Simi Valley Soap Box

This Land is Your Land

2009-04-22T06:57:00.000-07:00

Marilyn Anderson-Champion of the Arts

2008-10-25T17:23:00.001-07:00

Marilyn Anderson, Musical and Voice Instructor at both Cal Lutheran University and Moorpark College, will be honored with "The Champion of the Arts" award by the High Street Theater Foundation at a brunch on Saturday, November 15, 2008, 11:00 AM to 2:00 PM, at The Secret Garden Restaurant in Moorpark, CA. We are proud of her achievements, as we know Cal Lutheran and Moorpark college are. We hope that you want to help us celebrate her achievements.

The High Street Theater Foundation is operated by citizens who have a passion for the performing arts. Organized in 2005, we are dedicated to offer quality performance arts programs for youth by conducting Workshops that teach Theater Arts to youth ages 8 to 18. We are conducting a Theater Workshop for the youth, (our fifth such workshop) in conjunction with the Boys and Girls Club of Moorpark, from the second week in January to the second week in March, 2009. The culmination of the workshop will be a presentation of Disney's "Cinderella Kids" featuring the youths who have participated in the workshop. Proceeds from the Brunch will help support the Workshop.

The Foundation is a 501 c3 non-profit corporation in the state of California. If you have any questions please call.Ralph Mauriello; SecretaryHigh Street Theater Foundation805 529-7580

CURTAIN UP!

2008-05-07T06:24:00.000-07:00

Double click the image to expand the view.

Ralph’s Solo

2007-11-28T06:41:00.001-08:00

Here’s your chance to see Ralph Mauriello perform Schubert's Ave Maria.

The Champion of the Arts

2007-10-21T07:49:00.000-07:00

Victor

2007-09-29T08:32:00.000-07:00

Ruddigore or the Witch's Curse

2007-09-29T08:26:00.000-07:00

Matter, Matter, Matter!

2007-04-11T09:25:00.001-07:00

The Ventura County Gilbert & Sullivan Repertoire Company presents a benefit concert Sunday, April 15th, 2007, at the Hillcrest Center for the Arts in Thousand Oaks.

Click the photo for additional information.

ALWAYS… PATSY CLINE

2007-04-08T21:05:00.000-07:00

The High Street Arts Center is proud to announce that we will bepresenting ALWAYS… PATSY CLINE, in association with the Simi ValleyCultural Arts Center. This musical play, complete with down-home country humor, true emotion and even some audience participation, includes many of Patsy`s unforgettable hits such as: Crazy; I Fall toPieces; Sweet Dreams; and Walking After Midnight. This play closed tosold out audiences in Simi Valley, and we are proud to extend its runhere in Moorpark.

The show will run from April 13th thru April 29th at the High StreetArts Center.

Performances are Friday & Saturday evenings at 8pm, andSundays at 2pm. Tickets are $20 for Adults, $16 for Seniors & Students,and $14 for Children 12 and under.

For tickets, reservations and further information, please call: (805) 583-7900

Or, click on the link: http://www.simi-arts.org/tickets.aspx

See you at the theater!

High Street Arts Center
45 East High Street, Moorpark, CA 93021

CLICK ON THE PICTURE FOR AN ENLARGED VIEW

2007 Season Auditions – Ventura County Gilbert & Sullivan Repertoire Company

2007-03-13T08:16:00.000-07:00

Click on the picture to enlarge the view.

2007 Season Auditions – Ventura County Gilbert & Sullivan Repertoire Company will be holding open auditions for Iolanthe and Ruddigore, on Saturday, March 24th, 1-5PM and Sunday, March 25th, 6-10PM by appointment only. Auditions will be held at the Hillcrest Center for the Arts, in Thousand Oaks. Iolanthe will perform Thursdays, Fridays and Saturdays at 8PM, Sundays at 2PM, starting Friday, June 1st and running through June 17th, at the Theatre on the Hill. Ruddigore will also perform Thursdays through Sundays, October 5th through October 21st, at the Theatre on the Hill. Please bring sheet music in your key. No recorded accompaniment music. All roles are open and require some movement. Please be prepared to read from the script(s). Wear appropriate shoes and clothing for movement. Callbacks will be April 1st, by invitation only. Although this is a mostly adult cast, we do need a few pages and fairies requiring young people 10 years and up (dancers preferred). Please call 805-491-6103 for an appointment or more information.

THE COMPLETE WORKS OF WILLIAM SHAKESPEARE, ABRIDGED

2007-03-12T15:33:00.000-07:00

Don’t forget,
Don’t delay

See THE COMPLETE WORKS OF WILLIAM SHAKESPEARE, ABRIDGED

Right away!

Only two weekends leftto enjoy such a laughFunny?

You bet!You’ll be splitting in half!

So come join the funas we poke at “The Bard”

We promise that you’ve neverlaughed this hard!

High Street Arts Center

45 East High StreetMoorpark, CA 93021B

ox Office: (805) 529-8700

www.highstreetartscenter.com

Must See Melodrama-The Beatles Slept Here

2007-02-17T15:41:00.000-08:00

Click on the image for an enlarged view of the flyer for information on the new production from the Mighty Moorpark Melodrama "The Beatles Slept Here."

Alaska Voyage to the Glaciers

2007-01-15T19:59:00.000-08:00

The High Street Theater Foundation
Opportunity Drawing

GRAND PRIZE
Alaska Voyage of the Glaciers
7 Day Cruise for Two

Aboard the Five Star cruise ship
The Diamond Princess

You will visit Ketchikan, Juneau, Skagway, Glacier Bay National Park and two days cruising the Inside Passage and the College Fjord aboard this luxurious ship.

Brochure price of this cruise is $3,000.00
Tickets are $ 10 each or
Six for $50

Drawing will be held Feb 2, 2007. Winner need not be present

To participate in the drawing call 805 529-7580

Don’t miss this opportunity of a Dream Vacation…The More
tickets you have, the closer you are to being the winner!

Sullivan and Gilbert

2006-10-14T22:41:00.000-07:00

Sullivan and Gilbert, a play with music by Ken Ludwig (Lend Me A Tenor, Joy in Mudville), opens with Sir William Gilbert's letter to Sir Arthur Sullivan. Their infamous carpet squabble newly behind them, they are rehearsing for a review of their operettas, which will be attended by the Queen, but they have neither seen nor spoken with each other in months. Conversation is restored via the telephone, and we quickly move on to the Savoy theater, where we meet the rest of the cast: Richard D'Oyly Carte and the Savoyards. Violet Russell, a pretty, young soprano, is the newest cast member. Gilbert knows he's seen her before but can't quite place her. When he does, a confrontation is sure to follow. Questions quickly arise: Will Sullivan be there to conduct? Will Violet flee in embarrassment? And what in the world are we going to do with Alfred, the Duke of Edinburgh, son of the Queen! Drama, comedy and wonderful Gilbert and Sullivan music, what more could we want?

Directed by Rebecca Pillsbury, assisted by music director Zach Spencer and choreographer Jeff Wallach.

Brought to you by the Ventura County Gilbert & Sullivan Repertoire Company in association with Gothic Productions.

The show runs November 10th through November 26th, Friday and Saturday evenings at 8 PM, Sunday matinees at 2 PM, at the High Street Arts Center, Moorpark.

For more information call: 805-491-6103.

High Street Theater Needs Participation

2006-09-14T06:03:00.000-07:00

Ralph Mauriello, President of the High Street Theater Foundation in Moorpark, is looking for a Board Member and some committee chairmen. If you are interested, call Ralph
Mauriello at 805 529-7580 or email to histreet@hughes.net

9/11 Tribute

2006-09-12T06:47:00.000-07:00

Follow this link for a 9/11 tribute to Frances Ann Cilente.

“Light Up Their Lives”

2006-09-06T05:41:00.000-07:00

You can light up their lives with a candle walk. It is for all of our veterans who are in the hospitals. They are the our service men and women in the ARMY—NAVY—MARINES—AIR FORCE—COAST GUARD. They include veterans form World War II—Korea—Vietnam—Afghanistan—Iraq.

The candle walk is to tell our veterans that we care for them. They gave us our freedom, so let’s show them that we appreciate what they did for us. Come light a candle.

Date: Friday, September 15, 2006

Time: 7:30 PM to 8:30 PM

Place: Rancho Tapo Community Park Veterans Plaza
3700 Avenida Simi, Simi Valley, CA (Close to the Senior Citizen’s Building)

Questions: Please call John Finnigan (Coordinator) 805-522-3074

CANDLES PROVIDED, OR FEEL FREE TO BRING YOUR OWN

(adapted from a SV Senior Citizen flyer)

“Aladdin – All You Need is Love"

2006-04-16T14:19:00.000-07:00

FRIED-OUT FEATURES PRESENTS

The ORIGINAL MIGHTY MOORPARK

MELODRAMA

PRODUCTION OF

"Aladdin – All You Need Is Love”

All Ages WELCOME!

Beginning April 21

Friday and Saturday Evenings Only at 8:00 p.m.

At Moorpark’s Historic Theater on High Street
45 E. High Street, Moorpark

Tickets:

Adults $15 * Seniors $13.50 * Children $10

805. 807.2298

www.fried-outfeatures.com

Written and directed by Terry Miles.

Music direction by Rick Pratt.

Costume Design and Choreography by Debra Sciarrino.

Produced by Steve Carlson Executive Producer Mark Walsh

Another Fried-Out Features Production.

From the producers of true love ways, the story of the sleeping beauty.

Do you believe in magic?

Hells Angels’ Violence In Newbury Park Bar

2006-01-21T08:03:00.000-08:00

The Hells Angels and the Mongols outlaw motorcycle gangs are present in Ventura county. In case you did not know, they are involved in a deadly rivalry. Violence can break out anytime between individuals of the two groups whenever they are close to each other. If you are in the vicinity when violence breaks out, your safety is endangered.

Violence is often visited upon the general public as well, as was the case in the Newbury Park Take Five bar the other evening.

Go to the Simi Valley Sophist link for articles on the Hells Angels’/Mongols war.

Company--A Musical Comedy

2006-01-18T19:04:00.000-08:00

The First Three Weekends in February.

Link to the High Street Theater.

Cl;ick on image to enlarge.

Community Theater to Have Their Rent Raised?

2006-01-03T19:45:00.000-08:00

This is from an e-mail dated 1/3/06 from the High Street Theater Foundation:

City wants to raise the rent
We were able to delay a rent increase last month, but it will be considered again at a City Council meeting on January 18. Many of us plan to be there to explain how hard it is to break even, and how increasing our biggest expense will make it even harder to continue with our use of the theater for the community. Please come if you can, and make your voice heard at 7 PM, January 18, at the Moorpark Civic Center. Our theme is respectful gratitude to the City for preserving the Theater, now please let us preserve the Theater Foundation.

2006-01-03T19:16:00.000-08:00

The High Street Theater Foundation Presents

The Stephen Sondheim Musical

"Company"

at
The Theater on High Street; 45 High Street, Moorpark CA
Nine Stirring Performances
Six Evening Performances; 8:00 PM
Friday & Saturday Feb 3 & 4
Friday & Saturday Feb 10 & 11
Friday & Saturday Feb 17 & 18
Three Matinee Performances; 2:00 PM
Sunday Feb 5, 12 & 19

Adults $ 15.00, Kids (under 12) $ 8.00, seniors 10% discount. All seats reserved. Group rates available.

For tickets call (805) 529-8700
Mail your check to HSTF, 207 W. Los Angeles Ave, Moorpark CA 93021

You can also go on-line to www.highstreettheaterfoundation.org
Or www.gotchaticket.com/mm

Mission LJK: A Delightful Musical Melodrama

2005-12-18T14:16:00.000-08:00

We went to see Mission LJK (Love, Joy & Kindness) last night at the Moorpark High Street Theater. What a treat. For those of you who don’t partake of wonderful community theater, you are missing much. I’ve gone to beaucoup theatrical productions since my college days when a girlfriend introduced me to Stage Theater. I’ve been hooked ever since. Professional and amateur productions. Mission LJK was one of those thoroughly enjoyable experiences.

Five year olds Holly Loren Tignac and Dakota Burdon nearly stole the show. I was not sure if my wife was either going to rush up on the stage and hug them or pee her pants with laughter.

Fifth grader Joshua Scott Tignic was phenomenal. (I am going to run out of superlatives in this blog.)

Candace Gray, Chris Carnicelli, and Pat Newbert were absolute standouts.

If I keep going, I’ll work my way through the whole cast.

Treat yourself to a wonderful experience and support local theater. It is part of the richness of our communities.

Moorpark Melodrama back with Mission LJK

2005-12-01T08:18:00.000-08:00

icekingflyer
Originally uploaded by simi valley sophist.

Click on the photo for details about the new melodrama.

The High Street Theatre is casting for the musical "Company"

2005-12-01T08:05:00.000-08:00

At the center of "Company" is Robert, a 35-year-old bachelor afraid of commitment. A documentary will be produced of the audition and rehearsal process up to opening night.

Seeking-- ROBERT-BARITONE An observer, seemingly happy, but with a hidden pain, AMY-ALTO A frantic, neurotic, loving woman,
APRIL-MEZZO A girlfriend of Robert - a flight attendant; a bit air-headed, but adorable, DAVID-TENOR Jenny's husband, relaxed, in control,
HARRY-BARITONE Sarah's husband - an alcoholic in self-denial,
JENNY-SOPRANNO Quietly manipulative, simultaneously square and wise,
JOANNE -MEZZO Acerbic, funny, demanding,
KATHY-MEZZO A girlfriend of Robert - sweet and very much in need of love,
LARRY-TENOR Joanne's husband, stoic and centered,
MARTA-MEZZO A girlfriend of Robert - an intensely "with-it" woman,
PAUL-TENOR Amy's fiancé - coolly loving to Amy's neurotic nature,
PETER-BARITONE Susan's husband - the perfect husband and ex-husband,
SARAH-ALTO Crisply critical, karate-learning over-eater,
SUZAN-MEZZO A delicate southern belle.

OPEN CALL AUDITIONS Saturday Dec. 10th 10:AM TO 5:00PM with callbacks Sunday Dec 11th 6:00pm at The Theater On High Street, 45 High Street Moorpark, Ca. Prepare at least 16 bars of legit theatre song to be sung with an accompanist with an instrumental CD or cassette. Rehearsals begin approximately December 15th. There will be 9 weekend performances on the first three weekends in February. Friday nights, Saturday nights and Sunday matinees with the possibility of extension of additional 3 performances. Contact Aletheia Regier at 805 529 8700 or email to dandelion_poet@yahoo.com

Love Letters

2005-11-11T16:08:00.000-08:00

Love Letters
Originally uploaded by simi valley sophist.

Another play at the Theater on High Street. Double click the image to enlarge it for easy reading.

Ojai Film Festival at the Theater on High Street

2005-11-11T15:45:00.000-08:00

Best Of the Ojai Film Festival at the Theater on High Street

Thursday, November 10 - 7:30 pm

7:30 Animation Shorts (85 min)
9*, Cold War, The Fan and the Flower, City-Paradise, Elegy, Handshake, It’s The Cat*,
Life in Transition, Nibbles, Oola Oop L’eau de Ohh!, Ryan*, Welcome to Eden, Whan

9:10 The Unfolding (21 min) – Narrative Short

9:40 Dead End Job* (22 min) – Narrative Short

Friday, November 11 – 7:30 pm

7:30 A Note of Triumph: The Golden Age of Norwin Corwin* (40 min) – Documentary

8:20 Dancin’ In the Streets (5 min) – Narrative Short

8:30 At Last* (99 min) – Narrative Feature

Saturday, November 12 – 7:30 pm

7:30 God Sleeps in Rwanda* (29 min) – Documentary

8:15 Nobody’s Perfect* (23 min) – Narrative Short

8:50 Red Dust (110 min) – Narrative Feature

Sunday, November 13 – 7:30 pm

7:30 A Question of Loyalty (14 min) – Narrative Short

7:45 Winning the Peace (18 min) – Documentary Short

8:15 Off to War (80 min) – Documentary Feature

9:35 Sin Embargo – Nevertheless* (40 min) - Documentary Short

*Ojai Film Festival Award Winner

Theater on High Street

45 E. High StreetMoorpark, CA 93021
805 529 8700
www.highstreettheaterfoundation.org

THE BLUE & THE GRAY MIGHTY STONEWALL

2005-10-30T19:29:00.000-08:00

THE BLUE & THE GRAY MIGHTY STONEWALL

Civil War Battles & Encampment

November 5-6, 2005Rain Dates November 12-13

Battle ScheduleSaturday (12, 3, & 5:15 pm)Sunday( 12 & 2 pm)Admission: $12Students: $8 (must show school i.d.)

Tierra Rejada Ranch
3370 Sunset Valley Rd., Moorpark, CA, 93021

Go here to see the web site.

NAACP Hatcher Joins the Race Card Dishonor Roll

2005-10-05T21:43:00.000-07:00

John R. Hatcher III, president of the NAACP in Ventura County has joined the Race Card Dishonor Roll. Read it here.

Louisiana Hurricane Relief Concert

2005-09-08T23:52:00.000-07:00

Vaudeville Returns to Moorpark

2005-09-01T20:29:00.000-07:00

Vaudeville is returning to the High Street Theater for a 3 performance run. Friday 10/1 is a Gala Benefit. The Sat evening and the Sun matinee are regular shows.

See the flyer for details.

Book your tickets early.

Military Family Appreciation Day

2005-08-31T17:32:00.000-07:00

Put it on your calendar and RSVP. See the flyer for details.

Simi Valley Days Are Here

2005-08-31T17:24:00.000-07:00

Go to Simi Valley Days for all the particulars.

Blue Star Mothers in Simi Valley

2005-08-27T23:41:00.000-07:00

Chapter 8 of the Blue Star Mothers were at the Simi Valley Wal-Mart on Saturday and they will be there on Sun between 10 AM to 4 PM.

From the Ventura County Star,
Blue Star Mothers evolved out of the World war I practice of displaying a Blue Star flag in the windows of homes where loved ones were serving in the war. The practice continues today. Blue Star Mothers conduct packaging events and letter-writing campaigns, attend memorials and visit veterans hospitals.

Chapter 8 has monthly meetings at 7 p.m. on the third Thursday of the month. For more information, call Mary Richardson- Pettit at 646-2827, or e-mail vcbluestarmoms@earthlink.net.

Also, see my blog on the Blue Star Mothers in the Simi Valley Sophist.

Team Simi Night At the SV Hudson’s Grill

2005-08-26T11:12:00.000-07:00

Team Simi, that great group of ladies training and raising funds for the San Diego 3-Day Breast Cancer Walk, is holding a fund raiser at Hudson’s Grill, 2900 Cochran, Simi Valley, on Monday, 8/29/05, from 5-9 P.M. Read about it here and here.

Update: There was a good turnout. One waitress explained that normally she does not work on Monday night. She donated her night's tips, $31.00. That's great. Thanks for the support everyone.

Local Commercial Burglary Arrests

2005-08-23T22:16:00.000-07:00

See my Simi Valley Sophist blog, Welcome to America, Now Please Rip Us Off.

Ronald Reagan Library Sacks Docents

2005-08-13T10:32:00.000-07:00

The Ronald Reagan Library has an active docent program. Each docent, normally a senior citizen, volunteers his or her time to make the library an enjoyable experience for the library’s multitudes of visitors. The docents are always well groomed and polite to a fault. They are giving back to their community and doing something very important for their own health and welfare. Their volunteer job provides them with an important avenue to stay connected and active. These people, often well advanced in years, are not whiling away their years in non-productivity. The docent program is, therefore, a symbiotic relationship wherein both the library and the docent are benefited.

Now comes the question; what is the library to do when a docent is no longer cutting the mustard? The Library’s solution is a retirement with an “emeritus” status.

Twenty-seven docents at the Ronald Reagan Presidential Library and Museum received letters, dated July 19, saying they've reached docent emeritus status, which, aside from exempting them from annual membership dues, also releases them from the most coveted work for a docent: conducting tours. These 27 docents will not lead tours of the new Air Force One Pavilion, scheduled to open this fall.

Some of the pink-slipped docents are angry and feel that they have been discriminated against on the basis of age. A library spokesperson responds:

"It has absolutely nothing to do with age," said Kirby Hanson, director of business development, who was the creator of the new emeritus program. "It's our responsibility to improve the volunteer program. The eyes of the world are on the Reagan Library.

"We could have dismissed them, but we didn't want to dismiss them," Hanson said. Each of the docents had served at least five years, she said. Most of them were in their 70s, but one was the youngest docent, Hanson said.

Hanson said evaluations have been conducted throughout the year, but six docents contacted by The Star said none of them was given an in-person evaluation.

All of this controversy has apparently resulted in some docents meeting and discussing things. A letter to all docents reveals that Duke Blackwood, executive director of the library, has opted to use a nuclear option:

The letter was written in response, as he said, to some "rumormongering," accusations and secret meetings among some of the volunteers, and aimed to stop any negative behavior.

"Because of the actions of the select few, I have been forced to take a swift and decisive action. PLEASE NOTE: If I learn of detrimental behavior, I will personally confront the individual(s). If I deem them a negative influence on the volunteer organization of the Library I will exercise my authority to remove those individuals immediately. This behavior will not be tolerated."

That’s pretty tough talk. I would say the docents have been fairly warned. Free speech is suspended upon admission to the docent program.

Michael Clark Was Remembered

2005-08-05T10:41:00.000-07:00

See my posting in the Simi Valley Sophist on the remembrance of the death of SVPD Ofc. Michael Clark.

"Make no mistake about it, we are at war."

2005-08-04T05:01:00.000-07:00

Pres. Bush and some of his advisors seem to be at odds over the nuances about what it is we are actually doing in response the attacks upon this country. Ever since 9/11/01, Pres. Bush has said that we are in a war against terrorism. That is technically not correct since terrorism is an act and you can’t go to war against an act. You can only go to war with an entity, a people or a country. This nuance is not lost on the President,

“Mr. Bush made a nod to the criticism that "war on terror" was a misleading phrase in the sense that the enemy is not terrorism…”

“"Make no mistake about it, this is a war against people who profess an ideology, and they use terror as a means to achieve their objectives,"…”

I was criticized in a previous blog when a writer thought that I did not know what constituted a war. For the edification of my reader:

Merriam-Webster: War Defined:
“Etymology: Middle English werre, from Old North French, of Germanic origin; akin to Old High German werra strife; akin to Old High German werran to confuse1 a (1) : a state of usually open and declared armed hostile conflict between states or nations (2) : a period of such armed conflict (3) : STATE OF WAR b : the art or science of warfare c (1) obsolete : weapons and equipment for war (2) archaic : soldiers armed and equipped for war2 a : a state of hostility, conflict, or antagonism b : a struggle or competition between opposing forces or for a particular end…”

Since war is an act directed toward people, let’s say it as it is. We are in a war against Islamo-fascism. The President knows this,

“"Make no mistake about it, this is a war against people who profess an ideology, and they use terror as a means to achieve their objectives,"…”

This is not a war against the Islam that is practiced as a peaceful religion, despite the Koran’s aggressive language. What the President needs to say openly and clearly is that we are at war with Islamo-fascism. Make no bones about it. State it as it is.

SV Officer Murdered 10 Years Ago

2005-08-04T04:23:00.000-07:00

Today is the anniversary of the death of Ofc. Michael F. Clark. Here is the link to the Simi Valley Sophist story.

Moorpark Theater is Secured

2005-07-28T22:52:00.000-07:00

Moorpark Theater
Originally uploaded by simi valley sophist.

It is exceedingly good news that the City of Moorpark has decided to provide the City with a continuing venue for theater productions. Read here about:

“The city's Redevelopment Agency has agreed to purchase the historic Theater on High Street for $1.25 million, ending months of negotiations and speculation about the future of the landmark.”

“The theater, at 45 High Street in the heart of Moorpark, was built in 1927 and has suffered from abandonment, seismic damage and deterioration.”

“The theater has staged films, plays and concerts. The public ownership means the landmark will be saved for community use.”

52nd Korean War Armistice

2005-07-28T18:13:00.000-07:00

52nd Korean War Armistice
Originally uploaded by simi valley sophist.

On Sat., 7/23/05, there was a small respectful crowd that attended the ceremony conducted by Korean War Veterans from the Santa Paula VFW Chapter. It was a touching remembrance for the Veterans who died in the service of others and for those who have died subsequent to the war.

Only One More Weekend to Go

2005-07-24T20:46:00.000-07:00

Man of La Mancha Flyer 2
Originally uploaded by simi valley sophist.

The production last Saturday night was powerful. Especially strong in both vocals and acting were Damian Gravino, Marlon Robinson, Ralph Mauerillo, and Alysse Alcroft.

Click on the flyer for details.

Hells’ Angels Trial About to Begin

2005-07-22T15:52:00.000-07:00

“In Laughlin, Nevada, at the Laughlin River Run in April 2002, about 85 Hells’ Angels attacked approximately 40 Mongols in the Harrah’s Casino. After the shooting and stabbing ended, two Hells’ Angels and one Mongols were dead and many wounded on both sides. Later that night a third Hells’ Angel was shot off his motorcycle in the desert not far from Laughlin. You will notice that the Mongols were attacked and outnumbered 2 to 1 and yet 3 Hells’ Angels died and only 1 Mongols died. That might well be an indication about the ferocity of the Mongols, who are thought to be the most dangerous of outlaw motorcycle gangs.” That’s what I wrote in my blog Under and Alone. Now the trials are finally beginning. Go here and here for articles about the delay in the start of the trial.

Did you know that members of the local Hells’ Angels living in Ventura County participated in the Laughlin battle. How safe does that make you feel? Oh, I forgot. They are just a group of fun loving guys who like to ride motorcycles.

Are you, or is someone you know, one of those persons who likes to rub elbows with outlaw motorcycle gang members? Do you wear their support merchandise or do you attend their public events? You do? So much for your common sense!

52nd Anniversary Korean War Armistice Ceremony

2005-07-19T22:04:00.000-07:00

Where: Korean War Monument in Veterans Memorial Park
Ventura Street between 10th & Mill Streets, Santa Paula

When: Saturday, 7/23/05 10:00 AM

To Honor a Deceased Korean War Vet: Call Hidalgo 805-486-3245

Info: Courtesy Ventura County Star 5/19/05 B-1

See my blog on a local Korean War Vet.

Read About an LA Times Racist Smear

2005-07-17T18:48:00.000-07:00

See my Simi Valley Sophist blog.

Archery Shoot at the End of July

2005-07-17T17:46:00.000-07:00

SCAA_Verdugo
Originally uploaded by simi valley sophist.

The Verdugo Hills Archers are holding a fundraiser SCAA Shoot on July 31, 2005. Click on the picture to increase the size and read the details.

Chinese Unrestricted Warfare

2005-07-17T07:39:00.000-07:00

Newsmax.com is promoting a book, Unrestricted Warfare, about the People’s Republic of China and its support for asymmetric warfare against the U.S. The book is said to be a translation of a Chinese military manual. Or you can find it online here & here.

“The doctrine of total war outlined in Unrestricted Warfare clearly demonstrates that the People’s Republic of China is preparing to confront the United States and our allies by conducting “asymmetrical” or multidimensional attacks on almost every aspect of our social, economic and political life.”

Newspapers Deceiving Us Over Homegrown Terrorism

2005-07-16T14:59:00.000-07:00

Today’s edition of the Los Angeles Times had an important article about the arrest of black robbers who are additionally suspected of being involved in plotting Islamic terrorism. See my blog Black Islamic Terrorism and Crime Linked in LA.

If the public is going to be adequately informed, we must require that our mainstream media present all of the facts and not give us politically correct drivel. Half of a story is not acceptable. At least the LA Times wrote an article in which the reader might infer that black homegrown Islamic terrorism is a significant potential. That’s more than you can say for the Los Angeles Daily News or the Ventura County Star.

Newbury Park Muslims Denounce Terror

2005-07-16T12:09:00.000-07:00

Finally, local Muslims are beginning to denounce the actions of the radical Islamo-fascist worshipers. It is a good first step. Why has it taken so long? The scariest part of what is happening today has been the lack of outrage on the part of mainstream Muslims.

The U.S. is the most tolerant country in the world. The law is the law, but it is rooted in a tradition of religious acceptance. If Muslims expect that tradition to survive, they must convincingly explain to the public why they have been so long in absence from any meaningful protest against their fellow Islamists.

CA Legislators Seek to Undo U.S. Supreme Court Theft

2005-07-15T19:42:00.000-07:00

From the Ventura County Star, “A group of California lawmakers is trying to block the effects of last month's U.S. Supreme Court ruling that expanded the government's power to seize private property, a decision that was swiftly criticized by groups across the political spectrum.”

California politicians have introduced a State constitutional amendment that would prohibit governmental bodies from exercising their newly acquired rights to steal your property for other than public use. Thank goodness someone is trying to rescue us from the case of Kelo v. New London. Now it’s up to the blue hued state to repudiate the word of the mighty 5 and come to their own defense.

Great Review for Man of La Mancha

2005-07-14T04:49:00.000-07:00

Man of La Mancha
Originally uploaded by simi valley sophist.

Read the review here.

Fourth of July Message

2005-07-04T00:13:00.000-07:00

Ol' Glory
Originally uploaded by simi valley sophist.

It’s the Fourth of July and there is much to remember that can guide us in the future. See my Fourth of July blog here.

Happiness

2005-07-01T06:36:00.000-07:00

Both Michael Josephson (Character Counts) and talk-show host/author Dennis Prager expound upon the foundational importance of happiness. Each recognizes that we have a responsibility to be happy and to do our best to make others happy. Read Josephson’s Character Counts: Happiness is a Choice here. Dennis Prager wrote a book, Happiness is a Serious Problem, see it here. Prager is also giving a speech on the subject at the Simi Valley-Moorpark Republican Women Federated club meeting on August 11th. The speech is open to the public. Read it here.

CA Breast Cancer Walk Season Begins

2005-07-01T06:07:00.000-07:00

pink ribbon
Originally uploaded by simi valley sophist.

The California ’05 Breast Cancer Walk season opens with the Avon walk in San Francisco on July 9th, followed by the LA Avon walk on Septemper 19th and closes with the Susan G. Komen walk in San Diego on October 14th.

The Avon walk, which began in 1998, was originally a moving three day, 60 mile trek wherein the entire operation moved and set-up two camps along the route. Now Avon is a two day event with just one camp. In 2003, the Komen 3 Day walk began, and it is a replication of the original Avon three day event. Each walker must raise $2,100 or $1,800 respectively to participate.

A group of walkers have organized three mile walks on Saturday morning in Thousand Oaks to raise money for their team to enter the LA Avon walk. This is a good way to help a great cause, get some exercise and enjoy the camaraderie of new friends. Read it here in the Ventura Star.

Go to the Avon web site and the Komen web site.

Man or La Mancha Musical Comes to Moorpark

2005-06-29T21:41:00.000-07:00

Man of La Mancha Flyer 2
Originally uploaded by simi valley sophist.

Opening July 9th and running through July 30th is Man of La Mancha at the High Street Theater in Moorpark. Be sure and catch a performance of this great musical in the beautiful, refurbished theater. I predict that it will be a great performance. Go here or here for tickets. Click on the picture to enlarge

Chinese Target Southland

2005-06-27T20:59:00.000-07:00

Read here my Simi Valley Sophist blog about the probable Chinese espionage in the southland.

Save Our State is Ventura Based

2005-06-27T04:32:00.000-07:00

I posted recently here about racial tension in Baldwin Park over the inscription on a monument located on City property. There was a second demonstration Sat. Turns out the group protesting the arch is from Ventura County. Read it here.

Outlaw Motorcycle Gang Plots to Kill Deputy in Simi Valley

2005-06-25T01:48:00.000-07:00

William Queen
Originally uploaded by simi valley sophist.

William Queen went undercover for the ATF into the Mongols outlaw motorcycle gang. In 1998, there was a harrowing experience in a Simi Valley campground. Read it here.

In case you did not know, Simi Valley and Ventura are exclusive Hells’ Angels territory. And Camarillo was until it gained a chapter of the Mongols outlaw motorcycle gang. These two gangs have been killing each other off-and-on for decades

Most of us don’t realize that these people are vicious criminal sociopaths and a threat to the citizenry.

Danzas Indigenas—Baldwin Park Battle

2005-06-22T21:40:00.000-07:00

A battle between proponents and opponents of a monument in Baldwin Park is stirring racial discord. See my post on SV Sophist.

Golfing for Sgt Michael A DiRaimondo

2005-06-22T18:18:00.000-07:00

The memorial golf tournament for Sgt Michael A. DiRaimondo is Monday, 6/27/05. See my post here.

Moorpark College Hitler Reference

2005-06-18T23:18:00.000-07:00

It looks as if I did not understand the bigger picture when I bloged here about the lack of civility by protestors demonstrating at a Karl Rove function using a swastika in conjunction with the pictures of George W. Bush and Karl Rove. Silly me, I thought that invoking the symbolism of one of the worst regimes of the 20th century was over-the-top. Take a look at this video describing Hitler references.

Now that I am enlightened, I guess I should reappraise the Moorpark College Democrats for referring to George W. Bush as the "Fuehrer" in their June 14th. blog entitled, “Karl Rove Event After Action Report.” Read it here. You will have to search for it a bit. From the home page select "Blog," then select "June Archive," and scroll down.

Kind of makes you wonder about the phrase “higher education.”

Special Invitation by SV Tai Chi Club

2005-06-17T22:27:00.000-07:00

The Tai Chi Club of Simi Valley

Presents:

THE NATURE OF CHI
with Dr. Chris Curry

Dr. Curry will discuss the nature of chi. He will guide us through some basic techniques that can help bring about an experience of chi. All attendees are encouraged to participate. A question and answer period will follow.

PLEASE JOIN US
No experience necessary

Wednesday, June 29, 2005
7:00PM to 8:30 PM
Rancho Simi Recreation and Park District
1692 Sycamore Drive
Recreation Room

$5.00 per person

No special clothing necessary
Wear comfortable shoes

Dr. Chris Curry has a Ph.D. in Philosophy. He has been teaching and practicing tai chi and other related martial arts for 40 years. He also practices yoga with emphasis on Prana Yama Yoga.

Dr. Curry taught philosophy at Loyola Marymount University for 19 years.

Survivor Gives Back

2005-06-17T18:36:00.000-07:00

Local resident Bob Ferber contracted chronic myeloid leukemia (CML) for which he received the then experimental drug Gleevec. He is here today engaging in two very important works that are near and dear to his heart, animal welfare and helping others with cancer. Read here Bob’s amazing story with cancer. Read here where he uses animals as an avenue to discuss the ramifications of cancer with others.

Simi Valley City Focus

2005-06-16T21:18:00.000-07:00

City_Focus
Originally uploaded by simi valley sophist.

The City of Simi Valley printed and posted the first issue of the new City newsletter entitled City Focus. The newsletter is well done and attractive. I don’t know how the public will obtain printed issues, but you can go to the City web site (see the link listed on the right sidebar of the blog) or go here for the pdf version.

Sgt Michael A DiRaimondo

2005-06-16T17:30:00.000-07:00

Sgt Michael A DiRaimondo
Originally uploaded by simi valley sophist.

One of our own died in Iraq. He made a mortgage payment for freedom on our behalf. Go to the website for Sgt. DiRaimondo here.

“The Michael A. DiRaimondo Foundation was created in January, 2004 in honor of the U.S. Army Sergeant who was killed in action in Iraq on January 8th. Michael was on a medical mission when his unarmed Medevac helicopter was hit by a surface to air missile, killing him, three other crew members and five patients.”

“The Michael A. DiRaimondo Foundation’s sole purpose is to provide scholarships to individuals who aspire to be civilian paramedics, but don’t have the financial means to pay for the tuition.”

Go here to learn about the Foundation’s charitable golf tournament.

Council Woman Wants Library Banners

2005-06-16T05:08:00.000-07:00

Teresa Rochester wrote in an article in the Ventura Star, “American flags wave from some of Simi Valley's light poles now, but in the future, banners heralding the Ronald Reagan Presidential Library and Museum would take their place, at least part of the time.”

There is no doubt that the Ronald Reagan Library is a positive feature for the City of Simi Valley. Thousands of visitors come to Simi Valley each year and undoubtedly a few leave some of their dollars with local businesses. And, the proposed Library flag idea would add color to the streets. But, should it replace the patriotic flags already present? And, should the City suport a private business and not accord other businesses in the City the same opportunity?

The Library is part National Archive and part private foundation. It is the foundation that will benefit most by the advertisement on City streets. The City presently has regulations prescribing the types of display permitted. Regulations will have to be changed to allow for commercial advertising by businesses sponsoring the Library. The City Manager is quoted, “The appropriateness of having sponsor names on the banners is one of the issues the city is looking into, along with the size of the sponsor's name,…”

I doubt that the City wants to open the City streets to general advertising, so it is not appropriate for the City to support the Library, a private enterprise. Existing methods of support are already prevalent. The support of Library functions with City personnel, while not extremely frequent, is nevertheless quite expensive. In addition, the City is looking to buy the old East Valley Sheriff’s station to use for Library parking. Read it here.

Man of La Mancha

2005-06-15T22:10:00.000-07:00

Man of La Mancha
Originally uploaded by simi valley sophist.

The High Street Theater Foundation presents the Broadway Musical “Man of La Mancha.” The production runs weekends from July 9th-30th. Be sure to catch a performance. Order tickets here and here. Click on the flyer to enlarge it.

Col.East & Pres. Reagan’s Missed Opportunity

2005-06-13T21:55:00.000-07:00

Originally uploaded by simi valley sophist.

Ronald Reagan is beloved for many reasons. Not the least of which was his humility and his habit of treating everyone as an equal no matter his rank in life. In that respect alone, Pres. Ronald Reagan was truly a President of the people. The same can not be said for the recent Democratic White House occupant, nor would it have been said for the recent Democratic presidential candidate, had he won the election.

President Reagan, like many celebrities, was besieged with people wanting to talk to him or get his autograph. I’ve watched Pres. Reagan being hustled about by security people intent on getting him somewhere safely, and the President reaching out to the adoring public and giving them pre-signed business cards when he was not able to stop and sign autographs. I’ve talked to Secret Service agents and local police officers who have been close to the President, and they all speak adoringly of him as pertaining to the way he treated them. They have the same feelings toward President George W. Bush and Vice President Cheney. When I inquire as to their feelings about the Clintons and Kerrys, I get a professional no comment. That speaks volumes to me. I have a theory about judging the worthiness of a political person based upon how he treats the common man. But, I digress from my main theme Of Lt. Col. East and President Ronald Reagan.

Lt. Col. Clyde B. East is one of the most decorated military veterans that this country has ever had the privilege of calling him their own. He flew in WWII, Korea, SE Asia and the Cuban missile crisis. Read about him here and here.

I had the privilege of shaking the hand and speaking for a few moments with Col. East at the first anniversary memorial for the death of Pres. Reagan at the Library last week.. Knowing his history before I had the chance to meet him, I knew that he is one of our country’s greatest warriors. I found him to be gracious and humble as well.

Col. East now volunteers his time at the Ronald Reagan Library as a docent. He has done so for over 10 years. While the President lived, the Library had a policy of allowing docents who have volunteered 1,000 hours to meet the President. Col. East was 18 months short of making the 1,000 hours when the President’s health deteriorated such that the program was cancelled. That is a disappointment for Col. East. See an article on it here.

Had Pres. Reagan known of the presence of this great warrior at the Library, it is my guess that the President would have insisted upon meeting Col. East 1,000 hours or no 1,000 hours. I’m sure that Pres. Reagan would have considered it a great honor to have been able to shake Col. East’s hand. That’s just the type of guy the President was. And as for Col. East, there he is still serving the people of this country.

I’m not the kind of person who is awed by celebrity. I would not walk across the street to see or shake the hand of most of what passes for celebrity in this country whether it is a politician, a sports star or an entertainment person. But, I am absolutely honored to have seen Pres. Reagan at the Library and to have met and shook the hand of Col. East: Two great gentlemen who served their country, each in his own way.

Protest at Reagan Library

2005-06-12T10:05:00.000-07:00

A handful of protestors were present at the Ronald Reagan Library Saturday to voice their opinons about the presence of Karl Rove. See my posting at Simi Valley Sophist.

Mosquito Season is Here

2005-06-07T21:36:00.000-07:00

Did you catch the article in the LA Times on insect repellent?

Xorro-The Be-Bop Bandito

2005-06-06T18:04:00.000-07:00

xorro
Originally uploaded by simi valley sophist.

By and far the best musical melodrama to come down the road in quite awhile. And, there have been many good ones. Don’t miss this production at the Moorpark Melodrama, AKA High Street Theater Foundation. The show closes June 12th.

The Sun Continues to Shine on Pres Ronald Reagan

2005-06-05T21:49:00.000-07:00

The Sun Continues to Shine on Pres Ronald Reagan
Originally uploaded by simi valley sophist.

It was an overcast day one year ago today; The day that Pres. Ronald Reagan was buried in Simi Valley, CA. It was noted and remarked upon that just as the proceedings were about to begin, the sun came out and shone brightly. At the end of the burial ceremony the clouds returned and again blotted out the sun.

Today was again overcast, and it is the first year anniversary of the death of Pres. Reagan. A service was held for approximately two hundred Ronald Reagan Library visitors. We assembled adjacent to the tomb and waited for the various dignitaries to arrive and be seated. A cool ocean wind blew from the West, and we were a little chilled. When all had arrived, we were advised that we must wait another five minutes so and that the ceremony would take place at the exact time of Pres. Reagan’s death. Within those five minutes, the wind stopped and I could feel the warmth of the sun beating down upon my head and back. The overcast was gone and the sun shone brightly throughout the ceremony. A memorial wreath took its place next to an oak tree, newly planted in honor of the President. At the conclusion of the ceremony we placed small American flags along the walkways lining the area. We, as others were touched by the solemnity of the moment. One man, a visitor from Florida, wept openly. Walking from the Library, I noted that the clouds had returned and the overcast once again blotted out the sun.

Failing to warn public

2005-06-04T23:38:00.000-07:00

Bob Munson’s letter to the Ventura Star Editor chastises the Ventura County Sheriff’s Department and the Simi Valley Police Department for the killing of the escaped tiger and for the recent killings that ended in the death of the suspect in a Simi Valley Wal-Mart.

Munson stated, “…they killed a declawed and relatively harmless animal that was likely someone’s pet.” and “Only sheer luck and a suicide prevented more deaths.” He finishes off with, “Simi Valley and Thousand Oaks are the safest cities in the country for many reasons, but one of them is not their overrated police departments.”

The Constitutional freedoms that we enjoy in this country allow people like Munson to express their opinions, even in the local newspaper. For that matter those same rights allow me to make my own as I am doing so now. What I am wondering is, how is it that people with access to the same information come to such radically different conclusions?

Take the tiger incident for instance. Here we have an adult carnivorous animal that has been on the loose for ten days or so hiding in the brush in and around well populated areas. Now you have to ask yourself what is the likely condition of the animal? Let’s see. Tigers are not native to this country so it is highly likely that it escaped confinement. The fact that a number of animals were recently discovered unlawfully housed on a nearby property might be a clue. However, the owners of the property in question deny that they have lost a tiger. Since the tiger probably was raised in captivity it would likely have little in the way of natural hunting skills. Being fed in a cage hardly qualifies as a skilled hunter. And, since the animal is likely to have been kept in captivity for a long period of time, it would not have well toned muscles to allow it to physically accomplish the task of hunting wild prey. So, just where is this animal going to get its food? Well maybe some slow moving human might make a tasty morsel. Maybe a young child? But, I digress because Munson said it was a declawed relatively harmless animal that could have been a pet. Of course, no one knew that it was declawed until it was killed. As to the characterization of relatively harmless, I’ll bet the cat still had big teeth. No facts present before the cat was killed support a conclusion that the cat was anything less than a hungry, dangerous animal. No facts subsequent to the killing support any less of a conclusion. For instance, there was no food in the stomach of the animal, and so I’ll just bet he was just a bit hungry. And, the lack of claws could well assure that the animal could not hold on to a wild prey long enough to kill it with a bite.

As to the police conduct surrounding the search for Toby Welchel, Munson alleges police erred by not advising residents that a killer was likely hiding in the brush. I wonder how it is that the police would have come to the hiding in the brush conclusion. Welchel could have been any where. Even at Munson’s house in Newbury Park.

Finally, what are we to think of Munson’s characterizations that the two police departments are overrated? Does Munson have some additional unstated information that he has not made us aware of? Probably not. My guess is that Munson was just cranky because he not eaten before he sat down to advise us of his wisdom. I’ll bet if we gave him a big meal, we would find him to be a very nice person.

Civil War Buffs & Black Soldiers

2005-06-04T07:37:00.000-07:00

Presentation on “Black Soldiers in the Confederate Armies” June 8th in West Hills. Read it in the Acorn.

Gallegly to be honored at Simi club fundraiser

2005-06-04T07:22:00.000-07:00

The Boys & Girls Club of Simi Valley will honor longtime supporter Rep. Elton Gallegly, R-Simi Valley, at its 27th annual auction, Swingin' at the Coconut Grove, June 11.

Remembering Ronald Reagan

2005-06-04T07:19:00.000-07:00

Sunday, June 5, 2005 at the Ronald Reagan Library.

The Reagan Lecture with Karl Rove

2005-06-04T07:15:00.000-07:00

Saturday, June 11, 2005,11:00 AM at the Ronald Reagan Library.

Tip A Cop

2005-06-02T04:52:00.000-07:00

Tip A Cop
Originally uploaded by simi valley sophist.

The character of a commuity can be measured by the types of events that the citizens suport. The Special Olympics in Ventura County is indeed special. Mark your calendars for Monday June 6th for the annual Tip-A-Cop fundraiser at the Simi Valley Hudson's Grill from 5-9pm. Click on the photo to enlarge the picture. Thanks to SVPD Dare Officer Michelle Bertsche for her tireless work on this event each year.

Breast Cancer took Helen...

2005-05-31T22:07:00.000-07:00

Helen Mitchell
Originally uploaded by simi valley sophist.

Team Simi is participating in the ‘05 San Diego Susan G. Komen 3Day Breast Cancer Walk, as noted in previous postings. Helen Mitchell is one of the persons for whom Team Simi is dedicating their efforts.

Helen is one of those rare persons who gives selflessly of herself for the betterment of mankind. That’s why she is a beloved Volunteer for the Simi Valley Police Department. Unfortunately, breast cancer took Helen last Friday and deprived the world of a truly compassionate person. She will be missed, but her memory will be with Team Simi as they trek the San Diego hills come October. And, her memory will endure within all those people who were touched by Helen.

Team Simi...

2005-05-31T05:41:00.000-07:00

Team Simi
Originally uploaded by simi valley sophist.

The fundraising event for the Oct. San Diego Susan G. Komen 3Day Breast Cancer Walk is this Saturday. This is the only 3Day in Ca. in '05. Let's all get out and support this great effort. Click on the photo for an enlarged view.

Marine Patriot

2005-05-30T07:20:00.000-07:00

Marine Patriot
Originally uploaded by simi valley sophist.

Memorial Day thought...

Go here to see today's thought.

strong spirit aroma booth

2005-05-29T15:35:00.000-07:00

strong spirit aroma booth
Originally uploaded by simi valley sophist.

At the Cajun Festival there were a good number of vendors presenting their wares. Check out Strong Spirit Aromas. The proprietor has an excellent background in aroma therapy stemming from her professional work as both a massage therapist and an esthetician. Her products smell great. You can visit her web site here.

Ol' Glory

2005-05-29T15:33:00.000-07:00

Ol' Glory
Originally uploaded by simi valley sophist.

The annual Memorial Day weekend Simi Valley Cajun Festival had plenty of Cajun food, music, dance and spirits. The temperature was perfect. Gotta love that Southern California weather.

Best Breakfast in town...

2005-05-13T23:33:00.000-07:00

And pretty good lunches, as well. Try the Egg House located at 1470 E. Los Angeles Ave., Simi Valley, 805-526-3305. Rick and Monica Daniells are your hosts and they have produced a splendid fare at moderate prices. Their mottos is, "We Have Heuvas!" Enough said.

Cajun Festival 2005

2005-05-12T21:38:00.000-07:00

The Cajun Festival is Sat & Sun on Memorial Day weekend. Go to the site here. For tickets click on the appropriate button or use this.

Once you have purchased the tickets the site tells you to hit a button to download the tickets. It does not work. The tickets are e-mailed to you in .pdf format. Go figure.

Team Simi Valley's Breast Cancer Fundraiser

2005-05-12T17:20:00.000-07:00

Team Simi is doing a fundraiser for the San Diego Susan G. Komen 3Day Breast Cancer Walk. See the details here.