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VenturaVentura Naturalist Celebrates a Lifetime of Ocean Exploration
Margery Spielman proves it’s never too early to fall in love with the ocean. Growing up in the Valley, she floated in a tiny life jacket before she could walk — and that spark never faded. Now a Ventura naturalist, she’s spent decades exploring our local tide pools, kayaking the Channel Islands, and teaching neighbors about the marine life right off our shores. Her story reminds us why Ventura is so special: we’re not just a city by the sea, we’re a community shaped by it. Whether you’ve snorkeled at Anacapa or just watched the sunset from the pier, Margery’s passion is one we all share. We’re grateful to the Ventura Breeze for spotlighting her lifelong journey — and for inspiring us to get a little closer to the water.
VenturaArtEffect Summer Art Competition
Calling all young artists across Ventura County! The 2026 ARTEFFECT Summer Competition is now open, and it's the perfect chance for high school students in grades 9–12 to turn their creativity into a tribute. This year's theme asks students to celebrate the Unsung Heroes—those innovators, inventors, and researchers whose quiet work has changed lives in ways we often overlook. Whether it's a painting, a sculpture, or a mixed-media piece, your art can shine a light on the people who make a difference without ever making headlines. It's free to enter, and it's open to everyone from rising freshmen to the Class of 2026 graduates—so if you know a teen with a passion for art and a story to tell, this is their moment. The Ventura Breeze shared the news, and we love seeing our local students get recognized on a bigger stage. Not only is this a fantastic addition to a college portfolio, but it's also a meaningful way to reflect on the human impact behind scientific and social progress. Dust off your sketchbook, fire up the kiln, and show us what 'unsung' means to you!
VenturaFall Activity Guide Available
Fall is officially on the horizon, and the City of Ventura Parks and Recreation Department is rolling out its brand-new Fall Activity Guide. Packed with hundreds of classes, programs, and events running from September through January, this guide is your golden ticket to staying active, creative, and connected all season long. Whether you're a longtime local or new to the neighborhood, there's truly something for everyone—from youth sports and arts workshops to fitness classes and community gatherings. Mark your calendars for Tuesday, Aug. 4, at noon, when registration opens. You can sign up online, give them a call, or swing by Ventura City Hall at 501 Poli St., Room 226, to handle it in person. The Ventura Breeze first shared this news, and we're excited to help spread the word. Fall in Ventura is one of the best times of year, and this guide makes it easy to make the most of it. See you out there!
VenturaRotary Awards $32,000 to Local Nonprofits
Big news out of Ventura this week: the Rotary Club of Ventura handed out more than $32,000 in grants to a dozen local nonprofits at a special luncheon on Wednesday, July 15. It's the kind of quiet, behind-the-scenes generosity that keeps our community thriving—especially when so many organizations are still finding their footing after a tough couple of years. Among the honorees were the Boys & Girls Club and High Tide Robotics, two groups that do incredible work with local kids. Rotary Board Member Saurabh took a moment to shine a light on their impact, and it's easy to see why. Whether it's giving kids a safe place to learn and play or sparking an interest in STEM through robotics, these grants go a long way. Thanks to the Ventura Breeze for covering this feel-good story—it's a great reminder of what we can accomplish when we come together.
VenturaBCNN – Women’s Social Club Meeting
Hey neighbors! If you’ve been looking for a way to meet new friends in Ventura County, mark your calendar for the next BCNN Women’s Social Club meeting. With more than 225 members from Ventura, Port Hueneme, and Oxnard, this group is all about getting out of the house and having fun — think bunco, bingo, hiking, book clubs, dining out, MahJongg, and even Hand, Knee & Foot card games. There’s truly something for everyone, whether you’re new to the area or just looking to expand your circle. The club’s activity groups are a fantastic way to stay active and connected right here on the Central Coast. And thanks to the Ventura Breeze for spreading the word about this welcoming community. If you’re curious, head over to bcnnwomensclub.org to see the full schedule and find your people. Come join us — you might just find your new favorite hobby and a whole crew of friends!
VenturaThe Portal Garden Party
Summer in Ventura is all about gathering under the sun, and this Sunday's Portal Garden Party is shaping up to be the perfect excuse to slow down and connect. Hosted at the Healing Portal, the afternoon promises a curated mix of crystals, handmade jewelry, and local makers, alongside readings and wellness offerings. It's the kind of event that reminds us why we love this community — where creativity and mindfulness come together in a relaxed, welcoming setting. Whether you're a regular at the Portal or just looking for a magical way to spend a few hours, you'll find music, nibbles, and plenty of chances to meet neighbors and shop local. The Ventura Breeze highlighted this gathering, and it's a great example of the vibrant, small-batch culture that thrives here on the 805. Bring a friend, browse the vendors, and treat yourself to an afternoon of connection and discovery.
VenturaA Summer of Hope and Wishes
This summer, Make-A-Wish Central Coast and Southern Central Valley is on a mission to grant 80 wishes for local children facing critical illnesses. From trips to Disneyland to meeting favorite characters, each wish brings a spark of joy and hope to families navigating unimaginable challenges. It’s a powerful reminder that even in the toughest moments, our community’s support can make dreams come true. As reported by the Ventura Breeze, this initiative touches lives right here in Ventura and across the 805 region. For families like the ones in our own neighborhoods, a wish isn’t just a gift—it’s a lifeline of strength and togetherness. Let’s rally behind these kids and help spread hope this summer.
VenturaCoates Appointed to Water Commission
Ventura's water future just got a thoughtful new voice at the table. Crawford Coates, a familiar face in West Ventura and a longtime community leader, has been appointed to the Ventura Water Commission as the representative for the general public. While the commission typically includes four professionals from water-related fields, Coates brings a different kind of expertise — years of writing, journalism, and local advocacy that give him a grounded understanding of what matters to everyday neighbors. As reported by the Ventura Breeze, Coates steps into a role that connects residents directly to decisions about our water supply, infrastructure, and conservation efforts. For a coastal city where water is always top of mind — from drought planning to ocean health — having a citizen's voice at the table is a quiet but meaningful win. It's the kind of local appointment that reminds us how much our community's character shapes how we tackle big challenges.
VenturaCMH Earns National Awards
Great news for Ventura! Community Memorial Healthcare has been recognized with four national awards from the American Heart Association, highlighting its dedication to top-notch care for heart attack, stroke, and diabetes patients. The honors include the prestigious Get With The Guidelines®-Stroke Gold Plus Quality Achievement Award and the Get With The Guidelines® – Coronary Artery Disease NSTEMI Bronze award, which reflect the hospital's commitment to evidence-based, research-driven treatment. This is a big deal for our community, as it means local residents can access high-quality care close to home without needing to travel far. As reported by the Ventura Breeze, these awards underscore CMH's role as a healthcare leader on the Central Coast. For anyone who has a loved one affected by heart disease or stroke—which touches so many families—this recognition brings peace of mind. It's a testament to the hard work of CMH's doctors, nurses, and staff, and a reminder that our local hospital is on the cutting edge of patient care. Congratulations to the entire CMH team for this well-deserved honor!
VenturaRun for City Council – Filing Opens
Mark your calendars, Ventura neighbors: the window to run for City Council opens this Monday, July 13. With four council seats on the line this November—covering Districts 1, 4, 5, and 6—this is a pivotal opportunity to shape our city’s future. Whether you’re passionate about housing, public safety, or local business, your voice matters. To qualify, you just need to be a Ventura resident, a registered voter, and eligible to vote in the district you hope to represent. The Ventura Breeze has the full details on filing requirements and deadlines. Let’s make sure our council truly reflects our community.
VenturaShort-Term Rental Deadlines Set
If you run a short-term vacation rental in Ventura, mark your calendar: August 31 is the deadline to renew your permit under the city's updated STVR ordinance. The Ventura Breeze reports that current permit holders who meet the new requirements are guaranteed renewal through a grandfathering provision—but missing the cutoff means your permit gets canceled. This is a big deal for local hosts who rely on rental income, especially as summer winds down. The updated rules aim to balance tourism with neighborhood quality of life, so it's worth checking the city's website or contacting City Hall if you have questions. Don't let a missed deadline cost you your permit.
VenturaVentura Improv Company Celebrates 37 Years
For 37 years, the Ventura Improv Company has been turning the spotlight on laughter, creativity, and community connection right here on the Central Coast. Since July 14, 1989, this beloved troupe has built a legacy of spontaneous joy, thanks to the performers, volunteers, and audience members who keep the spirit alive. Whether you’ve caught a show or taken a workshop, you know the VIC isn’t just about comedy—it’s about the bonds we share. As reported by the Ventura Breeze, this milestone is a celebration of everyone who has helped the company thrive. From downtown Ventura stages to local classrooms, the VIC reminds us that a good laugh brings us together. Here’s to 37 years of ‘yes, and…’—and to many more seasons of improv magic in our community.
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