BiJian Fan will visit the Ojai Library at 6 p.m. on Tuesday, April 9, to deliver a workshop titled “Words Count in Math.” Dr. Fan teaches math at CSU Channel Islands.

Why does math trouble so many children? It’s the language.

This workshop will address this linguistic hindrance and offer parents remedies to give children a leg-up in arithmetic development.

At 3 p.m. on Saturday, March 30, the Women’s International League for Peace and Freedom(WILPF) will visit the Ojai Library to host a screening of the 2004 documentary Peace One Day. The screening will be accompanied by group discussion.

Activist and filmmaker Jeremy Gilley saw the benefits that just one day of global cease fire could bring, from the possibility of dialogue to the safe delivery of humanitarian aid, and this documentary follows his passionate quest to bring that vision to life.

Associate Professor of English Sean Carswell will visit the Ojai Library at 1 p.m. on Saturday, April 13, to deliver a presentation titled “Fresh Eyes on the Femme Fatale.” Carswell is from CSU Channel Islands (CI) as part of this season’s CI Library Lecture Series.

This talk will examine the femmes fatale of classic crime writers like Raymond Chandler, James M. Cain, Chester Himes, and others as a way of seeing what these characters can teach us about gender, power, and the ever-prevalent male gaze.

CSU Channel Islands hosts dozens of free public lectures at libraries throughout Ventura County as part of this program. The lecturers are experts from numerous departments at CI, including Biology, History, English, Computer Science, Political Science, Performing Arts, and Sociology to name a few.

The Ojai Library is located at 111 East Ojai Avenue. 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.

The Ojai Valley Green Coalition is proud to host the 2019 Ojai Earth Day at Libbey Park on April 20, 2019 from 11am-4pm. The Park offers a beautiful setting perfect for this fun, informative, family-friendly community celebration.

After a year of recovery from the Thomas Fire the local residents are – now more than ever – looking to improve their way of interfacing with the natural environment. The Ojai Earth Day Festival is an ideal way for continuing the conversation about advancing a green, sustainable, and resilient way of life. Just as last year, there will be a variety of engaging interactive activities, demonstrations, dynamic speakers, talented performers, environmentally-friendly exhibitors, and non-profits sharing information about living with a lighter, more compassionate footprint.

Composer/Songwriter Ray Powers, who created Valley of the Moon Suite to honor the Ojai Valley’s gift of incredible nature, will be opening the Stage lineup with his gentle native flute compositions, followed by an opening ceremony by Chumash Elder Julie Tumamait-Stenslie. Then throughout the day there will be a variety of musical performances in between a series of expert speakers.

Special Olympics Southern California have partnered with Villanova Preparatory School to provide an opportunity for Special Olympics Athletics (SOSC) and Swim teams across all of Ventura County to participate in a scrimmage event where they can experience a competition atmosphere in a practice environment. This allows SOSC to record true performance standards for each athlete before they move on to compete in official competitions over the next few months.

The scrimmage event will be at Villanova Preparatory School, located at 12096 North Ventura Avenue, from 9 a.m. to 12 p.m. This event is open to the public.

The Ojai Photography Community will host award-winning travel photographer Sharon Lobel in a presentation entitled “All About Travel Photography and More” on Tuesday, March 19, at 7 p.m. in Help of Ojai’s Kent Hall, 111 W. Santa Ana St., Ojai CA. The OPC welcomes the public to attend these free events.

Lobel will share her “Suitcase for Success.” She will cover her best tools and tricks in the field, as well as how to pack camera gear using simple tools. For anyone planning a trip this year, or even just dreaming about one, Lobel’s presentation will inspire them to dig deep into their passion and discover what motivates them to become a successful travel photographer.

In the Professional Photographers of Los Angeles County, she was named twice as Nature Photographer of the Year. She is a double international silver medalist with the Professional Photographers of America. Her energy and enthusiasm spill over into a workshop and adventure business that she co-founded, called “Image Adventures.”

For more information and images, go to https://sharonlobelphotography.co

Join Rev. Karen S. Wylie at The Ojai Retreat on Sunday, March 17, from 11:00 a.m. – 2:00 p.m. for her Mid-Month Devotional Retreat, this time devoted to “Becoming Your Own Best Friend.”

This gathering is about tapping into true and essential nature through meditation, sharing, wisdom talks, inspiration, quiet walks in nature and sacred music. Randee Vasilakos, RScP, assists and anchors our morning in a consciousness of prayer and healing.

The Ojai Retreat is at 160 Besant Road, People of all faiths and traditions, or no tradition, are welcome to attend.

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.

The Ojai Valley chapter of NOW (National Organization for Women) will visit the Ojai Library at 1 p.m. & 4 p.m. on Saturday, March 23, 2019, to host two screenings and a discussion of the 2014 documentary film She’s Beautiful When She’s Angry.

This free community film screening is being offered in celebration of Women’s History month. She’s Beautiful When She’s Angry takes us from the founding of NOW, with ladies in hats and gloves, to the emergence of more radical factions of women’s liberation. It does not shy away from controversies over race, sexual preference, and leadership that arose in the women’s movement.

Florencia Ramirez will visit the Ojai Library at 1 p.m. on Saturday, March 30, 2019, to deliver a presentation on her book Eat Less Water. Ramirez is a trained researcher at the University of Chicago’s School of Public Policy.

By 2030, experts predict two-thirds of people living on this planet will not have enough water, a situation expected to result in the deaths of millions and an unprecedented rise in military conflicts. Award-winning author and water activist, Florencia Ramirez, believes that change can happen if conservation efforts focus on the 70 percent of freshwater flowing to the fields and ranches that grow food.

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.

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.

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. Four miles with an 800-foot elevation gain. Meet at 7 p.m. 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.   10 – 11:30 a.m. at the Coffee Bean & Tea Leaf at Telephone Road and Main. 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].

March 21: Meeting of the East Ventura Community Council will be led by Betsy Cooper; city staff lead on the State Water Interconnection Project. A 30-month construction task which will begin in Camarillo and travel through many areas of East Ventura. The meeting starts at 7 p.m. at the First Assembly of God Church, 346 N. Kimball Road. The public is encouraged to attend and participate.

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

March 21: The regular monthly meeting of Assistance League of Ventura County will be on Thursday, at the Chapter House, 913 East Santa Clara St. The meeting begins at 10 a.m. Assistance League is creating “A Brighter Tomorrow for Today’s Children” through several philanthropic programs. Find more information on the Website: assistanceleagueventuracounty.org or email [email protected]. 805-643-2458 (Monday – Thursday 8 -2 p.m.)

March 22: (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.

March 23&24: Olivas Adobe Used Book Sale. Our largest sale…ever! Hundreds of Books

Saturday and Sunday. Olivas Adobe, 4200 Olivas Park Dr.

Tours of the historic Adobe will be available.

March 24: Come to the NAMBA performing arts space. Learn simple songs to sing together in a circle.

It’s not a performance, it’s a shared experience and all are welcome.

2-4 p.m. At 47 South Oak St. Cost is $8. (805) 628-9250 https://nambaarts.com/

March 28: 7:30 p. m. Working Artists Ventura (WAV) 175 S Ventura Ave.

Seattle-based Flamenco dancer, Savannah Fuentes brings her latest show, Luz, an evening of Flamenco. Savannah will be joined by two exceptional Spanish Flamenco artists; guitarist Pedro Cortes and Jose Moreno.

Tickets: general admission $22 VIP seating $35, student $15, child $8

available at www.brownpapertickets.com

https://www.brownpapertickets.com/event/3895599

April 3: The Ventura County Garden Club will meet on Wednesday, at Channel Islands National Park Visitor Center, 1901 Spinnaker Dr. for a walking tour of their Native Garden. The 45-minute guided walk will begin at 11 a.m., led by Master Gardener, Kelly Green. The Garden is composed entirely of native plants from the Anacapa Islands. After the native garden tour, members will meet for lunch at Le Petit Café Bakery & Restaurant, in Ventura Harbor Village. RSVP by March 27th. For further information or to RSVP call Jacqualin at (805) 816-6019 or email [email protected]

April 6: Sport Event. Want to learn about fly fishing? 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. If you don’t have a fly rod, don’t worry, just come and use one of theirs. Chumash Park, Petit and Waco, 9 – 11 a.m., in East Ventura (off Telephone Rd). www.sespeflyfishers.org For more information Bob Smith at (805) 647-3522.

Chamber On The Mountain presents Cellist Zlatomir Fung, who recently captured First Prize at the 2018 Schoenfeld International String Competition, as well as the competition’s sole performance engagement prize for a concert with Poland’s Poznan Philharmonic Orchestra.

Mr. Fung will be accompanied by Pianist Janice Carissa, who was recently awarded the 2018 Career Grant Winner of Charlotte White’s Salon De Virtuosi. Ms. Carissa was a Young Scholar of Lang Lang’s International Music Foundation; the runner-up in the 2014 piano competition at the American Academy of Conducting at Aspen Music Festival and School; Star Performance Award Winner of the 2012 American Protégé International Music Talent Competition in New York; the runner-up in Indonesia Pusaka International Piano Competition in 2011; and the Top Prize Winner of the IBLA Foundation’s 2006 International Piano Competition.

The program includes selections from 11 Capricci for Solo Cello by Joseph Dall’Abaco; Baal Shem, B. 47 by Ernest Bloch; Sequenza XIV for Cello by Luciano Berio; Premiere by Katherine Balch; Sonata in E Minor, Op. 38 by Johannes Brahms.

The Beatrice Wood Center for the Arts is pleased to present a performance by Jim Kimo West on Saturday, March 2, 2019 at pm. West, recognized as one of the world’s top slack key guitarists, will perform selections from his Grammy-nominated album Moku Maluhia: Peaceful Island as well as classic works.

West is a prolific composer with a generous output of new, exciting slack key guitar originals. In addition he writes and produces music for too numerous to mention feature films and television shows.

Gretchen Simpson will visit the Ojai Library at 1 p.m. on Saturday, March 16, 2019, to deliver a talk entitled “Artistic Visions of a Growing America.” Ms. Simpson comes to us via the Santa Barbara Museum of Art’s Community Speakers Program.

A living artist views their surroundings with an eye that is both immediate and thoughtful. The result on their canvas can be a historical record which is informative as well as provocative. At times, however, a painting is also disturbing and cautionary. The art of this remarkable era reveals all the growing pains of a society rushing into its future.

A representative from the U.S. Census Bureau will visit the Ojai Library at 3 p.m. on Friday, March 15, 2019, to deliver a 2020 Census recruiting and application workshop.

The 2020 Census is hiring in Ojai and Ventura County! All are invited to attend an informal workshop at the Ojai Library to learn more about this opportunity. The workshop will include a presentation of the variety of jobs available, the qualifications required for 2020 Census work, and the method for submitting your application.

Beginning on March 10, the Ojai Library’s Fiber Fun with Kids group will meet on Sundays from 2-3 p.m. for a weekly crochet workshop. This workshop will focus on basic crochet skills.

Crochet is both entertaining and educational. Participating in this type of crafting helps to improve problem solving, reading, and fine motor skills. Kids who take part in this program will learn to crochet different shapes that will help them to design and build all kinds of fun projects.

Kids age 8 and up will enjoy this engaging activity with a STEAM focus. Materials are provided by the Ojai Valley Library Friends & Foundation. Supplies are limited.

This program is 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.

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.

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].

March 3: The 1892 Dudley Historic House Museum will be open for docent-led tours from 1 – 4 p.m.  Admission is free.  The museum is located at the corner of Loma Vista and Ashwood streets, 197 N. Ashwood.  For information please call 805- 642-3345 or visit the website at www.dudleyhouse.org.

March 3: Old-Time Country Bluegrass Gospel Music Assoc. Meeting on Sunday 2-4p.m.
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

March 3: The inaugural concert of CHICO’s World Music Gala will feature music of the Orient: Ode to Hero and Ode to Love (2015) is an award-winning Double Erhu Concerto composed by Chinese composer Bo-Chan Li (1992- ). The Erhu Concerto will be performed by the internationally renowned Taiwanese Erhu masters, Dr. Ming-Yen Lee and Dr. Hsin-Chiu Lin. Sunday, at 3 p.m., at First United Methodist Church of Ventura, 1338 E. Santa Clara Street.

March 5 & 12: LifeSource Women’s Bible Study from 9 – 11:15 a.m. Community Presbyterian Church located at 1555 Poli St. Every Tuesday morning following the school calendar. Study: “Hosea” by Jennifer Rothschild, who was blind at age 15. Message: The unfailing love of God. No matter where you are or have been in life, God loves you faithfully and brings hope and grace. Cost is $30 for book and registration (scholarships available). Please join us to experience God’s gift of love, forgiveness and great fellowship. For childcare needs or questions please call Helen 805-644-3886. cpcventura.org

March 8: The General George S. Patton, Jr. Chapter, Sons of the American Revolution
luncheon meeting will take place at 11:30 AM, the Poinsettia Pavilion, 3451 Foothill Road.  The program concerning U.S. history will be presented by Rev. Cliff Johnson.
All SAR & DAR Compatriots, friends, and visitors are welcome to attend.  If you choose lunch is $20.  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,  please visit the chapter website at http://pattonpatriots.org.

March 13: 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. This will be 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. Only members may submit images for critique.

See WWW.VenturaCountyCameraClub.com for more information about the club and examples of member’s work or call 805-908-5663.

March 12: The Ventura Parkinson’s Disease Support Group and the Parkinson’s Association of Santa Barbara (PASB) invite you to attend a joint meeting on Tuesday from 2:15 – 3:30 p.m. at the Presbyterian Church 4575 Auhay at Arroyo, Santa Barbara. Special guest speaker Dr. Neal S. Hermanowicz will present “Parkinson’s Disease, more than Motor Symptoms”. Reservations are not required. See the full article in the Senior Living pull-out section. For more information call PASB at 805-683-1326 or call Patty at 805-766-6070.

March 14: Thursday, from 11:30 – 1p.m. Ventura Holistic Chamber of Commerce will be hosting their monthly Chapter Meeting.  This month’s topic is “Women’s Empowerment:  4 Steps to Rebirth at Midlife!”  Harbor Cove Café, 1867 Spinnaker Drive.  All holistic professionals, practitioners, businesses and resource providers are welcomed to join for lunch, networking, business development and fun.  There is a $12 fee which includes lunch and beverage.   Please come a bit early to network and be sure to bring plenty of business cards to share. Please RSVP by contacting Julie Ridenour, Chapter President, 805-223-1207.

March 17: The Christian Science churches of Ojai and Ventura will host a free, hour-long talk entitled “Time is not a Factor in Your Life” on Sunday, at 2 p.m. at the E. P. Foster Library, Topping Room, 651 E. Main St. Dave Hohle will speak on how to gain dominion over time by understanding better how you can live in the timeless, constant present of the spiritual now. For more information, go to PrayerThatHeals.org.

At 1:30 p.m. on Saturday, February 16, 2019, Grandmaster Qin will visit the Ojai Library to deliver a presentation on the Life-Force Energy Expo and Immersion.

The Life-Force Energy Expo and Immersion explores the Qigong method of cultivating bio force energy. Grandmaster Qin comes from China, and will discuss the transmission of powerful, healing Qi energy with the audience.

Grandmaster Qin began meditation at age three with her grandmother and developed her abilities and higher awareness in early childhood. She was the only female student of several venerable grandmaster teachers in China. Founder and renowned grandmaster of Qinway Qigong, she has taught this art and science in China and America.

Kathryn Padgett will visit the Ojai Library at 1 p.m. on Saturday, February 23, 2019, to deliver a talk entitled “Monsters: The Dark Side of Human Imagination.” Ms. Padgett comes via the Santa Barbara Museum of Art’s Community Speakers Program.

This presentation covers some of the many kinds of monsters imagined by humans and how they have been depicted in visual and performing arts. Enjoy learning about Frankenstein, Dracula, gorgons, demons, cyclops, Cerberus, the Minotaur, and many more.

Communications consultant, attorney, and senior peer counselor Judy Devore will visit the Ojai Library at 2 p.m. on Friday, February 22, 2019, to deliver a presentation titled “Walking on Eggshells and Communicating with Adult Kids.”

Judy Devore, attorney and communications consultant, will discuss a powerful method she developed to address the “eggshell” issue. Neither mediation nor therapy, her method enlists seniors’ willingness to look carefully at, and make use of, their own life experience. Although she developed her method with the maternal mind and skill-sets in mind, all seniors are welcome to listen and learn.

Anagarika Sucinno will visit the Ojai Library at 2 p.m. on Sunday, February 17, 2019, to deliver an introductory talk titled “The Search for Silence in Turbulent Times.”

Are people inevitably stuck in history’s turbulence and personal suffering? How does a Buddhist/Taoist respond to the turmoil of the current world situation? Is it even possible to find peace and silence for oneself? Should one go out and “reform” the situation, or is finding personal silence enough?

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 Sunday, February 17, from 11:00 a.m. – 2:00 p.m. for a gathering devoted to love.

Randee Vasilakos, RScP, assists and will anchor the morning in a consciousness of prayer and healing.

The Ojai Retreat is at 160 Besant Road, Ojai. People of all faiths and traditions, or no tradition, are welcome to attend.

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.

Performances To Grow On will present Origami Tales with Kuniko Yamamoto on Saturday, March 9th at 2 pm at the Ojai Art Center, located at 113 South Montgomery. Tickets are available at ptgo.org. Tickets are $15 for adults and $10 for children.

Charming Japanese folktales are combined with traditional musical instruments, magical masks, origami and mime to create storytelling that will have audience spellbound in their seats. From Disney Epcot Center and The Kennedy Center through Eskimo villages, Kuniko’s marvelous presentations promote cross-cultural communication and understanding in an entertaining way.

On Sunday, February 17th, from 7:00 p.m. to 9:30 p.m., Ojai Jazz Concerts will present Bruce Forman, guitar virtuoso, in solo concert performing his Jazz Libretto “The Red Guitar.” General admission is $20 and for students, it is $10. Tickets can be purchased at www.ojaijazzconcerts.com. The Ojai Art Center is located at 113 South Montgomery Street. For more information, call 805-746-0936.

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. Dance lessons 6:45 – 7:15 $5 for couple $3 for single. Call Rick 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.

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. 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. 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.

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

Feb.17: The Ventura and Santa Barbara County chapter of the National Association of Watch and Clock Collectors (NAWCC) will meet Sunday, in the Campus Student Center of Ventura College, 4667 Telegraph Road. The regular meeting starts at noon and at 11 a.m. there will be an informal workshop. There will be a mart followed by lunch and an informational meeting and a program at 1 p.m. The program will be a presentation by Ken McWilliams on “Wooden Works Clocks”. There is a $5 admission charge. Lunch will be available for $5. Monthly meetings are held on the 3rd Sunday of each month at the Ventura College. More information about chapter 190 can be found at www.nawcc-ch190.com.

Feb 19, 26: LifeSource Women’s Bible Study from 9 – 11:15 a.m. Community Presbyterian Church located at 1555 Poli St. Every Tuesday morning following the school calendar. Study: “Hosea” by Jennifer Rothschild, who was blind at age 15. Cost is $30 for book and registration (scholarships available). Please join to experience God’s gift of love, forgiveness and great fellowship. For childcare needs or questions please call Helen 805-644-3886. cpcventura.org

Feb.21: The regular monthly meeting of Assistance League of Ventura County will be on Thursday, at the Chapter House, 913 East Santa Clara Street. The meeting begins at 10 a.m. Men and women are welcome, and there is no age requirement. Assistance League is creating “A Brighter Tomorrow for Today’s Children” 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 disabilities. The Bargain Box Thrift Shop helps fund these programs. Find more information on the Website: assistanceleagueventuracounty.org, like us on Facebook, Instagram, or email [email protected]. Telephone: 805-643-2458 Monday – Thursday 8 – 2 p.m.

Feb.21: Alex McIntyre, Ventura’s new City Manager, heads the agenda for the meeting of the East Ventura Community Council. In addition, a representative from Ventura’s Police Department will present an update on crime in the area. The meeting starts at 7 p.m. at the First Assembly of God Church, 346 N. Kimball Road. The public is encouraged to attend and participate.

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

Feb. 22: 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. 4th Friday of each month, 7 p.m. – 10 p.m. Listeners welcome! Mike Wittlin, (805) 750-8281.

Feb.23: Every town has its stories, and Ventura County’s beloved The Townies Podcast is ready to prove it by bringing their biannual Block Party – a free community event – to the wonderful Museum of Ventura County on Saturday, at 7:00 pm.

The Block Party begins at 7:00 pm with a cocktail party in the courtyard of the Museum of Ventura County, followed by an hour of the best of the best of Townie stories starting at 8:00 pm in the Museum’s lovely Martin V. and Martha K. Smith Pavilion. Then the night continues in the courtyard with food trucks, games, awesome merchandise and a killer DJ set by Mikael Jorgensen for dancing pleasure.

For more information, visit thetowniesinc.org/events/.

Feb.24: Acclaimed author Kimberly Davis Basso will visit the Hill Road Library at 12 p.m. on Sunday, 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.

You’ll get an inside look at being a middle-aged stroke patient as she hosts a neurological event, juggles doctors and undergoes a heart procedure. 1070 S. Hill Road. Hours of service are 10 – 6 p.m. Monday through Wednesday, 2 – 6 p.m. Thursday, and 10 – 2 p.m. Friday through Sunday.

March 2: Want to learn about fly fishing?? The Sespe Flyfishers of Ventura will be conducting an introductory class on Fly Fishing and Casting the Fly Rod on the “First Saturday” in March from 9- 11 a.m. and you are invited to join at Chumash Park, Petit and Waco, in East Ventura (off Telephone Rd). There is no charge, and all are welcome. Whether you are experienced or a complete novice we want to help

you learn and enjoy this great sport. If you don’t yet have your own rod just come and use one of ours. For more information: Bob Smith at (805) 647-3522. www.sespeflyfishers.org

March 23: Laubach Literacy of Ventura County will hold a free training for new tutors on Saturday, from 8:30 – 4 p.m. Laubach is an all-volunteer non-profit organization teaching English as a Second Language to adults 18 and over. New tutors are always needed. Knowledge of a foreign language is not necessary, nor is prior teaching experience. For more information and to register for the workshop please call 805-385-9584.

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. Dance lessons 6:45 – 7:15 $5 for couple $3 for single. Call Rick 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].

Feb. 3: The 1892 Dudley Historic House Museum will be open for docent-led tours from 1 – 4 p.m. Admission is free. The museum is located at the corner of Loma Vista and Ashwood streets (197 N. Ashwood) in Ventura. For information please call 805-642-3345 or visit the website at www.dudleyhouse.org.

Feb. 5:  LifeSource Women’s Bible Study from 9 – 11:15 a.m. Community Presbyterian Church, 1555 Poli St. Every Tuesday morning following the school calendar. Study: “Hosea” by Jennifer Rothschild, who was blind at age 15. Cost is $30.00 for book and registration (scholarships available). Please join us to experience God’s gift of love, forgiveness and great fellowship. For childcare needs or questions please call Helen 805-644-3886. cpcventura.org

Feb. 5, 19: Ventura Retired Men will meet at the Ventura Elks lodge on Knoll Drive at 11:30 a.m. for their twice-monthly lunch meetings.  Those interested can stop in, introduce themselves, enjoy our social activities and programs, and we’ll spring for your Elks lunch. Call Bob Likins at 805-587-1233 if you have a question.

Feb. 6: The Beach Cities Neighbors and Newcomers Club (BCNN) is a group of active women of all ages who live in Ventura, Oxnard, or Port Hueneme. Enjoy activities such as, bridge, dining, miscellaneous outings, reading, Mahjong, games, cooking, crafts etc. For more information, please come to our monthly meeting from 9:30 – 11 a.m. Guest speaker is Mike Rowan speaking on the subject of “Situational Awareness and Safety”. Knights of Columbus Hall, 36 Figueroa St, parking and entry is on Santa Clara Ave. Look for the Blue awning at the back of the parking lot. No charge for meeting and no reservation is required.

Feb.10: National Medicare for All Week of Action. Hundreds of events are happening across the country as activists come together to win Medicare for All.

Ventura County host is the Democratic Socialists of America Ventura County Chapter.

Topping Room, E.P. Foster Library Sunday, 2:00 PM – 3:30 PM.

Contact DSA Ventura County Chapter https://www.dsaventuracounty.org/

Feb.13: The Ventura Parkinson’s Disease Support Group is having a Round Table Discussion on Wednesday, from 1- 3 p.m. at the Lexington Assisted Living 5440 Ralston Street.  Come share your unique life experience that just might also help others. And come to LAUGH! Our discussion will open on an amazing positive note with a very special guest, Carol “Call Me Capable” Leish!  For more details see full article in the Ventura Breeze Senior Section or call Patty at 805-766-6070.

Feb.13: The Ventura County Camera Club will hold a meeting on Wednesday, at 6:30 p.m. at the Poinsettia Pavilion, 3451 Foothill Rd. The first part of the meeting will be an instructional workshop.  This will be followed by the showing of member images. A professional photographer from the area will critique member’s prints and digital images. This is not a competition but rather an anonymous discussion of the images. Anyone with an interest in photography is welcome and admission is free. Only members may submit images for critique. See the club’s web site for more information about the club and examples of member’s work or call 805-908-5663. WWW.VenturaCountyCameraClub.com

Feb. 14: Ventura Holistic Chamber of Commerce will be hosting their monthly Chapter Meeting.  This month’s topic is “Love Yourself… Love Your Business!”.  The meeting will be held at the Harbor Cove Café, 1867 Spinnaker Dr. from 11:30 – 1 p.m. All holistic professionals, practitioners, businesses and resource providers are welcomed to join us for lunch, networking, business development and fun.  There is a $12 fee which includes lunch and beverage.   Please come a bit early to network and be sure to bring plenty of business cards to share. Please RSVP by contacting Julie Ridenour, Chapter President, (805) 223-1207.