Category Archives: This ‘n’ That

Vol. 17, No. 25 – Sept 4 – Sept 17, 2024 – Community Events

Ventura

September Fly Fishing Event: Sat., Sept 7. Chumash Park, Petit and Waco, 9:00 to 11:00 am.

Sespe Fly Fishers of Ventura is conducting their first monthly introductory Fly Rod Casting and Intro to Fly Fishing clinic. There is no charge and all are welcome. Whether you are an experienced fly fisher or a complete novice we want to help you improve your casting and learn to enjoy this great sport. If you don’t yet have a fly rod, don’t worry, you can use one of theirs. For more information contact Casting Program Coordinator, Thomas Hall [email protected]. (805) 377-5249. www.sespeflyfishers.org

The Ventura Art & Chalk Festival 2024: Sat & Sun, Sept 14-15, 10 am – 5 pm. Ventura Harbor Village.

Ventura County Art Events, Inc. & Rotary Club of Ventura Present The Ventura Art & Chalk Festival, a signature event in Ventura County. More than 50 talented chalk artists and crafts people will transform Harbor Village with vibrant color along the waterfront. 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. venturaartfestival.com.

The Assisted Home Health & Hospice Foundation Fundraiser: Thurs, Sept 5, 6:00 – 9:00 pm, Golf N’ Stuff, Ventura.

Engage in the spirit of friendly competition and help support access to in-home healthcare for the underserved. The foundation provides assistance to individuals and families across Ventura County that range from short-term caregiving, hospital beds, refrigerators, pet care, etc. The money raised at the event stays in Ventura County to ensure that assistance is provided to families in need. Asssitedcares.com/foundation.

Beautiful Blue Sky – Poetry and Piano by Oxnard artist Tim Pompey: Sat, Sept 7, 7 pm. NAMBA Performing Arts Space, 47 South Oak Street.

Accompanied by guest pianist Miriam Arichea. The poems are featured in his poetry book “Beautiful Blue Sky” – www.timpompey.com/poetry. “They’re each a combination of spirituality, personal reflection, and nature,” says Tim. Tickets ​$20 at nambaarts.com. The event is co-sponsored by Ventura County Realtor Rosa Carbajal (EXP Realty) and will feature a pre-show appetizer and cocktail reception prior to and during the concert.

Rancho Days – Olivas Adobe Sunday: Sun, Sept 8, 11am-3 pm. Olivas Abobe.

Enjoy this Free event with hands-on activities such as corn grinding, panning for gold, roping, Chumas crafts, quilting and more. Garden and house tours. Lectures by Oxnard Garden Farm, Richard Senate and others.  Join us for a day of family activities as we explore the Rancho San Miguel and the people who lived here.  www.cityofventura.ca.gov/OlivasAdobe

National Heirloom Expo: Tues – Thur, Sept 10-12, 9am – 9pm. Ventura County Fairgrounds

The National Heirloom Expo is America’s largest celebration of pure food and heirloom gardening. The Expo offers an unparalleled opportunity to learn from some of the best minds working in gardening, health, non-GMO activism, heirloom seed protection and preservation, permaculture, and regenerative soil practices. Produce is the real star of the show at the expo, and a trip around the fairgrounds is like an international adventure in heirloom seeds and vegetables. The Expo Hall features hundreds of heirloom vegetables, fruits, herbs, and flowers, plus exhibits, fruit carvers, and more!  A one-day pass is $15. Three-day passes are available for $30. All profits benefit school garden and food programs. School groups are admitted free, and assistance is available to defray transportation costs for school groups. For more information, visit theheirloomexpo.com or www.rareseeds.com/national-heirloom-expo. 

Santa Clara River Estuary update from VenturaWaterPure: Sep 10, 7 – 9 pm. Poinsettia Pavilion and Via Zoom. 

Program by The Ventura Audubon Society. The VenturaWaterPure team will provide project updates, focusing on environmental stewardship of the Santa Clara River Estuary and ongoing partnerships with Heal the Bay, Ventura Coastkeeper / Wishtoyo Chumash Foundation. They will highlight key initiatives like the estuary monitoring programs to ensure sustainable development of the project. Additionally, VenturaWaterPure will discuss efforts to protect endangered species, advancements in water purification technology, and provide the latest updates on grants, funding, and treatment pond access. This presentation reflects their commitment to balancing infrastructure progress with ecological preservation. www.venturaaudubon.org/speakers.

Museum of Ventura County Announces an Evening of Refined Taste and Unexpected Histories: Sept 12, 6:00 – 9:00 pm. Museum of Ventura County.

The Museum of Ventura County (MVC) invites the community to an unforgettable evening of refined taste and unexpected histories at the Taste of History Dinner. The event will take guests on a nostalgic journey to the early mid-century, beginning with a sophisticated cocktail hour featuring classic specialty drinks, a red-carpet welcome, keepsake Polaroids, and live jazz music. The evening will feature a cooking demonstration by Chef Adam Hart of Oxnard College and an artifact gallery showcasing treasures from MVC’s historic collection. www.venturamuseum.org/events.

5th Annual Marvelous Mug Marketplace at the Ventura Pottery Gallery: Sat, Sep 14 & Sun, Sept 15, 11 am to 6 pm. Ventura Harbor Village, 1567 Spinnaker Drive, #105.

Over 40 talented local potters have poured their creativity and craftsmanship into producing an array of unique, functional mugs designed to brighten your daily routine. From short to tall, wide to slender, and vibrant to whimsical, our selection is sure to have something for everyone. Each mug is not only a work of art but also practical for everyday use – all are lead-free, microwave-safe, and dishwasher-safe. As a special treat, the first twenty purchases each day will receive a complimentary cup of coffee from Top This Chocolate, located just around the corner from the Gallery. While you’re here, don’t miss the colorful Harbor Art and Street Painting Festival. It’s the perfect opportunity to enjoy a weekend full of art, creativity and community spirit. For more information, visit  www.vcpg.org. Can’t make it to the Gallery. Online Store. www.venturapotteryonline.com.

Focus on the Masters, For the Love of Art – 30th Anniversary Celebration: Sun, Sept 15, 3 to 6pm (Sponsor & Member Preview, 2 to 3 p.m.). The Victorian House, 211 E. Santa Clara St.

Point Broadcasting presents, Focus on the Masters (FOTM) Arts Archive & Library, For the Love of Art 30th Anniversary Celebration Benefit for the Arts Education. All proceeds benefit FOTM’s award-winning arts education programs including the Learning To See Outreach, a sequential in-school and community outreach art program for at-risk youth and Title 1 schools. FOTM has served the community for over thirty years through their educational arts programming. The Learning To See program has brought compelling lessons to over 275,000 students throughout Ventura County. The integrative lessons are inspired by the artwork and life stories of extraordinary FOTM documented artists. The FUNdraising garden party will be full of “art for all” including FOTM’s famed $30 Mystery Boxes filled with all kinds of art related treasures worth at least $50, a fine art raffle, silent auction, and fun activities including a photo booth, hat decorating contest, scavenger hunt, quick draw, and more. Tickets for the event are available at www.FocusOnTheMasters.com or by calling 805.653.2501. Members $150, non-members $175. 

Free Family History Lectures: Sat, Sept 21, 1:00 to 4:00 pm. Online via Zoom.

The Ventura County Genealogical Society will present two speakers. The first is Jennifer Zinck, speaking on “Connecting with Cousins: Using Tools & Technology for Genealogical Collaboration,” followed by Kenneth R. Marks on “How to Develop Critical Online Newspaper Research Skills.” All VCGS lectures are free and open to members and the public. Non-members may request a Zoom invitation at https://venturacogensoc.org/request-invitation-to-lecture. VCGS cannot respond to same-day requests.

Ventura Artwalk: Sat, Sept. 21, 12 – 5 pm and Sun, Sept. 22, 11 am – 4 pm. Downtown.

The family-friendly event will feature hundreds of artists in local galleries, businesses, restaurants and on the grounds of Mission Park and the Albinger Museum. Artist booths, popular local bands, aerialists, poetry, dance, a film festival, street painting, puppetry and a children’s area will all be a part of this event run by an enthusiastic all-volunteer team. Live painting and pottery demonstrations will also be featured. This huge, free event unites Ventura’s west side neighborhoods, businesses and arts community in a two-day celebration of the creative spirit. Transit to ArtWalk Ventura and along the route will again be at no cost through the generosity of Gold Coast Transit. Register to participate at www.artwalkventura.org.

Ventura Botanical Gardens Dual Healer Sound Bath: Tues, Sept 17, 4 – 5pm. South African gardens at Summit Plateau.

We all need healing. Join Zach at this dual healer sound bath in our South African gardens at Summit Plateau. The vibrations of the gong restore balance to the nervous system; healing emotional wounds and encouraging angelic thoughts. Don’t forget your water, shade umbrellas and mats. Namaste. www.venturabotanicalgardens.com/events.

*The Ventura Botanical Gardens will be closed on September 17, 18 & 19 for construction.

American Foundation for Suicide Prevention’s Out of the Darkness Community Walk: Sat, Sept. 21, Promenade Park near the Ventura Pier.

Join the walk to promote the importance of suicide prevention. In 2021, over 420 Out of the Darkness Walks took place in communities and on campuses across the United States, attended by over 80,000 dedicated people who shared their passion for a growing movement. The goal is to spread awareness of what is currently a leading cause of death in the U.S., and let others know they are not alone. Help ensure that mental health is looked upon with equal importance to physical health and continue to bring hope to those affected by suicide. Register: afsp.org/vc.

VACE CAREER and EDUCATION EXPO: Tues, Sept 24, 2:00 – 5:00 pm, VACE Campus 5200 Valentine Road.

This FREE event, open to the public, is a great opportunity to meet local business owners and representatives. Someone might need someone with your exact skill set or might know someone else who does. Scan the QR code to register. https://workforceventuracounty.org/ https://www.facebook.com/WDBVC/

Channel Islands Chamber Orchestra “Season Opener!”: Sun, Sept 22, 3 pm.

First United Methodist Church, 1338 E Santa Clara St.

Sinfonia concertante in B-flat major by Joseph Haydn (Kimaree Gilad, Oboe; Cavit Celayir-Monezis, Bassoon; Sharon Cooper, Violin; John Fare, Cello)

Concerto in G minor for Organ, Strings and Timpani Francis Poulenc

A Midsummer Night’s Dream by Felix Mendelssohn. Performs with David Wheatley, organist. $20 online in advance, $25 at the door. Students and children under 12 are free. cichamberorchestra.org/general-admission/p/september22. [email protected]. 805-742-1811.

Ventura County Cultural Heritage Board hosts Speaker Session Q&A: Mon, Sept 23, 1:15 pm. Multi-Purpose Conference Room, Hall of Administration, Ventura County Government Center.

Ventura County Cultural Heritage Board Speaker Series. Speaker: Dr. José M. Alamillo. Dr. Alamillo will discuss his research on Farmworker Labor Camps and Farmworker Movements in Ventura County, including the nation’s largest bracero camp, Buena Vista Camp, in Oxnard. Don’t miss this insightful presentation!

Ongoing:

Social Golf Club

Actively recruiting new members Men’s golf club. Set Tee times a year in advance for every Tuesday and Thursday at 9 different courses in Ventura County. https://challengersgolfclub.com

Ventura Senior Men’s Group: First and Third Tues each month: 11:30 am – 1:30 pm at Poinsettia Pavilion. 

Any man who considers himself in the “senior” category (and many who don’t) might benefit from a visit to the Ventura Senior Men’s Group.  Buffet luncheon with interesting speakers and good friends. Your first lunch is free. We talk about everything except religion and politics. Eligible to all men 50 plus. Call Tom at 805-657-1071 for more information or visit VSMG.net to find out who our speakers will be.

Play Bridge: Every Tues, Wed and Thurs at 12:30 pm.

ACBL-sanctioned duplicate bridge games. All levels of play, and we will guarantee to have a partner for you if you need one. Lessons are available. Tuesday, Wed and Thursday games are held at Temple Beth Torah, Foothill & Kimball Rd, Ventura. Every Saturday at the Ventura Townhouse.  For additional info visit our website at www.vcbridge.org. Contact Rose at [email protected]. 

Ventura County Philatelic Society: First and third Mon each month – 7:30 pm. Church of the Foothills.

For more information, visit https://venturacountyphilatelicsoc.org.

Beach Cleanup: First Sat of every month – 8:30 -10:30 am.

Meet your neighbors and help keep our beach looking fresh. Hosted by Pierpont Beach Community Council in partnership with Surfrider. Meet up at the end of Seward near the beach. (1140 S Seward St). Arrive any time during the timeframe. Fun for the whole family! Supplies provided – BYO water.

Ojai:

10th Annual Mountain Film On-Tour: Sat, Sept 21, Ojai Valley School (Lower Campus Sports Field). Gates open at 5 pm – Films start at 7:15 pm


OVLC celebrates 25 years of work at the Ojai Meadows Preserve! Bring your blankets and low-back chairs and join the festivities on the field at Ojai Valley School’s Lower Campus Sports Field for another fantastic year of films and fun! Experience the beauty of nature, the thrill of wild adventures, and the power of environmental storytelling through a carefully curated selection of films from the Mountainfilm Festival in Telluride. ovlc.org/mountainfilm.

Make it a weekend – Friday, September 20, at Under the Open Sky—a locally sourced farm-to-table dinner by Seasons Catering with live music, a photo booth, beer, wine, a virtual auction, and a paddle raise at our historic Ventura River Steelhead Preserve. When the sun sets, we will enjoy a collection of films selected for this special event that will not be shown on Saturday night. https://ovlc.org/events

Oxnard:

2024 Walk to End Alzheimer’s: Sat., Sep 21. Registration at 8 am, Ceremony at 9 am. Walk at 9:30 am. The Park at The Collection To learn more and register, visit https://act.alz.org/site/SPageServer?pagename=walk_homepage.

Camarillo:

Camarillo Quilters Association: Tues, Sept 10 at 9 am. Pleasant Valley Community Center, 1605 E. Burnley Drive.

This month will present Annette Ornelas of South Wind Quilts. Her Lecture is: “Dimensional Curved Piecing”. Annette’s unique approach to quilting has led her to design numerous Dimensional Curved piecing patterns and books.  Annette is the owner and creator of Southwind Designs patterns. Guest fee is $5 and everyone is welcome. Visit camarilloquilters.com.

Livingston Free Grief Support Groups

For reservations, contact 805-389-6870 or online at lmvna.org/grief. Space is limited. All support groups are free for the community.

Santa Barbara:

Santa Babara Museum of Art: Sun, Sept 8. Free Community Day. Santa Barbara Museum of Art.

Celebrate the exhibition A Legacy of Giving: The Lady Leslie and Lord Paul Ridley-Tree Collection with free admission for all (1 – 4 pm) with related art activities, family gallery guides, docent tours, music, and refreshments. www.sbma.net.

Santa Barbara Botanic Garden Celebrates Latino Conservation Week: Sat, Sept 14 – Sept 22.

Bilingual Outdoor Events Starting, guests invited to bilingual Garden Tours, Guadalupe Island Conservation Talk with “GECI” speaker, “CNPLC” Open House, Story Walk with Santa Barbara Public Library, and Native Plant Bike Tour. These events are an invitation for the Latino community and others to enjoy the outdoors together and participate in activities that help preserve our natural resources. Among the week’s highlights are a free 6.5-mile native plant bike tour through downtown Santa Barbara, led by Gardener Lead Abraham Lizama in partnership with local business Boom Boom Bike Room, and a bilingual Open House for the Garden’s California Native Plant Landscape Certification (CNPLC) program. www.sbbotanicgarden.org.

Ensemble Theatre Company: 2024 – 2025 Season Announced: The New Vic, 33 W. Victoria St.

We are thrilled to unveil a rich array of plays in Santa Barbara that promise to deliver unforgettable experiences. Explore our productions and discover the magic of live performances. www.etcsb.org

What the Ventura Foghorn Tells Us

by Nella Nelson

Ventura’s fog often rolls in during May and lingers well into July, giving rise to the familiar terms “May Grey” and “June Gloom.” Sometimes the fog burns off by afternoon, while other times, the marine layer persists, turning into a light drizzle that clings to the coast throughout the day. On particularly dense fog days, windshield wipers are a must during early mornings or late evenings.

The simple explanation is that inland heat causes an increase in coastal fog, commonly known as our marine layer. William Patzert, a retired climatologist with NASA’s Jet Propulsion Laboratory, explains, “The marine layer develops offshore, where low clouds form as air sinks over the cold ocean water. A contrast in temperature—between hot inland air and cool ocean air—tends to draw the marine layer onto land. The bigger the contrast, the stronger the marine layer moving onshore.”

During the summer, the cooling effect of the marine layer attracts visitors from inland areas, eager to escape the scorching temperatures.

“In everything from kayaks to large boats, you’ve got to go slow and use your equipment to avoid a collision,” advises John Higgins, Ventura Harbor’s Harbormaster.

The familiar “boop boop” sound echoing across the ocean and fields is the comforting call of Ventura’s foghorn, located at the tip of the south jetty.

“It’s basically just a raised stick on a horn with a red marker,” says Brendan Donohue of the Ventura Harbor Patrol. Interestingly, the foghorn can be activated by the public. Boaters can tune to VHF Channel 81 and “cue it five times,” Donohue instructs, “and it will sound for half an hour.”

But how foggy is Ventura compared to other places? According to the Farmers’ Almanac, Point Reyes, California, takes the top spot with 200 foggy days per year, where visibility is often reduced to mere feet. The foggiest place in the world is Grand Banks, Newfoundland, which endures 206 days of dense fog annually, thanks to the collision of the chilly Labrador Current with the Gulf Stream. In comparison, Ventura averages 92 foggy days per year, according to Business Forward Ventura County—putting our fog into perspective.

Ventura Harbor’s microclimate tends to gather most of the area’s fog, as the shore cools it immediately. So, the next time you hear the fog horn’s signal, remember the inland heat you’re happily escaping.

Sources:

  • “Why Is There So Much Fog Lately in Ventura County?” by Gretchen Wenner, Ventura County Star, August 17, 2019.
  • “5 Foggiest Places in North America,” Farmers’ Almanac.

National Heirloom Expo returns “healthiest and happiest” event to Fairgrounds

Best of Show in Professional category at VC Fair. Abstract Humanoid for sale – $5,000. Photo credit: Kennith “Kenny” Milton.

Kenny Milton’s exquisite carvings will be on display

by David Goldstein

Kenny Milton says the “culture” of inmates at his workplace “isn’t always healthy.” His hobby, on the other hand, has taken him to a place of joy and community.

He is a maintenance worker at the Ventura County Jail, but every chance he gets, he pulls out a chainsaw, chisel, grinder, and paint, and he creates and paints wooden sculptures, often starting with a large tree stump. Milton’s work includes a 20-foot sculpture carved from a palm stump in Ventura, on the corner of Foothill Road and Seton Hall Avenue, and a large eagle in Ojai, near the corner of Ojai Avenue and Bryant Street. His “Abstract Humanoid” carving won Best of Show in the Professional category at the Ventura County Fair last month and will soon be on display, along with three 12-foot chickens, at an event he called “maybe the healthiest place I have ever been, and one of the happiest too.”

Milton was referring to the National Heirloom Exposition, a three-day festival with more than 150 vendors and exhibitors, 5 stages of speakers and entertainment, a farmers’ market and a food court with free samples. Promoted as “the world’s largest pure food fair,” the expo is coming back to the Ventura County Fairgrounds for a second year, 9 AM to 9 PM daily from Tuesday, September 10, to Thursday, September 12.

Last year, Milton and about 10,000 others enjoyed sampling unusual varieties of fruits and vegetables, marveled at a giant squash tower, learned about gardening and farming, and brought home seeds. Baker Creek Heirloom Seed Company is the primary sponsor and organizer of the event, and the company will sell seeds in both Vendors’ Halls, but one of the biggest attractions last year, and scheduled again this year, seems to be in direct competition with the company’s sales. A seed exchange offers participants heirloom varieties of free seeds.

“The culture of seed swap,” said Milton, “Is what it’s all about.”

Event organizer Eric Werbalowsky, a Ventura-based eco-business consultant, agreed the seed swap is the heart of the gathering and further explained, saying, “This is not like a commercial event or an insider’s group; newbies are especially welcomed.” Experienced gardeners put seeds in labeled envelopes, place them in the share area, and anyone can come and take some. This “giving without expectation” is “radical outside of families or close-knit communities,” he continued, “and the benevolence of it leads people to ask, ‘What can I do to help?’” Werbalowsky told beneficiaries last year to plant the seeds, grow and eat the crops, and bring back the resulting seeds for this year’s exchange.

Seeds are key to the value of heirloom varieties. Most commercially available seeds are hybrids, producing new seeds with unpredictable results and requiring purchase of new seeds every year. Heirloom varieties, in contrast, “breed true,” said Werbalowsky, producing seeds that will grow the same plant type again. “Heirlooms can be kept and handed down generation-to-generation, so they become holders of the culture, signifying how people come together,” he said.

A local speakers’ stage at the event is coordinated by Jan Dietrick and Ron Whitehurst, owners of Rincon-Vitova Insectaries, which grows beneficial insects for agricultural pest control. They will also staff a volunteer welcome committee booth in the Expo Hall. On September 11, from 11 to 11:30 am, I will speak about food rescue – the process of collecting good food before it is discarded and providing it to hungry people, while composting the food that cannot be rescued.

Compost will also be the focus of presentations on another stage, near the poultry show area, and Ventura County composting companies Agromin and Peach Hill Soils will distribute free sample bags of soil products.

Michele Lopez, President of the Ojai Community Farmers’ Market organized a miniature version of her regular market for this event. Reminiscent of Iron Chef competitions, chefs will make delicious dishes using fresh, locally grown organic ingredients available from on-site vendors.

Attendees on the final evening should bring a wagon; produce and displays, including some of Milton’s art, will be sold at bargain prices. Kenny can be reached at [email protected]

David Goldstein, Environmental Resource Analyst with the Ventura County Public Works Agency, may be reached at (805) 658-4312 or [email protected]

Twenty foot sculpture carved from a palm stump on the corner of Foothill Road and Seton Hall Avenue in Ventura. Photo credit: Kennith “Kenny” Milton.

In Loving Memory of Norman Thomas George: A Life of Service, Family, and Joy

With heavy hearts, we announce the passing of Norman Thomas George, a beloved husband, father, grandfather, great-grandfather, uncle, and friend. Norm peacefully passed away at home on August 1, 2024, into the arms of the Lord.

Born on July 20, 1931, in Santa Barbara to Willis and Agatha George, Norm was raised in Ventura, California. He graduated from Ventura High School in 1949 and enlisted in the Coast Guard, where he served honorably from 1951 to 1954. During his service, he met his first wife, Doris, in Louisiana. They later returned to Ventura, where Norm earned his degree from Ventura Community College in 1956. He went on to graduate with a Bachelor of Science in Mechanical Engineering from Cal Poly San Luis Obispo in 1958.

Norm began a long and successful career with Shell Oil Company, working there for thirty-one years until his retirement in 1989. It was during his time at Shell that he met and married Joan, his loving wife of forty-two years. Together, they traveled extensively, exploring the U.S. and abroad.

Family was at the heart of Norm’s life. He cherished camping and boating vacations with his large family and delighted in playing Santa Claus for loved ones, organizations, and his local daycare center. A man of many memberships, Norm was involved with the American Petroleum Institute, Petroleum Pioneers, Shell Retirement Club, and Ventura Retired Businessmen’s Club. His dedication to serving others extended to feeding the homeless with Catholic Charities for twenty-five years.

Norm was preceded in death by his parents, his brothers Willis George (Varene) and Arnold George (Jean), his sisters Claire Northon and Diane George, his ex-wife Doris, and his daughter-in-law Tina Allen. He is survived by his devoted wife Joan, his sons Gary George (Diane), Steve George, and Craig George (Debbie), his daughter Sandra Verdoorn, and his stepdaughters Joanne Bohnert (Gene) and Jeanette Yanez (Jim). He also leaves behind thirteen grandchildren and fourteen great-grandchildren.

Corrales Mexican Food Celebrates 50 Years!

Ribbon Cutting Caption: Corrales celebrates 50 years with a Chamber Ribbon Cutting on Aug 23rd. Photo by Ashley Pope

WOW! Half a century of authentic Mexican flavors and serving the Ventura community! On August 23rd and 24th, Corrales Mexican Food celebrated its 50th anniversary with a special Ribbon Cutting with the Ventura Chamber of Commerce and Mariachi, DJ, fun games, and good food!

Since 1974, Corrales has become not just a beloved to-go Mexican food spot, but an iconic establishment in the city of Ventura! The restaurant was founded by Leonor Corrales, on August 24, 1974. She brought her rich Mexican heritage from Zacatecas Mexico and her culinary expertise to Ventura. From its humble beginnings, Corrales set out to offer an authentic taste of Mexican dishes, blending traditional recipes with fresh, high-quality ingredients—all made from scratch!

Over the decades, Corrales Mexican Food has grown from a small, shared space in a local tortilleria on Ventura Avenue into a staple in the community. Known for delicious/authentic Mexican dishes and friendly service, the restaurant quickly became a favorite among both locals and visitors.

The menu at Corrales features a range of classic Tex-Mex dishes, including the local favorite corn burritos, enchiladas, 4-way burritos, and more. The restaurant is particularly renowned for its flavorful red salsa and expertly crafted dishes that honor traditional Mexican recipes. Every dish is prepared from scratch with care, using fresh ingredients daily and time-honored techniques.

Did you know that the burritos are made with ribeye steaks? There are also plans to include new seasonal items—so don’t hesitate to ask about the secret menu that’s in the works!

Today, Corrales Mexican Food stands as a testament to the enduring appeal of classic Mexican cuisine and the strength of family-run businesses. Thanks to the dedicated local cooks who have been with us for over 30 years, Corrales continues to be celebrated not only for its delicious food, loyal employees, and patrons but also for its vital role in the Ventura community. It remains a cherished landmark of local culture and culinary tradition.

Come visit Corrales Mexican Food at 795 E Thompson Blvd. at the corner of Ash and Thompson! For more information, visit www.corralesmexicanfood.com.

Namba Performing Arts Space’s 4th Annual Playwrights’ SPLASH Festival Weekend #2

September 20 – 22
Namba Performing Arts Space is thrilled to announce the second weekend of its 4th Annual Playwrights’ SPLASH Festival, a three-weekend celebration of innovative theater that will run from August 30th through October 20th. This year’s festival brings to Ventura the best of the Hollywood Fringe Festival, featuring eight carefully curated shows that highlight new voices in theater.

“Our first weekend was nothing short of spectacular!” states Executive Director, Tamara Varney. “Weekend Two’s women’s solo performances are full of drama, myth, and magic. They are sure to make a splash with you.”

Friday, September 20 at 8 PM, The Godmother
Kicking off the second weekend, we are proud to present “The Godmother,” which brings to life the story of Griselda Blanco, one of the most notorious drug lords of her era. Melina Farahani’s solo performance is guided by the intricate direction of the piece, offering a tale of power, sacrifice, and the indomitable bond between mother and son. This show is a profound exploration of family and the human condition.

Saturday, September 21, 8 PM, Mermaid
“Mermaid” intertwines a personal narrative with African mythology. Italome Ohikhuare’s solo show follows a Nigerian-American woman discovering a link between her health and an ancient mermaid goddess. This poignant and magical performance explores themes of identity, heritage, and healing.

Sunday, September 22, 7 PM, Magic For Animals
“Magic For Animals” closes weekend two on Sunday, September 22, at 7 PM, with Liz Toonkel’s witty and insightful one-woman show that blends magic, humor, and activism. Toonkel, who is the actor, writer, and producer, uses allusions to explore pressing issues like animal welfare and climate change, delivering a heartwarming and thought-provoking narrative.

Weekend #3 (October 18 – October 20) – Mental Health Awareness/Poetry Weekend with “The Funny Thing About A Panic Attack” by Ben Kassoy, “Resilient AF” by Kamakshi Hart, and “Mictlan” by Cristina Glezoro and Martin Arreola, with shows in Spanish and English.

The 2024 Playwrights’ Splash Festival brings new playwrights to Ventura and provides a platform for emerging artists to share their stories. Support for the festival is provided by the City of Ventura Cultural Funding Grant Program and Ventura County Behavioral Health.

Learn more on NambaArts.com. Namba Performing Arts Space, 47 S. Oak Street, Ventura. Tickets for each show are $20 online or $25 at the door. Or purchase a “SPLASH Pass” and see all three shows for $60! Includes a complimentary drink for each show and waives ticket fees. Join us at the SPLASH Festival and support the flourishing performing arts scene in Ventura!

About Namba Performing Arts Space
Namba Performing Arts Space, Inc provides an intimate theater for residents and visitors in the Ventura area to be immersed in a variety of performing arts and education programs.

Juana Maria – What We Now Know About the Lone Woman of San Nicholas Island

by Nella Nelson

The landscape of San Nicholas island is barren and windswept. You’re all alone. You must eat, live, and survive, making clothing for yourself. Enemies pass by or encircle the island at times. Imagine finding yourself in this very situation, but for the next eighteen years of your life. This had been the experience of an actual California native woman who came to be christened by the Spanish as Juana Maria (her native name is unknown). Also historically known as the Lone Woman of San Nicholas Island, Juana Maria’s life inspired the famous Scott O’Dell novel Island of the Blue Dolphins (1960).

Recalling her story from grade school in Ventura, I had until recently assumed Juana Maria to be of Chumash origin, but realized her to be the last surviving member of her tribe, the Nicoleño. As the last speaker of the Nicoleño language, the local Chumash and Tongva were unable to understand her. The Uto-Aztecan language Juana Maria spoke can be traced to north San Diego County, based on four words and two songs recorded from her (a UCLA study by Pam Munro supports this*).

San Nicholas Island remained mostly untouched from the early 1540’s claim of the Spanish by Conquistador, Juan Rodriguez Cabrillo. Then, in 1814, the brig Il’mena brought a party of Native Alaskan otter hunters working for the Russian-American Company. They massacred most of the islanders after accusing them of killing one of their hunters. The remaining islanders later got captured by the schooner Peor es Nada (“worse is nothing”), commanded by Charles Hubbard in 1835. Hubbard’s party gathered the islanders and brought them aboard while Juana Maria either hid or swam back from the boat. A strong storm approached and the Peor es Nada hurried away toward the mainland.

For the next eighteen years, Juana Maria existed on shell fish and the fat of seal. She sewed duck’s skins and feathers into clothing. One of her cormorant feather dresses was sent to the Vatican, but appears to have been lost, as noted in Island of the Blue Dolphins.

More of Juana Maria’s artifacts, including a water basket and bone needles, became part of the California Academy of Sciences, but were destroyed in the 1906 San Francisco earthquake and fire. In 1936, archaeologists discovered Juana Maria’s whalebone hut on the northernmost and highest point of San Nicholas Island. Over the next few decades, over 200 artifacts were found, including bird-bone pendants, abalone shell dishes, fish hooks, stone ornaments, Native Alaskan harpoons, and glass projectile points.

Juana Maria’s time to leave the island arrived in 1853 after Santa Barbara fur trappers searched for her in payment from Father Jose Gonzalez Rubio of the Santa Barbara Mission. After several attempts, Carl Dittman of George Nidever’s expedition, noticed footprints on the beach and pieces of seal blubber left out to dry. The lone woman was discovered, dressed in greenish cormorant feathers, in her hut. The Nidever party stayed on the island for a month, hunting and learning her way of life. By signs, she indicated that her baby had been killed by wild dogs which had infested the island. Juana Maria was then taken to the Santa Barbara Mission.

She was reportedly fascinated by her arrival on mainland California, marveling at the horses and European food and clothing. She stayed with Nidever who described her as nearly 50 years old, strong, active, and continually smiling. She drew in curious Santa Barbara residents for whom she sang and danced. Just seven weeks later, Juana Maria died of dysentery. She was buried in an unmarked grave on the Nidever family plot at the Santa Barbara Mission Cemetery, though a plaque now stands with her name. Part of Southern California’s legacy, Juana Maria’s life will always be an intriguing story of simplicity and self-sufficiency interacting within our coastal landscape.

Sources:

https://web.archive.org/web/20150306133039/http://score.rims.k12.ca.us/score_lessons/dolphin/teacher/karanapic.shtml

Munro, P. (1994). Halvorson, WL; Maender, GJ (eds). Fourth Multidisciplinary Channel Islands Symposium. Santa Barbara Natural History Museum 659-668.

O’Dell, Scott. Island of the Blue Dolphins 1960

PBS www.pbssocal.org

View videos and photos of the artifacts at:

https://www.nps.gov/chis/learn/photosmultimedia/california-islands-symposium.htm

Photos:

Illustration of Nicoleño woman, Juana Maria, from James M. Gibbons’s “The Wild Woman of San Nicolas Island”, published in Californian Illustrated Magazine 4, no. 5 (October 1893) James M. Gibbons (presumably) – http://calliope.cse.sc.edu/lonewoman/home/108

The Top Hat Murder: A Landmark Case in California’s Legal History

by Richard Senate

On the morning of February 24, 1988, a woman entered the small Top Hat food stand at 299 East Main Street in Ventura, intent on robbing the place to fund her drug habit. Inside, she encountered 63-year-old George White, a formerly homeless man who had recently found work preparing the grill for the day’s business. She brandished a knife and demanded money. But there was none—the cash box hadn’t yet arrived for the day. A violent struggle ensued in the
cramped space, and she fatally stabbed George White. In his final moments, he managed to grab hold of her long hair, pulling out several strands, which were later found clutched in his lifeless hand.

Two witnesses saw the woman fleeing from the hamburger stand. A tip later revealed that the woman had bragged about the crime, admitting to killing the elderly man. The police arrested
35-year-old Lynda Axell, who worked at a local thrift shop. She had observed the business at the Top Hat stand and decided to rob it, unaware that the cash profits were removed nightly, leaving only the change drawer behind until opening hours.

Initially, Axell recanted her confession, and friends and family retracted their statements. It seemed as though she might escape justice, as there were no direct witnesses to the murder.
However, the district attorney had crucial evidence: the hair samples pulled from the killer’s scalp. At that time, DNA testing, referred to as “genetic fingerprinting,” was in its infancy, with
only a few cases in Europe utilizing it for convictions. This case marked the first time it was used in California. The DNA analysis revealed a one-in-a-billion match to the hair follicles, leading to Axell’s conviction. She was sentenced to life in prison with the possibility of parole after seventeen years.

The small Top Hat hamburger stand became the site of a landmark case in California law, setting a precedent for the use of DNA evidence in criminal convictions.

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.

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.