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18th Annual Human Trafficking Awareness Walk and Speaker Panel

Stand up, speak out, and raise awareness. Be part of the movement to end human trafficking in Ventura County.

Raising Awareness and Inspiring Action in Ventura County

Soroptimist International invites the community to participate in the 18th Annual STOP Human Trafficking Community Walk and Speaker Panel. This free event aims to shed light on human trafficking and empower the community with education and resources.

Featured Speakers Include:

  • Eric Nasarenko: Ventura County District Attorney
  • Detective Ash’lee Gray: Ventura Police Department
  • Rafael Magana: OUR Rescue

The panelists will define human trafficking, discuss its impact within Ventura County, share insights from previous cases and prosecutions, and present the 15-minute film “I Luv You”, which explores the dangers of sextortion. The discussion will also focus on how sextortion affects survivors and their families and offer practical advice for parents, teachers, and community members on educating youth and preventing exploitation.

Additional Highlights:

  • Community partners will provide resources and information about their services.
  • The four Ventura County Soroptimist clubs—SI Oxnard, SI Ventura, SI Camarillo, and SI Channel Islands—are amplifying the message with their “Dream Big” awareness campaign, featuring digital signage along the 101 Freeway throughout January, National Human Trafficking Awareness and Prevention Month.
  • CAPS Media Ventura will broadcast a PSA on Channel 6 and KPPQ FM104.1’s “In the Women’s Room” with hosts Kathleen Good and Debbie Gohlke.

This event is an opportunity to increase awareness of the pervasive issue of sex and labor trafficking in Ventura County and inspire collective action to combat it.

Event Details:

Date: Saturday, January 11, 2025
Location: Columbus Hall, 36 Figueroa Street, Ventura
Time: 1:00 PM – 4:00 PM
Cost: FREE

For more information, visit: www.stoptraffickingventuracounty.org.

Register for the City of Ventura’s Junk Drop Off Day Event!

Saturday, December 14, 2024

City of Ventura residents are invited to participate in the next Junk Drop Off Event to properly dispose of hard-to-manage waste and recycling. This outdoor event takes place at the City Maintenance Yard at 336 Sanjon Rd. in Ventura. Please enter from Sanjon Road.
What to bring:

    • All waste types EXCEPT for Household Hazardous Waste.*
      Tires will not be accepted at this event site, but can be dropped off at Avenue Tire in Ventura during the event hours (up to 4 tires per household.)
    • Government I.D. or utility bill: Attendees will be required to show proof of City of Ventura residency.

*Electronics are accepted, however you can also save time and event space by dropping off unlimited quantities for free 6 days a week at Gold Coast Recycling. Learn more here.

What not to bring:

    • Household Hazardous Waste such as: Batteries (Automotive and Household), Compressed Gas/Propane Tanks, Cosmetics (Nail Polishes, Removers, Etc.), Fire Extinguishers, Fluorescent, Tubes and Light Bulbs (CFLs), Paints, Pesticides and Fertilizers, Pool Supplies, Smoke Detectors, Thinners and Lacquer, Used Oil Filters, Used or Contaminated Motor Oil and Gasoline. For more information on how to dispose of HHW or to register for an upcoming HHW drop-off event, please visit our website www.cityofventura.ca.gov/hhw.
    • Commercial and business waste is not accepted at these events and vehicles clearly marked for commercial purposes will not be allowed entry.
  • Junk Dropoff Bins are organized by material type: Yard Waste, Electronics, Metal, Trash, and Bulky Items. Separating ahead of time is not required, but you may find it useful to organize your materials by these categories. Staff will be available onsite to assist you with separating.

If you have any questions or concerns, contact the Environmental Sustainability Division. (805) 652-4525, [email protected]. Registration Required. https://www.cityofventura.ca.gov/1790/Junk-Drop-Off-Day

Food Share Brings Holiday Cheer to Ventura County 2,000 Holiday Food Boxes Distributed at College Park

Jennifer Caldwell, Chief Development Officer at Food Share, accepts a generous $5,000 donation from Noel Grigsby Jr., LA Rams Social Justice and Football Development Representative.

The festive event, part of the Los Angeles Rams’ annual Season of Giving initiative, featured appearances by the Rams mascot Rampage, cheerleaders, and team leadership. Spirits soared as volunteers, sponsors, and community partners came together to fight food insecurity.

Event Highlights:

  • Special Guests: Rams leadership, mascot Rampage, and cheerleaders helped distribute food.
  • Sponsors: Driscoll’s, Vons/Albertsons/Pavilions, California American Water, and the City of Oxnard played key roles.
  • Community Partners: Sysco, Reiter Affiliated Companies, Amgen, and Sun Air Jets contributed with volunteer support.
  • Volunteers: Over 80 individuals helped ensure a seamless and efficient distribution process.

“We’re grateful for the incredible generosity of our sponsors and the support of the Los Angeles Rams,” said Monica White, President & CEO of Food Share. “Together, we’ve brought joy and relief to countless families in Ventura County this Thanksgiving.”

Food Share of Ventura County hosted a heartwarming Holiday Food Distribution at College Park on November 26, providing more than 2,000 families with food boxes brimming with turkeys, Thanksgiving staples, and fresh produce. An additional 2,000 turkeys were distributed to local pantries and partner agencies, ensuring no family went hungry this holiday season.

Additionally, Food Share celebrated Chief Development Officer Jennifer Caldwell, who was honored by the LA Rams as a pLAymaker. This prestigious recognition highlights Jennifer’s tireless dedication and her impact on the community, exemplifying the legacy of trailblazers Kenny and Woody Strode.

Food Share continues to serve over 267,000 people annually, distributing 19 million pounds of food—equivalent to 16 million meals—through its programs and 174 partner pantries. As a proud member of Feeding America and the California Association of Food Banks, Food Share remains steadfast in its mission to lead the fight against hunger in Ventura County.

Learn more or get involved by visiting FoodShare.com.

Left to Right: These great volunteers came out to build The Breeze’s CanTree. Mary Johnson, Susan Uribe, Jesse Blystone, Janie Tran, Angela Tran, Ruth Blystone, Betty Ann Wright, and Liz Linde.
The Breeze is honored to support the Can-Tree Food Drive, helping to fight hunger and uplift our community.

 

 

 

13th Annual Festive CAN-tree Food Drive.

Figueroa Street Downtown transformed into a magical forest of creative CAN-trees – a fairyland of food to combat hunger in our community. www.foodshare.com/cantree

Paws for Reading” Marks 20 Years of Building Confidence and Literacy with Therapy Dogs

Star Soto and First reader with Paws program Lizzy Urwick.
Photos by P. Schallert and Yana Khiyod

by Patricia Schallert and Yana Khiyod

It was a tail-wagging day at the library!

The 20th anniversary of the “Paws for Reading” program in Ventura was celebrated on December 7th at E.P Foster Library in Downtown Ventura. This milestone event highlighted the commitment to nurturing a love of reading in children by providing a supportive and welcoming environment. Through the program, children read aloud to certified therapy dogs, creating a “non-judgmental space” where they can practice their reading skills, build confidence, and improve their fluency.

Launched in 2004 by Star Soto, the Ventura Librarian Youth Coordinator, the “Paws for Reading” program was designed to encourage children to read in a relaxed atmosphere, supported by certified therapy dogs.

Sienna Sydlaske, Youth Coordinator and Star Soto, launched Paws for reading in 2004.

Under Star’s guidance, the program has flourished, thanks to the dedication of staff and volunteers. She has witnessed the remarkable impact it has had on the children—observing how their personalities blossom, confidence grows, and they become lifelong readers and dog lovers. The initiative has also benefited children with special needs, some of whom have learned English—an unexpected but wonderful outcome. The welcoming environment encourages kids to return repeatedly, making it a cherished experience.

Over the years, “Paws for Reading” has gained significant popularity, aiding countless children in developing their reading skills and boosting their confidence. It remains a vital resource for promoting literacy and fostering a love for books in the Ventura community. The interactive experiences with therapy dogs create a fun learning environment, motivating children to read more frequently.

Sienna Sydlaske, the current Youth Librarian Specialist at the E.P. Foster Library, shared that the “Paws for Reading” program “provides a judgment-free environment for both the children and their furry companions.” She emphasized that the program has greatly improved the children’s reading comprehension, confidence, and fluency. The engaging interactions foster a positive relationship with books and storytelling, with the primary goal being to “cultivate a genuine love of reading.”

Phillips family enjoying the “Paws for Reading” experience.

The program typically features trained therapy dogs that are friendly, calm, and sociable, creating a welcoming atmosphere. The presence of these dogs helps alleviate anxiety some children may feel when reading aloud. As they read to the dogs, the children receive positive reinforcement from both the animals and their handlers, enhancing their motivation and making reading an enjoyable pursuit. Sessions are often held in local libraries or community centers, making them easily accessible for families. During these interactions, children can read aloud in a fun and engaging way, deepening their love for literature. While primarily aimed at elementary-aged children, specifics may vary based on the organizing group. Engaging with therapy dogs alleviates pressure, allowing children to focus on their reading without fear of judgment, ultimately building their confidence and skills.

To learn more about the “Paws for Reading” program in Ventura, including schedules or how to participate, you can check with local libraries, community centers, or organizations that run literacy programs in the area. At E.P. Foster Library, the “Paws for Reading” program takes place every Thursday from 4 to 5:30 PM. www.vencolibrary.org/locations/ep-foster-library.

The Commemorative Air Force Southern California Wing Launches Aviation Scholarship Program to Support Aspiring Pilots

The Commemorative Air Force Southern California Wing (CAF SoCal) is excited to announce the launch of its Aviation Scholarship Program, developed in partnership with the Si Robin Foundation, Lightspeed Aviation, and in association with Camarillo Flight Instruction. This scholarship aims to inspire the next generation of aviation professionals by providing financial support to young individuals aged 16-25 with a passion for aviation.

The new scholarship program reflects CAF SoCal’s commitment to fostering a vibrant and inclusive aviation community by helping aspiring pilots realize their dreams and enter the aviation field.

“We are thrilled to offer this unique opportunity to our local community,” said Roland Fogel, Operations Officer at CAF SoCal. “This scholarship enables a deserving individual to pursue their dream of becoming a pilot and contributes to the growth of a talented workforce in the aviation industry.”

CAF SoCal is currently accepting applications through December 16, 2024. Candidates interested in this opportunity can apply online and learn more about the program by visiting the CAF SoCal website.

Application Details:

For More Information mail: [email protected]

About the CAF Southern California Wing:

The CAF Southern California Wing is a volunteer organization with members from many different backgrounds. The wing is dedicated to preserving the history of WWII aircraft for generations to come. This CAF location is assigned 12 authentic military aircraft maintained and operated by their volunteers. In addition to flying aircraft, the wing has a wide-ranging collection of World War artifacts displayed in a Hangar Museum. Their opening hours are Friday and Saturday, 10 AM to 4 PM, and Sunday, 12 PM to 4 PM. They are closed on Monday through Thursday and on some holidays. The newly expanded wing, at over 55,000 square feet, includes three hangar complexes to house their museum, flying aircraft, warbird restorations, and gift shop.

The CAF Southern California Wing is located at the Camarillo Airport at 455 Aviation Drive, Camarillo, CA 93010. Their website is www.cafsocal.com, and their phone number is (805) 482-0064.

 

Historic E.P. Foster Library Secures $13 Million for Major Upgrades

The City of Ventura and Ventura County Libraries are excited to announce a $13 million renovation project for the historic E.P. Foster Library in Downtown Ventura. These funds will transform the library into a modern, accessible space for the community, offering services year-round and serving as a cooling center during extreme heat events. Construction is scheduled to begin in early 2026 and be completed by 2027.

“The E.P. Foster Library has been a cornerstone of our community for over a century, and this renovation marks a significant step towards ensuring it remains a vital resource for generations to come,” said County Supervisor Matt LaVere. “These improvements will not only enhance the library’s services, but also provide a safe and welcoming space during extreme heat, reflecting our commitment to the health, safety, and well-being of all residents.”

The renovation project is backed by a collaborative funding effort, with significant contributions from state, federal, and local grants. In 2023, the library received an $8.7 million Building Forward Grant from the California State Library, focused on improving library facilities across the state. This grant requires a 50 percent match, with the City of Ventura and Ventura County splitting the cost to support this vital community resource. Congressman Salud Carbajal secured an additional $750,000 through Community Project Funding to help fund a heating, ventilation, and air conditioning (HVAC) system in the library.

In past years, E.P. Foster has struggled to remain operational during heat waves due to the lack of air conditioning, leaving vulnerable populations—such as older adults and people without housing—without a safe refuge. Recently, on September 6, the library had to close for the day per the California Heat Illness Prevention Standard when temperatures reached over 80 degrees Fahrenheit inside the building.

The installation of an HVAC system and other critical upgrades will not only allow the library to stay open and operating during excessive heat but also serve as a crucial community cooling center. Additional upgrades to the E.P. Foster Library include a new elevator to improve accessibility, new windows, roof replacement, and restroom renovations to enhance the visitor experience.

“We have received tremendous support from our community partners in securing these funds,” said Ventura County Library Director Nancy Schram. “These renovations will ensure that that historic building remains a safe, accessible, and welcoming resource for all community members.”

Improvements will modernize the facility and address critical building and safety code requirements. Built in 1921, with additions in 1959, the E.P. Foster Library is a historic landmark that once served as Ventura’s original City Hall and library. While the planned upgrades will modernize its infrastructure, they will also preserve the building’s historic character. The renovations focus primarily on interior updates, ensuring the architectural integrity and aesthetic of the library remain intact.

“Our public libraries provide a safe and comfortable space for people to read, learn, access computers, pursue career development, and find community,” said Mayor Joe Schroeder. “The City is proud to be a part of the collaborative effort to maintain and revitalize this important community resource.”

Annually, 339,434 people utilize the E.P. Foster Library. By investing in the infrastructure and accessibility of this historic building, the project aims to create a safe, sustainable, and functional space that meets the modern-day needs of the community while preserving its historic legacy.

Find updates on the project in the coming months at www.vencolibrary.org. For questions regarding the project, please contact Director of the Ventura County Library System Nancy Schram at [email protected].

2024 Legacy Award Winners Announced

Tammy Glenn, executive director at Caregivers, and staff.

by Carol Leish, MA

The 2024 Legacy Award winners were announced on November 13, 2024, at the Ventura County Area Agency on Aging’s (VCAAA) Advisory Council meeting by the Optimal Aging Committee’s chair, Alice Sweetland. The Legacy Awards, which have been awarded since 2018, recognize the contributions of Ventura County residents and organizations that dedicate their lives to helping older adults, people with disabilities, and their caregivers to live optimally. Legacy Awards have been presented annually to a local business organization, to a Dementia Friendly business/organization, and to community members/volunteers.

CAREGIVERS: Volunteers Assisting the Elderly got the Award for Business/Organization. It was founded in 1984, and has developed a community-based model to meet a growing need for assistance for older adults. The mission is to promote the health, well-being, dignity, and independence of frail, homebound older adults through one-on-one relationships with carefully screened, trusted, and trained volunteers. It provides non-medical, in-home support services and transportation that helps to prevent premature placement into board and care facilities. This makes it possible for these older adults to continue to live in the comfort and security of their own homes. Through the assistance of volunteers, these older adults’ confidence and self-esteem improves their quality of life. Tammy Glenn, MBA, is the Executive Director.

Santa Clara Valley Hospice won the Award for Dementia Friend Business/Organization. It has served residents within the Santa Clara River Valley, including Santa Paula, Piru, Fillmore, Somis, Saticoy and East Ventura, since 1980. It has a mission of continuing a commitment of support and care through service, compassion and empathy for those with terminal and life-limiting illnesses, and their families. Services are free of charge, since generous donations have been made by the community. Caregiver support groups, training, and respite care are provided. They also provide a free medical supplies program that has distributed more than 100,000 pieces of equipment for those in need.

Marty Blumenthal got the Award for Community Member/Volunteer. He began his involvement with Senior Concerns when his wife Debbie was diagnosed with Alzheimer’s disease. Besides taking on the role of caregiver for his wife, he also began volunteering as a home-delivered meals driver for Senior Concerns in 2021. He would bring his wife with him on the deliveries in order for them to stay active together, and to give back to the community. He also joined the Board of Directors of Senior Concerns, and has been very active in generating support and raising awareness of the organization’s mission. He joined a caregiver’s support group in order to better assist his wife. He is also involved with the Alzheimer’s Association, the Westlakers, and the Westlake Yacht Club. He is definitely an advocate for helping others.

Sylvia Fulton won the Award for Community Member/Volunteer. She joined the City of Oxnard’s Retired and Senior Volunteer Program (RSVP) back in 2007. She is still active in the program at the age of 97. She has been an instructor with the RSVP Bone Builders program, which she started as a participant. As an instructor, she has become a master trainer and is a constant advocate for the program, her fellow instructors, and its many participants. She has amassed almost 8,300 hours of recorded service, with many more hours that haven’t been recorded. In 2017, at the age of 90, she and another volunteer were honored by the Ventura County Fire Department for actions taken to pull a woman out of a home that was on fire. Sylvia credited her years of weight-lifting in Bone Builders for the ability to help the panicked neighbor.

To learn more about Caregivers Volunteers Assisting the Elderly, visit vccaregivers.org, email [email protected], or call 805-658-8630. To learn more about the Santa Clara Valley Hospice, visit SantaClaraValleyHospice.org, email [email protected] or call 805-525-1333.

Ojai Women’s Fund Awards Over $90,000 in 2024 Grants

Six of the seven winning grantee representatives are pictured left to right: Dan Parziale, Co-founder and Executive Director of Mesa; Ali Sadreameli, Director of Development for Livingston Memorial; Esther Anaya, Executive Director of The Arc of Ventura County; Grace Bueti Mallory, Co-Director of Poco Farms; Susan Kapadia, Executive Director of OjaiCARES, and Vince Serrano of The Boys and Girls Club of Greater Ventura.

The Annual Grantee Awards Celebration from the Ojai Women’s Fund(OWF) was announced on November 7 at a memorable evening filled with warmth, connection, and gratitude. The historic Ojai Woman’s Club was brimming with OWF members, this year’s grant recipients, and new friends, enjoying the delicious food and wine presented by the talented Events Committee co-chairs Gayle Whitaker and Jenny Taft. As everyone mingled, the air buzzed with conversation, laughter, and heartfelt connections.

This year, OWF awarded a remarkable $91,155 to seven nonprofits, each dedicated to uplifting the community. The awards were accepted by nonprofit executives and included:

  • Boys & Girls Club of Greater Ventura – $15,000
  • Interface Children & Family Services – $11,995
  • Livingston Memorial Visiting Nurse Association – $10,000
  • Mesa – $14,160
  • OjaiCARES – $10,000
  • Poco Farm – $15,000
  • The Arc of Ventura County – $15,000

A heartwarming moment unfolded during the final acceptance speech. Esther Anaya, Executive Director of The Arc of Ventura County, shared a story that illustrated the incredible, often unseen impact of OWF’s support. At the Grantee Presentations in September, she described how three nonprofits with no prior connections collaborated after learning of each other’s missions.

Dan Parziale, Co-Founder & Executive Director of Mesa, mentioned a young man seeking work. Esther stepped in to help, and after completing the necessary requirements, he joined Arc’s Ojai office, now contributing meaningfully to the Ojai community. Dan recalled, “He thought he’d end up as a cashier at Chevron, but he found a fulfilling role helping others, thanks to the connections fostered by OWF.”

Poco Farms also reached out to Esther at the September event, seeking assistance to secure an off-road wheelchair so individuals with physical limitations could fully participate at the farm. With Arc’s help, they achieved this goal.

Reflecting on these connections, Esther remarked, “None of this would have happened had we not been invited to speak at that September OWF meeting. We had never met, and our paths likely wouldn’t have crossed otherwise. OWF made it possible for us to collaborate and extend our missions. I can’t express how grateful we are.”

Entering its tenth year, the Ojai Women’s Fund has given almost $800,000 in grants to nonprofits serving the Ojai Valley. Anyone interested in joining this giving circle of over 360 women can learn more at OjaiWomensFund.org.

Get Into the Holiday Spirit at the Ventura Holiday Craft & Gift Festival – Nov. 22-24 at Ventura County Fairgrounds

Enjoy free gift wrapping, family-friendly activities, and a chance to meet Santa at the Ventura Holiday Craft & Gift Festival!

The holidays are here, and so is the Ventura Holiday Craft & Gift Festival at the Ventura County Fairgrounds, inside the San Miguel and Anacapa Halls, from Friday, November 22nd to Sunday, November 24th. Festival hours are Friday and Saturday from 10 am to 5 pm and Sunday from 10 am to 4 pm.

Explore handcrafted gifts, festive décor, and more at the Ventura Holiday Craft & Gift Festival, Nov. 22-24 – your one-stop shop for unique holiday treasures.

If you’re searching for unique, handmade holiday decorations or one-of-a-kind gifts not available in stores, this festival has it all. “You’ll find handcrafted ornaments, jewelry, art, home décor, and more. It’s a great chance to get into the holiday spirit,” said Show Producer Susi Engl. And don’t forget to bring the kids to meet Santa for photos on Saturday and Sunday!

With dozens of talented artists and vendors on display, there’s something for everyone. You’ll discover beautiful gifts, customizable items, specialty foods, and even bath and body products. Plus, enjoy fun activities like free Holiday Bingo, a coloring tent for all ages, and hands-on Make & Take craft sessions. For kids, there will be inflatables, movie character meet-and-greets, and, of course, the chance to snap a picture with Santa from 11 am to 3 pm on Saturday and Sunday.

Bonus: Enjoy free gift wrapping to make your holiday shopping even easier! Admission is free, and parking is $10. For more details and free tickets, visit www.VenturaCraftFestival.com.

Come create new memories and cross everyone off your holiday shopping list!

Museum of Ventura County Debuts “Winter” Exhibition from the George Stuart Historical Figures® Collection

The Museum of Ventura County is thrilled to present “Winter,” a captivating new exhibition featuring figures from the George Stuart Historical Figures® Collection. This exhibit brings to life the winter traditions, symbols, and customs of six cultures from across the globe and throughout history, including Russia, Norse Scandinavia, Qing Dynasty China, Revolutionary War-era Valley Forge, Victorian England, and the native Chumash people. Each figure showcases the meticulous historical research and artistry for which Stuart’s collection is celebrated. “Winter” opens on Thursday, November 21, at the Museum’s main campus and runs through February 23, 2025.

Visitors will journey across continents and centuries, beginning with Norse winter mythology, exploring the Winter Palace in St. Petersburg, and visiting George Washington’s Continental Army at Valley Forge. A section on Victorian England offers a look at beloved holiday traditions in their early forms, such as caroling, Christmas cards, and decorated trees. The exhibit then delves into the Chumash winter solstice traditions before culminating in Qing Dynasty China with a celebration of the Lunar New Year and the arrival of spring.

Renowned historian and sculptor George Stuart studied fine arts at the University of California, where he combined his love of art and history to create over 300 figures—many of which reside at the Museum of Ventura County. His quarter-life-sized Historical Figures (18-24 inches) are lauded for their extraordinary detail and historical accuracy.

About the Museum: The Museum of Ventura County fosters connections to history, art, and culture through engaging exhibits and community experiences. The main museum is located at 100 East Main Street, Ventura, California, and the Agriculture Museum is at 926 Railroad Avenue, Santa Paula, California. Both locations are open Thursday through Sunday, 11 a.m. to 5 p.m. Visit venturamuseum.org for more information.