Breakfast to Raise Funds for Jazz Venue

As construction of a 10-screen movie theater and a five-story parking garage takes its toll on struggling businesses in downtown Ventura, one resident has begun a crusade to save his favorite watering hole and jazz spot: California 66.

Kris Young, a chiropractor, has long frequented the restaurant at 66 California St., located in the shadow of the new garage.

So when he and his assistant heard that Frank Parong, owner of California 66, was having trouble luring customers downtown during construction, they decided to help out.

They are organizing a breakfast at the restaurant Sunday at 9 a.m. for friends and fellow merchants who want to show their support.

“This is an example of the community helping out the community,” Young said. “We are hoping to raise money . . . and awareness about the restaurant.”

More than 50 people have said they will go, Young said.

The breakfast is a sign of hope during a period that has left some downtown merchants fighting to stay afloat. For Parong, the construction has been devastating.

He said 1996 was his best year. While 1997 was off to a similar start, business plummeted after the start of construction on the garage around the corner.

Parong estimates he is $90,000 in the red.

He asked the city for assistance. While expressing concern, officials said no funds were available.

Parong recently put together a letter he hands customers, asking them to invest in his business.

For $1,000, Parong promises contributors 10% in annual interest and a place on the California 66 Wall of Fame. He said he has raised $8,000 so far.

He is hoping he can stay open until March 15, when the parking structure is to open.

Young said Parong was so touched when he told him about the breakfast that his eyes welled with tears.

“It’s pretty awesome for someone to come down and do that,” Parong said.