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The Bookmark About Libraries and Friends

by Jill Forman

Just for fun, and to honor more of the volunteers behind the scenes who keep things running, I decided to rerun my first-ever article for the Breeze.

The Wizards of the Warehouse (originally run August 2015)

They don’t look like wizards, this group of mostly-older people quietly moving around among piles and shelves and tables and bags and boxes…….not of some magical potions, but of books and media.  Yet these folks weave magic all their own.  They transform donations of books, CDs and DVDs into programs for children, lectures for adults, teen group activities, library supplies, new reading material for everyone, and many other wondrous things.

These wizards are the book sorters for the Ventura Friends of the Library.  Working in a small warehouse space with an estimated 20,000 items, with up to 30 boxes a week coming in, they inspect and sort and price each book.  Between three to twelve of them show up weekly, mostly retired people in their 70’s (up to age 88!) and work their magic.  Items are shelved by category, subject, dates, condition, and so on.  It is a miraculous effort and the results are amazing.

Friends of the Library donated $68,151.00, to the E.P. Foster, Avenue and Saticoy Libraries last year (2014) for special programs, materials and equipment: through book sales, the E.P. Foster Library Bookstore, Amazon On-Line Sales, memberships, donations, and interest. The Friends of the Library also contribute to a Capital Improvement Fund, for future library buildings or improvements, and an Endowment Fund.

Though mostly retired, among the workers gathered there one Friday was a teacher, a nurse, and a stay-at-home parent.  The wizards used to work at much more ordinary occupations:  accountant, product manager, librarian (of course,) retail sales, contract administrator, and in a school office.  All these jobs have one thing in common: making order out of the normal disorder of life, be it someone’s bookkeeping, a manufacturing plant, student records, or the chaos of an Emergency Room. Marvels of organization in themselves, these jobs translate well into turning discards into wonderful collections and programs at our libraries for the citizens of Ventura.

If you would like to join this endeavor, email the Friends at [email protected] (current email for volunteering is [email protected]) The Friends welcome donations of books in good condition (no magazines or encyclopedias please), DVD’s, and CD’s.  There are donation boxes provided at the libraries (NOT THESE DAYS DUE TO COVID – CURRENT INFO ON THE VFOL WEBSITE.)  You can contribute by joining the Friends of the Library, and you may purchase gift memberships as well – the website is sanbuenaventurafriendsofthelibrary.org (now venturafriendsofthelibrary.org) You can also make a donation to the Capital Improvement or Endowment Funds. The Friends are a 501(c)3 and all donations are tax deductible.

As the wizards say: “I love books;” “This is a good way to volunteer;” “It’s great to be with people with like interests;” “I like to organize;” “Books are my passion;” “Love to recycle books;” “Many hands make light work.” “Want to share my love of reading with others and give them a chance to have books;” “I think the Friends of the Library are great.”

Vol. 14, No. 08 – Jan 13 – Jan 26, 2021 – Forever Homes Wanted

Hi, I’m Scruffy, a 2-year-old Chihuahua X who was one of 16 dogs rescued from a single family home. We all were not socialized and I was in the worst shape with a broken jaw. It’s been repaired and I’m waiting for my special someone to make me a part of their family.

I’ve been in two foster homes since I’ve been with C.A.R.L. In my first foster home I lived with other dogs and made tremendous progress and I was doing really well. I’d run around the house and I’d try to get the other dogs to play with me. I’ll need a playful and easy-going brother and/or sister in the home who will not only play with me but show me the ropes too.

My second foster mom calls me Sunny. Scared and unsure of my new foster mom and new foster home, I would cower in a corner or hide in my crate. My crate is left available to me so I always have a safe place to be, but I decided rather quickly that I prefer being outside of the crate and now I don’t want to go in it. I’m fed in the crate so I feel comfortable should I need to be put in it to go to a vet appointment.

If you have the love and patience that I need as I continue to learn to trust, fill out an application to meet me. CARL CARL Adoption Center-call 644-7387 for more information.

Shogun, our short-legged German Shepherd, spent his whole life with one owner and is going through a huge change now being at the shelter alone. Here at the shelter he has hung out with other dogs without incident so he may be happy living with another mature, calm dog. Shogun enjoys going on walks and rolling around in the grass and would love a belly rub once he knows you. He has a lot of typical German Shepherd characteristics and is protective of his home so he is looking for a home without kids and someone experienced with German Shepherd or guardian-type breed characteristics. Ventura County Animal Services – Camarillo location – 600 Aviation Drive Shogun A634944

Five students from Cabrillo Middle School named as Part of the All-State Honor Ensembles

by Rebecca Wicks

The Cabrillo Middle School is proud to announce five of its students have been selected through audition to be participants in the 2021 California All-State Honor Band, part of the annual California All- State Music Education Conference (CASMEC). Students chosen include Bea Barnes (Horn), Lucca Boccali (Tuba) Emily Gonzalez (Trumpet), Brynn Gray (Trumpet), and Kiran Maserang (Oboe).

“It’s a great honor to be selected and we are more than proud of these students,” said Mr. Mario Boccali, music director for the Cabrillo Middle School Music Department. “It’s definitely been one of the most challenging times in recent history for all musicians – young and old – and these students have definitely proven their dedication and perseverance.”

Each fall, thousands of students audition for the opportunity to participate in one of the CASMEC All-State Honor Ensembles which include All-State Bands, Orchestras, and Choirs. Traditionally, selected students travel to Fresno, Calif. in February from all over the state to participate in a four-day conference which includes a rigorous schedule of rehearsals, classes and concerts. This year because of COVID-19, the conference is scheduled to take place virtually.

The Cabrillo Middle School Music has a long history of its students being selected for this high honor, with students being chosen each year for 15 years running.

The Music Department at Cabrillo Middle School is directed by Mr. Mario Boccali and Mr. Gabriel Garnett and works to bring together music-making and the academic learning of music in the areas of composition, performance, music history and music theory. The department offers a variety of ensembles for every student – from those who have never played an instrument to those who enter the program with years of experience. Students learn music fundamentals and how to work hard and succeed as a group to produce great results. The program aims to provide a positive and fun environment where music students have the opportunity to participate in clinics with music professionals and perform at music festivals and other fun events throughout the community. The school’s top groups perform at nationally adjudicated festivals each year on the annual Spring Tour.

About Cabrillo Music Boosters – An all-volunteer, nonprofit organization, the Cabrillo Music Boosters serves to support Cabrillo Middle School’s vibrant award-winning music program. The Music Boosters’ primary function is to support the music program in several ways, the most important being fundraising. The CMS Boosters help to pay for new instruments, uniforms, new sheet music, music tutors for beginning band students, and transportation expenses for festival performances. To donate to or learn more about the program, go to: https://sites.google.com/view/cabrillomiddleschoolmusic/.

January online classes and support groups

Presented by Dignity Health St. John’s Pleasant Valley Hospital and St. John’s Regional Medical Center

1. What to Know About Stroke (FREE Zoom Class)
Saturday, January 23, 2021, 11 a.m. to noon
Presenters: Sr. Suzanne Soppe
Class Description: In this class, you will learn what a stroke is, signs and symptoms, what to do, treatments, and how to prevent a stroke.
To register, please call 805.988.2693 and leave a detailed message with your full name and phone number. You can also email us at [email protected].

2. Healthier Living: Chronic Disease Self-Management (FREE Zoom Class)
Co-Sponsored by the Camarillo Health Care District
Tuesday, January 26, 2021 (Six consecutive Tuesdays), 9 a.m. to 11:30 a.m.
Presenter: Sr. Suzanne Soppe and Blair Barker, MPH, from Camarillo Health Care District
Class Description: Learn how to manage your or a loved one’s ongoing health condition. Topics include exercise, medication, decision-making, emotions, healthy meal planning, and communication skills.
To register, please call 805.988.2693 and leave a detailed message with your full name and phone number. You can also email us at [email protected].

3. FREE Mom to Mom Peer Support Group
Tuesdays, 11 a.m. to 12:30 p.m. (Support group is not available on holidays.)
This group is designed for pregnant and postpartum women who need time to explore the complex emotions that often come with motherhood.
To register or for more information, please call 805.988.2784.

4. FREE Mommy and Me Support Group (0-6 months)
Thursdays, 11 a.m. to 12:30 p.m. (Support group is not available on holidays.)
This class focuses on infant care and parenting issues. You will learn about infant CPR and child safety, infant massage, and child development. Every class includes music and games that mothers and babies can enjoy together.
To register or for more information, please call 805.988.2784.

5. FREE Mommy and Me Support Group (6-12 months)
Thursdays, 9:30 a.m. to 10:30 a.m. (Support group is not available on holidays.)
Learn how to handle the new challenges and concerns that arise as your baby gains mobility by sharing with others who are experiencing similar issues. Music and games are a part of every class.
To register or for more information, please call 805.988.2784.

6. FREE Sibling Class
First Saturday of the month, 10 a.m. to 11 a.m. (Support group is not available on holidays.)
This one-time class is to prepare your child (age 2-10 years of age) for the upcoming birth of their new baby brother or sister. This class will include what babies do and how they communicate, what a big brother or sister may feel about the new baby’s arrival, and how they can help with the new baby. A special booklet and certificate will be mailed to the child after completion of the course.
To register or for more information, please call 805.988.2784.

7. FREE St. John’s Baby Bistro Breastfeeding Support Group
Wednesdays, noon to 1 p.m. (Support group is not available on holidays)
Nurture yourself and learn how to handle various issues that may come up after leaving the hospital by participating in a breastfeeding support group. Topics include engorgement, latch difficulties, sore nipple management, establishing and maintaining an adequate milk supply, preparing to return to work, pumping, milk collection and storage, weaning, and other shared concerns. Immediate breastfeeding questions and one-on-one consultations are also available via zoom.

To register or for more information, call St. John’s lactation office at 805.988.2796.

East Ventura Community Council meeting

“A Conversation About East Ventura” is the topic for panelists and those in attendance at the next Zoom meeting of the East Ventura Community Council, at 7:00 pm on Thursday, January 21st.

Newly elected City Council members as well as Stephanie Caldwell, Executive Director of the Ventura Chamber of Commerce, and Brad Golden, Immediate Past Board Chair, will discuss ideas and plans for assisting East Ventura’s enhancement.

Community members in attendance will review the priorities for East Ventura improvements as previously identified at the September community forum and will help develop an action plan.

Other topics may be added to the agenda, so be sure to check the group’s Facebook page for updates.

The Council represents those who live east of Victoria Avenue, and the public is encouraged to attend and participate.

The meeting will be held online via the Zoom application. Go here to view: https://us02web.zoom.us/j/88105125389?pwd=Mm9mTHFyRmtGZDhTaEUzMXI1WTU5QT09.

You will first need to download the Zoom app on your computer or smart phone. You do not need an account.  If you miss the meeting, you can always view later on the website, www.eastventura.org. The Zoom meeting will start promptly at 7:00 pm.

For more information, contact EVCC Chairperson, Deborah Meyer-Morris at [email protected].

Homes with Heart VC encourages community members to make their lives more meaningful

Local human services agency urges community support to open their hearts and homes to children and older youth in (foster)care, as additional census shows a growth in need during the pandemic.

The holidays are a special time of year filled with memories, celebrations, and annual family gatherings. It is also a time to acknowledge the families who are less fortunate who may not enjoy the same shared experiences. Ventura County Children and Family Services through Homes with Heart VC truly hopes and needs more families to step up to help children, youth, and families with mentorship, or a home for the holidays by becoming a resource family.

Homes with Heart VC is grateful for the families, organizations and circle of charities who have come forward over the years to help strengthen families in need, and urges additional families to open their hearts to children, older youth in care and their families this holiday season. Your contribution can be large or small whether your family can provide a home, a form of mentorship, or a safe place to come to for guidance, you can make a large impact in their lives and your family will receive so much more in return.

In addition to encouraging more families to come forward and help keep families safe and reunified, Homes with Heart VC is hosting a holiday donation drive where people can donate directly to the charities in Ventura County that help families and children by visiting HomeswithHeartVC.org/Charities. Please help share the holiday cheer to families in need this season. Your simple act of generosity can make all the difference for families in need of love, support and stability.

Visit HomeswithHeartVC.org/Charities and make your contribution to local charities helping youth and families today.

Recognized as a best practice leader statewide in the family recruitment and support component of child welfare, Ventura County Children and Family Services’ Homes with Heart VC, previously known as Foster VC Kids, was developed to increase the amount of loving resource families who are ready to take in children in need in Ventura County.

This initiative provides resource families with ongoing support services, trauma-informed training, and mentorship to enhance the safety, permanency and well-being of Ventura County’s youth and families.

Learn how Ventura County Children and Family Services’ Homes with Heart VC is making a difference throughout Ventura County, www.homeswithheartvc.org.

January is National Human Trafficking Awareness Month

by Kathy Morgan

Human Trafficking impacts between 4-6 million people annually worldwide, 71% being women and girls. Human Trafficking (HT) is the exploitation of a person for sex or labor through the use of force, fraud or coercion. It is a Human Rights crime as it deprives a person of his or her freedom and causes them irrevocable harm – both mentally and physically.

Many people believe that this is something that only happens in other places. However, California is ranked as one of the top four HT destinations in the United States with our central coast being identified as a natural transit corridor for trafficking. Trafficking is estimated to be a $150 billion dollar industry annually and the second largest criminal enterprise in the world.

Traffickers consider it to be an easy way to make money as it is low risk with a renewal resource. Soroptimist International – a global volunteer organization which advocates for human rights and gender equality has been involved in projects and advocacy surrounding this issue since 1995. For HT to end there need to be efforts in Awareness and Prevention (Education to all),
Protection (Police resources and safe houses), Prosecution, and Policy changes.

Our local Soroptimist International clubs (Oxnard, Ventura and Camarillo) have sponsored STOP Human Trafficking awareness events for 13 years. Only with the public being educated and aware of this issue is there hope for ending this heinous crime. For more information go to www.stoptraffickingventuracounty.org.

If you need help or see potential abuse call the Human Trafficking Hotline at 1-888-373-7888 or text HELP to 233733.

Vol. 14, No. 08 – Jan 13 – Jan 26, 2021 – Harbor Patrol Blotter

Tuesday
12-22

 7:37pm, dispatched to an overdose in the Ventura Marina Community. Officers responded and assisted VFD/VPD/AMR with the patient who suffers from multiple aliments but at this time only having an argument with her children.

Wednes
12-23

 12:15pm, dispatched to a cardiac arrest in the Ventura Marina Community. Officers responded and found the patient deceased and beyond resuscitation.

5:33pm, received a report of an injured squirrel near the Harbor Town point. Officers were able to capture the animal and turn over to rescue volunteers.

Thursday
12-24

 .3:30pm, dispatched to a fire alarm in the Harbor Storage facility. Officers responded and found an active fire in a few units, updating dispatch. Multiple agencies responded and were able to put out the fire and minimize damage.

Friday
12-25

 4:21pm, dispatched to a water rescue, kite surfer in distress near the Ventura Pier. Officers responded in Rescue B-19 along with multiple other agencies. The victim was found as reported and assisted to the shore, no injuries reported.

Sunday
12-27

 2:25pm, received multi reports of a damaged dock in the keys. Officers responded, found the dock as reported. Relayed dock repair companies contact info. Harbor Patrol is not equipped to repair, construct or give advice on repairs.

Tuesday
12-29

 12:15pm, received mayday call, small vessel disabled near the #4 buoy. Officers responded in Rescue B-19 and towed the vessel to the launch ramp.

 

 

 

Wednes
12-30

 9:30am, observed a life-sized blow-up doll adrift in the at the entrance to the keys. Officers responded, pulled the life-like doll onboard and disposed of it.

Thursday
12-31

 10:00am, Due to the COVID-19 stay at home order, the General Manager has decided to close the Port District, Operations offices. Please call or email if you need to drop off payments or anything from the Port District till further notice.

7:15pm, received report of suspicious persons, skateboarders in the VHV boatyard prowling around a large yacht. Officers responded, found the juveniles as reported. The group removed from the yard, issued warnings for trespassing.

Friday
1-1-21

 7:09am, dispatched to smoke seen near Spinnaker/Harbor. Officers responded and found a transient with a warming fire just off the road. Convinced the individual to extinguish the fire and to refrain from igniting fires in the future.

Saturday
1-2

 11:38am, dispatched to a unconscious person in the VHV, near 1583 sector. Officers responded and assist VFD/AMR with a 103 y/o male who fainted and was confused what happened. The patient was transported to local hospital.

3:30pm, while on patrol in Rescue B-19, officers observed a kayaker near the end of the Ventura Pier displaying the international sign of distress (waving both arms) and investigated. The individual was exhausted and afraid to attempt heading to shore due to the large waves (10-12ft). The victim was taken aboard and to the harbor, transported to his vehicle near the pier. No injuries occurred.

Monday
1-4

 11:04am, received a report of a seiner skiff operating more than 5mph in the mid area of the harbor. Officers responded but were unable to locate the operator

1:42pm, received a report of an injured sea bird near 1591 Spinnaker. Officers responded and were able to catch the bird and transferred to rescue volunteers.

5:03pm, received complaint of two children riding scooters in and out of Harbor Cove onto Spinnaker w/o supervision. Officers responded, found the pair, then found the parents and advised of the danger of both their actions.

 

Ventura Chamber of Commerce presents check to Ventura Fire Chief to support local Spark of Love program

City of Ventura Fire Chief, David Endaya; Ventura Chamber of Commerce CEO, Stephanie Caldwell; Ventura Chamber of Commerce 2020 Board Chair, Brad Golden; and City of Ventura Assistant Fire Chief, Matthew Brock at the check ceremony.

The Ventura Chamber of Commerce presented a check for $3,500 to Ventura City Fire Chief David Endaya at a recent City Council meeting. The check to be used in support of the firefighters’ Spark of Love Program that provides new toys and sports equipment to kids in need throughout Ventura County.

The Chamber’s support of this program has a rich history. Each year the Chamber hosts their annual Poinsettia Awards program, which recognizes those in the community who are doing great work in business, education, public service and the non-profit arenas. A popular component of the event is the Spark of Love toy drive. Over the years chamber members have donated thousands of toys for local kids in our community. This year due to COVID, the chamber was unable to host the annual event.

Then in partnership with Ventura Fire and Spark of Love, The Chamber planned a contactless drive through event at the Pacific View Mall, however, due to the State’s “Stay at Home” order this event too had to be cancelled.

“After speaking with Chief Endaya I knew that we could not let that stop us, we cannot let down these kids,” said Stephanie Caldwell, President and CEO of the Ventura Chamber. “I worked with our sponsors who generously agreed to use some of the funds originally earmarked for the Poinsettia Awards to support Spark of Love.”

On Tuesday, December 15, Chamber Board Chair, Brad Golden and Stephanie Caldwell presented the donation to Chief Endaya. Not only will these funds be used to purchase much needed toys for the program, but the funds will be spent right here in our own community, at local shops and sporting goods stores, increasing the power of the donation locally!

Special thanks to the generosity of members who supported the program with donations: Ventura Auto Center, Montecito Bank & Trust, California Resources Corporation, Ventura County Credit Union, Aera Energy, Christina Vanarelli, Inc. A Professional Law Corporation, Aegis Living, Bank of Sierra, Sespe Consulting, Tolman & Wiker Insurance Services, AT&T, So Cal Edison, UCLA Health and Channel Islands Designs.

The Ventura Chamber of Commerce is a membership-based organization that advocates on behalf of the business community. With nearly 700 members, representing more than 24,000 employees locally, the Chamber engages on a variety of issues that help to drive a strong local economy as The Voice of Business.