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The funds were announced to cheers from Rubicon’s opening night audience

Ventura County Supervisor Matt LaVere, Ventura City Councilmember and Rubicon Board President Doug Halter, State Senator Monique Limón, Rubicon Co-Founder and Artistic Director Karyl Lynn Burns and State Assemblymember Steve Bennett with a big check. Photo by Lauren Haar.

On Saturday, December 9, California State Senator Monique Limón and Assemblymember Steve Bennett presented a check for $1.5 million to Rubicon Theatre Company.

“The arts are an essential part of our lives,” said Senator Limón, “and Rubicon Theatre has been dedicated to providing access to the performing arts and educational opportunities in Ventura County for 25 years.”

“I’ve had the pleasure of being a season ticket holder to the Rubicon Theatre for nearly two decades,” said Assemblymember Bennett. “The contributions the theatre makes to our community are enormous, and this investment will allow the Rubicon to expand their impact.”

“This gift is the most significant in Rubicon’s history, and we could never fully express our gratitude to Senator Monique Limón, Assemblymember Steve Bennett, Governor Newsom and the State of California,” says Rubicon Co-Founder and Producing Artistic Director Karyl Lynn Burns. “It comes at the perfect time as we celebrate our Silver Anniversary and begin to plan for ways Rubicon as an institution can serve future generations of Ventura and California residents.”

“The funds provided will help us create an accessibility plan, upgrade our technical equipment and complete a kitchen renovation which will enable us to expand and diversify our programming and encourage new audiences and participants to ‘cross the Rubicon.”

“This is an incredible endorsement from the State of California of Rubicon’s 25-year impact on the cultural, artistic and educational life of our region and bodes well for the future,” says Board President Doug Halter.

“ I am moved not only by the professional work on stage, but also by Rubicon’s commitment to providing opportunities for young people that didn’t exist before the company came into existence. We gratefully accept this incredible gift and we want to thank you, Monique, for heroically leading the charge, and you, Steve, for being a part of the Rubicon family since the beginning.”

Because of this support the Rubicon will be able to complete a commercial kitchen downstairs ,which means that in the spring, the will have cabaret, comedy and music on off-nights and events in the Rose Room downstairs.

This funding will also allow the buying of lights, sounds and projection equipment and save the company hundreds of thousands of dollars in rentals.

And finally, funds are available to create the plans and start a campaign for an outdoor terrace, accessible restrooms and parking.

Rubicon Theatre Company is located at The Karyn Jackson Theatre, located at 1006 E. Main Street in Ventura’s Downtown Cultural District.

Ventura County’s Total Futbol Academy Youth Soccer Team: A force to be reckoned with

These young athletes demonstrate unwavering dedication to their sport.

In the heart of Ventura County, an unassuming youth soccer team is quietly making waves on the national stage. These young athletes, representing the club team TFA (Total Futbol Academy), are between the ages of 9 and 10 years old, yet they have already demonstrated exceptional skill, unwavering dedication, and a passion for the sport that rivals their more seasoned counterparts.

At the helm of this remarkable team is head coach Jose (Pepe) Ibarra, a local business owner and soccer enthusiast who has been guiding the team since 2022. With his infectious enthusiasm and deep knowledge of the game, Coach Ibarra has instilled in his players a winning mentality, a deep appreciation for sportsmanship, and a love for the beautiful game.

Alongside him is Assistant Coach Arturo Zaragoza, a soccer expert and Director of Financial Equity Programs at Ventura County Credit Union. Coach Zaragoza brings his vast soccer experience and commitment to equitable opportunities to the team, ensuring that every player, regardless of background, has the chance to excel.

Both coaches volunteer their time and effort, driven by a shared passion for soccer and a belief in the power of sports to transform lives. Their dedication has allowed the team to compete at the highest level without compromising their principles of fairness and accessibility.

Coach Ibarra’s philosophy revolves around treating his players as soccer players, not children. He challenges them with advanced concepts, believing that their young minds are capable of absorbing and applying complex strategies. This approach has proven highly effective, leading to impressive results on the field.

The TFA team competes as a flight 1 team in southern California, consistently securing victories in major tournaments across Nevada, California, and most recently, a second-place finish in Arizona. They strategically select only the top tournaments in different states, competing against the best teams in their age group. This commitment to facing the toughest competition has undoubtedly fueled their growth and success.

These young athletes demonstrate unwavering dedication to their sport, committing to rigorous training schedules of 3-4 times a week, coupled with weekend tournaments that often require extensive travel. They embrace the challenges and sacrifices, driven by a shared passion for soccer and a desire to compete at the highest level. Their hard work and determination are evident in their impressive performances on the field.

Who are these athletes??? Adrian Torres, Angel Garcia, Alexander Zaragoza, Carlos Esquivel, Enrique Cristales, Giovanny Ruiz, Isaac Meza, Maximiliano Ibarra, Pedro Rodriguez, and Gael Thiago Munguia.

The TFA team of Ventura County serves as an inspiration to young athletes everywhere, demonstrating that with hard work, dedication, and the guidance of passionate coaches, anything is possible. Their success on the field is a testament to their talent, determination, and the unwavering support of their coaches and families. The TFA team’s story is a reminder that even in the face of adversity, with hard work, dedication, and the support of a community, anything is possible. They serve as an inspiration to young athletes everywhere, demonstrating that with passion, perseverance, and the guidance of committed coaches, dreams can become a reality.

Zoppé: An Italian Family Circus Transports Ventura Families to Venice with Carnevale di Venezia

At the center of it all is the Zoppé family.

The Ventura County Fairgrounds is set to be transformed into a spectacle of wonder and awe as Zoppé: An Italian Family Circus brings Carnevale di Venezia to life from December 15-January 1, 2024. The entire family will travel on an exquisite journey through time, delving deep into intrigue, extravagance and celebration of life and art that is the essence of Venetian Carnevale. Co-produced by Luca Colferi, esteemed director of Campagnie de Calza—one of the world’s oldest theater companies hailing from Venice—this show promises an unparalleled experience of wonder, artistry and family-friendly entertainment.

Zoppé Family Circus brings the spirit of Venice to life with meticulously crafted costumes and masks handmade in the heart of the city. Traditional Venetian music sets the stage for a 500-year-old commedia preshow that takes place in front of the Big Top, offering a glimpse into the rich cultural tapestry of this historic carnival. At the conclusion of the commedia preshow, guests are immersed in Carnevale as they walk across a bridge and through the Zoppe passport office, getting their Zoppe passport stamped for Venice.

Performances large and small captivate audiences with incredible human talent. The Zoppé Acrobatic Troupe performs on the Chinese Poles, a staggering demonstration of strength and balance where acrobats climb and jump between tall poles. Canine capers bring humor, jugglers display dexterity and timing, and two majestic horses thunder around the ring, ultimately joining the dogs for a unique horse and dog act. Performers hail from around the world, including a dynamic acrobatic limbo and dance act from Kenya and a touching father-daughter act from Mexico.

At the center of it all is the Zoppé family, with Giovanni Zoppé performing with his son and a special audience member, and his daughters wowing audiences with their aerial lyra artistry. The evening culminates in a dance procession to old world music that brings a feeling of nostalgia for simpler times. Representing 7 generations of circus artists, the Zoppé family invites you into their Big Top home to experience the true meaning of circus–family, support and community.

While in Ventura, the Zoppe Family Circus will host two special events: Circus Camp and a New Year’s Eve Under the Big Top. Circus Camp teaches the circus arts to children right in the ring, and more importantly teaches the art of self confidence. Camp takes place December 26-29 for children from 7-15 years old and culminates in a family show the final hour of camp.

New Year’s Eve Under the Big Top is the perfect family tradition with the entertaining Carnevale di Venezia performance plus party favors and a countdown to a balloon drop at the finale of the show. The whole family can ring in the New Year together early!

Food Share’s 12th Annual CAN-tree Food Drive

Food Share’s 12th Annual CAN-tree Food Drive returned to transform Figueroa Plaza in the heart of Downtown Ventura. Over 300 magnificent trees, contributed by a diverse array of 100 businesses and groups, adorn the plaza.

 

 

 

The Ventura Breeze was there putting up their tree. Mary Thompson and Janie Tran led the group and publisher Sheldon was there, providing emotional help only.

Kaiser Permanente donates $10,000 To SEEAG’s Ag-Education Programs

SEEAG’s Mary Maranville and Seth Wilmoth, and Mary Jarvis and Dr. Liz Diaz Querol of Kaiser Permanente.

Kaiser Permanente presented Students for Eco-Education and Agriculture (SEEAG) a $10,000 community health grant during SEEAG’s annual Ventura County Farm Day on November 4. The donation will help fund SEEAG’s Ventura County Youth Wellness Initiative.

SEEAG’s Youth Wellness Initiative addresses the nutrition knowledge gaps and food insecurity among a diverse socioeconomic demographic of students in Ventura County, with a focus on Title 1 elementary schools. SEEAG’s program is designed to inspire and empower students to increase the amount of locally-grown fruits and vegetables they eat while improving overall healthy eating habits and increasing physical activity. Since the program began in 2020, SEEAG has reached 15,500 third graders who participated in hands-on nutrition education during in-class learning and monthly Farm Fresh Wellness Fairs.

Each participating student receives a Wellness Swag Bag filled with nutrition information, a jump rope and fruit and vegetable samples that they can share with their families.

“Nearly 20 percent of children are obese in America,” says Mary Maranville, SEEAG’s founder and CEO. “It’s critical that we teach kids at a young age about the importance of healthy eating and exercise so they can apply this knowledge throughout their lives. SEEAG’s Youth Wellness Initiative is possible with the generous support from organizations such as Kaiser Permanente.”

To learn more about SEEAG, go to www.SEEAG.org or contact Maranville at [email protected], 805-892-8155.

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].

 

City of Ventura receives $40,000 donation from Pier Into the Future

Pier Into the Future has successfully raised over $1.5 million over the years.

The City of Ventura is thrilled to announce a significant milestone in the restoration efforts of the Historic Ventura Pier. Pier Into the Future, a local nonprofit organization committed to the preservation of this coastal landmark, has generously awarded a $40,000 donation to the city to support some of the much-needed repairs at the City Council Meeting on Monday, December 4.

“Once the longest wooden pier in California, the Historic Ventura Pier is a cherished symbol of our community’s rich history. Despite recent challenges, we’re committed to ensuring its enjoyment for generations,” Mayor Joe Schroeder remarked. “This donation will help address infrastructure needs, enhance safety, and preserve its historical significance.”

Since its closure to the public in January 2023 due to safety concerns, ongoing maintenance and emergency repairs have been in progress. These include planned critical corrosion repairs to the steel framing and structure of the pier, with an anticipated reopening in spring 2024.

“This funding will assist in repairing the damage caused by winter storms to our iconic pier,” stated Ronda Holden, President of Pier Into the Future. ” Ensuring the pier’s ongoing contribution to our community is essential. Our aim is to safeguard this iconic structure and its integral role in shaping Ventura’s character.”

Originally constructed in 1872, the Ventura Pier has a broad history with contributions to agricultural, construction, and oil trades and is the oldest wooden pier in the state. A cornerstone for commerce and tourism, the pier features appearances in films, art, and photography, highlighting its significance to Ventura’s character.

Founded in 1993 by a dedicated group of community leaders, Pier Into the Future has successfully raised over $1.5 million in endowment funds and enhancements to protect and preserve our Historic Ventura Pier. The funds help assist comprehensive repair and maintenance plans, covering structural improvements, corrosion prevention measures, and necessary aesthetic enhancements to maintain the pier’s unique charm.

Learn more about current repair projects, funding information, and construction schedules at www.cityofventura.ca.gov/VenturaPier.

Ventura celebrates as local fighter Zachary Flores claims National Muay Thai Championship

Flores attributed his success to his hometown Ventura.

Ventura rings in the cheer with a stellar victory by local fighter and city’s pride – Zachary Flores. Fighting under the Ventura-based Pu’u Muay Thai Academy.

Flores has rightfully claimed his National Muay Thai Championship Title in the 165 lbs. weight division at the prestigious US Muay Thai Open Fall National Tournament 2023.

The event took place from December 1st through December 3rd at the acclaimed Embassy Suites
by Hilton in Scottsdale, Arizona.

Guiding him into glory was Kru Edward Gonzalez, the Chief Instructor of Pu’u
Muay Thai Ventura.

Displaying extraordinary valor and skill, Flores battled the hardest seed in
the bracket over three grueling days and against stiff competition in a sport defined by weight classes.

Speaking of his struggles and triumphs, Flores attributed his success to his hometown, “When it came to fighting, I wasn’t aware of many fighters from Ventura, and I always wanted to stay put. So, I worked hard to ensure Ventura had another fighter representing the city. I am that guy, and I’m committed to represent Pu’u Muay Thai and the City of Ventura for as long as I can fight. I am living proof that Ventura can produce fighters as good as any other larger city.”

The journey wasn’t without its trials. His second-round opponent had the luxury of a “buy” in the first round, leading to Flores being knocked down in the second round. However, Flores turned the tables by knocking down his adversary with knee strikes in the third round, securing a crucial victory.

Flores demonstrated his mettle once more in the final bout, facing another competitor with a
“buy”.

In reflection, Kru Edward Gonzalez proudly commented on Zach’s performance, “Zach stuck to
the game plan, demonstrating positivity and belief that helped overcome any challenge. Given
that he had the hardest road in his bracket, where all his opponents got a buy and were fresh,
his gold is a real testament of his willpower.”

Celebrating the delisting of two island plant species on the Channel Islands

Partners celebrated at the Channel Islands National Park visitor center.

Partners from the U.S. Fish and Wildlife Service, National Park Service, U.S. Geological Survey, The Nature Conservancy, California, Santa Barbara Botanic Garden, and Naval Base Ventura County came together to celebrate the delisting of two island plant species on the Channel Islands due to committed, collaborative conservation efforts of many.

At a celebration at the Channel Islands National Park visitor center in Ventura, Kaylee Allen, senior advisor for resources with the U.S. Fish and Wildlife Service Pacific Southwest Region said, “Today’s celebration is the culmination of decades of work to restore the health of the Channel Islands natural landscape. The delisting of the Santa Cruz Island dudleya and Island bedstraw, two plants known only to exist on Santa Cruz Island and San Miguel Islands, comes as we also celebrate the 50th anniversary of the Endangered Species Act. This landmark legislation has helped prevent the extinction of 99 percent of the species under its protection and has provided the mechanism for agencies, organizations and individuals to forge a path towards recovery of more than 100 species so far. The accomplishment being recognized here today is the culmination of everyone’s collective passion, partnership and problem-solving skills, and I am very proud of what has been achieved.”

Island bedstraw (Galium buxifolium) is a long-lived woody shrub with small flowers that lives on coastal bluffs, steep rocky slopes, sea-cliffs, and occasionally pine forests, of Santa Cruz and San Miguel Islands. At the time of listing, population estimates were in the hundreds. Helicopter surveys from 2017 estimate more than 15,000 individual plants now occur on the islands. San Miguel Island is owned by the U.S. Navy and managed by the National Park Service.

The Santa Cruz Island Dudleya (Dudleya nesiotica) is a flowering succulent perennial that lives on the marine terraces of Santa Cruz Island. Scientists say after its initial recovery the population has remained relatively stable over the last 25 years, with current estimates around 120,000 individuals.

Santa Cruz Island is collaboratively managed by The Nature Conservancy and Channel Islands National Park as a single biological unit.

Established in 1987, the U.S. Fish and Wildlife Service’s Ventura field office works to conserve and protect threatened and endangered fish, wildlife and plants across the southern and central California coast, collaborating with communities and conservation partners to build a future that supports both people and our unique and diverse natural landscapes. To stay up-to-date on the conservation work of our staff like us on Facebook.