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Vol. 14, No. 09 – Jan 27 – Feb 9, 2021 – Ventura Music Scene

At press time, we’re still on hold for live music in venues, but drive-in concerts are still your safest bet, and now Thousand Oaks is getting into the spirit of things and will be hosting a drive-in concert at the BofA Performing Arts Center with Highway Starr performing on Saturday, February 6.

The Canyon at Oxnard Performing Arts & Convention Center has a number of live shows listed, but they’re not until April with a number of tribute bands and Buckcherry. I did see that Martha Davis and the Motels are schedule for May as well as Tierra & Malo. To keep track and for ticket information, go to WhereMusicMeetsTheSoul.com (Scroll down and select Oxnard). There is nothing listed yet on the Concerts in Your Car website.

I’ve been receiving a lot of great feedback on the interviews I’ve conducted with local musicians over the past year. It’s always interesting to check in and see how our local artists are faring and to see what new projects they’ve been working on lately. This time around, I reached out to an old friend of mine Christine Law who has a new project called Star Goes Nova.

Pam: Let’s get people who are not familiar with your work up to speed. Tell me about your past projects.

Christine Law: More widely known as a bassist, I’ve toured and recorded with the famous and the obscure; credits include Theo Mordey (Jesus Christ Superstar), Charles Law & Jagged (college radio), Grammy winner John Baffa and platinum selling songwriter David Holster. I recorded bass on Suzanne Paris’ Grammy nominated album “Pink Lipstick” – and toured nationally with her. Earlier, I played bass for Jan Kuenehemund’s (from Vixen) solo project around Los Angeles. I also had the chance to jam with many artists at iconic L.A. clubs in the early 2000’s – that was awesome! For about 3 years in the mid 90’s, I toured and recorded with Martha Davis during her hiatus from The Motels. My first experience having a song played on the radio was with my hardcore band Tantrum in the late 90s. About 15 years ago, I met my husband Charles, a singer/songwriter, when he performed at Zoey’s in Ventura. We recorded 3 albums together from which several songs charted Top 10 nationally on college radio. I’ve been so fortunate to hang out with iconic artists and perform fantastic venues, complete with wild stories!

Describe Star Goes Nova and why you’re delving into EDM (Electronic Dance Mix).

Christine: Last year, I inherited my Mom’s pianos – a 115-year-old Turin grand piano, and a newer Kawaii upright. I hadn’t played piano since my high school piano lessons, but, when I first put my fingers on the keyboard of the Turin, all these songs just started writing themselves. I had been dabbling with EDM, going the Cinematic Dubstep direction, and the piano stories I was writing just blossomed with the electronica. I write fantasy Cinemata and Dubstep Dance EDM – it’s like my high school orchestra, piano, and hardcore got melded together. Beautiful and powerful.

Please share the story behind your song, “The Ocean Between Stars.”

Christine: I knew your Dad had been terminally diagnosed, and one day, you told me about taking him to the beach. I sat at my piano, thinking about you two on the beach – the day, the sounds, the waves and wind – and the journey ahead. “The Ocean Between Stars” tells of the sojourn of the souls of our lost loved ones. The song also contains a sonification (Hubble telescope recording of galactic frequencies) of the supernova Cassiopia A. There’s an angel there too…

I feel so honored by this Christine; it truly gave me goosebumps the first time I heard it. I will be sharing it on my next radio show on KPPQ-LP. Who are other EDM artists you admire?

Christine: I really admire the Santa Barbara based EDM record label Ophelia – they have great artists – Seven Lions, Tauri and Gem, MitiS. I also love Illenium and Grimes. I’d say my music is a cross between Grimes and new age pianist Leo Z.

How is the EDM community/genre different from other genres?

Christine: EDM evolves very quickly, and there are truly no rules. From pure electronica to inclusion of acoustical instruments and vocals, it’s all out there. I have noticed that artist collaboration is practiced and really valued – from swapping samples to writing/recording to putting raves together. Many of the samples, songs and community are offered freely (no charge). Also, I’m into offering high-resolution versions to the market that has high-res (96K) systems (like Sony); many EDM artists will offer 96K downloads along with their regular spec releases. You haven’t heard music until you listen to it in 96K – that’s the resolution the artist hears in the studio. I’d love for people to hear my work at 96K!

How big a following does the EDM community have?

Christine: Well, Electric Daisy Carnival in 2018 had over 200,000 attendees, and Tomorrowland had over 400,000. Given this portion, I’d say the fans are in the millions, with around 300-400 artists, and about 50 of those really well known.

How are you networking/marketing to get the word out?

Christine: I work with a PR firm for the social media side, which is just getting started. For now, I use Facebook www.facebook.com/Stargoesnova and Twitter @StarGoesNova and Instragram star_goes_nova. And of course, the website www.StarGoesNova.com

What if any plans do you have to expand on this new project?

Christine: I am currently releasing singles on social media, which will be compiled into a complete album. I’d like to host an “electric” rave – you know, with headphones!! Socially distanced of course!! I’ll also perform at Burning Man (if they have it this year), and then a couple of EDM festivals. My super big dream is to go to Ibiza or Mykonos and collaborate on a recording and also have a song spun there. Ibiza is the ultimate! I also want to continue collaborating with other artists. So far, two amazing local artists have collaborated on Star Goes Nova singles – Karen Eden (from The Bad Apples) and Fuse (from Hard Six).

How can people find out more?

Christine: Go to www.StarGoesNova.com and become a Stargazer by clicking on “Become a Stargazer”! or Facebook.com/StarGoesNova. Checkout the tunes also on Spotify, Itunes and ReverbNation.

Any final words?

Christine: Keep looking ahead. Keep dreaming. Keep doing things that bring meaning to people’s lives. Mankind is becoming interplanetary and interstellar, we must keep our art, music and dreams as part of our reach into the stars.

Don’t forget to tune into the Pam Baumgardner Music Hour on KPPQ-LP out of CAPS Media at 104.1 FM here in Ventura. It airs Tuesdays at 5 pm with repeats on Fridays at 5 pm and Sundays at noon. You can also listen via the MyTuner app on your smart device or online at CapsMedia.org/radio. Every show I feature artists out of the 805 and artists who come to the 805 to play as well as a handful of indie artists I’ve come across.

Do you have any music-related news or upcoming shows (online or live) you want help publicizing? Please send all information short or long to [email protected], and for updated music listings daily, go to www.VenturaRocks.com.

Vol. 14, No. 09 – Jan 27 – Feb 9, 2021 – Mailbox

Sheldon…….

Feel as you might about Trump, this is America. I started to read your commentary and was stopped when you said, “for those who belong to the party of “law and order” saying it so sarcastically about the Republican Party, really? Like we don’t want law and order. You should be ashamed of yourself!

What about all the rioting during the so called “peaceful” demonstrations by Black Lives Matter? Burning our businesses. Maxine Waters telling rioters among others to go for it!!

I cannot even continue to read it, I’m disappointed in you.

Please consider all Americans instead of your own hatred.

Trudy Smith

Trudy: I am not ashamed of anything that I have said about Trump. Just as, I assume, you are proud of what you feel about Trump. As you say, this is America where we can still all have our own opinions. Thanks for reading the Ventura Breeze I hope you enjoy the rest of the paper.

“What about all the rioting during the so called “peaceful” demonstrations by Black Lives Matter? “ What about it? I certainly don’t approve of them either. And certainly, would condemn them for storming the capitol and trying to disrupt a peaceful transition to a new president.

Are you suggesting I have hatred because of my dislike for Trump? You don’t know me, I am a very caring and loving person. And if I am a hating person only because of my dislike for Trump then over 50% of Americans are also hateful people.

Hopefully in your next email to me you will explain why you think Trump was a good president.

Sheldon

Breeze:

Thank you Sheldon to you and your staff – I really look forward to each new edition of the Ventura Breeze!! I appreciate your candor, perspective, coverage of local happenings and interesting articles of interest to residents and visitors alike! The ads usually are pertinent too.

Yvonne Besvold

Dear Breeze,

Socialists are fighting the good fight, while American fascists are only fighting for what’s in their best interests. Socialists come from a place of generosity, inclusion and compassion for others. They seek justice for the oppressed. Fascists, also known as the Far Right, only care about staying in power at any cost. The differences between these two opposing groups are reflected in what they have chosen to protest in the past few years.

Socialists speak out against racism, police violence, anti-abortion and anti-Immigrant advocacy, child-abuse at the border and elsewhere, war, misogyny, fascism, out of control capitalism, U.S. Imperialism and voter suppression. On the other hand, fascists groups like the Proud Boys, violently protest against Jewish people, Muslims, people of color, anti-racism, fair voting results, immigrants, gun safety, pandemic and climate change science, healthcare as a human right and mask-wearing. They also support dictatorial leaders.

Which side do you see Venturans supporting? The violent White power thugs or the folks who are standing up to these bullies, and pushing back on the injustices and oppression that so many have experienced in America for decades, if not centuries? Our culture has to change for the better and we must follow the lead of socialists. It is the only way this country will survive in a way that all people can thrive and live in peace.

Sincerely,

The Democratic Socialists of America – Ventura County Chapter

“I will be a President for all Americans”
~ Joseph Biden

Ventura Audubon Society Program Speaker Event

February 9th, at 7pm, via Zoom – Brent Paull’s California Wildlife Collection

Free to the public, join us through the Zoom link that can be found on our website under Chapter Programs/Monthly Speakers. The link to our website is also provided here, https://www.venturaaudubon.org/monthly-speakers.

Brent Paull was born in California and has since traveled across the west to photograph American landscapes and wildlife. He has over 1400 publication credits, 30 published articles, and 12 magazine covers. He has shot in 18 National Parks, dozens of National Monuments, and National Wildlife Refuges throughout the American West. Join us for this virtual presentation wherein Brent Paull will share his collection of California Wildlife images and his unique experiences as a photographer.

Vol. 14, No. 09 – Jan 27 – Feb 9, 2021 – Harbor Patrol Blotter

Friday 1-8	7:33am, received dispatch to an ocean rescue at C-Street. Officers responded and assisted VFD & State Parks. The patient sustained a fractured leg surfing.
Saturday 1-9	1:13pm, while on patrol in the Fireboat, received report of a disabled sailboat in the A-basin. Officers found the vessel and safely towed it back to its slip, VIM.
Sunday 1-10	12:08pm, dispatched to an Ocean Rescue at the Ventura Pier for a missing surfer. Officers responded in Rescue B-19 to assist searching for a diabetic patient who went surfing and was last seen four hours ago. After searching with multiple agencies, the patient was found safe, tired from surfing for four hours. 4:08pm, dispatched to an Ocean Rescue, individual threatening to jump off the end of the pier, refusing to leave. Officers responded in Rescue B-19 & RWC to assist VPD & State Parks with suicidal individual. Convinced him to not jump.
Monday 1-11	8:15am, observed and received reports of several Hazards to Navigation throughout the harbor probably from the heavy surge due to the large West swell event yesterday and last night. Docks were damaged in the keys also. Hazards found included trees, logs, dock floats and construction debris. 3:30pm, dispatched to an Ocean Rescue, kite surfer in distress upcoast of the Ventura Pier. Officers responded in Rescue B-19. The victim was found uninjured and was escort back to the beach.

Wednes 1-13	7:15am, observed a large, deceased sea lion near the Surfers Knoll Groin. Due to the position, high tide and the weight of the animal, officers were unable to remove it. Local volunteer organization, CIMWI was contacted and advised.
Thursday 1-14	9:45am, received report of a vessel accident between to fishing seiners in the commercial docks. Officers responded in fireboat to investigate the report. After interviewing witnesses, minor damage was sustained, no injuries reported.
Friday 1-15	12:23am, received report of noise disturbance in the keys from kids on an electric boat. Officers responded and terminated the voyage due to no lifejackets 11:20am, while on patrol in Fireboat, contacted a 20ft MV in the sandtrap and advised of the shoaling and the danger of navigation in the area. 11:37pm, dispatched to a medical alarm in the Ventura Marina Community. Officers responded and found the patient who accidentally activated alarm.
Saturday 1-16	1:20pm, received dispatch to ocean rescue, swimmer caught in a rip at the Greenock lane jetty. Officers responded and assisted State Parks with call. 10:23pm, received report of a vessel in distress outside the Harbor Entrance. After a search and assistance with the RP, it was determined that what the RP was observing was the #2 entrance navigation buoy and red light flashing.
Sunday 1-17	3:55am, received a request for entrance conditions from Tow BoatUS, they are inbound towing a 30ft sailboat with a fouled prop. Officers passed conditions. 11:54am, observed a small vessel towing a disabled one. Officers on patrol in Rescue B-19 took the disabled vessel en tow at the Harbor Entrance to the L/R. 4:29pm, received report of fireworks at Harbor Cove near the mermaid statue. Officers responded, found a rap group filming a video and igniting fireworks. The video production was terminated and warnings for the fireworks given.

Ventura College Foundation provides record support in 2019-20 despite pandemic challenges

The Ventura College Foundation, a nonprofit organization that provides resources and financial support to Ventura College students and to school programs, distributed $824,548 in financial support during the 2019-2020 academic year–$699,971 in scholarships, $84,577 in VC Promise tuition assistance and $40,000 in textbook support. The annual scholarship distribution was the largest in the foundation’s history and was distributed during the COVID-19 pandemic in April.

A total of 427 scholarships (including 17 new scholarship) were awarded to 247 applicants. Over 3,100 students took advantage of the foundation’s textbook lending library. All told 5,330 students (41 percent of the student population) received support from the foundation through tuition support, scholarships or textbook lending.

In addition, another $919,792 of foundation facilitated support went to assist 44 programs in 15 Ventura College departments and divisions.

“Because of the COVID-19 pandemic, the VC Foundation had to cut staff, cancel our annual scholarship awarding events, and rework our fundraising strategies. Our on-campus Weekend Marketplace, which generates revenue to run the foundation’s day-to-day operations, was closed for over two months,” says Anne Paul King, the Ventura College Foundation’s executive director. “It reopened with only one third of the vendors and lower gate capacity. It then had to temporarily relocate because of campus construction. Through it all, we have been fortunate to be able to continue our mission to foster and enhance the education of Ventura College students. We are grateful for the generosity of our donors and community members who have made this possible.”

For more information on the Ventura College Foundation’s financial impact on student education in 2019-2020, https://venturacollegefoundation.org/foundation-impact.

Established in 1983, the Ventura College Foundation is a 501(c)(3) nonprofit organization and operates financially independent from Ventura College. It transforms students’ lives through education by providing innovative and vital resources and financial support. The Foundation collaborates with Ventura College to enhance human potential, civic engagement, careers and academic success of students enabling their effective impact and legacy on the college, local workforce, and our community. The Foundation also hosts the Ventura College Foundation Marketplace; an outdoor shopping experience held every weekend on the Ventura College campus. For more information, contact Julie Harvey at (805) 289-6502 or [email protected] or visit www.VenturaCollegeFoundation.org.

Author/journalist Ivor Davis launches Zoom interview series for Ventura County Museum

After the wildly successful, members-only Zoom series Behind the Scenes with Ivor Davis wrapped up this past fall, the Museum of Ventura County is thrilled to present Ivor Davis: Up Close and Personal, a new Zoom series featuring a rotating guest list of notable and celebrated Ventura County residents, including Chris Hillman, Malcolm McDowell, Miriam Arichea, and more. This new series is free and open to the public with registration.

The first interview guest was musician Chris Hillman, formerly of the Byrds, Flying Burrito Brothers, and Rock and Roll Inductee.

February 4, is legendary actor and Ventura County resident Malcolm McDowell, winner of Ojai Film Festival Lifetime Achievement Award, whose career has spanned over 50-years–and star of scores of movies including the iconic Clockwork Orange, Caligula, Bombshell, Time After Time, TV series Entourage and Mozart in the Jungle.

February 25: Miriam Arichea, Appeals court lawyer, a concert pianist with local symphony orchestras, director of Rubicon Harmony choir programs, mock trial high school teacher–and all-around Renaissance Woman.

You are invited to join us on Zoom at 6:30—7:30 pm for the first in this series with musician Chris Hillman. Among the conversation topics, Ivor Davis will interview Chris Hillman about his recent memoir, “Time Between: My Life as a Byrd, Burrito Brother, and Beyond,” his time living in Ventura County, his rock’ n roll roots, and much more. This is not to be missed!

Registration is free, and a suggested donation in any amount will allow the Museum to continue providing valuable programming. If you can, please support this programming and the Museum through one of our annual membership levels; when you support the Museum, you support your community.

Coverly Professional Services, Inc. announces newly hired Communications Specialist

Howell will be responsible for strategizing and implementing editorial opportunities.

Closing out its 10th Anniversary year, Coverly Professional Services, Inc. (CoverlyPro) announced that Maaeah Howell has joined the team as a Communications Specialist. In this capacity, Howell will be responsible for strategizing and implementing editorial opportunities for clients, delivering SEO empowered copywriting, and supporting social media efforts with analytics, engagement, and developmental growth.

The forward-thinking, marketing project management firm welcomed Howell in early January. She brings with her a strong journalism background, with a focus in copy and ghostwriting. A native German speaker, Howell has experience as a content creator, blogger and brand ambassador with an emphasis on targeting global audiences. Howell offers a creative and analytical perspective, and incorporates her international experiences gained through studying, working, and living abroad as leverage to reach worldwide engagement.

“Maaeah is a welcome addition to our growing team,” said Lynnette Coverly, Founder and CEO of Coverly Professional Services, Inc. “Her real-life experiences of living and working abroad have given her a global perspective so needed in our world today. Certainly, our clients and our team will benefit from her unique perspectives.” CoverlyPro remains committed to embracing staff with diverse backgrounds to fit its multi-faceted client portfolio.

From everyone at Diversity Collective Ventura County – Thank you!

It’s almost trite to use the word “unprecedented” at this point, but that was 2020. We have all been hit by the pandemic in some way. But with your support, DCVC has prevailed and we are looking forward to a bright and healthy 2021.

In 2020, we were challenged early on and without warning to have to cancel our AIDS Walk event, asking participants to create something personal to continue the event on their own. You stepped up and a virtual event was formed. It wasn’t easy, but we did it. Together.

We then had to look to our Community Resource Center – a safe and healthy space for our community to gather. It was shuttered to further reduce the spread of COVID19, as well as comply with state mandates. We created our “Stay Safe Drive Through” events where anyone could come and get information, safe sex kits, masks, and hand sanitizer while maintaining social distance.

Virtual PRIDE was incredibly successful, and the amazing team that pulled it together included volunteers, staff, and board members. We reached viewership outside of Ventura County: San Francisco, New York City, and of course Los Angeles, all brought in viewers to enjoy a drag show, a contest, and lighthearted conversations from allies and friends.

With the experience we gained from the two former virtual events, it was a somber pleasure to bring Transgender Day of Remembrance to you. As we remembered those who went before us, we also took pride in where we stand as a community and look forward to the long road ahead.

You may have noticed that the Gala, usually in autumn, was non-existent. The Board of Directors felt that this is one event that really warrants a live audience, and we have postponed it for now. There are so many incredible people and organizations that have helped us along the way, we wish to honor them the way they deserve: in front of their peers and community.

Rainbow Umbrella is thriving and our youth are finding that virtual interaction is enlightening and fun. We have so many awesome things planned for 2021 – stay tuned. Speaking of youth, one of the good things to come out of this year is our new program, Little Unicorns, for LGBTQ, questioning, and ally kids ages 9-12. We commenced this program in October, and we already have a following of kids enjoying a place of inclusion and acceptance.

All these things happened because you cared enough to support our cause. THANK YOU!

To begin the new year, we are proud to announce that Tess Allen will be stepping into the role of Executive Director. Tess has worked in Development and Fundraising for many years, and we look forward to her leadership.

Just visit our website and click on the donation button. While you are there, please consider becoming a sustaining GEM (Give Every Month) member to receive more perks and information as we travel the year ahead!

Vol. 14, No. 09 – Jan 27 – Feb 9, 2021 – Forever Homes Wanted

Rufio was found as a stray with repeated stab wounds. He was taken immediately to our medical department who took care of his numerous injuries. The vet staff report that he has been a great patient, is very sweet, tolerant and loves butt scratches. Our other staff report that he is a sweet boy.

We haven’t gotten him in playgroup yet, but he has met some other dogs through the kennel door and seemed to be okay with them. If you have another dog at home, bring them along for a meet and greet.

Just look at that smile! We think it’s time for this sweet 2-year-old boy to have a home where he is loved and protected.

Ventura County Animal Services – Camarillo location – 600 Aviation Drive

Rufio A765119

Sweet senior gal Audrey is looking for her shot at getting to love someone during her golden years. She is an absolute snuggle bug and just wants to be cuddled on your lap.
Audrey loves getting her massages in return for cuddles. And who could resist those darling eyes.

Canine Adoption and Rescue League C.A.R.L. CARL Adoption Center-call 644-7387 for more information.

Escape for a whale watch trip or island excursion to the Channel Island National park soon!

Because of the spike in Covid-19 cases in Ventura County, Island Packers, boat concessionaire to Channel Islands National Park, public boat transportation has been closed since December 21st. For the sake of all those affected by the pandemic they hope the numbers soon drop significantly. Once hospital capacities exceed 15%, they expect to be given the green light by the County to resume safe operations for transportation to the National Park and Marine Sanctuary.

All trips will continue to run at just 50% capacity with pandemic protocols still in place. (Visit islandpackers.com for a detailed description.) The staff are well trained in the protocols and they have a good track record in keeping passengers safe and comfortable.

The office and gift shop are currently open daily (except Wednesdays) from 10 a.m. to 2 p.m. for information and reservations. Once open boat trips will fill quickly as we are entering the high season.

Please consider reserving your trip well in advance by telephone or by booking online. If there are extended closures due to continued high case numbers, we will contact you to either reschedule, remain on hold, or receive a refund.

Gray Whales will continue to migrate through the region until mid-April, and we have also had sporadic sightings of Humpbacks and Orca. The island trails will be greening up soon. Come on out to whale watch, hike, kayak, camp, explore, and adventure.

Island Packers staff and management thank you for all your support. Because of you, we will get through this challenging time.

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