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!
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.
The Youth Bike Competition Program helps kids ride safely and thrive,” said Carlos Landeros-Angel, Founder & CEO of Bike 4 A Cause.
Bike 4 A Cause is excited to invite the community to its Learn 2 Ride Day Ribbon Cutting Event on Saturday, November 23, from 10 a.m. to 6 p.m. at the Westpark Community Center, 450 W Harrison Avenue, Ventura. This free, family-friendly event offers a welcoming environment where children, teens, adults, and parents can build their biking skills, learn essential safety tips, and foster confidence. The day’s schedule includes a keynote address by former California Senator Omer Rains at 3 p.m., opened by a Chumash Blessing, a ribbon-cutting ceremony led by the Ventura Chamber of Commerce, and speeches by Bart Bluel from the Kiwanis Club of Ventura, Ventura Unified School District (VUSD) Board of Education Trustee James Forsythe, and community mental health advocate Sade Champagne. Local, county, and state officials are also expected to join the festivities.
Dr. Dawes, Bart Bluel of the Kiwanis Club of Ventura, Principal Cohen of DATA, and Carlos Landeros-Angel gather to discuss the upcoming middle school bike competition program.
As a seasoned public servant with deep ties to the community, Senator Rains will share insights from his influential career, which has included landmark legislation that secured public beach access and helped establish the Ventura Promenade, also known as the Omer Rains Bikeway. Known for his global humanitarian work, including serving as an advisor to Nelson Mandela, Rains has left an indelible mark on Ventura and beyond. “Senator Rains has done more to advance women’s rights and equality under the law than any legislator in California history,” shared the President of the National Women’s Political Caucus. As an active member of the Bike 4 A Cause Advisory Board, Senator Rains, along with his daughter Jessica Rains, continues his commitment to community well-being by supporting programs that encourage outdoor activity and safe cycling. Thanks to his generosity, children who learn to ride at the event will receive commemorative Bike 4 A Cause T-shirts.
Bikes lined up and ready for students at DATA to practice their riding skills.
Beyond promoting bike safety, Bike 4 A Cause emphasizes mental wellness and family bonding. Donations raised will support the Youth Bike Competition Program, which last year engaged 114 middle school students who collectively rode over 3,300 miles. This program encourages young riders to choose outdoor activity over screen time, building social connections, physical fitness, and confidence. “We’re honored to have Senator Rains as our keynote speaker,” said Carlos Landeros-Angel, Founder & CEO of Bike 4 A Cause. “As a Bike Safety Instructor for VUSD, I saw firsthand how important it is for kids to get outside, ride safely, and participate in supportive activities. The Youth Bike Competition Program is one way we help make that possible.”
Event Highlights
The Learn 2 Ride Day events take place on the second Saturday of each month at Arroyo Verde Park and the fourth Saturday at Westpark Community Center, from 10 a.m. to 6 p.m. These events feature guided instruction, safety brochures, and techniques like the Grassy Hill Method to help new riders learn quickly and safely. New riders receive a Certificate of Achievement signed by a Ventura city official, along with a small prize to celebrate their success.
Each event also includes a special guest speaker on bike safety, community resources, and family activities, plus safety updates and the latest California traffic laws for cyclists and e-bike riders provided by the Ventura Police Department to promote safe riding practices for all.
Get Involved!
Families are encouraged to RSVP online to reserve a spot, though walk-ins are welcome anytime between 10 a.m. and 6 p.m. Visit bike4acause.org for more information on programs, events, and ways to support the Youth Bike Competition Program.
About Bike 4 A Cause
Bike 4 A Cause is dedicated to creating a safe and connected community by promoting bike safety, mental wellness, and family engagement. Through initiatives like Learn 2 Ride Day and the Youth Bike Competition Program, the organization empowers families to build confidence, celebrate milestones, and enjoy healthy outdoor activities together.
Special Thanks
Bike 4 A Cause extends sincere thanks to its sponsors, including the Kiwanis Club of Ventura, TREK, Patagonia, 5 Nerds Software Development, Real Quick Design and Consultation, and Simply SarahLee. Appreciation also goes to our community partners—the Ventura Chamber of Commerce, VUSD, The City of Ventura, and The Housing Authority—for their support in promoting Learn 2 Ride Day. Special recognition goes to CSU Channel Islands (CSUCI) for producing a documentary on Bike 4 A Cause through The View, CSUCI’s newspaper, and to CSUCI marketing intern Athena Affholter for designing event flyers.
Support SEEAG’s Ag Education: Pre-order a unique, sustainably harvested Christmas tree for November 30 pickup, with all proceeds benefiting local kids’ agricultural programs.
Sustainably harvested white and red “silver tipped” fir trees from Northern California will be available for pickup on Saturday, November 30 during “Christmas On The Ranch” at Petty Ranch (11971 Darling Rd.) in Ventura. Proceeds from the Christmas tree fundraiser will support Students for Eco-Education and Agriculture (SEEAG) agriculture education and healthy eating programs for kids in Ventura County.
The hand-harvested trees are 6’ to 10’ tall. Trees are available for pick-up and purchase from 11:00 a.m. to 4:00 p.m. on November 30. Free hot cocoa and cookies will be served.
The trees were donated by Rob Paulus, a retired Cal Fire Battalion Chief, and father of SEEAG executive director Caitlin Paulus-Case, to support SEEAG and its ag-education efforts. Paulus owns a 60-acre parcel of private land that is 6,400 feet in altitude in the northern Sierra Nevada mountain range. “Growing up, it was my favorite spot on Earth,” says Paulus-Case. “The trees truly remind me of the spirit of Christmas.”
By harvesting trees from their private land, the Paulus family work to thin overgrown forest stands, reduce catastrophic fire risk, and help restore the natural environment. “The trees are harvested in late November, so they are fresher than any tree you’ll find on a typical lot. Since they aren’t grown on a tree farm, they carry the unique story of the forest in their beautiful imperfections,” says Paulus.
The cost is $200 per tree. For each tree sold, a matching $250 will be donated by SEEAG board members Steve Gill, Chris Waldron and Patrick Sheehy. “The $450 combined tree donation enables 10 local students to take part in one of our agricultural and healthy eating programs at no cost,” says Paulus-Case.
SEEAG will also donate a tree, stand, decorations and a small gift to Las Posas Elementary School in Camarillo and Citrus Glen Elementary School in Ventura. The schools will select which student will receive the donated tree and items.
On November 5, 2024, voters in Ventura’s Districts 2, 3, and 7 will cast their ballots to elect three City Council members for four-year terms. Visit the candidates’ websites for more information. You can also watch the candidate forum sponsored by the League of Women Voters, Midtown Ventura Community Council, and the College Area Community Council: www.capsmedia.org.
Ryyn Schumacher www.ryynforventura.com Correction: In our last issue, we mistakenly listed Ryyn Schumacher as a candidate for Ventura City Council in District 7. He is, in fact, running for the District 3 seat. The correct web site for his campaign is www.ryynforventura.com.
Ventura County comes together for the CAN-tree Food Drive – now in its 13th year. Figueroa Street transforms into a magical forest of creative CAN-trees – a fairyland of food! Gather your colleagues and friends, get creative, and help spread holiday cheer while fighting hunger in our community!
Thursday, December 5th
9 AM – 2 PM: Large tree building
2 PM – 4 PM: Community tree building
4 PM – 6 PM: Community tree building
Friday, December 6th
10 AM – 12 PM: Cumulus will be broadcasting LIVE from the event
10 AM – 6 PM: Tree building.
6 PM: Tree Lighting event at Figueroa Plaza
Saturday, December 7th
9 AM – 1 PM: Tree building
8:30AM – 12PM: Farmers Market
12 PM – 8PM: Holiday Street Fair on Main St.
4 PM – 8 PM: Winter Wine Walk
Sunday, December 8th Trees will then be broken down and cans collected to feed our community.
On November 3rd from12:00 to 5 pm, the Marina Mobile Home Park will host the second annual Art Show, Sale and Gift Boutique, celebrating the incredible talent of local artists from across Ventura. Explore a beautiful array of stunning paintings, photography, captivating sculptures, jewelry and unique gifts and crafts showcased by Ventura’s talented artists. In the lobby of the art venue, you’ll find an exhibition featuring works from many local artists, ranging from watercolor to acrylic paintings, and photography with several artists on hand to discuss their creative process and inspirations. The setting will be enhanced by ambient music, creative lighting, and a selection of refreshments for your enjoyment. Additionally, various vendors from the Ventura community have generously donated gifts that will be auctioned off during the event. Free event.
2023 visitors enjoy a tractor ride at Prancers Farm.
by David Goldstein, PWA, IWMD
Students for Eco-Education and Agriculture, SEEAG, a nonprofit organization primarily serving schools in Ventura and Santa Barbara Counties, are partnering with agriculturally related businesses for the upcoming Ventura County Farm Day on November 2, from 10 AM to 3 PM. The public is invited to register for tours at more than 15 sites. Not all events will take place on farms, and not all the focus will be on crops. In fact, some long-deserved attention will be focused on the compost and mulch that have long been an important input for productive farming in Ventura County.
In fact, one of the optional tour sites is the Agromin compost facility on Arnold Road. Owned by USA Petroleum, this site was a mushroom farm until 2002, when two recently graduated UC Santa Barbara Environmental Studies majors, one son of a USA Petroleum executive, decided to turn it into a compost facility called Shoreline Organics. By 2004, the two had begun compost operations, but they struggled with permitting, regulatory, and financial challenges.
Agromin bought the business, took over the lease, and turned the site into Ventura County’s major composting facility. Although the facility has been successful for two decades, it likely has only a short future as a compost making operation. Competing land uses, including bird preservation related to the nearby Ormond Beach Wetland, have limited options and posed challenges for compost operations. Anticipated as an alternative, Agromin is currently expanding a compost facility on the Limoneira Farm, near Santa Paula. Agromin also operates a mulch-making and food-waste transferring facility at the Simi Valley Landfill and Recycling Center and expects an early 2025 opening for an in-vessel composting and food-waste-to-animal-feed facility on Mountain View Street in Oxnard.
One of the two entrepreneurs who started Shoreline Organics at Agromin’s Ormond Beach site is now in a different role with another company that is also on the Farm Day tour list. Greg Lewis is now Vice President of Duda Farms Fresh Foods. The farm, near the ocean on the outskirts of Ventura, is a major national producer of celery. Unsurprisingly, the farm uses a lot of compost, as Lewis is familiar with the benefits of the product.
The McGrath Farm is another site where SEEAG’s agricultural education program will intersect with compost education. “I’m going to tell people there shouldn’t be anything called ‘waste,’” said Phil McGrath, an owner of the farm. “We feed what we can to people; anything left, we feed to animals; and after that, anything left we turn into compost.”
McGrath recalled that his late father and grandfather, William and Joseph McGrath, relied heavily on compost, not just as a good agricultural practice for crop production, but also as an environmentally smart method of waste management. Until 1948, the McGrath Dairy on the site and at two other locations was the third largest milk producer in California. Dairy manure was an important input for composting.
Changing regulatory conditions and other factors led to the demise of the dairy, but Phil McGrath dreams of bringing it back with clever measures, including advanced composting, that could make it work again in Ventura County. In the meantime, the McGrath farm hosts the Rodale Institute California Organics Center, which helps farmers solve challenges, conducts research, and provides educational programs related to compost.
Petty Ranch, a fifth-generation farm in Saticoy, is an additional Farm Day site with significant compost connections. Serving as the Farm Day hub, this is the site where SEEAG hosts thousands of children each year for its Farm Lab program. It has an eight-foot-long worm box, where red worms eat food scraps, producing high quality soil amendment.
Sign up for free Farm Day tours at www.venturacountyfarmday.com, and use the farm day trail map to plan your day. “You can build your own farm and food adventure and also learn about compost,” said Catilin Paulus-Case, Executive Director of SEEAG.
David Goldstein, an Environmental Resource Analyst with the Ventura County Public Works Agency, may be reached at [email protected] or (805) 658-4312
The Tesla Cybertruck drew a crowd at the Ventura Electric Car Show, showcasing the future of rugged, sustainable transportation.
by Patricia Schallert
Electric car shows are vibrant events that spotlight the latest advancements in electric vehicle (EV) technology. On October 6th, Harbor Village in Ventura welcomed hundreds of enthusiasts, industry professionals, and potential buyers at an engaging electric car show sponsored by the Electric Vehicle Advocates of Ventura County. Attendees explored a diverse array of electric models, from sleek sedans and rugged SUVs to electric school buses.
Major manufacturers such as Tesla, Volkswagen, Kia, and Hyundai showcased their latest models, along with various vehicles from Ventura Fleet. The Ventura County Air Pollution Control District also participated, promoting incentives and funding options for residents trading in gas-powered lawn and garden equipment for electric alternatives. This initiative encourages both residents and commercial landscapers to invest in zero-emission equipment, contributing to a cleaner environment. For more details about this lawn and garden equipment exchange program, residents can reach out to Heidy Yupe at [email protected].
Visitors engaged in meaningful conversations with current EV owners, who eagerly shared their exhilarating test drive experiences. Knowledgeable experts provided valuable insights into sustainable driving practices and the future of electric mobility.
The event featured interactive displays, hands-on demonstrations, and an abundance of brochures highlighting green initiatives and eco-friendly practices. It emphasized the critical importance of transitioning to clean transportation and showcased the significant benefits of electric vehicles. Overall, the electric car show offered an exciting and informative experience, inspiring attendees to consider electric vehicles as viable, sustainable options for the future. As the automotive landscape continues to evolve, events like this play a crucial role in promoting awareness and acceptance of electric mobility solutions for all.
Ventura Police to Address E-Bike Safety and Laws in Second Public Workshop
The Ventura Police Department will host a free community workshop on Tuesday, October 22, from 6:00 – 7:30 p.m. in the Community Meeting Room at City Hall, located at 501 Poli Street. This event is part of the department’s ongoing efforts to address the growing concerns about illegal electric bicycle use in Ventura.
“E-bike safety, reckless riding, and enforcement have become significant concerns in Ventura, and we are committed to addressing these issues head-on through education and enforcement,” said Chief Darin Schindler. “This workshop is an opportunity for residents to learn about safe and legal e-bike use and to engage directly with our officers. Our goal is to ensure the safety of all road users and foster a culture of responsible e-bike use in our community.”
Electric bikes with pedals propelled by human power and an electric motor are classified as class I, II, or III e-bikes. Vehicles without pedals, driven solely by an electric motor, are classified as electric motorcycles and must meet the same requirements as traditional motorcycles, including proper state licensing, registration, and insurance.
The workshop will cover e-bike classifications, regulations for electric motorcycles, and state and local laws. Key points include:
E-bikes must have a class identification sticker permanently affixed to the device.
Modifying an e-bike to increase speed, reckless riding, and fleeing law enforcement are illegal.
Riders under 18 years old are required to wear a properly fitted and secured helmet at all times.
All cyclists, including e-bike riders, must follow the rules of the road.
To address community concerns, the department is taking a proactive approach to education and previously hosted a workshop in July, distributed informational mailers to residents, participated in radio interviews, published an editorial in the Ventura County Star, attended Ventura Unified School District events, and increased social media messaging.
A video recording of the workshop will be posted to the City’s YouTube channel at YouTube.com/CityofVentura
