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Vol. 14, No. 01 – Oct 7 – Oct 20, 2020 – Forever Homes Wanted

Newt came to the shelter as a stray. Poor fella had a kitty cold and very itchy skin. Our medical staff has been treating him and found out that as uncomfortable as he was, he didn’t let that stop him from lighting up a room.

Newt loves everyone and everything, and always greets the staff with a happy chirp. He’s had a rough life, but you would never know for how sweet he is. We think it’s time for some very lucky person to take him home.

Ventura Animal Services – Camarillo location – 600 Aviation Drive
Newt A759957

Hi: I’m Beach, a 6 year old playful Corgi / Australian Shepherd X who is in need of a new home as sadly my owner passed away. I’m thankful that C.A.R.L. will help me find my forever home.

I’m an active dog who enjoys going for walks. I walk well on leash and respond quickly to commands. I’m ok with older children, but have never been around young ones. I need a home with no cats and no large dogs. I’m ok with small dogs, but I’m not interested in being friends. The best home for me would be as your one and only.

If you’re looking for a sweet girl, look no further. Canine Adoption and Rescue League C.A.R.L. CARL Adoption Center-call 644-7387 for more information.

Sally is still searching for her forever home! Pretty girl Sally is a gorgeous 11-month-old long-haired German Shepherd. She came to the HSVC in mid-September after being rescued in the field by our Humane Officers. Sweet and playful, Sally’s hobbies include playing with toys, going for long walks on a leash, and splashing around in the water.

She is a very high energy pup, so her ideal forever home will be with an active owner that can take her on lots of walks and outdoor adventures. Sally is also a case dog, meaning she was rescued by our Humane Officers while investigating a case in the field. Because of this, all adoption applications submitted for her will be reviewed and approved by our Humane Officers.

The HSVC is performing adoptions by appointment only at this time due to COVID-19. If you are interested in adopting Sally, please visit our website and click the orange “Let’s Get Started” button to fill out an adoption appointment request to meet her!

Looking for a loving home for my two sweet, cute 3.5 years old cats due to my allergy. They have been with me since two weeks of age. It’s hard to let them go though I need to. No other pet in home please!

Glyol Pannbechi [email protected]

Health plan partnership supports Ventura County’s Hispanic seniors

by Carol Leish

As of October 1, 2020, Clinicas del Camino Real, which serves 40,000 patients enrolled in Medi-Cal or Medicare plans in Ventura County, and AmericanHealth Plan, has joined the network of SCAN Health Plan, a not-for-profit Medicare Advantage plan serving senior in Ventura and other communities in California. Clinicas’ network is comprised of specialists providing the following on-site services:

  • Primary Care Dental services Internal Medicine
  • Optometry Obstetrics/Gynecology Behavioral Health
  • Pediatrics Pharmacy Cardiology
  • Laboratory Podiatry Health Education
  • Chiropractic Radiology

SCAN, which has been in California since the 1970’s began serving Ventura County in 2004. “As a nonprofit, SCAN’s mission is to keep seniors healthy and independent,” according to, Sherry Stanislaw, general manage of SCAN, headquartered in Long Beach, CA. “We offer a variety of services (see above), along with offering a wide network. By adding Clinica, there are now more choices.”

According to, Stanislaw, “SCAN is a Medicare Advantage Plan. This means that you don’t need a supplemental plan. Also, you won’t have any deductibles. Thus, you can have SCAN Medicare Advantage with full payment vs. having Medicare with an 80%/20% payment, that only covers 80% of costs. Other benefits of enrolling in SCAN include: having a vision and hearing coverage, along with a prescription plan. A drug prescription plan is also offered. Also, a gym membership is provided: Silver Sneakers.”

“Thus, with SCAN, you will have a wide access of providers”, according to, Stanislaw. “You’ll also have routine transportation provided. And, you’ll be saving money since you won’t be needing to have a supplemental policy. Thus, it’s affordable and comprehensive.”

Stanislaw mentioned that, “We are super excited to be partnering with Clinica, serving their community, and the Spanish community. We have developed a synergy by being able to partner with Clinica and with several other clinics in Ventura County.”

Open enrollment is from: October 1st, 2020—December 7th, 2020, for people who are eligible for Medicare; 65 or older; or those with disabilities of any age. Coverage will begin on January 1, 2021. “Either go through your health insurance agent/broker; or, call SCAN’s toll free #: (855) 460-7226,” according to, Sharon Armani, Senior Director.

Answer in a Breeze

Question: I don’t know what council district that I live in for the coming city council election?
How do I find out?

Randy Flores

Answer:

Randy: You can go to https://map.cityofventura.net/java/ccvd/ (A little complex) and type in your address to find your district.

To be placed on the ballot a candidate must circulate a nomination form provided by the City Clerk, gathering not more than 30, but not less than 20 signatures of registered voters in the City to qualify for placement on the ballot.

This is our existing City Council:

  • Matt LaVere, Mayor – at large
  • Sofia Rubalcava, Deputy Mayor – District 1
  • Lorrie Brown, Councilmember – District 6
  • Jim Friedman, Councilmember – District 5
  • Cheryl Heitmann, Councilmember – at large
  • Erik Nasarenko, Councilmember – District 4
  • Christy Weir, Councilmember – at large

There are 7 members of the Ventura City Council. Each member must be a registered voter in the City. Each member represents the interests of the City as a whole. Starting with the 2018 Election, four (4) Councilmembers were elected by Districts with the remaining three (3) Councilmembers to be elected by Districts in this election.

Have a question send to [email protected] and we will try to get an answer.

Harbor Village Gallery & Gifts Members’ Choice Seaside Exhibiting: Now – November 9, 2020

Pitcher with Pear- Bonnie Quan at Buenaventura Gallery.

Open Hours: Friday thru Monday, 11am – 6pm

BAA members depict local sights and sentiments — mementos for both tourists and locals. Plus the art and artisan crafts of 10 resident BAA artists.

The Buenaventura Gallery
Members’ Choice
Exhibiting: Now – November 14, 2020
Open Hours: Fridays & Saturdays, noon – 4pm
and by appointment – 805-648-1235

A select group of BAA members exhibit their individual styles, subjects and media.

My Experience with Districts

by Jim Friedman Ventura District 5

I have a unique perspective when it comes to serving as a city council member in that I have served “at large,” meaning being elected city wide and now, being elected within a district. I served as a city council member from 1995-2003. When the city broke up into districts, I was elected again in 2018, and now serve as the elected representative for Ventura District 5.

At first, I had mixed emotions about being elected within and then representing a particular district, but now, after almost two years, I have to say that I prefer Districts over the previous “at large” system. Campaigning required much more walking door-to-door but there were far less candidate forums to attend.

As the representative for District 5, I have gotten to know my district and constituents much better that when I was serving the community “at large.” I do find that a district council member needs to be much more responsive to the constituents because the council member is now the first point of contact with the residents. Previously, when serving “at large,” any one of the seven council members could take on a neighborhood issue, but now, that responsibility falls directly on my shoulders if the issue is in District 5. I don’t mind this added responsibility because I feel it is my job to help my District 5 constituents and provide the highest level of customer service to them as possible. Good customer service is something that I learned and continue to practice in my Insurance/Financial Services business for the past 42 years.

Just because I represent the residents in District 5 does not preclude me from assisting residents in other districts. I have heard from many people outside of District 5 and have offered them help and advice. I do however encourage them to also contact their district council member in an effort to help them resolve their issue. I di not want to step on the toes of any of my city council colleagues.

Being the very first representative for District 5 has been rewarding in that I am meeting a lot of new people, solving problems and making a lot of new friends.

City of Ventura to resume parking meter fees in downtown area

Starting Tuesday, October 13, 2020, the City of Ventura will resume collecting regular parking fees for on-street, metered parking in Downtown Ventura. Enforcement of fee payment will also resume.

Paid parking rates of 50-cents per hour will be collected along Palm Street, Oak Street, California Street, Chestnut Street, Fir Street, and Main Street. Along the metered parking streets, two ADA parking spaces will be made available for those with disabilities, and spaces will be designated for to-go or pick-up orders.

Currently, there are nearly 2,000 free public parking spaces available in Downtown Ventura, including the downtown parking structure located along Santa Clara Street.

The Downtown Parking Advisory Committee voted in September 2020 to resume collecting paid parking rates of 50-cents per hour. In March 2020, the City waived all parking fees supporting local businesses offering curbside pick-ups following State and Local State of Emergency declarations due to the COVID-19 public health emergency.

As the City has begun to slowly open back up, activity has started to increase, and parking demand has also increased. To help ensure continued access to businesses and the availability of on-street parking, reinstating parking fees will help manage the demand. Paid parking also helps support many Downtown projects and programs, such as downtown security, parking lot and alley improvements, clean sidewalks, landscape beautification, lighting, and other improvements.

For contactless parking payments, download the free ParkMobile app. ParkMobile makes it easy to find, reserve, and pay for parking on any mobile device. Drivers can set up alerts via email, text message, or in-app notifications to remind them when their parking time is about to expire without running back to feed the meter. To learn more or download the ParkMobile app, visit parkmobile.io. Other fees may apply.

For more information about parking areas in the City of Ventura, visit www.cityofventura.ca.gov/parking.

City of Ventura Playgrounds Open

On September 28, 2020, the State announced that all outdoor playgrounds operated by a city or county are approved to reopen with safety guidelines. The City of Ventura has opened 25 of our 26 City playgrounds for the community to enjoy. Please note that the Marina Park playground will remain closed for cleaning and repair.

Visitors to outdoor community playgrounds must comply with the following State requirements:

  • Everyone 2 years or older should wear a mask
  • Wash or sanitize hands before and after you visit
  • Visit the park at different times or days to avoid crowds
  • Maintain distance from others outside your home
  • Don’t bring food or drink into the playground
  • Limit visit to 30 minutes when others are waiting so everyone can use the space

To learn more about State guidance, visit www.cdpha.ca.gov.

Staying motivated to exercise

Try some new activities to keep your interest alive.

Physical activity is a great way for older adults to gain substantial health benefits and maintain independence. Try to make exercise a priority. Remember that being active is one of the most important things you can do each day to maintain and improve health. Try these tips to help you stay motivated to exercise.

Find Simple Ways to Make Exercise Fun and Enjoyable

Some people like to walk on a treadmill at the gym. Others find that kind of activity boring. The key to sticking with exercise is to make it interesting and enjoyable. Be creative. Do things you enjoy but pick up the pace. Do all four types of exercise—endurance, strength, balance, and flexibility. The variety helps keep things interesting! Try some new activities to keep your interest alive.

Find Ways to Fit Exercise into Your Day

You are more likely to exercise if it’s a convenient part of your day. Try exercising first thing in the morning. Combine physical activity with a task that’s already part of your day, such as walking the dog or doing household chores. If you don’t have 30 minutes to be active, look for three 10-minute periods. As you progress, add more 10-minute sessions until you hit your goal!

Work Out at Work

There are many ways to fit physical activity into your regular schedule, even while you are at work! Look for easy ways to add physical activity to your regular schedule:

Take the stairs instead of the elevator.

Take a walk with co-workers during your lunch break. An exercise buddy can help you stick with your plan to be more active!

Walk down the hall and talk with a co-worker instead of sending an e-mail, .

Park a little farther away from your office and enjoy the walk.

Join your company’s fitness center if there is one.

Search for Move Your Way: Tips for Busy Days on YouTube for more tips on fitting more activity into your day.

Make Exercise a Social Activity

Many people agree that an “exercise buddy” keeps them going.

Take a walk during lunch with coworkers.

Try a dance class—salsa, tango, square dancing—it’s up to you.

Use family gatherings as a time to play team sports or do outdoor activities.Women exercising together

Keep Track of Your Exercise Progress

The best way to stay motivated is to measure and celebrate your successes:

Make an exercise and physical activity plan that works for you.

Track your daily physical activity.

Find new ways to increase your physical activity.

Keep track of your monthly progress to see improvement.

Update your exercise plan as you progress.

Don’t forget to build rewards into your plan. Write down something you will do for yourself when goals are achieved. Treat yourself to something special: a movie, a trip to the museum, a new audiobook, or a massage. Celebrate your successes!

Tips For Coping with Breaks in Your Exercise Routine

It is normal to have life events and changes get in the way of staying active. However, there are ways to get yourself back on track. Remember, to get the most out of exercise and physical activity, they need to be a regular part of your life.

Medicare Open Enrollment

Medicare word on tablet screen with medical equipment on background

Set a reminder—it’s time to get ready for Medicare Open Enrollment.

Medicare Open Enrollment runs from October 15 to December 7, but did you know you can get an early look at next year’s health plans and prescription drug plans starting on October 1?

Premiums for Medicare Advantage Plans are dropping to historic lows for 2021. This type of Medicare health plan, offered by a private company that contracts with Medicare, is an all-in-one alternative to Original Medicare. These “bundled” plans include Part A (Hospital Insurance), Part B (Medical Insurance), and usually Part D (prescription drug coverage). Most plans offer extra benefits—like vision, hearing, dental, and more.

Starting on October 1, you can take an early peek at Medicare health plans and drug plans by using the Medicare Plan Finder. If you have a Medicare Number, you can log in or create an account to put together or access a list of your drugs, compare your current Medicare plan to others, and see prices based on any help you get with drug costs.

If you’re among the 1 in 3 people with Medicare who has diabetes, here’s some more good news: starting in 2021, many participating drug plans will offer a 30-day supply of insulin for $35 or less per month. If you take insulin and enroll in one of these plans, you could save an average of $446 per year on your out-of-pocket costs for insulin next year.

Get ready to compare and save on Medicare health plans and Medicare drug plans.

Vol. 14, No. 01 – Oct 7 – Oct 20, 2020 – Ventura Music Scene

Ventura’s music scene is far from rockin’ but at least the process of healing has begun and the County/City is allowing music once again as long as venues follow their strict rules to keep everyone concerned safe. Though I shared it in my last column, it bears repeating what is allowed, “Live solo or duet (from same household) singers/musicians can perform outdoors at restaurants, bars, or wineries. The soloist/duet must stay at least 20 feet away from patrons and not amplify the music to the point where people have to lean in to be heard. The live music cannot cause people to gather. It should be for the benefit of the business patrons who are already seated and not to attract people to gather around the performers and/or stage. All other local and state guidance must be followed.”

Stepping up to the plate to date here in town are Leashless Brewing, Winchesters, Bombay Bar and Grill, the Winery and Copa Cubana. I’m as diligent, if not more than most, when it comes to taking the virus seriously. I hope all venues will heed the rules and ensure there is space between the musician (s) and the patrons. Not all venues have the luxury of the extra space needed, which is sad, but at least we’re on the road now to heading back to more live music.

Just added to Concerts in Your Car (CIYC) at the fairgrounds here in Ventura is the band 311 which pretty much defies being pigeon-holed into one genre. Hip hop, rock, reggae, funk, in a nutshell? Flat out danceable fun. The band is playing two shows on Saturday, November 14. The other two venues for CIYC have ramped up and I’m happy to report that all bands playing in Arizona or San Diego have or will be playing here locally.

New music on the scene includes Star Goes Nova, a project by my good friend Christine Law who is known as a bassist supporting such acts as hard rockers, Tantrum back in the day, and her husband’s band, Charles Law & Jagged and Suzanne Paris. She calls it melodic bass and dubstep cinemata EDM (Electronic Dance Music) and she sent me the single, “The Apprentice.” Another good friend has been hard at work producing music on her own for the first time, Sally Williams of the Swilly’s and she worked with Doug Pettibone and Taras Prodaniuk; she sent me her single called “Suffering.” And finally, Bill Rotella is about to release a new album next month called Smoke and the Earthtones, he sent me a single off of it called, “The Other Side.” I’m super excited to share all three songs on the Pam Baumgardner Music hour (episode 119) which airs Tuesdays and Fridays at 5 and Sundays at noon, and will run 10/6 – 10/18 at 104.1 FM, KPPQ-LP out of Caps Media.

Do you have any music-related news or upcoming shows (online or live) you want help publicizing? Please send all information short or long to [email protected], and for updated music listings daily, go to www.VenturaRocks.com.