Recently The Artesian of Ojai, Senior Living presented a mural. This captivating mural unfolds with a burst of color, depicting a rich and vibrant hues of “Memories of Ojai”. The stunning mural was created by the residents of the Artesian, over a period of 6 months, with the guidance of Ojai artist, Gayel Childress a member of the Ojai Studio Artists.
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Local business and philanthropic icon Ralph Harrison has died
Local corporate leader Ralph Harrison was eldest son of pioneering family that first brought trash collection and recycling to Ventura County.
The longtime president of E.J. Harrison & Sons trash collection company died on Saturday of natural causes, his family announced.
Ralph was born in Ventura on Nov. 14, 1934, to E.J. and Myra Harrison, who founded Harrison Industries nearly 92 years ago, in 1932. Ralph later bought a ranch in Bardsdale, where he last lived.
The eldest of the Harrisons’ three sons, Ralph joined the family business in 1963 and watched it grow from a relatively small local company to the major corporation it is today. Working with local community partners at Gold Coast Recycling and Agromin, Harrison Industries currently serves 90,000 residential and commercial customers throughout Ventura County and in Carpinteria, in Santa Barbara County.
As corporate president, Ralph was in charge of Harrison’s fleet operations, the maintenance and service departments and inventory controls and he headed up an extensive research and development department. Most of Harrison Industries’ innovations are due to Ralph’s ingenuity and he held many patents.
Ralph’s son Lynn Ralph Harrison, a longtime Harrison employee, took over his father’s responsibilities eight months ago and will continue to do so. Ralph’s brothers, Jim and Myron, also will continue to run the business.
In addition to his leadership at Harrison Industries, Ralph was well known throughout the Ventura County community. He was longtime president of the Ventura County Waste Disposal Association, which was formed in the early 1970s by his father, and also served on the California Refuse Recycling Council. As a member of these and other professional trash/recycling organizations, Ralph attended many trash industry seminars and conferences throughout the United States and Canada. He was active in other ways in his community, as well. Among his many affiliations, he was a longtime board member of the Ventura County Fair Foundation.
Ralph along with his brothers gave generously over the years to countless community organizations and causes. Among their most notable donations, the Harrisons made the largest contribution to the building of the new Community Memorial Hospital, and the Ventura Boys & Girls Club has a clubhouse in Saticoy because of Ralph and his brothers’ generosity. The Santa Clara Valley Boys & Girls Club was also very close to Ralph’s heart, as were local 4-H clubs, to whom he often donated livestock to raise.
Age-related forgetfulness
by National Institute on Aging
Older adults may worry about their memory and other thinking abilities, such as taking longer to learn something new. These changes are usually signs of mild forgetfulness — or age-related forgetfulness — and are often a normal part of aging.
However, more serious memory problems could be due to mild cognitive impairment, dementia such as Alzheimer’s disease, or other factors beyond normal aging.
As people grow older, changes occur in all parts of the body, including the brain. As a result, some people notice that they don’t remember information as well as they once did and aren’t able to recall it as quickly. They may also occasionally misplace things or forget to pay a bill. These usually are signs of mild forgetfulness, not a serious memory problem.
It’s normal to forget things once in a while at any age, but serious memory problems make it hard to do everyday things such as driving, using the phone, and finding the way home.
Signs that it might be time to talk with a doctor include:
Asking the same questions over and over again
Getting lost in places you used to know well
Having trouble following recipes or directions
Becoming more confused about time, people, and places
Not taking care of yourself — eating poorly, not bathing, or behaving unsafely
Talk with a doctor if you are experiencing noticeable changes in your memory. A doctor can perform tests and assessments to help determine the source of memory problems. Your health care provider may also recommend that you see a neurologist, a doctor who specializes in treating diseases of the brain and nervous system.
There are a variety of techniques that may help you stay healthy and deal better with changes in memory and mental skills. Here are some tips:
Learn a new skill.
Follow a daily routine.
Plan tasks, make to-do lists, and use memory tools such as calendars and notes.
Put your wallet or purse, keys, phone, and glasses in the same place each day.
Stay involved in activities that can help both the mind and body.
Volunteer in your community, at a school, or at your place of worship.
Spend time with friends and family.
Get enough sleep, generally seven to eight hours each night.
Exercise and eat well.
Prevent or control high blood pressure.
Avoid or limit alcohol.
Get help if you feel depressed for weeks at a time.
Mild cognitive impairment
Forgetfulness can be a normal part of aging. However, dementia is not a normal part of aging. Dementia includes the loss of cognitive functioning — thinking, remembering, learning, and reasoning — and behavioral abilities to the extent that it interferes with a person’s quality of life and activities. Memory loss, though common, is not the only sign of dementia. People with dementia may also have problems with language skills, visual perception, or paying attention. Some people experience personality changes.
Vol. 17, No. 10 – Feb 7 – Feb 20, 2024 – On Vacation
Jim, Emily and Janet Mcglaughlin reading the Breeze at the Pierpont Yacht Club on their visit to Ventura from Anchorage, Alaska.
John Perram: A Ventura Citizen’s Journey
by Ross Wiilliams
Ventura has been home to the dynamic and multifaceted John Perram for the past three years. A man whose life weaves through the realms of sports, family legacies, and the restaurant industry. John’s story is one of passion, resilience, and an unyielding commitment to his pursuits.
School Years
John’s early years were marked by an active engagement in sports, particularly baseball and tennis. As a shortstop for Santa Monica College’s baseball team, his skills on the diamond caught the attention of even professional scouts, leading him to try out for the Oakland A’s. Although unsuccessful, it showed the depth of his dedication and the extent of his talent. Undeterred by the outcome, John’s resilience became a defining trait.
For John, tennis is a family tradition and was ingrained in his DNA. With both parents sharing a love for the sport and a family history adorned with notable achievements. The Wall of Fame at Libbey Park in Ojai proudly displays the names of four of John’s family members, cementing their legacy in the oldest tennis tournament in US history, “The Ojai” Tennis Tournament.
Restaurant Life
Transitioning from the world of sports, John ventured into the realm of culinary delights, becoming a restaurateur. In the 80’s and 90’s the Pelican’s Retreat and Nightclub in Calabasas became synonymous with delicious seafood cuisine, especially renowned for its red snapper adorned with a delectable lemon butter sauce. Over time, the establishment evolved into a vibrant nightclub, attracting both locals and celebrities. However, the shift brought challenges as they navigated finding their identity, experimenting with various foods, and accommodating a changing clientele.
The 94 Earthquake
John and the Pelican’s Retreat stood resilient during the 1994 earthquake. Remarkably, the establishment remained unscathed, with only a lone TV succumbing to the tremors. Ready to open that very night, he wanted to open to help the community in a time of crisis. Recognizing the importance of providing a gathering place for solace and support. The Pelican’s Retreat became a beacon of resilience, offering a comforting refuge for the community to come together and heal in the aftermath of the earthquake.
Retirement and Leisure Activities
John has transitioned into a well-deserved retirement, embracing a life filled with leisure, community engagement, and the joys of travel alongside his best friend and wife, Royce.
Volunteering at Olivas Adobe
A defining aspect of John and Royce’s retired life is their commitment to giving back. Volunteering at Olivas Adobe has become a shared passion for the couple. Royce serves as a docent, sharing the rich history of the site, while John dedicates his time to maintaining the beautiful rose bushes that adorn the grounds. Their joint efforts contribute to preserving Ventura’s cultural heritage and creating a welcoming environment for visitors.
Travel Adventures in Retirement
Venturing into this new chapter of life, John and Royce embarked on a memorable trip down to Key West a year ago. This adventure marked the beginning of their commitment to making travel a priority in the coming years. With a Travel Sprinter RV as their trusty companion, the couple plans to explore new destinations and create lasting memories along the way.
As John transitions into retirement, Ventura remains the backdrop to this chapter, a place where John finds joy, community, and the perfect blend of relaxation and adventure in his well-deserved retirement. His journey continues to be a source of inspiration as he embodies the spirit of embracing life’s diverse experiences. Gazing off into the harbor where sailboats gently rocked against blue gray sky, John expressed a profound sense of gratitude for the life he has built in Ventura. “I feel very blessed and proud to have ended up here! Ventura! I love it!”
Editor’s note: I have played tennis with John but he is too good for me.
Sheldon
Vol. 17, No. 10 – Feb 7 – Feb 20, 2024 – Forever Homes Wanted
Hi: we’re Bandit and Rascal, sweet 17 year old Jack Russell Terrier X who are in need of a new home. We sadly lost our home due to a fire and our owner had no place to go. Thankfully CARL took us both in and will help us find our forever home.
We’ve lived our entire lives together and want to stay together. If you’re interested in two sweet girls who have passed the crazy puppy stage to complete your family, please fill out an online application to meet us. Canine Adoption and Rescue League C.A.R.L. https://carldogs.org/
CARL Adoption Center-call 644-7387 for more information.
Meet 2 year old Chow Kikkoman!
Kikkoman is a fun and bouncy guy. He’s energetic, affectionate, and so fluffy. Lately Kiko has been enjoying playing with some new rough and tumble shelter dog buddies in playgroup. We are happy to help out with a meet and greet at the shelter if going home to a doggie sibling!
Though he was fearful when he first arrived at the shelter, he’s really opened up and shown us what an awesome dog he is. We don’t know how he hasn’t been scooped up yet!
Pet Link: www.vcas.us/viewan-2/?ida=A839855
If you’d like to meet Kikkoman, schedule an appointment at https://www.vcas.us/adopt or come down to the shelter during normal Adoption Hours of 1:00pm – 6:00pm Tuesday – Sunday. If you have questions, please contact us at (805) 388-4341 or [email protected].
Vol. 17, No. 10 – Feb 7 – Feb 20, 2024 – The Pet Page
• A van is needed in order to transport dogs to the vet and for adoption events. Grant writer and retired public defender Jean Farley came to the rescue. Jean has been a CARL volunteer for over 9 years and helped out wherever she could at the kennels and then transitioned into grant writing for CARL.
Ruben Alarcon, a Biology Professor at Cal State Channel Islands is also a CARL volunteer and prior board member. Ruben communicated to the English Department professor who was giving a grant writing class of a need for CARL to receive a grant.
The proposal was submitted on CARL’s behalf to the Ventura County Community Foundation and they received enough to purchase a van.
There are also other ways in which the public can help such as volunteering. CARL is in need of volunteers to do outreach, facilities, dog walking, play groups, transport, adoption events and at the CARL’S Boutique Thrift Store in Ventura. By donating items or shopping at the thrift store, you are helping dogs at the CARL kennels. Please go to their website at carldogs.org and make a difference in a dog’s life.
•Dear Friends:
By Ventura County Animal Services
We did it! Thanks to you! 205 dog beds were donated in just 36 HOURS by shelter supporters in the community! The folks at Kuranda said, “We’ve never seen a donation drive this big go this fast!” They asked how we did it, and we told them we have a close-knit community of animal lovers who know us, trust us, and believe in our lifesaving mission! That’s how we did it!
If you missed the opportunity to donate a bed, our Foundation is always looking for general funds to support our animals’ daily needs, from toys and enrichment tools, to kitten formula and medical procedures. Thank you for supporting your local animal shelter! [www.vcas.us/donate]
Vol. 17, No. 10 – Feb 7 – Feb 20, 2024 – As I See It
The carousel restaurant space in the Harbor Village will finally have a new tenant with the Loose Cannon restaurant finally breaking ground. There are several vacant restaurant spaces in the Harbor currently, so it’s good they will be coming soon.
I have spoken about the dangers of AI previously. Because of the deceptiveness of the technology, it is very important to cross-check articles, statements and photos that don’t seem quite right.
Here’s a good example. Days before a pivotal election in Slovakia to determine who would lead the country, a damning audio recording spread online in which one of the top candidates seemingly boasted about how he’d rigged the election. If that wasn’t bad enough, his voice could be heard on another recording talking about raising the cost of beer.
“I ain’t going to vote for someone who would raise beer prices,” said Kenneth Bonawitz, described by prosecutors as one of the most violent rioters who stormed the US Capital on January 6. He has been sentenced to five years in prison. He is a member of the far-right extremist group Proud Boys (what exactly are they proud of?). He assaulted at least six police officers.
It’s appropriate that after all this time Trump supporters are still being identified and sentenced to prison. I don’t think five years is nearly enough time for Bonawitz who tried to overthrow our democracy and was so violent. Whoever was behind insurrection should also go to prison, in my opinion.
A man from upstate New York was found guilty of second-degree murder for fatally shooting a young woman who was riding in a car that had mistakenly driven up his driveway. On the night of April 15, 2023, the defendant, Kevin Monahan, fired two shots with a 20-gauge shotgun, one of which struck a car carrying Kaylin Gillis, 20, who was hit in the neck and died soon after. Ms. Gillis and a group of six friends had been trying to find a friend’s house for a Saturday night party when they drove up Mr. Monahan’s driveway.
My opinion (yours is always welcome) that “some” people who own a gun are hoping that they get to shoot a “bad guy” to prove that gun ownership is important for their protection.
An orthodontist’s office in North Carolina has stirred up controversy with its new “Grins and Glocks” promotion, a deal offering guns to patients along with certain dental procedures. I thought getting a lollipop was enough. I hope he doesn’t give them guns while still sedated. People who are not sedated cause enough trouble with guns.
Global average temperatures reached new highs over the past 10-12 months, breaking records in the steady march of a warming climate, two national groups said. It’s been warmer than at any time in recorded history and was likely warmer than any other time in 125,000 years, an analysis by Climate Central concluded. The Copernicus Climate Change group said it’s “virtually certain” that 2023 will be the hottest year in recorded history.
I think calling this climate change instead of global warming explains the phenomenon
more accurately. Deniers say, “so why is it so cold and so much snow?” The result of global warming changes our climate in many ways especially by warming our oceans.
Still amazes me that 66% of Trump devotees still think he won the election. This is in spite of the fact that the last election was the most verified and checked in our history. The fact that Trump can claim this, and this many people believe him, is scary because it means they believe anything that he says which is how a dictatorship begins.
A jury ordered Donald Trump to pay $83.3 million to the writer E. Jean Carroll over defamatory remarks he made about her while he was president in response to her rape accusation. His early defense was “she’s not my type.”
Trump had used over $50 million of his donor money to pay for his legal fees. Might he be broke?
The only thing that kept me from going to college was high school.
~ Edward Friedman
Vol. 17, No. 10 – Feb 7 – Feb 20, 2024 – A View from House Seats
by Shirley Lorraine
Meteor Shower Rains Existential Mischief
Now in its 85th year of entertaining audiences, the Ojai Art Center Theater presents its 2024 season “Doorways to Dramatic Worlds” which promises to be stirring.
The Ojai Arts Center Theater is currently presenting an unusual, mind-bending piece of theater. Written by the multi-talented Steve Martin, gifted author, writer, actor and musician, the OACT has staged Meteor Shower, an extended one-act play cleverly directed by Brian Robert Harris.
Set in our lovely town of Ojai in 1993, the audience is invited to ponder some rather esoteric musings of a new-age couple who are trying hard to be “hip” yet who are actually wallowing in their own mediocrity. The piece is classic Martin, who is prone to philosophical questions that neither ask for nor require answers and who challenges the audience’s intellect and ideals without apology.
I thoroughly enjoyed the no-holds barred performances of all four actors – Evan Austin, Kimberly Demmary, Anna Kotula and John Medeiros. The cast was primed and ready for the adventure, each playing their characters with abandon. They are captivating to watch as they grapple with the many quirks in the telling of the story.
A charming split set design by Bianca Rice is complete with its own dazzling meteor shower, which, along with the artistic and functional living room, makes one feel comfortable and peaceful right away. The essence of Ojai is palpable in the serene setting. There are also a few surprising and effective special effects.
Myriad opportunities for laughter as well as philosophical references present themselves, along with the couple’s repeated attempts to “be emotionally connected” via affirmations. Ultimately, the play uses the allegory of the meteor shower raining down as insight into the couple’s inner emotional turmoil. However, the story is, in my opinion, bogged down by repetition of absurdities (really funny the first time, less so as the action continues) in a “let’s rewind and try a different outcome” mode which I found challenging to follow.
The extended skit is well acted and staged although the play itself was not satisfying to me. As in many of Martin’s New Yorker essays and other literary works, the premise began to fray with the repetition, settling for an abrupt “aha” revelation in the last moments which I believe was meant to explain the previous work.
The material does cover a wide range of sensitive adult areas which may be uncomfortable for some, including language that seems to be required these days to drive a point home. Be prepared to expand your mind to embrace whatever comes. The piece will certainly be a conversation starter for many.
Parking is limited and the street is quite dark in the evenings so early arrival and flashlights are recommended.
Meteor Shower runs through February 18 with performances Fridays and Saturdays at 7:30 p.m. and Sundays at 2 p.m. www.OjaiArtCenter.org. Not recommended for children.