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This list provides common steps to consider when getting your affairs in order

1. Plan for your estate and finances. Depending on your situation, you may choose to prepare different types of legal documents to outline how your estate and finances will be handled in the future. Common documents include a will, durable power of attorney for finances, and a living trust.

A will specifies how your estate — your property, money, and other assets — will be distributed and managed when you die. A will can also address care for children under age 18, adult dependents, and pets, as well as gifts and end-of-life arrangements, such as a funeral or memorial service and burial or cremation. If you do not have a will, your estate will be distributed according to the laws in your state.

A durable power of attorney for finances names someone who will make financial decisions for you when you are unable to.

A living trust names and instructs a person, called the trustee, to hold and distribute property and funds on your behalf when you are no longer able to manage your affairs.

2. Plan for your future health care. Many people choose to prepare advance directives, which are legal documents that provide instructions for medical care and only go into effect if you cannot communicate your own wishes due to disease or severe injury. The most common advance directives include a living will and a durable power of attorney for health care.

A living will tells doctors how you want to be treated if you cannot make your own decisions about emergency treatment. You can say which common medical treatments or care you would want, which ones you would want to avoid, and under which conditions each of your choices applies. Learn how to prepare a living will.

A durable power of attorney for health care names your health care proxy, a person who can make health care decisions for you if you are unable to communicate these yourself. Your proxy — also known as a representative, surrogate, or agent — should be familiar with your values and wishes. A proxy can be chosen in addition to or instead of a living will. Having a health care proxy helps you plan for situations that cannot be foreseen, such as a serious auto accident or stroke. Learn how to choose a health care proxy.

These documents are part of advance care planning, which involves preparing for future decisions about your medical care and discussing your wishes with your loved ones.

3. Put your important papers and copies of legal documents in one place. You can set up a file, put everything in a desk or dresser drawer, or list the information and location of papers in a notebook. For added security, you might consider getting a fireproof and waterproof safe to store your documents. If your papers are in a bank safe deposit box, keep copies in a file at home. View a list of important papers.

4. Tell someone you know and trust or a lawyer where to find your important papers. You don’t need to discuss your personal affairs, but someone you trust should know where to find your papers in case of an emergency. If you don’t have a relative or friend you trust, ask a lawyer to help.

5. Talk to your loved ones and a doctor about advance care planning. A doctor can help you understand future health decisions you may face and plan the kinds of care or treatment you may want. Discussing advance care planning with your doctor is free through Medicare during your annual wellness visit. Private health insurance may also cover these discussions. Share your decisions with your loved ones to help avoid any surprises or misunderstandings about your wishes.

Community invited to join workshop for Surfers Point project

The City of Ventura is excited to announce an upcoming community workshop for the Surfers Point Managed Retreat Project. The workshop will occur on Thursday, May 2, at 5:30 p.m. at Santa Rosa Hall, located at the Ventura County Fairgrounds. Spanish interpretation will be available. 

This workshop presents a valuable opportunity for community members to engage in interactive discussions, activities, and collaborative sessions that will shape the amenities and potential public art themes at the Surfers Point site, among other aspects.

“We are thrilled to involve our community in this pivotal stage of the Surfers Point Managed Retreat Project,” said Mayor Joe Schroeder. “After receiving over $16 million from the State of California’s Coastal Conservancy to fund this project, community input and collaboration are crucial in creating a space that reflects the needs and aspirations of our residents and visitors for this iconic location.”

The Surfers Point Managed Retreat Project aims to meet the City’s coastal resilience goals through a multifaceted approach. To help protect against erosion, this project continues an innovative method of replacing existing infrastructure along the coastline that has been damaged due to consistent wave action. 

In addition to coastal protection, the project will include the construction of a new multi-use path and parking lot with an attendant station, a public art component, new lighting, drainage improvements, landscaping, and electrical vehicle parking. The reconstructed dunes, plantings, and buried cobble berm will protect these areas.

The Surfers Point Managed Retreat Project builds upon a previous initiative that was completed in 2013 in collaboration with the Ventura County Fairgrounds, Ocean Protection Council, State of California Coastal Conservancy, Beach Erosion Authority for Clean Oceans and Nourishment (BEACON), Surfrider Foundation, and more. 

“The City of Ventura is one of the world’s leading pioneers in this approach to restoring its coastline by reconstructing the area with natural features that help provide long-term protection against erosion,” shared Public Works Director Charlie Ebeling. “We are fortunate to have so many partners to help safeguard this site for generations to come.”

Community members are encouraged to RSVP for the workshop and learn more about the project’s history and background at Cityofventura.ca.gov/SurfersPoint.

Be well-informed about local evacuation procedures

With a firm commitment to saving lives, the City of Ventura is spearheading efforts to ensure residents are well-informed about local evacuation procedures. Recognizing the complexity of the various hazards that could prompt evacuations in Ventura, the City has meticulously divided Ventura into 15 evacuation zones, considering factors such as hazard vulnerability areas, population density, and major thoroughfares.

To educate residents on the new evacuation plan, evacuation zones, shelter locations, and transportation assembly points, community members and business owners are invited to join Emergency Services Manager Mack Douglass for a community workshop on Saturday, May 18, 2024, from 10:00 a.m. – 12:00 p.m. at the Ventura Police Department, located at 1425 Dowell Drive in Ventura.

The workshop will cover information about the 15 designated evacuation zones, potential shelter locations and transportation assembly points.

“With Ventura’s unique geography, location, and limited ingress and egress routes, it is crucial for residents to be aware of their designated evacuation zones in case of an emergency,” said Police Chief Darin Schindler. “By empowering residents with the knowledge and resources needed to respond effectively, we can streamline evacuation processes and save lives.”

The workshop is just one part of the outreach efforts. Additional presentations will be made at neighborhood community councils, ensuring accessibility to all residents. These presentations will cover essential details and provide opportunities for questions and feedback.

Residents are invited to attend the following meetings:
Westside Community Council: Wednesday, May 1, at 6:30 p.m. at the Bell Arts Factory
East Ventura Community Council: Thursday, May 16 at 7:00 p.m. on Zoom
Downtown Ventura Partners: Thursday, June 27, at 9:00 a.m. at the Crowne Plaza

The Evacuation Plan was developed based on feedback from over 900 residents who completed the Emergency Preparedness Community Survey in 2023. Survey responses provided diverse insights on all-hazards evacuation preparedness, including familiarity with current evacuation routes, emergency shelters, transportation options, preferred communication methods, and overall readiness.

The completed Emergency Evacuation Plan is inclusive of diverse populations, recognizing the needs of individuals with visual or hearing impairments, chronic medical conditions, language barriers, disabilities, access, and functional needs.

For more information, please visit CityofVentura.ca.gov/EvacuationPlan.

City Council considering important items

by Patricia Schallert

During the City Council meeting held on April 25th, 2024, Rachel Dimond, the hearing officer, brought forward two important items for discussion  which also included public comments. The initial topic on the table was the proposed paid parking plan for Harbor Village, which was intended to be implemented at various locations including Harbor Cove, Harbor Village & Marina, Ventura Isle Marina, and Surfer’s Knoll. However, a final decision on this plan was postponed until the Directors Hearing scheduled for May 23, 2024 to allow for further examination and discussion.

The second item on the agenda revolved around the Derecktor Ventura Coastal Development Permit, Planned Development Permit, and Major Design review for a project located on Anchors Way. The presentation included the consideration of public comments. The applicant, Tom Dereckor, along with Taylor Hernvall, the Senior Planner, provided detailed information on the Coastal Development Permit (CDP), which ensures adherence to specific regulations for coastal areas. They also highlighted the Planned Development Permit (PDP), allowing for customized development outside of existing zoning regulations. Furthermore, the design review process meticulously evaluated both the aesthetic and functional aspects of the proposed development to ensure it blended harmoniously with the surrounding community.

The presentation placed emphasis on the building development near The Waters Edge Restaurant on Anchors Way, aiming to create an inviting and vibrant space for both the local community and visitors alike. Currently, the project is in its planning and approval phase, with the developers fully dedicated to meeting zoning regulations, obtaining permits, and fulfilling other necessary requirements. Throughout the process, the City Council has prioritized community engagement, providing ample opportunities for residents to voice their concerns, make suggestions, and share their thoughts.

One local resident, Victoria Hubbell, expressed her concern during the meeting regarding potential view obstruction caused by the proposed 36-40 foot tall boat storage racks on the north end of the parking lot. She suggested “amending the plans by lowering the height of the storage racks specifically in that area, thereby addressing the potential impact on views.”

The proposed project encompasses various elements, including the reconfiguration of day sail stalls and parking lots, renovation of the Water’s Edge Restaurant to create a new taproom, construction of a new mixed-use building, installation of additional boat storage areas, establishment of a public boat service area and promenade with seating, along with  other related improvements. The architectural design of both the existing and proposed structures will adhere ensuring a visually cohesive appeal that aligns with the surroundings harbor and community.

At the meeting, the Design Review Committee (DRC) gathered to discuss the proposed Major Design Review. The Ventura City Council, expressed support for the project, emphasizing its positive impact on the community through the enhancement of public spaces, improved services and amenities, and the creation of employment opportunities. In light of this, the Committee unanimously recommended the project’s approval as presented by the Community Development Director.

Further information can be found on the Ventura City website: www.cityofventura.ca.gov

The MERITO and Hokuloa Outrigger Canoe Club Combined Their Efforts

Nearly sixty 8th-grade students from DATA Middle School navigated the Hokuloa and learned about ocean stewardship. 

by Rocío Lozano-Knowlton
Executive Director, MERITO Foundation

The MERITO Foundation and the Hokuloa Outrigger Canoe Club amplified their impact by combining efforts, expertise, and resources. They worked together to provide meaningful experiences to close to sixty 8th-grade students from DATA Middle School about what it is like, how it feels, and how exhilarating it is to navigate the Hōkūleʻa way.

Hōkūleʻa is the traditional Polynesian style of voyaging using outrigger canoes, your physical strengths, and by working in teams. The experiences occurred at Ventura Harbor on April 10 and 11, 2024, combined with ocean research and monitoring activities for the same students at the beach focused on plankton collection and identification, and the monitoring of microplastics.

The experiences took place after months of planning, coordination, and preparation by all involved, from MERITO raising the funds to cover buses, the lifeguard on duty, the safety and other water sports gear; the teaching of relevant ocean science lesson plans drawn from MERITO Foundation’s curricula in the classroom by Ms. Jennifer Willis and Ms. Laurel Davidson; the introduction to Hokuloa Outrigger Canoe Club in the school classes by Ms. Yvonne Menard, Chair of the Hokuloa Outrigger Canoe Club, and the time volunteered by the members.

The idea behind combining a water sport traditionally underrepresented in minority youth with hands-on ocean science experiences is to ignite interest in both the water sport and ocean stewardship. The students just loved it! You could see it in their happy faces. Not one student looked bored or even remembered their phone existed, said Rocío Lozano-Knowlton, founder and director of the MERITO Foundation.

This experience was one of many provided by the ‘From the Avenue to the Channel Islands’ (ATCI) Program of the MERITO Foundation funded by an Outdoors Equity Grant, created through AB 209 and administered by California State Parks, Office of Grants, and Local Services.

More information at https://www.meritofoundation.org.

Credit goes to the Outdoor Equity Grant of State Parks

April is National Distracted Driving Awareness Month

As April marks National Distracted Driving Awareness Month, the Ventura Police Department is increasing its efforts to combat the dangers posed by distracted driving. In alignment with this nationwide initiative, the department will conduct enforcement operations focused on drivers suspected of violating the hands-free cell phone law.

Under current law, drivers are not allowed to hold a phone or electronic communications device while operating a vehicle. This includes talking, texting, or using an app. Using a handheld cell phone while driving is punishable by a fine. Violating the hands-free law for a second time within 36 months of a prior conviction for the same offense will result in a point being added to a driver’s record.

If you have an important phone call or need to program directions, pull over to a safe parking spot. Before driving, either silence your phone or put it somewhere you can’t reach.

Funding for this program is provided by a grant from the California Office of Traffic Safety through the National Highway Traffic Safety Administration.

Ventura Tree Alliance Build a Sense of Community by Planting Trees

Barbara Brown, Christy Weir, and Nancy O’Rode are happy planting trees.

Every year, Californians celebrate Arbor Week by planting trees in their communities. This year the Ventura Tree

Alliance (VTA) is planting 15 trees at Elmhurst School and another 20 trees at Montalvo Hill Park. VTA has planted trees every year during Arbor Week since we began in 2021. Our goal is to increase awareness of the benefits of trees.

California is a place where trees are a part of our daily lives. Tree planting here is at an all-time high after significant losses statewide since 2018. Last year, in California nearly 195,000 trees were planted during Arbor Week. By the end of 2024, the Ventura Tree Alliance will have planted nearly 200 trees in Ventura.

Community, business and non-profit leaders from all fields understand that trees are important for practical and aesthetic reasons. Trees cool the air, reducing the need for air conditioning. Trees add property value to homes and businesses. Tree filled communities tend to be safer, more sociable and healthier.

Ventura loves trees, but in many communities, people are indifferent. But they shouldn’t be. Studies show urban greenery improves public health: 40 percent fewer people are overweight or obese, residents are three times as likely to be physically

active, children have reduced symptoms of attention deficit disorder, hypertension and asthma, and stress levels are lower.

If the intangible benefits to trees in our environment aren’t enough evidence, what about the dollars and cents? A study done in the Inland Valley showed that one large tree will provide over $2,700 in environmental and other benefits over its lifetime. That’s a 333-percent return on investment. For 100 large public trees, communities can save over $190,000 in 40 years.

While VTA does what we can locally, California ReLeaf is leading the statewide effort. Last year, they funded 33 projects with local organizations resulting in over 23,000 trees planted, and the creation or retention of nearly 200 jobs and job training for young people over the next two years. Because of our partnership with California ReLeaf, when you celebrate California Arbor Week locally, you’ll be celebrating with the rest of the state as well.

This California Arbor Week and in the future, we need your support. Neighbors can come together and help each other plant trees on their property. Volunteers can donate materials or their time to plant trees at parks or in schoolyards. Communities that work together to plant trees forge bonds that cannot be measured through the tons of carbon dioxide removed from the air or gallons of rainwater collected by trees. These are the relationships that lead to a greater understanding amongst neighbors and the inner peace that comes from living in a greener community.

Join Us!

Volunteers are needed to help plant trees on Thursday, April 25, 10am at Montalvo Hill Park. Bring a shovel or rake (with your name on it), a sun hat, sunscreen and water… and have a great day outdoors making a difference in Ventura.

Second Annual Mental Health Wellness Festival

by Carol Leish, MA

The Ventura County Mental Wellness Festival returns to Ventura Harbor. The organizer is local non-profit, Turning Point Foundation, whose mission is to improve the quality of life for adults experiencing serious mental illness, addiction, lack of housing and inadequate physical health care. The festival’s objective is to raise awareness about mental health and share mental wellness pathways that support, maintain and/or improve peoples’ mental health. This annual event celebrates the completion of National Mental Health Awareness Month (May).

Folks can visit Ventura Harbor Village (lawn area) at 1583 Spinnaker Dr. The event will be from 10:30am – 4:30pm on Saturday, June 1st 2024. Come relax with yoga and sound meditation, hosted by Meditation Mount. Enjoy live music from the Orchard Bluegrass Band. This band has been entertaining audiences of all ages throughout Southern California for many years. Two of the venues they have performed at include the Reagan Library and Ventura County Fair.

View the Mental Health Art Exhibit, which displays a variety of artwork submitted by Turning Point’s wellness program clients. Also, shop a variety of native plants and talk to horticulture experts at the Growing Works Garden Exhibit. Growing Works is an innovative wholesale plant nursery that serves as one of Turning Point’s mental wellness programs. It provides job training, employment, volunteer opportunities, recovery services and hands-on horticulture work experience to people experiencing mental health challenges.

Participate in an arts and crafts activity by Ronald McDonald House Charities (SoCal) Camp Good Times! RMHC’s Camp Good Times provides a cost-free multi-day sleep over experience for kids battling cancer and their families. Ronald McDonald House-Charities of Southern California’s mission is to create a positive, long-lasting impact on children with cancer and their families by providing fun-filled medically supervised cost-free year-round programs in tandem with seven houses spread through Southern California. This includes the newest “Family Room” at Ventura County Medical Center.

Event exhibitor and activity sponsors include: Ventura County Behavioral Health; Meditation Mount; Camp Ronald McDonald for Good Times; Tinyplants; Growing Works; Oxnard Wellness Center; 1Health Right 360; Autism Society-Ventura County; California Lutheran University; Ventura Breeze; New Talk 1590-KVTA; VC Reporter; Nate’s Places Wellness & Recovery Center and Rotary Ventura South.

Contact: [email protected] to become a sponsor and/or vendor!

Special thanks to Ventura Harbor Village as the venue! Join us at the grass lawn. Also, explore the wonderful array of shops, restaurants, boat rides and more.

Event Website: mentalwellnessfest.com

Get a 10% off at participating Ventura Harbor restaurants & shops by going to: https://mentalwellnessfest.com/venturaharborvillagefestivaldiscount.html