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.

Villanova students, staff and families gathered on Monday, January 14 to celebrate one of Villanova’s traditions, International Day. The annual event honors the rich diversity of Villanova students’ heritage through food, dance, traditional dress, and music. International Day at Villanova dates back to the early 1990s, when resident student, Victor Yang ’94 from Taiwan, expressed a desire to share his culture with his American classmates. The tradition has since blossomed into a highly-anticipated celebration with Villanova faculty and parents helping students develop food menus, and learn cultural dance and music.

Lanny Kaufer’s Herb Walks series will present Jess Starwood, clinical herbalist and forager of wild medicine, on Saturday, February 9, for a workshop in Ojai entitled “Tasting the Wild: Foraged Flavors of Local Plants and Mushrooms.” Starwood is the owner of SunRaven Apothecary in Thousand Oaks,

Participants will identify and experience several wild winter plants and mushrooms to be found in Southern California locales this time of year. In the kitchen, Starwood will share her popular medicinal mushroom chocolate truffle recipe and all participants will go home with some truffles they made by hand themselves, just in time for Valentine’s Day.

The group will meet in the morning for an Herb Walk led by Kaufer and Starwood at the Ventura River Preserve followed by the afternoon session in a downtown Ojai kitchen and workshop space.

This workshop will go on rain or shine with substitution of morning indoor activities in case of heavy downpour and/or a 100% chance of heavy rain that morning.

The cost of the workshop including all materials is $75. To register, please visit HerbWalks.com, email [email protected], or call 805-646-6281. Registrants will receive a confirmation email with all necessary info prior to the event.

Ojai Art Center February 10th at 6:00PM for a musical evening “From Berditchev to Broadway” featuring the world renowned Cantor A.L. Hurwitz and Reb Doniel on the piano.

Cantor Hurwitz is a soloist and performer from Brooklyn, NY whose brilliant voice has been featured all over the world.

The Ojai Arts Exchange has teamed up with Flamenco Dancer Wendy Castellanos to curate a night of authentic Flamenco music and dance. The show will feature Tony Triana strumming the Guitar, Antonio de Jerez, singing timeless gypsy melodies, Cristina Lucio, Jamie Padilla and Wendy Castellanos, setting the stage on fire with their entrancing movements.

The Ojai Underground Exchange is located at 1016 W. Ojai Avenue. Tickets are $25. Visit www.squareup.com/store/undergroundexchange for tickets and www.ojaiartsexchange.com/events for more information.

More than 150 attendees gathered at the Ojai Valley Woman’s Club on January 17 to attend the third annual Ojai Women’s Fund Grantee Gala Awards Celebration. A total of $105,000 in grant money was distributed to 13 nonprofit organizations providing services to the Ojai Valley community in arts, education, environment, health, and social services. The grants were funded by donations from 358 Ojai Women’s Fund members and a contribution from the Wilson Family Fund grant from the Ventura County Community Foundation. The Ojai Women’s Fund is an all-volunteer circle dedicated to making substantial grants to organizations that address critical needs in the Ojai Valley

On Wednesday, January 23, at 7 p.m., to commemorate Martin Luther King Jr. Day, Jewish Community of Ojai (JCO) will host an encore performance by Lanny Kaufer of his musical multimedia presentation, “My Summer Working for Dr. Martin Luther King, Jr.”  Kaufer will share the experiences he had in the Voting Rights Movement, including meeting and volunteering for Dr. King in the South in 1965, and share socially conscious music of the era.

Speaking as the son of a Holocaust refugee, Kaufer will discuss the little known influence of American anti-black racism on Adolf Hitler’s philosophy as well as share Jewish contributions to the Civil Rights Movement.

The event is free with donations accepted. Jewish Community of Ojai is located at 530 W. El Roblar Drive in Meiners Oaks. For more information, please visit www.ojaitemple.org and select “Bulletin Board”.

Local poet Jeff Kustal will visit the Ojai Library at 1 p.m. on Saturday, January 26, to deliver a reading of selected poems including the featured title “A Man and a Woman.” Mr. Kustal will be accompanied in his reading by Lucy Roadarmel.

An avid writer and longtime runner, Kustal has used poetry and exercise to keep himself moving through heart surgery and a Parkinson’s diagnosis.

Lucy Roadarmel shares Kustal’s love of writing and reading. She has used her writing skills over the years working in corporate and non-profit organizations. A graduate of the High School of Performing Arts in New York and Theater Arts at NYU, Roadarmel has performed in off-Broadway plays, summer stock, and community theater.

At 3 p.m. on Saturday, January 26, the Women’s International League for Peace and Freedom (WILPF) will visit the Ojai Library to host a viewing of a 1997 documentary titled “Cadillac Desert: Water and the Transformation of Nature.”

Cadillac Desert explores the means through which the American Southwest was transformed in the 20th century from a harsh desert to a vibrant oasis. The film approaches water use from a development standpoint as well as a political one. Advances in technology and policy help to create a picture that is perhaps more relevant now than ever before.

This event 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 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 Narek Arutyunian, Clarinetist with Christopher Goodpasture, Pianist. Sunday, January 27, 3:00 pm / Logan House 8585 Ojai-Santa Paula Rd.

Audience members are invited to stay and meet the artists at a reception immediately following the concert. Tickets: $25.00 at www.ChamberOnTheMountain.com

Fire Safe and Earthquake Resilient Home Design, a presentation and panel discussion hosted by the Ojai Valley Green Coalition on Sunday, January 27, 3 to 5 p.m. at the Matilija Jr. High auditorium – 703 El Paseo Rd. There is a $5 suggested donation at the door.

Panelist information is available at ojaivalleygreencoalition.org

Events by Ana Baker

Ventura Poinsettia Dance Club Monday nights 7:30 – 9:45p.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.

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.  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 (805)509-4813.

Jan.17: Derek Poultney, Executive Director of the Ventura Land Trust, will present an update on the acquisition of Harmon Canyon, 2100 acres in the hills of East Ventura. East Ventura Community Council starts at 7 p.m. at the First Assembly of God Church, 346 N. Kimball Road. Karen Schmidt, Regional Affairs Manager for the Clean Power Alliance, will explain the new choices available to residents in the sourcing of electricity. A representative from Ventura’s Police Department will present an update on crime in the area. Books in good condition are solicited on behalf of Ventura Friends of the Library.

Jan.17: The regular monthly meeting of Assistance League of Ventura County will be on Thursday at the Chapter House, 913 East Santa Clara St. at 10 a.m. Men and women are welcome. 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.

Jan.19: Children’s Book Reading: Ladies & Gentlemen…the Penguins! featuring Ivor Davis with musical entertainment by Alan Shapiro from 1pm-2pm.

Very Ventura Gift Shop & Gallery – 540 E. Main Street

Appropriate for kids ages 5 thru 10 and Beatles fans of all ages!

RSVP 805-628-3540 or thru Facebook Event Page @very-ventura.

Jan. 19 & 20: Ventura Friends of the Library will hold a Book Sale at the Topping Room at E.P. Foster Library, 651 E. Main St. All genres, books individually priced. On January 19, Ventura Friends of the Library members will be admitted at 11 a.m. Open for all 12-3 p.m. On Sunday, January 20, open for all 12-3 p.m.

Jan. 20: The Ventura and Santa Barbara County chapter of the National Association of Watch and Clock Collectors (NAWCC) meet Sunday in the Campus Student Center of Ventura College, 4667 Telegraph Road. The regular meeting starts at noon and at 11a.m. There will be an informal workshop where a topic on clocks or watches will be demonstrated and discussed. There will be a mart where items will be for sale followed by lunch and an informational meeting and a program at 1:00 p.m.

The program this month will be by Jerry Treiman on “Staying Alive – How the E. Howard watch survived for almost 100 years”. There is a $5 admission charge. Lunch will be available for $5.

More information about chapter 190 can be found at www.nawcc-ch190.com.

Jan. 20: 9-11am. The Nature Conservancy is hosting a walk (1 1/2miles) along the Santa Clara River which is flowing due to recent rains. Search for signs of wildlife as we explore the restoration and wetland area. Please wear comfortable walking shoes , water, layers, binoculars. Please arrive 5-10 minutes before scheduled start. There are no facilities at this location. 1368 Mission Rock Rd. Santa Paula. Amy Davis at 770-853-4715 or [email protected].

Jan. 21: The 33rd annual Rev. Dr. Martin Luther King, Jr., birthday celebration will be held on Monday at 9 a.m. in the Oxnard Room of the Oxnard Performing Arts Center, 800 Hobson Way. This year’s event theme is, “Whatever affects one directly, affects all indirectly: injustice anywhere is a threat to justice everywhere.” The day will begin with a Freedom March from Plaza Park at Fifth and “C” Streets. with prayer at 8 a.m. Tickets for the program are $7 and are available from any member of the MLK, Jr., Committee. For information or vendor booth applications, please call Willie Claytor at (805) 985-3387.

Jan. 23: “The College Area Community Council will meet on Wednesday at 7 p.m. Council meetings include speakers and discussion on topics of neighborhood and community interest, including public safety and economic development. 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.”

Jan.24: Portuguese Fraternal Society of America – The local chapter of P.F.S.A. (Council #128) monthly meeting on Thursday.  This meeting is open to any person of Portuguese descent, or, interested in the Portuguese culture.  Marie Callendar’s Restaurant, 1295 South Victoria Ave. at 11:30 a.m. for a 12 p.m. no host luncheon/meeting.  For more information and a reservation please call Cora Corella at (805) 483-4168, or, Yvonne Westervelt at (805) 483-4168.

Jan. 25: 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. 7-10 p.m. Listeners welcome! Info: Mike Wittlin, (805) 750-8281.

Jan. 26: Saturday 7- 9 p.m. Once Ventura was a wild and woolly Cattle Town where gunfighters, sailors, hookers and cowboys walked the boardwalk streets and violence was no stranger. This era left many ghosts behind in the downtown of our community. Mr. Richard Senate will explore these colorful phantoms and their stories. Fee $6 Bank of Books748 E Main St. (805) 643-3154

January 26: 9-11am. Come visit Ormond beach with a naturalist and discover the flora and fauna of the wetland and beach habitat. See the endangered Snowy Plovers and beach comb on one of the least visited beaches in Ventura County. The walk is 1 1/2 to 2 miles. Wear durable walking shoes. Meet at the end of Arnold Rd, Ormond beach, Oxnard. Questions contact Amy Davis at 770-853-4715 or [email protected].

Jan. 27: The Channel Islands Chamber Orchestra, Dr. KuanFen Liu Artistic Director celebrates its 16th Season with Young Artists featuring young artists with guest conductor Daniel Newman-Lesser. Donations of $20 are appreciated. Youth 18 and under are free. For more information call 805-484-8000 or visit website www.CHICOVC.org. Sunday at 3p.m. First United Methodist Church 1338 E. Santa Clara St.

Feb. 5,19: Ventura Retired Men’s Group meetings at the Ventura Elks lodge will be held at 11:30 a.m. Social activities and a program and complimentary lunch for your first visit. Call Bob Likins at 805-587-1233 if you have any question and spend a couple of enjoyable hours.

by Ana Baker

Ventura Poinsettia Dance Club Monday nights 7:30 – 9:45p.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.

Retired men might enjoy a visit to a meeting of the Ventura Retired Men’s Group at the Ventura Elks lodge at 11:30 a.m.  on the first or third Tuesday of the month. Stop in and introduce yourself for a complimentary lunch, interesting program, and a relaxing good time with your peers. Give Bob Likins a call at (805) 587-1233 for details.

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].

The Ventura County Philatelic Society meet on the first and third Mondays each
month at 7:30 p.m. at the Church of the Foothills, 6279 Foothill Rd.
Admission and parking are free. Come for a great evening. They are a fun group.
Contact: Bill Garner (805) 320-1601 or [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. Ventura. They have excellent speakers
leading Cardiologists, Nutritionists, Dietitians etc. 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 (805)509-4813.

Jan.6: 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.

Jan. 9: Start the New Year with hope for better treatments and a cure for Parkinson’s Disease. Join the Ventura Parkinson’s Disease Support Group as we kick off the New Year with Wayne Pickerell, Vice President and Clinical Research Manager of Neurosearch, Inc. Wednesday, from 1 – 3 p.m. at the Lexington Assisted Living at 5440 Ralston St.  For more details see full article in the Ventura Breeze Senior Section or call Patty at 805-766-6070.

Jan 12: On Saturday, 1 – 4 p.m. Amnesty International USA Local Group #452 is hosting Write for Rights, a letter-writing marathon for human rights. Located at the College United Methodist Church, 4300 Telegraph Road, corner Telegraph and Baylor. This event is part of Amnesty International’s Write for Rights campaign, the world’s largest letter writing event. Drop in between 1 – 4 p.m. to write letters. Your hand-written letters, combined with hundreds of thousands of others from around the world, can change the lives of this year’s 10 cases. We furnish paper, pens, stamps, snacks and good company.

Jan:19-20: Ventura Friends of the Library will hold a Book Sale at the Topping Room at E.P. Foster Library, 651 E. Main St. All genres, books individually priced. On Saturday, January 19, Ventura Friends of the Library members will be admitted at 11 a.m. Open for all 12 – 3 p.m. On Sunday, January 20, open for all 12 – 3 p.m.

Feb. 9-11: Community Presbyterian Church will celebrate the 150th anniversary of our founding. Several activities are planned. Located at 1555 Poli St. Free event for all ages. Saturday 9th: open house 10 – 2 p.m. Jolly Jumps, Classic Cars, Scavenger Hunt, Games, Tours, Living History and Photo Booth. Fun for the Whole Family.

12 – 2 p.m. Hot Dog Lunch Served. Sunday 10th: Worship & Reunion Concert 9 – 10:30 a.m. Worship Service: Rev. Darrell Johnson Preaching “I Will Build MY Church” 3 p.m. Fellowship and Appetizers
4 p.m. Reunion Concert. Childcare will be available. Monday 11th: Building A Legacy Seminar
with Rev. Darrell Johnson. Fellowship and Appetizers at 4 p.m. and light dinner at 5 p.m. Seminar on building a legacy at 6 p.m. Childcare available.

The Beatrice Wood Center for the Arts is pleased to present Art Without Limits, sharing the work of the Santa Barbara non-profit of the same name. Art Without Limits provides artists of all disciplines with a belief in the power of the arts to transform lives and communities. The exhibition will feature recent work by emerging artists Elite Henenson, Sol Hill, Tom Pazderka and Andi Schoenbaum.

The Opening Reception on Saturday, January 2nd from 2 – 5 pm will feature Yulia Maluta and Derrick Curtis performing ballroom dancing. The public is welcome to attend.

A ballroom dancing workshop with Yulia Maluta and Peter Smith is scheduled for Saturday, January 26th. Participants will learn Swing, Argentine Tango and Foxtrot in three 40-minute sessions. The cost is $30 per person. To RSVP e-mail the Center at [email protected] or call 805-646-3381.

Running concurrently in the Beato Gallery is Intersection: Art and Life, an exhibition based upon the recent book by Kevin Wallace, director of the Center.

Beatrice Wood Center for the Arts is located at 8585 Ojai-Santa Paula Road in Upper Ojai. Opening Reception for Art Without Limits on Saturday, January 12th from 2 to 5 pm. The public is invited to attend. Ballroom Workshop is on Saturday, January 26th.

The Ojai Art Center Theater and director Paul Sulzman announce auditions for “The Miser” by Moliere (translation by David Chambers), the second production of the 2019 theater season. The play will run weekends beginning April 5 through April 28.

Actors should be prepared for movement and be prepared to read.  Reading will be done without movement but sitting at a table. Script is available at the Arts Center (please do not remove) and sides are noted in the script and available online at the Ojai Arts Center website.

Auditions are open to everyone and by appointment only. Please call Paul @ (323) 273-7285 for more info or to schedule an appointment!

Dr. Sirena Pellarolo will visit the Ojai Library on Tuesday, January 15, at 12 p.m. to deliver a presentation entitled Mapping Your Successful Midlife Career Reinvention. This interactive workshop will show participants how to effectively set a plan of action to jump-start a successful midlife re-launch. This workshop is being co-sponsored by the Ojai Valley Chamber of Commerce.

Dr. Pellarolo is a board certified Holistic Health Coach, international author and speaker, radio host, and blogger. With over 30 years’ experience working on women’s empowerment and mentoring thousands of students and clients, she believes in a holistic approach to help individuals navigate career and life transitions in an empowered and natural way. Her own midlife relaunch from College Professor to Midlife Reinvention Coach models for her clients how to courageously reinvent their lives by unleashing their unique personal power, creative self-expression, and hands-on genius.

Opera Santa Barbara will return to the Ojai Library to present a Free Noontime Opera Concert on Thursday, January 17, 2019. The concert will begin at 12 p.m. in the main room of the library and will last approximately 45 minutes.

Spend your lunch hour listening to members of the Opera Santa Barbara Studio Artists, who will perform a selection of popular opera arias and duets as well as some musical theatre pieces, all accompanied by piano.

Join Rev. Karen S. Wylie at The Ojai Retreat on Sunday, January 13, from 11:00 a.m. – 2:00 p.m., to start the New Year off right!

“Don’t let the past run your life,” Rev. Karen says.

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.