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NBA star James Ennis encourages students to aim high

Ennis graduated from Ventura High and Sheridan Way.

by Amy Brown

Homegrown NBA superstar James Ennis III recently returned to his former elementary school, Sheridan Way Elementary in Ventura, to visit with students and inspire them to reach high—literally and figuratively. He brought school supplies, sports equipment, and gave the kids a pep talk for the coming school year and beyond. “It was great to see so many smiles on their faces. Back then I wish I’d had an NBA player come here!” said Ennis.

Ennis grew up in the avenues in the Westview Village housing project with his five siblings. He shared that he wanted to donate to Sheridan Way because he felt it was important to give back to the community. “I came from low poverty, it feels good to be home again. I wanted to give back once I made it to the NBA,” said Ennis. “I want to be a good role model—if you set the bar high, you can accomplish your goals.”

At 6’7”, the Philadelphia 76ers’ small forward is anything but small, but that didn’t stop him from enthusiastically diving in to play basketball with the elementary students during his visit to the school. He also posed for photos and signed autographs.

“It was really amazing having someone famous talk to us,” said Sofia Tadeo, a 4th grader at Sheridan Way. “It’s pretty cool he went to school here; when he talked to us, he said we just have to work hard to achieve our goals.”

Ennis graduated from Ventura High and attended both Oxnard and Ventura colleges. He ultimately transferred to Cal State Long Beach, and was initially drafted into the NBA in 2013 by the Atlanta Hawks. He shared that education had been important to him, helping him to learn to work hard and have discipline. Asked who some of his early influencers were in Ventura, he responded that Felix Cortex at Ventura High had been one of his favorites, and that Coach Joey Ramirez at Ventura College had had a big influence on him, treating him like more than just a rising basketball star, but also like a person.

Asked if there was one message he wanted to leave with the students and kids growing up in the difficult area that he did, he replied, “I tell them anything is possible, and that there’s a lot of talent in the 805!”

Ventura County School Board Member Matt Almaraz attended the event as well, and stopped to shoot some hoops with the kids while Ennis spoke to visitors. “It’s pretty phenomenal that someone who came from this same area, this same school, is now a professional basketball player,” said Almaraz, who served years ago as a Youth Program Director at the Westpark Community Center where Ennis had played growing up. “I know the hardships these kids go through, and for someone to come back who’s made it, it’s really special to see.”

EV electric shows Ventura County

Kent and Cathy Bullard have been living the future since 2011 when they first bought an electric vehicle. Photo by John Hankins

by John Hankins

The public and free markets are now strongly favoring all-electric vehicles, and local residents who already have them and/or hybrids are anxious to share their experiences and answer questions face-to-face.

You can do that during the two National Drive Electric Week events in Ventura County on Tuesday, Sept. 17 at the Government Center and Sunday, Sept 22, at Channel Islands Harbor, sponsored by the Sierra Club and EV Advocates of Ventura County.

There are over a dozen models at both events with at least 50 local owners participating, with nearly a million miles driven by them. Tesla, Bolt, Volt, Ionic, Leaf, Jaguar, Nissan and BMWs are just some of the models that are likely at the events. Car showcases are growing in popularity with companies similar to CarsRelo shipping cars all over the country so consumers can check out the latest cars to hit the showroom. These September events are happening all over the country; details at:

https://driveelectricweek.org

“EV drivers can provide better information than any other source because it is real world,” said Russell Sydney, a co-founder of EV Advocates whose cars are charged from his solar panels. “Another big advantage is seeing so many different vehicles in one place.”

Green Tech Media reports sales increased by 81% in 2018; Market Watch estimates “more than 30 million are likely to buy an electric car as their next vehicle.” Car makers are listening, as General Motors just announced it’s now working for a zero-emissions future, along with Volvo, Aston Martin, Jaguar and so many more, while European countries plan to ban gas/diesel cars sooner than later, as does China and India.

While the initial debut of electric cars was impressive due to Tesla’s superior engineering, patrons were initially worried about the amount of public charge stations. That is being fixed so quickly that in the next generation you may pass a gas station and say, “How quaint.”

Since the demand for public charging stations is increasing, there is a petition asking local governments to streamline the process. Sign it at:

www.electricdrive805.org/streamlined-permitting

Most EV drivers find the cost per mile to be only about a third the cost of petroleum on public chargers and possibly less from their home with or without solar panels. A dollar buys you 25 miles worth of range at a city of Ventura public charger, but for that same range it will cost you $2.50 or more for a gallon of gasoline.

While all this may be new to most people, Kent and Cathy Bullard of Ventura are living the future. They have had electric vehicles since 2011 with a Nissan Leaf and now a Tesla Model 3. She commutes to work from Ventura to Thousand Oaks and asserts, “I’ll never go back to gas, there’s no reason.”

Details of the events:

Drive Electric Ventura, Tuesday Sept 17, 10am – 2pm. This will be not only be a showcase but has opportunities to Ride and Drive with dealers; sponsored by Ventura County Regional Energy Alliance. Held at the Ventura County Government Center, 800 S. Victoria Ave. More information or to RSVP:

http://driveelectricweek.org/1976

Drive Electric Oxnard, Sunday Sept 22, 9:30am – 3pm at the Channel Island Harbor next to the Farmers’ Market (show and shop!), 3610 S. Harbor Blvd. This is the big show, sponsored by the Sierra Club and EV Advocates with help from Community Environmental Council. More information or RSVP:

http://driveelectricweek.org/1592

First 5 Ventura County offers classes and family support services

First 5 Ventura County held a celebration ribbon cutting. Photos by Michael Gordon

On Sept., 5 First 5 Ventura County (F5VC) had their official ribbon cutting for the First 5 Neighborhood for Learning, Powered by Interface (NfL) at Will Rogers Elementary. The NfL is an early education hub and resource center for Ventura’s children and families.

Each of the 13 NfL locations in Ventura County offers Parent and Child Together classes and family support services. To celebrate First 5 Ventura County’s early learning initiative and the groundbreaking NfL model for supporting children prenatal to five and their families, First 5 Ventura County held their a ribbon cutting on Thursday, from 4:00 – 6:00 p.m.

Representatives from County Supervisor Steve Bennett, Assmeblymember Monique Limon, and Senator Hannah-Beth Jackson’s office were on hand to celebrate this vital community resource.

The County of Ventura’s new Mobile Library was also there for families to explore. The Mobile Library offers a full range of library services including: Free Wi-Fi, Wireless Printing, Laptop lending, 3D Printing, STEM & Makerspaces activities, Storytimes, and children’s books.

Those in attendance joined Executive Directors Petra Puls (First 5 Ventura County) and Erik Sternad (Interface Children & Family Services) in celebrating Ventura County’s award-winning Neighborhoods for Learning model, and learned more about the essential services and classes being offered to Ventura children and families.

Student drug abuse and anti vaping programs honored

Dan Hicks, Dawn Anderson, Gabe Teran, Maritza Garcia, Catherine Puccetti and Amber Macias at the honors presentation.

The Ventura County Office of Education’s Department of Comprehensive Health and Prevention Programs (CHPP) was recently honored for its efforts to teach students about the dangers of opioid use, vaping and other risky behaviors. The department received the Pillar of Prevention award from Ventura County Behavioral Health (VCBH). The award was established to honor exceptional contributions to the field of prevention by those who are working to preserve and protect community health.

The award recognizes CHPP’s programs designed to promote student health, including:

Direct in-school drug awareness and vaping presentations for students

Youth leadership and mentoring programs to discourage dangerous behavior

Prevention trainings for school administrators, educators, and counselors

Interpretation of California Healthy Kids Survey data to inform other agencies

As part of the Safe Schools initiative under the County’s Prescription Drug Abuse and Heroin Workgroup, CHPP Director Dawn Anderson and her team led the development of opioid-specific drug education and the creation of the “Buzz Kill” graphic novella used in to discourage prescription drug abuse among students. They also developed programs to raise awareness of prescription drug and heroin abuse among parents. Most recently, Ms. Anderson worked to make the medication Naloxone (Narcan) available at VCOE school sites to potentially save lives in the event of an opioid overdose.

The Pillar of Prevention award was presented to VCOE by VCBH Prevention Services Manager Dan Hicks at Monday’s meeting of the Ventura County Board of Education. “It’s been said that prevention is a team sport because meaningful change takes real collaboration,” Hicks said. “There are lots of agencies with strong efforts, but VCOE has demonstrated an amazing combination of data-driven programming and a focus on community health this year that really stands out in the middle of the opioid crisis. Dawn and her staff are the folks everyone wants on their team because they use their resources to get results—they’re bending the trend of youth drug use.”

The Ventura County Office of Education provides a broad array of fiscal, training and technology support services to local school districts, helping to maintain and improve lifelong educational opportunities for children, educators and community members. VCOE also operates schools that serve students with severe disabilities and behavioral issues, provides career education courses, and coordinates countywide academic competitions including Mock Trial and the Ventura County Science Fair. Learn more at: www.vcoe.org.

Two new members join Ventura College Foundation Board

The Ventura College Foundation Board of Directors has added two new board members. The new members are and Michael Schouten.

Catherine Bojorquez

Bojorquez is vice president of business and administrative services at Ventura College. She has worked in education for over 19 years, providing oversight in the areas of finance, technology, facilities, maintenance, transportation and food services.

“Education is a great equalizer that develops students’ strengths and talents, helping them to achieve their dreams for themselves and their families,” says Bojorquez. “I interact with students, faculty, classified professionals and administrators every day. They share their challenges, successes and hopes. As a board member, I hope to be a liaison between the board and the many faces at Ventura College and a voice for the needs of our students and campus.”

Michael Schouten

Schouten is president of the Associated Students of Ventura College. While growing up in Santa Paula, education was not always a top priority. “I wasn’t big on education but that changed when my mom quit her job as a waitress and completed a medical assistant program,” says Schouten. “I saw the new opportunities education gave her.”

The foundation’s Ventura College Promise program enabled Schouten to attend Ventura College tuition free during his first year. He takes advantage of the foundation-funded David P. Bianco textbook lending library so he has access to schoolbooks at no charge. While at Ventura College, Schouten has been awarded an academic scholarship by the Ventura Downtown Lions Club – Fred W. Smith Scholarship. “Ventura College, its faculty and the foundation’s many mentors have provided me with the opportunity to explore what I want to do with my life,” says Schouten, who hopes to transfer to U.C. Berkeley and major in political science or economics. “I want to bring the student perspective to the board and suggest new ways the foundation can help students including addressing the personal side of what it means to be a college student.”

“Having Cathy and Michael’s input on the board is important,” says Rob van Nieuwburg, Ventura College Foundation board chair. “Their views on student issues give us an on-the-ground look at how our programs impact students.”

Established in 1983, the Ventura College Foundation provides financial support to the students and the programs of Ventura College to facilitate student success and grow the impact and legacy of Ventura College as a vital community asset. The Foundation also hosts the Ventura College Foundation Marketplace; an outdoor shopping experience held every weekend on the Ventura College campus east parking lot. For more information, contact Julie Harvey at (805) 289-6502 or [email protected] or visit www.VenturaCollegeFoundation.org

Vol. 12, No. 25 – Sept 11 – Sept 24, 2019 – Events

Events by Ana Baker

The Jewish New Year, 5780, a time for reflection and recommitment as well as the tradition of dipping of apples in honey, begins on Erev Rosh HaShannah, Sunday, September 29h. Congregation Am HaYam invites all Jews to join with them in observances.

S’Lichot Services take place Saturday, September 21st at 6:30 pm. Erev Rosh HaShannah begins Sunday, September 29th, at 7 pm. Services on the first and second days of the holiday, Monday and Tuesday, October 1st and 2nd, begin at 9 am.

Kol Nidre, the holiest night in the Jewish calendar, begins on Tuesday, October 8th at 6:15 pm. Yom Kippur services on Wednesday, October 9th, begin at 9 am.

CAH is associated with United Synagogues of Conservative Judaism and is located at 4839 Market Street (rear). Ample free parking is available. Please call 805-644-2899 for ticket or other information or see www.amhayam.com.

Free Adult Grief & Bereavement Support Groups

Every Wednesday, from 6:30 – 8 p.m. Free for anyone who has lost someone within the last 2 years. Receive emotional and educational support.

Free Joint Replacement Classes

2nd Monday of the Month (September 9), held from 4-5 p.m. Free informational class that teaches you what to expect pre and post-surgery.

Living with Type 2 and Pre-Diabetes Classes

1st Tuesday of the Month (October 1), from 1– 2:30 p.m. Free informational class that teaches you how to manage your life with diabetes.

Held at Livingston Memorial Visiting Nurse Association & Hospice, 1996 Eastman Ave., Ste. 109. Call (805) 642-0239 for more information.

The Compassionate Friends of West Ventura County is a support group for those who have experienced the loss of a child. Parents, grandparents, and siblings (over age 14) are all welcome. The group meets the first and third Wednesday of each month at 7:00 at the Pointsettia Pavilion, Canada Larga room, 3451 Foothill Road. For more information, contact Laura Lindsay at (805) 836-9100.

Ventura Poinsettia Dance Club Monday nights 7:30 – 9:45 p.m. Poinsettia Pavilion. Ballroom, swing, Latin and line dancing. $10 members, $12 non-members. Free dance lessons 6:45 – 7:15 p.m. Call Rick (805) 415-8842 for more information.

There will be a regular Ventura Discussion Group meeting at Main Street Restaurant 3159 Main St., Wednesday from 4 – 5:45 p.m. Several people usually stay for a drink and a bite to eat afterward. Bring an interesting topic to discuss if you can.

Ventura’s ACBL Duplicate Bridge Club offers games for all levels of play.  Learn the game, play with your peers, and earn master points while you are having fun.  There is a game every day of the week.  Check out their website at www.vcbridge.org

Country Western Line Dancing every Tuesday 7 – 9 p.m. Instruction every night. Located at the Moose lodge, 10269 Telephone Road. More information at countrylovers.com.

Cross Town Hikers join in on Wednesday nights for a moderate-paced hike that includes views of Ventura from the cross, a walk out to the end of the pier, and a stroll along the Promenade back to the Museum. Four miles with an 800-foot elevation gain. Meet at 7 p.m. sharp at the fountain across the street from the Mission. Join Facebook page for more information: https://www.facebook.com/groups/800215670039426/

The members of the Ventura Investment Group meet on Mondays for an informal discussion of recent economic events.  Topics cover current events that affect stocks, funds, real estate, and interest-bearing investments.  The meeting is from 10 – 11:30 a.m. at the Coffee Bean & Tea Leaf at Telephone Road and Main Street.  Visitors and potential members are welcomed.  There are no dues or requirements to participate, and all levels of experience are welcomed.

Musicians’ Sober Support Meetup @ FIND (A Friend in Deed) every Monday night 7 – 9 p.m. Bring acoustic instrument(s) for jamming after sharing support for sobriety.

Bell Arts-Studio 39-432 Ventura Ave. For further information [email protected].

The Ventura County Philatelic Society meet on the first and third Mondays each

month at 7:30 p.m. at the Church of the Foothills, 6279 Foothill Rd.

Admission and parking are free. Come for a great evening.

Contact: Bill Garner (805) 320-1601 or [email protected]

Mended Hearts of Ventura. Come share if you have had heart surgery or stent implant. Group meets the first Tuesday each month at Lemon Wood Mobile Park, 850 Johnson Dr. They have excellent speakers, leading cardiologists, nutritionists, dietitians from our area. Contact Richard Hatcher at (805) 644-2733.

Co-Dependents Anonymous (CoDa) is a 12-step fellowship of men and women whose common purpose is recovery from codependence in the development and maintenance of healthy relationships. Every Friday at 6 p.m. at the Unitarian Universalist Church, 5654 Ralston (enter through side door off parking lot). Further information Deva 805-814-5650 or Maryann

BCNN (Beach Cities Neighbors and Newcomers) is a non-profit women’s club. A purely social club to provide a venue by which women in our area can meet each other. We have a variety of activities in which members can share common interests. You can see a listing of some of our activities at http://www.bcnnwomensclub.org/.

Meetings are held on the 1st Wednesday of each month from 9:30 – 11 a.m. at the Knights of Columbus Hall, 36 Figueroa St. Parking is on Santa Clara Avenue. dues are $30 per year. Speaker Kurt Buckley, will present “My Comino”. He will introduce the audience to the Camino de Santiago de Compostela in Spain.

Ventura County Cribbage Association Grass Roots Local Club meets weekly. Located at Pizzaman Dan’s 444 E. Santa Clara on Wednesdays at 5 p.m. More information at Kerry 805-643-7683

Ventura Retired Men’s Group meets for social interaction, a buffet lunch and an interesting program on the first and third Tuesday each month. If you’d like to sample a free introductory meal and relaxing ocean breeze at Poinsettia Pavilion, stop by and introduce yourself in the pavilion Santa Paula room at about 11:30 a.m. on any meeting day.

Sept.11: The Channel Islands Bicycle Club (CIBike) is a non-profit organization that provides opportunities for bicycling for health, recreation, transportation and advocacy. Over 300 members and are based in Ventura. While members are mostly adults, welcome cyclists of all ages. Check out our activities www.cibike.org.

Monthly meetings are free and open to anyone in the community at the Museum of Ventura County, 100 E. Main St. Doors open at 6:30 p.m. for a social with beer and wine. Presentations start at 7p.m. Following the half-hour social, there will be a presentation by Dr. Gregory Tchejeyan on how to avoid knee and hip injuries while bicycling. Dr. T is a renown orthopedic surgeon and triathlete 805-587-1233.

Sept.13: The General George S. Patton, Jr. Chapter, Sons of the American Revolution

April luncheon meeting will take place at 11:30 a.m., Friday, in the Poinsettia Pavilion, 3451 Foothill Road. The Chapter will present its annual awards program. If you choose

to join for lunch, cost is $20 per person. For additional information or for assistance in determining your possible Revolutionary War genealogical roots, please call Bill Bays (805) 650-3036 or Robert Taylor (805)216-7992. For information regarding SAR membership and chapter activities, please visit the chapter website at http://pattonpatriots.org.

Sept.15: The Climate Reality Project: Ventura County, CA Chapter, General Meeting Get updates on the Ventura County General Plan Update, the Clean Power Alliance, and other issues related to the Climate Reality Project. E.P. Foster Library, Topping Room
651 E Main St at 2 p.m.

Sept.15: The Ventura and Santa Barbara County chapter of the National Association of Watch and Clock Collectors (NAWCC) will meet Sunday, in the Campus Student Center of Ventura College, 4667 Telegraph Road. The regular meeting starts at noon and at 11a.m. There will be an informal workshop where a topic on clocks or watches will be demonstrated and discussed.

There will be a mart where items will be for sale followed by lunch and an informational meeting and a program at 1 p.m. which will be on a topic related to timekeeping.

More information about chapter 190 can be found at www.nawcc-ch190.com.

Sept.16 & 23: Gold Coast Concert Chorus – new season! A non-audition, community choir gathering singers of all ages and levels of experience! New singers are always welcome! Registration times remaining for December concert, “Harmony and Hope”, are September 16th and 23rd at the Church of the Foothills from 6:15pm to 6:45pm. Rehearsals will follow at 7:00 p.m. in the sanctuary. Looking forward to seeing you there! www.goldcoastchorus.org

Sept.19: Ventura’s new Community Development Director, Peter Gilli, will be the featured speaker at the Thursday meeting of the East Ventura Community Council. Mr. Gilli will talk about plans for development in the near future and issues of concern. In addition, a representative of the Ventura Police Department who will report on crime and safety.

The council represents those who live east of Victoria Avenue. Books in good condition are always accepted on behalf of Ventura Friends of the Library. The meeting starts at 7p.m. at the Connect Church, 346 N. Kimball Road. The public is encouraged to attend and participate.

For more information, contact Marie Lakin, Chairperson, [email protected]

Sept. 19: The regular monthly meeting of Assistance League of Ventura County will be on Thursday, at the Chapter House, 913 East Santa Clara St. The meeting begins at 10 a.m. Men and women are welcome, and there is no age requirement. Assistance League is “Transforming Lives, Strengthening Community” through several philanthropic programs: The Bargain Box Thrift Shop helps fund these programs. Find more information on the Website: assistanceleagueventuracounty.org, like us on Facebook, Instagram, or email [email protected]. Telephone: 805-643-2458 Monday – Thursday, 8 – 2 p.m.

Sept. 19: Law firm Ferguson Case Orr Paterson LLP and the Ventura Chamber of Commerce will co-host The Mix, a sunset networking event of food, drinks, raffles and more, 5:30 to 7 p.m. at 1050 S. Kimball Road, Ventura. The event is free to attend and open to all. Bring plenty of business cards. RSVP to http://bit.ly/FCOP_Ventura_Chamber_mixer.

Sept. 25: The College Area Community Council will meet on Wednesday at 7 p.m. Representatives from Ventura College and the police department will give brief updates and other issues of community interest will be discussed. The Council meets in the Wright Event Center at 57 Day Rd. Free parking is available adjacent to the Event Center. CACC represents citizens in Council District 3, neighborhoods between Dunning/Lemon Grove and Hill Road, north of Hwy. 126.  collegeareacouncil.com/map Call (805) 644-8695 for more information.

Sept. 29: Rancho Days at the Olivas Adobe, hosted by the Olivas Adobe Historical Interpreters, the docents of the Adobe. Lots to do including kids Outreach roping and gold panning, candle making, woodcarving, a cactus walk, informational tours. Featured entertainment includes Richard Senate Storytelling (Ghost Stories), Mariachi, Folkloric las Islas, California State Old Time Fiddler Association and the Frontier Gunfighters walking around maintaining order on the old Rancho Olivas. This is a donation requested event, $5 Family or $3 per Adult and $1 per Child. The Olivas Adobe is located at 4200 Olivas Park Dr. Sunday from 11- 3 p.m.

Oct. 13: The Channel Islands Chamber Orchestra, Dr. KuanFen Liu Artistic Director celebrates the opening of its 17th Season with American Landscapes, performing Ashley Broder’s Channel Islands Orchestral Suite, a world premiere and other compositions. 3:00 p.m. at First United Methodist Church, 1338 E. Santa Clara St. There will be a pre-concert presentation by William Hoyer, Biologist that begins 1 hour before the concert.

Donations of $20 are appreciated. Youth 18 and under are free. For more information call 805-246-7316 or visit website www.CHICOVC.org.

Can you tell a story in 2,500 words?

The Ventura County Writers Club announces the opening of its 19th annual short story contest. “The short story challenges writers to be succinct, dramatic and original—all before turning the page,” says Rhonda Noda, VCWC President. “Shorter reading passages are more compatible with technology and modern time restraints. We’re all doing several things at once trying to squeeze more into every day.”

The 2,500-word contest runs through 11:59pm on October 15th and is accepting submissions through the easy-to-use website: submittable.com. Winners receive cash prizes, a chance to read their stories at the award ceremony and publication in the club’s bi-annual anthology. Participants do not have to be club members to enter. There are both adult and high school categories.

The club is a not-for-profit organization that was established in 1933 by three writers in Ojai. “Our club creed is ‘To encourage the craft,’” says Noda. “Sponsoring contests is one way do this.”

Go to venturacountywriters.com for complete rules or call Breeze contributing writer Sheli Ellsworth at 805.300.1365 with questions.

Vol. 12, No. 25 – Sept 11 – Sept 24, 2019 – Opinion/Editorial

∙I want to thank one of our wonderful readers for suggesting that we provide the Ventura Breeze at the 24 Hour Fitness located on Telegraph. We now have a rack there with the Breeze for your reading pleasure. Just don’t take it in the pool – it is not waterproof.

∙Do spiders like looking at themselves in mirrors? Why else would all rear-view mirrors contain spider webs?

∙ Recently, President Donald Trump criticized two Washington Post reporters, saying they “shouldn’t even be allowed” at the White House following a story critical of the administration’s record (shame on them, maybe they thought that we live in a democracy)?

“The Washington Post’s @PhilipRucker (Mr. Off the Record) & @AshleyRParker, two nasty lightweight–reporters, shouldn’t even be allowed on the grounds of the White House because their reporting is so disgusting & fake,” the President tweeted.

He was also upset about press coverage of the crowds at Sen. Elizabeth Warren’s (D-Mass.) campaign events, complaining that his rallies don’t get the same treatment.

“They do stories so big on Elizabeth ‘Pocahontas’ Warren’s crowd sizes, adding many more people than are actually there, and yet my crowds, which are far bigger, get no coverage at all,” Trump tweeted,  using his derisive nickname for the Democratic presidential hopeful.

Thank goodness he doesn’t read the Ventura Breeze, otherwise our staff would not be allowed into the White House. Just to be safe, when we go there, we will be sure to wear Richard Nixon masks.

Investigators are looking into safety concerns and wondering if any warning signs were missed.

∙ We have decided to not include an article regarding the terrible boat tragedy. By now, everyone is well-aware of what occurred, and I don’t feel there is really anything we can add. Our very deepest symphony and love goes out to the families of those that perished and to the survivors who will need to deal with this for the rest of their lives.

The only thing to mention is that federal authorities have launched a criminal investigation into the tragedy.

∙ The Center for Disease Control (CDC) is investigating vaping as a possible cause of progressive and often severe respiratory distress, sometimes first diagnosed as pneumonia or bronchitis. Several vapors have recently died from complications stemming from vaping. Maybe we were better off when kids only smoked cigarettes.

∙The following editorial (in part) appeared in The Sacramento Bee:

“If you believe newspapers play an essential role in strengthening democracy and holding powerful leaders accountable, now is the time to speak up about Assembly Bill 5. The bill, as currently written, could force many California newspapers out of business.”

“It’s unlikely that Assemblywoman Lorena Gonzalez, D-San Diego, sought to create an existential threat to California’s free press when she authored AB 5. But in what seems like an unintended consequence of the bill, AB 5 would basically make daily delivery of the print version of the newspaper nearly impossible. Some papers have said they may turn to mail, meaning a day-late newspaper and increased subscription rates for consumers.”

“That’s because the bill would require newspapers to treat newspaper carriers as employees rather than independent contractors. This would disrupt and destabilize the newspaper industry at a time when accurate, credible news is most needed — and most threatened.”

“By requiring newspapers to extend employee benefits and protections to all newspaper carriers, AB 5 would make newspaper delivery economically impossible. The loss of print revenue from scrapping the print edition of the paper would then deal a severe blow to both the newspaper industry’s viability and mission.”

Although this bill wouldn’t affect the Breeze, it is extremely important today to keep all newspapers in circulation. This bill could force some publications to scrap their print editions and rely solely on online publishing.

It really doesn’t matter if the papers are conservative or liberal, it is a complete and total freedom of the press that is vital to helping make a democracy work.

∙ Just hours after a mass shooting took place in West Texas, a Texas Republican state representative said he opposes stricter gun laws and that people should instead be “praying for protection.”

Republican Matt Schaefer posted on Facebook that “so-called gun-control solutions” won’t “stop a person with evil intent,” and that people should instead pray for victims and those with “evil intent.”

Great idea, I’m sure that he is the very first person to come up with such a simple solution. The next time someone starts shooting at you just start praying (and running as fast as you can).

∙We would love to hear more success stories of Venturan’s recovering from the Thomas Fire. Please let us know if you have one to tell.

∙ This headline appeared in the VC Star: “Suspect arrested in Ventura stabbing death at ‘infamous’ building.” I find this editorializing that it was ‘infamous’ very disturbing as if it was the building’s fault. The article went on to say, “this dilapidated property”.

The 58-year-old woman died after being stabbed inside her west Ventura apartment and investigators have identified Ventura 54-year-old Doyle Alan Johnson as the suspect. Johnson and the victim were acquainted.

The article failed to tell us if Johnson drove an old beat–up Ford, so I don’t think that we have all the details needed to decide if he did it.

Vol. 12, No. 25 – Sept 11 – Sept 24, 2019 – The Pet Page

∙SPAN Thrift Store is providing $10 spays and neuters for low income cat and dog friends.

Two upcoming clinics in September are:

Shiells Park, in the parking lot, located at 649 C St., Fillmore, on Thursday, September 19th and a second one on Thursday, September 26th at SPAN Thrift Store parking lot 110 N. Olive St. (behind Vons on Main). Please call to schedule an appointment (805) 584-3823.

∙A growing upsurge in cannabis-related dog poisonings across Canada has veterinarians calling for increased awareness of the dangers of pets ingesting pot.

More Canadian pets, specifically dogs, are coming in contact with CBD and cannabis according to recent statistics by the Canadian Veterinary Medical Association from the Pet Poison Helpline, which services Canada and the U.S.

“From a formal perspective, we know the numbers are increasing and we know anecdotally that across Canada veterinarians are seeing this on a day to day occurrence” stated Dr. Ian Sandler, member of the Canadian Veterinary Medical Association.

A dog may have sniffed out cannabis on a walk, ingested dried cannabis edibles or oils at home, or even been offered it in some form by their owner, said Sandler.

Your pets can indeed get high, but beyond that are very sensitive to THC, which can be toxic for them if ingested with other ingredients like chocolate, said Sandler.

“I think the biggest issue right now is awareness. In many cases people may be careful when it comes to putting these products in the right place if you will in terms of keeping away from children but they’re not thinking about their four-legged friends.”

The CVMA is pushing to have better safety labels on cannabis products, and be involved in the safe dispensation of potentially helpful cannabis treatments in the future.

∙RedRover’s Pet Disaster Preparedness Tips

Livi celebrated her 8th birthday doing what she loves, her therapy work at VCMC. She always smiles when she is working.

September is National Preparedness Month and planning ahead is the key to keeping yourself and your pets safe if disaster strikes. It is important to remember: If it’s not safe for you, it is not safe for your pets. You can follow these tips to make an emergency plan for your pets:

1. Microchip your pets

2. Keep a collar and tag on all cats and dogs

3. Plan a pet-friendly place to stay

4. Use the buddy system: Exchange pet information, evacuation plans and house keys with a few trusted neighbors or nearby friends.

5. Prepare an emergency kit for each animal: To help alleviate some of the stress that happens during an evacuation, we recommend creating and taking an emergency kit for each of your animals if you are forced to leave unexpectedly. You should keep your kit in an easy-to-grab container or bag, and periodically check and update as needed. Here is a list of suggested items to keep in your kit(s):

One-week supply of food. Store food in a water-tight container and rotate it every three months to keep it fresh. If you use canned food, include a spare can opener.

One-week supply of fresh water. If officials declare your household water unfit to drink, it’s also unsafe for your pets. Follow American Red Cross guidelines for storing emergency water for your family and your pets.

Medication. If your animal takes medication, a replacement supply may not be easily available following a disaster.

Copies of vaccination records.

Photographs of you with your pets to prove ownership.

Photographs of your pets in case you need to make “lost pet” fliers.

Temporary ID tags. If you’ve evacuated, use this to record your temporary contact information and/or the phone number of an unaffected friend or relative.

Carrier or leash for each animal. Caregivers of multiple cats or other small animals can use an EvacSak, which is easy to store and use for transport.

Pet first aid kit. (Keep in a waterproof container). This kit can include items such as gauze, adhesive tape, cotton balls, cotton swabs, ice pack, tweezers, antibiotic treatment and more.

6. Identify emergency veterinary facilities outside of your immediate area: If a disaster has affected your community, emergency veterinary facilities may be closed. Pets may become injured or ill during the disaster, so make sure you know how to access other emergency facilities. You can also check with your veterinarian to find out if they have an emergency plan that includes setting up in an alternate, emergency facility.

7. Plan for temporary confinement: Physical structures, like walls, fences and barns may be destroyed during a disaster. Have a plan for keeping your animals safely confined. You may need a tie-out, crate or kennel. Read more tips for ensuring your pets’ safety during an evacuation.

8. Comfort your animals: Your animals will appreciate your calm presence and soft, comforting voice if they are stressed following a disaster or while evacuated, and you may find it comforting to spend time with them, too. Some animals, especially cats, may be too scared to be comforted. Interact with them on their terms. Some animals may find toys, especially long-lasting chew toys, comforting.

9. Know where to search for lost animals: When animals become lost during a disaster, they often end up at a local shelter. Keep the locations and phone numbers of the shelters in your area readily accessible.

10. Get children involved in disaster preparedness plans

 

Lexi was the service dog of John King, a veteran who had raised Lexi from birth.  She was his 24/7 companion and they were seen all over town.

John stated “ I carried her for her final 100 feet and set her on the table. She looked at me with those sweet brown eyes and kissed my nose. She knew her time had come and was telling me goodbye. She rests with the angels now.”

 

Casper was cared for in his final weeks by Dr. Heather Skogerson, who loved him and did everything to save him. He was loved by Eric, Cappi, Gill, Debi, Betty and Heather.  He now rests in peace and finally has an indoor home with his ashes on a mantle piece.

Vol. 12, No. 25 – Sept 11 – Sept 24, 2019 – Forever Homes Wanted

Hi: I’m Polo a 2 1/2 year old Australian Cattle Dog mix who was found as a stray. I fell into a swimming pool, maybe not the best way to get attention, but it sort of worked. The people who owned the pool couldn’t keep me and they reached out to C.A.R.L. to help find me my forever home. No one has come to claim me, so I’m ready to be adopted.

I have a twinkle in my eyes and a great smile. I’m just patiently waiting for you to come and adopt me. Canine Adoption and Rescue League C.A.R.L. CARL Adoption Center-call 644-7387 for more information.

Looking for Vegas Love? Yes, I’m Vegas a 2-year old American Bulldog Mix. I’m as cute and cuddly as my photos. I love – Leisurely walks – Riding in the car – Wet, sloppy kisses – Binge watching on the couch – Sleeping in on Saturday, well everyday – Hanging out in the park if that’s what you want to do. I’m looking for a family without other pets.

Ventura County Animal Services