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Funding will help Ventura mitigate natural disasters

The City of Ventura, a participant in the Institute for Local Government and Strategic Growth Council’s BOOST pilot program, has been selected to receive a Proposition 84 Wildfire Resiliency and Recovery Planning Grant for nearly $200,000. The city recently experienced a wildfire threat from the Thomas Fire, which caused more than $2.2 billion in damage. The Prop 84 grant will ensure the city is better equipped to prepare for, respond to, and recover from natural disasters and be able to address the increasing wildfire threats brought on by climate change.

The BOOST pilot program was jointly developed by the Institute for Local Government (ILG) and the California Strategic Growth Council (SGC) to help local governments address California’s climate change and equity goals. As part of the program, ILG has been able to support participating cities and regions with capacity building and technical assistance support with a number of activities related to climate action and sustainability. Funding from the Prop 84 grant will allow Ventura to create a Climate Action and Resilience Plan (CARP) that the city will develop in conjunction with its General Plan Update.

“This grant will help our local government leaders build on lessons learned from the Thomas Fire and engage our community in a meaningful way,” said Joe Yahner. “We are thankful to our partners, CA– USE, the Housing Authority for the City of San Buenaventura, and the Institute for Local Government, for helping support our small, dedicated team navigate the grant application process. Without their support we would not have been able to compete for these critical funds.”

The CARP will build on lessons learned from the Thomas Fire and focus on innovative and comprehensive planning and preparation efforts to enable the city to better protect its residents, infrastructure, and economy.

“The Institute for Local Government is proud of the BOOST program and is so excited to see our technical assistance and capacity building partnership deliver results for the City of Ventura,” said Erica L. Manuel, CEO and Executive Director of ILG. “We have seen firsthand the devastating effects wildfire and other climate events can have on California’s communities and we commend Ventura’s efforts to become a more resilient community. This funding will help ensure that the City of Ventura is more prepared and able to recover from future wildfire events.”

The Institute for Local Government (ILG) is the non-profit training and education affiliate of the League of California Cities, California State Association of Counties and the California Special Districts Association, which represent 1000s of local agencies across the state. ILG helps local government leaders navigate the constantly changing landscape of their jobs by offering training, technical assistance, written resources and facilitation services specifically designed for local agencies. From leadership to public engagement to housing and workforce, ILG helps local leaders address a wide range of complex issues. Visit www.ca-ilg.org to find out more.

The BOOST pilot program is a partnership between the Institute for Local Government and the California Strategic Growth Council (SCG) to help local governments across the state address climate change and equity goals. The BOOST Pilot Program helps communities: Build awareness of funding opportunities to address climate action; Organize projects to be best positioned to meet its goals; Optimize existing resources and build more capacity; Strengthen relationships with key stakeholders and identify new opportunities for regional engagement and collaboration; and Transform their approach to addressing climate action. SGC supports BOOST with funds from California Climate Investments – Cap-and-Trade dollars at work. Find out more at www.ca-ilg.org/BOOST.

Help fight Medicare fraud

“I’m sure it’s safe to give my Medicare information to you!”

Stay alert for fraud during the coronavirus national emergency. Con artists like to take advantage of people when they’re distracted.

Con artists may try to get your Medicare Number or personal information so they can steal your identity and commit Medicare fraud. Medicare fraud results in higher health care costs and taxes for everyone.

Protect yourself from Medicare fraud. Guard your Medicare card like it’s a credit card. Remember:

Medicare will never contact you for your Medicare Number or other personal information unless you’ve given them permission in advance.
Medicare will never call you to sell you anything.
You may get calls from people promising you things if you give them a Medicare Number. Don’t do it.
Medicare will never visit you at your home.
Medicare can’t enroll you over the phone unless you called first.

Review your Medicare Summary Notices for errors and report anything suspicious to Medicare.

Compare the dates and services on your calendar with the statements you get from Medicare to make sure you got each service listed and that all the details are correct.
These include the “Medicare Summary Notice” (MSN) if you have Original Medicare , or similar statements from your plan if you’re in a Medicare Advantage Plan. They list the services you got or prescriptions you filled.
Check your claims early—the sooner you see and report errors, the sooner you can help stop fraud. Log into MyMedicare.gov to view your Original Medicare claims as soon as they’re processed, or call us at 1-800-MEDICARE (1-800-633-4227).
Check the receipts and statements you get from providers for mistakes.

If you think a charge is incorrect and you know the provider, you may want to call their office to ask about it. The person you speak to may help you better understand the services or supplies you got, or they may realize a billing error was made.

If you’ve contacted the provider and you suspect that Medicare is being charged for health care you didn’t get, or you don’t know the provider on the claim, find out how to report fraud.

Check regularly for Medicare billing fraud. Review your Medicare claims and Medicare Summary Notices for any services billed to your Medicare Number you don’t recognize.

Learn more about how to spot fraud.

Report anything suspicious to Medicare.
How to report Medicare fraud
Calling us at 1-800-MEDICARE (1-800-633-4227). TTY users can call 1-877-486-2048.
If you’re in a Medicare Advantage Plan, call the Medicare Drug Integrity Contractor (MEDIC) at 1-877-7SAFERX (1-877-772-3379).

Have this information before you report fraud:

Your name and Medicare Number.
The provider’s name and any identifying information you may have.
The service or item you’re questioning and when it was supposedly given or delivered.
The payment amount approved and paid by Medicare.
The date on your Medicare Summary Notice or claim.

Being physically active can be one of the best things you can do

“On your mark, get set, go.”

by the National Institute of Health (NIH)

Deciding to become physically active can be one of the best things you can do for your health. Exercise and physical activity are not only great for your mental and physical health, but they can help keep you independent as you age. Now, let’s talk about getting started.

How Much Activity Do Older Adults Need?

According to the Physical Activity Guidelines for Americans (PDF, 14.5M) you should do at least 150 minutes (2 ½ hours) a week of moderate-intensity aerobic exercise, like brisk walking or fast dancing. Being active at least 3 days a week is best, but doing anything is better than doing nothing at all. You should also do muscle-strengthening activities, like lifting weights or doing sit-ups, at least 2 days a week. The Physical Activity Guidelines also recommend that as part of your weekly physical activity you combine multiple components of exercises. For example, try balance training as well as aerobic and muscle-strengthening activities. If you prefer vigorous-intensity aerobic activity (like running), aim for at least 75 minutes a week.

How Older Adults Can Get Started with Exercise

Exercise and physical activity are great for your mental and physical health and help keep you independent as you age. Here are a few things you may want to keep in mind when beginning to exercise.

Start Slowly When Beginning Exercise

The key to being successful and safe when beginning a physical activity routine is to build slowly from your current fitness level. Over-exercising can cause injury, which may lead to quitting. A steady rate of progress is the best approach.

To play it safe and reduce your risk of injury:

Begin your exercise program slowly with low-intensity exercises.

Warm up before exercising and cool down afterward.

Pay attention to your surroundings when exercising outdoors.

Drink water before, during, and after your workout session, even if you don’t feel thirsty. Play catch, kickball, basketball, or soccer.

Wear appropriate fitness clothes and shoes for your activity.

If you have specific health conditions, discuss your exercise and physical activity plan with your health care provider.

Download and fill out the Find Your Starting Point Activity Log to document your starting point. You’ll find space to track your normal activity levels for a few days—try and choose a few weekdays and one weekend day.

Don’t forget to test your current fitness level for all 4 types of exercise—endurance, balance, flexibility, and strength. You may be in shape for running, but if you’re not stretching, you’re not getting the maximum benefit from your exercise. Write down your results so you can track your progress as you continue to exercise.

Make notes about how these test exercises feel. If the exercises were hard, do what’s comfortable and slowly build up. If they were easy, you know your level of fitness is higher. You can be more ambitious and challenge yourself.

Once you start exercising, use the Monthly Progress Test to check in and see how you are improving, and celebrate your successes!

Vol. 13, No. 22 – July 29 – Aug 11, 2020 – Mailbox

Mr. Brown:

I appreciate your column and look forward to your comments and insights.  I just wanted to mention to you, however, that I believe your comment that “as a non-native American, I don’t have really strong feelings about this” (regarding the statue of Father Serra) is unacceptable if we are to work towards social justice in our county ad our country.  If the only people who respond to injustice are those that have suffered from it, minority causes would never receive the support they deserve from all of us.  It would seem more in keeping with your opinions that we all share the responsibility to stand up for injustice, whether it has affected us or our ancestors, or not.

Thank you.
Kathy Waters

Kathy:
Thanks for this so I can clear this up. I am very concerned, and supportive for all peoples who have been, and will continue to be subjected to injustices and prejudices. I just meant that folks directly affected probably have stronger feelings but all have my empathy
Sheldon

Editor

In the April 8-21 edition of the Ventura Breeze, your challenge to readers regarding making positive statement(s) about President Trump only generated one response that I noticed. It was disappointing that more readers did not make an effort to respond. Here is my contribution.

Did you enjoy the stimulus check you received? Was the reduction in your Federal Taxes something you appreciated? Do you think the economy and lowest unemployment ever, prior to Covid-19, benefited America? Have you researched how many pieces of legislation President Trump has signed into law?

It is easy to criticize, find fault and believe what we hear or read. But haven’t we been taught to question everything? To question indicates a need to research and find the most accurate information, which is not as easy as it seems in today’s world of the internet and 24/7 media news that usually does not provide accurate or complete information. It is interesting to me that when I hear the major media spin what President Trump has said and when I see or hear the actual footage of his comment that I find the media’s spin was not what he actually said.

While it may be easy and popular to dislike President Trump’s often reported behavior, we should ask ourselves if we feel he really has the welfare of America’s future at heart?

Is the nomination of Federal Judges that believe in and respect the American Constitution a good thing for the preservation of America, as we have known it, something we appreciate? Isn’t the support of existing Federal Laws what elected officials are supposed to do?

In my opinion, the real issue voters need to address each time we vote is to pick the least of the evils. No candidate is perfect so it is each voter’s responsibility to exercise “due diligence” and vote for the person that hopefully will do the least amount of damage to our nation or community. We have been conditioned to the polite behavior of professional politicians. Perhaps we need more people in elected office that do not act like lifelong professional politicians, some of which have never had real jobs. We do not have to like someone to vote for them. We should try to determine which candidate is committed to do what is best for America and or our community.

Respectfully submitted from a registered Independent voter.

Ken Ogle

Is not life a thousand times too short for us to bore ourselves?
~ Friedrich Nietzsche

Family dynamics and your estate

The Community Memorial Healthcare Foundation is proud to invite you to a free online seminar for those looking to navigate the challenges of family interests when organizing an estate plan.

CMHF Board member Roy Schneider, of Schneider & Associates, LLP, will present this virtual seminar entitled Family Dynamics and Your Estate: When Planned Giving Doesn’t Go as Planned. He will share his expertise in estate planning, and offer illustrations on how to limit or eliminate potential family friction.

This online event will take place on Wednesday, August 5, 2020 at 11:00 a.m.

All are welcome to join.

Please go to cmhfventura.org/estateplanning to RSVP for this free, informative online seminar, hosted by Community Memorial Healthcare Foundation.

Community Memorial Healthcare Foundation is a charitable, nonprofit organization that helps elevate the quality of healthcare in our community by fundraising for Community Memorial Hospital and its greatest needs. (This is not a fundraising event).

To support Community Memorial Healthcare Foundation and its efforts to aid Community Memorial Hospital during this health crisis, please visit www.cmhfventura.org/donate/.

Vol. 13, No. 22 – July 29 – Aug 11, 2020 – Harbor Patrol Blotter

Tuesday 7-7

 4:15pm, dispatched to a medical, stingray strike at Harbor Cove. Officers responded with hot water to treat injury. The patient was released at the scene.

Thursday 7-9

 2:15pm, dispatched to a water rescue, 4 body boarders in a rip current near the South Jetty. Officers responded in Rescue B-19 and pulled the 4 onboard and delivered them safely to Surfers Knoll back with their families.

Friday 7-10

 6:45pm, received dispatch to a capsized vessel near Surfer Knoll from State Parks. Officers responded and assisted the righted vessel back to the harbor.

Saturday 7-11

 11:07am, received a report of an unconscious person in the launch ramp restrooms. Officers responded and requested VFD/AMR to also respond. Unfortunately, the patient was discovered deceased. After medics had confirmed death, VPD and the medical examiner took over investigation.

2:40pm, while on patrol, officers observed a transient attempt to steal a bike from a 50-year-old male. The would-be thief was unable to take the bike and attempted to flee the scene but was eventually detained by VPD close by.

Sunday 7-12

 7:31am, received complaint about bikes riding on the promenade near VIM. Officers advised of enforcement when observed by patrol or Courtesy patrol.

12:42pm, received a report of a boating accident in the keys. The vessel was secured in lift slip and sustained damage to the bow. Investigation is continuing.

Tuesday 7-14

 11:55am, received multiple reports of a red colored hull power boat in violation of speed and wake laws in the mid and South Basin areas of the harbor. The incident and similar reports are under investigation with multiple agencies.

Thursday 7-16

Friday 7-17

 12:10pm, observed several violations by fishermen on the Port District longdock. Officers made contacts and removed several fishermen for egregious violations such as urinating and cleaning fish on the dock. Fishing is allowed only in designated areas, such as the beach and from vessels, not docks or rocks.

1:10pm, dispatched to a stingray strike at Harbor Cove from State Parks. Officers responded with hot water to assist in treating the injury.

Saturday 7-18

 3:20pm, observed four kids jumping off the Ventura Harbor Yacht Yard pier into the water. The father was contacted and issued a warning for violation.

Sunday 7-19

 10:01am, observed a fisherman urinating on the Port District longdock. Officers contacted and removed the individual for the violation. Several fishermen were warned of the ordinance & closure coming of the dock & the rip rap for fishing.

10:41am, received report of juveniles jumping off the fish offloading dock. Officers responded and found the group actively jumping. Warnings issued for swimming in the harbor and the poor quality of the water around the pier.

11:23am, contacted a transient who has erected a shelter on the beach with drift wood and trash. Officers are trying to assist the individual with social services.

5:10pm, officers observed then removed four subjects fishing, drinking and smoking marijuana on the Port District longdock.

9:10pm, dispatched to an overdue PWC with possibly two persons onboard. Officers conducted a search and investigated all leads, but were unable to locate any credible evidence of missing persons or personal water craft.

 

John Jorgenson Bluegrass Band Car Concert

On Thursday, July 16th, I attended the John Jorgenson Bluegrass Band with my girlfriend Sue Maxfield at the Ventura County Fairgrounds. This was the first time I had ever been to a concert in my truck. We made sure we had enough snacks and batteries for our radio. It was easy to enter and park. The Bluegrass Band put on a great show. It was great to see how everyone in their cars got to interact with flashing lights and honking horns. The only irritating part was security walking around with their dogs and screaming at us to put our masks on when we were trying to enjoy our snacks. Otherwise it was a great night.

Devin Kress

Vol. 13, No. 22 – July 29 – Aug 11, 2020 – The Pet Page

Just before 8 p.m. on June 18, 2020, Handler Eric Darling received a call from the Ventura County Fire Department to assist in confirming no one was left behind after a fire in a drainage pipe in Santa Paula, CA. The tube is a space known to be used as a shelter by the homeless in the area, so it needed to be thoroughly checked.

Both of Eric’s search dogs — Mazie, a human remains detection canine, and Ben, a 12-year-old SDF-trained live find canine — searched well and made quick work of their mission. Eric shared that this may well be Ben’s last deployment as he recently completed his fourth FEMA Certification in February and is already past the age when most search dogs retire.

Search dogs in training at the Search Dog Foundation (SDF)are climbing to new heights

Search dogs in training are climbing to new heights at the campus, thanks to new agility space

In June, SDF celebrated the completion of the latest training area on the campus — the new Paws For Play Agility Yard! Generously provided by longtime SDF friend and supporter, Marie Morrisroe, the welcoming new space is fully enclosed, allowing for more off-leash work with dogs who may not be as far along in their training, and new pieces of agility equipment, including a sway bridge and raised platforms.

Judging by all the happy tail wags, it seems canines-in-training are loving the new area to run and play, while also learning valuable skills needed for disaster search. Coupled with our other existing agility equipment under our covered training arena, the new agility area enables the SDF Training Team to work with multiple canine recruits simultaneously, providing more repetitions on the obstacles and more training interactions every day. The agility exercises foster better footing stability for our canines when they eventually search the rubble pile, giving them confidence and helping to minimize the risk of injuries – all while having fun while they are at it!

∙What to consider as dog adoptions surge during pandemic:

Four Tips from Susan Marie, Host of The Doggy Diva Show

As word grew that people were going to have to shelter-in-place for an unspecified length of time, animal shelters began to empty. Thousands of people realized that they may be lonely during this time of social-distancing from family and friends. In some situations, parents came to the conclusion that their children needed a happy diversion and agreed to add a furkid to their family. Whatever the reason, shelters began to empty and animal lovers, like myself, were thrilled. However, families are seeking guidance on what dog might be right for them. Those who have already added a dog to their family are concerned with how to keep their new pet happy. Below are some points to consider, as you ponder which animal to bring home and what to do once they step their excited paws through your threshold.

1. The coronavirus pandemic will not last forever, but adopting your “furever friend” is a lifetime commitment of unconditional love. The first thing to consider is your family’s lifestyle. Are you looking for a dog that is high energy that will join the kids in playful romps in the yard and long runs? Or are you looking for a less active dog who enjoys binge watching TV while you are on Zoom meetings and the kids are in online classes? Do you want your dog to be happy with a leisurely walk after dinner and easy, quiet fun in the home or yard? A senior citizen might consider a smaller senior pup who enjoys cuddling on the sofa and healthy snacks. It is important to keep in mind your pup’s breed, size and temperament when considering what your home and lifestyle can reasonably accommodate. Though the adoption process itself may differ slightly during COVID-19, please feel free to contact your local shelter and rescue organization and they will gladly help you choose the “furever friend” that is best for your home and family.

2. Consider preparing for the pandemic as you would to prepare for a disaster, like hurricane season. Compile a first aid kit and an emergency kit and for your pet that includes at least two weeks of food and treats, medications, medical records, veterinarian(s) contact information. Also be sure to have all necessary everyday supplies, such as collars, leashes, harnesses and disposable bags. Make sure your dog has ID tags and is microchipped with your current contact information as well as that of an emergency contact outside the area.

3. How much time will you be able to spend with your dog during and after the pandemic? More time spent at home together while you work from home is a great opportunity to bond with your furkid and also increases your availability to train. For some behavioral concerns, including separation anxiety, please contact a professional trainer who may offer online classes. When you return to work, keep in mind who will look after your pup during the day. You may decide to take your pup to doggy day care or hire a professional pet sitter to visit your home in the morning and afternoon for bathroom breaks and exercise.

4. If adopting is something that you may not be able to commit to at this time, please consider fostering a dog. Contact your local shelter or rescue organization to see if they have a foster plan that better suits your family’s lifestyle. Keep in mind adopting a pet into your family is a lifetime commitment that will change both of your lives “furever.”

For over fifteen years, Susan Marie has been spreading the word about puppy love through her national weekly radio show, The Doggy Diva Show. Susan is also the author of the award-winning Miss Olive children’s book trilogy The Doggy Diva Diaries.

Hi and Lois

Intelligent Life

Beetle Bailey

Vol. 13, No. 22 – July 29 – Aug 11, 2020 – Police Reports

by Cindy Summers

Police reports are provided to us by the Ventura  Police Department and are not the opinions of  the Ventura Breeze. All suspects mentioned  are assumed to be innocent until proven guilty  in a court of law.

Vehicle Pursuit and Arrest

On July 12, at approximately 4:45 pm, the Ventura Police Department Command Center received several 911 calls reporting a reckless driver in the area of Harbor Blvd. and Olivas Park Dr. As officers were responding to the call, callers reported the vehicle was continuing northbound on Harbor Blvd. and was close to causing several accidents. An officer saw the vehicle on Harbor Blvd. near the In and Out Burger and attempted to initiate a traffic stop. The driver of the vehicle, later identified as 39 year old Ventura resident Maricel Martindale, failed to stop and vehicle pursuit was initiated. Martindale was taken into custody without incident.

During a search of her vehicle officers found a small amount of a controlled substance. Martindale was arrested for felony evading arrest and possession of a controlled substance. No one was injured as a result of this incident.

Negligent Discharge of a Firearm and Child Endangerment Arrest

On July 14, at approximately 5:00 pm, the Ventura Police Department Command Center received a 911 call of a suicidal subject that was armed with a gun inside a residence in the 2100 block of Sunridge Dr. It was reported by a family member that the subject, later identified as 28 year old Ventura resident Brian Harvan, had also fired the gun. Officers responded and set up a perimeter around the residence.

Once it was determined that all other family members were out of the residence, officers were able to make verbal contact with Harvan. Officers were successful in getting Harvan to exit the residence and he was taken into custody.

As a result of the investigation, it was determined Harvan armed himself with a handgun and fired a round off after making threats to harm himself. The bullet went through several walls, ending up in an adjacent room that was occupied by two small children.

Harvan was arrested for negligent discharge of a firearm and felony child endangerment. No one was injured as a result of this incident.

Residential Burglary, Theft, Prowling, and Possession of Stolen Property Arrest

On July 21 at 6:30 pm, a resident in the 100 Block of Mara Ave observed a male subject removing a package from the porch of a residence and entering a U-Haul truck. They called 911 and began following the truck, witnessing the suspect, later identified as 28-year-old Santa Paula resident Antonio Porcallo, enter an open garage of a residence on Santa Maria St and steal a bicycle. Responding officers located the U-Haul as it traveled on the eastbound 126 freeway. Officers contacted Antonio Porcallo and the driver, 25 year old Santa Paula resident Jesus Alvarez. Patrol officers also found multiple other items believed to be stolen.

During the investigation, detectives discovered the two suspects had been driving in neighborhoods looking for packages and other property to steal. Detectives were able to identify additional victims of package theft in Ventura and return the property.

Porcallo and Alverez were arrested and transported to the Ventura County Jail, where they were booked for Residential Burglary, Theft, Prowling, Possession of Stolen Property, and Conspiracy. A review of the Ventura County Superior Court website shows that Porcallo has been convicted of weapons charges and that Alvarez has been convicted of weapons charges, possession of stolen property, possession of a controlled substance and vehicle theft.

Brandishing and Hate Crime Arrest

On July 21, at approximately 8:15 pm, Ventura Police Officers responded to a disturbance in the area of Santa Clara Ave. and Olive Street. Upon arrival, Investigating Officers learned that two victims, who are black males, and the suspect got into a dispute over parking. During the dispute, 45 year old Ventura resident Rene Roberts, brandished a knife at the victims and called them racial slurs. Officers contacted Roberts while at the scene and she was taken into custody.

Stabbing with Arrest

On July 16, at approximately 8:45 pm, the Ventura Police Department Command Center received a 911 call of subjects fighting and a stabbing in Mariners Liquor in the Ventura Harbor. Officers responded and located the victim suffering from several stab wounds to his upper torso. The victim was transported to Ventura county medical center for treatment of his injuries.

Officers checked the area but were unable to locate the suspect. Patrol officers reviewed surveillance video and were able to identify the suspect as 43 year old Ventura resident Jason Garner.

Ventura Police Departments investigative units were able to locate Garner on 7/22/20 in the area of Victoria Blvd. and Telephone Rd. Garner was taken into custody without incident and arrested for the stabbing.

During the booking process at Ventura County Jail, a large amount of narcotics was found hidden on Garner’s person.

Narcotics Arrest

On June 26, officers responded to a drug overdose in the 6600 block of Telephone Rd. While on scene Ventura City Fire personnel were able to revive the overdosed victim by administering Narcan (naloxone HCI) which is used for the treatment of an opioid emergency or a possible opioid overdose.

During the investigation, officers learned the overdose victim was told she bought Cocaine but was actually sold Fentanyl. She inhaled a small amount of the narcotic and quickly overdosed.

Fentanyl is a synthetic opioid that is 80-100 times stronger than morphine. Fentanyl is often added to other drugs to increase their potency. Many users believe that they are purchasing heroin and do not know that they are buying Fentanyl – which often results in overdose deaths.

On July 23 at 10:30 am, members of the Ventura Police Department Narcotics SCU unit completed a month-long investigation into narcotics sales of Fentanyl, resulting in an overdose. Detectives using investigative tools were able to identify, detain, and arrest suspect 20 year old Ventura resident Andrew Boucher for furnishing narcotics.