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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.
VenturaCounty Parks Updates Reservation System
Ventura County Parks is rolling out a new reservation system that makes booking your favorite outdoor spots way easier. The updated website now offers online reservations for Distinguished Veterans program members, expands the advance booking window to 180 days for Rincon Parkway, and adds self-service options for Day Use areas and Community Centers. It’s a long-overdue upgrade for anyone who’s ever struggled to snag a campsite or plan a family gathering at a local park. This change matters because our parks—from the Rincon coastline to inland community spaces—are central to how we enjoy the Central Coast. Whether you’re a veteran taking advantage of the Distinguished Veterans program or just planning a summer picnic, the new system saves time and reduces hassle. Ventura Breeze first shared the news, and it’s a welcome shift toward modern, user-friendly access to our public lands.
VenturaVentura Surf Captures Double National Championship
Ventura Surf Soccer Club just made history — and they did it in only four years. The club became the first in Ventura County to bring home two NPL National Championships in the same season, with the Girls 2011 team (coached by Brian “Ziggy” Ziegenhagen) taking the title at the NPL National Finals. For a club that started in 2022, that’s not just a win — it’s a statement. This is the kind of achievement that puts Ventura on the map for youth sports. As reported by the Ventura Breeze, these girls didn’t just play well; they set a new standard for what’s possible here. Whether you’re a soccer family or just love seeing local kids succeed, this is a moment to celebrate. Congrats to the players, coaches, and everyone who made this dream real.
VenturaLeave Your Legacy at Harmon Canyon Preserve
If you’ve walked Harmon Canyon Preserve lately, you might have noticed something new among the oaks and sage: a set of metal leaves, each one etched with a name. They’re part of a permanent installation by local metal artist Tyronne McGrath, celebrating the native plants, wildlife, and people who’ve helped protect this open space. Right now, only a few leaves remain available. By giving $1,000 or more to Ventura Land Trust, you can add your name—or honor someone special—to this living legacy. As Ventura Breeze first reported, the sculpture is more than art; it’s a quiet marker of how our community steps up for nature. Whether you’re a regular hiker or just discovering the preserve, this is a chance to leave your mark in a place that belongs to all of us. If you’re thinking about a meaningful way to support local conservation, this might be it.
Ventura2026 Ventura County Fair Opens This Week
The Ventura County Fair returns July 29 through August 9, bringing 12 days of carnival rides, live music, and fried everything to the Seaside Park fairgrounds. Gates open daily from noon to 11 p.m., with an early 11 a.m. start on Tuesday, August 4. Opening day (July 29) is a sweet deal: $5 admission before 5 p.m., thanks to California Deluxe Windows. Youth Day on July 31 is another highlight for families looking to stretch their summer fun. This isn't just another event on the calendar — it's a Central Coast tradition that ties together Ventura, Oxnard, and the whole 805 region. Whether you're a local who's been coming for decades or a newcomer eager to try a corn dog and watch the 4-H livestock auctions, the fair is a genuine community gathering. Ventura Breeze shared the full lineup, so check their site for daily schedules and ride wristband deals. See you under the big Ferris wheel!
VenturaVentura Music Scene July 22 – August 4
The Ventura County Fair is almost here, and this year's Grandstand Stage lineup is packed with national touring acts that you can catch with the price of admission. Starting July 29, fairgoers can enjoy concerts without an extra ticket, though VIP seats are now available for those who want to get closer to the stage. Pam Baumgardner of VenturaRocks.com shares the full rundown in this week's Ventura Breeze column. Whether you're a longtime local or just visiting, the fair is a Central Coast summer tradition that brings the community together. From the midway to the music, it's a chance to celebrate Ventura's vibrant scene. Grab your friends, plan your fair day, and don't miss the live shows—this is one of the best ways to enjoy our coastal summer.
VenturaLive Music Calendar July 22 – August 4
Mark your calendars, music lovers! The Ventura Breeze has just dropped the latest live music calendar, and it's packed with great local talent from July 22 through August 4. Whether you're into acoustic sets or full-on rock tributes, there's something for everyone right here in the 805. Start your week at the Boatyard Pub in Ventura, where Katie Shorey kicks off Mondays and Ken Devoe takes over Tuesdays. Over in Camarillo, American Pie Coffee House is hosting Teeny Tal and Jay Coletta on July 25, followed by a Purple Haze tribute on July 31. Don't miss the Thursday Bluegrass Jam at Boatyard Pub—it's a perfect way to enjoy our Central Coast summer evenings. For the full lineup and genre details, head to VenturaRocks.com. This is your go-to guide for supporting our local music scene, so get out there and enjoy the sounds of Ventura!
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