Because of the mandatory shelter in place order by the State of California, the Midtown Ventura Community won’t hold its general meeting in May. We hope your family and friends are safe during these extraordinary times.

Here’s a message from MVCC’s Chair Dan Long:

I wanted to reach out to all of our recipients of our newsletter and let everyone know that in the days and months ahead the Midtown Ventura Community Council stands with you. If you need some assistance, whether trying to contact the right person or agency or physically needing a helping hand at home, feel free to contact us. You can reach us through our website at midtownventura.org here or email me here or call me directly at 805-653-6573. (Sorry, I do not text).

Most of you knew that we had to cancel our meeting on March 12 at the last minute and while we did reach out, I apologize if you showed up at the meeting site. We had scheduled Ashley Bautista, Ventura County Public Information Officer, who was to update us at that point regarding Covid-19 but she suggested we cancel. We published the county information website in our last newsletter, which continues to have latest updates along with information of health and public safety instructions which is vcemergency.org.  

You can also go to the City of Ventura site that has a lot of useful local information at cityofventura.ca.gov.

Please follow the procedures that our local and state leaders have issued to help this emergency be diminished as much as possible. One of the best ideas I have heard is to behave as if you have the virus, such as staying 6 feet away from others, which may make it easier to remember and possibly not infect someone else that may be a stranger or someone you love. Please stay home unless you need to leave for essential needs including food and exercise.

The California Coastal Native Garden, in front of Loma Vista Elementary School, is close by and easily accessible to visit and a great place to take a break. All the plants are in full bloom and it is beautiful.

The days ahead can be very stressful which can bring out the best in us but also may be very difficult for others. If you have friends or neighbors who live alone try to find the time to call them. We will get through this together.

If you see something that does not look right, gently help or remind others, as some of us need added consideration in these uncertain times.

Please be patient, safe and have compassion to those you encounter that may need help or just a friendly smile.