Cabrillo Economic Development Corporation (CEDC), Ventura County’s leading affordable housing developer, today announced the upcoming retirement of its CEO, Margarita H. de Escontrias, effective January 2, 2025. Ms. Escontrias has served with distinction for over eleven years, leading CEDC in its mission to provide comprehensive housing services and community development opportunities for those most in need.
“On behalf of the Board of Directors, we express our deepest gratitude to Margarita for her unwavering leadership and dedication to CEDC,” said Aiza Galdo, Chair of the Board of Directors. “Under her guidance, CEDC has delivered significant impact, expanded affordable housing options and positively transformed the lives of countless individuals and families.”
Ms. Escontrias’ tenure has been marked by impactful achievements. Under Ms. Escontrias’ leadership, CEDC has made significant strides in addressing the affordable housing crisis, delivering additional affordable housing units to the community and significantly impacting the lives of the individuals and families that CEDC serves. Also raising awareness of critical housing issues, and navigating CEDC through challenges like the global pandemic, all the while strengthening the organization’s mission and expanding its reach.
To ensure a smooth transition, CEDC’s Board has appointed Victoria Brady, the current CFO, as Interim COO/CFO. Ms. Brady will officially assume the CEO role on January 1, 2025.
They currently have 24 properties for low income and farmworker families, seniors 55 and older, and those with disabilities.
From the American Society for the Prevention of Cruelty to Animals (ASPCA)
Image by Freepik.
As much as we wish they could stay young forever, a greying muzzle or slower pace might be signs that your pet is growing older. This also means their care needs may be changing. While there’s no specific age to determine when a dog is considered a senior, some guidelines based on size can help. Small dogs are often considered seniors around 9 to 11 years, medium-sized dogs at 8 to 10 years, large dogs at 8 to 9 years, and giant breeds around 6 years.
Though your pet may be slowing down, there’s still plenty of time to enjoy together. In fact, senior years can be a reminder to slow down and savor the little moments. Here are five tips to help keep your pet feeling their best as they age.
Visit the vet regularly.
Regular veterinary checkups are essential, and as pets age, consider multiple visits per year. Senior pets are more likely to develop health issues, so early detection is key. Schedule at least two vet visits annually for senior pets, and more frequent visits may be necessary if they’re being treated for a health issue. During these exams, vets monitor changes in weight, dental health, eating and drinking habits, mobility, heart health, and run lab tests for kidney or liver function changes.
Be consistent with exercise.
Like humans, pets tend to slow down as they age. However, it’s important to keep them active with age-appropriate exercise. Regular exercise helps prevent muscle loss, weight gain, and joint stiffness. The right amount depends on your pet’s recent activity level and health status. If they haven’t been very active, start with short walks and gradually increase them. Consistency is key.
Make adjustments for mobility.
Mobility issues are common in senior pets, so consider some home modifications. If your pet enjoys lounging on the couch or bed, stairs can make it easier for them to reach their favorite spots. Alternatively, moving their bed closer to where you sleep or relocating their food and water bowls to the main floor can make life easier. Using a ramp for outdoor steps can also be helpful.
Update their diet.
As pets age and slow down, their metabolism does too. Weight gain can be hard on senior pets, so consider a diet formulated for older animals and opt for lower-calorie treats. Fortunately, there are many options to meet senior pets’ dietary needs.
Keep up with grooming.
Senior pets’ grooming needs often change. They may struggle to clean themselves, so more frequent baths or trims may be necessary. Regular brushing can prevent their coat from tangling, which can cause discomfort. Check their nails regularly, as overly long nails can make movement difficult, especially on hard surfaces.
By following these tips, you can help keep your senior pet comfortable, healthy, and happy in their golden years.
Each holiday season brings joy, gatherings—and often, unnecessary waste. Discover easy ways to minimize food waste, reuse decorations, and make eco-friendly choices for a festive and sustainable celebration.
Every year, the holidays bring an abundance of food, festivities…and well, waste. Amid this year’s festive gatherings, discover how to reduce your food waste, repurpose decorations, and celebrate a zero-waste holiday season with a bit of creativity and simple swaps.
One of the easiest ways to help our environment is to eliminate food waste. Food waste has a life far beyond disposing your leftovers – did you know that landfill-bound food waste emits methane, a hazardous gas known as a climate super pollutant?
Taking only what you know you’ll eat is the best way to eliminate food waste. But, if your eyes are bigger than your stomach, read on for tips on how to reduce your food waste, and waste in general, this holiday season.
Zero Waste Gifts & Holiday Decor
Gift experiences like a pottery or cooking class, picnic, or a massage.
Gift homemade jams, chocolates, pies, fresh bread.
Gift plants and seedlings.
Use fabric, decorate butcher paper for a personalized touch, newspaper, brown packing paper and jars as gift wrap.
Participate in the City of Ventura’s Residential Food Waste Recycling Program! Free compost pails are available for Ventura residents at 336 Sanjon Road, Monday to Friday from 8:00 am -5:00 pm (closed alternating Fridays). Simply line the pail with any type of bag (plastic is ok!), tie it up, and toss it in your tan yard waste or designated food waste cart. www.cityofventura.ca.gov/264/Residential-Services
The Ventura City Council has appointed Javan Rad as its new City Attorney at its meeting on October 8, 2024.
“Javan stood out among a highly qualified pool of candidates, demonstrating exceptional experience, extensive knowledge, and strong leadership qualities,” said Mayor Joe Schroeder. “The City Council is confident that Javan is the right person to guide the City Attorney’s Office into the future.”
As City Attorney, Rad will serve as the chief legal advisor to the City Council and lead a team of legal professionals and support staff who handle all aspects of municipal law. His responsibilities include advising the City Council, Commissions, Boards, Committees, and City staff on a wide range of legal issues.
Rad joins Ventura after serving as the Chief Assistant City Attorney for the City of Pasadena for the past 12 years, where he oversaw a team of ten attorneys and managed civil legal matters for the City. His expertise spans advisory and litigation work in constitutional, tort, and telecommunications law.
“I appreciate the support and confidence of the City Council, and I am honored to join the dedicated team in the City Attorney’s Office,” said City Attorney Javan Rad. “I look forward to supporting the City Council’s goals and objectives and working with talented staff and engaged Ventura residents to shape a thriving, resilient community.”
In addition to his new role, Rad has been serving a two-year term as the sole city attorney representative on the Federal Communications Commission’s (FCC) Intergovernmental Advisory Committee, providing guidance on telecommunications matters affecting local, state, and Tribal governments. He has been active with the League of California Cities’ City Attorney’s Department and currently serves on its Brown Act Committee. Rad has also served as President of the City Attorney’s Association of Los Angeles County and President of the Board of Directors of SCAN NATOA, a chapter of the National Association of Telecommunications Officers and Advisors.
Rad holds a bachelor’s degree in Quantitative Agricultural Economics from Purdue University and earned his law degree from Pepperdine University School of Law. He begins his appointment with the City starting October 28, 2024. For more information about the City Attorney’s Office, visit www.cityofventura.ca.gov/Departments.
Compost delivery at Tierra Vista Elementary School.
Agromin, California’s largest organics waste recycler and manufacturer of earth-friendly soil products, has launched its “Healthy Soil Heroes,” ambassador program by partnering with five founding members. The founding members represent a diverse range of agricultural and community-focused businesses, including a native plant nursery, flower farm, community garden, agricultural education ambassadors and an edible garden design company.
“We created Healthy Soil Heroes as a way to recognize businesses and nonprofits that are promoting sustainable gardening, farming and landscaping practices,” says Bill Camarillo, Agromin’s CEO. “They are creating healthy food, beautifying landscapes and improving our planet.”
The Founding Five
Meiners Oaks Community Garden is a new 7,500-square-foot community garden located a few miles from downtown Ojai. Its grand opening is October 20. The garden is made of 38 3’x6’ raised garden beds. Community members can rent space to create their own gardens and participate in gardening-based workshops and events. Rental fees include soil, tools and water. To sign up, attend the October 20 grand opening or go to www.meinersoakscommunitygarden.com for more information.
MiniNature Reserve, a nonprofit organization based in Oxnard, began in 2021 by Diego Magaña who was inspired by the beauty of natural parks. He started a native plant nursery in his backyard, and with a team of volunteers, he planted the first of several “MiniNature Reserves” in Ventura County. These reserves are pockets of nature within an urban setting aimed at creating green spaces while providing habitats for native plants, pollinators and animals. MiniNature Reserve’s plant nursery is now at 1,500 square-foot location in Oxnard and is open to the public.
Grow With Mo, based in Ojai, is a garden design, consulting and education company specializing in edible gardens, permaculture and regenerative design. Founder Morgan (Mo) Visalli helps her clients grow vegetable gardens, healthy fruit trees, and create more ecologically friendly landscapes by using organic growing practices.
Ventura County Farm-2-School works with 12 school districts throughout Ventura County supporting over 50 school gardens. More than 30,000 students participate each year in Farm-2-School programs where students learn about nutrition, agriculture, the environment and healthy cooking. Farm-2-School also provides technical assistance and training to teachers so they can incorporate school gardens into their teaching curriculum. Its Ventura County School Food Hub, with partner Farm Cart Organics, delivers fruits and vegetables from local farms to schools so the produce can be included in daily student meals.
Killdeer Farms in West Sacramento is a small, family-owned farm that grows mostly flowers and lavender. Owners Christine and Scott Killdeer sell their flowers once a month from their five-acre farm during their harvest season. Flowers are also available through subscriptions and in bulk. They offer workshops where community members receive hands-on planting instructions and get to take home bouquets of fresh-cut flowers.
As a benefit of being a member of Healthy Soil Heroes, members receive a free supply of Agromin compost, mulch and other soil amendments plus a 15 percent off coupon code that members can share with customers and colleagues. Members, in turn, highlight their success stories using Agromin materials through their social media channels.
Healthy Soil Heroes membership applications are closed for 2024 but will open in 2025 for agricultural-related businesses and organizations. For more information, go to https://agromin.com/community or contact Cody Cain (805-850-8797, [email protected]).
“Armed with markers and endless humor, Marina Mobile Home Park seniors turn Halloween into a lively Pictionary competition, transforming ‘pumpkin’ and ‘dog’ into whimsical doodles and good-natured laughs!” Images by Patricia Schallert.
by Patricia Schallert
Imagine a room filled with laughter, creativity, and just the right amount of competitive spirit—because who decided handing out candy to trick-or-treaters was still a thing? “So last year,” quipped one attendee. Instead of playing porch patrol, these seniors flocked to the Community Center Clubhouse, transforming it into the hottest Halloween party in town. Armed with colorful markers and a fierce determination to out-sketch one another in a game of Pictionary, they brought their A-game. Who knew Grandma could turn “pumpkin” into something resembling a confused squid, just one tentacle short of a swimming lesson?
Seniors at Ventura’s Marina Mobile Home Park enjoy a Halloween Pictionary showdown, proving laughter and creativity are the best treats of the season!
As they morphed everyday words into laugh-out-loud doodles, these seniors showcased their artistic “skills” (or lack thereof) while swapping stories and spreading joy like candy corn at a Halloween hoedown. With each cartoonish attempt, they reminded everyone that aging is just a number—much like the number of snacks and drinks consumed during a Halloween Pictionary showdown!
In Ventura’s Marina Mobile Home Park clubhouse, a friendly battle brewed between senior men and women, each competing for Pictionary supremacy. The men, channeling their inner Picassos, declared that their life experience would be a game-changer. Case in point: their sketch of what was supposedly “a dog,” though it resembled more of a squashed potato with googly eyes. Meanwhile, the women’s team seamlessly combined creativity and communication, crafting prompts into whimsical masterpieces fit for a gallery—or at least a refrigerator.
As the game heated up, so did the playful banter. Each correct guess was celebrated like a touchdown, and every misstep led to peals of laughter and good-natured heckling. The competition was more than just about bragging rights; it was a heartwarming celebration of camaraderie and creativity. Blending the spirit of Halloween with friendly rivalry and plenty of snacks—brownies, pretzels, pizza, and drinks—they reminded us all that the true secret to youth is a hearty laugh and a healthy dose of ridiculousness. They proved once again that the joy of play knows no age—or occasion!
Pictionary Rules for Seniors:
Players and Teams:
Men vs. women in a showdown of artistic “genius”—or more likely, a hilarious display of “What the heck is that supposed to be?”
Materials Needed:
An official game board (or even a pizza box in a pinch), some markers or pencils that may or may not be dried out, and a timer—preferably not an ancient sundial from last Thanksgiving.
Drawing Cards:
Use cards with words like “apple” or “bungee jumping.” Missing cards? Scribble random things on slips of paper. (Bonus points for “that thing you used to fix the sink”!)
Taking Turns:
Take turns, friends! Each round, one brave soul picks a card and attempts to draw without using words, letters, or the infamous “chaotic squiggles.” The team guesses what’s being drawn—good luck with that!
Timing:
Set the timer for one minute, or until everyone is either guessing wildly or laughing too hard to tell if it’s an elephant or a gothic castle.
Guessing:
Shout out your guess like it’s family reunion bingo! A correct guess wins the team a point and serious bragging rights. No correct guess? No points—and maybe no dignity, either.
Scoring:
Keep score on a notepad, which can double as a shopping list for those who forgot to pick up milk.
Winning the Game:
Play until one team reaches five points or someone calls out for bingo. Everyone’s a winner as long as there are laughs and snacks. As for the men vs. women score? The winner is yet to be determined!
Tips for Enjoying Pictionary:
Embrace the chaos! Perfect drawings are overrated. If you struggle to draw, turn it into a modern art masterpiece and claim it’s “open to interpretation.” Most importantly, remember: it’s not about winning but enjoying each other’s company and laughing until someone snorts. Happy drawing and guessing!
Caleb Hester and fiancée Maya Norris (center) with Concours Motors CEO Gerardo “J.R.” Luna (right) and COO Rita Luna (left). Photo by Marie Gregorio-Oviedo @marie_the_photographer
On October 29, Concours Motors of Ventura celebrated its eighth annual Wheels to Shine Giveaway, awarding a pristine 2003 Mercedes-Benz E320 and a year of free maintenance to Ojai resident Caleb Hester. Caleb, 20, was selected from 60 nominees for the honor.
A recent Summa Cum Laude graduate from Pepperdine University, Caleb completed high school years ahead of schedule, finishing with nearly two years of college credits and maintaining a 4.0 GPA throughout his studies. Tragically, his mother, Lisa Hester, 43, was struck and killed by a speeding driver on July 31 while walking on a crosswalk, leaving behind Caleb and his seven younger siblings, the youngest just four years old. Friends describe Caleb as a quiet, dedicated, and compassionate young man who has become a pillar of strength for his grieving family.
Caleb was nominated for Wheels to Shine by close family friend Fawn Parish of Camarillo. Shortly after receiving the award, Caleb married his childhood sweetheart, Maya Norris, 19.
Concours Motors CEO Gerardo “J.R.” Luna and COO Rita Luna, known for their philanthropy in Ventura County, contribute to over 18 local organizations, participate in beach cleanups, and support youth through the Police Activities League. They say the Wheels to Shine giveaway is particularly meaningful because it allows them to share their skills as master technicians. “We’re so grateful to everyone who nominated someone for this year’s Wheels to Shine. As always, our nominations committee had a nearly impossible task, but Caleb and his family are truly inspiring. We can’t wait to see what he accomplishes with his new car,” shared J.R. Luna.
Friends of the Hester family have set up a GoFundMe page to help Caleb pursue his dream of attending medical school: GoFundMe link. To learn more about Concours Motors’ Wheels to Shine program, visit WheelsToShine.com.
The 31st District Agricultural Association Board of Directors has named Heidi Ortiz as Chief Executive Officer of the Ventura County Fairgrounds & Event Center. Ortiz has an extensive history with the Fairgrounds, having worked as an Executive Assistant to the CEO for 14 years and, most recently, as Deputy Manager. She also served as a Junior Fair Board advisor for five years. “I am both humbled and excited for this opportunity. I’m surrounded by an amazing team that will assist me in serving the Fairgrounds’ needs and the community’s interests,” said Ortiz. “The Fairgrounds has been my home away from home for almost 15 years; it’s a place I truly treasure as both an employee and as a community member.”
As CEO, Ortiz will steer the Fairgrounds into its promising future, provide leadership to staff, strengthen relationships between the Fairgrounds and the community, and work in tandem with the Board of Directors and their vision. “Working with Heidi as a Director since 2012, I have seen the hard work, dedication, and integrity Heidi brings to our Fairgrounds,” said Board President Dan Long. “Her vast knowledge of every aspect of the grounds, both during the Fair and year-round events, has shown that she is the best qualified person for this position.” The Board of Directors took the opportunity to name Ortiz as the permanent CEO in the October 22 Board Meeting.
Ortiz is a graduate of Cal Poly San Luis Obispo where she earned her Bachelors in Animal Science. She excelled in academics and athletics, having played four years of collegiate soccer; a two-year team captain. When she’s not at the Fairgrounds, Ortiz enjoys spending time with her husband, daughter, and son.
Enjoy taking a trip down memory lane? Longing for the sheer fun and frivolity of the musicals we grew up on? Join the fun by attending The Pajama Game, now playing at the Conejo Players Theater through December 1.
The award-winning Broadway musical opened in 1955 to rave reviews. It won Tony awards for best musical and best choreography, marking the beginning of a long and prestigious career for dancer/choreographer Bob Fosse. The story, by George Abbott and Richard Bissell, is a musical adaptation of Bissell’s 1953 book, 7 ½ cents. Music and lyrics were penned by Richard Adler and Jerry Ross. Many will instantly recognize such tunes as Hey There (You With the Stars in Your Eyes), Steam Heat, and Hernando’s Hideaway, to name a few.
In 2006 The Pajama Game again hit Broadway stages and garnered the Best Revival of a Musical award. Some may remember the 1957 film starring Doris Day.
Brendan Lynch stars as Sid, a newly hired supervisor for the Sleep-Tite pajama factory. He aims to assist the workers obtain a 7 ½ cent an hour wage hike. He did not figure on falling for the Union’s grievance committee leader, Babe, played by Jordyn Crowley Watts. Dissension in the factory leads to a confrontation which challenges the couple, as well as others.
With a Union strike imminent, plans must be made to turn the situation around. The good guys prevail with much singing and dancing along the way. Romance is restored. Happy ending.
The entire cast, directed by Devery Holmes, is solid throughout. Both Lynch and Watts display their voices and characters with confident clarity. Jeremy Richter as factory boss Hines sings and dances his way to success with finesse. A tap dancing, heartfelt duet with secretary Mabel (Madison Bales) is a standout number. Jordi Klingman plays a Richard Kind reminiscent character whose antics are a comedy highlight. Perky Kris Bramson portrays Gladys, secretary to the big boss Mr. Hasler, played with bluster by Conejo veteran Gary Saxer in this performance. The role is shared with Jay Weber.
Creative and spirited choreography by Miriam Durrie-Kirsch plays beautifully to the era, the skills of the 20-member cast, and the sheer enthusiasm of it all. The well-known Steam Heat dance sequence opening the second act is fresh and embodies the Fosse influence with many signature moves. Well done, ladies!
Costuming by Beth Eslick and Elena Mills is detailed, colorful and adds to the overall picture with style. The multi-piece, often dual-sided, movable set panels allow rapid scene changes, Often the cast is choreographed to assist for smooth transitions.
Donations of all types are being accepted for those affected by the Mountain Fire. New PJ’s, gift cards, cash and more all welcome. Contact the theater or bring to the performance you attend.
The Pajama Game runs through December 1 with performances Friday and Saturday at 8 p.m., Sundays at 2 p.m. and Thursday Nov. 14 at 8 p.m. www.conejoplayers.org
Community members and volunteers, including City Councilmember Mike Johnson and local business sponsors, team up with the Ventura Tree Alliance to plant trees at Camino Real Park, restoring Ventura’s urban canopy. Photos by Barbara Brown.
On Tuesday, October 29, from 10am to noon, neighbors, dendrophiles, park lovers and interested community members gathered for a fun, family-friendly tree planting. The Ventura Tree Alliance (VTA), the City of Ventura’s Urban Forestry team and interested stakeholders teamed up to plant thirteen trees at Camino Real Park. VTA also sponsored five additional street trees that will be planted on Telephone Road by the Government Center. Tree planting is crucial in preserving and restoring our urban canopy post the Thomas fire, drought and bark beetle losses of the last decade. Last year alone, the City lost more than 300 trees.
Volunteers included City Councilmember Mike Johnson, City of Ventura Water Commissioner Jim Ackerman, and City staff including Assistant City Manager Carlene Saxton and Ventura Parks and Recreation Director Stacey Zarazua. The City’s Urban Forestry team, led by Andy Torres and Mike Melore, dug the holes and helped place the trees for optimal survival and added shade. Companies including Airgas and West Coast Arborists also rolled up their sleeves to help out.
“It was a warm, autumnal day at Camino Real Park…perfect for planting trees” said Les Weber, District Manager for Airgas, “Tree planting is a wonderful team building experience for our crew, allowing us to come together while giving back to the community. We’re proud to contribute to a cooler, shadier future for Ventura.”
The funds for this event were provided through generous donations from the Ventura Tree Alliance Hundred Founding Donors, other charitable gifts and our community — people who see the value of trees and want to take part in making a difference; cooling the air, providing habitat, reducing water run-off, and mitigating CO2 emissions.
The Ventura Tree Alliance is a 501(c) 3 nonprofit public-benefit corporation that brings communitymembers, educators, and business professionals together to enhance the urban tree canopy in the city of Ventura.
The mission is to “plant trees to augment Ventura’s urban forest, beautifying Ventura and counteracting climate change. Our goals are to inspire, engage and support Venturans in planting and caring for trees through education, advocacy, volunteerism, and fundraising. To donate, visit VenturaTreeAlliance.com/donate.
Cabrillo Economic Development Corporation (CEDC), Ventura County’s leading affordable housing developer, today announced the upcoming retirement of its CEO, Margarita H. de Escontrias, effective January 2, 2025. Ms. Escontrias has served with distinction for over eleven years, leading CEDC in its mission to provide comprehensive housing services and community development opportunities for those most in need.
