Category Archives: This ‘n’ That

Rotary Club of Ventura Grants Awarded to Local Organizations

by Shirley Lorraine

On Wednesday, June 5, the Rotary Club of Ventura presented grants to 19 nonprofit and service organizations for their contributions to Ventura. The grants were awarded from the Julius Gius Memorial Rotary Foundation. Mr. Gius was a long-time active member of Rotary and editor of the Ventura County Star Free Press for many years.

Established in 1998, the 501(c)(3) foundation continues to honor Gius’ commitment to support organizations that add significant value to the Ventura community through their work with youth, education, and vulnerable populations within the city and county. This year, grants were awarded in varying amounts totaling $50,000. Over the last 25 years, nearly $900,000 has been awarded to encourage the continuation of valuable programs and services. The grants provide critical gap funding for numerous local programs serving specialized populations.

The 19 grantees for 2024 are:

  • A Voice Discovered (assisting those who are unable to communicate through vocalization)
  • Boys & Girls Club of Greater Ventura
  • Brain Injury Center
  • EPIC (Everyday Progress in Character) Leadership Center
  • Foothill Little League (serving over 400 kids, including adaptive leagues)
  • High Tide Robotics (STEM education and youth development)
  • Kids & Families Together
  • LOVE VC Inc.
  • New Art City Theatre (believing theater is a public service)
  • New West Symphony (musical education for youth)
  • Rubicon Theatre
  • Salvation Army (mobile vision clinic)
  • STEMbassadors (teaching technology)
  • Turning Point Foundation
  • Ventura College Foundation Promise Program
  • Ventura County Medical Resource Foundation
  • Ventura Land Trust (Ventura Wild Program)
  • Ventura Ronald McDonald Family Room at VCMC
  • Ventura YMCA (Operation Ventura, serving children needing adaptive programming and living in compromised situations)

Foundation President Saurabh Bajaj encouraged each organization’s representative to say a few words about their projects, concluding with handing them an oversized check signifying their grant award. President Bajaj lauded each program for its outstanding contributions to the community.

Ongoing contributions towards next year’s awards may be made to the Julius Gius Memorial Fund (JGMF) or to the Rotary Club of Ventura Foundation.

Business Profile: Welcome to Hummus Republic!

Hummus Republic in Ventura celebrated its grand opening with prizes, music, and a ribbon-cutting ceremony on Tuesday, June 18. Enthusiastic community members and members of the Ventura Chamber of Commerce attended the much-anticipated event, which was enjoyed by all.

Hummus Republic is a Mediterranean restaurant that offers a build-yourown style of bowls, pitas, and wraps, as well as side dishes such as falafel, salads, and other Middle Eastern fare. Their mission is to bring flavorful and convenient meals to the masses and to create accessibility to healthy, real food for everyone.

Proud owner Michael Lozovsky, originally from San Fernando Valley, worked at one of the Hummus Republic franchises for six years before opening this establishment. It is impressive that Michael started this journey as an entry-level restaurant employee. His work ethic led him to management and eventually to the corporate team. His hard work and desire to succeed have now resulted in owning his first restaurant. His goal is to open more locations in Ventura County.

Why, one may ask? Mediterranean cuisine isn’t just about vibrant flavors and health benefits; it’s about sharing joyful moments around the table. A place where every guest is embraced like family, and every meal is an invitation to vibrant living.

Business Profile: American Flags & Cutlery

Bryan Miller’s journey is a testament to his resilience and passion for entrepreneurship. Despite facing challenges due to dyslexia during his school years, he pursued a degree in business administration. With admirable determination, he navigated the educational obstacles that came his way.

Bryan’s professional path led him into the realm of restaurant management, where he spent five years honing his skills and gaining valuable experience. However, a pivotal moment arrived when a patron from one of the restaurants he managed presented him with a life-changing opportunity. This patron, on the brink of retirement, proposed that Bryan manage and take over their business, American Flags & Cutlery. Bryan seized this chance, marking the beginning of a new chapter.

In the year 2020, Bryan assumed a managerial role within the establishment, gradually transitioning to ownership by April 1, 2021. While the prospect of ownership was exciting, it came with its share of challenges. Determining the right products to procure for the store’s inventory posed an initial hurdle. Bryan tackled this obstacle by immersing himself in understanding the preferences and needs of his clientele. Through diligent learning and adaptation, he navigated the intricate landscape of the industry.

One of Bryan’s strengths lies in his ability to network effectively. He recognized the importance of connecting with the right individuals, which aided him in overcoming the learning curve associated with the cutlery industry. He cultivated partnerships with local businesses such as Messermeister and the unique Ojai-based brand, Ocaso. In fact, Bryan’s store became the exclusive carrier of Ocaso products—a noteworthy accomplishment.

What sets Bryan’s store apart is its distinctive collection of items that cannot be found in other establishments. This curated selection highlights his commitment to providing customers with a diverse and unparalleled shopping experience.

Entrepreneurship runs in Bryan’s family, with both his grandparents having ventured into business ownership. Drawing inspiration from his family background and his own experiences as an Eagle Scout, Bryan’s passion for cutlery and knives was kindled during his time in the restaurant industry. This unique blend of interests and his hands-on experience contribute to the store’s distinctive character.

In conclusion, Bryan Miller’s journey encapsulates the triumph of perseverance over adversity. From his challenging school years to becoming the owner of American Flags & Cutlery, his story exemplifies the power of determination, adaptation, and meaningful connections. Through his store, he not only offers exceptional products but also a testament to the value of pursuing one’s passions against all odds.

Ventura’s Historic Street Names Tell Many Stories

by Richard Senate

Main Street today was originally the Spanish highway that linked all the Missions and settlements. It was California’s first thoroughfare, “El Camino Real” (The Royal Highway), extending from La Paz, Baja California to Sonoma. Why was the name changed? The early American settlers wanted nothing to do with Spanish after the Mexican-American War. The name was altered by Ordinance Number Ten of the newly incorporated City of San Buenaventura in 1867.

Another historic street, “Figueroa,” positioned before the Old Mission, is not named after the popular California Governor of that name, but rather after the town blacksmith who operated a shop on that street in 1850. “Palm Street” derived its name from three towering date palms planted by the Mission, which served as landmarks for the town. At one point, there was even a suggestion to rename the town “Palm City.” Although the trees are no longer standing, the street name persists as a reminder of these iconic landmarks.

The origins of some street names are straightforward to trace, such as “Oak Street,” named after a tall oak tree that once graced the area. “California Street” is believed to have been named around 1850, coinciding with California’s admission to the Union. This street connected the town to the beach and facilitated the transportation of cargo from ships anchored offshore to the community via small boats called “lighters,” before the construction of the wharf in 1872.

“Thomson Street” honors local landowner Dixie Thomson, renowned for his dancing horses showcased in parades. While the street was laid out during Spanish times, it initially served as a horse racing track, reflecting the popularity of the sport among early settlers. Interestingly, the Chumash were recognized as skilled horsemen and jockeys, often hired by ranch owners to race their thoroughbred Arabians. Betting was commonplace, with entire ranches sometimes changing hands in a single race.

“Poli Street” commemorates wealthy landowner and doctor Manuel Antonio Rodriguez de Poli, who resided in a large adobe overlooking the town and bay. Although his former residence was removed to make way for the Hill Street School, an apartment building now occupies the site. Dr. Poli was widely beloved for his altruism, never charging for his medical services, which he considered more of a hobby than a profession.

“Ventura Avenue” originally connected Ventura and the Ojai Valley, initially known as “Canada Street.” It traversed a smaller road named “Crooked Palm” Road, named after a deformed palm tree that once stood there. Perhaps a twisted palm could be replanted to honor the memory of the long-gone tree?

The streets of Ventura serve as tangible reminders of its rich and diverse history, each name carrying with it a unique story and legacy.

Officiate high-school volleyball in the Ventura area

The Channel Coast Volleyball Association will have their first meeting for those wishing to officiate high-school girls’ matches during the upcoming fall season which begins in early August.

The Association referees matches in all cities in Ventura County. New officials are welcome including college students. This meeting will be held Monday, July 8 and July 15, at 6 p.m., Room G 109 near the gym at Oxnard High School, 3400 W. Gonzalez Rd. All training will be provided.

To fill out an application, visit channelcoastofficials.org

Vol. 17, No. 20 – June 26 – July 9, 2024 – Community Events

Ventura:

Old-Time Country Bluegrass Gospel Music Assoc: Sunday July 7, 2:00 – 4:00 pm
Poinsettia Pavilion. 3451 Foothill Rd, Ventura, CA 93003
Live Music on stage. Jamming in the Canada Room. Free Admission. Free parking. Open to the Public. For more information, call 805-517-1131 or visit Facebook: OTCBGM

Surf Rodeo Festival: July 5th and 6th. Tip of Surfer’s Point (by the Ventura Fairgrounds).
Since 1997, Surf Rodeo is Ventura’s original surfing and music festival. 30+ bands vendors and more. www.Surfrodeo.org

Tequila & Taco Music Festival: Saturday, July 13: 1pm – 9pm, Ventura County Fairgrounds.
California’s Largest Traveling Tequila & Taco Music Festival is back! This event will showcase top-shelf Tequila sampling, while you enjoy the best gourmet street tacos Ventura has to offer. Enjoy live music, margaritas, craft beer, and vendors. All ticket holders will have access to food vendors, craft beer, margarita booths, shopping, and live music. Tickets available at www.tequilaandtacomusicfestival.com/ 

Genealogy – Free Family History Lectures: Saturday, July 20. Online Via Zoom from 1:00 pm – 4:00 PM.
The Ventura County Genealogical Society will present two speakers. The first is Tina Beaird, speaking on “Maps and Trails: Common Migration Paths from the17th Through 19th Centuries,” followed by David Flint on the topic of “Marriage Records in England.” 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/. Please note that VCGS cannot respond to same-day requests. VCGS is an all-volunteer, public benefit non-profit corporation [501(c)(3)]. Donations are greatly appreciated. For more information: https://www.venturacogensoc.org.

NAMBA Improv Camps: Grades 4-10. Monday through Thursday. Downtown Ventura.
Creative, interactive games and exercises where students are introduced to the fun and skill of improvisational theater. Through simple exercises and games we begin to explore the vast world of character creation and storytelling! Instructed by Mr. Casey Robbins. Space is limited. www.Namba.com.

Olivas Adobe House Tours: Every Sunday in July and August
The Olivas Adobe historic site features the original two-story adobe home of Don Raymundo Olivas built in 1847. Celebrating Ventura’s Rancho and Latino heritage. Located at 4200 Olivas Park Drive, Ventura. House tours are $5 for Adults and $3 for children and Seniors. More Information is available at https://www.cityofventura.ca.gov/648/Olivas-Adobe-Historical-Park.

Ongoing:

Ventura Senior Men’s Group – First and Third Tuesdays each month: 11:30am – 1:30pm – 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 Tuesday, Wednesday, and Thursday – 12:30pm.
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 Monday’s each month – 7:30pm.
Church of the Foothills, Ventura. For more information, visit https://venturacountyphilatelicsoc.org.

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

Santa Barbara:

The Santa Barbara Museum of Art (SBMA) exhibition; The Lady Leslie and Lord Paul Ridley-Tree Collection, 1130 State Street, Santa Barbara, CA, July 7 – November 3. www.sbma.net.

Oxnard:

Bridging Familias: LGBTQ+ Latino Wellness Event: Saturday, July 13, 2024, 9 am – 3 pm, Oxnard College Performing Arts Building. Learning how bullying and sexual and intimate partner violence affect LGBTQ+ Latinos & how to support our loved ones! Free lunch for the first 300 participants! Spanish, Mixteco and ASL translation will be provided.

Educational Presentations (9 am – 12 pm)
Lunch (12 pm – 12:30 pm)
Intergenerational Panel (12:30 pm – 1:30 pm)
Resource Fair (12 pm to 3 pm)
Art Exhibit (12 pm to 3 pm)

For questions and additional info. email: [email protected] & [email protected] or call: 805-983-6014, ext.1114. Register at: https://www.eventbrite.com/e/bridging-familias-lgbtq-latino-wellness-event-tickets-890666717127?blm_aid=23160833

Business Profile: Safe Travels RV Services Company LLC,

Welcome to Safe Travels RV Services Company LLC, where our motto is “Wishing You Safe Travels.” Located in Ventura, California, Safe Travels RV Services provides mobile services dedicated to ensuring your RV adventures are as smooth and as safe as possible.

This husband and wife team, Bill Meyer and Lisa Edwards, are passionate outdoor enthusiasts. Retired in 2023 as an electrical engineer, Bill is an NRVIA-certified RV inspector, solar designer/installer, certified infrared thermographer and registered technician. Lisa spent 25 years as an educator and retired in 2021. She co-owns and managed the day to day operations.

As lifelong outdoor enthusiasts, they have always treasured camping and exploring nature. Over the years, their love for comfort while camping grew, leading them to embrace RV travel. Some call it glamping, but they see it as motorized camping. They understand the frustration of travel mishaps, such as water leaks, refrigerator and generator issues and electrical trouble and they are dedicated to helping travelers avoid and resolve these problems.

At Safe Travels RV Services, they offer comprehensive RV inspections for new or used RVs, from small trailers to class A motor coaches and everything in between.

There’s an inspection process which involves detailed visual observations and instrument-based measurements of every aspect of one’s RV. This provides customers with a complete report on the current condition of the vehicle. Inspections provide clients with peace of mind and valuable information to support a difficult decision-making process.

In addition, Safe Travels RV Services offers maintenance, solar installation, and RV educational services to keep travelers safe on the road.

Their mission is to ensure travel safety and peace of mind, allowing travelers to create lifelong memories. Bill’s engineering expertise and Lisa’s educational background provide a unique, customer-focused approach. They prioritize educating their clients, empowering them to enjoy their RVs to the fullest. Safe Travels RV Services Company LLC is a member of the Ventura Chamber and the Better Business Bureau and serves Ventura and Santa Barbara counties.

Business Profile: Moby’s On Main Now Open

Remember Thrifty ice cream? Looking for something fun to do that’s family-friendly? Look no further. Moby’s On Main may just be the place to be! It’s a concept from local entrepreneurs Mitch & Mary Masoner that provides a curated collection of video and merchandiser games for all ages and abilities.

Nestled amongst downtown Main Street’s colorful collection of boutique businesses, Moby’s On Main is Ventura’s first family-friendly arcade bar experience. This newly opened space boasts an impressive lineup of Stern machines sure to excite all pinball enthusiasts! Their game selection includes the Top 7 of Stern’s top pinball games, which is the largest collection of pinball on the coast from San Francisco to Los Angeles, along with the latest virtual reality tech, and nostalgic arcade classics.

Moby’s On Main offers something for everyone, blending old-school charm with new-school technology. The space is designed to appeal to both young and old, making it a perfect spot for family outings, date nights, or friendly gatherings. Their curated selection of locally canned brews, seltzers, and nonalcoholic beverages provides the perfect bar arcade experience for all ages.

Feeling hungry? Moby’s On Main has you covered with a seasonal selection of Harbor Mart sandwiches, famous Thirfty scoops, and fun snacks. Their menu features a variety of tasty options, ensuring you can refuel before diving back into the games.

Beyond just being an arcade bar, Moby’s On Main is dedicated to supporting and giving back to the Ventura community. This family-owned business aims to create a space where locals can come together, have fun, and feel connected. They offer a curated selection of local bites, sips, and timeless Thrifty scoops, further celebrating the community spirit.

Interested in being stocked at Moby’s On Main? The Masoners welcome all suggestions and collaborations. They are always looking to feature new and exciting local products, so don’t hesitate to reach out and collaborate.

In summary, Moby’s On Main is more than just an arcade bar; it’s a community hub where family fun and local pride come together. With its diverse range of games, delicious food and drink options, and commitment to the Ventura community, it’s the perfect destination for a memorable outing. So, gather your family and friends and head over to Moby’s On Main for a unique and enjoyable experience!