New Bookmobile to Serve Ventura County Schools

Innovative Project is First of Its Kind in California

A brand-new mobile library will serve local students in Ventura County. The School Mobile Library will travel to schools throughout the county, focusing particularly on those without credentialed librarians on staff.

The School Mobile Library will provide books in multiple formats and languages, STEAM instruction and programs, homework support aligned with school curricula, and access to technology and online resources. While bookmobiles serving the general public are common in California, this is the first to be dedicated specifically to students.

“Nearly 70,000 Ventura County students attend schools that don’t have a professional librarian on staff, and some of these schools lack an on-site library altogether,” said Dr. César Morales, Ventura County Superintendent of Schools. “The new bookmobile will bring library services directly to students where they already are—at school.”

The School Mobile Library will be stocked with $50,000 worth of new books. Staff from the Ventura County Office of Education will lead book discussions and lessons on media literacy, financial literacy, and more. County Library staff will provide STEAM kits and other engaging activities during school visits. The bookmobile will also facilitate student sign-ups for library cards, helping to meet an upcoming state requirement that all students obtain a library card by the third grade.

This project is a collaborative effort between the Ventura County Library and the Ventura County Office of Education. It is funded by a generous $50,000 donation from the Ventura County Library Foundation, Premier America Credit Union, CBC Federal Credit Union, County Schools Federal Credit Union, and Ventura County Credit Union, in addition to a $250,000 Stronger Together: Improving Library Access grant from the California State Library.

The School Mobile Library will start its school visits during the 2024-25 school year.

Ventura Girls Fastpitch: Pacific Coast Region 8U Undefeated Champions!

Right to left: Natalia Hernandez, Alana Barlow, Ellie Vorburger, Madisyn Taminich, Morgan Scarlett, Korie Mulhall, Brooklyn Sheff, Aiyana Kohler, Mallory Van, Camilla Duran, Kylee Martinez

They did it! The Ventura Girls Fastpitch 8U All-Star team is the undefeated State and Western Region Champion. They secured the top spot in California for their age group by winning five tournaments without a loss.

Highlights include:

  • Western District Finalists
  • Undefeated SoCal State Champions
  • Undefeated Western Region Champions
  • Overall Record: 35-4
  • Outscored Opponents: 256-38

Congratulations to the team for their exceptional performance and remarkable achievements!

2024 Ventura County Fair Totallylocal VC Craft Beer Garden

TotallyLocal VC is hosting the Craft Beer & Wine Garden at this year’s 2024 Ventura County Fair. The Ventura County Fair runs from July 31 – Aug 11. The Totally Local VC Craft Beer Garden is located in the Floriculture /Landscape area at the Fair Grounds, directly across from the Agricultural building.

Totally Local VC Kicks is also raising funds for our 2024/2025 Scholarship Fund again at this year’s Ventura County Fair. Brewers from throughout Ventura County have graciously donated funds to the scholarship program. Funds raised throughout the year and early 2025 will be used to create a scholarship fund for students who are pursuing an education and career in agriculture, culinary arts and or food science.

Scholarships recipients will be decided by our Ag Ed Committee and awarded July 2025. If you’re interested in finding out more or donating to the scholarship fund email [email protected] or visit TotallyLocalVC.com.

Participating Breweries and Distillery:

  • Topa Topa Brewing
  • Institution Ale
  • Ventura Coast brewing
  • Made West
  • Rincon Brewing
  • Island Brewing
  • Tarantula Brewing
  • Transmission Brewing
  • Bell Ringer
  • Anna’s Ciders
  • Enegren Brewing
  • And Ventura Spirits

City Releases Fall Activity Guide – Over 300 Classes and Programs

The City of Ventura is excited to announce the release of its next Fall Activity Guide! Registration begins Tuesday, August 6, 2024, at 12:00 p.m. and will be available online, over the phone, or in person at City Hall, Room 226, 501 Poli Street. Registration information and policies can be found on page 43. Discover over 300 upcoming classes, programs, and events scheduled from September through January at www.cityofventura.ca.gov/ActivityGuide.

The Fall Activity Guide offers a diverse range of classes and programs for all ages, including Beginner Ceramics, a Bus Tour to see Hamilton at the Pantages Theatre, Aikido, and a collection of classes in fitness, art, aquatics, sports, pet wellness, and more.

Every City of Ventura residence will receive a printed copy of the Fall Activity Guide by mail. Additional copies can be picked up during business hours at City Hall and other City facilities, including the Westpark Community Center, Barranca Vista Community Center, Ventura Aquatics Center, and Ventura Avenue Adult Center.

“This year’s National Park and Recreation theme is ‘Where You Belong,’ and that is what we strive to create for our residents: a sense of belonging and community,” said Parks and Recreation Director Stacey Zarazua. “Our goal is to provide positive and inclusive programs for all ages, welcoming outdoor spaces, and essential services like food and child-care.”

According to the National Recreation and Park Association’s 2023 Engagement with Parks Report, 84 percent of U.S. adults consider high-quality parks and recreation essential when choosing a place to live, and 88 percent believe it is vital for local park and recreation agencies to engage with all community members to ensure offerings meet their needs.

The City of Ventura Parks and Recreation Department manages over 800 acres of parks and open space and oversees three community centers, three community gardens, multiple historic sites, and the Ventura Aquatic Center. Learn more at www.cityofventura.ca.gov/ParksRecreation.

24th Annual Pooch Parade!

Fun, Sun, Sand, and Supporting Rescue Dogs!

Mark Your Calendars for the 2024 CARL Pooch Parade!
Sunday, August 18, 2024
10 a.m. – 3 p.m. (Pacific Time)
Ventura Harbor Village, 1583 Spinnaker Drive, Ventura, CA 93001

Gather your family and furry best friends and head to beautiful Ventura for the 24th Annual Pooch Parade! Canine Adoption and Rescue League (CARL) will host the event on Sunday, August 18, from 10 a.m. to 3 p.m. Join CARL and its adoptable rescue dogs for a day of fun in the sun at Ventura Harbor Village, 1583 Spinnaker Drive in Ventura. This year’s theme is “Fun, Sun, Sand, and Supporting Rescue Dogs!” Dress yourself and your pup in fun, beach-inspired attire to join the celebration!

Visit poochparade.org for updates and to sign up for the fundraising Pooch Parade walk. Interested in being a vendor or an event sponsor? Contact Sheila at [email protected].

Taste of Ventura Fair

Photos by Patricia Schallert

by Patricia Schallert

On July 30th, the 150 anniversary of the Ventura Fair was celebrated by having The Taste of the Fair which is a beloved annual event that captures the essence of the Ventura Fair’s vibrant food scene. Local chefs, restaurants, and vendors came together to offer a smorgasbord of culinary delights that showcase the area’s rich flavors and unique cuisine. From delectable vegetable dishes to savory street corn and tacos and everything in between, the fair is a true feast for the senses.

Guests were able to sample an array of mouth-watering dishes, sip on refreshing beverages, and indulge in sweet treats that highlight Ventura’s agricultural bounty. The fair is not just about food; it’s a celebration of community, creativity, and passion for good eats. Live music fills the air, adding to the festive ambiance.

As the fair opens, families, foodies, and friends come together to enjoy a day of delicious food, lively entertainment, and warm hospitality. The Taste of Fair is not just an event – it’s an experience that showcases the best of Ventura’s culinary delights and leaves a lasting impression on all who attend.

Vol. 17, No. 23 – Aug 7 – Aug 20, 2024 – Forever Homes Wanted

Hi, I’m Winchester, a playful and outgoing 9-year-old Pit Bull mix who enjoys hanging out with my people. I love going on hikes, playing with hard chew toys, and getting lots of exercise. I’ve joined playgroups, and while I mostly keep to myself, I do have playful moments with other four-legged friends. I ride nicely in the car, enjoy sunbathing, and would do just about anything for a treat! I’ve worked with a trainer and know my basic commands. I walk well on a leash. I’m eager to please and want to be with my people.

Hi, I’m Luna 7, a stunning 3 1/2-year-old Shepherd mix in need of a new home because I have a high prey drive and I’m not good around farm animals. I’m a water-loving, tennis ball-chasing, playful gal who enjoys making friends in playgroups each week. In my last home, I did well with large dogs and loved every adult human stranger I met. It’s unknown how I’d do with children, but I’d probably do best in a home with older kids. I need someone who is active and understands the needs of a high-energy dog breed.

Hi, I’m Gidget, an active 2-year-old Australian Cattle Dog mix. I love belly rubs and getting lots of love and attention. I absolutely love to run around in playgroups and always try to entice others to play with me. My breed is known for being highly intelligent and energetic, and we are really happy when on the job. Therefore, training and participation in activities such as obedience, herding, or agility are highly recommended.

Hi, I’m Kade, a handsome 5 1/2-year-old Pit Bull mix rescued from an LA shelter where I was on borrowed time. I need time to get to know you before I warm up. I’ll need a patient person who will take the time to get to know me and allow me to get to know them. Volunteers say I’m the easiest dog to walk. I’ve been in playgroups and although I don’t initiate play very often, I’m fine hanging around other calm dogs. I’m a loving boy, but I’m still timid with my surroundings. I’ve been fortunate to have gone on offsite outings with some of my favorite volunteers, and I’m learning to be more confident.

All of these amazing pets are being cared for by the Canine Adoption and Rescue League (CARL). Could you provide a forever home to one of these wonderful pets? To read full pet bios and submit an application, visit www.CARLDogs.org or call 805-644-7387.

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

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

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

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

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

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

 

Ventura Chamber of Commerce Applauds Repeal of Net Zero Water Fee Ordinance

City Council votes unanimously to remove Fee

On Tuesday, July 16, the Ventura City Council voted unanimously to remove the Net Zero Water Fee Ordinance and impose an immediate moratorium on the collection of any Net Zero Fees while finalizing the amendment to the ordinance. This decision effectively removes a significant impediment for businesses unique to the City of Ventura. “There is an entrepreneurial spirit in Ventura that wants to be unlocked and the unanimous decision by City Council to repeal ‘Net Zero’ will be a big help in moving the ball forward for the local economy,” said Benedict Koenig IV, founder of Mothers Tacos. Koenig, a successful restaurateur, is expanding his brand and working to bring Mothers Tacos to Ventura. He was shocked to learn that he would have to pay $60,000 in Net Zero Water Fees alone.

The recently adopted Economic Development Strategy specifically pointed out the Net Zero fee as a threat to economic development. Many examples of these onerous fees were provided in the policy consideration brought forward by Councilmembers Doug Halter (District 2) and Mike Johnson (District 3). The Ventura Chamber of Commerce has been advocating for the repeal of this fee since its inception. “I believe the timing was right, with the release of the Economic Development Strategy, a focus from city leadership on customer service, and the continued improvements in the permitting process, this was the next logical step to help improve our city’s competitiveness,” said Stephanie Caldwell, President & CEO of the Ventura Chamber of Commerce. “I commend the courage of Councilmembers Halter and Johnson to bring this forward and the leadership exhibited by the entire City Council to support it with a 7-0 vote. This is a win for business, a win for Council, and most importantly, a win for Ventura!”

The City of Ventura adopted the Water Rights Dedication and Water Resource Net Zero Policy, Ordinance No. 2016-004, effective on August 11, 2016. The intent of the ordinance was to provide a framework to address future water supply for future development within our community. At the time, a detailed analysis of the city’s water supply and demand concluded that the city’s water supplies were being used at or near full capacity. In 2016, total demand for water was 14,262 acre-feet (AF). The 2016 Comprehensive Water Resources Report projected that demand would grow substantially to 17,523 AFY (acre-feet per year) in 2020 and 18,657 AFY by 2030. Instead, demand has not increased but decreased and has never peaked above 15,000 AFY.

The Ventura Chamber of Commerce is a membership-based organization that advocates on behalf of the business community. With nearly 700 members, representing more than 24,000 employees locally, the Chamber engages on a variety of issues that help to drive a strong local economy as The Voice of Business. www.venturachamber.com.

A Tribute to Roxy: A Life of Service and Dedication

In March 2012, a cheerful mutt named Diva was surrendered to the Sacramento SPCA by an owner who felt they couldn’t provide the active home she needed. Initially taken in as a stray, Diva had been causing a fuss by chasing chickens at her previous home. Recognizing her potential, the Sacramento SPCA staff, who had a professional relationship with the Search Dog Foundation (SDF), contacted SDF volunteer Andrea Bergquist.

Andrea, the wife of SDF handler and Sacramento City firefighter Chris Bergquist, felt Diva showed promising qualities. After passing her medical exam, Diva was transported south to begin SDF’s training program. SDF trainer Kellee Matthews quickly noted Diva’s good focus, natural ability on rubble, and strong nose. Renamed Roxy, she impressed the trainers with her instincts and skills.

On November 5, 2012, Roxy graduated from the canine training program and was partnered with Cynthia Sato, a U.S. Forest Service veteran and firefighter/paramedic with the Los Angeles Fire Department. Cynthia and Roxy joined a dedicated group of Los Angeles-based teams, training regularly to prepare for the FEMA Certification Exam, which they passed on September 21, 2013. This certification allowed them to deploy nationwide with California Task Force 1.

Their first deployment came on July 25, 2014, following a structural collapse in Century City, CA. A large planter had fallen from a crane onto a parking structure. Unsure if anyone was trapped in their cars, first responders called for assistance. Roxy and Cynthia, along with teammates Mike Gross and his canine Journey, searched the site. Roxy worked the lower levels and crawl spaces, while Journey searched the upper levels. Fortunately, no victims were found, and all residents and employees were accounted for.

To maintain active deployment status, teams must re-certify every three years. On June 5, 2016, Cynthia and Roxy re-certified in Littleton, MA. They responded to their next call on January 30, 2017, in the Hollywood Hills after heavy rains caused a landslide, trapping occupants in their homes. Roxy and Cynthia, along with another LAFD canine team, searched for unaccounted residents.

In January 2018, Roxy and Cynthia were deployed to Montecito, CA, to search for survivors following a deadly mudslide. They spent nearly a week searching the devastated area, completing this challenging deployment together.

On New Year’s Day 2022, Roxy retired from the L.A. Fire Department and California Task Force 1. She remained a beloved member of Cynthia’s family, enjoying an active lifestyle and being a dedicated big sister to Cynthia’s young son.

At the age of 14, Roxy peacefully crossed the Rainbow Bridge on April 13, 2024. We are grateful for Roxy’s service to her community and the nation, and she will be fondly remembered for many years. Like all our four-legged heroes, Roxy will be honored at SDF’s Canine Memorial Wall in Santa Paula, CA.