Beginning Artist Workshops and Competition

For 70 years, the Buenaventura Art Association (BAA) has brought together artists of all ages and mediums to share ideas, techniques, and creations. This fall, BAA is focusing on nurturing new local talent with a series of workshops in October and November.

These workshops are designed to help aspiring artists bring their hidden talents to life, culminating in a Beginning Artist Juried Competition in January. While workshop attendance is not required to enter the competition, those with little or no competition experience will gain valuable insights and instruction.

Workshops will be held at Studio 99, located at 432 N. Ventura Ave., Ventura. The cost is $5 for BAA members and $8 for nonmembers. To sign up, visit baa.wildapricot.org/Workshops.

  • The first session, 10 am – noon Oct. 19, will be Overcoming the Fear of Rejection, conducted by Margie November, M.D. A psychiatrist and art therapist for more than 30 years with a private practice in Ventura, November also is a longtime artist and BAA member. Space is limited to 20 people.
  • From noon – 2 pm Oct. 26, Darlene Roker, longtime professional photographer and immediate past president of BAA, will have space for 12 people at How to Mat, Frame and Wire Your Art. After getting her instructions on the basics, the attendees will have access to tools and materials to get their artworks ready to hang.
  • The November sessions will cover photographing, marketing, and pricing your artwork in preparation for entering shows.  Dates, times and locations for these are not yet final.

    Details of the juried competition in January also are to be determined, but the juror will be Bob Privitt, a prolific local artist and BAA member for decades who has long experience in appreciating people’s initial forays into the world of art. Privitt, who lives in Thousand Oaks, taught art at colleges and universities for 40 years before retiring in 2004 from Pepperdine University in Malibu as professor of art emeritus and a former art department dean. Two-dimensional artworks will be eligible for the show, at which first, second and third-place prizes will be awarded, along with honorable mentions.

Latest survey for General Plan Update

Seeking more feedback through October 21

The latest Land Use Designation Map for the General Plan is ready for the community’s input. After reviewing hundreds of comments, the city is seeking more feedback. Your insights will help shape Ventura’s future development, housing, transportation, and environmental sustainability.

The feedback form provides an opportunity for the public to provide comments and feedback on revised land use designations and a land use designation map for the City of Ventura General Plan. The land use designations are critically important part of the General Plan since they identify the allowed uses, building height and density/intensity on each parcel of land in the city.

As background, in the fall of 2023, the City Council endorsed a draft land use designation map, which was the culmination of over 2 years of work by the General Plan Advisory Committee and the public. In the spring of 2024, the City released a draft land use designation map for public review. The public was able to submit feedback on the proposed land use designations of specific parcels. The City received and reviewed almost 200 public comments, and this process revealed that some members of the community had concerns with the designations in the map.

Over the past 4 months, the General Plan Team reviewed all the community’s comments and developed a revised approach to better align the existing regulations with the proposed land use map. This resulted in a significant number of changes to the land uses designations and the application of those designations to the land use designation map. The City is now returning to the public to receive additional feedback on the updated land use designations and land use map.

The map-based portion of the survey divides the city into eight (8) different areas: Westside; North Avenue; Downtown; Midtown; Pierpont/Harbor; Ventura College; Arundell/Johnson; and Eastside. You can share your input on any or all of the areas.

To provide a comment on the land use map, simply click on the desired parcel or area on the map and write your comment in the feedback box. You can record multiple comments on each map. Each time you move to the next page, your feedback will be saved. Make sure to complete and submit the entire survey to ensure your comments are received.

www.planventura.com/updated-land-use-map. For assistance or more details email [email protected].

Green School Award

The City of Ventura’s Environmental Sustainability Division will offer the Green School Award for the 2024-2025 school year in recognition of Earth Day. All public and private schools within the Ventura City limits that demonstrate exemplary environmental practices are encouraged to apply. The Green School Award winner will receive City recognition.

The award is given to the school demonstrates the most effective environmental stewardship in all the below categories: The application period starts from the beginning of the school year to Spring Break. A winner will be selected after Spring Break. This is an excellent opportunity to turn your school into a beacon of sustainability or showcase ongoing efforts in environmental stewardship!

The Green School Award is awarded to the school that demonstrates exemplary environmental practices in all the below categories:

  • Recycling and Waste Diversion
  • Water Conservation
  • Energy Conservation
  • Environmental Science Education

Green School Award Past Winners

Community members invited to Ventura’s State of the City Address presented by Mayor Joe Schroeder on October 8

Ventura Mayor Joe Schroeder will deliver the annual State of the City Address during the City Council meeting on Tuesday, October 8 at 5:00 p.m. The meeting will be hosted in the Council Chambers and will be live-streamed on the City’s YouTube channel at YouTube.com/CityofVentura.

“The State of the City Address is a special opportunity to connect with our community, celebrate what we’ve achieved, and share our vision for the future,” said Mayor Joe Schroeder. “I’m proud of how staff, nonprofits, and local agencies have come together with optimism and innovation to tackle new challenges. As we look ahead, I want to recognize the tireless efforts of City staff, whose dedication brings our vision to life. There’s so much to be proud of, and I encourage everyone to join us and see how we’re building a stronger, more resilient Ventura.”

The 2024 State of the City Address provides updates on Ventura’s financial standing, highlights City Council-adopted initiatives, and shares significant business and operational developments, alongside future goals. Key areas of focus include fiscal responsibility, quality of life, economic vitality, public safety, and environmental sustainability.

Mayor Schroeder presented an expanded State of the City Address at the Ventura Chamber of Commerce’s annual event on September 19. A recording of the presentation, including slides in both English and Spanish, is available on the City’s website at CityofVentura.ca.gov/SOTC. 

Public comments for the October 8 meeting can be submitted in advance through an online form at CityofVentura.ca.gov/PublicInput or via email to the City Clerk’s Office at [email protected] by 3:00 p.m. on the day of the event.

Vol. 18, No. 01 – Oct 2 – Oct 15, 2024 – Police Reports

The Ventura Police Department Conducted a DUI checkpoint

The Ventura Police Department Traffic Unit conducted a DUI checkpoint on Friday, September 20 on Harbor Blvd near Schooner Drive from 9:00 pm 1:30 am.

DUI checkpoint locations are chosen based on data showing incidents of impaired driving-related crashes. The primary purpose of checkpoints is not to make arrests, but to promote public safety by deterring residents from driving impaired. During the checkpoint, officers look for signs that drivers are under the influence of alcohol and/or drugs. “Reducing the number of impaired drivers on our roads greatly enhances traffic safety,” said Corporal David Curtis. “With the increased risk of impaired driving on weekends, we encourage everyone to celebrate responsibly and designate a sober driver.”

The Ventura Police Department reminds the public that impaired driving is not just caused by alcohol. Some prescription medications or over-the-counter drugs may interfere with driving. While medicinal and recreational marijuana are legal, driving under the influence of marijuana is not. Marijuana can be impairing, especially when combined with alcohol or other drugs, which can also result in a DUI. If you plan on drinking or taking medications that may impact your ability to drive safely, plan on staying safe at home. If you see a drunk driver, always call 9-1-1. Drivers charged with DUI face an average of $13,500 in fines and penalties, as well as a suspended license.

Funding for the checkpoint was provided by a grant from the California Office of Traffic Safety, through the National Highway Traffic Safety Administration. To learn more about the Office of Traffic Safety grant and VPD’s educational efforts, contact Emily Ayala, Communications Specialist for the Ventura Police Department, at [email protected]

Checkpoint Results:

The following is a list of the enforcement activities that took place at or as a result of the checkpoint:

  • 257 cars passed through the checkpoint. 394 drivers were contacted and screened through the checkpoint.
  • 9 Field Sobriety Tests were conducted.
  • 2 drivers were arrested for 23152(a) VC – Driving under the influence of alcohol or drugs.
  • 8 drivers cited for VC12500(a), Unlicensed Driver.
  • 2 drivers cited for miscellaneous violations, 1 alcohol related citation.

Vol. 18, No. 01 – Oct 2 – Oct 15, 2024 – Harbor Patrol Blotter

Monday 9/16

 6:25am, observed a Gale warning issued by NWS, raised warning pennants.

2:02pm, received request for assistance with capturing an injured bird. Officers searched the beach at Surfers Knoll but were unable to locate the bird.

Tuesday 9/17

 6:03am, observed NWS issued Small Craft Advisory, raised warning pennant.

4:45pm, training new officers with chart plotting and coastal navigation onboard Rescue Boat 19 offshore and through out the Pierpont Bay.

7:05pm, dispatched to medical in the riverbottom south of Surfers Knoll. Officers responded with AMR/VFD to assist an individual unable to walk. Responders utilized a emergency basket to transport to ambulance.

Wednes 9/18

 1:06am, dispatched to a fall patient in the 4points timeshare. Officers responded with AMR/VFD to assist the patient with treatment and transportation prep.

7:12am, dispatched to a gas odor in the Portside complex. Officers responded with VFD to investigate the call. Unfortunately, a source was not found for odor

5:05pm, dispatched to a disabled motor vessel at the harbor entrance. Officers responded in Fireboat and were able to safely tow the vessel to their slip in VIM.

Thursday 9/19

 7:51am, officers observed no advisories or warnings issued, raised colors.

10:25am, officers conducting preventative maintenance on Rescue watercraft; including changing oil, sparkplugs and testing battery.

3:33pm, received request for a tow from a disabled commercial cleaning vessel. Towed the vessel to nearby dock so they could ascertain the problem.

3:47pm, officers training new Marine Safety Officers with operating in close quarters, pulling into slips and docking the Fireboat.

Friday 9/20

 3:01pm, dispatched to a kite surfer in distress 1 mile South of the Harbor. Officers responded in Fireboat began to search. A foil boarder was found near the Ventura Pier, not in distress, just conducting downwind foiling, riding swells. Officers updated the incident commander on the pier, all units cancelled.

11:23pm, officers attempted to re-fuel the truck but were unable to because of construction blocking the gas station on Harbor/Monmouth.

Saturday 9/21

 9:45am, officers working on preparing parts for Rescue Boat 19 engine repair. Found one of the raw water pumps was not rebuilt, contacted contractor.

10:33am, officers training new Marine Safety Officers on preparing for Rescue Watercraft training. Officers provided support from the Fireboat.

1:33pm, received a report of an alarm sounding on a large sport fisher in the Portside marina. Officers responded, found a piercing alarm, attempting to secure it. Contacted Marina manager/captain, advised of sump pumps warning.

Sunday 9/22

 8:13am, received a report of a sick/injured sealion at La Conchita Beach. The caller wanted to put the animal out of its misery. Officers advised to leave it alone and relayed Channel Island Marine Wildlife Institute 805 567-1505.

Monday 9/23

 1:23pm, dispatched to Ventura Marina Community for a welfare check. Officers responded with VFD/AMR to assist the patient with treatment.

 

 

First Annual CA Government & Disability Summit

by Carol Leish, MA

The CA Government & Disability Summit in Ventura took place between September 24-27th, here in Ventura at the Crowne Plaza Ventura Beach Hotel. Dani Anderson, Disability Access Manager for the County of Ventura, spearheaded and organized putting this important summit together to focus on issues related to accessibility. It was attended by well over 500 people throughout the state of California.

Anderson said, “It was an honor to work on such an impactful and memorable event. The Office of Disability Access has been continuing to work steadfastly to make progress in the goals of the County’s Disability Access Strategic Plan and this successful summit has been a testament to the focus and progress being, and continuing, to be made.”

Ventura County Executive Officer, Dr. Sevet Johnson, Psy.D, said, “It was my pleasure to welcome you in Ventura County! We were honored to have hosted this first-of-its-kind summit. Since the establishment of our Office of Disability Access, the County of Ventura has been busy working to amplify the importance of enhancing accessibility, creating new and innovative opportunities for engagement with the disability community, and increasing access to civic involvement and opportunities to generate change. This conference has generated groundbreaking ideas and connections that has led to greater inclusion, understanding, and opportunities for all.”

The summit had a variety of break-out sessions that were informative. These included: 1) Accessible Civic Engagement; 2) Education, Accommodating Advocacy & Employment; 3) Emergency Management & the ADA (Americans with Disabilities Act); 4) Emergency Preparedness for Caregivers & Consumers-Learn What to do Before, During, and After; 5) Partnership, Allyship through Advocacy, and Increasing Inclusion Practices; and, 6) Creating a Meaningful Disability, Access, & Functional Needs Program to Build Community Resilience & Preparedness.

The keynote speaker was, Rebecca Cokley, who works at the Ford Foundation. She focused on the importance of access to all, including those with disabilities. Comedian Nina C. also provided a lighthearted approach to situations affecting people with disabilities.

The Employment Plenary talked about issues related to employment of people with disabilities. Presenters were Mark Erlichman, Justin McIntire, and Anna Acton, Department of Rehabilitation, and Criselda Delgadillio, Managed Career Solutions. The Disability and Aging Panel, presented by, Susan DeMArois, CA Dept of Aging; Ana Acton, Department of Rehabilitation, and Aaron Crruthers, State Council on Developmental Disabilities, talked about various issues affecting people with disabilities, and people, as they get older.

Anderson said, “I would like to thank the Ventura County Board of Supervisors and leadership for their unwavering support of this summit! A huge shout out to our planning committee for their hard work and dedication to making this happen, as well as to: Disability Rights CA, State Council on Developmental Disabilities, Independent Living Resource Center, and the County of Ventura’s Behavioral Health Department, County Executive Office, Human Services Agency, Office of Diversity Equity, and Inclusion, and Sheriff’s Office of Emergency Services.”

Yes, this CA Government & Disability Summit, has fostered more awareness of issues related to access regarding people with disabilities for communities to be more inclusive of all, whether they have a disability. Andson said, “I am looking forward to planning the Second Annual Government & Disability Summit, and to seeing other counties within California putting on their own summits.”

Community Colleges of Ventura County and VCOE Collaborate to Expand Educational Opportunities

Dual Enrollment programs bring college courses to high schools across the county

Educators from the Ventura County Community College District (VCCCD) and the Ventura County Office of Education (VCOE) gathered for a pivotal Community of Practice event at Ventura College on September 17. This collaborative meeting, entitled “Designing Equitable Dual Enrollment Pathways through Partnership,” brought together professionals from both systems to expand dual enrollment pathways in high schools.

With a focus on identifying courses that best meet the needs of local high school students and families, the event underscored the shared commitment to increasing access to higher education for all Ventura County’s students. These college courses, many of which can be embedded into the school schedule and held on the high school campus, provide an invaluable opportunity for students to earn credits while staying in their familiar school environment, at low to no cost.

“The Dual Enrollment Community of Practice has been an invaluable opportunity for collaboration,” said Melissa Johnson, VCCCD Director of Dual Enrollment. “By bringing together educators from both systems, we are not only strengthening our current programs but also identifying meaningful ways to expand access to college courses for high school students. We still have work to do, but the conversations today create a strong foundation for the future.”

Dual enrollment courses offered on high school campuses are a unique opportunity for students to take college-level classes at no cost, seamlessly integrated into their regular school day. These classes provide students with the chance to earn both high school and college credits without leaving campus or adjusting their schedules. Even better, the credits earned through these courses can transfer directly to programs at the Community Colleges of Ventura County, giving students a head start on their college education while still in high school.

“VCOE is excited to build on the success of year one of our Community of Practice, creating sustainable opportunities for meaningful engagement with our VCCCD educational partners,” said Lisa Salas Brown, VCOE Associate Superintendent. “Year two’s first convening brought together more than 100 participants, fostering collaboration, asking important questions, and expanding opportunities for our students to access college courses and dual enrollment programs across the county.”

For students and parents interested in learning more about dual enrollment opportunities, including how to enroll in college courses offered on their campus, contact your school counselor or visit www.vcccd.edu/dual-enrollment.

 

 

9/11: We Will Always Remember

VCF Acting Captain Will Nackers, Climb organizer.

by Patricia Schallert

The 9/11 Stair Climb event at the Crowne Plaza Ventura stood as a powerful tribute to the courage, sacrifice, and memory of the first responders and victims of the September 11, 2001 attacks. Held on September 7th, this year’s memorial coincided with Ventura’s hottest day of the year, adding another layer of challenge for participants honoring the fallen.

Firefighters from across Ventura County, along with SWAT teams, police officers, and family members, came together to climb 121 flights of stairs—equivalent to 11 laps—at the Crowne Plaza. Each firefighter, fully suited in their gear, mirrored the heroic efforts of the first responders who climbed the Twin Towers that fateful day.

This deeply meaningful event brought the Ventura community together in unity and remembrance, while also raising awareness for local charities that support first responders and their families. Participants shared personal stories from that tragic day, ensuring that the bravery and sacrifices of those who perished remain alive in the collective memory. The Stair Climb continues to serve as a tribute to the courage, resilience, and enduring spirit of those who lost their lives.

Joe Booth, Executive Director of the Firefighter Association, highlighted the involvement of 100 volunteers in the stair climb and led a moment of silence in honor of firefighter Dustin Roberto, who tragically passed away from cancer—a concern that deeply affects the firefighting community. The Ventura Fire Foundation remains committed to supporting firefighters and their families, providing vital assistance during times of need.

The event was proudly hosted by the Crowne Plaza Ventura, the Ventura City Honor Guard, and the Ventura Fire Foundation. It was presented by Edison International, which generously donated $5,000 to the Ventura Fire Foundation, along with a contribution from the Gene Haas Foundation. These donations were made to honor the 343 FDNY firefighters and 60 police officers who lost their lives in the 9/11 attacks.

All funds raised from the event will benefit the Ventura Fire Foundation’s programs supporting local fire families. For more information, visit www.venturafirefoundation.org