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Ventura's emerging night life helps economy, hinders security
Night life brings problems
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Simone Edward dances inside Nicholby's in downtown Ventura, which, for some revelers, has become a can't-miss hot spot.
Jeremy Hanes and Dillim Jackson talk to Ventura Police Officer Michael Acquarelli, who is making his rounds inside CandleLight Kitchen and Bar.
STORY TOOLS 
More from County NewsIt's just after midnight in downtown Ventura, and there is no sign of a recession.
A noisy throng of about 50 people — women in tight-fitting jeans and leather boots, men in collared shirts — are lined up outside Main Street restaurant Jonathan's at Peirano's, where the cloth-covered tables have been pulled off the hardwood floor and replaced by thumping music from oversized speakers.
Two blocks away, the crowd inside the Elvis-themed El Rey Cantina is at capacity, and bouncers are forced to block new entrants. It's the same scene up the street at the blue-hued W2O lounge atop the posh new Watermark restaurant.
Luis Reyes, 27, rattles off a half-dozen bars he intends to visit, all within a nine-block radius and virtually all with live music or a disc jockey. To Reyes, downtown Ventura has shed its sleepy image — a place where former Mayor Sandy Smith once joked "you could roll a bowling ball down Main Street without hitting anyone" — and become a can't-miss hot spot.
"Ventura is definitely a place to be these days," said Reyes, who grew up on Ventura Avenue but for years drove to Santa Barbara or Los Angeles for night life. Now he walks to downtown. "Look," he says, pointing to some 50 people milling outside the Main Street sports bar Rookees. "What more evidence do you need to see how far this place has come?"
But while downtown's emerging night life is a welcome sight during a slow economy, the crowds cause some unintended consequences: Police are getting more calls and seeing a spike in aggravated assaults, particularly around closing time at 2 a.m. as alcohol-infused crowds spill into the street.
There were nearly 180 documented assaults citywide from January to October, a 23 percent increase from the same period last year, and police point to downtown as the leading cause.
"Whenever you have that many people and that much alcohol in one spot, you are going to have problems," Police Chief Pat Miller said.
Keeping the peace
Police have responded with extra foot and vehicle patrols, forcing overtime at a time of tightening budgets.
As the economy weakens, however, downtown's success has taken on greater urgency, both to property owners and merchants and to a cash-starved city that has invested heavily in making it an entertainment, cultural and shopping destination.
Keeping the peace — and people coming back — is paramount, said Ventura Police Lt. Quinn Fenwick, who credited restaurant and nightclub owners for stepping up their own enforcement and paying greater attention to crime prevention.
"The reality is we all need downtown to succeed, now more than ever," said Fenwick, who oversees patrol units. "We want people to see Ventura as a safe and welcoming place for a good time. And we (police and club owners) agreed we need to work together better, and it's happening."
In addition to the extra patrols, police recently handed out 16 grant-purchased radios to nightclub staffs so bouncers and doormen can better communicate with one another and police, particularly the foot patrols. Police also are requiring that club security employees be licensed with the state Department of Consumer Affairs, which requires a background check.
Most bars already are complying, Fenwick said. The owners also have formed a bar and restaurant association under the umbrella of the nonprofit Downtown Ventura Organization, an advocacy group of downtown property owners, residents and merchants.
'We all need to succeed'
Garner Gerson has bought into the collaborative spirit. Gerson and his father, Glen Gerson, own and operate the new CandleLight Kitchen and Bar at Santa Clara and Figueroa streets. The duo also own a CandleLight in Simi Valley and other properties in Southern California.
The doormen at the Ventura CandleLight — whom Gerson refers to as "guest relations" agents — use a small electronic device to swipe driver's licenses of incoming patrons. The unit keeps a record of the names and tracks when each license was swiped, which coupled with time-stamped video footage can help identify customers if needed.
Garner Gerson said he plans to buy, at his own expense, a handful of the units, which cost about $400 each, to give to other nightclubs. He looks at it as a long-term investment. To him, one of the best things about Ventura is all the entertainment venues without cover charges and within walking distance of one another.
"Part of the fun is moving around," he said. "That's what creates us as a destination."
He wants to lure 10,000 new customers to town each week, and that's where safety, or the perception of it, is key, he said.
"It can't be about one place succeeding at the demise of another," he said. "We all need to succeed."
Downtown has done a good job keeping the peace inside the establishments, Fenwick said, although there have been some notable exceptions.
Police responded to an October melee outside one Main Street venue and a bouncer was arrested after his boot print was found embedded on a man's forehead, reports show. The injured man had to be taken to a hospital, police said.
Despite the overall increase in assaults this year, there have been no major incidents in recent weeks, and police credit the owners.
Police radios have helped
Ramon Rodriguez, 28, watches the door outside Sans Souci, a small bar and patio that often reaches capacity at last call. He said the police foot patrols and visibility have helped keep small incidents like shoving matches from escalating. "People are more conscious about what they're doing if they see it," he said.
Craig Waller, 25, a doorman outside the Watermark and the upstairs W20 lounge at Main and Chestnut streets, said the police radios have been helpful. Doormen now give one another a heads-up when they encounter someone with a fake ID or a person who is aggressively intoxicated or creating a scene.
Waller, a licensed security guard, recalled how he and door partner Steve Lune witnessed a motorist driving erratically on Main, including bouncing up onto a curb.
They reported it with their police radio, and "we heard an hour later that they had arrested him for DUI."
Posted by cha on November 30, 2008 at 4:59 a.m. (Suggest removal)
Sheesh, Gerson. Read Orwell much?
Big Brother is alive and well and running CandleLight.
Posted by cameronincam on November 30, 2008 at 5:13 a.m. (Suggest removal)
"Mayor Sandy Smith once joked "you could roll a blowing ball down Main Street without hitting anyone"
Typo much? ;)
Also, I question the legality of the drivers license reader? It's one thing to check the validity, it's another to keep the data.
Posted by janusjuris on November 30, 2008 at 5:52 a.m. (Suggest removal)
Hey Apollo - just around the corner on the Avenue is one of the "Strolls" for Ventura's hookers. Too bad the CIty isn't making any money off of them! (tee hee)
Posted by handyhood on November 30, 2008 at 5:56 a.m. (Suggest removal)
"despite the overall increase in assaults this year, there have been no major incidents in recent weeks, and police credit the owners"
Recent weeks? Wow, a whole couple of weeks without an assault. I have a young friend who while walking out the door of one of these establishments was hit from behind, in the head by an unknown person. He suffered a serious concussion and had some swelling and bleeding of the brain. He still isn't right and the perpetrator was never found. This happen just last month. Be very careful and aware if you are going downtown at night. Especially around the parking lots!
Posted by toy.runner on November 30, 2008 at 6:20 a.m. (Suggest removal)
It would appear this article is telling the story, as long as the establishments are bringing in the $$, the rise in assaults and other crimes will be tolerated to a point.
10,000 people in a weekend isn't anything to sneeze about when they are dropping cash at these bars.
With the assaults increasing, now the hospitals can make a bit more $$ as well.
Spread the wealth...
Posted by Rob_Dawg on November 30, 2008 at 6:54 a.m. (Suggest removal)
Welcome to the hyper-urban forms based planning revitalization the planning cabal that controls City Hall has promised. And this before the ultra-dense "artist's lofts project" is online and begging for more city millions. This was fully predictable and was predicted by some of us. You see, other "hipster" cities like Portland have similar bar hopping night styles that are used to claim the urban core has been humanized. And make no mistake, the next phase is public transit service (at great public cost) to serve the "demand" they've "created." Walkable downtowns need residential density. If you live near downtown your next indignity will be rezoning to accommodate apartments in formerly SFR neighborhoods. Of course after your neighbors on each side do this the nice forms based zoning flexibility will disallow your application but no matter, the greater good is served. And if you live on the hillside? Forget that view of the ocean. It doesn't belong to you, it belongs to whomsoever can build the ugliest block warren crime crib in front of you to service the social engineering principles of your all controlling City Manager and Council.
Posted by worldfxr on November 30, 2008 at 6:54 a.m. (Suggest removal)
I Agree with Apollo and Toyrunner. This City is turning into gang banger thugsville central. My trips to downtown have gone down as more of this bar party mentality has increased.
Posted by jill on November 30, 2008 at 7:36 a.m. (Suggest removal)
Yeah, I don't care to party with the shaved-head homeys, and I don't appreciate waking up the next morning with graffiti on our sidewalks and brick walls in Ventura. Hope the police and courts come down hard on that. I don't want to be dodging bullets in Ventura.
Posted by katndog on November 30, 2008 at 8:01 a.m. (Suggest removal)
Is this the old geezers complaint section? ha! You may call a doorman a bouncer or guest relations agent but the truth is no matter how refined an establishment is you ALWAYS need and want security.
Not all the people having fun and spending money are shaved-head homeys as you put it. They are hard working, decent, fun loving, TAX PAYING citizens who want to have a good time spending their money in our city.
WELCOME TO DOWN TOWN!! HAVE A SAFE AND SANE TIME! BRING YOUR FRIENDS! Thank you for respecting our city and what our local business owners have provided you!
YAAH VENTURA!
Posted by jjp009 on November 30, 2008 at 8:18 a.m. (Suggest removal)
Scapegoat: So, how long have you owned this business, Woolworth's? I've never seen a more blatant (and lame) attempt at free advertising in my life. And no, I don't think anyone wants to go to Oxnard after dark for any reason.
Posted by rjlebeck on November 30, 2008 at 8:19 a.m. (Suggest removal)
Hey APOLLO,
I hear they have some real quality night life on the Moon.
Posted by simivalleycoordinator on November 30, 2008 at 8:19 a.m. (Suggest removal)
My husband and another couple made reservations at the Watermark on Friday, and ended up just staying at the bar for most of our evening. The wait staff actually escorts you to the elevator at the back of the main dining area. It was beautiful inside, and not crowded at all. I guess Saturday must be the 'hub' night, not Friday?
One thing I have to say though, is earlier in the evening we had stopped by Rusty's to grab a slice of pizza (I love that place) and as we walked back to our car, there was a young guy holding a backpack and standing almost hidden in a dark doorway watching an old couple stroll into the Masonic lodge. For some reason, I got the impression that he wasn't just people watching. Nothing happened, but the way he just watched them gave me a feeling of uneasiness.
We told our friends about the experience when they met up with us, and were immediately told the story of how our friend's sister was beat up just outside the parking structure and robbed about a year ago.
That was a little scary to hear.
Posted by rebel123 on November 30, 2008 at 8:41 a.m. (Suggest removal)
Lighten up folks. It is a good thing that we have an active and lively night life in Ventura, not a bad thing. As to needing bouncers, where ever you serve alcohol you'll need security of some sort. I really don't think that the main problems are from the bar crowd. The homeless/druggies are more of an issue. They sleep in doorways of closed stores and the cops seem to ignore it. Sure, they need a place to sleep but a couple of them are clearly in need of psychiatric help and are often confrontational.
Posted by goldeneye on November 30, 2008 at 9:10 a.m. (Suggest removal)
Ventura should sweep the homeless derelicts from the area like they do in New York City.
Posted by THX1138 on November 30, 2008 at 9:17 a.m. (Suggest removal)
@cha - I agree, I wouldn't patronize a business that required a swipe of my D/L. I'm just there to spend money NOT be profiled!
It's nice to know there's live music available. I hope there are a few places for more mature folks to hang out. I can't stand the hip-hop cr*p.
And now we know where all the police are. I suppose that's why it takes so long for them to respond to a call on the East side.
Posted by THX1138 on November 30, 2008 at 9:24 a.m. (Suggest removal)
...also
I doubt the clubs don't have a cover charge. I recall paying ~$8 and inflated drink prices for Bombay's 10 years ago. Perhaps there's no cover for females, [which is BS]. Let's try to get the facts straight...
Posted by lrgvanman on November 30, 2008 at 9:50 a.m. (Suggest removal)
Scapegoat says : "Even in sleepy downtown Oxnard we now have nightlife!" and that is true but mostly while dodging the drunks in pointy boots and cowboy hats running across Oxnard Boulevard which is still a state highway!
Posted by star on November 30, 2008 at 10:52 a.m. (Suggest removal)
There's plenty for old geezers to do in Ventura. It's great to see something for young adults to do, too. Y'all do realize, don't you, that old people die off? If Ventura is to continue to thrive, it can't just cater to everybody who bought a house before 1978.
I'm too old to be part of that scene downtown. But I'm glad I live in a place where that is an option. If better public transit and a walkable downtown are next, I may move downtown myself. (And frankly, I'm agog at the notion that people on a hillside "own" their ocean view. Um, no. Unless I suddenly can "own" that the house across the street is white and has yellow hibiscus, and can prevent the owners from making any changes.)
Anyhow, it's funny that people object to the drivers license reader. First, it's perfectly legal. Second, if you pay with a credit card, they can use that data to track you too.
Posted by nojustice_justus on November 30, 2008 at 12:09 p.m. (Suggest removal)
Too many pessimistic pansies have nothing better to do than try to make others people's lives as miserable as their own. If you don't want to go to downtown VTA then stay home and watch reruns of Lawrence Welk.
There are plenty of people patronizing downtown already. Thus the theme for the story.
Posted by ironwoman on November 30, 2008 at 12:24 p.m. (Suggest removal)
The bar life gets old and so do people. These same people in 20 years will be looking back, watching re-runs and laughing at the young people. I know I do!!
It's not being miserable, it's being mature. If you think that you need to party to have a life, then you don't have a life.
Posted by Tom_Johnston on November 30, 2008 at 12:42 p.m. (Suggest removal)
Wow...what a bunch of cranky people!
Though I don't like everything, I think the Downtown area has turned out nicely. The nighttime clubbing thing isn't for me though, wasn't when I was younger either.
Most people are not the problem, only a few are and they can occupy your attention and time.
Posted by bjmd2013 on November 30, 2008 at 12:51 p.m. (Suggest removal)
"Only some numb skull from the slums would call Main street Ventura "quality of life"" - APOLLO
Firstly, that makes no sense, only someone who was illiterate would say that, and as far as I can tell, no one else on this board made that statement but you, so I'm not sure what you're referring to.
Secondly, to say "Any establishment that needs a bouncer is not a fit place for the higher class of society" is hilarious. I mean, when I was at the Louvre in Paris, I noticed "security guards" everywhere, and surely that place is worthy of someone as dignified and esteemed as you make yourself out to be.
Lastly, I agree with nojustice, if you don't want to go, then don't. But to insinuate that those who patronize downtown are "misfits, drunks" and somehow "lower-class" is disrespectful and ignorant.
Posted by gramagracie on November 30, 2008 at 2:25 p.m. (Suggest removal)
Okay, remember I am pro-police. Administration has to realize that with the job comes responsibilities.. I thought crime was down in Ventura. Over-time or no over-time..Police have to do their jobs. Don't fall back on..O' woe's me...I have no money! Find it and do your job. I am sure these establishments are paying their fair share in taxes, which go to the city of Ventura. Be happy! I can only imagine that the cities have some money...that they have hidden some where (reserves) that can pay the OT for the police. Be happy that you have jobs for your employess Chief Miller!
Posted by peterpan11 on November 30, 2008 at 2:29 p.m. (Suggest removal)
Well if you do decide to get into a fight then you can just take off running from VPD because theyll never find you. (I.E. stolen car and the suspect flees into a house and VPD doesnt want to go after them) But then again I guess there are bouncers now with radios....... Watch out.
Posted by THX1138 on November 30, 2008 at 2:30 p.m. (Suggest removal)
To the young smarta**es - you'll get there someday. I used to go bars & clubs every week, but like many middle-aged people, I grew tired of that scene.
You can't assume that those that don't go to clubs are "geezers". That's like saying everyone under 28 is a dumba**.
My point was that Ventura has limited resources [ie Police] and they need to cover the whole city not just downtown.
Posted by freethought on November 30, 2008 at 2:54 p.m. (Suggest removal)
How does the growing night life relate to the absence of a recession? The patrons of these establishments are mostly 20-somethings who have no responsibilities to anyone but themselves. They do not need to worry about feeding two or three kids. They do not have to worry about a mortgage payment. Of course, that's how their lives should be at such young ages, but it isn't any sort of sign that the local economy isn't suffering.
Also, there is a direct correlation between hard economic times and the growing consumption of alcohol (also illegal drug use and going to the movies, for that matter).
The first sentence of this article contains absolutely no thought behind it.
Posted by freethought on November 30, 2008 at 2:59 p.m. (Suggest removal)
"Y'all do realize, don't you, that old people die off?"
star - If you're lucky, one day you'll be old, too. Do you still feel righteous making that comment? Right now, you're just a young kid with no experience. Your statement screams that much at us.
Posted by RedTail on November 30, 2008 at 3:08 p.m. (Suggest removal)
I remember when Nicholby's was once called Xenon/Mogs and was the hip place for teens/twenty-somethings over 20 years ago...and the crowd that went there dressed a lot more "creatively" than I'm sure they do now (It was the 80's!). And I remember that the cops would regularly visit the club, so nothing new there.
I'm sure it's still fun for the younger crowd, but now in my late 30's, I can think of a million other things I'd rather be doing than being at a nightclub. Though, Jonathan's at Pierano's has really good food for dinner--It's one of my favorite restaurants.
Posted by DowntownVentura on November 30, 2008 at 3:49 p.m. (Suggest removal)
Great lively discussion! The Downtown Ventura Organization mentioned in this article is a busy bunch of volunteer restaurant, shop, and property owners--all looking-out for our little micro-economy downtown. Over the last two years we have enlisted 80+ Venturans to donate their time and talent on six different positive, problem-solving committees; they address everything from small business support, police presence (and bar fights) to landscaping and branding campaigns [which won three state and national awards this year, BTW]. Neighborhood boosters working together as a unified force of independent businesses are what will ensure we will weather this recession. Care about downtown? Get involved in its revitalization; register for our e-newsletter at: www.DowntownVentura.org
( Hey, isn’t anyone going to mention the new festival lights we installed Wednesday night?! $40k worth of public improvements to give Main Street a more cozy European feel--check 'em out. Many thanks to local electrician Bryan McCord for all his hard work and advice on the install!) And dont forget--when you shop at the chain stores all that profit leaves town. Shopping at locally-owned small businesses recycles your money BACK INTO Ventura's economy. Think before you choose. Main Street stores are open late--until 8PM--Fridays and Saturdays now.
~Rob Edwards, DVO executive director
Posted by eclipsewatcher on November 30, 2008 at 6:55 p.m. (Suggest removal)
Tough crowd on these boards. I'm here to tell you that being a 20-something is NOT a pre-requisite for enjoying Ventura's nightlife. Nor is Ventura's nightlife confined to Fridays and Saturdays.
For those a tad past 21 and looking to have fun (you sourpusses remember how to have fun, don't you?), Nicholby's on Monday nights is the place to be. (No, I don't work at Nicholby's.) Mondays are "salsa night." (Recently Tuesdays were "tango night," but don't quote me.) You don't need a partner; you'll be taught how to do these dances, step by step; and you'll have a blast despite yourself!
And don't worry you nervous nellies, it's age-appropriate -- there are people ranging from the 20-something crowd right up to the Dentu-Grip crowd, and everything in between.
Hey, I love lounging on the couch in my furry robe and fuzzy-wuzzy slippers as much as the next person, but you gotta get out there and kick up your heels once in a while, otherwise it's just a straight shot between the couch and death!
Posted by Tom_Johnston on November 30, 2008 at 7:05 p.m. (Suggest removal)
Downtown and Eclipse! Gotta love it!
I think the Downtown Revival is great! How much I personally fit into it is another issue! LOL!
This is such a huge change from thrift shops! Though I do miss Truebloods....
Young folks...go for it, enjoy it....but it won't last, trust me! LOL!
Be safe, be happy, have fun!
Posted by PhillyMike on November 30, 2008 at 8:18 p.m. (Suggest removal)
This IS a tough group...and understandably so as this is an issue that, depending on your age and demographic, is sensitive. I will say that I gotta agree with eclipsewatcher. Being almost 40 with 2 kids and a mortgage, more often than not, I am sleep in my chair by 9, but I enjoy going out from time to time to have a good time and dance. If as an "older" person that's not your cup of tea, stay home and catch up on all the shows you TiVo'd.(or rant incessantly on your computer) If you do choose to venture out and you feel out of place where the younger crowds are, find an age appropriate place you feel comfortable at and let your hair down.
Posted by star on November 30, 2008 at 8:55 p.m. (Suggest removal)
"star - If you're lucky, one day you'll be old, too. Do you still feel righteous making that comment? Right now, you're just a young kid with no experience. Your statement screams that much at us."
Freethought, why do you assume I'm young? As I said, I'm too old for the downtown scene. I'm just not so narrow-minded as to demand that Ventura cater only to me and people just like me. The noisy kids carousing downtown will -- if we are lucky -- stay here and settle down and buy a house and make babies. When a young adult leaves Ventura because it's more like Ventucky, that hurts. It hurts a little now, and it'll hurt a lot more in ten or twenty or thirty years. Just because I may not be around to see it doesn't mean I don't care about it.
Anyhow, it's been a long time since anybody called me a young kid, so thank you!
Posted by smokinbananapeels on November 30, 2008 at 9:02 p.m. (Suggest removal)
I am going to make a point of never, ever going to the Candlelight club. And I will also encourage others to do likewise. Their policy with the drivers license swiping is beyond inappropriate: it's fascist.
It's a shame too. That place actually looked interesting to me. Too bad that it is run by a bunch of creeps.
Posted by nevertooold on November 30, 2008 at 9:53 p.m. (Suggest removal)
Wow. So much negativity! Aren't we all lucky that we can choose to come and go as we please? To those of you who are offended or appalled by the going's on downtown...feel free to stay home because you'd probably ruin our evening anyway!
The rest of us who enjoy hanging out with friends, and listening to some VERY talented local musicians, will carry on doing just that. There's such a variety of establishments available downtown, with music to suit all tastes. Thanks to all the restaurants and bars for creating a great local scene. I love spending time in Ventura, with all it's beauty and warts. I hope it continues to prosper.
Posted by caliguy1286 on November 30, 2008 at 10:50 p.m. (Suggest removal)
Why no mention about the Karma Lounge at the very end of Main. The place is only about a year old but has just had Dj Quik, Ying Yang Twins, and Warren G all within the last month. Been there for a couple gatherings and the place is awesome. Worth checking out!
Posted by SPALUMNUS on November 30, 2008 at 10:58 p.m. (Suggest removal)
ALL I KNOW IS THAT I LOVED METRO IN DOWNTOWN VENTURA THE ONLY PLACE TO SNORT LINES OF COCAINE IN THE SEATING SECTION AND NEVER GET CAUGHT LOL..
Posted by NavalAviator on December 1, 2008 at 7:02 a.m. (Suggest removal)
From an old codger. Let them have their youth, as we had ours. Let them make the victories and mistakes that make up all of our lives.
Just because the youth's world of today is a foreign to us, as it was to our parents, they too will suffer the activities of their follow on generations.
One of the meanings of youth is experimentation. The police? Oh, pleeeese! The risk of a night or two in jail, is worth it. The experience gives us a good understanding of the system, and the need of great legal counsel. Mine was Judge Bill Clark --- thank you sir for sweeping all that away! LOL! Police chief Al Jalatty (sp?) canned me more than once. I still went on to a military career, a couple degrees and successful businesses.
I should have played more, perhaps my first marriage would not have happened, and became the disaster that it was. We drank, used the drugs of our days, and most of us survived. These activities will get old for most youth, but not for all. Some will fail terribly and most will triumph. So go at it guys, dig some out for me! LOL!
Posted by Wendy_Halderman on December 1, 2008 at 8:37 a.m. (Suggest removal)
I am glad the youth have somewhere to go in town. The DVO and others have worked diligently to make this happen. Kudos!
I also hope city leaders continue to develop higher-wage business sectors not directly correlated with increased demand for police. Extra sales tax revenue which goes straight out the door for additional VPD hours/staff does not seem like ideal fiscal policy.
Posted by Noreen_Patesel on December 1, 2008 at 9:12 a.m. (Suggest removal)
gawd i cant wiat till i turn 21!
Posted by Beachguy on December 1, 2008 at 9:29 a.m. (Suggest removal)
Take a look at the picture closley and tell me if that is a place you would like to hang out... It's filled with HOODS!
Posted by NottaNewbieNameGame on December 1, 2008 at 9:32 a.m. (Suggest removal)
"The unit keeps a record of the names and tracks when each license was swiped, which coupled with time-stamped video footage can help identify customers if needed."
Are customers advised when they hand over their drivers license at the door that for either unknown or undisclosed purposes, their info is being collected and that their data can and will be used? And why should the public be comfortable with this?
This is VERY VERY different than having a door guy simply check your ID to make sure your 21.
Perhaps the CandleLight is collecting this data to to track their customers behavior and grow their mailing list. This is an extremely customer intrusive practice, but businesses would love nothing more to identify their customers and track their behavior.
Similar to how police frequently check the guest registers at hotels, can the police come by and access the 'guest registers' whenever they want?
We've honestly hit a new low when we willingly accept without question these increasingly ridiculous "just in case your hit by lightning on a clear day" practices.
"Give me liberty or give me death" has become, "Take my liberty, just don't hurt me."
Posted by mamaof2 on December 1, 2008 at 9:34 a.m. (Suggest removal)
beachguy: and what do u consider hoods? these guys look normal to me.
Posted by SouthernExile on December 1, 2008 at 9:43 a.m. (Suggest removal)
I keep getting surprised how provincial this town...this county...is. An hours drive from one of the world's greatest cities, and many here are treating an uptick in nightlife like the arrival of the Wh*re of Babylon. These are people who want Ventura to stay just like it was in the 50's, when they were growing up. There's nothing unnatural about THAT, but most other suburban communities I have seen across the country have long since moved beyond such quaint if ultimately doomed sentimentality for yesteryear.
Posted by ValerinaS on December 1, 2008 at 10:13 a.m. (Suggest removal)
I'm thrilled that downtown is remaining busy!! My income depends on it, I've worked downtown at one of the classier locations for five years. We have security, you HAVE to have security when you become a 'nightclub,' it doesn't take any of the class out of the establishment. We do have to weed out our crowd, downtown has been inundated with 'homies,' and I can tell you right now that Candlelight's security cameras and slider ID's do not work. I went with a girlfriend as a patron, and she was assaulted by a guy, a straight THUG. He hit her in her face after his girlfriend attacked her for accidently bumping her arm, and she tried to defend herself. We now strictly stay at my work, or nearby at like Dargan's or Rookies, places you don't see so many of the thug looking homies.
Posted by NottaNewbieNameGame on December 1, 2008 at 11:01 a.m. (Suggest removal)
ValerinaS -
What do you mean "Candlelight's security cameras and slider ID's do not work"?
Are you saying that the CandleLight was either unable or unwilling to assist in ID'ing the "thug" that assaulted your friend?
Posted by freethought on December 1, 2008 at 12:44 p.m. (Suggest removal)
"Anyhow, it's been a long time since anybody called me a young kid, so thank you!"
Star - No problem. I'm here to help. Sorry for the mischaracterization.
Posted by greengamer on December 1, 2008 at 1:41 p.m. (Suggest removal)
Security guards aren't only needed to break up fights, they also help keep bars at or below capacity, so don't go saying that nay place that needs a security guard/bouncer is classless. That's ridiculous.
Secondly, the licence-swipe machines have been around for years. All the swanky places down in Orange County have been using them for at least 6 years; these are nothing new. They are a great way for a bar/resturaunt to insure that an ID they are checking is, in fact, a legitimate one. My ID has been swiped a hundred times and I've never had anything negative result from that.
Lastly, I'm 28 years old. I've never been arrested. I own a house. I have a very respectable job. And I go to the bars downtown.
Your stereotypes are negate.
Posted by greengamer on December 1, 2008 at 1:45 p.m. (Suggest removal)
oh and let me add that there are definitely "thug" bars. Nicolby's. Bombay's. CandeLight (aparently, though I still haven't been). Make better choices of where you go and you won't run into those sorts of characters... Winchester's. Wine Lover's. Dargan's. Good Bar. Star Lounge. Watermark.
Posted by ValerinaS on December 1, 2008 at 2:26 p.m. (Suggest removal)
Nottanewbietothisgame:
That is EXACTLY what I was saying, sorry, I wasn't very detailed in explaining that. The security guards were prompt in responding, they threw the guy out right away. However, he took off, and when they went through the video footage, it was grainy footage and you couldn't really see the guy at all, so what good does it do? My friend wanted to press charges, but was unable to do so as he could't be identified.
Posted by Arod on December 1, 2008 at 3:10 p.m. (Suggest removal)
What the F is Apollo talking about? every bar and club in every city needs and has a bouncer. Think of all the places YOU were denied entrance to because of YOUR ragged attire.
Posted by Beachguy on December 1, 2008 at 3:47 p.m. (Suggest removal)
Nicholys especially has taken a "turn for the worst" is what I meant by "hoods". I love downtown Ventura, its come so far and its great to see it thriving and full of life. Problem is, the VPD needs to step up the patrol since the population has grown so much in that area. Thugs, Hoods are becoming more prevalent in those areas preying on the unsuspecting.
Posted by truereality on December 1, 2008 at 3:53 p.m. (Suggest removal)
Wow is this the old geezer forum or what? In tough economic times everybody needs to let their hair down once in a while and forget about their problems. Many people enjoy alcohol as a way to relax. There's always a few bad apples, but you like to make it seem that everybody who goes to a bar in Ventura is a hood or complete loser. Grow up. I know a lot of you are old and white, and it's hard to see "your" city being enjoyed by young people and people of color, but that's reality. We live in a racially diverse county, state and country. If these things bother you so much, all of you should move to Camarillo or Simi Valley where you could live near people who are more likely to share your ideals. It should be safer there for you. Afterall Oxnard and Ventura are just the epitome of slum in So Cal... Get a life old lunatics.
Posted by Beachguy on December 2, 2008 at 11:10 a.m. (Suggest removal)
truereality;
Why in the world would you play the race card? You just called us all OLD AND WHITE, well at least we're not YOUNG AND BLACK. Doesn't that sound stupid? And it's not MY CITY, its our city and some young bad apples usually mess it up for everyone regardless of race. So please refrain from using the race thing. Oh yeah, and get a life since these OLD WHITE people are paying for most of the clean up of trash in that city. Capiche?!!??
Posted by ven805 on December 2, 2008 at 2:28 p.m. (Suggest removal)
i worked at a bar in ventura for 5 years. when i first started there it was pretty rough. the first thing i did was got rid of about 200 people the first year i worked there. My favorite 2 #s are 8 and 6. That stoped alot of the problems in the bar. We changed the live music from cover bands to favoring the rockabilly ones. The crowds were the best, never a fight, hard core drinkers, and some of the best people you would ever meet. Luck of the Draw and the Deadbillies some of the best bands around, and the bands that they brought to Ventura from all over the world.
When it come to security guards, you gotta have them. Theres allways one group that doesnt fit in, and there the ones that cause the problems. Every bar in Ventura pays more taxes then other businesses. Why? Because the city of ventura says "since bars are in more of a demand for police presents we will tax them more".
Downtown is Downtown. its what you make of it. there is alot more bars in ventura then just downtown
Posted by mzb on December 2, 2008 at 4:21 p.m. (Suggest removal)
The "grown folks" can come enjoy an evening at Charline's (in downtown ventura) there are no bouncers or security guards only grown people enjoying Jazz & R&B and the younger crowd seems to stay at the places mentioned above.
Posted by jeffinventura on December 3, 2008 at 11:56 a.m. (Suggest removal)
I live downtown and I have been there now for over six years.
The changes that have happened have been mostly pretty amazing and welcomed.
I appreciate new business coming to town, I appreciate established businesses remodeling and staying clean and appealing. I enjoy the fact that more people are coming downtown and staying there to enjoy the good food and entertainment being offered.
Places like Winchesters, Cafe Fiore, Candlelight, W2O, Dargans, Frakies Place, Paddys, Karma.....these are all businesses that deserve the credit for operating clean and safe establishments.
They have security to keep the peace.....and it is a good thing too....imagine what it would be like if they did not have security?
And as for ID swipe machines.....I love the idea and it makes me want to patronize Candlelight now more than ever....and kudos to them offering more of those machines to other businesses!!!
And just for the record....I am in my 40's.
Posted by hot_desiato on December 4, 2008 at 8:05 a.m. (Suggest removal)
Gotta say, I have lived in VC about 30 years, arriving first as a professional musician. I have played around California all the while, and I find downtown's emerging, new-found security to be an absolute blessing. The fact that one of the security members of any of the participating clubs can radio ALL the others that some thug wearing a gray shirt, black cargo pants, a red jacket with a ToysRUs logo on it - and a seriously bad, drunken attitude - is heading down Main? That is how communities evolve, people. If we can't see the wisdom of helping our own neighbors watch out for themselves and ALL of us at the same time, what kind of neighborhood do we have? though, as you can imagine, I am not 25 years old with nothing better to do, I USED to be 25 years old and I was playing music in bars. I have seen some fights, and I have seen 1000s of drunk idiots who SHOULD have been cut off when they got belligerent. The job the VPD is doing, with the help of people like Candlelight, Watermark, Jonathan's/Js Tapas and the rest is exemplary in my view - and at 50 years old, I have seen the other side. This is GOOD news people - though the editor of this article created much more of a stink by using a non-indicative photo and a somewhat inflammatory lead line. The writer is a great one, but apparently the Star's editors feel the need to sell more papers - so news gets made by them...too bad
Posted by opns on December 4, 2008 at 3:13 p.m. (Suggest removal)
The nice clubs are in Santa Barbara, with some hot hot music, with some great food, and nice pubs, with great people to mingle with.
Nothing like dancing the streets of Santa Barbara. Damn those days were fun.
Reminds me, I need to go there for the best Italian food. Gotta go.
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