Category Archives: News and Notes

Visit Ventura Honored with U.S. Travel Association Award for Collaboration with Key Stakeholders and Local Community

Visit Ventura receives their first U.S. Travel Association award for Community Engagement during X Games 2023. Visit Ventura collaborated and got creative with state, county, and local stakeholders to promote the X Games and engage the local community in the celebration.

For the first time, Visit Ventura received the U.S. Travel Association ESTO Destiny Award for Community Engagement during X Games 2023

Visit Ventura is extremely proud to announce that they are a recipient of the U.S. Travel Association 2024 ESTO Destiny Award, winning the Community Engagement award for their creativity and collaboration with key stakeholders, small business owners, and the community to celebrate the X Games across Ventura, weaving the international sports event into the fabric of the town. This is the first ESTO Destiny Award Visit Ventura has received.

The award was presented at the U.S. Travel Association’s 40th annual ESTO conference —which recognizes U.S. Travel destination and state tourism office members for excellence and creative accomplishment in destination marketing— where over 1,000 attendees representing states, regions, and cities from all over the nation attended.

“Judges noted that this campaign was a success story to rival all others with all of the tactics precisely on target. Building a foundation with a partnership between the X Games, the city, county, and state, they had local businesses embrace the games,” said ESTO awards emcee Sally Hogshead at the ceremony.

Visit Ventura was the only California destination in its category, among the other finalists for the Community Engagement award included Visit Austin, Visit Mesquite, and Travel South USA. Visit Ventura was one of only three California destinations that won an ESTO Destiny award this year.

The Community Engagement category was judged on how the destination marketing organization demonstrated its value to stakeholders, how local businesses and tourist attractions were supported by the tourism office, and how the tourism office collaborated with and involved smaller attractions and local businesses.

Visit Ventura worked with over 40 local businesses in a city-wide initiative creating limited beer —that was sold on Amtrak trains— and cocktails releases, food items, and other products to showcase the creativity and passion of local businesses to locals, visitors, and X Games athletes alike. Members of the Chumash tribe performed X Games’ first-ever traditional blessing in front of athletes and media, and local events brought the entire community together to celebrate the X Games.

“These two words —Community Engagement— have guided our daily drive to build economic vitality for Ventura while supporting our local businesses and celebrating a global event happening in OUR Ventura!” said Visit Ventura President and CEO Marlyss Auster. “I am so proud that the U.S. Travel Association has recognized our efforts to collaborate with our partners on the state, county, and local level to host a successful international event on our slice of the California coast playground.”

Amazon launches its first-ever Disaster Relief Hub in California

In response to the growing wildfire crisis across the state, Amazon is launching its first-ever Disaster Relief Hub in California, and first hub dedicated to wildfire relief in the U.S. Strategically located in San Bernardino Valley, this first-of-its kind disaster relief hub that leverages Amazon’s logistics to store and deliver critical supplies to impacted communities as quickly as possible.

As climate change accelerates the frequency and intensity of wildfires worldwide, Amazon is enhancing its disaster relief capabilities in the communities where we operate.

The United Nations projects a 14% increase in extreme wildfires by 2030 due to climate change. Having a dedicated facility where these items are ready to be shipped allows Amazon to send help in less than 72 hours, much faster than if teams had to pack and consolidate the products from different facilities across the country.

With the help of relief organizations working in wildfire-impacted regions, including American Red Cross, Good 360, After The Fire, and All Hands All Heart, we leveraged our data and their forecasts to stock the Hub with products that households and individuals need as they return to their communities after a fire.

The more than 6,000 stored items include wildfire mitigation equipment such as axes, goggles, masks, rakes, shovels, smoke pumps, and soil sifters; and personal supplies including fire-safe rubber boots, high-particulate matter filtration respirators, hydration packets, neck gaiters, specialized gloves, trauma kits, and more.

The hub’s inventory has been meticulously curated in partnership with non-profit organizations working directly in wildfire-affected regions. www.aboutamazon.com/news/community/amazon-wildfire-disaster-relief.

1st Annual Government and Disability Summit: Sept 24 – Sept 27

Government and Disability Summit. This groundbreaking event held at the Crowne Plaza Hotel aims to shape the future of access and inclusion in California and beyond!

Representatives from local government agencies, non-profit organizations, and companies across the state are invited to:

  • Explore innovative solutions addressing access barriers across various aspects of life.
  • Engage in collaborative dialogues with diverse stakeholders to co-create a more inclusive future for communities throughout California.
  • Learn from leading experts in accessibility, policies, programs, and new and innovative ideas to increase and disability inclusion.
  • Be part of a historic event shaping the future of access in California and beyond.

Don’t miss this historic opportunity to make a difference! Register at govdisabilitysummit.org.

Ventura County Civil Grand Jurors Available for Speaking Events

The Ventura County Civil Grand Jury seeks opportunities to speak to community
organizations, non-profit organizations, and similar groups as part of its education
outreach program.

The Civil Grand Jury investigates matters affecting aspects of government in Ventura
County. The Jury comprises 19 citizens who are impaneled by the Presiding Judge of
the Superior Court and serve as a “voice and conscience” of Ventura County residents
concerning their local governments.

The impaneled Civil Grand Jury does not pursue criminal cases or hear evidence in
courtrooms. It serves as an independent investigatory panel on behalf of the citizens of
Ventura County. It investigates complaints from the public, writes reports and makes
recommendations to local governments and agencies such as city councils, school
districts, hospitals, harbors and water districts. Investigative areas include alleged
government violations of city and county codes, disaster preparedness, contracting
procedures, and health and safety matters among others.

To learn more about the Civil Grand Jury and how it serves the community, how to
become a juror, or request speakers to meet with your group or class, you can contact
the Civil Grand Jury at (805) 477-1600 or complete a speaker request form available on the Civil Grand Jury website at www.ventura.org/grand-jury.

The Ventura Art & Chalk Festival 2024 Returns to The Harbor

The Ventura Art & Chalk Festival, a signature event in Ventura County, returns this September with more than 50 talented chalk artists and craftsmen transforming Ventura Harbor Village with vibrant color along the waterfront. Scheduled for September 14-15 from 10 am to 5 pm, this year’s festival promises to be a celebration of art, community, and philanthropy.

Presented by Ventura County Art Events, Inc. & Rotary Club of Ventura, the festival is a family-friendly event that invites visitors to watch as expert chalk artists from across California and beyond create vivid, large-scale murals along a seaside promenade. The chalk art will be sprinkled throughout Ventura Harbor Village, primarily along the walkway from Le Petit Café & Bakery to Island Packers, creating a stunning visual experience for all who attend.

Among the featured artists is Greg Wray, known for his iconic work on the Sonic the Hedgehog video game series. Wray will be crafting a Sonic-themed beach scene, inviting spectators to observe his process and, when appropriate, engage with him during the creation.

Activities & Entertainment

Craftsman’s Marketplace: Discover and purchase original works from California artists, including paintings, ceramics, photography, glasswork, handmade wooden toys, and wearable art. Vendors will be set up on the pavement between Andria’s Seafood Restaurant and Brophy Bros. Restaurant & Clam Bar.

Children’s Art Area: Keep an eye out for a dedicated space for children to express their creativity, inspired by the professional artists at the festival.

Family-Friendly Attractions: Face painting, a variety of unique shops, and dining options at Ventura Harbor Village.

Live Music: Enjoy live musical performances from 1-4 pm, providing a relaxing atmosphere for afternoon festivalgoers.

Community Impact

The Ventura Art & Chalk Festival is not just a celebration of art but also a vital fundraiser for local charities. This year, proceeds will go toward supporting free art projects, scholarships, and various charitable organizations within Ventura County. Over the past decade, Ventura County Art Events, Inc. has donated over $50,000 to VC FOOD Share through this festival.

Tribute to Co-Founder Randy Hinton

This year’s festival is dedicated to Randy Hinton, who recently passed away after a brave battle with cancer. Randy was not only a co-founder of the Ventura Art & Chalk Festival but also a passionate supporter of Ventura County’s charities. His legacy lives on through the continued efforts of the Ventura Rotary Club, whose members have stepped up to serve on the newly restructured Ventura County Art Events, Inc. board, ensuring that the festival remains a cherished community event.

“My favorite part of the Art & Chalk Festival are the awe-struck spectators. Nothing is more magical than watching artists create masterpieces, one stroke at a time,” says one of the festivals key organizers, Board Member of Ventura County Art Events, Inc. Valerie Garbe.

These sponsors makes the Ventura Art & Chalk Festival possible: Mathis Wealth Management-premier sponsor, Crowne Plaza Ventura, Rotary Club of Ventura, Tastes & Tales Hospitality Group, Fastsigns, and Ventura County Art Events inc.

For more information, visit venturaartfestival.com.

 

The Museum of Ventura County Welcomes Featured National Geographic Photographer Diego Huerta for August Residency

The Museum of Ventura County (MVC) and Chief Curator Carlos Ortega are thrilled to announce the arrival of internationally known photographer Diego Huerta, whose work has been featured in National Geographic Magazine. Mr. Huerta will be an artist-in-residence at MVC from August 1 to August 31 photographing and creating videos that share the stories, traditions, and art of members of Indigenous groups from Mexico, including Mixtec, Zapotec, Maya, Purépecha, Triqui, Chontal, and more, who now reside in Ventura County.

Mr. Huerta’s photographs and videos will be featured in a highly anticipated exhibition, In Focus: The Mexican Indigenous Diaspora of Ventura County, opening to the public in February 2025 at the Agriculture Museum. For more information about Diego Huerta, www.diegohuerta.com. https://venturamuseum.org.

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.

California Farm Workers Demand Exact Location in Pesticide Regulation

More than 23 members of CAPS 805, the Ventura County branch of Californians for Pesticide Reform (CPR), traveled from Ojai, Ventura, Oxnard, and Port Hueneme to Shafter, CA, to participate in a California Department of Pesticide Regulation (DPR) hearing. They called for growers to disclose the exact location and time of pesticide applications.

The current draft of the “Spray Days” statewide notification program only requires indicating pesticide applications within a 1-square-mile area. Farm workers, addressing an audience of over 140 participants—mostly farm workers from Ventura County and the Central Valley—argued that this plan is insufficient without specifying the exact location of applications.

On July 25, the California Department of Food and Agriculture held a Zoom meeting to gather additional public input on DPR’s plan. The public had until August 1 to submit their concerns. The final regulation is expected to be implemented sometime in 2025, with the exact date yet to be determined.

Farm workers and community members assert that without knowing the precise location of pesticide applications, they are at risk of exposure to toxic chemicals. They emphasize the need for this information to avoid contact with harmful fumes. Conversely, ranchers argue that revealing exact locations could lead to interference from activists and pose privacy issues.

Pesticide Reform Organizer Teresa Gomez stated, “We’ve made the journey to Sacramento many times to advocate for a robust pesticide notification system. Our members have participated in a year-long pilot program in a small part of Ventura County and in two state public hearings in our county. Now, as this is the final hearing in California, we are here to make it clear: It’s not notification without exact location.”

The new regulation will impact all farms in California that use restricted material pesticides and will be crucial in determining whether farmworkers’ rights and health are adequately considered in regulatory decisions.

Limoneira Co. Commits to Protecting Marine Life and Reducing Emissions with New Program

Newest ambassador for Protecting Blue Whales

Santa Paula’s based Limoneira Co. is the newest ambassador for the Protecting Blue Whales and Blue Skies program. This initiative incentivizes shipping companies to voluntarily reduce their speeds along California’s coast to decrease air pollution, regional greenhouse gas emissions, underwater noise, and fatal ship strikes to endangered whales. It is a collaborative effort among the Ventura County Air Pollution Control District and other air districts, California national marine sanctuaries, the California Marine Sanctuary Foundation, and other nonprofit organizations.

Ambassadors are companies and ports committed to sustainable shipping practices and reducing the negative biodiversity impacts of their supply chains. They receive data on their ocean carriers’ performance in the program and the associated environmental benefits. This data can be used to demonstrate their sustainability commitments to customers and stakeholders and to facilitate more sustainable shipping choices in the future.

“Our commitment to sustainability is deeply embedded in our culture, and we view sustainability as a path toward continued long-term success,” said Limoneira President and CEO Harold Edwards. “We are responsible trustees in the protection and improvement of our environment that align with the goals of the Blue Whales and Blue Skies program.” Limoneira, one of the oldest citrus-growing organizations on the West Coast, is a longtime leader in environmental stewardship and sustainability innovation. The 131-year-old agribusiness is a leading producer of lemons, avocados, and other crops consumed worldwide. It has 10,500 acres of agricultural lands, real estate properties, and water rights in California, Arizona, Chile, and Argentina.

Other program ambassadors include the Port of Hueneme, Sonos, Nomad Goods, Peak Design, Summit Coffee, Way Basics, Santa Cruz Bicycles, Who Gives a Crap, The Block Logistics, and JAS Worldwide. The program helps global shipping companies better understand their environmental impacts and make changes to reduce them by verifying the cooperation of a company’s entire fleet of ships as well as individual ships and transits. In 2023, cooperating shipping companies reduced the risk of lethal ship strikes to whales by 58% and averaged a 5.4-decibel decrease in underwater noise per transit. Since the program’s launch 10 years ago, cooperating vessels have slowed down for more than 1.1 million nautical miles, resulting in reductions of more than 150,000 metric tons of regional greenhouse gases and 4,500 tons of nitrogen oxide emissions. For more information, visit www.bluewhalesblueskies.org.

New Bookmobile to Serve Ventura County Schools

Innovative Project is First of Its Kind in California

A brand-new mobile library will serve local students in Ventura County. The School Mobile Library will travel to schools throughout the county, focusing particularly on those without credentialed librarians on staff.

The School Mobile Library will provide books in multiple formats and languages, STEAM instruction and programs, homework support aligned with school curricula, and access to technology and online resources. While bookmobiles serving the general public are common in California, this is the first to be dedicated specifically to students.

“Nearly 70,000 Ventura County students attend schools that don’t have a professional librarian on staff, and some of these schools lack an on-site library altogether,” said Dr. César Morales, Ventura County Superintendent of Schools. “The new bookmobile will bring library services directly to students where they already are—at school.”

The School Mobile Library will be stocked with $50,000 worth of new books. Staff from the Ventura County Office of Education will lead book discussions and lessons on media literacy, financial literacy, and more. County Library staff will provide STEAM kits and other engaging activities during school visits. The bookmobile will also facilitate student sign-ups for library cards, helping to meet an upcoming state requirement that all students obtain a library card by the third grade.

This project is a collaborative effort between the Ventura County Library and the Ventura County Office of Education. It is funded by a generous $50,000 donation from the Ventura County Library Foundation, Premier America Credit Union, CBC Federal Credit Union, County Schools Federal Credit Union, and Ventura County Credit Union, in addition to a $250,000 Stronger Together: Improving Library Access grant from the California State Library.

The School Mobile Library will start its school visits during the 2024-25 school year.