Category Archives: This ‘n’ That

EDC welcomes 2020 Executive Board Leadership

Nan Drake installed as chair of EDC.

Nan Drake of E.J. Harrison & Sons was recently installed as 2020 chair of the Economic Development Collaborative’s board of directors at the organization’s 23rd Annual Meeting. She is joined by newly elected officer Ventura County Supervisor Kelly Long as vice chair and Peter Zierhut of Haas Automation, Inc., who is continuing as secretary/treasurer.

“Nan Drake brings extensive experience and in-depth knowledge of our local business community and economy and the challenges we face. Nan has served on our board for 10 years and has worked tirelessly to provide opportunities for business growth and workforce development,” said Bruce Stenslie, EDC’s president and CEO. “We’re excited to have Kelly Long join our executive leadership and we appreciate Peter Zierhut’s continued oversight as secretary/treasurer.”

Drake has served as director of governmental affairs and public relations at E.J. Harrison & Sons for more than 30 years and has been an EDC board member since 2010. In 2019, for the 12th consecutive year, Drake was named as one of the tri-counties’ Top 50 Women in Business, by the Pacific Coast Business Times.

Long was elected as Ventura County Supervisor District 3 in 2016. She has over 25 years of combined experience as an entrepreneur, business executive and school board trustee, and held the office of the Pleasant Valley School Board of Trustees from 2012 – 2016. Long has a degree in mechanical engineering from California State University, Long Beach and holds six patents.

Zierhut, an EDC board member since 2012, has served as EDC board chair in 2016 and as secretary/treasurer consecutively since 2017. Zierhut is a senior-level manager at Haas Automation, Inc., one of the world’s leading manufacturers of industrial machine tools, where he is responsible for oversight of Haas Automation’s motor-sports programs, including sponsorships in NASCAR and Formula 1 racing.

EDC is a private, nonprofit organization that serves as a business-to-government liaison to assist businesses in Ventura, Santa Barbara and Los Angeles counties by offering programs that enhance the economic vitality of the region. For more information about the EDC Small Business Development Center, loan programs, manufacturing outreach and international trade programs, or other services available to businesses through EDC, contact 805-384-1800 or visit www.edcollaborative.com.

Ventura Film Society screenings

The Ventura Film Society has recently announced three screenings, new for 2020:

February 1, the VFS will screen On the Basis of Sex (2018) directed by Mimi Leder. The film focuses on the early years of the career of Supreme Court Justice Ruth Bader Ginsburg, and the numerous obstacles she would overcome in her fight for equal rights that eventually changed the way the courts view gender discrimination. The film will be shown at the Museum of Ventura County on Feb. 1, with generous support provided by the League of Women Voters. Doors open 6:30 with a no host bar and a performance by Vision 2020 Suffrage Passion Players before the 7:30 screening.

February 22, the VFS will be adding a third venue to our roster of screening partners with the presentation of Councilwoman (2019), directed by Margo Guernsey at Bell Arts Factory at 6pm. This recent award-winning documentary follows Carmen Castillo, a Dominican hotel housekeeper, as she campaigns and wins a seat on the city council of Providence, R.I. She has to manage her day job cleaning hotel rooms while advocating for low-income workers as a rookie politician. This free screening is sponsored by the Santa Barbara and Ventura Colleges of Law. Following the screening, the film’s subject, Councilwoman Carmen Castillo will participate in a panel discussion along with Oxnard Councilwoman Carmen Ramirez. Free babysitting and light refreshments are provided.

Tickets for Marianne and Leonard and On the Basis of Sex are available online through Eventbrite and through our website at venturafilmsociety.com. Prices are $12 for General Admission, $10 for seniors and $8 for students with valid ID.

The Ventura Film Society believes in the transformative power of film. We are a non-profit organization under the fiscal sponsorship of Bell Arts Factory. Join us as we build a film culture in Ventura County with a curated collection of local, independent and documentary films, presented through imaginative cinematic experiences.

Ventura Film Society www.venturafilmsociety.com

Ventura County Library received national grant from the American Library Association

Ventura County Library was named one of 59 libraries nationwide to receive a $2,000 Library Census Equity Fund grant from the American Library Association (ALA), which awarded the grants to bolster library services to hard-to-count communities and help achieve a complete count in the 2020 Census.

“We are thrilled to be selected to receive these ALA grant funds in support of the Census 2020 effort,” said Ventura County Library Director Nancy Schram. “Our county libraries will play a key role in the census, and this grant will help us reach more community members with the equipment and information they need to be better informed about Census 2020 and to complete the census survey. Librarians across the county have been working with the Ventura County Complete Count Committee and representatives from the U.S. Census Bureau to plan for Census 2020; and, this grant project will help us to leverage and build upon those partnerships to have even more impact.”

Ventura County Library is dedicating grant funds toward computer equipment for the Mobile Library to facilitate participation by people in underserved areas of Ventura County in special Census 2020 Mobile Library events.

“The efforts of Ventura County Library,” said ALA President Wanda Brown, “will shine a light on all the library workers across the country who are shouldering efforts to reach and inform their communities—especially vulnerable and hard-to-count populations—about the importance of a full and inclusive count.”

The results of the 2020 Census will affect communities across the country. More than $1.5 trillion in federal funds are allocated each year to state and local governments based on Census data. When residents are missed in the Census, their communities miss out on needed funding for services such as libraries, schools, healthcare, and transportation.

The U.S. Constitution requires a census of all residents every ten years. In the 2020 Census, residents will have the choice to respond online, by phone, or by mail. The U.S. Census Bureau will send mailings to households prior to Census Day, which is April 1, 2020.

For additional information on Ventura County Library and the 2020 Census, contact Nancy Schram, Ventura County Library Director at (805) 256-8535

To help achieve a complete count in the 2020 Census, America’s libraries are informing their communities and providing access to the online response option. To learn more, visit ala.org/census and follow the conversation on social media with #CountOnLibraries.

Marching for Unity

The organization was thrilled with the turnout and successful march. Photos by Richard Lieberman

by Amy Brown

In a sea of pink knit hats and creative signs with humorous and pointed political and social messaging, a crowd of approximately 1,500 attended a rally in Plaza Park in Ventura on January 18th and then marched through downtown for Justice For All Ventura County’s (JFAVC ) 4th annual event, held in conjunction with women’s marches nationwide. JFAVC is a non-profit focused on the environment, women’s issues, LGBTQ issues, health care, economic equity, immigration, education, and cultural equity.

According to Christine Burke, JFAVC’s President and the emcee of the rally, the organization was thrilled with the turnout and successful march. “We hope that people get out and get invigorated about working to make the world a better place. And for us, this is such an important year because the vote is coming up in November, and we’re going to be hosting, cohosting and partnering with other organizations throughout the year that are affiliated with topics being discussed on the stage,” said Burke.

Most of the attendees seemed united on the importance of exercising the right and power of voting, and passion for equality and environmental issues. “The most important things are rationality, sensibility, reason, and compromise. Absent of that, the most important thing is to get enough people mobilized to vote to make a difference. In this country, there are more people that are progressive or left leaning, but don’t seem to get up the nerve to vote,” said Jeff Kirby, who participated in the rally and also served as a volunteer marshal guiding marchers on the sidewalk.

There were hundreds of young women, in groups, and with their families at the diverse event. 14-year-old Amelia Beving and 13 -year -old Natalie Schermer held signs that read ‘Be the Change and Drive an EV’ and ‘I’m With Her…Mother Earth’ and they both expressed specific concerns about the environment and human rights. “I’m worried about the fact that we’re close to the point where we can’t turn it around. I’m excited to get to the age to get to vote—I know a lot of kids that are already politically in tune,” said Schermer. “I feel like now, with the internet and news moving at a fast pace, we are more aware of the problems we face and it kind of scares us, and we want to make a change.”

Speakers at the rally included congressional representatives from the House and the Senate and also from the State Assembly, as well as Ventura Mayor Matt Lavere, city council members, and local organizations including the Ventura County Community Foundation and Climate Strike 805—all urging unity and action for social justice.

One key topic shared was that 2020 is the 100 anniversary of the 19th amendment being passed in this country, which allowed women the right to vote. “It took 100 years of fighting for women in this country to get the right to vote,” said California Congresswoman Julia Brownley. “When women vote, we win!” Several speakers also celebrated Virginia becoming the 38th state to ratify the Equal Rights Amendment (ERA), which reads, in part: ‘Equality of rights under the law shall not be denied or abridged by the United States or by any State on account of sex.’

Planned Parenthood had strong support at the event, with many men and women holding signs in support of the organization and women’s right to choose. Maple Umscheid, 14 and her 15 year old sister Jasmine attended with friend Taylor Gonzalez, age 17. They held Planned Parenthood signs and a sign that called for both reproductive rights and LBGTQ rights. Gonzalez shared that she grew up in a conservative household and felt that she had not previously had an outlet to express her views as a woman. “It’s really beautiful to see us all coming together here to fight for these important causes.”

Stephen “Steve” Cummings mural memorial

Edison has covered up one side of the Ventura mural memorial for Stephen “Steve” Cummings located at Loma Vista and Mills located on a utility box that now had a battery backup. Battery packs are needed for motorists’ safety when Edison shuts off power to avoid fires.

Cummings was a community activist and local preservationist who died unexpectedly in 2015. The College Area Community Council raised the funds for the 2016 memorial mural.

City officials have been listening to community concerns and the city and community council are now working together to find a solution.

NAWBO Ventura County hosts “How to be a Socially Conscious Business”

The Ventura County chapter of the National Association of Women Business Owners (NAWBO VC) announces an impactful panel discussion for business owners looking to be more socially aware in how they operate their business. The panelists also promise to provide tips for all of us as consumers on how we can be more socially conscious in our purchasing decisions.

Join NAWBO Ventura County for “How to be a Socially Conscious Business” on Tuesday, February 11th, 11:30am to 1:00pm at Gold Coast Transit District’s Community Room, 1901 Auto Center Drive, Oxnard. Purchase early bird tickets at www.NAWBOVC.org before February 4th for just $20 NAWBO members | $25 non-members.

Socially conscious businesses are a growing power for good. These businesses bring their values to life through intentional actions. Business owners can lead with purpose, which can provide new opportunities with a growing class of consumers looking to align their purchasing power with businesses who reflect their values.

With overwhelming need and so many options, where does a business owner start? What steps can be taken to truly be a more socially conscious business? Local socially conscious business experts will share more about this growing trend and provide specific and realistic strategies to incorporate into your business and your life.

The panelists are:

Andrea Chase, Director of Corporate Responsibility and Social Impact, Arbonne International

Catherine Von Burg, Founder, President & CEO, SimpliPhi Power

Dr. Janis Shinkawa, Medical Director, Veterinarian and Partner, Ohana Pet Hospital

Caleigh Hernandez, Founder & CEO, RoHo

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The panel will be moderated by Fulbright Scholar, Professor Maria Ballesteros-Sola, DBA, MBA, LLB, California State University, Channel Islands. This event is supported in part by NAWBO VC Elite sponsor, Ohana Pet Hospital.

NAWBO Ventura County hosts educational meetings monthly on timely topics vital to the growth and success of women business owners, including female non-profit founders and executives. Breakfast, lunch and/or dinner meetings are typically held the second Tuesday of each month at various locations in Ventura County. Learn more at www.NAWBOVC.org.

The marchers walked alongside the float titled, “Years of Hope”.

Ventura County Outwalkers at the 131st Annual Tournament of Roses Parade

Eight women from Ventura County, including two from the local National Association of Women Business Owners Ventura County (NAWBO VC) chapter, joined 100 outwalkers in the 131st Annual Tournament of Roses Parade. The marchers walked alongside the Pasadena Celebrates 2020 float titled, “Years of Hope. Years of Courage,” commemorating the 100th year celebration of the 19th amendment granting women the right to vote. The outstanding float with the powerful message took home the coveted Theme Award for most outstanding presentation of the parade’s theme, “The Power of Hope.”

NAWBO Ventura County members, Dawn Dyer and Brenda Terzian were among the 100 (mostly women) marchers and were joined by Ventura County’s Marni Brook, Tiffany Emhoff, Barbara Bellfield, Karen Fraser, Ladeane Taylor, and Riley Wagner.

Audubon events

Feb 1, 8:00 a.m., Restoration Work Day, Hedrick Ranch Nature Area, Leader: Sandy Hedrick (805) 340-0478

Arrive at 8:00 for self-guided birding which usually yields some interesting birds. Restoration work from 9am – noon. Long pants and boots or closed shoes are required. Bring water, gloves & sun protection.

Feb 8, 8:30 a.m., Soule Park, Leader: David Wappler (805) 620-2676 / Adele Fergusson 805-415-4304

Situated in east Ojai, this large park offers grasslands, large deciduous trees and riparian habitat that bring out winter feeding flocks of sparrows, bluebirds, & warblers and year-round habitat for thrashers, woodpeckers, raptors and more. A section of Thatcher Creek that serves as the north border of the park will be enjoyed. Join us for an easy, flat walk around one of our most scenic birding spots.

Feb 11, 7:30 p.m., Ventura Audubon Society Monthly Program at the Poinsettia Pavilion – 3451 Foothill Road, Ventura (Free to the Public): The Salton Sea Update. Speaker: Andrea Jones, Director of Bird Conservation for Audubon California

To learn more about the threats facing the Salton Sea, as well as about efforts that have and are currently being taken to conserve it, come hear Andrea Jones’ talk. Andrea will highlight why the Salton Sea is critically important to over 400 species of birds, describe which of those species are most threatened, and explain how Audubon is engaging in new solutions that will benefit both birds and people.

Feb 15, 9 a.m., Ventura Settling Ponds, Leader: Frank DeMartino / Adele Fergusson (805) 415-4304

Enjoy a morning of mostly waterfowl birding with gulls, terns, ducks, herons, grebes, and even warblers. Spotting scopes are always welcome. Entrance at the corner of Spinnaker Drive and Angler Court off Harbor Blvd.

Feb 22, 8 a.m., Emma Wood State Beach, Leader: Tevin Schmitt (661) 904-1563

At the entrance to Emma Wood State Beach, we will be searching the scrub for sparrows and warblers. We will follow the path that leads through the willow forest (often finding wrentits and other secretive birds here) and finally across the sand dunes to the Ventura River Estuary. The estuary is always an exciting place to bird, and target birds will include: Snowy, Black-bellied and Semipalmated Plovers, Willet, Whimbrel, Black Turnstone, Red-necked Phalarope and Forster’s Tern. There will be a fair amount of walking, so please dress appropriately in layers and comfortable shoes.

Please do not leave valuables in your car, and be sure to lock your vehicle.

Visit Ventura wins an Adrian gold, four years running

The VVCB staff is proud to be winners again.

Continuing a four-year streak, the Ventura Visitors & Convention Bureau (VVCB/Visit Ventura) was honored with another prestigious gold award from Hospitality Sales & Marketing Association International (HSMAI) at the 63rd annual Adrian Awards, the world’s largest global travel marketing competition.

At the awards gala, held at New York’s Marriott Marquis on January 21st and attended by nearly 1,000 hospitality, travel, and tourism marketing executives, HSMAI recognized the Ventura Visitors & Convention Bureau for their innovative welcome of the 2019 Amgen Tour of California bicycle race. VVCB painted Ventura’s ambigram brand mark in a big way (48-feet long and 17-feet high) on the streets and the roofs of buildings, shouting Ventura’s community pride to the skies and thanking North America’s biggest professional cycling race for coming to town.

“With the eyes of the world focused on Ventura, we wanted to unleash a joyous visual extravaganza to celebrate America’s biggest professional cycling race and draw attention to our special town,” said Marlyss Auster, President & CEO of the Ventura Visitors & Convention Bureau. “But, just as important as highlighting Ventura pride, our ambigram (the same viewed backward and forward) brand mark also highlights our town’s belief. You see things as you see them. You be you. Everyone is welcome in our town.”

This marks the fourth year in a row VVCB has received an Adrian gold. Past winners of this coveted award include such industry giants as Choice Hotels International, Visit California, Hilton Worldwide, Marriott International, and Royal Caribbean International. VVCB’s string of wins are a “little engine that could” fairy tale come to life.

“It’s a remarkable streak, but for those who know the work of the VVCB it’s not surprising,” said Ventura Mayor Matt LaVere (also a huge cycling fan). “Instead of thinking outside the box, they just put aside the box altogether. Our town welcomed the riders and the race in one-of-a-kind fashion. We were all proud to be Venturans.”

VVCB’s work was judged to be exceptional by expert hospitality, travel, tourism, and media professionals. Judges were asked to evaluate each entry based on its own merit and success in achieving its objectives.

Winning entries are viewable in the winners’ gallery on the Adrian Awards website. Visit www.AdrianAwards.com for more information on the event and competition and to view the Adrian Awards Winners’ Gallery.

Visit Ventura is a non-profit organization designed to increase visitor expenditures, tourism revenues, and local employment opportunities through the promotion of Ventura as a travel destination. For travel and accommodation information or a free copy of the Ventura Inspiration Guide, the public can write to the Ventura Visitors Center, 101 S. California Street, Ventura, CA 93001; call (805) 648-2075; visit www.visitventuraca.com; email [email protected]. Follow VVCB on Twitter @visitventura or become a Facebook fan at www.facebook.com/visitventura.

The Hospitality Sales and Marketing Association International (HSMAI) is committed to growing business for hotels and their partners and is the industry’s leading advocate for intelligent, sustainable hotel revenue growth. The association provides hotel professionals and their partners with tools, insights, and expertise to fuel sales, inspire marketing, and optimize revenue through programs such as the Marketing Strategy Conference, Adrian Awards, and HSMAI ROC. Founded in 1927, HSMAI is a membership organization comprising more than 5,000 members worldwide, with 40 chapters in the Americas Region. Connect with HSMAI at hsmai.org, HSMAI Facebook, HSMAI Twitter, and HSMAI YouTube.

Radiant You

by Carol Leish

“Love yourself first, and everything else falls into line. You really have to love yourself to get anything done in this world”—Lucille Ball

Since happiness is essential for you, as women, for your lives, come to Radiant You, which is an upcoming 1-day retreat for women in Ventura. It is being sponsored by Ladies Luncheon, Ventura, which is a monthly women’s networking group that has been meeting for over 10 years. By being with other women, you will be able to create a sisterhood within community and to bond to make friendships and relationships with each other. Nurturing the inner and spiritual beauty within you, as women, will radiate within all areas of your lives. “This event will be guiding women to be able to achieve ultimate self-love. This will be able to translate into their health, wealth, and mind,” according to founder, Laurie Ann Meyer. “The speakers are choreographed for exactly that reason, in order to share with you.”

The day at Radiant You will include: Veronica Clark, who will focus on energy healing and self-love; Dr. Catie Wyman Norris, who will focus on nutrition; and, Jackie Ulmer, who will focus on business strategies. You will be inspired as you learn from these various speakers. You will also enjoy light movement from acupuncturist and yoga instructor, Krystal Pearson.

This special day of Radiant You will include: a continental breakfast; lunch; along with the opportunity to shop from a variety of local vendors. By wearing your most comfortable clothing, you will be able to enjoy participating in light movement, through yoga and relaxation techniques. By bringing a journal and writing materials, you will be able to write down important things that you will be learning during the day. You will be receiving yoga mats as a gift upon arrival, along with other giveaways.

The Radiant You event is on March 7, 2020, since, March 8, 2020, is International Women’s Day, in which, “An equal world is an enabled world.” You can celebrate women’s achievements. You can raise awareness against bias. And, you can also take action for equality,’ according to, International Women’s Day Charity Partners.

Thus, to be a part of Radiant You for $97, from 8:30am-2:30pm, at the Poinsettia Pavilion, 3451 Foothill Rd., Ventura. Please register at: www.TheLadiesLuncheon.com/Radiant-You.