Circus Vargas channels the “City of Lights”

Circus Vargas presented another outstanding, mega-hit entertainment experience in Ventura at the Ventura County Fairgrounds. It is now at the Santa Barbara at Earl Warren Showgrounds until June 19 and at the Madonna Inn starting June 23.

Join us for a brand new big top adventure with Performers from all over the globe! Featuring The “Last Ringmaster,” Johnathon Lee Iverson – classically trained opera singer-actor adds another dimension to their newest stellar production, “Bonjour, Paris!”

Circus Vargas channels the “City of Lights” in an all-new high-energy, action-packed extravaganza! In this latest, greatest production Circus Vargas delivers the ultimate live family entertainment experience for 2023!

A must-see Parisian-style circus production featuring world-renowned performers, aerialists, acrobats and more! Audiences are immediately immersed in an ambience of glitz and glamour reminiscent of the famed Lido de Paris. A must see! This extravagantly flashy, fun-filled circus spectacular is guaranteed to excite and delight audiences of all ages! An amazing adventure, not to be missed! Join us for two unforgettable hours under the big top …where memories are made to last a lifetime! Circus Vargas’ “Bonjour, Paris!” _C’est magnifique!

For Circus Vargas performance dates, times and to purchase tickets, visit www.circusvargas.com, call 877-GOTFUN-1 (877-468-3861) or visit the box office at each location. Follow Circus Vargas on Facebook and Twitter for updates, discounts and behind the scenes video.

Jim Monahan, Paul Nickolan, Jeff Bode, Doug Cavagnaro, Matt Valdez, Billy Magee, Dan Smith, David Soo Hoo, and Jim Duran volunteer to keep the flags flying.

Patriotism has been very important in the City of Ventura. That is why you see “Old Glory” displayed throughout our city. The American flag remains a living piece of history and a source of pride and unity for all Americans.

The flag was so important to Patrick Monahan, father of Jim Monahan our former Mayor, that in the 1930’s he made sure every polling station had a brand-new American Flag displayed throughout the County of Ventura.

Originally, the American Legion and the City of Ventura displayed the flags on Main St. and various other locations. But at some point, this tradition came to a halt.

Jim purchased flags and encouraged the other council members to purchase them as well. When it was time to display the flags in 1993, Corporal Ken Corney (former Police Chief of Ventura) carried the flags from pole to pole and Firefighter John Duff (former Fire Captain) climbed up the ladder to secure the flag to the pole.

A few years later, the International Brotherhood of Electric Workers (IBEW), asked if they could help. Jeff Bode, Business Manager of IBEW, has been organizing the volunteers for several years. Trucks were donated by Taft Electric and Oilfield Electric & Motor.

The Lyons Club, Pier into the Future and many volunteers are responsible for displaying the flags in the other areas of Ventura.

“After 30 years,” says Monahan, “I have decided to pass the baton to Councilmember Jim Duran. I could not think of a better person to continue this very important tradition. Jim has a heart for this country and loves our city.”

New flags are needed to replace the damaged ones. If you would like to purchase a flag for this program, you may do so at American Flags & Cutlery, 305 E. Main St. Ventura 93001. You can call Bryan at (805) 612-6400.

Ladies comes together for good networking and a delicious lunch.

by Carol Leish, MA

“The best networking comes from genuine relationships and friendships” –Gatehouse

Laurie Ann Meyer, a full time Real Estate Broker and owner of Lifestyle Listings with Realty One Group Summit in Ventura, said, “I saw an opportunity in 2009 to bring women together in a ‘Networking’ type of environment without all the commitment of a traditional networking group. I wanted it to be easy for women to attend, at a time in the day that would give them the chance to sit down and relax while having a meal and taking a deep breath away from all that they do during the rest of the day.”

“As a ‘No join group,’ the Ladies Luncheon does not have any monthly or annual fees. Women pay when they attend, and if they cannot attend one month, they do not pay for that month. This creates the opportunity that leads to no guilt, no commitment, and no hassling. I also wanted to make it available for unlimited categories of businesses. Not jut one per category, like other networking groups may have. Thus, there are other realtors in the group, besides me. The goal is to develop relationships.”

Through developing relationships and friendships, The Ladies Luncheon, has become a community. Through this community, the group has continued to follow the perspective that, “Networking is an enrichment program, not an entitlement program,” which Susan Roanne said.

Meyer emphasized the importance of community by saying, “We have been through many ups and downs over the years which has created a very close bond and support for each other. That is why our philosophy now is ‘Community, Connection, and Support.’

“We also have created a series of Wine Mixers, called ‘Radiant You Wine Mixer’ series. In support of local store front businesses, we meet every other month at a specific location from 5:30-7pm to share wine, conversation, and shopping. Our last one was at The Jelly Fish on Main St. On June 22^nd we will be at Trystology on Main Street for some more ‘Spice.’

“In March 2020, the week before the pandemic hit, we had our first all day event called Radiant You, in which we had four speakers who gave different presentations about health, wellness, business, and self-love. We also had a luncheon, meditation, and dancing. It was a success with over 80 attendees. My vision is to repeat the Radiant You event in 2024!

“I am thankful to my side kick, Elaine O’Malia (owner of Laine Designs), who is our marketing director. She handles all the social media, evites, website and more. Her and I have been doing this project together for over 12 years. Elaine is significant to the success of The Ladies Luncheon, as are all the women who continue to attend, participate, and share their friendships. The relationships that have been created are what I can truly say are ‘Forever.’” My continued passion in life is to use my inspiration, enthusiasm, and knowledge to empower and encourage myself and others to accomplish their dreams and goals in life!”

Ladies, come join us for good networking and a delicious lunch on the first Thursday of each month at The Greek Mediterranean Steak and Seafood at the Ventura Harbor.

Phone (805) 650-5360. To join us for our next networking lunch meeting on July 6^th, 2023 from 11:30-1:00, please register at: www.theladiesluncheon.com.

First place winner Kimberly Fickerson accepts her check for $5000

by Richard Lieberman

Recently at the fifth annual Peace Scholarship Awards Luncheon hosted by the Rotary Club of Ventura scholarships were awarded to local area students. The awards were presented to high school seniors and is unusual for art students to be presented with a financial incentive to pursue and continue their education in art related subjects.

Five scholarship awards were offered in amounts ranging from five thousand dollars to the first-place winner, two thousand five hundred dollars for the second-place winner, one thousand five hundred dollars to the third-place winner, seven hundred fifty to the fourth-place winner and five hundred dollars to the fifth-place winner.

The focus of the scholarships presented was on the subject of peace. Students were asked to “Express your voice and show what peace means to you.” For the fifth year of the program the focus on peace remains one of the Rotary Clubs major areas of interest. Peace as defined by the Rotary Club International is an environment that supports equality and justice for all.” An initiative for peace can be anything that supports the human condition, for example the need for food, water, shelter, health care, literacy, jobs and human rights.”

The scholarships were awarded to: First place winner Kimberly Fickerson, for her short film “Rain”, Second place winner Ixzel Nava for her short film “Peace is Infinite”, Third place winner Clarisse Cortez “Let’s Live Together “, Fourth place winner Summer Rose Hayashi for her “Justice is Peace “and Fifth place winner Juan Orozco Mendez for “Peace”

Kimberly Fickerson of Foothill Tech Highschool said “I found out about this scholarship during a presentation from my art teacher. He said it was a really important opportunity for us to try to do it, my mom really encouraged me to take part in It and so then on one rainy day I was sitting down trying to figure out what I was going to do I thought well I could use the rain because I really like the rain. Rain is my favorite type of weather pattern, so I used that to inspire me to write a short poem about rain and then filmed it,” she said “I was quite shocked to receive the award, but I also knew I put a lot of hard work in it, so I was really grateful to receive the award” she added.

Clarisse Cortez of Foothill Tech High School said, “It started out at the beginning of the school year I noticed the blue poster for the perspectives on peace scholarships I left it on the back of my brain for two weeks.” Cortez said. “Okay, then what should I do so it was really interesting for me because it was like I had to go through a little bit of a paradox like what would war be without peace and what peace would be without war.” Added Cortez. “I worked on the project for three days. Working eight to ten hours each day until completion” she added.

Second, fourth and fifth place winners were not available for interviews after the presentation.

Chip In For Charity is more than just a golf event;

Chip In For Charity is thrilled to announce its upcoming event, a non-competitive and family-friendly golf experience dedicated to raising funds for local non-profit groups. This year, Chip In For Charity is proud to support Ventura Land Trust. The event will take place in Ventura, on June 17th, and aims to bring together the community in support of local non-profit efforts.

With a history of successfully raising over $25,000 for local non-profit organizations, Chip In For Charity is excited to continue its mission of giving back to the community. This unique golf event encourages families and individuals, regardless of their golfing experience, to participate in a day of fun-filled activities. The event will take place at Olivas Links Driving Range from 1:00 pm to 4:00 pm.

The goal for 2023 is to raise $15,000 to support the local conservation and preservation work carried out by the Ventura Land Trust. Participants will have the opportunity to chip golf balls towards sponsored targets strategically placed throughout the venue, while enjoying local food and drinks and the chance to win prizes. Through generous target sponsorships by local businesses and ticket sales, Chip In For Charity is proud to donate 100% of the event proceeds to their non-profit beneficiary.

“Chip In For Charity is more than just a golf event; it’s an opportunity to make a difference in our community and have fun while doing it!” expressed Maria S, a previous participant.

“I like to think of it as a spin on Top-Golf, but for a local cause,” added Todd G.

Brandon Wasilewski, the media contact person for Chip In For Charity, is available for any inquiries regarding the event. He can be reached at 805-856-8773 or via email at [email protected].

Registration is now open, and participants are encouraged to visit the official website at www.ChipInForCharity805.com for more information and to secure their spots.

Chip In For Charity is dedicated to supporting local non-profit organizations through non-competitive, family-friendly golf events. With a proven track record of raising over $25,000 for local non-profits, Chip In For Charity strives to make a positive impact on the community through engaging experiences that blend golf, community, and philanthropy.

Email: [email protected]

Photos by Mary Thompson

The Firefighters’ Ball and Awards Ceremony was a huge success honoring Ventura City firefighters and providing fire families a night of fun and camaraderie.

Highlighting the Ball were the Department’s annual awards:

Captain Austin Araiza received the Firefighter of the Year award for his exceptional work in arson investigations, training new team members, and ensuring the correct use of protective gear.

Engineer Zach Benner was recognized as the Paramedic of the Year for delivering high-quality care and serving as a leader among peers (see separate article).

Captain Christopher Pironti received the Greg Andrews Safety Award for his commitment to workplace safety and support for the Peer Support Team.

Luis Martinez was honored as the Fire Prevention Employee of the Year for his dedication to customer service and producing quality work.

The Matthew Clapsaddle Career Achievement Award was created to honor fallen Firefighter-Paramedic Matthew Clapsaddle, and it was presented to Firefighter-Paramedic Ryan Howard for his support to the Clapsaddle family and his role in the Peer Support Team.

Additionally, Captain Shawn Hughes, Captain Kyle Tong, and Administrative Assistant Kris Edwards received the 3rd Alarm Award for their exceptional support to the department.

After the awards, guests enjoyed dancing, casino games, and a raffle.

Plants were distributed to families during Plantopia.

Over 1,800 vegetable plants were distributed at Students for Eco-Education and Agriculture’s (SEEAG) first annual Plantopia U Pick Transplant Fundraiser on Earth Day. The fundraiser raised over $5,000 to help with SEEAG’s agricultural education programs that teach students about the farm origins of their food, water resources, soil health, entomology and locally grown fruits and vegetables.

Plantopia was held at SEEAG’s Farm Lab at Petty Ranch in Ventura and Plantel Nurseries in Santa Maria. In addition to tomatoes, zucchini, squash, basil and pepper seedlings, SEEAG provided 500 bags of potting soil donated by Agromin in Ventura County and Engel and Gray in Santa Barbara County to give plants a healthy start.

“We plan to make Plantopia an annual event,” says Mary Maranville, SEEAG’s founder and CEO. “It’s a great way to kick off planting season, remind people of the importance of our farmers and celebrate Earth Day.”

Other annual SEEAG events include Santa Barbara County Farm Day in September and Ventura County Farm Day in November.

For more about SEEAG, go to www.SEEAG.org.