Truly a woman of many talents

Shirley Lorraine is a contributing writer for the Ventura Breeze.

by Carol Leish, MA

By being involved in theatre and art, to name two of her talents, Shirley Lorraine is definitely a woman of many talents! Through dancing, acting, and being artistic, too, Shirley displays her creativity.

Lorraine got started in theatre with the Plaza Players in Wagon Wheel Junction, here in Ventura County, in 1968, when she was still in high school. She graduated from Ventura High and Ventura College.

Through getting involved in the formation of several theater companies in Ventura County, Lorraine said that she was involved in all aspects of theatre. “This included being an actor, costumer, make-up artist, choreographer, a director and whatever else that was needed. I had a custom theatrical costuming business: ‘Show Clothes,’ for a number of years. Even though it was low paying, it was truly a labor of love.”

Shirley said, “As a dancer, I was a member of the Pure Joy, the Mackinnon Dance Academy performance group. I was an ‘unofficial’ mime for the City of Ventura’s First Sunday in the Park for many years.”

“With my late husband, Jim Spencer,” Shirley said, “we had a theater review column: “Two on the Aisle” for the ‘VC Reporter’ for over 12 years. We also instituted REP (Reporter Excellence in Performance) awards for county theaters. We wrote theater reviews (and more) for the ‘Ventura Breeze’ for about 10 years (solo for last 5, following Jim’s passing). Over a span of 30 years, the only actual stage performance we did together was ‘Love Letters’ for the Camarillo Theatre.”

“In regards to magic,” Shirley said, “I was encouraged by Jim to incorporate magic with the mime that I was already doing. This led to a solo stage performance and several awards. We formed Spencer/Lorraine Entertainment in 1988. We were also members of the Academy of Magical Arts (Magic Castle). I did Entertaining card and crystal readings as Lady Lorraine (not Tarot). Now, I only perform occasionally.”

Besides her acting background, Lorraine worked for the American Cancer Society, and a pediatrics office in Oxnard. She also enjoyed retail work for fine jewelry in Mervyn’s.

Shirley worked at the Tri-Counties Regional Center for the Developmentally Disabled for 23 years, beginning there as a medical secretary. She retired as a Facilities and Purchasing Manager. She was instrumental in orchestrating numerous moves for six offices located from Simi to Atascadero.

Lorraine also worked as a teacher at the Santa Barbara Business College (SBBC), Ventura campus, for 11 years. “I was awarded the Teacher of the Year in 2011. I taught classes to students in the Medical Front Office program. These classes included: medical terminology; office procedures; billing and insurance; and more. Sadly, SBBC is now closed.”

Lorraine has been involved with several networking, arts, and community focused groups in Ventura County. She’s been involved with the San Buenaventura Women’s Club for 16 years, serving on the board for most of them, and is currently President-Elect. She’s also a Distinguished Toastmaster.

“Since I’m continuously learning,” Lorraine said, “I’m glad to be involved with Just4FunCreations-by making jewelry and framed art using vintage and broken jewelry. I write cowboy poetry, and won the Ventura County Fair cowboy poetry contest one year, and placed 2nd another year. I have also performed at cowboy gatherings.”

Thus, the woman of many talents continues to be active and creative.

Vol. 15, No. 04 – Nov 17 – Nov 30, 2021 – Mailbox

Breeze:

I was visiting from Las Vegas and parked in the parking structure by the beach. It is in deplorable condition. Needs painting, cleaning up and repair. This does not give a very good impression of your wonderful city.

Thanks
Larry Dote

 

 

Ventura Highway by Jeff Russell

A coastal Dawn is a Pacific view,
The morning breeze that leads home,
Where an ocean highway turns while it drops,
A 101 route is there to survey the tide.
As we cruise north in the right lane,
The charm of four wheels turns heads,
The only car with a nostalgic view,
Is my top-down Mustang ride with you.

A man must have a certain amount of intelligent ignorance to get anywhere.
~ Charles Kettering

Ventura College Foundation revises scholarship application requirements

The Ventura College Foundation has revised its scholarship application requirements. The changes are designed to remove barriers to applying. The revisions were approved by the foundation board and are effective immediately.

“We reviewed our scholarship program outcome data, researched best practices for scholarship providers along the lines of diversity, equity, and inclusion, and conducted a student forum to receive feedback from students who had previously gone through the scholarship application process. We heard from many that the old requirements presented unrealistic barriers that prevented them from applying,” says Amy Cherot, chair of the foundation’s Scholarships & Grants Committee. “We’re always looking for ways to better serve Ventura College students and to improve diversity and equity in our scholarship application process.”

One of the significant changes to the scholarship application requirements is that instead of requiring applicants to have completed 12 Ventura College credits by the end of the fall semester in which they are applying, they will have had to complete at least six credits. Credits earned in previous semesters at the college count toward the minimum unit requirement.

“The scholarship program was never intended to only support full-time students,” says Anne Paul King, foundation executive director. “Many students attend part-time while working full-time. This change opens the door to many outstanding students who can’t afford to take on a full course load.”

Instead of requiring applicants to secure two letters of recommendation to apply and be eligible for scholarships, the foundation will instead require one. Students can still submit two. The foundation will review both and select the strongest recommendation letter when evaluating the application.

Previously, the foundation required dual enrollment students (those who are enrolled in high school and Ventura College classes simultaneously) to attend Ventura College upon high school graduation. This old policy prevented dual enrollment students who had completed all their general college education requirements while in high school from receiving foundation scholarships if they were ready to transfer to a four-year university directly from high school. Now, dual enrollment students can apply for the foundation scholarship program regardless of whether they are continuing their education at Ventura College or immediately transferring to a four-year university.

“Many of our scholarships provide funds for students moving on to four-year universities,” says King. “Students who have completed all their Ventura College transfer courses while in high school are now eligible for these types of scholarships.”

 

Scholarship applications are being accepted through January 21, 2022. For more information, go to https://venturacollegefoundation.org/scholarships. Virtual workshops on scholarship requirements and how to apply are taking place throughout November and December.

From Ventura High School to Little House on the Prairie

Karen Grassle, the actress best-known for playing Ma on Little House on the Prairie, has published her memoir Bright Lights, Prairie Dust: Reflections on Life, Loss and Love from Little House’s Ma.

Karen grew up in Ventura from the first grade on, graduating from Ventura High School in the Class of 1959 before heading north to college at UC Berkeley. She got her start in acting in Ventura, starring in the senior play and studying with Barbara Brent and performing all over the county with the Barbara Brent Dancers. Her father Gene F. Grassle was the first president of the Ventura Realty Board and had an office on Main Street. He was the first person many people who moved there met!

On Saturday, November 20th at 4pm, she’ll be back on Main St., appearing at Timbre Books to talk about her new book and all things Little House on the Prairie. Fans can come to meet Karen, hear her talk about her life, and get her autograph in their own copy of her book. The store asks that attendees RSVP via email to [email protected].

In the memoir, there are surprising and never-before-told details of what really happened on the Little House on the Prairie set, but there’s so much more for anyone looking for an inspirational, true story of a woman determined to find meaning for her life. Bright Lights, Prairie Dust is a raw and authentic account of Grassle’s struggles with alcoholism, depression, and lack of self-worth as she journeyed from struggling theatre actress in London and New York to a world-recognized and adored television star.

Vol. 15, No. 04 – Nov 17 – Nov 30, 2021 – Forever Homes Wanted

Hi: I’m Mason, a handsome 2 year old Chow mix who needs a home to help me build some confidence. I am easily frightened by noises. I did come in with my buddy Teddy, but we are not kenneled together. It is not known how I would do with other pets and children. Because I am a black dog I will tend to get overlooked. Please help me get seen and share me with all your friends and family. I’m a sweet soul who deserves a chance at a forever home.

Canine Adoption and Rescue League C.A.R.L. CARL Adoption Center-call 644-7387 for more information.

Otter Pup, 2-year 5 month Pit Bull Terrier, loves to run and play, and especially loves playing with squeaky toys. He’s still a younger guy and would benefit from bring with someone who has the time and energy to keep provide structure so he can direct his energy into fun activities! With small kids and other dogs, Otter Pup can get really excited and can overwhelm them – so a home without little kids would be preferable. Kennel: 089. Shelter: Camarillo Animal Shelter 600 Aviation Dr.
Animal ID: A773951

Community invited to draw map boundaries for redistricting

The City of Ventura continues its redistricting process and encourages residents to participate in the district maps creation phase, open through December 10, 2021.

Residents are invited to draw proposed district boundaries and submit recommendations by print in the City Clerk’s Office or electronically with map drawing tools available online at www.CityofVentura.ca.gov/Redistricting.

Using the online mapping tool called DRA, users can submit maps electronically.  All maps received will be reflected as a “layer” on the interactive review map.

Community members can also pick-up printed maps, available in English and Spanish, in the City Clerk’s Office at Ventura City Hall, located at 501 Poli Street in Room 204.

Community feedback for redrawn districts must use the 2020 U.S. Census data and comply with the Fair Maps Act, adopted by the California legislature as AB 849 effective January 1, 2020. For details on the Fair Maps Act Criteria, visit www.CityofVentura.ca.gov/Redistricting.

To submit paper maps, please email to [email protected]. Draft maps are due by 5:00 p.m. on Friday, December 10, 2021. 

For resources and additional information about the City of Ventura’s redistricting process, visit www.CityofVentura.ca.gov/Redistricting.

For questions or to submit public comments, including suggested draft maps, email the City Clerk’s Office at [email protected]

Vol. 15, No. 04 – Nov 17 – Nov 30, 2021 – Ojai News & Events

The Ojai Art Center (OAC) is proud to announce an upcoming benefit concert by internationally acclaimed and Golden Globe artist Amanda McBroom with a very special guest, Roger Kellaway, a Grammy Award winner and Academy Award nominated pianist and composer. McBroom has performed to a sold out and enthusiastic crowd several years ago to raise funds for the Center, is “a local treasure.” 

“I leapt at the chance to sing in my own home town again, to sing at all, after this period of long down time,” said McBroom, who then reached out to Kellaway. “

McBroom came to fame winning a Golden Globe with Bette Midler’s recorded version of her  song “The Rose,” from the movie by the same name.

Her pal Kellaway, who has recorded more than 250 albums and counting, and has worked with everyone from Ellington to Elvis, Joni Mitchell to Barbra Streisand, and Quincy Jones.

It should be one heck of a concert and it’s for a good cause. After being shuttered during the Covid-19 Pandemic, the Art Center is thrilled these artists have stepped forward to help us continue to serve the arts community in Ojai.

Performances is at 7:30 p.m. November 20 and proof of Covid vaccination and masks are required . Tickets are $50- $125. Reserve tickets online www.ojaiartcenter.org or by calling 805-640-8797.

Chamber On The Mountain presents Duo Apollon, a Voice & Guitar Duo, on Sunday, December 5, 3:00 pm at Logan House (located at the Beatrice Wood Center for the Arts in Upper Ojai). Tickets $25.00 at www.ChamberOnTheMountain.com.

Aaron Haas, Classical Guitarist and Anastasia Malliaras, Soprano of Duo Apollon will delight the audience as they perform art song repertoire with the unique sound of voice and guitar.

Audience members are invited to stay and meet the artists at a lovely reception that will take place outside on our patio immediately following the performance.

Chamber On The Mountain is presented by the Beatrice Wood Center for the Arts. Celebrating its Ninth Season, the chamber music series brings internationally recognized musicians to Happy Valley in Upper Ojai – home of the Besant Hill School, the Happy Valley Cultural Center, and the Beatrice Wood Center for the Arts. For more information visit www.ChamberOnTheMountain.com.

Ventura City Fire Department dispatched to structure fire in large apartment complex

On Nov.6, at 1:50pm, Ventura City Fire Department was dispatched to a reported structure fire in a large apartment complex located at 1300 Saratoga Ave. with reports of people screaming and trapped victims. As fire units arrived, they found a second story end unit apartment well involved in fire and Ventura PD evacuating adjacent apartments. Fire fighters controlled the fire within 16 minutes and performed a primary search of the involved apartment. No persons were trapped as a result of the fire and all residents of the 16-unit building got out safely. Firefighters overhauled the involved area, including the attic and adjacent units to ensure the fire was completely out.

The cause of the fire remains under investigation. Eight adults and 4 children were displaced as a result of the fire.

Vol. 15, No. 04 – Nov 17 – Nov 30, 2021 – Opinion/Editorial

∙ Congratulations to two Breeze staff (we call ourselves Breezers) Sheli Ellsworth is the new President of the Ventura County Writers Club. She is an award-winning short story writer and contributing writer to the Breeze. Mary Thompson is the new President of the Olivas Adobe Docents. She is one of our distributors and sets up our booth at some events.

∙The City Council is still deciding on what the future is for the permanent closing of some downtown streets, which is called “Main Street Moves.” They are still examining how much the city and downtown businesses should pay to keep Main Street closed to vehicular traffic. The closing has kept many businesses (especially restaurants in business) by allowing outdoor dining, but if kept permanent it will very expensive if done right.

The Council has requested staff provide additional information on the proposal.

Even though a majority of residents asked preferred the street closures remain, I wonder if people living on Poli and Santa Clara were asked how they felt about all the additional cars on their streets? And how has this affected business for non-restaurants downtown? Will people walk several blocks to get a cup of coffee?

I assume that eventually this will become permanent, and the streets will be closed. Pavers, planters, fountains should be installed at a great expense. Where will the money come from?

I think it is a great idea, but perhaps should only include three streets, and not all of downtown. Main St. down by the mission has great potential and should be considered when thinking about what to do downtown.

∙ Since I changed our clocks back before I went to sleep on the 7th and not at 2AM as instructed, I hope I don’t get in trouble. I got confused though. Did that mean that I lost an hour of having fun or picked up an hour to have fun? Will I need to wait a year to resolve this?

∙Recently a high school (Inglewood High) football team beat another school 106-0. Inglewood went for a two-point conversion leading 104-0. I think this is awful for both the losers and maybe more so for the players on the winning team. What did this teach them about sportsmanship? The coach should be fired, or suspended, and their football team should forfeit a game. The principal did issue an apology, though that probably wasn’t enough.

∙From George Skelton writing in the LA Times.

“Guns, violence and political extremism are on the rise. And Americans risk disaster, sooner or later. That’s the view of a longtime University of California firearms researcher whose hard-hitting report was published last week in the journal Injury Epidemiology.”

Whom am I to disagree with this?

∙A New Jersey gym owner has been sentenced to more than three years (41 months) in prison for punching a police officer during the insurrection on Jan.6 at the Capitol. Hopefully this will be the guideline for others who face prison terms. Perhaps whomever sparked the insurrections should also go to prison.

∙An Anacapa Middle School history teacher, who was not named, is no longer working at the school. A video of in-class comments made by her stating that Hunter Biden had child pornography on his laptop and was having sex with his niece was made public. I certainly hope that she is also no longer employed by the school district. She also told her students that Donald Trump was currently president.

The teacher is no longer at the Anacapa but is still an employee of the VUSD while the review of the situation continues. If this is all true, I certainly hope that she is eventually fired from the district.

I know that we all hate it when some students use their cell phones during class, but, when they record this behavior, they are serving an important purpose of exposing teachers who shouldn’t be teaching our young people.

∙A new 600-seat music venue, and restaurant is set to open next year on the site of the former Discovery Ventura bowling alley in midtown.

It was an odd mix; a bowling alley, fine restaurant and a music venue, and it just didn’t work. I know several Venturan’s who lost money by investing in Discovery Ventura. I know the owner opened in another city and was accepting investors even as he declared bankruptcy.

I certainly hope this new venue is successful as it would bring new life to mid-town and some well-known musical acts to Ventura.

∙I certainly don’t know much about what is in the new $1.85-trillion social safety net bill (I doubt if those voting for and against also know much about what is in it). I do know there is $390 million provided for early childcare and education. It would provide universal preschool for 3- and 4-year-old children. It would also subsidize the cost of childcare for a large number of parents with children under 6.

I think this is extremely important, as it would help millions of working parents (especially low-income families) to keep pace with the more affluent who can afford to have their children attend private early classes and allow both parents to work.

Many minority children fall behind in school very early and have a hard time catching up.

∙Big Bird has ruffled some feathers by announcing he had been vaccinated against COVID-19. The Muppet tweeted that he had gotten the shot. Even though he has been on TV since 1969, he is officially only 6-years old so only just became eligible to get the shot. He stated, “My wing is feeling a little sore, but it’ll give my body an extra protective boost that keeps me and others healthy.”

This is, of course, a decision which is not shared by all parents as sensible/necessary. It is not known if Ernie and Bert have been vaccinated.

∙According to a new poll from the Public Policy Institute of California, nearly 80% of California voters are in favor of changing the state’s process for recalling elected officials. The survey comes nearly two months after an unsuccessful attempt to remove Gov. Gavin Newsom. The first-term Democrat defeated the recall with 62% of the vote (the same margin he won when he was elected in 2018).

I’m glad both Republicans and Democrats realize how absolutely absurd this process is, plus it cost “us” almost $300 million.

∙The United States had its hottest summer on record this year, narrowly edging out the previous one that was set 85-years ago during the Dust Bowl.

The National Oceanic and Atmospheric Administration announced that the average temperature this summer for the contiguous U.S. was 74 degrees. The heat record saw a season full of extremes, with persistent drought, wildfires, record-breaking heat, hurricanes and other extreme weather. If I didn’t know better, I would think this is climate change. As I write this, it is 85 degrees outside.