Category Archives: Business

Business Profile: Honey Baked Ham Ventura: A New Beginning with a Family Touch

Ventura, California, has long been home to a beloved Honey Baked Ham location, but this year, there’s been a notable change. The Ventura store was originally a franchise, but in a significant transition, it’s now proudly corporate-owned. Along with this shift in ownership comes a fresh and enthusiastic face at the helm: Nicole Cody. Nicole assumed the role of manager in July 2023, bringing with her a wealth of experience in management and a deep commitment to customer service.

What makes Nicole Cody the perfect fit for Honey Baked Ham in Ventura? Not only has she been a resident of Ventura for the past decade, but she’s also a true Southern Californian at heart. Nicole’s roots in the region have given her a profound understanding of the community, its tastes, and its values, which she aims to reflect in her role at the store.

Nicole was drawn to Honey Baked Ham by its unique family atmosphere and core values. At Honey Baked Ham, it’s not just about the ham; it’s about the people. The company goes to great lengths to take care of its employees and instill in them the mission and values of fostering family meals and fellowships. This genuine commitment to both customers and staff is what sets Honey Baked Ham apart from the rest.

Honey Baked Ham is no newcomer to the food scene. Since its inception in 1957, this delectable delight has delighted palates across the nation. It all began in Detroit, Michigan, when Harry J. Hoenselaar opened the very first store. From there, the delicious tradition spread far and wide, earning a cherished place in the hearts of many.

What sets Honey Baked Ham apart as the world’s best ham is the care and dedication that goes into every product. Their special glaze and sandwich qualities are the result of using the highest quality bone-in smoked ham. Harry Hoenselaar, the visionary founder, developed a unique curing and cooking procedure that brings out a one-of-a-kind taste – a taste that can only be described as perfection.

One of the exciting developments for the Ventura location is the expansion of their offerings, along with their Ribbon Cutting on December 10 to celebrate their freshly remodeled space!

Honey Baked Ham isn’t just for the holidays; it’s a year-round indulgence. Nicole Cody is enthusiastic about the post-holiday season, with plans to focus on catering and lunch boxes. This extension of services will allow more people to savor the exceptional taste of Honey Baked Ham whenever they desire.

And here’s an exciting opportunity for those looking to join the Honey Baked Ham family this season: employees will receive a free ham or turkey breast for their holiday celebration, making it a truly special season. Additionally, they’ll enjoy free lunch during each shift and flexible schedules, providing a work environment that prioritizes their well-being and quality of life.

In the heart of Ventura, Honey Baked Ham continues to be a place where the community can gather, enjoy delicious food, and create lasting memories. With Nicole Cody at the helm, and the unwavering commitment to quality and family values, the Ventura store is set to be an even more cherished part of the local culinary landscape.

Come check out the newly remodeled store at 4255 E Main St, Ventura, CA 93003.

Business Profile: Joe Parisi of Guaranteed Rate

Joe Parisi started in the home loan business 37 years ago with Citi as an inside sales representative, fulfilling his dream of being in the financial services industry. With the excellent training that Citi provided, he graduated to outside sales, calling on real estate agents. True to his love of people and numbers, he found that he loved the challenge of solving problems and finding home financing solutions for both realtors and home borrowers. Joe’s reputation grew throughout the real estate industry and acquires 100% of his business through realtor referrals and satisfied past clients. With decades if experience under his belt, his passion for assisting people in achieving homeownership dreams and guiding them towards wealth accumulation has only grown stronger.  The satisfaction of aiding a first-time homebuyer remains the highlight of his job. He also loves rising to the challenge of salvaging deals when other lenders stumble. Joe handles financing on everything from small condominiums to multi-million-dollar homes and 1-4 unit investment properties. As a mortgage banker and mortgage broker, Joe has access to hundreds of loan products to suit all needs.

For more information, please email [email protected], call (818) 687-6047, or visit rate.com/joeparisi

Business Profile: Meet Jacquelyn Naster, CPO: Transforming Lives at Hanger Clinic Ventura

From the simple to the extraordinary, we help make the impossible possible—one person, one challenge, one step at a time. At Hanger Clinic, we care for our patients like family, working together to bring about the best possible orthotic and prosthetic outcomes.

With 900 locations across the country, we create customized solutions—including state-of-the-art prostheses, braces, supports, cranial helmets, and other devices—designed to help you live your best life. Our commitment is to listen to you, get to know you as a person, and do everything we can to help you achieve your potential.

Each of our patients is unique. They come to Hanger Clinic with their own, defined pasts and entrust us with their yet-to-be-determined futures. We hold this immense responsibility sacred, which is why we strive to deliver the best possible orthotic and prosthetic care for each person we serve.

Come meet Jacquelyn Naster, CPO

Clinician at our Ventura location. Jacquelyn is an ABC-certified prosthetist/orthotist and Clinic Manager for Hanger Clinic. Her experience ranges from pediatrics to the geriatric population. She has a strong focus on pectus orthoses as well as idiopathic scoliosis in orthotics. Prosthetically, her focus is on transfemoral prosthetics.

Jacquelyn also specializes in infant cranial asymmetry. Most families are unfamiliar with plagiocephaly and cranial remolding orthoses in the beginning, and she enjoys being able to ease their fears about the process and help their baby with treatment. Her best days are when she can graduate the baby and sees the joy on the parents’ faces at the end of treatment.

Outside the clinic, she loves going on hikes with her husband, Chris, and their little dog, Taquito.  She also enjoys DIY projects around the house.

Concours Motors’ Wheels to Shine Program Honors Ojai’s Caleb Hester

Caleb Hester and fiancée Maya Norris (center) with Concours Motors CEO Gerardo “J.R.” Luna (right) and COO Rita Luna (left). Photo by Marie Gregorio-Oviedo @marie_the_photographer

On October 29, Concours Motors of Ventura celebrated its eighth annual Wheels to Shine Giveaway, awarding a pristine 2003 Mercedes-Benz E320 and a year of free maintenance to Ojai resident Caleb Hester. Caleb, 20, was selected from 60 nominees for the honor.

A recent Summa Cum Laude graduate from Pepperdine University, Caleb completed high school years ahead of schedule, finishing with nearly two years of college credits and maintaining a 4.0 GPA throughout his studies. Tragically, his mother, Lisa Hester, 43, was struck and killed by a speeding driver on July 31 while walking on a crosswalk, leaving behind Caleb and his seven younger siblings, the youngest just four years old. Friends describe Caleb as a quiet, dedicated, and compassionate young man who has become a pillar of strength for his grieving family.

Caleb was nominated for Wheels to Shine by close family friend Fawn Parish of Camarillo. Shortly after receiving the award, Caleb married his childhood sweetheart, Maya Norris, 19.

Concours Motors CEO Gerardo “J.R.” Luna and COO Rita Luna, known for their philanthropy in Ventura County, contribute to over 18 local organizations, participate in beach cleanups, and support youth through the Police Activities League. They say the Wheels to Shine giveaway is particularly meaningful because it allows them to share their skills as master technicians. “We’re so grateful to everyone who nominated someone for this year’s Wheels to Shine. As always, our nominations committee had a nearly impossible task, but Caleb and his family are truly inspiring. We can’t wait to see what he accomplishes with his new car,” shared J.R. Luna.

Friends of the Hester family have set up a GoFundMe page to help Caleb pursue his dream of attending medical school: GoFundMe link. To learn more about Concours Motors’ Wheels to Shine program, visit WheelsToShine.com.

Business Profile: Franklin’s Ace Hardware

Franklin’s Hardware celebrates its Grand Opening with a Chamber Ribbon Cutting on Friday, November 8.

Franklin’s Hardware has proudly served as the friendly neighborhood hardware store for 70 years. As a proud family-run business, we’ve consistently provided exceptional customer service and expert advice, earning the trust of our community for all things hardware. Our extensive inventory includes everything from paint and electrical supplies to cabinet hardware and plumbing essentials, making us the go-to destination for experienced contractors and DIY enthusiasts. We also strive to be your one stop shop for all things BBQ. We have a wide selection of top-of-the-line BBQ’s, accessories, spices, sauces, rubs and more.

In 2019, we proudly expanded our family-run legacy to the vibrant city of Ventura, CA. Our East End store has been a cherished part of the community for the past 5 years. Our commitment to exceptional customer service and a welcoming atmosphere continues as we open our second Ventura location in beautiful Midtown. Visit us at one of our locations now: 1870 E. Thompson Boulevard & 7838 Telegraph Road.

We are grateful for the opportunity to support and connect with our neighbors, standing by you as a reliable partner for all your projects, whether big or small. Thank you for letting us be a part of your neighborhood. Stay tuned for the Grand Opening of our Garden Center (Midtown location) Spring 2025.

You can follow us on Instagram @franklinsacehardware_vta or Facebook at Franklins Ace Hardware – Ventura for all the latest news.

Business Profile: The Greek

Last weekend, locals and visitors reveled in the Halloween festivities at Ventura Harbor. The celebration kicked off with the Annual Witches Paddle, followed by live music, the adorable HOWL-O-WEEN Dog Costume Contest, Seaside Trick-or-Treat, giant expertly carved pumpkins, and even a Thriller Zombie Dance.

Amidst all the fun, the iconic Greek Restaurant stood out. This family-friendly eatery has attracted patrons to the harbor for over 30 years.

Gerasimos (Makis) and Lynn Mikelatos began their culinary journey in 1980 with their first venture, “It’s Greek To Me,” at Centerpoint Mall. From delectable lamb chops to hearty moussaka, their restaurants have offered a taste of Greece alongside lively belly dancing and Greek dance shows.

Adapting to the times, “The Greek” added Tango 2nd and 4th Tuesday and The Greek After Dark any night by prior arrangement, featuring specialty drinks and a virtual DJ spinning ’80s hits from 9 pm to midnight. This fresh twist, combined with classic Greek flavors, showcases the restaurant’s ability to evolve while honoring its roots.

Their commitment to the community extends beyond food, with active involvement in local schools, the Ventura Chamber, and nonprofits, blending flavors with a spirit of giving.

With some loyal employees marking over 30 years with “The Greek,” it remains a family affair, offering breathtaking views that transport diners to Greece’s sunlit shores. Today, “The Greek” stands as a symbol of tradition, passion, and Mediterranean hospitality, inviting all to celebrate life, love, and fine cuisine.

Check out their full breakfast menu and spacious venue for your upcoming holiday gatherings. And with the holidays fast approaching, make reservations early for one of the best views in town to enjoy the Parade of Lights and New Year’s Eve celebrations!

Experience Local Flavors at Paradise Pantry: A Restaurant, Wine Shop, and Artisan Market

Paradise Pantry is a premier downtown establishment that serves the neighborhood as a great Restaurant, an acclaimed Cheese Counter and a remarkable Wine Shop. Paradise Pantry is a destination for everyone.

Co-owner Chef Kelly Briglio uses the seasonal bounty of the Central Coast to create dishes featuring house-made pasta, made-from-scratch soups, and farm-fresh salads to entice every palate and pair well with co-owner Tina Thayer’s curated wine list.

Begin with a cheese plate, then a great main dish and end with a delicious dessert. Dine on the patio or inside, or order takeout. Don’t miss shopping next door in the Paradise Pantry Artisan Market.

The Paradise Pantry Artisan Market which includes an expansive Cheese Counter and well-stocked Wine Shop, carries a curated selection of local and international food specialties — cheese, salami, olives, wines, craft beers, jams, chocolates and more.

Let the experts behind the Cheese Counter guide you on pairing wine and cheese and ask about grab-and-go and custom gifts. Worked up a hunger while shopping? Circle back to Paradise Pantry Restaurant next door and order a cheese plate, a great meal, a wine flight and an excellent dessert.

“We strive to make eating great food and drinking fantastic wine a fun, inviting, and educational experience for all that wish to experience it. We are passionate supporters of local farms and businesses, culinary lovers, wine drinkers and quality-food snobs. We created this restaurant to be what we loved and in our community. A foodie’s Paradise,” Chef Kelly

Business Profile: Banh Mi Paris Sandwiches

Located in Ventura’s Victoria Village (by Harbor Freight Tools and Victoria Pub and Grill) is a hidden gem of Vietnamese cuisine. If you’re familiar with Vietnamese must-haves like Pho, you’ll be delighted with the restaurant’s fresh Banh Mi varieties, as well as other local favorites. What truly sets their Banh Mi apart is the homemade, fresh-baked baguettes, prepared daily right in their kitchen—unlike other restaurants that have their bread delivered. These crispy baguettes are filled with your choice of meat, pickled vegetables, cilantro, lime, chile, and other ingredients that give the Banh Mi its signature flavor. Aside from these delicious sandwiches, the menu boasts spring rolls, noodles, Peruvian-inspired stir fry, and rice dishes. As the weather cools, their Pho is the perfect soul-soothing comfort food.

Manager Phong Nguyen is a chef at heart, having grown up in the family restaurant business since the 1990s. At a young age, he became the main chef and kitchen manager for The Vox Kitchen in Fountain Valley, where he worked for many years. The Vox is a trendy, Orange County-based fusion restaurant that draws inspiration from cuisines around the world, and it earned a spot on Yelp’s Top 100 US Restaurants list in 2022.

Nguyen opened his first restaurant in Oxnard in 2005. With his family now living in Ventura, he decided to join Paris Sandwiches, closer to home. The restaurant launched at the end of 2019, right before the COVID-19 pandemic hit, which posed obvious challenges. Thankfully, delivery services like DoorDash and Grubhub helped sustain the business during that tough time.

Over the past four years, while the menu has evolved, some local favorites have stayed the same—Pho, Banh Mi, vermicelli, and garlic noodles. The restaurant continues to introduce new flavors to keep the options fresh. Recently, the dine-in area was reopened, and there are plans to expand the menu further. Be on the lookout for daily or weekly specials, along with their fresh-baked baguettes that many don’t know are made in-house daily! Be sure to visit them at the upcoming 2024 Fall Business Expo at the Four Points Sheraton on October 10, from 4pm to 6:30pm and, sample some of their delicious offerings.

Catching Memories: Kevin Brannon and Reel Guppy Outdoors Inspire a Generation

“Catching Memories” is the mission of Reel Guppy Outdoors, a free youth fishing program founded by Kevin Brannon. Seeing a need in his community, Brannon realized many kids longed for someone to take them fishing, just as he had done with his own children. His inspiration came from his own childhood, growing up in a low-income, single-parent household after the loss of his father. Life became a cycle of foster homes and shelters, leaving Brannon with uncertainty and hardship.

Living near the Port Hueneme Pier, Brannon found solace in fishing, often using salvaged fishing lines and hooks. Armed with a tin can as his makeshift fishing pole and leftover bait from the pier, he became a modern-day Huck Finn, finding peace and escape in the ocean.

By the age of 9, Brannon began working aboard local party boats, assisting passengers with fishing. The boats gave him a sense of safety, purpose, and solitude, which further fueled his passion for the sport and helping others. These experiences eventually shaped the foundation of what would become Reel Guppy Outdoors.

More than 25 years later, Brannon produces Reel Anglers Fishing Show California, which includes the Reel Guppy Outdoors program. His goal is to pass along his connection with the ocean, using fishing as a tool to foster self-worth, leadership, and success in the youth he mentors. The same survival skills that once saved him are now helping a new generation thrive.

Brannon also created Ocean of Opportunity, a program that brings California’s marine ecosystems to students through interactive simulations. In these lessons, classrooms explore piers, lakes, rivers, and tide pools, with a particular focus on the nearby Channel Islands National Park. Using props, artificial lures, and displays, students learn about marine life, responsible fishing, and conservation. The program includes an in-class clinic and an outdoor fishing trip, where participants practice knot-tying, explore wildlife, and engage in team-building activities.

The Reel Guppy Learning Center expands on this with hands-on marine education, video production, and media skills, empowering young people to connect responsibly with their local waters. To date, the program has served over 7,000 children, all free of charge.

On September 7, 2024, the Port Hueneme City Council recognized Brannon as one of the 2024 Hueneme Heroes Award recipients, honoring his significant contributions to the community. This recognition, as a hometown hero, was perhaps Brannon’s most meaningful award.

For more information about Reel Guppy Outdoors, please visit: www.reelguppyoutdoors.com.