Ventura College Foundation Distributes Over $636,000 In Scholarships

The Ventura College Foundation presented 421 scholarships for the 2024-25 academic year totaling $636,017 during its 35th Annual Scholarship Awards ceremony, May 16, at the Ventura College Sportsplex Field. 

Of the 230 scholarship recipients, many received multiple scholarships. Of the amount awarded, $583,884 went to general scholarships, $29,110 was awarded to students focusing on agriculture, advanced manufacturing, diesel mechanics or veterinary tech careers and $23,023 went to students in paramedic studies. 

Continuing students received an average of $2,417 in scholarships while students transferring to four-year universities received an average of $3,557. At a minimum, each student received a $1,000 scholarship. 

Each year, the Ventura College Foundation’s Scholarship Review Committee evaluates scholarship applications and scores them following a specific scoring scale. Those who meet all the application requirements and have the highest scores receive scholarships. 

A recipient of three Phoenix scholarships Daniel Mendez of Fillmore, is a returning student, having first attended Ventura College almost 10 years ago. He plans to receive his associate degree in Drafting this Fall. “I became interested in drafting because of the many different drafting opportunities that can help change the world we live in,” says Mendez. “Ventura College offers tuition help, scholarships and online classes. These are super important to me. I would be forced to take out loans to pay for school. Plus, I have an 11-year-old son who I coach in baseball and football and a one-year-old daughter who needs every bit of attention I can give.”

Mendez hopes to secure a planner position with Southern California Edison after graduation. “My education at Ventura College has given me the power to get the training and experience that I need to go out and get a career that feeds my family.” 

“With rising college costs, scholarships can mean the difference between students being able to continue with their education or having to drop out,” says Nicole Kreutz, chair of the Ventura College Foundation board of directors.  “Scholarship funds help offset tuition, books and other expenses. They can be a game changer.” 

Gabrielle MacNeill of Simi Valley, a member of the Ventura College water polo and swim teams, is transferring to Cal State Northridge in the Fall. She received multiple scholarships including the Miriam and Henry Schwab Memorial Aquatics Scholarship given to students involved in aquatics. A swim instructor, she teaches kids with physical and cognitive disabilities. MacNeill will major in psychology and possibly obtain a master’s degree in occupational therapy to continue her work helping kids. 

Her experience at Ventura College has been positive. “I always feel very welcomed whenever I walk on the Ventura College campus,” says Gabrielle. “The professors really care about their students. They take the time to know each of us. Moving on to the next chapter of my education, these scholarships will reduce the financial stress and enable me to pay for tuition and housing expenses.” 

Multi-scholarship recipient Frank Smith has set his sights on owning his own business. A family emergency caused him to relocate to Florida after he had enrolled in Cal State, Channel Islands out of high school. He later returned to California and entered Ventura College. He will finish his studies in the Fall and transfer to the University of West Florida where he will major in Business Management. An avid swimmer, he works as a lifeguard with the Surf Rescue/Beach Safety Division of the Navarre Beach Fire Department. He would love to parlay his love of being an athlete to starting a company in the pain management field. 

“I’ve had excellent professors and Ventura College,” says Smith. “I owe my educational success to Ventura College and the opportunities it offers. I didn’t have a college fund. Through these scholarships, I can go to school without taking loans. The financial resources are out there. You just have to find them.” 

“The drive and dedication our students show is truly amazing,” says Kreutz. “They are an inspiration to all of us.” 

The Ventura College Foundation is grateful for the continuing support of scholarship event sponsors. They include Edison International, Searle Creative, Bank of the Sierra, L&T Catering, Miracle Mile Advisors, Ohana Pet Hospital, LetzChat, Trinity Wheeler Photography and Luners Production Services. 

Scholarship applications will be accepted for the next academic year beginning in the Fall. For more about the Ventura College Foundation and donation opportunities, go to https://venturacollegefoundation.org. 

Ventura College Foundation 

Established in 1983, the Ventura College Foundation transforms students’ lives through education by providing innovative and vital resources and financial support.  The Foundation collaborates with Ventura College to enhance human potential, civic engagement, careers, and academic success of students enabling their effective impact and legacy on the college, local workforce, and our community. The Foundation also hosts the Ventura College Foundation Marketplace; an outdoor shopping experience held every weekend on the Ventura College campus. For more information, contact Julie Harvey at (805) 289-6502 or [email protected] or visit www.VenturaCollegeFoundation.org.

Business Profile: American Flags & Cutlery

Bryan Miller’s journey is a testament to his resilience and passion for entrepreneurship. Despite facing challenges due to dyslexia during his school years, he pursued a degree in business administration. With admirable determination, he navigated the educational obstacles that came his way.

Bryan’s professional path led him into the realm of restaurant management, where he spent five years honing his skills and gaining valuable experience. However, a pivotal moment arrived when a patron from one of the restaurants he managed presented him with a life-changing opportunity. This patron, on the brink of retirement, proposed that Bryan manage and take over their business, American Flags & Cutlery. Bryan seized this chance, marking the beginning of a new chapter.

In the year 2020, Bryan assumed a managerial role within the establishment, gradually transitioning to ownership by April 1, 2021. While the prospect of ownership was exciting, it came with its share of challenges. Determining the right products to procure for the store’s inventory posed an initial hurdle. Bryan tackled this obstacle by immersing himself in understanding the preferences and needs of his clientele. Through diligent learning and adaptation, he navigated the intricate landscape of the industry.

One of Bryan’s strengths lies in his ability to network effectively. He recognized the importance of connecting with the right individuals, which aided him in overcoming the learning curve associated with the cutlery industry. He cultivated partnerships with local businesses such as Messermeister and the unique Ojai-based brand, Ocaso. In fact, Bryan’s store became the exclusive carrier of Ocaso products—a noteworthy accomplishment.

What sets Bryan’s store apart is its distinctive collection of items that cannot be found in other establishments. This curated selection highlights his commitment to providing customers with a diverse and unparalleled shopping experience.

Entrepreneurship runs in Bryan’s family, with both his grandparents having ventured into business ownership. Drawing inspiration from his family background and his own experiences as an Eagle Scout, Bryan’s passion for cutlery and knives was kindled during his time in the restaurant industry. This unique blend of interests and his hands-on experience contribute to the store’s distinctive character.

In conclusion, Bryan Miller’s journey encapsulates the triumph of perseverance over adversity. From his challenging school years to becoming the owner of American Flags & Cutlery, his story exemplifies the power of determination, adaptation, and meaningful connections. Through his store, he not only offers exceptional products but also a testament to the value of pursuing one’s passions against all odds.

Ventura’s Historic Street Names Tell Many Stories

by Richard Senate

Main Street today was originally the Spanish highway that linked all the Missions and settlements. It was California’s first thoroughfare, “El Camino Real” (The Royal Highway), extending from La Paz, Baja California to Sonoma. Why was the name changed? The early American settlers wanted nothing to do with Spanish after the Mexican-American War. The name was altered by Ordinance Number Ten of the newly incorporated City of San Buenaventura in 1867.

Another historic street, “Figueroa,” positioned before the Old Mission, is not named after the popular California Governor of that name, but rather after the town blacksmith who operated a shop on that street in 1850. “Palm Street” derived its name from three towering date palms planted by the Mission, which served as landmarks for the town. At one point, there was even a suggestion to rename the town “Palm City.” Although the trees are no longer standing, the street name persists as a reminder of these iconic landmarks.

The origins of some street names are straightforward to trace, such as “Oak Street,” named after a tall oak tree that once graced the area. “California Street” is believed to have been named around 1850, coinciding with California’s admission to the Union. This street connected the town to the beach and facilitated the transportation of cargo from ships anchored offshore to the community via small boats called “lighters,” before the construction of the wharf in 1872.

“Thomson Street” honors local landowner Dixie Thomson, renowned for his dancing horses showcased in parades. While the street was laid out during Spanish times, it initially served as a horse racing track, reflecting the popularity of the sport among early settlers. Interestingly, the Chumash were recognized as skilled horsemen and jockeys, often hired by ranch owners to race their thoroughbred Arabians. Betting was commonplace, with entire ranches sometimes changing hands in a single race.

“Poli Street” commemorates wealthy landowner and doctor Manuel Antonio Rodriguez de Poli, who resided in a large adobe overlooking the town and bay. Although his former residence was removed to make way for the Hill Street School, an apartment building now occupies the site. Dr. Poli was widely beloved for his altruism, never charging for his medical services, which he considered more of a hobby than a profession.

“Ventura Avenue” originally connected Ventura and the Ojai Valley, initially known as “Canada Street.” It traversed a smaller road named “Crooked Palm” Road, named after a deformed palm tree that once stood there. Perhaps a twisted palm could be replanted to honor the memory of the long-gone tree?

The streets of Ventura serve as tangible reminders of its rich and diverse history, each name carrying with it a unique story and legacy.

Neighborhood Community Councils

The City of Ventura has seven Neighborhood Community Councils and any resident, business owner or property owner can join their area group.

Top four reasons to get involved with your Neighborhood Community Council:

  1. Connect with your neighbors
  2. Learn what’s happening in your area
  3. Get updates and information from City staff
  4. Participate in projects that make a difference in your neighborhood

Find Your Neighborhood Community Council

While the seven City Council districts don’t perfectly align with the boundaries of the seven Neighborhood Community Councils, below is the general correlation, as well as meeting and website information for each:

Westside Community Council

Downtown Ventura Partners

Midtown Community Council

  • Meetings are the 2nd Thursdays each month @ 7pm via Zoom
  • Midtown Ventura

College Area Community Council

East Ventura Community Council

  • Meetings are the 3rd Thursday of each month @ 7pm on Zoom
  • East Ventura

Montalvo Community Council

  • Public meetings are held quarterly on the 3rd Tuesday of February, May, August, and November @ 6:30pm
  • Montalvo Community Council

Pierpont Bay Community Council

https://www.cityofventura.ca.gov/1129/Neighborhood-Community-Councils

Officiate high-school volleyball in the Ventura area

The Channel Coast Volleyball Association will have their first meeting for those wishing to officiate high-school girls’ matches during the upcoming fall season which begins in early August.

The Association referees matches in all cities in Ventura County. New officials are welcome including college students. This meeting will be held Monday, July 8 and July 15, at 6 p.m., Room G 109 near the gym at Oxnard High School, 3400 W. Gonzalez Rd. All training will be provided.

To fill out an application, visit channelcoastofficials.org

Vol. 17, No. 20 – June 26 – July 9, 2024 – Community Events

Ventura:

Old-Time Country Bluegrass Gospel Music Assoc: Sunday July 7, 2:00 – 4:00 pm
Poinsettia Pavilion. 3451 Foothill Rd, Ventura, CA 93003
Live Music on stage. Jamming in the Canada Room. Free Admission. Free parking. Open to the Public. For more information, call 805-517-1131 or visit Facebook: OTCBGM

Surf Rodeo Festival: July 5th and 6th. Tip of Surfer’s Point (by the Ventura Fairgrounds).
Since 1997, Surf Rodeo is Ventura’s original surfing and music festival. 30+ bands vendors and more. www.Surfrodeo.org

Tequila & Taco Music Festival: Saturday, July 13: 1pm – 9pm, Ventura County Fairgrounds.
California’s Largest Traveling Tequila & Taco Music Festival is back! This event will showcase top-shelf Tequila sampling, while you enjoy the best gourmet street tacos Ventura has to offer. Enjoy live music, margaritas, craft beer, and vendors. All ticket holders will have access to food vendors, craft beer, margarita booths, shopping, and live music. Tickets available at www.tequilaandtacomusicfestival.com/ 

Genealogy – Free Family History Lectures: Saturday, July 20. Online Via Zoom from 1:00 pm – 4:00 PM.
The Ventura County Genealogical Society will present two speakers. The first is Tina Beaird, speaking on “Maps and Trails: Common Migration Paths from the17th Through 19th Centuries,” followed by David Flint on the topic of “Marriage Records in England.” All VCGS lectures are free and open to members and the public. Non-members may request a Zoom invitation at https://venturacogensoc.org/request-invitation-to-lecture/. Please note that VCGS cannot respond to same-day requests. VCGS is an all-volunteer, public benefit non-profit corporation [501(c)(3)]. Donations are greatly appreciated. For more information: https://www.venturacogensoc.org.

NAMBA Improv Camps: Grades 4-10. Monday through Thursday. Downtown Ventura.
Creative, interactive games and exercises where students are introduced to the fun and skill of improvisational theater. Through simple exercises and games we begin to explore the vast world of character creation and storytelling! Instructed by Mr. Casey Robbins. Space is limited. www.Namba.com.

Olivas Adobe House Tours: Every Sunday in July and August
The Olivas Adobe historic site features the original two-story adobe home of Don Raymundo Olivas built in 1847. Celebrating Ventura’s Rancho and Latino heritage. Located at 4200 Olivas Park Drive, Ventura. House tours are $5 for Adults and $3 for children and Seniors. More Information is available at https://www.cityofventura.ca.gov/648/Olivas-Adobe-Historical-Park.

Ongoing:

Ventura Senior Men’s Group – First and Third Tuesdays each month: 11:30am – 1:30pm – Poinsettia Pavilion.
Any man who considers himself in the “senior” category (and many who don’t) might benefit from a visit to the Ventura Senior Men’s Group.  Buffet luncheon with interesting speakers and good friends. Your first lunch is free. We talk about everything except religion and politics. Eligible to all men 50 plus. Call Tom at 805-657-1071 for more information or visit VSMG.net to find out who our speakers will be.

Play Bridge: Every Tuesday, Wednesday, and Thursday – 12:30pm.
ACBL-sanctioned duplicate bridge games. All levels of play, and we will guarantee to have a partner for you if you need one. Lessons are available. Tuesday, Wed and Thursday games are held at Temple Beth Torah, Foothill & Kimball Rd, Ventura. Every Saturday at the Ventura Townhouse.  For additional info visit our website at www.vcbridge.org. Contact Rose at [email protected].

Ventura County Philatelic Society: First and third Monday’s each month – 7:30pm.
Church of the Foothills, Ventura. For more information, visit https://venturacountyphilatelicsoc.org.

Beach Cleanup: First Saturday of every month – 8:30 -10:30am.
Meet your neighbors and help keep our beach looking fresh. Hosted by Pierpont Beach Community Council in partnership with Surfrider. Meet up at the end of Seward near the beach. (1140 S Seward St). Arrive any time during the timeframe. Fun for the whole family! Supplies provided – BYO water.

Santa Barbara:

The Santa Barbara Museum of Art (SBMA) exhibition; The Lady Leslie and Lord Paul Ridley-Tree Collection, 1130 State Street, Santa Barbara, CA, July 7 – November 3. www.sbma.net.

Oxnard:

Bridging Familias: LGBTQ+ Latino Wellness Event: Saturday, July 13, 2024, 9 am – 3 pm, Oxnard College Performing Arts Building. Learning how bullying and sexual and intimate partner violence affect LGBTQ+ Latinos & how to support our loved ones! Free lunch for the first 300 participants! Spanish, Mixteco and ASL translation will be provided.

Educational Presentations (9 am – 12 pm)
Lunch (12 pm – 12:30 pm)
Intergenerational Panel (12:30 pm – 1:30 pm)
Resource Fair (12 pm to 3 pm)
Art Exhibit (12 pm to 3 pm)

For questions and additional info. email: [email protected] & [email protected] or call: 805-983-6014, ext.1114. Register at: https://www.eventbrite.com/e/bridging-familias-lgbtq-latino-wellness-event-tickets-890666717127?blm_aid=23160833

Business Profile: Safe Travels RV Services Company LLC,

Welcome to Safe Travels RV Services Company LLC, where our motto is “Wishing You Safe Travels.” Located in Ventura, California, Safe Travels RV Services provides mobile services dedicated to ensuring your RV adventures are as smooth and as safe as possible.

This husband and wife team, Bill Meyer and Lisa Edwards, are passionate outdoor enthusiasts. Retired in 2023 as an electrical engineer, Bill is an NRVIA-certified RV inspector, solar designer/installer, certified infrared thermographer and registered technician. Lisa spent 25 years as an educator and retired in 2021. She co-owns and managed the day to day operations.

As lifelong outdoor enthusiasts, they have always treasured camping and exploring nature. Over the years, their love for comfort while camping grew, leading them to embrace RV travel. Some call it glamping, but they see it as motorized camping. They understand the frustration of travel mishaps, such as water leaks, refrigerator and generator issues and electrical trouble and they are dedicated to helping travelers avoid and resolve these problems.

At Safe Travels RV Services, they offer comprehensive RV inspections for new or used RVs, from small trailers to class A motor coaches and everything in between.

There’s an inspection process which involves detailed visual observations and instrument-based measurements of every aspect of one’s RV. This provides customers with a complete report on the current condition of the vehicle. Inspections provide clients with peace of mind and valuable information to support a difficult decision-making process.

In addition, Safe Travels RV Services offers maintenance, solar installation, and RV educational services to keep travelers safe on the road.

Their mission is to ensure travel safety and peace of mind, allowing travelers to create lifelong memories. Bill’s engineering expertise and Lisa’s educational background provide a unique, customer-focused approach. They prioritize educating their clients, empowering them to enjoy their RVs to the fullest. Safe Travels RV Services Company LLC is a member of the Ventura Chamber and the Better Business Bureau and serves Ventura and Santa Barbara counties.

Vol. 17, No. 20 – June 26 – July 9, 2024 – A View from House Seats

by Shirley Lorraine

Laughter Slaughters on Santa Paula Stage

The Santa Paula Theatre Center continues its season of all comedies with Women in Jeopardy by Wendy MacLeod. Full of good old-fashioned chuckles and guffaws, the cast delivers with tongues firmly in cheek.

Billed as Thelma and Louise meets The First Wives Club, Women n Jeopardy invites the audience to leave logic at the door and just enjoy the frantic and often absurd antics of the characters. The plot is admittedly thin (or complex, depending on how you count the threads), centering around three divorced friends of ages past youth and before senility. There are still wild oats to be sowed, and Liz (Leslie Upson) is fully engaged in this endeavor via her infatuation with her new beau Jackson (Ron Feltner), an odd duck dentist. Striking suspicious chords with Liz’s friends Mary (Jessi May Stevenson) and Jo (Theresa Secor), Jackson proceeds to display signs that lead the ladies to believe he may have a sinister streak. Coincidence? Perhaps.

As suspicions grow, the action becomes increasingly absurd when a local policeman, Kirk (also Ron Feltner) appears to look just like the dentist. Mary and Jo attempt, without success, to alert the police that Jackson may in fact be the serial killer currently being sought based on tiny threads of circumstantial evidence, mostly woven by the fabric of their minds. They cite that Liz’s daughter Amanda (Amber Shea Hodge) plans to go camping in a remote area with Jackson and they fear for her safety. Mary then engages Amber’s off and on boyfriend Trenner (Christopher Craven) in a plot that is completely misconstrued, to Mary’s consternation and the delight of the audience.

The movable set pieces employed in this production provide a panoply of backdrops, while mysterious figures in dimmed lighting gleefully change props to stealthy music. It is as much fun to watch the scene changes as the play itself.

Each of the actors give sterling, enthusiastic, broad performances. As an ensemble, they work beautifully together. Direction by Sarah Broughton is tight and keeps the audience guessing.

Ron Feltner shines in the dual role of Jackson/Kirk, giving each character singularity. Christpher Craven is a blast to watch as he side-winds his way from gawky teenager to would-be lothario.

Leslie Upson is clearly having a grand time throwing caution to the winds, playing her role with abandon. Jessi May Stevenson and Theresa Secor are exemplary foils, Stevenson as the instigator and Secor as the stereotypical oft-overlooked second banana. Both are on high alert as they go above and beyond to “rescue” their friend. Amber Shea Hodge provides the perky playfulness of petulant youth needed to balance the frantic moms.

Women in Jeopardy is an evening of laughs from unexpected points of view. For a good time, call Santa Paula Theatre Center to reserve seats.

Women in Jeopardy continues Fridays and Saturdays at 8 p.m., Sundays at 2:30 p.m. through July 21, 2024. www.santapaulatheatercenter.org (805) 525-4645

Business Profile: Moby’s On Main Now Open

Remember Thrifty ice cream? Looking for something fun to do that’s family-friendly? Look no further. Moby’s On Main may just be the place to be! It’s a concept from local entrepreneurs Mitch & Mary Masoner that provides a curated collection of video and merchandiser games for all ages and abilities.

Nestled amongst downtown Main Street’s colorful collection of boutique businesses, Moby’s On Main is Ventura’s first family-friendly arcade bar experience. This newly opened space boasts an impressive lineup of Stern machines sure to excite all pinball enthusiasts! Their game selection includes the Top 7 of Stern’s top pinball games, which is the largest collection of pinball on the coast from San Francisco to Los Angeles, along with the latest virtual reality tech, and nostalgic arcade classics.

Moby’s On Main offers something for everyone, blending old-school charm with new-school technology. The space is designed to appeal to both young and old, making it a perfect spot for family outings, date nights, or friendly gatherings. Their curated selection of locally canned brews, seltzers, and nonalcoholic beverages provides the perfect bar arcade experience for all ages.

Feeling hungry? Moby’s On Main has you covered with a seasonal selection of Harbor Mart sandwiches, famous Thirfty scoops, and fun snacks. Their menu features a variety of tasty options, ensuring you can refuel before diving back into the games.

Beyond just being an arcade bar, Moby’s On Main is dedicated to supporting and giving back to the Ventura community. This family-owned business aims to create a space where locals can come together, have fun, and feel connected. They offer a curated selection of local bites, sips, and timeless Thrifty scoops, further celebrating the community spirit.

Interested in being stocked at Moby’s On Main? The Masoners welcome all suggestions and collaborations. They are always looking to feature new and exciting local products, so don’t hesitate to reach out and collaborate.

In summary, Moby’s On Main is more than just an arcade bar; it’s a community hub where family fun and local pride come together. With its diverse range of games, delicious food and drink options, and commitment to the Ventura community, it’s the perfect destination for a memorable outing. So, gather your family and friends and head over to Moby’s On Main for a unique and enjoyable experience!

Idling gets you nowhere, but grants can get you going

by David Goldstein

Ventura Unified School District will replace two diesel buses with two electric ones and purchase two charging stations, using a grant from the Ventura County Air Pollution Control District. This was one of two awards, totaling $1.56 million; the other went to the Ocean View School District in Oxnard, which will replace one diesel bus with an electric one and purchase one charging station. Grants cover the cost of charging equipment and 87% of the price of the buses. The three new buses will significantly reduce emissions of carbon dioxide, a greenhouse gas that contributes to global warming, according to Karin Grennan, Public Information Officer with the Ventura County Air Pollution Control District.

Unfortunately, idling of cars is also common near schools during drop-off and pick-up of children. Although it may not be as comfortable to turn off the air conditioner and roll down windows instead of running the engine, there are good reasons for parents to do so.

Most people waste one to two tanks of gas every year by idling, according to Grennan. She cites studies concluding that idling for 10 seconds uses more fuel than restarting the engine of modern cars with fuel injection, and frequent restarting has little impact on the battery and starter, whereas excessive idling can damage important engine components.

There are also health reasons to avoid idling. “Pollution from exhaust contributes to lung infections, pneumonia, influenza and asthma, and children are sensitive to lower levels of air pollution than the general public,” according to Grennan.

For heavy-duty vehicles in California, with some exceptions, idling more than five minutes is illegal. School bus idling near schools is allowed “only when necessary for safety or operational concerns,” according to IdleFreeCalifornia.org.

The Air Pollution Control district has funded eight school buses since 2019. In fall, the U.S. Environmental Protection Agency received nearly $1 billion to help school districts replace buses with lower-emitting versions. This month, California Air Resources Board and the California Energy Commission began accepting applications for $500 million in Zero-Emission School Bus and Infrastructure Grants.

Another program targets high-emission vehicles. The Air Pollution Control District’s Old Car Buy Back Program pays people $1,000 to retire 1997 or older cars. Vehicles must be operational and registered in Ventura County. In seven years, this program has taken more than 300 highly polluting vehicles off Ventura County’s roads.

A more generally targeted grant program, sponsored by the non-profit Coalition for Clean Air, offers up to $1,000 for projects planned for the week before California Clean Air Day, October 2, 2024. Eligible projects include campaigns against idling, conducted by local governments, health care organizations, or business or community organizations.

Motor vehicles produce more than half of the air pollution in the county, according to Grennan, so programs like these help clean our air.

More information: http://www.oldcarbuyback.com/ventura.php or call 800-717-7624

David Goldstein, an Environmental Resource Analyst with the Ventura County Public Works Agency, can be reached at (805) 658-4312 or [email protected]