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Habitat for Humanity Volunteers Build Playhouses for Local Military Families

Local military families gifted stunning playhouses by Habitat for Humanity volunteers.

by Patricia Schallert

Habitat for Humanity of Ventura County is a nonprofit organization dedicated to providing affordable housing for those in need, with a special emphasis on supporting veterans and their families. By partnering with local communities, Habitat organizes impactful initiatives to benefit these groups.

On Saturday, Aug. 24, hundreds of community members and organizations came together, eager to connect, volunteer, and enjoy a fun-filled day. The Ventura County Volunteer Fair, organized by Habitat for Humanity of Ventura County in partnership with Portside Ventura Harbor—event sponsor and host—turned into an inspiring day of unity, service, and celebration. Market by the Sea, a nonprofit organization that hosts markets and events, showcased more than 50 local vendors presenting their homemade goods in support of the initiative. Local nonprofit organizations also set up booths, offering information and engaging visitors to promote various opportunities for community involvement, aiming to inspire residents to volunteer and actively contribute to the community’s enrichment.

The Playhouse Build Day, organized by Habitat for Humanity of Ventura County, was a vibrant community event focused on constructing three custom playhouses. The event united volunteers, local residents, veterans, and families in a collaborative effort to build, decorate, and deliver these playhouses directly to the military families’ homes. Volunteers worked on the Playhouse Build in Portside’s plaza, constructing three playhouses for the children of military families. These playhouses were designed not only as safe and imaginative spaces for children but also to foster a sense of community and support for families who have made significant sacrifices for the country. Through the commitment of volunteers and generous donations, Habitat for Humanity transforms lives by building homes, instilling hope, and creating cherished memories for veterans and their children.

Support for military families during these events goes beyond the physical structures. Crystal Star, volunteer director for Habitat for Humanity of Ventura County, said, “The playhouses symbolize appreciation and respect for the sacrifices made by the military community. Building and decorating these playhouses create joyful and creative spaces for families.” Habitat for Humanity underscores the significance of fostering connections and establishing a supportive network for military families, ensuring they feel valued and embraced by the wider community. These initiatives highlight the importance of stability, comfort, and happiness for children, ultimately enhancing the lives of those who have served our country.

Teams of all kinds participated in building playhouses, including corporate groups, faith communities, youth and school organizations, community associations, and groups of friends. Each playhouse required 3-4 hours to build and paint, with support from 8-10 volunteers. All materials were pre-cut and delivered to the location, making it easy for teams to build and decorate. Multiple playhouses were constructed simultaneously, engaging even more participants in this rewarding experience.

“It was heartening to bring together so many local organizations doing incredible work throughout Ventura County,” said Habitat Ventura’s CEO, Darcy Taylor. “This event provided a fantastic opportunity for all of us to attract new volunteers and amplify our causes. We also extend a special thank you to Portside Ventura Harbor, our sponsor and co-host, for generously providing the space and helping make this event such a success.”

For more information about Habitat for Humanity of Ventura County, visit www.HabitatVentura.org or call (805) 485-6065.

Ventura County Animal Shelter (VCAS) Waves Adoption Fees in Annual, One-Day Event

Image by Freepik

Clear the Shelters is almost here!

Adopt your next best friend at CLEAR THE SHELTERS on Saturday, September 7th, 2024, from 11:00am – 5:00pm at both the Camarillo and Simi Valley Animal Shelters! This FEEWAIVED pet adoption event comes around only once a year, so mark your calendars and get ready to bring home a new furry friend! Animals go home spayed or neutered, vaccinated, microchipped, flea-treated, and come with a voucher for a free vet visit. Every adopter will also go home with several adoption gifts courtesy of event sponsors!

Please note that promotions do not guarantee the adoption of a shelter pet and that all interested parties must participate in the full adoption process to ensure the best possible matches are made.

Questions? Contact CAS at [email protected] or (805) 388-4341.

Voices of Hope Gala caps 2024 fundraising at nearly $275,000 ahead of Camp HOPE

Honorees Judge Back and Dr. Duncan

At the recent second annual Voices of Hope Gala, the Ventura County Family Justice Center Foundation (VCFJC Foundation) successfully concluded their 2024 fundraising campaign ahead of August’s Camp HOPE, raising nearly $275,000. During the Gala, held at the scenic Zachari Dunes, three local honorees were awarded for their contributions to family justice in Ventura County – Hero of the Year, Co-Director of Anacapa Surgery Associates, Dr. Thomas Duncan; Champion of the Year, Ventura County Superior Court Judge, the Honorable Brian J. Back (ret.); and Community Advocate of the Year, Ventura County Community Foundation. During a particularly memorable moment, survivors of family violence and trauma shared their stories of resilience in their own voices, an emotional and inspiring reminder of hope for an audience that included local leaders, elected officials, and community changemakers.

The funds raised provide support and resources for all seeking justice in support of children and families impacted by violence and trauma in Ventura County, including sponsorships for Ventura County children to attend the Camp HOPE America – Ventura County (Camp HOPE) program, an evidence-based camping and mentoring program for children exposed to trauma. Other resources provided by VCFJC Foundation to survivors experiencing trauma after violent crimes include clothing, toys, backpacks, books, medical equipment, wheelchair and mobility aids, cell phones, gift cards and other essentials.

“Our goal is to support survivors as they navigate what, for many, can be the most difficult moment of their lives,” said Vanessa Melendrez Jimenez, Executive Development Officer of Ventura County Family Justice Center Foundation. “The funds raised at this year’s Gala will go far to secure essential items for survivors while also ensuring that we can provide even more children the opportunity to attend Camp HOPE.” The cost to send one child to Camp Hope is approximately $2,000.

Guests arriving at Zachari Dunes were welcomed with a performance by American Idol alumnus Bella Lucareli. The evening commenced with welcome remarks from Ventura County District Attorney, Erik Nasarenko followed by recognition of the evening’s honorees. Local first responders and law-enforcement officers also showed their support for family justice with Oxnard Police Department providing an exclusive look behind the wheel of their fleet vehicles before the event and Ventura County Fire volunteering a dinner for six as part of the live auction.

Emotions were high as spotlights appeared revealing survivors sharing their stories of hope and resilience and how Ventura County Family Justice Center supported their journey of healing. The moment was a surprise for those in attendance, with stories emerging from throughout the crowd, demonstrating that the need for support can come from anywhere. Voices of Hope Gala was made possible in part by generous sponsors including California Commercial Investment Companies and Housing Opportunities for People Everywhere (HOPE). Ventura County Family Justice Center Foundation – a tax-exempt non-profit 501(c) (3) that was formed to provide funding and resources for victims and survivors of domestic violence, sexual assault, child abuse, elder and dependent adult abuse, hate crimes, human trafficking, and other violent crimes in Ventura County. www.vcfjcfoundation.org.

Woofs, Hooves, and Whiskers 2025 Calendar Contest

Entries and voting close on Friday, September 20, 2024, at 5:00 PM (Pacific Time)

Your pet could be featured in the Humane Society of Ventura County (HSVC) 2025 Calendar! Enter your pet now for a chance to win some amazing prizes, all while supporting HSVC’s vital programs and services! There are three categories to choose from: Cats, Dogs, and Other Pets. You may enter multiple pets in the same category or different categories.

When this issue of the Breeze went to print, the HSVC Calendar Contest had raised $4,797. Let’s help them reach their $10,000 goal! Each photo entry is $25 and votes are a minimum of $1 per vote. To be eligible for the photo contest, each entry needs to receive a minimum donation of $5 (5 votes) or more. Submit your pet today for a chance to be featured in the calendar. All entrants will receive a 2025 calendar by mail in the Fall of 2024.

To enter your pet, visit www.hsvc.org/woofs_hooves_whiskers

PRIZES:

Grand Prize Winner: the pet with the most votes!

  • Two (2) tickets to 2025 HSVC Birthday Bash Dinner *
  • Customized pet gift basket
  • All first-place prizes listed below

1st Place in each category (Cats, Dogs, and Other Pets)

  • Month spread in the 2025 HSVC Calendar
  • Original photo entry featured on HSVC website
  • Special HSVC swag bag delivered to your home

2nd and 3rd Place in each category (Cats, Dogs, and Other Pets)

  • Month spread in the 2025 HSVC Calendar
  • Original photo entry featured on our website
  • Set of two HSVC mugs

*If winner is unable to attend the 2025 Birthday Bash Dinner, the HSVC will offer a $100 PetSmart Gift card

** Please note: all prizes are not transferable and may not be redeemed for cash

Upload your pet’s photo and ask all your friends and family to vote! Entries and voting close at 5:00 PM (Pacific Time) on Friday, September 20, 2024.

If you have questions, contact [email protected]  or 805-646-6505.

CAPS Media’s Digital Storytelling Program Shines: A Summer of Creativity and Collaboration

CAPS Media’s Digital Storytelling Program concluded its summer session in August to rave reviews from young filmmakers, their families, and friends. Over the course of a week, the participants, working in teams, collaborated to create their own original productions. The program provided a hands-on, immersive experience in media production, covering everything from concept development, storyboarding, and scripting to casting, directing, videography, lighting, and editing.

Each day’s four-hour session was packed with new challenges and opportunities to master various aspects of media production. The week culminated in a special Friday afternoon premiere screening of the teams’ original productions for an audience of friends and family at the CAPS Media Center. In addition to gaining valuable insights into the media production process and earning screen credits, each participant received a CAPS Crew Member shirt, a one-year family membership at CAPS, and a graduation certificate. The videos created by the 10- to 13-year-old filmmakers can be viewed at www.capsmedia.org/on-demand.

For the first time, this year’s Digital Storytelling Program was directed by Ethan Messecar, with co-directors Annabelle Augustine and Grace Johnston-Glick. All three are graduates of ECTV, CAPS’ high school media program developed in partnership with the Ventura Unified School District. Ethan, Annabelle, and Grace first discovered their passion for media production at El Camino High School as participants in the ECTV program. They continued their creative journeys through Ventura College and later earned degrees in media and communications from UCI and UCLA.

The 2024 Digital Storytelling Summer Program was a tremendous success. The overwhelmingly positive feedback from the young filmmakers and their families suggests that CAPS Digital Storytelling Program will likely return next summer, with many of this year’s participants eager to join again.

Looking ahead to the fall, CAPS crews will continue collaborating with city staff to produce new episodes of the City’s podcast series, Ventura Voices. This informal and informative series connects Ventura residents with City staff and leaders, offering insights into new city projects, programs, and important community initiatives.

On September 19, CAPS Media crews, in coordination with the Ventura Chamber of Commerce, will record, broadcast, and live stream the annual “State of the City” address by Ventura City Mayor Joe Schroeder. In the coming weeks, CAPS will also cover and live stream candidate forums hosted by the League of Women Voters. Additionally, the return of the El Camino High School program ECTV, led by Phil Taggart, is eagerly anticipated, with fifteen high school students set to produce new episodes of the award-winning television program at the CAPS Media Center.

To learn more about CAPS and its offerings, drop by the CAPS Media Center for one of the monthly orientations held on the first Monday of each month at 6 p.m. The program includes a tour of the CAPS studio, information on membership benefits, and an overview of the media production process from concept to completion. Everyone is encouraged to explore what CAPS has to offer.

From Aerobatics to Awareness: The 43rd Wings Over Camarillo Air Show Takes Flight

Janie Tran with Pilot Stephanie Goetz in front of her Aero Vodochody L-39C Albatros. Image by Joe Seemayer

by Janie Tan

Image by Janie Tran

The 43rd Annual Wings Over Camarillo Air Show took place on August 17-18, drawing crowds with spectacular performances and meaningful causes. One of the event’s highlights was the Red Bull helicopter, piloted by Aaron Fitzgerald, along with the L-39C Albatros, known as The Pink Jet #Fly4Cancer. The Pink Jet spread awareness about breast cancer, emphasizing the importance of early detection. As a symbol of Strength, Hope, Compassion, and Resilience, it was piloted by some of the world’s most extraordinary female aviators, all volunteering for this vital cause.

Image by Joe Seemayer

This year’s theme, “Saluting Test Pilots,” set the stage for a weekend filled with jaw-dropping aerobatic flights, classic biplanes, and vintage aircraft from WWII, the Korean War, and the Vietnam War. Attendees were also treated to an impressive display of classic cars and hands-on exhibits in the expanded STEM Pavilion. Gates opened at 9 a.m., with early arrivals eager to explore the aircraft and classic vehicles on display before the air show began.

The STEM Pavilion was a hub of innovation, featuring robotics exhibitions and showcasing the latest advancements in aviation, aerospace, and other STEM fields. It provided families with the opportunity to watch drones and UAVs in action, learn about the science of flight, participate in hands-on activities, and discover educational opportunities in STEM. Various businesses and aviation professionals sponsored the pavilion, sharing their passion for aviation and STEM with local youth through interactive booths and activities.

Image by Joe Seemayer

As the day unfolded, the Food Court offered an expanded selection of vendors, ensuring that everyone could find something to enjoy. With ample space and great views, attendees could relax and savor the air show from any spot. This year’s Wings Over Camarillo Air Show offered a wide range of activities, making it a memorable experience for the entire family.

Learn more: https://visitcamarillo.com/wings-over-camarillo-air-show/

Image by Joe Seemayer

Living History Presentation – Brigadier General David G. Smith & The B-52

On Saturday, August 24, 2024, from 11 am – 2 pm, the Commemorative Air Force Southern California Wing Aviation Museum will host a talk with Brigadier General David G. Smith, a Special Assistant to the Commanding General for the California State Guard. He retired from the United States Air Force with his most recent military duties as the Inspector General for Edwards AFB and an Experimental Test Flight Radar Navigator attached to the 419th Flight Test Squadron. Currently, he is the Director of the multi-billion-dollar Air Force Production and Flight Test Facility at Plant 42 at the Palmdale Airport. Listen to General Smith as he chronicles his broad-ranged adventures in the military, in flight, and with the California State Guard.  The event will conclude, weather, operations, and maintenance permitting, with CAF So Cal flying one of their SNJs for you.

There will also be several iconic CAF So Cal flyable aircraft on display, such as the Grumman F6F Hellcat, the Mitsubishi A6M Zero, and a MiG-17. After the event, their docents will be available to answer questions about the exhibits and offer guided tours of their museum. Light refreshments will be available during the event. Don’t forget to ask about their Warbird Ride Program. Experience what it was like to fly in a Warbird back in the day.

Camarillo Airport, 455 Aviation Drive, Camarillo. A suggested $15 donation per adult is requested to attend.

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 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. www.cafsocal.com, (805) 482-0064.

About the Commemorative Air Force:
The Commemorative Air Force (CAF) is the world’s largest flying military aircraft museum. For more than 60 years, the CAF has been dedicated to Honoring American Military Aviation through flight, exhibition, education, and remembrance. Fulfilling its mission, the organization maintains airplanes in flying condition – take the airplanes to the people to experience firsthand the aircraft’s sight and sound in flight. The CAF is a non-profit educational association with more than 11,000 members and a fleet of 165 vintage military aircraft distributed throughout the U.S. For more information, visit www.CommemorativeAirForce.org.

ALVC Receives Vital Support from Walmart/Sam’s Club

The Walmart/Sam’s Club Spark Good Local Grant Program recently awarded the Assistance League® of Ventura County (ALVC) several grants to help support its philanthropic programs.

The following are among the Spark Good grants awarded to the ALVC in the past several months:

• $1,500 for the Operation School Bell® program, from Walmart store No. 3650, on Victoria Avenue in Ventura.

• $750 for the Care Closet program, from Walmart store No. 2621, on Cochran Street in Simi Valley.

• $500 for Operation School Bell, from Sam’s Club store No. 6455, on Rose Avenue in Oxnard.

Last year, Operation School Bell provided essential clothing, toiletries, school supplies and books to 2,908 at-risk students in transitional kindergarten through twelfth grade in the school districts of Ventura, Oxnard, Ocean View, Briggs, Pleasant Valley and Hueneme.

“Our goal this year is to provide these necessities to another 3,199 children, giving them a boost of confidence and self-esteem that can lead to higher academic achievement,” ALVC officials stated in a news release.

In addition, the Care Closet program last year served 267 families and 1,862 children. “Through county social workers, we collaborate with Ventura County Children and Family Services to provide whatever essential items are needed to support resource families, ‘fragile’ families, and youths who have aged out of the county care system,” the officials stated.

“Through the kindness and generosity of the Walmart/Sam’s Club Spark Good Grant Program, we will be able to positively impact more deserving children and families than ever before,” they said.

The ALVC credited its member Nila Arensberg for her efforts in diligently applying for the grant funds offered by the Walmart/Sam’s Club Spark Good program. Nila has gotten to know the managers of the local Walmart and Sam’s Club stores and she has educated them about how the ALVC is making a difference in the lives of children and adults throughout Ventura County.

To date, the Spark Good program has donated over $27,000 to our programs. We are extremely grateful for their support, and thankful for this forum you provide to acknowledge them publicly.

Will Rogers Elementary Summer Camp Enjoys Evening of Fishing on the Pier

by Vivianna Juarez

On the beautiful evening of July 25, students from Will Rogers Elementary summer camp, specifically the 4th and 5th graders, joined us on the pier for a memorable fishing experience.

The water was glistening as the students eagerly cast their lines. The students from Will Rogers had fantastic luck, with most kids catching at least one fish. The most common catches of the day were mackerel, sardines, jack smelt, and cabezon.

Community Kev, Marshall, and other volunteers taught the students how to clean their fish so they could take them home to their families. Despite the messy task, many students enjoyed descaling their catch and bleeding it out. They were excited to cook their fish and share the meal with their families.

As the day progressed, the students, who had started early at 1:15 p.m., began to tire. By 4:00 p.m., they stepped down to board their bus, leaving some fish for the rest of the public to catch.

Fourth-grader Sadie used the techniques taught by the team to prepare and clean her fish. For her first time fishing, she was a natural and hopes to bring her family soon to show them the Reel Guppy way.

Lucas, a third grader from Will Rogers Elementary, has been in the U.S. for about ten months and is starting to adapt to his new lifestyle, although he misses his old life in Chile. His time with Reel Guppy Outdoors brought back many fond memories of fishing in Chile. He was excited to tell his mom about his experience fishing in the United States for the first time.

Namba Performing Arts Space’s 4th Annual Playwrights’ SPLASH Festival

Weekend #1, August 30, 31 and Sept 1

The highly anticipated first weekend of NAMBA’s Playwrights’ SPLASH Festival is here. Showcasing three exceptional shows from the Hollywood Fringe Festival that recognize outstanding performances, push creative boundaries and bring attention to important social issues. These three performances highlight the experiences of veterans, the LGBTQ community, and the challenges of youth homelessness.

Kicking the first weekend off, Friday, August 30 at 8 pm, is Hollywood Fringe Festival SPLASH Award Winner, “The Day I Accidentally Went to War,” a journey from childhood trauma to real-life combat, honoring the veteran experience and celebrating the human spirit. Saturday, August 31 at 8 pm, is the hilarious one-hour comedy-variety show “Queen Out (Verb)” and to close the opening weekend on September 1, at 6 pm is “Vanlyfe,” an extraordinary, thought-provoking, unique and humorous dramedy presented in conjunction with Bell Arts Factory.

Friday, August 30 at 8 PM: The Day I Accidentally Went to War

We are proud to present the gripping and hilarious solo show and winner of the 2024 NAMBA SPLASH Award, “The Day I Accidentally Went to War” by acclaimed comedian and writer Bill Posley. Some people accidentally miss their bus stop, some accidentally misplace their keys, but Posley takes us on a roller coaster journey packed with laughs, gasps and all the feels; baring brutal truths. Prepare to be transported to Bill’s past, the good, the bad, the ugly of it all. Posley, known for his work on Netflix’s “Cobra Kai” and Apple TV’s “Shrinking,” brings his unique blend of humor and heartfelt storytelling to the NAMBA stage.

Saturday, August 31 at 8 PM: Queen Out (Verb)

Laugh and cheer with Los Angeles Drag Duo Annie and Lorelei in this one-hour comedy-variety show. Watch as they battle to save their beloved drag bar from corporate greed, facing off against ExxonMobil’s plans to build a fracking drill over their home. This night of glitz, humor, and reality promises to be unforgettable.

Sunday, September 1 at 6 PM: Vanlyfe

Note: This performance will take place in the parking lot at Bell Arts Factory, 432 N Ventura Ave. Experience the compelling story of Sunny and Finn, a rowdy queer couple living in a broken-down van in Venice Beach. When a nearby murder triggers a 48-hour sweep of their encampment, they must rely on their community to save their home. Written and performed by formerly unhoused activists and actors, this site-specific homeless epic blend theater and activism with interactive elements and a secret mission for the audience.

All other shows will be held at Namba Performing Arts Space, 47 S. Oak Street, Ventura.

Tickets for each are $20 online at NambaArts.com, or $25 at the door. Or, purchase a “SPLASH Pass” and see all three shows for $60! Includes a complimentary drink for you for each show and waives ticket fees.

This year, twenty-two NAMBA Committee members adjudicated over 60 shows at this year’s Hollywood Fringe Festival. Our top eight picks start at the end of August and include “The Day I Accidentally Went To War;” “Queen Out (Verb);” “Vanlyfe;” “Mermaid;” “The Godmother;” “Magic For Animals;” “Funny Thing About a Panic Attack;” and “Mictlan.”. For more information, contact Namba Performing Arts Space, (805) 643-1100, email [email protected], or visit nambaarts.com.

City Releases Fall Activity Guide – Over 300 Classes and Programs

The City of Ventura is excited to announce the release of its next Fall Activity Guide! Registration begins Tuesday, August 6, 2024, at 12:00 p.m. and will be available online, over the phone, or in person at City Hall, Room 226, 501 Poli Street. Registration information and policies can be found on page 43. Discover over 300 upcoming classes, programs, and events scheduled from September through January at www.cityofventura.ca.gov/ActivityGuide.

The Fall Activity Guide offers a diverse range of classes and programs for all ages, including Beginner Ceramics, a Bus Tour to see Hamilton at the Pantages Theatre, Aikido, and a collection of classes in fitness, art, aquatics, sports, pet wellness, and more.

Every City of Ventura residence will receive a printed copy of the Fall Activity Guide by mail. Additional copies can be picked up during business hours at City Hall and other City facilities, including the Westpark Community Center, Barranca Vista Community Center, Ventura Aquatics Center, and Ventura Avenue Adult Center.

“This year’s National Park and Recreation theme is ‘Where You Belong,’ and that is what we strive to create for our residents: a sense of belonging and community,” said Parks and Recreation Director Stacey Zarazua. “Our goal is to provide positive and inclusive programs for all ages, welcoming outdoor spaces, and essential services like food and child-care.”

According to the National Recreation and Park Association’s 2023 Engagement with Parks Report, 84 percent of U.S. adults consider high-quality parks and recreation essential when choosing a place to live, and 88 percent believe it is vital for local park and recreation agencies to engage with all community members to ensure offerings meet their needs.

The City of Ventura Parks and Recreation Department manages over 800 acres of parks and open space and oversees three community centers, three community gardens, multiple historic sites, and the Ventura Aquatic Center. Learn more at www.cityofventura.ca.gov/ParksRecreation.