Ojai Women’s Fund Awards Over $90,000 in 2024 Grants

Six of the seven winning grantee representatives are pictured left to right: Dan Parziale, Co-founder and Executive Director of Mesa; Ali Sadreameli, Director of Development for Livingston Memorial; Esther Anaya, Executive Director of The Arc of Ventura County; Grace Bueti Mallory, Co-Director of Poco Farms; Susan Kapadia, Executive Director of OjaiCARES, and Vince Serrano of The Boys and Girls Club of Greater Ventura.

The Annual Grantee Awards Celebration from the Ojai Women’s Fund(OWF) was announced on November 7 at a memorable evening filled with warmth, connection, and gratitude. The historic Ojai Woman’s Club was brimming with OWF members, this year’s grant recipients, and new friends, enjoying the delicious food and wine presented by the talented Events Committee co-chairs Gayle Whitaker and Jenny Taft. As everyone mingled, the air buzzed with conversation, laughter, and heartfelt connections.

This year, OWF awarded a remarkable $91,155 to seven nonprofits, each dedicated to uplifting the community. The awards were accepted by nonprofit executives and included:

  • Boys & Girls Club of Greater Ventura – $15,000
  • Interface Children & Family Services – $11,995
  • Livingston Memorial Visiting Nurse Association – $10,000
  • Mesa – $14,160
  • OjaiCARES – $10,000
  • Poco Farm – $15,000
  • The Arc of Ventura County – $15,000

A heartwarming moment unfolded during the final acceptance speech. Esther Anaya, Executive Director of The Arc of Ventura County, shared a story that illustrated the incredible, often unseen impact of OWF’s support. At the Grantee Presentations in September, she described how three nonprofits with no prior connections collaborated after learning of each other’s missions.

Dan Parziale, Co-Founder & Executive Director of Mesa, mentioned a young man seeking work. Esther stepped in to help, and after completing the necessary requirements, he joined Arc’s Ojai office, now contributing meaningfully to the Ojai community. Dan recalled, “He thought he’d end up as a cashier at Chevron, but he found a fulfilling role helping others, thanks to the connections fostered by OWF.”

Poco Farms also reached out to Esther at the September event, seeking assistance to secure an off-road wheelchair so individuals with physical limitations could fully participate at the farm. With Arc’s help, they achieved this goal.

Reflecting on these connections, Esther remarked, “None of this would have happened had we not been invited to speak at that September OWF meeting. We had never met, and our paths likely wouldn’t have crossed otherwise. OWF made it possible for us to collaborate and extend our missions. I can’t express how grateful we are.”

Entering its tenth year, the Ojai Women’s Fund has given almost $800,000 in grants to nonprofits serving the Ojai Valley. Anyone interested in joining this giving circle of over 360 women can learn more at OjaiWomensFund.org.

Reflecting on Progress: Building a Brighter Future for Ventura Together

by Joe Schroeder

I’m often asked why I ran for City Council in Ventura, especially since I don’t have future political ambitions. Edmund Burke once said, “Nobody makes a greater mistake than he who does nothing because he could do only a little.” I felt that even a small contribution could make a meaningful impact, and as Mayor, I believed that if we, as a Council, shared common goals and set aside the need for personal credit, we could achieve something truly beneficial for our City. Here’s a look at what we’ve accomplished together:

The City’s budget has grown to over $530 million, and I’m proud that we achieved a financial surplus every year. This success was largely due to our dedicated staff, who managed to secure over $50 million in grants within the first year alone.

Public safety is always a top priority and a concern for many, and we’ve risen to meet this challenge. Ventura County boasts one of the lowest crime rates among large counties in California, and the City of Ventura reached its lowest property crime rate in decades. This accomplishment is a testament to the exceptional leadership of Chief Darin Schindler and the entire police force. Our fire department has also made strides, with response times improving thanks to 13 new staff positions and a new seventh fire station currently underway.

In partnership with the County, we’ve made progress on the homelessness crisis. This year’s
count showed a 15% reduction in homelessness. By year’s end, we’ll add 134 permanent supportive housing units and 120 units for formerly homeless or low-income veterans. Under Jeff Lambert’s leadership, the Housing Authority completed the first phase of Westview Village, adding 49 affordable housing units.

Our roads faced significant challenges after two years of heavy rain, but our Public Works team has worked tirelessly to address this. They filled over 2,000 potholes this year alone, and the City Council has increased the road repair budget by 30%, dedicating $13 million to improving our roads.

Thanks to our success in attracting grant funds, we’ve invested in parks, trails, and playgrounds. We recently broke ground on a new skatepark six times the size of the previous one, completed upgrades to the Ventura River Trail, and will soon have new playground equipment at Marina Park.

Our coastal areas also saw major improvements. A $16 million grant has funded the second phase of the Surfers Point project, establishing Ventura as a model in beach erosion management. And, of course, we continue our outstanding work on the restoration of our beloved Ventura Pier.

The Visit Ventura team impressed us by attracting the X Games, not once, but twice, to our City, bringing together athletes from all over the world to enjoy our beautiful beachside community. Their dedication and partnership with the Ventura County Fairgrounds made this event a highlight.

Council efforts this year also included eliminating Net Zero fees, investing $1 million in technology upgrades, and dedicating $1.5 million to address homelessness. The Police Department, with support from other departments, completed our City Evacuation Plan, and
two retail cannabis stores opened, continuing to contribute positively to our community.

One of our most significant programs, VenturaWaterPure, is a suite of projects designed to supply up to 20% of our City’s water needs, bolstering our resilience against ongoing drought risks, in addition to improving aging infrastructure and complying with legal mandates. While the program required some challenging rate adjustments due to rising inflation and construction costs, our management team successfully secured a $173 million low-interest federal loan and $48 million in grants to fund this critical investment. Their ongoing commitment to securing every
available grant dollar continues to help reduce costs for the community and drive forward essential initiatives.

There’s still work ahead, including addressing our golf courses, updating the General Plan, enhancing Main Street Moves, and developing an ordinance for short-term vacation rentals.
Together with our six council members and dedicated staff, I believe we’ll find thoughtful solutions for these remaining priorities.

Finally, one of our best decisions was selecting Bill Ayub as City Manager. He brings a unique ability to build communities, work with a diverse Council, and improve City services for residents. And if you didn’t know, he was born and raised right here in Ventura.

Thank you for your continued support and commitment to shaping our future. Together, we’ve been able to make strides that reflect innovation, resilience, and collaboration that make Ventura such a special place to live, work, and thrive. Serving this community has been a privilege, and I’m constantly inspired by the passion and dedication of our residents. Let’s keep building on our
progress, working together to create an even brighter future for all who call Ventura home.

Vol. 18, No. 05 – Nov 27 – Dec 10, 2024 – Fire Department Blotter

Residential Structure Fire

Date Of Release: November 20, 2024. Fire Incident Number: 24-0099771. Incident Commander: Shawn Hughes. Battalion Chief. Date/Time of Incident: November 20, 2024 / 2006-2157hrs. Incident Location: 3700 Block of Sheldon Dr. Ventura, CA. Cause/Origin: Under Investigation. Injuries Reported: 1. Units Committed On-Scene: 7 Engines, 2 Trucks, 2 Squads, 3 Battalion Chiefs, 2 Fire. Investigators, 2 Ambulances. Total Fire Personnel On-Scene: 36. Agencies Involved: Ventura City Fire, Ventura County Fire, Oxnard Fire, Ventura PD

On the above date and time, fire units were dispatched to a reported structure fire. Firefighters arrived within 5 minutes of dispatch to find a single-family residence with smoke and flames coming from the home. Firefighters found the occupants had safely evacuated the structure and began an aggressive interior attack. Firefighters coordinated efforts both inside the structure and on the roof to ventilate the residence while effectively extinguishing the flames. The fire was declared under control within 20 minutes after arrival, with crews remaining on scene for an additional 90-minutes to thoroughly overhaul the affected areas and ensure complete extinguishment. Residents were advised they cannot re-occupy the home until the Ventura Building and Safety Department advises it is safe. The cause of the fire is currently under investigation. One civilian was assessed on scene but did not require transport and there were no injuries to firefighters during this incident.

Natural Gas Leak

Date Of Release: November 18, 2024. Fire Incident Number: 24-0098933. Incident Commander: Jason Kay, Battalion Chief. Date/Time of Incident: November 18, 2024 / 1026-1418hrs. Incident Location: 600 Block of East Harbor Blvd. Ventura, CA. Cause/Origin: Underground Gas Line Ruptured by Construction Crew. Injuries Reported: None. Units Committed On-Scene: 3 Engines, 1Truck, 1 Battalion Chief. Total Fire Personnel On-Scene: 14. Agencies Involved: Ventura City Fire, Ventura PD

On the above date and time, fire units were dispatched to a reported gas leak. Firefighters arrived within 3 minutes of dispatch to find a 2 inch underground gas main that was ruptured by a construction crew. The construction crew was assigned to install new lighting in the parking area adjacent to the Pier. The crew hit a landscape water line, and in an attempt to remove the water, hit a gas line. Firefighters arrived on scene and with the assistance of Ventura PD, closed off the area to all foot traffic on the promenade by the pier and vehicle traffic on Harbor Blvd. between Sanjon Rd. and California St., while Gas Company repair personnel were notified. The Fire Department remained on scene to ensure a safe workplace for the repair and citizens, while the flow of gas was stopped. There are no reports of injuries or illness from the gas leak as of this media release, and traffic patterns have returned to normal operations.

Large Vehicle Fire

Date Of Release: November 14, 2024. Fire Incident Number: 24-0097639. Incident Commander: Shawn Hughes, Battalion Chief. Date/Time of Incident: November 14, 2024 / 09:22. Incident Location: 700 Block of N. Olive St. Ventura, CA. Cause/Origin: Under Investigation. Injuries Reported: None. Units Committed On-Scene: 5 Engines, 1 Truck, 1 Paramedic Squad, 2 Battalion Chiefs, 1. Ambulance, 2 Fire Investigators. Total Fire Personnel On-Scene: 26. Agencies Involved: Ventura City Fire, Ventura County Fire, American Medical Response

On the above date and time, fire units were dispatched to a reported structure fire near the intersection of W. Ramona St. and N. Olive St. Firefighters arrived within 4 minutes and found a recreational vehicle fully involved with multiple structures threatened. Firefighters initiated an exterior attack on the recreational vehicle while other units focused on the nearby exposures. The three threatened structures only received minor damage due to the quick actions taken by firefighters. The fire was declared under control 20 minutes after arrival, with crews remaining on-site for an additional one and a half hours to thoroughly overhaul the affected areas and ensure complete extinguishment. The cause of the fire is currently under investigation. There were no injuries to occupants or firefighters during this incident.

Celebrate the Season at Ventura Harbor Village

Join the festivities at Ventura Harbor this holiday season with a variety of exciting events for the whole family:

  • Small Business Saturday 2024 (Nov 30, 11 am – 6 pm): Shop local with unique gifts from over 15 waterfront shops, offering everything from handmade art to holiday décor. Enjoy live music, giveaways, and more!
  • 48th Annual Parade of Lights & Fireworks (Dec 13-14, 6:30-8 pm): Witness more than two dozen decorated boats lighting up the harbor for a “Candy Land”-themed celebration, complete with festive décor and fireworks.
  • Santa Paddle at Ventura Harbor (Dec 21, 11 am – Noon): Join Santa for a fun paddleboard parade through the harbor! Dress-up in holiday attire and enjoy the seasonal cheer.
  • Winter Wonderland & Holiday Marketplace (Dec 21, Noon – 4 pm): Take a photo with Santa and his reindeer, enjoy live performances, and shop at the holiday marketplace. Free fun for the whole family!
  • Chabad of Ventura Chanukah Festival (Dec 26, 3-4 pm): Celebrate Chanukah with a Menorah lighting, arts and crafts, and entertainment at the harbor.

All events offer free admission, and parking is complimentary at Ventura Harbor Village and nearby lots. For details, visit venturaharborvillage.com/events.

The Kemper Foundation’s Read Conmigo Program Awards Fall 2024 Bilingual Educator Grants

Two Ventura teachers awarded

The Kemper Foundation, the philanthropic partner of Kemper Corporation, announced awarded grants to advance bilingual literacy to schoolteachers in the greater Los Angeles, Dallas and Miami areas. This is the fifth round of grants awarded through the Foundation’s Read Conmigo program since the program launched in 2022, bringing the program’s award total to nearly $750,000.

Bernice Aguilar

Read Conmigo grants are focused on strengthening bilingual literacy skills and improving learning opportunities for elementary Latino and Hispanic students. The Kemper Foundation annually awards up to 100 grants of $3,000 each to public and charter schoolteachers of Spanish-English bilingual classrooms. The grants can be used for classroom resources, tools and materials, and professional development.

Recipients were selected by a panel of Kemper Foundation principals and partners, including the Bilingual/ESL Education Association of the Metroplex (Dallas), the Florida Association for Bilingual Education, the California Association for Bilingual Education, and GPSN.

Krysol Kountz

“We are incredibly proud to support this dedicated group of educators who are making a lasting impact on their bilingual students,” said Barbara Ciesemier, President of The Kemper Foundation. “By equipping

teachers with the resources and professional development they need, we’re not only helping them create enriched learning environments but also contributing to meaningful academic growth. It’s inspiring to see how the Read Conmigo grants are enhancing students’ bilingual abilities and overall classroom engagement.”

The two vebtura teachers who won grants this cycle from Ventura are Bernice Aguilar, 1st grade, and Krysol Kountz, Kindergarten, both from Montalvo Elementary School.

www.thekemperfoundation.org/read-conmigo/

Give the Gift of Joy: Spark of Love Toy Drive Returns

The Fire Departments of Ventura County and ABC7 are once again teaming up to bring holiday cheer to at-need children and teens through the Spark of Love Toy Drive – the nation’s largest community toy drive.

This beloved annual event relies on the generosity of thousands across Ventura County to make the holidays brighter for local youth. New toys, sports equipment, and non-perishable food items can be donated at participating businesses and organizations throughout the region.

Join the effort to spread joy and hope this holiday season. For a list of donation drop-off locations, visit vcfd.org/spark-of-love-toy-drive.

Vol. 18, No. 05 – Nov 27 – Dec 10, 2024 – Community Events

VENTURA:

The Rubicon Theatre: A COWBOY LULLABY: Dec. 4 – 22 (launches their 26th season). The Platters Holiday Concert 12/16-12/17. 1006 E Main St.

A Cowboy Lullaby – A Concert of Songs and Poems from the Old West by James O’Neil and Dan Wheetman. Directed by James O’Neil. Musical Direction by Dan Wheetman. From the Drama Desk and Tony Award Nominees who Created Lonesome Traveler and I Dig Rock and Roll. www.rubicontheatre.org.

Dudley House Holiday Boutique: Sat, Dec. 7 & Sun., 8, 14 – 15

30th annual fundraiser for the 1892 historic house museum continues into December on Saturdays and Sundays from 11 a.m. to 5 p.m. Come celebrate the spirit of holidays past where you’ll find quality crafts, home décor, antiques and collectibles plus a silent auction and bargain “basement”. An outdoor flea market is added on Sundays from 8 a.m. to 4 p.m. 197 N. Ashwood in Ventura. (805) 642-3345. Free. https://dudleyhouse.org.

Flamenco 805: Sat., Dec 14 & Fri, Dec. 20. NAMBA Performing Arts Space, 47 S Oak St.

Close out the year with a fiery Flamenco music and dance event. Wendy Castellanos, local dance artist and founder of Flamenco 805 creates Ventura’s first traditional Flamenco Tablao. (A Tablao is an intimate venue where Flamenco musicians and dancers improvise a live show).

This is the 8th edition of the Flamenco 805 student recital! The show will open with the dance students of Wendy Castellanos and feature over 30 dancers from all over the 805. The student recital will be followed by an all-star cast of professional musicians & dancers from LA and abroad for a Flamenco Tablao show. Visit Eventbrite for tickets: www.eventbrite.com/e/flamenco-tickets-1009562116467?aff=oddtdtcreator.

Gold Coast Gem Show – New Dates (due to Fairgrounds being used by Firefighters and Rescue personnel for Mountain Fire): December 7, 10 am – 5 pm & 8, 10 am – 5 pm. Ventura County Fairgrounds.

Explore over 30 vendors showcasing unique gems, minerals, beads, jewelry, and lapidary supplies. Plus, enjoy live demonstrations and activities for the whole family hosted by local Gem and Mineral Societies. FREE Admission (Fairground parking is additional). goldcoastgemshow.com.

The Miraculous Journey of Edward Tulane! Wed, Dec 4 at 7:30 pm. VC Performing Arts Center, Helen Yunker Auditorium, 4700 Loma Vista Rd.

Despite the elemental forces working against them, our dedicated students, faculty, and staff refused to be deterred and have come together to bring you a miraculous evening of theatre you do not want to miss! Tickets available on a pay-what-you-can basis. Visit Ventura College performing arts.

40th Annual Memorial Program Light Up a Life: See time, dates, locations below.

Livingston’s Light Up a Life events are just around the corner. For forty years these programs have offered comfort and solace to those who have experienced loss, providing a meaningful opportunity to honor the memories of loved ones. Whether they were lost recently or long ago, near or far, “Light Up a Life” serves as a heartfelt tribute that brings joy and reflection during this holiday season.  

Light Up a Life is for everyone. The events feature touching readings, acts of remembrance, and a beautifully illuminated Tree of Life. Admission is free, and everyone is welcome to take part in this year’s Light Up campaign. By making a tax-deductible donation of $25 or more, you can have a star bearing your loved one’s name displayed throughout the holiday season in our online memory listing and in our touching video tribute at the events. Your contribution plays a vital role in sustaining our hospice and bereavement programs across Ventura County. Reserve your star today at www.lmvna.org/LightUpALife. 

  • Heritage Square, 715 South A Street, Oxnard. Friday, Dec 6 – 5:30 pm – 6:30 pm 
  • Constitution Park, 1287 Paseo Camarillo, Camarillo, Sat, Dec 7 – 4:30 pm – 5:30 pm 
  • Poinsettia Pavilion, 3451 Foothill Road, Ventura, Wed, Dec 11 – 5:30 pm – 6:30 pm 

 

PAWS for Reading – 20th Anniversary Celebration: Sat, Dec 7, 11am. EP Foster Library, 651 East Main St.

A beloved program that has fostered a love of reading and community for two decades. Since its inception, Paws for Reading has brought children and therapy dogs together, helping young readers build confidence and a joy for books in a warm, supportive environment. EP Foster Library as we celebrate this special occasion! Families are invited to attend the festivities, including photo area, crafts, and special doggie treats to take home to furry friends and the opportunity to celebrate current and past therapy dogs and handlers. We are excited to celebrate this anniversary with the community and honor the remarkable dogs and volunteers who make it all possible. Let’s celebrate two decades of reading, friendship, and wagging tails! We hope to see you there! This event is free and open to the public. For additional information, please contact. (805) 648 2716 or

The King’s Singers “Christmas Time is Here”: Sat, Dec14. Concert at 4:00 pm (Doors 3 pm). Ventura Center for Spiritual Living, 101 South Laurel St.

The King’s Singers have set the gold standard in a cappella singing on the world’s greatest stages for over fifty years. Their unrivaled technique, musicianship, and versatility has led to numerous accolades, including two Grammy Awards, an Emmy Award, and a place in Gramophone magazine’s Hall of Fame. www.venturamusicfestival.org/events/kingssingers2024.

Epilepsy Awareness Tri-County 1st Annual 1K/5K Run, Roll & Stroll. Sat, Dec. 14. 8:30 – Promenade Park, Figueroa St. (Across from the Fairgrounds parking lot).

1st Annual Epilepsy Awareness Tri-County Run, Roll & Stroll, to raise funds and awareness for epilepsy! Bring your family and friends for a fantastic day with fun activities, delicious food, and a wonderful community spirit. This event is designed for everyone to enjoy while learning about available resources. Whether you’re a runner, a walker, accompanied by a service dog, or using a wheelchair, all are welcome! Enjoy informative booths, therapy animals, lively vendors, great music, tasty food trucks, and the stunning beauty of Ventura’s beachside. www.epilepsyawarenesstricounty.org/events

Ventura Music Festival/NAMBA Collaboration: Sun, Dec 15th. 7 pm. 47 S Oak St.

Ensemble Sangineto is an eclectic band which blends skillfully ancient harmonies and sonorities with modern rhythms. The wide-ranging musical experiences of the individual members converge to create fresh arrangements of traditional Irish, Scottish, Breton & Italian tunes and original compositions that display influences from many varied musical genres ranging from classical to folk, from Gregorian chant to musical, from pop to Celtic music. In December, make it a musical weekend with another wonderful community collaboration with NAMBA Performing Arts. nambaarts.com.

Channel Islands PC User Group (CIPCUG): Sat, Dec 21, 9 am. 2175 Goodyear Avenue, Unit 117.

Online and Live at our temporary location Ventura County Computers. Discussion, Tutorial, and Q&A sessions centered around Computers, email, the Internet, AI, and social media brokers such as X, Facebook, and Google.  Due to limited space live attendance is reserved for members.  Details for connecting to online events are emailed prior to the event.  To receive connection
instructions, please sign up on our website at www.cipcug.org. (805) 289-3960.

Ongoing:

Social Golf Club

Actively recruiting new members Men’s golf club. Set Tee times a year in advance for every Tuesday and Thursday at 9 different courses in Ventura County. https://challengersgolfclub.com

Ventura Senior Men’s Group: First and Third Tues each month: 11:30 am – 1:30 pm at 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 Tues, Wed and Thurs at 12:30 pm.

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 Mon each month – 7:30 pm. 

Church of the Foothills, Ventura. For more information, visit https://venturacountyphilatelicsoc.org.

Beach Cleanup: First Sat of every month – 8:30 -10:30 am.

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.

Camarillo:

New West Symphony, Los Robles Children’s Choir and vocal soloists: Sun, Dec 8, Rancho Campana Performing Arts Center.

Join the New West Symphony, Los Robles Children’s Choir and vocal soloists in a winter-inspired concert filled with musical light! Oscar-nominated for Best Animated Short Film, The Snowman, based on Raymond Briggs’ picture book with music by Howard Blake, is presented with the orchestra, alongside symphonic masterworks and your favorite holiday songs and carols. newwestsymphony.org/2024-masterpiece-series/winter-spectacular.

Ojai:

It’s A Wonderful Life: Fri, Dec 6 – Dec 22. Evening shows on Fridays and Saturdays at 7:30 pm and matinees on Saturdays and Sundays at 2:00 pm. Ojai Art Center Theater, 113 S Montgomery St.

Directed by Gai Laing Jones, this timeless story unfolds as a 1946 live radio play, adapted by Joe Landry. Radio shows used to be immensely popular, with the “Golden Age” of radio lasting from approximately the mid 1920’s to the late 1960’s.

Tickets are on sale now. Reserve ahead of time to get preferred seats for the show of your choice. They can be purchased online, at the door, over the phone at 805-640-8797, or email [email protected] to make reservations. www.ojaiartcenter.org.

Santa Barbara:

MILLION DOLLAR QUARTET: Throughout Dec., Ensemble Theatre Company, 33 W Victoria St.

The Tony® Award-nominated musical MILLION DOLLAR QUARTET is set on December 4, 1956, when an extraordinary twist of fate brought Jerry Lee Lewis, Johnny Cash, Carl Perkins and Elvis Presley together at Sun Records in Memphis for what would be one of the greatest jam sessions ever. MILLION DOLLAR QUARTET brings that legendary December night to life with an irresistible tale of broken promises, secrets, betrayal and celebrations that is both poignant and funny. Relive the era with the smash-hit sensation featuring an incredible score of rock ‘n’ roll, gospel, R&B and country hits, performed live onstage by world-class actor/musicians. Showcased hit songs include “Blue Suede Shoes,” “Fever,” “Walk the Line,” “Sixteen Tons,” “Who Do You Love?,” “Great Balls of Fire,” “Folsom Prison Blues,” “Whole Lotta Shakin’ Goin’ On,” “Hound Dog,” and more. https://etcsb.org.

Fox Fine Jewelry Offers Free Diamond Necklace to Mountain Fire Survivors, Supports Local Relief Efforts

Fox Fine Jewelry is giving away free diamond necklaces to those whose homes were damaged or destroyed in the Mountain Fire. The necklaces, designed in sterling silver with a diamond, symbolize strength and resilience.

Two custom designs are available: the SoCal Strong necklace, featuring the infinity symbol, and the Thrive 805 necklace, showcasing the phrase atop subtle flame accents. Survivors or their loved ones can claim a free necklace by presenting an ID or bill with the affected address (one per household).

Necklaces are also available for purchase, with 50% of proceeds donated to the Ventura County Community Foundation. Prices are $300 for the diamond necklace ($150 donated) and $100 for the non-diamond version ($50 donated).

Previously, Fox Fine Jewelry raised $70,000 and gifted nearly 1,000 necklaces after the Thomas and Woolsey Fires. “The necklaces became a unifying symbol of strength,” said Debbie Fox, co-owner of the jewelry store.

Free necklace and fundraising info: https://www.foxfinejewelry.com/pages/mountain-fire-free-necklace

Vol. 18, No. 05 – Nov 27 – Dec 10, 2024 – A View from House Seats

by Shirley Lorraine

Mystery is afoot on Santa Paula Stage

To lend layers of intrigue to high farce comedy, the Santa Paula Theater Center now offers Baskerville by Ken Ludwig to finish out their 2024 season.  Ably directed by Taylor Kasch, Baskerville is a slightly wonky adaptation of the Sherlock Holmes mystery Hound of the Baskervilles.

The famous detective Sherlock Holmes, aided by his trusty sidekick, Dr. Watson, take on a case involving a mysterious death, a creepy old mansion, howling dogs and a large cast of oddball characters. Plot and subpolots abound as the two work on unraveling the knots of deceit.

The delightful twist in this mystery is the supporting cast, that of four actors playing numerous roles, frequently changing costumes, wigs and accents. They are wonderful to watch as they add detail and often outrageously silly antics in contrast to the somewhat staid demeanors of Holmes and Watson.

Tom Hall embodies the very picture of the stately Holmes in every way. Dr. Watson, played by Donnie DD Stroud, is suitably awkward at times, playing a near perfect second banana role. The two together somehow manage to play it straight while the four actors create pictures for the audience of Holmes’ thoughts and ruminations.

A creative setting that enables the scenes to evolve from Holmes’ office, to streets, to foggy moors without moving any furniture is a marvel in itself.  Background projections assist the audience in following the rapid action.

The four actors are played by Victoria McGee, Erin Dehorta, Julie Fergus and Cynthia Killion. All are a whirlwind of activity throughout. Each one of them gives a performance to remember with opportunities to improvise as needed. Lots of talent on the Santa Paula stage.

Costuming is clever and simple, allowing the characters to invite the audience in on the jokes their personas display.  I thoroughly enjoyed myself. A few performances are already sold out. Perhaps invite friends and relatives in for the Thanksgiving holiday to join you at a performance for dessert of the best kind – no calories, quite satifying and lots of laugh-filled hi-jinks.

This play is one that could easily be seen several times without catching all the nuances within. Subtle but meaningful actions such as the characters that appear and change as a painting in a window are touches that add to the overall tone of the staging.

Following this production, the Santa Paula Theater Center will be gearing up for a new season of action, with a line-up of staging sure to intrigue and enrich you. Catch this one now.  And don’t forget that season tickets (to any of our wonderful Ventura County theaters) is a wonderful holiday gift for your friends and loved ones.

Baskerville continues through December 15, Fridays and Saturdays at 8 p.m. and Sundays at 2:30 p.m. www.santapaulatheatercenter.org or (805)525-4645.

Island Packers Announces the Holiday Cruises for December 2024 Caroling Cruise, the Parade of Lights Cruise, and Whale Watching

This holiday season, Island Packers will be offering seasonal cruises for family and friends, as well as group functions. Ventura Harbor Holiday Cruises and Whale Watching trips are splendid ways to celebrate the winter season. Options include: One-hour Holiday Caroling Cruise in Ventura Harbor on selected dates between 12/05 – 12/23 6:30 to 7:30 p.m. Cruise the harbor of marina’s boats decorated, and view waterfront homes in main channel of the Ventura Keys (No cruise into the small inlets of the keys). Listen or carol to seasonal music. Dates are December 5, 6, 7, 8, 11, 12, 18, 19, 20, 21, 22 & 23. The fare is $22 per adult, $ 20 per senior (55+), and $16 per child.

Ventura Harbor Parade of Lights Cruise and Fireworks: 12/13 and 12/14. Cruises depart at 6:15 & 6:30pm to approximately 8:30 p.m. Boat stages to watch the parade, cruise the harbor to view holiday lights in the marinas (excludes the Ventura Keys), and ends with a fireworks display (weather permitting). The fare is $44 for adults, $40 for seniors and $31 for children under 12. Group rates are available.

Winter Whale Watching starts 12/26 and runs through mid-April: This is an annual event to see the Gray Whales up close and personal aboard a comfortable catamaran. The fare is $47 per adult, $ 43 per senior (55+), and $ 34 per child.

Gift Certificates Available: Find the perfect gift for family or friends. Certificates for a Holiday Cruises, Whale Watch, Hike for the Day, Camp or Kayak, to the Channel Islands National Park. To purchase call or visit our Ventura office.

For information, reservations or to purchase gift certificate visit www.islandpackers.com, call 805- 642-1393, or visit Island Packers at 1691 Spinnaker Dr., Suite 105B, in Ventura Harbor Village for great stocking stuffers!