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Enjoying lunch at the Ventura Avenue Adult Center’s friendly lunch service were Noel Engel (6 month customer), Carol Brown (6 years), Ed Gafford (6 years), Jim Prince (1 year), Leyland Gillibrand (6 months) and Chuck Felts (3 years). Lunch includes a nutritious hot entrée, salad bar and fresh fruit and vegetables plus seasonal celebrations with birthdays, desserts and musical entertainment. This is a grant funded program in partnership with the City and County of Ventura’s Senior Nutrition Program. M-Tu-W-F Suggested donation: $3/meal for people 60+. 11:30 am-12:30 pm. Fee: $5/meal for people under 60.

E j i l h t th V t A Ad lt C t ’ f i dl l h i

Dan Paranick new Assistant City Manager Ventura has appointed Dan Paranick as the new Assistant City Manager. Paranick comes to Ventura with more

A non-stop two-man comedy.

A tuna at Christmas? Rubicon Theatre of Ventura ushers in the holidays with A Tuna Christmas. Directed by Brian McDonald, this non-stop two-man comedy intro-duces dozens of hilarious occupants of one small Texan town during the holidays. Opening December 6, per-formances take place Wednesdays through Sundays until December 21. Low-priced previews are available December 3 – 5. For tickets, call 667.2900 or go to rubicontheatre.org. Yuletide activities are in full swing as radio personalities from the local station report on hard-hitting issues such as Joe Bob Lipsey’s strug-gling production of A Christmas Carol and the annual lawn display contest with emphasis on the mysterious “Christmas Phantom” notorious for vandalizing the displays.

On November 15, an anonymous donor paid for “Holiday Haircuts” for some of the kids living at the City Center on Thompson...the boys went to Legends Barbershop and the girls to Lu Ross. The girls got full treatment, a hair wash, cut and blow dry. They all felt special, both salons were so open to the children who walked to each location engaging in silly conversation without electronic devises, just enjoying the outdoors. Legends owner Danny Sinohui, and staff are pictured here with Ryder Burke, Andrew, Jason and Joseph Ortiz and Dominic Fernandez.

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Father and son making a difference in our community.

Christian Center reaches out to the homeless Since 1962, Total Life Christian Center (TLCC). located at 660 N. Ventura Ave and headed by Reverend Luther Mc Curtis and his son, Pastor Michael Mc Curtis, has helped the Ventura Community by providing a variety of services. Although many agencies provide food and/or clothing to the homeless, TLCC is unique in that it goes one step further by helping with job placement.

Continued on page 19

Teacher Stewart teaches math at Buena High.

Michael Stewart Teacher of the Month On October 3, the Ventura Commerce and Education Foundation (VCEF) named math teacher at Buena High School, Michael Stewart, October’s Teacher of the Month. Pattie Braga, chair of VCEF, along with elected repre-sentatives and members of the business community presented Mr. Stewart with a plaque to commemorate this award. Mr. Stewart has taught math at Buena High School for six years and is recognized for his dedication, affable


than 21 years of public service. He served as Assistant City Manager for the City of Camarillo for nearly 4 years and Assistant City Manager and other ca-pacities with the City of Simi Valley for 10 years. As Assistant City Manager Paranick will provide support to the City Manager and the City’s Department Directors. “I am so pleased to welcome Dan. His pro-


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Marilyn Fkiaras has created a comfortable, homey ambiance to Boars Breath deli.

Boars Breath Deli becoming a local institution by Richard Lieberman

Marilyn and Tom Fkiaras, owners of Boars Breath Deli, 719 W. Channel Islands Blvd, Port Hueneme have created a comfortable, homey ambiance to the Boars Breath deli located at a popular Port Hueneme mall. Ventura residents for eighteen years the Fkiaras’ are long time restaurateurs, owning and operating restaurants in many locales including, Ventura, Camarillo, Downey, Cerritos, and La Habra. Tom Fkiaras started their journey in the food service industry, and their love of the business has continued for all these years. “We have sold most of the restaurants” said Fkiaras, “but I continue to enjoy working with people, which is one of the reasons I stay in this business” added Fkiaras. Marilyn Fkiaras a native of Brooklyn, New York remembers the city with a heartfelt fondness, “I feel alive when I am in New York. I love the city and I love going to Broadway, and the museums” said Fkiaras, She added “New York has the best food in the world.” Mrs. Fkiaras is a graduate of Lincoln High School in Brooklyn, and attended Brooklyn College. Fkiaras started her

Continued on page 7

Michael and Angela are both Very Ventura.

Honeymoon launched local business When Buena High School graduate Angela Rosales got married in 2006, her husband planned a wonderful honeymoon back east. “He had a hard time finding out about all of the things we wanted to do,” says Rosales. “We thought it would be nice if a person could just go to one website before their vacation and see what’s available.” Angela and her husband, Michael Mendelson, launched fun-in-ventura.com in 2009 to fill that niche in Ventura. Rosales used her writing degree from Cal State Northridge to provide content for the site when she wasn’t at her HR management position. “The site really was just a hobby. We sold a few local things on it and we have always in enjoyed what Ventura had to offer.” Unfortunately, as HR Manager, Rosales personally handled much of the downsizing during the recession. “Layoffs were hardest and worst part of my job....Since both my husband and I were in the construction industry, we naturally started wondering what we would do if we lost our jobs? Our income had also drastically reduced at that time and like many others, we cut back on the luxuries, like traveling. Fortunately, we live in the beautiful city of Ventura which is basically a stayca-tioners paradise. We found that a little overnighter here and there was all we needed to ‘getaway’. The more history we learned, the more people we met and places we discovered, the more we fell in love with Ventura.” In 2013, Rosales quit her job and the couple opened Very Ventura Gift Shop & Gallery an upscale souvenir shop. In May, they moved to 79 S. California Street where they sell local goods. “The first Friday of every month we host an art reception at our store and feature a local artist. Their work hangs for the next thirty days.” Rosales says that one thing she liked about her former HR position was that she was able to help people in their careers. “I was a little hesitant that I wouldn’t find as much satisfaction in owning a shop, but being able help artisans get their work shown and sold has proved to be very rewarding. Ventura has so many wonderfully talented people. My husband has a good eye for design and layout. He keeps the shop

looking fresh. Mendelson who has two children in the area has even designed a signature “C Street” tee shirt. This month the store features local artists: Sparkle Taylor, Sarah Kalvin and Denise Dewire as well as photographer Joe Palermo. The shop also carries the unusual and the sublime like Thomas Sherk’s “upcycle” birdhouses made with licenses plates and boots, Furnarture end tables made out of guitars, exclusive Ookinay soft, cotton-blend tee shirts and local condiment brands like Earls Gone Wild and Maggie’s Best Sabor Salsa. The store is closed on Mondays and the couple usually takes their rescued dog, Pancake, to the beach. “We have had her about four years so she knows what is going on when we put her in the car.” The couple also has a rescued male cat named Moo-Moo described as the “. . . Ferris Bueller of cats. He knows everyone in the neighborhood and they know him.” “The next phase is too dial in on our online store and continue to grow with Very Ventura and www.fun-in-ventura.com . We get a kick out of it when a local or tourist comes in and has been on the site and gets surprised when we tell them it’s our site. They say, that’s you guys?!”

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The Ventura Breeze is your free local communitynewspaper published every other Wednesday

and circulated throughout Ventura and to many locations in Ojai and the Channel Islands Harbor

located in Oxnard. PUBLISHER

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Opinion/Editorial

Mailbox

Sheldon (Governor) BrownPublisher

Your own mind is a sacred enclosure into which nothing harmful can enter except by your permission. – Arnold Bennett

We encourage you to send your opinions to [email protected]. Please limit them to about 300 words.

Breeze: How interesting, the Star on Thursday, November 13th, had two very different articles/opinions on end-of-life issues. An activist in Iowa is pushing her State to allow a Death

Cappi (Through the Breeze): I don’t know how to help (with the f looding and temporary shut-down at

Sheldon I liked your comment about affording 2.5 golf courses but not a per-forming arts center . Thanks. However, I am thinking of other more central locations as opposed to so far out as Olivas links.Live performance lover,Mike L MerewetherVenturaMike: Anywhere would be good. And only in Ventura would Olivas Links be “so far out”.

Editor: None of the supermarkets in the Midtown area have recycle centers near them. To me, it would be much more logical to have the recycle center at our Vons (Harbor)moved to the mid-town area to accommodate all of us. The Vons on Borchard or the Target/Trader Joes on Mills would be a much


with Dignity Law after witnessing her terminally ill adult daughter die a prolonged and painful death. A letter to the Star by Carol Bohner declares Brittany Maynard of Oregon, who was terminally ill with brain cancer and suffering pain and seizures, “made an unfortunate choice” to end her suffering by taking medication which allowed her to die peacefully and comfortably. I support people making their own choices regarding end-of-life issues. If others choose suffering, or being bedridden. diapered, tube fed, etc., I accept their choices. As a person living with multiple sclerosis and maybe having to make difficult decisions for my own demise, I support physician-aid-in dying. I believe it would be arrogant and presumptive for either side to judge or mandate what each person should decide. Judith A. BeayVentura

your December Store&More), but please let me know if there are any ideas f loating around. Between you and Sheldon at the Breeze, very recently, I feel a certain level of gratitude and indebtedness for your willingness to assist me.Best Robin Sanford (Author whose books will be at the December Store when they re-open) Hi Robin:Robin: Thank you .... we’re plugging along and will open up again, probably at the end of the month. Then - we have big plans for our literary friends .... that whole corner near where we were sitting will be our “library” with comfy chairs, lamps and all our local books for sale. Meantime, we’re going to holiday boutiques and spreading the word. Not to worry - we’re tough ladies! Thanks again - I’ll keep you posted.Cappi

■ S e v e r a l r e s - idents have argued that the city needs a temporary ban on new water hookups, and on building permits because of the water shortage. They also

say that the city needs to show that it has enough water to maintain the existing population before it adds more people and tourists. The College Area and East Ventura community councils both passed resolu-tions calling for a building moratorium. A building permit moratorium would require approval by at least six of the seven council members as required by state law. After listening to information regarding these moratoriums, outlined by Ventura Water General Manager Shana Epstein and City Manager Mark Watkins, the Council approved a resolu-tion by Councilmember Erik Nasarenko (7-0) calling for staff to provide further information (as outlined in the reso-lution) before the Council takes any further action on this matter. I do not feel that either of these actions is necessary at this time. I have a suggestion on how to save water. When a building is on fire just let it burn down. This will save the water that the fire department would have used and the building won’t be using any water for a while. ■ Plans for a major overhaul of Ventura’s low-income housing project, Westview Village, has received pre-liminary approval by the Design Review Committee. The plans call for demol-ishing existing 180 housing units and the building of 329 new ones. Apparently the buildings, built in the 1950s, are considered to be very old and have many problems that would cost more to correct then demolishing them and building new ones. It is hard to believe that homes built in the 1950s are in such disrepair that it’s cheaper to demolish them. My home was built in the 1920s, as many in Ventura were, and it certainly would not be cheaper to tear it down and rebuild. Can the original construction of Elevation of proposed new units to be built in Westview Village.

these homes have been that bad, or is the fact that there may be $3 million in funding made available for this project have something to do with it proceed-ing? In 60 years will the new building need to be demolished again?■ The City Council has approved a new contract with the Fire Department, where firefighters have not received across-the-board pay raises in five years. This would give union members a salary raise of 5.5% immediately and an addi-tional 1.5% increase in December.2015. Salaries would increase another 1.5% the first full pay period of December 2015. The contract also requires members to pay additional 4.5% of their salaries toward their pensions. Members currently pay 4.5% toward their retire-ment. I think that the salary increase is warranted but fire and police depart-ment pensions are much too high.■ Ventura and Oxnard have always had the largest homeless populations in Ventura County. In order to, hopefully, deal with this problem more success-fully, the cities have entered into a rare agreement to share the services of our homeless expert - Community Service Manager Peter Brown. His salary, and benefits will be split by the cities. It seems to me that our homeless population is growing, so I’m not sure that this will be beneficial. I certainly hope so. But, as I have said before, “Would you rather be homeless in Ventura or Chicago.“ Many of our homeless folks even have great ocean views. In order to give a face to the homeless, the Breeze has written several articles on this challenging topic. The homeless are not all just a “bunch of bums.” Many of these people have had their lives ruined

by circumstances beyond their control. And, of course, many are mentally ill. I have had friends (when looking at many homeless people) point out that they are filthy and wear old beat-up clothes. They say, “Why don’t they just go get a job?” And when I ask if they “would hire them?” they say “Of course not - look at their appearance.”■ The Virginia based MHM company, which contracts with government agencies to provide behavioral health and medical services, had received a city business license to provide ”mental health services” at 40 W. Santa Clara St. The proposed facility would provide services for violent offenders who also had been diagnosed with mental disorders. After further review, Ventura Community Development Director, Jeff Lambert determined that the zoning clearance (required to obtain a business license) should not have been issued for that location so the license was revoked. MHM would need to apply for a conditional use permit (CUP) to be con-sidered for that site. Because many local residents and business owners would object, the chances of obtaining a CUP would be very difficult, if not impossible, so they will not be operating there. Lambert told MHM that he would be happy to help them find a location for their facility. ■ The 2nd Unit Amnesty Permit Program, which makes it easier for the owners of unpermitted second dwelling units to make them compliant with current building and zoning codes, will expire on December 31, 2014. So if you are considering this program, time is running out. If I can be of any assistance (the architect/builder part of me) let me know- no charge for a consultation.


Community Events

Fairgrounds celebrating Christmas Festival The Ventura County Fairgrounds will be celebrating the 3rd annual Fairgrounds Christmas Festival on Saturday, December 6 and Sunday, December 7 from 10am until 5pm. Admission is free, parking is $5. Santa and Mrs. Claus will be visiting with all of the children and posing for free Christmas photog-raphs. Parents are encouraged to bring cameras. Decorations everyw-

And they have books also at Foster Library?12/2 Laser-Cut Holiday Decorations 5-6 p.m. Stop by the library to see a demonstration of our laser cutter and engraver! We’ll be cutting out some festive ornaments and decorations for the holidays and talking a bit about how this technology will f it into the library’s new makerspace.12/3 Beginning Meditation: Silence, Stillness, and Comfort 6-7 p.m. Are you looking to de-stress in preparation for the holiday season? Stop by the Topping room for a free beginner meditation workshop. People of all ages and skill levels are encour-aged to stop by! Presenter John Landa has 20 years of meditative experience and brings a fresh, unique perspective to the practice of meditation.12/5 Medi-Cal for Long-Term Health Care 10-11 a.m. Join Cun-ninghamLegal for a free, informa-tive one-hour seminar to learn about common mistakes made during the qualification process for Medi-Cal. Just one hour of your time can help you, or someone you know, make informed decisions regarding long-term health-care planning. Presented by Stephen M. Wood, licensed practicing attorney and member of the California Bar Association and Ventura County Bar Association.12/6 Friends of the Library Book Discussion 10 a.m. – Noon. A book club discussion sponsored by the San

Caroling, holiday parties and whale watching cruises The holidays are a special time for family and friends to get together. Island Packers can make your holiday gatherings easy by scheduling a Ventura Harbor holiday cruise aboard their decorated 64’ catamaran. There are many options for this special holiday cruise. And taking a holiday caroling cruise is a great way to bring relatives and friends together for an outdoor activity, viewing the decorated boats in the Ventura Harbor and the homes in the Ventura Keys. Recommend to make advance reservations for the cruise. Island Packers is offering the following holiday cruise selections: One Hour Caroling Cruises Ventura Parade of Lights Private Group Holiday Parties (great for company functions) Whale Watching Excursions - December 26 through April Island Packers Gift Certificate makes a great stocking stuffer or gift! Easy to purchase by calling the office or stopping in at our Ventura location 1691 Spinnaker Drive. Some of the most popular include: Whale watch ranging from $ 37 to $ 79 per adult An half day island wildlife cruise $ 37 per adult An island day hike $ 59 per adult A camping trip to one of the five northern Channel Islands ranging $79 up to $ 114 per adult A harbor dinner cruise aboard the 64’ catamaran $ 56 per adult For information, reservations or to purchase gift certificates, visit www.islandpackers.com or 642-1393.

Ventura events by Ana Baker

Would you like to meet new friends? Whatever the reason, Ventura’s Conversation Group is the right place for you. This eclectic group meets Wednesdays from 4-6pm at Yolanda’s Mexican Restaurant at 2753 Main St. No topic is off limits as long as you don’t lecture. Ventura Poinsettia Dancers meet on Monday nights, 7:30-9:45 at the Poinsettia Pavilion located at 3451 Foothill. Ballroom dancing, waltzes, Latin, swing and line dancing. Members $8.00, guests $10.00 and students $5.00. For more information 407-9971 or www.poin-settiadancers.org.November 28, 29, 30; December 5, 6, 7, 12, 13, 14: Come celebrate the spirit of holidays past at the historic Dudley House. The 21st year of this annual fundraiser for the museum features quality crafts, home décor, antiques and collectibles and a tearoom with refreshments, silent auction and bargain items. Hours are 10 a.m. to 6 p.m. with a f lea market added on Sundays. Located on the corner of Loma Vista and Ashwood, admission is free. Call 642-3345 for information.November 29: Beginner’s Bird Walk begins at 8:30 a.m. at the Ventura Settling Ponds. The Settling Ponds at the Ventura Harbor is a reliable place to find over-wintering ducks and geese. Leader is Allen Bertke 640-9037. Directions: Take Harbor Blvd to Spinnaker Dr. and enter Ventura Harbor. The water treatment plant is on Angler, a left turn before Spinnaker curves to the right. Park in lot on right hand side of road. Meet in front of gate.December 3: Author Woody Woodburn will be at the Coastal View Healthcare Center, Wednesday, from 9:30 a.m. to 10:30 a.m. at 4904 Telegraph Rd. He will be discussing his book Wooden and Me life lessons from a two-decade friendship with the legendary UCLA basketball coach and humanitarian, John Wooden. December 5: The Ventura Poin-settia Dance Club and the Ventura Jazz Orchestra invites you to a special event Holiday Swing Big Band Dance. Featured will be the vocal styling of Donna Greene, the VJO plays fresh orchestral/big band arrangements of great songs from all eras. Beautiful holiday music you can dance to and the powerful horns and authentic vocal styling’s bring this seasonal music alive. The event will be held Friday from 8.p.m. to 10:30.p.m. at the Poinsettia Pavilion Ball Room. $15 admission at the door plus free refreshments and parking. For more information call 648-1143December 3, 4: Community Memorial Hospital’s Auxiliary Gift Shop is having its annual Holiday Boutique. The boutique will be held Wednesday from 8 a.m. to 4p.m. and Thursday 8 a.m. to 3p.m. Nicholas Auditorium 8th f loor of CMH 147 N. Brent Street. There is a large and varied group of vendors and many Auxiliary members are providing hand crafted items and homemade baked goods. All profits from the Boutique will be donated back to Community Memorial Hospital.

Buenaventura Friends of the Library. All are welcome to this special event in the Topping Room.12/14 GMO Label Legislation and the Court of Public Opinion 3-4 p.m. Biotechnology law expert Panda Kroll ( JD/MFA) takes a look at the inf luence of the public on GMO labeling legislation. Panda Kroll is an attorney and adjunct faculty in biotechnology law and regulation for CSUCI’s MBA/MS program.Recurring Events12/4, 12/11, 12/18 Open Mic Night 7:30-9 p.m. On these Thursday nights, come join this group of writers as they meet in the Topping Room to present their work.12/8, 12/22 Ukulele Jam Session 7-10 p.m. Come play the ukulele with other local musicians in the Topping room! This event is free and open to the public. All skill levels are welcome to join in the fun!

here will provide beautiful Christmas backdrops for your family photos. Santa’s Fun Zone will provide your child with unlimited Jolly Jumps, obstacle course and Magic Castle Fun House for $8. Tiny Town, for children under 36” will provide hours of Jolly Jump and obstacle course fun. Michaels’s and Lakeshore Learning will provide free Arts and Crafts for all children. Gourmet Food Trucks: Confusion and Cousins will be on hand serving up delicacies you won’t be able to resist. Tasty treats for every Christmas Craving! Last minute Christmas shopping will be available with a huge selection of gift vendors in the Christmas Shopping Boutique. While you are shopping you can purchase 2015 Fair “WOW!” Passes (12 Fair admissions for $36) available only for presale, the WOW Pass makes a great Christmas present. In the Christmas spirit of giving, visitors are invited to bring a canned food donation for FOOD Share; helping to feed the hungry during the holidays and all year long. For more information about the 2014 Fairgrounds Christmas Festival please call 648-3376 or visit www.venturacountyfair.org. Follow the Fairgrounds on Facebook for updates.


Community EventsCMH Auxiliary is always looking for new volunteers. If you are inter-ested in becoming a member of CMH Auxiliary, please call CMH Auxiliary 652-5043 and join one of a variety of services available.December 7: The annual “Pearl Harbor Day remembrance ceremony” will take place 2 pm -5pm at the Knights of Columbus Hall. Located at 36 So. Figueroa Plaza. Entry in the back. Plenty of parking available. All friends, public, military, veterans welcome. Light snacks and no host bar plus entertainment! December 9: beginning at 7:30 pm at the Poinsettia Pavilion the Ventura Audubon Society will present the program Among Chimpanzees with Dr. Nancy J Merrick, MD. Dr. Merrick is the author of a new book, Among Chim-panzees, that has been selected as one of the top 10 scientific books for 2014. Her talk will focus on Uganda’s Forests, a part of the Albertine Rift, and a biodiversity “hot spot” rich in species. Dr. Nancy J Merrick is a former colleague of Jane Goodall studying endangered chimpanzees in Tanzania and also at Stanford University. She is a lifelong advocate for chimpanzees founding Chimp-Saver.org, an interactive website, that connects the visitor in ways to help chimps.December 12, 13, 14: Footworks Youth Ballet presents two full-length performances of the Christmas classical ballet The Nutcracker, performed with the Footworks Community Orchestra and singers from the Carpe Diem Chorus. A free family educational lecture and story time will begin one hour prior to the performance time. Located at the Oxnard Performing Arts Center 800 Hobson Way, Oxnard. General Public matinees, Saturday, December 13th, 2p.m. Sunday, December 14th, 2p.m. Outreach Performances Friday, December 12th 10am. Act I for Elementary Students, 11 a.m. Act II for Middle and High School Students, Cost: $5 per ticket, or free for Title I schools. Footworks Youth Ballet, Kirsten Oakley, Artistic Director. Tickets: $15, $20, $25 for more information or to purchase tickets, call 486-2424 Online Ticket Orders: www.footworksy outhballet.orgDecember 13: Ventura’s Amnesty International Group 452 is partic-ipating in a Global Write-a-Thon which is the world’s largest letter writing event. You can be part of a global initiative that will generate a massive outpouring of letters and cards to protect the human rights of people at risk. Held at College United Methodist Church 4300 Telegraph Road on the corner of Baylor and Telegraph on Saturday from 1p.m. to 4p.m. They furnish snacks, pens, paper, stamps, music and good company. For further information contact Nan Durantini 650-7314 or Mary Olson 223-1187 December 13: Channel Islands Chamber Orchestra performs with Kuanfen Liu, Artistic Director and David Etterbeek, Trumpet Soloist presents, “A Classic Holiday”. Saturday, at 3p.m. at the Studio Channel Islands Art Center in Camarillo, 2222 Ventura Blvd. Advance Tickets $20 and

In her later years, Barbara spent many many hours volunteering at the Ventura Avenue Adult Center.

Barbara Corsaw Herman Barbara Corsaw Herman, a native daughter of Ventura, passed away on November 3, at Community Memorial Hospital after a brief illness. She was 83 years old. Barbara was born in Ventura to Jack and Elizabeth Corsaw on January 6, 1931. Barbara worked for over 24 years at Le Jeune’s Hair Salon in Ventura. She is survived by her 3 sons, Michael Herman and wife Martha of Ventura; Steve Herman of Ojai and Marty Herman of Crystal Lake, Illinois; 5 grandchil-dren, Phillip, Cory, Kimberly, Kristine, Zachary Herman and 5 great grandchil-dren, Kylie and Jess Herman, Maximums Herman and George and Abigail Rice. She is also survived by her sister Bonnie Bishop of Ojai and her brother Robert Corsaw of Paso Robles. She will be missed by her dear cat Phoebe. At Barbara’s request there were no services. If anyone wishes to remember Barbara a donation to the Ventura County Adult Center, 550 N. Ventura Avenue, Ventura 93001 would be appre-ciated. Arrangements were under the direction of Joseph P. Reardon Funeral Home & Cremation Service, Ventura.

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Ojai events Forget the television, theater patrons have the chance to see the beloved A Christmas Story live at Ojai ACT from December 5th to December 21st. Like a small present lost under-neath the holiday tree, A Christmas Storywas mostly overlooked when it first came out as a film in 1983. But the public soon rose from its long winter’s nap to its many charms. Since then it grew in popular-ity, becoming a holiday staple, often running as a marathon and adapted into a musical and a play. After years of trying to gain the rights, Ojai ACT got the go-ahead to do it this year, thanks to Director Gai Jones and Producer Herb Hemming, two veterans of exuberant plays. The story’s genesis comes from humorist Jean Shepherd’s Midwest childhood in the 1940s, as nine-year-old Ralphie Parker is determined to get a genuine Red Ryder BB gun under the tree for Christmas. The adults pass off this dream by asserting, “Kid, You’ll shoot your eye out!” A Christmas Story runs at Ojai ACT, 113 S. Montgomery St., Dec. 5 - 21, at an earlier-than-usual 7:30 p.m. Friday and Saturday nights and 2 p.m. Sunday afternoons. Cost is $18 general, $15 for seniors, students and Art Center members and $10 for youth 12 and under. There are a total of nine performances, so patrons should ensure tickets early at 640-8797 or via www.OjaiACT.org. What Do We Mean When We Talk About ‘Nature’? - A Catholic Perspective On Saturday, December 13th, at 3 p.m., join Karen Zedlick, Ph.D., Philosophy, and faculty member at Thomas Aquinas College in Santa Paula for an exploration of biotech-nological advances in food from the Catholic perspective at the Ojai Library, located at 111 East Ojai Avenue. Contact Mary Lynch at 646-6019 for more information. Christine Brennan and friends Holiday Open Studio As the holidays accelerate don’t miss the chance to visit a stunning one-of-a-kind artist’s home and purchase fine art and handcrafted items direct from the source. On Saturday, December 13 and Sunday, December 14, Ojai fine artist Chris Brennan is offering a personal studio tour and sale from 11:00 a.m. to 5:00 p.m., at 175 North Pueblo Avenue. Brennan is an accomplished Ojai artist specializing in one-of-a-kind oil on board paintings capturing her own whimsical world vision. Her subjects range from reality-based portraiture to imaginary scenic vistas populated by quirky lovable creatures. All her work has an inner lit quality that showcases her expert technique and love of color. A graduate of the acclaimed Rhode Island School of design, Brennan has built serious credentials exhibiting and selling her work to collectors across the country for over 30 years. Her work can be seen locally at HumanArts Gallery in Ojai. For further information, call 272-5436.

Everyone has lived a story worth preserving The Time Binders is a new, personal history service operated by Esther Cole, Carin Wofford, and Tamara Wofford. “Everyone has lived a story, a story worthy of preserving,” said Esther Cole,(published author and contributing writer for the Ventura Breeze), an-nouncing the formation of The Time Binders, a newly launched personal history service. Carin Wofford is the prime writer with 18 years’ experience producing and publishing personal histories. Wofford added, The Time Binders offers profes-sional assistance creating these autobi-ographical stories at affordable prices. The time to record these stories is now, no matter what your age.” Behind the camera of The Time Binders is Tamara Wofford, a trained and experienced videographer. Personal histories can be produced in different formats: as a bound book, an expandable binder, or as a film. The Time Binders offer free consul-tations and presentations. Group dem-onstrations can be arranged in your own home. “We’ll even bring the popcorn,” offered Tamara Wofford. Call 659-4480 to set up a free meeting with The Time Binders.

Boars Breath Deli becoming a local institutionContinued from page 4business career as a dog groomer soon opening her own grooming shop spe-cializing in care and grooming of show dogs. At the Boars Breath Marilyn is con-stantly busy, prepping for the day’s service, and filling in wherever needed. “I stick my nose in whenever it’s needed” said Fkiaras. “I also make our homemade soups”, and true to her Greek heritage has added several Greek specialties to the restaurant’s menu including a Greek Gyro sandwich, a Greek Gyro plate, homemade tzatziki and other Greek inspired specialties. Marilyn Fkiaras has served as owner of the Boars Breath Deli for the past year and a half purchasing it from its previous owners who operated the deli for the past 5 years. Said Fkiaras. “Our football specials, discount craft beers, and our pulled pork sliders are popular with our great local customers” added Fkiaras. Fkiaras also added “When someone comes here it is like visiting my home. “ “We have enlarged our kitchen, changed our menu, and added many Greek specialties including Greek Burgers” Fkiiaras said. Stop in and enjoy a football game, specials and a great family atmosphere at the Boars Breath Deli, sandwich shop, and pub.

$25 at door. For more information 383-1368 or Web www.studiochan nelislands.org.


Holiday BlowOut!!!

News and Notes

CAPS Chat

CAPS at the job fairby Elizabeth Rodeno

Some of the CAPS crew had a pro-ductive morning at Ventura City Hall with students from all over Ventura attending the job fair. Many local businesses, schools and organizations like us were on hand to share what could be potential career paths. Mayor Heitmann stopped by to encourage the students to look to the future. Of course we are always looking for people, especially young people, who want to learn the skills of digital storytelling. We offer so much to share, from state of the art equipment to highly skilled staff. What we do is provide the opportunity to enrich students’ education by bringing media production into their studies and work place. Having video production skills is a great addition on a resume. Along with other technical skills, it could be a deciding factor in getting a job. In addition, volunteering on our productions will help the students earn community service hours to add to their school applications and job resumes. Volunteers of all ages are vital to CAPS’ ability to cover sporting and community events. They provide the best promotion of CAPS. The CAPS studio has been quite busy. We have had members, local organizations and outside media companies working in the studio producing programs. It is great to see that so many people have discovered what a great facility CAPS has to offer. We are the only full service production studio in town, perhaps in the county. We continue to cover various city and school district meetings every week. Watch channel 15 throughout the week and view the meetings live or on a rebroadcast. We are a vital part of the quest to provide as much information about the city as possible. Channel 6’s programming shares coverage of inter-esting and entertaining events as well as important programming directly from our members. We all share the stories of the people and places of Ventura. Go to www.capstv.org for links to our Facebook and Vimeo pages. Up-to-date programming schedules and class

Guest columnist

Libraries in Venturaby Marianne Coffey

“All hat and no cattle,” epitomizes the public policy regarding libraries in Ventura. We have held public meetings, paid hundreds of thousands of dollars to consultants, engaged a community planning group, arranged one community outreach event after another, and studied our low library funding to death. As a lifetime library advocate and volunteer I think it is long past time we faced cold hard realities. Ventura does not prioritize and fund libraries. The city closed the Wright Library and just this year concluded budget discussions without providing adequate funding for the Avenue Library. And now we just learned the City Council will not repay the money borrowed from the Inman Library Trust to paint the E.P. Foster Library, a city building. Every week when I volunteer at the library I marvel at all those for whom the library is a lifeline to the community. Plus many you do not see use our comprehen-sive e-library on line, those growing little readers attend story time, and others enjoy wonderful programs and resources for all ages. For many the library is the last bastion of our democracy, for others it is a relic. Hopefully they will re-visit the library and conclude otherwise. However, our City Council has not enriched and adequately funded our libraries, and it is unlikely citizens will support a parcel tax for this purpose. In all previous public engagement the citizens of Ventura have repeatedly and overwhelmingly stated they prefer neigh-borhood libraries. They do not want only one large public building, and no one is in favor of closing the Avenue or E.P. Foster Library for this purpose. Moreover, the county is opening a new large Saticoy Library in 2015 which will be of benefit to east end residents. Rather than let this issue continue to fester, let’s form a civic partnership with the Friends of the Library, community park sports patrons, civic groups, schools, senior groups and others and begin a private fund raising building drive to build a large community center at the sports park for all groups to share. Not a trailer, not a modular, a permanent stucco building with a tile roof to match the other sports park buildings. We can design it together and engage the entire community in the effort. The building could include vendor space and the business rental income could fund the building maintenance at no cost to the city. The building would provide meeting space for story time and library programs, and could house an automated library kiosk to access all library services. In addition, it would provide critically needed public meeting space for all community groups and events. This affords library patrons the opportunity to partner with other community groups to make it a reality. Let’s take off our hats and show we have the bravado to bring a shared community meeting place to all of Ventura. I urge you to write to the City Council in support of this effort.

Seminar on cataract surgery Advances in cataract eye surgery

DAKINI is appropriate for all levels

Special sacred dance class Lisa Beck will offer a special sacred dance class called DAKINI, appropriate for all levels. The class will take place on December 6, 10:30 to noon at the Cosmotion Center. Beck created the class, which is a blend years of study and teaching Indian, Con-temporary, Middle Eastern and African dance styles. Combining grace, strength, beauty and ancient traditional dance and meditation, the class is a lyrical, fluid and devotional dance experience. DAKINI means sky dancer, wisdom queen, female embodiment of enlighten-ment. “It can be challenging for many of us to sit in meditation or to quiet our minds these days. Conscious breath and movement allows for complete release and surrender.” “Moving slowly, with grace, focus and an open heart and mind allows for a deeper connection to the body. Focusing on presence through the breath and gaze of our eyes, cultivating a mood of devotion, we honor to a deep mystery in all of us.” All levels are welcome. Limited to 20 dancers.$20 - register online at lisabeckli-ving.com Cosmotion Center, 2343 E. Thompson Blvd

CMH honored with Quality Achievement Stroke Care Award Community Memorial Hospital has received the “Get with the Guidelines -- Stroke” Silver Quality Achievement Award for implementing specific quality improvement measures outlined by the American Heart Association/American Stroke Association for the treatment of stroke patients. “Get with the Guidelines Stroke” helps hospital teams provide the most up-to-date, research-based guidelines with the goal of speeding recovery and reducing death and disability for stroke patients. CMH earned the award by meeting specific quality achieve-ment measures for the diagnosis and treatment of stroke patients at a set level for a designated period. These measures include aggressive use of medications and risk-reduction therapies aimed

Healthwill be the focus of a free seminar Community Memorial Health System is holding on Tuesday, December 9. JillAnne W. McCarty, M.D., a Ventura ophthalmologist, will lead the seminar that will be held from 6 to 8 p.m. in Community Memorial Hospi-tal’s eighth-floor Nichols Auditorium. Cataract surgery has evolved into a brief, painless, sight-restoring procedure, and patients undergoing cataract surgery have more advanced options now than ever before. Dr. McCarty will discuss state-of-the-art surgical advances and new technology to treat cataracts and restore clear vision for an active lifestyle. Dr. McCarty received her medical degree from the Medical College of Virginia in Richmond and received residency training at the Jules Stein Eye Institute at the UCLA School of Medicine. She is a member of the American Academy of Ophthalmology. Dr. McCarty is an active member of the Community Memorial Hospital Medical Staff. Admission is free, but space is limited, so reservations are required. Please visit www.cmhshealth.org/rsvp or call Brown Paper Ticket at 1-800/838-3006. Community Memorial Hospital is located at 147 N. Brent St.

at reducing death and disability and improving the lives of stroke patients. CMH also received the association’s “Target: Stroke Honor Roll” for meeting stroke quality measures that reduce the time between hospital arrival and treatment with the clot-buster tPA, the only drug approved by the U.S. Food and Drug Administration to treat ischemic stroke. People who suffer a stroke who receive the drug within three hours of the onset of symptoms may recover quicker and be less likely to suffer severe disability. “We are pleased to recognize CMH for its commitment and dedication to stroke care,” said Deepak L. Bhatt, M.D., M.P.H., national chairman of the “Get With The Guidelines steering committee and Executive Director of Interventional Cardiovascular Programs at Brigham and Women’s Hospital and Professor of Medicine at Harvard Medical School. “Studies have shown that hospitals that consistently follow “Get with the Guide-lines” quality improvement measures can reduce patients’ length of stays and 30-day readmission rates and reduce disparity gaps in care.”

information can be found on the website. Help us keep providing important services to the community by becoming a member and sharing what CAPS does.


News and Notes

SUPPORT YOUR LIBRARY -BECOME A FRIEND

We purchase new library materials and equipment - books, CDs, DVDs, and books on tape for the library,

and fund library programs.Gift memberships available. Donations to our Capital Improvement Fund to

fund future library buildings and improvements, and contributions to our Endowment Fund appreciated.

Membership: Student $10; Individual $20; Family $30

www.sanbuenaventurafriendsofthelibrary.orgP.O. Box 403, Ventura, CA 93002

Donations of books, CDs, books on tape, puzzles and DVDs in good condition welcome

All donations are tax deductible.Contact: [email protected]

How much did you know about the YMCA when you first started working there? I didn’t grow up with YMCA in my town so I wasn’t aware of the impact they have on a community. I, like a lot of people that I meet, thought it was just a regular gym. It was eye opening for me to learn how many people the YMCA helps and how many other or-ganizations it partners with. It’s truly a cornerstone of many communities. The YMCA has been serving the community for 127 years.What do you mean in terms of the Y helping the community? We pride ourselves on the fact that no one is turned away due to their inability to pay. Everyone is welcome at the Y.How is that even possible? One of the biggest ways we achieve that is through our annual campaign where our staff and volunteers raise more than $140,000. Those funds are used to provide scholarships enabling youth, families and seniors to access the YMCA and our many programs, no matter what their financial situation. In addition to that, we work hard securing grants to offset program costs. The final way is through our regular members. When you join the Y, your membership is directly benefiting those who are less fortunate.What’s your role in making the city a better place? My role in that is making sure the

Amy Bailey Jurewicz is making sure the YMCA fills voids in the community.

The Ventura Family YMCAInterview of Amy Bailey Jurewicz, the Executive Director of the Ventura Family YMCA, by Chris Jay

YMCA fills voids in the community where they exist. Whether that means increasing our child care services, or serving underprivileged children with free programs, or partnering with the school district to teach 3rd graders how to swim, we step up when and where we’re needed. A great example would be when Easter Seals had to shut down its’ pool. We immediately opened our doors to all of their par-ticipants and even hired their staff to continue teaching the same classes.So what’s next? What are your goals for the YMCA in the next few years? With the Y currently serving more than 12,000 people, new members joining daily and our programs expanding, the Y is currently analyzing its’ space constraints. We’re researching possible opportunities that allow the YMCA to expand. So we think the next few years should really exciting for the YMCA.Any f inal thoughts? We welcome anyone who is looking to start working out in a sup-portive environment, or for a place that their children can take a variety of programs like swimming, youth sports, dancing, or even a place for seniors to reconnect and make new friends, please come by and visit us. It’s a real family here and people take pride in that. And even though we just voted #1 gym in Ventura County and we’re pretty proud of that, we really are more than just a gym!


News and Notes

Make this holiday season special! Support the Ventura Fire ghters "Spark of Love" Holiday Toy Delivery by bringing an unwrapped toy to the luncheon!

Thursday, December 11, 201411:30am - 2:00pm

Marriott Ventura Beach Hotel2055 Harbor Blvd., Ventura

Admission:$45/Members

$55/Non-MembersTo reserve seating for this event,

please call (805) 643-7222or register online at

www.venturachamber.com

The Poinsettia Awards recognize outstanding achievements of businesses and individuals who make a difference in our community.

Small Business of the YearMid-Sized Business of the Year

Large Business of the YearJewel Key Award

The Innovation Award

Non-Pr Service Organization of the Year Young Professional of the YearEnvironmental Services Award

Ambassador of the YearAlso Awarding...

Student, and Educator of the Year! City Employee, F ter, Police cer,

L U N C H E O N

The Ventura Chamber of Commerce invites you to the...

1 8 T H A N N U

AL

Cheryl Heitmann thinks that her grandkids Gavin Tillman (3 1/2 years) and Zachary Tillman (18 months) are as cute as they get and are future Ventura mayors. Do you have a grandkid that you think is even cuter? If so send their photo to [email protected].

The kindergarten class at Mound Elementary School made this wonderful scarecrow that was protecting the December Store & More (27 S. Oak) from goblins and ghosts. But he couldn’t protect it from the rain coming through the roof.

Dozens of volunteers once again spent their time cleaning up the Venture River bottom of weeds and illegal homeless encampments that spring up almost as fast as they are removed. The volunteers were from Ventura County participating in the I Heart Ventura County day of Service organized by Life without Limbs. Photo by George Robertson.

Dozens of volunteers once again spent their time cleaning up the Venture River

apt


LivingSenior

Pull Out Section

A year ago, there was bare ground at two of Ventura’s convalescent hospitals, but now the fruits – and vegetables – of volunteer labor has produced healthy food during the summer and now another cycle begins in the fall. The spring and summer crops are gone, enjoyed by the residents in their daily meals, and recently volunteers and residents planted fall and winter vegetables and herbs, such as spinach, lettuce, beets, caulif lower, sugar snap peas, onions, parsley and English thyme, among others. It’s all courtesy of Suz Montgomery’s Extended Learning Academy class under the Ventura Adult and Continuing Education program. “My students grew up with victory gardens during World War II where they tore up their front yards for gardens

Teacher Suz Montgomery harvests a bunch of carrots for the seniors. Photo by John Hankins.

Fall planting at local nursing homes

because they had to do what they could to support the war effort,” Montgomery said. Now the students – aged up to their 90s – are enthusiastically helping to tend the garden with the help of vol-unteers from the public and high school students earning community service credits. At the Ventura Convalescent Hospital, commonly called The Cali-fornian (4020 Loma Vista Rd.), eight raised beds were built, surrounded by a concrete walk, providing access to the residents who need wheelchairs or walkers so they can plant their own favorites and harvest the crops. Citrus trees, figs and berries are off to the side of the beds. At the Coastal View Healthcare



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Lee Gale found joy, excitement and satisfac-tion in life after retirement.

Reinventing yourself in your senior yearsby Carol Leish

Lee Gale Gruen, 72, will be speaking about becoming an actress after a 37 year career as a probation officer with Los Angeles County. She has appeared in television, films, commercials, theater, print, and she portrays patients at UCLA Medical School for student training. Her transition to becoming an actress in her senior years has been written about in Time Magazine, the Los Angeles Times , and in Marlo Thomas’ book, It Ain’t Over...Till it’s Over. According to Steve Lehman, MPH, MBA Manager at SCAN Health Education Center in Ventura, “The reality is that men and women have their identity tied up in what they do for a living and not in their chronological age.” Steve said that he is living the same way that Lee Gale is living as an actor, author, and presenter. He said, that at age 67, he views his career with SCAN as a transition. “I had a dual career in public health. I worked for the county for 20 years, and then for the private sector in health education and wellness programs.” Lee Gale said that, “The goal of my talk will be to help baby boomers and seniors to find joy, excitement, and satisfaction in their retirement from a job, a career, parenting, etc. That way they will be able to start with finding a passion as a motivation to get dressed, get out of the house, and to embrace life.” She said that she’ll demonstrate

Lexington Assisted Living, located at 5440 Ralston, honored their veteran residents for serving in our armed forces on their annual Veteran’s Day celebration. Photo by Michael Gordon.

this by talking about her own personal journey and what she did in going from a retired probation officer to becoming an actress. Lee Gale said that at the end of her talk she will be selling and autograph-ing her memoir, Adventures with Dad: A Father and Daughters Journey Through Senior Acting Class. It is a memoir about her second career as an actress. On Tuesday, December 9th, 10 am- noon at the SCAN Health Education Center, 6633 Telephone Rd., Suite 100. To register seniors and boomers should call 658-0365. Space is limited.

A Tender Touch Senior Placement

Is it time to take the keys away from mom or dad on driving?by Connie De La Rosa

Having to deal with the decision of taking away mom or dad’s independence when it comes to driving is a difficult decision that many adult children must face unless of course, the parent decides on their own it is better to put the keys for good which is the ideal plan but does not always go in this direction. Giving up part of the independence is a life changing experience which means it is no longer part of their routine and can be difficult to adjust but is part of life that requires discussion so that alterna-tive transportation can be arranged. During a previous home visit, a 75-year-old stated she had just arrived from picking up her medications from the pharmacy in which she had driven herself to and from the pharmacy. This individual stated that her children asked her not to drive anymore because her vision is declining in addition to all the medications she was taking that cause some drowsiness. She then stated that it was just a few blocks away from her home and so far so good however, there were the unexplained dents, scratches on the car especially the bumper area in which she was not sure how it happened since it was brought to her attention by her children. I then asked her if she wore a hearing aid and responded after a few seconds since she was attempting to read my lips as I was speaking. She stated she wore them but had difficulty changing the batteries due to the arthritis in her hands so she had not worn them lately.


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Pastor Leonard DeWitt and Ventura City Councilmember Mike Tracy participated in the first annual Candlelight Memorial Service last year at Cypress Place Senior Living.

Cypress Place to host Candlelight Memorial Service On Wednesday December 3, join Cypress Place Senior Living for a Candle-light Memorial Service. This touching event is in loving memory of those who are no longer with us but are forever present in our hearts. “We all come to terms with those we have lost in different ways,” said Yvonne Knepper, one of the marketing directors at Cypress Place. “We hope to provide

Victoria Care Center, of Ventura celebrated Veteran’s Day in a big way, highlighted by the presence of active duty and retired service members who visited the facility to pay homage to veterans who are currently residing , or receiving rehabilitation services, at Victoria Care Center. The ceremony began with a formal introduction by the members of the Marine Corps Recruiting Office and the Vietnam Veterans of Ventura County who led the audience in a Pledge of Alliance to the f lag. Photo by Michael Gordon.

Diabetes is a growing problemby Andrea RickettsRN, PHN, MSN, ACNP-BC, HEALTHaware Manager, Community Memorial Hospital. In association with Partnership for a Healthy Ventura County

Did you know that 8.3% of the popu-lation in the United States has diabetes? 27% of people over age 65 have diabetes. This is a growing problem. In 2010, 1.9 million new cases of diabetes were diagnosed in people ages 20+. The cost of diabetes has increased to $245 billion U.S. in 2012: $176 billion for direct medical costs and $69 billion in reduced productivity. What is Pre-diabetes? When a person has pre-diabetes, the blood sugar levels are higher than normal but are not high enough to be called diabetes. There are no clear symptoms for pre-diabetes. You can take steps to reverse, delay, or prevent Type 2 Diabetes and heart disease. What is Type 2 Diabetes? Type 2 Diabetes occurs when your body can no longer make enough insulin to convert glucose from the food you eat into energy. High glucose levels stay in your


We discussed the dangers of not being able to hear while driving such as sirens, people honking, etc. which she had a clear understanding of how dangerous this was becoming and needed to recon-sider her options. After discussing options with your loved one, it would be good practice to walk around the car and check for other new damages, go for frequent drives with them so you become aware if their driving skills are declining and if so, write down the dangers so they become aware of it. They may consider their older grandchild, son, etc driving them instead so this way, they get to spend more time with their loved one(especially if everyone wants to take turns in taking grandma/grandpa and stop for coffee, etc afterwards) at the same time, keeping them safe. Remember that aging loved ones want to feel they are still just as important as everyone else and need to be enjoyed by family and included.

comfort, support, and ultimately inspi-ration for people during this holiday season.” The candlelight service will be led by Pastor Leonard DeWitt, Pastor to Senior Adults at Ventura Baptist Church. There will be speakers, music, and attendees will be able to light a candle in honor of their loved one. The free memorial service begins promptly at 5:30 p.m. and is open to the public. Light refreshments will be served. “Coping with the loss of a loved one is never easy,” said Pam Staniland, activities director at Cypress Place. “We invite neighbors and members of the community to come together to support one another during this beautiful and touching service.” Cypress Place Senior Living is located at 1200 Cypress Point Lane in Ventura. Seating is limited so please call to reserve a seat. For more information or to RSVP, please call 650-8000. To learn more about Cypress Place Senior Living of Ventura, visit their web site at www.cypressplaceseniorliving.com.


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Contact us at (805) 983-0305 or www.GlenwoodCareCenter.com

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View our Medicare 5 Star rating www.medcare.gov/NHCompare

Light Up A Life Celebration Livingston Memorial Visiting Nurse Association’s 30th Annual Light Up A Life Celebration will take place at 6:30pm Wednesday, December 10 at the Pacific View Mall in Ventura. Carlene Carter, daughter of country legends June Carter and Carl Smith, will perform, followed by names of loved ones being read during the tree lighting ceremony and a video presentation of remembrance photos. This year there will also be a separate Light Up a Life event held at Livings-ton Hospice of Ojai on Thursday,

In-Home Care Survey by Loving Arms Family Care

This survey is designed to assist you in determining whether your loved one may require home care assistance. Have you noticed your loved one wearing the same clothing every day? Is your loved one not appropriately grooming or bathing themselves? Have you noticed your loved one in soiled clothing? Have you noticed your loved one wearing inappropriate clothing? Have you noticed that your loved one’s weight is declining? Are you seeing signs of increased skin tearing, bruising or falls on your loved one? Is your loved one having problems with recollection or knowing family members names? Have you noticed your loved one showing signs of disorientation? Is your loved one unaware of person, place, date and time? Is your loved one having difficulty communicating with you or others? Have you noticed that your loved one is showing signs of becoming withdrawn? Is there a lack of healthy foods in the home? Have you noticed any rotting smells in the refrigerator or cupboards? Have you noticed that the home is in disarray, such as piles of mail or newspaper? Is the home dirty or have any un-pleasant odor? Have you noticed that the pets or houseplants have been neglected? Have you noticed medications that are missing, expired, not being taken or have been taken in excess of the pre-scribed dosage? Has your loved one recently had surgery and need temporary assistance at home? Does your loved one already have a caregiver who needs a vacation or a short break? Is your loved one disabled and in need of in-home assistance? If you answered yes to one or more of these questions, you may require in home care services. Please call 248-6970 or email Info@LovingArmsFamily Care.com to set up a complimentary in home assessment with our Nurse Case Manager. www.LovingArmsFamily Care.com .

“Check-Up, Tune-Up” at Victoria Care Center Victoria Care thinks that people should take at least as good care of themselves as they do of their car. Eating healthy is the fuel; exercise is starting the engine.Now, as part of its “Friends of Victoria” program, Victoria Care is introducing “Check-Up, Tune-Up,” an annual no-cost personal assessment of the strength and balance of its members. “The overall focus of healthcare should be to make it easy for people to stay healthy and fit so they can enjoy life, and the key to that is regular check-ups and tune-ups,” says Victoria Care Ad-ministrator John Gardner. “Particularly where older adults are concerned, these kinds of regular check-ups greatly enhance a person’s ability to maximize their independence and remain healthy and safe at home.” Gardner explains that members of Friends of Victoria – which is free to join – are sent annual reminder cards just as a dentist or ophthalmologist, for example, would do for patients. Friends schedule an appointment where a member of Victoria’s clinical care team performs the assessment. For those needing a tune-up, Victoria will contact their physician to get a prescription for outpatient therapy. In addition to offering this “Check-up, Tune-up” at Victoria Care Center in Ventura, Victoria Care also offers several weekly no-cost exercise classes at assisted living centers and senior

Diabetes is a growing problemContinued from page 13body and can cause serious problems. There is no cure for diabetes, but it can be managed. How can you take care of your diabetes?Choose what, how much, and when to eat: “Create your plate” Be physically active (30 minutes, 5 days a week) Check your blood glucose (see CMHS screenings below) Take your prescribed medica-tion; keep appointments with your physicianAttend classes: educational and/ or support groups with family members (see CMHS classes below) Maintain a healthy weight What can you do for prevention and screening?1. Community Memorial Health Systems (CMHS): Take the online risk assessment www.cmhshealth.org/healthaware and click on “Diabetes”, which invites you in for a free cardio-vascular assessment2. Make an appointment for a free diabetic glucose screening on the first Monday of the month from 3 pm-4 pm at the Healthaware office: 667-2818. 3. Attend Diabetic Update classes: 2nd Tuesday of every month at the HEALTHaware office, 120 North Ashwood Ave., 3-4 pm: “Basic Diabetes Education and Carbohy-drate Counting”; 4-5 pm: “Insulin Therapy Options, Carelink, Continu-ous Glucose Monitoring”. Reserve your seat by calling 667-2818.4. Call the CMHS dieticians for a one-to-one counseling appointment at 652-5066 for weight management and/ or diabetes consultation. 5. Join the CMHS HEALTHaware Walking Program at Kimball Park every Tuesday/Thursday from 8:00 to 9:30 am. Other HEALTHaware programs and assessments, including heart, stroke, lung, and weight can be accessed at http://www.cmhshealth.org/myhealth/health_assessments.shtml.

Fall planting at local nursing homesContinued from page 11Center, (4904 Telegraph Rd.) residents and volunteers converted some of the f lower beds to vegetable gardens, close enough to the kitchen for easy access by the cooks. “This is all for the quality of life for the residents,” Montgomery said, giving them a sense of home and an activity beyond television and bingo. Of course the prospect of fresh and tasty herbs, fruits and vegetables brighten the menu, especially to those who got their hands in the dirt and nurtured the plants.

housing centers in the area and also runs general fitness evaluations at these various locations year round. Launched two year ago, Friends of Victoria is a community organization that provides an important link between local seniors and the broad range of health and wellness programs available in Ventura County. Membership is open to former residents of Victoria’s skilled nursing facility; graduates of Victoria’s innovative Post Acute Rehabilitation Center (PARC); family members; and other health-conscious members of the Ventura County community, including health professionals. “Most people prefer to live in their homes as long as possible, provided that they can do so safely and with ready access to important medical services when they might be needed,” said Gardner. In addition to its “Check-Up, Tune-Up,” Friends of Victoria offers members a broad range of programs and services including fall-prevention training and certification, home as-sessments by qualified therapists, and outpatient physical and occupa-tional therapy by therapists from the PARC. Also in the planning stages are free lectures from physicians in the community; a variety of social activi-ties; and unique access to pre-screened partners providing home healthcare, housekeeping services, gardening, non-medical caregivers and much more. To join Friends of Victoria or for further information, go to www.friend sofvictoria.org. For further informa-tion on Victoria Care Center’s 24-hour skilled nursing facility or the PARC’s innovative programs, go to www.Vic toriaCareCenter.com or www.ThePAR CatVictoria.com. Victoria Care Center and the PARC are located at 5445 Ever-glades St.

December 18 at 5:30pm. Light Up is a celebration and campaign to increase awareness and raise funds for Livings-ton Hospice. The campaign goal is to raise $60,000 to benefit Livingston Hospice, the first Medicare Certified hospice in Ventura County. Livingston invites all residents of Ventura County to support this year’s Light Up campaign. Memory Stars can be ordered online for $25 each at lmvna.org or by calling 642-0239. Re-membrance photos can be submitted online or by mail. Event sponsorship is also available.



Professor Scamp, Ph.D (Pretty Happy Dog)

Professor ScampPh.D

Forever homes wantedHi: I’m Katy a beautiful 1 1/2-year-old Cattle Dog who was found as a stray on a ranch. No one came to claim me, so I’m up for adoption. I am an active young girl who is housebroken, good with people and other dogs. I love sleeping on the bed, know some commands and I am full of energy. I’m spayed and up-to-date on my vaccinations. All I need now is to start a new chapter in my life as a cherished member of an active and loving family. Stop by to meet me, you’re sure to want to take me home. C.A.R.L. Adoption Center, 644-PETS(7387).

Casey is an outgoing, fun-loving kind of guy! He’s a big ball of energy, but loves to hear what you have to say. He is happiest when his life is full of toys, exercise, and company. His leash manners are improving and he listens well to correction. After playing and exercising, all he wants to do is be with you. Casey is not too big, but has a big heart. To meet this lovable boy, visit the Simi Valley Animal Shelter, 670 West Los Angeles Ave. in Simi Valley and ask for Casey, A605585.

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Animals of all sorts can join the ScampClub. Email me your picture and a little about yourself, including your address, to Scampclub@ventura

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Join Scamp Club

Scamp Club(Scampclub pets are not for adoption.)

Meet Willie. This beautiful Maincoon mix is one big and fluffy boy! At eleven years of age, he is sweet and affectionate, and he gets along with other cats. He’s easy going and easy to handle… an overall awesome cat! If you think Willie would be the perfect addition to your family, you can come by and meet him at the Simi Valley Animal Shelter, 670 West Los Angeles

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Hi: We are Codybear and Clifford and we are eleven-year-old Shih Tzu’s, just like Professor Scamp who was hanging out with us. We are “normal” size Shih Tzu’s not “big boned” like Scamp. At least that is what he told us but we think that he could lose a few pounds .

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■ The Humane Society of Ventura County will hold its annual “Santa Paws” fund-raiser in Ventura on Sunday, December 7, where pets – along with their families – can

have their pictures taken with Santa.The photo shoot will be held from 10 a.m. to 3 p.m. at the Marriott Ventura Beach hotel, 402 2055 East Harbor Blvd. Parking is free. For a $25 donation, pet owners receive several professional photos on a compact disc that will be ready to take home the day of the event. Adults and children are welcome in photos – with or without Santa. Those who do not have a pet can bring their children to avoid long lines at the mall. Greg Cooper, a professional photog-rapher who also teaches at the Brooks Institute, is the photographer. Chuck Bowman is Santa(Maybe just his helper). Proceeds go to the care of animals in need throughout Ventura County. For more information, call 646-6505 or visit www.hsvc.org.■ If you can’t make it here on Sunday, December 14, , from 12 – 4 p.m., Santa Claus will make a visit to the Ventura County Animal Services’ (VCAS) Camarillo Pet Adoption Center, 600 Aviation Dr., to par-ticipate in the agency’s first annual “Santa Paws” fundraiser. Dogs, along with their families, are invited to have their photos taken with Santa for a $20 donation. In addition, VCAS will provide discounted rabies shots, pet micro-chipping and license renewal services on site. All dogs must be leashed and ac-companied by their humans. For more information, contact Yvonne Tello, VCAS Volunteer Coordinator, at 765-5890 or [email protected].

To learn more about VCAS and to view photos and descriptions of all adoptable animals, visit www.vcas.us.■ Local pet emergency and animal specialty hospital, Veterinary Medical and Surgical Group (VMSG) sponsored the relocation of two baby barn owls from the Ojai Raptor Center to Sycamore Canyon School (SCS) in Newbury Park. The baby owls (those are the birds by our house that keep asking me “who” I am) were introduced to their new “home,” custom-built barn owl boxes, on Wednesday, November 19. Parent volunteer, Jo Louie, with material funding from the SCS PTSA Grade Level Grant, worked with a local naturalist to form the project which allowed SCS 6th grade students to construct four barn owl boxes to be located on the school’s campus as a teaching tool for students and teachers. I hope that dogs visit the school also (have you ever tried to pet an owl?)■ Ventura County Animal Services (VCAS) is getting in on the Black Friday madness by offering discounted pet adoptions on all dogs and cats. Beginning on Black Friday ( don’t know what that is), November 28, and continuing through the weekend, on Saturday, November 29 and Sunday, November 30, VCAS will reduce the regular $125 adoption fee to only $20. What a great time to get a dog. VCAS currently has hundreds of animals waiting to be adopted at their Ventura County Animal Adoption Centers in Camarillo and Simi Valley. Over the Black Friday weekend, adoption counsel-ors will be on hand from 11 a.m. – 6 p.m. in Camarillo and from 12 – 6 p.m. in Simi Valley. The Camarillo center is located at 600 Aviation Dr., and Simi Valley is located at 670 W. Los Angeles Ave. To learn more about VCAS and to view photos and descriptions of all adoptable animals, visit: www.vcas.us.

A couple of my buddies dressed up for Halloween, that’s Herby in the blue and Niki with the pumpkins. Aren’t they the cutest?


Police Reports

Harbor Patrol BlotterJust a few of the things the Harbor Patrol tends to.

by Veronica Johnson

Police reports are provided to us by the Ventura Police Department and are not the opinions of the Ventura Breeze. All suspects mentioned are assumed to be innocent until proven guilty in a court of law.

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Wire Theft On Saturday, November 8th, at 9:22 a.m., a concerned citizen called the VPD to report a subject on the bike path to the rear of the Veterans center, on Telephone and Wells Road, possibly stealing copper wire. Officers located David Litada in the process of stealing copper wire from the pylons, which light the walking path. Officers quickly took Litada into custody without incident. Litada damaged 7 pylons and pulled about 35 lbs. of copper wire from them. No one was injured during this incident and Litada was booked into VC Jail. Stabbing On Sunday, November 9th, at 8:05 p.m., an anonymous passerby called the VPD reporting a fight involving three males in the 6300 block of Bristol Road. As police arrived on scene, one of the involved parties, Tommy Zaragoza, f led on a bicycle. After a brief pursuit, officers lost him in the area of Ventura Boulevard and Seahawk. A few minutes later, he was found near Victoria Avenue. Zaragoza dumped his bicycle and ran. Officers caught up with him at the 101 freeway. As Zaragoza was taken into custody, he remained un-cooperative and struggled with the officers. After Zaragoza was in custody, it was discovered that he had a puncture wound in his chest from being stabbed in the earlier fight. He was also found to be in possession of methamphet-amine and drug paraphernalia, and he had an outstanding felony warrant for failing to appear in court and three misdemeanor warrants for violating his probation. He was transported to VCMC and admitted for treatment of his stab wound. None of the other parties involved in the fight were located.Vehicle Tampering On Thursday, November 13th, at 2:56 a.m., the VPD received a call in response to two suspicious subjects casing vehicles in the 2200 block of Fawn Avenue. Officers observed the suspects, Juan Castillo and Esteban Oseguera, walking on Wildcat Avenue and attempting to open the doors of several parked vehicles. Oseguera was detained. Castillo f led to a waiting vehicle that sped away from the area. Other officers observed this vehicle as it drove out of the neighborhood and conducted an enforcement stop. The driver, Vanessa Luna, was found to have Castillo in the rear passenger seat of her vehicle. Officers determined that Castillo and Oseguera had been dropped off on Fawn Avenue by Luna and proceeded to check the door handles of parked vehicles in the neighborhood. Several victim vehicles were identified and officers made contact with the owners who confirmed that their vehicles had been tampered with. Luna was also found to be under the inf luence of a controlled substance. All three suspects were booked into the VC Main Jail.

Attempted Carjacking On Friday, November 14th, at 10:48 p.m., the VPD received a call of an attempt car jacking that just occurred in the Ralph’s parking lot on Victoria Avenue. Officers arrived and determined that the suspect, Juan Soto, approached the victim as he sat in his vehicle and demanded that the victim exit his vehicle and give Soto his keys. When the victim refused to comply, Soto then brandished a handgun. The victim yelled out that he was being robbed and continued to refuse to comply. Soto then got into the passenger side of another vehicle that was waiting in the parking lot and sped out of the area. Officers searched the area for the vehicle but did not locate it. 20 minutes later, the VPD received a call of a car jacking in the 700 Block of Empire Avenue. While the victim was exiting her vehicle, after just parking it, Soto approached on foot and demanded her keys while placing a handgun in her side. In fear for her life, the victim complied with Soto’s orders and gave him her keys. Soto then f led in the victim’s vehicle. Officer’s searched the surrounding area but did not locate the vehicle. The following day, 3:30 a.m., officers from the California Highway Patrol located the victim’s vehicle abandoned at the intersection of Rice Avenue and Gonzales Road in Oxnard. The victim’s vehicle was later returned to her. On November 16th, at 11:01 a.m., officers located and arrested Soto. He was booked at the VC Jail.

11-4 7:20 a.m. Patrol investigated diesel in the water at Harbor Village Marina and located the alledged source as a fishing vessel with approx-imately ten gallons of water in the bilge. Patrol notified the appropriate agencies and issued the vessel’s owner a citation for the violation.5:17 p.m. FCC dispatched Patrol and others to a medical assist at the Ventura Marina Community. Patrol responded and assessed the patient. AMR transported the patient to the hospital.11-5 11:07 a.m. Patrol received a phone call from a man at Harbor Village reporting he was sick. Patrol advised him to contact 9-1-1 and then responded. AMR transported the patient to the hospital.7:19 p.m. Patrol observed a disabled hoopnetting boat by the breakwater. They towed it to the launch ramp.9:28 p.m. A hoopnetter reports he wrapped a line around his boat’s propellor and requests a tow. Patrol responded, took the vessel into tow and released it at the launch ramp.11-6 12:29 p.m. FCC dispatched Patrol and others to a medical assist at the Ventura Marina Community. Patrol responded. AMR transported the patient to the hospital.4:10 p.m. FCC dispatched Patrol and others to a medical assist at Ventura Harbor Village. Patrol responded. The patient declined being transported to

Ventura Police Department receives grant The Ventura Police Department has been awarded a $95,000.00 grant from the California Office of Traffic Safety (OTS) for a year-long program of special enforcements and public awareness efforts to prevent traffic related deaths and injuries. Ventura Police Department will use the funding as part of the city’s ongoing commitment to keep our roadways safe and improve the quality of life through both enforcement and education. “Safe Streets are an important element of preventing harm in our Community. The proactive policing efforts that take place under the funding provided through this grant plays an important role in our efforts make our roadways safer,” commented Police Chief Ken Corney. After falling dramatically between 2006 and 2010, the number of persons killed and injured in traffic collisions saw slight increases in 2011 and 2012. Particularly worrisome are recent increases in pedestrian and motorcycle fatalities and the dangers of distracting

the hospital11-7 11:55 a.m. FCC dispatched Patrol and others to a lift assist at Ventura Harbor Village. Patrol responded and with help from AMR, assisted the person in getting off the ground.11-9 7:06 p.m. The Dockmaster reports a fishing vessel sunk in its slip at Harbor Village Marina. Patrol notified USCG and others. Boom was deployed to contain any fuel that might spill. USCG would not allow salvage efforts to occur at night. The operation was secured until morning.

technologies. This grant funding will provide opportunities to combat these and other devastating problems such as drunk and drugged driving and speeding. “Activities that the grant will fund include: Educational presentations DUI checkpoints DUI saturation patrols Distracted driving enforcement Speed, red light, and stop sign enforcement Warrant service operations targeting multiple DUI offenders Compilation of DUI “Hot Sheets,” identifying worst-of-the-worst DUI offenders Specialized DUI and drugged driving training such as Standardized Field Sobriety Testing (SFST), Advanced Roadside Impaired Driving Enforcement (ARIDE), and Drug Recognition Evaluator (DRE) Court “sting” operations to cite individuals driving from DUI court after ignoring their license suspension or revocation Stakeout operations to observe the “worst-of-the-worst” repeat DUI offender probationers with suspended or revoked driver licenses Funding for this program is from the California Office of Traffic Safety through the National Highway Traffic Safety Administration.

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Michelle Cekov leads GOCARE, Inc. as its new president GOCARE is proud to announce Michelle Cekov as its new President and CEO. Following the passing of GOCARE’s founder Jan Lindsay, Cekov had the determination to step up to the plate in an effort to continue to build the organization by helping the disadvan-taged communities of Nicaragua, and to honor her father’s legacy. Stepping into this new role, Cekov will be taking the lead on all major projects of GOCARE. The next step is to open 10 new learning and community centers in Nicaragua. The organization is working diligently with the Rotary Club of Ventura East and the Rotary Club of Managua, with the grant of $200,000 to furnish and equip three centers over the next few years. The two new communities are in La Union and Cuajachillo Dos. In July, GOCARE closed escrow on a property in San Ignacio, with the plan to move its existing preschool to the new location; as well as offering computer courses, language courses and adult education programs. “I’m looking forward to what’s ahead for GOCARE, including the

News and Notesvision of the new community centers,” explains Cekov. “Our scholars have become leaders in their community and it’s amazing to see them blossom. As a team leader, I want to continu-ously focus on mastering the fun-damentals of our organization by maintaining our values and making education in Nicaragua our number one priority.” Since GOCARE’s inception in 2001, Cekov has served as the orga-nization’s treasurer working behind the scenes, overseeing the compli-ance of its programs, accounting and employees in both Ventura County and Nicaragua. She has owned and operated her own bookkeep-ing business servicing small busi-nesses and nonprofit organizations. She currently works at California Designers Choice Custom Cabinetry, Inc. as its bookkeeper, and recently retired after 30 years from Lindsay and Company, CPA. Other new promotions and board members of GOCARE include: Pamela Lindsay, Vice President; David Lindsay, Secretary and Director of Educational Programs; and new Charitable Board Member, Steven Klinger of Scosche Industries, Inc. GOCARE Inc. is a nonprofit 501(c)(3) charity. Throughout its tenure, GOCARE Inc. has worked closely with local residents and communi-ties to create and implement educa-tional, health and economic develop-ment programs into its curriculum, including adult education through reading and math, pre-school, day care, computer instruction, English instruction and vocational training. GOCARE Inc. is a legal nongov-ernmental organization that has been recognized by the Nicaragua Ministry of Education as an exemplary model for adult education courses. To date, GOCARE Inc. has helped more than 1,300 students graduate from its programs with the core philosophy of the “Come Back to Give Back” mentorship and leadership. While pursuing college degrees, students become mentors and leaders within their Nicaraguan communities and help “give back” by teaching others to assist them out of extreme poverty into a bright, successful future. For more information about GOCARE Inc. or to make a donation, please call 805-650-5915 or visit www.gocarekids.org.

Arriaga led the district for 14 years.

Trudy Tuttle Arriaga will join Cal Lutheran faculty Ventura Unified School District Superintendent Trudy Tuttle Arriaga will retire in 2015 and join the faculty of California Lutheran University’s Graduate School of Education. Arriaga will leave her position in summer after leading the district for 14 years, the longest tenure of any sitting superintendent in Ventura County. She will become a Distin-guished Educator in Residence at Cal Lutheran in fall, teaching classes in the master’s and doctoral programs. She began working for the Ventura district in 1975 as a paraeducator and went on to serve as a teacher, assistant principal, principal and director before being appointed as the first female superintendent. Under Arriaga’s leadership, the Ventura district’s dropout rate has decreased, and attendance and graduation rates have increased. Student achievement has consis-tently improved at all grade levels and across all student subgroups. Seventeen of the district’s 27 schools have an Academic Performance Index exceeding the target of 800.

Get ready to run in Santa to the Sea half marathon and relay race Join the race! Nearly 4,000 runners are expected to participate in this year’s 7th Annual Santa to the Sea Half Marathon, 2-person relay race, 5K run and 1K kids fun run on December 14. All races start at 8 a.m., except the 1K kids run which starts at 8:45 a.m. The half marathon begins at the giant Santa located at 2801 Ventura Blvd., Oxnard, goes through the strawberry

Sportsfields in Oxnard and a new business park before heading to downtown Oxnard and the Historic District and ends at the Marine Emporium Landing in Channel Islands Harbor. The 5K run and 1K kids fun run start and finish at the Marine Emporium Landing. The 5K course goes along Oxnard Beach Park to Rehab Point, where runners turn around and then head back to the finish line. Participants are asked to bring a new, unwrapped toy (of at least a $10 value) to the starting line; all proceeds and gifts will be donated to the 11th annual toy giveaway at Santa Park on Dec. 20. All participants must register before the race; there is no race-day registration. For more information or to register, visit www.santatothesea.com, or call Mike Barber at 485-7233.

Black Widows for Thanksgiving? Football and Thanksgiving make a perfect pair! Saturday, November 29, Ventura’s own Black Widows women’s tackle football team hosts a “6-on-6” tournament featuring the Central Valley Mustangs (Modesto, CA) and the Nevada Storm (Reno, NV). The teams will compete round-robin style to claim first place. This is a free event. Come out and join the fun! Kickoff at 11:00 a.m., Ventura Community Park, 901 S. Kimball Rd. Established in 2009, The Ventura Black Widows provide women an oppor-tunity to learn and play tackle football. Want to know more? Want to play? Friend on Facebook, follow on Twitter @Vta_Blackwidows and Instagram @black-widows_football. The Black Widows, the Mustangs, and the Storm are members of the In-dependent Women’s Football League, or IWFL. Please visit their website at www.iwf lsports.com.

School

The lifelong Ventura resident went through Ventura Unified School District, starting in kindergarten at Will Rogers Elementary School and graduating from Ventura High School. The high school’s gymnasium is named after her father, Coach Bob Tuttle. Arriaga earned a bachelor’s degree in communicative disorders from San Diego State University, a master’s degree in educational administra-tion and supervision from California State University, Northridge, and a doctorate in educational policy, planning and administration from the University of Southern California.

Keeping the Promise alive for Ventura College Students More than 1,100 Ventura County high school graduates will attend their first year of Ventura College free of charge, thanks to the Ventura College Promise, a revolutionary grant program launched in 2006 by the Ventura College Foundation. The program distributed $195,000 in grants to students for the fall 2014 semester. VCF anticipates an addi-tional $150,000 will be granted to students for spring 2015, raising the total to approximately $345,000 for the 2014/2015 academic year. Designed to eliminate economic barriers to higher education for grad-uating Ventura County high school seniors, and students who receive their GED, the “Promise” encourages students to further their education and reach their academic goals. “Promise” students have a higher retention rate because 82 percent attend Ventura College full-time—versus 46 percent of the general student population—and use the services available to them on campus, including the Lending Library and scholarships for year two. Promise students also can participate in the Promise Peer Mentoring program, where a peer mentor is available to answer questions and provide guidance. For the fall 2014 semester, 46 percent of the Promise participants are first-generation college students. Students come from throughout the county, with the highest numbers coming from Oxnard, Santa Paula and Ventura. The most popular areas of study for Promise students are nursing, business, psychology and engineering. Established in 1983, the Ventura College Foundation provides financial support to the students and the programs of Ventura College to fa-cilitate student success and grow the impact and legacy of Ventura College as a vital community asset. The Foundation also hosts the Ventura College Foundation Marketplace, an outdoor shopping experience held every weekend on the Ventura College campus east parking lot. For more information, contact Norbert Tan at 289-6160 or [email protected]. Or visit www.venturacollege.edu/foundation.


Michael StewartContinued from page 1personality and spending countless hours helping students excel in the subject of math. This award follows Stewart’s achievements as the recipient of the 2014 Ventura County Mathematic Council’s “Outstanding Teacher of Mathematics” award and the 2014 Jewelry Couture “Most Inspiring Teacher” award. Math department chair and presenter at the various Common Core training programs, Mr. Stewart was awarded the VCEF Teacher of the Month in honor of his leadership in and out of the classroom. “Buena High School is very lucky to have an individual with the caliber of Michael Stewart,” said Mike Irving, principal at Buena High School. “He is an exciting instructor with a passion for mathematics and student learning. With a phenomenal personality and good humor, he motivates his students to become interested in the world of math.” Principals and parent-teacher organi-zations from schools within the Ventura Unified School District are all eligible to nominate any teacher(s). Nominees must be a credentialed teacher, and should display certain qualities, including the demon-stration of an outstanding dedication to students, service on school or district com-mittees, and projects on their own time and/or participation in youth-focused activities in the community. The VCEF, under the auspices of the Ventura Chamber of Commerce, works to provide a business link to the economic, educational, cultural and environmental interests of the Ventura regional community. For more information about the Teacher of the Month program, please contact Pattie Braga, chair, at [email protected] or 477-4052.

Christian CenterContinued from page 1Located at TLCC, the “Employment Aptitude and Placement Association” (EAPA), helps people get through the per-plexities of attaining employment. For absolutely no cost to the employer or the job seeker, TLCC will help the job seeker prepare a resume, look for job openings, apply for jobs on-line and schedule inter-views. This service is especially helpful for people that are not comfortable or knowl-edgeable in computer skills and for people that have limited access to computers. “Our vision is to help greatly reduce the employment, housing and unat-tended psychological and medical needs of individuals in our community,” said the Reverend Luther Mc Curtis. “Our mission is to continue our work in Ventura County by serving the hurting humanity and helping to alleviate the pain and suffering. Our featured project is EAPA, through which we are there to help people, regardless of their place in the community, to find available jobs.” All of the efforts to help the community are funded by faith donations and the hard work of those who believe in the TLCC mission. “We have been going strong for decades with not a cent from city, state or federal grants,” says Reverend Mc Curtis. “One of our fund raising projects is the production of the “Miracle Pillow”. This is a cervical neck pillow, which was designed by a local chiropractor and is produced at the center by hand. It is available through the center or on-line at etsy.com. The proceeds of which help us fund the services we provide at the center.” Another free service provided is the “Dinner and a Movie Night” that is held every Friday at 6pm. Through this weekly event, TLCC feeds the homeless a hot dinner and provides them with a movie and a safe place to sit for a few hours. “Everyone on the Avenue knows Rev. Mc Curtis. There are so many people from the community that continually come to the center for help and support, both physically and spiritually,” said JoJo Brown, a volunteer at TLCC. “Rev. Mc Curtis has opened his church and his heart to many people, including myself.”These are hard times and as a non-profit, TLCC would like to challenge prospective donors to one of the basic tenets of their vision and continued legacy; solidifying human service needs. Please give generously to the charity of your choice, especially during this holiday season.

Dan ParanickContinued from page 1fessional experience and knowledge of citywide business operations will allow him to hit the ground running and help us meet the goals directed by the City Council,” said City Manager Mark Watkins. “I’m excited about returning to work in a full-service city and being part of the team that finds solutions to help realize the full potential of Ventura,” said Paranick. “I’m looking forward to my new role and can’t wait to start meeting with the community.” Mr. Paranick was selected through an open competitive recruitment process from more than 90 applicants and he will take over the position on December 8. Paranick, who was born in Ventura, holds a Master’s Degree in Public Admin-istration with a concentration in City and County Management from Arizona State University and a Bachelor’s Degree in Political Science from University of Califor-nia, Los Angeles. He enjoys spending time with his fiancé Samantha, and his two

The YMCA presents Team Leadership Last year 44% of college graduates were reportedly underemployed according to the Federal Reserve Bank of New York. To address this problem and to help high school students better prepare for college and landing a job after graduation, the Ventura Family YMCA’s Teen Leadership Program is seeking members. Over an 18 week session, high school students will visit a university, build a resume, participate in mock interviews, and presentations. They will even be paired with a professional mentor to help guide them through career develop-ment and planning! The Y’s Youth Programs Director, Sarah Abrams, couldn’t be more excited about Teen Leadership. “I feel very pas-sionate about helping our youth excel throughout their lives, so the success of this program makes me feel very proud about the work we do for our community.” Y members may join for a discounted rate of $300 for the 18 week session, while Program Members may join for $350. Registrations are open November 21st and scholarships are available for those who are in need financial assis-tance. Teen Leadership will begin the third week of January and end the first week of June, with meetings running 1-2 hours each week. For more information logon to ciymca.org/ventura, or visit the Ventura Family YMCA at 3760 Telegraph Road, Ventura, CA 93003. If you have you have any questions email Sarah Abrams at Sarah. [email protected] or 642.2131.

This ’n’ That

Good Morning, Many of us were distressed to learn that getting the dogs out of the kennel was not allowed (During the truck explosion in Santa Paula)… We would like the fire department to explain why the dogs were not allowed to rescued. The CARL shelter kennel is located at 901 Mission Rock Road, a mere .14 miles from the explosion at 815 Mission Rock Rd. Pets are saved from extremely dangerous situations on a regular basis, very often by the fire department, why not dogs that need to be rescued again?Sincerely,Kelli O’Toole

MailboxContinued from page 5more logical location. Both are on the Main St/Thompson Corridor which gets a lot more residential traffic than our area.(Note that around 50% of the recyclables coming into our Vons Seaward location are from transients versus residents and most of the recyclables are stolen from our trash cans. I am sure that this is not the intent related to having recycle centers. We (The Pierpont Community Council and the Keys Homeowners Assoc.) need to get the appropriate City departments involved to make a case for relocating the Vons Seaward recycle center to a place more centrally located for us and the Midtown Super-markets.George Robertson

Answer in a Breeze

Q: I have always used the “Allesandro shortcut” to go from Seaward to Sanjon (Or is it San Jon?)and recently it has been blocked off. How can the city just block off a street?BethVenturaA: Allesandro was always meant to be a cul-de-sac and was never supposed to be a through street. You have probably noticed that after the

cul-de-sac (coming from Seaward) Allesandro is dirt and not even paved. People just started using this as a through street because they could. The few people living on Allesandro did not like this being used in this way and asked the city to barricade it from through traffic which they did. Have a question, send it to [email protected] and we will try to get you an answer?

Foster parenting As a foster parent, you become a link in a lifelong chain. You can provide

the unconditional healing, support, and guidance that can help a child and siblings thrive and grow as every child needs. When children have been removed from their families for whatever period of time, they especially need a loving parent to tuck them into bed, provide comfort and play, prepare meals with them, and even encourage them to go to college. If you are looking for a way to make a difference in the world, make a world of difference in the life of a child by becoming a foster parent. Children and Family Services welcome you to attend an open informational meeting to help you decide if foster parenting is the right choice for you. About Ventura County Human Services Agency, Foster VC Kids. Ventura County Human Services Agency (VCHSA) strengthens families, supports self-sufficiency and promotes safety, health, and well-being. All of their service areas operate and perform at the highest level to meet the needs of individuals, families, and the community by providing assistance, aid, and protection for foster youth and beyond. VCHSA demonstrates the ability to work in multicultural envi-ronments and ensures that policies, programs, and actions communicate respect for the dignity of all people. Visitwww.fostervckids.org for more in-formation. Who: Foster VC Kids What: Ventura County Foster Parent Informational Meeting When: Tuesday, 6-8 p.m January 6, 2015 January 27, 2015 April 28, 2015 May 19, 2015 June 30, 2015 Saturday, 9-11 a.m February 21, 2015 March 21, 2014* Where: Most meetings are held at the Human Services Agency, 855 Partridge Drive, Ventura.* Meeting at Cornerstone Church 2080 Winifred Street, Simi Valley

daughters Kendall 11, and Emma, 8. The Assistant City Manager position was eliminated from the City budget in 2013-14 and reinstated in the 2013-14 budget cycle; the position has been vacant since September 2013.


Birdman

Review by Andrea [email protected]

In this, the latest film by acclaimed writer/director Alejandro Iñárritu, actors are both exalted and spoofed as they rehearse a stage version of a Raymond Carver story. Shakespeare, also known to stage a play within a play, would appreciate this seamless blend between backstage and onstage drama. It’s challenging at first to determine whether we’re watching a play or the film characters’ interac-tions, but hang in there. It’s worth it. Iñárritu is the antithesis of predict-ability, with dynamics that range from heartfelt drama to Borscht belt shtick. The role of Riggan Thomson, popular action hero turned theater director, is a major tour de force for Michael Keaton, and a stellar turn as well for Edward Norton as Mike, as the method actor who needles him. The Norton/Keaton chemistry burns white hot as the two antagonize and exploit one other, fighting about what constitutes real acting. In a preview for the play, Mike breaks character when he discovers that Riggan has swapped his gin on the set for water, and confronts him angrily in front of the live audience. “I don’t pretend out here!” he rages as the curtain comes down with a thunk. During the course of the movie, we see various permutations of scenes from the play in rehearsal, and it seems as though the actors go a little further in their roles each time. Riggan wrestling his demons onstage and off is cathartic for both character and viewer. Will his detractors destroy him, or will he destroy himself ? Is he delusional or divinely inspired by the voice inside his head? Riggan’s daughter, Sam (a punked out Emma Stone) regards her father’s play as insignificant artifice, that the only way to matter is to “go viral.” When she plays Truth or Dare with Mike, it’s both a mating ritual and a conversation about relevance. There’s a lot of posturing in this scene, but I fully bought their cat and mouse courtship and the kiss that came out of nowhere. Jazzy drumming moves the story forward in what appears to be one long tracking shot, a cinematic feat that takes us through the bowels of the St.James Theater. It’s a subterranean world of low ceilings, whitewashed brick walls, tacky patterned carpets, and iron stage doors that open onto garbage strewn alleys. You may come away confused, as I was, by the ending, but also with a deep abiding respect for the actor’s craft, since they must

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Two on the Aisle

Murder and merriment masterfully mixed in SPTCby Jim Spencer and Shirley Lorraine

A shot rings out in a crowded theater. An actor falls. It’s not part of the play. It’s for real. But whodunit? If you are one of the millions who enjoy a mystery and lots of laughs, then The Game’s Afoot; or Holmes for the Holiday, at the Santa Paula Theater Center is for you. Playwright Ken Ludwig has combined all these elements, plus secret revolving panels, a room full of potential murder weapons, and quirky characters at a Christmas get-together, to create a rollick-ing holiday mystery farce. The year is 1936. Broadway actor William Gillette has been mysteri-ously shot while portraying his signature character – Sherlock Holmes. During his recuperation, Gillette invites a group as-sociated with the show to a Christmas Eve celebration at his new country mansion where he plans to use some of Sherlock’s techniques to unmask the shooter. The guests include an acerbic drama critic who ends up as a corpse midway into the evening. There are multiple plot twists, false confessions, red herrings gloriously galore, and the inevitable police inspector for Holmesian actor Gillette to assist in unwinding the games that are afoot. The ensuing hilarity and mayhem are expertly accomplished under the direction of Fred Helsel, who is also the Santa Paula Theater Center’s long time Managing Director. Helsel is a practiced master of the diverse subtle, broad and physical comedy he has elegantly instilled into the piece to produce a fast paced, thoroughly rewarding entertainment experience. Polish and sparkle are added to play-wright Ludwig’s and director Helsel’s efforts by a talented cast, many with sig-nificant and lengthy professional credits. Goran Ivanovski plays actor Gillette with just the right mix of suave demeanor and near panic throughout. Clear diction and subtle facial expressions accent the physical aspects beautifully. His doddering mother, Martha, is played with broad strokes by Rosemary Bird. She is a delight, keeping the audience in stitches with her forthright character. Peggy Steketee takes obvious relish in her

all put aside their demons, addictions, and character f laws in service of their craft.Movie Rated R. 119 minutes / Comedy, DramaNow playing at Ventura Cinemark We are sorry to inform you that this will be Andrea’s last review for the Breeze. She has taken on several other fun things in life. We wish to thank her for her wonderful contribution to the paper and wish her the best in her future endeavors.

outlandish turn as the deliciously caustic journalist Daria Chase, playing her role to the utmost even after death. Not to be outdone, Sindy McKay gives her portrayal of Inspector Goring a modicum of panache as well. Art Peters and Andrew Garrett are solid as two fellow actors, Felix Geisel and Simon Bright, respectively. Their wives, ably played by Penny Krevenas and Tammy Mora, keep the action moving with surprises of their own. Period-suggesting costuming is well handled by Barbara Pedziwiatr and the stage is suitably appointed with touches that add to the 1930s drawing room feel. This is a farce so there is much use of multiple entryways, doors and useful props scattered about. As the 2014 season of Nutcrackers and Christmas Carols begins, SPTC offers a show that is different and fun for the holiday lineup. The Game’s Afoot; or Holmes for the Holidays continues until December 21 at the Santa Paula Theater Center, 125 S. 7th St., Santa Paula. Fridays and Saturdays-8 p.m. Sundays-2:30 p.m. Adults-$20. Seniors and students-$18. Children-$15. Reservations 525-4645 or www.santapau latheatercenter.org.

Principal dancer Haley Henderson Smith grew up in Oxnard.

The Nutcracker at Ventura College All American Ballet (AAB) of Ventura will present its annual produc-tion of The Nutcracker on Saturday, December 20 at 2:00 p.m. and 5:30 p.m. and Sunday, December 21 at 2:00 p.m. at Ventura College Performing Arts Center, 4700 Loma Vista Rd . This year’s production will highlight Ballet West principal dancer and AAB alumna Haley Henderson Smith, who will perform the role of Sugar Plum Fairy. She will partner with her husband and recent Ballet West soloist, Easton Smith. Haley Henderson grew up in Oxnard, and trained from age 8-16 with AAB’s founder and Artistic Director, Clarissa Boeriu. The cast includes student dancers from All American Ballet and Santa Barbara Festival Ballet. Advanced All American Ballet students in the show this year include Katrin Frantz, 16, of Ojai, performing the role of Clara and Genae Matthews, 17, of Ventura, as Fritz, Rat Capitaine and Solo Russian Dancer; Lindsay Cortes, 13, of Oxnard, as Clara’s Friend and Miss Lollypop and Christy Guglielmo, 13, of Camarillo, as Clara’s Friend and Lead Chinese Dancer. Tickets are $30, $25, $20 and $10 for children 10 and under. Senior and group discounts are available. To order tickets, visit AAB’s website at www.aaballet.org or call 650-6316.

Couple recognized for their bravery by fire department

Good Samaritan’s save life of surfer On Thursday, November 20 good Samaritan’s Vanessa and Luis Gudino were honored at the Ventura City Fire Station #1, located at 717 N. Ventura Ave. for their heroic efforts in saving 73-year old surfer Tom Rowe who was knocked unconscious while leaving the water on October 14. They were presented with Fire Chief ’s Award certificates recognizing their bravery. The Gudino’s were walking on the beach, by Surfer’s Point when they noticed a swimmer face down in the water, getting sucked out to sea by the strong currents. He was not moving and appeared to be unconscious and was turning blue. Luis ran into the water and assisted Tom while Vanessa called 911. Luis applied basic CPR, pushing on his chest until Tom coughed up water and starting breathing. At the presentation Fire Captain David Mendoza said, “I believe that without their help, Tom would not have survived.” Fire Capt. David Mendoza stated “Basically, without Luis, I don’t think Tom would have survived,” Mendoza said. “I decided we’ve got to try to do something so both he and Vanessa to recognize what they did and get a little recognition.” Tom and his family were also be there to finally thank Vanessa and Luis and to embrace them and do a little crying.

Jon Leslie rejoins BBM&D Strategic Branding Ventura-based BBM&D Strategic Branding announced today that Jon Leslie has rejoined the firm leaving the agency in 2004 to pursue a freelance career. With over sixteen years of experience in the industry, Jon worked with BBM&D for nearly a decade; art directing a wide range of local, regional and national client brands. His work spans the creative services spectrum including multiple media—from print to web. He has won a number of creative awards and has been published in benchmark industry books. His work was accepted at the into the Central St. Martins College of Art & Design in London. Jon’s background focuses on high level design, but his primary interest is in social media development and plans to head up the new Social Media division at BBM&D.


ARIES (March 21 to April 19) There could be an unexpected change in plans for your upcoming holiday travels. But keep in mind that a little f lexibility goes a long way in resolving any disappointments.TAURUS (April 20 to May 20) A new relationship might not be responding quite as quickly as you’d hoped. Could you be expecting too much too soon? Try to ease up and let things happen at their own pace.GEMINI (May 21 to June 20) As we approach the frenetic pace of pre-hol-iday planning, take time out now to reconnect with the wonderful people who share your life, especially the one who also shares your dreams.CANCER ( June 21 to July 22) A mis-understanding should be resolved before you get caught up in the f lurry of holiday preparations. Set your pride aside and deal with it, regardless of who might have hurt whom first.LEO ( July 23 to August 22) Being told that a colleague might have been trying to undercut your effectiveness might or might not be true. Get all the facts before you even think about acting on this so-called information.VIRGO (August 23 to September 22) It’s a good idea to start your holiday preparation plans early in order to avoid a time crunch if an unresolved workplace situation causes a problem. That old friend might have some

welcome news.LIBRA (September 23 to October 22) A family member’s actions continue to surprise you, but this time with positive results. Could be your wise counsel finally got through. It’s like having an early holiday gift, isn’t it?SCORPIO (October 23 to November 21) Your reluctance to act in a current situation could be traced to your inner self advising you to take more time to study its complexities before you attempt to deal with it. Good luck.SAGITTARIUS (November 22 to December 21) Soothing hurt feelings before they can ignite an angry outburst is the wise thing to do. And, of course, when it comes to doing the “wisdom thing,” you do it so well.CAPRICORN (December 22 to January 19) Budget your time so that you can handle both your workplace duties and your personal holiday planning -- including travel arrange-ments -- without burning out on either end.AQUARIUS ( January 20 to February 18) You might find that you still need to firm up one or two of those still-outstanding decisions so that you finally can move forward as you had planned. Weigh the facts, then act.PISCES (February 19 to March 20) You usually don’t carry grudges, but you might feel this is one time when you’re justified in doing so. But aren’t you spending too much energy holding onto it? Let it go and move on.BORN THIS WEEK: You have a way of using your quiet strength to persuade people to follow their better instincts and do the right thing.

(c) 2014 King Features Synd., Inc.

Lighter BreezeSolutions on page 17

Mother Goose and Grimm

Zits

Baby Blues

Solutions on page 17

Tiger

(For a beginners guide to playing Sudoku go to venturabreeze.com)

Crock

Blondie

22 October 29 – November 11, 2014 Ventura BREEZE Ventura Music SceneVentura Music Scene

Ventura Music Scene

Getting into the swing of thingsby Pam BaumgardnerVenturaRocks.com

It’s good to have Alistair Greene back after hitting the road with Mickey Thomas and Starship earlier this month. Thomas is the voice behind such hits as “Jane,” “Find Your Way Back” (Jefferson Starship), and “We Built this City” as well as “Sara” (Starship). Greene told me, “I’m very fortunate to have the chance to play with such a legendary singer and band as Starship featuring Mickey Thomas. I’m filling in for my buddy John Roth who is on tour with Winger at the moment. Mickey and the band sound amazing, and it’s a blast playing all those great hits from his career. He still sounds like he did in the 70s!” Nothing like a big band dance to get you into the holiday spirits! Ventura Jazz Orchestra’s Holiday Swing soiree with the vocal styling’s of Donna Greene will be at the Poin-settia Pavilion on Friday, December 5, featuring great songs from all eras you can dance to. Call for ticket infor-mation at 648-1143. Speaking of a throwback to a “simpler” time, The Saloon BBQ at 456 E. Main Street will be throwing a bash also on Friday, December 5, with a Prohibition Repeal party, “The 21st Amendment Jubilee”. There will be beverage specials all day long with live music starting at 8:00 with The Rachel Sorsa Band and their 1930’s style of jazz. Chris Jensen from 50 Sticks of Dynamite gave me the head’s up about a project he’s been working on with fellow Ventura musicians, Evan Gosworth, Roy Katnic, Paddy Marsh, Brad Strickland and Gary Sula-Goff. It’s a Grateful Dead tribute band called Nine Mile Skid. They have a couple of dates lined up including December 10 at Green Art People, then on December 28 at Amigos’s on Main Street. Under new ownership, Rock City Studios in Camarillo will be pulling out all the stops for their grand re-opening on Friday, December 5, with the national touring act, Dead Sara. The Galvanized Souls will open the show. The Golden China is offering more music more often along with their nightly Karaoke. Thursdays continue to offer swing, Fridays have a DJ with Cumbia music and now Sunday evenings will be devoted to Reggae. Don’t forget they have an open mic night Tuesdays starting at 6:00 with the back line provided. And the kitchen is open until 1:30am.

The whole family will enjoy the street fair along Main Street in downtown Ventura on December 6. What a great way to get unique gift ideas for the holidays including the highly prized VenturaRocks.com t-shirt! The Winter Wine Walk kicks off at 4:00 with snowfall at California and Main beginning at 6:45. Music will be provided by The Bomb, The Midnight Band and the British Beats. And finally, congratulations to Todd Hannigan on his recent marriage to artist Brigette Lopez. They tied the knot in November in Ojai. I can’t wait to hear the music she’ll be inspiring out of him! If you have any music related news or upcoming shows you want help publicizing? Send all information short or long to [email protected].

Music CalendarFor more events go to VenturaRocks.com

Amigos Cafe & Cantina546 E. Main St.805-874-2232Mondays: 6 pm Karen and Joe; 8:30 pm Joey’s Blues JamTuesdays: 6 pm Nathan McEuen; 8:30 Catfish & Doug’s Blues Swing JamWednesdays: 6 pm Jazz on Main Street; 9 pm Mark Masson and FriendsThursday: Gypsy Blues BandFri 11/28 – 6 pm Safire; Jan Michael & the VincentsSat 11/29 – 6 pm Camp Franco; 9 pm Little Johnny & the GiantsSun 11/30 – 6 pm Preston SmithFri 12/5 – 6 pm LA Jazz; 9 pm Los DudesSat 12/6 – 9 pm Caliente 805 BandSun 12/7 – 6 pm The Tossers Billy O’s2819 E. Main Street(805) 652-0327Mondays: Motown MondaysTuesdays: Open Jam NightSat 11 29 – All-a-Blur, Death BenefitSat 12/6 – The Last AllyanceBombay Bar & Grill143 S. California St.805-643-4404Live Music every Wed thru SunWednesdays – Tommy Marsh and Bad DogThursdays – Musician’s Brew with CosoSat 12/6 – Autism Rocks: Graveyard Kings, Mother of Dissension, Radio Threat, more…Café Fiore66 S. California Street805-653-1266Wed 11/26 –Donna ButlerFri 11/28 – Brandon RaganSat 11/29 – Sound EffectTues 12/2 – DanistellaWed 12/3 – Bryan McCannThurs 12/4 – Rick WhitfieldFri 12/5 – InStoneSat 12/6 – Otis Hayes

Tues 12/9 – Bernie Meisinger & FriendsThe Cave4435 McGrath Street(805) 642-9449Sat 11/28 – 5:30 pm Warren TakahashiDargan’s Irish Pub593 E. Main Street805-648-3001Sun 12/7 – Sunday Drivers (4 pm)El Rey Cantina294 E. Main StreetFridays 4 pmXoco Moraza and FriendsGigi’s Cocktails2493 Grand Avenue(805) 642-2411Mondays: Maggie’s Drawers open micThurs & Fri: KaraokeSat 11/29 – Maggie’s DrawersGolden China760 S. Seaward(805) 652-0688Karaoke seven nights a weekSwing night Thursdays 6:30 pmCumbia music Fridays with DJ Carlos at 9:30 pmReggae music Sunday 9:30 pmGrapes & Hops454 E. Main StreetWed 11/26 – Davey Miller JazzSat 11/29 – 8 pm Shawn JonesSun 11/30 – 3 pm Jade HendrixThurs 12/4 – 7 pm Shawn JonesFri 12/5 – 8 pm Funk O’PhonicsSat 12/6 – 8 pm The Jazz JunkiesGreen Art People140 N. Ventura AvenueWednesdays 6:30 – 9:30 pm11/26 – Hip E Mark – Alice’s Restau-rant Anti Massacre12/3 – Phil Salazar & Friends; Mike Fishell & Bill Flores openingThe Hong Kong Inn435 E. Thompson BlvdFri & Sat 7:30 pm: Tina’s Ports of ParadiseTues: open mic with Seaside bandFri 12/5 – 10 pm The Velveteen Band, MostlyThe Keynote Lounge10245 E. Telephone Road805-647-9390Tues & Weds – KaraokeThurs – Open mic jamFri 11/28 – What the FunkSat 11/29 – Magnificent BastardsFri 12/5 – Custom MadeSat 12/6 – Action DownMajestic Ventura Theater26 S. Chestnut Street805-653-0721Wed 11/26 – Sage the Gemini, Iamsu, Fly at its BestSat 11/29 – G-Eazy, E-40, Jay AntFri 12/5 – Molotav, Neblina, Venum RushSat 12/6 – Eric Hutchinson, Tristan PettymanMilano’s Italian RestaurantVentura Harbor(805) 658-03882nd & 4th Tuesdays12/9 – Bluesgrass jamPaddy’s2 W. Main Street(805) 652-1071Fri & SatsDJsThe Patio at Player’s Casino6580 Auto Center Drive805-643-13928:00 – 11:00 PMFri 11/28 – Sean WigginsSat 11/29 – Sound EffectFri 12/5 – Brian Batchley Band

Sat 12/6 – Jeanne Tatum BandPeirano’s 204 E. Main Street(805) 648-4853Fri 11/28 – The Lola Haag Jazz QuartetPierpont Inn550 San Jon Road(805) 643-6144Fridays 7-9 pm: Ken MinardiSaturdays 6-9 pm: Mark AnthonyRed Cove1809 E. Main Street(805) 643-1101Sat 11/29 – Blues BulletFri 12/5 – Rocket 68, PremonitionRookees Sports Bar & Grill419 E. Main Street (805) 648-6862Friday and Saturdays10 pm Rotating DJsSaloon BBQ Co.456 E. Main StreetThurs 11/27 – Matt SeltzerFri 11/28 – Mark SellersSat 11/29 – Steve & Sally WilliamsSun 11/30 – Rich SheldonSat 12/5 – Rachel Sorsa BandSans Souci21 S. Chestnut(805) 643-4539Mondays – KaraokeTuesdays – Twisted TuesdayWednesdays – Open micThursdays – DJ SpinobiSundays – DJ DarkoFri 11/28 – Alligator DaveSquashed Grapes2351 E. Main St.805-643-7300Wed 11/26 – Tuxedo Junction JazzFri 11/28 – Ottsen, Flowers & ClarkSat 11/29 – Tom Buckner & FriendsTues 12/2 – Jazz JamWed 12/3 – Comfort ZoneThurs 12/4 – Skip Spiro’s Little Big BandFri – 12/5 – Piano Trio NightSat – 12/6 – One Big DrumStar Lounge343 E. Main StreetFri 11/28 – The Bomb Sat 11/29 – 7th DecadeSurf Brewery4561 Market Street(805) 644-2739Sat 11/29 – The CatterwailersThe Tavern211 E. Santa Clara StreetMetal every WednesdayDJs every ThursdayFri 11/28 – Mojo BoxSat 11/29 – The CavernsVentura Beach Club281 W. Main StreetFri 11/28 – Deke Dickerson & the Eccofonics (Hi-Hat Entertainment)Fri 12/5 – Kelly’s Lot (Hi-Hat Entertainment)W2O Rooftop Lounge598 E. Main St. (above Watermark)805-643-6800Live Bands every Fri thru SunFri 11/28 – Shari PuortoSat 11/29 – InstoneSun 11/30 – 3 pm Heavy PettyThe Wine Rack14 S. California StreetFri 11/28 – WildlandsSat 11/29 – Jae HattThe 805 Bar and Grilled CheeseVentura Harbor(805) 642-9463Wed 11/26 – Chris GoldenFri 11/28 – Teresa RussellSat 11/29 – Smokey & FriendsSun 11/30 – Bill MacPherson

Rug cutter or gator, you gotta dig the Ventura Jazz Orchestra.


ArtArt, , a laa la CCartearteVentura Art Scene

Art critic and historian Joseph Belloli, artist Joanne Julian, art historian and professor Betty Brown and Donna Granata celebrate the final Focus on the Masters Artist Spotlight interview of the 2014 season. Granata is the executive director of FOTM, an organization she founded 20 years ago. FOTM’s Archive is unique and contains information on more than 2000 artists and arts organizations. One-hundred-ninety artists have been inter-viewed, with the interview being recorded before a live audience. FOTM is celebrating 20 years of informative interviews conducted by founder and executive director Donna Granata of leading artists in our community.

Join us for the reception of the art of Tina Linville on December 4th, 6-9pm at the Blue Cube, located at 86 S. Laurel, between Main and Santa Clara, down the street from the Rubicon. “Each Thing Ripens Its Own Space” features site responsive installation by Tina Linville. Come and experience art created specifically for the space. Borrowing its name from a poem

In Kansas – a photographic exhibition by Ventura Artist Gary Peterson features land-scapes and buildings of rural Kansas inspired by the great American writer, William Least Heat-Moon, in PrairyErth. Chase County, Kansas, Peterson’s focus in this exhibit, is an area that many would pass by. Looking more deeply, Peterson reveals a subtle and complex world. To be seen at Studio 1317, 1317 North Ventura Avenue next to G & S Building Supply. Gallery open daily except Sunday from noon to 5 pm. Reception December 5, from 6 To 9 Pm.

Ventura County Potters’ Guild Annual Holiday Pottery Market will be on December 5th, 3 pm - 9 pm, December 6th, 10 a.m. - 4 pm at the Bell Arts Factory Community Room, 432 N. Ventura Avenue, Friday’s opening coincides with Ventura’s First Friday, and with the B.A.F.’s open studios event from 3pm until 9 p.m. Saturday’s hours are from 10 a.m. to 4 p.m., but plan to arrive early, if you’d like to have the widest selection. The potter’s work is all hand-made, stoneware and porcelain, offering a multitude of uniquely creative pieces.

by Canadian writer Lisa Robertson, Each thing ripens its own space is a site responsive installation by Linville incorporating two studio based artworks into a larger environment within the Blue Cube Gallery. For Linville, the challenge of working in unfamiliar conditions over a short period of time is a fruitful experience forcing her to rely on improvisation. Working with and against architecture and time, “Each thing ripens its own space” brings the concept of the art making process to the forefront so the mystery of the human tendency to create can be observed and explored. This will be the fourth show this year for Ventura’s new Blue Cube Art Space that is dedicated to showing non-traditional contemporary art.

Ventura art-curator Randall Richman is pleased to

announce a 15 local artists’ exhibition now through the holidays at Bank of

America lobby, California and Main. Artists include Bryant, Charney, Fatah, Harbour, Kelly, Nelson,

O’Connor, Saber, Seco, Voss, Wood and

Zeitmaier among others. For further

information, email randallrichman@aol.

com or 643-0111

Seascape by Rency Punnooce at Red Brick Star’s Align through January 13th is Red Brick Gallery’s biggest and most colorful show of the year featuring unique art gifts by over 35 of our favorite artists; all with original pieces under $100. The colors, textures and scenes captured by the artists are a rich vision of their lives by the sea. Join the Free Holiday Artist Reception, a part of the Winter Wine Walk December 6th from 4-8pm where you can meet the artists and watch them all create. The newest featured artists include ceramicist Vera Maguire, Oil Seascape Painter Rency Punnooce, 3D Mixed Media Artist Chris Strode, Local Oil Painter Robert Wassel, Watercolorist Barbara Wiles, Kaleidoscope Creator Lena along side our family of local artists. The walls are covered with interpretations of the beauty all around us.


We were on the island of Kauai during hurricanes Iselle and Julio. But, through it all, we still had our Ventura Breeze! Marilyn Galbreath of Ventura (pictured) and daughter Kim Galbreath of Thousand Oaks (photographer).

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“Like Us” on Facebook! FREEventurabreeze.com/wp-content/uploads/2015/05/V08.N04-11.26.14.pdfpartnership with the City and County of Ventura’s Senior Nutrition Program. M-Tu-W-F