BUFFER ZONE: After allowing a new high...

BUFFER ZONE: After allowing a new high school to tap into Oxnard’s water supply (B1), state planners signed off on an agreement to shield 4,575 acres of farmland from development. . . . But the approval kills a push to add another 1,200 acres to the greenbelt between Ventura and Oxnard. . . . “I’m disappointed,” said Jean Harris, who with other environmentalists asked that the greenbelt be expanded to include an agricultural strip surrounding the new Oxnard High School. “I just hope the land that was left out doesn’t become vulnerable.”

TOP DOG: Simi Valley Police Officer Sterling Johnson and his canine partner Charly took top honors over the weekend at the Bakersfield Canine Trials. The team beat out more than 50 competitors from across the state. . . . “It says more about the skills of the handler than it does about the dog,” Lt. Tony Harper said. Charly follows in the footsteps of Atlas, a back-to-back world champion also handled by Johnson, a 12-year police veteran.

POSTER PRODUCE: California Strawberry Festival officials Wednesday unveiled the art that will grace posters and T-shirts promoting the annual event. For the second year in a row, San Ramon artist Penny Soto has designed the festival’s official artwork: a silver bowl crowned with the berries. . . . Hidden within the piece are balloons, a clown’s face and other items. “When people discover or rediscover something hidden in the shadows, it’s a revelation that makes them feel good,” Soto said. . . . The strawberry festival will be held May 21 and 22 at College Park near Oxnard College.

FAB FIVE: Bringing college basketball mania to a normally placid beach town, the Ventura College Pirates are one of the hottest tickets in town (Ventura Life, Page 24). . . . The men’s basketball team is ranked No. 1 among California community colleges and is one of the top ones in the nation. . . . Beaten only twice in 31 games this season, it draws the largest crowds in the county for an indoor event.