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Tree Town

Ten new Valley Oaks were planted at the Ventura Community Park last October. These deciduous trees begin to leaf out in late winter.

Quercus lobata (Valley Oak) grows into the largest of North American oaks. It is native to California, growing in interior valleys and foothills in the central coast region. The Valley Oak is now a protected species in Ventura County because of its decline over past decades due to removal for development. Mature specimens may attain an age of up to 600 years.

www.venturatreealliance.com

Residents invited to spread the love on biking, walking, and rolling in Ventura

The City of Ventura will host a virtual workshop on Thursday, February 17, 2022, from 6:00-8:00 p.m. to gather input about walking, bicycling, and accessing transit as part of its Active Transportation Plan, or ATP. 

“Our goal with the Active Transportation Plan is to improve safety and accessibility when walking, biking, rolling, and taking transit in the City,” shared Ventura Public Works Director Phil Nelson. “Gathering feedback from community members with different cultural, racial, and demographic identities has been an important focus of our outreach efforts related to this plan. We want to invest in and prioritize healthy and equitable transportation options that will benefit the entire community.” 

For the ATP workshop participants will be able to share ideas about project goals and objectives as well as review bike and pedestrian networks. The workshop will also be live-streamed on YouTube and posted on the ATP project website to allow people to view the presentation and contribute feedback on their own time. To register for the virtual workshop and sign up to receive email updates, visit www.ActivePlanVentura.com.

The ATP was launched in summer 2021 and aims to create a roadmap of projects and programs that will enhance the experience for all modes of transportation throughout Ventura. Project elements include a Safe Routes to School component to recommend infrastructure improvements and traffic safety programs for K-12 students and families, as well as a Complete Streets component to develop policy guidance and standards recommendations for City staff. 

To date, the City’s public works team has completed the first phase of engagement for the ATP, which concluded in the fall of 2021. Staff collected nearly 1,400 responses in a citywide active transportation survey and conducted research at 25 local schools to observe drop-off and pick-up patterns. Outreach efforts have also included two community bike rides, virtual and in-person focus groups as well as pop-up events with community stakeholders, low-income and minority households, homebound seniors, youth, and parents. 

To view the community survey results, existing conditions report, or to register for the upcoming workshop, visit the City’s ATP website at www.ActivePlanVentura.com. 

Ventura Fire Department selects Kris McDonald as Assistant Fire Chief

McDonald brings extensive experience to the Assistant Fire Chief position.

Twenty-six-year veteran firefighter, Kris McDonald, has been selected as the next assistant fire chief with the Ventura Fire Department. This promotion follows the retirement of 29-year firefighter and Assistant Fire Chief Jack Hansen.

“The Ventura Fire Department has a dedicated and talented team of firefighters serving our community,” said Chief David Endaya. “Kris has had a long and successful career with the department and will serve as a key member of Ventura Fire’s command staff in enhancing our services. He has continually demonstrated a commitment to public safety, serving our residents, and strong leadership skills in the workforce.”

With over 26 years in the fire service, and 18 years with Ventura Fire, McDonald brings extensive experience to the Assistant Fire Chief position. His fire service training includes expertise in fire operations and in California’s Incident Command System, or ICS.

Chief McDonald most recently served as a battalion chief and training chief and was responsible for managing ongoing training schedules, mobile radio communications, mobile data dispatch computers, and OptiCom Traffic Control Systems. Regionally, his specialty qualifications within California’s Incident Command Certification System include Resource Unit Leader, Task Force Leader, Strike Team Leader, and Division Group Supervisor.

“I am thrilled and truly humbled to be selected for this opportunity,” said Chief McDonald. “I’ve spent the last 18 years of my career working for Ventura. I look forward to continuing the proactive and progressive work of our fire department in providing all-hazards response and emergency medical services to my community.”

Chief McDonald began his firefighting career in 1994 as a volunteer firefighter and EMT in northern California, where he was born and raised. He became a paramedic in 1997 and was hired by the Eureka Fire Department in 1998. In 2002, McDonald joined the Ventura Fire Family, hired as a lateral firefighter paramedic and seamlessly moved through the ranks of engineer, captain, and battalion chief.

He is currently pursuing his bachelor’s degree in Fire Administration, as well as various Section Chief position qualifications within California’s Incident Command Certification System, which are all responsible for major areas of extended incident management.

McDonald assumed the role of assistant fire chief upon the retirement of former Assistant Chief Jack Hansen on December 30, 2021. Hansen passionately served Ventura for 29 years, was awarded Firefighter of the Year in 1998, honored by Mothers Against Drunk Driving in 1998, and earned numerous commendations for going the extra mile throughout his career.

To learn more about the Ventura Fire Department’s leadership team, visit www.cityofventura.ca.gov/MeetOurTeam.

Enjoy Super Bowl LVI responsibly

Whether you’ve come for the Cincinnati Bengals, the Los Angeles Rams, the commercials, or the love of the game, the Ventura Police Department reminds football fans to designate a sober driver if drinking at a Super Bowl LVI watch party.

On Super Bowl Sunday, February 13, the Ventura Police Department will have additional officers on patrol looking to deter, detect, and stop drivers suspected of being under the influence of alcohol and/or drugs.

“When it comes to getting to and from your watch party safely, we’re all on the same team,” said Officer Chris Wilson. “The choice is simple, don’t drive impaired. Have a ride share service or a sober friend take you home instead.”

If your Super Bowl plans include drinking, make a game plan and know the rules:

In California, it is illegal to drive with a Blood Alcohol Content, or BAC, of .08% or higher. Even if you have only one alcoholic drink, it’s always safer to designate a sober driver.

If the driver is under 21 years old, it is illegal to driver with a BAC of .01% or higher.

Don’t let friends drive drunk. If someone has been drinking, take their keys and help arrange a safe ride.

If you see a drunk driver on the road, call 911 immediately and take note of the vehicle, license plate number, and direction of travel.

The Ventura Police Department reminds the public that alcohol is not the only substance that impairs. Marijuana, prescription drugs, and over-the-counter medications can impact safety and awareness when driving. Know the potential side effects of certain drugs.

Funding for Super Bowl Sunday enforcement is provided by a grant from the California Office of Traffic Safety, through the National Highway Traffic Safety Administration. To learn more about the Office of Traffic Safety grant and VPD’s educational efforts, visit OTS.ca.gov or contact, Emily Graves, Community Outreach Specialist with the Ventura Police Department, at [email protected].

Tsunami activity in the Ventura Harbor and Ventura Keys

There were over 20 homes in the Keys with damage to their docks/ramps. Photos by Patricia Schallert, Russ Jenkins and Sheilla Leiman

An undersea volcano erupted in spectacular fashion near the Pacific nation of Tonga, sending large tsunami waves crashing across the globe. Harbor Patrol Rescue Boat 17, docked at the time, was inundated with an outgoing surge, capsized and sunk in the Pierpont Basin.

From the Ventura Fire Department

“On the above date (Jan. 15) and time, a call was received by the on-duty Fire Battalion Chief of extreme tidal activity in the Ventura Harbor and the Ventura Keys. Fire personnel arrived on scene within minutes of the initial call and upon assessment of the harbor area, it was determined that the extreme high and low tidal surges were a result of seismic activity in the Tonga region of the South Pacific. Emergency personnel from various agencies assessed the area and found that numerous docks and boats were damaged because of the extreme tidal surges. The surge activity lasted several hours, and emergency personnel rescued numerous boats and docks that had broken loose during this incident.”

“At the time of this media release, no injuries to emergency personnel have been reported. The Ventura City Fire Department would like to remind the public to review the Ventura City Tsunami evacuation plan and be familiar with evacuation routes.”

Tsunami activity in the Ventura Harbor and Ventura Keys

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Happy 5th Birthday KPPQ Radio!

CAPS Media’s KPPQ-LP Radio station is celebrating a major milestone in February: 5 years of delivering non-stop, award-winning original and specially curated programming and entertainment to local and worldwide listeners.

KPPQ-LP FM 104.1 is Ventura’s only non-commercial, public radio station. The CAPS Media station belongs to the public and reaches more than 100,000 people in Ventura and countless more worldiwide.

Launched in 2017 the vibrant radio division of CAPS Media has grown steadily in a few short years to become one of the most engaging and go-to sites in Ventura. KPPQ broadcasts 2/47 everyday at 104.1 FM, and streams worldwide on myTuner radio and capsmedia.org. Week in and week out KPPQ-LP’s everygrowing cadre of volunteers create innovative and engaging programming in the state-of-the-art radio studio in the CAPS Media center or, often during COVID crisis, in their home studios, delivering an eclectic mix of programming to KPPQ-LP listeners.

“The radio platform empowers women by keeping the conversation going, to highlight the stories of our local women and all that we are doing right here in our community—the place where change happens!” Kathleen Good, Host of In The Women’s Room

“CAPS Media’s KPPQ-LP is such a great service and resource for our community. Being able to validate and share so much talent by playing music from local artists on my show is such a privilege.” Pam, The Pam Baumgardner Music Hour.

“ I was looking for a creative way to connect with my community. KPPQ opened my eyes and my heart to radio and podcasting. I have truly connected with my community through Ventura Vibe!” Nadine Piche, Host of Ventura Vibe!

“I have had a voice in the community … I’m thankful we have such a gem of a resource in our community and cannot wait to see what they do in 2022!” Michelle Hoover, Producer, Fireside Tailes for Wolfgang

“Our work with CAPS Media and specifically what we’ve done in collaboration with KPPQ has been one of our most rewarding partnerships. Youth that have had the opportunity to be interviewed in the studio always walk away from that experience inspired and excited. It’s been a great privilege to partner with them.” Craig Rosen, Host of Teen Centric, Director of the Arts & Youth Justice program

“Elizabeth Rodeno and the good people at CAPS media helped me learn radio production. With their wonderful facilities and training…I have gone on to create two radio shows and an international podcast. THANK YOU CAPS and happy 5th birthday.” Mary Labrie, Host of Women of A Certain Age and The Shiver Show

“In a world where it seems corporations are deciding what we view or listen to – with a lack of diversity in the programming – I treasure the ability to hear the perspective of members of the community and, when it comes to music, to be able to listen to programming by individuals who have non-mainstream tastes. CAPS Media is a treasure and KPPQ is my favorite radio station!” Kevin Wallace, Host of Ojai Dream, a music and talk show.

“KPPQ does a wonderful job representing our community. I am grateful they have given me the opportunity to share my passion, my blues record collection in my show “Doc’s Delta Blues Lounge. The team is awake and interested fully committed to producing interesting content of high quality.” Doc Ventura, Doc’s Delta Blues Lounge

“We’re so fortunate to have a unique community radio station like KPPQ. Not only does it serve as a local media source for information and entertainment, but it gives content creators like myself a creative outlet to share our interests! “Mark X, Pure Rock Show

The ever-evolving KPPQ operation was envisioned, masterminded and co-founded by CAPS Media’s Elizabeth Rodeno. Elizabeth has been the KPPQ driving force and station manager since its inception.

“As station manager of KPPQ and one of the founders, along with Evan Carpenter, Chief Engineer, I am thrilled to be part of Ventura’s Community radio station as we celebrate its 5th year on the air. Since 2017 when we flipped the switch on the only non-commercial community radio station in Ventura, producers have sat behind a microphone and shared their voice and the voice of Ventura County across the globe. I’m really proud to see how our station and membership has grown and thrived these past 5 years and I look forward to the next 5 years.” Elizabeth Rodeno, KPPQ Station Manager

KPPQ airs 24/7 on 104.1fm radio and streams worldwide on myTurner Radio and on capsmedia.org. Everyone interested in learning more about KPPQ-LP including how to become a Host or DJ, or provide information on an upcoming event, can contact Elilzabeth Rodeno, at [email protected].

Everyone at CAPS Media and throughout Ventura congratulate KPPQ-LP on its momentous 5th birthday. We all look forward to many more years of creative, informative and entertaining programming and services to the community.

Senior meals

Nutritious meals for older adults available.

The Ventura County Area Agency on Aging (VCAAA) along with various local partners, provide nutritious meals for older adults within Ventura County through the Senior Nutrition Program (SNP), which includes Congregate and Home-Delivered Meal (HDM) services. Our meal programs give seniors access to nutritious meals and contribute to maintaining their health, safety, dignity and quality of life. Last year, VCAAA provided a total of 744,115 SNP meals to 5,632 seniors. Nearly 38% (283,114) of these meals were delivered to 1,730 homebound seniors from 11 meal sites throughout the county, mostly using volunteer drivers.

All SNP meals are approved by our Registered Dietitian to meet U.S. Dietary Guidelines for Americans and geared toward the Dietary Reference Intake (DRI) and Adequate Intake for vitamins and elements for older, frail adults. These meals provide a minimum of one-third of the DRI and accommodate diabetic and low-sodium diets.

The Senior Nutrition Program is not income based. There’s a suggested donation of $3 per meal, however no eligible individual (60 years and over) will be denied participation because of failure or inability to contribute. This valuable service is sustained with the help of contributions. We are grateful for any contribution made.

To find a local dining site or home-delivered meal program near you, see our list of countywide meal service locations go to VCAAA.org.

Open Air Pottery Market – Valentine Celebration Feb. 12-13

“Open Air Pottery Market – Valentine Celebration”
February 12 & 13,11 AM to 6 PM both days
Ventura Pottery Gallery
1567 Spinnaker Drive Suite 105

Valentine’s Day – say it with flowers, say it with candy – but also say it permanently with clay. We have heart mugs and dragon mugs, yarn bowls, rice bowls, heart dishes, ceramic jewelry, sea creatures, flame-ware pottery for cooking, surfers riding waves, candle holders and juicers for your main squeeze.

We invite you to stop by and explore the well-priced creations from over 40 local potters who exhibit at the gallery.

The Ventura County Potters’ Guild, a non-profit founded in 1957, continues its mission of promoting ceramic arts through the Gallery, workshops, and monthly meetings. The monthly meetings are open to the public and feature ceramic demonstrations or presentations. More information can be found at www.venturapottersguild.org. Can’t make it to the gallery? Please visit our Online Store at www.venturapotteryonline.com.

Ventura Port District Board of Commissioners approves emergency action for Hunga Tonga tsunami damages

Ventura Harbor experienced unpredictable currents and damaging surges following a massive undersea volcanic eruption near Tonga on Saturday, January 14, 2022. As a result, the Ventura Port District Board of Commissioners took immediate action at their Board Meeting held January 19, 2022, by approving a State of Emergency resolution to restore District assets in the Ventura Harbor.

Thankfully, no injuries were reported in the Ventura area following the Hunga Tonga Tsunami Advisory. However, the powerful surges led to damage of both public and private property in the Ventura Harbor and the adjoining Ventura Keys. There are at least two dozen damaged docks at multiple marinas and private residences and two Ventura Harbor Patrol Boats have been rendered out of commission.

“Our Commission’s swift action in adopting an emergency resolution paves the way for the repair and replacement of Port District assets,” said Brian Pendleton, Ventura Port District General Manager. “It will also help the Port to expedite and restore redundancy for our on-water patrol and emergency response capabilities,” Pendleton added.

The Harbor remains open, including the public launch ramp. Recreational activities on the water were temporarily discouraged during the surges, however all activities have since resumed. It is still advisable to proceed with caution as some navigation buoys are absent and residual debris may still be in the water.

Following the tsunami activity, Senior Harbor Patrol Officer, Pat Hummer, conducted a depth soundings to evaluate the conditions of the entrance channel and inner harbor. The sounding showed that sand removed during the surges has increased the water depth, which is one silver lining for the boat traffic in Ventura Harbor overall.

“The efforts by our Harbormaster and Ventura Harbor Patrol officers are commendable, as they offer around the clock support to help safeguard the public and property whenever possible,” said Pendleton. Channel Watch Marine/Tow Boat US/Vessel Assist Ventura also aided in towing and removal of debris. Both teams partnered for a quick response to those in our coastal community during the surges.

The Harbormaster is pursuing solutions to address the reduction in the Harbor Patrol on-water capacity. “Currently the Harbor Patrol’s Fire Boat 1, along with additional vessels, are available to support many of the services in Ventura Harbor,” said

John Higgins, Ventura Port District Harbormaster. “As we work to quickly evaluate solutions for boat replacements or repair, we’ll be relying on the strong relationships that the Ventura Harbor Patrol has developed with fellow community agencies to assist in the Harbor and beyond.”

Pendleton states, “We will continue to work closely with local, regional and state agencies to connect businesses and property owners with permitting agencies to complete necessary repairs to Harbor marinas and private docks.”

“Time and time again I have seen the Ventura Harbor community come together whether there’s been an accident, weather-related incident, pandemic, or in this case, response to a natural disaster half-way around the world,” Pendleton said.

Below, the Ventura Port District shares resources and contacts for assistance to those affected by the tsunami surges in the Ventura Keys and Ventura Harbor. As more information becomes available, updated resources and information will be available on VenturaHarbor.com.

City of Ventura-Contact: Dara C. Sanders, Planning Manager, Community Development Department, City of Ventura: [email protected]

California Coastal Commission-Contact: [email protected] and visit https://www.coastal.ca.gov/cdp/cdp-forms.html to identify the appropriate applications

For repair work that involves pile replacement or other disturbance of the seafloor

US Army Corps of Engineers-Contact: Antal Szijj, Team Lead, Regulatory Division, Ventura Field Office: [email protected]

Los Angeles Regional Water Quality Control Board-Contact: Emily Duncan, Ph.D., Senior Environmental Scientist, Regional Programs Section: [email protected]