Free services provided to seniors and to people with disabilities in Ventura County

by Carol Leish, MA

“Every program we offer at the Ventura County Area Agency on Aging (VCAAA) is free, with no charge,” according to Roger Horne, Public Information Officer at the VC Area Agency on Aging. “We have a ‘No Wrong Door Policy,’ which means if an older adult, a person with disabilities, or a caregiver call needing help, but is not sure of what services are in the community to help them, we will first try to connect them with our programs if we can. If not, we will try to refer them to other agencies that can assist them.

“The Information & Assistance team at our agency takes the initial phone call from someone who calls asking for assistance. A social worker figures out what that person’s needs are to help them out. Our overall goal is to help people to stay in their own home, since people do better by staying in their own homes, while keeping them safe and healthy.”

Some of the various types of programs provided by the Ventura County Area Agency on Aging include: 1) Transportation; 2) the Senior Nutrition Program; 3) Digital Services; 4) Health Insurance Counseling; 5) Employment; 6) Housing through HomeShare; 7) Fall Prevention, and 8) LiveWell (annual publication).

Free transportation is provided for those who are 60 years old or older, along with those, of any age, who have an ADA (Americans with Disabilities Act) card through a free bus pass. Those who are 65 years old or older can get free Dial-A-Ride tickets to use for transportation. Medi-rides may also be available to individuals who have no other way to get to a medical appointment.

The Senior Nutrition Program funds congregate meals at various senior centers throughout the county. Seniors can get free meals, or give a suggested donation of $3 for a meal. “There is also a meal delivery program for those who are homebound. Some receive the same meals that the senior centers serve,” according to Horne. “At the VCAAA, we send out boxes that have a week’s or month’s amount of food in them.”

“Digital resources,” according to Horne, “help to deal with the ‘Digital Divide,’ by offering education. GetSetUp offers classes for older adults in which they can learn about anything that may interest them. Trualta offers free online support and training for caregivers. To sign up for these free services, first go to the VCAAA website at www.vcaaa.org, and click onto ‘Digital Resources.’”

For those who need free help with Medicare, Horne said, “We offer health insurance counseling through our HICAP department by giving one-on-one help, and through giving presentations to various groups. This is unbiased help to support older adults who need it.”

Employment help for seniors is also offered. The Senior Community Service Employment Program assists low-income individuals to get back into the workforce. Help on the www.vcaaa.org website is available through a video done by the Workforce Development Committee, which is part of the Advisory Council for the VC Area Agency on Aging: ‘Get That Job!’ The committee also recently did a job fair in Eastern Ventura County. A job fair in Western Ventura County is in the works.

“Housing can be difficult, especially with the high costs of housing within Ventura County,” according to Horne. “HomeShare is a program that matches home seekers with home providers. Some people may have a house that is too big for them. We help them to find compatible people to rent a room, who may be able to help them with various things around their homes.”

The Fall Prevention program aims to help people who have fallen, or who are fearful of falling, by offering several evidence-based classes that are aimed at keeping people on their feet.

“LiveWell, which is an annual publication, has various interesting articles that we think older adults, caregivers, and people with disabilities would want to read,” according to Horne. “It also has listings of agencies throughout the county that deal with topics like: 1) Health; 2) Legal; 3) Food; 4) Caregiving; 5) Community Resources; and, 6) Transportation.”

For more information about the free services provided, or to get assistance, please contact the VC Area Agency on Aging at either their phone number: 805-477-7300; or, through their website: www.vcaaa.org.

Vol. 17, No. 14 – April 3 – April 16, 2024 – Mailbox

Dear Sheldon,

I’m writing on behalf of everyone working at New Art City Theatre – the Advisory Board, the volunteers, the artists, and Kirby and myself – to thank you for the article about our upcoming Festival ’24! We’re grateful for the shout out, especially since Festival ’24 is FREE! We hope to be an addition to the already rich cultural scene, but we can’t achieve that goal unless folks know what we’re doing.

You do incredible work in our community. You keep people abreast of what’s happening (and what isn’t). The Breeze is vitally important to all of us in our beautiful town, and you’re providing such a wonderful service to the residents of Ventura. So thank you, again.

Warmly,

Bev Ward
Co-Founder/Co-Producing Artistic Director
New Art City Theatre

Opinion:

Maybe at one time the Albinger Archaeological Museum (On Main across from the County Museum) was something to see and explore. But now it is just a large wasted space. Perhaps a good location for a much needed downtown parking structure.

William Bray

Breeze:

The employees at Olivas Links do an outstanding job, but faced with these antiquated trailers their efforts are marginalized.

William Gohlke

Ventura County Ballet and Museum of Ventura County launch ballet collaboration

Performance by international guest dancers Hanna Chudinova and Jack Stewart.

Ventura County Ballet and the Museum of Ventura County are joining forces to celebrate the diverse artists and art forms thriving in Ventura County. The first event of this new collaboration is DAnce ART, an afternoon of dance, visual arts and music at the Museum on Sunday, April 14, at 2:00 pm.

Kathleen Noblin, Founder and Executive Director of Ventura County Ballet, explains, “Our goal is to entertain, inspire and educate our audiences with great ballet and the wide world of dance. We’re proud to bring global talent to Ventura County. At the same time, we’re committed to giving a stage to local artists, including dancers, choreographers, composers and musicians. With its shared values and beautiful setting, the Museum is a perfect partner.”

Elena Brokaw, Executive Director of the Museum of Ventura County, adds, “We’re delighted to collaborate with Ventura County Ballet in showcasing local artists across genres. We look forward to continuing to work together on other initiatives to represent the diversity of arts and cultures in Ventura County.”

The DAnce ART program highlights classical, neo-classical and contemporary ballet styles performed by international guest dancers Hanna Chudinova and Jack Stewart plus advanced preprofessional dancers from Ballet Academy Ventura, official school of Ventura County Ballet, and State Street Ballet’s Professional Track. Choreography by Ventura County residents Marina Fliagina, Brett Weidlich, Meredith Ventura and Emi Pool and music by pianist Rachel Flowers reinforce the “made in Ventura” theme.

With music ranging from Prokofiev’s Classical Symphony and Vivaldi’s Four Seasons to Ginastera’s Gaucho dance Malambo and del Aguila’s Silencio, the seven pieces on the program explore the evolution of ballet and the many cultures that continue to influence it.

The post-performance reception in the Museum Plaza features music by the Tom Buckner Trio and displays by visual artists Larissa Strauss, glass mosaics; Jaqueline Woods, photography; and Michelle Nosco, painting/ drawing. The artists, all residents of Working Artists Ventura(WAV), will be on hand to discuss their works. Complimentary light refreshments will be served.

Tickets range from $10-$25 and are available at https://www.venturacountyballet.com/

Vol. 17, No. 14 – April 3 – April 16, 2024 – Police Reports

Sexual Battery By Fraudulent Representation

On March 21, 2024, the Ventura Police Department Major Crimes unit served an arrest warrant on Dr. Fernando Gomez at his office in Ventura Limitless Functional Therapy 4562 Westinghouse St . Gomez’s arrest stemmed from two separate sexual battery reports. The victims alleged they were sexually battered by Gomez while seeking his chiropractic care. As a result of the investigation, Major Crimes Detectives requested and were granted a warrant for Gomez’s arrest. This investigation is ongoing. The Major Crimes Detectives are asking anyone with information related to these crimes or any other crimes committed by the suspect to contact Detective Gray at (805)339-4472.

Ventura High grad kisses her first Lombardi Trophy only five years after high school graduation

Candice Dominguez has achieved remarkable success in her professional career.

Candice Dominguez, a 2014 graduate of Ventura High School, who participated in track and field and was a cheerleader, has achieved remarkable success in her professional career. Now in her sixth season with the Kansas City Chiefs as the Player Engagement Coordinator, Candice has had the opportunity to celebrate three Super Bowl victories with the team, including kissing the Lombardi Trophy, a moment she cherishes.

After graduating from Ventura High School, Candice pursued higher education, earning her Bachelor of Science degree from California State University, Sacramento and her Master of Arts form the University of Nebraska where she also competed on the Track and Field teams, earning two conference championships in the High Jump. She was a Graduate Assistant in Equipment in Olympic Sport at the University of Nebraska-Lincoln before joining the Chiefs. In her current role, she focuses on player’s personal and professional development, financial education, and continuing education.

Reflecting on her time with the Kansas City Chiefs, Candice shared a memorable experience from her early days as an intern. Hosting Coach Reid’s guests during Training Camp, she had the honor of meeting Bill Snyder, legendary Kansas State Football coach, who came in with his son and grandson to practice one day. A few weeks later, she received a piece of mail. “It was a handwritten thank you note from Coach Snyder in iconic K-State purple marker. This Hall of Fame Coach, one of the greatest to do it, took time out of his day to send a brand-new intern a proper thank you. It is almost five years later and I still cherish that note and the impact it made on me,” stated Candice.

Candice is also appreciative of all of her Ventura Unified teachers that helped ensure she was prepared for future success. “It’s hard to pick a favorite teacher, I was fortunate to have such wonderful educators, but a few were very influential throughout the years including Ms. Garmon and Ms. Tygell (Saticoy Elementary), Ms. Taylor (Anacapa Middle School) and Mr. Anderson and Ms. Bergfeld (Ventura High School).”

Offering advice to students facing challenges with attendance, finding purpose in school and overcoming mental health issues, Candice encourages them to find their space at school and pursue their passions, emphasizing that they have the opportunity to shape their future selves. “It can be a club, a sport, a teacher, the right group of friends, yearbook, metal shop, or something else entirely. Just having something to look forward to and be passionate about helps. The best part about it all, though, is that you have still have the opportunity to be whoever you want to be in ‘the real world.’ Take advantage of that and make educated decisions now to help your future self,” suggested Candice.

Addressing all students, Candice had this advice, “Take advantage of your ‘student card’ for as long as you have it. People will often share their stories, successes, and lessons with students to help guide them. Set up informational interviews with people in positions you want or who work at organizations you want to work for. Learn from their stories and use that to help carve your unique path.”

As for Candice’s future, she loves her current role. “It is a unique space these young men are in managing both high-performance sports and life outside. I plan to further my career in the athlete development space whether that be for professional or collegiate athletes. That can always change though as there are often new and unique roles in sports as the space is everchanging.”

We look forward to seeing what lies ahead for Candice and all of our other VUSD alumni as they continue to seek out new opportunities for success.

Ventura’s Earth Day Festival returns to Park Plaza

Earth Day Festival will return to downtown Ventura on Saturday, April 20, 2024, from 11:00 am – 4:00 pm at Park Plaza on East Thomson Street. This year, hosted by the MERITO Foundation in collaboration with the City of Ventura Sustainability Division and over 40 environmentally minded not-for-profit organizations, governmental agencies, transportation and utilities industries, outdoor recreation businesses, and sustainable food and goods vendors. The Ventura Earth Day Festival 2024 theme is “A celebration of our Blue Planet, Earth!”

Some event highlights include a blessing by Chumash Elder Alan Salazar, followed by opening remarks by our City of Ventura Mayor, Mr. Joe Schroeder. Then, a series of live performances by Inlakech Art Center’s Mariachi Band & Ballet Folkrórico; local singer and writer Olivia Willhite’s Ukulele Surf Pop; Jazz by Cabrillo Middle School Jazz Band “A” & Ventura High School Jazz Combo, with ending performance by ‘Strange,’ an outstanding local Youth Rock Band. In addition, the most current Electric Vehicles (EV) will be displayed; Patagonia’s Child Development Center will lead the Kid’s Zone activities; Bike Valet Parking will be available, and all are encouraged to participate in interactive games, the Earthly costume contest, and trivia to win prizes.

In addition, governmental and non-governmental environmental organizations will share information and opportunities with the community, such as events, rebates, programs, and supplies that benefit the planet, regional economies, and human health. We highly encourage all attendees to carpool, use public transportation, or bike to Park Plaza on April 20th. A public parking lot is ½ block from Park Plaza on Santa Clara St.

The Ventura Earth Day Festival 2024 is made possible thanks to the sponsorship of The Port of Hueneme, Toyota Ventura, an Outdoor Equity Grant created through AB 209 and administered by California State Parks, Office of Grants and Local Services, and by in-kind contributions of notable people, businesses such as Open Water, and some of the best artists in the region. Thanks to all, the Ventura Earth Day Festival 2024 will be the most diverse and vibrant ever!

Ventura Earth Day 2024 is the first of a series of events the MERITO Foundation will host in 2024 to commemorate our 10th anniversary. The MERITO Foundation is a 501(c) 3 nonprofit organization based in Ventura dedicated to protecting the ocean by facilitating transformative experiences to 3,500-4,000 4th-12th grade students per year and their communities through science education, outdoor recreation, hands-on scientific research, advocacy, and green entrepreneurship at no cost to the students or their families. For more information for participants, environmental groups, and vendors about the Ventura Earth Festival, visit https://meritostaff.wixsite.com/meritoearthday. More details about the MERITO Foundation at www.meritofoudation.org or email [email protected]

Vol. 17, No. 14 – April 3 – April 16, 2024 – Harbor Patrol Blotter

Tuesday 3/12	10:55am, officers issued Harbor Patrol badge stickers to Moorpark unified school district children for participating in beach cleanup at Harbor Cove. 7:45pm, while on patrol in Rescue B-19, officers contacted several vessels engaged in hoop netting near the breakwall. Warnings were issued for a motorized kayak without navigation lights, not registered. Another vessel with 3 POB’s, requesting contact info because they are having mechanical issues.
Wednes 3/13	1:45pm, dispatched to an aircraft down near Faria Beach. Officers responded in Fireboat with US coast guard and VC sheriff helicopter, but call was false alarm.
Thursday 3/14	6:30pm, dispatched to an assault at VWM D-dock. Officers responded with VFD/AMR and VPD to assist a 52 y/o male with major injuries from a fight with trespassers. The patient refused treatment or transportation to hospital.
Friday 3/15	10:03am, officers placing flowers at the Paul Korber Memorial at Harbor Cove. Today is the anniversary for the Harbor Patrol Officer, who tragically died in an Ocean Rescue in the South Jetty rip current.
Saturday 3/16	4:40pm, dispatched to a capsized kayak, person in the water near the District longdock. Officers responded, assisted victim onto the Fireboat.
Sunday 3/17	11:03am, received a request for a tow of a 34ft sailboat being towed by another. Officers responded in the Fireboat, took over the tow 1mile outside harbor. 4:47pm, dispatched to a boat fire at VWM phase II. Officers responded in the Fireboat, found an older motor vessel with heavy exhaust, no fire.
Tuesday 3/19	7:00am, contacting a nuisance sailboat at the launch ramp. The skipper, “Garth” has far worn out his welcome at most harbors in the area. He was reluctant to leave, officers wrote a citation for failing to obtain permission to secure. 10:03pm, while on patrol, issued written warnings to two fishermen for multiple violations of ordinances and State fishing laws. Contacted the pair hoop netting at the breakwall, terminated their voyage for no lifejackets or flares.
Wednes 3/20	11:44pm, received request for access to marina for Fish & Wildlife warden investigating a fisherman stealing hoop nets at the breakwall, he was arrested. 11:59pm, 2023/24 California spiny lobster season closes till October 2024.
Thursday 3/21	10:30am, officers meeting with Manson Construction discussing the upcoming maintenance dredging of Ventura Harbor. This year Manson will dredge into the harbor and into the keys for first time in years. Also they will dredge the main channel and the sandtrap, hopefully replenishing harbor beaches that have been heavily eroded this last winter by storms and large waves.

Saturday 3/23	11:17am, received report of a transient stealing items from construction site on Anchors Way. Ventura PD was contacted and they investigated the incident. 4:45pm, officers monitoring large commercial vessels returning to port with dangerous entrance conditions and Manson Dredge in the entrance.
Tuesday 3/26	5:30am, observed NWS issued Small Craft Advisory, raised warning pennant. 9:06am, received request for Dredge passing instructions from a boater in the keys. Advised he could contact the dredge by hailing “Mr. Manson” VHF 16/67 for passing instructions from dredge captain.

Ventura unknown Historic Adobe

by Richard Senate

Built as early as 1846 the Rodriguez Adobe served as the main house of the Rancho San Miguelito. It could have housed Don Ramon “Nacho” Rodriguez and his family while a larger adobe was built near the mouth of the Ventura River. That adobe sadly fell victim to floods that occasionally plague our county.

It may have been built by Chumash “adobero” ( adobe builder), musician and vaquero Juan de Jesus Tumamait. He is believed to be the last Chumash Elder to live in that structure.

In the 1930’s the land was purchased by Shell Oil Company and they restored the old house to be used as an office for the oil fields. They added a tile roof (original may have been reeds or wooden shingles) and installed cement floors.

The Rodriguez Adobe stands today on Shell Road and is being used as rental property. No plaque or monument marks the location of the adobe.

A study of the site seems to confirm its early age—the doors and windows line up with the measurements of a Spanish Vara Stick and not a Yankee yard stick. It is Ventura’s forth still-standing adobe. The others are The Mission San Buenaventura Church (1809), The Olivas Adobe (1847) and the Ortega Adobe (1857).

The Rodriguez Adobe isn’t open to the public, but perhaps it will be in the future when this unknown landmark will be recognized for its historic value.

Join Us at NAMBA: Where We Unite the Community Through the Power of Performance

Discover the heart of creativity at Namba Performing Arts Space, where the vibrancy of the performing arts comes alive in our community! At NAMBA, we’re more than just a venue; we’re a dynamic space where artists and audiences connect through collaboration, rehearsal, education, and the magic of live performance. This April, immerse yourself in dance and acting classes, music workshops, open mics, improv comedy and an unforgettable lineup of artist performances, each a unique journey through sound, story, and soul.

April 6, 7 PM – Nathan Rivera and Jessie Andra Smith: A Jazzy Folk Fusion

Dive into the rich, jazzy folk melodies of Nathan Rivera and Jessie Andra Smith. This Temecula-based duo brings the unique resonance of guitars and accordion, blending male and female vocals in a captivating interplay. Accompanied by the talents of Trevor Mulvey on upright bass and Blake Armstrong on drums, their shows are a blend of original music, storytelling, and audience interaction, creating an unforgettable experience. From Mexico to France, their global journeys bring a wealth of stories and songs right to our stage.

April 18, 7 PM – Kray Van Kirk: A Tapestry of Song

Join Kray Van Kirk on a musical odyssey where folk Americana meets Celtic roots in a celebration of the Hero’s Quest that binds us all. With his precise baritone and fine finger-style guitar playing, Van Kirk’s performances are an exploration of identity, ability, and history. Transitioning from a promising career in science to the uncertain but rewarding path of music, Van Kirk has embraced his passion, sharing his journey through his latest live concert CD, acclaimed as “Album of the Month” by CelticMusicRadio.net.

April 28, 7 PM – Eli Cook: A Night of Unforgettable Music

Experience the raw, electrifying talent of Eli Cook, a virtuoso whose guitar work seamlessly spans blues and Hendrix-inspired rock. Raised in Virginia on a rich diet of blues and rock, Cook’s moody yet dynamic performances promise a night of musical intensity and emotional depth. Don’t miss this opportunity to witness a master at work, where each note promises to leave an indelible mark on your soul.

Doors open at 6:30 PM, with performances starting at 7 PM. Tickets are $20 and available for purchase at www.NambaArts.com.

Ventura introduces enhanced permit counter and services for streamlined project development

The City of Ventura is stepping up its permit services with a new centralized permit center located at Room 117 at City Hall following the success of Ventura Online Permit Services (Ventura OPS) introduced in 2021. This upgrade demonstrates Ventura’s commitment to simplifying the permit process and offering personalized assistance to meet the needs of each project.

“These improvements underscore our commitment to modernizing services as we strive to enhance customer experience and satisfaction,” remarked Mayor Joe Schroeder. “With the updated permit counter at City Hall, we are dedicated to meeting the evolving needs of our community, making the permit process more efficient and user-friendly, and ensuring easier access to City staff for questions and information.”

The recent enhancement to permit services introduces online appointment booking for all permitting needs, such as building, electrical, mechanical, and plumbing services. Customers, businesses, and contractors can effortlessly schedule appointments online to address permit or development inquiries with Permit Services, Building and Safety, Ventura Water, Fire Prevention, Land Development, and Planning. This streamlined process simplifies departmental reviews and ensures individuals receive real-time updates and seamless communication with city staff.

Since the inception of Ventura OPS three years ago, the City of Ventura has seen a significant increase in permit distribution. The number of permits has risen from 4,821 in 2021 to a projected 6,600+ in 2024, reflecting a growth rate of approximately 36.9%. Additionally, with the creation of Insta Permits, tailored for express and solar projects, the permit process has been streamlined by automating issuance upon submission and payment. This increase underscores the steadfast dedication to streamlining the permit process.

“The improvements in our centralized permit center go beyond being fast and efficient; they’re about making the process smooth and supportive for every project, big or small,” said Rachel Dimond, Community Development Director. “Clients can now schedule appointments, choose specific permit categories, and work with planners focused on meeting their individual needs during their appointment.”

Effective Monday, April 1, new walk-in hours for the permit center’s public counter are Monday through Thursday, 9:00 a.m. to 12:00 p.m. and 1:00 p.m. to 3:00 pm. While walk-in hours are available, it is recommended that applicants schedule appointments in advance for a seamless experience. For more details, visit the City’s Permit Services webpage at www.cityofventura.ca.gov/Permits or call 805-654-7869.

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