idols in different divisions and hone their skills, according to 18-year-old Olivia Willhite, who has been surfing in competitions for years. “I surfed against Rylin Baker (who won the 17-19 division) yesterday, and she’s really good, and definitely someone to look at as a mentor in surfing,” she said, “I like being part of an all-women’s surf event, I think that’s really cool,” said Willhite, who is also a popular local singer songwriter gaining international acclaim with her Indie beach rock style.

Elieah Boyd shared that while this was only her second surf competition, she had placed second in the 20s division the day before. “I follow most of these girls that are professional surfers on Instagram, and I got to surf with them, it was a crazy experience. It feels like they’re there to support you just as much as you’re there to support them,” she said.

Many competitors had to overcome nervousness before being able to relax into the spirit of the event. “I’m new to competitions, and yesterday the nerves got the best of me. I fell on a lot of waves and I got really frustrated with myself,” said 21 year old Sierra Cameron. “But then I realized, I’m just going to go out and really surf in my next heat, because I love this sport. So I did that, and I got second in my heat!”

Ashley Heath competed in the 14-16 division and finished fifth place overall.

Ashley Heath made it to the finals on Sunday and placed fifth in the 14-16 division. “It was really fun, it’s been amazing, and I feel like it’s also a little piece of history, as there aren’t that many women’s competitions around, and I love being part of this one,” she said. “I look up to all the pro girls here, they’re really empowering, and I’ve made some great friends along the way.”

The event was organized by Carla Zamora, who had initially founded a Queen of the Cove event in Malibu. She was thrilled with the success of the Ventura competition and says it will be an annual event. “It was spectacular. Perfect weather conditions, it was so beautiful and sunny, the wind didn’t come up and all the things just fell into alignment,” said Zamora. “We wanted an opportunity to both offer the pros a platform and money and bring the amateurs in to see what they could have in the future.”

The event concluded with a paddle out in sweaters to honor the late great Ventura surfing pioneer Mary Monks, who famously surfed Ventura County breaks in the 1950s in a wool sweater in lieu of a wetsuit, and whose photo adorns the Ventura pier.