Events by Ana Baker

First Tuesday of the month from 1– 2:30 p.m. Livingston Memorial Visiting Nurse Association & Hospice offers free classes on managing life with Type 2 and Pre-Diabetes. Learn about meal planning, exercise, blood sugar monitoring, medication management and new developments for living with diabetes.

Second Monday of the month from 4– 5 p.m. they invite you to join a free joint replacement classes and learn what to expect pre and post-surgery. Learn about home safety, rehabilitation, medication and recovery.

Wednesdays evenings from 6:30-8 p.m. they offer free adult bereavement support groups to individuals who have experienced a loss within the last 2 ½ years. The support groups help improve understanding of the grief process, decrease emotional pain, provides emotional and educational support, and rediscover a sense of hope. Classes takes place at the Community Room 1996 Eastman Ave.

The Compassionate Friends of West Ventura County is a support group for those who have experienced the loss of a child. Parents, grandparents, and siblings (over age 14) are all welcome. The group meets the first and third Wednesday of each month at 7:00 at the Poinsettia Pavilion, Canada Larga room, 3451 Foothill Road. For more information, contact Laura Lindsay at 805-836-9100.

Ventura Poinsettia Dance Club Monday nights 7:30 – 9:45 p.m. Poinsettia Pavilion. Ballroom, swing, Latin and line dancing. $10 members, $12 non-members. Free dance lessons 6:45 – 7:15p.m. Call Rick 805- 415-8842 for more information.

There will be a regular Ventura Discussion Group meeting at Main Street Restaurant 3159 Main St., Wednesday from 4 – 5:45 p.m. Several people usually stay for a drink and a bite to eat afterward. Bring an interesting topic to discuss if you can.

Ventura’s ACBL Duplicate Bridge Club offers games for all levels of play.  Learn the game, play with your peers, and earn master points while you are having fun.  There is a game every day of the week.  Check out their website at www.vcbridge.org

Country Western Line Dancing every Tuesday 7 – 9 p.m. Instruction every night. Located at the Moose lodge, 10269 Telephone Road. More information at countrylovers.com.

Cross Town Hikers join in on Wednesday nights for a moderate-paced hike that includes views of Ventura from the cross, a walk out to the end of the pier, and a stroll along the Promenade back to the Museum. Four miles with an 800-foot elevation gain. Meet at 7 p.m. sharp at the fountain across the street from the Mission. Join Facebook page for more information: https://www.facebook.com/groups/800215670039426/

The members of the Ventura Investment Group meet on Mondays for an informal discussion of recent economic events.   The meeting is from 10 – 11:30 a.m. at the Coffee Bean & Tea Leaf at Telephone Road and Main Street.  Visitors and potential members are welcomed.  There are no dues or requirements to participate, and all levels of experience are welcomed.

Musicians’ Sober Support Meetup @ FIND (A Friend in Deed) every Monday night 7-9 p.m. Bring acoustic instrument(s) for jamming after sharing support for sobriety.

Bell Arts-Studio 39-432 Ventura Ave. For further information [email protected].

June 22: Saturday 1-3pm – Join Evelyn Taylor an afternoon of conversation on the History of Camarillo State Hospital and get your signed copy of this fantastic new book.

This book is a pictorial reflection of Cam’s rapid expansion as the largest state hospital west of the Mississippi to the shuttering of its doors 60 years later. After having earned a master’s degree in history, with an emphasis in archives, Evelyn S. Taylor became the first archivist for California State University Channel Islands.

Bank of Books 748 E. Main St. (805) 643-3154 [email protected]

The Ojai Library is a planning a community-driven art project to create a puppet for the Fourth of July Parade! All ages are welcome; little ones (age 7 and younger) require adult supervision.

This group will be meeting weekly on Sundays from 11 a.m. to 1 p.m., beginning on Sunday, May 19. Supplies and tools will be provided. This event is made possible through a grant from the City of Ojai Arts Commission.

Local author John Darling will visit the Ojai Library at 1 p.m. on Saturday, June 8, 2019, to present a special talk, Inside the Mind of an Author. Darling has been writing since the 1970s, and has published numerous short stories, poems, and magazine articles.

He has five books available on Amazon (including a cookbook). A complete list of these books and more information can be found on his author website: http://johndarlingauthor.com/.

Thirteen-year-old author Micaela Ellis will visit the Ojai Library at 1 p.m. on Saturday, June 1, 2019, to speak about her book, Autism Over the Years: A Twelve Year Old’s Memoir. Micaela will share her perspectives on life as a kid with autism.

Micaela hopes to educate others on some of the challenges that people with autism might face and share the many opportunities that are available to children like her.

These events are free and open to the public. For additional information, contact Ron Solórzano, Regional Librarian, at (805) 218-9146.

The Ojai Library is located at 111 East Ojai Avenue in Ojai, CA. Hours of service are 10 a.m. to 8 p.m. Monday through Thursday and 12 p.m. to 5 p.m. Friday through Sunday.

On Saturday, May 25, Kaufer will lead a private tour of the Taft Gardens & Nature Preserve, operated by the Conservation Endowment Fund (CEF), in the mountains above Lake Casitas west of Ojai.

The group will meet at Maricopa Plaza in Ojai between 8:15 and 8:30 a.m. for a carpool to reduce the number of cars on the private road to the garden.

Participants are invited to stay and enjoy a beautiful setting after the tour. The plan calls for having some cars leave at 12:30 p.m. to arrive back at Maricopa Plaza by 1 p.m. for those not staying for lunch.

The cost is $25 for adults, $20 for seniors 62-up, and $10 for students 13-17. Kids 5-12 can attend free, one per adult, pending request and approval.

To register for this Herb Walk, visit HerbWalks.com or call 805-646-6281.

Awakening the Artist Within, a six-week creativity course, will take place Tuesdays, June 18 to July 23, from 6:30-8:30 p.m. at Poppies Art and Gifts, 323 E. Matilija St., Ojai.

Instructor Holly Woolson, M.A., is an Ojai professional artist and educator.

Cost is $240 for six sessions, all materials provided. Space is limited. Reserve a spot at 805-798-0033, [email protected], or at Poppies from 10 a.m. to 6 p.m. daily except Tuesdays.

Hans-Joachim Roedelius will be performing at the Beatrice Wood Center for the Arts Saturday, June 1st at 7:00 pm. He will take part in a panel discussion, sharing his processes and techniques, at 2 pm the same day.

Tickets for the performance, which is being presented with support from the Federal Chancellery of the Republic of Austria, are $25, with the panel discussion $20. Those who sign up for both at $40 will receive a one-year membership to the Center.

For more information, visit www.beatricewood.com/roedelius_festival.html.

The Humane Society of Ventura County’s annual Open House & Birthday Bash will be held on Saturday, June 8, from 10 a.m. to 2 p.m. at the HSVC Shelter, located at 402 Bryant St. in Ojai. For more information, call 805-646-6505 and our pet page.

Events by Ana Baker

Ventura Poinsettia Dance Club Monday nights 7:30 – 9:45 p.m. Poinsettia Pavilion. Ballroom, swing, Latin and line dancing. $10 members, $12 non-members. Free dance lessons 6:45 – 7:15p.m. Call Rick 805- 415-8842 for more information.

Country Western Line Dancing every Tuesday 7 – 9 p.m. Instruction every night. Located at the Moose lodge, 10269 Telephone Road. More information at countrylovers.com.

The members of the Ventura Investment Group meet on Mondays for an informal discussion of recent economic events.  Topics cover current events that affect stocks, funds, real estate, and interest-bearing investments.   10 – 11:30 a.m. at the Coffee Bean & Tea Leaf at Telephone Road and Main Street.   There are no dues or requirements to participate, and all levels of experience are welcomed.

Wednesdays evenings from 6:30-8 p.m. Livingston Memorial Visiting Nurse Association & Hospice offers free adult bereavement support groups to individuals who have experienced a loss within the last 2 ½ years. The support groups help improve understanding of the grief process, decrease emotional pain, provides emotional and educational support, and rediscover a sense of hope. 1996 Eastman Ave., Ste. 101, Ventura.

The Compassionate Friends of West Ventura County is a support group for those who have experienced the loss of a child. Parents, grandparents, and siblings (over age 14) are all welcome. The group meets the first and third Wednesday of each month at 7:00 at the Pointsettia Pavilion, Canada Larga room, 3451 Foothill Road. For more information, contact Laura Lindsay at 805-836-9100.

May 22: “The College Area Community Council will meet on Wednesday, at 7 p.m. Representatives from Ventura College and the police department will give brief updates and answer questions and other issues of community interest will be discussed.  Wright Event Center 57 Day Rd. Free parking is available adjacent to the Event Center.

May 24: (4th Friday of each month), 7- 10 p.m. Like to play acoustic music? Songmakers.org welcomes instrumentalists, singers, and singer/songwriters at all levels to join in a free song circle at the Bell Arts Factory Community Room, 432 N. Ventura Ave. Listeners welcome! Mike Wittlin, (805) 750-8281.

May 25: The Ventura Tennis Club (VTC), in partnership with Ventura Recreation and Community Services are hosting biannual Ventura Tennis Day on Saturday, from 9 – 3pm. Camino Real Park tennis courts/center, 4298 Dean Dr. The event will include clinics for adults and kids from 9a – noon with the City Pro staff. After a break for refreshments, announcement and a raffle we will start the organized doubles play. No need to bring a partner – Just your racket and “A” game!

For more information, www.venturatennisclub.com.

May 26: Town Hall: Green New Deal Sunday, 2-3:30 p.m. E.P. Foster Library (Topping Room) 651 E Main St. Free to attend, free parking in rear of library.

Speakers:

• RL Miller (co-founder of Climate Hawks Vote)
• Adam Vega (Californians for Pesticide Reform)
• Daniel Berchenko (Sunrise Movement)

To learn how the Green New Deal is an investment in Ventura County’s future!

June 1: Step into Summer with the passionate strumming of the guitar and the thundering rhythms created by the dancers striking the stage. Namba Performing Arts Space will be hosting this unique event at 7p.m. The show will open with the dance students of Wendy Castellanos and feature over 20 dancers from Camarillo, Oxnard and Ventura. The second half will feature Gabriel Osuna singing timeless gypsy melodies, Antonio Triana and Miguel Heredia on Flamenco Guitar, while Pamela Lourant, Vivian Bruckman, Jamie Padilla and Wendy Castellanos will set the stage on fire.. Spanish Wine will be available for purchase.

For Tickets go to: https://nambaarts.com/product/flamenco/

June 1: On the “First Saturday” of each month the Sespe Flyfishers of Ventura conduct an introductory class on Fly Fishing and Casting the Fly Rod. There is no charge, and all are welcome. Whether you an experienced fly fisher or a complete novice learn and enjoy this great sport. If you don’t yet have your own fly rod just come and use one of ours. Chumash Park, Petit and Waco, 9- 11 a.m.

www.sespeflyfishers.org For more information: Bob Smith at (805) 647-3522.

June 2: Old-Time Country Bluegrass Gospel Music Assoc. Sunday, 2-4 p.m. Poinsettia Pavilion, 3451 Foothill Rd. Music on stage. Jamming Room Open. Free Admission. Free parking. Open to Public. For more information call, 805-517-1131 or visit Facebook: OTCBGMA 

June 2: The 1892 Dudley Historic House Museum will be open for docent-led tours from 1-4 p.m. along with a visit from historian Beth Miller who will share her collection of vintage toys from 1-3 p.m. Admission is free. The museum is located at the corner of Loma Vista and Ashwood streets (197 N. Ashwood). For information (805) 642-3345 or visit the website at www.dudleyhouse.org.

June 8: Laubach Literacy of Ventura County will hold a free training for new tutors on Saturday, from

8-4 p.m.  Laubach is an all-volunteer non-profit organization teaching English as a Second Language to adults 18 and over.  Neither knowledge of a foreign language nor prior teaching experience is necessary. For more information and to register for the workshop please call 805-385-9584.

June 8: The Climate Reality Project: Ventura County Chapter. Learn about the Ventura County General Plan Update.  Cheryl Collart will share information about the General Plan, including the Climate and Energy Action Plans. Successful climate action will be discussed, as 
well as key citizen activity. 2 p.m. E.P. Foster Library, Topping Room 651 E Main St. For more information: [email protected]

June 8: Saturday, 1-4 p.m., family fun at Mathnasium of Ventura! Come join as they officially introduce themselves to the community and show off what they are all about. There will be plenty of family friendly fun and of course plenty of math. Don’t miss out on games, food, music and prizes. Win some cool swag or even a free month of enrollment (a $300 value). At Mathnasium, they make math make sense. Mathnasium have been the math experts for over 15 years and are so excited to open their doors in Ventura. Check out www.mathnasium.com/ventura/events for more info. 1746-B S. Victoria Ave. 805-525-MATH (6284)

June 12: Thursday, from 11:15-1p.m. Ventura Holistic Chamber of Commerce will be hosting their monthly Chapter Meeting.  This month’s topic is “Back to Basics:  Water is Life!”.  The Greek Mediterranean Restaurant, 1583 Spinnaker Dr.  Please join us for lunch, networking, business development and fun.  $12 fee which includes lunch, beverage and gratuity.  Please come early to network and bring plenty of business cards to share. Please RSVP Julie Ridenour, Chapter President, (805) 223-1207.

Joan Dewhirst will visit the Ojai Library at 1 p.m. on Saturday, May 18, 2019, to deliver a talk entitled “Oh California! 19th and 20th Century California Landscape Paintings.”

Dewhirst starts with Albert Bierstadt’s Luminist paintings, where he used light to emphasize the spiritual beauty in California’s natural environments, and moves forward to the Tonalist compositions of Arthur Mathews .

Nationally-recognized singer Vivien Mason will visit the Ojai Library at 1 p.m. on Friday, May 17, 2019, to deliver a special musical performance. Mason will be accompanied by pianist Jimmy Calire.

Mason is a versatile entertainer who has performed at clubs, concerts, festivals, and in film and television.

Events are free and open to the public. For additional information, contact Ron Solórzano, Regional Librarian, at (805) 218-9146.

The Ojai Library is located at 111 East Ojai Ave. Hours of service are 10 a.m. to 8 p.m. Monday through Thursday and 12 p.m. to 5 p.m. Friday through Sunday.

On Saturday, May 18th and Sunday, May 19th, the Ojai Community Chorus will be presenting its annual spring concert. “Jazz a la Mode!” will feature a fabulous variety of jazzy music. Entertaining you with such great classics as “Cow Cow Boogie,” the sultry “Fever,” the be-bop rhythm of “The Boy from New York City,” and an exciting version of “The Joint is Jumpin’”.

The performances will be held Saturday at 7 p.m. and Sunday at 3 p.m. at the Ojai United Methodist Church, 120 Church Road. A boutique and bake sale will also be held.

Suggested donations General Admission: $20 in advance/$25 at the door. Seniors 65 and better and Students: $15 in advance/$20 at the door. Tickets are also available from Chorus members, the St. Thomas Aquinas Thrift Store, and online at ojaichorus.brownpapertickets.com. The Chorus’ website is www.ojaichorus.wordpress.com.

Join Rev. Karen S. Wylie at The Ojai Retreat on Sunday, May 19, from 11:00 a.m. – 2:00 p.m. for her Mid-Month Devotional Retreat, “Discovering the ‘Who’ That is You.”

People of all faiths and traditions, or no tradition, are welcome to attend. Randee Vasilakos, RScP, assists and anchors the morning .

The Ojai Retreat is at 160 Besant Road. By donation; $20 is suggested. For more information, contact Rev. Karen at 310-968-8928, or register online at www.karenswylie.com.

On Memorial Day Monday, May 27, Ojai naturalist Lanny Kaufer will lead a group 2 miles into Matilija Campground in the heart of the Matilija Wilderness, one of his favorite locations in the Los Padres National Forest. The chaparral plant community has made a striking comeback since the December 2017 fire, and bears witness to nature’s resilience

The day will begin at 9:00 a.m. with a carpool to the trailhead from the Maricopa Plaza, 1207 Maricopa Highway. There is no obligation to participate in the carpool Participants who wish to participate in the carpool should be prepared to either take a few passengers or share in the gas cost.

$25 for adults, $20 for seniors 62 and older, and $15 for full-time students 13-18. Kids 5-12 can go free, one per adult, by prior arrangement. Participants under the age of 18 must be accompanied by a parent or guardian. No dogs or smoking, please.

Information and registration at HerbWalks.com or by calling 805-646-6281.

Please join the Ojai Photography Community on Tuesday, May 21, at 7 p.m. for an illustrated presentation by Paul Roark, fine art black and white photographer based in Solvang. His images of the Sierra Nevada, Yosemite and Glacier National Park have been compared to Ansel Adams’ landscapes. An innovator in digital printing, Roark has designed and formulated carbon pigment ink sets that produce prints surpassing traditional silver gelatin images.

Help of Ojai’s Kent Hall, 111 W. Santa Clara St. Parking is available next to Ojai City Hall or in the parking lot across the street.

Events by Ana Baker

Ventura Poinsettia Dance Club Monday nights 7:30 – 9:45 p.m. Poinsettia Pavilion. Ballroom, swing, Latin and line dancing. $10 members, $12 non-members. Free dance lessons 6:45 – 7:15p.m. Call Rick 805- 415-8842 for more information.

Ventura’s ACBL Duplicate Bridge Club offers games for all levels of play.  Learn the game, play with your peers, and earn master points while you are having fun.  There is a game every day of the week.  Check out their website at www.vcbridge.org

Country Western Line Dancing every Tuesday 7 – 9 p.m. Instruction every night. Located at the Moose lodge, 10269 Telephone Road. More information at countrylovers.com.

Cross Town Hikers join in on Wednesday nights for a moderate-paced hike that includes views of Ventura from the cross, a walk out to the end of the pier, and a stroll along the Promenade back to the Museum. Four miles with an 800-foot elevation gain. Meet at 7 p.m. sharp at the fountain across the street from the Mission. For more information: https://www.facebook.com/groups/800215670039426/

The members of the Ventura Investment Group meet on Mondays for an informal discussion of recent economic events.  Topics cover current events that affect stocks, funds, real estate, and interest-bearing investments.  The meeting is from 10 – 11:30 a.m. at the Coffee Bean & Tea Leaf at Telephone Road and Main Street.  Visitors and potential members are welcomed.  There are no dues or requirements to participate, and all levels of experience are welcomed.

Musicians’ Sober Support Meetup @ FIND (A Friend in Deed) every Monday night 7-9 p.m. Bring acoustic instrument(s) for jamming after sharing support for sobriety.
Bell Arts-Studio 39-432 Ventura Ave. For further information [email protected].

We’re looking for some good men to fill our chairs at Ventura Retired Men’s Group, we’ve got programs and activities you might enjoy as you shoot the breeze or chew the fat. We meet on the first and third Tuesday each month at the Knoll Drive lodge of the Ventura Elks. Stop in to say hello, tell us who you are, and we’ll treat you to one of the great Elks meals.  Bob Likins is itching to answer your questions at 805-587-1233

The Ventura Rotary Club, Ventura Downtown Lions Club and the Salvation Army of Ventura have partnered to bring the community a free Eye Clinic. The goal and vision are to provide free eye glasses for those in need. Patients are seen each Tuesday from 9-11a.m., walk-ins only first come first served. The Eye Clinic is located inside the Salvation Army Hope Center. 155 S Oak St, Ventura.

May11: City of Ventura Free Gardening Class. Learn the importance of trees in a water wise landscape. This class will cover the best varieties plus review tree planting, maintenance, and watering tips and more. 10 -11:30 a.m. City of Ventura Maintenance Yard 336 Sanjon Road. RSVP at www.venturawater.net

May 16: The regular monthly meeting of Assistance League of Ventura County will be conducted on Thursday, at the Chapter House, 913 East Santa Clara Street in Ventura.

The meeting begins at 10:00 am, men and women are welcome, and there is no age requirement.  
Assistance League is “Transforming Lives, Strengthening” through several philanthropic programs: B.U.F.F.Y. Bear, Operation School Bell®, Girls Club/Teen Club, and Assistance League School for young children with learning delays. The Bargain Box Thrift Shop helps fund these programs.

May 16: At the next meeting of the East Ventura Community Council, Ruchita Kadakia, a Senior Planner with the County of Ventura, will speak about the Saticoy Area Plan, the county’s vision for this area. Also on the agenda will be Mary Joyce Ivers, Interim Public Works Director for the City of Ventura, who will talk about street projects and graffiti removal. The Ventura’s Police Department will present an update on crime in the area, and City Council members may present reports as time permits.The council represents those who live east of Victoria Avenue. Books in good condition are solicited on behalf of Ventura Friends of the Library.

The meeting starts at 7:00 pm at the Connect Church, 346 N. Kimball Road.

For more information, contact Marie Lakin, Chairperson: [email protected]

June 8: On Saturday, from 9:30 a.m. to 2:30 p.m. a series of teaching sessions will be held at the Ventura Unitarian Universalist Church, 5654 Ralston Street. The sessions will be lead by immigration attorneys, religious clergy, and immigration activists delivering information on immigration law, past and present, the current situation on the southern U.S. border, and suggestions for actions you might take to become an ally and make a difference will be presented at each session. 

This day of immigration advocacy is sponsored by the UUCV Action Team for Immigrant Rights (ATIR), CLUE-Ventura County, and CA– USE.  If you pre-register before May 31 a $15 donation is requested, it will be a $20 donation if you register on the day of the event. Register at: https://www.Eventbrite.com/e/teach-inact-out-tickets-59340196124.  Childcare will be provided through pre-registration only (ages 4-10).

Light refreshments will be provided. Lunch will be available for purchase.

For more information email [email protected]

MediCannaCon the Ojai Medical Cannabis Conference on May 4, 2019, will present current information to health professionals and the general public

Presented by the Ojai Herbal Symposium and Sespe Creek Collective, the conference is intended for health professionals as well as those of the general public who would like to be informed by the latest science on the subject of medical cannabis. The conference will be held from 9 a.m. to 5 p.m. at the Ojai Valley Woman’s Club, 441 E. Ojai Avenue.

For information and registration, visit OjaiHerbal.org or call 805-646-6281.

Ojai chef and author Randy Graham has a new book, Ojai Valley Grill It Cookbook. It is available on Amazon for $14.95.You will find recipes for a panko encrusted Portobello burger, a balsamic and garlic glazed mushroom kabobs and recipes that wet your whistle. All, except for the drinks, are for your gas or charcoal grill.

A pop-up art gallery featuring works by local artists Susan Griffin – artist, chef and teacher; Gretchen Greenberg – painter, sculptor and mask maker; Mariana Periano – award-winning figurative artist; and Tom Hardcastle – nationally renown pastel and oil painter; will be held at Delilah Salon in downtown Ojai only Saturday, June 29th. The opening reception is Friday night, June 28th, 7-9 p.m., light refreshments will be served. Come by to meet the artists and view their latest works.

Delilah Salon, 323 Matilija St.

Fourth-generation Ojai Valley author John Selby will visit the Ojai Library at 1 p.m. on Saturday, May 4, 2 to deliver an informal talk on his new novel, Murrieta’s Leap.

Murrieta’s Leap takes place in 1961 and is inspired by local Ojai stories and Chumash myths that Selby’s grandfather told him 60-70 years ago as the author was growing up on the Selby Ranch

He can be reached at [email protected].

At 3 p.m. on Saturday, April 27, the Women’s International League for Peace and Freedom (WILPF) will visit the Ojai Library to host a screening of the 2006 documentary A World without Water. The screening will be accompanied by group discussion. Filmmaker Brian Woods asks the question, “Is water a human right, or a commodity to be bought and sold?”

Author Kimberly Davis Basso will visit the Ojai Library at 1 p.m. on Saturday, May 11, to present her inspirational book, I’m a Little Brain Dead. Basso’s book is a thoughtful and humorous take on her experience as a stroke survivor.

The Ojai Library is located at 111 East Ojai Ave. Hours of service are 10 a.m. to 8 p.m. Monday through Thursday and 12 p.m. to 5 p.m. Friday through Sunday.

Chamber On The Mountain presents the Busch Trio on Sunday, May 5, at 3:00 pm. Named after the legendary violinist Adolf Busch, this young piano trio has emerged as one of the leading piano trios among the new generation.

Celebrating its Sixth 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.

Villanova Preparatory School will host its annual Wildcat Classic golf tournament on Monday, May 6 to raise funds to support athletic programs.

The event will be held at the Ojai Valley Inn. It will include lunch, an 18-hole scramble, and dinner with an awards ceremony. Registration begins at 10:30 a.m., and tee-off is at 12 p.m.

Villanova’s Wildcat Classic golf tournament is part of the annual campaign to raise funds to promote and support all athletic programs; to provide state-of-the-art equipment and facilities for student athletes.

“We are thrilled to bring the Wildcat Classic back to the Ojai Valley Inn,” Head of School, Nancy O’Sullivan, said. “The golf tournament is a wonderful event to gather the community together for a great cause.”

For more information on the golf tournament, please contact the Development Office at 805-646-1464 or visit: http://villanovaprep.org/golf

by Ana Baker

Ventura Poinsettia Dance Club Monday nights 7:30 – 9:45 p.m. Poinsettia Pavilion. Ballroom, swing, Latin and line dancing. $10 members, $12 non-members. Free dance lessons 6:45 – 7:15p.m. Call Rick 805- 415-8842 for more information.

There will be a regular Ventura Discussion Group meeting at Main Street Restaurant 3159 Main St., Wednesday from 4 – 5:45 p.m. Several people usually stay for a drink and a bite to eat afterward. Bring an interesting topic to discuss if you can.

Ventura’s ACBL Duplicate Bridge Club offers games for all levels of play.  Learn the game, play with your peers, and earn master points while you are having fun.  There is a game every day of the week.  Check out their website at www.vcbridge.org

Country Western Line Dancing every Tuesday 7 – 9 p.m. Instruction every night. Located at the Moose lodge, 10269 Telephone Road. More information at countrylovers.com.

Cross Town Hikers join in on Wednesday nights for a moderate-paced hike that includes views of Ventura from the cross, a walk out to the end of the pier, and a stroll along the Promenade back to the Museum. Four miles with an 800-foot elevation gain. Meet at 7 p.m. sharp at the fountain across the street from the Mission. For more information: https://www.facebook.com/groups/800215670039426/

The members of the Ventura Investment Group meet on Mondays for an informal discussion of recent economic events.  Topics cover current events that affect stocks, funds, real estate, and interest-bearing investments.  The meeting is from 10 – 11:30 a.m. at the Coffee Bean & Tea Leaf at Telephone Road and Main Street.  Visitors and potential members are welcomed.  There are no dues or requirements to participate, and all levels of experience are welcomed.

Musicians’ Sober Support Meetup @ FIND (A Friend in Deed) every Monday night 7-9 p.m. Bring acoustic instrument(s) for jamming after sharing support for sobriety.Bell Arts-Studio 39-432 Ventura Ave. For further information [email protected].

We’re looking for some good men to fill our chairs at Ventura Retired Men’s Group, we’ve got programs and activities you might enjoy as you shoot the breeze or chew the fat. We meet on the first and third Tuesday each month at the Knoll Drive lodge of the Ventura Elks. Stop in to say hello, tell us who you are, and we’ll treat you to one of the great Elks meals.  Bob Likins is itching to answer your questions at 805-587-1233

The Ventura Rotary Club, Ventura Downtown Lions Club and the Salvation Army of Ventura have partnered to bring the community a free Eye Clinic. The goal and vision are to provide free eye glasses for those in need. Patients are seen each Tuesday from 9-11a.m., walk-ins only first come first served. The Eye Clinic is located inside the Salvation Army Hope Center. 155 S Oak St, Ventura.

April 24: “The College Area Community Council will meet on Wednesday, at 7 p.m. Representatives from Ventura College and the police department will give brief updates and answer questions and other issues of community interest will be discussed.  Wright Event Center at 57 Day Rd. Free parking is available adjacent to the Event Center.

Call (805) 644-8695 for more information.

April 27: Saturday, 9 am – 1 pm, Channel Islands Native Garden Plant Sale,1901 Spinnaker Drive (at the end of the Ventura Harbor).“Bring the Islands Home” plant sale features many varieties of California native plants, including species from the Channel Islands. These plants have been grown from seed by gardeners (many are Master Gardeners) who work at the CI native garden.

Sponsored by the Channel Islands Park Foundation and supported by Ventura County Master Gardeners (Both are non-profit).

May 1: BCNN is a women’s social club open to ladies who reside in Ventura, Oxnard and Pt Hueneme.  Coffee-Speaker meetings are held on the 1st Wednesday of each month from 9:30 – 11a.m. at the Knights of Columbus Hall, 36 Figueroa St. Parking is on Santa Clara Avenue. Guests are welcome to come a couple times before becoming a member; dues are $30/year. Dr. Cathy Kim presents Integrative Body Medicine (IBM).  In her practice, she gives insights and education to help patients learn how to heal themselves with clean nutrition and practical exercises. Learn more at http://www.bcnnwomensclub.org/.

May 4: On the first Saturday of each month the Sespe Flyfishers of Ventura conduct an introductory class on Fly Fishing and Casting the Fly Rod. There is no charge, and all are welcome. Whether you an experienced fly fisher or a complete novice you can learn and enjoy this great sport. If you don’t have a fly rod just come and use one of their’s. Chumash Park, Petit and Waco, 9 – 11a.m.

For more information: Bob Smith at (805) 647-3522. www.sespeflyfishers.org

Mary Eckhart will visit the Ojai Library at 1 p.m. on Saturday, April 20, to deliver a talk entitled “Citizens of Earth and Air: Artists Create Portraits of the Animal Kingdom.” Ms. Eckhart comes to us via the Santa Barbara Museum of Art’s Community Speakers Program.

Sketched 30,000 years ago, a galloping phalanx of horses and battling rhinos race across the walls of France’s Chauvet caves. The 14th century Luttrell Psalter astonishes with its fantastical panoply of weird and marvelous combinations of man and beast.

Corrugated collapsing horses, a flying yellow cow, an upside-down cat, poker playing dogs, a monumental Bird of Peace, ominous insects, Congo the artful chimpanzee, an artist’s selfie as a trout, the Katze Kindergarten.

Laurie Gibson will visit the Ojai Library at 6 p.m. on Wednesday, April 17, to deliver a workshop entitled “Book Publishing 1-2-3.”

Grab a pen and join Gibson for this popular, lively workshop—it’s spiced with stories and tips to empower and inspire writers of all levels. Gibson will start with a glance at today’s dynamic book business (including the rise of self-publishing), then share tips for connecting with editors and literary agents, as well as ideas to help writers both refine their craft and stretch their creativity, and wrap up with a few practical thoughts on book promotion.

These events are free and open to the public. For additional information, contact Ron Solórzano, Regional Librarian, at (805) 218-9146.

The Ojai Library is located at 111 East Ojai Ave. Hours of service are 10 a.m. to 8 p.m. Monday through Thursday and 12 p.m. to 5 p.m. Friday through Sunday.

Join Rev. Karen S. Wylie at The Ojai Retreat on Easter Sunday, April 14, from 11:00 a.m. – 2:00 p.m. for her Mid-Month Devotional Retreat, this month devoted to “Forgiving Yourself and Others.”

“Most of us don’t realize how much unforgiveness we carry inside of us, whether it is directed at ourselves or someone else,” Rev. Karen says. “When we cannot forgive the perceived sins of the past, we go through life operating with half a heart (or less). The celebration of Easter reminds us that forgiveness is the answer to living a great life.

The Ojai Retreat is at 160 Besant Road, Ojai. The retreat is by donation; $20 is suggested. For more information, contact Rev. Karen at 310-968-8928, or register online at www.karenswylie.com. Rev. Karen is the author of Into Me See: A Book for Daily Inspiration, available on Amazon and her website.

by Ana Baker

Ventura Poinsettia Dance Club Monday nights 7:30 – 9:45 p.m. Poinsettia Pavilion. Ballroom, swing, Latin and line dancing. $10 members, $12 non-members. Free dance lessons 6:45 – 7:15p.m. Call Rick 805- 415-8842 for more information.

There will be a regular Ventura Discussion Group meeting at Main Street Restaurant 3159 Main St., Wednesday from 4 – 5:45 p.m. Several people usually stay for a drink and a bite to eat afterward. Bring an interesting topic to discuss if you can.

Ventura’s ACBL Duplicate Bridge Club offers games for all levels of play.  Learn the game, play with your peers, and earn master points while you are having fun.  There is a game every day of the week.  Check out their website at www.vcbridge.org

Country Western Line Dancing every Tuesday 7 – 9 p.m. Instruction every night. Located at the Moose lodge, 10269 Telephone Road. More information at countrylovers.com.

Cross Town Hikers join in on Wednesday nights for a moderate-paced hike that includes views of Ventura from the cross, a walk out to the end of the pier, and a stroll along the Promenade back to the Museum. Four miles with an 800-foot elevation gain. Meet at 7 p.m. sharp at the fountain across the street from the Mission. Join Facebook page for more information https://www.facebook.com/groups/800215670039426/

The members of the Ventura Investment Group meet on Mondays for an informal discussion of recent economic events.  Topics cover current events that affect stocks, funds, real estate, and interest-bearing investments.  The meeting is from 10 – 11:30 a.m. at the Coffee Bean & Tea Leaf at Telephone Road and Main Street.  Visitors and potential members are welcomed.  There are no dues or requirements to participate, and all levels of experience are welcomed.

First Wednesday, of each month, 6 – 10 p.m., Gold Coast Modular Railroad Club meets at the Murphy Auto Museum, Oxnard. Now exhibiting Saturdays and Sundays, 10 – 4 p.m.  Visitors and new members are welcome. Member initiation fee $10, monthly dues $20, $10 for Juniors. Murphy Auto Museum, 2230 Statham Blvd., Oxnard.  www.gcmrc.com. For more information, call (805)229-7429.

Musicians’ Sober Support Meetup @ FIND (A Friend in Deed) every Monday night 7-9 p.m. Bring acoustic instrument(s) for jamming after sharing support for sobriety. Bell Arts-Studio 39-432 Ventura Ave. For further information [email protected].

Mended Hearts of Ventura. Come share if you have had heart surgery or stent implant. Group meets the first Tuesday each month at Lemon Wood Mobile Park, 850 Johnson Dr. They have excellent speakers, leading cardiologists, nutritionists, dietitians from our area. Contact Richard Hatcher at 805-644-2733.

Co-Dependents Anonymous (CoDa) is a 12-step fellowship of men and women whose common purpose is recovery from codependence in the development and maintenance of healthy relationships. Every Friday at 6 p.m. at the Unitarian Universalist Church, 5654 Ralston (enter through side door off parking lot). Further information Deva 805-814-5650 or Maryann

The Ventura Retired Men’s group meets on the first and third Tuesday each month at 11:30 a.m. at the Elks lodge on Knoll Drive in Ventura. Drop by to introduce yourself and we’ll treat you to lunch so you can sample our activities and banter and hear our program/speaker of the day. Got a question? Call Bob Likins at 805-587-1233.

BCNN (Beach Cities Neighbors and Newcomers) is a non-profit women’s club open to ladies who reside in Ventura, Oxnard and Port Hueneme. A purely social club to provide a venue by which women in our area can meet each other. Meetings are held on the 1st Wednesday of each month from 9:30 – 11 a.m. at the Knights of Columbus Hall, 36 Figueroa St. Parking is on Santa Clara Avenue. dues are $30 per year. Our April 3rd speaker, Kurt Buckley, will present “My Comino”. He will introduce the audience to the Camino de Santiago de Compostela in Spain.

April 12: The General George S. Patton, Jr. Chapter, Sons of the American Revolution
April luncheon meeting will take place at 11:30 a.m., Friday, in the Poinsettia Pavilion, 3451 Foothill Road.  The program will be “The Battle of Saratoga” presented by chapter member Robert Taylor. All SAR & DAR Compatriots, friends, and visitors are welcome to
join us.  If you choose lunch, cost is $20 per person.  For
additional information or for assistance in determining your possible
Revolutionary War genealogical roots, please call Bill Bays (805) 650-3036 or Robert Taylor (805)216-7992. For information regarding SAR membership and chapter activities http://pattonpatriots.org.

April 12: Ghost Hunting 101 Lecture at Olivas Adobe 4200 Olivas Park Drive from 8:30 p.m. to 11 p.m. Class Number 12633, price $25 by Richard Senate. For Tickets call the City of Ventura 805-658-4726

This unique class describes the many ways to seek documentation of paranormal events at haunted site. Students are asked to bring flashlights, cameras, and any tools they might have to hunt ghosts. A good tool to use is the Ghost Radar Classic app for the cell phone. Mr. Senate will show ghostly photographs taken at the house over the years.

For more information contact Mr. Senate at [email protected]

April 13: Ventura Friends of the Library will hold a Bag o’Books Book Sale
at the Vons at Telegraph and Victoria (6040 Telegraph Rd.) from 10-3 p.m.
Members of Ventura Friends of the Library can take home a bag of books 
for $1.00. For all others, the price is $3 a bag. Contact: Mary Olson (805) 223-1187

April 20: Saturday, 7 p.m., Free Easter concert, with choir, organ, piano, brass accompaniment.

All are welcome to experience the music of this special season. First United Methodist Church, 1338 E. Santa Clara Ave. Donations gladly accepted. Phone 805-643-8621

April 25,26,27: May 2,3,4: Buena High School Drama is pleased to present CHICAGO, high school edition. It is appropriate for ages 11 and older. Tickets are on sale now at our.show/buenahighschool/4501. There are 33 Buena students acting in the show and an additional six running stage lights, sound and working as stage manager. Mr. Kevin Downey, is the vocal director, and Tawny Watson is the choreographer.  Drama teacher Karen Rodrigues says “students have been rehearsing four days a week outside of school and all day on Saturdays”.  It is a very rigorous show with lots of music, singing and dancing.  Please come and support the Arts and Buena HS. See ad in this issue for more information.

April 26: (4th Friday of each month), 7:00 – 10:00 p.m. Like to play acoustic music? Songmakers.org welcomes instrumentalists, singers, and singer/songwriters at all levels to join in a free song circle at the Bell Arts Factory Community Room, 432 N. Ventura Ave. Listeners welcome!  Mike Wittlin, (805) 750-8281.

Events by Ana Baker

Ventura Poinsettia Dance Club Monday nights 7:30 – 9:45 p.m. Poinsettia Pavilion. Ballroom, swing, Latin and line dancing. $10 members, $12 non-members. Free dance lessons 6:45 – 7:15p.m. Call Rick 805- 415-8842 for more information.

There will be a regular Ventura Discussion Group meeting at Main Street Restaurant 3159 Main St., Wednesday from 4 – 5:45 p.m. Several people usually stay for a drink and a bite to eat afterward. Bring an interesting topic to discuss if you can.

Ventura’s ACBL Duplicate Bridge Club offers games for all levels of play.  Learn the game, play with your peers, and earn master points while you are having fun.  There is a game every day of the week.  Check out their website at www.vcbridge.org

Country Western Line Dancing every Tuesday 7 – 9 p.m. Instruction every night. Located at the Moose lodge, 10269 Telephone Road. More information at countrylovers.com.

Cross Town Hikers join in on Wednesday nights for a moderate-paced hike that includes views of Ventura from the cross, a walk out to the end of the pier, and a stroll along the Promenade back to the Museum. Four miles with an 800-foot elevation gain. Meet at 7 p.m. at the fountain across the street from the Mission. https://www.facebook.com/groups/800215670039426/

The Ventura Investment Group meet on Mondays for an informal discussion of recent economic events.   The meeting is from 10 – 11:30 a.m. at the Coffee Bean & Tea Leaf at Telephone Road and Main Street.  Visitors and potential members are welcomed.  There are no dues or requirements to participate, and all levels of experience are welcomed.

Musicians’ Sober Support Meetup @ FIND (A Friend in Deed) every Monday night 7-9 p.m. Bring acoustic instrument(s) for jamming after sharing support for sobriety. Bell Arts-Studio 39-432 Ventura Ave. For further information [email protected].

Co-Dependents Anonymous (CoDa) is a 12-step fellowship of men and women whose common purpose is recovery from codependence in the development and maintenance of healthy relationships. Every Friday at 6 p.m. at the Unitarian Universalist Church, 5654 Ralston (enter through side door off parking lot). Further information Deva 805-814-5650 or Maryann

The Ventura Retired Men’s group meets on the first and third Tuesday each month at 11:30 a.m. at the Elks lodge on Knoll Drive in Ventura. Drop by to introduce yourself and we’ll treat you to lunch so you can sample our activities and banter and hear our program/speaker of the day. Got a question? Call Bob Likins at 805-587-1233.

BCNN (Beach Cities Neighbors and Newcomers) is a women’s club open to ladies who reside in Ventura, Oxnard and Port Hueneme. A purely social club to provide a venue by which women in our area can meet each other. You can see a listing of some of activities at http://www.bcnnwomensclub.org/.

On the 1st Wednesday of each month from 9:30 – 11 a.m. at the Knights of Columbus Hall, 36 Figueroa St. Parking is on Santa Clara Avenue. dues are $30 per year. April 3rd speaker, Kurt Buckley, will present “My Comino”. He will introduce the audience to the Camino de Santiago de Compostela in Spain.

March 27: The College Area Community Council will meet on Wednesday, at 7 p.m. Bruce Kuebler, from the Ventura River Water District, will discuss proposed efforts to resolve the dispute over the Ventura River. Representatives from Ventura College and the police department will attend. The Council meets in the Wright Event Center at 57 Day Rd. Free parking is available adjacent to the Event Center. Call (805) 644-8695 for more information.

April 6: Ventura County physician Dr. Megan Mescher-Cox, is inviting the public to join her on a leisurely “Walk with a Doc” to give people a chance to exercise and enjoy some free health tips. The walk is part of the international Walk with A Doc program, which gets people exercising in a fun way while learning ways to improve their health. Will begin at 9 a.m. on Saturday at the Ventura Pier boardwalk (alternatively at the Pacific View Mall in inclement weather.) It is for one hour and is free. For more information about the local walk, call 805-988-2821. Visit https://walkwithadoc.org.

April 6: City of Ventura Free Gardening Class. Integrated Pest Management and Beneficial Insects: It’s a bug-eat-bug world. Learn how to control pests with beneficial insects in your landscape. Saturday from 10 -11:30 a.m. Avenue Adult Center 550 N. Ventura Ave. RSVP at www.venturawater.net

April 7: Old-Time Country Bluegrass Gospel Music Assoc. meeting on Sunday from 2-4 p.m. at the Poinsettia Pavilion, 3451 Foothill Rd. Free admission, music on stage and jamming. Free parking. Open to Public. For more information call,805-517-1131 or visit Facebook: OTCBGMA .

April 7: The 1892 Dudley Historic House Museum will be open for docent-led tours from 1 – 4 p.m. A timeline photo display of Ventura’s history beginning in 1866, featuring over 100 period photographs originally assembled for the City’s 150th anniversary in 2016 will be featured.  Admission is free.  197 N. Ashwood .  For information please call (805) 642-3345 or visit www.dudleyhouse.org.

April 7: The public is invited to the Unitarian Universalist Church of Ventura for a free presentation exploring the Mixtec language, people & culture on Sunday, from 11:30 – 12:30 p.m. Presentation will be given by Mixtec Language Instructor Silvia Ventura Luna, MA, Cal State University Channel Islands – Department of Global Languages and Cultures. The Mixtec have flourished for thousands of years and regarded as among the most advanced societies in pre-Columbian America.  Admission free. Free parking available at the church at 5654 Ralston Street, with overflow parking available at the “City Center” parking lot, next door at 5700 Ralston St.

April 10: The Ventura County Camera Club will hold a meeting on Wednesday, at 6:30 p.m. at the Poinsettia Pavilion. The first part of the meeting will be an instructional workshop followed by the showing of member images. A professional photographer from the area will critique member’s prints and digital images. Anyone with an interest in photography is welcome and admission is free. For more information about the club call 805-908-5663 or WWW.VenturaCountyCameraClub.com.

April 11: from 11:30 – 1PM Ventura Holistic Chamber of Commerce will be hosting their monthly Chapter Meeting. This month’s topic is “3 Common Mistakes When Writing Your Website and Other Marketing Materials”. At The Greek Mediterranean Restaurant in the Harbor. There is a $12 fee which includes lunch , beverage and gratuity. Please come a bit early to network and be sure to bring plenty of business cards. RSVP by contacting Julie Ridenour, Chapter President, (805) 223-1207.

April 13: 10 – 3p.m. Ventura Friends of the Library will hold a Bag o’Books Book Sale at the Vons at Telegraph and Victoria (6040 Telegraph Rd.) Members of Ventura Friends of the Library can take home a bag of books for $1. Non-members the price is $3 a bag. Contact Mary Olson (805) 223-1187.

April 27:   TLC Preschool Yard Sale and Pancake Breakfast, 196 N. Ashwood Avenue.

Saturday, 8:00AM – noon. Free to attend.

$5.00 Pancake Breakfast – Pancakes, Sausages, Strawberries

Yard sale includes furnishings/household items/children’s items/clothing/outdoor items.

All proceeds benefitting Trinity Lutheran Church Preschool.

May 3-5: ACBL’s Nationally Sanctioned Sectional Duplicate Bridge Tourney returns to Ventura’s Crosspointe Church Ventura, 5415 Ralston St.  Earn Silver Master Points, 10 a.m. and 2:30 p.m. sessions. Lots of food and fun.  For more information contact Josh Rosenbluth, [email protected].