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Ventura Council of PTAs Awarded Center for Family Engagement Grant

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

 

Vol. 17, No. 09 – Jan 24 – Feb 6, 2024 – Forever Homes Wanted

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.

 

Pet Link: www.vcas.us/viewan-2/?ida=A825930

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 for Valentine’s Day at Ventura Pottery Gallery

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.org and you can also visit our online store at www.venturapotteryonline.com

High school reunions planned

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.

Business Profile: Expert in Accounting and Business Advisory Transforming Enterprises

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.

SEEAG introduces Visionaries Circle LEAGUE²

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].

Vol. 17, No. 09 – Jan 24 – Feb 6, 2024 – Harbor Patrol Blotter

Note: There was no police action to report.

Sunday 12/31/23

 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.

Business Profile: CRAVE introduces “ROAST & AROMA”

The Ventura Chamber held a ribbon cutting at CRAVE.

The development of Gelato Kofi Bar’s captivating design unfolded serendipitously, marked by meaningful encounters with skilled artisans that blossomed into cherished friendships and mentorships. This unique connection shaped the foundation of CRAVE’s distinct approach. They celebrated the New Year with a Ribbon Cutting on January 12th, bringing the community together and kicking off an exciting, SWEET 2024!

CRAVE’s mission goes beyond being just an establishment; it aims to strengthen community bonds. CRAVE introduces “ROAST & AROMA” tasting social experiences, the tastings that delve into the origins of the beans, the farmers, and the cultivation process. It’s an invitation to discover a whole new coffee experience, crafted with purpose and passion.

Enriching the community further, CRAVE will be launching quarterly Art Talk and social events, showcasing local painters, photographers, and like-minded artisans. The first gallery and Art Talk event, featuring the talents of Mouserawk, will be on January 21st from 4-6 pm with nostalgic Vinyl-Cover music. Patrons can also join CRAVE every Sunday afternoon for live jazz sessions from 12-3 pm. Amidst harmonious tunes, one can stroll along Portside Ventura Harbor, enjoying the beautiful promenade while taking in spectacular Ventura sunsets.

CRAVE’s new 2024 logo captures the essence of its coastal location, alongside with a series of upcoming offerings. These include handcrafted gelato pints to take home, crafted cold-brews in refillable growlers, and an array of merchandise such as stickers, aprons, and t-shirts.

Stay tuned for additional information as CRAVE continues to unfold its commitment to community, sustainability, and a rich, immersive coffee culture. For more information, follow CRAVE on Instagram @gelatokofibar. Mention the BREEZE for $1 off $10 Purchases.

Vol. 17, No. 09 – Jan 24 – Feb 6, 2024 – Community Events

The Ventura Senior Men’s Group continues to meet for a social lunch and program at the Poinsettia Pavilion in Ventura on the first and third Tuesday each month. Men of all descriptions are always welcomed to stop in to sample our shenanigans. Lyle Hotzler at 805-341-9820

Wanna Play Bridge? Join us for ACBL sanctioned duplicate bridge games every Tues., Wed., and Thurs. at 12:30. All levels of play and we will guarantee to have a partner for you if you need one. Lessons are available. Contact: Richard 805-850-8011 or Rose 805-659-9223 or [email protected]. All Welcome.

The Ventura County Philatelic Society’s meetings are held every first and third Monday of the month at the Church of the Foothills, Ventura. Meetings start at 7:30pm. Website with more information can be found at https://venturacountyphilatelicsoc.org

Monthly Beach Cleanup First Saturday of every month! Come meet your neighbors and help keep our beach looking fresh. Hosted by Pierpont Beach Community Council in partnership with Surfrider. Meet up at the end of Seward near the beach. (1140 S Seward St) 8:30-10:30am. Arrive any time during the timeframe. Fun for the whole family! Supplies provided BYO water.

Paws for Reading brings together young readers and affectionate, canine listeners to help boost the confidence of beginning readers.
Hill Road Library, Wednesdays, 3:30 to 5 pm
E.P. Foster Library, Thursdays, 4 to 5:30 pm
Join PAWS dogs for one-on-one reading sessions. Arrive at the library early to choose a book and get in line to read to a special pooch. Children of all ages welcome!

January 27: 10:00 a.m. to 3:00 p.m. Ventura Friends of the Library will hold a  Book Sale
at the Vons at Telegraph and Victoria (6040 Telegraph Rd.) Fiction, Non-fiction, Children’s Books Manga, Comic Books, Graphic Novels Puzzles, Audiobooks, CD’s and DVD’s!

February 3: Sespe Fly Fishers of Ventura will be conducting our monthly “First Saturday” introductory Fly Rod Casting and Intro to Fly Fishing clinic. There is no charge and all are welcome. Whether you are an experienced fly fisher or a complete novice we want to help you improve your casting and learn to enjoy this great sport. If you don’t yet have a fly rod, don’t worry, just come and use one of ours. Please join us at Chumash Park, Petit and Waco, 9:00 to 11:00 am, in East Ventura, off Telephone Rd.
For more information: Casting Program Coordinator Thomas Hall [email protected]  (805) 377-5249 www.sespeflyfishers.org

February 4. Open house tours of the 1892 Dudley Historic House Museum will take place on Sunday, from 1 to 4 p.m. Admission is free. The museum is located at the corner of Loma Vista and Ashwood Streets (197 N. Ashwood) in Ventura.
For information please call (805) 642-3345 or visit the website at dudleyhouse.org.

February 4: Old-Time Country Bluegrass Gospel Music Assoc.
Sunday from 2:00-4:00 pm
Poinsettia Pavilion, 3451 Foothill Rd, Ventura
Live Music on stage. Jamming in the Canada Room. Free Admission. Free parking
Open to the Public. For more information
call 805-517-1131 or visit Facebook: OTCBGMA

February 7: The speaker for BCNN February’s meeting is Emily Zivot, Park Ranger at Channel Islands National park. She will be giving a slide show highlighting how the ocean connects the Channel Islands and resident wildlife to each other and to the mainland.

BCNN, (Beach Cities Newcomers and Neighbors) meeting is the first Wednesday of the month, and runs from 10:00 AM to 11:30 AM. Doors open at 9:30 AM. BCNN is a group for Women from Ventura, Oxnard and Port Hueneme. It has dozens of small groups, off shoots from sports activities, to wine tasting, bridge, games, book groups, movie group and more.

Please take note that the group has moved to the Pacific Corinthian Yacht Cub 2600 Harbor Blvd Oxnard.

February 10: Saturday, 8 a.m. to 2 p.m. Our monthly plant and collectibles sale resumes in February with a “Hearts & Flowers” sale on the grounds at the Dudley House. Bromeliads, orchids and succulents will be on sale along with a variety of collectibles. Vendors please call Charlie at 805/746-4317 for details. The museum is located at the corner of Loma Vista and Ashwood Streets.

February 10: Public workshop on American pocket watches presented by Ventura/Santa Barbara chapter of the National Association of Watch and Clock Collectors.  Topics include a history of the American watch industry and participation in disassembly and reassembly of a typical watch movement. Expert assistance and all tool and watch movements will be supplied.

The class will be held at the Dudley House museum in Ventura. Contact Dave Coatsworth ([email protected]) for more information and to register.

February 22: Unleash the magic of tradition and connection at Chabad of Ventura’s Mega Challah Bake at 6 pm! Calling all wonderful women of Ventura County to join us in a delightful evening of laughter, learning, and the art of making the perfect traditional Jewish bread, Challah.
Come together with a diverse community, spanning generations and backgrounds, to create memories, friendships, and of course, delicious Challah!
Poinsettia Pavilion 5:30 registration and salad bar. 6pm program
Secure your spot now at www.chabadventura.com/challah and let’s embark on this journey together!

February 24: Join Supervisor Matt LaVere for an afternoon at an Italian Bistro to help raise rental assistance funds for Ventura Homeless Prevention. Lasagna, wine, music, auction and more. Unitarian Universalist Church of Ventura. 5654 Ralston. Tickets and donations at venturahomelessprevention.org.

February 24: Channel Islands PC User Group (CIPCUG)
Location: Online and Live at Ventura County Computers 2175 Goodyear Avenue, Unit 117 Ventura (805) 289-3960. Discussion, Tutorial, and Q&A sessions centered around Computers, email, the Internet, AI, and social media brokers such as X, Facebook, and Google. Events begin at 9:30AM.

All CIPCUG events may be attended online. Due to limited space live attendance is reserved for members. Details for connecting to online events are emailed prior to the event. To receive connection instructions, please sign up on our website at: http://www.cipcug.org