Category Archives: Community Events

Vol. 10, No. 15 – April 26 – May 9, 2017 – Events

Events by Ana Baker

Ventura Poinsettia Dance Club meets every Monday from 7:30 p.m. to 9:45 p.m. at the Poinsettia Pavilion, 3451 Foothill. Ballroom, swing, Latin, mixers and line dancing. Members $10, non-members $12. Call Rick at 415-8842 for more information.

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

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 and brighten your week. Hear more from Steve at 642-1359

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

April 26: The College Area Community Council will meet on Wednesday, at 7 p.m. Representatives of Ventura College will provide attendees with a preview of the college Facilities Master.  Included will be an update on Adult and Senior Services in Ventura, the official election of CACC officers, a police report, and much more.  Wright Event Center at 57 Day Rd. on the Ventura College campus.  Free parking is available adjacent to the Event Center. Call 644-8695 for more information.

April 27: Portuguese Fraternal Society of America.  The local chapter of PFSA (Council #128) will hold its monthly meeting on Thursday.  This meeting is open to any person of Portuguese descent or interested in the Portuguese culture.  Main Street Restaurant and Steakhouse, 3159 E. Main  11:30 a.m. for a 12 p.m. no host luncheon and meeting.  For more information and reservation Cora Corella at 483-6285.

April 27: Ventura County Bird Club speaker will be Dr. Janet McNeil, DVM.  She will, speak about household items that might be poisonous to our feathered pets.  Dr. McNeil graduated from Ross University School of Veterinary Medicine in 1993 and has been practicing here in Ventura since 2000.    A raffle and refreshments will follow the presentation. 7p.m. at the Ventura Moose Lodge #1394, 10267 Telephone Rd.  Attendance is free and all are welcome.  For information call 377-9466 or 488-6244

May 2: Ventura High School will have an Athletic Information Night on Tuesday.  It will be at 6:30 PM in the Tuttle Gym on Poli Street. It will be a chance for new families to VHS to learn about athletic opportunities while in high school.   All VHS head coaches will be in attendance.

May 3:  Ventura County Master Communicators Toastmasters Club, invites the public to its Open House to meet club members special guest speaker, Dan Collier, owner  of  Pizza Man Dan from noon to 1 p.m.  “Ventura County Master Communicators Toastmasters provides a supportive and positive environment where members have the opportunity to develop their communication and leadership skills.  Ventura County Medical Center (large 5 story brown building behind VCMC) 3291 Loma Vista Road Bldg. 340 First Floor Academic Auditorium Room 111 every Wednesday from 12:05 p.m. to 1:05 p.m. For information about local Toastmasters clubs, please visit www.toastmasters.org.

May 3: 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 and enjoy many activities. Monthly meeting from 9:30 a.m. to 11 a.m. at the Knights of Columbus.  Enter the parking lot from Santa Clara Street. No charge for meeting and no reservation is required.  Hear Dr. Noelle C. Nelson, psychologist, consultant and international speaker.

For additional information, bcnnwomensclub.org or 988-0795   Location of lunch after coffee will be announced at the  meeting.

May 6: Be a Nature Detective:  Saturday, from 9a.m. to 11 a.m. in Santa Paula on Hallock Dr. East

The Nature Conservancy is offering a walk to learn about the art of animal tracking and observation, discover the clues and signs of animal presence along the Santa Clara River. For information [email protected] or call Amy 770-853-4715.

May 6: The basis for knowledge in supporting the existence of climate change. Saturday,

10 a.m. to 12p.m. at Ventura College 4667 Telegraph Road in the Applied Science Center Auditorium.
coffee and pastries at 9:30 a.m.  David Lea, Professor Department of Earth Science, Affiliate Faculty in the Bren School of Environmental Science and Management, at the University of California, Santa Barbara. Sangwon Suh, Professor Corporate Environmental Management, Industrial Ecology, Life Cycle Assessment – Bren School of Environmental Science and Management at the University of California, Santa Barbara.

May 6: At 7 pm, the Unitarian Universalist Church of Ventura presents the World Pathways Ensemble in Concert in the church sanctuary. This show is an exotic musical journey to Mexico, Western and Eastern Europe, the Middle East and America.

Director John Zeretzke brings together some of the most renowned traditional and contemporary musicians from around the globe to unite together in exploring new territories in the world of music.

The program includes traditional musical styles and folk tunes of the world mixed with European musical concepts and sounds.

A donation of $20 is requested for those 9 and older; and $8 for younger children. Tickets will be available at the door.

The Unitarian Universalist Church of Ventura is located at 5654 Ralston St. For more information about the event, call 798-2480.

May 6:   Audubon   8:30 am   Hedrick Ranch Nature Area.

Sandy Hedrick  340-0478   A bird hike in the Hedrick Ranch Nature Area which is managed by The Friends of Santa Clara River. The birding usually yields some interesting birds including Hairy Woodpecker, Lesser Bells Vireo, Blue Grosbeak, Swainson’s Thrush and  Common Yellowthroat.

May 7   Audubon  8:30 am    Emma Wood/Ventura River Estuary.

David Torfeh  647-3325   Begin at the entrance to Emma Wood State Beach, searching the scrub for sparrows and warblers. The estuary is always an exciting place to bird, and target birds will include: Snowy, Black-bellied and Semipalmated Plovers, Willet, Whimbrel, Black Turnstone, Red-necked Phalarope and Forster’s Tern. There will be a fair amount of walking, so please dress appropriately in layers and comfortable shoes.

May 7: Enjoy Northpointe Baptist Church at 11a.m for their Spring Musical and Barbecue. Free event and childcare is provided during the musical. Poinsettia Pavilion
3451 Foothill Dr. Call for information 209-550-1433.

May 7: Old-Time Country Bluegrass Gospel Music Association presents free music concerts on the first Sunday of every month at the Poinsettia Pavilion from 2 p.m. to 4 p.m.  Featuring the authentic “Old Grass Band”.  Call 517-1131 for more information.

May 7.  The 1892 Dudley Historic House Museum will be open for docent-led tours from 1 p.m. to 4 p.m. accompanied by period music.  Admission is free.  The museum 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 7: The Channel Islands Chamber Orchestra, KuanFen Liu Artistic Director will present its annual “Choral Spectacular” concerts Sunday, 3 p.m. at First United Methodist Church 1338 E Santa Clara St.    The concert will feature vocal artists Amanda Benjamin, Molly Kohler Pei, Zachary Mendez and Dean Butler, with the Channel Islands Choral Association and CSU Channel Islands University Chorus, Donations of $20 are appreciated.  Youth 18 and under are free.  For more information call 642-8621 or visit website www.CHICOVC.org.

May 13: Ventura Beginners PC Users Group will meet on Saturday at 9:15 a.m. to noon for a workshop on Other Things You Can Do in Word at 1220 Cypress Point Lane.   All beginning and intermediate computer users are welcome.  Phone 648-1368 for more information.

May 16: The Pierpont Community Council Board meets at the Marriott Hotel Mezzanine at 7 p.m.  For those of you who have expressed concern about the political complexion of the Board, this is your opportunity to contribute.  Currently seeking a Treasurer and Vice Chair to include in their slate.   If you have an interest please email  [email protected].

May 26: Like to play acoustic music? Songmakers.org welcomes all lovers of acoustic music, instrumentalists, singers, and singer/songwriters of 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 from 7 p.m. to 10 p.m. Listeners welcome! Information Mike Wittlin, 750-8281

 

Celebrating Earth Day

Earth Day Eco Fest has moved from the promenade to Plaza Park.

The 10th Annual Ventura Earth Day Eco Fest, is happening Saturday, April 22 at Plaza Park in Ventura. This free event is the perfect way to spend a day with the whole family – Now in its 10th year, the festival has grown into one of the most favorite annual family festivals in Ventura and the largest Earth Day celebration in Ventura County attracting over 6,000 visitors and featuring 100+ exhibitors.

This year the event is moving to a new location, Plaza Park off Thompson St. in downtown Ventura. “We are excited to take advantage of the larger location and proximity to the downtown businesses,” says Toni Guy, festival chairperson. “More space means more vendors and more surprises like a flash mob and pet adoptions. Each year over 200 volunteers work hard to make the event more fun, interactive and educational.”

This year expect to enjoy all day entertainment on two stages, a surprise flash mob, face painting, check out an electric car or an RV from Kirby Auto Group, join a drum circle, go on a green scavenger hunt to earn a McConnell’s Ice Cream, enter the Raffle to earn awesome prizes, try a new hybrid car on for size, fall in love with a new pet, tuck into a Grilled Cheese Truck sandwich, slide down an inflatable slide and learn how local vendors and organizations are working to make a difference in our homes and communities.

Sponsors and Vendors can register at www.venturaearthday.org until April 5.

The event is organized by the Ventura Charter School of Arts and Global Education in cooperation with the City of Ventura. Profits from the day-long event go toward funding enrichment programs for Kindergarten through eighth-grade students at the tuition-free public school.

Planning on riding your bike to our Earth-friendly event. Eco Fest also offers a free bike valet with attendant.

Ventura’s Earth Day Eco Fest would not be possible without the generous support of our sponsors: Kirby Auto Group, NRG, Sprouts, Solar City, CBC Federal Credit Union, Cumulus Broadcasting, City of Ventura Environmental Services, McConnell’s Ice Cream, Allied Graphics and the Ventura Breeze.

To learn more go to www.venturaearthday.org

Channel Islands National Park invites the public to celebrate Earth Day with a special beach cleanup on April 22, from 9:00 am to 12:00 pm, at Ventura Harbor.

Each year, the national park sponsors this event to clean the Ventura Harbor Cove and Surfer’s Knoll beaches, in an effort to give back to the community and to encourage volunteerism.

Between 9:00 am and 12:00 pm, volunteers will be able to sign up and start cleaning at either the park visitor center or at a station at the Surfer’s Knoll parking lot. Volunteers are encouraged to bring their own buckets and gloves to use.

At the park’s 2016 cleanup, almost 450 volunteers donated over 1,000 hours of their time to help clean and protect the harbor’s beaches.

For families, there will also be a children’s activity station at the park visitor center, where kids will be able to participate in crafts and the park’s Junior Ranger program.

At 11:00 am, a park ranger will discuss marine adaptations and ocean stewardship at the visitor center’s marine life exhibit, which features species found in the waters that surround the Channel Islands.

Vol. 10, No. 14 – April 12 – April 25, 2017 – City Classes

City of Ventura classes and camps.  Check out hundreds more on web-site.

Call 658-4726 to register, if you already have an ACTIVENET account online, visit www.cityofventura.net Classes held at the Barranca Vista Center, 7050 E Ralston.

Beautiful Ballerinas  3-9 years
$72
4/13-5/18            Th           3:15-4 pm            5-6 years with Marni King             #7979
4/13-5/18            Th           4-5 pm                  7-9 years with Marni King             #7981
4/14-5/19            F              9:45-10:30 am    3-4 years with Tiara Pitre              #7983
Learn fundamental techniques, positions and exercises for flexibility, balance, poise and grace and the importance of following instructions, taking turns and being a productive member of a group.

Yoga to Unwind  16 years-adult
4/13-5/18            Th           5:10-6:10 pm      $65         #7665
Leave the work day behind to relax with simple yoga poses, stretching and breathing. Bring towel, mat and dress comfortably. Instructor Aurora Heinemann.

Parent & Me Ballet/Tumble Combo  1½-3 years with adult
4/14-5/19            F              9-9:45 am                            $72         #7985
Dance, tumble, stretch and play instruments together! Wear comfortable clothes to more in. Instructor Tiara Pitre.

Hip Hop Flip Flop  3-5 years
4/14-5/19            F              10:30-11:15 am                  $72         #7987
Learn age appropriate moves geared toward rhythm, precision, isolated moves and personal grooves plus beginner acro/tumbling. Wear comfortable clothes to move in with sneakers. Instructor Tiara Pitre.

Friday Fitness Party!  16 years-adult
4/14-5/19            F              6:15-7:15 pm      $40 or $7/day     #7876
Join us and dance, body condition and cool down to fabulous music. Bring mat and water. Walk in fee of $7 is due at start of class. Certified Zumba® Instructor Dala Sondors.

Friday Night Tap  12 years-adult
4/14-5/5                               F              6:30-7:30 pm      $40         #8017
Learn basic steps, combinations and routines to upbeat rhythms and music. Classes are progressive but designed for the beginner. Instructor Elli Busch. Classes held at Billy Clower Dance Studio, 75 MacMillian Ave. in Ventura. To register call (805) 658-4726.

Pop Dance with Cassie Lawhead  7-11 years
$65
4/19-6/7               W            4-4:45 pm            7-9 years              #7786
4/19-6/7               W            4:45-5:30 pm      9-11 years           #7789
Energetic boys and girls mix and move to hip hop and jazz! Wear your funky attitude, comfortable attire and rubber soled shoes. Parents may stay for first and last class only. No class 5/29.

Belly Dance-4-Fitness  18 years-adult
4/24-5/22            M            6-7 pm                  $55         #7674
Dress comfortably to shimmy, twist and tone in this fun cardio class that includes a warmup, belly dance workout, choreography and cool down. Instructor Anja Christy.

SYSTEM 4 Mad Science Fun!  5-12 years
4/25-5/30            Tu           4:30-5:30              $115+ $35 supply fee      #8191
Dig in to earth science, tectonic plates, rocks and minerals. Explore creepy crawly creatures. Work with axles, levers and wheels. Race your very own rocket car. Direct a movie and create special effects. Use our crime lab to solve real crimes.

SYLVIA, a howlingly funny canine comedy

The dog days of summer arrive early this year.

Rubicon Theatre Company presents a contemporary updating of the 1995 comedy SYLVIA, a howlingly funny canine comedy by Drama Desk, Obie and Lortel Award-winner A.R. Gurney (Love Letters, The Dining Room). Considered a comic masterpiece, this hilarious and heartwarming comedy follows a love triangle that forms between empty-nesters Greg and Kate (Kevin Symons and Stasha Surdyke) and an adorable mutt named Sylvia (Ashley Fox Linton).

Greg discovers Sylvia on a visit to Central Park and brings her home without asking for Kate’s consent, causing friction in their marriage. Greg and Kate confer with friends, strangers and therapists (all played by Rubicon company member Joseph Fuqua), and ultimately Greg must make a difficult choice. Ovation Award-winning director Stephanie Coltrin has set the play in 2017 in multiple locations in New York City which will be effected by an automated turntable and projections designed by Mike Billings. SYLVIA speaks to our desire for unconditional love and our need to connect on a deeper level in an increasingly fast-paced and complicated world.

The play offers insights into the nature of love, marriage, jealousy, and, of course, dogs. SYLVIA opens  on Saturday, April 22 at 7 p.m., followed by a post-show party with cast, crew and local VIPs. Low-priced previews are April 19-21. The show runs Wednesdays through Sundays through May 7.

Previews

Wednesday, April 19, 2017 at 7 p.m. ($30)

Thursday, April 20, 2017 at 8 p.m. and Friday, April 21, 2017 at 8 p.m. ($35)

Opening Night  Saturday, April 22, 2017 at 7 p.m. ($99)

Regular Performance Times and Prices

Wednesdays at 2 p.m. and 7 p.m. ($50) (Talkbacks follow all Wednesday evening shows except the April 19 Previews.)

Thursdays at 8 p.m. ($55)

Fridays at 8 p.m. ($50)

Saturdays at 2 p.m. and 8 p.m. ($55)

Sundays at 2 p.m. ($55)

 

Rubicon Theatre Company

1006 E. Main St. Ventura, CA 93001

 

“Wine on the Water”

On Sunday, April 23,1:00 – 4:00 pm at the Channel Islands Yacht Club, 4100 Harbor Blvd, Oxnard Wine on the Water features five women winemakers  with food/cheese pairing/ raffle/ live blues music by Catfish Fry / wine pull/Team Sistership prenstation Cost: $50 per person.

Order tickets online at Sistership.Org (under Fundraising Events) or mail check to Sistership, 2674 E. Main Street, Ventura 93003.

A fundraising benefit for Team Sistership, a team of 4 women, over 50, competing in a grueling 750-mile Race to Alaska (R2AK) on June 8.  Their motto is “Active Women, Aging Proud, Growing Bold” and they race to empower others to choose active, bold adventurous lifestyles, regardless of age or gender.

A portion of the proceeds goes to scholarships for women and girls of Ventura County to participate in active, healthy programs offered through the non-profit Ventura Community Partners Association.

Vol. 10, No. 14 – April 12 – April 25, 2017 – Events

Events by Ana Baker

Ventura Poinsettia Dance Club meets every Monday from 7:30 p.m. to 9:45 p.m. at the Poinsettia Pavilion, 3451 Foothill. Ballroom, swing, Latin, mixers and line dancing. Members $10, non-members $12. Call Rick at 415-8842 for more information.

DBSA Ventura, the local chapter of the Depression & Bipolar Support Alliance (DBSA) hosts two regular, confidential, peer-led, self-help support groups in the County. Tuesday from 6:30 p.m. to 8 p.m. at Bible Fellowship Church at 6950 Ralston Street in Room 301 of Building 300. Email [email protected], visit facebook.com/DBSA.Ventura or call 253-3289 for more information. 1p.m. to 3p.m. at the New Visions Center on the first and third Saturdays of the month. At 1065 E. Main. Email [email protected], visit facebook.com/DBSA.Ventura or 746-3106 for more information.

There will be a regular Ventura Discussion Group meeting at Main Street Restaurant 3159 Main St., Wednesday from 4 p.m.to 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   Life is Better with Bridge.

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 and brighten your week. Hear more from Steve at 642-1359

April 14:  Credo Choir presents “The Seven Words from the Cross” by composer Knut Nystedt at Mission San Buenaventura.  Written in 1960, this piece is a musical setting of Jesus’ last words as he hung dying on the cross. The classical meditative concert will be held on Good Friday, April 14 at 1:30 PM at Mission San Buenaventura.  The free concert is open to the public.  The Good Friday liturgy at the Mission precedes the concert and begins at the noon hour with the proclamation of the Lord’s Passion, veneration of the Wood of the Cross and Holy Eucharist.

April 14 & 16 : The community is invited to experience a powerful and moving musical production recalling Jesus’ journey to the cross on Good Friday, April 14 at 7 p.m. at  The First United Methodist Church.  April 16 if you are an early riser, head up to the Ventura Botanical Gardens for a 6:15 a.m. Sunrise Service. Music and the welcoming story of the First Easter, followed by light refreshments. For information contact First United Methodist Church, 1338 E. Santa Clara St., 643-8621; www.fumcventura.org. Begin your day Easter morning at 9 a.m. in the Church. Hear the brass ensemble open the good morning news of Easter, the singing of the great hymns. The children will all love the fun afterwards at 10:15 a.m. for an Easter Egg Hunt in the beautiful courtyard.

April 14: The General George S. Patton, Jr. Chapter, Sons of the American Revolution luncheon meeting will include a special program presentation “World Events at the Time of the American Revolution”, presented by Chapter member Mr. Barrie Walters.  The luncheon event will take place at 11:30 a.m., Friday, in the Garden Room, Marie Callender’s Restaurant, 1295 S. Victoria Ave.    The cost for lunch is $20.  For additional information or for assistance in determining your possible Revolutionary War genealogical roots, call Bill Bays 650-3036 or Robert Taylor 216-7992.  For information regarding SAR membership and chapter activities http://pattonpatriots.org.

April 17: CA Zeta Chi parliamentarians will meet at 7 p.m. and will feature a lesson by Registered Parliamentarian Gerry Olsen entitled “Nominations and Elections.”  Located at the Main Street Restaurant and Steakhouse, 3159 E. Main St.  Those wishing to eat should arrive at 6 p.m.  Non-members are welcome.  Membership is $25 per year.  For information, contact Sharon Hillbrant, 479-6738, or zetachi.webstarts.com.

April 20: The East Ventura Community Council. On Thursday presents an environmental specialist who will speak about the upcoming community clean up event, “Clean Up Ventura,” planned for the eastside.

A representative of the Ventura Police Department will present a crime update. Other issues of concern may also be discussed.

The Council represents those who live east of Victoria Avenue. Books in good condition are always accepted by San Buenaventura Friends of the Library.

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 John McNally, Chairman EVCC  804-7558.

April 23: The Democratic Club of Ventura featured guest speaker will be State Assemblywoman and Assistant Majority Whip Monique Lemon from the 37th Assembly District in Santa Barbara and Ventura Counties. She will provide insight into the latest actions of our State Legislature.

The meeting starts at 2 p.m. at the IBEW Union Hall, 3994 E. Main St.  For more information, VenturaDemocrats.org or Facebook page.

April 25: Don’t miss this chance to see “Hearing Is Believing” on the big screen. Admission is free. The acclaimed new non-fiction feature about Oxnard’s own Rachel Flowers is co-presented by Foresight Releasing, Hearing is Believing Productions, and the Oxnard College Department of Visual & Performing Arts. Q+A w/ producer/director Lorenzo DeStefano, Rachel Flowers, Jeanie Flowers, Dan Flowers, and executive producer Patti Channer. Tuesday at 6:30 p.m. Oxnard College Performing Arts Center, 4000 S. Rose Ave.

April 26: 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. The Council, which represents citizens between Mills and Victoria bordered by Foothill and Hwy. 126, meets in the Wright Event Center at 57 Day Rd. on the Ventura College campus.  Free parking is available adjacent to the Event Center. 644-8695 for more information.

April 29: On Saturday, at 11:00 a.m. international gospel recording artist Michael Harris will be in concert at the Ventura Seventh-day Adventist Church featuring Songs and Testimony from the Heart.  No charge for admission; a freewill offering will be taken.  6300 Telephone Road.  Call Polly at 642-5387 for more information.

April 29: TLC Preschool Yard Sale and Pancake Breakfast 196 N. Ashwood Avenue from 8 a.m. to 12 p.m. TLC preschool will be hosting a yard sale to raise funds for the upkeep of our school and learning opportunities for our children. $5 pancake breakfast. All proceeds will be benefitting Trinity Lutheran Church Preschool.

April 30: Dr. Ronni Sanlo, LGBTQ activist, educator and author, who will speak about her new young adult book, “The Soldier, The Avatar and the Holocaust.”  Presented by Congregation Am HaYam, at 7:30 p.m. Tickets are available at www.amhayam.com/events or at eventbrite.com for $15 for Dr. Sanlo’s presentation. 4839 Market St.

May 16: Employment Development Department invites you to attend

What Employers Need to Know About Unemployment Insurance Seminar.

EDD Tax Office 4820 McGrath Street, Suite 200 from 9 a.m. to 12 p.m. To make reservations, visit the EDD website at www.edd.ca.gov/Payroll_Tax_Seminars/ or call 866-873-6083. Requests for services, aids, and/or alternate formats need to be made prior to the event by calling 866-873-6083 (voice) or TTY 888-547-9565.

 

Vol. 10, No. 14 – April 12 – April 25, 2017 – Ojai News & Events

The Ojai Photography Club will go interactive in its April meeting, featuring guest presenter Dean Zatkowsky in “Ojai’s Top Model – Goofy Edition: A Learn While We Play Adventure.” The event will take place Tuesday, April 18, at 7:00 p.m., at Help of Ojai’s Kent Hall, 111 W. Santa Ana St. Visitors can expect what Zatkowsky calls “an evening of interactive ridiculousness. he will walk attendees through the photographic decision-making process. This will include background selection, managing multiple lights, lens considerations, camera settings, composition, and most important of all, evoking action and expression. Monthly free presentations are part of the Ojai Photography Club’s community service and education outreach. Visitors are always welcome to attend.

Only members may submit images for review. For additional information please visit: www.ojaiphotoclub.com/.

Local author Ian James will visit the Ojai Library at 2 p.m. on Saturday, April 22, , to deliver a reading from his book Last Writes. James will also give a short talk and will be available to sign copies of his book.

Last Writes: Love, Death & Falling is a celebration of the mystery we called Life and what each and every human being must face when death comes calling.

Between April 1 and April 30, , the Ventura County Library System will be commemorating National Poetry Month by holding its annual county-wide Haiku Poetry Contest. Participants will be able to submit their own original haiku at any of our library locations or online at tiny.cc/vclhaiku.

All submissions should follow the traditional format for haiku: three lines of five, seven, and five syllables each. The contest is open to all ages and topics; contact the library for further information regarding contest rules.

Participation in this contest is free and open to the public. For additional information, contact Bernadette McDowell, Regional Librarian 486-5460; Ron Solórzano, Regional Librarian, at 218-9146; or Laurie Dunning, Librarian Specialist 648-2716.

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.

Katie Fagan’s solo art exhibition opens this month at The Oaks At Ojai.  Her Art About Ojai show runs from April 28-June 29. It features 16 local landscapes in acrylics. She’ll be present to greet visitors and talk about her art at the opening reception on Thursday, May 11 from 5-6:15 pm.

“All my life, I’ve done some kind of art,” Fagan said. “I’ve been a graphic designer for more than 25 years and have been painting in earnest for around 4 years.”

In that short time she has created a considerable body of colorful landscapes and floral studies, most of which are on display on her website at fagangraphics.com/paint-noflash.html and at facebook.com/KatieFaganFineArt.

Her favorite part of the creative process, Fagan said, is “dancing to a great song while painting,” and she said her biggest challenge is “keeping at it when the painting is going through its growing pains. Persistence is key.”

To see Katie Fagan’s exhibition, visit the The Oaks At Ojai, 122 E. Ojai Ave. The gallery is open from 10 am- 4 pm.

Channel Islands Park Junior Ranger Day April 15

Junior rangers can also view the remains of a pygmy mammoth.

Channel Islands National Park invites the public to celebrate the annual Junior Ranger Day at an event on April 15, from 10:00 am to 4:00 pm at the park visitor center in the Ventura Harbor. This free event will feature family-friendly activities, ranger-led talks, and the park’s junior ranger programs.

Children will have the opportunity to participate in three different junior ranger programs at the event, allowing them to earn badges as a Channel Islands National Park Junior Ranger, an Underwater Explorer, or a Junior Paleontologist.

The event will also feature family-friendly activities that children of all ages can participate in, including fish prints, buttons, dolphin masks, and more. At 11:00 am and 3:00 pm, a park ranger will discuss marine adaptations and ocean stewardship at the center’s marine life exhibit. At 1:00 pm, there will be an interactive children’s program about adaptations of seals and sea lions and at 2:00 pm, a ranger will lead a children’s program on bird beak adaptations.

Information about the national initiative, Every Kid in a Park, which invites all fourth graders to visit their public lands and waters for free, will also be available for parents and children.

The Every Kid in a Park program was created so that fourth graders and their families could discover our nation’s wildlife, resources, and history, for free. All fourth graders can get their pass online, at Every Kid in a Park, after they complete a fun, educational activity. They can trade the paper pass for a more durable pass at participating federal sites nationwide.

This past year 342,209 people visited Channel Islands National Park. Additional day visitors and overnight campers to Santa Rosa and Santa Cruz Islands increased island visitation by about 10 percent.

There was a 20 percent increase in visitation to the mainland visitor center in the Ventura Harbor, due in part to the many fourth grade students that participated in the Every Kid in a Park program. The park had a corresponding 75 percent increase in the Junior Ranger program, with over 4,000 kids participating.

“We are particularly excited about the increase in visitation from fourth grade students to the park. This year we expect over 5,000 fourth graders will visit, thanks to the Every Kid in a Park grants we received from the National Park Foundation, National Park Trust, and National Marine Sanctuary Foundation,” said Channel Islands National Park Superintendent Russell Galipeau.

 

Vol. 10, No. 13 – March 29 – April 11, 2017 – Events

Events by Ana Baker

Ventura Poinsettia Dance Club meets every Monday from 7:30 p.m. to 9:45 p.m. at the Poinsettia Pavilion, 3451 Foothill. Ballroom, swing, Latin, mixers and line dancing. Members $10, non-members $12. Call Rick at 415-8842 for more information.

DBSA Ventura, the local chapter of the Depression & Bipolar Support Alliance (DBSA) hosts two regular, confidential, peer-led, self-help support groups in the County. Tuesday from 6:30 p.m. to 8 p.m. at Bible Fellowship Church at 6950 Ralston. Email [email protected], visit facebook.com/DBSA.Ventura or call 253-3289 for more information. 1p.m. to 3p.m. at the New Visions Center on the first and third Saturdays of the month. At 1065 E. Main.

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   Life is Better with Bridge.

April 1: You are invited to a Lenten Evensong on Saturday at 5 p.m.  Haydn’s glorious Harmnonie-messe, will be presented. Helen Farson conducts our chamber ensemble and chorus from the keyboard.  Admission is always free.  Ventura Seventh-day Adventist Church.  6300 Telephone Rd. Please call 641-9646 if more information is desired.

April 1: Ventura Improv Company at NAMBA!8pm NAMBA Performing Arts Space, 47 South Oak St.Tickets: $10 | Available at venue the night of the show. Shows are a fast-paced mix of scenes, improv games and music. If you like Whose Line Is It, Anyway?, you’ll love improv! Shows last approximately 1 hour, 45 minutes. They welcome the whole family, but generally recommended for 12 and over.

April 2: Old-Time Country Bluegrass Gospel Music Association presents free music concert on the first Sunday of every month at the Poinsettia Pavilion from 2 p.m. to 4 p.m.  Next concert session features the ever popular “Old Grass Band”.  Call 517-1131 for more information.

April 2: Dudley Historic House Museum. Timeline Photo Display of Ventura’s History Beginning in 1866, featuring over 100 period photographs assembled by Dudley docents in celebration of the City’s 150th anniversary last year.  The museum is located at the corner of Loma Vista and Ashwood.  For further information please call 642-3345 or visit the website at www/dudleyhouse.org.

April 4:  Mended Hearts of Ventura. Come share if you have had heart surgery or stent implant.
Group meets the first Tuesday each month at the Community Memorial Hospital – 8th floor, from 7 p.m. to 9 p.m. They have excellent speakers, leading Cardiologists, Nutritionists, Dietitians, etc. from our area who give excellent information. Contact: Richard Hatcher 644-2733

April 5: 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. Please come to our monthly meeting from 9:30 a.m. to 11 a.m. Meeting will be held at the Knights of Columbus.  Enter the parking lot from Santa Clara Street.   No charge for meeting and no reservation is required.  April is Poetry Month and our BCNN Poetry Group will present their Annual Reading to the membership. For additional information, please visit our Website at: bcnnwomensclub.org or call 988-0795.

April 6: The Ladies Luncheon  same great menu and fantastic view at new location the Poinsettia Pavilion. Sit-down Luncheon Buffet (Limited Seating) 11:15 a.m. to 1 p.m. $27 Pre-register, $30 at the door. Table space available for vendor products only.

Vendor tables are $5 for 3′ of space and $10 for 6′ of space and available for selling products only. Register at www.TheLadiesLuncheon.com.

April 8: San Buenaventura Women’s Club will hold the 6th Annual Fashion Show Fundraiser at Poinsettia Pavilion on Saturday, from 11 a.m. to 3 p.m.  Come for a chance to win a Door Prize, or bid on Opportunity Baskets, Silent Auction and Wine Pull.  Fashions will be provided by The Dress barn.  Help support local charities in Ventura County.  Tickets are $35 paid in advance.  Contact [email protected] for more details.

April 8: The Ventura Beginning PC Users Group will meet at Cypress Place, 1220 Cypress Point Lane,  on Saturday, April 8 at 9:15-12:00 for “Spring Cleaning the Computer” and “Reliable Medical Web Sites”.  All beginning and intermediate computer users are welcome.  Phone 648-1368 for more information.

April 10: “Relive the Passover Exodus” with Rabbi Yakov & Sarah Latowicz. Few Jewish holidays evoke the same warm sentiments as Passover. Bringing the warmth and tradition of this festival to the Ventura Community, Chabad of Ventura is inviting all residents to participate in community Seders to be held on Monday night at 7:30 pm, at the Pierpont Racquet Club. 500 Sanjon Rd.

All are welcome to join the community Seder, regardless of Jewish affiliation or background. Suggested donations are $54 per adult and $26 per child. No one will be turned away for lack of finances. For reservations or to sponsor someone in need at the Seder please visit www.ChabadVentura.com

April 12: The Ventura County Camera Club will hold a critique meeting on Wednesday, at 6:30 p.m. at the Poinsettia Pavilion, 3451 Foothill Rd. A professional photographer from the area will critique member’s prints and digital images. Each month a special topic is chosen which features some interesting aspect of photography. This month’s topic is “Abstracts” and Bill Hendricks will judge. Anyone with an interest in photography is welcome and admission is free. For more information about the club visit www.VenturaCountyCameraClub.com

April 13:  The Ventura County Professional Women’s Network (VCPWN) monthly dinner meeting. A wonderful way to network with local business owners. Register for dinner online at www.vcpwn.org.  Guest speaker Kim Pagano, host of the Kim Pagano Show on 1590 KVTA radio. Founded in 1982, VCPWN has enjoyed a long tenure of promoting the professional and personal growth of Ventura County women through education, mutual support and sharing of resources.  For more information about the event www.vcpwn.org.

April 14: Good Friday Service,  7 pm First United Methodist Church
1338 E. Santa Clara Ave. Easter Cantata, with full choir and chamber music ensemble.

 

Vol. 10, No. 13 – March 29 – April 11, 2017 – City of Ventura classes

Check out hundreds more on web-site.

Call  658-4726 to register, if you already have an ACTIVENET account online, visit www.cityofventura.net

Classes held at the Barranca Vista Center, 7050 E Ralston St in Ventura unless noted.

Registration begins on April 3rd for The City of Ventura’s Summer full and half day camps in cooking, theatre, dance, circus, Rock & Roll, fine arts, Legos, science and so much more. To see a whole menu of summer offerings visit cityofventura.net.  To have a summer camp brochure mailed to you call 658-4726

City of Ventura classes. Check out hundreds more on web-site.
Call 658-4726 to register, if you already have an ACTIVENET account online, visit www.cityofventura.net
Classes held at the Barranca Vista Center, 7050 E Ralston St in Ventura unless noted.
Registration begins on April 3rd for The City of Ventura’s Summer full and half day camps in cooking, theatre, dance, circus, Rock & Roll, fine arts, Legos, science and so much more. To see a whole menu of summer offerings visit cityofventura.net. To have a summer camp brochure mailed to you call 658-4726

Cartooning 8-12 years
4/10-5/15 M 4-5 pm $50

Draw wonderful characters with Mr. Scott, a cartoon master. Mr. Scott’s Chess Club 8-12 years
4/10-5/15 M 5-6 pm $50

Improve skills and gain new strategies with a National Championship Coach. Family Clay Fun 5-11 years and adult
4/10-5/15 M 6:15-7:30 pm $75

Parent and child work together to create hand-built projects in clay. $35 for additional child or adult. Parent & Me Creative Dance 2.5-4 years with adult
4/12-5/31 W 10-10:45 am $60

Explore all the ways you can partner and move with your child using imaginative play, music and props. Wear comfortable clothes for easy moves. Big City Inspirations 18 years-adult
4/12-5/10 W 10-11:30 am $85
Use wood, paint, fabric and found objects to create skylines, people and interiors inspired by the world’s big cities.

Adult Ballet 18 years-adult
4/12-5/31 W 7:30-8:30 pm $60
Release stress as you tone, strengthen and increase flexibility. Wear comfortable clothes for easy movement.

Flamenco Dance 18 years-adult
4/12-5/3 W 7:30-8:30 pm $75
Learn Spain’s passionate gypsy dance form and its cultural significance as you build up your flexibility, grace, fitness and confidence. Classes held at Namba, 47 S Oak St. in Ventura.