Category Archives: This ‘n’ That

Design in the Making: Ventura County Architecture

Cayetano School Wilson, Stroh, Wilson, AIA.

The Museum of Ventura County and the American Institute of Architects Ventura County (AIAVC) present Design in the Making, a community Architectural Exhibit exploring the dynamic role of architects and designers in affecting positive change in our community through the creative design process. Admission is Free for museum and AIA members, $5 for non-members. For more information, visit venturamuseum.org or call 805-653-0323.

Design in the Making runs through May 19, 2019 and will feature the Museum of Ventura County’s architectural archives opened to the public for the very first time, and local built and un-built projects highlighting the evolving conversation inherent within the design process with a window into the future.

“Ventura County’s architectural diversity creates a landscape of historic relevance that defines the vernacular of our culture,” said Anna Bermudez, curator for the Museum. “The exhibit will present a cross-section of styles that reflect the influences of immigration and its cultural impact on housing and community buildings throughout the decades and throughout the county.

Accompanying the exhibition, programs throughout the duration of the exhibit include live interactive design charrettes where Designers-In-Residence and Community will come together to create solutions to local place making issues. The AIAVC will host a Scholarship Fundraiser to benefit students planning on pursuing careers in architecture, and to announce the 2019 Scholarship Recipients, Friday, May 3, 2019 from 6-9 p.m. followed by a free activity, “Kid Draw Architecture,” on Sunday, May 5, 2019 from 2-4pm. For more information visit AIAVC or call 805-749-6809.

This exhibit is made possible through the generous sponsorship of Ashley & Vance Engineering, Coast Reprographics, Mary Follenweider AIA, Neel Lighting, and Staples Construction. Additional support provided by the City of Ventura, Ventura County, and private funders.

Established in 1965, the AIAVC is a member-driven organization providing advocacy, leadership, and resources for architects.  Its mission is to promote personal and corporate growth, strength and sustainability of the membership as architects and citizens of Ventura County. This is done by Engaging, Encouraging and Educating the membership and the community at large. For more information visit AIAVC or call 805-749-6809.

For more information, visit venturamuseum.org.

Our Ventura TV surpassed 900 video/tv productions

Veronica Slavin, Dan Feliz, George Alger, Sandra Siepak and Michelle Hoover are all part of the Our Ventura TV team. In-studio interview productions are done in association with CAPS Media Center

Our Ventura TV is an award-winning, weekly talk-show television series broadcast on Ventura cable channel 6 TV and also published on OurVentura.com as well as on social media networks. For over ten years the programs have been, and still are, primarily about nonprofits, local leaders, artists and organizations who contribute in some way to the Ventura County community.  Anyone who contributes to the theme of “People doing good things in Ventura County” and the surrounding area is welcome to be interviewed as a guest.

The show’s executive producer, George Alger, stated, “We started producing in-studio cable TV segments in 2008. In 2010 we also posted them online. Since then, we’ve posted over 900 segments that were created in and out of the studio and each week a new show is broadcast on Ventura cable channel 6 and posted online.”

In-studio interview productions are done in association with CAPS Media Center in Ventura, which broadcasts the programming for channels 6 and 15 cable television.

The Our Ventura TV production team includes on-air hosts and a behind-the-camera crew who bring the interviews and other segments onto local TV as well as online. Our Ventura TV Host, Sandra Siepak stated that the mission of the series is to “Connect our viewers with those making a difference for the better here in Ventura County.”

Show Director, Michelle Hoover, added that, “There are no fees for guests who speak about nonprofit or noncommercial messages.”  The weekly cable TV series is sponsored by Nonprofit Fire, Skyworks Marketing and GWC Productions. The Our Ventura TV team, including interview hosts and behind-the-camera technical crew contribute to the show’s success.

Additionally, the production team also creates video and TV segments for commercial messages and businesses in the community.  Paid video and TV production services include:

* TV Commercials * Business Interviews* Facility Tour Videos* Product Videos
* “How To” Videos* Public Service Announcements* Infomercials* Documentaries

Our Ventura TV shows are broadcast every week on Ventura cable channel 6. The majority of shows feature guests who are interviewed about their expertise and/or community activities. Additionally, there are music, theatrical and other entertainment productions.

To become a guest on Our Ventura TV, just visit OurVentura.com and click “Contact.”
Visit OurVentura.com for more information or email George Alger at [email protected]

Photo: left to right: Veronica Slavin, Dan Feliz, George Alger, Sandra Siepak and Michelle Hoover are all part of the Our Ventura TV team.

Ribbon cutting held for Riverside Apartments

Cutting the ribbon is City of Ventura Mayor Matt LaVere surrounded by people that made it happen.

A ribbon cutting ceremony was held Wednesday, February 20 , for Riverside Street Apartments, a new 23-unit affordable housing community located at 791 Riverside Drive, Ventura. The project was developed by W & J Investments, LLC and built by Judson Builders, Inc. of Ventura.

The community is composed of two- and three- bedroom apartments with an onsite community center featuring computer stations and a large screen TV. Outdoor amenities include a playground and mini-soccer field. Constructed sustainability, the project is built with zero net energy consumption due to its solar water heating and solar electrical generation as well as a ground water recharge system. Additionally, the community connects to the Ventura River Bike Trail which is located right behind the property.

Project collaborators represented at the ceremony were W & J Investments, City of Ventura, City of Ventura Planning Department, J. E. Armstrong Architects, Housing Authority of San Buenaventura, Integrity Housing, Chase Bank, Judson Builders, FPI Management and Ventura Chamber of Commerce.

“One of the City of Ventura’s most critical priorities is to create affordable housing options for its residents,” said Mayor Matt LaVere. “This beautiful project, a collaboration of multiple partners, brings us closer to achieving that goal.”

Rotary Club of Ventura South to host Mardi Gras Fundraiser

The Rotary Club of Ventura South will host its 4th annual Mardi Gras fundraiser in support of Turning Point Foundation on Sunday, March 3. The gala event begins at 3:00 p.m. at the Tower Club, 300 E. Esplanade Drive in Oxnard, and will feature traditional New Orleans jazz and food, silent and live auctions of exciting items, and a view from the foothills to the Channel Islands that only the Tower Club can provide.

For over 30 years, Turning Point Foundation, a local Ventura County non-profit (Tax ID #0213467), has operated community-based mental health programs. Turning Point’s programs address the full range of personal needs, including a homeless shelter to meet necessary physical and safety requirements, supported housing to provide decent, affordable housing for those permanently disabled by mental health issues, and rehabilitation and socialization centers to provide meaningful, productive activities, companionship and a sense of purpose.

Because of the myths and stigmas attached to mental illness, many people struggle with its effects alone and unaware that their symptoms can be controlled by medication and the functional problems they experience can be addressed through rehabilitation and support services. Turning Point works with clients to reverse the devastating effects of their illnesses, such as job loss, homelessness, isolation, addiction, incarceration, and even thoughts of suicide.

Tickets for the event are $50, and there is also a variety of sponsorships available for businesses and individuals. Contact Suki Sir at Turning Point Foundation ([email protected] / 805-947-5400). Proceeds from the event will go directly to Turning Point Foundation and other charitable causes supported by Ventura Rotary South. As they say in New Orleans, “Laissez Les bon Temps Roulez” (Let the Good Times Roll)!

The Rotary Club of Ventura South is one of more than 35,000 Rotary clubs with 1.2 million members around the world. Rotary members believe that we have a shared responsibility to take action on our world’s most persistent issues. Our clubs work together to promote peace; fight disease; provide clean water, sanitation, and hygiene; save mothers and children; support education; and grow local economies. Rotary Ventura South meets at noon every Monday at the Tower Club in Oxnard (300 E. Esplanade Drive, 22nd Floor). Visitors are always welcome. For more information, visit venturasouthrotary.org.

Oxnard Salsa Festival accepting applications for Community Stage

Dates for the 26th Annual Oxnard Salsa Festival are July 27 and 28, 2019. Attracting visitors from throughout southern California, the festival is a celebration of everything salsa – the food, music and dance. It takes place at Plaza Park, Fifth and “B” streets in historic downtown Oxnard from 11:00 a.m. to 7:00 p.m. both days.

Festival organizers are currently accepting applications from local dance and vocal performers who would like to showcase their talent on the festival’s Community Stage. Fourteen performance time slots are available and will be filled on a first come, first served basis. Acts will be chosen at the discretion of the festival committee. A Community Stage application is online at www.OxnardSalsaFestival.com/Community-Stage.

Presented by the Oxnard Downtowners, the annual event attracts an estimated 35,000 attendees who love spicy foods and sizzling entertainment. Highlights include live salsa bands, salsa dance lessons, a salsa recipe challenge and a “Dancing With Our Community Stars” competition on Sunday. The two days also feature a vendor marketplace, international foods and a kids’ zone.

Event admission and parking are free. Main stage open seating is $5 per person. In the last 10 years, the festival has raised a half a million dollars for the local community by supporting and partnering with non-profits. For festival information, call 805‐535‐4060 or visit www.OxnardSalsaFestival.com and on Facebook.

Ventura Libraries March Events

Avenue Library

Children & Family Events

Bilingual Early Literacy Class 3/4, 11, 18, & 25 Mondays @ 5:30-6:30pm
Join us for storytelling, nursery rhymes, and more!
Lego Play
3/7, 14, 21, & 28 Thursdays @ 3 –5pm
Bring your imagination and experiment with creative designs.

Adult Classes & Events

Laubach Literacy English Classes

3/4, 11, 18, & 25 Mondays @ 10:30-11:30am

3/5, 12, 19, & 26 Tuesdays @ 9-10am & @ 10-11am

3/6, 13, 20, & 27 Wednesdays @ 11:30am -12:30pm

3/7, 14, 21, & 28 Thursdays @ 10–11am

Introductory English classes offered through Laubach Literacy. Make an appointment today, call (805) 385-9584.

Wherever You Are Adult Computer Instruction – by AppointmentCall the Avenue Library to make an appointment for 30 minutes of 1 on 1 computer tutorial.

E.P. Foster Library

Local Author Talk- Florencia Ramirez

3/9 Saturday @ 1-2:30pm 

Join author Florencia Ramirez in her discussion about her book “Eat Less Water.” Ms. Ramirez’ book “takes the reader on a journey to meet American’s food producers growing food with less water. The author exposes the seldom-seen connection between dwindling water resources and the choices we make when shopping for groceries for our families and offers us the solution that begins in the kitchen.”

A Matter of Balance Class

3/5, 12, 19, & 26 Tuesdays @ 1-3pm

The Ventura County Area Agency on Aging presents this practical, award-winning fall prevention class. For more information and to register please contact: Dina Ontiveras 805-477-7343.

Venture (a) Out In The County…a Sierra Club Educational Series

3/12 Tuesday @ 5:30-7pm
Join us as we learn about hiking, camping and natural resources in and around Ventura County.

Children’s Events

Early Literacy Class

3/5, 12, 19, & 26 Tuesdays &

3/6, 13, 20, & 27 Wednesdays @ 10:30am

Join us for stories, poems, music, movement, a simple craft, and fun!

Teen Happenings

Virtual Reality

3/5, 12, 19, & 26 Tuesdays @ 3:30-5:30pm

Explore the virtual world with different VR platform including Oculus Rift and HTC Vive. This event is for ages 13-17.

Hill Road Library

Family & Children’s Ongoing Events

Early Literacy Class
3/6, 13, 20, & 27 Wednesdays @ 10:30am
Join us for stories, poems, music, movement, a simple craft, and fun! Aimed at ages 0-5.

Children’s Special Events
Discover Science
3/12 Tuesday @ 4pm

Explore science concepts through hands-on experiments with Rachel Chang. Ages 8+

Adult Events
Medicare 101
3/14 Thursday @ 2:30pm
Join us for this workshop about Medicare basics. Learn how to sign up and file claims. Ask the expert all your questions! For adults.

Book Club: All the Light We Cannot See by Anthony Doerr
3/26 Tuesday @ 6pm
Join us for this lively book discussion. Ask for a reserved copy from a staff member at Hill Road Library.

Saticoy Library

Children & Family Events

Early Literacy Class

3/5, 12, 19, & 26 Tuesdays @ 10am
Join us every week for stories, poems, music, movement, a simple craft & fun!

Paws for Reading

3/23 Saturday @ 12pm

Read aloud to registered therapy dogs. For additional information or to schedule an appointment, call 805) 671-5148.

Adult Classes & Events

English Classes

3/4, 11, 18, & 25 Mondays &

3/6, 13, 20, & 27 Wednesdays @ 3- 5pm
One on one instruction in English hosted by Laubach Literacy of Ventura County

AIDS Walk

Diversity Collective Ventura County will host the 5th Annual AIDS Walk Ventura on March 2, from 9:00am-1:00pm in Park Plaza, in Downtown Ventura.  Ongina, HIV activist and contestant in Ru Paul’s Drag Race, will host the event for over 2,000 participants.

There is no entry fee, and registration for AIDS Walk 2019 is now open.  We will kick off the 5k walk at 10:00 am.  Participants are welcome to take advantage of our free health fair, providing information and service from over 20 health-related agencies.

Diversity Collective is proud to host this event in partnership with Ventura County Public Health, and with the help of numerous volunteers and sponsors. Together, we can reduce and eventually stop the spread of HIV/AIDS in Ventura County.

Diversity Collective Ventura County is a community based nonprofit 501c3 organization promoting advocacy, education, and mental and physical health for the LGBTQ community in Ventura County, California via our community resource center, programs and community events. We are the parent organization of Ventura County Pride, AIDS Walk Ventura and The Diversity Gala.

Participants can register at www.diversitycollectivevc.org/aids-walk-ventura.

Sponsors are urged to contact Diversity Collective Ventura County at 805.644.5428 or email [email protected].

Ventura Audubon Society March Events

March 3, 8:00 am 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. Work from 9am – noon. Long pants and boots or closed shoes are required. Bring water, gloves & sun protection.

March 10 2019, 8:30 am Port Hueneme Exploration/Bubbling Springs, Walter B. Miranda Park, and J Street Canal to the Port Hueneme Beach

Leader: Kay Regester 805-258-1025

Bubbling Springs is a fantastic place to view many gulls and ducks up close such as Mallards and Widgeons, warblers and hummers. Then we will check out J St Canal and walk the Hueneme Beach to the East, towards the estuary, and then to the West toward the pier where we will see a variety of gulls, grebes and shorebirds.

March 12, 7:30 p.m. VAS Monthly Program: Ventura Seabird Restoration on the California Islands… with Annie Little (USFWS) at the Poinsettia Pavillion – 3451 Foothill Road, Ventura (Free to the Public)

The presentation will highlight restoration efforts for seabirds on the Channel Islands and Baja California Pacific Islands, including invasive species removal, habitat restoration, and social attraction.

March 16, 8:00 am Carpinteria Salt Marsh, Leader: Tevin Schmitt 661-904-1563

The Salt Marsh Reserve is an excellent birding location due to the estuary, wetlands, and upland habitats. Special birds of concern can be found here, including Belding’s Savannah Sparrow, and White-tailed Kite. Several species of heron are often seen at once.

March 17, 8:30-10:30 am Camino Real, Leader: Reann Koener 805-701-1919

Camino Real is a grassy park surrounded by pines and eucalyptus and is an excellent place to see birds. Target birds will include Red Shouldered Hawk, Pacific-slope Flycatcher, Yellow Warbler and Townsend’s Warbler.

March 19, 8:30 am Lake Casitas. Leader: Adele Fergusson 805-415-4304

Join us for a walk by the lake. We will be looking for hummingbirds, western bluebirds, blackbirds, grosbeaks, gnatcatchers as well as ducks, geese and waterfowl.

March 23, 8:30 am Lake Los Carneros and Santa Barbara Hot Spots, Leader: Adele Fergusson 805-415-4304

We will walk around this lovely lake, we should see a variety of shorebirds and possibly some rails, blackbirds, munia, white tailed kites, etc. Afterwards we will stop at a park in downtown Santa Barbara to see if there are any migrating vagrants. Bring your lunch and if we have time we will stop at the creek in Carpinteria on the way back to Ventura.

March 31, 8:30 AM Canada Larga; Leader: Linda Easter 818-519-2833

Meet near the beginning of the road off Hwy 33. We will carpool from that location as we walk and drive this long county road. Target species will include Barn Owl, Western Bluebirds, Lark Sparrow, Roadrunner, Phainopepla and various species of swallows.

Gold Coast Concert Chorus and Ventura College Chorus premiers words

The Gold Coast Concert Chorus (GCCC) combined with Ventura College Chorus, under the direction of Elizabeth Helms, will present their second concert of the 2018/2019 season on Saturday, March 16, 2019 at St. Columba’s Episcopal Church in Camarillo. The concert will feature three remarkable choral works by renowned American composers. Frostiana: Seven Country Songs, a seven-movement suite of songs composed by Randall Thompson to selected poems of Robert Frost will be followed by Requiem written by Mack Wilberg for the legendary Mormon Tabernacle Choir in 2007. However, the centerpiece of the concert is Words, a short composition focused on bullying at school and on-line culture authored by Joan Szymko, an acclaimed composer and dynamic choral conductor based in the Pacific Northwest. GCCC has jointly commissioned this piece as a part of choruses to benefit the programs and services of Chorus America.

Szymko explains the purpose and the structure of her composition, ”Words attempts to both reveal and to reach three distinct groups: the bullied, the bullies and bystanders who enable bullying by doing nothing.”

GCCC is a non- audition community chorus that brings together a diverse group of 100-plus singers who desire to expand their musical talents and share their love of the choral music with the community of Ventura County.

For more information, go to GoldCoastChorus.org or call 805-616-7269