Category Archives: City News

Ventura’s Climate Report Card presented by iMatter Youth

Tatum Becker, El Camino High School (ECHS); Joe Yahner, Environmental Services Supervisor City of Ventura; Zayan Reza, ECHS; Sophie Nguyen ECHS; Ventura City Councilmember Cheryl Heitmann; Summeya Islam,ECHS; Olivia Loorz,ECHS and Sierra Manske,ECHS.

by Karen Helen Szatkowski

Recently six young women from El Camino High School presented to the Ventura City Council what was a less than congratulatory report card on the city’s efforts to combat climate change. The report card is the result of iMatterYouth and their consultation with some of the most knowledgeable people and organizations on information that is science based and publicly available . The range of such consultation is broad and deep, from local governments for Sustainability USA to Natural Capitalism Solutions. The kid’shave been committed to covering all of the bases.

IMatter is now a national organization and the founder, Alec Loorz, is a young man raised and educated in Ventura: “I worked with a group of about 50 of my fellow middle schoolers to design and install poles along the beach and we met with the City of Ventura to get their cooperation. The poles are still up today, five years later, and have helped the City Council to include sea level rise in their planning. Now there are poles in several other cities as well, and one of the original poles can be seen at the Museum of Natural History in NYC.”

An A-F grading system evaluates Ventura’s action (or inaction) to reduce greenhouse gas emissions to levels needed to end the climate crisis. These are their grades.

Zero Emissions: Climate Action Plan: Measures when the city’s Climate Action Plan gets to net zero human emissions D-

Renewable Energy: Measures when the percent of renewables used to generate a city’s electricity is more than the national average, and the percentage is rising. A+

Waste: Measures when the amount of waste per person is decreasing and the percent of that waste that is recycled or composted is increasing. B-

Carbon Removal: Measures when there is some kind of a program that will result in more carbon being removed from the atmosphere. F

Youth Involvement: A bonus area that rewards a half grade for having youth involved in advising on or setting climate change related policies and plans. None

Ventura’s overall grade is a C- which means a lot needs to be done to bring the city’s efforts on our carbon footprint to a more effective standpoint. The fact that the City Council made time to listen intently to the presentation shows the seriousness they assign to the efforts of the young activists. Many Councilmembers expressed their appreciation for the professional presentation and the kid’s commitment to the wellbeing of Ventura. For more information on IMatter, contact Larry Kraft, Executive Director, [email protected]

A variety of programs to be offered at Center

A happy group celebrating another addition at Westpark Community Center.

On Tuesday, May 3 parents, staff, young boxers, sponsors and city dignitaries were on hand to celebrate the completion and installation of the Westpark Community Center’s new fitness facility, flooring and equipment. Ventura Chief of Police Ken Corney was there to show the VPD’s support for the wonderful programs offered there for our youth. As was Ventura resident and business owner Sal Flores who spends many hours mentoring at-risk kids participating in the Ventura Boxing Club that he started at Westpark.

The new fitness facility will host a variety of programs such as boxing, exercise fitness, martial arts, step classes and Zumba. Westpark serves 120 youths daily, ages 6-17, and more than 1,100 children annually through free and low-fee, scheduled and drop-in programs for fitness, enrichment and homework.

Aera Energy sponsored the facility’s new flooring. Aera Energy has actively supported the center’s youth academic and physical fitness programs for many years, especially through startup seed money for the Ventura Police Activities League (PAL) that supports programs at the Center.

Ventura City Fire Department responds to kitchen fire in two story home.

On May 13, at approximately 4pm, Ventura City Fire Department responded to a report of smoke coming from a two story residential home. Upon arrival fire crews found a fire burning in the kitchen on the second floor. The fire was extinguished 10 minutes after arrival of firefighters. A sprinkler system was activated as a result of the fire and contained the fire to the area of origin. The home sustained water damage from the sprinkler activation on both floors of the residence. Three adults were displaced from the home as a result of the fire.

No firefighters were injured as a result of this incident. The cause of the fire remains under investigation.

National Police Week May 15-21

National Police Week begins this Sunday, May 15th and runs through Saturday, May 21. The Ventura Police Community Foundation invites all to come out with the Ventura Police Department and help raise money for Community/VPD events, Public Safety and City of Ventura Youth Programs including the Police Activities League by participating in Ventura Restaurant Week.

Please come and dine at the restaurants listed below during the week of Sunday, May 15 – Saturday, May 21. Each restaurant listed will donate 20% of the bill to The VPCF, a non-profit 501 (c) (3) dedicated to strengthening the partnership between the citizens of our community including youth, schools and businesses and the Ventura Police Department.

See event flyer for participating restaurants as well as dates, times and additional information about the fundraiser. Flyer must be presented in hard copy form or on phone to the server for the 20% discount to be donated. For more information about The VPCF, please visit www.venturapolicefoundation.org

Sunday, May 15 Spencer Makenzie's 806 East Thompson Blvd. 11:00 am to 8:30 pm
Monday, May 16 Chick-fil- A 1321 Eastman Ave. 6:30 am – 10:00 pm
Tuesday, May 17 CPK 3401 East Main 11:00 a.m. – 10:00 pm
Wednesday, May 18 Jersey Mike's 1145 S. Victoria Ave. 10:00 am – 10:00 pm
Thursday, May 19 Casa de Soria 1961 East Thompson Blvd. 11:00 am – 9:00 pm
Friday, May 20 Red Brick Pizza 4990 Telephone Road 11:00 am – 10:30 pm
Saturday, May 21 Two Trees Cade 7822 Telegraph Road 7:00 am – 9:00 pm

Vol. 9, No. 16 – May 11 – May 24, 2016 – City of Ventura Classes

City of Ventura Imagination classes check out hundreds more on our web-site

Call 658-4726 or 654-7552 to register, if you already have an ACTIVENET account online, visit www.cityofventura.net

Classes/Events held the Barranca Vista Center ~ 7050 Ralston Street unless otherwise noted

Line Dance with a Twist 18 years-adult
5/11/6/15 M/W 1-2 pm $60 #5684
For experienced line dancers: enjoy fun exercise with a twist of salsa, ballroom and jazz. Instructor Jackie Ringhof. No class 5/30.

Basic Guitar 9 years-adult
5/17-6/28 Tuesday 7-8:30 pm $55 #5625
Learn folk and pop strums, patterns and chord progressions. Students provide own acoustic or electric guitars. At Dudley House, 197 N Ashwood St. Instructor Randy Covington. No class June 7^th.

Dance & Date Night 18 years-adult
5/22-6/26 Sundays $69/person #6460
Learn a new dance every six weeks. Select the hour (5 to 8 pm) you want to attend and the dance you want to learn www. pmhouseofdance.com. Instructor Patricia Monico. Classes held at House of Dance, 3007 Bunsen Ave, Suite E. To register 658-4726.

Afternoon Delight Ballroom 50 years+5/26-6/30 Thursday 1-2 pm $69 per person #6463
Avoid nighttime driving and join us, couples or singles, to learn three new ballroom dance styles every six weeks. Instructor Patricia Monico. Classes held at House of Dance, 3007 Bunsen Ave, Suite E. To register call 658-4726.

Intro to Aikido for Youth 7-16 years
5/29-6/19 Sunday 11 am-12 pm $40 #6384
Students focus on conditioning and basic aikido techniques in a cooperative environment to help gain focus and awareness. Instructor Dennis Belt. Classes held at Aikido Dojo Training Center, 2406 E Main St. To register call 658-4726.

Re-opening of the historic Ventura Pier held

City councilmember Christy Weir, Mayor Erik Nasarenko and Pier Into The Future Board President David Fukutomi cutting the ribbon to re-open the pier.

On December 11, 2015 the Ventura Pier was closed due to structural damage from 20’ high waves. The damages included 20 lost timber piles, 19 loose piles, and loss of 40% of the steel and wooden cross bracings. Originally built in 1872 as a wharf for commercial use and once the longest wooden pier at 1,958 feet the Pier now measures 1,535 feet.

After four months of extensive repair work the Pier is now open to be enjoyed by Venturans, tourists and those who enjoy fishing off of the Pier.

Community members, dignitaries and visitors attended the ribbon cutting ceremony celebrating the re-opening of the Pier.

Congratulations were made in remarks by Ventura Mayor Erik Nasarenko and Pier Into the Future Board President David Fukutomi.

David Fukutomi stated, in part “Thank you Mayor and councilmembers in attendance Meeks Construction for the great work in repairing the Pier. Pier Into The Future has had a wonderful 23 year partnership with the Ventura. “

“The Pier Into The Future mission is to serve as an advocate for the pier, raise awareness, and raise funds for enhancements and to help offset operating costs.”

“As the mayor mentioned, last year we presented a check for almost $140,000 to bring the pier endowment up to $1million.”

“Those funds came from the individuals and businesses in community. Many of you here today have contributed. We applaud the city for taking immediate actions following the damaging storms to prevent further damage.”

“Thank you to everyone who is here today. Thank you for everyone who has supported the pier.”

He also specifically recognized the Pier Into The Future board members who were present.

Please help ID these robbery suspects

Can you help ID these suspects? They were involved in a Grand Theft at a business in the 800 Block of S. Victoria Ave. 2 unidentified suspects came into Two Trees Optometry during lunch time on Cinco de Mayo and stole estimated $5000 worth of retail eyeglasses.

If you recognize them, the Ventura Police Department would like to hear from you, but if you’d rather remain anonymous you can submit a tip to Crime Stoppers at 1.800.222.TIPS, text “BUSTED” plus your message to CRIMES (274637), or go online to www.venturacountycrimestoppers.org.

If your information leads to an arrest you could receive a cash reward of up to $1,000.

You can also contact Sgt. Medina with the Ventura PD with any information at 805.339.4325.

Sign up for free “Responsible Beverage Serving”class on May 3

The City of Ventura Office of Special Events and Project Safer on Responsible Beverage Serving will co-host a free “Responsible Beverage Serving” class on Tuesday, May 3, at 6:30 pm, in the Community Meeting Room at Ventura City Hall, 501 Poli Street.

The class is mandatory for special events where alcohol is served or sold.

A short presentation will take place on how to apply for a City of Ventura Special Event permit and grant funding.

Registration in advance is required. Class size is limited to the first fifty people who sign up by May 2.

TO REGISTER contact: Kim O’Neil at [email protected].

For more information contact Michelle Godoy-Morales at [email protected] or 805-654-7749.

Vol. 9, No. 15 – April 27 – May 10, 2016 – City classes

City of Ventura Imagination classes check out hundreds more on our web-site

Call 658-4726 or 654-7552 to register, if you already have an ACTIVENET account online, visit www.cityofventura.net

Classes/Events held the Barranca Vista Center ~ 7050 Ralston St. unless otherwise noted

Basic Dog Obedience 14 years-Adult
$70 + $5 Supply Fee
4/30-5/21 Saturday 9-9:50 am Dogs under one year #5555
4/30-5/21 Saturday 11-11:50 am Dogs over one year #5556
Covers: name recognition, sit, down, basic stay, leave it, watch me, find it, and basic come commands. Problem solving/socialization as time permits. An adult must accompany handlers under 18. Proof of vaccinations required (Rabies/DHPP). No retractable leashes, please. Participation is at the discretion of instructor.

The ABCs of Estate Planning 18 years-adult
4/30 Saturday 1-3 pm $25 #5719
Learn about wills, living trusts, planning for incapacity, the probate process and common pitfalls. Instructor Attorney Jef Coyner.

Belly Boot Camp 18 years-adult
5/2-6/13 Monday 6-7 pm $65 #5525
Lose weight and feel great with a fun cardio workout as we shimmy, twist and tone to the beat. Dress comfortably in workout attire and optional hip sash. Bring 2 or 3 lb hand weights and a towel or mat. Included: brief diet discussions. Instructor Anja Christy. No class 5/30.

Simple Machines using LEGO® 5-10 years
5/7 Saturday 10 am-12 pm $30 #5731
Build racing cars, launching catapults, lifting cranes and more as we explore Simple Machines in Lego.® Students will learn about how the Six Simple Machines (Lever, Pulley, Wedge, Screw, Inclined Plane, Wheel & Axle) help engineers get the job done

Ballroom Dancing 16 years-adult
5/10-6/14 Tuesday 7:30-8:30 pm $55 #5657
Enjoy the magic of smoothly moving across the floor with the waltz, fox trot, swing and rumba! Price includes a free dance-step DVD so you can practice at home. No partner needed.

Heat Up the Night Latin Dance Workshops 16 years-adult
5/10-6/14 Tuesday 8:30-9:30 pm $55 #5682
Learn sensuous and steamy Latin dances in six weeks. Price includes a free dance-step DVD so you can practice at home. No partner needed.

Don’t miss the first of our FREE Fairytales in the park performances the second Saturday of each month May ~ September 4:00pm Barranca Vista Park 7050 Ralston street, in Ventura

May 14 show is Cinderella meets the Avengers. Bring a blanket or a low lawn chair and a picnic! Performances are for all ages out on the lawn. www.fairytalesinthepark.com

Westpark celebrates its new fitness facility

Members of the public are invited to join Westpark Community Center youth, parents, staff, sponsors and dignitaries at 450 W. Harrison Ave. on Tuesday, May 3, 4-5 pm, to celebrate the new fitness opportunities now available to the Westside community thanks to the completion and installation of the center’s new fitness facility, flooring and equipment.

The mission of Westpark Community Center is to provide a variety of safe, educational and affordable youth programs and services that develop self-esteem, leadership, character development, sportsmanship, and health and physical fitness to the Westside. The building hosts a computer lab, arts and music studios, game and teen rooms and fully equipment kitchen that serves Westpark-registered children a free snack and dinner funded by a USDA food grant.’

“It has been a dream and an amazing journey to see all the growth, changes and improvements at Westpark,” says Youth Programs Coordinator Anita Diaz who has been center director for more than a decade and a half. “As a teen I attended games here with my dad who was a sports official at WP. It has been very gratifying to partner with so many generous community organizations and city departments to make Westpark a true community center creating a legacy that we all can be proud of.”

Aera Energy sponsored the facility’s new flooring. The business has actively supported the center’s youth academic and physical fitness programs for many years, especially through startup seed money for the Ventura Police Activities League (PAL).

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