Category Archives: What’s New

Bike 4 A Cause Hosts Free “Learn 2 Ride” Day and Ribbon Cutting Event with Keynote by Former CA Senator Omer Rains

The Youth Bike Competition Program helps kids ride safely and thrive,” said Carlos Landeros-Angel, Founder & CEO of Bike 4 A Cause.

Bike 4 A Cause is excited to invite the community to its Learn 2 Ride Day Ribbon Cutting Event on Saturday, November 23, from 10 a.m. to 6 p.m. at the Westpark Community Center, 450 W Harrison Avenue, Ventura. This free, family-friendly event offers a welcoming environment where children, teens, adults, and parents can build their biking skills, learn essential safety tips, and foster confidence. The day’s schedule includes a keynote address by former California Senator Omer Rains at 3 p.m., opened by a Chumash Blessing, a ribbon-cutting ceremony led by the Ventura Chamber of Commerce, and speeches by Bart Bluel from the Kiwanis Club of Ventura, Ventura Unified School District (VUSD) Board of Education Trustee James Forsythe, and community mental health advocate Sade Champagne. Local, county, and state officials are also expected to join the festivities.

Dr. Dawes, Bart Bluel of the Kiwanis Club of Ventura, Principal Cohen of DATA, and Carlos Landeros-Angel gather to discuss the upcoming middle school bike competition program.

As a seasoned public servant with deep ties to the community, Senator Rains will share insights from his influential career, which has included landmark legislation that secured public beach access and helped establish the Ventura Promenade, also known as the Omer Rains Bikeway. Known for his global humanitarian work, including serving as an advisor to Nelson Mandela, Rains has left an indelible mark on Ventura and beyond. “Senator Rains has done more to advance women’s rights and equality under the law than any legislator in California history,” shared the President of the National Women’s Political Caucus. As an active member of the Bike 4 A Cause Advisory Board, Senator Rains, along with his daughter Jessica Rains, continues his commitment to community well-being by supporting programs that encourage outdoor activity and safe cycling. Thanks to his generosity, children who learn to ride at the event will receive commemorative Bike 4 A Cause T-shirts.

Bikes lined up and ready for students at DATA to practice their riding skills.

Beyond promoting bike safety, Bike 4 A Cause emphasizes mental wellness and family bonding. Donations raised will support the Youth Bike Competition Program, which last year engaged 114 middle school students who collectively rode over 3,300 miles. This program encourages young riders to choose outdoor activity over screen time, building social connections, physical fitness, and confidence. “We’re honored to have Senator Rains as our keynote speaker,” said Carlos Landeros-Angel, Founder & CEO of Bike 4 A Cause. “As a Bike Safety Instructor for VUSD, I saw firsthand how important it is for kids to get outside, ride safely, and participate in supportive activities. The Youth Bike Competition Program is one way we help make that possible.”

Event Highlights

The Learn 2 Ride Day events take place on the second Saturday of each month at Arroyo Verde Park and the fourth Saturday at Westpark Community Center, from 10 a.m. to 6 p.m. These events feature guided instruction, safety brochures, and techniques like the Grassy Hill Method to help new riders learn quickly and safely. New riders receive a Certificate of Achievement signed by a Ventura city official, along with a small prize to celebrate their success.

Each event also includes a special guest speaker on bike safety, community resources, and family activities, plus safety updates and the latest California traffic laws for cyclists and e-bike riders provided by the Ventura Police Department to promote safe riding practices for all.

Get Involved!

Families are encouraged to RSVP online to reserve a spot, though walk-ins are welcome anytime between 10 a.m. and 6 p.m. Visit bike4acause.org for more information on programs, events, and ways to support the Youth Bike Competition Program.

About Bike 4 A Cause

Bike 4 A Cause is dedicated to creating a safe and connected community by promoting bike safety, mental wellness, and family engagement. Through initiatives like Learn 2 Ride Day and the Youth Bike Competition Program, the organization empowers families to build confidence, celebrate milestones, and enjoy healthy outdoor activities together.

Special Thanks

Bike 4 A Cause extends sincere thanks to its sponsors, including the Kiwanis Club of Ventura, TREK, Patagonia, 5 Nerds Software Development, Real Quick Design and Consultation, and Simply SarahLee. Appreciation also goes to our community partners—the Ventura Chamber of Commerce, VUSD, The City of Ventura, and The Housing Authority—for their support in promoting Learn 2 Ride Day. Special recognition goes to CSU Channel Islands (CSUCI) for producing a documentary on Bike 4 A Cause through The View, CSUCI’s newspaper, and to CSUCI marketing intern Athena Affholter for designing event flyers.

How can we make Halloween safer for pets?

From the American Veterinary Medical Association (AVMA)

Image by Freepik

Costumes and masks, lights and decorations, and a constant parade of strangers coming to your door— Halloween can be a downright spooky experience for pets. You can protect your pets by taking these steps to reduce the risk of them being hurt, poisoned, or lost.

  • Don’t feed pets Halloween treats. Raisins can cause your pet’s kidneys to fail, and candy may contain substances toxic to pets, such as chocolate or xylitol (a common sugar substitute found in sugar-free candies and gum). Often, you won’t be able to tell what a treat or piece of candy contains just by looking at it.
  • Make sure your pets have identification (microchip, collar, and ID tag) that will make it easy for someone to contact you and return them home in case they escape through an open door while you’re distracted with trick-or-treaters.
  • Keep lit candles, jack-o-lanterns, and other Halloween decorations out of reach of pets.
  • Keep all human costume pieces away from pets, along with glow sticks, decorations, batteries, and other holiday items. When chewed, glow stick items can release liquid that tastes really bad and can make pets drool excessively or act strangely (though it isn’t likely to be harmful). Other costume parts and decorations might cause choking, internal injury, or illness.
  • If you plan to put a costume on your pet, make sure it follows these guidelines:
    • Fits properly and is comfortable
    • Doesn’t have any pieces that easily can be chewed off or cause choking
    • Doesn’t block your pet’s sight, hearing, breathing, mouth, or movement
  • Take time before Halloween to get your pet accustomed to the costume, and never leave a costumed pet unsupervised.
  • If your pet is wary of strangers or has a tendency to bite, put them in a room away from the front door during trick-or-treating hours, or provide them with a safe hiding place.
  • Keep your pet indoors.

A BAA Showcase: Artwork from some of our 2025 lineup of Workshop Instructors

November 1 – November 23, 2024

First Friday reception: Friday, November 1, 6 – 9 pm

Buenaventura Art Association has some exciting news coming up! A landmark move which stands out even among 70 years of notable moves meant to better serve our community. This Workshop Instructors’ Showcase is a hint and preview of what’s to come as BAA will move on from Studio 99 to a new headquarters in the Ventura Harbor Village, creating an Art Center.

The artwork in this show represents the work of several of the instructors we have lined up in 2025 for an exciting schedule of monthly workshops. Instructors include Anette Power, Jim Darin, Gary Friedman, Ed Terpening, Didi Martin, and more!

Come to First Friday on November 1st to see the schedule of workshops, starting in January, a floor plan of the new space, and more plans to make BAA’s upcoming Art Center a warm gathering place and vibrant asset for our community! www.buenaventuraartassociation.org.

Turning Point Foundation’s Winter Magic Fundraiser: Supporting Mental Health and Horticultural Therapy Programs

by Carol Leish, MA

The Turning Point Foundation invites the community to join a series of meaningful events this fall and winter to support their Growing Works Nursery and horticultural therapy program, which provide essential resources for those experiencing mental health challenges. All proceeds from these events will go directly toward the Growing Works program and nursery operations, enhancing the foundation’s efforts to improve the lives of Ventura County residents.

Upcoming Events at Growing Works Nursery

Fall Festival (November 9th, 10:00am–2:00pm)

The Growing Works Fall Festival offers an opportunity for visitors to explore a diverse selection of native plants for sale, enjoy live music by the Orchard Bluegrass Band, admire an antique tractor exhibit by Topa Topa Flywheelers, and browse unique local vendors. Admission is free, and community members interested in becoming a vendor or sponsor can learn more at Fall Festival Registration.

Winter Magic Fundraiser (December 21st, 6:00pm–9:00pm)

This new indoor event will bring “Winter Magic” to all ages with an enchanting evening of entertainment. Attendees will enjoy a catered buffet by Flight 126 Café, magic and comedy by renowned performer Andy Gross, and stand-up comedy by Big Tom McCain. In addition, guests can participate in a holiday wreath-making workshop for a creative seasonal touch. Tickets and workshop registration are available at Winter Magic Tickets and Holiday Wreath Workshop.

About Turning Point Foundation and Growing Works Nursery

Growing Works, an innovative program launched by Turning Point Foundation in 2018, is a wholesale plant nursery dedicated to mental wellness through horticultural therapy. It provides job training, volunteer opportunities, and a nurturing environment for recovery. Since its inception, Growing Works has helped over 200 adults, leading more than 30 participants to competitive employment and over 10 to pursue higher education.

“Learn more about our thriving horticultural program and how it positively impacts the lives of individuals with mental health challenges,” says Program Manager Jenn Rodriguez. For details, visit Growing Works or reach out at [email protected].

Turning Point Foundation’s Mission and Services

For over 35 years, Turning Point Foundation has been dedicated to improving the quality of life for adults facing serious mental illness, addiction, housing insecurity, and inadequate health care. The foundation provides health navigation, rehabilitation, wellness programs, and supportive housing across Ventura County. Programs and services are available in Ventura, Oxnard, and Camarillo, with 11 locations supporting over 3,000 people each year.

Recently, the foundation acquired its third board-and-care facility, which offers 55 beds for seniors with severe mental illness. Turning Point works closely with Ventura County Behavioral Health and the Veterans Administration to ensure those in need receive referrals to this critical program.

To learn more about Turning Point’s programs and how you can support this vital cause, visit Turning Point Foundation. By donating, you’re contributing to transformative services that help individuals with mental health challenges lead more fulfilling lives.

“Visual Dialogue” – by the inkspots of San Buenaventura

A Collection of New Works by Ventura County’s Only Printmaking Group

Established in 2007, the inkspots of San Buenaventura are a group of artists dedicated to creating original prints using a variety of techniques, including etching, collagraph, linocut, monoprint, monotype, woodblock, and digital manipulation. This year, for the first time, the group is unveiling a unique fusion of fabric art and printmaking at their 16th annual exhibition, held at 643 Project Space—an alternative gallery designed to give early-career artists opportunities to exhibit their work.

The “Visual Dialogue” exhibit will feature the works of Christina Altfeld, Margarita Cantú, Beverly Decker, Sarah Fuller, Virginia Furmanski, Bay Hallowell, Melissa Knapp, Sandra McCullough, Inés Monguió, Danelle Moon, Nathanael Read, Leslie Plimpton, and Yasemin Zografos. The artists’ styles are as unique as they are, with members hailing from Ventura, Ojai, Summerland, and Santa Barbara. Some are also members of organizations like the Los Angeles Printmaking Society, the California Society of Printmakers, and the Santa Barbara Printmakers.

The artist opening reception will take place on Nov. 1, from 5–8 p.m. at 643 Project Space, located at 643 Ventura Ave., Ventura, CA 93001.

Gallery hours are Saturdays, Nov. 2, 9, 16, 23, and 30 from 1–4 p.m., and by appointment. For appointments, email [email protected].

A different printmaking demonstration will be held each Saturday in November, showcasing techniques such as collagraph, woodcut, monotype, drypoint, and photopolymer printing.

A Positive Outlook on Aging

by Leslie Sokol

Image by Freepik

What is your outlook on aging? Do you welcome it with open arms, or do you worry that you may not be able to continue the activities you currently enjoy? Many people have mixed feelings about aging, and it’s human nature to doubt yourself and lose confidence in your abilities. However, by cultivating a positive mindset and embracing change, you can learn to see the aging process as a valuable rite of passage. In doing so, you harness the power of positive aging.

Aging is a healthy, normal part of life. Maintaining a positive mindset as you grow older is essential, especially if you want to keep doing the things that bring you joy and meaning. I truly believe that a positive outlook can help you live a longer, healthier, and happier life.

Positive Aspects of Aging:

  • A greater sense of self-acceptance
  • Improved emotional control
  • Increased resilience
  • Enhanced happiness
  • Less stress over minor issues
  • Greater kindness toward oneself
  • Plenty of good stories to tell

You can foster positive emotions by practicing mindfulness and embracing self-talk that builds your confidence. It’s also helpful to recognize how your attitude and lifestyle choices affect your physical and emotional well-being. By staying active, eating well, being social, exercising your brain, setting goals, embracing change, and minimizing stress, you can enrich and enhance your golden years.

The Power of Positive Thinking

Positive thinking can significantly influence your overall well-being and quality of life. I always encourage my students to maintain a positive outlook. A great way to cultivate this is through daily affirmations or gratitude practices, which help you appreciate the present moment. Getting involved in your community and engaging in activities that bring you joy can also support a positive mindset.

It’s equally important to maintain a sense of purpose by finding projects that align with your values. Reject negative stereotypes about aging, such as the belief that poor physical health is inevitable. Stay socially active by joining a club or community organization and participate in activities that keep you physically and mentally engaged.

Embracing Change

Aging gracefully means being able to embrace change. Your body and lifestyle will inevitably evolve as you age, but staying open to these changes allows you to navigate the process with resilience and grace. Everyone’s aging journey is unique—what works for one person may not work for another. By maintaining a positive outlook, you can age gracefully and enjoy a higher quality of life. Remember, age is just a number. Be healthy and happy!

For more information, contact Leslie at [email protected], by calling 805-312-8089, or by visiting her website: www.LeslieSokolsDance.com.

Paint and Sip Party at the Harbor

On August 10, the Ventura Downtown Lions Club and The Greek Restaurant hosted a Paint & Sip event for the residents of Bonaventure Senior Living. The idea, sparked by Lion Cyndee McDaniel, aimed to bring joy to the aging community. The Greek Restaurant’s owner generously provided delicious meals, making the afternoon a memorable blend of fun and service. #WeServe

 

Limoneira Co. Commits to Protecting Marine Life and Reducing Emissions with New Program

Newest ambassador for Protecting Blue Whales

Santa Paula’s based Limoneira Co. is the newest ambassador for the Protecting Blue Whales and Blue Skies program. This initiative incentivizes shipping companies to voluntarily reduce their speeds along California’s coast to decrease air pollution, regional greenhouse gas emissions, underwater noise, and fatal ship strikes to endangered whales. It is a collaborative effort among the Ventura County Air Pollution Control District and other air districts, California national marine sanctuaries, the California Marine Sanctuary Foundation, and other nonprofit organizations.

Ambassadors are companies and ports committed to sustainable shipping practices and reducing the negative biodiversity impacts of their supply chains. They receive data on their ocean carriers’ performance in the program and the associated environmental benefits. This data can be used to demonstrate their sustainability commitments to customers and stakeholders and to facilitate more sustainable shipping choices in the future.

“Our commitment to sustainability is deeply embedded in our culture, and we view sustainability as a path toward continued long-term success,” said Limoneira President and CEO Harold Edwards. “We are responsible trustees in the protection and improvement of our environment that align with the goals of the Blue Whales and Blue Skies program.” Limoneira, one of the oldest citrus-growing organizations on the West Coast, is a longtime leader in environmental stewardship and sustainability innovation. The 131-year-old agribusiness is a leading producer of lemons, avocados, and other crops consumed worldwide. It has 10,500 acres of agricultural lands, real estate properties, and water rights in California, Arizona, Chile, and Argentina.

Other program ambassadors include the Port of Hueneme, Sonos, Nomad Goods, Peak Design, Summit Coffee, Way Basics, Santa Cruz Bicycles, Who Gives a Crap, The Block Logistics, and JAS Worldwide. The program helps global shipping companies better understand their environmental impacts and make changes to reduce them by verifying the cooperation of a company’s entire fleet of ships as well as individual ships and transits. In 2023, cooperating shipping companies reduced the risk of lethal ship strikes to whales by 58% and averaged a 5.4-decibel decrease in underwater noise per transit. Since the program’s launch 10 years ago, cooperating vessels have slowed down for more than 1.1 million nautical miles, resulting in reductions of more than 150,000 metric tons of regional greenhouse gases and 4,500 tons of nitrogen oxide emissions. For more information, visit www.bluewhalesblueskies.org.

C.A.R.L. To the Rescue!

When Canine Adoption and Rescue League (CARL) found out that a pregnant dog was on the euthanasia list at a high-kill animal shelter, they quickly sprang into action. Volunteers arrived just in time to rescue the mother dog before she was euthanized. This sweet, expectant mother was then transported to Ventura and placed directly into a foster home. Fourteen days later, she delivered nine puppies. What could have ended in tragedy turned into a heartwarming success. Both the mother and her puppies were safe, being raised in a quiet, stress-free home.

This mother dog had been found abandoned in the desert, struggling to survive in the harsh heat without shelter. After she was picked up and taken to the shelter, it was discovered that she was pregnant. Due to the overcrowded conditions at the shelter, she was quickly placed on the euthanasia list. Thanks to CARL, the mother and her puppies were given a second chance. All of them have since been adopted into loving homes, and are now spayed and neutered to help control the dog population.

One year after their rescue, all ten dogs gathered for a one-year birthday party and reunion at CARL’s rescue property in Santa Paula. CARL is a non-profit, all-breed, no-kill rescue that has been serving the Ventura County community since 1996. Please visit CARL’s website at www.CARLdogs.org to see how you can help by donating, volunteering, fostering, or adopting.

With your help, CARL can save more lives and place dogs into loving, pre-approved homes. CARL relies entirely on charitable donations and is operated by volunteers. Here are the ways you can support CARL’s lifesaving mission:

  • Venmo: name “carl dogs”
  • PayPal or credit card: Visit www.CARLdogs.org
  • Checks: Can be mailed to CARL, PO Box 5022, Ventura, CA 93005