Marketing Perspectives from Ventura College Business Students –
VC Social
This podcast will talk about different marketing perspectives, perspectives such as marketing for oneself and marketing for other people or small businesses. We will also mention a few things that have worked for us so stay tuned because they may work for you too.
Five students go into depth about how COVID-19 would impact their high school experiences and how learning online would become more of a chore. The lack of motivation would impact every student differently as well as learning to adapt to their situation. Now in the present time they speak about how going back to school is a struggle to overcome social anxiety after not being able to communicate with others face to face for almost 3 years. Professor Nick speaks on his behalf over his experiences teaching during and after Covid-19. He speaks about differences he has noticed.
This is the story of MadeWest Brewing Company, which was founded in 2013 by Mike Morrison and his good friend Seth Gibson. MadeWest was born in a small garage in San Diego, CA, where the home brew kit was put to work, and their very first IPA was made. Mike and Seth believe that great beer brings people together, and they knew immediately that there was something magical happening. http://www.madewest.com
After winning second place at a brew competition, it was clear that people loved the product. Fast-forward to 2013, MadeWest finally opened its doors in the town of Ventura, CA which finally received its first taproom and brewery. Today, their mission is still the same: Make good beer and get people together. They work hard to stay with the current trends while still being innovative at the same time. They do this all while collaborating with their good friends over at Prospect Coffee Roasters to make award-winning Porters. At either of their locations you can browse and purchase from their wide array of clothing and goods collection. From shirts, hats, mugs, and growlers, there is sure to be something for everyone. They serve as excellent mementos to help remind customers of the great memories they experienced after enjoying a craft beer.
Some of their award-winning beers are part of collaboration with other well-known breweries. These are part of a Short-Lived Series, but you don’t want to miss out when these get released. Follow @madewestbeer on Instagram to get updates on all things beer. You may also visit http://www.prospectcoffee.com to learn more about how Prospect Coffee got into the game with MadeWest Brewing and how their love of coffee parallels their love of beer.
If you have not been to their original location, stop by during the week and say hi to Mike if he is in the taproom or just drop in for a pint of the best beer in town. I am sure you will be greeted with a smile and will want to immerse yourself in the nostalgia of craft brew beginnings. Sample the beers and give some honest reviews. I truly believe that this is a note-worthy experience. I know I have always enjoyed sharing a beer with friends as well as making new ones while surrounded by their fantastic community.
Customer testimonials are a true testament to how well this brewery has been received by locals and travelers alike. See what a few customers had to say.
From MadeWest Customers
“This place is awesome for so many reasons. The most obvious is great beer and variety of it. I have 2 kids and the place is great to grab a drink and hang out on the patio while they play one of their giant Jenga games. Great to have a place like this in Ventura!” -Matt Leonard
“Dog friendly brewery with several great beers on tap, plus food trucks on the outside patio. Fun inside space, great for a large group. They also have four packs, growlers that are available for take away once you’ve sampled their beers in house” – Laura Williams
Commercial Video Image of tap and award medalsImage of last week’s award for best pale ale
The beauty industry negatively affects female identity along with the contribution of social media. Women are constantly being reminded of what is considered beautiful in our society with standards that for the most part aren’t realistic. These standards put a lot of women in a state of mind that prevents them from appreciating their true worth. Along with this, it leads them to develop mental health problems such as low self-esteem, social anxiety, psychological stress, eating disorders, and others along with having the wrong perception of beauty.
For a long time, the industry of beauty’s main purpose has been to develop, sell, and promote cosmetics, perfume, skincare, and hair products they don’t really care about the damage they are causing when promoting unrealistic standards for the most part and although we see more divers promoting along with body positivity nowadays the industry still negatively affect women. Social media is a big contributor to the negative effects when it comes to product promotion. When it comes to social media platforms society is the one that decides what is true beauty and what it isn’t. Truly our own society is at fault for having high standards that for most are unrealistic. As for most females seeing these standards change drastically very often swifts the perception of beauty.
Women are only trying to fit into the crazy beauty industry standards but the standards are constantly changing. Therefore most females feel like they are never going to be good enough when it comes to their physical appearance. Unfortunately these standards not only affect the older females they start affecting the younger ones as well. As they enter the beauty industry world along with the social media world at a young age they start to notice the wave of what are true perceptions of beauty according to the industry and its contributors. At such a young age this will have a big impact on new generations of females by affecting their identity on what a woman should look like.
The beauty industry for the most part affects women negatively although there are sparks of hope that have positive effects on some women. There is still a lot that the beauty industry needs to do to truly focus on helping women prevent mental health problems as well as help the ones who have developed severe mental health problems along with the help of social media platforms. In the end, true beauty goes beyond just appearance it’s your own perception along with your true worth.
A menu review with employee-favorite recommended food!
Have you ever craved a nice burger in an ambient, relaxing setting? Well, have I got the place for you at BLVD BURGER. This is located at 2145 Ventura Blvd in Camarillo, right off the freeway. On the main strip of restaurants, lays this beautiful burger joint that I find myself going back to revisit time after time.
You may be wondering what really makes a great burger. Can it be the cheese, how the beef is cooked, the limitless toppings you can add within the burger? Well, I came across an article, chefs weigh in on what makes a perfect burger, and every individual described their perfect bite.
Now, a little bit about this burger place happens to be they have a sit down restaurant with a bar attached where you can try local brewed beer to pair with your food. Music from artist like Tame Impala, The Maria’s, Steve Lacy, etc. are all a part of the playlist. A big screen tv is present in the bar to watch your sport games. Lastly, there are a few old school arcade games to play such as Pac-Man.
Time for the juicy part, during my visit to this burger place, I wanted to review the menu, but with a twist. So, that’s exactly what I did, I went on to order what the employees favorite menu items are. The first person, AJ, which was the person who took my order, told me that his favorite two items off the menu are chicken club and pineapple burger.
After ordering my food, I grabbed a seat at the bar to order my beer. I asked Christian, our next server, which was his favorite beer off of the menu. He told me the one he really enjoys right now is Malibu Brewing Company’s Happy Days Honey Blonde Ale. The beer did not disappoint, but unfortunately, I did not get a picture of my beer for the purposes of this class.
My overall pick of what I enjoyed the most would be the chicken club. I found this one to be flavorful, the chicken was cooked just right, and the serving of fries was just enough to leave you satisfied. When I make the trip back to this location, I will definitely be ordering this chicken club again.
Well there you have it, BLVD BURGER will always be a must visit burger joint so go ahead and check it out for yourselves. Check out their Instagram account for photos of the food and events they got going on. Also, check out their menu to see what you might order on your visit.
What would you guys pick? The pineapple burger or the chicken club, or would it be something else from the posted menu down below?
You have been either streaming their latest albums, or watching their performances online a little more often than usual, and never thought the day would come that you could even see them live. And suddenly you are finally going to your first K-pop concert.
While they have finally released information about where they are going on tour you realize it is only a couple months away. This can cause you to wonder if you will be traveling to a new city or even going out of state, too. Also, consider going with people you know or even mutuals you have met on social media as well. There is no need to worry because we all been there and a reason why I want share some tips to make your first K-pop concert enjoyable!
Arrive early
In K-pop, a big priority is merchandise so I’d advise getting some official gear. Depending on the venue, the merchandise booth will open early before the concert starts. It’s better to show up a few hours early to get a good spot in line especially since merchandise sells out fast. Make sure to check official venue, social media, or website for updated information.
2. Check the venue’s bag policy
This is the most important information you will need especially with the clear bag policy if you’re not aware of it. I would make sure to visit the venue’s website so you know which back to buy before the concert.
3. Dress comfortably
A common thing in the K-pop community is wanting to look cute, but if your feet are hurting by the time when you get to the venue, you probably won’t enjoy the concert. Especially when the concert involves a lot of dancing, and jumping, you would want to wear comfortable clothes.I would want to be realistic about what you’re going to wear which you can always find a lot of inspiration on Pinterest, X, or Instagram.
4. Stay hydrated
Depending on how long you’ve been at the venue, concerts especially can be long and crazy make sure you stay hydrated by bringing a water bottle with you and also bring snacks to keep yourself energized throughout the show.
5. Bring extra batteries and a power bank
Since we’re at a time where we’re always on our phones and taking pictures and recording every movement at concerts, it’s important to keep your phone charged so make sure to bring a power bank. A popular thing is having a light stick to always bring extra batteries for it as well.
6. Be present & have fun!
From personal experience, we sometimes get a little carried away between trying to record and sharing all of our favorite moments on social media. It’s okay to put your phone down during one or two songs just sing along and dance because you never know when your artist will come back again to enjoy the moment. This also being your chance to experience magic of K-pop live, so make the most of it!
I was able to get an exclusive interview with Aiden DeMello, a right-handed pitcher for the Ventura College baseball team, where we got the opportunity to get important information about the route and the diversity collegiate athletes face. While we conclude the interview with keys of keeping the electric team rolling into a successful year.
Question: What inspired you to pursue baseball at Ventura College?
Answer: Since I could remember, my number one goal in life was to play baseball at the collegiate level. Unfortunately, coming out of high school I received very little attention from 4-year universities. Feeling like my childhood dream was slipping away, I decided to pursue the “JUCO” route. I have always admired the dedication and sacrifice that junior college athletes go through. It takes a competitive mindset and a winning culture to be successful. I felt Ventura College embodied these exact things and that is what inspired me to pursue Baseball here.
Question: What major are you pursuing and why? How do you balance academics and athletics and a college athlete?
Answer: My major is Sports Journalism with a minor in Broadcasting. All my life I have been in love with anything to do with sports. Whether it was a random Tuesday night baseball game or Super Bowl Sunday, I was always excited to watch. I have also always had a knack for arguing over sports topics. Because of this passion, I decided to make a career out of it.
Being a student athlete, it is definitely hard finding time for academics. It is often challenging and burdensome to cut time away from training to finish an essay or vice versa. It really comes down to sacrifice. Sadly, I have had to cut time away from friends and family to keep my grades up. No more friday nights out with the boys and movie nights with the family have been exceedingly hard choices I have had to make to make sure I keep a high gpa.
Question: Being in your sophomore year, what are your plans academic and athletics wise after Ventura College?
Answer: My initial plan is to transfer after this semester to a 4 year university and continue to play baseball. Last season I suffered a shoulder injury early in the year that effectively ended my true freshman season. Luckily, I was granted a Medical Redshirt and received that year of eligibility back. So if I don’t receive any offers after this season, I plan to come back next year and use my last year of juco eligibility.
Question: What are the keys for success this year as a team?
Answer: The number one key for success this season is limiting the mistakes. We dropped a crucial series to a rival in Moorpark College because of foolish mistakes. The week after we played the number one team in California and played a flawless game, earning us a win. We have an extremely talented and well rounded team this season. If we are able to limit our mistakes, you will see us in playoffs come May.
Question: Why should people go to a Ventura Pirates baseball game?
Answer: We have an exciting team this year. At every position we have athletes making plans and hitting home runs. Our guys on the mound are throwing gas and striking batters out at an elite rate. Before the week we were ranked inside the top 20 teams in California. There really isn’t a reason why someone shouldn’t consider coming to a game.
Pier City Cider is Ventura’s first hard cider company that opened the weekend of Summer Solstice in 2019. Pier City Cider offers some great, beachy ciders in several out-of-the-ordinary flavors.
Meet Gary Stewart, the cider maker for Pier City Cider
The Inspiration for Pier City Cider
Four Brix Winery, a local winery, opened its doors in Ventura, California in 2011. Several years later, winemaker and one of the owners, Gary Stewart, began looking for gluten-free options that his wife, Karen could enjoy. His frustration with the flavors of traditional “Big Box” ciders lead him to start experimenting with making hard ciders at home. Gary wanted to create ciders that complimented Four Brix Winery. He continued experimenting with flavors until he found the perfect recipe for uniquely refreshing flavors that could be enjoyed with or without food.
Hard Cider Flavor Inspiration
Gary stated his inspiration for cider flavors comes from several sources. He often gets ideas from friends, patrons at Four Brix Winery, and drinks at bars and restaurants. One of Pier City Cider’s most popular flavors, Persimmon Lavender, was inspired when Gary had a persimmon lavender ice tea while visiting the Central Coast. Gary wanted to create ciders along the lines of a well-rounded cocktail. Because he wanted the cider flavors to have more complexity than your standard hard cider, he created flavors driven by fruits and different complimentary spices instead of the basic flavors you’ll find at your local grocery store. To this day Gary continues his journey to find new out-of-the-ordinary cider flavors.
Pier City Cider, Out-of-the Ordinary Flavors
Gary is currently working on a new cider that will be released in the next month. The following 12 flavors are currently available for purchase at Pier City Cider.
Blackberry
Caramel Apple
Hibiscus
Mango Chili Lime
Moheto
Mule
Oh Mai
Persimmon Lavender
Pina Picante
Rhubarb Honey
Sour Apple
Tamarind Ice
What Sets Pier City Ciders Apart?
Gary is extremely proud to be using fresh organic apples from Washington. Once the apples are pressed they are shipped within 24 hours and stored in stainless steel tanks. Gary is also very proud to only use natural organic extracts to flavor his ciders. Gary believes using organic apples in combination with organic natural extract gives the ciders their true flavors.
Gary’s Hopes for Pier City Cider
Gary is planning on starting distribution on a smaller scale with the hopes of being in specialty liquor stores in addition to different restaurants. He is excited to continue to create new “Seasonal Flavors” and see where the road takes Pier City Cider. Gary strives to create ciders that are “just sweet enough but not too overwhelming”.
Where to Find Pier City Cider
Currently, you can enjoy a flight of 5 cider flavors or a glass of cider at Pier City Cider located at 2290 Eastman Ave. Suite #110 in Ventura, California. For those of you who love the ciders and are ready for a short-term commitment, Pier City Cider offers a cider membership. It is a simple 1-year commitment to purchase 3 4-packs in the Spring and Fall. The great thing about the membership is you’re able to mix and match your 4-packs with any flavor you’d like. You also get complimentary tastings for up to 4 people several times throughout the year and member pricing on glasses and 4-packs. Additionally, Pier City Ciders get a 10% discount on all Four Brix Winery wine purchases. For those not quite ready to commit, 4-packs are available for purchase. Please visit https://piercitycider.com/ for additional information.
Conclusion
Whether you’re a hard cider fan or not, it is definitely worth your while to stop by Pier City Cider and taste what’s on tap. You can enjoy your ciders with the great food served at Pier City Cider or by itself. It’s a great place to enjoy food, hear live music, play a game, or just hang out with your cider. Oftentimes, you will find Gary and his wife, Karen in the tasting room. Although Gary is often busy working in the back, he is always happy to take time to answer questions. You will find that Gary is one of the nicest and most down-to-earth guys you will meet, so don’t hesitate to say “Hello” and give your suggestions for new flavors on your next visit. You can visit their website at, https://piercitycider.com/.
Gary wants his ciders to appeal to 80% of the market as he realizes you can’t please everyone.
I’d love to hear your favorite flavors and thoughts on the ciders at Pier City Cider. Also, what flavors do you think Gary should make next?
Love was still lingering in the air at this month’s VC Plant Swap with a space full of vendors, artists, beer, music, and plants! On February 18, 2024 the VC Plant Swap: Sweeties Only edition, took place at one of Ventura’s well known breweries, Poseidon Brewing Co. As a plant lover and first-timer attendee at this pop up event, I had no idea what to expect when I walked through the door so I will walk you through my overall experience at this past VC Plant Swap.
What was the VC Plant Swap all about?
The VC Plant Swap is a free and public event that is hosted once a month at different locations in Ventura County, where one can socialize with other community members, creators, and organizers that share a mutual love for plants. When I met with the creator, Mari, she shared with me the origin of this pop up, which began in January 2020 as an idea where people can bring pest-free plants, cuttings, gardening tools, soil, or seeds they would like to mutually swap all while meeting others and share plant knowledge. This was the very first thing that convinced me to participate in this plant swap where I had to write my name on two name tags: one placed on myself and the other on my plant I brought from home. All plants were placed on a selected table and if any particular plant caught your eye, you were to hunt for the person with the same name on the tag and ask if they were willing to swap plants with you. This might sound intimidating for some, but I could attest that everyone at this pop up radiated genuine positivity and made you feel as if you were speaking to your best friend. Aside from plant swapping, there were plenty of drinks, food, and leisurely activities that helped build this plant community.
More plants, pots, stickers, seeds, art, jewelry and resources can be found and were available at multiple participating booths for free and for purchase. If this is a pop up you would like to participate as a vendor, or would like to share your love with plants at the next anticipated pop up, I encourage you to follow them on Instagram @vc.plant.swap to receive real-time updates.
It’s no secret that Ventura County is home to some of the most talented individuals, from the artists that paint our favorite murals in the cities, to that booth that sells your favorite homemade soaps at the local farmer’s market. Our love for Ventura artists runs deep. That’s why I’ve made a playlist of some of my favorite songs from some of my favorite Ventura County locals.
Cola Boyy – Penny Girl
Penny Girl is a love letter to the city of Oxnard, with the music video following Cola Boyy and local citizens around the town just having a good time. This song has a feel good vibe to it that can get anyone dancing. Penny Girl is one of the featured tracks off Cola Boy’s first EP Black Boogie Neon.
2. Los Retros – Amtrak
Much like Cola Boyy’s Penny Girl, Amtrak also feels very reminiscent of the city of Oxnard and the song plays like a love story to a lover and the city. The music video also features Maury of Los Retros walking along Oxnard’s train tracks, hence the song title, as well as him in his own bedroom, giving the song a very intimate feel.
3. Rivers Ventura – Lollygaggin’
This song is a tale of melancholic youth. It has a dark and angsty sound with lyrics that describe just that. With lyrics like “I feel my days are draggin’, plain and simply lollygaggin'” it’s evident that the lyrics aren’t so upbeat and lively, which is in direct contrast to the instrumentals despite still having that dark vibe to it.
4. Alyssa – Ugly
This one is special to me, because this song is me! I was 16 when I released this song and it takes listeners through a story of wanting to be with someone my family doesn’t approve of. I’m from Ventura County so I thought it was fitting to add myself onto this playlist.
5. Lootpack – Crate Diggin’
You simply cannot make a Ventura County artists playlist without mentioning the classic Oxnardian rap group the Lootpack. They were a big part of the underground backpack rap scene in the early 90’s and their influence is still seen and heard today. The Lootpack is also where rapper/producer Madlib got some of his early start from. Crate Diggin’ tells the story of finding that perfect sounding sample to flip into a beat. Crate digging refers to searching though crates of vinyl records in search of that perfect sounding loop or sample.
Some of my favorite talents in the world are made in my home, Ventura County. I love that we as a county encourage art and I love that citizens are inspired to make art that everyone can enjoy. I’m always looking for new local artists to check out and discover and to add to my many playlists. I can make this list go on forever, but instead I’ll leave you all with the playlist that started it all.
VC Social 