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

The Ventura Retired Men’s Group welcomes interested men to their semi-monthly Tuesday lunch ($15) meetings at the Ventura Elks lodge. This regular congenial social event, besides a healthy, satisfying meal, supplies a welcome atmosphere to talk and joke, hear a speaker on a variety of relevant topics. Hear more from Steve at 642-1359

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 Ventura County Philatelic Society meets 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.

Contact: Bill Garner / 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 noon at Lemon Wood Mobile Homes, 850 Johnson Dr. Excellent speakers leading Cardiologists, Nutritionists, and Dietitians etc. from our area.

Contact Richard Hatcher at 644-2733.

Are you a stamp collector? 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 320-1601 or [email protected].

First Wednesday, of each month, 6-10 p.m., Gold Coast Modular Railroad Club meets at the Murphy Auto Museum. Now exhibiting Fridays, Saturdays and Sundays, 10-4 p.m. Visitors and new members are welcome. 2230 Statham Blvd., Oxnard. www.gemre.com or 229- 74294 for more information

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/

Apr. 25: The College Area Community Council will meet on Wednesday, at 7 p.m. Ashley Bautista, from the Ventura Police Department, will address the issue of home burglary prevention. The CACC will continue to discuss a potential boundary change. A representative from Ventura College will be there to discuss neighborhood issues. Wright Event Center at 57 Day Rd. Free parking is available adjacent to the Event Center. CACC represents citizens between Mills and Victoria bordered by Foothill and Hwy. 126. Call 644-8695 for more information.

Apr.26: The Ventura Soroptimist Club welcomes Ms. Rabiah Rahman, a lawyer specializing in employment practices and labor law. She will discuss what constitutes harassment, what steps you can take to stop it and your legal recourse if it continues. Thursday, at 6:30 p.m. at St Paul’s Episcopal Church, 3290 Loma Vista Road. Ninety percent of workplace harassment is never officially reported. More information about this event or about the Soroptimist Club please call Vega Sankur at 746-2358.

Apr. 28: TLC Preschool Yard Sale and Pancake Breakfast 196 N. Ashwood Avenue. Saturday, 8 – 12p.m.

Free Entry. $5 pancake breakfast. Yard Sale features, furnishings, household Items, children’s items, clothing and outdoor Items. All proceeds are benefitting Trinity Lutheran Church Preschool.

May 6: The Channel Islands Chamber Orchestra, Dr. KuanFen Liu, artistic director celebrates its 15th Season with Reconciliation, Choral Spectacular on Sunday, at 3 p.m. at First Methodist Church 1338 E. Santa Clara St. The concerts will highlight the Channel Islands Choral Association and CSUCI Chorus with soloists Melanie Henley Heyn, Soprano and Michael Shasberger, Baritone and the Pleasant Valley School District Chorus. Donations of $20 are appreciated. Youth 18 and under are free. For more information call 484-8000 or visit website www.CHICOVC.org.

May 6: In addition to docent-led tours of the Dudley Historic House Museum, there will also be a Timeline Photo Display of Ventura’s History beginning in 1866 and featuring over 100 period photographs. Both events are from 1 – 4 p.m. and admission is free. The museum, built in 1891, is located at the corner of Loma Vista and Ashwood. For information please call 642-3345 or visit the website at www.dudleyhouse.org.

May 6: Old-Time Country Bluegrass Gospel Music Assoc. Meeting – Sun., 2:30-4:30 at new location… Knights Of Columbus Hall, 36 Figueroa ,Ventura

Free admission, stage music and jamming, free parking in the rear, Open to Public. For more information 517-1131 or visit Facebook: OTCBGMA.

May 7: Big Brothers Big Sisters of Ventura County (BBSVC) is excited to welcome Select Workforce Specialists as the returning Title Sponsor for its annual Golf Classic. The organization’s top-performing event, which will be held at the Saticoy Country Club. The tournament delivers the funds necessary to support 1,500 youth who are facing adversity in Ventura County. Big Brothers Big Sisters has been helping youth in Ventura County and neighboring communities realize their potential for over 45 years. To donate, become a mentor, or learn more about BBSVC, please call 484-2282 or visit www.bbsvc.org

May 9: The Ventura County Camera Club 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 a showing of member images. A local professional photographer will critique member’s images and discuss potential improvement opportunities. Anyone with an interest in photography and desire to learn is welcome. WWW.VenturaCountyCameraClub.com

May 9: The Ventura Parkinson’s disease Support Group to host, The Michael J. Fox Foundation for Parkinson’s Research from 1- 3 p.m. at the Lexington Assisted Living, 5440 Ralston Street. For full details, see the article in Senior Living.

May 9: Sharing the Streets and Roads for all Users 7p.m., at the Museum of Ventura County. Derek Towers of Ventura’s Public Works/Transportation division will discuss the ways in which road projects are prioritized, planned, and eventually built as well what cyclists can do to become more involved throughout the process. Derek has been instrumental in Ventura being awarded a “Bicycle Friendly Community” in 2017 by the League of American Bicyclists. His is responsible for planning and executing bike paths, bike routes, bike parking, and bike events for the city.

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

The Ventura Retired Men’s Group welcomes interested men to their semi-monthly Tuesday lunch ($15) meetings at the Ventura Elks lodge. This regular congenial social event, besides a healthy, satisfying meal, supplies a welcome atmosphere to talk and joke, hear a speaker on a variety of relevant topics. Steve at 642-1359

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 Ventura County Philatelic Society meets 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.

Contact: Bill Garner / 320-1601 or [email protected]

Mended Hearts of Ventura. Share if you have had heart surgery or stent implant. Group meets the first Tuesday each month at noon at Lemon Wood Mobile Homes, 850 Johnson Dr. Excellent speakers leading Cardiologists, Nutritionists, and Dietitians etc. from our area Richard Hatcher at 644-2733.

Join in on Wednesday nights with the Cross Town Hikers 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. Facebook page for more information: https://www.facebook.com/groups/800215670039426/

Ongoing, First Wednesday, of each month, 6-10 pm, Gold Coast Modular Railroad Club meets at the Murphy Auto Museum, Oxnard. Now exhibiting Saturdays and Sundays, 10 a.m. – 4 p.m.; in April, will have exhibit on Fridays, 10 a.m. – 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. www.gcmrc.com. For more information, call 229-7429.

Apr. 13: The General George S. Patton, Jr. Chapter, Sons of the American Revolution April luncheon meeting will feature a special program ” Revolutionary War Veterans Buried at Arlington National Cemetery “, presented by Compatriot Martin Spann. Starts at 11:30 a.m., Garden Room, Marie Callender’s Restaurant, 1295 S. Victoria Ave. All SAR & DAR Compatriots, friends, and visitors are welcome. If you choose lunch, cost is $20 per person. For additional information please call Bill Bays 650-3036 or Robert Taylor 216-7992. For information regarding SAR membership and chapter activities http://pattonpatriots.org.

Apr.14: Ventura Classic Car Club is launching a brand new Car Cruise Night on the second Saturday of each month through December. It is sponsored by Harley’s Camarillo Bowl and Rock & Roll Pizza. All special interest vehicles are welcome. There will be food, bowling, live music, full bar and lots of parking. These cruise nights will take place at 305 Arneil Road, in Camarillo from 4 – 8 p.m.

Apr.14: Saturday, 7am to 1pm: Yard sale to raise funds for immigrants who lost homes, employment, and wages in the Thomas Fire and its aftermath. 100% of the proceeds will be donated to 805 Undocufund, a collective effort of Ventura and Santa Barbara County grassroots organizations to assist local undocumented immigrants who have been economically impacted by the Thomas Fire and are excluded from Federal Emergency Assistance programs. Affected immigrants include our friends, neighbors, coworkers, many of whom care for our children and parents, clean our homes, cook our meals, maintain our lawns and harvest the fruits and vegetables that are the backbone of our regional economy. They need and deserve our help! Come to this SURJ-VC hosted yard sale, take home something for yourself, and contribute something to your immigrant neighbors. 84 Coronado St, Ventura.

Apr.15: Owl Festival at the 0livas Adobe will celebrate our great horned owls who call the Olivas Adobe their home. Vendor booths with “owl” crafts and items will be available for sale. Raptor Rehab will also be on-site for demonstrations.

A free family event of crafts, demos, music, tours and a live show by the OJAI Raptor Society.

11-3 p.m. 4200 Olivas Park Drive. For more information call 658-4728.

Apr. 15: 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 meeting starts at noon and at 11 a.m. there is 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 p.m.

The program this month will be a presentation by Ernie Jenson on “Modern Time”. There is a $3 admission charge. Lunch is available for $5 more. More information at www.nawcc-ch190.com

Apr. 17: The current estimate of this year’s Ventura County tax bill for nuclear weapons will be close to $200 million. On Tuesday, join Citizens for Peaceful Resolutions on the corner of Telephone and Victoria from 5:30 – 6:30 p.m. to peacefully protest the outrageous waste of resources spent on our deadliest weapons of mass destruction, nuclear weapons. Dr. Robert Dodge will report this year’s hall of shame, our tax dollars, bestowed upon the nuclear weapons industry.

Apr.19: East Ventura Community Council .A representative of the Ventura Police Department will give an update on crime and safety. Additional speakers are still being confirmed. Books in good condition are always accepted on behalf of Ventura Friends of the Library. The meeting starts Thursday 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 John McNally, Chairperson, EVCC: 804-7558

Apr.21: A Smart Garden is offering a free class entitled, All about Trees. Class time is 10 – 12 p.m. Learn how to select the best tree for your yard, how to plant it and how to care for it just in time for Arbor Day. There will be a raffle, refreshments and discount shopping. Space is limited. RSVP to 667-8585. A Smart Garden is located in Downtown Ventura, 33 South Palm St.

Apr. 21: Join a family friendly and free community bike ride from Ventura Harbor to the Earth day Eco fest at Ventura’s Plaza Park. The ride is approximately 5 miles on flat, city streets with bike lanes and on the coast bike path. The ride is organized by the Channel Island Bike Club. Check in time is 8:30 a.m. at the Channel Islands National Park Headquarters, 1901 Spinnaker Drive. Introductions and the ride starts at 9 a.m.

All bikes should be “ride ready” and riders wearing a helmet. Channel Island Bike Club members can pump tires if you arrive early.

April 21: The Christian Science churches of Ojai and Ventura will host a free, hour-long talk entitled “Love without limit, Life without fear,” on Saturday, April 21 at 1 p.m. at the E. P. Foster Library, Topping Room, 651 E. Main St., Ventura. This lecture will focus on bringing healing to anyone in Ventura and Ojai impacted by the Thomas Fire and subsequent floods or facing personal challenges.
Fujiko Signs, an international speaker, practitioner and teacher of Christian Science healing, will speak about the kind of prayer people around the world are looking for – prayer that brings healing and peace to their lives.
Signs worked as a market research consultant and as a Japanese language and literature instructor at colleges and universities.
All are welcome to attend. Child care will be provided. For more information, call 805-642-4891 or go to PrayerThatHeals.org.

Apr.28: Ventura Friends of the Library will hold a Bag of Books Book Sale. At the Vons at Telegraph and Victoria 10 – 3 p.m. Members of Ventura Friends of the Library can take home a bag of books for $1. For non-members, the price is $3 a bag.

Villanova’s immensely creative talent manifests each year in the form of its spring musical. This year, students’ hard work comes to life on stage as they present Beauty and the Beast. The musical will run from Thursday, April 19th to Sunday, April 22nd. Performances are at 7:00 pm each night. Tickets are $10.

Villanova’s annual spring musical would not be possible without the extreme dedication of the students who work both on and off stage. Beauty and the Beast will be held in Villanova’s outside amphitheater. Be sure to bring your own lawn chairs and prepare for the weather. 12096 N. Ventura Ave. 646-1464 x126

The Ojai Community Chorus will feature a delightful musical tour of the United States and around the world, featuring such favorites as “I Left My Heart in San Francisco,” “Georgia on My Mind,” and “Cabaret.” The chorus will be joined by a children’ s ensemble and accompanied by a fabulous local band. Sat., May 5 at 7 p.m. and Sun., May 6, at 3 p.m. at the Ojai United Methodist Church, 120 Church Rd., 640-0468 for additional information. Tickets are available at ojaichorus.brownpapertickets.com. They will be available at the door for an additional $5. ojaichorus.wordpress.com.

Andrew Morris will visit the Ojai Library at 1 p.m. on Saturday, April 14, to deliver a presentation titled “A Spirituality of Imperfection at Work.” Morris comes from CSU Channel Islands, and is the third speaker in this season’s CI Library Lecture Series.

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.

Author Elizabeth Gould will visit the Ojai Library at 1 p.m. on Saturday, April 21, to deliver a presentation on her book Your Best Health by Friday. Learn how childhood trauma can kill us as adults, why our left-brain dominant society is facing so much illness, and action steps to develop the right hemisphere to heal.

Gould began writing for one reason: she was too sick to return to her career as an import operations manager for a large women’s clothing manufacturer. When she started she had no idea how to write professionally and had not written at all since college. Six years later she had not only gotten the hang of writing, she was also a lot healthier.

This event is free and open to the public. For additional information, contact Ron Solórzano, Regional Librarian 218-9146.

The Ojai Photo Club will feature photographer and documentary cinematographer Sarah Bourscheid as its guest presenter for April. The free event, “Quiet Compassion,” will be held on Tuesday, April 17, at 7 p.m. in Help of Ojai’s Kent Hall, 111 W. Santa Ana St.

For Bourscheid, her photography is a journey of growth, deepening her own empathy. “In this tumultuous and divided world,” she writes, “it’s important to understand that our differences can bring us closer.” For more information about Bourscheid’s work http://scheidmedia.com/

Monthly free presentations are part of the Ojai Photography Club’s community service and education outreach. The general public is always welcome to attend.

The club, which is devoted to education, inspiration, and camaraderie, meets on the third Tuesday of each month, February – November. Only members may submit images for critique. More information is available at: www.ojaiphotoclub.com/

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

The Ventura Retired Men’s Group welcomes interested men to their semi-monthly Tuesday lunch ($15) meetings at the Ventura Elks lodge. This regular congenial social event, besides a healthy, satisfying meal, supplies a welcome atmosphere to talk and joke, hear a speaker on a variety of relevant topics. Hear more from Steve at 642-1359

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 Ventura County Philatelic Society meets 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.

Contact: Bill Garner / 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 noon at Lemon Wood Mobile Homes, 850 Johnson Dr. Excellent speakers leading Cardiologists, Nutritionists, and Dietitians etc. from our area.

Contact Richard Hatcher at 644-2733.

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.

August 5: In addition to docent-led tours of the Dudley Historic House Museum, there will also be a treasure sale benefitting D.A.R. charities on the grounds. The tours are from 1- 4 p.m. but the sale is all day. Admission is free. The museum, built in 1892, is located at the corner of Loma Vista and Ashwood streets in Ventura. For information please call 805- 642-3345 or visit the website at www.dudleyhouse.org.

August 5: Old-Time Country Bluegrass Gospel Music Assoc. meeting Sunday, 2:30-4:30 p.m.

Knights of Columbus Hall, 36 Figueroa. Free admission. Music on stage and jamming. Free parking in the rear. Open to Public. For more information call 805-517-1131 or visit Facebook: OTCBGMA

August 8: The Ventura County Camera Club monthly meeting on Wednesday at 6:30 p.m. at the Poinsettia Pavilion, 3451 Foothill Rd. Admission is free. All Welcome. An instructional workshop will be followed by a pro photographer’s critiquing of members images. VenturaCountyCameraClub.com

August 8: The Ventura Parkinson’s Disease Support Group is pleased to host the Parkinson’s Foundation on Wednesday from 1-3 p.m. at the Lexington Assisted Living, 5440 Ralston. Sarah Osborne will talk about what this means and how the Parkinson’s Foundation achieves their mission through resources, education and advocacy for you and your care-partner. She will also give a presentation on the Parkinson’s Foundation “Aware in Care” patient safety kit that prepares and empowers people with Parkinson’s before, during and after a hospital visit. For details see full article in the Breeze senior section or call Patty at 805-766-6070.

August 16: The regular monthly meeting of Assistance League of Ventura County will be conducted on Thursday, at the Chapter House, 913 East Santa Clara St. The meeting begins at 10:00 am, 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 assistanceleagueventuracounty.org, like them on Facebook, Instagram, or email [email protected]. 805-643-2458 (Monday – Thursday 8 AM – 2 PM)

Avenue Library
Children & Family Events
Día de los Niños/Dίa de los Libros
4/28 Saturday @ 11:00 am—2:00 pm
Join the Avenue Library as hundreds of libraries throughout the country host special multicultural events in celebration of Día (El día de los niños/El día de los libros, Children’s Day/Book Day).

E.P. Foster Library
Adult Programs & Special Events
Educational Nature Series: Shark Bite
4/11 Wednesday @ 7-8pm
Bryan Swig, Ph.D. will present his research on the tooth fragment that he used to extract DNA from one of the fatal attacks that occurred at Surf Beach.

Educational Nature Series: Let’s Monkey Around
4/24 Tuesday @ 7-8pm
Anita Stone, Ph.D. will present her research on the primate life histories, social behavior and mating habits of squirrel monkeys. Lecture series featuring research from California Lutheran University science faculty

California Native Plant Society Lecture
4/17 Tuesday @ 7-9pm
Please join us for an interesting and enlightening lecture series presented by the California Native Plant Society, Channel Islands Chapter. See you in the Topping Room!

Adult STEAM Workshop
4/21 Saturday @2-3pm, 3rd Saturday of the month
Do you want to learn about what’s new in Science, Technology, Engineering, Art, and Math (STEAM)? Each month a different themed program will be presented. See you in the Makerspace! This month we will explore Fiber arts.

Ongoing Events
Children’s Events
Early Literacy Class
4/3, 4, 10, 11, 17, 18, 24, & 25
Tuesdays & Wednesdays @ 10:30am
A great way to introduce your child to early literacy and the library. Join us every week for stories, poems, music, movement, a simple craft, and fun!

Teen Happenings
Teens and Money
4/21 Saturday @ 10-11am in the Topping Room
Learn about managing money effectively, preparing for common upcoming bills, establishing credit, managing their own budget, and ways to track spending. Presented by Patti Braga with Ventura County Credit Union.
Steam Monthly
4/11 Wednesday @ 4-6pm
Steam Monthly is a structured event in the E.P. Foster Library Makerspace. This month will have a game design focus.

Hill Road Library
Children’s Events
Discover Science
4/3 Tuesday @ 4pm
Join Rachel Chang for this hands on workshop as she demonstrates science principles of chemistry, physics, and biology.
Maker Lab
4/12 Thursday @ 4pm
Join us each month as we learn how to use a 3D printer, build with Legos, connect squishy circuits, or create with VEX robotics. Aimed at 10 and up.

Adult Events
Author Panel
4/28 Saturday @ 11am—1pm
Everything you always wanted to know about novel writing but were afraid to ask: 4 local authors share their individual experiences from Concept to Publishing.
Saticoy Library
Children & Family Events
Lego Play
4/2, 9, 16, 23, & 30 Mondays @ 1- 5pm
Build, Learn, and Play! Bring your imagination and experiment with creative designs. Children of all ages welcome!

Adult Classes & Events
English Classes
4/2, 4, 9, 11, 16, 18,23, 25, &30
Monday & Wednesday @ 3- 5pm
ESL Conversation Groups hosted by Laubach Literacy of Ventura County

On April 23, Ojai’s own Carol Kline, a N.Y. Times best-selling author who co-wrote several books for the “Chicken Soup” series will be the guest speaker at the Salon. Her topic for the evening will be on writing narrative non-fiction such as memoirs, and about self-publishing self-help books. The Salon begins at 7 PM in the Ojai Art Center Gallery.

A freelance writer/editor for more than thirty years, Carol specializes in narrative non-fiction and self-help books and has taught meditation programs to the general public since 1975.

Come at 7:00 p.m. in the Ojai Art Center gallery for her talk, followed by a reception and book signing. The event is free or a suggested donation of $5.00.

Performances To Grow On will present a performance with internationally renowned storyteller Clare Murphy on Saturday, April 21 at 8 pm at the Topa Topa Winery, 821 W. Ojai Ave. The performance is a benefit for the upcoming Ojai Storytelling Festival, Oct. 25-28, 2018. Tickets are $20 and are available at ojaistoryfest.org. Local musician, Cindy Kalmenson will open the performance at the winery. Food and wine will be available for purchase at the event.

Ojai Valley Lavender Festival, Inc. (OVLF) invites local artists to submit lavender-themed art to the 2018 OVLF Art Contest. Jury-selected works will exhibit at The Oaks in Ojai, June 4-29, and display for sale at the Ojai Valley Lavender Festival in Libbey Park, June 30.

Submission date is June 3, 3pm-5pm at The Oaks in Ojai. Works should be 2-D, sized up to 30”; maximum 2 entries per artist; no entry fee. See www.ojaivalleylavenderfestival.org for complete details.

Submissions are now open for the 19th annual Ojai Film Festival. Ranked as one of the Top 100 Best Reviewed Festivals on FilmFreeway the Ojai Film Festival continues to grow in prestige as one of the country’s premier destination festivals.

Among other perks, the winning screenwriter will receive lodging and passes to the Ojai Film Festival’s Awards Ceremony, where the winning screenwriter receives special recognition, a trophy and a table read staged by the well-established acting community in Ojai.

The early deadline is on April 1, for a fee of $25, the late deadline on June 1, for a fee of $35, the regular deadline on May 1, for a fee of $45, and the extended deadline is on July 1 for a fee of $55.

To enter go to www.ojaifilmfestival.com/entries/

There will be a free Ojai Chautauqua Panel on Water for the Ojai Valley on Sunday, April 15, from 3:00-5:00PM at the Matilija Junior High Auditorium, located at 703 El Paseo Road.

Admission is free thanks to private donations and support from the Ojai Valley Chamber of Commerce and Oak Grove School. Seating is limited. Reservations are strongly recommended. Visit www.ojaichat.org.

In addition to panels promoting civil discourse on topics of national concern, The Ojai Chautauqua is launching a series of events specifically focused on issues facing the Ojai Valley. The moderator will be Richard Hajas, member of the Ojai Valley Water Advisory Group, and the panelists will include Tom Ash, water conservation expert and horticulturalist, Mary Bergen, board member of the Casitas Municipal Water District, Connor Jones, Ojai Permaculture founder, Bruce Kuebler, board member of the Ventura River Water District, Alex Kim, managing director of the Ojai Valley Inn, and Bill Weirick, Ojai City council member.

The purpose of the Ojai Chautauqua is to engage Ventura County in civil discourse about controversial and highly passionate subjects.

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.

The Ventura Retired Men’s Group welcomes interested men to their semi-monthly Tuesday lunch ($15) meetings at the Ventura Elks lodge. This regular congenial social event, besides a healthy, satisfying meal, supplies a welcome atmosphere to talk and joke, hear a speaker on a variety of relevant topics. Steve at 642-1359

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 Ventura County Philatelic Society meets 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.

Bill Garner 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 noon at Lemon Wood Mobile Homes, 850 Johnson Dr. Excellent speakers leading Cardiologists, Nutritionists, and Dietitians etc. from our area.

Richard Hatcher at 644-2733.

Letters for the Lost, an exhibit marking the 90th anniversary of the St. Francis Dam Disaster, commemorates the lives lost during one of America’s worst civil engineering disasters of the 20th century. Agriculture Museum in Santa Paula. The exhibit runs through July 16. 26 Railroad Avenue, Santa Paula is open 10 a.m. to 4 p.m., Wednesday through Sunday. For more information, visit venturamuseum.org or call 525-3100.

Sandbox Coffeehouse is celebrating its 6 year Anniversary. They will be celebrating this weekend with live music, gourmet tacos- and beer and wine, served every day. Sandbox Coffeehouse would like to thank Ventura and its partners for their support and kindness. 204 East Thompson Blvd. www.sandboxcoffeehouse.com www.facebook.com/sandboxcoffehouse

www.yelp.com/sandboxcoffeehouse

Mar.28: The College Area Community Council will meet on Wednesday at 7 p.m. The program will include a discussion of recent rainstorms and the fire recovery process and a consideration of the proposal to change CACC boundaries to align with the new City Council District 3. Matt LaVere, Council member. Ventura Police Department and Ventura College will be there to discuss neighborhood issues. CACC represents citizens between Mills and Victoria bordered by Foothill and Hwy. 126. Call 644-8695 for more information.”

Mar. 31: Author, Gary Gasaway will be appearing at Bank of Books 748 E. Main St. at 1p.m. After the meet and greet, there will be a signing of The Coach’s Chronicles III. 643-3154

Audubon events:

Apr. 1: 8:30 a.m. Ojai Meadows Raeann Koerner 701-1919. This beautiful preserve is a birding hotspot and includes a restored wetland and native plantings .

Apr. 7: 9 a.m. Work Day Hedrick Ranch Nature Area (HRNA) Spring Clean Up Sandy Hedrick 340-0478.

Arrive at 8 a.m. for self-guided birding which usually yields some interesting birds. This will be our Spring Clean Up.

Apr. 11: 8:30 a.m. Lake Casitas, Adele Fergusson 415-4304

We will be looking for hummingbirds, grosbeaks, gnatcatchers as well as ducks, geese and waterfowl. Hopefully we will see a Bald Eagle.

Apr. 15: 8 a.m. Krotona Institute Jesse Grantham [email protected]

Krotona Institute is a theosophical study center, with acres of beautiful grounds, including grasslands, pines, oaks, and ornamental plants with a lot of water features.

Apr. 22: 2 p.m. Ventura Settling Ponds, Frank DeMartino 906-8733

The settling ponds at the Ventura Harbor is a reliable place to find ducks, grebes, gulls and terns, as well as songbirds and raptors.

Apr. 28: 8:30 a.m. Emma Woods Linda Easter (818) 519-2833

We will begin at the entrance to Emma Wood State Beach and follow the path that leads through the willow forest. The estuary is always an exciting place to bird, and target birds.

Apr. 5: The Ventura County Chapter of the Military Officers Association of America will meet at 11:30 a.m. on Thursday at the Bard Mansion on the NBVC Port Hueneme. The meeting includes Lunch and a presentation by Mike Pettit, Director, Ventura County IT Department. Tickets cost $15 per person paid at the door. Call Jon at 642-6748 for more information.

Apr.8: On Sunday at 2 p.m. the Ventura Friends of the Library & Museum of Ventura County, presents the Tri-County premiere of the film EX LIBRIS: The New York Public Library.

Located in the Museum Pavilion. Free to the public, the event marks the opening of National Library Week. There will be an intermission with light refreshments provided by the Museum’s Volunteer Docent Council. Mary Olson 223-1187

Apr.8: Old-Time Country Bluegrass Gospel Music Assoc. performance – Sunday, 2:30-4:30 meeting at new location… Knights Of Columbus Hall, 36 Figueroa ,Ventura.

Free admission, free parking in the rear, Open to public. For more information visit Facebook OTCBGMA or call 517-1131.

Apr.10: Ventura Audubon Society presents Allison Alvarado who will be discussing her past and current research with Hermit Thrushes. Allison Alvarado is an Assistant Professor of Biology at Cal State University Channel Islands. She has worked with Hawaiian Honeycreepers on the Big Island, Fairy Wrens in Australia, Neotropical migrants in Alaska, and the San Clemente Loggerhead Shrike. Discussion begins at 7:30 p.m. at the Poinsettia Pavilion.

Apr. 11: The Ventura County Camera Club will hold its monthly 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. Anyone with an interest in photography is welcome and admission is free. See the club’s web site for more information about the club and examples of member’s work or call 908-5663. WWW.VenturaCountyCameraClub.com

Apr. 14: The Ventura Personal Computer Users Group will meet Saturday, at the Cypress Place Active Senior Living building, 1220 Cypress Place. A workshop on manipulating picture files will begin at 9:30 a.m., followed by a Q&A session, and presentation at 11 a.m. by Bonnie Wiley on Primrose Excursions. Everyone who would like to know more about their computer or excursions is welcome to attend any or all sessions. For more information 648-1368.

Apr.21: Learn all about growing water saving California native plants. Members of the Master Gardeners club of Ventura will be available to offer free instruction to the public on how to plant and care for California native plants. Located at 1901 Spinnaker Drive in the Ventura Harbor. Plants for sale will be available in front of the National Park Service visitor center. Saturday 9a.m. until 1 p.m.