Ventura County Reporter | December 13, 2018 by venturacountyreporter

LEGAL INFO FOR WOOLSEY, HILL VICTIMS • THE MURAL PROJECT • BAMBOO CAFE IN SIMI

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‘ OUR PLACE’

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Employees and patrons ponder the future without a Vagabond Coffee Shop

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CONTENTS 4

DEPARTMENTS

COVER

“Our place”: Employees and patrons ponder the future without a Vagabond Coffee Shop by Michael Sullivan

OPINION

PHOTO BY T CHRISTIAN GAPEN

vcreporter.com

Volume 42, Issue 51 Advice Goddess___________________ 28

Right Persuasion: What makes Black Panther so good by Paul Moomjean Editorial Letters

After Dark _______________________ 14 Free Will Astrology ________________ 28 Legal Advertising _________________ 29

NEWS

Happenings ______________________ 26

Legal Rights: Lawyers provide recovery information for those displaced by Woolsey Fire by Kateri Wozny Christmas tradition: Camarillo family gets in holiday spirit for public to enjoy, special event Dec. 15 by Kateri Wozny Borderline hero Sgt. Helus killed by friendly fire: Fatal bullet originated from CHP officer during firefight with suspect by Chris O’Neal In Brief by Chris O’Neal Political Roundup by Chris O’Neal

Surf Report ______________________ 25

Cover:

11 MUSIC

First established in 1966, the Vagabond Coffee Shop will close Jan. 1.

12 ART + CULTURE

PHOTO BY T CHRISTIAN GAPEN

Homespun: Danny McGaw and the 33 by Emily Dodi Music Notes: Ventura Theater strikes a deal with Live Nation by Nancy D. Lackey Shaffer Walls That Speak: Introducing the VCReporter’s Mural Project by Nancy D. Lackey Shaffer On Stage: Cinderella at the Ojai Art Center Theater by Emily Dodi

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OPINION Editorial

New faces, new voices in Oxnard, Ventura W ith every election comes opportunity for newbies in the political arena to make their way onto the dais to represent their communities as best they see fit. In Ventura County, however, advocacy groups in 2017 felt certain neighborhoods of Oxnard and Ventura as well as minority groups were severely underrepresented for too long and legally pushed for more equitable representation under threats of lawsuits, and both cities changed to district-based elections. In Ventura, most election cycles in the last decade or so would bring a new face, but for the most part, incumbents, including Jim Monahan who was first elected in 1977, dominated the discussions and the majority vote. It was rare for any incumbent to serve less than two terms and there was no ethnic diversity. The new district elections in November brought the goal of diversity to fruition, with Sofia Rubalcava from the Westside and Lorrie Brown on the East End for District 6, which included a new additional seat to the City Council. Jim Friedman, former City Councilman and Mayor, won District 5 and Erik Nasarenko was re-elected for District 4. On Monday, Dec. 10, the old guard — Monahan, Mike Tracy (elected in 2009) and Neal Andrews (elected in 2001) — were bid farewell after choosing not to run again, along with the installment

of the newly elected. Andrews, who for the majority of his tenure had a bristly relationship with his council colleagues, finished his last council term as mayor, which started with the Thomas Fire. In Oxnard, incumbents Mayor Tim Flynn, Mayor Pro Tem Carmen Ramirez and Councilman Bert Perello were reelected in November. The addition of two more district seats to the City Council brought Gabriela Basua and Vianey Lopez, who were both installed Dec. 11, increasing Hispanic diversity on the City Council to three of seven seats, up from one. The Oxnard Chamber of Commerce demographic report shows that Latinos make up nearly 74 percent of the population. It’s an exciting time for both cities that have endured equally difficult but different burdens. Both cities have fairly new city managers, making it a great time to establish enduring and trustworthy leadership and creating an opportunity for both city managers to take direction and work with their elected bosses to better meet the needs of all residents. That includes affordable housing, job growth, environmental issues, transportation concerns, employee pensions, infrastructure and more. If there was ever a time to see a dynamic shift for the betterment of both cities, 2019 is it. We look forward to seeing how the newly elected put their best foot forward.

in to its tall and formidable walls. The Church could have endured forever had it not been for its complacency, the lack of formidable supervision over renegade priests who raped and sodomized little kids. The practice had been regarded common and acceptable, after all, “Who can question a priest in a black robe, winning smile and a crucifix hanging from his neck?” The fact is that for untold centuries, criminals have taken to the priesthood in order to have free access to kids and pastures of innocent lambs to rape and sodomized, a virtual paradise for the demented. The easiest thing was for Popes and Cardinals to turn the other way and play ignorant of the fact. It was the longest lasting syndicated crime organization in the history of mankind. The expertise and success of its management ensured protection from governments and societies alike. It became more criminal to report crime within the Church than to commit crime within the church. Everyone in charge was admired, respected and protected, everyone but the millions of voiceless, defenseless victims, the kids and the nuns. In fact, convent administrators instructed young nuns to obey priests above everything else. Nothing a priest did could be regarded wrong or sinful. Therefore, a priest could enter a convent and have way with any and all virgin females he lusted over and nothing would be said. In fact, any novice nun who reported an errant priest would be humiliated, ostracized and made to suffer her disrespect for that priest. The rare nun who protested was forced to leave the convent, return to her family in shame and live the rest of her life in disgrace and shame. For those who chose to withstand the pain of victimization, the struggle for her eternal reward in Heaven became impossible, regardless of the choice she made. Who would she confess to? How would she seek forgiveness for allowing a priest, a man, to take advantage of her and merit the rewards of eternal life? This is the essence of the great Catholic Church whose sins are overlooked by the masses and supported by their contributions and the sacrifices of their children who must suffer the burden of a shamed life.

MANAGING EDITOR Michael Sullivan ARTS & ENTERTAINMENT EDITOR Nancy D. Lackey Shaffer STAFF WRITER Chris O’Neal CONTRIBUTORS Michael Cervin, David Cotner, David Michael Courtland, Ivor Davis, Emily Dodi, Alicia Doyle, Dane Edmondson, Raymond Freeman, Daniel Gelman, Chuck Graham, Steve Greenberg, Jason R. Hill, Chris Jay, Daphne Khalida Kilea, Carl Kozlowski, Karen Lindell, Kelly McCartney, Jim Medina, Paul Moomjean, Mike Nelson, Tim Pompey, Dave Randall, Kimberly Rivers, Emily Savage, Kathy Jean Schultz, Alan Sculley, Linda G. Silvestri, Kit Stolz, Mark Storer, Sabriga Turgon, Charles Ward, Alex Wilson, Leslie A. Westbrook, Kateri Wozny ART DIRECTOR • PRODUCTION MANAGER T Christian Gapen GRAPHIC DESIGNERS Bret Hooper, Victoria Linares SALES TEAM LEADER Warren Barrett ADVERTISING SALES Jon Cabreros, Caitlynn Hoehn, Barbara Kroon, Kelly Spargur, Dave Stephens RECEPTION/LEGALS Tori Behar ACCOUNTING Yiyang Wang BUSINESS MANAGER Linda Lam HUMAN RESOURCE MANAGER Andrea Baker PUBLISHER David Comden

For advertising information, call 805.648.2244 For classifieds, ext. 200 For display, ext. 207 EDITORIAL AND ADVERTISING OFFICE 700 E. Main Street • Ventura, CA 93001 Fax 805.648.2245 The Ventura County Reporter is distributed every Thursday in Ventura, Oxnard, Port Hueneme, Camarillo, Ojai, Thousand Oaks, Westlake Village and Agoura Hills. The Reporter is available free of charge, limited to one copy per reader. The Reporter may be distributed only by Reporter authorized distributors. No person may, without prior written permission of the Reporter, take more than one copy of each Reporter issue. The Reporter is copyright ©2018 by Southland Publishing, Inc. All rights reserved. No part of this publication may be reproduced in whole or in part in any form or by any means without permission in writing by the publisher. An adjudicated Newspaper of General Circulation (SP50329). Submissions of all kinds are welcomed. However, the publisher assumes no responsibility for unsolicited material. A stamped, self-addressed envelope must accompany all submissions expected to be returned. Subscriptions are $99/yr.

Miguel Espinosa, Jr. Oxnard

Letters One of the most notorious

am an 85-year-old product of the Catholic indoctrination and propaganda system. It took most of my entire life to emancipate myself from the formidable clutches of the Catholic scam. However I tried, its genius guilt program would not allow what has been recognized as my superior intelligence to surmount its grasp of my mental faculties. Finally, through research and study, I was able to accomplish my freedom, rid myself of its adhesive misinformation and achieve mental and spiritual freedom. I have never been free under my allegiance to Catholicism, although it emphasizes willpower and independent thought. It was my experience to feel welded to Catholicism despite the common sense that warned me. It was not until repeated reminders of the hypocrisy of the priesthood, many of whom chose membership in the princes of Christ brotherhood to gain access to small, innocent and available children to rape, sodomize and mutilate mentally, emotionally, psycho-

4—

— December 13, 2018

logically and physically. The clincher was the efforts of Catholic hierarchy, leaders of dioceses like Los Angeles where a cardinal covered up for child molesting priests in order to save the church’s reputation. It had already been confirmed that the church constructed a facility to house predatory priests who had been confirmed child molesters in their churches, schools and congregations, a place where priests could be removed from the mainstream of Catholic parishes and activity. It cost the church millions of dollars to construct the facility and provide all the supporting equipment, manpower, privacy and security to shield it from the outside world, from reality. In so doing, the Catholic Church solidified its reputation among the most notorious of criminal organizations such as the Mafia and Cosa Nostra. It may as well have had its headquarters in Sicily and not the Vatican and had its administrators clad in Papal robes and the luxuries of royalty. The downfall of the Catholic Church has been slowed down by its enormous wealth and the participation of wealthy families and institutions. The propaganda that ensures its stability is no longer the formidable philosophy it once enjoyed. Reality has slowly crept

The Critical Line

VP OF OPERATIONS David Comden PRESIDENT Bruce Bolkin

by Steve Greenberg

VCREPORTER.COM

Right Persuasion

What makes Black Panther so good by Paul Moomjean

paulmoomjean@yahoo.com

As if the film was made in vacuum. Do those to be a sense that the film is not respected the presented. n Dec. 6, the Golden Globes same way the others are. Marvel President behind Globes really believe this film deserves What Black Panther means to the film announced its picks for the best Kevin Feige recently stated that he just would industry and black community is so much, in film and television. Tradition- the nomination, or is the accolade stemmed like the film to be acknowledged. out of fear if they don’t nominate it? that if the film is nominated out of obligation, ally, the Globes have had two cat“I would like to see the hard work and the then that becomes the negative narrative. In 2016, the hashtag #OscarsSoWhite popuegories for best picture, allowing effort and the vision and the belief of the tallated Twitter and other social media platforms more films to get nominated. While the Oscars The New York Times recently interviewed when Creed and Straight Out of Compton failed ented filmmaker Ryan Coogler, who sat across allow for up to 10 nominees, recent years have Jamie Broadnax, the founder of Black Girl to earn any acting or writing nominations the table from us a few years ago and said, ‘I had only seven or eight nominated films. The have been wrestling with questions about my Nerds, about the cultural significance of the for their black leads and supporting actors. reason the Academy Awards moved up the Since then, the Academy and the Globes have past and my heritage and I think I really want film. potential number was because there was a lot “It’s the first time in a very long time that attempted to rectify this by opening up the to tell a story within this movie,’ ” Feige told backlash when 2008’s The Dark Knight didn’t The Los Angeles Times in an interview. “And we’re seeing a film with centered black people, membership to these organizations. While get a nomination. where we have a lot of agency,” she said. Black Panther is an excellent film, I feel as that he did it so unbelievably well and with so Ten years later, the Academy has still not much impact […] seeing that potentially being if the nomination came more out of fear of Adding that the characters “are rulers of a truly recognized the films that the extra spots backlash than true admiration. The nine other recognized is what excites me the most.” kingdom, inventors and creators of advanced were supposed to go to. Not a single comic book nominated films, across both musical/comedy My concern is that if the film gets the same technology. We’re not dealing with black pain, film has crossed over. Until maybe now. Marand drama, all have acting or screenplay, or treatment at the Oscars, then the film will be and black suffering, and black poverty,” like vel’s Black Panther movie has garnered a lot of directing nominations. Writer/Director Ryan a token, being nominated to make the voting most black films deal with in their themes and Academy Awards talk, and the Golden Globes Coogler and actor Michael B. Jordan are truly members feel good about themselves while not AD PROOF plot lines. nominated it for Best Picture Drama. While a worthy of being nominated. So, if the Globes acknowledging the reasons the film is so good. Personally, I hope the film is nominated for worthy accomplishment, the film earned only feelExecutive: pressured to anoint a Spargur don’t think the film has the best in the other I believe the voters Client: Johnson Family Dental Ad Kelly (805) 648-2244 one other nomination at the Globes for best film out of fear of looking bigoted, and if that Best Picture, but if the Academy really wants categories, what makes the film so good exactly Please check this proof over carefully and indicate all corrections clearly. You will have a “1st Proof”, “2nd Proof”, and “Final Proof”. to If we receive no proof 1st or 2nd show its appreciation after for a the genre-bending song. No acting nominations. No director or to them? across, then the film will lose some of Proofs, AD WILL RUN AS IS. If this proof meets your approval on the 1st proof, check offcomes “FINAL PROOF (APPROVED)” box, date and sign at the bottom comic book picture, the film will be nominated screenplay recognized. To not acknowledge the I’m sure Marvel and Disney aren’t com- its classic status. Politics appear to be directISSUE: 12/6/18 NOTICE: PLEASE FAX THIS PROOF TO (805) 648-2245 ASAP ing the campaign more the artful final film for those responsible for its greatness as well. filmmakers makes the nomination look odd. plaining about the nomination, but there has

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news

Legal rights Lawyers provide recovery information for those displaced by Woolsey Fire by Kateri Wozny

The investigators will also look at Remote Area Weather Stations to see if the winds were unreasonably high in the area on entura County and Los Angeles County residents Nov. 8. Singleton when SCE repairs and replaces power lines, displaced from the Woolsey Fire had the opportunity the newer lines are built out of different material and react difto learn about the recovery process during the Fire ferently in the winds. Recovery 101 Informational Meeting on Dec. 7 at the “Typically, you get red flag condition warnings when there Four Seasons Hotel in Westlake Village. are sustained winds of over 15 mph, humidity below 25 percent The informational meeting was hosted by Southern Califorand temperatures above 75 percent,” Singleton said. “But it nia fire litigation law firms Singleton Law Firm, Padilla Law might be normal to get winds 50 to 60 mph in a specific area. The Group LLP, Thorsnes Bartolotta McGuire, and Banning LLP. power company has a duty to look to see what is reasonable to The group has dealt with wildfire cases for the past 11 years and do in this area to protect that specific power equipment.” has represented more than 5,000 displaced people. Singleton said a solution to protect lines in high wind areas Topics included applying for Federal Emergency Manis to install spreaders between conductors to prevent electricity agement Agency (FEMA) disaster assistance, navigating the running through them. insurance claim “Spreaders are process, recover of placed between uninsured losses the power lines in and emotional damorder to keep them ages, and utilizing from bumping into the Debris Removal each other,” SingleProgram. ton said. “You deserve to Singleton noted be compensated,” one of the main said Gerald Singleproblems in a wildton, senior partner fire disaster is that at Singleton Law homeowners are Firm. “The only underinsured in way we can repair the areas of perthe damage caused sonal property and by this fire is to the coverage for make people whole outbuildings, trees, again.” landscaping and Singleton hardscaping, also walked residents known as Coverage through the afterC in most policies. noon when the “ Vi r t u a l ly Woolsey Fire begin everyone is underon Nov. 8, near the insured for CoverBoeing Corporation Gerald Singleton, senior partner at Singleton Law Firm, speaking at the recent age C because typiin Simi Valley. Ini- meeting at the Four Seasons Hotel in Westlake Village. cally it’s set at only tial reports stated 5 percent of Coverthat Southern Caliage A (the cost to fornia Edison (SCE) replace the home),” Singleton said. “In all likelihood, the cases reported a shortage two minutes before the fire began on a for the Woolsey Fire will be sent to Downtown Los Angeles 16,000 volt power pole. Singleton said power lines that slapped Superior Court Complex Division.” together or failed equipment on the lines is most likely what Singleton said those who do not have insurance are still caused the fire. The investigation is currently being conducted eligible for FEMA and that FEMA also provides help to small by the California Department of Forestry and Fire Protection businesses. (Cal Fire). “For renters who suffer a total loss, FEMA will pay up to “It can take six months to a year for them to complete their $10,000,” Singleton said. “With uninsured homeowners, it’s in investigation of what caused the fire,” Singleton said. “If the the low 30s. Sometimes the State of California pays an addireport shows that equipment started the fire, then you are tional $10,000. FEMA is also connected with the Small Business allowed to cover all economic damages but not lost wages or Association [SBA]. By applying for FEMA, you can apply for physical injury. Emotional damages are harder to quantify, so SBA loans.” an interview and detailed narrative is prepared about what difSingleton also encouraged displaced residents become ferentiates you from everyone else.” involved with the Debris Removal Program. Singleton said the fire litigation group is conducting their “If you have insurance, they will charge what the amount own investigation but won’t be able to complete it until Cal Fire is,” Singleton said. “If you don’t have insurance, it will be done is finished. The group hires private experts that were trained as for free.” fire investigators and previously worked with Cal Fire, the U.S. For those who have insurance, Singleton emphasized to talk Department of Forestry, arson investigations, as well as electri- with an insurance adjuster to get the process started. cal engineers, metallurgists and other related experts. The first “Document to the best of your ability what your losses step is to conduct visual inspections. are,” Singleton said. “Start dictating on a mobile phone and go “They will look at what happened and determine whether through your mind what each room looked like in your house. or not what SCE did is consistent to what should be done in the Also take pictures and document what your property and landindustry,” Singleton said. “In terms of negligence, these types scape currently looks like.” ✦ of fires don’t occur without negligence.”

6—

— December 13, 2018

In Brief BOARD OF SUPERVISORS CALLS FOR BAN ON GUN SHOWS AT FAIRGROUNDS

Citing the recent Borderline shooting in Thousand Oaks, the Ventura County Board of Supervisors have asked that gun shows no longer be held at the Fairgrounds in Ventura. The Ventura County Fairgrounds is a state-owned property, with two gun shows scheduled and approved for 2019 by the Fair Board, which voted 5-2 to allow the shows to happen. Supervisor Steve Bennett, District 1, said that the Board has “to play a part in countering the influence of the gun culture and gun lobby.” The Board, by a 3-2 vote, asked the Fair Board to stop contracting for new gun shows in the county, and asked Ventura County Executive Officer Mike Powers to meet with the 10 cities in the county to similarly ask that gun shows not be hosted locally. On the same day, Supervisor Linda Parks, District 2, asked that a task force convene to address ways in which to prevent future shootings.

805 UNDOCUFUND REOPENS FOR HILL, WOOLSEY FIRE IMPACTED FAMILIES

Several local immigrant advocate groups banded together in early 2018 to launch 805 Undocufund, a joint effort to assist undocumented immigrants affected by the Thomas Fire or Montecito mudslides with assistance in rebuilding their livelihoods, where federally funded assistance programs are unavailable due to their immigration status. The 805 Undocufund has relaunched, just one year after the start of the Thomas Fire, this time with the goal of assisting those impacted by the Hill and Woolsey fires. The fund will assist immigrants dealing with a loss of income due to the fires, from farmworkers who worked in the hillsides to domestic workers who worked in homes in Malibu, now lost to the fire. The fund is a joint effort between CAUSE, MICOP and Future Leaders of America, which has already received a $150,000 grant from San Francisco-based The Libra Foundation. Last year, the fund distributed $1.4 million in aid to over 900 families, with the average grant around $1,700. For more information, visit www.805undocufund.org.

OXNARD SCHOOL GIVEN GOLDEN BELL AWARD

Oxnard’s Juan Soria School has been awarded with a Golden Bell award for its 80/20 Spanish dual language immersion program. The award, given by the California School Board Association, a nonprofit education association representing elected officials, recognizes outstanding public school programs for innovation, sustainability and best practices for positive student outcomes. The Oxnard School District received the award at a ceremony on Thursday, Nov. 29 in San Francisco. “I am extremely proud of Juan Soria’s accomplishment of being recognized with a Golden Bell by the California School Board Association,” said Dr. Cesar Morales, Superintendent of the Oxnard School District. “The Dual Language Immersion program at Soria is a model for OSD and a model program that is recognized statewide.”

ASSISTANT CITY MANAGER APPOINTED IN OXNARD

Oxnard City Manager Alexander Nguyen announced on Tuesday, Dec. 4, that Ashley M. Golden has been appointed as Assistant City Manager. “Ms. Golden has demonstrated her ability to effectively address the city’s many challenges,” said Nguyen. “She has broad and extensive knowledge of the city, and she has the confidence of staff. I am confident she will continue be a great asset to the residents and business community of Oxnard.” Golden previously served as interim Assistant City Manager, Development Services Director and Interim Economic Development Director, and will now oversee the Economic Development, Development Services, Housing, and Cultural and Community Services departments. — Chris O’Neal

vcreporter.com

Political Roundup JULIA BROWNLEY LAYS OUT GOALS FOR NEW TERM

Congresswoman Julia Brownley, D-Westlake Village, won her recent re-election bid handily in November and has now set forth her priorities for her new term. Brownley, who was first elected to represent the 26th District in 2013, says that her priorities include reversing JULIA BROWNLEY Citizens United, ending gerrymandering and corruption, ensuring every American has access to affordable healthcare, and providing veterans with access to the benefits “they have earned and deserved.” “It has been my pleasure to serve as your representative in Congress, and I am honored to be able to continue to champion Ventura County’s priorities going forward,” said Brownley in a release to her supporters. Other priorities include working toward passing immigration reform, investing in infrastructure repairs and more. Brownley won her re-election bid over Republican challenger Antonio Sabato, Jr., receiving 68 percent of the vote. Brownley will return to work on Jan. 3, 2019.

JACQUI IRWIN ADDRESSES MENTAL HEALTH AND GUN VIOLENCE

In the wake of the Borderline Bar & Grill shooting in November, Assemblywoman Jacqui Irwin, D-Thousand Oaks, has authored legislation to address concerns over gun violence and a lack of mental health care. Assembly Bill 12, introduced JACQUI IRWIN by Irwin on the first day of the 2019-2020 session on Dec. 3, seeks to address “issues” surrounding gun violence restraining orders, availability of funds for local law enforcement’s firearm recovery efforts as well as giving options to law enforcement and mental health professionals to intervene during a mental health crisis. The Nov. 7 Borderline shooting allegedly committed by Ian David Long, who had been visited by officers and the crisis response team following a report that Long was not well. At the time, responders decided not to place Long on a 5150 hold, which would have forced him into a 72-hour hold for psychiatric evaluation. “This tragedy demands action, and I am working with our dedicated law enforcement and mental health professionals to identify changes to state law that will protect our community and all Californians from gun violence,” said Irwin. Irwin won re-election two days prior to the shooting, collecting 58.7 percent of the vote.

HANNAH-BETH JACKSON ADDRESSES FIRE SAFETY AND CONCERNS

State Sen. Hannah-Beth Jackson, D-Santa Barbara, has introduced legislation aiming to improve emergency alert systems days after the anniversary of the Thomas Fire. Senate Bill 46 would allow for automatic enrollment for residents in cities and at universities to an emergency alert system, an extension of her Senate Bill 821, which automatically HANNAH-BETH enrolled county residents to the system. The bill would allow local governments to collect contact information from wireless providers, including those with special needs, a turn from the current opt-in policy for most emergency alerts used in the state. Residents would be given the option to opt-out, however. “The devastating wildfires that ravaged communities throughout our state have made it clear that we must improve our emergency alert systems to ensure residents are getting the information they need as quickly as possible,” said Jackson. Jackson points to the Camp Fire, during which seniors and mobility challenged residents said that they did not receive an emergency alert prior to the fire reaching the city. Jackson’s SB 1260 and SB 465 also addressed issues pertaining to the Thomas, Woolsey and Camp fires. 1260 allowed for more prescribed burns to reduce wildfire fuels and 465 would assist homeowners in paying for fire proofing their homes.

MONIQUE LIMÓN WINS CHAIR OF WOMEN’S CAUCUS

Assemblywoman Monique Limón, D-Santa Barbara, has been sworn in for her second term and elected Vice-Chair of the California Legislative Women’s Caucus. “I am honored to have the opportunity to continue to serve the 37th Assembly District for a second term,” said Limón. “I am proud of the work that my team and I have accomplished, and I look forward to continuing our work in moving California forward.” The Caucus, which saw its lowest number of members at 26 in 2016, starts the new session with 36, matching the MONIQUE LIMON record high set in 2006. “As the work begins, the Women’s Caucus will ensure women’s issues remain a higher priority and are present in all discussions,” said Limón. Limón also serves as Chair of the Assembly Banking and Finance Committee.

— Chris O’Neal

Borderline hero Sgt. Helus killed by friendly fire Fatal bullet originated from CHP officer during firefight with suspect by Chris O’Neal chris@vcreporter.com

entura County Sherriff’s Department Sargent Ron Helus was killed by friendly fire, according to information revealed Dec. 7 (previously reported at www.vcreporter. com). Recently installed Sheriff William Ayub said that Helus and an unnamed CHP officer entered the Borderline Bar & Grill on the night of Nov. 11 and immediately engaged in a firefight with the suspect, identified as Ian David Long. Helus and the CHP officer returned fire and retreated, Helus having been struck five times by RON HELUS Long’s bullets. It was then that Helus was struck by a sixth bullet, one fired from the CHP officer’s rifle, striking Helus fatally in the

heart. Twelve people were killed during the shooting in total. “This news is extremely difficult for all of us to process and understand,” said Ayub. Ventura County Chief Medical Examiner Chris Young said that the bullet that killed Helus was retrieved at the Los Robles Hospital where he was taken following the incident and that the five other bullets that struck Helus caused “serious but potentially survivable injuries.” Though the friendly fire was the catalyst that ended Helus’ life, Ayub placed the blame squarely on Long. “It is important to remember that the horrible circumstances at the Borderline Bar & Grill were caused by the evil actions of one individual,” said Ayub. “The man who murdered 12 people and injured 22 others, he alone created the violence and he alone carries the responsibility for his actions.” ✦

Christmas tradition Camarillo family gets in holiday spirit for public to enjoy, special event Dec. 15 by Kateri Wozny “Just because I cannot see it, doesn’t mean I can’t believe in it,” said Jack Skellington in The Nightmare Before Christmas movie. Brett and Heather Lane first became fascinated with the character when they decorated their apartment balcony with a cut out of Skellington in 2005. Many residences and years later, the tradition grew to their home in Camarillo, along with many spectators. “Every year, Brett just keeps adding a new piece from the movie for the lawn,” said Heather. “He hand sketches, paints and cuts them all.” At first, the Lanes weren’t a fan of the movie, but were intrigued with the art when they visited Disneyland’s Haunted Mansion after getting married. “The Haunted Mansion was done up in scenes from the movie,” said Brett. “I thought it was different and unique. It stuck even more because now our kids like it and over time, Heather and I have grown to appreciate the movie.” The Lanes also added their Hot Cocoa Night to the mix. What started out with a kind thank you letter from an anonymous neighbor in the Lanes’ mailbox is now in its third year.

“The letter said our decorations makes them happy and they look forward to it every year,” said Heather. “We decided to continue spreading the joy by having the hot cocoa.” Brett and Heather instill in their children, Sydney, 5, and Evan, 8, the importance of giving back to the community. “It’s about sharing and a compassion for other people,” said Brett. “The kids see how much work it is to set up and they help out. It’s a pleasure to spread holiday cheer.” Attendees wishing to view the house can drive up in their cars and have cocoa served to them or park and walk up the driveway. “We are anticipating a lot of people this year and will have extra crock pots,” said Heather. “Our favorite thing to do is nightly drives around neighborhoods and view other people’s lights. We hope that other families can enjoy the same ✦ thing.” The Nightmare Before Christmas House is located at 4977 Alta Colina Road in Camarillo. Hot Cocoa Night happens on Saturday, Dec. 15 at 6 p.m. For more information, visit the That Nightmare Before Christmas House Facebook page. December 13, 2018 —

—7

“OUR PLACE” Employees and patrons ponder the future without a Vagabond Coffee Shop BY MICHAEL SULLIVAN | MICHAEL@VCREPORTER.COM

old indifference. It’s everywhere. Walking down the street, shopping at the grocery store, going to events. Strange faces are not friends, they are something to avoid — even saying “excuse me” seems to require too much effort these days. And such is the way of the world. At the Vagabond Coffee Shop in Downtown Ventura, however, there is an undeniable warmth that is hard to find elsewhere. Perhaps it’s in the name, vagabond: a person who wanders from place to place without a home or job, a word without pretense or expectations and a coffee shop that carries the same motto. While there is undeniable care in the upkeep of the shop, worn carpet routinely replaced with new as needed, well-maintained but modest tables and booths and an organized kitchen with a streamlined operation, the staff seem to have a rare sense of humanity that elevates even the most downtrodden. It’s clear to see that the restaurant serves as a place of intermittent rest and community for so many in a world prolific in its disconnect from other humans. Sitting with Jolene McBee, 74, owner of the coffee shop’s lease that expires Jan. 31 after 52 years (the last day will be Jan. 1), it’s easy to recognize what she, her longtime staff and the landmark restaurant mean to so many. Since the announcement of the closure in early December, there’s been an outpouring of support, locals visiting for the final time, patron after patron lining up to talk to her, to hug her, to wish her farewell in her retirement. Many are also dismayed over the plans for the future of the beloved diner. “There’s sadness,” said McBee, who had plans to retire in January as she knew the lease was going to expire. In the last year, she’d also started having health issues that made her dependent on a walker. McBee had hoped to pass the baton to Chef Christopher Castillo, who has worked in some capacity at the Vagabond since 1970, when he started as a dishwasher. He had intended to carry on the traditions of the restaurant, maintaining its decades-old recipes and keeping the longstanding wait staff on board to serve Vagabond Inn guests as well as regulars who have made the coffee shop a part of their routine for decades. Those plans were not in line with the wishes of the corporate entity behind the Vagabond chain. McBee said (and explained in a letter to her customers) that Vista Investments (which runs several Vagabond Inns and Coffee Shops) had “no interest” in hiring any of her staff to run the restaurant. After Jan. 31, the restaurant will close for remodeling and will reopen with a new chef, according to the Vista Investments, LLC, Facebook page:

8—

— December 13, 2018

TOP: Longtime customers Marvin Kwit, Ted Lombard, Beth Lombard and Anne Lombard enjoy what may be a last Vagabond lunch. CENTER: Owner Jolene McBee holds court at the counter. ABOVE: Chris Castillo spent 47 years in the kitchen.

“We’ve always planned on honoring the Vagabond Coffee Shop’s local favorites and sourcing their ingredients from Ventura County family farms. “To bring this potent blend to the table we’ve turned to a Ventura based Chef who resided in the community for eight years along with his wife and two children. He has a long history of creating traditional American style favorites made with flavorful local ingredients. He’s especially excited about utilizing the local produce and building relationships with the Vagabond Coffee Shop’s regulars.” While the post relays that it wants to stay focused on quality food and ingredients, it doesn’t address or ease any concerns about the longtime staff who aren’t sure they will even have a job to return to. That includes Castillo, who said he did talk to corporate at one point about his plans. There were no further discussions after that call. “I figured I would have an opportunity to buy it,” Castillo said, who had set his hopes on owning and running the Vagabond Coffee Shop after McBee retired, a dream he has had for 10 years. Prior to the Vagabond, Castillo had worked in the local oil industry. “I would have never stuck with it that long, I would have done something else if I knew. I’ve been here so long, being here for four generations — hard to walk away, I don’t know how to take it.” He was also reluctant about returning to a similar position after he had set his hopes on running the restaurant. “It would be very hard to take a job here,” he said. A similar sentiment was shared among the servers. With 27 staff, nearly all, if not all, of the servers have been working at the Vagabond for over a decade. Some are going on 20, 30, 40 years. Leslie Garrett, 68, sat at the Vagabond counter on her day off, next to Jolene, reflecting on her 28 years there. “I’m not happy, you know, not at all. I can’t imagine Ventura without the Vagabond. I knew nothing else, good or bad,” Garrett said. “My son is 41, was raised in this place, since 8 or 9, and my grandchildren and great-grandkids are all local. My adopted grandson worked here. It’s my security, it’s my identity, my family, it’s everything. Never a dull moment.” She noted she was especially fond of the waffles — “The only thing I ate for seven years.” Server Vicki Hannigan, McBee’s daughter, started 40 years ago in 1978. “I have quit and come back,” she said. “I have no idea [what happens next].” Server Chris Frank started working at the Vagabond in 1988. While busy on her shift at the time of this interview, she expressed similar concerns about the future of the Vagabond and that customers are also having emotional reactions. Darl Lorelli, a Ventura resident who retired from the Ventura Unified School District in October, has been coming to the Vagabond for 25 years. “It feels like home,” Lorelli said, noting that “it feels like I am losing a part of my family.” He said that he would not return to the new Vagabond, whatever that will be. Sandy Scholle, 65, and John Stanewich, 68, have been regulars since they were kids. “I have been coming here since I was 13 years old — we lived in Somis and we drove over here and would go to church in Ventura.” Stanewich, who was also working on a window mural featuring a hobo for Christmas, had been “coming here since fifth grade.” They both acknowledged that change is inevitable. But neither would say it was good. As McBee prepares for the final days of the Vagabond Coffee Shop as she knows it, she talked about a couple of memorable instances in her career. One, a server whom she tried to train but who just couldn’t keep up with the duties. McBee said that she told her to “just keep trying.” Decades later, the former trainee returned and told McBee that she never forgot her and her words of wisdom: Just keep trying. Another memory was of a local homeless woman. “We have a big homeless population,” McBee said. “Four years ago one lady that would come smelled to high heaven, would order food and pay for it and wait outside. The lady said, ‘You know, you’re not mean to the homeless. I know I smell. You have always been good to us...’ And she did that her own.” The future of the Vagabond as a place of respite is uncertain, and whether it will remain a place of employment for the current staff is also unclear. As it goes with change, sometimes it’s a win, and sometimes it’s a mistake that can’t be remedied. Many customers have stated that they will not return due to the apparent callousness toward what had been established there for decades. “They will come in and do a bit of remodeling, that’s going to hapF pen,” McBee said, but “Nothing is written in stone.” The Vagabond Coffee Shop will be hosting its annual Christmas Ventura County foster children fundraiser Thursday, Dec. 13 from 5 a.m. until 9 a.m. It will also have its annual and final special menu item of Christopher Castillo’s black eyed peas, a tradition famed to bring good luck, all day Jan. 1, closing day.

READERS MEMORIES “IT WAS A RITE OF PASSAGE.”

Ventura resident Tammy Calhoun lived on the Westside and Pierpont as a child, but to hear her tell it, she “practically grew up at the Vagabond.” Her mom, Peggy Shelton, was a go-go dancer who performed on military bases. As the Vagabond was one of the few places open 24 hours in the 1960s and 1970s, it was a favorite haunt for her and the other dancers, and Shelton would often bring her children there as well. But her most vivid memory was her very first cup of coffee, which she had at the Vagabond in 1977 when she was 9 years old. In Calhoun’s family, “it was a rite of passage.” Through the years, Calhoun and her family would frequent the Vagabond for every major event: Mother’s Day, Father’s Day, birthdays and Sunday brunch and even family reunions. The meal of choice was always breakfast — sausage and eggs with hash browns and the biscuits and gravy were the most popular dishes. Calhoun worked in a similar establishment (the Woolworth Cafe) as a young woman, and modeled herself after the oldschool Vagabond waitresses. They were a hard-working, nononsense bunch who never called in sick and never minced words. “But when they loved you, they loved you forever,” she recalls. Calhoun credits them with helping to develop her own work ethic, which led her to build a successful real estate business, Comstock and Calhoun (which, not incidentally, is just a few blocks from the Vagabond). “I really believe they had a powerful influence,” she says. What also stands out for Calhoun is the wait staff’s roughedged compassion. When her own waitressing shift was done, she’d often sit at the Vagabond counter, nursing a cup of coffee — especially when she had nowhere else to go. “Those gruff old broads kept me in line,” she admitted. But they also didn’t turn her away. In many ways, the Vagabond was a refuge for the lonely, the lost, those adrift socially . . . and, often, inebriated. “It’s where you went to sober up,” Calhoun recalls. “And those gals wouldn’t let you drive if you were drunk.” Owner Jolene McBee cared about her community, and nowhere did this spirit shine through more than during the Thomas Fire. Firefighters and police officers that came through her door were fed for free, “and she did the same thing for people who lost their homes.” Now a mother herself, the Vagabond has figured prominently in Calhoun’s own family traditions. All four of her children — Ashley, 30; Chris, 27; and twins Lily and Ivy, 13 — have had their first cups of coffee (at age 10) at the Vagabond and have spent many a meal enjoying its vintage ambience, classic diner fare and “gruff old broads.” The twins have a particularly strong association with it: Calhoun dined there nearly every week during her pregnancy (she often craved the biscuits and gravy) and owner Jolene and her staff delighted in watching her belly grow, doted on the newborns and warmly embraced the girls as they grew into young adults. Calhoun estimates that Lily and Ivy have been to the Vagabond at least two times a week since they were born, and their photos — including sonograms — adorn the restaurant’s walls. Calhoun remembers when the previous owner, Mac, ran the place, with Jolene as his right-hand woman and partner until his death (she took over officially after that). “She ran the show for years,” she says. “I know she needs to retire.” But she hates to imagine that the place that was such an integral part of her life will be dramatically changed, or closed altogether. “I don’t want the Vagabond to go away,” she says sadly, “and I don’t want those waitresses to lose their jobs. This is my childhood and my children’s childhood and my mother’s youth!” But mostly, she’ll miss the feeling she had whenever she went. “It felt safe. It’s home.” — Tammy Calhoun, as told to Nancy D. Lackey Shaffer

“THOSE HAPPY MEMORIES WILL LAST FOREVER.”

“Some of my fondest memories of my late Grandpa Bob were made at the Vagabond. I was only about 10 years old when he started bringing me for French dips, curly fries and always a hot chocolate extra whipped cream no matter what time of day. Twenty years later and I can still see us sitting at our booth in front of the counter, clear as day. Those happy memories will last forever.” — Rebecca Castro

“YOU ALWAYS FELT AT HOME.”

“Needless to say I was shocked by the news of the Vagabond closing and so soon. When my daughter, Linda, told me the news, I could not believe it. I guess like everyone else in Ventura and the surrounding area, the news came as a complete surprise and an unpleasant one at that! “The Vagabond has been there on Thompson Street forever or so it seems, especially to those of us who have frequented it over the years. I could write a lot of stories about the times both me and my family have been there. We always got served in a timely manner and the food was always good and quantities were more than enough. The waitresses were usually friendly and most of them had a quick wit and left you smiling or laughing. “One of the most memorable times I remember being at the Vagabond is the day of the 1994 Northridge earthquake. I think everyone remembers the earthquake that year, at least everyone who was living in Ventura and Los Angeles areas. “My daughter Linda and I lived in the same apartment complex and so that morning after I had been wakened by the noise and shaking of the bed around 4:30 a.m., I was in a state of shock. Around 6 a.m., Linda called me to make sure I was OK. Shortly after, she arrived at my door with a worried expression on her face. Neither of us had electricity and so being that we were addicted to caffeine, we decided to walk down the street to see if the Vagabond was open. The Vagabond was our “go to” place almost any time we needed comfort food and coffee. “As we walked, there were not many people around and the few who were wore anxious expressions on their faces. When we got to the Vagabond, it looked closed, but after a closer look we could see people sitting in the booths. We went in and although the place was dim, we could smell coffee brewing and food cooking. The receptionist assured us that there was a limited menu and they had coffee brewing. It smelled heavenly at that point and we managed to get a seat right away and placed our order, which included coffee of course. “We settled in and after a few sips of coffee, we felt comfortable and at home. That’s the feeling we liked about the Vagabond. You always felt at home. I know I will miss going there.” — Marion Glennon

“A MUCH NEEDED HUG”

“My family and I have been regulars at the Vagabond for over 20 years. “My kids grew up with Jolene’s grandkids, and every time I go in, it is like visiting family. Here is an example of how special the Vagabond and the staff are: My best friend was in surgery at county for pancreatic cancer. My daughter and I were of course very stressed out and worried. In hard times, we always, always would go to the Vagabond for some friendship and comfort food. There we were, our food had just arrived, when I got the call from the surgeon that the operation was of no use and my friend only had a few weeks to live. My daughter and I both burst into tears. Without a word being said, our waitress (I think it was Sharon) walked over, took our food and boxed it up, and gave us a much-needed hug. THIS is the Vagabond. I can’t believe it will be gone.” — Sarah Flesher

“SOME PIE”

“My girlfriend and my best friend’s sister decided all of a sudden, one day, that they wanted to get all ‘seckshull’ with each other, so they asked us to go away for a little while. Give them some privacy and all that. So we went to the Vagabond and had some pie.” — Jay Windsor, Ojai

TWIN PEAKS-EY

Just like so many other Venturans (and former Venturans), my heart cracked in two when I heard The Vagabond was closing. It felt as if I was losing an old, quirky friend I’d shared many precious memories with; a friend I’d taken for granted would be around forever. Back in the days of Warrens, Loops and the White Bib there was never a loss for a good, Lynchian place to duck into and partake of tasty comfort food. Once they all disappeared for

See MEMORIES on Page 20 December 13, 2018 —

—9

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MUSIC

vcreporter.com

homespun

musicnotes

Called home Danny McGaw and the 33

by Emily Dodi “Let’s go get ice cream. Let’s go get drunk.” The words rise in song and fill the air. It’s Sunday night at the Vine, a popular Ojai venue, and Danny McGaw and the 33 are performing to a packed house. More accurately, it’s as if they’re simply leading the way. “Everyone knows the words,” says McGaw. “People come over and over, and they come not just for the music but for the community that has gathered around Sundays being a meeting place. There are singing sections and clapping sections. It’s a really participatory environment. People really bring all their hearts and souls to the occasion of sharing the energy. It’s just amazing.” McGaw thinks back to how he got here. “It started with me alone in the window,” he says, referring to his early solo gigs at the Vine. He landed the spot after meeting Tim Arlon (aka TD Lind), a fellow Englishman and musician at the Deer Lodge. “We got a pint … and [Tim] says, come down to the Vine on Wednesday … sing a couple of songs and see if you can get booked there.” McGaw did and people soon began to take notice, including many in the Ojai music scene. Most notably, McGaw met the musicians who would become his friends and bandmates. In addition to Arlon, the band includes pianist Matt Cheadle, bassist Tim V. Hutton and drummer Greg Weiser.

From the soccer field to the Promenade

It’s interesting to look back on the road that led McGaw to where he is now. He grew up in “a tough Northern town” near Manchester. As a teenager, McGaw played professional soccer until an injury ended his career. One night he ran into an old friend who was living on the Isle of Jersey. McGaw remembers him saying, “If you’re not playing football, there’s nothing for you here.” McGaw left Manchester and spent the next 6 months in Jersey, where he performed at a local pub. Next came the move to Los Angeles, where McGaw was soon busking on the Santa Monica Promenade. Playing on the street had a huge impact. “Above all,” he says, it taught him, “faith in humanity. I would sit at the bus stop and I’d made 300-400 bucks that day in front of everybody that’s

by Nancy D. Lackey Shaffer nancy@vcreporter.com

Danny McGaw (center) and the 33 performing at The Crest Theatre in Sacramento in July 2018.

Fresh off the Vine

Ventura Theater strikes a deal with Live Nation

desperate for money and it’d be 1:30 in the morning. I’d have my guitar, my amp, my bag of everything — and everybody knows I’ve got hundreds of dollars in my pocket and there’s nobody around and I’m all alone and nobody robbed me or tried to rob me.”

Heeding the call

He did that for several years until he and his future wife moved to her home state of Kansas. There, McGaw formed a band called Wells the Traveler, and continued to hone his craft. Before long, he and his wife felt the call to return to California, and to go “back in search of the dream we had abandoned.” So they moved to Ojai with two young sons in tow. Now McGaw is poised for a new adventure. In addition to building a strong local following, Danny McGaw and the 33 have toured with Three Dog Night. They’re also finishing the album they were working on when the Thomas Fire struck and everyone in the band had to evacuate. When they came home, McGaw says, “It was hard to get life to begin again.” But it did, and the band went on to film a video for “Let’s Go Get Ice Cream.” Set to be released in the spring, the video is directed by Michael Estrella, who has worked on movies such as The Thin Red Line. At the end of the music video, the band plays to a crowd that’s dancing, singing and embracing a moment shared. Very much like the scene that plays out every Sunday night. McGaw looks at it all with gratitude. “Everything that’s happening in life right now is because of the buzz we’ve put together at the Vine. I’m very inspired and grateful and hopeful. I feel that Ojai has really been a beautiful, F blessed place to be as a musician and as a family.”

n Dec. 6, it was announced that the Majestic Ventura Theater would be entering into a deal with entertainment company Live Nation. As of January 2019, the historic theater will be joining Live Nation Clubs and Theatres division’s national portfolio of exclusively booked properties. Other venues in that portfolio include The Wiltern in Los Angeles, Atlanta’s The Tabernacle and the House of Blues. What that means to local music fans, in a nutshell: All shows booked at the Ventura Theater will be through Live Nation. “We’ve been working on it for a while,” says theater manager Loanne Wullaert, who was instrumental in the negotiations. A representative of Live Nation reached out to theater owner Robert Antonini in 2017. Whenever a large corporate entity becomes involved with a locally owned operation, concerns and suspicions abound. But Wullaert is optimistic about what the partnership will mean. With Live Nation’s money and clout to back them, the Ventura Theater is a bigger fish in the competitive pond of musical entertainment. She notes that it can be difficult to compete with bigger venues that have better facilities and more money to tempt more popular acts. “The caliber and quantity [of shows] is going to go up,” she says. “It’s going to be making things a lot busier.” “We’re working on a ton of shows right now,” she adds. Many details can’t be made public just yet, but Wullaert did say that some improvements are planned. “We will be working on upgrading the sound with Rat Sound, and lights with Delicate Productions — both local vendors.” Local musicians may find it harder to play at the theater, however. Some opportunities to open for bigger acts may still appear, but Wullaert admits that, “It all depends. It’s been difficult [to book local artists] already. Most package tours, the headliners bring in their own support.” But, she adds, “We will still be booking fundraisers, private parties and community events ourselves.” More and bigger bands mean more opportunities for music lovers . . . which should translate to increased ticket sales. Having said that, ticket distribution will remain the same. “Contrary to popular belief, we will not be switching to Ticketmaster, we will be staying with Ticketfly,” Wullaert says. And as the theater gets busier, it’s going to need more help. Wullaert anticipates hiring more people for scheduling, social media, security and maintenance. “I’m so excited,” Wullart says. “It’s going to be a real game changer for Ventura.” F

The Ventura Theater is at 26 S. Chestnut St. in Ventura. For more information, call 805-653-0721 or visit www.venturatheater.net.

Danny McGaw performs on Thursday, Dec. 13, as part of the Ugly Sweater Party at Topa Mountain Winery, 821 W. Ojai Ave., Ojai. For tickets and more information, call 805-640-1190 or visit topamountainwinery.com. For more information on the artist, visit dannymcgaw.net. December 13, 2018 —

— 11

PHOTO BY T CHRISTIAN GAPEN

ART+CULTURE

A mural by artist Evan Mendel in Midtown Ventura.

Walls that speak Introducing the VCReporter's Mural Project

by Nancy D. Lackey Shaffer

nancy@vcreporter.com

ou see them on the sides of buildings, beneath bridges, in subway stations, around schools and on just about any other man-made surface that has space for a coat of paint. Murals are some of the largest and most prevalent works of public art — and in Ventura County, they can be found from the beach to the hillsides and every space in between. The murals that dot downtown Santa Paula tell the history of that town in pictures, while more recent works installed by students participating in the Oxnard Housing Authority Resident Services La Colonia Youth Summer Mural Project are connecting their ancestral culture with their experiences today . . . and pointing toward a future they envision for themselves and their community. Artist MB Hanrahan has been involved in numerous mural projects around the county, and sees them in many ways as “a voice for the people.” “It’s a medium for the underrepresented — which is very traditional,” she explains. “They write their meanings right on the wall.” And tell their stories, too. One major example

12 —

— December 13, 2018

of this is the Tortilla Flats project, conceived, designed and installed by Hanrahan and Moses Mora. Mounted beneath the 101 Freeway at Figueroa Street, the numerous panels represent slices of life from Tortilla Flats, the neighborhood that once thrived in this section of Ventura and that was displaced by the freeway in the 1950s. Most Tortilla Flats residents relocated to the Westside and other parts of Ventura, but the story of the community itself endures through the murals. The Tortilla Flats project was enormous, and while Hanrahan and Mora led the effort, numerous artists, organizations and community members were involved. Mural projects are like that. The sheer size of a wall, as well as its public nature, creates an opportunity to involve others in the process, making murals a powerful tool for building community. Nowhere do you see this more clearly than in the One-Block-At-A-Time Facade and Mural Beautification Program. “That’s the whole point — partnership and collaborative effort,” says Jackie Pearce, executive director of Ventura's Westside Community Development Corporation, which launched the program in 2016 along with Jim Rice, then the executive director of the Bell Arts Factory. The program aimed to encourage business owners to improve their properties through artwork, lighting, trash cans, etc. The WCDC helped con-

nect owners with artists, assisted in navigating the city’s permitting process and finding materials, and sometimes provided matching funds as well. “Oaxaca to Ventura” (co-created by MB Hanrahan, Rolando Sigüenza and Uriel Leon) across from the Bell Arts Factory and Lisa Kelly’s “Pollinator Series” on the Avenue Center are two works of art that came out of this initiative. Murals do more than just beautify the neighborhood. Often they encourage other improvements — better lighting, repaired walls and windows, cleaner streets — that address blight. When one business owner gets a facelift, others often feel inspired to follow suit. Gradually, the entire neighborhood might become safer, more walkable and generally a more pleasant place for residents to shop and mingle. Artists receive payment and an audience for their work; businesses earn more money; residents take pride in where they live. Everybody wins . . . and it all starts with some paint on a wall. As we at the VCReporter have seen so many murals going up the last few months — including a few just steps away from our offices in Downtown Ventura — we’ve become inspired to document these large-scale, open-air forms of expression through our latest initiative, the Mural Project. With this we hope to create a catalog of murals found across Ventura County with an online archive that includes an image as well as the location and as much other identify-

ing information (artists, date, inspiration) as we are able to gather. We will continue to add to this over time, and occasionally showcase work in our print edition. We could use your help. If you see a mural not already part of our Mural Project, take a photo and send it in, including the location and any other information. If you know something we don’t about a mural we have archived online, let us know and we’ll update our records. Hot tip on something in the works? Drop us a line. Are you an artist who has a mural to include? We’d love to see it. “It seems to me that people put art on walls to humanize their space,” Hanrahan says. “When you open an art history book, the first images you’re going to be introduced to are cave paintings.” We are far from the cave today, but the desire to leave a mark where we live and work endures. We hope to celebrate that impulse through the Mural Project. ✦ The Mural Project is our visual record of the murals across Ventura County. View murals currently cataloged at www.vcmuralproject.com. If you have pictures or information on other murals to be included, or additional information on the murals already cataloged, please email us at editorial@vcreporter.com.

Client: CHUMASH - Entertainment Ad Executive: David Comden (805) 648-2244

vcreporter.com PHOTO BY JONATHAN KING

Please check this proof over carefully and indicate all corrections clearly. You will have a “1st Proof”, “2nd Proof”, and “Final Proof”. If we receive no proof after the 1st or 2nd Proofs, AD WILL RUN AS IS. If this proof meets your approval on the 1st proof, check off “FINAL PROOF (APPROVED)” box, date and sign at the bottom. Deadline for Ad Changes is 12:00 Noon the Tuesday prior to that issues release. ISSUE: 12/13/18

PHOTO BY LIN COLEMAN

onstage

A L W A Y S A M A Z I N G. N e v e r r o u t i n e.

fridaY

Michael McCarthy and Bodhi Bourbon.

TERRY FATOR

Cinderella at the Ojai Art Center Theater

DEC

8 PM

by Emily Dodi

New Year's Eve Dance Party:

ust in time for the holidays, the Ojai Art Center Theater presents Cinderella, through Dec. 16. The delightful production is in the style of an English pantomime, or panto. That is to say, it’s a boisterous musical comedy based on a fairy tale, featuring gender-bendingWrite roles, local and lotson of talk-back COMMENTS: thelore number the ad from thatthe audience. Skillfullyto directed Richard Kuhlman and produced by Lin Colecorresponds your by comments/corrections man, the production holds fast to the loose, fractured structure of a traditional panto. Yet it feels very of-the-moment, with sly references and 1. ____________________________________________ inside jokes about things that are distinctly Ojai (yarn bomb anyone?). It’s a Christmas love letter to the town, but anyone, from anywhere, can _______________________________________________ find the joy in it and feel right at home. The play opens with the Fairy Godmother (the perfectly cast Sindy 2. ____________________________________________ McKay-Swerdlove) singing about the lovely Cinderella (the charming Denise Heller). The poor lass has been reduced to a scullery maid by _______________________________________________ her wicked stepmother and stepsisters, the aptly named Mrs. BadenRotten and her daughters Goneril and Regan (a nod to King Lear’s 3. ____________________________________________ horrible offspring). They are played with delicious, outrageous glee by Marisa Miculian, Marilyn Lazik and Sheila McCarthy. All the while, Cinderella’s father, the Baron, has dissolved into a lovable mess. Tar_______________________________________________ rara Boomdeay is spot-on as the boozy Baron. (Rumor has it that T.B. is actually Susan Kelejian.) 4. ____________________________________________ Meanwhile, the queen and king want their son to get married. The royals are played to great comic effect by Anna Kotula and the young _______________________________________________ actor Coree Serena Kotula, who does a mean accent of indeterminable Eastern European origin. Jodi Brandt is Prince Charming, in a gender5. ____________________________________________ bending role. The production throws in more than a few playful twists along the way. For one thing (on second thought, make that three), a _______________________________________________ trio of Ninjas (Don Gaidano, Lenny Klaif and John Valenzuela) play various roles to help move the story along — or rather, steer it wildly off the rails. Then there is Dandini (the endearing Bodhi Bourbon), the prince’s aide who falls for Bo Beep (the hilarious Michael McCarthy in drag), Buttons (the bubbly Poosy Holmes), Cinderella’s cockney friend and Knickers (the adorable Brett Baxter), a cheeky clown. Rounding out the cast is a dancing bear, of course (Anna Kotula in a dual role). The wonderful Andy Street accompanies the action on the piano. Originally conceived and directed by Paul Whitworth, with book and lyrics by Kate Hawley and music by Gregg Coffin, Cinderella is brought to magical, technicolor life by its gifted cast and crew, including music director Jaye Hersh, production designer Steve Mitchell, lighting designer Caroline McDonald, costumer Janna Valenzuela, prop mistress Kitty Bartholomew and stage managers Wenona Guthrie and Sue Barry. (The uncredited makeup artist does a spectacular job.) Full of silliness and childlike wonder, Cinderella invites you to bask in its high-spirited holiday glow. Go, you’ll have a ball. ✦

MONDAY

DEC

Boogie Knights & The Spazmatics

9 PM

fridaY

WFC 98 Live Boxing

Theresa Caputo Live! The Experience

JAN

6 PM

Thur, Fri, SAT

Jan

17, 18,19 8 PM

NOTICE: PLEASE FAX THIS PROOF TO (805) 648-2245 ASAP

Cinderella through Dec. 16 at the Ojai Art Center Theater, 113 S. Mont-

gomery St., Ojai. For tickets and more information, call 805-640-8797 or visit Date:_______________________________ https://www.ojaiact.org.

Signature: __________________________ This proof is to check for accuracy and is not intended to show quality of reproduction.

3 4 0 0 E H i g h w a y 24 6 , S a n t a Yn e z · 8 0 0 -24 8 - 6 2 74 · C h u m a s h C a s i n o . c o m Must be 21 years of age or older to attend. Chumash Casino Resort reserves the right to change or cancel promotions and events.

19031-3_CHU_EntAds_VCR_5-81x11-85.indd 6

December 13, 2018 —

— 13

11/6/18 4:21 PM

AFTER DARK

vcreporter.com

Jake Smith aka The White Buffalo joins several performers — including Margo Price, Butch Walker, The Deltaz and others — for the Love & Music Concert, benefitting first responders and low-income families affected by the Woolsey Fire. The concert takes place on Monday, Dec. 17, at 7 p.m. at The Canyon. ✰ = Highly recommended To get your show listed in After Dark, send all pertinent information to nancy@vcreporter.com no later than Monday of the desired publication week. Due to the erratic nature of entertainment booking, information contained here is subject to change and not guaranteed. Call venues ahead to confirm.

SUPPORT LOCAL MUSIC!

is correct

Shop Local p address is correct

Thursday, 12/13 LIVE MUSIC Bogie’s: Haven, 7:30 p.m.

Café Fiore: Fabulous Hangovers Copper Blues: Norteno y Banda, 9 p.m. Greater Goods: Human Host, Justin

p expiration date is correctAndrewp spelling correct Johnson and Maxis Kasche , 6:309:30 p.m. ✰

DEADLINE FOR AD CHANGES IS 12:00 NOON TUESDAY TO THAT ISSUES Kong Inn: LJ andRELEASE. the Boys This shopping season, yourTHE friends at the PRIOR Hong

MadeWestofBrewing: Alec Ledbetter and VCReporter suggestPublishing, you shop at islocal ed by the production department of Southland themerchants copyrighted property Southland Publishing. guest, 6-8 p.m. possible. Here are some reasons is why: placement of advertising in anywhenever of Southland Publishing’s publications prohibited without the express consent of Topa Mountain Winery: Ugly Sweater plus any applicable fees. Party with Danny McGaw and the 33, 5-9 p OK to run p.m. ✰ Date:_______________________________

for accuracy and is quality of reproduction.

p OK to run

with correction

• Build A Strong Topa Topa Brewing: Matt Sayles, 7-9 p.m. Signature: __________________________ Local Economy Ventura Theater: Dwight Yoakam with King Leg, 8 p.m. ✰ • Maintain The Vine: Rose Valley Thorns, 7:30 p.m. Waterside: Natalie Wattre, 6-9 p.m. Community COMEDY Levity Live Comedy Club: Heather Character McDonald, 8 p.m. Ventura Harbor Comedy Club: Rainbow • Tax Dollars To Comedy Night, 7 p.m. (Green Room); Blazing Pianos, 8 p.m. Help Our Local DJS Azar’s Sports Bar: DJ Chris, 9 p.m. Community Bogie’s: Momentum Thursdays house music, 9:30 p.m.

Happy Shopping!

Sans Souci: DJ Spinobi

OPEN MIC Boatyard: Bluegrass Jam

Keynote: Jam night, 8 p.m. Leashless Brewing: Jam session with

Mark Masson, 6 p.m.

Red Cove: Music Club Open Jam, 7 p.m. Rock & Roll Pizza: 7-10 p.m. Sandbox: 6-8 p.m. with John Cater Ventura Harbor Comedy Club: New Blood

14 —

— December 13, 2018

Comedy Open Mic (Green Room), 8 p.m.

KARAOKE GiGi’s: 8 p.m. with KJ Steve Luke; free pool

Golden China: 9 p.m. Hangar Bar and Grill: 6-9 p.m. The Shores: 8:30 p.m.

DANCING, TRIVIA, ETC. Enegren Brewing: Trivia Night, 7 p.m.

The Manhattan of Camarillo: Trivia Night, 7-9 p.m.

Pirates: Salsa night, 9 p.m.

Friday, 12/14

LIVE MUSIC 805 Bar: Troy Edwards, 8-11 p.m.

Azar’s Sports Bar: Mini Driver Boatyard: Teresa Russell and Stephen Geyer, 7 p.m.

Café Fiore: The Collectives The Canyon: Robert Cray Band with Steve

Bardwil Band, 7:30 p.m.

Chinaland: Heart and Soul and DJ D.Y.,

9 p.m.

Deer Lodge: Al Holbrook, 9 p.m. El Rey (Ventura): Xocoyotzin Moraza and

friends, 6-8 p.m.

7:30 and 9:45 p.m. ✰

Ventura Harbor Comedy Club: Derrick Cameron and Brandon Vestal, 8 p.m. DJS Bogie’s: Club Night, 9 p.m. Bombay: DJ Erok and DJ Cam, 10 p.m.-2 a.m.

El Rey (Ventura): DJ Rogue, 9 p.m. Keynote: Pajama contest with DJ AVG Pirates: DJ J Scratch, 9 p.m.

KARAOKE GiGi’s: 9 p.m. with Steve Luke

Golden China: 9 p.m. La Dolce Vita: 9 p.m. Lookout Bar: 9 p.m. with Captain Kirk O’Leary’s: 9 p.m. with Microphone Heroes

(live)

Saturday, 12/15

LIVE MUSIC 805 Bar: Kenny Devoe, 12-6 p.m.

Azar’s Sports Bar: Red Bell Jets, 9 p.m. Boatyard: Troy Edwards, 7-10 p.m. Bogie’s: Holiday Jams, 8 p.m. Café Fiore: Otis Hayes The Canyon: Fast Times (80s tribute), 9

Four Brix: Fido, 5:30 p.m. The Garage: Scattered Guts, Bone

p.m. ✰

Greater Goods: Izaak Opatz and Austin Leonard Jones, 6:30-9 p.m.

Deer Lodge: Rock Cats Rock, 9:30 p.m. The Garage: Anti-Hero, Soup Hat,

Maggot, He Died and Human Obliteration, 8 p.m.

Hong Kong Inn: Doug Webb Group with Danny Carey

Chinaland: Latin night with Monitor Musical and DJ G, 9 p.m.

Disrupted Euphoria, 9 p.m.

Golden China: GhettoBlaster with Dead

Leashless Brewing: Leashless House

Heart and Subway, Solstice and Swanco and others (hip hop and trap), 9 p.m. ✰

MadeWest: The Yules The Manhattan of Camarillo: Lisa Ritner

Harbor Cove Café: Saturday Ukulele Jam with Pineapple Players, 10 a.m.-1 p.m.

Band, 8 p.m.

with Tilford Jackson, 6:30-9:30 p.m.

Ojai Underground Exchange: 10 Mile

Radius Mini Music Festival with Natalie Gelman, Cindy Kalmenson, Bernie Larsen, Rose Valley Thorns and others, 7:30 p.m. ✰

Rhumbline: Karen Eden and Bill MacPherson, 6-9 p.m. Sans Souci: Johnny Hellhole, 10 p.m. Star Lounge: Jan Michael and the Vincents

Vintura: Jamie Daniels, 8-11 p.m. 0 Waterside: Masters of the Past, 6:30 p.m. Winchester’s: Medicine Hat, 8:30 p.m. COMEDY

Levity Live Comedy Club: Ryan Hamilton,

Hong Kong Inn: The CocoKnots, 12:30 p.m.; D.on Darox and the Melody Joy Bakers

Keynote: What the Funk Leashless Brewing: Boom Duo, 7:30 p.m. MadeWest Brewing: Cap Quirk, 4-6 p.m. The Manhattan of Camarillo: Pam and Hollywood, 6:30-9:30 p.m.

Namba Performing Arts Space: Doc the Halls: Holiday Blues with Doc Ventura, 8 p.m. ✰

Ojai Underground Exchange: Stonefly with GRiley, 7 p.m.

Continued on Page 16

Happy New Year Deluxe Package $699

Two Night Stay For Two On December 30th & 31st, 2018 Two Tickets To Dinner & Party Open Bar Starting At 8pm New Year’s Day Breakfast Buffet with Mimosas or Bloody Marys For Two Free Self Parking

Room, Dinner & Party $499

One Night Stay For Two On December 31st, 2018 Two Tickets To Dinner & Party Open Bar Starting At 8pm Free Self Parking

Room & Party $399

One Night Stay For Two On December 31st, 2018 Two Tickets To Party Only Open Bar Starting At 10pm Free Self Parking

Dinner & Party $199

One Ticket To Dinner & Party Open Bar Starting At 8pm

Live Music

Party OnlyClient: $100 Ventura College Performing Arts

AD Ad Executive: Barbara Kroon

(805)

One Ticket To Party Only Please check this proof over carefully and indicate all corrections clearly. You will have a “1st Proof”, “2nd Pro Open Bar Starting At 10pm “Final Proof”. If we receive no proof after the 1st or 2nd Proofs, AD WILL RUN AS IS. If this proof meets you on the 1st proof, check off “FINAL PROOF (APPROVED)” box, date and sign at the bottom.

ISSUE:

NOTICE: PLEASE FAX THIS PROOF TO (805) 648-2245 ASAP

CHECK LIST: p phone number is correct PLEASE NOTE:

Winter Concerts p address is correct

p expiration date is correct

p spell

DEADLINE FOR AD CHANGES IS 12:00 NOON THE TUESDAY PRIOR TO THAT ISSU

Free Event

+ Samba Drumming

All advertising produced by the production department of Southland Publishing, is the copyrighted property of Sou Any use other than the placement of advertising in any of Southland Publishing’s publications is prohibited without the Southland Publishing, plus any applicable fees. p OK to run Date:______________________

VENTURA BEACH

Classical & Jazz Ensembles Wed, Dec 12 p Signature: _________________

This proof is to check for accuracy and is not intended to show quality of reproduction.

OK to run with correction

Miriam Schwab Memorial

TICKET SALES: HTTPS://CPVENTURANYE. BROWNPAPERTICKETS.COM *Additional Nights Available 12/28 & 12/29 At $150 per Night*

450 E. Harbor Boulevard Ventura, CA 93001 805-648-2100

chamber music thurs, Dec 13 Bevan Manson Director

VC jazz Band sat, Dec 15

All Shows At 7:30 PM $15 General Admission $5 Seniors/STaff/Students tickets at Venturacollegeofficial.eventbrite.com December 13, 2018 —

— 15

AFTER DARK

PHOTO BY CRAIG O’NEAL

vcreporter.com

ns al D st gn

The Ojai Underground Exchange hosts the 10 Mile Radius Mini Music Festival on Friday, Dec. 14, with performances by Natalie Gelman, Cindy Kalmenson, Bernie Larsen, Rose Valley Thorns and others. The show starts at 7:30 p.m. Continued from Page 14

Plan B Wine Cellars: Hekkar and

Old Creek Ranch: Rob Van, 2-5 p.m. Pirates: Juano and friends and DJ

Rock City Studios: Student band show,

Pleasure, 9 p.m.

Sandbox Coffeehouse: David Oliver Star Lounge: Mini Driver Band Topa Mountain Winery: Shawn Jones,

Ventura Theater: 6th Annual Holiday Sing-

CHECK LIST: address is correct p expiration date is correct p spelling is correct p phone number is correct p address is correct p expiration date is correct2 p.m. p spelling is correct Vintura: Karyn 805, 8-11 p.m. OR AD CHANGES IS 12:00 NOON THE TUESDAY PRIOR TO THAT ISSUES RELEASE. Water’s Edge: The Swillys, 6 p.m. DEADLINE FOR AD CHANGES IS 12:00 NOON THE TUESDAY PRIOR TO THAT ISSUES RELEASE. PLEASE NOTE:

on department of Southland Publishing, is the copyrighted property of Southland Publishing. Winchester’s: Kenny Devoe,Publishing. 8:30 p.m. All advertising produced by the production department of Southland Publishing, is the copyrighted property of Southland are invited to our COMEDY rtising in any ofYou Southland Publishing’s publications is prohibited without the express consent of Any use other than the placement of advertising in any of Southland Publishing’s publications is prohibited without the express consent of Levity Live Comedy Club: Ryan Hamilton, fees. Southland Publishing, plus any applicable fees. 7 and 9:30 p.m. ✰ p OK to run Date:_______________________________ p OK to run Ventura Harbor Comedy Club: Derrick Date:_______________________________ s p This OK to run Cameron and Brandon Vestal, 7 and 9 p.m. proof is to check for accuracy and is p OK to run Signature: __________________________ Curious about Graduate School? uction. with DJS correction not intended to show quality of reproduction. with correction Signature: __________________________ Bogie’s: Sweet Saturday Club Night, 9 p.m. Experience a day in the life of a Pacifica Graduate Institute student. This oneBombay: DJ Erok and DJ Cam, 10 p.m.day introduction showcases the distinctive educational features of our masters 1:45 a.m. and doctoral programs in depth psychology, mythology, and the humanities.

Information Day

• Experience Pacifica’s unique interdisciplinary degree programs led by our renowned faculty. • Hear from Pacifica alumni about their experiences and career outcomes. • Tour our beautiful campus including the Joseph Campbell Archives and the Research Library. Learn how to navigate the admissions and financial aid processes to make graduate school a reality. Receive a waiver for Pacifica’s $75 application fee.

• •

January 18th, 2019 | 10 am — 4 pm 801 Ladera Lane, Santa Barbara, CA

Dream Tending Workshop with Dr. Stephen Aizenstat

Working with tools and methods from Dream Tending, participants learn how to access the power and potential alive in dreams. We discover how to engage untapped creativity and deep intelligence that comes awake when our eyes are closed.

El Rey (Ventura): 9:30 p.m.

KARAOKE GiGi’s: 9 p.m. with Steve Luke

Golden China: 9 p.m. Lookout Bar: 9 p.m. with Blue Jay The Shores: 8:30 p.m. DANCING, TRIVIA, ETC.

Goebel Adult Community Center:

Ballroom dance lessons, 6:30 p.m.; Ralph Mathis, 7:30-10 p.m.

Sunday, 12/16

LIVE MUSIC 805 Bar: Kenny Devoe, 12-3 p.m.

Bogie’s: Dave Marotta, 7:30 p.m. The Canyon: The Sweet, 9 p.m. Copa Cubana: Brandon Ragan Project, 4 p.m.

Copper Blues: Aguilas de Oxnard

Mariachi, 12:30 p.m.

Deer Lodge: Winter Backwoods Bazaar with David and the Goliaths and Rose Valley Thorns, 11 a.m.-5 p.m.

Grapes and Hops: Debbie and Alastair,

4-7 p.m.

Harbor Cove Café: Yacht Rock Sunday La Fonda del Rey: Live music brunch,

11 a.m.

Now Enrolling for Spring and Fall 2019. Apply online at pacifica.edu

MadeWest Brewing: 50 Sticks of

Dynamite, 3-5 p.m.

The Manhattan of Camarillo: Amilcar Cruz, 5-8 p.m.

Old Creek Ranch: Sam Kulchin, 2-5 p.m.

16 —

— December 13, 2018

6 p.m.

Sandbox Coffeehouse: Laura May, 12-3 p.m. Topa Mountain Winery: Matthew Zeltzer,

Band, 12-3 p.m.

At our January 18th Pacifica Experience, you will:

Sunnarborg Duo, 3-5 p.m.

2-4 p.m.

A-Long, 8 p.m. ✰

Vintura: Toni Jannotta, 3-6 p.m. Winchester’s: Teresa Russell and Tommy

Marsh, 2:30-5:30 p.m. COMEDY

Levity Live Comedy Club: Ryan Hamilton, 7 p.m. ✰

Ventura Harbor Comedy Club: Derrick

Cameron and Brandon Vestal, 7 p.m. DJS Bombay: DJ Cam, 2-7 p.m.

Sans Souci: DJ Darko

OPEN MIC

Namba Performing Arts Space: New

Blood Comedy, 7 p.m. KARAOKE GiGi’s: Industry Night Karaoke, 8 p.m. with Steve Luke

Golden China: 9 p.m. Keynote: Jukebox Karaoke, 9 p.m. La Fonda del Rey: 3 p.m.

DANCING, TRIVIA, ETC. Chinaland: Salsa and Bachata classes, 8:30-9:30 p.m.

The Garage: King Trivia with Lamar Miles, 8 p.m.

Monday, 12/17 LIVE MUSIC

The Canyon: Love & Music: A Benefit for the Woolsey Fire with The White Buffalo, Margo Price, Butch Walker, The Deltaz and other, 7 p.m. ✰ KARAOKE The Garage: Manic Monday, 9 p.m. Golden China: 9 p.m. Outlaws: Hosted by Rockin’ Robin Sans Souci: 10 p.m.

DANCING, TRIVIA, ETC.

Bottle & Pint (Newbury Park): King Trivia, 7 p.m.

Copper Blues: 7 p.m. Poinsettia Pavilion: Poinsettia Pavilion Ballroom Dance Club, 7:30-9:45 p.m.

Tuesday, 12/18

Continued on Page 18

ISSUE: 10/4/18

NOTICE: PLEASE FAX THIS PROOF TO (805) 648-2245 ASAP

When our family grows stronger, so does yours. The healing power of humankindness grows stronger when we bring together the smartest physicians we know. It’s why we’re welcoming Identity Medical Group into the Dignity Health family. They take great pride in delivering comprehensive and compassionate care, focused on patients’ total health and wellness.

Provider offices throughout Ventura County:

Our combined group of over 50 trusted providers will deliver quality care to the community from 15 convenient locations. Together, we will now be known as Dignity Health Medical Group. Most important, our patients will continue to be treated with the kindness you’ve grown to expect from all of us.

•

Camarillo

•

Oxnard Santa Paula

• •

For more information or to schedule an appointment, call 805.738.3862 or visit DHMF.org/ventura/providers.

•

Thousand Oaks Ventura AD PROOF

Client: Island View Apartments

Ad Executive: Kelly Spargur

(805) 648-2244

Please check this proof over carefully and indicate all corrections clearly. You will have a “1st Proof”, “2nd Proof”, and “Final Proof”. If we receive no proof after the 1st or 2nd Proofs, AD WILL RUN AS IS. If this proof meets your approval on the 1st proof, check off “FINAL PROOF (APPROVED)” box, date and sign at the bottom ISSUE: 12/13/18 NOTICE: PLEASE FAX THIS PROOF TO (805) 648-2245 ASAP

islandview

DEADLINE FOR AD CHANGES IS 12:00 NOON

Date:_______________________________

THE TUESDAY PRIOR TO THAT ISSUES RELEASE.

New Home For The Holidays

Signature: __________________________

A P A R T M E N T S

SPECIAL HOLIDAY OFFER Up to One Month Free

*Limited time only – Stop by for a tour today

NEW LUXURY APARTMENTS • RESORT STYLE AMENITIES • 8 UNIQUE FLOOR PLANS LiveIslandView.com (805) 644-VIEW (8439) 6160 Promontory Lane, Ventura, CA 93003

1 bedrooms from $1,925 2 bedrooms from $2,199 December 13, 2018 —

DEADLINE FOR AD CHANGES

— 17

AFTER DARK

The Spirit of Christmas

vcreporter.com

Candle Lighting Service Monday, December 24th 7:00 pm Caroling, Candles, and Live Animal Parade. Come Early.

ent: Old Creek Ranch Winery

Ryan Hamilton headlines Oxnard’s Levity Live Comedy Club this weekend. Catch him on Friday, Dec. 14, at 7:30 and 9:45 p.m.; Saturday, Dec. 15, at 7 and 9:30 p.m.; and on Sunday, Dec. 16, at 7 p.m. Continued from Page 16

Boatyard: Karen Eden and Cary Park,

LIVE MUSIC Bogie’s: Jay Jackson and the Soul Purpose Band, 7:30 p.m.

Café Fiore: Taboo Trio The Canyon: Shwayze, 9 p.m. Hong Kong Inn: Adam Clark Ensemble

AD PROOF

Ventura

Center for(805) 648-2244

Ad Executive: Barbara Kroon

ase check this proof over carefully and indicate all corrections clearly. You will have a “1st Proof”, “2nd Proof”, and Café Fiore: Donna Butler nal Proof”. If we receive no proof after the 1st or 2nd Proofs, AD WILL RUN AS IS. If this proof meets your approval COMEDY the 1st proof, check off “FINAL PROOF (APPROVED)” box, date and sign at the bottom.

Spiritual Living

Levity Live Comedy Club: Darren Carter,

ISSUE: 12/6/18 8 p.m.

TICE: PLEASE FAX THIS PROOF TO (805) 648-2245 ASAP

DJS

101 S. Laurel St., Ventura • 805-643-1933

www.venturacsl.org Client: Keynote Lounge

Q Club: Tacos and Turntables, 8-10 p.m. Pirates: DJ Rick Rock, 7-11 p.m. Sans Souci: DJ Nick Dean, 10 p.m.

OPEN MIC

6-9 p.m.

with Rachel Flowers

Pirates: Frank Barajas, 5-9 p.m.

COMEDY GiGi’s: Comedy Night hosted by Artie Lopez, 9 p.m.

Levity Live Comedy Club: Jeff Garcia, 8 p.m. OPEN MIC

AD PROOF

Azar’sBarrett Sports Bar: Hump Day Music Jam Ad Executive: (805) 648-2244 Hong Kong Inn: Tuesday Jazz Jam, 8Warren p.m. Night, 8 p.m. Please check this proof over carefully and indicateLeashless all corrections clearly. You a “1st Proof”, “2nd Proof”, and Brewing: 7:30 p.m. with the will have Grapes and Hops: Bluegrass Jam, 6-9 p.m.

“Final Proof”. If we receive no proof after the 1stBeers or 2nd Proofs, AD WILL RUN AS IS. If this proof meets your approval Brothers Harbor Cove Café:Executive: Ukulele jam, 10 a.m. StarO’Leary’s: Lounge Ad Kelly Sp on the 1st proof, check off “FINAL Client: PROOF (APPROVED)” box, date Underground, and sign at the bottom. 805 Comedy 9 p.m. Rock City Studios: 7 p.m. Please check this proof over carefully and indicate all corrections clearly. You will have The648-2245 Tavern: 9 p.m. ASAP ISSUE: 12/13/18 NOTICE: PLEASE FAX THIS PROOF TO (805) “Final Proof”. KARAOKE If we receive no proof after the 1st orSouci: 2ndHosted Proofs, AD WILL10RUN Sans by Sin Chonies, p.m. AS IS. KARAOKEbox, date and sign at the botto on the 1st proof, check off “FINAL PROOF (APPROVED)” Azar’s Sports Bar: 8 p.m. with DJ

CHECK LIST: ess is correct expiration date is correct p is spelling Copper Blues: 8 p.m.ASAP with Microphone p phonepnumber is correct p address correctis correct p expiration date is correct pFAX spelling correctTO (805) Franchize NOTICE: PLEASE THIS isPROOF 648-2245 Heroes (live) Golden China: 9 p.m.

D CHANGES IS 12:00 NOON THEDEADLINE TUESDAY PRIOR ISSUES RELEASE. FOR TO ADTHAT CHANGES IS 12:00 NOON THE TUESDAY PRIOR TO THAT 9ISSUES Keynote: p.m. withRELEASE. Leigh PLEASE NOTE:

DANCING, TRIVIA, ETC. partment of All Southland Publishing, is by thethe copyrighted property of Southland Publishing. advertising produced production department of Southland Publishing, is the copyrighted property of Southland Publishing. Duke’s: Trivia night, 7 p.m. in any of Southland Publishing’s publications is prohibited without the express consent of Any use other than the placement of advertising in any of Southland Publishing’s publications is prohibited without the express consent of Garman’s Pub: Trivia Quiz, 7 p.m. Southland Publishing, plus any applicable fees. Grapes and Hops: Tuesday Night Tango, p OK to run p OK to run Date:_______________________________ Date:_______________________________ 6:30-10 p.m. p OK to Thisrun proof is to checkafternoon, for accuracy and is Institution Ale: Trivia Night, 7-9 p.m. p OK to run 16, 12 -5 pm Sunday December Signature: __________________________ . with correction not intended to show quality of reproduction. with correction Signature: __________________________ Lookout Bar: Team Trivia, 7:30 p.m.

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Wednesday, 12/19 LIVE MUSIC

Keynote LOUNGE Thurs., Dec. 13

Debuting our 2016 Fire Station Red, our tribute to the first responders who saved the Old Creek Ranch Winery during the Thomas Fire.

Fri., Dec. 14 Sat., Dec. 15

JAM NIGHT DJ AVG Pajama Contest

WHAT THE FUNK

Tuesday

9pm to 1am

Golden China: 9 p.m. Keynote: Jukebox Karaoke, 9 p.m. O’Leary’s: Steve Luke and the Lions Den,

9 p.m.

Paddy’s: 9 p.m. hosted by Robin DANCING, TRIVIA, ETC. Anacapa Brewing: Trivia Night, 8 p.m. Bar Rincon at Whole Foods: King Trivia,

7 p.m.

Bogie’s: Salsa lessons, 6:30 p.m.; Salsa music, 9 p.m.

La Dolce Vita: Trivia Night, 7 p.m.

Star Lounge is

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and Better Than Ever!

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AD PROOF Join in the Parade with your decorated boat! FREE Entry! Cash Prizes! Boater Brunch & MORE! Client: Rosewood Hotel Group Ad Executive: Jon Cabreros (805) 648-2244 Please check this proof over carefully and indicate all corrections clearly. You will have a “1st Proof”, “2nd Proof”, and “Final Proof”. If we receive no proof after the 1st or 2nd Proofs, AD WILL RUN AS IS. If this proof meets your approval on the 1st proof, check off “FINAL PROOF (APPROVED)” box, date and sign at the bottom ISSUE: 12/13/18 NOTICE: PLEASE FAX THIS PROOF TO (805) 648-2245 ASAP

DEADLINE FOR AD CHANGES IS 12:00 NOON

THE TUESDAY PRIOR TO THAT ISSUES RELEASE.

Date:_______________________________ Signature: __________________________

December 13, 2018 —

DEADLINE FOR AD CHANGES

— 19

Date:_______________________________

)

Healthy, Happy, Covered

MEMORIES

Continued from Page 9 AD PROOF

nt: Dr. Richard Gagne

Ad Executive: Dave Stephens

(805) 648-2244 one reason or another, The Vagabond, Twin Peaksy-est of them all, still remained. FREE Consultation

check this proof over carefully and indicate all corrections clearly. You will have a “1st Proof”, “2nd Proof”, and There you could always depend on a range of wait staff from sweet to surly, offering Proof”. If we receive no proof after the 1st or 2nd Proofs, AD WILL RUN AS IS. If this proof meets your approval chicken fried steak, Hobo Breakfast, and damn good coffee. e 1st proof, check off “FINAL PROOF (APPROVED)” box, date and sign at the bottom. In the 80s’ The Vagabond was open 24 hours. This made it the perfect hang out

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Health Insurance as CE: PLEASE FAX THIS PROOF TO (805) 648-2245 ASAP Low as $1/MonthISSUE: Insurance Agent FREE Medi-Cal Enrollment

after a late night of carousing the cool music venues once plentiful in Downtown 12/13/18

Ventura. With eyes burning from smoking section waft, I’d table-hop to chat with fellow revelers, then top off the night with something grilled and cheese laden. Very few weekends went by without a trip to the Vagabond for breakfast with friends, family, or maybe alone with a good book. Sometimes my breakfasts would be under less typical circumstances. Like when the city of Ventura tried having the 4th of July fireworks show at 5:00 a.m. Some of us die hards got up, watched the show through blurry eyes and then groggily walked to the Vagabond for a postfireworks snack. AD PROOF For me it feels especially poignant that Jan. 1 will be the last day. Many years I found myself on New Year’s Day, at the Vagabond, attempting to undo the effects #0635106 t: Golden China Ad Executive: Barbara Kroon CA License (805) 648-2244 of the night before with a sumptuous chicken fried steak breakfast. Arguably the best in the world – Certainly in Ventura. Although I don’t partake of that particular check this proof over carefully and indicate all corrections clearly. You will have a “1st Proof”, “2nd Proof”, and delicacy any longer, I feel the need to go back at least one more time to reminisce Proof”. If we receive no proof after the 1st or 2nd Proofs, AD WILL RUN AS IS. If this proof meets your approval while enjoying one of their generously hearty breakfasts. And despite the fact that 1st proof, check off “FINAL PROOF (APPROVED)” box, date and sign at the bottom. she doesn’t really know me, I’d like to say good-bye to Jolene and wish her a lovely ISSUE: 11/21/18 E: PLEASE FAX THIS PROOF TO (805) 648-2245 ASAP retirement. I’d also want to thank her for providing Ventura with a place where sense of community, family and good, hearty food were always a mainstay. Good-bye Old Vagabond, old friend. — Linda Silvestri IV Sedation is what you are looking for!

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LETTER TO MY CUSTOMERS

It is with a heavy heart that I am writing this letter. I have been at Vagabond for almost 44 years. During that time, I have met many, many wonderful people. People that have become not only my loyal and loving customers, but also my dear friends. Many of whom have become like family to me. I met my late husband, Mac, here and together we carried on this business and made a good living for us and our children. Our children were raised in this restaurant, as were our grandchildren and now our great grandchildren. But, like most everything in life, there are changes coming. My lease will expire K LIST: on January 31st, 2019. It will not be renewed by the property owners and they are Richard Gagne, DDS, Inc. ne number is correct ❐ address is correct ❐ expiration date is correct ❐ spelling is correct not interested in leasing the building to any of my staff at this time. Unfortunately, 1350 W. Gonzales Road • Oxnard I am not able to devote the strength and energy needed to tend to the business DEADLINE FOR AD CHANGES IS 12:00 NOON THE TUESDAY PRIOR TO THAT ISSUES RELEASE. E NOTE: efficiently, even if a lease AD PROOF was an option. I rtising produced by the production department of Southland Publishing, is the copyrighted property of Southland renewal Publishing. mobility t:other Mockingbird Moon Ad Executive: Warren Barrett (805) than the placement of advertising in any of Southland Publishing’s publications is prohibited without the648-2244 expresshave consent of issues that have gotten worse over nd Publishing, plus anycarefully applicableand fees. check this proof over indicate all corrections clearly. You will have a “1st Proof”, “2nd Proof”, and the past few years. Anyone ❐ or OK2nd toProofs, run AD WILL RUN AS IS. If this proof meets your approval VCthe Reporter Proof”. If we receive no proof after 1st who has seen me walking 1st check “FINALand PROOF box, date and sign at the bottom. around at the restaurant of isproof, to check foroff accuracy is (APPROVED)” ❐ OK to run SEDATION (#3) Why not? ISSUE: 12/13/18 knows what I am talking E: PLEASE THIS PROOF 3/20 TO (805) 648-2245 ASAP nded to showFAX quality of reproduction. with correction With Attending Adult - TUESDAY 7PM about. So, I am just as ready Run Date: December 13 to call it a day as the owners are ready for me to do so. Banner is a combo#1made in Photoshop. So, here is the kicker. We VOTED OPEN MIC EVERY TUESDAY NIGHT will be closing our restaurant # VOTED 1 KARAOKE EVERY NIGHT IN THE LOUNGE! on January 1st, 2019. I call it OUR restaurant because it has always been a great place, OUR PLACE, for family and friends to gather to meet and eat and enjoy R E S T A U R A N T each other’s company, in good times, in bad times 760 S. Seaward Ave., At the 101 Fwy. • 652-0688 FAX: 652-0822 • www.goldenchinaventura.com and even in sad times. We have all been thru so much K LIST: together over the years. We, ne number is correct p address is correct p expiration date is correct p spelling is ascorrect friends and family, have stuck together thru thick and thin and THAT is what has made this place so very special to me and to so many others. It has been such a warm and wonderful and DEADLINE FOR AD CHANGES IS 12:00 NOON THE TUESDAY PRIOR TO THAT ISSUES RELEASE. E NOTE: fun place to be. Vagabond Coffee Shop! There will not soon be another place that rtising produced by the production department of Southland Publishing, is the copyrighted property of Southland can Publishing. even compare! If ever! other than the placement of advertising in any of Southland Publishing’s publications is prohibited without the express consent Thank allofof you so very, very much for all the love and support that you have shown to me, my family and my employees over the years. I wish everyone that has nd Publishing, plus any applicable fees. p OK to run ever come into contact with me, all the very best hat life has to offer. Try not to be sad or unhappy as this is just another chapter in our lives. Thank you all, from the of is to check for accuracy and is p OK to run bottom of my heart, for the many, many blessing I have received from you. nded to show quality of reproduction. with correction I will look for you on New Years Day!!! Come in and have some Black-Eyed Pease to ensure good luck thru out the new year!!

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(805) 485-8097

KIDS WELCOME Date:_______________________________ at OPEN Signature: MIC __________________________ NITE! KITCHEN OPEN TILL 1:30 NIGHTLY

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Date:_______________________________ Signature: __________________________

Crystals • Jewelry • Incense • Gifts LIST: e number is correct p address is correct p expiration date is correct NOTE:

Sincerely, with love and good wishes to all. Jolene McBee.

p spelling is correct

P.S. The restaurant will re-open after a bit of remodeling and it will be under 5976 Telegraph Road, Ventura • (805) 642-1380 new management.. Please go and check it out and give the new guys a chance DEADLINE FOR AD CHANGES IS 12:00 NOON THE TUESDAY PRIOR TO THAT ISSUES RELEASE. to impress you. mockingbirdmoonshop.com

tising produced by the production department of Southland Publishing, is the copyrighted property of Southland Publishing. — December 13, 2018 other than20 the—placement of advertising in any of Southland Publishing’s publications is prohibited without the express consent of d Publishing, plus any applicable fees. p OK to run

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AD PROOF Fri. & Sat., Dec. 14 & 15 8pm Client: Oxnard Film Society Ad Executive: Jon Ca Ad Executive: Warren Barrett (805) 648-2244 Sunday, December 16 7pm 8pm

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K LIST: ne number is correct

FITTINGS and features NOTICE: PLEASE FAX THIS PROOF TO (805) 648-2245 ASAP lingerie to fit all NOTICE:designer PLEASE moods, sizes and FAX budgets.THIS PROOF TO (805) 648-2245 ASAP

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YourthisBoobs Areover Ourcarefully Business! PSYCHIC Please check “Final Proof”. If we receive no proof after the or have 2nd Proofs, AD WILL RUN AS IS proof and indicate all corrections clearly. You1st will a “1st Proof”, “2nd Proof”, Aphrodite’s offersreceive no on the 1st proof, (APPROVED)” box, dateproof and sign at your the bot “Final Proof”. If we proof after thecheck 1st oroff 2nd“FINAL Proofs,PROOF AD WILL RUN AS IS. If this meets ap CONSULTANTS COMPLIMENTARY BRA on the 1st proof, check off “FINAL PROOF (APPROVED)” box, date and sign at the bottom.

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AD P Client: Greek, The Ad Executive: Warren Client: Ventura HarborPlease Comedy Executive: Warren Barrett (805) check this proof over Ad carefully and indicate all corrections clearly. You will648 hav

check this proof overclearly. carefullyYou andwill indicate corrections clearly. You and will ha Please check this proof over carefully Please and indicate all corrections have aall “1st Proof”, “2nd Proof”, Proof”. we Proofs, receive no proof the IS. 1st If orthis 2ndproof Proofs, AD WILL RUN AS DERRICK “Final Proof”. If we receive no proof“Final after the 1st orIf2nd AD WILL after RUN AS meets your approval on the 1st proof, check off “FINAL PROOF (APPROVED)” box, date and sign at the bo on the 1st proof, check off “FINAL PROOF (APPROVED)” box, date and sign at the bottom. CAMERON NOTICE: PLEASE FAX THIS PROOF TO (805) 648-2245 ASAP and ISSUE: 12/13/18 NOTICE: PLEASE FAX THIS PROOF TO (805) 648-2245 ASAP

CHECK LIST: BRANDON p address is correct p expiration date is correct p spelling is correct p phone number is correct p address is correct p expiration date is correct p VESTAL CHECK LIST: ddress is correct p expiration date is correct p spelling is correct 1583 Spinnaker Drive, Ventura Harbor 1559 Spinnaker Dr.,pVentura DEADLINE FOR ADnumber CHANGES IS 12:00 NOON THE TUESDAY PRIOR TO ISSUES RELEASE. p phone is correct p address is correct p THAT expiration date isFOR correct spelling is correct E NOTE: DEADLINE AD CHANGES IS 12:00 NOON TUESDAY PRIOR TO THA (805) 650-5350THE • thegreekventura.com PLEASE NOTE: (805) 644-1500 ertising produced by the production department of Southland Publishing, is the copyrighted property of Southland Publishing. AD CHANGES IS 12:00 NOON THE TUESDAY PRIOR TO THAT ISSUES RELEASE. All advertising produced by theTUESDAY production department of Southland Publishing, is the copyrighted property DEADLINE FOR publications AD CHANGES IS 12:00 NOON PRIOR other than the placement of PLEASE advertising in any of Southland Publishing’s is prohibited without theTHE express consent of TO THAT ISSUES RELEASE. department of Southland Publishing, NOTE: is the copyrighted property of Southland Publishing.

Any use other than the placement of advertising in any of Southland Publishing’s publications is prohibited with nd Publishing, plus any applicable fees. All advertising produced by the production of Southland Publishing, is the copyrighted property of Southland Publishing. sing in any of Southland Publishing’s publications is prohibited without thedepartment express consent of Publishing, Southland plus any applicable fees. p OK to run Any use other than the placement of advertising in any of Southland Publishing’s publications is prohibited p without therun express consent of Date:_______________________________ OK to es. Date:_________________ Southland Publishing, plus any applicable fees. oof is top check accuracy and is OK for to run p OK to run Date:_______________________________ This proof is to check for accuracy and is p OK to run p OK to run Signature: __________________________ ended to show quality of reproduction. with correction Date:_______________________________ not intended to show quality of reproduction. with correction Signature: ____________ p OK to run This proof is to check for accuracy and is p OK to run Signature: __________________________ tion. with correction not intended to show quality of reproduction. with correction Signature: __________________________

CHECK LIST: O N HpEexpiration R CHECK LIST: p phone number is correct p address is correct date S H O U L D E S spelling i p phone number is correct p address is correct p expiration date is correct R p “PeopleIS like Nadia can’tTHE TUESD DEADLINE FOR AD CHANGES 12:00 NOON PLEASE NOTE: fixTUESDAY the world, but this vital ISSUES RE DEADLINE FOR AD CHANGES IS 12:00 NOON THE PRIOR TO THAT PLEASE NOTE: All advertising produced by the production department of Southland Publishing, is the cop

documentary is proof that All advertising produced by theAny production of Southland Publishing, is the copyrighted property publications of Southlan use other department than the placement of advertising in any of Southland Publishing’s it’s heroic enough just to Any use other than the placement of advertising in any of Southland Publishing’s publications is prohibited without the expre Southland Publishing, plus any applicable fees. heard.” p OK tobe run Southland Publishing, plus any applicable fees. Date:______ – David Ehrlich, indieWire p OK to run This proof is to check for accuracy and is Date:_________________________ p OK to run Signature: _ This proof is to check for accuracy and is to show not intended reproduction. with p quality OK to of run correction Mon., December 17 not intended to show quality of reproduction. with correction Signature: ____________________

3:30 & 6:30pm

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— 21

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proof over carefully and indicate all corrections clearly. You will have a “1st Proof”, “2nd Proof”, and we receive no proof after the 1st or 2nd Proofs, AD WILL RUN AS IS. If this proof meets your approval check off “FINAL PROOF (APPROVED)” box, date and sign at the bottom.

Pacific Wellness of Ventura

ISSUE: 12/6/18 by Dave Randall

SE FAX THIS PROOF TO (805) 648-2245 ASAP

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2807 Loma Vista Ste. 101 (805) 652-0524 Ventura, CA 93001 PACIFICWELLNESSVENTURA.COM

Widows Directed by Steve McQueen Starring: Viola Davis, Michelle Rodriguez, Elizabeth Debicki, Cynthia Erivo, Brian Tyree Henry, Colin Farrell, Daniel Kaluuya Rated R for violence, language throughout and some sexual content/nudity 2 hrs. 9 min.

Holiday Cruises

irst, be advised, Widows is a foreboding film about hardball politics, extortion, treachST: ery and theft. A crime of sorts umber is correct p address is correct p expiration date is correct p spelling is correct may also have happened off screen — committed by the DEADLINE FOR AD CHANGES IS 12:00 NOON THE TUESDAY PRIOR TO THAT ISSUES RELEASE. Hollywood Foreign Press OTE: by Publishing. omitting Widows and its star, ng produced by the production department of Southland Publishing, is the copyrighted property Association of Southland Viola Davis, from its list of nominees for the r than the placement of advertising in any of Southland Publishing’s publications is prohibited without the express consent of Golden Globe Awards. ublishing, plus any applicable fees. 14 & 15 December Let’s forget about that for a moment, OK to run 6:15 to 8:30p p.m. and focus on this dark but savory offering from director Steve McQueen, co-written by to check for Adult accuracy and is p OK to run $35 • Seniors $32 • Child $25 McQueen and Gillian Flynn (Gone Girl) and d to show quality of reproduction. with correction adapted from a British TV series. McQueen (12 Years a Slave) does not make films that are easily digested. Widows, though grim, is like bitter medicine — ultimately of benefit. Ms. Davis, last year’s Oscar winner for best supporting actress, pulverizes each role she plays. In this movie, she’s Veronica Rawlings, a Chicago Teacher’s Union Official, widowed when her husband Harry (Liam Neeson) and his crew are annihilated following a heist gone awry. While grieving, she learns Harry owed a $2 million debt to Jamal Manning (Brian Tyree Henry), a crime boss and candidate for alderman in Chicago’s 18th Ward. Manning gives December 11, 12, 13, 16, 18 thru 23 • 6:30 to 7:45 p.m. her a month before the election to get him the money, or die. Adult $16 • Seniors $13 • Child $10 Veronica comes across Harry’s notebook, containing plans for a subsequent heist. She decides to pull it off herself, with the help of the three other women widowed when the hail of bullets and a spectacular explosion killed their husbands. Michelle Rodriguez is Linda, a clothing store owner until she loses the shop to her husband’s shylock; Amanda (Carrie

Parade of Lights

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Photo by Dan Harding

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Coon), who has a newborn and declines a role in the heist; and Alice (Elizabeth Debicki), a victim of her husband Florek’s physical abuse before he was blown to bits. Linda and Alice are joined by Linda’s babysitter, Belle (Cynthia Erivo), street tough and game for some action. The plan to steal the $2 million is central to the plot, but Widows has a narrative more complex than that. Jamal Manning is running against Jack Mulligan (Colin Farrell), son of the powerful incumbent alderman, Tom Mulligan, played by Robert Duval, gifting us with yet another commanding performance. The ugliness of Chicago politics and the unwavering issue of race bubble to the surface with as much force as the violence and brutality. Sheer savagery bursts forth through Jamal’s brother and enforcer, the psychopath Jatemme (Daniel Kalauuya). He’s menacing and downright chilling. Backstories explain the visceral ache that throbs in each of the widows, pain that continues throughout the plotting and execution of the heist. Alice, for example, not only suffered physically at her husband’s hands, but mentally from the manipulations and shaming inflicted by her horrid mother (Jacki Weaver), a woman with a face webbed by tobacco and hate. One onerous scene is a real-time, dashboard point-of-view shot as Jack Mulligan travels by car from an appearance in the gritty section of the 18th Ward to his well-guarded legal residence a short distance away. It underscores the massive dichotomies that charge this story. The moving parts churn to a tense, taut, gasp-inducing conclusion. Some suspension of disbelief is necessary, but Widows is a deliberate two hours of McQueen’s take-no-prisoners storytelling and Viola Davis, her talent like a warhead yet to explode: Something so fraught with power, you only have to know it’s there to be effected. Being ignored by the Hollywood Foreign Press Association is a fact that might be forgotten by Oscar time. McQueen’s films are challenging, perhaps too much so, when compared to lighter fare. But excellence is sometimes somber. And Widows is an excellent film. ♦

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AD PROOF

Client: Busy Bee Ad Executive: Dave Stephens (805) 648-2244 Camarillo Open Please check this proof over carefully and indicate all corrections clearly. You will have a “1st Proof”, “2nd Proof”, and “Final Proof”. If we receive no proof after for the 1st or 2nd Proofs, AD WILL RUN AS IS. If this proof meets your approval the 1st proof, check off “FINAL PROOF (APPROVED)” box, date and sign at the bottom Christmas Dinner Tuesday - Friday 10am-5:30pm • Saturday 10am-5pmon • Closed Sunday & Monday RESTAURANT & ISSUE: 12/13/18 NOTICE: PLEASE FAX THIS PROOF TO (805) 648-2245 ASAP COCKTAIL LOUNGE

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CELEBRATE CHRISTMAS DINNER

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+ Tax is correct p address

Voted Ventura’s #1 all-american 50’s diner CHECK LIST:

New Year’s Eve Specials

p expiration p date is Kid correct spelling correct phone number ispcorrect address The Friendly Placeis pTo Eat! is correct

p expiration date is correct

p spelling

DEADLINE FOR AD CHANGES IS 12:00 NOON THE TUESDAY PRIOR TO Specials THATDEADLINE ISSUES RELEASE. FOR AD CHANGES IS 12:00 NOON THE TUESDAY PRIOR TO THAT ISSUES R Entrees are served with choice of baked Daily Blue Plate • Super Omelettes Farmers Scramble PLEASE NOTE:

or rice pilaf, andissoup or salad. property of Southlan produced by the production 2department of Southland Publishing, is the property• Chicken of Publishing. Gourmet Burgers & Dumplings eggs scrambled with bacon, ham, All copyrighted advertising produced bySouthland the production department ofpotato Southland Publishing, the copyrighted han the placement of advertising in any of Southland Publishing’s publications is prohibited without the express consent of Any use other the placement of advertising in any of Southland Publishing’s is prohibited without the expr Oldthan Fashioned Soda Fountain sausage, cheddar cheese, and avocado. Primepublications Rib ishing, plus any applicable fees. Southland Publishing, plus any applicable fees. Served with BusypBee Potato’s and a slice of toast. Slow-roasted prime rib served with creamy horseradish sauce. OK to run p OK to run Date:_______________________________ 0’s Juke Date:_________________________ 5 16oz Regular Cut $23.95 Toast Combo check for accuracy and is French c i p OK to run This proof is to checkxforM accuracy and is s p OK to run u 24oz King Cut $28.95 o Signature: __________________________ slice of French toast served 1 egg, 1 bacon, and 1 sausage. not intended o show quality of 1reproduction. withwith correction toBshow quality of reproduction. with correction Signature: ____________________

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643-4864 478 E. Main n A Favorite Spot In Historic, Downtown Ventura

Lisc. #56040989 In the Mood? Try

Real Food!

Pasta Primavera with Blackened Salmon Generous portion of fettuccini pasta cooked with steamed veggies in a rich creamy sauce. $16.95

OPEN NEW YEAR’S DAY 7am TO CLOSE

December 13, 2018 —

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IN GOOD TASTE

vcreporter.com

The Hue spicy beef noodle soup features heartwarming beef broth with sliced and chopped beef with vegetables and mint.

A treat for pho fans by Michael Sullivan michael@vcreporter.com

Bamboo Cafe 2792 Cochran St. • Simi Valley 805-522-6266 $1.45-10.95

was the Saturday after Thanksgiving when my partner and I thought, what would be best on a cold day? Pho, of course! I first introduced him to the Vietnamese specialty at Mai’s in Ventura and again at Pho Oxnard. Moving from Ventura to Moorpark in the last year, the local pho restaurant that looked most interesting online was Bamboo Cafe. After watching a video of the cafe featuring its own “Pho Real Challenge,” a huge bowl of pho, it seemed like the restaurant already had some notoriety. The layout of the café feels like a modern jungle with large vertical bamboo stalks serving as window blinds and a bar that looks like it belongs on the shore of Vietnam. I particularly loved a nature-meets-art wall hanging of an intricate but bold branch with bright handmade red flowers. It reminded me of a cherry blossom branch. We sat in the corner booth where we could see a flatscreen in one corner and the bar across the way. The server was considerate and appeared congenial as we took our time to order. Our final choices: Vietnamese coffee with boba, fire rocket shrimp, egg rolls, Bamboo Cafe noodle soup and Hue spicy beef noodle soup. I do wish all pho restaurants would label the kind of noodles in the soup or if there was options to substitute. I am a big fan of thin egg noodle over the standard thin rice noodles, which is the offering. The Vietnamese coffee came in a plastic cup with a lid

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and a large boba straw. It took my partner all day to finish it and as for the rest of mine . . . it is still in my fridge. The reason: It’s like high octane coffee, too bitter for my taste. But it’s a jolting eye-opener so I decided to keep it for caffeination purposes. The egg rolls and shrimp fire rolls were standard — but that’s not a bad thing as long as they are crispy and not too greasy or burnt; such were these. I thought the fire rocket shrimp — medium-sized shrimp wrapped in rice paper and fried — would be spicy, but that was a wrong assumption. Out next were two big (but not huge) bowls of pho. My partner went with the Bamboo Cafe noodle soup (S1) with filet mignon beef, shrimp and beef ball. I had Hue spicy beef noodle soup (S4) with thin slices of beef and chopped beef with garlic flavor, Hue traditional vegetables and mint. (Hue is a city in central Vietnam.) The recipes for the dish seemed to be pretty standard per every pho place I have visited, but it’s really all about the broth. If you like the broth, a warm beef broth seasoned with herbs and star anise left to simmer for hours and the fat skimmed off (at least that was what the recipe called for when I made it), then the meal is always good. The broth was silky and rich but not overpowering. I had a heap of thin rice noodles that also included beef balls (spongy dense meatballs). It was too much food for us to finish so I ordered a little extra broth to take home with our leftovers. Pho restaurants, Bamboo Cafe included, are great places to try new and different ingredients, including tripe and tendon. The beef balls are also unusual. From now through 2019, if you are looking to stir things up, give something new a try that once may have curled your lip and made you roll your eyes at just the thought. Bamboo Cafe is a suitable place for a new adventure in culinary options. We will surely be back. I just wonder how one would ever compete against a person who has a bottomless pit for a stomach for the “Pho Real Challenge.” ♦

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