The Museum of Ventura County is proud to announce that applications for the Bonita C. McFarland Scholarship for the Visual Arts are now open. This significant scholarship program, established in honor of Bonita C. McFarland—a devoted supporter of the Museum and the broader arts community—aims to increase opportunities for emerging artists and amplify their impact on our community.
The Museum of Ventura County is committed to empowering the next generation of artists. The Bonita C. McFarland Scholarship has $10,000 to award. Winners also become part of the program’s alumni network – a community of emerging artists and art supporters. “The Bonita McFarland scholarship program reflects the Museum’s dedication to nurturing arts in education, aspiring student artists, and fostering a vibrant cultural landscape within our county.” – Elena Brokaw, Barbara Barnard Smith Executive Director
The Bonita C. McFarland Scholarship is open to all high school seniors and college undergraduates residing in Ventura County who demonstrate exceptional talent and commitment to the visual arts. Applicants will be evaluated based on the quality of their submitted portfolio, academic achievements, personal essay, and recommendations. Applications are due by April 7, 2024, 11:59 PM PST. For further details and to apply, visit: https://venturamuseum.org/2024-museum-of-ventura-county-bonita-c-mcfarland-arts-education-scholarships/
We invite all eligible students to apply and help us continue Bonita C. McFarland’s legacy of supporting the arts. Together, we can shape the future of art in Ventura County and make a lasting impact on our community.
“When there’s a need, there’s a Lion,” echoing the spirit of the Lions Club where individuals unite for a shared passion in community service, guided by the mantra “We Serve.” So, when a group of friends in the close-knit Portside community set out to plan a simple dance social for a night of fun, their vision expanded into a larger community gathering for a noble cause – supporting the Ventura Downtown Lions Club’s Admin Account.
The goal: turning a night of enjoyment into a meaningful service for the community. Remarkably, several small businesses like Ambitious Beauty Studio, Harbor Mart, CRAVE Gelato Kofi Bar, Mystic Relic, Focus SUP, Reiki, Vision Marine, Neuroboxing, Portside Yoga, Portside Marina, Top This Chocolate, KO Tacos, Tap Truck 805, and many more have come together, pooling silent auction items and services to contribute to this admirable cause. The event is Friday, Feb 2nd starting at 5:30 PM in the Portside Clubhouse and is open to the public. $15 entry fee. Tacos and alcohol available for purchase. Free dance lessons will be provided as well.
The Ventura Council of PTAs was one of just eight PTAs from across the country selected to receive a grant from the National PTA’s Center for Family Engagement. The program is part of the National PTA’s efforts to advance family-school partnerships to best support students along their educational journey.
The grant will be used to support implementation of the National PTA’s updated National Standards for Family-School Partnerships.
“Strong partnerships between families and schools are critical to support our students’ success academically, socially and emotionally, and there could not be a more urgent time for this,” said Yvonne Johnson, president of National PTA. “We are thrilled to provide funding to the PTAs to help advance meaningful and effective strategies for strong partnerships that will make a real impact for students, families and schools.”
“I’m incredibly grateful to have our schools chosen for this grant,” said Cherie Egbert, Ventura Council PTA President. “We’ll all get to improve the ways we surround our students with what they need to succeed, at home, school and in the greater community.”
The Ventura Council PTA coordinates information exchange and support for the 16 PTAs that operate in Ventura Unified School District as well as Santa Paula Unified School District.
Last year, National PTA released its updated National Standards for Family-School Partnerships, which provide guidance for building strong partnerships between families, educators, and schools to support student success. The updated PTA National Standards incorporate research and best practices including increased focus on diversity, equity, and inclusion; and expand the approach to student success to include whole child development. For resources to support implementation of the standards, visit PTA.org/Standards and watch the association’s Transforming Family-School Partnerships Webinar Series.
“Our updated National Standards for Family-School Partnerships provide critical guidance and best practices for strong, meaningful partnerships between families and schools,” added Nathan R. Monell, CAE, National PTA executive director.
National PTA® comprises millions of families, students, teachers, administrators, and business and community leaders devoted to the educational success of children and the promotion of family engagement in schools. PTA is a registered 501(c)(3) nonprofit association that prides itself on being a powerful voice for all
Hi: I’m Willow, a beautiful 3 1/2 year old Collie X with a gorgeous smile, rescued from a LA Shelter in my hour of need. I’m thankful to my sponsor who made it possible for me to come into CARL’s adoption program. I know they will help me find my forever home.
Not a lot is known about me yet, but I greet everyone I meet with a smile and a tail wag. I love to be with people. I was out for a walk and the volunteer said I was very good. If you have a fur baby in the home already, please bring him/her along so we can do a meet and greet.
I can’t wait to be a cherished member of a loving family. If you’re interested in meeting me, please fill out an online application. Canine Adoption and Rescue League C.A.R.L. www.carldogs.org
CARL Adoption Center-call 644-7387 for more information.
Meet 2-year-old dog social husky Soleil! Soleil is a gorgeous, toasted marshmallow and a perfect playmate. In fact, she even helps new shelter dogs get comfortable in playgroup. If you’re looking for an affectionate, engaged adventure buddy who will always match the energy and bring good vibes with other dogs, Soleil’s your gal.
If you’d like to meet Soleil, schedule an appointment at https://www.vcas.us/adopt or come down to the shelter during normal Adoption Hours of 1:00pm – 6:00pm Tuesday – Sunday. If you have questions, please contact us at (805) 388-4341 or [email protected].
Celebrate Love with handmade pottery this Valentine’s Day at Ventura Pottery Gallery. Our one-of-a-kind pieces are crafted with the loving hands of local artists. Giving pottery is a unique way to honor those you care about the most. And pottery will last year after year – long after the flowers have wilted, and the candy is consumed.
While the Gallery is open daily in Ventura Harbor Village, we invite you to join us for a special one-day Valentine’s sale on Saturday, February 10 from 11-6. Not only will there be work inside, our artists will set up a special display outside the Gallery giving you a wide selection of heart-themed work including mugs, jewelry, vases, kitchen items, sculpture and whimsical pieces.
The Gallery is located at 1567 Spinnaker Drive, Suite 105 in the Ventura Harbor Village. Don’t miss this chance to support local artists. More information can be found at http://venturapottersguild.organd you can also visit our online store at www.venturapotteryonline.com
Two major events for the 50th Class Reunion of the Ventura High School Class of 1974 are planned for Saturday, July 20, and Sunday, July 21.
The Class With Class will gather, reminisce, laugh, remember and celebrate. A traditional reunion dinner will include tributes to the classmates who have passed away, music, dinner, dancing, drinks, videos and other special moments. The reunion is planned from 5-9 pm Saturday, July 20, at the historic Ventura City Hall on the hill overlooking beautiful Downtown Ventura.
An all-inclusive Combined Reunion with the VHS Classes of 1973 and 1975 and the St. Bonaventure and Buena Classes of 1973, 1974 and 1975 is scheduled starting at 2 pm Sunday, July 21. Great music from the mid-1970s will play from 3-7 pm at the iconic Tony’s Pizzaria near the Fairgrounds. Guests may purchase food and drinks.
Classmates are encouraged to set the dates, watch Facebook page Ventura High School Class of 1974 for updates and spread the word with other classmates.
Questions may be directed to Pat McKean on Facebook Messenger.
In the dynamic world of business, having an expert who not only understands the numbers but also the unique needs of each company is invaluable. In this context, we highlight Rosi Barragan, a Certified Public Accountant with an impressive track record in creating and advising small businesses.
With studies in International Business and Marketing, Rosi has dedicated a significant part of her career to the development of operational and administrative processes, providing solutions that thoroughly understand the needs of businesses and their owners or investors. Her focus is on offering peace of mind and quality of life to entrepreneurs through solid financial strategies and customization of accounting systems.
What sets Rosi apart is her outstanding certification in Quickbooks Online in the U.S., positioning her as an expert in efficient accounting. Her passion for providing tools that bring tranquility stands out among similar services.
Based in Ventura, CA, Rosi Barragan offers her services throughout the United States. Her commitment to transparency and legality is reflected in the use of accounting concepts accepted by the IRS, ensuring that her clients receive accurate information and comply with tax regulations.
If you are looking for someone who not only crunches the numbers but also understands the essence of your business, Rosi Barragan is the ideal choice. Transform your company with expert and personalized advice that exceeds expectations.
Mary Maranville, SEEAG’s founder and CEO, and George Adam, owner/operator of Innovative Produce and a LEAGUE² member.
Ventura, Calif. (January 16, 2024)–Students for Eco-Education and Agriculture (SEEAG) is introducing its Visionaries Circle LEAGUE² (Leaders in Agriculture United for Educational Excellence) membership to recognize its premier donors who have shown support for SEEAG’s youth agricultural and nutrition education programs and Farm Day community education and outreach events. SEEAG’s focus is to educate students and the public about the farm origins of food, healthy eating, and the importance of local agriculture. Many of these donors have been involved in SEEAG since its first program was introduced almost 16 years ago.
“SEEAG has been extremely fortunate to have a dedicated, loyal donor base whose contributions have made a real difference in SEEAG’s ability to offer the cost-free programming we do. Without them, we would not be able to reach thousands of students every year,” says Mary Maranville, the nonprofit’s Founder and CEO.
SEEAG educates over 8,000 students annually in Ventura and Santa Barbara counties. Activities include classroom presentations, farm visits and nutrition assemblies for elementary-age students, and career pathway programs for local middle, and high school students–all 100 percent free.
“The information and experiences children receive stay with them. They become life-long ambassadors for agriculture, making healthy food choices and overall wellness,” says Maranville.
SEEAG Programs
Farm Lab. Geared for third graders, Farm Lab builds awareness and appreciation for agriculture, following the journey of food from farm to table. Hands-on learning includes classroom presentations and a trip to the farm with an emphasis on soil science, plant science, water cycles, and entomology.
Youth Wellness Initiative. Educates inspires and empowers third-grade students to eat fresh fruits and vegetables and cultivate connections to surrounding farms.
STEM Career Pathways in Agriculture. For sixth through 12th graders, the program teaches students about the diverse job opportunities available in agriculture.
Farm Day In Ventura and Santa Barbara Counties. Farm Day is California’s largest agricultural education and outreach event, attracting over 13,000 visitors annually. It is held separately in Ventura and Santa Barbara in the fall. Farm Day allows the public to visit local farms, ranches, wineries, and agricultural organizations and take part in tours, produce tastings, giveaways, and other activities at no charge.
Visionaries Circle LEAGUE² members include The Edwin & Jeanne Woods Family Foundation, Santa Barbara Foundation, Mission Produce, Gills Onions, Al Lowe Construction, Innovative Produce, Santa Maria Berry Farms, and the Scott Family Foundation.
As LEAGUE² members, donors have their logos featured on the SEEAG website and student resource bags. They are recognized in SEEAG marketing, participate in annual members-only events and tours, and receive fresh holiday trees and other merchandise.
To learn more about the LEAGUE², go to https://www.seeag.org/visionaries-circle-league or contact Maranville at 805-746-0606, [email protected].
Founded in 2008, Students for Eco-Education and Agriculture (SEEAG) is a 501(c)3 nonprofit organization that aims to help young students understand the origins of their food by bridging the gap between agriculture and consumption through its agricultural education programming. SEEAG’s “The Farm Lab” program teaches schoolchildren about the origins of their food and the importance of local farmland by providing schools with classroom agricultural education and free field trips to farms. Through this and other SEEAG programs, over 100,000 elementary school students in Central and Southern California have increased their understanding of the food journey. For more information, visit www.seeag.org or email Mary Maranville at [email protected].
4:00am, receiving multiple requests for entrance conditions since the USCG closed the harbor. At first light officers assessed conditions, advised coast guard its passable, in turn opened the entrance to navigation for mariners/ fishermen.
Tuesday 1/2/24
8:40am, officers transporting city officials to assess damage to the Ventura Pier.
2:37pm, dispatched to difficulty breathing in Ventura Marina Community. Officers responded with AMR/VFD to assist the patient.
Wednes 1/3/24
5:16pm, received missing person report from a parent. A 20 y/o male is “foil-boarding” from Rincon to Shellburne lane. Officers were able to locate the missing individual, not in distress 300 yards off Seward with binoculars.
Thursday 1/4/24
5:08pm, while on patrol in the Fireboat, officers contacted several fishermen with hoop nets placed illegally near the breakwall. Education was provided.
Saturday 1/6/24
5:05pm, dispatched to a surfer in distress at Greenock Lane. Pulled surfer from water onto the Fireboat and transported to Marina Park dock, no injuries.
Monday 1/8
4:05pm, while on patrol, observed Harbor Cove lifeguard tower was breeched with beer cans everywhere. Officers secured the tower and cleared debris.
11:55pm, received a request to assist a couple locked inside the cabin of their 22ft motor vessel in VIM A-dock. Officers responded and were able to gain access to the cabin after opening the latch on the companionway.
Tuesday 1/9
11:23am, received report of a female transient walking down the middle of Olivas Park Drive. Officers responded but were unable to locate the individual.
Thursday 1/11
5:33am, observed NWS issued a Gale Warning, raised warning pennants.
11:45am, officers assisting bird rescue volunteers capture a bird at Marina Park.
1:00pm, observing the VenturaWaterPure group pulling pipe from Marina Park.
6:55pm, dispatched to a disabled motor vessel at the breakwall. Officers responded in Fireboat, took a 21ft Radon en tow to the launch ramp.
Friday 1/12
12:10pm, conducting preventative maintenance on patrol vessels. Also assisting Port District boat mechanic with wiring the new spotlight for the Fireboat.
5:10pm, while on patrol in the vehicle, received request for a jump start. Officers were able to successfully start the vehicle with a dead battery.
9:35pm, dispatched to a marina fire at VHV D-dock. Officers responded in the Fireboat and found an electric bikes battery smoldering on the dock. No fire and the battery disconnected and no damage to the dock or surrounding vessels.
Saturday 1/13
6:30am, monitoring VenturaWaterPure project at Marina Park. Pipeline is partially submerged, still posing significant hazard. Numerous perimeter vessels are contacting and conducting vessel traffic safety in the area.
2:41pm, received request for assistance removing a trespasser from a sailboat in VIM. Officers assisted VPD with removing the individual from the marina.
3:40pm, observed a disabled motor vessel in the keys, with 2 POB’s utilizing paddles to navigate. Officers responded in the Fireboat, took the vessel en tow.
Sunday 1/14
8:00am, observed NWS issued Small Craft Advisory, raised warning pennant.
9:45am, received report of an injured duck at Harbor Cove. Officers responded, were able to capture an injured Grebe and handed over to rescue volunteers.
9:30pm, received request from US coast guard to monitor VHF 16 while they conduct radio maintenance between 0400 – 0630.
Monday 1/15
9:20am, observed beach clean up crews on the South Beach, officers assisted with delivering filled trash bags to National Park Service collection area.
12:51pm, observed 3 fishing vessels offloading squid with foam/grey water polluting the water. Officers investigating, still on going.
Tuesday 1/16
1:40am, dispatched to a fall victim in the Ventura Marina Community. Officers responded with VFD, and assisted lifting the patient back to bed, no injuries.
