Voyage of the Sacred Paddle: A Tale of Unity and Strength

Chumash tribal leader, Alan Salazar
Photos by Patricia Schallert

by Patricia Schallert

On the glorious sunny Sunday of July 21st in Ventura, Chumash Tribal Elder Alan Salazar and Hawaiian Elder Kuma Pilialoha blessed two new traditional outrigger canoes. The Ventura Outrigger Canoe Club, alongside the Hokuloa Outrigger Canoe Club, united in the ceremonial blessings at Harbor Cove Beach. Formerly named “Minkunu” in Chumash language, this sacred beach site holds a profound cultural importance for the indigenous community, showcasing the deep-rooted history and spiritual connection of the Chumash people to the land in the region and Outrigger Canoe Clubs in Ventura.

Norma Cunningham highlighted that the Ventura OC Club was established to uphold and nurture the practice of outrigger canoe paddling in Ventura. The club’s mission includes fostering the Aloha Spirit, preserving the culture and traditions of the Pacific Islands, and instilling a deep respect for the ocean through education and engagement.

Dan Miller, President of the Ventura OC Club, thanked Chumash Elder, Alan and Kumu Piliahoha“ for coming “to help us better understand the cultures and traditions that connect us to this land and to the sport of outrigger canoeing.” Dan also thanked and recognized Club member Jon Huber for handcrafting the wooden outrigger canoe named “Keoni,” which is Hawaiian for “Jon”. He also talked about why the Club named the second canoe being blessed, “Kukuna”, which is Hawaiian for “Rays of the Sun”, saying “As the rays of the sun brighten and give strength, Kukuna will bring opportunity for us to be encouraged and strengthen on our paddling in unity on the ocean.”

As Vice President of the Ventura OC Club, Scott Kroeber highlighted the traditional protocol of seeking permission from the Chumash tribe before bringing the canoes onto their land. Considering Harbor Cove Beach’s historical connection to the Chumash people, it remains revered as sacred ground. Chumash Elder Alan Salazar conducted the welcoming and blessings of the canoes, while OC paddlers, holding up their paddles, respectfully sought permission to step onto the beach in a peaceful manner. The Chumash blessing honors and respects nature, ancestors, and the sea, providing protection and safe travels for canoeists. It symbolizes a deep connection to the environment and the spirits, fostering unity and harmony with the elements.

Hawaiian Kumu also offered blessings upon the Outrigger canoes which are integral to the Polynesian sport. Outrigger canoes, a traditional Polynesian watercraft, are noted for their lateral outriggers, received a traditional Hawaiian blessing ceremony led by a Kumu which is a cultural/spiritual master teacher, invoking elements, ancestors, and sea spirits. Through offerings of ti leaves, tobacco and sage, offerings were made for the paddlers to seek protection, safe journeys, and unity with nature, while showcasing gratitude and respect for the ocean. Following the blessing, the Ka Hale Hula O Pilialoha Kalani O Hilo troupe performed a traditional Hawaiian Hula dance and rhythmic chant in vibrant costumes and leis, expressing a profound connection to nature and spirituality, resonating with the essence of the both Chumash and Hawaiian blessings.

After the blessing ceremony, Hula dancers, paddlers, Chumash Elder and Hawaiian Kumu gathered for a beach potluck, followed by traditional Hawaiian dancing at Harbor Cove Cafe. The Hawaiian performers practiced at the cafe in preparation for the upcoming Aloha Festival on August 31-September 1st at Surfers Point Promenade Park. The festival will feature various activities, including Aloha-style surfing, paddle board races, outrigger canoes, local Hawaiian dancers, and surf reggae music, with a focus on supporting Ventura’s social and environmental nonprofits through community volunteerism and a spirit of love for the local area.

Masters from the Museum of Ventura County Collection

Running through May, 2025, Masters from the Museum of Ventura County Collection celebrates the extraordinary artistic legacy of seven artists who have significantly shaped Ventura County’s art history and achieved international acclaim. The exhibition presents a curated selection from MVC’s exceptional collection, featuring a variety of artistic styles.

From Jessie Arms Botke’s turn-of-the-century paintings to Omar d’León’s vibrant cross-hatching techniques, to the innovative ceramic glazing techniques of Beatrice Wood and Vivika and Otto Heino, the exhibition displays a dynamic range of work by established artists within our County.

Artists included in the exhibition: Jessie Arms Botke / Omar D’León / Otto Heino / Vivika Heino /Cheryl Ann Thomas / Beatrice Wood / Hiroko Yoshimoto.

Ventura Fire Department Hosts 9/11 Memorial Stair Climb

The Ventura Fire Department, in collaboration with the Ventura Fire Foundation, invites local first responders and community members to participate in a Memorial Stair Climb on Saturday, Sept. 7, 2024, at 9 a.m. at the Crowne Plaza, located at 450 E. Harbor Blvd.

This event commemorates a 110-story climb, mirroring the height of the World Trade Center towers, as a tribute to the bravery and sacrifice of those who responded to the tragic events of Sept. 11, 2001. The stair climb accommodates participants of all fitness levels, allowing each individual to honor the fallen heroes at their own pace.

“More than two decades later, the memories of Sept. 11 still resonate deeply within us,” said Fire Chief David Endaya. “We honor the courage of the first responders who selflessly plunged into chaos, and we mourn the heroes who paid the ultimate price. This memorial stair climb rekindles the spirit that binds us together and shows our local support.”

With space limited to 150 climbers, interested participants are encouraged to register early at VenturaFireFoundation.org. Donations and spectators are welcome for residents who prefer to support from the sidelines.

“In 2023, 95 climbers and countless spectators came together, raising over $15,000. This year, we hope to surpass that amount, further enhancing wellness programs for our local firefighters and their families,” said Peter McKenzie, president of the Ventura Fire Foundation. “The funds raised contribute to our educational podcast series, webinars, and other wellness-focused initiatives.”

By supporting the Ventura Fire Foundation’s mission to improve the lives of firefighters and their families, the Ventura Fire Department demonstrates its commitment to the cause.

For more information about the Ventura Fire Foundation, or to donate, volunteer, or register for the 9/11 Memorial Stair Climb, visit VenturaFireFoundation.org.

Vol. 17, No. 23 – Aug 7 – Aug 20, 2024 – Movie Review

Streaming Spotlight by Cindy Summers
Bob Marley: One Love – Prime Video

3 out of 4 palm trees
Breeze rating from 1 to 4 palm trees, 4 being best.

“Bob Marley: One Love” is based on the life of reggae legend Bob Marley who rose up from the adversity of growing up in the concrete jungle of Trench Town to becoming the biggest star of Jamaica. In 1976 Jamaica was experiencing great civil unrest due to two political parties driving the country to near civil war. In an effort to help unite the people, Bob Marley (Kinsley Ben-Adir) scheduled a free peace concert called “Smile Jamaica” that was expressly intended to promote peace and unity, and absolutely excluded any political ties.

Tragically, the day before the concert Bob, his wife Rita (Lashana Lynch) and his friend and manager Don Taylor (Anthony Welsh) were shot by several men who entered their friend’s home where the band rehearsed in an effort to prevent the peace concert from happening. Bob was shot in the arm and a bullet grazed his chest, and Don was shot six times needing to be airlifted to Miami. While outside in their car, Rita was shot at almost point blank range in the head, but luckily her dreadlocks stopped the bullet from coming within an inch of her brain.

Bob decided to still do the peace concert and Rita checked herself out of the hospital to join him on stage, as she was a backup singer in the band and also committed to the show going on. Bob started off with “War” but had multiple visions of his shooter in the crowd and stopped the concert after only one song. Bob told Rita she needed to go to America with their children to stay safe, and that he needed time to deal with his trauma and headed to London with his band mates.

Marley decided his next album would need to be different to have his message reach a global audience. After a few months, Bob asked Rita to join him saying he couldn’t finish the new album without her. When she arrived in London, Rita reminded Bob not to let what happened to them affect his music. “Exodus” was inspired when Marley’s friend played the soundtrack from the movie of the same name and they immediately wrote the song impromptu with the whole band having a natural synergy in creating the song.

While in London, Bob kept up with the problems back in Jamaica ,even seeing a number of his friends arrested. Carly Barrett and Tyrone Downie came to London to ask Bob to return to Jamaica and do a unity concert, but he refused. Marley continued to work on the the music with his band creating some of his most well-known hits and released the album “Exodus” by Bob Marley and the Wailers in 1977.

Marley and the band started touring again to sold out shows throughout Europe as “Exodus” rose to 14 on the UK Singles Chart, climbed the US charts to number three with the album eventually being awarded a gold record. “Reggae music is the consciousness of the people coming together” was one way Marley described his revolutionary music to a growing world audience. Marley wanted to tour next in Africa, but his record producer had already committed the band to a U.S. tour. Bob had a toe infection that wasn’t healing, but refused to address it until the tour was over.

When Bob did eventually go to the doctor he discovered he had a rare form of skin cancer, but refused treatment and returned with Rita to Jamaica. Marley did do a unity concert in Jamaica in 1978 called the “One Love Peace Concert”, where the heads of both of Jamaica’s political parties held hands together with Marley on stage. Marley also realized his plans to perform in Africa in 1980 in Zimbabwe to commemorate the end of colonial rule before he died from his cancer in 1981 at the age of 36. Time Magazine called “Exodus” the greatest album of the 20th Century.

Runtime: 1h 50m

Vol. 17, No. 23 – Aug 7 – Aug 20, 2024 – Ventura Music Scene

by Pam Baumgardner
VenturaRocks.com

We’re right smack dab in the middle of summer and though most of the big events are behind us, there is, and always will be, plenty of live music to take in throughout the county. Let’s start with Moorpark’s historic High Street Arts Center where they have a live music series kicking off Friday, August 9 and running through September 1. They’ll host a number of tribute bands featuring the music of the Rolling Stones to Billy Joel, Jimmy Buffet to Elvis Presley, and Santana to the Surf City Allstars. Over the next two weekends there’s Stevie Nicks Illusion on August 9, Mark Wood and the Parrot Head Band on August 10, Smooth Sounds of Santa on August 16 and Raymond Michael, Elvis impersonator, on August 17. For ticket prices and availability, go to highstreetartscenter.com.

For a special evening out, I recommend one of the Candlelight Concerts which return to the Majestic Ventura Theater on Friday, August 16, for two different one-hour shows featuring the Listeso String Quartet. At 6:30 it’s the music of Vivaldi’s Four Seasons, then at 9 pm a tribute to Taylor Swift. Tickets available through FeverUp.com.

It always comes as a surprise to me that there is a number of locals who have never taken in a live concert at Ojai’s Libbey Bowl; it truly is a majestic setting on a warm summer evening. There are still a number of amazing shows on the docket for the season including Los Lonely Boys, Don McLean (yes, Mr. American Pie himself), Scott Bradlee’s Postmodern Jukebox, Pablo Cruise, Thievery Corporation, Chris Isaak and the Temptations, not to mention a number of stellar tribute bands including Queen Nation. Tickets available through axs.com.

And while the Ventura County Fair runs through Sunday, August 11, the final grandstand concert will be Wednesday, August 7 featuring country singer, Gary Allen. Of course, all the smaller stages around the fairgrounds will continue to offer mostly local bands throughout each day.

Quick Notes: tickets on sale now for Big Head Todd and the Monsters’ 40th Anniversary tour for November 23 at the Ventura Music Hall; Numbskull Productions, Los Fest, a punk rock music event on Saturday, August 24, has been postponed; an all-girl tribute band to the Rolling Stones called Some Girls, plays Copper Blues on Friday, August 9; Poseidon Brewing’s 10th anniversary celebration will be held on Saturday, August 10 featuring Steve and Sally Williams; the highly popular Rock the Collection series kicks off on Thursday, August 15 with Bruno and the Holligans; Tommy Quayle returns to Namba Arts on Friday, August 16 for another rendition of “Petty Round the Campfire” featuring all your favorite Tom Petty tunes; Invincible Benatar with Blackstar play Bombay’s on Saturday, August 17; and Psychedelic Summer returns to the Aqua Bar (poolside) on Sunday, August 18;

Do you have any music-related news or upcoming shows 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.

CalGrows Tackles Caregiver Shortage with Free Training and Incentive Payments

California is facing a looming shortage of caregivers for older adults and adults with disabilities over the next five to 10 years. To address this critical need, the California Department of Aging (CDA), under the California Health & Human Services Agency, has introduced the CalGrows program. This initiative aims to support caregivers by providing free training courses and incentive payments.

CalGrows is designed to enhance the skills of both paid direct care workers and unpaid family and friend caregivers. More than 70 organizations across California have received funding through the CalGrows Innovation Fund to develop and scale innovative training courses. To date, over 13,000 caregivers have participated in more than 89,000 training courses, earning more than $7 million in incentive payments.

“CalGrows has been instrumental in addressing the impending shortage of caregivers in California,” said CDA Director Susan DeMarois. “Thousands of enrollees across the state—many of them women and people of color—have been able to take free training courses and earn financial incentives of up to $6,000 while building their skills. CalGrows offers a tremendous opportunity for caregivers to learn new skills and improve existing ones to deliver the best possible care to older adults and adults with disabilities. I encourage all California caregivers to take advantage of this free training before the program ends on September 30, 2024.”

A Win for Caregivers

“We can apply what we learn in our everyday work life immediately,” said Jeannie Smith of Napa Valley Support Services about her experience with CalGrows. “People feel empowered by being able to take what they learned and immediately use it in their workplace.”

Sean Hidalgo, who manages CalGrows courses at Sacramento’s ACC Senior Services, remarked, “Being a caregiver and direct care worker is a very hard job. Having the opportunity not just to take these free courses but also to receive incentive pay is a huge win for them.”

ACC driver Keng Thor, who has taken CalGrows courses, was also positive about his experience, stating, “The knowledge I received from CalGrows was put to use and made me more confident in being able to meet and interact with my clients.”

California’s Aging Population is Growing Quickly

By 2030, 25% of the state’s population will be over age 60, outnumbering younger generations for the first time. This population shift increases the need for skilled caregivers as more Californians face age-related conditions like Alzheimer’s and limited mobility. CalGrows is a critical step toward increasing California’s workforce of high-quality caregivers.

About the Free Caregiver Trainings

CalGrows provides a foundation for increased skills, job satisfaction, retention, and career development opportunities for direct care workers. This includes both paid professional caregivers and family and friends who step into caregiver roles. More than 600 free, virtual, and in-person courses are available on CalGrows.org. The course catalog is searchable by topic, location, and language, with courses offered in nine languages to address the needs of California’s diverse population. Topics include:

Dementia care
Patient-centered communication
Mobility assistance techniques
Healthcare professional self-care
Managing chronic disease
Care team collaboration

Paid caregivers eligible for up to $6,000 in incentive payments must submit an Incentive Claim by August 30, 2024. While CalGrows courses will be available online through September 30, all Incentive Claims must be submitted by August 30.

For more information, visit www.aging.ca.gov.

Stay Safe and Confident: Self-Defense Techniques for Seniors

As we age, personal safety becomes increasingly important. According to the U.S. Department of Justice, the elderly population can be vulnerable to crime due to social isolation, urban living, reliance on public transportation, and predictable behavior patterns. Seniors often face unique challenges when it comes to personal safety. Physical strength may decline, and mobility issues can arise. Recognizing the importance of self-defense is the first step toward empowering seniors to lead confident, secure lives.

Mindset Matters: Cultivating Awareness

Self-defense starts with a mindset of awareness. Seniors can enhance their safety by staying alert to their surroundings and potential risks. This includes being mindful of unfamiliar environments, understanding common scams targeting older individuals, and recognizing the importance of personal space.

Simple and Effective Physical Techniques

Balance and Stability Exercises: Many self-defense techniques for seniors focus on improving balance and stability. Incorporating exercises like tai chi or yoga can enhance core strength and coordination, making it easier to maintain equilibrium during unforeseen situations.

Self-Defense Classes: Taking self-defense classes can be beneficial for seniors. These classes teach practical techniques tailored to seniors’ abilities, helping them feel more secure and confident.

Defensive Tools for Seniors: Carrying non-lethal defensive tools, such as pepper spray or personal alarms, can provide an extra layer of protection. Understanding how to use these tools safely is crucial, and many self-defense classes for seniors cover their proper usage.

Mental and Emotional Preparedness

Confidence Building: Self-defense is not just about physical techniques. Building confidence is equally important. Seniors can benefit from classes that focus on boosting self-esteem and instilling a sense of capability.

Conflict Resolution Skills: Learning effective communication and conflict resolution skills is essential for seniors. These skills can help de-escalate potentially dangerous situations, allowing seniors to navigate daily life with more confidence.

Tailoring Techniques for Health Conditions

Seniors often deal with specific health conditions that may impact their ability to engage in traditional self-defense techniques. It’s crucial to tailor the training to accommodate these conditions, ensuring that the techniques taught are safe and feasible for individuals with various health concerns.

A Holistic Approach to Self-Defense

As we age, self-defense goes beyond physical strength and techniques. It involves cultivating a mindset of awareness, learning simple yet effective physical techniques, and addressing mental and emotional aspects of personal safety. Seniors can enhance their security by embracing a holistic approach to self-defense that considers their unique needs and challenges. Embracing self-defense is not just a matter of physical protection but a declaration of independence and resilience, ensuring that seniors can enjoy their golden years with peace of mind and confidence.

By investing time in self-defense training and adopting safety measures, seniors can lead more independent and secure lives. The City of Ventura offers adult programs and resources to empower seniors in their journey toward enhancing personal safety. The Essential Self-Defense course at the Barranca Vista Center covers the four core areas of self-defense: Threat Recognition, Situational Control, Physical Engagement, and Aftermath Management. Using a variety of drills and scenario simulations, seniors can learn mental, physical, and emotional skills to help develop a proactive approach to self-defense. The City also offers adult and senior yoga classes, T’ai Chi: Moving for Better Balance, weight training, and more. Visit www.cityofventura.ca.gov and click on Parks and Rec to check out the Fall 2024 Activity Guide.

Vol. 17, No. 23 – Aug 7 – Aug 20, 2024 – Scamp Club

This is Mischa—a tiny 6lb Russian Blue mix with striking golden eyes and an intense personality. Don’t be deceived by her sweet, fluffy exterior; this little spitfire has a big attitude and a repertoire of throaty growls for anyone bold enough to try petting her, picking her up, or even glancing her way. Despite her antisocial tendencies, she’s adored by her family and tolerated by her feline siblings.

Vol. 17, No. 23 – Aug 7 – Aug 20, 2024 – Harbor Patrol Blotter

Wed

7/24

6:52am, observed heavy fog less than a 100 yds visibility activated fog signal.

2:00pm, while manning the operations center, observing Leo Robbins sailing center conducting capsize and man-over-board drills in the Pierpont Basin.

Thurs 7/25

5:30am, observed NWS issued Small Craft Advisory for strong winds in the western portion of the SB channel later today, officers raised warning pennant.

6:30pm, senior officer training new officers with close quarter maneuvers and docking procedures of Rescue Boat 19 at the patrol dock.

10:03pm, observed suspicious activity near the launch ramp restrooms. Officers removed a few local transients for loitering/camping in the restrooms.

Fri

7/26

9:25am, officers assisting State Parks Lifeguards with junior lifeguard pier swim. Several participants were assisted to the shore with Rescue watercraft.

9:53am, received a request for a temporary slip. Officers assisting with contact info for marinas and Dockmaster for a temporary slip for the skipper.

6:15pm, observing Friday night laser racers start and they are using the #11 navigation buoy as the weather mark. Officers ensured all large vessels in Harbor were in their slips so not to interfere with the race.

9:50pm, received a report of a car racing around VHV parking lot, doing laps. Advised to call VPD, but officers would investigate. Vehicle gone on arrival.

Sat

7/27

10:18am, received a report of an injured bird in the Ventura Marina Community. Officers responded, found a sparrow tangled in barbwire. Responders were able to untangle the small bird and after a short rest the victim flew away.

1:33pm, received report of a disabled personal watercraft adrift near State Parks Lifeguard HQ. Officers responded in Rescue Boat 19, but unable to locate it.

7:32pm, dispatched to an Ocean Rescue, electric foilboarder in distress near Marina Park. Officers responded in Fireboat and assisted State Parks with call.

Sun

7/28

10:30am, while on patrol observed VFD/AMR at Surfers Knoll for a medical. After investigation, CAD system failed to attach Harbor Patrol to the call. They are working on the error and will advise when it is corrected.

6:30pm, received report of kids unsupervised on VHV C-dock. Officers investigated and found two kids waiting for parents to return to their boat.

Mon

7/29

8:01am, received request to transport two Army Corp of Engineers aboard the Fireboat to survey the breakwall for damage or unchinkered from winter storms.

10:00am, underway on the Fireboat officers retrieved Army Corp of Engineers from breakwall, no damage or unchinkering of rocks observed.

10:31pm, dispatched to a fall in the Ventura Marina Community. Officers responded with VFD/AMR to assist the patient with treatment and transport prep

Tues

7/30

7:20pm, while on patrol in Fireboat, observed 2 hoopnets and one prohibited trap illegally placed in the Harbor Entrance. The nets were confiscated. Later the owner contacted on VHF 12 and was issued warnings for the violations.

9:20pm, found a vehicle with lights on and running on Spinnaker near Surfers Knoll. Officers searched the beach, found the owner who was dumpfounded.