Posted on May 5, 2021 by admin
∙Once again, I want to thank our wonderful readers who are contributing financially to support the Ventura Breeze. The Breeze staff appreciates what you are doing to help keep us in print. The good news is as COVID control allows more businesses to open, our advertising base, is improving. ∙In this issue (page 7), we […]
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Posted on April 21, 2021 by admin
∙The closing of Main St. downtown, known as Main Street Moves, will continue to at least the beginning of next year (Jan.7, 2022), but there is talk about making this closure permanent. The street was closed off to drivers beginning in June of last year. Next week, the downtown business association – Downtown Ventura Partners […]
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Posted on April 7, 2021 by admin
∙ In this issue we have an article regarding the proposed increase to our water and wastewater rates. A public hearing will be held on May 17 to discuss increasing water rates by 7% and wastewater rates by 6% each year for the next five years. If fully adopted, the proposed rates would generate an […]
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Posted on March 24, 2021 by admin
∙Wonderful that new county regulations are allowing most businesses to open and allow inside dining and other activities. There are still some restrictions, but things are getting somewhat back to normal. Schools will be opening also. Ventura County is on its way to recording one of the driest rainy seasons on record. Rainfall totals have […]
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Posted on March 10, 2021 by admin
∙East Ventura will be getting a kindergarten through eighth grade school at Academy of Technology and Leadership at Saticoy known as ATLAS Elementary. The Ventura Unified School District board voted 4-1, dissenting was Trustee Matt Almaraz, who didn’t want to add middle school grades to the elementary school. This vote comes after the district’s decision […]
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Posted on February 24, 2021 by admin
∙The Ventura City Council has voted 4-2 (only 6 members on the council right now) to introduce two ordinances to permit a limited number of cannabis dispensary’s in Ventura. Voting to adopt the resolution were Doug Halter, Lorrie Brown, Jim Friedman and Joe Schroeder. Voting against were Mayor Sofia Rubalcava and Mike Johnson. The council’s […]
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Posted on February 10, 2021 by admin
∙ Congratulations to our senior account executive Breezy Gledhill for her 10 years with the Ventura Breeze. Without her bringing in advertisers, there would not be a Ventura Breeze. ∙ Being on the Ventura City Council has been a great stepping-stone for higher political office. Ventura councilman Erik Nasarenko has been appointed as Ventura County’s […]
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Posted on January 27, 2021 by admin
∙All kinds of good stuff at www.venturabreeze.com. Surf reports, weather, past issues, Scampclub pets, horoscopes and the current issue. Plus, other goodies. ∙ The Ventura Port District Board of Port Commissioners approved a program to defer rental payments for Ventura Harbor Village tenants who have been directly impacted by the pandemic. Which is probably all […]
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Posted on January 13, 2021 by admin
Lord Acton 1887 “Power tends to corrupt and absolute power corrupts absolutely.” Like all Americans (I wish) I was ashamed, embarrassed, shocked, angry and tearful watching what Trump (and some of his relatives) has brought upon this country by Inciting an insurrection that left 5 Americans dead. I certainly hope that he is prosecuted for […]
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Posted on December 30, 2020 by admin
∙Wow, this year is almost over, and not a minute too soon. A relief, but certainly not the end of the world’s problems. COVID-19 will still be with us for a long time, especially if many people do not take the vaccine and continue to spread it. A devastating year for most businesses, especially restaurants […]
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Posted on December 16, 2020 by admin
∙Difficult times for all businesses, especially for restaurants. They were finally were able to open up, and then just serve outside, but now can only do takeout again. How long can small businesses exist under these conditions? Some restaurants in Ventura (and other communities) are defying the orders and staying open hoping other restaurants […]
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Posted on December 2, 2020 by admin
∙ The Ventura City Council has delayed adopting the ordinance allowing commercial cannabis businesses in Ventura due to concerns about the proximity of such establishments to residences, libraries, parks and schools. The council also delayed adopting a resolution that would have established the maximum number of cannabis businesses in the city. The resolution would have […]
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Posted on November 18, 2020 by admin
∙Congratulations to Mike Johnson, Joe Schroeder and Doug Halter on being elected to our city council. as our new city council members. With their election, all 7 members now represent a specific area (district) in Ventura. And, also, to Amy Yamamoto Callahan for being elected to the Board of Education. Two of the city council […]
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Posted on November 4, 2020 by admin
∙ At a recent City Council meeting, the Ventura City Council has reaffirmed its stand against white supremacy and racism. Mayor Matt LaVere stated, on behalf of the Council, “The City Council remains steadfast to its commitment to condemn white supremacy and racism, discrimination and all forms of hatred, none of which will be tolerated […]
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Posted on October 21, 2020 by admin
∙ Wow, another year for the Ventura Breeze. It’s been a tough one, as it has been for most businesses. My thanks to all the special people involved in making the paper happen; our wonderful writers, photographers and distributors for managing to work around the virus and still do a great job, Deena (AKA as […]
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Posted on October 7, 2020 by admin
∙In this special issue of the Breeze, we feature the candidates for the Ventura City Council, Mayor Matt LaVere’s 2020 State of the City, Jim Friedman’s thoughts about council districts and a tribute to retiring council member Cheryl Heitmann. I hope that you enjoy it, and please vote ( mailing in is the safest way […]
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Posted on September 23, 2020 by admin
∙At a special City Council meeting held on Tuesday, September 8, the Council approved the extension of the popular ‘Main Street Moves’ program. This is a temporary outdoor business expansion program that allows businesses within the 6 block closure area of historic Downtown Ventura Main St (Fir St. to Figueroa Plaza) to expand onto the […]
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Posted on August 26, 2020 by admin
∙In June, Downtown Ventura closed its streets to expand outdoor dining and shopping as part of its Main Street Moves launch. This has saved many restaurants from having to close. The closure will continue at least until September 14. ∙A new free COVID-19 walk-in test site, open to all county residents, is now open at […]
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Posted on August 12, 2020 by admin
∙Current, and some former, Ventura residents have sued the City over the removal of the statue of Junipero Serra from in front of City Hall. The Coalition for Historical Integrity filed its suit in Ventura County Superior Court two days prior to the statue being removed and put in storage with the hope of moving […]
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Posted on July 29, 2020 by admin
∙I didn’t think that the downtown closing of Main St. would be successful, but it is working very well. Outdoor dining is a great idea because it allows many restaurants to remain open that would be otherwise closed, many permanently. This is especially true because the Coronavirus will be with us for a long time. […]
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Posted on July 15, 2020 by admin
∙ In this issue we launch a new Social Justice column. Please let me know what you think of the column? We hope readers will send in their thoughts to editor@venturabreeze.com. ∙The statue of Father Junipero Serra in Sacramento’s Capitol Park was brought down amid a protest focusing on the rights and historical struggle of […]
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Posted on July 1, 2020 by admin
∙Regarding the Bill Green cartoon in the last issue, I have received negative feedback and criticism from some of our readers and sincerely apologize for running it. It wasn’t intended to be racist in any manner, but rather just a satirical social comment on the changes underway in this country and the challenges faced by people of […]
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Posted on June 17, 2020 by admin
∙The City of Ventura plans to cut 35 jobs to balance the budget. It is hoped they can do this without layoffs by using early retirements and a hiring freeze. City Manager Alex McIntyre stated the budget plans are a “shared sacrifice making sure we don’t balance the budget on the back of any particular […]
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Posted on June 3, 2020 by admin
∙Ventura has made announcements about closing four to five blocks on Main St. downtown to make them pedestrian friendly, but no one seems to know what that means exactly. Does that mean closing all of Main so that people can walk in the street? Or does it mean removing some parking spaces so restaurants can […]
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Posted on May 20, 2020 by admin
∙One after another, Ventura’s wonderful events are being cancelled. The latest is Music Under the Stars, held at the Olivas Adobe. This is one of my favorites. Too bad they couldn’t have an abbreviated season (3-4 concerts) later in the year. ∙ It’s odd looking at my weekly calendar, which is currently blank. I now […]
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Posted on May 6, 2020 by admin
∙I received two envelopes from US Treasury so assumed that each contained a $1,200 stimulus check. Opened the first one, and it had a check for $26. After a few swear words, I opened the second one and it had a check for $2,400. Looking more closely at the $26 check, it was an income […]
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Posted on April 22, 2020 by admin
∙WOW, WOW, WOW! I am humbled by the overwhelming support for the Ventura Breeze from our wonderful readers. I cannot thank all of you enough for your financial contributions. Community papers rely on local advertisers for survival. And, as we all know, our local businesses are fighting for their lives. Please continue to support them […]
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Posted on April 8, 2020 by admin
∙ A potential positive outcome from people being forced to stay home is that some companies will realize that it might be beneficial to let employees work at home. Efficiency might improve, and they would see that they don’t need 40,000 square feet of office space. Plus, it would help the environment by keeping cars […]
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Posted on March 25, 2020 by admin
Cancel, cancel, cancel. Stay at home. Don’t hug when we need them most. What awful tough times for us all. ∙This is a very different issue of the Breeze than usual. Almost no events (including art) as Ventura shuts down. Several Coronavirus articles as well – not our usual Ventura news, but important for our […]
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Posted on March 11, 2020 by admin
∙The Breeze has never received as many negative emails and phone calls regarding any subject (even Trump) as has been sent to us regarding Scientology. Emails that I won’t even print. I have been accused of awful things because of the article and my comments regarding Scientology. Please understand that I (and the Breeze) are […]
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Posted on February 26, 2020 by admin
∙Watching the first of the Las Vegas Democratic Townhall presentations made me very proud to be an American. A Jew, a gay person and a woman were being interviewed as potential presidential candidates. This is what will make America great again, and me proud again. ∙The Church of Scientology has moved into their new facility […]
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Posted on February 12, 2020 by admin
∙ I am supporting Ventura Mayor Matt LaVere for the Ventura County Board of Supervisors in the March 3 elections. I would love to see him follow in the footsteps of Steve Bennett (who also started out as a Ventura city council member) prior to becoming a supervisor. Matt is young (but not too young), […]
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Posted on January 29, 2020 by admin
∙We have a cover article about the new wonderful homeless facility called the ARCH. I attended the ribbon cutting and was impressed with the very large gathering, which included many Ventura city and county dignitaries. It is a joint venture between the city and county. I love the fact that residents can bring their dogs […]
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Posted on January 15, 2020 by admin
∙Interesting facts about Ventura from the 2019 State Of The Region Report by Ventura County Civic Alliance (comparing Ventura County cities). Ventura is third in annual per pupil spending ($10,967). Fillmore number one at $12,146. Number eight in owner-occupied homes (46%). Number five in average monthly apartment rent ($1,823). TO is number one. Number one […]
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Posted on January 1, 2020 by admin
∙ Per our cover article, the County of Ventura has selected Ashley Bautista as their new Public Information Officer following the retirement of Bill Nash. She will report to County Executive Officer Mike Powers. I’m happy for her, but sad at the same time. Ashley was great at keeping the media informed about news and […]
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Posted on December 18, 2019 by admin
∙ Happy holidays and new year to our wonderful readers and advertisers. ∙In our last issue, I made what I thought was a tongue-in-cheek comment about doctor’s visits, which prompted this response from an “Anonymous Family Doctor.” I understand why he/she wants to remain anonymous and I do appreciate the fact that he/she took time […]
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Posted on December 4, 2019 by admin
∙ The Harbor is accepting proposals from business owners who want to lease part, or all, of the Village Carousel and Arcade space at the Harbor. That includes the arcade’s current owner who could move into a smaller space. Todd Mitchell, the harbor’s Business Operations Manager, said he would like to see some type of […]
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Posted on November 20, 2019 by admin
∙In SmartAsset’s third annual study on America’s most livable mid-sized cities, San Buenaventura came in at number 22. The top five were all in Colorado. They assessed the affordability and livability of mid-sized cities in the U.S. “We looked at a variety of economic factors, such as income inequality, unemployment rate, home value and housing […]
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Posted on November 6, 2019 by admin
∙ On Oct.2, Ventura Port District’s Board of Port Commissioners voted to adopt Resolution No. 3379, a slip rate increase policy, which allows the marina master leases to govern the process for slip rate adjustments. Ventura Port District General Manager Brian Pendleton said there will be no significant change that the policy just clarifies the […]
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Posted on October 23, 2019 by admin
∙Congratulations to Pam Baumgardner for being elected to the Board of Directors at CAPS Media. You can read all about it in the CAPS article in this issue. Pam, of course, covers music in the Ventura Breeze with her Ventura Music Scene appearing on page 20. ∙California health officials have issued a warning that people […]
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Posted on October 9, 2019 by admin
∙Wow, another year of publication of the Ventura Breeze. As we commence Vol.13, No.1, there are so many people to thank. Our advertisers, who keep us in business, and also are helping to support another local business. Plus, all the wonderful people that contribute to our community newspaper; our writers, photographers, distributors (you can see […]
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Posted on September 25, 2019 by admin
∙Wow, another fiscal year ending for the Ventura Breeze. Our next issue will be Vol.13 No. 1. Who would have thought that we would still be publishing after all this time in the age of digital news? A tribute to our wonderful readers and advertisers. More about this in our next issue. ∙Reader Zila Hawkins […]
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Posted on September 11, 2019 by admin
∙I want to thank one of our wonderful readers for suggesting that we provide the Ventura Breeze at the 24 Hour Fitness located on Telegraph. We now have a rack there with the Breeze for your reading pleasure. Just don’t take it in the pool – it is not waterproof. ∙Do spiders like looking at […]
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Posted on August 28, 2019 by admin
∙Hundreds of people were shocked recently when they went to pick up their mail from their PO Boxes at Coffee Dock & Post in the Harbor only to find it closed and gone. The business closed overnight, with no warning (or access to the boxes). The USPS was cooperative and delivered the mail to Coastal […]
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Posted on August 14, 2019 by admin
∙ Okay, I have changed my mind for the last time (soft promise). The Breeze is non-political except for my comments and possibly the “Mailbox” letters. Perhaps when I speak about Trump I should put “Trump comments included” above my article, so Trump supporters don’t get upset. As always, if you disagree let us know […]
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Posted on July 31, 2019 by admin
∙The Ventura County Fair opened today. Some people living in Ventura forget that this is the “Ventura County’ Fair and how lucky we are that it is held right here in our backyard. So, take advantage of it being local. There is certainly something for everyone at the Fair. ∙ The Trade Desk, a Ventura-based […]
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Posted on July 17, 2019 by admin
Sheldon is on vacation enjoying beautiful Ventura. These are snippets from previous articles for your reading pleasure. ∙A teenager died when he was struck by a train in Ventura. The incident happened on the tracks near Hurst Avenue and Ocean Avenue, according to a Union Pacific official. The 17-year-old male from West Hills was struck […]
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Posted on July 3, 2019 by admin
∙After more than 30–years at 2401 Harbor, the last Carrows Restaurant in Ventura County has closed its doors. Carrows Restaurants, Inc. is a subsidiary of Catalina Restaurant Group, Inc. I’m sorry to see it close. Even though part of a chain, it was still a local casual restaurant. ∙The board that oversees use of the Ventura […]
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Posted on June 19, 2019 by admin
∙I want to thank the Ventura Port District for inserting the Harbor Views Newsletter in this issue. Nice to know that they feel the Breeze is the best way to contact Venturans. Commenting on gun violence, Gov. Gavin Newsom stated, “From San Bernardino to Ventura to Poway, too many Californians have already died from gun […]
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Posted on June 5, 2019 by admin
∙ Recently, Richard Lieberman, and I had lunch with Jeff Lambert, the City’s former Community Development Director (see cover story). He is now working for the City of Oxnard and very happy there. A real loss for Ventura. ∙ Circus Vargas will not be coming to Ventura this year, but will perform in Camarillo and […]
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Posted on May 22, 2019 by admin
∙ Although the City saw increases in arson and thefts from vehicles, major crime decreased by 3.74% in 2018 in Ventura compared to 2017. Last year, Ventura police responded to 98,652 calls for service and arrested 6,554 people. The most common arrests were non-aggressive crimes such as narcotics-related offenses, being drunk in public, misdemeanor bench […]
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Posted on May 8, 2019 by admin
∙Okay, no kidding no more Trump comments from me. Reader’s comments are always welcome. ∙I received the following email from a reader. Hi Sheldon – Your last issue suggests that “Easter”. “Christian”. “church” are not part of your vocabulary. My response to the reader was, “How? What did I say? Please explain further.” His response: […]
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Posted on April 24, 2019 by admin
∙ Now that we have city council districts (four have been elected by district for now – but all council members will eventually be based upon districts when currents terms are up) – I think that these four should have quarterly townhall meetings to hear what the concerns (and likes) are from their constituents. They are: Sofia Rubalcava, Deputy Mayor – District 1; Lorrie Brown, Councilmember – District 6; Jim Friedman, Councilmember – District 5; Erik Nasarenko, Councilmember […]
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Posted on April 10, 2019 by admin
∙ Nearly a year ago, on April 18, Jamal Jackson was arrested on suspicion of fatally stabbing Anthony Mele Jr., 35, of Ventura, at Aloha Steakhouse. Mele died the next day. Attorney Monica Cummins, of the Ventura County Public Defender’s Office, who is defending Jamal Jackson, be seeking to take the case out of Ventura […]
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Posted on March 27, 2019 by admin
∙According to a report released by the Ventura County Fire Department, it has been determined that Southern California Edison power lines did cause the Thomas fire. Investigators concluded that the fire was started by two power lines that hit each other during high winds on Dec.4, 2017. What happens next might need to be determined […]
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Posted on March 13, 2019 by admin
∙Congratulations to my favorite music columnist, Pam Baumgardner, on the 10th-anniversary of providing VenturaRocks.com for our community. People live by her daily listings for showing where to go for music in Ventura, and she’s never once charged the artists or Ventura venues to be listed. Plus, you can read her column in the Breeze. ∙Here […]
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Posted on February 27, 2019 by admin
∙The city has released its long-awaited report on the Thomas Fire (article on the cover). I found the small amount of information covering the lack of water to fight the fire a little disappointing in the 25-page report. The report says: “During the Thomas Fire, the City’s water system operated as designed. No urban water […]
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Posted on February 13, 2019 by admin
∙ I hope you enjoy reading the enclosed Harbor View insert and learn lots about our wonderful Harbor. ∙ Have you written a book – or have been thinking about self-publishing and don’t know where to start? If so, The Breeze is presenting a self-publishing seminar on March 24. (see ad on page 24 to […]
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Posted on January 30, 2019 by admin
•During the approximately eight years publishing the Breeze prior to Trump being elected president, I never have made political comments regarding Democrats or Republicans, conservatives or liberals because it was always just Washington doing business as usual. But,I have some real problems with the Trump presidency and feel that I must comment. Other than an […]
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Posted on January 16, 2019 by admin
• Per the cover article in this issue, the Board of Education has hired Dr. Roger Rice as the new Superintendent of Ventura Unified School District (VUSD). He sounds very qualified, but so has the several others in the position that have recently come and gone. I certainly hope he stays around long enough to […]
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Posted on January 3, 2019 by admin
• Happy New Year to all our wonderful readers, our vital much-needed advertisers and the dedicated Ventura Breeze staff. Without any of these we wouldn’t exist. • This will be any interesting year in Ventura watching our “new” City Council and new City Manager dig in to the many issues facing the city. A great […]
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Posted on December 19, 2018 by admin
This is my last chance this year to wish you a Merry Christmas and a Happy New Year. • I received some complaints regarding articles in our last issue talking about people who lost their homes in the Thomas Fire. The complaints say that we only published articles about those folks who are happy with […]
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Posted on December 5, 2018 by admin
•It is hard to believe that it has been a year since the fire raged through Ventura. From a previous news article; “On December 4, 2017 a fast–moving active brush fire that started North of Santa Paula along Highway 150 and Bridge Road was pushed by strong east winds through the City of Ventura. The […]
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Posted on November 21, 2018 by admin
•I think selecting city council members by district for the first time was a huge success and accomplished exactly what was intended. Ventura moved to district elections in response to threatened litigation that the current at-large voting system disenfranchised minority voters. The new council will have 4 four female members (out of seven) – two […]
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Posted on November 7, 2018 by admin
• In this issue we have several articles regarding the Ventura Botanical Gardens (VBG). Reported is the fact that there will now be a fee to enter the VBG (with some exceptions). Even though their original intent was to not charge a fee, due to the Thomas Fire destroying all of the landscaping, they feel […]
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Posted on October 24, 2018 by admin
• It is very important that you vote for our first district specific City Council members on Nov.6. This is the opportunity for those of you who feel that your interests are not always heard to have a council member who lives near you and who will show more concern for your area. Do remember […]
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Posted on October 10, 2018 by admin
•WOW, WOW and WOW! Pinch me again – it can’t be true that we just completed our eleventh year of publication. Our first issue was on Oct.24, 2007. There are so many people to thank, that I can’t thank them all. Our wonderful readers, our fabulous advertisers who keep us in business, and our unbelievably […]
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Posted on September 26, 2018 by admin
•Based upon recent research that he was responsible for decimating Native American communities and other atrocities against the Native Americans. Stanford University plans to strip out some prominent campus references to Junipero Serra. Many people now see him as more of an oppressor than a saint. • Recently, a paddle-out to honor Kirra Drury drew […]
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Posted on September 12, 2018 by admin
• Our readers will be happy to know (I think) that I will no longer be making comments regarding national politics. Will be tough, but I think I can do it. • The street at the new triangle project (231 apartments) off of Sanjon, which is being graded now, will be called Vista Del Mar […]
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Posted on September 12, 2018 by admin
• Our readers will be happy to know (I think) that I will no longer be making comments regarding national politics. Will be tough, but I think I can do it. • The street at the new triangle project (231 apartments) off of Sanjon, which is being graded now, will be called Vista Del Mar […]
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Posted on August 29, 2018 by admin
•This is a first time I’ve have responded in my column to a letter to our Mailbox, but I feel that this is important enough to justify a longer response. In our previous issue I made the following comment: • I am very concerned, and you should be also, about “any” president who tells his […]
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Posted on August 1, 2018 by admin
• Because it is very seldom used, it seems to me that the large outdoor area at the Albinger Archaeological Museum is a waste of space. It’s basically grass, dirt and river rock that were foundations for the old buildings that were located there. Really not much to see outside after you enjoy the exhibits […]
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Posted on July 18, 2018 by admin
•Per the new owners of Carrows Restaurant on Harbor, all newspaper racks have been removed. But not to worry, just go over to Vons to pick up your favorite local newspaper. •While attending the Ventura Music Festival at the Olivas Adobe, featuring the John Jorgenson Quintet, we couldn’t figure out why there was a lady […]
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Posted on July 4, 2018 by admin
• Santa Clarita has approved new rules that bans individuals from sitting on sidewalks and sleeping in cars on public streets. The rules are intended to block homeless people from living in public spaces. At the same time, they also approved spending $1 million to help build a homeless shelter and create a long-term plan […]
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Posted on June 20, 2018 by admin
•In past issues, I have commented on the horrible workmanship performed on the pedestrian crossing bridge that runs over the freeway to the promenade. Especially the fact that it was not painted when the construction was completed which, amazingly, the $400,00 budget did not include. I have contacted the contractor and the state (DOT) about […]
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Posted on June 6, 2018 by admin
•The new signs at the Promenade stating that it closes at 10:00 PM is causing some confusion. The Promenade is officially a park and can be controlled like any other park in the city. Based upon Sec. 20.050.040. – Closing of parks. “Except as otherwise specified in this chapter, city park properties, as determined or […]
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Posted on May 23, 2018 by admin
• Hopefully the Amgen bike tour that went through Ventura brought us some positive publicity. I don’t watch channels 2-13, or listen to KFI, but I hope that those who jumped on the bandwagon to talk about how dangerous Ventura is, also informed these media outlets that they should cover this wonderful event. Media should […]
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Posted on May 9, 2018 by admin
I want to comment on the people who organized the rallies due to the recent murder. I’m sure that they feel that they are doing the best for Ventura, but I feel that they are misguided and hurting the city. My concern is the amount of misinformation being spread by them saying that they are […]
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Posted on April 25, 2018 by admin
We are all feeling the pain over the death of Anthony Mele at Aloha Steakhouse. It is a tough, tough situation. And presents an even more challenging solution. Is the answer more police, more housing for the homeless, more mental facilities? If Ventura had the answer, we could sell it to the world. This […]
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Posted on April 11, 2018 by admin
• Mayor Neal Andrews, who has been struggling with health problems, seems to be doing much better. He recently presented his State of the City message and looked good. Poor guy finally becomes mayor and then he has to deal with the aftermath of the fire. •I know that some people are not happy with […]
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Posted on March 28, 2018 by admin
• There seems to be a controversy on what the name is, of the new green pig that debuted in the recent St. Pat’s Parade. As you know, in last year’s parade Shamrock the pig died right in front of the judges. The Ventura Breeze referred to the new pig as “the pig with no […]
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Posted on March 14, 2018 by admin
• It’s nice that the green pig (see article) will be back in the St. Pat’s Parade because people like the pig. I’m not sure what a green pig has to do with St. Pat’s day, but what does a red-nosed reindeer have to do with Xmas? • A Santa Barbara County Superior Court judge […]
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Posted on February 28, 2018 by admin
• Mayor Neal Andrews is having some health issues and has missed some recent City Council meetings. I certainly hope that he feels better soon so that he can get back to do what he loves – serving the residents of Ventura. • Patagonia is moving forward with plans to turn the former Brooks Institute 8-acre campus […]
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Posted on February 14, 2018 by admin
• The Botanical Gardens Welcome Center is now being built (see article in this issue). The fire caused much damage to the Gardens, but it is very encouraging to see work progressing and green stuff starting to grow. • At the recent fund raising concert at Plaza Park, two of the most uplifting and encouraging […]
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Posted on January 31, 2018 by admin
• I want to compliment the City Council, Community Service Director Jeff Lambert and Chief Building Official Yolanda Bundy for the wonderful job that they are doing to help those who lost their homes in the Thomas Fire. They have set up a separate department in order to expedite the plan checking period for homes […]
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Posted on January 17, 2018 by admin
• The Thomas Fire, which began more than six weeks ago and became the largest wildfire in modern California history, is now fully extinguished. The blaze consumed 281,893 acres in both Ventura and Santa Barbara counties, destroyed 1,063 structures, most of which were in Ventura. Infrared and helicopter sightings did not locate any active flames […]
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Posted on January 3, 2018 by admin
• Even though the Thomas Fire was the largest in California history, it was nowhere near the most devastating in the terms of structures or lives lost. The Cedar fire took 15 lives and destroyed 2,820 structures. The Thomas fire claimed a little over 1,000 structures (perhaps 600 in Ventura) and two lives – one […]
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Posted on December 20, 2017 by admin
First off, I want to thank the amazing Ventura Breeze writers for working their fingers off to make this wonderful issue happen. Much research and thought went into their articles. I’m very proud of this issue. On Dec. 4, when we heard a fire started in Santa Paula, never did we ever imagine that it […]
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Posted on December 6, 2017 by admin
• I apologize that your favorite newspaper is a day late due to the loss of electricity. More fire coverage in Dec. 20 issue. Go to Ventura City website for current information: www.cityofventura.ca.gov/1254/Thomas-Fire •When we heard that a fire started near Steckel Park in Santa Paula, we certainly wouldn’t have imagined that it was going to […]
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Posted on November 22, 2017 by admin
• Some of our readers are confused about whether we can use their names in the Breeze. We, in fact, do not need permission to do so. Also, in most cases, when a person is outside – in the public – we do not need permission to include a photo of them. The exception is […]
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Posted on November 8, 2017 by admin
• As you probably know, the State has mandated that Ventura selects councilmembers by districts, and not at-large. The City Council is working to make this happen. I certainly agree that more racial diversity on the council is important. But I do not agree with those appearing at City Council meetings saying that they are […]
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Posted on October 25, 2017 by admin
• The Public is Invited to meet Ventura Water’s new General Manager Kevin Brown on Nov. 2, 5:30- 6:30 p.m. in the Community Meeting Room at Ventura City Hall, 501 Poli St. An opportunity to learn more about our water situation and plans for the future. Lake Casitas, which supplies water to the Ojai Valley […]
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Posted on October 11, 2017 by admin
• WOW, WOW and WOW! Pinch me – it can’t be true that we just completed our tenth year of publication. Our first issue, on Oct.24, 2007, is shown on this cover. Besides not knowing anything about the newspaper business when Staci Brown and I launched the Ventura Breeze, we didn’t know if Venturans would […]
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Posted on October 11, 2017 by admin
• WOW, WOW and WOW! Pinch me – it can’t be true that we just completed our tenth year of publication. Our first issue, on Oct.24, 2007, is shown on this cover. Besides not knowing anything about the newspaper business when Staci Brown and I launched the Ventura Breeze, we didn’t know if Venturans would […]
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Posted on September 27, 2017 by admin
• As a reminder, our web site www.venturabreeze.com has a lot of additional content and goodies, plus some interesting information about some of our ‘Staff”. •The latest internet rumor had a rogue planet, dubbed either Nibiru or Planet X, striking the Earth on Sept. 23, wiping out mankind. It’s not the first time Nibiru has […]
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Posted on September 13, 2017 by admin
• In this issue we have an article which states, “The California Office of Traffic Safety is again announcing that September is “California Pedestrian Safety Month.” This campaign began last year in response to the rising number of pedestrians being killed and injured on California roadways.” It is amazing watching people (not just teenagers) cross […]
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Posted on August 30, 2017 by admin
• KPPQ CAPS Radio (KPPQLP, FM 104.1) is hosting an open house and community information discussion on Wednesday October 4th at 6pm at the CAPS Media Center at 65 Day Road. Everyone interested in community radio is invited to tour the center and join the exchange of programming ideas and direction for the radio station. […]
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Posted on August 16, 2017 by admin
• Regarding the Ventura County Fair, I was glad to see that Harbor Blvd. was left open as an accessible route to the Fair this year. Never did understand why traffic was diverted at Sanjon .So much easier to just take Harbor all the way through. Odd to me why folks attending the concerts (or […]
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Posted on August 2, 2017 by admin
These are the type of nearby (including the original Museum) buildings that should have guided the design of the addition to the Museum. • In this issue we have an article regarding the funding for the Museum to keep it “alive”. Elena Brokaw Interim Executive Director has commented that the museum gets 390 paid visitors […]
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Posted on July 19, 2017 by admin
• My talk-interview radio show on KPPQLP Ventura (104.1FM) can now be listened to at www.venturabreeze.com “Face of Ventura” (top left). I know that the station is low wattage (not to interfere with other nearby FM stations), so some of you have had a difficult time hearing it so here is your chance. Find out […]
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Posted on July 5, 2017 by admin
• At a recent City Council meeting, one of the council members didn’t say a single word during the deliberation of an item to be voted on. When it was his time to vote, he said no without comment, which is his prerogative. This bothers me. I think the citizens, need to know what councilmembers […]
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Posted on June 21, 2017 by admin
• In a future issue we will have an article about the “controversy” of the City having two golf courses that are costing Ventura a lot of money to maintain. A few of my friends who play golf told me that if these two courses allowed players to only use 9-holes that more people would […]
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Posted on June 7, 2017 by admin
• Recently, Venturan’s were surprised when California St. was closed for the day between Poli and Main, for what appeared to be a private party. They were even more surprised when they found out that it was due to filming an ad for Pokemon Go. There was little warning that the streets would be closed […]
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Posted on May 24, 2017 by admin
• I sincerely thank all of you who have reached out to my wife Diane and I regarding the loss of Scamp. We have received emails, phone calls and even sympathy cards in the mail. Many of them came from people who have never met us or Scamp. This has meant a lot to us […]
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Posted on May 10, 2017 by admin
• I know that I have written a little about this but actually making the decision that Scamp’s life no longer had any meaning to him was one of the most difficult and agonizing decisions (and writing this) that I have ever had to make. Fortunately, I didn’t need to make it alone. We basically […]
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Posted on April 26, 2017 by admin
• I want to congratulate the new members of the Measure O Citizens Oversight Committee. With the passage of Measure O last November an oversight committee was required to review the new revenues and to recommend expenditures for the new funds. Ventura’s half-cent sales tax oversight board received close to 70 applications for seven spots. […]
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Posted on April 12, 2017 by admin
• I have been asked why we didn’t include April fool gags in our last issue like we’ve done in past years’ issues (that has gotten me in so much trouble). Because Scamp announced that he is very sick and won’t be with us for much longer, I didn’t want readers to think that this […]
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Posted on March 29, 2017 by admin
• Local CAPSTV has a new low wattage FM station KPPQLP (104.1FM) that I have a show on called the Face Of Ventura. On my first show I interviewed Ventura Mayor Erik Nasarenko. It airs on Monday, Wednesday and Saturday at 10am and Wednesday at midnight if you can’t sleep. It has a range of […]
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Posted on March 15, 2017 by admin
• On our cover is an article about the firing of Ventura Unified School District head Dr. Babb. I had one occasion to meet him when I contacted him after his hiring and we met in his office at the school district HQ. We had a nice conversation and I told him of several articles […]
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Posted on February 15, 2017 by admin
A recent meeting was held at school district headquarters to discuss racism concerns. by Sheli Ellsworth Since the January 13 tweet by two Buena High School students containing altered images of themselves holding nooses around two black men, the community has erupted in protest. The school district is fielding phone calls, the students are facing […]
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Posted on February 15, 2017 by admin
• Behind City Hall is a property referred to as 505 Poli St. It has housed a variety of uses since it was acquired by the City in 2006 from the County for $3.64 million. The purchase included the significant adjacent parking and the 9.95 acres that is currently leased to the Ventura Botanical Gardens. […]
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Posted on February 1, 2017 by admin
• In this issue, (see cover) we have an article about some very exciting new construction projects in the city and there are more happening soon. I think that this is very important for Ventura for several reasons; These projects are what “we” in the industry (my background) call “type V projects” meaning that they […]
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Posted on January 18, 2017 by admin
• The “MY VENTURA” city brochure that is mailed to your home by the City includes many wonderful city events, services, art classes, tours and more for the entire family (including dogs), so be sure to check it out and participate in some of the great classes/seminars. • In this issue, we have an article […]
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Posted on January 4, 2017 by admin
• Just a few of the more notable Ventura events in 2016. There were certainly a lot more, so sorry if I missed some of the more important ones. Museum of Ventura County temporally closes galleries (will re-open in a few days) Ventura County Fair has record attendance Midtown parking structure completed by the new […]
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Posted on December 21, 2016 by admin
• Happy Chanukah (starts Dec. 24), Merry Christmas and Happy New Year to all of our wonderful Breeze readers. The years go by much too quickly. • Wishing Carl Morehouse, first elected to the Ventura City Council in 1999, all the best in his “retirement” from the City Council. Maybe now he will have time […]
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Posted on December 7, 2016 by admin
• This is the first time that I’ve placed an opinion letter (sent to our Mailbox) in my column. But I feel that this is an important enough topic to get your comments regarding the Electoral College, which I commented about it in our last issue. Would love to hear from more of you. Sheldon […]
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Posted on December 4, 2016 by admin
Foto: “Being a judge at the Halloween dog costume competition at the Harbor was very difficult because they were all soooo cute (photos in next issue)” I want to thank all of the candidates that ran for the Ventura City Council and Ventura School Board. Wanting to serve in these positions is based […]
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Posted on November 23, 2016 by admin
• Congratulations to Christy Weir and Cheryl Heitmann for being elected to another term on the City Council and to Matt LaVere (who received the most votes) for being elected to the Council for the first time. They are all good choices, and should serve us well. And, kudos also go to School Board winner’s […]
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Posted on November 9, 2016 by admin
• I want to thank all of the candidates that ran for the Ventura City Council and Ventura School Board. Wanting to serve in these positions is based upon making a contribution to Ventura and certainly not motivated by the small “salaries” that they receive. The election results were too late for this issue but […]
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Posted on October 26, 2016 by admin
• I thought that this was a done deal with the decision made last year – by a lower court ruling -turning down a lawsuit brought by Ventura Realty & Investment Co against the City and CMH in the Fall of 2014. Ventura Realty & Investment appealed the court’s decision to the 2nd District Court […]
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Posted on October 12, 2016 by admin
Partial cover of our first issue. • The Ventura Breeze celebrates another year. This is number nine for the Breeze, – our first issue was Oct. 24, 2007. When Staci Brown and I launched the Breeze, we didn’t know if Venturans would accept a very locally focused newspaper or if Ventura needed one. It turns […]
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Posted on September 28, 2016 by admin
• I’m very saddened by the passing of Sandra Laby as a friend, a spirit, an inspiration, a contributor to the arts and to the lives of so many. She will be very-very missed (Sometimes life sucks) • With this issue, we have included statements from five (one was in last issue) of the ten […]
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Posted on September 14, 2016 by admin
• I stated that I was done talking about the closing of Brook’s Institute, but I lied. I’m not going to be critical, just factual. And, I am actually not as riled up as I was originally. On Monday Sept. 12, at the City Council meeting, City Manager Mark Watkins made an excellent presentation to […]
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Posted on August 31, 2016 by admin
• In our last issue, I commended Neal Andrews for having the courage of his convictions – because of his displeasure with the Republican National Committee he decided to stop being an active member. Some readers had a problem with me saying that because they thought I was siding with his concerns, which I wasn’t. […]
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Posted on August 17, 2016 by admin
• Very sad, but not at all surprising, Brooks Institute is closing down. The City and building landlords might have gotten overly excited that Brooks was moving downtown. A closer examination, though, would have shown that Brooks has been in serious condition for several years with a declining student enrollment that could hardly support what […]
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Posted on August 3, 2016 by admin
• On Saturday, Sunday and Monday (right before our issue is printed and distributed on Wednesday) Alfred J. Lewis, the Breeze’s Graphic Artist from Studio Nothing, lays out the paper and, as always, makes it look wonderful. On the Friday, before our July 20 issue, we had a scare. Alfred called me and asked me […]
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Posted on July 20, 2016 by admin
• I want to thank the Ventura County Fair for placing their flyer in this issue of the Breeze. Always a great event and very fun and rewarding way to spend a day, or two. • We are pleased to introduce our new “Real Estate Showcase” page in this issue featuring property listings from local […]
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Posted on July 6, 2016 by admin
• In our last issue, I commented about the abundant amount of microbreweries in Ventura. I said that I don’t like beer, but I don’t like chocolate either so maybe (maybe?) I’m just strange. Most people like both of them. • Because of the demolition work being done at the corner of Thompson Blvd. and […]
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Posted on June 22, 2016 by admin
■ You will have noticed that this issue is in full color. And, it has upgraded paper which enables us to deliver more vibrant ads and higher quality photos to our readers. We have wanted to transition to this format for quite some time now, but to do so required two things….. great support from […]
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Posted on June 8, 2016 by admin
• In our last issue I had the following comments regarding a Ventura’s Historical Preservation Committee‘s vote. I have more to say about this. “On May 23 Ventura’s Historical Preservation Committee, by a 3-2 vote, decided that the building at 567 Sanjon (most recently Joes Crab Shack and previously the Chart House) is not historically significant. […]
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Posted on May 25, 2016 by admin
• On May 23 the Ventura City Council voted (6-0 Tracy was absent) to put a half-cent sales tax increase on the November ballot. If approved the tax would provide approximately $10.8 million annually for the next 25 years. A seven-member oversight committee would be appointed by the Council and would make recommendations on how […]
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Posted on May 11, 2016 by admin
• I don’t usually put a letter to the editor in my column but thought that this was important enough to respond to. To the Governor I am amazed at the monthly denial that your editorials have of the crime and homeless situation we have in Ventura. I myself was attacked and suffered a broken […]
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Posted on April 27, 2016 by admin
• I still see many signs saying “SAVE OUR HILLSIDES” opposing the proposed Regent Properties hillside development. Asking the City Council to “reject pre-screen application.” It is time for those opposed to the development to make new signs. The City Council approved Regent’s pre-screen application several months ago. It is now up to Regent to […]
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Posted on April 13, 2016 by admin
• Have you ever wanted to know the who, what, when, where, why and how of police operations? The Ventura Police Department’s Community Academy answers all your questions. The Community Academy will take you on a ride-along with a patrol officer, show you what a SWAT team does, let you experience a simulated firearms training […]
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Posted on March 30, 2016 by admin
To celebrate Ventura’s 150th Amber Hansen asked a few Venturan’s why they like living here. Matt LaVere I was born and raised in Ventura, and I’m blessed to be able to raise my own family here as well. Ventura has great beaches, parks, schools and is truly a family-friendly city. And not only does Ventura […]
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Posted on March 30, 2016 by admin
• I hope that you enjoy our special coverage of Ventura’s 150th Anniversary in this issue. There will be several events coming up to celebrate the anniversary (mentioned in this issue) so be sure to attend them. • A little information about Ventura that you will probably find very interesting (or not): Coordinates: 34°16′30″N 119°13′40″W […]
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Posted on March 16, 2016 by admin
• On March 12 an official ground breaking was held at the proposed Kellogg Park located on the Westside of Ventura on Ventura Ave. (more about this in the next issue of the Breeze). Even though I commend the many people who have worked extremely hard to get this park on the Westside I really […]
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Posted on March 2, 2016 by admin
• We have an article in this issue about the passing of Jim Mangis. Even though I didn’t see him often, I considered him a friend. That was just his personality, all who met him felt this way because he cared and was so genuine. I last saw him a few weeks ago at a […]
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Posted on February 17, 2016 by admin
• Congratulations to Ventura Breeze Senior Account Executive Breezy Gledhill who is celebrating her 6-year anniversary with us. I knew she’d be a wonderful addition when she told me that her nickname has been “Breezy” her entire life. I didn’t make her change it as some have thought. • This November’s elections is shaping up […]
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Posted on February 3, 2016 by admin
• The Ventura City Council has voted against (7-0) medical marijuana businesses and the delivery of medical marijuana in Ventura. This is in keeping with other county cities. Cities have until March 1 to set their own laws before State regulations take effect. Neal Andrews and Carl Morehouse were part of the 7-0 vote but […]
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Posted on January 20, 2016 by admin
• I want to wish Ventura Breeze writer Pam Baumgardner a speedy recovery from her full right knee replacement surgery. I’m sure she will be shooting hoops again above city hall very soon. I also wish my lovely wife Diane (who needs to put up with me) a happy birthday on Jan.20. • I certainly […]
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Posted on January 6, 2016 by admin
• Some reflections from previous articles we ran in 2015. Our April Fools issue was a great success because some people are still mad at me about the fake articles. CMH new hospital construction moving right along and construction started on the new hospital parking structure. Proving that concerned citizens can make a difference, […]
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Posted on December 23, 2015 by admin
• I want to wish all of our wonderful readers, advertisers and my incredible staff a Merry Christmas and a Happy New Year. It has been another wonderful year of bringing Ventura’s news and information to all of you. • The Ventura Pier was severely damaged by the current high waves and the repair could […]
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Posted on December 9, 2015 by admin
• These will be my last words (promise) regarding the proposed Regent hillside development until further action is taken – which won’t happen for a long time. As you know, I support this project and have stated my reasons why in previous issues, so I won’t go into that further. It will be exciting and […]
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Posted on November 25, 2015 by admin
• What still frustrates me is that those in favor of, and against, the Regent 55-unit hillside project appear to not understand that the specific drawings submitted have not been approved by the Planning Commission. And, they will not be approved by the City Council even if the council votes to proceed with the prescreen. […]
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Posted on November 11, 2015 by admin
As stated in our cover article the Planning Commission (with a 5-1 vote) has approved the “prescreen” of the proposed 55-unit hillside development by Regency Properties. They also recommended that the City Council allow the “prescreen” to proceed at the CC Nov.30 meeting. I’m certain that on Nov. 30 the City Council will also vote […]
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Posted on October 28, 2015 by admin
• There are new 25 MPH signs on Poli St. to reduce driving speeds. Because it is a quicker way to travel East and West, the street is used more like a highway then a residential street. In fact, it is used by a lot of people after downtown bars close. There is less chance […]
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Posted on October 14, 2015 by admin
This is a very early design rendering of the proposed apartment units to be built on the “Triangle” lot mentioned in our last issue. • We have an opinion piece in this issue from Lynne Hiller that, in part, states “Ventura needs to grow its tax base, and building higher-level or luxury homes adds people […]
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Posted on September 30, 2015 by admin
• As detailed in a recent issue of the Breeze, there has been great controversy over the potential opening of a strip club on Market St. Even though millions (it seemed like) of citizens showed up at a City Council meeting in opposition to the club, they could not stop it from opening because it […]
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Posted on September 15, 2015 by admin
Scamp’s cousin Dolce Vita wishes you a happy Jewish New Year 5776 and Yom Kippur, the holiest day of the year for Jewish people starting at sundown on Sept. 22 . I received this email from Elizabeth Kirmo. “Dear Sheldon, Sending you this note just in case you haven’t heard what’s happening (proposed not happening […]
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Posted on September 2, 2015 by admin
~ In this issue, we have Unsung Hero portrait number 3 in our current series. I want to thank Sam, the owner of the Rhumb Line restaurant, for being such a gracious host at the luncheon and our waitress Heather for taking such good care of us. Wonderful food and the best view in Ventura […]
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Posted on August 19, 2015 by admin
In a recent article, I stated “…and speaking of the bible, I thought it was pretty impressive launching a paper while in my seventies, but Noah built a 40 foot boat, with 3 levels when he was 630 years old. And without power tools. What a show-off.” There was a typo, any 630-year old could […]
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Posted on April 29, 2015 by admin
• I am very concerned about what Ventura will look like as a result of people not watering their lawns. I have already seen streets where there are 4-6 homes in a row whose front yards are now dirt and weeds. And shortly, it is likely these residents will be parking cars and trucks on […]
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