Category Archives: This ‘n’ That

Ventura Harbor Village Unveils an Exciting Fall Lineup of Events & Entertainment

Embrace the autumn magic at Ventura Harbor Village with its dazzling lineup of October events. From Hispanic Heritage Month celebrations to spirited Halloween festivities, the Village promises a spook-tacular season of sun-kissed fun by the sea. venturaharborvillage.com/events

Witches Paddle
Friday, October 25, 2024, 4 – 5:30 PM:
Don your witch hats and grab a paddle! This whimsical Halloween paddle invites witches and warlocks to glide along Ventura Harbor by paddleboard or kayak. Now in its sixth year, this magical tradition (initiated by two local ladies Christie Moorehouse and Susan Stuart) has grown into a highly anticipated community event. Rentals are available at Ventura Boat Rentals, or you can bring your own.

Pups strut their stuff at the HOWL-O-WEEN Dog Costume Contest! Image by Ventura Harbor Village

HOWL-O-WEEN Dog Costume Contest
Saturday, October 26, 2024, Noon – 2 pm:
Paws up for Ventura Harbor’s beloved dog costume contest! From spooky pups to sea-worthy pooches, contestants will vie for top prizes including Best in Show and Most Creative. Sponsored by Ventura Pet Barn, with treats provided by Coastal Cone. Space is limited to the first 75 dogs. Pre-register your pup at www.venturaharborvillage.com/event/howl-2024.

Seaside Trick-or-Treat
Sunday, October 27, 2024, Noon – 2 pm:
Bring the little ones for a festive trick-or-treat adventure throughout the Village. With 20+ treat stops, face painting, professional pumpkin carving, and plenty of sweets, it’s a family-friendly event not to be missed. Costumes are encouraged for everyone (last minute accessories are available for purchase from both Hats Unlimited or Lost in Socks). Don’t forget to bring a bag.

Thriller Zombie Dance
Sunday, October 27, 2024, 2:15 pm:
Zombies take over Ventura Harbor Village with a live performance of the iconic Thriller dance on Ventura Harbor Village’s Main Lawn. Sponsored by Fitzone Ventura, this Halloween favorite is sure to delight die-hard Halloween fans. Want to learn the dance? All ages are welcome.

A Quarter Century of Film: Ojai Film Festival Marks 25th Anniversary

Comedian, songwriter, and activist Bruce Vilanch and Director Marc Saltarelli were among the celebrity attendees of the Festival’s Inaugural Fundraiser.

The year 2024 marks the 25th anniversary of the Ojai Film Festival (OFF). In 1998, artist and filmmaker Steve Grumette received an invitation to judge at the Canyonlands Film Festival in Moab, Utah. With a similar population and boasting both a vibrant arts community and a spectacular natural environment, Moab reminded him of Ojai. Upon returning from Utah, Steve realized that if Moab could support a thriving film festival, why not Ojai? From that idea came the inception of the Ojai Film Festival.

On Nov. 15, 2000, nearly two years of intensive effort by more than 100 volunteers culminated in the opening of the first Ojai Film Festival to an overwhelmingly enthusiastic response from filmmakers and filmgoers alike. The festival launched with two goals in mind: to provide audiences with opportunities to see groundbreaking work otherwise inaccessible and to give filmmakers access to an enthusiastic audience, including industry professionals.

In early 2002, the festival established itself as an independent nonprofit foundation, dedicated to expanding the traditions created during the first two years. Now in its 22nd year, the festival continues its commitment to enriching the human spirit by seeking out important films that uplift, help audiences feel good about being part of the human race, or inspire them to live meaningful lives. Over the past few years, the Ojai Film Festival has expanded with Focus Earth, a mini-festival featuring films and panels on environmental issues presented by local filmmakers and experts, as well as a screenwriting competition. The festival also developed a full-day education program for regional high school students, regularly attracting more than 200 students for seminars and film screenings.

Filmmakers share insights with audience after screening at the 2023 OFF.

The festival offers audiences a diverse lineup of films from around the world, with past entries representing over 43 countries. It also provides filmmakers with access to a highly appreciative audience of savvy film fans. Steve Grumette, program director of the Ojai Film Society, continues to receive invitations to serve as a juror at other festivals, reflecting the growing importance of Ojai’s festival. Legendary Hollywood producer Peter Guber once told an audience at the Toronto International Film Festival, “Ojai is the next Telluride.”

The Ojai Film Festival’s 2024 edition will run from Oct. 31 to Nov. 4, 2024, featuring a diverse selection of films, workshops, panels, and events that promise to captivate, educate, and entertain attendees. “This year’s Ojai Film Festival is set to be a vibrant exploration of diverse stories and global perspectives,” said festival president Katie Guernsey. “Our schedule includes an exciting range of films that challenge, inspire, and entertain. We can’t wait for audiences to experience the magic of cinema at OFF.”

Schedule Overview:

Friday, Nov. 1: Screenings begin with The Gray, The Black and Water for Life, followed by the evening feature Los Frikis at 7 p.m., and ending with a Mingle and Mix at 9 p.m.
Saturday, Nov. 2: Highlights include the documentary 999 – The Forgotten Girls, The Italians by Michelle Danner, and a panel on “Navigating Film Distribution.” The day ends with the Festival Reception at 9 p.m., where filmmakers and attendees can connect.
Sunday, Nov. 3: The day kicks off with the Awards Brunch, celebrating this year’s winners. Highlights include the CineFemme Slate and NFMLA Diversity screening blocks, as well as a live reading of the Screenplay Competition winner’s script, one of the most anticipated events.
Monday, Nov. 4: The final day features Death Pays Flora a Visit, The Cigarette Surfboard, Otter Space, and the revered Gold Coast track, showcasing local films such as The Last Rhino, Wingwalker, and 172 Pushups.

Festival Highlights:

Special Screenings: The highly anticipated documentary Los Frikis and the narrative feature The Last Birthday.
Industry Panels: Discussions on “The Business of Filmmaking” and “Navigating the Complex Landscape of Film and TV Distribution” offer valuable insights for filmmakers.
Student & International Films: Highlights include A Swim Lesson, Tennis, Oranges, and Rising Above, along with curated films from around the world showcasing different cultures and perspectives.
Filmmaker Q&As and opportunities for audience engagement will take place throughout the festival.

Get Your Tickets: Tickets are available now at OjaiFilmFestival.com. Don’t miss this opportunity to celebrate the art of filmmaking in the beautiful town of Ojai.

Stay Spooky, Stay Safe: Tips for Keeping Pets Safe This Halloween

Image by Freepik

From the Humane Society of Ventura County

Halloween is just around the corner, and while it’s a fun holiday for humans, it can be a stressful and even dangerous time for pets. Follow these tips to keep your furry friends safe this Halloween:

Candy: Trick-or-treat is for humans, not pets. Keep all candy out of reach and educate children in the home about the dangers of feeding candy to animals. Symptoms of chocolate poisoning include vomiting, diarrhea, rapid breathing, increased heart rate, and seizures. If your pet consumes candy, contact your veterinarian immediately.
Costumes: Don’t force your pet to wear a costume unless you’re sure they’re comfortable. What may seem cute to you could be overwhelming for them. Ensure costumes don’t block their vision or breathing and avoid constricting movement. Check for any small parts, like buttons or tassels, which could be irritating or pose a choking hazard.
Keep pets indoors: Don’t leave pets in the yard on Halloween. Pranksters may tease or harm animals, leading to injury or worse. Before festivities begin, place your pets in a quiet, secure room away from the door. This helps reduce anxiety and prevents pets from escaping when trick-or-treaters arrive.
Black cats: Black cats are particularly at risk of harm around Halloween. As a precaution, bring black cats indoors several days before and after the holiday.
Candles, wires, and cords: Keep pets away from candles to prevent burns or accidental fires. Wires and electrical cords can also pose serious risks. If chewed on, pets can suffer life-threatening electrical shocks.
ID tags: Ensure your pets are wearing current ID tags and verify their microchip information is up to date. Proper identification is crucial to reuniting lost pets with their owners. The Humane Society of Ventura County offers free ID tags through Halloween, and microchipping is available for $25, including registration. Call 805-646-6505 to schedule this service.

By following these tips, you can help your pets enjoy a safe and stress-free Halloween!

The Bookmark About Libraries and Friends

by Mary Olson

Ventura Friends of the Library will hold their Annual Membership Meeting on Sunday, October 20, 1:00 to 3:00 pm in the Topping Room at E.P. Foster Library.

Our annual meetings are always open to guests who are interested in our organization or our guest speakers!

Our featured speaker will be Elizabeth Moore Kraus who will discuss her book 3 Sisters, 3 Weeks, 3 Countries (Still Talking). This memoir explores the past and present family dynamics that have shaped the lives of three sisters during their three week trip. The sisters decided to travel together to Ireland, England, and Scotland. Family is not always easy, and then adding to that challenge is daily togetherness and the stress of traveling. Elizabeth “Liz” Moore Kraus has lived in Ventura County for over 30 years with her spouse, Dave, and son Brent-Stig. At the age of 42, Liz returned to school to earn an M.A. in English Literature. She is currently teaching at Ventura College and working on two more books. Her book will be available for purchase and signing at the event.

Ventura Friends of the Library supports the libraries of Ventura by selling donated books to raise funds for library programs and materials. The Friends operate a bookstore, 2nd Look Books, in E.P, Foster Library. Open Monday through Saturday, 11:00 am to 4:00 pm and Sunday, 1:00 to 4:00 pm. The Friends also sell books on Amazon and eBay: https://www.ebay.com/str/venturafriendsofthelibrary

Local author Vivian Chinelli will visit the Ojai Library at 2:00 pm on Saturday, October 26, to talk about her book, I’m Not Vegan, but My Cousin Is: Rhymes, Raps and Other Good Stuff About Respecting and Protecting Animals, Our Health and Our Planet. Come and listen to Ms. Chinelli’s clever and riveting rhymes and raps as she delivers her vegan and plant-based message with a snappy beat.

Vivian Chinelli is a retired Kindergarten teacher, author, poet, vegan, plant-based eater, and activist. Ms. Chinelli’s rhymes, and the powerful quotes that accompany them, explore the vegan philosophy of compassion for animals and the positive impacts of plant-based eating on our health and the health of our planet and all its inhabitants. Ojai Mayor Betsy Stix will join Ms. Chinelli to field questions about veganism and plant-based eating.

This event is free and open to the public. For additional information, contact Ron Solórzano, Regional Librarian, at (805) 218-9146 or [email protected].

Spooky happenings at the Library:

Science Spook-tacular Dry Ice Show with Science Heroes! Hill Road Library, Thursday October 17, 3:30 – 4:30 pm. Science and stories collide in this fun, interactive S.T.E.M. program featuring the ‘coolest’ thing in science — DRY ICE!

Come enjoy some Fall fun at the Avenue Library with spooky movies, crafts, and treats! Boo Movie Matinees Saturdays at 12:00 to 3:00 pm: October 19 – Hocus Pocus (PG) October 26 – Hocus Pocus 2 (PG) Crafts and treats are available while supplies last.

Maker Lab at Hill Road Library, Thursday, October 24, 3:30 to 4:30: Create Squishy Circuit Monsters Squishy Circuits uses conductive and insulating play dough to teach the basics of electrical circuits, a perfect blend of play and learning! Come to the Hill Road Library for a ghoulishly good time creating your own little monster with clay and squishy circuits.

The Discover Science Team from the Foothill School of Technology returns to Hill Road Library Saturday, October 19, 11:00 am to noon. Learn how to create a Wind Catcher and harness the power of the wind.

Port Hueneme Celebrates Kevin Brannon as Hero of the Year for His Work with Youth and Conservation

Reel Guppy founder, Kevin Brannon.

On Tuesday, September 3rd, Kevin Brannon was honored with the Port Hueneme Hero of the Year award at a city hall meeting. The event celebrated individuals who have made a meaningful, positive impact on the community. This year, the city recognized two exceptional community members, with Kevin Brannon, founder of Reel Guppy Outdoors, being one of the awardees for his significant contributions.

Over the past 13 years, Kevin’s Reel Guppy Outdoors program has reached more than 7,000 children in Port Hueneme, offering them unique opportunities to learn about wildlife, the environment, and the importance of conservation. His program emphasizes hands-on learning, exposing kids to topics not typically covered in school, while encouraging them to appreciate and protect the natural world.

In addition to his work with Reel Guppy Outdoors, Kevin also leads the Reel Anglers Network, a TV show that educates viewers about outdoor activities and local events. His latest episodes are set to air next month, further expanding his reach and impact.

Kevin’s dedication to inspiring and empowering young people has made him a hero to many, and he continues to strive to make a difference not only in his community but worldwide. As Kevin often says, “With the help of our community, we can achieve anything.” www.reelguppyoutdoors.com.

Annual Ventura Chamber Business Expo

Yana Khiyod and Patricia Schallert greeted attendees at the Chamber Business Expo on October 10, hosted at the Four Points by Sheraton hotel. The event showcased over 60 local businesses and featured prizes and a delicious array of food.

Boys & Girls Club of Ventura Silent Auction

Support the Boys & Girls Club of Ventura by participating in their 2024 Great Futures Auction, happening on Saturday, November 9, from 4:30 p.m. to 8:00 p.m. at the Poinsettia Pavilion. This event helps raise vital funds for the club’s programs and services.

The silent auction is already live on their dedicated auction website, where you can browse and bid on a wide range of items. It’s the perfect time to register and start bidding! Visit www.bgclubventura.org for details.

Event tickets are $110 per person or $800 for a table of 8, which includes dinner and an evening supporting a wonderful cause. For sponsorship opportunities, contact Ashley Hofer at 805-641-5585 or [email protected].

Student Competitions Logo Contest 2025

The Ventura County Office of Education invites Ventura County students to design logos for the 2025 Academic Decathlon, Battle of the Books, Mock Trial, and Science Fair. The winning design will be used on the event lapel pins, awards, and competition materials. Ventura County students in grades K-12 are invited to participate

THE DESIGNS SHOULD INCLUDE:

Format: Students may submit entries for as many of the events as they would like (Academic Decathlon, Battle of the Books, Mock Trial, Science Fair). Entries must be submitted in digital format. Formats include .jpg, .png, or .pdf. Dimensions of digital artwork must be 150 dpi and 7.5” x 7.5”. Entries must be in circular format and should include “Ventura County” at the top and the event name and year at the bottom.

Original Work: The design(s) must be original work done by the student; no stock images from commercial or private sources will be accepted.

Student Information: The student’s signature should appear within the design. Entries must include the following information: School, grade, teacher name, teacher email, and student name.

Entry Deadline: Fri, Oct 18, by 4:00 PM. A plaque will be presented to the winning student at the respective competition awards ceremony. The winning design will be selected by VCOE. Email all entries to [email protected]. 2024 winning and sample logos at bottom of this page: https://www.vcoe.org/Competitions/Logo-Contest

American Pickers Show to Film in California

The American Pickers plans to film episodes of The History Channel hit television series throughout November. They are always excited to find historically significant or rare items, in addition to unforgettable Characters and their collections. They are looking for leads. If you or someone you know has a unique item, story to tell, and is ready to sell…they’d love to hear from you. The Pickers DO NOT pick stores, flea markets, malls, auction businesses, museums, or anything open to the public. If interested, send us your name, phone number, location, and description of the collection with photos to: [email protected] or call (646) 493-2184. Facebook: @GotAPick.

C.A.R.L. Halloween Fest!