53 minute read
FEATURE
ELECTION
Ventura City Council Candidates
Races in three districts
by Kimberly Rivers
kimberly@vcreporter.com
REGISTER TO VOTE You can register to vote through election day on Tuesday, Nov. 3. Call the Ventura County Clerk-Recorder’s office at 805-654-2664 or visit recorder.countyofventura.org/ elections/elections/voter-information/voter-registration/.
Three seats are up for grabs on the Ventura City Council this election year. Incumbent Christy Weir is being challenged in District 2 while the District 3 seat opens up with Mayor Matt LaVere now elected to the Ventura County Board of Supervisors. District 7’s Cheryl Heitmann will not be running for reelection, allowing for new representation there as well.
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Doug Halter doughalter.com
Dougie Michie dougie4district2.com
Ventura City Council, District 2
District 2 includes the foothills and downtown area from California St., stretching east to Lemon Grove and Dunning St. Two candidates are challenging incumbent Christy Weir.
Candidate history and background
Doug Halter: I am 60 years old, and have been in business 29 years as the owner of Halter-Encinas Landscape Inc. (plus three retail businesses over the years). I have a bachelor of science degree in chemical engineering from UC Santa Barbara and have sat on dozens of boards, presided over many, and helped to found many more.
Skills: Problem solving/thinking out of the box. Building bridges and relationships with others. Always have several viable paths to achieve a goal. Ventura is the best of old California. Never take no for an answer. Say what you are thinking because others are most likely thinking the same thing. Question authority. Respect all people and find that commonality. Each day, each friendship, each memory is a gift that becomes a part of who we are. Always be humble, know we all have a unique gift. Share yours and strive to help others find what their gift is so that we all can benefit together.
Doug “Dougie” Michie: I am a 65-year-old financial advisor/lawyer, and hold a PhD in urban planning from Texas A&M University and a law degree from Pepperdine. I retired in 1999 from the U.S. Air Force, National Guard.
When I was 30, I did what the Australians call a “walk about” for one and a half years, spending half that time traveling through nearly half the countries in Africa. I saw firsthand what poor governance can do to a city, and how residents can hunger for good government.
I entered Uganda right after the National Resistance Army ousted general Tito Okello, ending a year’s long civil war, and establishing a new government. That government was in shambles, and the cities lacked local government with experience and knowledge in finance and city planning. I visited cities without operating electricity, running water and with no functioning sanitary system.
This experience is one that led to my passion for city planning and my desire to understand the relationship between the fixed environment and the urban quality of life. As a result, years later, I returned to school and earned a PhD in urban planning. H Christy Weir: A current Ventura City CouncilmemH ber and former mayor, with a bachelor’s degree from H Cal State University, ChanH nel Islands. It has been my honor to repH resent the people of Ventura as H a mayor and city councilmember. I am running for reelection Christy Weir in Dist. 2 to make sure our christyweir.com residents are heard as we make decisions that will shape Ventura’s future. My husband and I raised our children here, and now their families live in this community. Four generations of my family have been fortunate to call this beautiful community our home, and I am committed to enhancing Ventura’s livability for all ages.
As we recover from the economic and cultural impacts of COVID-19, it will be important to have councilmembers in place who are experienced, knowledgeable and creative.
In the next four years, my priorities will be environmental and fiscal sustainability, and quality-of-life improvements for all Ventura residents, including children and seniors. As a centuries-old town, we have challenges with aging infrastructure, but also enjoy the unique character of our historic buildings and cultural heritage. Our spectacular geographic location, bounded by the ocean, two rivers and hillsides, is truly our “good fortune,” to be celebrated and protected.
Doug Halter: We need change. The challenges of today require bold, innovative leadership with vision. I have proven many times over the years my ability to take an idea, plan out several possible paths, and make it a reality. I problem solve all day long in my daily business and nonprofit work. We need this skillset on the city council to look at new ways of doing business and finding the best solutions for the challenges of today.
Dougie Michie: I am not a long-time Ventura politician like the other candidates. I have never served in a political office, and I am seeking this political office for the first time. I have taken no funds from PACs or their members, labor unions or their members or special interest groups or their members. As a result, I am not obligated to vote in the interests of any special interest group.
I have given a great deal of time to our community. For a decade I coached, and refereed the games of our young boys in the AYSO organization. I gave to our youth, as I felt it was important to help them learn teamwork and to develop leadership skills.
I was on the site council of my son’s elementary school for several years. I spent several years as an ambassador for our chamber of commerce, attending ribbon cuttings and helping small businesses establish themselves in Ventura.
My youngest son is now a junior at Ventura High School, and I have reduced my hours of work. This has freed up the time to commit to contribute the time that a position on the city council requires.
Christy Weir: When I first ran for city council, I was concerned about land use decision making, because each development has long-term impacts on our residents’ quality of life. It is crucial that these decisions are made with transparency, welcoming community input, and considering neighborhood compatibility, traffic and water constraints, and safety.
Prosperity and livability are not a result of unlimited, unsustainable growth. To ensure our community is prosperous and livable in the future, we need to focus on the preservation of Ventura’s historical character and natural environment, prioritize enhancements to our public spaces and support our local businesses and nonprofits.
The state is attempting to take away local control by preempting our land use decision-making authority. This is not good for Ventura or California. There are water supply constraints, emergency evacuation constraints, and limits on our traffic, infrastructure maintenance and public safety capacity. A well-planned city needs to take all of these into account when approving new development. I support a public process in which neighborhood concerns are heard and respected, and quality of life is protected for our residents, as we grow responsibly.
Doug Halter: The one issue that affects all others is economic vitality. I know what it takes to have a business here and where the issues are that prevent others from staying or becoming a part of our community. I would work to simplify and clarify our process and provide more certainty for property owners and businesses. That’s not to compromise public input, but ensure it happens at the most effective time to help incorporate concerns and ideas. Being an ambassador for our city and encouraging those who can help us reach our goals to participate and encourage our citizens to work together, believe in themselves and their importance to our community, and help be a part of the solutions that we need. Look for the many “win win” opportunities and ways to encourage behavior and activity that benefit our community, as well as provide barriers to those things that harm our community. Educate and dedicate environmental and historically important aspects of our community. Seek ways to better use staff resources and financial resources while we plan for improved revenue that vitality will bring.
Dougie Michie: The state has begun making zoning changes for cities like ours, because the cities have placed obstacles in the path of adding low-income and moderate-income housing. And the changes the state is making are not pretty.
For the last 20 years our city council has sidestepped the issue of the provision of affordable housing. Its artificial constraints to slow growth, such as oversized planning fees, numerous hearings and years of delays, only raise the cost of new housing. This has led to the state beginning to apply its planning to Ventura.
My number one priority issue is making more housing available at all income levels. The first thing I would do is charrettes to inform residents of what is currently being proposed by the state. The charrettes would also cover mixed-use planning areas to accommodate the RHNA [Regional Housing Needs Assessment] goals the state is seeking. I believe that buy-in by all residents is important in planning.
I also want to streamline the planning process by merging committees and reducing hearings. I would lower fees for new housing. Additionally, I want to reexamine our exclusionary zoning to provide for mixed-use zoning that encourages smart growth in all parts of our town.
Christy Weir: Each city is required to have a General Plan with sections on mobility, housing and climate action. Ventura is in the process of updating our General Plan. We will need steady, responsive leadership during this process that will result in a document that guides our future with policies that balance conservation, quality of life and growth.
My vision for mobility includes accelerated street paving and active transportation, with increased walkability and bike-friendly enhancements.
When adopting a new housing element, long-term water demand must be considered. With drought and increased usage, our local water supply is declining. Our diminishing underground aquifers are shared by many communities and agriculture.
Our new climate action plan will need to address sea level rise, clean energy and fire risk as immediate local impacts of the worldwide climate crisis. We must include vulnerability assessments, hazard mitigation and emergency response strategies.
I currently serve as vice-chair of BEACON, a multi-county joint powers authority, which works on coastal erosion and resiliency policies and projects, as we adapt to climate change impacts to our coast.
I am also on the board of Clean Power Alliance, a new community-based power company giving our citizens the option for 100 percent renewable energy.
Doug Halter: I’ve been very involved in our community, and as a founding member of the Ventura Botanical Gardens, I am proud that our future will include this world-class garden and other beautiful amenities that add value to our quality of life. The VBG is more than a garden, it is a showcase of the H H H H H H
Ventura City Council, District 3
District 3 is midtown, encompassing Ventura College, Arroyo Verde Park and Buena High School with the Pacific View Mall making up the western boundary. A seat up for grabs has attracted a varied field. beauty of climate appropriate plants and the importance of biofiltration to protect our ocean. It provides an entrance to the pathways and hiking yet to come across our hillside open space, and a place for research, lectures, educations, events, amphitheater, art, and community building in the site that most exemplifies why we all live here!
Dougie Michie: While I was commander of a company of drill sergeants, we were ordered to active duty to train a company of young recruits at Fort Jackson, South Carolina.There were over 200 soldiers in this military community.
Drill sergeants train new soldiers how to perform under stress, and how to act as a cohesive unit.This often resulted in friction between the trainees and the drill sergeants. As leader of this compact community, I worked to ensure the friction did not go too far, and that mental distress the trainees were experiencing did not result in death or injury.
I recall one young man who manifested suicidal thoughts. I stepped in and rationalized with him the temporary nature of his current environment and restored his resolve for completing his commitment. I also determined that a drill sergeant was not emotionally stable enough, and I had him reassigned. Maintaining the stability of this military community allowed them to complete their training without any significant mishap.
These young men and women went on to contribute to and serve our country. This leadership experience showed leaders can positively impact their community, and how a proactive leader can improve the well-being of that community.
Christy Weir: The founding of the Downtown Ventura Partners (DVP) organization is an example of my collaborative leadership. Over a decade ago, downtown Ventura was struggling with the issues of blight, cleanliness and safety. I brought together business and property owners to focus on revitalizing clean and safe efforts, initially with volunteers, then with the formation of a Business Improvement District funded by property owners through a self-imposed assessment. The DVP employs paid staff and full-time ambassadors who clean and monitor the downtown area. Hundreds of businesses have moved in, and our downtown is the most vibrant business district in the county.
In 2020, the COVID pandemic has caused our local businesses to suffer. To help our restaurants and retailers survive, I led the creation of Main Street Moves, opening up our downtown for outdoor dining in a pedestrian atmosphere. The city council extended the Main Street closure until February because of its success and popularity.
As nationwide retailers are in crisis, evidenced by mall and chain store closures, we are fortunate to have a vital, historic downtown with a mix of offices, locally owned shops and restaurants, entertainment and culture. I am excited about more downtown and midtown enhancements in our future! H H H H H H instructor at UC Santa Barbara and Laguna College of Art and Design. I founded BBM&D Strategic Branding, which served startups to large corporations, nonprofits, governmental entities. Clients included the Ronald Reagan Presidential Library, Santa Barbara Airport, Ventura County Air Pollution and Control District, Ventura County Transportation Commission and Patagonia. I have city experience in varied roles: Public Art Commissioner, public/private partnership with the Ventura Botanical What is one thing that you have not been asked about that voters should know about you?
Doug Halter: “Who was the most influential mentor in my life?” My grandfather. As an Italian immigrant, he shared his pride of America. His work ethic, his faith in people, the satisfaction of working with land, the serenity of the redwood forest, and the tranquil boating on the Pacific. He taught me that if you never expect anything from anyone you will never be disappointed. While a therapist would love this, he meant that every hello, every smile, every friendship, and every time someone extended a hand, it was a gift not an expectation. He taught me that “if your roots are strong there is no need to fear the wind.” Many have enriched my life, but he gave me the foundation and confidence to overcome obstacles, strive for what I believe in and never take no for an answer.
Dougie Michie: The issue of the pending revenue shortfall seems to be missing in the candidate forums I have participated in. We are in a deep recession, and the city’s revenue will be impacted. I have not been asked if I will vote to increase taxes to help cover this shortfall.
My answer is; I am adamantly opposed to increasing our already high taxes. With COVID restrictions on business hurting revenues, the wrong answer is to increase taxes on them or their employees. Government must not continually increase taxes.
Income tax, social security tax, property tax, sales tax, vehicle and personal property tax, use tax, utility tax and other miscellaneous city fees and taxes — more of a taxpayer’s income goes to pay taxes than goes into their wallet. This is wrong. I will oppose any and all proposals to increase taxes on Ventura’s citizens.
Christy Weir: My previous careers were in education and publishing. I spent a decade as a teacher, then 15 years as a division manager at a local publisher. I earned a bachelor of arts degree in art at CSUCI. My hobbies include painting and sculpting, cycling, singing and folk dance.
It was in my management position that I first dealt with multimillion dollar budgets, accounting and personnel. These skills have served me well in local government, as the city council makes strategic financial decisions. I currently chair the city’s Finance, Audit and Budget Committee, helping to ensure that our spending is fiscally responsible and transparent.
Each year, I have come to more fully value all that Ventura offers. In listening to our residents, this is the vision that I hear and share: We value a safe and clean community. We support our local businesses. We will grow slowly and sustainably. We will preserve our rivers, beaches, open space and natural environment. We will insist on the highest quality of architecture and design. We will maintain our small-town atmosphere. I
Barbara Brown barbarabrowncitycouncil.com
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William Cornell See campaign page on Facebook Aaron Gaston aarongaston.com
Mike Johnson mikeforventura.com
would be honored to have your vote. Gardens, business owner, Thomas Fire rebuild.
Skills include: High collaboration and communication skills, experience working with both the city of Ventura and the county. Experienced with helping a multitude of businesses overcome challenges and achieve their goals.
William Cornell: My name is William “Billy” Cornell. I was born in Santa Paula in 1971. I’m a general contractor specializing in home repair and remodel serving the Ventura County area.
I’m a college graduate with further education in the building trades. I served a four year term as a commissioner for the San Buenaventura Housing Authority. I also served on the Ventura Rent Control Board. Both of those were appointed offices. I worked as a building inspector for the city of Ojai and the city of Goleta.
Not unlike so many others, I recently began a new role, along with my wife, as homeschool teachers for my son and daughter who are in middle and high school respectively. They are both currently enrolled via Zoom at Ventura Unified. Campaign Facebook page: www.facebook.com/pages/category/Political-Candidate/William-Billy-Cornell-for-Ventura-City-Council-2020-114479273676618/.
Aaron Gaston: My family’s roots in Ventura start in the 1950s — my parents live in the same Pierpont Beach house where they raised my brother and me. As an alumnus of Pierpont Elementary, Cabrillo Middle and Ventura High, I had some of the same teachers and coaches as my parents. It’s a legacy I’m proud to uphold, having raised my own daughters in Ventura. My father owned and ran a small business in Ventura, and that entrepreneurial spirit was passed on to me at an early age. After I graduated from UCSB, I returned to Ventura to cofound and run a technology company, Infogrip, helping individuals with disabilities, where I worked for nearly 30 years. I’m now a realtor and business partner with my mother, Grace Gaston. I’m running for Ventura City Council District 3 to address the urgent and immediate issues affecting our city. I am committed to focusing on a robust local economy, supporting small businesses, improving public safety, preserving our environment, and addressing homelessness and housing issues. I am deeply committed to serving my constituents in District 3. I believe teamwork, not divisiveness, is essential to solving the challenges we are facing in this unprecedented public health and economic crisis.
Mike Johnson: I’m 49 and a high school economics and government teacher, with a bachelor’s in U.S. history from UC San Diego and a M.Ed. from Maryville University, St. Louis.
I’m a wonk when it comes to local government. I’ve been with the College Area Community Council for 10 years, both as member and chair. I’m a regular at city hall, and not just for meetings of the city council, Planning Commission, and Design Review Committee. Over the last several years, I’ve been to nearly every meeting of the Economic Development Subcommittee, Homelessness/Affordable Housing Subcommittee, Water Commission, Measure O Committee, and Finance/Audit/Budget Subcommittee.
I have a passion for civic affairs. I believe firmly in transparency and community engagement, so I’ve made the effort to be involved. Unfortunately, I can’t count how many times I’ve been the only member of the public at a crucial committee meeting.
Those committee meetings are where many crucial decisions get made. After a couple years of attendance, you start to understand how we got where we are. You realize just how complicated every contentious issue is. Often, the key isn’t policies or politics, but process. The outcome is never any better than the process that got you there.
Barbara Brown: As a 44-year Venturan, I want to give back to the community that has given me so much. My husband and I raised our son here, embracing that strong sense of community that living here provides. I want to maintain that quality of life… for everyone who calls Ventura home.
I was appointed by the city council as a Public Art Commissioner and acted as chair. I was president and board member of the Ventura Botanical Gardens, in public/private partnership with the city. I navigated the Thomas Fire disaster and rebuild process. In all of these positions, I gained invaluable knowledge and experience about how the city operates, and the nuances of getting things done.
I owned a business here for 25 years. I was able to assist start-ups, large companies, and nonprofits thrive. I served on the boards of Interface Children and Family Services, Ventura County’s most comprehensive nonprofit provider of social services, and Goodwill Industries, which provides educational and vocational training for economic justice.
I was encouraged by councilmembers, staff members and leaders in the community to run for city council. They felt that my leadership, thoughtful decision-making, and vision for our future would serve Ventura well.
William Cornell: If I am elected to the Ventura City Council for District 3 the top three items on my agenda would be: 1. To plan for the recovery from this global pandemic that we face now and likely will continue to endure for quite some time. And implementing recovery plans. 2. Increasing the tax base for the city in an effort to fund our growing obligations and maintain our beautiful city with out going back to the citizens to ask for more from them. 3. Further the support for our mental health resources and law enforcement agencies to face the growing homeless population on our streets. This is a multi-faceted issue that will require support from the Housing Authority, mental health, many of our faith-based charities and special training for our police who are working on the streets, many times the first responders.
Aaron Gaston: Our family’s long history as business owners and community volunteers in Ventura has led me to seek a city council seat. Over the last 20 years, I have been approached multiple times to run for city council, but having two young daughters and numerous small businesses, I knew I didn’t have the time — and people who know me know that I only do things for which I can give my all. When Mayor LaVere came knocking on my door last year wondering if I was now ready to step up, I knew it was time to give it some serious thought. As a realtor with a more flexible schedule and both my daughters in college, I now have the time I need to serve my community as a council member. It’s also clear that now, more than ever, is the time to be getting involved in local government to affect the kind of change that improves our everyday lives.
Mike Johnson: With the budget crunch, housing crisis, rise in homelessness and water shortage, the next four years are going to be especially tough. City council has its work cut out for it.
Over the years, I’ve told plenty of people I’d never run for council, and I meant it. But everything changed when we switched from at-large seats to district elections. I’m glad that we adopted districts. It’s refreshing to see a more diverse council, and we all benefit from the wider range of life experiences that comes with that.
However, with only 15,000 residents, District 3 does not have a deep bench for choosing our next council representative. This should worry everybody in Ventura: Many new councilmembers have struggled with a steep learning curve their first couple years in office.
Far too much is at stake right now to elect somebody who’s inexperienced. It’s an open seat, but we need to fill it with a candidate with years of experience. Whenever someone asks my priorities, I point to my work over the last five years on homelessness, housing, water, economic development and the budget. I’m running for council because those are my priorities — not the other way around.
Barbara Brown: Water and the environment — clean water comes from a clean environment and creating open spaces is a part of that. That’s why I supported SOAR, and spent over a decade on the build of Ventura Botanical Gardens. It’s why I support the Ventura Land Trust and the Rancho San Buenaventura Conservancy Trust.
Maintaining high quality air and water, reducing waste, eliminating one-time use plastics, rezoning for greater mixed use and creating a more bicycle/walk-able community are issues that I plan to work tirelessly to resolve. Over the last two years, I worked on a bipartisan federal climate change initiative — the carbon fee and dividend legislation, H.R. 763 — co-sponsored by Salud Carbajal.
William Cornell: see previous answer.
Aaron Gaston: Anticipated budget deficits: The effects of COVID-19 on our local economy have been devastating. Our economy has to be our number one priority as a council so we can provide the services that all of our citizens need. We need to make fiscally responsible cuts wherever possible; however, I am not in favor of significant public health or safety cuts. We need to start by cutting out any redundancies within the city. It will be crucial to consider each cut carefully, so we still maintain the programs that generate revenue for the city. Creating a business-friendly environment is paramount, because Ventura needs to attract quality employers. We need to look closely at the fees we charge businesses and compare them to other California cities with higher-paying jobs. I want to broaden my conversation with business owners and hear from them on what they need.
Mike Johnson: The housing crisis is fundamental. We can’t make progress on many other thorny issues we face, from economic development to homelessness, until we make real progress on housing. We need more housing, both affordable and market-rate.
For affordable housing, city council needs to pass a citywide inclusionary housing plan which applies to both for-sale and rental units. It must be truly inclusionary — the affordable units should be included in the project, rather than allowing developers to simply pay an in-lieu fee. We started the process in Spring 2018, but it stalled when the community development director left. It’s long overdue.
We need to submit a housing element to the state in 2021, showing where we could accommodate 5,000 affordable units over the next eight years. Our current housing element is problematic. It says somebody could build six affordable units in the parking lot of the KFC.
For market-rate housing, we should streamline the development review process by implementing the matrix report recommendations. However, we must not go further by disbanding the Design Review or Historic Preservation committees, nor demoting them to advisory panels. We need their expertise, and they need the authority to ensure high-quality, compatible projects.
Barbara Brown: In the great recession, in a drought, with some of the best and brightest people in Ventura, I worked to realize the vision of the Ventura Botanical Gardens. Drawing visitors from around the world, VBG sits behind city hall overlooking historic downtown, with spectacular views of the Southern California coastline and the Channel Islands. It was born out of a desire to create something wonderful for our community. We started with nothing but an idea and the desire to make it happen.
As president and board member for over a decade, my role was to inspire, engage and communicate our vision. Through CEQA, environmental studies, feasibility studies, engineering, master planning and fundraising, we were finally able to put the first shovel in the ground. We had hiccups along the way, and some very difficult challenges, but we fought through them and today, we have one of the most beautiful gems atop the hill. With over 107 acres, more than 8,000 plants, and over 2,000 members, we’ve just begun. I am so proud to have taken a leadership role in this extraordinary dream.
William Cornell: As a past commissioner with the Housing Authority, I worked with associate commissioners as well as staff and city officials to develop and approve new public/ private housing developments and needed neighborhood redevelopment across the city. We began the long process of re-imagining the Westview Village property located at 955 Riverside St. and applied the same public/private assistance to all the properties needing capital investment for deferred maintenance. This process enabled the authority to provide needed maintenance that wouldn’t have seen funding under the usual public funding allowance.
Aaron Gaston: When I worked at Infogrip, my business partner and I manufactured and sold a one-hand computer keyboard and other devices for individuals with disabilities for almost 30 years. Every day we had a significant impact on the lives of veterans, seniors, and children who were disabled. We worked hand in hand with these individuals, and the technology that we provided helped with their education, jobs, and to live an independent life. I feel fortunate to have had such an impact on so many lives. Every day I am thank-
ful for the wonderful humans that I met during my years in the assistive technology industry. On a daily basis my life was put into perspective working with my clients that had physical disabilities, developmental disabilities, and suffered from low vision or blindness.
Mike Johnson: One Wednesday morning in 2008, I was walking our son to kindergarten when another Poinsettia parent asked if I’d heard anything about burglaries in the neighborhood. I was surprised. In our little pocket of Campus View, we hadn’t had a burglary for several years.
When I got home, I discovered the Star was no longer publishing crime maps, and the police department wasn’t sharing them. I contacted our beat coordinator, who told me there were nine daytime burglaries in two days, four in my neighborhood. They were entering through unlocked front windows.
With his blessing, I printed 250 flyers warning my neighbors, and spent Thursday and Friday knocking on doors. Then on Friday night, around midnight, somebody poured a can of gasoline on my car and set it on fire.
On the bright side, the burglaries stopped.
I arranged a community meeting, with police, councilmembers, and 125 neighbors in attendance. We learned the PD had cut Neighborhood Watch without telling anybody, and didn’t want to warn residents about the crime wave, lest the burglars be scared off.
So we formed our own neighborhood group, with newsletters and meetings and block parties. Twelve years later, we’re still a tight-knit neighborhood. H H H H H H Heather May Ellinger Michael Nolan facebook.com/HeatherMayDistrict7/ facebook.com/MJNCC2020/
Ventura City Council, District 7
District 7 in Ventura includes the coastal neighborhoods, Pierpont, Surfer’s Point and stretches east to the city’s boundary. The district line zigzags to include areas south east of Arundell Ave. to Victoria Ave. It includes the Montalvo area and Auto Center Drive.
Councilmember Cheryl Heitmann announced in August her decision not to seek reelection and four candidates are vying for the seat. Candidate history and background
Heather May Ellinger: I am a 25-year resident of Ventura. I raised my children here and actively participated in their schooling and community activities as a class mom, team mom, PTA parent and board member. As a mortgage field inspector for 10 years, I have traveled throughout the neighborhoods of our city from the east end to the west end and everywhere in between. I know where the potholes are, where the homeless congregate, and the best vantage points for viewing sunsets over the ocean. In speaking to so many residents and business owners over the years, I know your frustrations and concerns related to our city. From day one I will bring efficiency, cooperation and common sense to the Ventura City Council by addressing concerns that affect our daily lives. I am open to discuss all matters big and small pertaining to our current situation, short-term strategies and the future aspirations of Ventura.
Michael Nolan: I received my bachelor’s degree in marketing from CSUN. I started my career at Kraft General Foods and led the team that brought Breyer’s Ice Cream to the West Coast along with Tombstone Pizza. At Kraft we had many What is one thing that you have not been asked about that voters should know about you?
Barbara Brown: In all my outreach during this campaign, voters have asked just about every question there is! But one thing I would share that I probably haven’t before, is where I come from and how this helped shape who I am. My mom was a nurse, my brother and sister were social workers, my dad worked for a nonprofit, my son is a paramedic, and my husband a firefighter. Every single person in my family chose a profession based on serving others. This is a wonderful legacy that is still hugely inspirational to me. That’s why even as a business owner, I always tried to serve however I could, whether that was on a board or through pro bono work for nonprofits. We aren’t all cut out to be first responders, but that shouldn’t stop any of us from responding, however we can.
William Cornell: Castillo Del Sol was one of my favorite projects with the housing authority. It’s a fully managed, 39 studio apartment facility, with preference given to adults with mental and developmental disabilities. The facility provides services from the county of Ventura and Tri County Regional Center.
Aaron Gaston: Many people don’t know how much I value education, and when I was younger, having a college degree was my ultimate dream. I worked two jobs to put myself through college, and it was worth every dollar and every sleepless night. I had preached to the point of being annoying to my H H H H H H struggles as you can imagine but we accomplished great things along the way. Next I joined a major wireless carrier in the early ’90s. I led many teams on the way to many accomplishments throughout my 23 years in telecom. Throughout my career I have always embraced challenges, sharpened my business acumen, lived in multiple cities and more often than not overcame major obstacles. I am currently a realtor with Century 21 Everest and have learned so much about our city. Living here now for the last 13 years I can bring the good from my life in other successful cities and I am more than ready to face the challenges Ventura faces now.
Nancy Pedersen: I’m 61 years old and a California native. I hold a BS in business administration and JD from Southern Methodist University in Dallas, Texas. I have 40+ years of business and legal experience including serving as vice president of operations for Bon Appetit Magazine in Los Angeles, and in-house counsel for the parent company of Gulf States Toyota in Houston. I am a licensed attorney in Texas and California.
When moving to Ventura in 2010, I had the opportunity to pursue a lifelong dream and open a bakery – I opened Sunflowers on the Square on Main Street in Ventura, had a retail storefront for four years, and still hold a cottage food license.
I have served the community on the board of the Ventura Visitors Center and Convention Bureau, including the past six years as board chair, and by co-chairing Best Day Foundation. My personal style is collaborative, direct and honest, and I have proven myself to be an effective facilitator and organizational leader. sisters-in-law when they were still in high school and now my own daughters how important their education is. College can come in all forms, from a trade school to traditional degrees, but I feel passionate about the need for young adults to get this experience to find out who they are. I’ve prided myself on being a lifelong learner willing to listen and be taught over a lifetime. My dream now is to retire someday and have the time to go back to college and take all of the classes that I never had time for but sounded so intriguing.
Mike Johnson: I became the College Area Community Council’s point person on water five years ago. I was eager to attend every water commission meeting as a skeptical watchdog. Ventura’s future hangs in the balance.
My perspective on water broadened a couple years ago when my wife volunteered her ob/gyn services at a hospital in southern Ethiopia.
Along every road, we saw people, kids mostly, filling yellow jerry cans in the ditch. Some had donkeys, but most would lug the water up the hill to their farms. Many children can’t go to school, because their job is hauling water.
Famine was ravaging Ethiopia, and when that happens, nursing mothers grow malnourished. Their milk dries up. The baby cries, and in desperation, the parents give it water. The baby gets violent diarrhea, and the parents take the baby out to the road, hoping a stranger will transport them to hospital. Of the infants who do make it to the hospital, many don’t survive.
In Ventura, we pay about a penny per gallon for fresh, clean water delivered to our tap. We’ll argue over water projects, or residential
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Nancy Pedersen pedersen4ventura.com
Joe Schroeder joeschroederforcitycouncil.com
rates, but we all need to be thankful for what we have. Water is life.
Joe Schroeder: I recently retired as the president/CEO of the Ventura County Credit Union. My educational background includes an undergraduate and an MBA from Cal Poly Pomona. My significant leadership experience, local involvement and financial expertise gained from decades of service in the credit union industry leave me well equipped to represent our community. I’ve managed a $1 billion organization with over 200 employees and can better understand the issues facing the city of Ventura. My financial experience during these difficult economic times will be invaluable.
Heather May Ellinger: Since the murder of Anthony Mele, I have actively been following the city’s policies in handling the vagrant population. I attended monthly council meetings regarding the homeless and spoke with some council members directly. I found their policies and attitudes completely ineffective. I made the decision to run after a series of ill-advised unanimous resolutions were recently passed by our current city council. The removal of the Father Serra statue being one of them. I am acutely aware of the many challenges before us. Ventura needs improved roads, critical water infrastructure and the continued support of fire and police services. To assure these needs are met, we must attract, retain and foster thriving local businesses to generate the necessary funds to meet Ventura’s operational needs. Thriving businesses offer greater local opportunities for ALL residents. Additionally, we must finally address the real humanitarian issue that is the homeless crisis on our streets.
Michael Nolan: After joining the HOA board at The Cape in Ventura, I have become familiar with helping run a small community and doing what is best financially and esthetically for both the current owners and future owners. There are many challenges and you can’t make everyone happy but if you are honest and true in your desire and act with integrity to do what is best for all and the future, you can’t go wrong. I am very concerned about the state of this city and what we plan to leave our children. I believe in constant improvement both in community relations and the physical aspects of Ventura. We have streets without sidewalks and buildings that used to be restaurants and businesses vacant for years (before COVID).
I find this unacceptable for us and our children. We need new decision makers to lure new business and family to Ventura.
Nancy Pedersen: I have spent the past number of years serving the community through running my small business, serving as co-chair of the local chapter of the Best Day Foundation, and working toward the economic viability of the community through my service on the board of the visitor’s center and with a local business start-up. In this year 2020, my personal perfect storm has presented itself whereby my heart for the community has aligned with the election cycle for my district of residency (District 3) and my personal availability (Lauren, Jackson and Neal are launched, so to speak, and I have “pushed pause” from consuming roles in the business world). I’m ready to take the next step in service to Ventura, and while I have not ever run for or held public office, I believe my skills and style can add value to the current discussions and issue, and continue to move the mark toward a better Ventura.
Joe Schroeder: I was born and raised in So. California by parents who believed that you need to help your neighbors and community. Community service is a big part of my personal and professional life. I was on the board of FOOD Share for nine years and chair for several and helped FOOD Share through difficult financial times. We need leaders that are community driven, fiscally responsible, dedicated to protection of our coastline and can balance growth within our community. Many of us have grown so tired of the polarized political environment. Therefore, I have decided to jump in and be a part of the solution at the local level. It is time for me to give back more to our community.
Heather May Ellinger: Prior to the pandemic, I would have said the homeless crisis is my number one priority. It will still be a priority for me, but the COVID-19 restrictions have devastated many of our local businesses. This terrible crisis has not only greatly jeopardized our local businesses’ survival but also caused many residents to lose jobs or have had work opportunities greatly curtailed. According to the CDC, 40 percent of the adult American population is currently struggling with depression and substance abuse as a direct result of the lockdowns. We must advocate on behalf of our residents to the county and state to quickly and safely reopen businesses to full service. We should once again enjoy our beautiful city and all the wonderful aspects of living here in Ventura. There is a balance between protecting public health and protecting people’s livelihoods and mental wellbeing. The numbers provided by the city and county do not justify the continued shutdown and mandates.
Michael Nolan: The top issue for me is crime. Ventura city currently ranks highest in crime for all of Ventura county. I cannot walk in my neighborhood after sunset and feel safe. It has been that way for 13 years. My daughters do not feel safe anywhere in public in Ventura. Right now in these disruptive times we need bold leaders to redevelop the Pacific View Mall blight, pier boardwalk area, connect a sidewalk from the east end on Foothill all the way to downtown and the boardwalk. Don’t accept excuses, this all came about before COVID. Another group asked me how we can keep Patagonia in Ventura and get them to grow. Simple, get rid of the crime so new families feel safe moving here and working here in town. Just think about going to the Collection mall . . . safe, going to Thousand Oaks mall . . . safe, Westlake . . . safe, Santa Barbara . . . safe.
The first thing I would do is meet with the chief of police, review his finished strategic plan and roll it out quickly.
Nancy Pedersen: The last few years have dished up challenges for Ventura. With challenge comes opportunity to take a fresh look at why we do what we do and how we operate — making sure our governing efforts support the needs of Ventura today and lay the foundation for tomorrow. While there are many priorities to focus on immediately with the start of the new term, a priority for me is to work with my fellow councilmembers and the city management team to create and foster a culture of shared partnership with our residents and business constituents. I believe this culture is the underpinning to put in place so that we can effectively address our budget, housing, water, homeless and safety issues and needs throughout all segments and areas of our community. A first step in working toward this improved culture will be to engage the council and management staff in an honest assessment of what is and isn’t working, and identifying areas that need improvement or change.
Joe Schroeder: Effectively balancing the diverse priorities of our city is one of my top issues. These include facilitating economic growth; supporting safety; protecting our natural resources, particularly our coastline and water resources; and ensuring we have well-maintained streets, parks and trails. Until we stabilize the revenue coming into the city, it will be difficult to add new multimillion dollar programs or add significantly to staff. I have a history of growing businesses and that expertise is essential to help businesses grow their way out of these challenging times. People talk about growth…I have done it.
Heather May Ellinger: As a mortgage field inspector, I interacted with thousands of homeowners and their contractors over the years. Early on it became apparent that the majority of people going through the process of rebuilding and renovations due to damage to their property (fire, water, wind, mold, vandalism, etc.) had very limited knowledge on how the process worked and how many entities were involved. Even planned renovations are stressful and generally don’t go as anticipated. Dealing with an unexpected disaster is overwhelming. I became a quasi therapist and a shoulder to cry on in many cases. I also became an ally for homeowners who needed answers and didn’t get them by providing them with an understanding of what was required to move them effectively through the process of renovations and rebuilding.
Michael Nolan: I have 10 brothers and sisters, I am from a very humble background. My parents struggled to raise us all. My mother taught me how to be frugal and my father taught me how to be disciplined. I started mowing lawns at 10, delivering papers at 12 and have never stopped working my entire life. I am familiar with the struggle. I don’t live at the beach and I am not trying to fill my social calendar. I’ve managed over 250 retail stores and led them to award winning performance year after year. Professionally, running all those stores with honesty and integrity and gaining loyal community customers is my greatest accomplishment. Raising my two beautiful, respectful and intelligent daughters is my greatest personal accomplishment.
Nancy Pedersen: One of the opportunities that opened up to me when I moved to Ventura 10 years ago was to get involved with Best Day Foundation. Early upon my arrival in Ventura, I met Chipper Bro Bell — Chipper is the founder of the Ventura Chapter and basically said I was “going to be an angel” and help him further organize the chapter. The Best Day Foundation, hosts beach days for kids with special needs. They have been active in Ventura since 2007, hosting 6-8 beach events here every year.
Over the course of the last 10 years, I have served as co-chair of this organization, putting structure around the administrative aspect of the local chapter, working to form a core leadership team for the chapter, and leading over 50 “Best Days” on our beaches. Each event is supported by local food sponsors (shout out to Spencer Makenzies, Trader Joe’s and the Harbor Starbucks for years of donations and support) and engages close to 100 volunteers from across the city. At the end of every event, not only did 40 kids have a “best day,” all of the volunteers did, too. Magic on the beach — every time! When I started on their board we were delivering seven million pounds of food to those that were going hungry. Today, FOOD Share will deliver over 18 million pounds of food this year. I consider the mission of FOOD Share to keep those that are hungry, an invaluable asset to the entire county. FOOD Share’s spectacular growth and dedication to those in need is a great example of how leadership can make a difference. In addition, as the CEO of VCCU, I started a program that gave all employees 40 hours of paid time off to help Ventura County nonprofits. I also launched the Foundation of Ventura County Credit Union which distributes funds to nonprofits serving the underserved.
Heather May Ellinger: The city council is a nonpartisan position, however political leanings are evident in decisions being made by council. There is a lack of balance of representation in all levels of government in the state of California. Two days prior to the deadline, I made the decision to run for city council. In less than 48 hours, I had the required signatures and paperwork to qualify as a candidate. I assembled a team of highly qualified volunteers who have been active in our local politics for decades. They and many local residents have stepped up to volunteer and support my candidacy because we all believe in representative government. If you have been following my campaign, you will see what I am capable of achieving in a short period of time. My online presence is double and triple that of other candidates, largely due to the support I have received from local residents. As your next city councilmember, I will bring that collaborative energy to the governing of our city in the form of balanced leadership.
Michael Nolan: The homeless situation in Ventura. I believe in feeding the hungry and sheltering those that do not have shelter. I believe that street camping and panhandling should be outlawed. You don’t see these kinds of problems we have in any other Ventura County city. I believe we can learn from those cities and how they handle those issues and make corrective action to resolve. We can’t expect to lure businesses or new families to Ventura until we resolve the issue. I am pro police and pro fire dept. I would work with the Caruso company or other to make the Pacific View Mall a 2,000-3,000-seat performing arts center and housing development for all income families. Maybe use the fairgrounds for a Double-A baseball team and entertainment venue. Ventura is the gateway to the Gold Coast of California and should be a highly desirable place to live
Please vote for me for District 7 city council and the future of Ventura.
Nancy Pedersen: I’m sure there are many things voters have not asked about me or that I haven’t shared in my campaign and marketing materials — 61 years is a long time and there are lots of chapters to my story (and hopefully still many more to come). Particularly relevant to me but also relevant to the role I am seeking on council is my 2017 walk on the Camino de Santiago across northern Spain. I started this 500-mile walk solo but along the way developed an amazing community of fellow travelers who I now call friends — many visiting me in Ventura, and some cheering me on from down-under or Canada, Arkansas and Florida, but all still sharing life and community three years later. As I look at the opportunity to serve the city of Ventura, I am hopeful that I can work with others to be a part of similarly strengthening the fabric of community in Ventura, building a culture of partnership and respect while we share the journey, and an excitement and anticipation for what comes next.
Joe Schroeder: It’s important for today’s leaders to do good and do well. While the financial bottom line is important, it is also necessary to be a compassionate and collaborative leader. Listening and understanding the issues and concerns presented by those in our community is essential. FINALLY...Extensive financial experience and committed community service will allow me to help resolve the challenges that face us.
Many venues remain closed in compliance with public health orders. Some classes, exhibits and events are available exclusively online. All events are subject to change and cancellation; always verify with venue and/or organizer.
NEW
THE DIARIES OF ADAM AND EVE Oct. 9-11 via
Zoom. Mark Twain’s whimsical, funny yet moving love story set in the Garden of Eden. Pay what you can. Conejo Players Theatre, 805-496-3715 or www.conejoplayers.org. GHOSTWATCH Oct. 9-31. Santa Paula Theater Center presents this virtual version of its annual immersive theater experience GhostWalk, with spooky tales told by “ghosts” resurrected from local history, sharing their stories in Santa Paula landmarks. Viewings take place at 7 p.m. on YouTube. Pay what you can; donations support SPTC. Reservations required; call the Haunt Line at 805-525-3073 or visit www.ghostwalk.com or www.santapaulatheatercenter.org. JOYRIDE OJAI Oct. 9-11. Enjoy art from the comfort of your vehicle in this drive-by outdoor exhibit taking place throughout the Ojai Valley. Installations viewable 11 a.m.-6 p.m. For map and more information, visit www.joyrideojai.org.
MULLIN AUTOMOTIVE MUSEUM Through
Nov. 6. Every Friday at noon, the famed auto museum will offer 20-minute tours of its most unique vehicles, produced and hosted by its docents on YouTube. www.youtube.com/c/ MullinAutomotiveMuseum/featured
POPPIES ARTS AND GIFTS Wednesday, Oct.
14, 3 p.m.: Learn to Weave Mini Workshop, whereby Peggie Williamson will teach four different weaving stitches. $29 per person includes all supplies. Through Nov. 30: A Visual Feast, hanging and standing art made by members of The Collage Lab, including Janet Black, Karen L. Brown, Virginia Buckle, Tasia Erickson, Karen Hoffberg, Joyce Lombard, Darlene Roker, Mary Kolada Scott, Janna Valenzuela, and Wendy Winet. 323 E. Matilija St., Ojai, 805-798-0033, www.poppiesartandgifts.com.
SANTA PAULA THEATER CENTER Oct.
12-Nov. 18. Two virtual acting classes will be offered at SPTC this fall. Monologue Mania (Mondays, 7-9 p.m., Oct. 12-Nov. 16) is an adult acting class taught by Taylor Kasch. Teen Talk (Wednesdays, 7-9 p.m., Oct. 14-Nov. 18) for ages 13-19 will be taught by Jessi May Stevenon. Class sizes limited. For registration and more information, visit www.santapaulatheatercenter.org/acting-classes.
CALL FOR SUBMISSIONS
VENTURA COUNTY ARTS COUNCIL Through
Oct. 19. The VCAC invites artists to submit proposals for their work to be displayed Nov. 2-Dec. 14 in the storefront of a new building on Victoria Avenue and Moon Drive in Ventura. Three-dimensional art will be given priority. Up to three projects may be submitted for consideration and all residents of Ventura County are eligible. Submission guidelines, fees and more information are available at vcartscouncil.org/programs/ public-art-displays/victoria-moon-showcase-fall-2020.
THEATER/ PERFORMANCE
BLACK RECONSTRUCTION IN AMERICA
Through Nov. 3. Phylicia Rashad, Yvette Nicole Brown, Roy Wood Jr. and other African American actors will participate in “The ReadIn Series,” an online reading marathon of W.E.B. Du Bois’ seminal work. Readings will air on Tuesdays and Fridays. Produced by MiRi Park of California State University, Channel Islands. thereadinseries.com.
VENTURA COUNTY POETRY PROJECT
Thursday, Oct. 8, 7:30 p.m. via Zoom. Poetry reading from Michael Torres and open mic, streamed live from EP Foster Library. facebook.com/Ventura-County-Poetry-Project-109806817109129/.
ART GALLERIES AND MUSEUMS
ATRIUM GALLERY Opened Aug. 21.
Environment: Addressing Your Surroundings. vcartscouncil.org/ atrium-gallery/calendar-of-competitive-shows-2020/.
BEATRICE WOOD CENTER FOR THE ARTS
Through Oct. 24. Virtual exhibits Natural Wonders, featuring ceramics by Lauren Hanson (Beato Gallery) and Nature’s Bounty, recent works from members of the Ventura County Potters’ Guild. 805-646-3381, www.beatricewood.com.
BUENAVENTURA ART ASSOCIATION
GALLERY Through Nov. 14. Diverse works by Janet Black, Christopher King, Michelle Nosco, Darlene Roker and Laura Walter. Open weekends only; contact gallery for details. 432 N. Ventura Ave., Studio 30, Ventura, 805-648-1235, www. buenaventuraartassociation.org. Two casts — Jeremy Anderson and Casey McDougal (left) and Jeff Lawless and Emilyrose Morris — bring CALIFORNIA MUSEUM OF ART THOUSAND Adam and Eve to life in Conejo Players Theatre’s production of Mark Twain’s The Diaries of Adam and Eve. OAKS Through Dec. 31: Life Interrupted, a virtual exhibit of work by young local artists, with paintings, illus- realART Opened Oct. 4. The Postcard Show with hand- talks, online art classes and children’s educational resources. trations, digital art and mixed media exploring life during made postcards donated by artists from all over the world. All 2222 E. Ventura Blvd., Camarillo, 805-383-1368, studiochannequarantine, social distancing and uncertainty. Ongoing: Virtual proceeds donated to Act Blue. Whizin Market Square, 28873 lislands.org. exhibit: Empathy: Beneath the Surface, multidisciplinary Agoura Road, Agoura Hills, 310-452-4000, whatisrealart.com. VITA ART CENTER Through Dec. 16. Registration perspectives on the idea of empathy, personal agency and SANTA PAULA ART MUSEUM Through Nov. is now open for a variety of fall art classes for children and the universal bonds that connect us. 350 W. Hillcrest Drive, Thousand Oaks, 805-405-5240, cmato.org. 29: Virtual exhibits for Santa Paula Sojourn, over 30 paintings featuring 20 different locations in and around Santa Paula by adults. 28 W. Main St., Ventura, 805-644-9214, www.vitaartcenter.com. AD PROOF CALIFORNIA OIL MUSEUM Ongoing. “Museum from Home” resources, including Mineral Mondays, Women in STEM Wednesdays and Fossil Fridays. Kids’ educational giveaways every month. 1001 E. Main St., Santa Paula, 805933-0076 or www.caoilmuseum.org or @caoilmuseum. Shannon Celia; and Inspiration and Influence: Sculptor Duane Dammeyer and Painter Rima Muna. Ongoing virtual exhibits: The First Decade: Celebrating Ten Years of Acquisitions, an exhibition of works from the museum’s permanent collection in celebration of its 10-year anniversary. 117 N. 10th St., Santa Paula, WILLIAM ROLLAND GALLERY Through Oct. 31. Virtual exhibits: Meleko Mokgosi: Acts of Resistance, examining formal and informal forms of resistance through figurative paintings that confront the politics and histories of representation; Documenting History Through Art: The Work of David Client: Concepts Windows & Doors Ad Executive: Warren Barrett (805) 648-2244 Please check this proof over carefully and indicate all corrections clearly. You will have a “1st Proof”, “2nd Proof”, and “Final Proof”. If we receive no proof after the 1st or 2nd Proofs, AD WILL RUN AS IS. If this proof meets your approval on the 1st proof, check off “FINAL PROOF (APPROVED)” box, date and sign at the bottom. CHANNEL ISLANDS MARITIME MUSEUM 805-525-5554 or www.santapaulaartmuseum.org. Labkovski, autobiographical paintings and drawings from the NOTICE: PLEASE FAX THIS PROOF TO (805) 648-2245 ASAP ISSUE: 10/8/20 Through Dec. 21: Fragile Waters: Predator or Prey? STUDIO CHANNEL ISLANDS Through Nov. artist’s experiences of World War II, the Holocaust and their Photography by Ralph Clevenger and art by Kathy S. Copsey fea21: Neighbors, more than 70 large portraits taken by photog- aftermath; Passionate Perspectives senior art exhibit; and turing the great white shark, a species vitally important to the rapher John Raymond Mireles. Ongoing: Virtual art exhibits Thingamajig VI: A Printmaking Exploration. California Lutheran marine ecosystem. Ongoing: Maritime art by Dutch, English and include Gallery Virgins, Richard Barnett Portraits, Magical University, 160 Overton Court, Thousand Oaks, 805-493-3697, French artists; world-class ship models; the Port of Hueneme Realism, The Illusionists and Illuminated, as well as artist video rollandgallery.callutheran.edu. ♦ display and more. 3900 Bluefin Circle, Oxnard, 805-984-6260, cimmvc.org. FOCUS ON THE MASTERS Ongoing. The Learning to See Student Art Showcase online, featuring work by students from Anacapa, Cabrillo, De Anza Academy of Technology; the Arts and Rio del Valle middle schools; and Montalvo, Pierpont and Sierra Linda elementary schools, . focusonthemasters.com/ learning-to-see-gallery/.
HARBOR VILLAGE GALLERY AND GIFTS
Through Nov. 9. Fall Members Show, with works by more than a dozen BAA artists. 1559 Spinnaker Drive #106, Ventura Harbor Village, 805-644-2750, www.facebook.com/ HarborVillageGalleryGifts.
KWAN FONG GALLERY Through Oct. 31.
Virtual exhibits: Thingamajig VI: A Printmaking Exploration and Documenting History Through Art: The Work of David Labkovski. California Lutheran University, 120 Memorial Parkway, Thousand Oaks, 805-493-3697, blogs.callutheran.edu/kwanfong/. MUSEUM OF VENTURA COUNTY Through Black Vinyl Multi-Slide System for Nov. 30: Arte Forastero, a sculpture exhibit featuring 14 regional artists whose work will be showcased in the museum’s 1/2 THE PRICE of Aluminum Sliders outdoor plaza and the nursery and lower trails of the Ventura Botanical Gardens. Opened in August: Archival Exquisite Corpse, a virtual photography project in collaboration with TAKE A LOOK! Ventura College, in which students used the museum’s online photo archive to find inspiration. Opened May 29: Third Annual Ventura Unified School District Student Online Art Show, featuring work by VUSD high, middle and elementary school students. Ongoing: Several virtual exhibits, including Mending the Divide, Patterns on the Land, California Cool, Nordic Myths and Legends, George Stuart Historical Figures® and more. Also featuring virtual learning modules and quizlets. 100 E. Main St., Ventura, 805-653-0323 or venturamuseum.org. OJAI INSTITUTE Through Oct. 11. Muna Malik: Air Justice, a large-scale presentation. 248 S. Montgomery St., Ojai, carolynglasoebaileyfoundation.org/ojai-institute/. Weather Shield ~ Fleetwood ~ MilgardPORCH GALLERY Through Oct. 26. Resurrection: New Works by Dennis Mukai, with works conceptualized after Call for Details the Thomas Fire and inspired stylistically by Japanese Shi-hanga wood block prints of the early 20th century. 310 E. Matilija Ave., 805-207-3491 • www.conceptwindoors.com Ojai, 805- 620-7589, porchgalleryojai.com.
