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Vol. 9, No. 16 – May 11 – May 24, 2016 – Movie Review

Captain America: Civil War/ 3 ½ palm trees
by Eduardo Victoria/[email protected]

Thirteen films into Marvel’s Cinematic Universe, Captain America: Civil War is a home run that acts as a mid-act payoff to their long-form narrative, but also a sobering dissection of everything we’ve seen so far. The result is a film that’s highly textured and nuanced, crossing a global manhunt with a striking, psychological exploration of familial strife.

Directed confidently by Joe and Anthony Russo, the film is both Marvel and blockbuster spectacle in peak form, delivering a staggering mixture of thought-provoking ideas, epic brawls and set pieces, but most importantly, keen emotional resonance.

The film begins in Lagos, as Steve Rogers’ Captain America and his team of Avengers are hot on the tail of Hydra agent Brock Rumlow (Crossbones). A showdown occurs, but meets a tragic ending, prompting the U.N. to enact something called the Sokovia Accords, which would effectively remove the Avengers’ agency and have them report and act only when the U.N. sees fit. With the collateral damage from their past weighing heavily on each Avenger, the team is split by the Accords, especially after another terrorist attack pits Capt. Rogers’ long-lost friend, Bucky (The Winter Soldier), straight in the middle of a worldwide manhunt. Needless to say, it’s a defining moment for the divided team of heroes, and one that will change their bonds forever.

Aside from the film’s miraculous juggling of all the numerous ideas and plot points (which never feel overstuffed, but organic and earned), the film is a success because of its ability to showcase Steve, Tony and the Avengers as fully formed people who exist outside of their symbolism. After watching each character evolve (or in Steve’s case, change those around him) through numerous films, it’s fitting that we finally get a story that counts the cost of their heroism; what it means to the world they’ve changed, the personal sacrifices they’ve made and how its affected them as a family.

This film wouldn’t have worked as well if we didn’t get to see them first in Age of Ultron, or if Steve and Tony hadn’t already been so clearly defined outside of their colorful uniforms by their own stand-alone films. Everything in the story lives and dies by how well it positions these two good men on opposite sides of the same coin, never taking sides, but instead digging deep into a post-modern deconstruction of heroism and its global implications. Stark and Steve play great antagonists (but not villains), makes things painful and truly awful when the film takes a dark turn during its more intimate third act.

It’s not an exaggeration to say that this is the darkest Marvel film yet, but there’s somehow a playfulness that doesn’t betray its thoughtfulness, instead bringing out the humanity of its heroes through some well-timed, sporadic humor and jaw-dropping action.

Rated PG-13. Now playing at Century Downtown 10. 146 minutes.

Vol. 9, No. 16 – May 11 – May 24, 2016 – Mailbox

Editor:

Sales taxes increased by 5.9% over the last year but the City Council is still considering taxing Venturans more. The City Council is using the argument that it wants a locally kept and locally spent tax. They fail to understand that $340 out of a household budget is still $340. They fail to see other taxes are also increasing.

Medicare tax from 1.45% to 2.35%, Income Tax rate from 35% to 39.6%, Payroll tax from 37.4% to 52.2%, Capital gain tax from 15% to 28%, Dividend tax from 15% to 39.6%, Estate taxes from 0% to 55% and Real Estate transaction tax of 3.5% was added. There will also be a transportation tax and a school bond tax on the ballot.

City government has $20 million more in real property taxes and sales taxes than 7 years ago. Add to that the 34% water rate increase; imposed without your affirmative vote, which raised millions. They have enough money.

How has the City Council invested your money? $2.0m WAV project; $1.0m to narrow Victoria; $1.0m for the 911 tax, never refunded; $9.0m for a Convention Center, never happened; $8.0M for the aquatics center, never completed; $12m in savings since 1992, has never grown; $50m to settle an environmental lawsuit, done in closed session, and $5.M to promote Ventura the Art City.

This is a question of trust and truthfulness. Past City Councils have broken promises and have redirected or had the spending changed by future City Councils.

The point is that you can’t rely on any City Council to spend another $20.0m of our money tax dollars.

With a budget surplus and taxes growing, this Ventura City Council must operate within its budget, just as citizens do with their 34% higher water rates. Tell the City Council no to higher taxes.

Robert J. Alviani

Ventura Breeze

Brooks Institute and the City of Ventura are both very happy with the deal that was done to relocate Brooks to downtown Ventura. Looking beyond this move, it may have created an even greater opportunity for the County of Ventura, City of Ventura, and other West County Cities to help solve a serious problem. It’s a problem that everyone talks about with minimal positive results – Homelessness.

Brooks Institute occupies multiple buildings on a 7.87 acre site on N. Ventura Avenue. It’s out of town and not subject to “Not in my Backyard” protesters. The County of Ventura should take the lead role and, with the other cities and the many interested non-profit organizations, pool their resources and acquire this multi-purpose property. Similar to Casa Pacifica and its service to our county youth, the site would be dedicated to serve the many and diverse needs of our Homeless population. The facility would set an example to the many other cities in southern California that are struggling to find a solution to their homeless problems.

It will take imagination, creativity, leadership, hard work, and financial resources to make this a reality. If you are skeptical, look at what CSUCI did with a worn out mental hospital.

Chuck Engel
Ventura

Sheldon

Interestingly enough you have positioned The Breeze to be the number one news source for real community news. You have done an extraordinary job in covering all the nonprofit events and chronicling daily life in Ventura.

You never say no to anyone with a feel good story, and to me that resonates, we need more good news stories.

You’re the best !
Suz Montgomery

Suz: You do the same thing on your CAPSTV show, so maybe you are the best.
Sheldon

Not being funny doesn’t make you a bad person. Not having a sense of humor does
~ David Rakoff

Vol. 9, No. 16 – May 11 – May 24, 2016 – Forever Homes Wanted

Hi: I’m Browdie an outgoing and affectionate 9 years young Jack Russell Terrier mix. I am looking for a new family and home because my previous living situation had changed drastically and no longer provided the level of attention and stimulation that I need. I’m used to a houseful of activity and children. I’d make a great family dog as I play well with other dogs and I adore children, but no cats please. I love to go on car rides and playing with my friends at the dog park. I’m treat motivated and especially love carrots. I was indoors during the day and had a doggy door to use. At night I like to sleep in bed with my people. I know the basics – sit, off, stay and come when called. If you’re an active and loving family looking for an equally active and loving dog, stop by and meet me! CARL

Wherefore art thou, forever family? I’ve been waiting patiently for you and I’m ready to go to my new home! I’m Romeo and like my name, I’m a real lover boy. I’m super friendly and affectionate and will give tons of kisses, but I like receiving love, too. Belly rubs and chest scratches are my favorite! I’m good on a leash and I know the commands “sit” and “down.” You can teach me any other commands and tricks you want me to know. Ventura County Animal Services – Camarillo location – 600 Aviation Drive

Romeo A618918

Vol. 9, No. 16 – May 11 – May 24, 2016 – Professor Scamp

scamp pawworks inset • Paw Works opens storefront in the Pacific View Mall
by my good friend Barbara Hinton

Lucky Mase was adopted at Paw Works by Cheryl Perkins and husband. Actually they are all lucky .

Did you know that there is now a “store” in the Pacific View Mall where you can adopt animals who need homes, purchase pet supplies and shop for gently used clothing? Paw Works, a nonprofit animal rescue organization, opened a pet adoption center in the mall in November of 2015. The center is located on the second level of the mall next to JC Penney.

Paw Works has a second adoption center in Thousand Oaks at the Oaks Mall. The adoption centers allow the organization to introduce rescued cats and dogs to potential adoptive families in a calm and comfortable setting. The Ventura center includes an upscale resale boutique that sells donated clothing and household items, with proceeds benefitting the nonprofit rescue. They accept donations of gently used clothing or other items, and if you call them they will even come and pick up your donations.

Launched in January 2014, Paw Works is dedicated to partnering with county and city shelters to give abandoned animals a second chance at life. The group has saved more than 1,900 pets to date and placed them in caring homes. They have also spayed or neutered close to 250 rescued animals.

Animal rescue work requires the assistance of dedicated volunteers. Paw Works is looking for individuals who are willing to help at the adoption centers or at local adoption events. If you are willing to provide a temporary home for a rescued pet, they also need caring individuals or families that are willing to foster rescued dogs or cats.

Paw Works has accomplished much, but still has more to do. Goals include the acquisition of a mobile spay and neuter van and creating a training facility and sanctuary. For more information on how you can assist Paw Works, please go to their website: www.pawworks.org or email them [email protected].

• Ventura County Animal Services(VCAS) and SPAN are having a free shots and licenses clinic for homeless and low income people. Cats in carriers and dogs on leashes please. Wednesday May 25, 11 to 12 at SPAN 110 N. Olive Street, Ventura.

For low income cat and dog owners $10 spays and neuters at SPAN on June 9.

Call to schedule an appointment 584-3823

• Pet cleaning doesn’t have to be a chore if you follow Cesar Millan’s quick and easy tips. You and your pup will both be happier and healthier if you do!

Your dog’s bedding tends to attract a buildup of dirt and grime. Follow these four steps to ensure a clean, comfortable sleep for Fido.

Vacuum the bed regularly to remove hair, dirt, and other debris. Follow up with a lint roller to pull away any hair the vacuum may have left behind.

Wash the cover and the bed base (if it’s machine washable) in cold water. Use a mild laundry detergent—no dyes or fragrance. Add a cup of baking soda to help neutralize odor. Dry for about 20 minutes.

A stinky collar can ruin the pleasures of a freshly groomed dog. But how do you clean a dog collar without damaging the webbing material or hardware? Put a couple of squirts of dog shampoo (which will help prevent skin irritation) in a bowl and fill the bowl with hot water. Let your dog’s collar soak for about 15 minutes. Rub the collar against itself to extract any ground-in dirt. If necessary, apply extra shampoo directly to the collar. Avoid using a brush, which could damage the material. Rinse the collar under running water and hang to dry.

To remove pet hair from furniture, drapes, or other fabric-covered items, use rubber gloves. Slightly dampen a glove on your hand and sweep the fabric with it. Hair will ball up and be easy to pick up. Wash and dry gloves between uses.

The rain (what is that?) means muddy paws, but a little prevention can keep your dog from tracking dirt inside the house. First, trim the hair around your pup’s paws regularly — mud won’t clump to his feet when the hair is kept short. On days that you can’t avoid a little mud, keep a bucket of warm water and a towel near the door.

Over-bathing your dog can cause dry skin, which results in itching and flaking. Avoid these issues—but keep your pup smelling fresh—by giving him a quick dry bath. Brush out his coat first to loosen dead hair, dirt, and debris. Wipe him down with a towel spritzed with a solution of half apple cider vinegar and half water. Follow up by sprinkling baking soda on him and rubbing it in, which will neutralize the smell of the vinegar. Let it sit for a minute or two, then brush it off.

Wash dog toys to keep them germ-free and in good shape for years of enjoyment. For soft toys, pop them in the washing machine, ideally in a garment bag. (Be sure to use dog-safe detergent.) Line dry or put them in the dryer inside a pillowcase. Hard toys can be cleaned in the sink with a solution of 50% water and 50% vinegar and a brush or sponge. An easy alternative: Put your pal’s toys in the dishwasher with her bowls.

Bailey was a C.A.R.L. adoption dog who passed away in April from cancer, she was 14 years old and will be greatly missed by her family.

Vol. 9, No. 16 – May 11 – May 24, 2016 – Cartoons

Mother Goose and Grimm

Tiger

Beetle Bailey

Buckles

Crock

Ventura County centurions honored at Ventura Townehouse

On April 28 the Ventura Townehouse held a party for centurions living in Ventura County. The party featured a complementary lunch prepared by the Townehouse staff.

People over 100 years old were honored. Many of them spoke about their lives and what it meant to have lived for 100-years plus. If they were unable to speak their relatives and care givers spoke for and about them.

The event featured welcoming addresses by former mayor and councilmember Cheryl Heitmann and Townehouse Director of Marketing Samantha Crisp who was also the master of ceremonies.

The Ventura Townehouse is located at 4900 Telegraph Rd.

Free community event held at YMCA

Event held to inspire more kids to keep their minds and bodies active. Photos by Michael Gordon

On Saturday, April 30 the Ventura Family YMCA held a free community event to inspire more kids to keep their minds and bodies active. This year marks the 25th annual YMCA’s Healthy Kids Day®, the Y’s national initiative to improve health and well-being for kids and families.

Cheryl Heitmann delivered the welcome address. The day-long event featured a football clinic run by former NFL players Lorenzo Booker, Ronney Jenkins, and Kevin Thomas. The Major League Baseball’s Pitch, Hit & Run skills competition and much more. Lost child fingerprinting was provided by the Community Police Foundation and the Ventura Police Department.

YMCA’s Healthy Kids Day is celebrated at over 1,300 Ys across the country by over 1.2 million participants. Research shows that without access to out-of-school physical and learning activities, kids fall behind academically. Kids also gain weight twice as fast during summer than the school year. As spring turns to summer, Healthy Kids Day is a powerful reminder not to let children idle away their summer days. Ventura Family YMCA is located at 3760 Telegraph Road.

The Vagabond Coffee Shop turns 50

Ventura Breeze Account Executive Breezy Gledhill and Publisher Emeritus Staci Brown helped Jolene celebrate Vagabond’s anniversary.

The Vagabond is celebrating 50 years of service to their most valued and dedicated customers.

Owner Jolene McBee told the Breeze “I came to the Vagabond in February 1975. I wasn’t really looking for a job as I had four children at home . My sister worked there and asked me to come and help out until the manager could hire someone. I could just work half a day and I’d be home before my kids got home. So, I said, okay.”

“Vagabond opened in 1966. Mr. McBee was the manager at the time, working for Duke Carter, the original owner of the Vagabond. He worked for Carter for 19 years and was allowed to operate the restaurant like it was his own. When I started there he was supposed to hire someone else,. As it turned out, he never hired anyone else and a 1979, Mac and I were married.”

“Six years later, Mr. Carter was ready to sell the business. We purchased it and worked together. We both had the same goals…to offer our customers good food and good service at a fair price. Sadly, we lost Mac in 2003.”

“A lot of restaurants refer to themselves as “a family restaurant”. Vagabond truly is that. Over the years, a lot of people have come to recognize that the Vagabond is different from most businesses, that it is much, much more than just a restaurant. It is a very special place. A place where friends gather to enjoy each other’s company over a good meal. Where executives meet to discuss business over a quick lunch. Where a loan diner can come and have a meal and feel comfortable and safe and welcome. “

“On numerous occasions, customers have come to me and said “don’t ever change” and “don’t ever go away”, because there is no place like Vagabond. “

“Their stories are many like the young boy who had a life-threatening illness and the Make-A-Wish foundation granted some of his wishes. One of which was to arrive in a limo and have dinner at the Vagabond. “

“In the past few years, I have had some health issues that have affected my ability to do things the way I used to do them. In spite of that, I still go to the restaurant almost every day. I know the place would operate just fine without me, but I go because it is where the people I love are. It is my special place in life. “

“It has been our privilege, our pleasure and an honor to have been of service to so many for so many years. Many thanks to all of you for allowing us to do so. “

The Vagabond is located at 760 E. Thompson so stop in and say hi to Jolene and her wonderful staff.

A Legacy of love and beauty

The San Salvador will get new paint and flags as shown in this colored rendering.

by Gail Field

Sam Povar was a man who loved Ventura and who spent his time and resources in creating, preserving and protecting the beauty of the city that he loved. Sam passed away in 2015, but he sparked a commitment to continue beautifying the city for residents and visitors.
During his lifetime, Sam founded Povar Plaza on Harbor Boulevard across from the pier, coordinated the beautification of the Art City bus stop on Main Street, and helped establish Soter Point with a new mermaid in Marina Park. Additional projects have been in the works as well—all for the benefit of the city.

Sam’s son and daughter, Michael and Paulette, are continuing this legacy of giving back to the city. “Our father wanted to recognize the beauty of this place and to make a mark that lasts,” says Paulette. “We are celebrating Ventura as a place where residents and visitors can come to talk, walk their dogs, and enjoy the beauty of the Pacific Ocean.”

The Povars’ latest project includes refurbishing the big ship that sits on the sand in Marina Park.

“Almost every day you can see children playing on the replica of a Spanish galleon in Marina Park and swinging on the attached zipline,” says Michael. “The large boat represents Juan Cabrillo’s flagship, the San Salvador. Our latest project includes refurbishing the big ship with new paint, aluminum flagpoles and flags celebrating the 150 years of Ventura’s cityhood.”

“We already have approvals from the Ventura Parks and Recreation Commission and the Coastal Commission, as well as homeowner associations in the Keys and in Pierpont,” says Paulette. The Povars are happy that homeowners are contributing to the efforts in Marina Park. Michael explains, “We think this is the most beautiful park, with close to a 360 degree view of water, including the harbor, the inlet and the Pacific itself. It’s a historical place and a very beautiful one. We want residents to have a stake in continuing to make this area a more beautiful place and keeping it that way.”

In addition to the renovation of the galleon, the Povars have commissioned a local architect to create renderings for a conversation area overlooking the ocean where visitors can chat, relax, and watch the waves. The area will be available for group meetings, as well.

Sam Povar’s vision was to inspire others to use private capital along with public cooperation and support to envision something beautiful then make it happen. “This is something we are passionate about,” says Paulette. “We hope members of the community will join us not only in beautifying the park, but also in continuing to contribute to Ventura’s future.”

Donations are accepted for the construction and refurbishment of the boat and for continuing projects, like the conversation area. Tax-deductible donations are accepted at the Ventura Community Partners Foundation for the Sam Povar Memorial Fund. For further information, call Michael Povar at 818-705-7600.

Ed Warren opened his first Ventura restaurant in 1963

Longtime Venturan Edmund “Ed” Warren passed away peacefully with his daughter Deborah at his side early Thursday morning, April 21, 2016. Ed and his wife Hilda Warren were together for over sixty years.

Ed was born March 20, 1929 in Wilkes Barre, Pennsylvania the third child of Ukrainian and Polish parents during the Great Depression, Ed’s early life taught him a strong work ethic. He often told stories of selling hot dogs or shoveling coal for movie money. The family moved from Pennsylvania to Binghamton, New York, and eventually settled in Southern California. Ed was drafted into the army and sent to fight in Korean in 1950.

After returning from war Ed met Hilda. The two married in 1954 and opened their first coffee shop, the Koffee Mug, in North Hollywood. This was the beginning of a beautiful, life-long restaurant career. Ed and Hilda moved to Ventura, opening the first Warren’s restaurant at 478 E. Main St. in 1963. They would later open another Warren’s on Loma Vista and in 1970 bought a Ventura landmark building on Santa Clara St. This Victorian house-turned restaurant began as the Santa Clara House but would soon be the Big Green House.

Many Venturans grew up with the Big Green House’s signature family style menu known for “chicken, steak and chocolate cake.” Ed and a partner took this formula and opened a string of Longfellow’s restaurants in the Los Angeles area. Eventually, Ed sold his interest in the restaurants to focus on Ventura. If you ever dined downtown, chances are you may have been dining at a restaurant Ed Warren put his heart and soul into. His last venture before retiring in 2003, the iconic Busy Bee restaurant downtown is still going strong and keeping the 50s alive.

Ed lived life to the fullest. He and Hilda raised four children and subsequently are the grandparents of eight and great-grandparents of sixteen. In his spare time he enjoyed spending time with his family, deer hunting with friends, soaking up the California sun and staying on top of local politics. Ed fell in love with his adopted city of Ventura and never gave up on his vision of a thriving, local economy.

If you were lucky enough to know Ed, you knew he was a born entrepreneur, generous, loved his family and always spoke his mind. Our family and Ventura will miss him dearly. Funeral services will be held Monday, April 25 at 11:00 am at Joseph P. Reardon Funeral Home (located at 757 E Main St., Ventura, CA 93001).

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