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The California Senior Legislature announces top legislative priorities for 2019

“Listing the purpose for which the medication is prescribed is very helpful.”

The California Senior Legislature (CSL) adjourned its 38th Annual Legislative Session and announced the Top Ten State Legislative Proposals and Top Federal proposals earlier this week. Members will advocate diligently during the 2019 legislative session to have state lawmakers carry and support these priorities.

The following were listed as the top ten State Legislative proposals:

AP-18: Labeling of Prescription Drugs
This measure would require physicians and surgeons to include the purpose for which the medication is prescribed on all prescriptions, unless the patient requests that this information be omitted.

AP-2 Transportation: Seniors’ & Disabled Individuals’ Access to Transportation to Medical Services
This measure would authorize the use of moneys in the electric program investment charge to fund grant programs in counties to provide transportation to nonemergency medical services for the senior and disabled populations located in rural, desert, and mountain areas through the use of energy renewable vehicles.

SP-10 Financial Elder Abuse: Mandated Reporting
This measure would amend the definition of “Mandated Reporters of Suspected Financial Abuse of an Elder or Dependent Adult” to include the officers and employees of businesses licensed under the Money Transmission Act for making wire or money transfers and that would increase penalties, including providing for full reimbursement of losses.

SP-7 Veterans Housing: Affordable Rental Housing
This measure would establish a rental housing assistance program and would require the Department of Veterans Affairs to coordinate access to affordable housing with existing State and Federal Veterans services.

AP-7 Fall Safe Housing
This measure would amend the Building Homes and Jobs Act to ensure that specific falls prevention structural features designed to prevent falls and facilitate aging in place are built into new housing using funds generated by the Act.

AP-8 Affordable Housing for the Elderly
This measure would, for the purpose of meeting housing element goals under the Planning and Zoning Law, classify housing units participating in a home-sharing arrangement in which at least one of the occupants is an elderly person who qualifies as a person of low or moderate income, as defined, as very low income households.

SP-4 Dental Insurance
This measure would memorialize the Legislature and the Governor to enact legislation that would require the Department of Insurance to commission a study to determine whether requiring Medi-Cal and private dental insurance plans to provide increased dental coverage at low cost for seniors would result in lower overall costs to the state for emergency room visits and inpatient hospital treatment.

AP-17 Electric Vehicle Charging Stations
This measure would require any facility that provides electric vehicle charging stations for public use or common use to provide at least one van accessible station regardless of when the electric vehicle charging stations were added to the facility.

AP-15 Homelessness: Seniors & Persons with Disabilities
This measure would propose that a count of the number of homeless individuals include the number of seniors and individuals with disabilities that are homeless.

AP-3 Travel Safety
This measure would require all hotels, motels, inns, and bed and breakfasts to install grab bars in the tub and shower areas and nonskid surfaces on the tub and shower floors in all rooms available for public accommodation.
The following were identified as the Top Federal Legislative proposals:

AFP-2 Medicare Durable Medical Equipment: Grab Bars
This measure would memorialize the Federal Government to adopt appropriate regulations for the Medicare Program, or to enact appropriate legislation, that would add grab bars to the list of covered durable medical equipment under the Medicare Program, upon an evaluation by the Medicare Program to demonstrate that grab bars meet the requirements of durable medical equipment.

SFP-2 Medicare: Penalties
This measure would memorialize the Congress and the President to adopt appropriate regulations for the Medicare Program, or to enact appropriate legislation, that would prohibit Medicare late enrollment penalties related to the enrollment for Medicare parts A, B, and D.

-END-

MORE INFORMATION CONTACT:
For more information contact Janice Bailey, CSL Staff Services Manager, at (916) 552- 8056 or [email protected].

Vol. 12, No. 6 – Dec 19, 2018 – Jan 2, 2019 – Opinion/Editorial

This is my last chance this year to wish you a Merry Christmas and a Happy New Year.

• I received some complaints regarding articles in our last issue talking about people who lost their homes in the Thomas Fire. The complaints say that we only published articles about those folks who are happy with how the city (planning and building & safety) handled their plans and permits.

We didn’t pre-screen people who lost their homes to see if they were happy or un-happy. We certainly would be happy to accept any opinions regarding working with the city (good or bad). If you are unhappy, don’t just say city (or Breeze) are idiots, please articulate why. Send comments to [email protected]. Would love to hear from you.

•I met with Deya Terrafranca, The Museum of Ventura County’s new Library and Archives Director, who will manage their wonderful archives. I like the fact that she plans to make the archive library more accessible to all. The previous director thought of it as his own private collection and didn’t easily share content with the community and the media. It is a wonderful resource of Ventura history. Read the article about her in this issue.

•I expect great things from our “new” city council and city manager. Hopefully the council will let the city manager do his job and they will deal with more macro, rather than micro concerns. A fresh, open minded look at marijuana businesses in Ventura should be on their agenda, as we are losing lots of money to nearby cities.

Hope one of the new members brings a great sense of humor similar to what Mike Tracy provided to the council.

•Time magazine has named a newspaper and four journalists, including Washington Post’s murdered Saudi columnist Jamal Khashoggi, as its Person of the Year.

“They are representative of a broader fight by countless others around the world – as of December 10, at least 52 journalists have been murdered in 2018 – who risk all to tell the story of our time,” Time wrote in an essay titled The Guardians and the War on Truth.

Retired Adm. William McRaven has stated, “I stand by my comment that the President’s attack on the media is the greatest threat to our democracy in my lifetime,” McRaven said, referencing remarks he made about Trump last year. “When you undermine the people’s right to a free press and freedom of speech and expression, then you threaten the Constitution and all for which it stands.”

•After a loss, a star player of the LA Lakers stated, “I don’t got nothing to say about that.” Maybe he shouldn’t say anything at all. And when they introduce the players they say which college they attended.

•Ventura County supervisors want to find out why firefighters lacked enough water early on to fight the Thomas Fire. They have directed staff members to look for answers on what went wrong. The action came after they received a county disaster agency’s review of the emergency response efforts that contains no mention of the water problems that slowed firefighting.

Ventura’s report on the issue is still pending a year after the disaster.

Ventura officials blame the shortage to the rapid depletion of water from tanks, low water pressure in the hydrants, the loss of power and an inadequate number of backup generators. Shouldn’t this be known and dealt with prior to the fires?

Our new City Manager, Alex McIntyre, said the city’s draft report on the response to the fire is coming soon. He needs to deal with an issue that he had nothing to do with but maybe that will be a good thing with a fresh new look.

Trump suggested that “raking” would help stop the scourge of wildfires, so perhaps fire fighters should each carry a rake instead of a hose.

•I’m sorry to see Ventura Unified School District Superintendent David Creswell quit (see article on this issue cover). I don’t think it was necessary, but I feel that he might have been looking for a reason to step down. Ventura has had a tough time filling this extremely important position. In my opinion, school superintendent and city manager are the two of the most important positions in Ventura. Closely followed by the head of community development.

•A two-year analysis by two dozen experts at universities found that the notion that immigrants, like the small group of asylum-seekers who traveled from Central American countries to the U.S.-Mexico border recently, are unhealthy and will bring disease into the U.S. This “is a false argument that is used to keep migrants out,” one of the study’s authors, stated Dr. Paul Spiegel, of the Center for Humanitarian Health at Johns Hopkins.

Measles increased 30% over the last year due to poor vaccination rates, the World Health Organization stated. Experts say that people who skip vaccination due to vaccine fears and poor health systems are to blame.

Over 6.7 million people contracted the measles in 2017, with 110,000 dying of the virus, WHO said in their report. Most of the infected people were children.

The measles vaccine has prevented 21 million deaths since 2000, WHO said, but recent, unnecessary fear of the vaccine has lowered the vaccination rate. The goal is for 95% vaccination. No scientific link has been found between vaccines and autism, as some fear, according to science and medical experts.

Measles is still common in many developing countries – particularly in parts of Africa and Asia. The overwhelming majority (more than 95%) of measles deaths occur in countries with low per capita incomes and weak health infrastructures.

Measles outbreaks can be particularly deadly in countries experiencing or recovering from a natural disaster or conflict. Damage to health infrastructure and health services interrupts routine immunization and overcrowding in residential camps greatly increases the risk of infection.

Health authorities in California have more power to insist that a dog is vaccinated against rabies than to ensure that child enrolled in public school are vaccinated against measles.

• When Clinton lied about having an affair all Republicans screamed “Impeach him.” When Trump lied about having affairs Republicans said “It ain’t no big deal.” Conclusion. Okay for Republicans to have affairs, it seems, but not for Democrats.

Library events

We are pleased to announce another exciting partnership between the Ventura County Library and the Ronald Reagan Presidential Library and Museum. On October 6, 2018, Pompeii: The Exhibition opened at the Reagan Library, featuring over 150 authentic artifacts on loan from the renowned Naples National Archaeological Museum in Italy. As with past Reagan Library exhibitions, library customers can enter to win free tickets at any of the library locations, and can use promotional code “LIBRARYMEMBER” for $3 off admission from now until April 21, 2019.

Ventura Libraries January 2019 Events
Avenue Library
Children & Family Events
Building Blocks of Development – Birth to Five Years of Age
1/28 Monday @ 5:30- 6:30pm
Learn about the building blocks of child development from our special guest speaker from Ventura County Public Health.

Bilingual Early Literacy Class
1/7 & 14 Mondays @ 5:30-6:30pm
Join us every Monday for storytelling, nursery rhymes, flannel board fun and more!
Adult Classes & Events
Adult Education Class in English & Spanish
1/19 Saturday @ 4-8pm
Join Paul Rogers for help with English, computer basics, citizenship, drivers’ test, job applications, and more! See you in the community room!
E.P. Foster Library
Porfirio Gutiérrez Zapotec Artisan
1/5 Saturday @6-8pm
Join us for an immersive evening with New York Times featured master dyer & artist, Porfirio Gutiérrez.

Opera Santa Barbara Free Noontime Concert
1/18 Friday @12-1pm
Spend Your Lunch Hour listening to members of the Mosher Studio Artist Program!
Ongoing Events
Twisted Stitchers Fiber Arts Club
1/3 & 17 Thursday @ 11am NEW TIME
Get together with makers from all across the fiber-arts world. Meet, teach, connect, share.
Children’s Events
Early Literacy Class
1/8, 15, 22, & 29 Tuesdays & 1/2, 9, 16, 23, & 30 Wednesdays @ 10:30am
Join us every week for stories, poems, music, movement, a simple craft, and fun!
Teen Happenings
Virtual Reality
1/8, 15, 22, & 29 Tuesdays @ 3:30-5:30pm
Explore the virtual world with these different VR platforms: Event is for ages 13-17.

Hill Road Library
Children’s Events
Early Literacy Class
1/2, 9, 16, 23, & 30 Wednesdays @ 10:30-11:30am
Join us every week for stories, poems, music, movement, and fun!
Adult Special Events
Planning for Your Child’s Financial Future
1/10 Thursday @ 6-7pm
This workshop will give attendees some strategies on 529 accounts, how to talk age appropriately to kids about money, and how to set them on a path to be financially fit.Presented by Ventura County Credit Union (VCCU).

Medicare 101
1/11 Friday @ 10:30-11:30am
Join us for this workshop about the basics of Medicare. Learn how to sign up and file claims. Expert Debra Hilderman will be able to answer any of your questions!
Book Club: Outlander
1/29 Tuesday @6-7pm
Join us for a lively discussion of Outlander by Diana Gabaldon, our first Hill Road Library Book Club choice and our book for the month of January. All are welcome who have read the book!
Saticoy Library
Children & Family Events

Preschool Early Literacy Class
1/8, 15, 22, & 29 Tuesdays @ 10am
Join us every week for stories, poems, music, movement, a simple craft & fun! Preschool Early Literacy Class

Family Coloring and Games
1/5, 12, 19, 26 Saturdays @ 10:30 a.m. – 12 pm
Games, Coloring and other art materials are available for drop-in participants to express their creativity.Children and Adults

3D Printer Demo
1/30 Wednesday @12-6pm
Come watch the 3d printer create objects! All ages, adults too!

Closures this Month
1st– Closed in observance of New Year’s Day
21st — Closed in observance of Martin Luther King Jr. Day
31st — Libraries open at 2pm due to staff meeting

The Ventura County Library is available 24/7 at www.vencolibrary.org. Please visit website for information on the location and hours of the library closest to you.

Vol. 12, No. 6 – Dec 19, 2018 – Jan 2, 2019 – A View from House Seats

by Shirley Lorraine

Escape to the islands with South Pacific

Some theatrical experiences just stay with you. The current production of South Pacific on the Rubicon Theater stage is one of those. I grew up on the songs of this show, listening to my father singing in the living room. It is the show that endeared me forever to the theater. And it has not lost its appeal. Apparently, others feel the same, judging by the full houses and sold out shows.

First premiered on Broadway in 1949, the timeless musical by Rodgers and Hammerstein still resonates with passion and emotion. The play, based on James Michener’s “Tales of the South Pacific”, weaves its magic through two love stories set in and around an exotic island during World War II.

South Pacific deals with sensitive subjects involving prejudice, acceptance, forgiveness and yearning, all as pertinent now as they were when the material was first written.

This production, deftly directed with insight and depth by Katharine Farmer, features a two-keyboard accompaniment by Brent Crayon and Jen Oikawa.

Ben Davis as Frenchman Emile de Becque and Madison Claire Parks as Navy Ensign Nellie Forbush make a formidable pair in the lead roles. They deliver in fine fashion the beautiful Some Enchanted Evening, I’m Gonna Wash That Man Right Outa My Hair and more.

The enchanted young lovers Lt. Joseph Cable and Liat are played by Alex Nee and Jamie Yun to youthful perfection. Nee’s Younger Than Springtime is heartfelt and poignant. Jodi Kimura’s Bloody Mary is tuned to a fine edge. She entices Lt. Cable with the haunting Bali Hai, leading him to paradise.

Dealmaker sailor Luther Billis is given a well-crafted comic touch by Kirby Ward. He puts his all into There is Nothing Like a Dame and the hysterical Honey Bun numbers. Ward is surrounded by an athletic cast of sailors/dancers who fill the stage with spitfire. Likewise, Nurse Forbush is aided throughout by a bevy of talented nurses/dancers to keep the sparks flying and the toes tapping.

Emile’s children, played by Isabella De Los Santos and Ian Nunney, are both excellent. They deliver their song Dites-Moi and French dialogue with confidence and conviction. Both have participated in the Rubicon’s Stinky Feet Youth Theatre and learned well. They are each a talent to watch in the years to come.

Key Navy personnel Captain Brackett and Commander Harbison, played by Andy Umberger and Joseph Fuqua, display the crisp demeanor one associates with an officer.

The multi-use set pieces easily transform the scenes, backed by scenic projections which bring the audience onto the islands with the players. The compact stage seems to expand, and contract as needed to accommodate the large cast as well as the intimate scenes.

There are reasons South Pacific has long been an audience favorite. The music and lyrics are eloquent and meaningful. The characters and situations face familiar life hurdles. The energy, passion and sincerity are palpable. Even if you’ve seen South Pacific many times before, you will want to see it again. But hurry, seats are filling fast.

South Pacific runs through December 23. Performances are Wednesdays at 2 and 7 p.m., Thursdays at 7 p.m., Fridays at 8 p.m., Saturdays at 2 and 8 p.m., and Sundays at 2 p.m. Rubicon Theater, 1006 E. Main St, Ventura. Www.rubicontheatre.org or (805) 667-2900 for tickets. Prices vary. Make reservations soon as many shows sell out.

Vol. 12, No. 6 – Dec 19, 2018 – Jan 2, 2019 – Music Calendar

For more events go to VenturaRocks.com

Blue Agave
185 E. Santa Clara
Fridays: Mariachi Band; DJ
Saturdays: DJ
Mon 12/31: NYE Party w/ DJ

Boatyard Pub
Ventura Harbor Village
Tuesday-Thursday 6 pm, Friday & Saturday 7 pm
Tuesdays: Jason Ho
Thursdays: Bluegrass Jam
Wed 12/19: Karen Eden
Fri 12/21: Teresa Russell & Stephen
Sat 12/22: Two’s Company
Wed 12/26: Troy Edwards
Fri 12/28: Jason Ho
Sat 12/29: Hot Roux
Sun 12/30: Troy Edwards
Mon 12/31: NYE Party w/ Karen Eden & Bill Macpherson, Troy Edwards

Bombay Bar & Grill
143 S. California Street
Friday & Saturdays: DJs
Sat 12/22: 1-11pm Old Soul, Rose Valley Thorns, Bad Leaf, Sea at Last, Medicine Hat, Blues Bullet, Brother Earl & the Cousins, The Hubcap Stealers

Café Fiore
66 S. California Street
Wed 12/19: Taboo Trio
Thurs 12/20: Rick Whitfield
Fri 12/21: Front Loaders
Sat 12/22: Holgers Heros
Wed 12/26: Big Adventure
Thurs 12/27: Coso Live
Fri 12/28: Instone
Sat 12/29: Rick Whitfield
Mon 12/31: NYE Party w/ Action Down, & DJ in Tree House Lounge

Casa Bella
391 E. Main Street
Thursdays: Danny D
Mon 12/31: NYE Party w/ A.D.D.

The Cave
4435 McGrath Street
5:30 – 8:30 pm
Weds & Saturdays: Varon Thomas
Thurs & Fridays: Warren Takahashi

Copa Cubana
Ventura Harbor Village
Week nights 6 pm; Weekends 7 pm; Sundays 4 pm
Tuesdays: Jerry McWorter Trio
Sat 12/22: Havana Cinco
Sat 12/29: Havana Cinco
Mon 12/31: NYE Party w/ Estrada Brothers

Discovery
1888 Thompson Blvd
Sat 12/22: Fishbone, Kyle Smith
Sun 12/23: Holiday Jamboree w/ Rvrboy, The Rays, VOC, King’s Revenge, Aaron Pax Taylor, Beers Brothers, and more…(3-10 pm)
Thurs 12/27: Bo Napoleon w/ Jason J
Fri 12/28: Shaky Feelin’
Sat 12/29: Led Zepplica
Mon 12/31: NYE Party w/ The Crystal Method

Duke’s Griddle n Grill
1124 S. Seaward
Wednesdays: Karaoke

El Rey Cantina
294 E. Main Street
Fridays: DJ
Saturdays: DJ

Four Brix
2290 Eastman Avenue #109
Music 5:30 – 7:30 pm
Fri 12/21: Frank Barajas

Garage
1091 Scandia Avenue
Mon 12/31: NYE Party w/ DJ Steve Sharp

Gigi’s Cocktails
2493 Grand Avenue
(805) 642-2411
Thurs, Fri & Sat: Karaoke

Golden China
760 S. Seaward
(805) 652-0688
Karaoke seven nights a week 9 pm
Tuesdays 7 pm: Open Mic

Grapes and Hops
454 E. Main Street
Wed & Thurs 6 pm; Fri & Sat 8 pm, Sun 4 pm
Fri 12/21: Guy Martin
Sat 12/22: Ray Jaurique & the Uptown Brothers
Fri 12/28: Shawn Jones
Sat 12/29: Salty Suites
Sun 12/30: The Gentleman’s Blues Club
Mon 12/31: NYE Party w/ Brandon Ragan Project

Hong Kong Inn
435 E. Thompson Blvd
Thurs 12/20: The Bearded Clams w/ Patrick Warburton
Fri 12/21: Tom Scott
Sat 12/22: The Rockin’ Henrys

Keynote Lounge
10245 E. Telephone Road
Tues, Wed and Sun: Karaoke
Thursdays: Open mic night
Fri 12/21: Reign
Sat 12/22: Los Locos
Fri 12/28: DJ
Sat 12/29: DJ AVG
Mon 12/31: NYE Party w/ What the Funk

Leashless Brewing
585 E. Thompson Blvd.
Tuesdays: Open mic
Fri 12/21: Jason Ho
Sat 12/22: Doc Ventura
Thurs 12/27: Mark Masson
Mon 12/31: NYE Party (7:30 – 9:30) w/ FIDO

Limon y Sal
598 E. Main Street
Fridays: DJ
Saturdays: DJ
Sundays: Instone (1-4 pm)

Made West Brewing
1744 Donlon Street
Thurs 6 pm; Sat 4 pm; Sun 3 pm
Thurs 12/20: Hannah Jobus
Sat 12/22: The Collective
Sun 12/23: Milo Sledge Trio
Thurs 12/27: Shay Moulder
Sat 12/29: The Rose Valley Thorns
Sun 12/30: Shaky Feelin’

Majestic Ventura Theater
26 S. Chestnut Street
Sat 12/22: Thundercat

O’Leary’s
6555 Telephone Road
Wed: Karaoke
Fri 12/28: Live Band Karaoke

Paddy’s
2 W. Main Street
Wednesdays: Karaoke
Fri & Sat: DJs

Red Cove
1809 E. Main Street
Thursdays: Music Club Open Jam Night

Rubicon Theater
1006 E. Main Street
12/19 – 12/23: Rodger’s & Hammerstein’s South Pacific
Sat 12/29: Kids for Kids 2018

Saloon BBQ
456 E. Main Street
Fri 12/21: DJ Vinyl Party
Sat 12/22: DJ Office theme party
Fri 12/28: Lady Freqq DJ set
Sat 12/29: Ragged Jubilee
Mon 12/31: NYE Party w/ DJ 80’s Prom Theme

Sandbox Coffeehouse
204 E. Thompson Blvd
805-641-1025
Thurs 6 pm, Weekends noon
Thursdays Open Mic
Sat 12/29: Dennis Russell
Sun 12/30: Chelsea Paolini

Sans Souci
21 S. Chestnut
Sundays: DJ Darko
Mondays: Karaoke
Tuesdays: DJ Nick Dean
Wednesdays: Open mic
Thursdays: DJ Spinobi

Star Lounge
343 E Main Street
Thurs 12/20: Karen Eden
Fri 12/21: CRV
Sat 12/22: Shawn Jones
Thurs 12/27: Katie Shorey
Fri 12/28: Brandon Ragan Project
Sat 12/29: Red Rhythm
Mon 12/31: NYE Party w/ Arockalypse Now

The Tavern
211 E. Santa Clara Street
(805) 643-3264
Sundays: DJ Steezy Steve
Tuesdays: Karaoke
Thursdays: Get Right DJ
Fri 12/21: Last Resort Club
Sat 12/22: The Black Stripes
Fri 12/28: DJ Stezy Steve
Mon 12/31: NYE Party Masquerade party with DJs

Topa Mountain Winery
821 W. Ojai Avenue
Music 2-4 pm
Sat 12/22: Patricia Avis Family Christmas
Sun 12/23: Natalie Gelman
Sat 12/29: Danny McGaw Band
Sun 12/30: Dan Grimm Band

Vintura at the Wine Rack
14 S. California Street
(805) 653-9463
Sundays music at 3 pm
Wed 12/19: The Swillys
Thurs 12/20: Ben Buttner
Fri 12/21: Vanise Terry & Jon Francis
Sat 12/22: Déjà vu Too
Sun 12/23: Epitome of Dreams
Thurs 12/27: Andy D
Fri 12/28: Kevin Longden & Friends
Sat 12/29: Frank Barajas & the Corsican Brothers
Mon 12/31: NYE Party w/ Mark Masson

Winchester’s
632 E. Main Street
(805) 653-7446
Music at 8:30 pm; Sundays at 2:30 pm
Fri 12/21: Acoustic DNA
Sat 12/22: Kenny Devoe
Sun 12/23: The Swillys
Fri 12/28: CRV Acoustic
Sat 12/29: Mark Masson
Sun 12/30: The Catterwailers

The 805 Bar
Ventura Harbor
Music at Noon
Saturdays: Kenny Devoe
Sundays: Kenny Devoe

In January we celebrate the life of Martin Luther King, Jr.

Martin Luther King, Jr. was one of the main leaders of the American civil rights movement. A Baptist minister by training, King became a civil rights activist early in his career, leading the Montgomery Bus Boycott. His efforts led to the 1963 March on Washington, where King delivered his “I Have a Dream” speech, raising public consciousness of the civil rights movement and establishing King as one of the greatest orators in American history.

In 1964, he became the youngest person to receive the Nobel Peace Prize for his efforts to end segregation and racial discrimination through civil disobedience and other non-violent means.

Martin Luther King, Jr. Day is a United States federal holiday marking the birthday of Martin Luther King, Jr. It is observed on the third Monday of January each year, which is around the time of King’s birthday, January 15.

King was assassinated on April 4, 1968, in Memphis, Tennessee. He was posthumously awarded the Presidential Medal of Freedom by President Jimmy Carter in 1977. Martin Luther King Day was established as a national holiday in the United States in 1986. In 2004, King was posthumously awarded a Congressional Gold Medal.

Mountain lion sightings in hillside neighborhoods 

Residents have reported mountain lion sightings in residential hillside neighborhoods in Ventura.

This alert is for information only and has been issued as a precaution to our community. Mountain lion attacks are very rare but the Ventura Police Department would like to remind residents of a few simple tips to protect you and your loved ones from mountain lions:

Do not feed deer. It is illegal in California and it will attract mountain lions.

If you see a mountain lion do not approach it, especially one that is feeding or with offspring.

Most mountain lions will try to avoid confrontation.

Avoid hiking or jogging in hillside areas when mountain lions are most active—dawn, dusk, or at night.

Keep a close watch on small children when hiking.

If you encounter a mountain lion, do not run; instead, face the animal, make noise and try to look bigger by waving your arms; throw rocks or other objects. Pick up small children.

Bring in small pets during the evening and early morning hours.

Ventura’s hills are a natural mountain lion habitat. Their primary prey is deer, but they have also been known to attack livestock and pets, and on very rare occasions, humans. Mountain lions are generally solitary, elusive and avoid human contact. The recent fires may have brought more wildlife to our area.

The Department of Fish & Game has been notified of this activity.

Vol. 12, No. 6 – Dec 19, 2018 – Jan 2, 2019 – Events

by Ana Baker

Ventura Poinsettia Dance Club Monday nights 7:30 – 9:45p.m. Poinsettia Pavilion. Ballroom, swing, Latin and line dancing. $10 members, $12 non-members. Dance lessons 6:45 – 7:15 $5 for couple $3 for single. Call Rick 415-8842 for more information.

There will be a regular Ventura Discussion Group meeting at Main Street Restaurant 3159 Main St., Wednesday from 4 – 5:45 p.m. Several people usually stay for a drink and a bite to eat afterward. Bring an interesting topic to discuss if you can.

Ventura’s ACBL Duplicate Bridge Club offers games for all levels of play.  Learn the game, play with your peers, and earn master points while you are having fun.  There is a game every day of the week.  Check out their website at www.vcbridge.org

Country Western Line Dancing every Tuesday 7 – 9 p.m. Instruction every night. Located at the Moose lodge, 10269 Telephone Road. More information at countrylovers.com.

Cross Town Hikers join in on Wednesday nights for a moderate-paced hike that includes views of Ventura from the cross, a walk out to the end of the pier, and a stroll along the Promenade back to the Museum. Four miles with an 800-foot elevation gain. Meet at 7 p.m. sharp at the fountain across the street from the Mission. Join Facebook page for more information: https://www.facebook.com/groups/800215670039426/

The members of the Ventura Investment Group meet on Mondays for an informal discussion of recent economic events.  The meeting is from 10 – 11:30 a.m. at the Coffee Bean & Tea Leaf at Telephone Road and Main Street.  Visitors and potential members are welcomed.  There are no dues or requirements to participate, and all levels of experience are welcomed.

First Wednesday, of each month, 6 – 10 p.m., Gold Coast Modular Railroad Club meets at the Murphy Auto Museum, Oxnard. Now exhibiting Saturdays and Sundays, 10 – 4 p.m.  Visitors and new members are welcome. Member initiation fee $10, monthly dues $20, $10 for Juniors. Murphy Auto Museum, 2230 Statham Blvd., Oxnard.  www.gcmrc.com. For more information, call (805)229-7429.

Retired men might enjoy a visit to a meeting of the Ventura Retired Men’s Group at the Ventura Elks lodge at 11:30 a.m.  on the first or third Tuesday of the month. Stop in and introduce yourself for a complimentary lunch, interesting program, and a relaxing good time with your peers. Give Bob Likins a call at (805) 587-1233 for details.

Musicians’ Sober Support Meetup @ FIND (A Friend in Deed) every Monday night 7-9 p.m. Bring acoustic instrument(s) for jamming after sharing support for sobriety.

Bell Arts-Studio 39-432 Ventura Ave. For further information [email protected].

Mended Hearts of Ventura.Come share if you have had heart surgery or stent implant.Group meets the first Tuesday each month at Lemon Wood Mobile Park,

850 Johnson Dr. They have excellent speakers, leading Cardiologists, Nutritionists, Dietitians etc. from our area. Contact Richard Hatcher at (805) 644-2733.

When a child dies, The Compassionate Friends (TCF) can help a family move forward through the grief journey. The Compassionate Friends provides a safe and supportive place where grieving parents, grandparents and siblings over age 16 can come speak openly about their child, express feelings about loss, be listened to by others, and celebrate milestones. Meeting twice a month, on the first and third Wednesday from 7-9 pm at the Poinsettia Pavilion.  For more information, contact Laura Lindsay, [email protected]

Co-Dependents Anonymous (CoDa) is a 12-step fellowship of men and women whose common purpose is recovery from codependence in the development and maintenance of healthy relationships. Every Friday at 6 PM at Kaiser Health, 1000 Hill Rd. 2ndfloor lobby. Further information Deva (805) 814-5650

The Ventura County Philatelic Society meet on the first and third Mondays each month at 7:30pm at the Church of the Foothills, 6279 Foothill Rd, Ventura. Admission and parking are free. Come for a great evening. They are a fun group. Contact: Bill Garner / (805) 320-1601 or [email protected]

Dec. 22: Christmas Organ Concert. The mighty pipe organ at First United Methodist Church and Music Director, Tyler Carlisle, will again be featured, embellished by the piano, choir and a decorated sanctuary to gently nudge us into the Christmas spirit. Saturday at 7 p.m. First United Methodist Church, 1338 East Santa Clara Street. Free! No tickets sold. Donations appreciated.

Dec. 28: Like to play acoustic music? Songmakers.org welcomes instrumentalists, singers, and singer/songwriters at all levels to join in a free song circle at the Bell Arts Factory Community Room, 432 N. Ventura Ave. 4th Friday of each month, 7 – 10 p.m. Listeners welcome! Mike Wittlin, (805) 750-8281.

Dec. 30: Get outside and explore the Santa Clara River hosted by The Nature Conservancy. This is one of the more beautiful properties and least visited of The Nature Conservancy in Ventura County.  Join a naturalist on an adventure exploring the Santa Clara River corridor with no real established trails. Be prepared to get dirty or muddy. Durable hiking shoes, long pants and water are recommended. There are no facilities at this location. 250 S. Hallock Dr. Santa Paula. 9-11am.

Jan. 5: Kim Simons, “Dance of Deception” Author Signing Event. “She blasts music as she backs out of the driveway and then peels rubber as she drives away, leaving Lance standing in the driveway. Her hair flies out of the window as she blasts off. Lance is mesmerized; he wants her in the worst way. He hates himself for it.” Bank of Books 748 E Main St. Saturday 5-7 p.m. (805) 643-3154

Jan. 6: Old-Time Country Bluegrass Gospel Music Assoc.

Sunday 2-4 p.m. new location. Back to Poinsettia Pavilion 3451 Foothill Rd. Free admission, music on stage. Free parking. Open to Public. For more information call,805-517-1131 or visit Facebook: OTCBGMA

Jan. 12: Wendy Dale Young Author Signing Event, “Behind the Eyes of Liberty Pearl” By Wendy Dale Young. Wendy is a first-time author, but a published song writer. Wendy began her career at age 10, as a ballerina with The Bolshoi Ballet and later performed on Broadway and in London, England. She taught the performing arts to special-needs children and adults for 18 years. Saturday 1 -3 p.m. at the Bank of Books 748 E Main St. (805) 643-3154

The Little Girl by Ariel Rahder-Ventura College

            The little girl you find under the cardboard box,

            Is hungry for basic needs,

            Dirty from countless days,

            And shivering from the holes in her socks.

            This little girl doesn’t ask for much,

            But she has wants and needs.

            But you wouldn’t know, would you?

            Because no one ever asks the little girl on the streets.

            Her daily life is a struggle,

            Even at 7 years old.

            Her mother, her protector,

            Can’t even protect her from the cold.

            She’s had various homes,

            From corners to shelters.

            School was her sanctuary

            Until her mother stopped taking her.

            Her friends are the leaves,

            The stuffed animal she found in the trash.

            Her imagination is her savior,

            Because it’s the only thing that lasts.

            This little girl is deprived,

            Of stability and the basics.

            She just wants a home,

            And food she’s never tasted.

            People walk by every day,

            With looks of pity or disgust.

            They forget she’s a little girl-

            A human-

            Like the rest of us.

            They forget she has hopes and dreams,

            That are as real as yours or mine.

            Hers will just be harder to achieve,

            But impossible is not a word she allows herself to be defined.

            The odds are stacked up against this little girl,

            But she has the strength of a warrior and it continues to unfurl.

            She lacks the opportunities that you and I’ve been graced with,

            Such as a steady education and annuals with the dentist.

            Even at such a young age,

            She has the ability to distinguish,

            Right from wrong,

            And to choose to not be diminished.

            She’s experienced more in 7 years,

            Than many in a lifetime.

            She’s managed to retain her innocence,

            As she continually prays for a sign.

            She prays someone will save her,

            She prays for a home.

            She prays for steady meals,

            She prays to not be alone.

            She prays for fitted clothing,

            That keep her cool during the summer and warm in the winter.

            She prays for a bed,

            And for stories to be read to her.

            She prays for friends,

            She prays for shoes.

            She prays for stability,

            And for shampoo.

            The little girl holds on to her hope,

            As tight as her dirty stuffed animal.

            She knows her mother’s fate is not her own,

            So she prays for a miracle.

            As she gets older,

            She learns to get herself around.

            She is wary of strangers,

            And those who push her down.

            She excels in school,

            Studying harder than most.

            This little girl grows up,

            Into a woman who can boast-

            About how she was born into poverty

            With torn socks and shoes.

            She was on her own with nowhere to go.

            But she didn’t let that define her sense of being,

            Instead she worked hard and had hope,

            And now she’s finally free and living.