Category Archives: This ‘n’ That

CAPS Media Congratulates Sheldon and Summer Activities

Everyone at CAPS Media joins in congratulating and thanking Sheldon Brown for creating and publishing the Ventura Breeze for nearly two decades. The legendary, ever present and always smiling Sheldon, has been entertaining and informing our community with Ventura’s true Hometown Newspaper since October 24, 2007. “Neither snow (in Ventura … surf) nor rain nor heat nor gloom of night stays Sheldon and his loyal Breeze crew from completion of their appointed rounds.” Week after week, month after month, year after year, weathering economic hardships, pandemics and more, Sheldon has inspired and guided a dedicated crew of family members, friends, reporters, photographers, and other supporters to keep the presses and online publications rolling. “Sheldon – best wishes on your retirement from a true labor of love. We are certain the Breeze is in very capable hands, but we are equally certain there is only one Sheldon Brown.”

Additional kudos go out to CAPS producers for winning awards from the Alliance for Community Media. ACM recognized CAPS/KPPQ DJ Nadine Piche for “Ventura Vibe! Pride Ventura County 2023” as the Best of Community Events – Activism/Rallies Community Radio Program of the year. And high school students in the CAPS/ECTV program were honored for “Best of Informational Talk Show Series” with the team’s in-depth and engaging interview with Ventura County DA, Erik Nasarenko, hosted by Shayan Barati, recorded by an all-ECTV crew guided by their mentor Phil Taggart.

At this year’s WAVE Awards, Taggart’s “Arts in Exile” crew won a WAVE Award for Outstanding News/Documentary/Magazine Show – Community Production. WAVE, the Western Access Video Excellence, is a national network of TV and radio stations whose mission is to promote free speech and greater civic engagement through community media.

Currently CAPS crews are very busy covering graduation ceremonies for Ventura College and all VUSD high schools. The ceremonies are live streamed and then rebroadcast on CAPS channel 15 in the days that follow.

This summer the CAPS Digital Storytelling program is back in action for students ages 10-14 on July 15-19 and July 29-August 2. Guided by CAPS professional videographers and storytellers, the fast paced and engaging creative program features hands-on experiential learning in all aspects of media storytelling including story development, scripting, casting, staging, directing, camera operation, remote and in-studio production, graphic design, editing and more. Each week-long session runs Monday through Friday from 8:30am to 1:00pm at the CAPS Media Center at 65 Day Road. The $250 fee includes five, 4-hour sessions, a one-year CAPS membership, CAPS Crew Member shirt, graduation certificate and a special Friday film festival for friends and family. Registration is open now at capsmedia.org.

Everyone is invited to visit the CAPS Media Center on the first Monday of each month at 6pm for an informal tour, info on CAPS membership benefits, and an overview of the creative resources including cameras, edit suites and production studio that are available at CAPS. Drop by and discover what CAPS has to offer.

CAPS Media manages and programs cable channels 6 (Public) and 15 (Education and Government), and CAPS Radio KPPQ, and manages the CAPS Media Center, at 65 Day Road, which is open Tuesday through Thursday from 12 noon to 8pm. All CAPS programming and schedules can be seen on CAPS’ newly updated website at capsmedia.org.

Ventura Skate Jam Ramp fabricated by local Buena High School Students

Skate Jam ramp will transform into community art piece once X Games have ended.

In an exciting collaboration with Visit Ventura, students from Buena High School are building a skate ramp for the Ventura Skate Jam, a free all-ages community event to celebrate X Games Ventura on Thursday, June 27, 2024.

This ramp, commissioned by Visit Ventura, designed by Buena High School’s Cabinet Millwork Technologies Capstone class and painted by Buena Art students, will later transform into a community art display after the X Games. “Working with local student talent to help celebrate the X Games coming to Ventura stemmed from the overwhelming success and electric energy of last year’s Skate Jam,” according to Marlyss Auster, President & CEO of Visit Ventura. “Involving local students in the project where they can have a lasting legacy in X Games Ventura 2024 is what the games are all about.” “It’s been awesome to see the students build something of this caliber that professional skateboarders could potentially skate on,” said Visit Ventura Director of Marketing and Buena High School alumni Mike Laan, who led the project with Communications & PR Manager Julie Madsen.

“The ramp is gnarly — we can’t wait to see all their hard work showcased at the Skate Jam.” Mr. Scott Manninen, Woodshop Teacher at Buena High School, expressed his enthusiasm about the project. “I was thrilled when Visit Ventura asked if our students would be interested in designing a skateboard ramp for the Ventura Skate Jam,” Manninen said.

The ramp will be showcased downtown before being moved to the Fairgrounds for the X Games. Manninen collaborated with a team of eight students, some experienced skaters, to design and refine the ramp. Tickets to the X Games will be given to the students involved. One main feature was split in two to become the bow and stern of a boat, turning the ramp into a boat sculpture complete with a bench for photos. The team started with sketches, built a model, proposed a budget, and involved Ms. Nicole Rapattoni and her art class to finalize the design.

Mason Carter, a key student in the project who designed the quarter pipe curve, shared his excitement. “I grew up skating; it’s super cool to be a part of something that beginners and insane skaters will use. It gives me chills to think that a pro may skate something I helped build.” The project provided valuable lessons beyond skating. Logan Torres, aspiring to be an engineer, found it a great introduction to his future field. John Maida highlighted the teamwork and problem-solving involved, stating, “We learned that some tasks are very difficult, and we had to be precise. We needed to find creative ways to solve issues as they came up and fix them together as a team.”

For more information about community events and X Games Ventura, please reach out to Julie Madsen, Visit Ventura Communications & PR Manager at [email protected].

Vol. 17, No. 18 – May 29 – June 11, 2024 – On Vacation

While visiting family in Scotland, Nancy Brace-Thompson treated grandson Lukas to a birthday trip by train to Whitby, England.  She read the Breeze while Lukas played among the ruins of St. Hilda’s Whitby Abbey, where Bram Stoker drew inspiration to write Dracula. Let’s hope young Lukas enjoyed more light-hearted inspiration (and reading the Breeze), especially when they hit the beach to search for fossils.

Strawberry Festival

Photos by Patricia Shallert and Yana Khiyod

On Saturday the 18th and 19th of May, the Strawberry Festival came to the Ventura Fairgrounds. It was an exciting and vibrant event that showcased the area’s rich agricultural heritage as it celebrated the delicious and juicy fruit that has become synonymous with this beautiful coastal city. This festival, which takes place annually brings together locals and visitors from all around to revel in the tastiest treats, lively entertainment, and an overall sense of community.

At the heart of the festival were the delectable strawberries, freshly picked and bursting with flavor. Local farmers proudly displayed their pride and joy, offering crates of these succulent red berries, perfect for indulging on their own or incorporating into various delightful culinary creations. From strawberry shortcakes to strawberry smoothies, and strawberry beer, the options were endless, and the taste sweet and satisfying. One of the highlights of the Strawberry Festival was undoubtedly the Strawberry Shortcake with volunteers from Pacifica Culinary Academy from Oxnard adding to the excitement as guests built their own shortcake tower.

The Strawberry Festival offered more than just strawberries. It boasted a diverse range of entertainment and activities suitable for all ages. The air was filled with the sounds of live music throughout the festival, courtesy of talented local bands and performers. Oxnard High School’s award-winning marching “Swarm ” band set the mood as guests arrived. Arts and crafts booths delighted visitors as they perused the talents of local artists, while a dedicated family fun section entertained children with thrilling carnival rides, face painting, and interactive games.

While strawberries were the star of the show, the Strawberry Festival ultimately celebrated the community, local farmers, and the vibrant spirit of Ventura and Oxnard. It fostered a sense of togetherness and appreciation for the area’s unique cultural heritage. Whether you’re a strawberry enthusiast or simply seeking a fun-filled weekend getaway, make sure to mark the Strawberry Festival at the Ventura Fairgrounds as a must-attend event on your calendar.

Rotary Presents Awards for Peace Perspectives

by Shirley Lorraine

Showcasing extraordinary works of art by high school seniors, the Downtown Rotary Club of Ventura awarded the 6th annual Perspectives on Peace Scholarship Awards on May 22.

A full house of Rotarians, awardees and family members, and guests attended the Poinsettia Pavilion to laud the stunning accomplishments of six Artists of Distinction. Sifting through 35 exemplary entries, judges admitted it was a challenge to single out just six outstanding works.

Now in its 6th year, the awards are given in memory of Rotarian Sarah Johnson Ingram, and are the only merit-based scholarships available for VUSD students. The works come in all forms of artistic expression, allowing students to present their feelings on what peace means to them in ways that are meaningful to them personally and will resonate with others.

Rotary International has always been a world peace focused organization. As moderator Ken Leandro stated, “Rotary creates environments where peace can happen. “Through this art-based initiative, students can use creative expressions to bring their messages to life.

Wylde Brandt, a senior at Ventura High School, was awarded for his digital art creation titled “The Abyss” featuring people bridging the gap to come together in peace. Wylde plans to pursue a career in film and animation.

A painting titled “Eyes of Peace” garnered an award for Jami Chambers of El Camino High. Her work was a visual compendium of perspectives from several views. Jami plans to go on to Fullerton College.

An illustrated, animated short video submitted by Sierra Engel from Buena High School earned her the title of Artist of Distinction. Her work was a means to convey “the feeling of serenity that can be found in nature.” Sierra will be attending UC Davis in the Fall.

Moia Kingsley’s mixed media piece titled “Peaceful Words, Peaceful Heart,” using photography layered with written words showed her views on achieving inner peace, acceptance and forgiveness for a better, more peaceful world. After graduating from Foothill Technology High School, Moia plans to attend college in Illinois.

Also from Buena High School, Kendall Nagaoka was awarded for her palette painting self-portrait. It featured myriad colors indicating the many moods one can experience in the ongoing journey to find peace. She, too, will be heading to UC Davis in the Fall.

All five of these students were given a $1000 scholarship to aid in their educational pursuits. The Grand Prize of a $5000 scholarship was presented to Emily Sehati of Ventura High School. Titled “The Promise,” her art piece was a combination of digital art and poetry. She plans to attend Stanford majoring in International Relations.

Ventura Unified School District Superintendent Dr. Antonio Castro congratulated all the Artists of Distinction, stating “the common themes we see through this artistic expression are those we need to focus on – peace, acceptance and more. Through this art you change us, and you change the world.”

Vol. 17, No. 18 – May 29 – June 11, 2024 – Community Events

Ventura Events:

Spring 2024 Patchwork Show: Saturday, June 1, 11am- 5pm. Downtown.

The palm tree-lined downtown streets of Ventura features over 50 vendors at California and Main. https://dearhandmadelife.com/patchwork-show/ventura/

Mental Wellness Festival Ventura Event: Saturday: June 1, 10:30am – 4:30pm, Ventura Harbor Village Lawn. 2nd Annual Mental Wellness Festival Event. Art Show, Native Plant Exhibit, Live Music, Yoga & Meditation, Vendors & Info Booths. mentalwellnessfest.com

1892 Dudley Museum Open House Tours: Sunday, June 2, 1 – 4pm

We will also have a drop-in, drop-out “Plumerias 101” demonstration under the pergola given by professional plumeria grower Charlie Uvari. Admission is free. The museum is located at the corner of Loma Vista and Ashwood Streets (197 N. Ashwood) in Ventura. For information  call (805) 642-3345 or visit dudleyhouse.org.

Olivas Adobe House Tours: Sunday, June 2, 11am – 3pm.

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. Tours are $5 for Adults and $3 for children and Seniors. Located at 4200 Olivas Park Drive, Ventura. More Information is available www.cityofventura.ca.gov/648/Olivas-Adobe-Historical-Park.

Olivas Adobe Brides & Bell Towers: Sunday, June 9, 11am – 3pm.

View wedding dresses through the ages! From Victorian to mid-century modern to 1970s, many donated by Ventura brides of all ages!  Also an artist exhibit featuring our own Olivas Adobe Bell Tower. Visitors can enjoy historic tours of the Olivas Adobe grounds and browse the site’s unique gift shop. More Information is available www.cityofventura.ca.gov/648/Olivas-Adobe-Historical-Park.

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

Kayaking and Protecting the Channel Islands Talk: Saturday, June 6th, 6:30pm. Pierpont Bay Yacht Club.

Los Padres Ski and Social Club will host a noted author, Chuck Graham, who will give a talk on kayaking the Channel Islands and conservation efforts to protect the island. The general public is invited as the Club’s guests. Pierpont Bay Yacht Club, 1363 Spinnaker Dr. Starts with a free BBQ followed by the presentation at 7:30pm. Guests are encouraged to bring a dish to share. You can learn more about Chuck Graham at  www.chuckgrahamphoto.com and Instagram @chuckgrahamphoto.

The Los Padres Ski Club is a four-season sport and social club that plans snow ski trips and many year-round activities including happy hours, outings to local attractions, nature walks/hikes and other parties. Learn more about the Club at https://lospadresskiclub.net

Girl Scouts of California’s Central Coast Annual Food, Wine & Beer Festival: Saturday June 8th, 3:00 – 7:00pm. Camp Arnaz.

An evening of culinary delights, exquisite wines, and craft beers. Nestled in the heart of nature, Camp Arnaz provides the perfect backdrop for an evening of indulgence. Immerse yourself in a world of flavors as you sample gourmet dishes, sip on fine wines, and savor craft beers. With a capacity for 300 people, this event promises an intimate and delightful experience for all. Girl Scouts of California’s Central Coast is partnering with Rotary Club of Ventura-East to host the third annual event to aid the Monarch butterfly population. Proceeds of this festival will aid in the establishment of the Monarch Breeding and Research Institute at Camp Arnaz which will promote the replenishment of the monarch population. 155 Sulphur Canyon Rd. www.girlscoutsccc.org/en/discover/activities/special-events.html

“Arbol de la Vida”: Saturday, June 15th, 1, 1:25, 3 and 3:25 pm. Downtown Ventura.

Follow dancers through new pathways and engage with the rich history of Ventura. This traveling performance will take the audience on a short walk through several iconic landmarks of Ventura. Free all-ages event. Donations are strongly encouraged to support the artists. Wear comfortable walking shoes. Mission Park, 211 E Main St. Meet by the tile mural on Main Street in front of the San Buenaventura Mission. Please leave your furry friends at home. RSVP and Donate: https://www.eventbrite.com/e/arbol-de-la-vida-dance-performance-tickets-894686460287

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.

Out & About

Ojai:

Forestwatch’s 16th Annual Ojai WILD! Benefit: Sunday, June 2, 4 – 7:30pm. Thacher School’s beautiful Pavilion Lawn.

The benefit event celebrates the 20th Anniversary of Los Padres ForestWatch and raises critical funds for the protection of wild lands and wildlife in the Los Padres National Forest. Ojai WILD! is Ventura County’s longest-running fundraiser for land and wildlife conservation. Open to the public. More than 300 conservationists, outdoor enthusiasts, and community leaders will enjoy a fun afternoon with local wines, craft brews, delicious dinner and dessert, and exciting silent and live auctions. Tickets are $200, and tables for eight can be reserved for $1,600. Reservations may be made at OjaiWild.org, or call Camden at 805-617-4610 ext 4.

Ventura County Pottery Guild’s Annual Ojai Pottery Market: Saturday June 8, 10am – 6pm and Sunday, June 9, 10am – 5pm. Libbey Park.

The Ventura County Potters’ Guild invites the public to its annual Ojai Pottery Market at Libbey Park. This marks the 66th year of the event along with the incredible Ojai Music Festival. Over 30 local potters will display handmade functional and decorative work. \ The Pottery Market is family friendly and free to the public. The Guild is a non-profit organization \, and this is a major fundraiser, supporting ceramic education and venues for local artists. Work can also be seen year-round at the gallery store in Ventura Harbor at 1567 Spinnaker Drive, Suite 105, or online at www.venturapotteryonline.com. More information can be found at www.vcpg.org.

37th Annual Ojai Wine Festival: Saturday, June 15th, 12 – 4 pm. Lake Casitas.

Organized by the Rotary Club of Ojai West Foundation, Inc., this event has grown to become a cornerstone fundraiser, attracting over 2,000 attendees from across Southern California each year. Lake Casitas Recreation Area, 11311 Santa Ana Rd, Ventura. https://ojaiwinefestival.com.

Oxnard:

Redbird’s 2024 Children of Many Colors Native American Powwow: Friday – Sunday, June 7 – 9, 2024. Oxnard College Gymnasium Field (outdoors, on the grass).

Friday evening 6 PM Open flute circle and vendor preview (All wind instruments and their players welcome, open mic, all experience levels welcome).

Free admission, free parking, everyone welcome. Native American singing, dancing, arts, crafts and food. Saturday 11am – 8pm Native American Powwow. Sunday 11am – 6pm Native American Powwow. (Veteran’s Honoring Sunday 11:30 AM approximate, all Veterans welcome). Visit www.RedbirdsVisions.org.

Santa Barbara:

Ensemble Theatre Company of Santa Barbara (ETC): Thursday, May 30 – Sunday, June 16.

Santa Barbara’s only professional theatre company is proud to announce the capstone production of its 45th season, the world premiere musical, ALICE, FORMERLY OF WONDERLAND, written by seven-time Emmy Award winning writer Mark Saltzman (Romeo and Bernadette) and directed by Jim Fall (Trick), with musical arrangements by Jack Lipson.   This enchanting new musical tells the true story of the secret romance between the real-life Alice, and Prince Leopold, son of Queen Victoria and great-granduncle of Prince Harry. As a child, Alice was Lewis Carroll’s inspiration for the girl who fell down the rabbit hole, but now Alice is falling in love, despite the furious objections of the Queen. To honor the a cappella traditions at Oxford, the music of ALICE, FORMERLY OF WONDERLAND is performed without accompaniment. The New Vic Theatre, 33 W. Victoria Street. www.Ensembletheatre.com

How the bats saved Mission San Buenaventura

by Richard Senate

Fr. Rubio was the rector of the old Mission in Ventura in the mid 19th Century. He saw it as his goal to modernize the church and make it up to date. There was even talk of demolishing the Mission Church and replacing it with a wooden Gothic monstrosity so beloved by Victorians. Fortunately for history, there wasn’t enough money for such an ambitious project.

So, Fr. Rubio, did his best to disguise the historic nature of the church. He took out the small windows in the chapel and replaced them with long stainedglass windows that did little to illuminate the interior. Then, he installed a wooded floor over the titles put in by the Chumash and painted out the designs the Native Converts used on the walls. The high ceiling was hidden by a false ceiling (to better heat the chapel). In all ways he tried to eliminate the humble beginnings of the church. When he demolished the fountain, some in Ventura protested that it should be preserved. The good father said, “Why? We have older things in Spain.”

The “modernized church” stood for many years in this way until a grant from the Hearst Foundation in 1952 permitted the church to be restored to something like the way it was in the days of Imperial Spain. When the wooden floors were removed, the old tiles were preserved where the Chumash prayed long ago. The stainedglass window removed and the spaces filled in. The renovation of the paintings of the Stations of the Cross, used all the allotted cash. They could do no more. But they did start to removed the false ceiling so that visitors could at least see the powerful beams that hold the roof. When they did, they discovered that bats had been roosting in the space! The false ceiling was filled with piles of bat droppings! As you may know, Guano, bat poop, is one of the richest of all fertilizers. The good ladies of the church made little cotton bags, stuffed in the guano and sold it! They made enough money to finish the restoration of the Mission Chapel. So, in a humble way, the bats help to restore the Mission.

The Bookmark About Libraries and Friends

by Mary Olson

Ventura County Library launched its Read, Renew, Repeat summer reading program on May 15.

Participants — kids, teens and adults – may register at vencolibrary.beanstack.org and record their reading with opportunities to win prizes for reaching reading goals. Each branch has a set of 4 Disneyland tickets to give away as a grand prize. Youth may visit their local branch to choose a free new book to add to their personal collection when signing up, a special sustainable prize for completing 500 minutes of reading and another free book for completing 1000 minutes. During the next few months, the library will host a range of free activities for children and teens to support a love of reading.

Saving Wildlife International is the featured performer this summer, showcasing a commitment to wildlife conservation, which ties in with the Summer Reading theme: Read, Renew, Repeat.
Saving Wildlife International brings its unique live animal presentation to
– Avenue Library, Saturday, June 15, 11am to noon
– Saticoy Library, Saturday, June 15, 2 to 3 pm
– E.P. Foster Library, Tuesday, June 18, 11am to noon
– Hill Road Library, Tuesday, June 18, 3 to 4 pm

Storytimes for children birth to 5 years are held at E.P. Foster Library MONDAYS at 10:30 am on the 2nd Floor; At Avenue Library, TUESDAYS at 4 pm in English and Spanish, n the children’s area and at Hill Road Library, Wednesdays at 10:30 am.

Maker Lab is open at Hill Road Library on Thursdays at 3:30 pm. Participate in a Lego Challenge on May 30 and June 20; create California native wildflower seed bombs and garden fairy wands to beautify your outdoor space on June 6; arrive no later than 3:35 pm for Slime Time on June 13 (space limited to 30 participants).

Movie Mondays! Family Film Fest and Coloring begins at Hill Road Library on Monday, June 10, 3:30 pm with Teenage Mutant Ninja Turtles Mutant Mayhem. Hill Road Library offers Game On! Board Games for all ages on Sundays, 11 am to 1 pm. Drop by and choose from over 35 games to play! For all ages. Fun for families or a great reason to meet with friends.

Avenue Library invites all to Stay and Play. Families are welcome to free coloring pages for all ages. Crayons and colored pencils are provided for in-house use. Board games, card games, puzzles and more are available during open hours.

For additional information about the summer reading program, contact Molly Krill, Ventura County Library Youth Services Manager at (805) 677-7170. For questions about what’s happening at individual branches, call (805) 626-READ.

The Ventura Friends of the Library Bookstore in E.P. Foster Library 2nd Look Books is now open 7 days a week, Monday through Saturday, 11:00 am to 4:00 pm and Sundays, 1:00 to 4:00 pm.

Find your beach books, jigsaw puzzles and more summer reading for kids! New donations arrive every week and the stock in our store is regularly refreshed.

With extended hours, the library could use more volunteers to staff the store. If you would like to help, please stop by the store and speak to a volunteer or email [email protected].

Oceana and Blancpain Launch Ocean Expedition to Explore and Document Ocean Biodiversity

California Aglaja (Navanax inermis) – a predatory sea slug we found in Santa Barbara Island State Marine Reserve. Photo by Oceana/Blancpain.

Beginning April 29, Oceana – in partnership with prestigious Swiss watchmaker, Blancpain – embarked on a five-day ocean expedition around the Northern Channel Islands off California to explore and document biodiversity that makes ocean waters off the state globally important. The expedition will further Oceana’s campaigns to restore ocean abundance and Blancpain’s commitment to ocean exploration and conservation.

Oceana diver conducting research.
Photo by Oceana/Blancpain.

Southern California boasts undersea geology unlike any other off the U.S. West Coast, marked by a series of faults, banks, and underwater mountains (seamounts). This geology, combined with cold nutrient-rich waters that upwell from the deep make this region a global biological hotspot supporting diverse ocean life and habitats. These ocean waters include migratory routes for large whales – including endangered humpback whales – nurseries for great white shark pups, breeding and foraging habitat for California sea lions and giant seabass, gardens for colorful deep sea corals, and canopies of giant kelp forests to name a few.

Oceana and Blancpain intend to undertake a variety of research elements that include:

  • Partnering with a San Diego-based company that uses a Remotely Operated Vehicle (ROV) for military purposes, that for the first time will be used for ocean conservation. We will be using the ROVs side-scan sonar technology to map the seafloor and explore how this technology may be able to help detect the presence of deep-sea corals in addition to seafloor substrate data, and lost fishing gear.
  • Collecting environmental DNA (eDNA) water samples that will be later analyzed in a lab to detect what ocean animals inhabit and traverse these waters by the DNA “footprint” they leave behind in the water column.
  • Conducting scuba dive surveys documenting the diversity of ocean fish and their habitats to provide a comprehensive glimpse into the biodiversity at risk.
  • Identifying individual giant seabass and their aggregation sites – a fish that can weigh more than 500 pounds and once reigned over California’s kelp forests until it was overfished in the 1900’s. Individual fish are identified by their unique spots – like a fingerprint – and documenting them can provide new insights into their movements and conservation. We are partnering with the scientists at UCSB to advance their “Spotting Giant Seabass” research project.

The groups plan to utilize the imagery and scientific information gathered at sea in support of protecting ocean biodiversity by reducing entanglement of ocean animals – including whales, sea lions, sharks, and other fish – in set gillnet fishing gear. These fishing nets used to catch California halibut and white seabass can be 20 football fields long. Despite action by California voters more than 30 years ago, set gillnets are still allowed in federal waters (3-200 miles from shore) off Southern California’s mainland, offshore banks, and in state waters around California’s Channel Islands. Oceana is urging the California Fish and Game Commission and the state legislature to reduce bycatch in the set gillnet fishery.

This scientific expedition is the first of three voyages Oceana and Blancpain have planned in partnership to explore ocean biodiversity off California through 2025.

Oceana is the largest international advocacy organization dedicated solely to ocean conservation. Oceana is rebuilding abundant and biodiverse oceans by winning science-based policies in countries that control one-quarter of the world’s wild fish catch. With more than 300 victories that stop overfishing, habitat destruction, oil and plastic pollution, and the killing of threatened species like turtles, whales, and sharks, Oceana’s campaigns are delivering results. A restored ocean means that 1 billion people can enjoy a healthy seafood meal, every day, forever. Together, we can save the oceans and help feed the world. Visit Oceana.org to learn more.

Founded in 1735 in the Swiss Jura, Blancpain is known as the world’s oldest watch brand. Loyal to its tradition of innovation and confirmed by countless horological complications invented over the years, the Manufacture is constantly pushing the boundaries of watchmaking to take this art to places where it has never been before.

Exploration and preservation of the world’s oceans is at the core to Blancpain. With its legacy of the Fifty Fathoms – the first true diver’s watch – extending over 70 years, Blancpain has become close to the explorers, photographers, scientists and environmentalists who treasure the precious underwater resource. With that affinity has come a determination to support important activities and initiatives dedicated to the oceans.

To date, Blancpain has co-financed dozens of major scientific expeditions, celebrated its role in significantly extending the surface area of marine protected areas around the world, and presented several award-winning documentary films, underwater photography exhibitions and publications. This dedication to supporting ocean exploration and preservation is called Blancpain Ocean Commitment.

For more information about the expedition visit Southern California Expedition 2024 – Oceana USA. To learn more about ocean biodiversity at risk from set gillnets visit www.oceana.org/KeepCAOceansThriving

Red gorgonian coral and black rockfish, Santa Cruz Island. Photo by Oceana/Blancpain.

 

 

A Majestic Sight To See, Tall Ship Mystic Whaler Sails Into Ventura Harbor Village

Adventure, Lore & More Await Visitors 

Make your Memorial Day plans to venture seaside to Ventura Harbor Village as the majestic Tall Ship Mystic Whaler makes its voyage into Ventura.

Made possible by Central Coast Ocean Adventures Foundation (CCOAF), the 110-foot schooner will make its journey up the Santa Barbara Channel along the California coast.

During its visit to Ventura Harbor Village, the ship will dock at Ventura Harbor Dock-C, (near Ventura Boat Rentals, in front of Brophy Bros and On the Alley restaurants) from May 23 – May 30, 2024, and coincides with Ventura Harbor Village’s ongoing Spring seaside events/activities throughout May. https://www.venturaharborvillage.com/events/

Seeking some great outdoor excitement?  A tour of the boat is just the ticket!  Get ready for a host of Instagram-worthy experiences with a step back in time with a Deck Tour of the vessel from 1 – 5 PM on May 25, 26 & 27, 2024. Sea lovers of all ages have the opportunity to get a detailed orientation of the boat and the CCOAF Foundation, while kids can enjoy fun activities.  Upon boarding the schooner, adult visitors can make a suggested donation of $5 (kids are free). Please note: All activities are weather pending and the schedule may be subject to change.

For information about the Tall Ship Mystic Whaler deck tour information visit www.centralcoastoceanadventures.org.  Also please check VenturaHarborVillage.com for latest updates.