Front L to R: Kei Glavovic, Skyler Chaffey, Jackson Wallace, Brett Stein–filling in for Sophia Flosi. Back Row L to R in the Coach boat: Brookelyn Roelling, Braedon Baum, Logan Nordahl. Image by Janie Tran.

by Janie Tran

Ventura Yacht Club, located in Ventura Harbor, is making history for the county by sending four of its sailors to the 2024 CFJ Nationals at Mission Bay Yacht Club in San Diego from July 25-28. Coached by VYC’s Waterfront Activities Manager Braedon Baum, a former student of VYC’s Youth Sailing Program, the four students, aged 14-18, will compete against the top 60 youth sailors in the CFJ class.

The Club Flying Junior, or “CFJ,” is a doublehanded racing dinghy extensively raced at both the youth and collegiate levels nationwide. This small boat is the backbone of many yacht clubs’ programs. VYC had a CFJ race team composed of half a dozen sailors in the early 2010s, but the team, along with other VYC teams, took a hiatus as its core sailors began to age out of the program. Under Coach Braedon, VYC reintroduced its traveling race teams to Ventura in 2022 and now hosts two dozen youth sailors in the Optimist (“Opti”) and CFJ classes.

The interest in attending CFJ Nationals was sparked earlier this month by 16-year-old Sophia Flosi, another student-turned-coach at VYC, who gathered a crew of students-turned-coaches like Jackson Wallace, and in another boat, Skyler Chaffey and Kei Glavovic. Practicing three days a week, with post-practice skirmishes built into the decades-old “Friday Night Races” hosted in Ventura Harbor, the four teenagers hope to make the most of this experience by taking all that they learn at practice and competition and passing it along to the next crop of youths joining the sailing ranks.

When asked about sailing, 14-year-old Jackson Wallace said he started the program at 10 years old with no desire for team sports. This program not only ignited his competitive spirit but also brought him immense joy and significantly built his confidence. Sailing has taught him to think on his feet and has fostered both his emotional and physical growth.

Representing more than Ventura Yacht Club, these teens help constitute the resurgence in the sport of competitive sailing, embody the Corinthian spirit of all sports, and symbolize all that Ventura County has to offer to youths.

Updates on their experience at Nationals and more information on VYC’s other programs can be found online at vycyouthsailing.org, on Instagram @vycyouthsailing, and on Facebook as Ventura Yacht Club Youth Sailing.

All Kids Bike is on a mission to teach every child in America how to ride a bike in kindergarten PE class. 

All Kids Bike, the national nonprofit teaching kindergarten students how to ride bikes in PE class, is activating their All Kids Bike Kindergarten PE Learn-to-Ride Program at Lincoln Elementary School, thanks to a generous donation from X Games. 

The comprehensive program includes teacher training and certification, a fleet of 24 balance-to-pedal Strider bikes, pedal conversion kits, helmets, an instructional bike for teachers, two rolling storage racks, and access to a resource portal with live support for the duration of the program. Lincoln Elementary celebrated the introduction of the program with a kickoff event alongside X Games representatives and Visit Ventura attendees. 

X Games’ gift is given in memory of five-time BMX medalist Pat Casey in hopes of inspiring the next generation to love bikes as much as Pat did. “X Games is proud to honor legendary BMX innovator Pat Casey by giving the next generation of local Ventura elementary students the chance to learn to ride a bike,” said, Valerie Ryan, Vice President of Fan Experience, X Games. “We can’t think of a better way to continue Pat’s legacy while also giving back to the Ventura community.” 

“We are thrilled and deeply grateful for the generous donation from X Games,” said Lisa Weyer, Executive Director of All Kids Bike. “This support is invaluable in helping us achieve our mission of teaching every child in America how to ride a bike in kindergarten PE class. The X Games’ commitment to fostering a love of sports and outdoor activities aligns perfectly with our goal of empowering kids with the lifelong skill of biking. Together, we are paving the way for a healthier, more active future for our children.” 

Lincoln Elementary won a district-wide contest put on by the Expanded Learning Programs that aligned with key goals for students in reading, attendance, and creativity. Because of the students’ dedication at Lincoln Elementary, they were announced the recipients of the All Kids Bike Kindergarten PE Learn-to-Ride Program. At Lincoln Elementary, this program will positively impact approximately 50 expanded learning students each year. With a lifespan of 7-10 years for the equipment, it is estimated that up to 500 students will benefit from this initiative over the next decade. 

Superintendent of Ventura Unified School District, Dr. Antonio Castro, is looking forward to the program’s implementation. “We are grateful to X Games and All Kids Bike for bringing this exceptional program to the Ventura Unified School District. This initiative provides our youngest students with fundamental bike riding skills and promotes physical activity, confidence, and independence.  By equipping our staff with the necessary tools and training, they are ensuring that this program will have a lasting, positive impact on our community for many years to come.” 

X Games and All Kids Bike are committed to enriching the lives of young learners and cultivating valuable skills through the joy of bike riding. This collaborative effort exemplifies their dedication to building healthier, happier communities, one pedal at a time. 

The All Kids Bike Kindergarten PE Learn-to-Ride Program launched in 2018 with a simple mission: to give every child in America the opportunity to learn how to ride a bike in school. The program includes everything needed to teach thousands of students at a school for 7-10 years: teacher training and certification, a fleet of 24 balance-to-pedal Strider bikes, pedal conversion kits, helmets, an instructional bike and helmet for the teacher, 2 rolling metal bike storage racks, and access to a resource portal and live support for the life of the program. Supported by the Strider Education Foundation, All Kids Bike Kindergarten PE Learn-to-Ride Programs are active in over 1,400 schools across all 50 states, teaching more than 100,000 kids to ride each year. In 2023, the Strider Education Foundation added the All Abilities Bike Inclusive Learn-to-Ride Program to empower older individuals with developmental disabilities with the life skill of riding a bicycle. For more information visit www.allkidsbike.org

Image by Freepix.

Fourth of July Street Fair and Pushem-Pullem Parade

Ventura’s 47th annual 4th of July Street Fair & Pushem-Pullem Parade, presented by the Rotary Club of East Ventura, begins at 10:00 a.m. on Main Street in front of Cemetery Memorial Park and continues into Downtown Ventura, leading into the Street Fair. The road will be closed, and participants are welcome to begin queuing up as early as 9:00 a.m. This is a pedestrian parade. This year’s Street Fair features artisan vendors, a car exhibit, live entertainment, a kids’ activity area, a corn hole zone, and more. Attendees can also enjoy Downtown’s local shops and outdoor dining as part of Main Street Moves. Community members are welcome to bring their bikes, scooters, strollers, and wagons. Motorized vehicles are not allowed. No registration is required.

A complimentary Bike Valet, courtesy of the City of Ventura Transportation Division and Bike Ventura, will be located at the corner of Main Street and South Chestnut Street from 10:00 a.m. to 4:00 p.m. 

Subhead: Fourth of July Fireworks Show at Ventura College 

Tickets are now on sale for the spectacular, 31st annual 4th of July Fireworks Show & Family Picnic at Ventura College. This fun, family event features a Kids’ Zone, Live Music, Food Trucks and a world-class Fireworks Show. Sponsored by the Rotary Club, the event starts at 5 pm on Thursday, July 4th at the Ventura College Athletic Fields. Fireworks start at 9:00 pm. Tickets are $5 child, $10 adult and a Family-of-4 ticket is $30. For more information, visit www.VenturaFireworks.com. 

by Patricia Schallert

Jessica Alten’s journey into the world of brewing began at Island Brewing Company in Carpinteria, where she started working. It was during a visit from her parents, particularly her father who had years of experience at Nestlé Purina, that she became intrigued by the manufacturing side of beer. With a newfound interest in brewing, Jessica began asking questions and delving deeper into the craft. Her passion skyrocketed when she had the opportunity to collaborate with the brewers and owners of Island Brewing as part of the Pink Boots Collaborative.

Jessica joined the Pink Boots Collaborative, an inspiring and vibrant community within the beer industry that brings together women who are passionate about brewing and promoting quality craft beer. Founded in 2007 by Teri Fahrendorf, a veteran brewmaster, the collaborative hosts events, workshops, and networking opportunities for women in brewing. Through this initiative, Jessica and many other women have come together to brew unique beers using hops generously donated by hop producers. These collaboration brews celebrate the talents of women in brewing while raising awareness about their crucial role in the industry.

The Pink Boots Collaborative has played a pivotal role in encouraging diversity and inclusivity within the beer industry, an aspect that Jessica finds particularly important. By offering a supportive and creative community, the Pink Boots collaboration has helped elevate the voices and talents of women brewers worldwide. It has also shattered barriers and served as an inspiration for future generations of women to pursue their dreams in the beer world. Additionally, the collaborative organizes “Brew Days” at local breweries, providing hands-on experience and educational opportunities for members.

As Jessica’s experience and knowledge in brewing expanded, she was given the opportunity to assist in opening the tasting room for Ojai Valley Brewing. Eager to learn more about the brewing process, she shadowed the brewers and developed a deep fascination with the craft. Determined to explore the various aspects of brewing, she seized the chance to work at M. Special Brew Co. Starting from the bottom, Jessica steadily worked her way up to becoming an assistant brewer. With the guidance and support of the head brewer, Michael Alcantar, and owner, Josh Ellis, she honed her skills and growth as a brewer.

After two years at M. Special Brew Co., Jessica, now a brewer, moved to Ventura and began working at Seaward Brewing in January 2024. What captivates her the most about brewing is the chemistry involved, especially in the “hot side” of the process. She emphasizes the importance of precise timing and temperature control, comparing it to the precision of baking. Interacting with patrons and discussing beers brings her immense satisfaction as well, and she cherishes compliments for the beers she crafts.

Being a woman brewer, Jessica has faced her share of challenges. Some men, for unexplainable reasons, doubt her abilities as a brewer. She often encounters skepticism and questioning at beer festivals regarding her role and brewing knowledge. Nevertheless, she remains dedicated to her craft, preferring to keep her beer traditional and straightforward. However, when it comes to making seltzers, she especially enjoys experimenting with different flavors and embraces the spicy notes of rye malt, which complement dark malty beers and IPAs.

Currently, Seaward Brewing is gearing up for the X Games in Ventura, which will take place from June 28 to 30. Jessica is thrilled about this event and has crafted a pilsner called the White Knuckle Pilsner with a motocross theme, which will be perfect for a hot day at the X Games. She also hopes to collaborate with Balcom Canyon Cidery, located nearby, to create a shandy-style cider-beer hybrid. Exciting endeavors lie ahead for Jessica and Seaward Brewing!

Becoming a skilled and accomplished brewer requires time, dedication, and a constant drive for improvement. Jessica is continuously honing her skills, experimenting with new brews, and staying passionate about the craft. Cheers to Jessica and her unwavering dedication to the art of brewing!

“Watts Up!” – Kelly Cooke and Sasha Benitez won $900 as first-place winners in the Energy Tier. Images courtesy of the MERITO Foundation.

Students will present proposals to reduce schools’ environmental footprint and receive cash prizes

In May, the MERITO Foundation and Ventura Unified School District (VUSD) hosted the 9th annual EECCOA Challenge Awards Ceremony. At this event, 7th-12th-grade student finalists presented their environmental business proposals to either reduce their school’s carbon footprint or advocate for removing the relic Matilija Dam from the Ventura River. The primary sponsor of this year’s EECCOA Challenge was the Clean Power Alliance.

For the EECCOA Challenge, students had the option of choosing a project theme from four categories: water conservation and waste reduction at their school campuses, energy efficiency at their homes, or outreach about the ecological benefits of the Matilija dam removal. This multidisciplinary competition allowed our youth to combine environmental science with green entrepreneurship and environmental advocacy. School administrators benefit from hearing from students about improving their schools’ infrastructure, reducing thousands of pounds of greenhouse gases and utility costs.

Held at the Poinsettia Pavilion in Ventura, the keynote speaker for the event was Holly Lohuis, marine biologist, educator, and naturalist in the Santa Barbara area, working for a variety of organizations, including Jean-Michel Cousteau’s Ocean Futures Society, Santa Barbara Maritime Museum, and Island Packers-boat concessionaire to the Channel Islands National Park. A Ventura Unified School District (VUSD) representative also addressed parents, students, and all attendees.

This year, 50 teams competed in the EECCOA Challenge 2024, from students attending Buena High School, Ventura High School, Foothill Technology High School, and DATA Middle School. After the first round of judging, the top 16 finalists presented their projects in person before the judges at the May 20th event. After the presentations, the MERITO Foundation and VUSD awarded cash or in-kind prizes for each category for 1st, 2nd, 3rd, and Honorable Mention. All participating students have been immersed since September 2023 in MERITO Foundation’s “Ventura Action Network” (V-RAN) Program or “From the Avenue to Channel Islands (ATCI) program in partnership with the VUSD.

The V-RAN program provided professional development, field training, and curriculum to science teachers and hands-on field experiences to ~735 middle and high school students throughout the Ventura River watershed and coast. Through the ATCI program, 580 students from DATA Middle School enjoyed outdoor experiences at the Ventura River, State Beaches, and the Channel Islands. In addition to environmental education, students also participated in biking, hiking, kayaking, camping, snorkeling, sailing, and surfing, and learned leadership skills which they put into practice at outdoor community events.

Sponsors for the V-RAN Program included NOAA B-WET Grant, Ventura Water, and UC Davis Center for Community and Citizen Science. The ‘From the Avenue to the Channel Islands’ (ATCI) Program of the MERITO Foundation was funded by the Outdoors Equity Grant, created through AB 209 and administered by California State Parks, Office of Grants, and Local Services.

The MERITO Foundation is a 501(c) 3 nonprofit organization based in Ventura, CA. It is dedicated to protecting the ocean by facilitating environmental education, conservation, and scientific research opportunities for multicultural youth and their communities. It has immersed over 27,000 4th-12th grade students enrolled in Title 1 schools in ocean science and ocean protection and has disbursed over $50,000 in cash prizes to student winners of previous EECCOA Challenges.

Circus Vargas, a critically acclaimed family show, voted best circus in San Diego by Sandiego.com, just completed a three week run in Ventura. Billed as “An Epic World Celebration,” Circus Vargas describes the show as, “a celebration of different cultures and nationalities, joining hand in hand, coming together to entertain, laugh, live, love and celebrate as one!” Staff from the Ventura Breeze attended one of the performances and had a blast! We’re looking forward to seeing Circus Vargas in Ventura next year.