Category Archives: This ‘n’ That

Focus on the Masters mourns Dorothy Hunter

Dorothy Hunter
October 20, 1929 – January 30, 2018

Focus on the Masters mourns the death of extensively documented painter Dorothy Hunter. Often referred to as an abstract artist, Dorothy felt her work should more accurately be called abstract impressionism because the ideas and inspiration came from what she had seen and experienced.

Dorothy had intended to pursue a career in psychology, but marriage and a family altered that course. While rearing four children, she developed a studio practice of painting at night when all was quiet.

Dorothy exhibited in galleries on the East Coast, from Miami to Montreal. Her work was shown in the Corcoran Gallery of Art, the Smithsonian Museum, the Baltimore Museum of Art and the Walters Museum. She was widely collected, and her work was included in the Federal Art in Embassies program.

She came to California in 1984 and joined Studio ’83, Buenaventura Art

Association, Artist’s Union, and Studio Channel Islands. She exhibited at the Carnegie Art Museum and the Museum of Ventura County.

In her later years, she continued to work on small canvasses, with a color palette that changed somewhat after cataract surgery.

Dorothy is survived by her sister, Nancy Roll, and four children; Sandy Hunter, Christie Otranto, Stuart Hunter, Kim Hunter Papaski and their families.

Vol. 11, No. 10 – Feb 14 – Feb 27, 2018 – Restaurant Review

The Sushi House
by Jennifer Tipton

Living here in our little seaside town we have many sushi restaurants accessible to us, but at this location The Sushi House brings more to the table than just great food.

Located at 1127 S. Seaward Avenue, this modest little eatery is just a short walk to the beach. Along with the customary sushi bar and tables inside, there are two outdoor patios. The back patio is only set up for seating when a private party is scheduled and can accommodate 28 guests.

The large menu includes a full page of appetizers such as an Avocado Bomb, Baked Mussels or “Ganja” which consists of a savory mix of minced garlic, jalapeno and spicy tuna wrapped in a Japanese mint leaf, then dipped in tempura and served with a garlic jalapeno sauce – (bring breath mints).

Prices range from $5 – $13.

The next page is devoted to salads and extras. One can choose from the traditional house salad with a house made dressing or for the more adventuresome there’s the Anacapa Tako and Eel Salad which contains marinated octopus. Prices range $6 – $15.

Extras include Wasabi root imported from Japan for $3.

Next is an entire page for special rolls with resident names like “Pierpont”, “Surfer’s Point” and “Rincon”. Prices $13 – $17.

Then come more specialties! A full page of them at $8 – $16.

The page for entrees includes a dish called “Japanese Dynamite” made with lobster and scallops, several noodle dishes and combination bowls for $8 – $16.

Lastly the Bento Sushi and Sashimi page. The Bento Box Combo is served with soup, salad, rice, 4 pieces California roll – plus two more choices! This one is nice because you can do the lunch or dinner portion. Other selections are the Premium Sushi Dinner at $21 and the Tsunami Sashimi at $24.

“We” had the Bento Sushi Box lunch at $11 each.

The food was excellent and the service outstanding – extra napkins showed up and drinks were freshened up without asking. The Sushi House is dog friendly and there are heaters in the patio for when it’s chilly. Parking at the end of Seaward can be a challenge but we both had no problem.

Good food, nice ambiance and a walk on the beach – doesn’t get much better than that.

Open for lunch and dinner Sun.-Tue. 12-3pm and 5-9pm and Wed.-Sat. 12-3pm and 5-10pm .

The 101st year of Girl Scouts selling cookies begins

Girl Scouts of California’s Central Coast (GSCCC) enters the next century of Girl Scouts selling cookies with the Cookie Program through March 11. GSCCC is kicking off this season with the return of Girl Scout S’mores™, the most popular flavor to launch in the 101 years of Girl Scouts selling cookies.

During Girl Scout Cookie season, each G.I.R.L. (Go-getter, Innovator, Risk-taker, Leader)™ sets out to sell cookies while also building entrepreneurial and business skills. The Girl Scout Cookie Program® not only teaches girls these skills, but also powers amazing experiences for them. The cookie program teaches girls five fundamental skills that are essential to leadership: goal setting, decision making, money management, people skills, and business ethics. Almost 1 million Girl Scouts nationwide participate in the cookie program each year, generating nearly $800 million in sales during the average season.

“As girls participate in the iconic Girl Scout Cookie Program, they are part of the largest girl-led entrepreneurial program in the world while learning to take the lead and make an impact in their communities,” said Girl Scouts of California’s Central Coast CEO Jody Skenderian.

All of the net revenue raised through the Girl Scout Cookie Program—100 percent of it—stays with the local council and troops. This year, girls will sell cookies door-to-door and at booth sales, as well as through Smart Cookie, an innovative and educational web-based app that helps girls run and manage their Girl Scout Cookie businesses online.

To find cookie varieties available along California’s Central Coast, visit www.girlscoutcookies.org, the official Girl Scout Cookie Finder app, free on iOS and Android devices.

To join or volunteer, visit www.girlscouts.org/join and www.girlscouts.org/volunteer.

The 2018 Music Festival is on its way

Nuvi gave a short violin recital prior to speaking about this year’s VMF.

On Tuesday, January 23 Nuvi Mehta, the VMF Janet & Mark L. Goldenson Artistic Director, introduced the large audience gathered at the Museum of Ventura County to the artists appearing at the 2018 Ventura Music Festival. He was assisted by Executive Director Susan Scott. Refreshments and entertainment were provided at the free event.

THE VMF reminds all that “The fires have left members of the Festival staff along with numerous friends and neighbors in need of basic resources like food, clothing and shelter. Many people and organizations are rallying to meet those needs and, in time, they will be met.”

“We are reminded that music is also an important healing tool after a disaster because of its ability to help people process emotions and because in many ways music is a community activity. Thus we look forward to presenting a special free “Concert for Ventura” to continue the healing through music, to thank first responders, to solace those who have lost so much and to celebrate the best in our community as we come together to listen and share the experience.”

Each year, the Ventura Music Festival fills venues across the city with top-tier music for two weekends of multi-genre music, dance performances and world-class culture. This summer, the festival is returning with a lineup that promises to be bigger and better than ever. In the hands of renowned conductor Nuvi Mehta, the 2018 musical lineup consists of:

American Gypsy Jazz featuring star guitarist John Jorgenson at the historic Olivas Adobe

Latin Grammy-winner and “fire breathing guitar hero” vocalist and composer Diego Garcia (“El Twanguero”) alongside his trio at the Ventura College Performing Arts Center

“Rollicking, multi-lingual, around-the-world musical adventure” and festival headliner Pink Martini at the Oxnard PACC

Dynamic classic music ensemble Trio Céleste at the Ventura College Performing Arts Center

Celebrated and imaginative Akropolis Reed Quintet at the Ventura College Performing Arts Center

Stunning singer-songwriter Perla Batalla will present her “Frida Kahlo song cycle”, inspired by the works of Kahlo and Diego Rivera at the Ventura College Performing Arts Center

Pas de deux series depicting the ups, downs and sideways of relationships – Malashock Dance at the Ventura College Performing Arts Center

Additionally, the festival will host a “Tea & Trumpets” at the Ventura Pierpont Inn

As well as a free public concert with electrifying mariachi-meets-American classics ensemble Jarabe Mexicano at Mission Park.

On Sunday, February 25th, 3:00 to 4:30 pm a feel good free Concert For Ventura will be presented.

The line-up includes jazz fusion all-stars Tom Scott & the LA Express, sublime singer-songwriter Perla Batalla, VMF’s Nuvi Mehta, and additional guest artists in process. Downtown venue to be confirmed.

Since 1994, the mission of the Ventura Music Festival has been to bring world-class music to the community, build audience-Festival and audience-artist relationships, and enhance the joy of music through diverse education offerings for all ages. For more information, please visit www.venturamusicfestival.org or call 648-3146. Tickets go on sale April 16.

Ventura Women’s March one year anniversary

Marchers came from all over the county. Article and photos by Richard Lieberman

Over 1,500 people gathered in downtown Ventura’s Plaza Park to participate in Ventura County Rising, the second annual Women’s March. A chilly Saturday morning in Ventura, marchers were bundled up in winter coats, scarves and hats. Marchers came from all over the county including seniors to toddlers. The Marchers gathered at Plaza Park before the event. Pink Hats worn by marchers symbolizing solidarity and empathy with marchers from around the country were plentiful and dotted the crowd. Entertainment provided by Johnny and the Lovehandles rocked the crowd with old time rock and roll and reggae songs. Over 30 local organizations had tables set up providing information about their various causes. Environmental groups from the Sierra Club, the American Civil Liberties Union and many others displayed information on how to get involved with the various groups.

Opening remarks were made by Kathleen Shore one of the organizers of the Ventura March. Shore opened the march giving a mission statement to the gathered participants “Last year, the naysayers said, “What good is a march? Shore said. “Well this year we are showing you what good is a march, it bring us together, it energizes us and it reminds us of all the good that we have done this year.”

After Shore’s opening remarks the Reverend Madfdie Sifantus of the Unitarian Universalist Church of Santa Paula gave a benediction to the gathered marchers. The vice mayor of Ventura Matt LaVere spoke about the resilience of the marchers comparing and connecting them to the recent Thomas Fire that ravaged the county.

“Being here this morning and seeing this energy and the enthusiasm really makes me realize that no natural disaster is going to take away our spirit to stand up and fight and rally for those rights that mean so much to us,” LaVere said.

Assemblywoman Monique Limon, Democrat Santa Barbara getting to Ventura via train due to the closure of the 101 addressed the crowd. Limon stated, “Thank goodness for public transportation”. “As a community and as a state, we have stood up for the values protecting women, immigrants, our LGBT community, the environment and many more issues,” Li mon added. “California continues to push back on your behalf. We don’t do this alone, we do this together,” she added.

Atmospheric Scientist and author Peter Kalmus who authored the book “Being the Change: Live Well and Spark a Climate Revolution,” addressed the gathering about the impact of climate change on the local level and what can be done to stop it.

After the opening remarks the march began in earnest, with marchers traversing about a mile of downtown Ventura marching Westbound on Thompson Boulevard, then North on Oak, West on Santa Clara Street, then again North to Main Street. Passing cars honked horns favoring the march, and sometimes honked in protest of the march. Rampant chants echoed all along the march route. “No hate, no fear, everyone is welcome here.” Marchers shouted along the march route.

As one of the organizers of the march Kathleen Shore added, “Change happens at the local level,” “to me, the power of this event is signing up for those organizations that have been on the ground, have been doing this hard work day to day, showing up to city council meetings, showing up to their own meetings.” “It’s a lot of work to create social change, and these organizations here are the ones who have been doing it,” she added.

A Seaside Delight – Tall Ships sail into Ventura Harbor

Tours of the Tall Ships are a chance to meet the ship’s crew.

Tall Ships, Hawaiian Chieftain and Lady Washington, commence their annual voyage along the California coast and sail into Ventura Harbor on Tuesday, February 13, 2018 at noon until Monday, March 5, 2018. The historical vessels will dock in front of the Ventura Harbor Village Promenade.

Catch the mystical sight of the Tall Ships Grand Arrival in full parade-style entrance, as the crew “manning the yards” at noon on Tuesday, February 13, 2018. A photographer’s delight, the ships depart for Battle Sails throughout February and March, 2018 out of the Ventura Harbor.

The visiting Tall Ships are rich in history and seaside lure. Hawaiian Chieftain was built in Hawaii in 1988 and originally designed for cargo trade among the Hawaiian Islands. Launched in 1989, Lady Washington is a full-scale reproduction of the original Lady Washington, which was built in 1750s and was one of the first U.S. flagged ships to explore the west coast of North America.

Open to the public, the Dockside Tours (Vessel Tours) offer a living history experience. The tours focus on an authentic 18thCentury sailor’s view of traveling by Tall Ship, as well as a chance to meet the ship’s crew and learn what it took to adventure to new lands.

Looking for more adventure? Three-Hour Battle Sails or Two-Hour Adventure Sails, complete with firing cannons and hoisting of the main sails are just the ticket! Battle Sails are available every weekend day from 2 p.m. -5 p.m. and feature a recreation of a naval skirmish with close quarter maneuvers.

For Battle and Adventure Sail ticket reservations call 800-200-5239 or visit www.historicalseaport.org. Tickets are on sale now.

In addition, live entertainment and roaming pirates can be enjoyed throughout Ventura Harbor Village on select days, and visitors can also send a Tall Ships postcard for free, join in a Tall Ship Scavenger Hunt.

Added to the Ventura Harbor visit, a special Valentine’s Day Tall Ship Sail on Wednesday, February 14 from 4 to 6 p.m. This special sail is reserved for adults only, and will highlight festive sea shanties and desserts for ticketed guests. Tickets are $55 per person, but couples can save $10 by purchasing tickets in pairs for a flat $100! Tickets are available by calling 800-200-5239 or visit www.venturaharborvillage.com for more details.

The Hawaiian Chieftain and Lady Washington travel down the West Coast stopping in ports and harbors for historical and educational visits. These ships host over 8,000 school children a year. Educators should contact the Historical Seaport education office, 1-800-200-5239 to arrange dockside, or on-the-water programming while here in Ventura Harbor February 13- March 5, 2018.

Tall Ship schedule can change due to weather and unforeseen circumstances, please check VenturaHarborVillage.com for the most up to date information.

Share your Tall Ships photos @VenturaHarbor on Instagram! For more Tall Ship information visit www.venturaharborvillage.com or Facebook Ventura Harbor. Admission and parking free daily at Ventura Harbor Village. For a complete schedule: www.historicalseaport.org or call 800-200-5239.

Male student of the year

Stephanie Caldwell, Chamber President & CEO, Kiernan Rickard, Nan Drake, Citizen of the Year and David Creswell, VUSD Superintendent celebrating Kiernan’s award. Photo by Richard Lieberman.

by Amber Hansen

The 20th Annual Poinsettia Awards Luncheon, presented by the Ventura Chamber of Commerce, was held on January 19th of this year at the Ventura Beach Marriott. Kiernan Rickard was this year’s recipient of the Ventura Unified School District’s Male Student of the Year award. Kiernan is a senior at Ventura High School with a history of academic dedication and an impressive repertoire of achievements. His packed schedule includes running for Ventura High’s cross-country team and acting as a senior officer in the music department.

Having discovered an aptitude for computer programming at a young age, Kiernan is a leader on the Ventura High robotics team- an accomplishment that earned his nomination for the first Robotics Dean’s List. He plans on pursuing a career in computer programming and hopes to enroll in Carnegie Mellon’s School of Computer Science.

When asked how he felt about receiving the award, Kiernan said he was surprised because he’s surrounded by intelligent peers. He expressed immense gratitude and acknowledged that he could not have done it without the support he’s had from family and teachers.

(Some) Fundraisers Raising Eyebrows

Be on the lookout for fraud.
by Jennifer Tipton

There has been an overwhelming response to raise funds for the Thomas Fire Victims. Organizations and individuals alike have come forward to help Ventura recover and although most have good intent, they are not the same. Much about these fundraisers is unclear … where do the proceeds go? and how are they distributed?

Here’s what you need to know, for a fundraiser to offer a tax deduction for your tickets or that big fat check you wrote, they must be a legitimate nonprofit organization with a 501c3 letter from the IRS.

“You’re not legally allowed to say you’re a nonprofit unless you have the paperwork in hand and this takes at least a year”, Kat Merrick tells me. Kat of course, has her very own “Totally Local VC”, a nonprofit organization established before the Thomas Fires and although she lost her beloved Wicked Wire Ranch to the heartless flames, her heart remains focused on helping others with her now “Local Love Project”. This is dedicated to those victims of the Thomas Fires that need the most help, they can email their information to [email protected] to be added to the list and from there, clothing and items requested are donated specifically for them and gift cards are given based on the size of the family; Kat and her volunteers do the distribution themselves.

Once a nonprofit has been established, the individual or organization can choose where the money will go from their event. Kat did a “Cheers for Charity “event on January 19th and she chose FOOD Share, The Totally Local VC Local Love Project and Catholic Charities to disburse the funds.

Here’s what a lot of potential recipients don’t seem to know – these charities don’t know who you are, you need to sign up with each individual charity to be included!

There are also those that do not have a nonprofit in place but may partner with one to put together a fundraiser, and although they appear to have good intent, accountability for money brought in can be questionable.

Mark Hartley, along with Downtown Ventura, the California Beer Festival, Surf Rodeo (many pulled together for this one) have coordinated the Thomas Fire Benefit Festival to take place on February 3rd at Plaza Park. Mark tells me a group helping to plan this event spent a tremendous amount of time determining where the money would go and that 100% of the ticket revenue will be spread out to include, the Ventura Unified School District to replace student’s textbooks and musical instruments that were lost in the fires and to help several low-income families that are still seeking permanent shelter. Money will also go to our neighboring Ojai and to the World Central Kitchen.

Kevin Clerici, the executive director of Downtown Ventura Partners and a voluntary staff member for the Downtown Ventura Organization (DVO) a 501c3, tells me the DVO is the fiscal sponsor for this event and fire victims can REGISTER for a one-time monetary gift at thomasfirebenefit.com, registrations must occur online by February 17th. According to Kevin, Pacific Western Bank has generously agreed to waive the cost to produce cashier’s checks for those who register, this means even more money will go directly to the victims.

If there are concerns with where your contributions are going, and you want to ensure they stay local, be sure to check out who you’re giving to.

John Lunsford “Buck Fifty” 1954 – 2018

John was a talented blues/jazz musician and gospel singer.

John Lunsford “Buck Fifty”, an iconic local musician, passed away this month. John was the owner of Realizations Recording Studio and Rising Force Sound as well as a talented blues/jazz musician and gospel singer. Playing flute and harmonica while wailing the blues with local musicians was his passion. His studio was open to all and all were received with love, compassion, the occasional spiritual scripture reading, and even fed from the “homeless grill” in the parking lot.

He led the Battle of the Bands Ventura in the 90s; was a sound and lighting engineer at many local hot spots; and built stages for Ventura Theater, Oxnard College, and local production companies.  His presence was felt in this great town and his spirit will live on in the music he was a part of.