Ribbon Cutting Caption: Corrales celebrates 50 years with a Chamber Ribbon Cutting on Aug 23^rd. Photo by Ashley Pope

WOW! Half a century of authentic Mexican flavors and serving the Ventura community! On August 23rd and 24th, Corrales Mexican Food celebrated its 50th anniversary with a special Ribbon Cutting with the Ventura Chamber of Commerce and Mariachi, DJ, fun games, and good food!

Since 1974, Corrales has become not just a beloved to-go Mexican food spot, but an iconic establishment in the city of Ventura! The restaurant was founded by Leonor Corrales, on August 24, 1974. She brought her rich Mexican heritage from Zacatecas Mexico and her culinary expertise to Ventura. From its humble beginnings, Corrales set out to offer an authentic taste of Mexican dishes, blending traditional recipes with fresh, high-quality ingredients—all made from scratch!

Over the decades, Corrales Mexican Food has grown from a small, shared space in a local tortilleria on Ventura Avenue into a staple in the community. Known for delicious/authentic Mexican dishes and friendly service, the restaurant quickly became a favorite among both locals and visitors.

The menu at Corrales features a range of classic Tex-Mex dishes, including the local favorite corn burritos, enchiladas, 4-way burritos, and more. The restaurant is particularly renowned for its flavorful red salsa and expertly crafted dishes that honor traditional Mexican recipes. Every dish is prepared from scratch with care, using fresh ingredients daily and time-honored techniques.

Did you know that the burritos are made with ribeye steaks? There are also plans to include new seasonal items—so don’t hesitate to ask about the secret menu that’s in the works!

Today, Corrales Mexican Food stands as a testament to the enduring appeal of classic Mexican cuisine and the strength of family-run businesses. Thanks to the dedicated local cooks who have been with us for over 30 years, Corrales continues to be celebrated not only for its delicious food, loyal employees, and patrons but also for its vital role in the Ventura community. It remains a cherished landmark of local culture and culinary tradition.

Come visit Corrales Mexican Food at 795 E Thompson Blvd. at the corner of Ash and Thompson! For more information, visit www.corralesmexicanfood.com.

Wicks Roofing and Solar is a leading provider of roofing, solar, and energy storage solutions across California’s Central Coast. Established in 1985, Wicks Roofing, Inc. has become a trusted name in residential and commercial roofing, known for its commitment to quality and innovation. In response to the growing need for reliable solar solutions, Wicks Solar, Inc. was founded in 2017, extending the company’s expertise into the burgeoning field of renewable energy. Today, Wicks proudly serves San Luis Obispo, Santa Barbara, and is now making a significant impact in Ventura County.

Ventura County represents a new chapter for Wicks, where the company’s dedication to cutting-edge technology and integrity shines through. The region’s transition toward sustainable energy solutions is epitomized by Wicks’ latest achievement: the completion of a 104kW Solar Photovoltaic System with Battery Energy Storage for CD Lyon, Inc. on Ventura’s Westside. This state-of-the-art system showcases Wicks’ expertise in delivering high-quality, reliable energy solutions. The system not only meets 57% of CD Lyon’s electricity needs but also enhances the facility’s resilience during grid outages and utilizes the batteries massive power storage to reduce demand charges.

Wicks Roofing and Solar stands out for its comprehensive approach, providing everything from design and sales to project management and installation. The team’s vast experience ensures projects are completed on time and within budget, meeting the highest standards of quality and safety. This commitment is underpinned by core values: proactively informing clients, building trust, delivering quality results, staying connected with the community, and working together to continuously improve.  The enthusiastic team in Ventura is supported by bright leadership and a passionate crew who live, work, and thrive in the community. They are excited about the future and are eager to continue leading the way in sustainable solutions.

As Wicks expands its presence in Ventura, the company is excited to contribute to the region’s sustainable growth. We are currently hiring in Ventura and welcome talented individuals to join our dedicated roofing team. Together, we aim to continue setting industry standards and fostering a cleaner, more efficient future for the community.

Clarissa Sanchez picks a favorite at Crown Classics & Exotics in Ventura

Crown Classics & Museum has moved from their warehouse in the old Toys R Us building to a fresh location a few blocks away in the Ventura Auto Center. The family-owned collector car  dealership is now on the same lot as Crown Dodge Chrysler Jeep Ram, and occupies the building previously occupied by Hertz. Classic automobile enthusiasts and fans of exotic cars alike are enthralled with the selection of autos and trucks in the showrooms and on the lot.  The business changed its name to Crown Classics & Exotics. It is located at 6100 King Drive, at the far end of the Crown lot.

“Many people have wondered what happened to all of the cars in the old location,” says Michelle Annette Leveille, Graphics Curator at the new Crown Classics & Exotics. “We just drove them a few blocks to the new location on the other side of the freeway.”  The selection of vehicles can be viewed without reservation or appointment at their new location on the Crown lot, any day from 9am-6pm.

Upon entering the building, one visitor was overheard exclaiming, “Whoa – this is like James Bond’s garage.”

The airy, 2-story showroom is filled with exotic and collector automobiles. A custom Rolls-Royce SUV stands proudly, signed by its previous owner, tennis star Venus Williams. A Shelby Cobra roadster crouches as i ready to race, facing off with a compact Lamborghini convertible. Outside, enough pristine vintage American cars and trucks are displayed to resemble the set of your favorite classic film.

Crown Classics & Exotics is hosting car meets and shows on its spacious parking lot. On the  third Sunday of each month, car guys and gals are invited to bring their best-loved four-wheeled vehicles to meet for Crown Cars & Coffee from 8am-10aam. Contact Michelle for more information: [email protected]

Celebrating their Chamber ribbon cutting ceremony on July 11, 2024.

C.D. Lyon, Inc. was founded in January 2011 by siblings Jeff and Kiki Lyon. At that time, they were working for their parents’ company, C.D. Lyon Construction, Inc., established in 1985. Seeking to stay in the industry, they started their own company. Their parents have since retired, and the original company was dissolved. Jeff and Kiki are proud to be the third generation of business owners on the westside, following their parents and their uncle Harry Lyon, who also ran a business on the Avenue. In honor of Harry Lyon’s community contributions, the Harry A. Lyon Park in Ventura bears his name.

C.D. Lyon, Inc. is a full-service general engineering contractor capable of handling a wide range of construction and maintenance services. The company is licensed, bonded, and insured to work both onshore and offshore, with USL&H coverage. Their mission is to build long-term relationships and conduct business safely, to specified quality standards, on schedule, and within budget. Their core values include safety, integrity, dependability, unity, and productivity. Their multi-skilled personnel provide clients with exceptional service.

Continuing their parents’ legacy, Jeff and Kiki have elevated the company to new heights by diversifying its energy sources. This ensures operational resilience and promotes a cleaner, more efficient future for the community.

In a transformative step towards sustainability, C.D. Lyon partnered with Wicks Roofing and Solar to install a 104kW Solar Photovoltaic (PV) and Energy Storage System (ESS). This system marks a significant milestone in Ventura’s transition to sustainable energy solutions.

The installation was celebrated with a ribbon-cutting ceremony on July 11, 2024, hosted by the Ventura Chamber of Commerce and attended by Ventura’s mayor, council members, and state representatives. Jared Bobb, CEO of Wicks and a Ventura Westside resident, said, “For Ventura, this project represents more than just a technological advancement; it signifies a shift towards energy independence and environmental responsibility.”

The Willows Apartment community proudly announces its grand opening, marking a significant addition to Ventura’s vibrant residential landscape. The highly anticipated event, held on Wednesday, July 26, 2024, showcased the community’s modern amenities, sustainable features, and unique lifestyle offerings, drawing an enthusiastic crowd of prospective residents, local dignitaries, and community leaders.

Nestled in the heart of Ventura, The Willows Apartment community offers a blend of luxury and convenience, providing an unparalleled living experience. Attendees at the grand opening enjoyed guided tours of the stylishly designed apartment homes, which feature state-of-the-art appliances, spacious floor plans, and stunning views of the surrounding landscape. The community also boasts an array of on-site amenities, including a resort-style pool, fully-equipped fitness center, serene walking trails, and a resident clubhouse.

In line with its commitment to sustainability, The Willows incorporates eco-friendly building practices and energy-efficient technologies. The community’s green initiatives include solar panels, electric vehicle charging stations, and a comprehensive recycling program, underscoring a dedication to reducing its environmental footprint.

Prospective residents can choose from a variety of floor plans, ranging from one-bedroom apartments to spacious three-bedroom units and townhomes, each designed with modern living in mind. Leasing information and virtual tours are available on The Willows’ website, making it easy for interested individuals to explore their new home from the comfort of their current residence.

For more information about The Willows Apartment community or to schedule a tour, please visit www.willowsventura.com.

At the end of Transport Street, behind the old Target near the DMV, sits Bill Hahn’s Automotive. For decades, Bill Hahn could be found there six days a week in his signature smock, hand-writing invoices, talking to customers, and pacing around the packed parking lot with a phone to his ear. His customers truly meant everything to him.

When Bill retired, he sought someone to carry forward his values, work ethic, and care for the community. In 2016, husband and wife Josh and Amber, along with Joel (Josh’s brother and Bill’s master mechanic for years), were hand-picked to helm the ship that Bill built. Ventura natives with deep love and appreciation for their extraordinary hometown—and with garage roots dating back to their grandfather’s 1950s-era mechanic shop at 5-Points—they take the responsibility of providing great service to heart. Their customers mean everything to them.

At Bill Hahn’s Automotive, they believe that maintenance shouldn’t be burdensome. They know that unexpected car repairs are a total bummer. They understand that having a local mechanic you can trust to give the honest truth about what a vehicle needs (or what can wait) will help avoid the biggest catastrophes of ownership. Car care is personal, and there is rarely one single right answer when it comes to repairs. Bill Hahn’s Automotive offers advice on the best course of action for the overall safety and longevity of a vehicle,
often differing from that given by dealerships or brand-name chain automotive centers.

Today, the parking lot is less congested, and hand-written invoices are a thing of the past. Bill Hahn’s Automotive has embraced technology with computers, tablets, digital inspections, text messaging, email, and
phone calls as available communication methods. They work on most makes and models, including late model and select vintage vehicles, from carbureted to computer-controlled.

Some constants remain unchanged across the years: professional standards, operational integrity, expert mechanics providing quality car repairs, best practices, thoughtful big-picture advice, great service experiences, clear communication, and good value.
Because customers mean everything

Hummus Republic in Ventura celebrated its grand opening with prizes, music, and a ribbon-cutting ceremony on Tuesday, June 18. Enthusiastic community members and members of the Ventura Chamber of Commerce attended the much-anticipated event, which was enjoyed by all.

Hummus Republic is a Mediterranean restaurant that offers a build-yourown style of bowls, pitas, and wraps, as well as side dishes such as falafel, salads, and other Middle Eastern fare. Their mission is to bring flavorful and convenient meals to the masses and to create accessibility to healthy, real food for everyone.

Proud owner Michael Lozovsky, originally from San Fernando Valley, worked at one of the Hummus Republic franchises for six years before opening this establishment. It is impressive that Michael started this journey as an entry-level restaurant employee. His work ethic led him to management and eventually to the corporate team. His hard work and desire to succeed have now resulted in owning his first restaurant. His goal is to open more locations in Ventura County.

Why, one may ask? Mediterranean cuisine isn’t just about vibrant flavors and health benefits; it’s about sharing joyful moments around the table. A place where every guest is embraced like family, and every meal is an invitation to vibrant living.