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The Bookmark About Libraries and Friends

by Mary Olson

Ventura County Library Summer Reading Program continues with Kyle Tiernan, Draw Along Art Kyle, a Visual Educator, will teach everyone (kids and grown-ups alike!) how to draw pictures in a hilariously fun and entertaining show. This free event is sponsored by the Ventura Friends of the Library and is open to the public.
Thursday, August 3rd at Saticoy Library, 1:30 pm
Thursday, August 3rd at Avenue Library, 4:00 pm
Friday, August 4th at Hill Road Library, 11:00 am
Friday, August 4th at E.P. Foster Library, 2:00 pm
For more information, contact Sienna Sydlaske, Youth Librarian Specialist, at (805) 648-2716.

Find Your Voice! Family Musicals Film Fest and Coloring at Hill Road Library final film of the summer:Tuesday, August 1, 3:00 to 5:00 pm: The Super Mario Bros. Movie

End of Summer Party
You completed the Summer Reading Challenge, so visit the library for an end of summer celebration with Kona Ice!
Free for kids and teens!
Wednesday, August 2nd at Avenue Library, 3:00 pm
Thursday, August 3rd at Hill Road Library, 3:00 pm
Tuesday, August 8th at Saticoy Library 3:00 pm
Tuesday, August 15th at E.P. Foster Library, 4:00 pm

Filmmakers Robin Rosenthal and Bill Yahraus will visit the Albert H. Soliz Library (2820 Jourdan Street in Oxnard) at 7:30 pm on Saturday, August 12, for a screening of their film Mariposas del Campo. The film will be shown outdoors in the library’s parking lot; limited seating will be available, and attendees are encouraged to bring their own seating as well if they wish. Mariposas del Campo shares the stories of indigenous Mixtec, Zapotec, and Purépecha teenagers from Mexico striving to change their families’ destinies in the strawberry fields of Oxnard. This screening is being put on as part of Ventura County’s celebration of its 150th Anniversary.
This event is free and open to the public. For additional information, contact Ron Solórzano, Regional Librarian, at
(805) 218-9146 or [email protected]

Foster Library’s Young Readers Book Club
For children ages 9-12 (4th or 5th grade reading level). E.P. Foster Library, Saturday, Aug. 26, 1:00 to 2:00 pm
Discuss The Human Kaboom by Adam Rubin & create a character sheet (DND style)

Ventura Friends of the Library are able to fund summer reading program events through our sales of donated books.
We invite you to visit

Ventura Friends of the Library Bookstore in E.P. Foster Library
Tuesday through Saturday, 11:00 am to 4:00 pm and Sunday 1:00 to 4:00 pm
We have rows and rows of fiction, from $.25 paperbacks to current bestsellers and a comprehensive children’s section from board books for toddlers to novels for young adults. We have coffee table art books and vintage books, pre-1950, some much worn and beloved, and some with beautiful covers and gilt pages. Come and browse!
We also invite you to browse anytime at our Online Bookstore for local sales.
https://venturafol-107753.square.site/s/shop We are in the process of remodeling our online store, adding new categories such as Just Added! and Art, Architecture and Photography. Just order and pick up at the bookstore in E.P. Foster in as little as two days.

The Chamber held a ribbon cutting at the Harbor Mart located in Portside Ventura Harbor

Photos by Patrcia Schallert and Yana Khiyod

It all began in 2014, when the owners start running the Harbor Mart in Hollywood Beach (Channel Islands Harbor). Based on their experience and visits from different parts of the world it is a combination of Mediterranean and European food and fine wines and craft beers, as well as special spirits, and fresh, high-quality homemade food.

They decided to expand and opened the second store in Portside Ventura Harbor in Ventura. They are proud to be able to serve people in City of Ventura and City of Oxnard and enjoy serving the best quality of foods and drinks.

Community Memorial becomes first to implant new pacemaker

Community Memorial Healthcare is proud to announce that electrophysiologist Jonathan Dukes, MD recently became the first physician in the United States to implant the new Medtronics Micra AV2 implant — the latest, upgraded version of a dual-chamber sensing ventricular pacemaker.

The Micra AV2 is the newest and more efficient version of Medtronic’s minimally invasive treatment option for patients with heart block and/or slow heart rate. Once implanted, the device has an average lifespan of 16 years, meaning most patients only need one device for life. The procedure was performed in the Cardiac Catheterization Laboratory at Community Memorial Hospital – Ventura.

“This milestone achievement by Dr. Dukes and the Community Memorial Cath Lab team is another example of how we are bringing leading-edge technology to our community,” said Mick Zdeblick, Community Memorial President & Chief Executive Officer. “We are proud of our Heart & Vascular program for continuing to lead the region by offering a number of procedures typically only available at larger medical centers.”

The Community Memorial Cardiac Catheterization Laboratory (also known as the Cath Lab) is equipped with highly specialized technology designed to diagnose and treat cardiac, neurological, and vascular diseases. Procedures performed in the Cath Lab range from diagnostic heart catheterizations and ablations to advanced structural heart procedures such as TAVR, Watchman™, and MitraClip™.

Dr. Dukes is board certified in Internal Medicine, Cardiac Electrophysiology, and Cardiovascular Medicine. Electrophysiology is the subspecialty of cardiology that diagnoses and manages electrical problems of the heart, including atrial fibrillation and cardiac rhythm abnormalities.

California Transportation Commission approves $74.8 million

The California Transportation Commission (CTC) has approved $74.8 million from the Solutions for Congested Corridors Program to support construction of four rail, active transportation and electric-vehicle charging projects in Ventura County.

The Solutions for Congested Corridors Program (SCCP) is a statewide, competitive program that provides funding to achieve a balanced set of transportation, environmental, and community access improvements to reduce congestion throughout the state. The program was created by the Road Repair Accountability Act of 2017 (SB 1).

The Ventura County Transportation Commission (VCTC) and the California Department of Transportation (Caltrans) nominated the “US 101 Connected Communities Corridor Rail and Active Transportation Improvements” projects for SCCP funding. Applications were submitted in December 2022.

“This funding will bring many benefits to residents and commuters in Ventura County, whether they are traveling by rail, bicycle, on foot or in an electric vehicle. Once completed, these projects will reduce travel time for rail passengers, create a safe route for cyclists and pedestrians traveling for work or recreation, and provide support to EV drivers who wish to combine a vehicle and train trip,” said VCTC Chair and Oxnard Mayor Pro Tem Bryan MacDonald, who represents VCTC and is vice chair of the LOSSAN Rail Corridor Agency Board of Directors.

 

“VCTC is grateful to the California Transportation Commission for providing funding for these projects, as well as to Caltrans and our regional partners for their support of this application. The funding is a critical piece of the effort to create more multimodal transportation options for travelers in the Highway 101 corridor through Ventura County and beyond,” said VCTC Executive Director Martin Erickson.

Will fund the following in Ventura.

Six electric vehicle charging stations (two per station) at the Camarillo, Oxnard and East Ventura train stations, which will support California’s transition to zero-emission vehicles and provide more station amenities to rail passengers.

3.9 miles of a new Class I multi-use bicycle and pedestrian trail between the East Ventura train station and Wells Road along the Santa Paula Branch Line railroad in the City of Ventura and unincorporated Ventura County. Class I trails are physically separated from vehicle traffic. The trail will improve safety for pedestrians and bicyclists traveling for recreation or commuting to jobs and destinations like schools and grocery stores.

 

Ventura County’s Elderly Fall Prevention Coalition has a program to reduce the number of accidents

by Dr. Thomas Duncan, DO, FACS, FICS. This article first appeared in LIVEWell

Falls are still the leading cause of injury deaths among people over the age of 60, and the most common reason for hospital admissions, doctor visits, and emergency room visits. Despite our best efforts, up to 33 percent of adults over the age of 60, and 50 percent of adults over the age of 80, will fall each year. Hip fractures remain the most common injury associated with falls. More than 40 percent of seniors recovering from hip fractures are unable to return to their homes due to complications.

The cause of falls can vary greatly, including inappropriate footwear, clutter, taking multiple and duplicate medications, weak strength in the legs, declining vision, chronic health problems, and occasionally small pets. The COVID-19 pandemic caused another layer of complexity to our seniors’ lives by their needing to negotiate safety guidelines while trying to avoid a life-altering fall.

We live in a county that has many seniors. By 2030, approximately 30 percent of Ventura County’s citizens are expected to be 60 years of age or older. Ventura County’s Elderly Fall Prevention Coalition (EFPC) was originally founded in 2013 after recognizing the life-changing effects of falls suffered by our elders. The coalition was established by a multidisciplinary group overseen by the Ventura County Medical Center (VCMC) trauma department. The goal of the coalition is to reduce primary falls that have been recognized as being largely preventable.

The cost of caring for each fall ranges from $37,000 to $60,000. This figure is calculated based on the severity of injury and level of care provided. In 2013, the total cost of fall-related injuries in the U.S. was more than $36 billion. That figure rose to $60 billion in 2020. The average cost of annual healthcare dollars in California for non-fatal falls is $2.4 billion. It is remarkable that an elder dies from a fall every 29 minutes, while similar-aged elders are treated in an emergency room for a fall-related reason every 14 seconds. Local data demonstrates that most falls – 68 percent – occur in elders’ primary residences. As such, our efforts are directed toward their homes.

It is our goal to raise awareness of the dangers of falls by holding multiple presentations at the local and national level. The total number of forums held year-to-date is 16, with the last three conducted virtually.

To raise awareness in the field, the coalition created the Elderly Fall Prevention Program (EFPP) in 2014, which involved EMS championing fall prevention awareness efforts at the point of contact. This pilot program was started in west Ventura County. At the scene of injury, EMS providers determine whether the individual’s call is truly due to a fall when responding to a 911 call. A quick home assessment and mitigation is conducted, including recommendations for improving hallway and room lighting, clearing hallway clutter, affixing rugs, and/or advocating for a medication check by their primary care provider.

We truly appreciate the Ventura County Board of Supervisors’ commitment to preventing elderly falls. Such devotion is shown by a yearly proclamation awarded to the EFPC since 2013. The coalition received an award from the National Association of Area Agencies on Aging in 2015 for ‘a successful program that improves lives of older adults and caregivers.’

The coalition continues to gain ground in the county but appreciates any funding sources that will enable it to maintain sustainability. It is very thankful for the cohesive voluntary efforts of all organizations involved and will not be successful without the multidisciplinary collaboration.

For further information on the fall prevention coalition and program, please visit www.vcaaa.org or call (805) 477-7343.

Note: Dr. Thomas Duncan is the chair of the Elderly Fall Prevention Coalition of Ventura County and Trauma Medical Director at the Ventura County Medical Center

Ventura city and county emergency crews respond to structure fire with person on the roof

On July 13, at noon, fire units were dispatched to a reported structure fire in the 3000 block of Porter Lane near the Pacific View Mall, with a person on the roof. Ventura Police Department quickly responded and apprehended the suspect on scene prior to Fire Department’s arrival.

Firefighters arrived within 4 mins of dispatch and found a single story/single family home with heavy fire and smoke showing. firefighters made entry to make an aggressive attack to extinguish the fire. Firefighters extinguished the fire with a coordinated effort of vertical and horizontal ventilation to keep the fire from spreading throughout the structure.

The fire was controlled 18 minutes after units arrived on scene and the house was confirmed to have no victims inside. Ventura City Fire units were assisted by Ventura Police Department as well as Ventura County Fire Department.

The 29-year-old man who was on the roof was arrested and booked into the Ventura County Jail for Arson of an inhabited dwelling.

Ventura City Fire respond to single family residence fire resulting in death and injuries

On July 21, at 8:45 am, the Ventura City Fire received a call of a reported structure fire in the 400 block of Nova Court. Upon arrival firefighters found a well involved single family residence with a report of a person trapped inside.

Firefighting crews immediately entered the building fighting fire and conducting a search for a victim. A deceased female was located inside the home. Firefighters extinguished the fire 14 minutes after arrival.

One adult male was treated and transported to the hospital for burns and smoke inhalation sustained while attempting to extinguish the fire with a garden hose.

 

 

Food Share of Ventura County receives multiple awards

Food Share, Ventura County’s largest hunger-relief organization, has been honored with a multitude of prestigious awards, solidifying its position as one of the county’s leading nonprofits.

The 73rd annual Oxnard Community & Business Awards, hosted by the West Ventura County Business Alliance, recognizes remarkable individuals, businesses, and organizations. Food Share was honored with the Non Profit of the Year award for its work in tackling food insecurity within the city, exemplified by the ongoing drive-thru food distributions that take place at College Park, Oxnard. Starting in April 2020, at the beginning of the pandemic, the distributions are now in their third year and continue to draw large numbers, serving an estimated 4,000 people each week.

Commenting on the award, Monica White, Food Share’s President and CEO, said, “I’m immensely grateful that this incredible, hard-working team chooses to use their many talents here at Food Share and so happy that they feel recognized and respected for the work they do.”

Food Share is also honored to have won a 2023 Gold Viddy Award in the long-form, non-broadcast category. The international competition, which celebrates video excellence in the digital realm, recognized Food Share’s impactful video shedding light on the experiences of individuals facing food insecurity in Ventura County.

The Viddy Awards, formerly known as the Videographer Awards and administered by the Association of Marketing and Communication Professionals (AMCP), is judged by professionals from the industry who seek out exceptional talent and work that sets a benchmark for excellence. The winning video was a collaborative effort with local videographers, James & Jules Branaman.

Lions Club kick off new Night Meeting

Recently the Ventura Downtown Lions Club kicked off their new Night Meeting with a fun and informal social hosted by The Portside Ventura Harbor. Their gracious hosts provided a beautiful display of hor d’oeuvres, drinks and dinner followed by tasty gelato from CRAVE.

On behalf of the Pediatric Cancer and Community Service Committees, 1st VP Lisa Morris and PP Steve Shaw presented a $1000.00 check to the VCMC Ronald McDonald Room. There were over 30 members in attendance and a few guests. Feedback from the event was great and many members are looking forward to the night meetings.

Lion committees are always hard at work. On Saturday 7/15/23, PP Jon Youngerman and Lion Rookie of the Year Quincy Dungan organized a blood drive and about 20 members supported it.

There is still time to donate, just schedule an appointment and let them know you are donating on behalf of the Ventura Downtown Lions Club. With the Ventura Downtown Lions Club there are always opportunities to serve.. There are plenty to choose from!

Exercising with chronic conditions

Take more steps by parking farther away from stores, movie theaters, or your office.

Almost anyone, at any age, can do some type of physical activity. You can still exercise even if you have a health condition like heart disease, arthritis, chronic pain, high blood pressure, or diabetes. In fact, physical activity may help. For most older adults, physical activities like brisk walking, riding a bike, swimming, weightlifting, and gardening are safe, especially if you build up slowly. You may want to talk with your doctor about how your health condition might affect your ability to be active.

Researchers are assessing the benefit of exercise to delay mild cognitive impairment (MCI) in older adults and to improve brain function in older adults who may be at risk for developing Alzheimer’s disease. Older adults with MCI may be able to safely do more vigorous forms of exercise, similar to older adults without MCI, provided there are no other underlying health concerns.

Being active and getting exercise may help people with Alzheimer’s or another dementia feel better and can help them maintain a healthy weight and have regular toilet and sleep habits. If you are a caregiver, you can exercise together to make it more fun.

Tips for helping a person with dementia stay active

Take a walk together each day. Exercise is good for caregivers, too!

Use exercise videos or check your local TV guide to see if there is a program to help older adults exercise.

Dance to music.

Do simple tasks around the home, such as sweeping and dusting.

Use a stationary bike.

Use soft rubber exercise balls or balloons for stretching or throwing back and forth.

Use stretching bands.

Lift weights or household items such as soup cans.

Flexibility exercises such as upper- and lower-body stretching and tai chi can help keep joints moving, relieve stiffness, and give you more freedom of movement for everyday activities.

Strengthening exercises, such as overhead arm raises, will help you maintain or add to your muscle strength to support and protect your joints.

Endurance exercises make the heart and arteries healthier and may lessen swelling in some joints. Try activities that don’t require a lot of weight on your joints, such as swimming and biking.

If you have arthritis, you may need to avoid some types of activity when joints are swollen or inflamed. If you have pain in a specific joint area, for example, you may need to focus on another area for a day or two.

If you have COPD, talk with your healthcare provider or a pulmonary therapist to learn what he or she recommends. You may be able to learn some exercises to help your arms and legs get stronger and/or breathing exercises that strengthen the muscles needed for breathing.

Pulmonary rehabilitation is a program that helps you learn to exercise and manage your disease with physical activity and counseling. It can help you stay active and carry out your day-to-day tasks.

For people with diabetes, exercise and physical activity can help manage the disease and help you stay healthy longer. Walking and other forms of daily exercise can help improve glucose levels in older people with diabetes. Set a goal to be more active most days of the week, and create a plan for being physically active that fits into your life and that you can follow. Your healthcare team can help.