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The club is being rebuilt as the Ventura Canoe & Kayak Club

Class for introduction to sprint canoe and kayaking held at the Harbor.

The club was originally known as the “Ventura Olympic Canoe Club” and had many National titles in the late 1970s and 80s. After a dormant period, the club is being rebuilt as the Ventura Canoe & Kayak Club.

Club membership can be for anyone 12 years old and up! Competition age brackets are set at under 18, under 16, and under 14 divisions for youth. Adults may compete in the Senior (or open) category, as well as master’s divisions. Masters age groups begin at age 30, with different divisions spread out over 15-year intervals.

With all of their coaches and volunteers completely vaccinated and Covid-19 numbers in the county dropping, they are now offering limited free beginner classes! Thanks to donations, they are able to offer these beginner classes for free. (They pay $10 per person for event insurance and will happily accept a donation should you wish to contribute.)

Beginner events are limited to 10 people per session and we will be following Covid safety protocols. If you find you enjoy and like the sport, you will be invited to join the club and train regularly.

Drew Story, Ventura Canoe & Kayak Club head coach stated “ I have been the chief organizer behind rebuilding our club. We were a big and extremely successful organization in the 70s and 80s (thanks going to Bill Bragg), with a record number of national championships and several club members being on Olympic and World Championship teams for the United States. I hope to revive our club and provide both kids and adults with an opportunity to enjoy this unique sport.”

“Our events are open to anyone 12 years old and up. All participants must be able to swim 100 yards unassisted and will be required to wear a life jacket at all times. We will provide life jackets and all equipment. We paddle sprint racing canoes and kayaks at the Ventura Harbor and welcome both youth and adult athletes.”

“If you are unable to attend one of our free Saturday classes and still interested in giving sprint canoe and kayak a try, please contact us and we will make separate arrangements with you.” ttps://www.venturacanoekayak.org/.

They had a really fun day launching and learning how to canoe at the lovely Portside Ventura Harbor development’s new non-motorized public launching ramp.

www.portsideventuaharbor.com..

Community Memorial Hospital recognized again for excellence in breastfeeding care

The award-winning lactation team at Community Memorial Hospital is proud to provide outstanding breastfeeding support.

Community Memorial Hospital has been recognized once again for offering high quality lactation care and top-notch assistance for breastfeeding families.

The International Board of Lactation Consultant Examiner® (IBLCE) and the International Lactation Consultant Association (ILCA) recognized CMH for excellence in breastfeeding care by awarding CMH with their IBCLC Care Award for 2021. CMH has received this award many times previously.

“CMH is proud to be the premier birthing center in Ventura County,” said Megan Rodarte, director of Maternal Child Health Services at CMH. “Part of our ongoing commitment to excellence is ensuring that breastfeeding education, support, and resources are available to CMH families and to our community as a whole.”

CMH received the IBCLC Care Award in recognition for staffing professionals who hold the prestigious International Board Certified Lactation Consultant (IBCLC) certification and for providing a lactation program for breastfeeding families. In addition, CMH demonstrated that it has recently completed activities that help protect, promote, and support breastfeeding.

The IBCLC Care Award is given to hospitals, medical practices, clinics, or agencies that staff professionals who hold the International Board-Certified Lactation Consultant (IBCLC) certification and provide a lactation program for breastfeeding families, among other requirements that promote top breastfeeding care. IBCLCs help families overcome breastfeeding challenges, provide accurate information, and support families as their baby grows. They assist families returning to work or school, help families in more unusual situations such as breastfeeding more than one baby or nursing a sick or premature infant, and help train nursing staff to manage basic breastfeeding care.

CMH provides support and information to families during pregnancy, after birth, and as the baby grows. CMH also offers a virtual Breastfeeding Support Group that meets on Thursdays from 2-3:30 p.m. and is led by a registered nurse and certified lactation counselor. CMH’s New Parent Resource Center is located at 2580 E. Main Street in Ventura. Call 805/948-BABY (2229) or email [email protected] for more information.

Community Memorial Health System is a not-for-profit health system that comprises Community Memorial Hospital, Ojai Valley Community Hospital, a skilled nursing facility, and several primary and specialty care clinics that serve communities throughout Ventura County, California.

Getting Back to Normal: Helping Your Family Through COVID-19 Transitions

Many people struggled with mental health challenges during this last year, often exacerbated by lockdowns, isolation, new stresses, and societal turmoil. As American society now slowly transitions to more “normal times,” Community Memorial Health System is helping families find ways to cope and move forward.

The public is invited to join CMHS psychologists at a free online seminar as they discuss the current mental health crisis and the deep impact of COVID-19 on families. Participants will learn coping strategies as they prepare to transition back to school, work, and other normal routines during uncertain times.

The free virtual seminar takes place at 6 p.m. on Thursday, July 22. To attend, please RSVP at  www.cmhshealth.org/RSVP. This event is hosted by Community Memorial Health System as part of its 2021 Speaker Series Online. Participating psychologists include Dr. Ronda Doonan, director of Behavioral Health and Resident Well-Being for CMHS’ Graduate Medical Education; Dr. Shirah Bale, who specializes in behavioral health and mindful practices for wellness; and Dr. Monique Boswell, a specialist in the treatment of Post-Traumatic Stress Disorder (PTSD).

Scholarship awards presented by CMH Auxiliary Junior Volunteer program.

These young people have contributed thousands of hours of volunteer service to CMH.

On June 14, scholarships were awarded to nine deserving young people who have been part of the CMH Auxiliary Junior Volunteer program. At an outdoor ceremony in front of Community Memorial Hospital, Auxiliary president Linda Pettit, Junior chairperson Marilyn Beal, and hospital President and CEO Gary Wilde presented the $1000 awards to the seven Maria Cavallo Scholarships for students planning to enter medical field careers.

Dr. James Woodburn also assisted in the presentation of the two Audrey Woodburn scholarships for those heading for careers in nursing.

These young people have contributed thousands of hours of volunteer service to CMH while maintaining academic excellence and community involvement and are to be commended for their dedication.

Award ceremony recipients:

Maria Cavallo Scholarships for Medical Field Careers: $1,000 each

Caroline Connolly: Served in CCU and ED for 288 Hours. She earned a 3.98 unweighted GPA while attending Ventura H. S.

Adithi Desham: Was a desk/flyer and volunteered in the Pharmacy with 287 Hours. At FTHS, she earned a 3.94 unweighted GPA.

Isabella Garcia: Served 239 hours in Maternity. She attended Buena H.S., graduating with a 3.92 unweighted GPA.

Frances Kayser: Frances served 311 hours at the front desk of the Ocean Tower. This young lady, who graduated from Ventura HS with a 4.0 unweighted GPA.

Eesh Manwani: Volunteered in the Gift Shop where he served for 376 hours. A graduate of FTHS, with a 3.72 unweighted GPA,

Aniket Rahane: Served in both CCU and the Gift Shop with 335 hours accumulated. Aniket graduated from Buena HS with a 3.95 unweighted GPA.

Elsa Schmidt: Was a desk/flyer putting in 335 hours of service. A graduate from FTHS with a 4.0 unweighted GPA,

Audrey Woodburn Scholarships for Nursing: $1,000 each

Breanna Burke: Volunteered in SDS, ED, and Maternity accumulating 259 hours of service. She graduated from Ventura H S with a 3.9 unweighted GPA.

Erin Hoffman: Gave 275 hours of service in Maternity. She attended Saint Bonaventure HS and graduated with a 3.64 unweighted GPA.

River Haven offers a way out of homelessness

River Haven have given people the opportunity and the tools to start truly living happier and healthier lives.

by Carol Leish

“River Haven started during the El Nino in 2006,” according to, Suki Sir, Marketing and Fund Development Manager at Turning Point Foundation. “Thus, during the El Nino, we approached the City of Ventura in March, 2006. Contracts were signed in September, and the program started in October. The former director, Clyde Reynolds, was very instrumental in approaching the city, and in negotiating the contract to secure the land for River Haven.”

“Clients/residents of River Haven receive case management services that follow up with service plan goals and their well-being,” according to, Joe Dawson, Program & Facilities Manager at Turning Point Foundation. “Case management takes a team approach by offering and connecting clients/residents with supportive services that offer follow-up care. And, the case manager and the treating agencies maintain communication to promote and create action plans for clients that will help them to become more successful and to maintain service connections obtained.”

Dawson also focused on the types of services that are offered to clients/residents of River Haven by saying, “Connected services consist of: Ventura County Behavioral Health; Whole person care program; ADP (Alcohol & Drug program; Health Care Agency/ One Stop; and, the Human Service Agency.”

“We aim for clients/residents to be at River Haven for up to two years at the most,” according to, Sir. “But some residents get permanent housing within 6 months, and others take longer than two years.”

Turning Point Foundation’s website is: www.turningpointfoundation.org, which describes the latest news and events. Please sign up for the newsletter to become more informed.

“Some of the needs for supporting River Haven are on the list, which is at: http://turningpointfoundation.org/donate/,” according to, Sir. “Do realized that River Haven gets very little government support. Thus, online donations are very much appreciated.” And, that, according to the website, “$525 Feeds 25 people per month.” Also included on the list of needs on the website, which can be downloaded, are: “Heavy blankets; bath towels; washcloths; canned food; and, books & board games.”

Through support and housing both Turning Point Foundation and River Haven have given people the opportunity and the tools to start truly living happier and healthier lives. It doesn’t matter who you are or what you have done, all that matters is the future and what you want to do with your future.

NAWBO celebrates BRAVA 2021 awards

Photo by Deena Gledhill

NAWBO celebrated their BRAVA 2021 awards online on Friday, June 18th, and a luncheon held at Peirano’s on June 17.

This year’s theme “Diversity, Resilience, Transformation: Bold Women Creating Her-story” showcased how these six exemplary women in business and leadership are breaking barriers, forging new ground, and pursuing their goals with fearless fortitude.

“Even after a year where almost everything changed, we received a record number of nominations for our 21st annual celebration,” stated Seana-Marie Sesma, President-Elect of NAWBO VC and owner of Your PR Girls. “The BRAVA Class of 2021 personifies our theme as we all gather in June to celebrate these Bold Women Creating Her-story and their ability to pivot!”

The Museum of Ventura County re-opens July 3rd

After 15 months of closure, and as California’s Covid-19 restrictions are being lifted, The Museum of Ventura County is re-opening both its Ventura location at 100 East Main Street and the Agriculture Museum in Santa Paula at 926 Railroad Avenue on July 1, 2021. Admission to the museums and parking are free for visitors for the remainder of 2021.

Beginning Thursday, July 1st, visiting hours for The Museum of Ventura County and the Agriculture Museum in Santa Paula will be Thursday through Sunday from 11:00 a.m. to 5:00 p.m. The Research Library located on the Ventura campus will operate by appointment only, Wednesday through Friday from 11:00 a.m. to 5:00 p.m. Following the lead of other educational institutions, masks are currently required for all indoor visitors and museum staff at this time. Vaccinated guests have the option to remove their face coverings when enjoying the museum’s outdoor spaces.

Debuting on opening weekend at The Museum of Ventura County is, “Huelga! Photographs from the Frontlines” by Jorge Corralejo. While the exhibit was originally scheduled to open in mid-March of 2020, due to the Coronavirus pandemic, it was postponed. Guests were able to view an online 3D version of the exhibit throughout 2020, but now are welcomed to experience the exhibit in person and are invited to attend a special opening reception on Saturday, July 3rd, 2021, from 2-4pm. For more information about the reception, and future museum events, please visit: www.venturamuseum.org/events. In Santa Paula, the Agriculture Museum continues to showcase the region’s rich farming and ranching history.

“We are delighted to be welcoming visitors back into our community’s museums in both Ventura and Santa Paula,” commented Elena Brokaw, Executive Director, Museum of Ventura County. “We’ve missed the energy that is seen and felt as all patrons, young and old alike, take in both museum’s on-site exhibits and collections in person.” Brokaw reinforced that guest safety is of primary importance and the decision to require masks while inside museum buildings is to ensure that the most vulnerable guests, including children and seniors, can freely access all indoor services feeling safe and comfortable. Both the Museum of Ventura County and Agriculture Museum in Santa Paula have implemented best practices to maintain a clean and safe environment.

For guests that are unable or not ready to visit The Museum of Ventura County or Agriculture Museum in Santa Paula in person, virtual exhibits remain available online. For more information visit: www.venturamuseum.org.

The Museum of Ventura County celebrates, preserves and interprets the art, history and culture of Ventura County, the California Channel Islands and the surrounding region through its collections, exhibitions, events, educational programs, publications and its research library, and serves as a gathering place for the community. The Museum has two locations – The main museum is located at 100 East Main Street, Ventura, California (805-653-0323). The Agriculture Museum is located at 926 Railroad Avenue, Santa Paula, California (805-525-3100). Both museums are open Thursdays through Sundays, 11:00 a.m. to 5:00 p.m. – www.venturamuseum.org. Admission to both museum locations remains free for the remainder of 2021

Enroll your child in an amazing learning and exploration summer experience

The MERITO Foundation’s Marine Science Beach Camp is a program that engages children in hands-on ocean science and stewardship activities. Children will learn and experience a variety of marine science concepts, explore the coastal environment, and play with ocean-themed games. They will be introduced to scientific monitoring, and marine art and poetry in a safe and healthy environment.

Week of July 12-July 16, 2021. Theme: ‘Tidepools, Fish & Plankton’

Children will get to experience being a marine scientist for the week by learning about the life at the tidepools, will collect and identify plankton using scientific equipment like plankton nets and microscopes; will learn to catch, identify, and release fish, about the different fishing practices, and about our local marine protected areas.

Week of July 19 – 23, 2021. Theme: ‘Birds, Whales and Whales’

During this 2nd week, children will get to be ornithologists (bird biologists), learn about local seabird species, and identify them through binoculars! Children will switch up and become marine mammologists (those who study marine mammals) to learn about the whales, dolphins, and sea lions that live or pass through our coast and the Channel Islands, such as the blue whales! Will also learn about wetlands, help restore their local Kalorama wetland, participate in beach cleanups, marine art, and beach scavenger hunts.

Times: 9:00 am – 1:00 pm
3 days/week (M, W, F)
Location: At Buenaventura State Beach south of Ventura Pier.
Ages: 8 – 12 years of age
Cost: $200/week per child
Discounts for siblings and/or two weeks registrations are available
Scholarships available based on needs.

More details at https://www.meritofoundation.org/beachcamp

For any questions email us [email protected], or call 805-765-6326

You can register your child or grandchild at https://www.meritofoundation.org/marine-science-registration

The Ventura Police and Fire Departments encourage residents to enjoy a “Safe and Sane” Fourth of July

There’s a lot more to the Fourth of July than just fireworks.

This year when celebrating America’s 245th birthday, Ventura police and fire are encouraging residents to explore safer ways to celebrate, such as finding an outdoor activity, taking a trip to the beach, or hosting a BBQ.

“Fireworks are simply too dangerous and unpredictable to be used safely,” said Fire Marshal Joe Morelli. “While we will never be able to eliminate accidents, the public needs to understand how easily fireworks can start a fire or cause serious injury.”

With dry brush surrounding Ventura’s hillsides, fireworks can pose great danger to community members and neighborhoods. It is illegal to possess, store, sell, use, or handle fireworks in the City of Ventura. If you’ve purchased fireworks not knowing they are illegal, safely surrender them by calling the Ventura Fire Department, Fire Prevention Division at 805-658-4717.

In 2018, the Ventura City Council adopted a Fireworks Social Host Ordinance stating that any homeowner, renter, or person in charge of a private property who knows, or should know, of the sale, use, or possession of any fireworks are subject to a civil penalty.

Commander Sarah Starr added, “The fun associated with the Fourth of July celebration can instantly turn tragic for those who fail to make safety a priority.”

Additionally, the holiday is also one of the most dangerous of the year for DUI-related incidents and fatalities. The Ventura Police Department encourages community members to stay off the road after consuming alcohol, marijuana, or prescription medications. With so many options for a safe and sober ride home, including rideshare services, there is no excuse for driving under the influence.

Take the following steps to help partner in making it a safe Fourth of July for all:

  • Enjoy one of the many professional firework displays in Ventura County. While there are no public displays in the City of Ventura this year, community members can find safe alternatives in Camarillo, Moorpark, Ojai, Santa Paula, Simi Valley, and Thousand Oaks.
  • If you see an impaired driver, call 9-1-1 immediately.
  • If you see a neighbor lighting fireworks, call 9-1-1 if the activity is in-progress or poses and immediate threat to yourself or others.
  • If there is no immediate threat, please keep 9-1-1 lines open by calling the 24/7 non-emergency line at 805-650-8010. Be prepared to provide a location of the activity and/or a description of those involved.

Anyone found in possession of fireworks, or caught using them, could be fined up to $1,000 and/or receive a jail term of up to a year

For more information on staying safe this Fourth of July, please visit www.cityofventura.ca.gov/Fireworks

Visit Ventura is awarded “Best Place to Work” for the fourth year in a row

Visit visitventuraca.com/contact/staff to learn more about the Visit Ventura team.

The Pacific Coast Business Times has once again honored Visit Ventura with their “Central Coast Best Place to Work” award.

This marks the fourth year in a row that Visit Ventura has been selected as a “Best Place to Work,” but, suffice to say, 2020 was not a conventional work year.

“It was a year of adjusting and readjusting, again and again,” said Marlyss Auster, Visit Ventura President & CEO. “There were some stressful times, but through it all our team maintained the same upbeat attitude they’ve always had. And we never lost sight of our overall mission to do the next right thing to help our community. Thank you, Pacific Coast Business Times, for kindly honoring us. And thank you, wonderful Ventura, for working alongside us to do that next right thing.”

Through creative thinking and various award-winning campaigns, Visit Ventura helps spearhead a tourism effort that generates close to $300 million in annual visitor spending and, equally important, creates roughly 2,600 jobs in Ventura. Perhaps less known, tourism’s dollars help bolster Ventura’s General Fund, which, among other things, helps fund the city’s fire and police forces, build the city’s roads, and finance the city’s schools. Now more than ever, tourism will play a critical role in the recovery of the economy — from the national front to local hometowns.

“We all know how hard the pandemic has been on Ventura’s economy,” said Auster. “And tourism will be the economic driver that not only sees Ventura to its feet, but sees Ventura thrive. Our amazing team will continue to work hard to see that happen.”

The “Best Place to Work” awards began in 2016. They represent feedback across an organizational structure and were quickly embraced by the community thus increasing their prestige. Workplace factors such as compensation, paid time off, community involvement, and overall corporate culture are considered.