Friday, May 17
“THE LITTLE MERMAID JR.” — The Ojai Youth Entertainers Studio, 316 E. Matilija St., Ojai, will present the Disney musical, “The Little Mermaid Jr.,” performed by youth classes at OYES, through Sunday at various afternoon times. Tickets: $10; go to brownpapertickets.com or call (800) 838-3006.
POETRY AND MUSIC — BookEnds Bookstore, 110 S. Pueblo Ave. at the corner of El Roblar Drive, will host two local poets, Susan Florence and Christina Pages, and two visiting poets, Katie Kingston and Lois Jones, today at 5:30 p.m. for an evening of poetry and music, plus refreshments. Call 640-9441 to reserve a seat.
“JOURNEY INTO THE LIGHT OF CONSCIOUSNESS” — with Eneida Carbonell, will be held at Krotona School, 46 Krotona Road, May 17 through 19, Friday, 7:30 to 9 p.m., Saturday, 10 a.m. to noon and 2 to 4 p.m., Sunday, 10 a.m. to noon. $35/series, $10/session. To register: schoolinfo@krotonainstitute.org or 646-1139. (M17)
“THE EFFECT OF GAMMA RAYS ON MAN-IN-THE-MOOD MARIGOLDS” — The Ojai Art Center Theater, 113 S. Montgomery St., will hold performances of Pulitzer Prize-winning play, “The Effect of Gamma Rays on Man-in-the-Moon Marigolds,” today through June 16 on Fridays and Saturdays at 8 p.m. and Sundays at 7 p.m. For tickets or more information, go to www.ojaiact.org or call 640-8797.
Saturday, May 18
SANTA PAULA CANYON CLEANUP — The Ojai Ranger District is organizing a volunteer cleanup in Santa Paula Canyon to Big Cone Camp Saturday. Bring a daypack with snacks, water, sunscreen, gloves, eye protection, hat and wear sturdy shoes. Total hiking distance is four miles over rocky terrain. It's a fun day to share with other hikers or accrue community service hours. Forest Service will provide trash bags and drinks. Meet at the Ojai Ranger Station, 1190 E. Ojai Ave., at 8 a.m.; will return to the station by 2 p.m. Rain cancels the event. For more information, call the Ojai Ranger Station at 646-4348, Ext. 309.
SOMALILAND GARAGE SALE — Women at Ojai Valley Community Church, 907 El Centro St., will hold a garage sale Saturday from 8 a.m. to 3 p.m. to benefit the Edna Adan Maternity and Teaching Hospital in Somaliland, where the maternal and infant mortality rate is the highest in the world. Call 646-4324 for more information.
BIRD WALK AND BARBECUE — The Ventura Audubon Society will host a bird walk at Camp Comfort on Creek Road in Ojai, Saturday at 9 a.m., followed by a meeting and barbecue at 11 a.m. Parking fee is $4. Cost for the barbecue is $12 for adults, $6 for children.
PEDDLERS’ FAIR — Ojai Peddlers’ Fair will feature antiques, collectibles, crafts and clothing, Saturday and Sunday from 9 a.m. to 4 p.m., at Chaparral Auditorium, 414 E. Ojai Ave., rain or shine. Proceeds will benefit Mira Monte Elementary School PTO.
OJAI HISTORICAL WALKING TOURS — Saturdays at 10:30 a.m., Ojai Historical Walking Tours depart from the Ojai Valley Museum, 130 W. Ojai Ave. (approximately one-hour tours of downtown historical and cultural attractions). Docent Rose Boggs will lead the May 18 tour. Cost is $5 or $15 per family. Drop-ins are welcome. For reservations, to schedule group tours or tours during the week, call 640-1390.
“BEGINNER CAMPING AND HIKING” — The Wheeler Gorge Visitor Center, 17017 Maricopa Highway, will host David Sislak, assistant store manager of North Face Camarillo, who will present a program on “Beginner Camping and Hiking” Saturday at 10:30 a.m. and 1 p.m. Donations: $3 for adults, $2 for youth 5 to 18, kids younger than 5 admitted free. Call 640-9060.
MUSIC AT IL GIARDINO — Il Giardino, 401 E. Ojai Ave., will host singer Kristin Lee and a jazz trio performing Saturday from 5:30 to 8:30 p.m. Call 640-7381.
“BUCKAROOS, BOOTS AND BLING” — The Ojai Valley Community Hospital Foundation Guild’s annual spring fundraising event will be held Saturday from 6 to 10 p.m. at the St. Thomas Aquinas Church Hall, 185 St. Thomas Drive. “Buckaroos, Boots and Bling” is the theme and there will be awards for best dressed, plus live music, dancing, barbecue dinner, drinks and a silent auction. Call 640-2317.
SPRING DANCE AND TALENT SHOW — Symphony of Life Spiritual Center invites everyone to its Spring Dance and Talent Show, Saturday from 7:30 to 11 p.m. at the Ojai Valley Woman’s Club, 441 E. Ojai Ave. Cost is $15 at www.solsc.org or at the door. Talent auditions should contact Tessie Goddard at 640-0652. (M15)
Sunday, May 19
HERB-BUTTERFLY WALK — Lanny Kaufer and Michelle Dohrn will lead an Herb and Butterfly Walk on Horn Creek Sunday from 8:30 to 11:30 a.m. Learn identification and uses of native plants and how to create a butterfly garden. $25 adults, $20 seniors 62 and older and full-time students. No dogs. Register at www.HerbWalks.com or call 646-6281. (M17)
“SUNDAY IN THE PARK” — The Nordhoff High School music department and director Bill Wagner will present “Sunday in the Park” this Sunday at 3 p.m. in Libbey Bowl, featuring the award-winning music groups, jazz, choir, band and strings, in an afternoon concert. Tickets: $10 for adults, $5 for students. For more information, visit www.nhsmusic.com or call 640-4343, Ext. 1861.
“JUST ONE LOOK” — The Ojai Retreat, 160 Besant Road, will host John Sherman, author of “Look at Yourself,” Sunday from 3 to 4:30 p.m., showing you how to do a simple act of mind that has transformed the experience of life for thousands, followed by a question-and-answer session. Admission is free; donations are welcome. Call 649-1600 for more information.
MUSIC AT IL GIARDINO — Il Giardino, 401 E. Ojai Ave., will host jazzmen Jimmy Calire on keyboards, Hank Allen on bass and Richard Matzkin on drums, Sunday from 6:30 to 9 p.m. They will be joined by vocalist Arian Cohen. Call 640-7381.
Monday, May 20
“THE THIRD DRUMBEAT OF CHANGE” — Tony Khalife and Friends will lead a Pluto-Uranus square drums and ritual collective Monday at 6:30 p.m. at Ojai Shakti Healig Arts, 307 E. Matilija St., upstairs. Bring hand drums, shakers, percussion and flowers. Suggested donation: $15. Call 490-1561.
Tuesday, May 21
“HARMONIES OF THE SPHERES: A CELTIC HARP EXPERIENCE” — The Theosophical Society in the Ojai Valley will meet Tuesday at 7 p.m. at Krotona School, 46 Krotona Hill. Harpist Jeanne Martin will present a musical evening. Call 646-2653 for more details.
“KRISHNA MIRACLE: MAN-LION PROTECTS DEVOTEE” — The American Vedic Association Bhagavad-Gita As It Is Fellowship will discuss “Krishna Miracle: Man-Lion Protects Devotee” Tuesday at 7:30 p.m. at 687 Villanova Road. Learn more at AVA meetings. Always free. Call 640-0405.
Wednesday, May 22
MUSIC AT AZU — Fern Barishman plays piano and sings favorite tunes Wednesdays from 6:30 to 8:30 p.m. at Azu, 457 E. Ojai Ave. Call 640-7987.
FREE MOVIE — Wednesday from 7 to 10 p.m., a movie about Braco, who does energy healing through gazing, will be screened, preceded by meditation and followed by talking stick (no charge). Other weeks films will be screened of Tolle, Hanh, Dyer, etc. For information and location, call John at 640-3650.
Thursday, May 23
FREE VISION CLASSES — The Gables of Ojai, 701 N. Montgomery St., will host Lynn Schwanauer leading two free classes on “Maximizing Your Vision,” May 23 and 30 at 1:30 p.m. Call David at 646-1446, Ext. 118, for more information.
PETER STRAUSS AT RETREAT — Come and meet Ojai resident and award-winning Hollywood actor Peter Strauss at The Ojai Retreat, 160 Besant Road, Thursday from 7 to 9 p.m. Strauss will be honored at the fifth event of “The Ojai Celebrity Series.” Clips of his pioneering television shows (“Rich Man, Poor Man,” “Masada”), and movies (“The Jericho Mile”) will be shown. Award-winning writer Catherine Ann Jones will interview Strauss about his career as an actor in New York and Hollywood, and about his life in Ojai. Seats are limited. Reservations mandatory; call 640-1142. This is a fundraiser for The Ojai Retreat. Suggested donations: $20 in advance, $25 at the door, $35 VIP seating. Drinks and snacks are included. (M22)
OAK GROVE’S “SHOWCASE” — Join Oak Grove School, 220 W. Lomita Ave., May 24 from 7 to 9 p.m. for its semiannual free “High School Showcase.” The event features music performances by Oak Grove’s high school, as well as student paintings, installations and ceramics in the art studio. Light snacks and refreshments will be served near the pavilion. Be a part of this celebration that is free and open to the community. For more information, go to www.oakgroveschool.org or call 646-8236.
BIRD WALK — Ventura Audubon Society will host a beginners’ bird walk May 25 from 8:30 to 10:30 a.m. at Cañada Larga Road, led by Allen Bertke (640-9037).
TWICE SOLD TALES BOOKSTORE SALE — The parking lot and patio of the Ojai Library, 111 E. Ojai Ave., will be the site of the annual Memorial Day weekend book sale to benefit the Ojai Valley Library Friends and Foundation’s Twice Sold Tales Bookstore. The sale will run May 25, 26 and 27 from 10 a.m. to 5 p.m., featuring hundreds of high-quality books ranging in price from 50 cents to $2.
OJAI HISTORICAL WALKING TOURS — Saturdays at 10:30 a.m., Ojai Historical Walking Tours depart from the Ojai Valley Museum, 130 W. Ojai Ave. (approximately one-hour tours of downtown historical and cultural attractions). Docent Holly Mitchem will lead the May 25 tour. Cost is $5 or $15 per family. Drop-ins are welcome. For reservations, to schedule group tours or tours during the week, call 640-1390.
CUB SCOUT “WILDLIFE CONSERVATION PROGRAM” — The Wheeler Gorge Visitor Center, 17017 Maricopa Highway, will host Gordie Hemphill, scouter and president of LPFA’s Ojai Chapter, who will present a program on wildlife for Cub Scouts May 25 at 10:30 a.m. Cast an animal track,, learn about the California condor and do a small service project. Donations: $3 for adults and youths to cover cost of materials. Call 640-9060.
“ALIVE AFTER 5” — Art Walk, May 25, 5 to 8 p.m. Celebrate the local art scene and creative spirit at 20 downtown Ojai shops and galleries. After “Art in the Park” closes for the day enjoy art receptions, live music and specal pricing in some stores. Map and guide to activities at “Art in the Park” headquarters and all 20 businesses. Sponsors: Ojai Village Merchants, 646-1525 for more details. (M24)
YOUNG DUBLINERS CONCERT — Ojai Concert Series presents The Young Dubliners, as they belt out some rousing “Celtic rock,” May 25 at 7 p.m. at Dancing Oak Ranch on Highway 150. Gates open at 5 p.m. for a potluck, at 6 p.m. enjoy a set by The Indian Trading Furs. Tickets: $20, kids under 15 admitted free. For directions go to ojaiconcertseries.com or call 665-8852. (M24)
ROBERT MICHAELS CONCERT — Performances To Grow On will present a concert by Juno Award-winning flamenco guitarist Robert Michaels and Friends, May 25 at 7:30 p.m. at the outdoor pavilion of Oak Grove School, 220 W. Lomita Ave., Ojai. Advance tickets: $25 for seniors, $27 adults, $3 more at the door; available at Ojai Coffee Roasting Co. or call 646-897.
PERRY BROTHERS PERFORM — Ojai Youth Entertainers Studio, 316 E. Matilija St., will present The Perry Brothers Band in a concert May 25 at 8 p.m., with Mia Perry, David Bowick, Steve Tremmel, Ed McCabe, Dan Wilson, and featuring Nashville studio musician, Teddy Irwin. Get tickets at brownpapertickets.com or call (800) 383-3006.
OLD-TIME FIDDLERS — California State Old-Time Fiddlers, District 8, will meet May 26 from 1:30 to 4:30 p.m. at the Oak View Community Center, 18 Valley Road, Oak View. Join the fiddlers for a fun-filled afternoon of playing, listening or dancing to country, western and bluegrass music. Free admission and parking. Refreshments are available. For information visit www.calfiddlers.com or call 797-6563.
MEMORIAL DAY BREAKFAST AND REMEMBRANCE — The American Legion Post 482 will hold a Memorial Day breakfast, May 27 from 7 to 10 a.m. at the Legion Hall, 843 E. Ojai Ave. in Ojai. Breakfast will be free for all veterans and $4 for everyone else. The Veterans of Foreign Wars Post 11461 will host a program beginning at 11:30 a.m. in Libbey Bowl featuring music from the ‘40s by the Ventura British Brass Band and the Dick Parent Trio and veterans sharing memorabilia, wartime experiences and answering questions about their military service. The Wall of Remembrance will be hanging on the tennis court walls, featuring local veterans, past and present. For more information, call Nancy at 302-6093.
“TWO FOR THE PRICE OF ONE” — In addition to being a retired Naval Criminal Investigative Service (NCIS) officer and a retired investigator for Ventura County's District Attorney Office, Bill Nugent is also Help of Ojai's representative for the Health Insurance Counseling and Advocacy Program (HICAP). In part of his talk to the Men’s Club on May 28, Nugent will address consumer fraud, especially as it relates to seniors. The rest of his presentation will deal with Medicare, supplemental insurance, and our rights and options in this new world of "Obama Care." The Ojai Valley Retired Men's Club holds luncheon meetings on the second and fourth Tuesdays of every month at 11:45 a.m. in the Banquet Room at Soule Park Golf Course. Prospective members are always welcome. Call 649-2434 for reservations and more information.
THESOPHICAL SOCIETY MEETING AND POTLUCK— The Theosophical Society in the Ojai Valley will meet May 28 at 7 p.m. at Krotona School, 46 Krotona Road, for a vegetarian potluck, business meeting and election of officers. Call 646-2653 for more details.
CITY COUNCIL MEETING — The Ojai City Council will meet May 28 at 7 p.m. at City Hall, 401 S. Ventura St.
“ALL TOGETHER NOW” — The music department at Nordhoff High School will present “All Together Now,” a musical tribute to the ‘60s featuring The Household Gods and community and NHS musicians, May 31 at 7:30 p.m. at Matilija Auditorium, 703 El Paseo Road. Tickets: $25, available at the door, www.nhsmusic.com or the NHS music department. Call 640-4343, Ext. 1861.
RELAY FOR LIFE OF OJAI — Events to raise funds to cure cancer will be held at Nordhoff High School, 1401 Maricopa Highway, June 1 beginning at 7 a.m. with the “Cruzin’ for a Cure” car show ($25 entry fee, call 625-2190). For more information about other events or to purchase a luminaria, contact Heather Erickson at heatherojai@aol.com or call Nikki De La Torre at 276-8148.
“NATURE WALK WITH JULIE TUMAMAIT” — The Wheeler Gorge Visitor Center, 17017 Maricopa Highway, will host Chumash Elder Julie Tumamait June 1 at 10:30 a.m. She will teach about how native plants are used for food, medicines, ceremonies and games. Donations: $3 for adults, $2 for youth 5 to 18, kids younger than 5 admitted free. Call 640-9060.
OJAI HISTORICAL WALKING TOURS — Saturdays at 10:30 a.m., Ojai Historical Walking Tours depart from the Ojai Valley Museum, 130 W. Ojai Ave. (approximately one-hour tours of downtown historical and cultural attractions). Docent Helen Peterson will lead the June 1 tour. Cost is $5 or $15 per family. Drop-ins are welcome. For reservations, to schedule group tours or tours during the week, call 640-1390.
SENIOR WRITERS GROUP — Writers of all kinds are invited to meet with the Ojai Senior Writers Group Thursdays from 10 a.m. to noon at Little House, 111 W. Santa Ana St., Ojai. Come and share; we’re friendly. Call Nathaniel Wolper at 646-7077 for more details.
BEGINNING KRIYA MEDITATION CLASS — is held Mondays at 7 p.m. in Ojai. Call 646-7575 for directions or details.
VOLUNTEER TO HELP FOOD SHARE — Food Share, Ventura County's food bank, has an ongoing need of volunteers to join the gleaning team in Ojai. Most Tuesday mornings, a group of volunteers meets in Ojai for the purpose of picking local fruit and vegetables. The volunteers meet at 8 a.m. at a designated meeting place near the pick site. They work for about one to two hours. Call 983-7100, Ext. 105.
OJAI VALLEY LIONS CLUB — is always looking for new members. If you are interested in being part of an energetic service organization, contact the club secretary at 798-0278. Go to www.ojailions.com for more information. The Lions Club meets the second and fourth Wednesday of each month at 6:30 p.m. at the Oak View Community Center, 18 Valley Road. Children are welcome to the meetings on the fourth Wednesday.
OJAI BEREAVEMENT SUPPORT — Livingston Hospice and Help of Ojai hold grief support groups to help those who have experienced a loss on the second and fourth Tuesday of the month from 10:30 a.m. to noon at Help of Ojai, 370 Baldwin Road. Explore and express feelings, understand the grief process and receive emotional support. Free of charge, all are welcome. Call Kathy Leary-Wilde at 218-9798 for more information.
SENIOR SLO-PITCH BASEBALL — Senior slo-pitch baseball will be held Wednesdays and Fridays. Leagues will be formed for those 60 and over for coeds. Call 646-3583 or 646-9072.
EARLY LEARNING CLASSES — The Nan Tolbert Nurturing Center, 555 Mahoney Ave., Oak View, hold classes for new parents Wednesdays from 10:30 to 11:45 a.m. Build skills observing your babies (ages 0 to 14 months) and yourselves with other new parents and learn about infant care, such as calming, feeding and sleep. Scholarships are available. Call 646-7559.
MEDITATION LECTURES — Free lectures on the “Transcendental Meditation Program” are held every week in Ojai. Call 279-2543 or visit www.TM.org/ventura-county for information.
ANIMAL ADOPTIONS — The Humane Society of Ventura County's Shelter and Adoption Center in Ojai, 402 Bryant St., is open for animal adoptions Mondays through Fridays from 10 a.m. to 4:30 p.m. During daylight-saving time the shelter is open Monday through Friday from 10 a.m. to 6 p.m. and Saturdays from 10 a.m. to 4:30 p.m. Visit humanesocietyvc.org to see photos of animals available. Call 646-6505.
BRIDGE GROUP — Meet new friends and have fun at the same time. If you don’t know how to play bridge, we’ll teach you. We meet every Monday from 9 a.m. to noon at Little House, 111 W. Santa Ana St., Ojai. Call 646-5122.
QUILTERS ANONYMOUS — Tuesdays from 9 a.m. to noon, the Ojai Recreation Department, 510 Park Road, holds a drop-in class for quilters. Call 649-5956 for more information.
FORMER CHRISTIAN SUPPORT — Let’s co-create a free group program to help each other heal from religious indoctrination; embrace self-acceptance and a happy heart. Welcoming all new choices in philosophical outlook. Emphasis on freedom to be you. Email: FormerChristianSupport@aol.com.
OJAI SRI SATHYA SAI BABA CENTER — The Ojai Sri Sathya Sai Baba Center meets Sundays at 5:30 p.m. Call 643-6674.
SITTING MEDITATION — is held Tuesdays from 6:30 to 7:30 a.m. at Being Peace Zendo, a home-based center practicing in the tradition of Thich Nhat Hanh, at 308 Drown Ave., Ojai (enter through driveway). Call 669-8432.
THRIFT STORE DONATIONS — Donations to New 2 You Thrift Store, 106 Park Road, benefiting the Humane Society of Ventura County, are welcome and accepted daily from 7 a.m. to 7 p.m. No appointments are necessary.
CAREGIVERS HAVEN — a support group for caregivers, meets the first Wednesday of the month from 10:30 a.m. to noon at Help of Ojai’s West Campus on Baldwin Road. Call 218-9798 or 646-5122 for directions or questions.
PLAY GROUP — A play group for caregivers and infants 18 months and younger meets Thursdays at 11:30 a.m. at Sarzotti Park, 510 Park Road. Call Brook at 525-9931.
JANE CUSUMANO FOUNDATION — The Jane Cusumano Foundation, a nonprofit organization created to enhance cancer awareness and wellness, meets the first Tuesday of each month at 7 p.m. at Coldwell Banker's office. Anyone interested in learning more about the organization or in speaking or volunteering is welcome. Call Nora Davis at 646-3128 or 207-6177. Donations are welcome and an be mailed to The Jane Cusumano Foundation, 1129 Maricopa Highway, PMB 126, Ojai, CA 93023.
FEED YOUR BODY AND SOUL — Stop by the Ojai Valley Seventh-day Adventist Church, 291 E. El Roblar Drive, each Wednesday at 6 p.m. for a hot meal followed by a short Bible study. For more information, call 640-0358.
ROCKIN' ROOTS SOCIETY — meets the first Wednesday of each month at an East End location. Got roots? Accomplished singers, fiddlers, pickers and other "high lonesome" sound-makers welcome. Limit six per session. Call Chris at 646-8040.
AMERICAN LEGION DINNERS — The public is welcome to dinners sponsored by the American Legion Auxiliary and Sons of the Ojai American Legion Post 482, 843 E. Ojai Ave., held the first and third Fridays of each month. All proceeds benefit veterans, student scholarships and packages for troops overseas.
FREE YOUTH ULTIMATE FRISBEE — Ojai Recreation Department, 510 Park Road, offers free Youth Ultimate Frisbee for boys and girls in fifth to eighth grades Fridays from 4:30 to 6 p.m. Call 646-5581, Ext. 303, for more details.
GRANDPARENTS RAISING GRANDCHILDREN — meets the first Thursday of the month at 7 p.m. at 922 Topaz Court in Ojai. The group is open to all relative caregivers, not just grandparents. Call 646-6118.
FREE BLOOD PRESSURE SCREENING — Free blood pressure screening is offered the first Thursday of each month from 10:30 a.m. to noon at The Medicine Shoppe, 960 E. Ojai Ave. Call 646-0106.
OPEN DIALOGUES — Wednesdays at 7:30 p.m., a discussion group is held at 308 W. Aliso St. for those on a serious spiritual path to non-dualism who haven’t forgotten levity. No charge. Call 640-0755 for information.
SELF-ENRICHMENT AT LITTLE HOUSE — A group of seniors meets Fridays at 10 a.m. at Little House, 111 W. Santa Ana St., Ojai, to bend, stretch, stimulate, exhilarate and recreate their minds. Featured are speakers, group participation, armchair travel, hot topics, current news, etc. with refreshments being served. All seniors are welcome. Call Dolores at 640-0088.
FIBROMYALGIA-CHRONIC FATIGUE SYNDROME SUPPORT GROUP — Bella Donna, a holistic health care practitioner, will hold free informative gatherings for those who suffer from fibromyalgia-chronic fatigue syndrome the third Thursday of each month from 1 to 2:30 p.m. at Oak View Park and Resource Center, 555 Mahoney Ave. Email BellaInOjai@gmail.com with questions.
HOSPITAL AUXILIARY VOLUNTEERS NEEDED — The Ojai Valley Community Hospital Auxiliary needs new members. The auxiliary has a variety of duties within the hospital to use skills or interests pertaining to helping others. Call 640-6936 or 640-2224.
WII BOWLING FOR SENIORS — Little House, 111 W. Santa Ana St., Ojai, hosts Wii Bowling for Seniors every Wednesday from 1 to 2:30 p.m. Call 646-5122 for more details.
NICOTINE ANONYMOUS — Meetings for Nicotine Anonymous are held Wednesdays at 7 p.m. at 555 Mahoney Ave., Oak View, in the staff lounge, for those with a desire to stop smoking.
ENGLISH AS SECOND LANGUAGE CLASSES — ESL classes are offered through Ojai Unified Adult Education at Meiners Oaks School, Mondays from 3 to 7 p.m. (call 640-4378), and in Room 6 at Ojai Unified District offices, 414 E. Ojai Ave., Mondays and Wednesdays from 6 to 8 p.m. (call 640-4330).
CASUAL BRIDGE — games are held Thursdays from 8:45 a.m. to noon at Little House, 111 W. Santa Ana St., Ojai. Just drop by or call Donna Hunt at 646-2980.
“EXPLORING WATERCOLORS” — Patty Van Dyke will teach an art class, “Exploring Watercolors,” on the second and fourth Friday of each month at 10 a.m. in the clubhouse at The Gables of Ojai, 701 N. Montgomery St. Donations suggested. Call David at 646-1446, Ext. 118, with any questions.
FIBROMYALGIA-CHRONIC FATIGUE SYNDROME SUPPORT GROUP — Bella Donna, a holistic health care practitioner, will hold free informative gatherings for those who suffer from fibromyalgia-chronic fatigue syndrome the first Thursday of each month from 1 to 2:30 p.m. at Healing in America, 107 W. Aliso St. Email BellaInOjai@gmail.com with questions.
READING TUTORS NEEDED — Training for volunteers to tutor for the Adult Literacy Program is offered by the Library Services Agency. Call 641-4484.
OJAI JOYFUL SINGERS — meets Fridays at 9:45 a.m. at Ojai Presbyterian Church, 304 Foothill Road, Ojai, singing oldies but goodies as well as new and popular songs. For more information, call Shirley at 646-8025.
FREE RECORDING STUDIO WORKSHOPS — Singers and songwriters are welcome to free recording studio workshops held on select Saturdays from 10 a.m. to noon at Tim Frantz’s Mountain Dog Musicworks. To sign up for the next workshop: tim@mountaindogmusic.com or 649-8500.
TAROT CARD READING — Tarot card reader Donna Ellen reads the cards Sundays from noon to 5 p.m. at Ojai House, 304 N. Montgomery St. Drop in or call 493-7707 for an appointment.
OJAI SONGWRITERS — A free weekly meeting of open-minded creative musicians and lyricists, who recognize the value of the collaborative sharing of ideas and music. Contact Scott: hscottsmith@sbc
global.net or 640-1004 .
CRUISE NIGHT — Josephina’s Cafe, 1205 Maricopa Highway, Ojai, holds cruise night every third Friday from 6:30 to 10 p.m. Call 640-1905 for more information.
FREE MAMMOGRAMS — The Ojai Valley Community Health Center, 1200 Maricopa Highway, offers a Breast Cancer Early Detection Program which includes free breast exams for women 40 years old or older and free mammograms for women 50 and older who do not have any medical coverage and cannot afford these services. Call 640-8293 to see if you qualify.
FREE DAY AT NURSERY SCHOOL — Ojai Valley Community Nursery School, 1290 Grand Ave., invites preschoolers ages 2 to 6 to a free session every Friday from 9 a.m. to noon; tag-along siblings are welcome. Call 646-3801 for details.
WORLD OF ONE — a support group for widows and widowers, meets at Little House, 111 W. Santa Ana St., the third Wednesday of the month from 10:30 a.m. to noon. Call Help of Ojai, 646-5122.
MEDITATION AND HEALING WORKSHOPS — Weekly meditation and healing workshops are run by two well-known British healers, now living in Ojai. For details call Roger or Kim at 640-0211.
QUILTERS ANONYMOUS— meets Tuesdays from 9 a.m. to noon at St. Thomas Aquinas Catholic Church, 185 St. Thomas Drive. Beginners are welcome and membership is free. Call 649-5956 for information.
HOME SECURITY PATROL — The Ojai Valley Security Patrol provides home security for when you are on vacation. Call the Ojai Police at 646-1414 for information. Neighborhood Watch programs are also available.
NOAH COMMUNITY SING — A community sing, open to individuals and families, is held the third Sunday of each month from 5 to 7:30 p.m. at Living Aikido Dojo, Oak View Park and Resource Center, 555 Mahoney Ave., Oak View. Donations accepted. For more information, call Craig at 637-4829.
OJAI BREAST-FEEDING HELP LINE — is staffed by lactation professionals. Telephone counseling, information and referral are available free to the community. Ojai Breast-feeding Help Line: 646-5865.
FREE PRENATAL CLASSES — Clinicas del Camino Real offers free weekly prenatal classes in Spanish and English at all of its nine sites countywide. They are held Monday and Thursday evenings throughout the year. In Ojai, the location is the Ojai Valley Community Health Center, 1200 Maricopa Highway. Call 640-8293.
SCHOOLINKS HOMEWORK CENTERS — SchooLinks Homework Centers are open at the Ojai Library, Meiners Oaks Library and Oak View Library, Mondays through Thursdays from 3 to 5 p.m. when school is in session. Call 289-0368.
BRIDGE CLUB — The Ojai Valley Bridge Club meets Mondays and Fridays at 12:30 p.m. at the Ojai United Methodist Church, corner of Maricopa Highway and Church Road. All bridge players are welcome. Call 640-8523 or 646-1211.
OJAI VALLEY RETIRED MEN'S CLUB — meets for lunch and a presentation the second and fourth Tuesday of each month at 11:30 a.m. at the Soule Park Golf Club Banquet Room. Retired men, as guests or as prospective members, are always welcome. Call Ron Chegwidden at 649-2434.
SUNDAY BREAKFAST AT MOOSE LODGE — The public is invited to purchase breakfast Sundays from 9 a.m. to noon at the Loyal Order of the Moose Lodge 1417, 382 Ventura Ave., Oak View, behind the post office.
FREE PREGNANCY TESTS AND ULTRASOUND — are offered at Life Choices Pregnancy Clinic, 1320-C Maricopa Highway, Ojai. Office hours are Mondays and Fridays from 11 a.m. to 4 p.m. and Wednesdays from 1 to 4 p.m. Additional days and times available by appointment. Appointments are necessary for ultrasound. Free referrals and resource material on pregnancy, STDs and more are available during office hours. Email info@ojailifechoices.org or call the 24-hour hotline at 646-6830.
ALIGN YOUR BODY — A free exercise class called Align Your Body is held every Wednesday from 1:30 to 2:30 p.m. at Little House, 111 W. Santa Ana St., Ojai. Call 646-5122 for more details.
PAUSE4KIDS MEETINGS — Pause4kids, a parents’ group committed to helping children with special needs, meets twice each month: every third Tuesday at 9 a.m. and every fourth Tuesday at 7 p.m. Visit www.pauseconejo.org or call Kim at 646-6606.
PARENT SUPPORT GROUP — United Parents hosts a free parent support group the first and third Thursdays of each month from 7 to 8 p.m. at Aurora Vista Del Mar Hospital Conference Room. Call 653-6434, Ext. 243.
MATILIJA FLY FISHERS — meets the first Wednesday of each month at 7 p.m. at Little House, 111 W. Santa Ana St., Ojai. The meetings consist of informal fly-fishing discussions, notice of upcoming events of interest and fly-tying instruction and demonstrations. Visitors are welcome. Call 646-3469.
OJAI VALLEY BEE CLUB MEETING — The Ojai Valley Bee Club meets every second Thursday of each month at 6 p.m. in the annex at The Farmer and The Cook, 339 W. El Roblar Drive in Meiners Oaks. This beekeeping and bee appreciation club for enthusiasts in the Ojai Valley and surrounding area meets to share information and resources with experts and guest speakers.
BREAST CANCER SUPPORT GROUP — Women who have triumphed over breast cancer, women still undergoing treatment and those considering treatment — all meet to share tips, choices, experiences, strategies and encouragement the third Monday of the month from 4:30 to 6 p.m. at Help of Ojai’s Oak Tree House, 111 W. Santa Ana St., Ojai. Newcomers are welcome. Call Kathy Leary-Wilde at 218-9798 for more information.
CANCER SUPPORT GROUP — A cancer support group offering encouragement, resources and prayer for cancer patients, family members and friends is held the last Thursday of the month at 7 p.m. at Lutheran Church of Our Redeemer, 1290 E. Grand Ave., Ojai. For more information, call Sydnee at 649-9548 or Nancy at 646-6170.
DIVORCE CARE — A divorce recovery and support group meets Mondays at 7 p.m. at Ojai Valley Community Church, 907 El Centro St., Ojai. Divorce Care features nationally recognized experts on divorce and recovery topics. Call 646-4324.
OJAI VALLEY GUN CLUB — The Ojai Valley Gun Club offers a public shoot day at 9 a.m. the fourth Saturday of each month at the Rose Valley Range. Visit www.ovgc.net or call 984-9472.
OJAI VALLEY PARKINSON SUPPORT GROUP — continues to meet the third Wednesday of each month from 1 to 3 p.m. at Little House, 111 W. Santa Ana St. There are always knowledgeable people presenting tough questions and often getting clear answers. Call 988-7599.
THE BREAKFAST CLUB — brings business people together to network and help each other generate new prospects and share marketing ideas. The club meets the first Tuesday of each month from 7:30 to 8:30 a.m. at Eggs & Potatoes in Ojai. For more information, email lohscan@aol.com or call Trixi Scantlin at 525-1917.
DANCE MEDICINE — is a journey into healing held Thursdays from 7:30 to 9:30 p.m. at the Ojai Art Center, 113 S. Montgomery St. Experience spontaneous movements that arise from the unconscious. Call 646-0117.
MEDITATION MOUNT — Group meditations are held Wednesday through Sunday from 8:30 to 9 a.m. at Meditation Mount, 10340 Reeves Road. The grounds are open Wednesday through Sunday from 10 a.m. to sunset. Office business hours are Wednesday through Friday, 10 a.m. to 5 p.m. Visit www.meditationmount.org or call 646-5508, Ext. 103.
FREE PHYSICALS AND IMMUNIZATIONS FOR KIDS— The Ojai Valley Community Health Center, 1200 Maricopa Highway, offers free physicals and immunizations for children ages 0 to 18. Call 640-8293 to see if you qualify.
AUTISM SUPPORT OJAI — is an online forum where care-givers can offer and receive support, referrals and information pertaining to autism spectrum disorder. Support for this group has been provided by The Rainbow Connection Family Resource Center in Oxnard. See health.groups@yahoo.com for more details.
CHI GONG (QIGONG) LIFE-FORCE TRAINING — is held Tuesdays and Thursdays from 6:15 to 6:45 p.m. at Stell Hall, World University Plaza at the corner of Matilija and Ventura streets in downtown Ojai, featuring a short set of focused and powerful energy recharging and balancing exercises for all ages. No fee; donations appreciated. Call 646-1444.
DANCING WITH PARKINSON’S — A dance class for people with Parkinson’s disease is held Mondays from 1 to 2 p.m. at the Ojai Art Center, 113 S. Montgomery St., led by Irina Dukhon. Suggested donation is $5. Call (206) 909-8918 for more information.
ART GROUP — Little House, 111 W. Santa Ana St., Ojai, hosts a free Art Group every Friday from 2 to 4 p.m. Bring your own art supplies and join in sharing your creativity. Call 646-5122.
BOY SCOUTS TROOP 504 — Sponsored by the Ojai Rotary Club, Troop 504 of the Boy Scouts of America, has outdoor activities and a weekly program for boys ages 11 to 18. Meetings are held Tuesdays from 7 to 9 p.m. at the Ojai United Methodist Church, 120 Church Road. Each month there is an outdoor hike, backpacking or camping trip. Visit www.ojai.net/troop504 or call Bill O’Brien at 646-1542.
LEGAL HELP — A volunteer attorney is available for legal consultation the first Tuesday of each month at 10 a.m. at the Community Assistance Program office, 108 Fox St., by appointment only. Call 640-3320.
PET THERAPY PROGRAM — The Humane Society of Ventura County seeks volunteers to help in its Pet Assisted Therapy Program. Volunteers visit skilled nursing and residential care facilities Wednesday mornings. For information, call the volunteer coordinator at the Humane Society, 646-6505, Ext. 110.
ALANO MEETINGS— The Ojai Valley Alano Club at 575 W. El Roblar Drive, holds more than 25 meetings a week for 12-Step Recovery groups, AA, NA, CA, Alanon and Alateen. For meeting schedules and more information, call 646-9187.
FREE INTRODUCTORY SUFI HEALING SESSION — Allow 45 minutes to one hour. Session will be by phone. This offer is for new people of all walks of life and faiths and for any challenge in body, soul, home, work, or relationship. No subsequent obligation or catch. Maritza Luz Vega, CMT, RCST, Ministry, 646-1577.
RAPE CRISIS HOTLINE — The Rape Crisis Hotline at 656-1111 offers counseling and other services.
DONATIONS TO SECOND HELPINGS — Donations are accepted for Second Helpings Thrift Store at Help of Ojai’s West Campus, 370 Baldwin Road, Tuesday through Saturday from 9 a.m. to 3 p.m. Call 649-8750 for more information.
SHAKESPEARE SALON — The Ojai Shakespeare Festival's Second Century Shakespeare Salon meets the first and third Monday of every month at 7 p.m. at the Ojai Library, 111 E. Ojai Ave., to read and discuss the works of the Bard. The club is free and open to everyone. Call Laurie Walters Slade at 646-3733.
AMERICAN LEGION BINGO — The American Legion Post 482 in Ojai hosts bingo Tuesdays from 12:30 to 4 p.m. at the American Legion Hall, 843 E. Ojai Ave. (Early birds from 12:30 to 1 p.m.) Refreshments are provided. All proceeds go to our veterans.
GENEALOGY LIBRARY OPEN — Find your roots at the Genealogy Library Tuesdays from 10 a.m. to 8:30 p.m. and Wednesdays and Thursdays from 2 to 8:30 p.m. at 411 San Antonio Drive, Ojai. Call 646-2173 or 640-8351.
PLAY GROUP — Come have fun with other 5- and 6-year-olds at Libbey Park Wednesdays at noon. Gather for lunch and a good time. Call Dawn at 640-1283 for information, or just show at up the park.
TOASTMASTERS MEETINGS — Ojai Valley Toastmasters meets Fridays at 6:30 a.m. in the Library Room at The Gables of Ojai, 701 N. Montgomery St., Ojai. Come visit and hear a variety of presentations. For more information, call 207-5094.
DRINK FROM THE OCEAN OF LOVE — Join us Thursdays from 7 to 8 p.m. for Sufi practices and Zikhr as a way to connect directly with the divine for replenishment, guidance, and healing. All walks of life and faith are welcome. Call 646-1577 for more information.
ROTARY ECO CLUB — The Rotary Eco Club meets the second and fourth Thursdays of each month from 10 to 11 a.m. at Help of Ojai’s West Campus, 370 W. Baldwin Road, in Room A-3. All are invited to attend. For more information contact Jane McClenahan at janedg0708@rotarysuccess.com or Lisa Malone at 646-3483.
AGAPE RECOVERY GROUP — Ojai Valley Baptist Church, 11642 N. Ventura Ave., Ojai, hosts the weekly Agape Recovery Group Mondays from 6:30 to 8 p.m. Sandie Blackford is the facilitator; she is nationally certified in addictions and psychiatric. Agape is for those in need of a support group with the honesty and willingness to help themselves, and with open minds for using tools given them for the change in their life needed to be free from the bondage of addictions and other afflictions.
FREE QI GONG — classes, wild goose form, are held Tuesdays at 11:10 a.m. at Bryant Street Health and Fitness Center, 406-Q Bryant Circle. Call Julie at 646-0068 for more details.
AWANA CLUBS — Ojai Valley Baptist Church, 11642 N. Ventura Ave., will hold Awana Clubs Tuesdays from 6:15 to 8:15 p.m. from September 2012 to May 2013. This is a children’s program for kids in kindergarten through 12th grade featuring fun and games. Call 646-3362 for more information.
SMALL BUSINESS COUNSELING — Small business counseling is available regularly at the Ojai Valley Chamber of Commerce. Call 646-8216.
FREE GAME ROOM TIME — The Ojai Recreation Department, 510 Park Road, is opening its doors to the game room for free this school year. Every Wednesday from 1 to 4 p.m., kids in grades three to eight are invited to stop by and play on any of the game room tables, including pool, pingpong, air hockey and Foosball. You must have a registration form signed by a parent in order to participate. Call 646-5581, Ext. 303.
DIVORCE CARE WORKSHOP — Mondays from 7:30 to 9 p.m., a Divorce Care Workshop is held at Ojai Valley Community Church, 907 El Centro St. Call 646-4324 or 640-8689.
ZUMBA — Zumba workouts are held at the Ojai Art Center,113 S. Montgomery St., Tuesdays from 6 to 7 p.m. and Thursdays from 5:30 to 6:30 p.m. Call 646-0117.
LOW VISION SUPPORT GROUP — Is your low vision causing problems in your daily living? The Low Vision Support Group of the Braille Institute meets the first Tuesday of each month from 1 to 2 p.m. at Little House, 111 W. Santa Ana St., Ojai. Learn skills for independent living, and about the many free services of the Braille Institute, plus special assistance for those with macular degeneration. It’s all free.
MEINERS OAKS KNITTING CLUB — meets at Meiners Oaks Library, 114 N. Padre Juan Ave., the second and fourth Tuesdays of the month from 11 a.m. to 1 p.m. Knitters of all ages and skill levels are welcome. Members knit squares which are assembled into afghans and scarves for Ojai Valley Family Shelter sites. Call 646-4804 for more information.
FREE DEPRESSION SCREENINGS — Gladstone Counseling Center, 530 W. Ojai Ave., Suite 209, offers free depression screenings with a qualified therapist, Mondays and Tuesdays from 10 a.m. to 4 p.m., by appointment only. For more information, call 646-9724.
OPTIMIST CLUB MEETINGS — The Optimist Club of Ojai meets for dinner the fourth Tuesday of every month at 6 p.m. at the American Legion Hall, 843 E. Ojai Ave. Anyone who is interested is welcome. The club’s motto is: “Friend of Youth.”
MAH-JONGG GROUP — Mah-jongg enthusiasts are invited to join a group Tuesdays at 1 p.m. in Ojai. Beginners are welcome to come and enjoy the ancient game for fun and mental stimulation. For more information, call Jeanne Harvey at 646-8053.
OJAI PHOTOGRAPHY CLUB — meets the third Tuesday of each month at 7 p.m. in Kent Hall at Little House, 111 W. Santa Ana St. Shutter enthusiasts are welcome to share their interest in photography. Each month a pofessional will impart their techniques and critique submittals. Photo submittals require membership. Visit www.ojaiphotoclub.com for more information.
