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Landmarks of Midtown Ventura

“Atoms for Peace” reflects the dream that atomic power would solve all of our energy problems.

by Richard Senate

The city of Ventura is really three cities, The largest section is called midtown. Most of our history is found in the West End, or Old Town, but Mid-town has a great many overlooked historic sites well worth a visit. Midtown incorporates The Ventura harbor, Seaward enclave, the Pacific View mall, Ventura College and had a great many colorful sites and history. These are a few historic places worth taking the time to visit.

Ventura High School Auditorium, on Main Street. Built in 1939 in a depression style, Art Deco. It seats 1500 and was the largest auditorium in Ventura County. In World War Two, it was used for war bond drives. Once singer Nelson Eddy performed here with Russian Cossack dancers from the USSR. Before the massive hall is the statue “Atoms for Peace” that reflects the dream of the 1950s that atomic power would solve all of our energy problems.

Pierpont Inn on Sanjon. This classic Inn and Restaurant was built in 1910 and managed by. Mrs.J.E, Pierpont It quickly became known as the place to go for everyone who was anyone, from writer/lawyer Erle Stanley Gardner to Hollywood director Cecil B. DeMille. The Craftsman style building started with 24 rooms, but each room had its own bath. Gardner met his second wife here where she was working as a hostess for the restaurant.

Olivas Adobe Historic Park, Olivas Park Drive. This 1841 adobe hacienda was built by Raymundo Olivas for his extensive cattle ranch. The house is large and needed to be because he and his wife had twenty-one children. He was known for his hospitality and lavish parties. The two story home became the social center of the whole Santa Clara River valley. Purchased by Yeast King, Max Fleischmann in 1928 he restored the house and, upon his death, he gifted it to the city of Ventura for a museum. It was opened as a historic house museum in 1972.

Ventura Harbor Tile murals and Fisherman’s Monument. The decorative archway is dedicated to all the fishermen lost at sea off Ventura County.

Ivy Lawn Cemetery. Many of the movers and shakers of Ventura history rest here. from Senator Thomas R. Bard (our only US Senator from Ventura County) to movie stars and baseball heroes. Tombs, headstones and art, show the history of Ventura.

The Sears Building, Main Street, Art Deco style. It also served as a bomb shelter in the cold war. One of the few buildings in town with a basement.

The Side Car –and old railroad car transformed into a dinner. Once a wild honk tonk in prohibition days when it was outside city limits. It was once a dinner car on a circus train.

The Dudley House on Ashwood. Built by farmer Benjamin Dudley in 1892 Three generation of Dudley family lived here. Now a museum open first Sunday each month for tours. With original furnishings, depicts life in the late 19th and early 20th Century.

Bus-House Sculpture on Telegraph, Pacific View mall. The transportational center has this unique bit of modern art that depicts a house turning into a bus.

County Ventura St. Patrick’s Day Parade slated for March 16

Entries for the Ventura Elks Lodge’s annual County Ventura St. Patrick’s Day Parade are now being accepted. The parade will commence at 10 a.m. on Saturday, March 16, along Main Street in midtown Ventura.

This year’s theme, “Shamrocks & Shenanigans,” gives parade participants an invitation to embrace their inner leprechaun with whimsy and mischief in the creation of their parade entries.

Among the county’s most popular annual community events, the St. Patrick’s Day parade has been a tremendous success since it returned two years ago after two years off, to a route filled with happy, green-garbed families having a wonderful time. This year, the parade will run the same midtown route it has the past two years, downhill along Main, from Lincoln Drive to Fir Street. Beyond Fir and heading into downtown, the party continues after the parade, with dozens of restaurants and other attractions open to everyone along the auto-free downtown streets.

Entry to join in the parade is easy: Prospective entrants can simply go to the parade website and follow the basic steps to submit their forms and pay via PayPal. Entry deadline is Thursday, March 7; the first 100 entries will be accepted.

Our grand marshal this year is the wonderful Elena Brokaw. Executive director of the Museum of Ventura County, Elena is a perennial Ventura County civic leader who before heading up the museum worked with the city of Ventura for 13 years, including as director of Parks, Recreation and Community Partnerships. She’s led the museum since 2016. In 2019, she was named Citizen of the Year, earning the top honor bestowed by the Ventura Chamber of Commerce in its annual prestigious Poinsettia Awards.

For more information on the parade and to enter, visit venturastpatricksdayparade.com.

If you have any entry questions, call parade coordinator Brian Brennan at 805-746-5955 or committee member Aaron Gaston at 805-340-8217. For other parade info, call Jim Monahan at 805-340-1356.

Business Profile: Neuroboxing Fight Camp Now Open at Portside

Neuroboxing Fight Camp has opened its doors at the beautiful Portside Ventura Harbor! Beth Baumer is the Founder, Manager, and a Coach of the program. Her father Hank Laubacher was diagnosed with Parkinson’s Disease in 2010. He discovered Neuroboxing offering classes in Agoura Hills and started driving up from Oxnard to participate. Beth decided to get trained in boxing and get certified as a Neuroboxing Instructor and Program Director. Right around the same time, Beth’s Aunt, Hank’s sister Jane went through a traumatic and tragic experience with domestic violence. The family became advocates of DV awareness, prevention, and self-defense. Maureen Shea, a professional boxer, had moved to Oxnard from the Bronx. She trained Hilary Swank in the movie, “Million Dollar Baby.” Maureen is a victim of DV and an outspoken advocate of DV awareness. She gave presentations to local junior high and high schools about dating violence prevention. The Laubacher Family became a friend of hers and took up boxing, one of the best cardiovascular workouts. Non-contact boxing is known to assist in brain body connection, overall physical and mental health and wellbeing.

NBFC services individuals with Parkinson’s and neurological disease, as well as spinal cord and central nervous system issues, MS, cancer and other rare diseases. There is one thing in common, they all cause movement disorders. The non-profit program encourages participation from caregivers, friends, and family members and welcomes volunteers! A free monthly support group is also offered.

Non-contact boxing, kickboxing, strength and conditioning classes for ALL will be offered at the new studio! Any age, anybody is welcome! Demo classes can be booked by contacting Beth Baumer. She works with a team of incredible instructors and will be adding more to create a dynamic and motivating coaching staff! You will love the gratifying workout in a gorgeous setting looking over the sparkling ocean waters, boats and marine life!

As the program continues to get set up, new things will be added including personal nutrition coaching, free Tai Chi classes, Argentine Tango lessons and more!

www.neuroboxingfightcamp.com  call text 805-223-6955

955 Navigator Drive, Suite 201 Ventura 93001.

Business Profile: Portside Ventura Harbor 2023 Recap: A Year of Community and Growth

In the vibrant heart of Portside Ventura Harbor, 2023 was a year filled with growth, community engagement, and exciting new developments.

New Addition: Crave Gelato Kofi Bar:

A standout introduction to our vibrant community was the addition of Crave Gelato Kofi Bar. Offering a delightful array of organic drinks, gelato, pastries, and focaccia bread, Crave quickly became a cherished spot for residents and visitors alike.

Thriving Event Calendar:

Portside Ventura Harbor hosted over 20 events in 2023, drawing a combined attendance of 5,000. Residents and visitors alike reveled in the diverse range of gatherings, creating memorable moments and strengthening community bonds.

Community Favorites:

Regularly scheduled events became community favorites, with Movie Night Under the Stars enchanting audiences every third Friday. Likewise, the Pop-Up Market, held every first and third Saturday, continued to be a hub for unique local finds and shared experiences.

Enriching Lives: NeuroBoxing Fight Camp Joins Us:

The 2024 year kicked off with the warm welcome of NeuroBoxing Fight Camp, a non-profit dedicated to exercise, neurological rehabilitation, and physical therapy. Committed to providing a fighting chance against debilitating diseases, this addition enriched our community with purposeful initiatives.

Have you recently been diagnosed with mild cognitive impairment?

Do you worry about how to manage if you live alone?

by National Institute on Aging

Have you, or has someone you love, recently been diagnosed with mild cognitive impairment, early-stage Alzheimer’s disease, vascular dementia, Lewy body dementia, or a frontotemporal disorder? Do you worry about how to manage if you live alone? If so, these tips offer ways to help cope with changes in memory and thinking, prepare for the future, and stay active and engaged.

Many people with early-stage dementia continue to manage their everyday activities. But it’s important to look ahead to a time when performing daily tasks will be harder. The sooner you adopt new strategies to help you cope with changes, the more time you will have to adjust to them. Here are some tips:

Organizing your days. Write down to-do lists, appointments, and events in a notebook or calendar. You can also keep track of activities with computer software or a smartphone app. Some people have an area in their home, such as an entryway table or bench, where they store important items or organize the things they need each day. You may also want to consider using a digital clock that displays the day of the week and date, in addition to the time.

Paying bills. Setting up automated payments is an easy way to pay your bills correctly and on time without having to write checks. Many companies and banks offer this service at no extra charge. You can set up automatic payments with your utility providers, insurance companies, bank, and mortgage company or leasing office. Also consider asking someone you trust to help you pay bills. That person could review your financial statements and ask you about anything unusual,

Shopping for meals. Many stores offer grocery delivery services, usually for a small fee. You can also order fresh or frozen meals online or by phone. Meals on Wheels America (888-998-6325) can deliver free or low-cost meals to your home, too, and this service sometimes includes a short visit and safety check. Other possible sources of meals include religious communities and senior centers. If you make your own meals at home, consider easy-to-prepare items, such as foods that you can heat in the microwave.

Taking medications. Several products can help you manage medications. You can try a weekly pillbox, a pillbox that gives you a notification (such as an alarm or vibration) when it’s time to take medicine, or an automatic medication dispenser. You can buy these items at a drugstore or online, but you may need someone to help you set these up. Or try an electronic reminder system, such as a smartphone app or an alarm you set on your phone or computer.

Using transportation. If you drive, you may find that you become confused, get lost, or need help with directions more often than before. Talk with your doctor about these changes. If family or friends express concerns about your driving, take their concerns seriously. Some people decide to give up driving and learn how to use public transportation or ride sharing. Neighbors, volunteers, or ride services for older adults may also be able to help with transportation.

Contact the Eldercare Locator at 1-800-677-1116. This nationwide service from the Administration on Aging connects older Americans and their caregivers with local support resources.

Openings on City of Ventura boards, commissions, committees

The City is seeking applicants for its Housing Authority Board, Downtown Parking Advisory Committee, and Water Commission. These positions provide the City Council with recommendations on related projects and programs. Applications are due by Friday, February 2, 2024, at 5:00 p.m. Applications for the Housing Authority Board are due by Friday, February 9, 2024, at 5:00 p.m.

“Civic engagement is the foundation of local government,” said Mayor Joe Schroeder. “When individuals contribute their time and energy to address common issues and pursue common goals, they strengthen the fabric of our community.”

Vacancies occur either by the expiration of a term or resignations during the year. Per San Buenaventura Ordinance 2019-003, no citizen may serve on more than one committee, commission, or board. Dual appointments are not permitted.

There are two openings on the Housing Authority Board. This seven-member board of commissioners meets the second Wednesday of each month at 3:00 p.m. to review the Tenant applicants and assess both their status and if they are in good financial standing. These openings are for residents.

There is one opening on the Downtown Parking Advisory Committee. This seven-member advisory committee meets on the third Thursday of the month at 3:00 p.m. to advise on parking management strategies and programs in the Downtown Parking District area. This opening is specifically for a Downtown District commercial property owner.

There is one opening on the Water Commission. This seven-member commission meets on the fourth Monday of the month at 5:30 p.m. to review and make advisory recommendations regarding water rates, water resources infrastructure projects in the five-year capital improvement program, water supply options, and other water resource issues. This opening is in the ‘professional’ category.

To learn more and apply, visit www.cityofventura.ca.gov/Recruitments. For questions, contact the City Clerk’s Office at (805) 658-4787 or by email at [email protected].

Tips for everyday tasks for people living with dementia

People with dementia experience a range of symptoms related to changes in thinking, remembering, reasoning, and behavior. Living with dementia presents unique challenges, but there are steps you can take to help now and in the future.

Alzheimer’s disease and related dementias get worse over time. Even simple everyday activities can become difficult to complete. To help cope with changes in memory and thinking, consider strategies that can make daily tasks easier. Try to adopt them early on so you will have more time to adjust. You can:

Write down to-do lists, appointments, and events in a notebook or calendar.

Set up automated bill payments and consider asking someone you trust to help manage your finances.

Have your groceries delivered.

Manage your medications with a weekly pillbox, a pillbox with reminders (like an alarm), or a medication dispenser.

Ask your doctor to provide a care plan and write down care directions (or have a family member or friend take notes during the visit).

Dementia often changes a person’s sleeping habits. You may sleep a lot, or not enough, and wake up many times during the night. Poor sleep quality can make dementia symptoms worse.

Tips for better and safer sleep:

Follow a regular schedule by going to sleep and getting up at the same time each day, even on weekends or when traveling.

Develop a relaxing bedtime routine with lowered lights, cool temperature, and no electronic screens.

Avoid caffeine and naps late in the day.

Have a lamp that’s easy to reach and turn on, a nightlight in the hallway or bathroom, and a flashlight nearby.

Keep a telephone with emergency numbers by your bed.

Talk to your doctor if you have problems sleeping.

Healthy and Active Lifestyle Tips for People Living With Dementia

Participating in activities you enjoy and getting exercise may help you feel better, stay social, maintain a healthy weight, and have regular sleep habits.

Try these tips for a healthy and active lifestyle:

Try to be physically active for at least 30 minutes on most or all days of the week. But be realistic about how much activity you can do at one time. Several short “mini-workouts” may be best.

Aim for a mix of exercise types — endurance, strength, balance, and flexibility. For example, you could do a mix of walking or dancing, lifting weights, standing on one foot, and stretching. Even everyday activities like household chores and gardening help you stay active.

Your diet may need to change as dementia progresses to maintain a healthy weight. Talk with your doctor about the best diet for you, and choose nutritious foods such as fruits and vegetables, whole grains, and lean sources of protein and dairy products. Avoid added sugars, saturated fats, and sodium.

Stay social by talking on the phone with family and friends, joining an online support group, or going for a walk in your neighborhood.

Finding Care and Support: Tips for People Living With Dementia

Many people may be able to help in different ways. These people might include family members, friends, professional caregivers, community organizations, and others with dementia. For example, you can:

City of Ventura takes swift action in response to severe high surf events

Responding proactively to recent severe high surf events, the City of Ventura has officially declared a local state of emergency. This move allows the City to expedite disaster response and seek emergency funding from the state to aid recovery. The City Council ratified the local state of emergency on January 9, 2024, and it will remain in effect for the next 60 days.

“With recent damages to our iconic and historic pier, Ventura faced repair needs and additional cleanup costs caused by recent high tide events,” noted Ventura Mayor Joe Schroeder. “The declaration of a local state of emergency enables us to seek essential emergency funding, expedite recovery endeavors to swiftly address damage, hasten repairs, and ensure the prompt restoration of our City’s infrastructure.”

The winter storm began on December 28, 2023, and produced large breaking waves with life-threatening rip currents and significant coastal flooding. City staff swiftly responded to reports of flooding, roadway debris, retaining wall damage from high surf, and other hazardous conditions in public areas. Beach protective measures were implemented to mitigate tidal impacts. During the high surf event, the Ventura Fire Department had 38 Ocean Rescue unit responses and 10 Ocean Rescue calls.

Addressing potential hazards on public property and within the public right-of-way, the Ventura Pier, previously impacted during the January 2023 winter storm events, underwent emergency stabilization measures. The recent high tides resulted in additional damage, extending the pier’s closure for several months.

Recent damage includes nineteen missing or damaged piles and estimated costs exceeding $1.75 million, further postponing the reopening for several months. The ongoing emergency repair endeavors focus on rectifying dislodged piles, damaged bracing, and brackets.

“Ventura City staff, in collaboration with the County of Ventura and numerous local and state agencies, worked cohesively to swiftly respond to emergency calls for help, clear debris, reopen public areas, and implement mitigation efforts along the coastline,” stated City Manager Bill Ayub. “We express our gratitude for their effective coordination, which played a crucial role in addressing challenges posed by coastal flooding and significant high surf.”

For real-time updates and information on emergency efforts, residents can visit the dedicated webpage at www.cityofventura.ca.gov/EmergencyAlerts.

For critical emergencies, please call 911. Stay informed of critical incident updates in your area by registering for VC Alert, Ventura County’s Emergency Notification System, at www.VCAlert.org.

100 Years and Going Strong – Doris Cowart

Doris celebrating 100 with the gang at the Pierpont Racquet Club.

Doris and John Cowart came to Ventura in 1951. John taught at Ventura high school for 33 years and Doris was an RN for the same doctor for 30 years. Doris is a lifelong exercise lover. She walked to work her entire career. Since she only worked part time, there were many hours devoted to fun activities.

In 1977 Doris and John joined the Pierpont Racquet Club and she was one of the regulars swimming at the Club.  She believed you shouldn’t drive to exercise so she would walk to the PRC from Sunset Street above Ventura high school to swim her mile, and then she would walk back up the hills to home. She also loved to ride her bike. She had many bikes over the years because she wore them out. She said she put more miles on her bike than her car. She loved to ride to Santa Barbara and back which is a 60 mile round trip and again she would ride back up the hills to Sunset Street.

She wanted to ride across America in 1976 for the bicentennial. The problem was she couldn’t find anyone to go with her and at that time there were no organized group rides.
Another interesting experience with Doris was her organizing the kids in the neighborhood along with her 2 daughters and hiking up to two trees carrying gallons of water, shovels to tend to the trees.

For the last five years, Doris has been going to the DeAnza pickle ball courts five days a week to watch her daughter play. She said it has given her a new lease on life. So many new friends and she really enjoys the laughter and giggling on the Courts. One of her secrets to longevity is to stay positive, laugh and have fun each and every day. She says every day is special.