Honoring Service, Gratitude, and the Spirit of Giving
As autumn deepens and the holiday season approaches, Ventura Townehouse turns its focus to gratitude—celebrating those who’ve served, gathering with loved ones, and giving back to our community. This month brings meaningful traditions, from our Veterans Day ceremony to our Thanksgiving feast, along with creative events, festive outings, and a few heartwarming new resident stories.
Veterans Day Ceremony
Tuesday, November 11 | 10:30 AM | Rose Garden
Join us as we proudly honor the men and women who have served our country, along with the devoted spouses who supported them. The Ventura British Brass will perform a stirring selection of Americana and patriotic music, followed by a special recognition service. Residents are encouraged to display military photos in the Front Lobby to commemorate their service or that of loved ones.
Thanksgiving Lunch
Wednesday, November 26 | 11:30 AM | Dining Room
We’ll gather for our traditional Thanksgiving lunch featuring a festive menu, champagne, and live music beginning at 10:30 AM in the Front Lobby. Reservations are required for family and friends—$25 per adult and $15 per child. Please note: green buck vouchers are not valid for this meal.
Meet Author Ivon Blum
A retired Los Angeles lawyer turned writer, Ivon Blum has spent more than 20 years exploring the history, landscapes, and legends of the American Southwest. His acclaimed works—including River of Souls, Code Talkers, and Inquest in Zion—blend historical accuracy with captivating storytelling. His newest novel, Rocket’s Red Glare, is a sea-faring tale set during the War of 1812. When he’s not writing, Ivon enjoys sailing, fly-fishing, and living by his motto: “Happiness is the tiller of your boat in one hand and a fly rod in the other.”
Welcome, New Residents
James “Mitch” Mitchell
Originally from Baltimore, Mitch earned an engineering degree from the University of Maryland and worked in weapons assembly for the military before settling in California. He and his late wife raised two sons, and he now enjoys time with his two granddaughters and volunteering at his church.
Harriet Curry
Born in Pennsylvania, Harriet moved to California in 1947 and spent 35 years teaching. A world traveler, she especially loved her trip to China and the Yangtze River. Harriet has two children, five grandchildren, and three great-grandchildren—and fond memories of working in the Townehouse dining room years ago. She’s happy to now call it home!
Employee of the Month: Susana Jacobs
Susana has been caring for seniors for over nine years and joined the Townehouse after starting her career as a caregiver and med tech. She loves spending quiet time watching Grey’s Anatomy, working out, exploring new restaurants, and sharing her adventures with residents. Congratulations, Susana, and thank you for all you do!
November Highlights
Guatemalan Market Day
Monday, November 3 | 10:00 AM
Start your holiday shopping early with beautiful handmade crafts from Guatemala. Proceeds support local families abroad, and a portion benefits our Employee Gratuity Fund.
Townehouse Singers
Join us every Wednesday at 3:30 PM in the Vista Room as we prepare holiday songs for our December concert. All voices welcome!
Resident Holiday Bazaar
Wednesday, November 12 | Dining Room Lounge
Shop handmade crafts, jewelry, quilts, cards, and art created by Townehouse residents. The Towne Mart will also feature holiday cards, wrapping paper, and postage stamps. Sign up in the Dining Room Lounge to reserve a table.
Footworks Youth Ballet Performance
Friday, November 21 | 7:00 PM | Vista Room
Enjoy an enchanting evening as the Footworks Youth Ballet Academy performs excerpts from The Nutcracker Suite.
Christmas Tree Decorating Contest
Monday, December 2
Trees will be delivered to each floor for residents to decorate with a theme of their choice—start planning your creative ideas now!
November Outings
- November 5 – Day trip to Chumash Casino (depart 9:30 AM)
- November 9 – Veterans Day Concert: An American Salute (depart 2:00 PM)
- November 19 – Lunch outing to Lure Fish House, Camarillo (depart 11:00 AM)
Please sign up in the Dining Room Lounge to participate.
November Movies
Monday Movie Nights – 6:00 PM
- November 3 – My Mother’s Wedding
- November 10 – After the Hunt
- November 17 – Blue Moon
- November 24 – Four Letters of Love
Classic Movie Nights – 6:00 PM
- November 1 – Annie Hall
- November 8 – The Family Stone
- November 22 – The Natural
- November 27 (Special Thanksgiving Movie) – Home for the Holidays
November reminds us that gratitude is the heart of community. From honoring our veterans to celebrating with loved ones over a shared meal, may this season bring warmth, reflection, and connection for all who call the Townehouse home.
Read the full issue of our November 2025 Newsletter here: November 2025 Newsletter PDF