Ojai Valley Museum holds Town Talk on Krishnamurti
Discover art of storytelling
Acting class offered in Santa Paula
'We the People' brings social studies to life
OPAT is holding auditions
Take a 'Closer Look' at fiber art exhibit opening Jan. 18
What's happening this weekend in Ojai: Don't miss out on a thing!
"BE THERE OR BE SQUARE,"says Ojai Valley News music reviewer Bill Locey.Saturday, Jan. 11, 7 p.m.: James Lee Stanley at Ojai Underground Exchange, 1016 W. Ojai Ave. Cost: $20. Call: 340-7893.
Saturday, Jan. 11
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). Docent Connie Campbell will lead the Jan. 11 tour. Cost is $7 or $15 per family. Drop-ins are welcome. For reservations or tours during the week, call (805) 640-1390.
AMERICAN VEDIC ASSOCIATION FELLOWSHIP — Join others for discussion, sharing, thoughtful introspection and light refreshments, Saturdays at 2 p.m. at 687 W. Villanova Road, Ojai. Uplift yourself with the science of self-realization. Always free. Call (805) 640-0405.
Sunday, Jan. 12
NEW YEAR CONCERT —Michel Pascal, “The Medicine Voice,” returns from Carnegie Hall to offer a new year concert sponsored by the Center for Spiritual Living Ojai, Sunday at 12:15 p.m. at the Ojai Valley Woman's Club, 441 E. Ojai Ave. Pascal has performed with Earth, Wind & Fire and creates spiritual films. He sings with a backdrop of sacred images he has filmed. Known for raising spirits and healing energy, Pascal will speak at 10:30 a.m. Call (805) 640-0498 for reservations and information.
FREE DANCE PROGRAM —Spirit Loving Dance will give its liturgical dance program, Sunday at 1:30 p.m. at At Home In Ojai, 225 N. Lomita Ave., Ojai. Friends and family are invited to attend.
TOWN TALK AT MUSEUM —The Ojai Valley Museum, 130 W. Ojai Ave., will host a Town Talk titled “New Perspectives on Krishnamurti in America” to be delivered by David Edmund Moody, Ph.D., Sunday from 4:30 to 6 p.m. Author Moody will present key findings from his new book, “Krishnamurti in America: New Perspectives on the Man and his Message.” This new biography brings “K's” life up-to-date and illuminates his personal relationships as well as the essential meaning of his message. Admission: $5, free for museum members. Call 646-1390 for more information.
GATHERING FOR JUSTICE AT LIBRARY —The Ojai Library, 111 E. Ojai Ave., will host a meeting of Gathering for Justice, an open discussion group and book club, Sunday from 5 to 7 p.m. The purpose of this group is to deepen understanding of how prejudice works in ourselves and others, facilitating the council method. Participants are encouraged to read “Just Mercy” by Bryan Stevenson for this meeting. This group meets on the second Sunday of each month. This event is free and open to the public. Call (805) 218-9146 or 646-1639 for more details.
ART CENTER THEATER FREE PREVIEW —The Ojai Art Center Theater, 113 S. Montgomery St., will host its annual free preview of the upcoming new season, Sunday at 7 p.m. Call (805) 640-8797 for more details.
Monday, Jan. 13
SAFE DRIVING COURSE —Help of Ojai, 111 W. Santa Ana St., Ojai, will host an AARP Driving Safety Class, Monday and Tuesday from 9 a.m. to 1 p.m. A certificate given at the end of the course is good for a three-year discount on auto insurance. The class fee is $15 for AARP members and $20 for non-members. Make check payable to AARP and give to instructor. Call (805) 646-5122 for reservations.
“THE ENDOCANNABINOID SYSTEM” —Sespe Creek Collective, 408-C Bryant Street, Ojai, will host Jake Felice, N.D., L.M.P., presenting “The Endocannabinoid System, a free educational seminar, Monday from 6 to 7:30 p.m. Felice is a leading expert on the topic of medical cannabis. Participants will learn how tetrahydrocannabinol (THC), cannabidiol (CBD), terpenes and other cannabinoids interact and stimulate the body's own endocannabinoid system (ECS). For more information: www.sespe.org/events or (855) 722-9333. RSVP with an email to This email address is being protected from spambots. You need JavaScript enabled to view it.and include your full name and ECS in the subject line.
Tuesday, Jan. 14
RETIRED MEN'S CLUB MEETING —Hank Wynands will discuss his career building sets in the movie industry at the Retired Men's Club's meeting on Tuesday. A native of Amsterdam, Wynands has been an Ojai resident for 21 years. 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. Retired men are welcome to attend and consider joining. Call (805) 646-3746 for information.
POPPIES BOOK CLUB MEETING —Poppies Art and Gifts, 323 E. Matilija St., Ojai, will hold its monthly Book Club meeting, Tuesday from 6 to 8 p.m. The first selection for 2020 will be “Oil and Marble: A Novel of Leonardo and Michelangelo” by Stephanie Storey. This art history thriller focuses on the rivalry between the two artists. All adults are welcome to the free event. Read the book before the meeting. Light refreshments will be served.
“THE TECHNIQUE OF THE SPIRITUAL LIFE” —will be heldTuesday at 7 p.m. at the Theosophy in Ojai Valley Lodge, 46 Krotona St., Ojai, preceded by meditation at 6 p.m. Chapter V: “The Training of the Emotions” will be studied. No cost; donations appreciated. (630) 815-4810.
VENTURA AUDUBON SOCIETY MONTHLY PROGRAM —The Ventura Audubon Society will host its free monthly program, Tuesday at 7:30 p.m. at the Poinsettia Pavilion, 3451 Foothill Road, Ventura. James Hines will speak on “Protecting Wildlife and Wild Places.” Hines is the Sierra Club's California-Nevada wildlife team leader. Everyone is welcome.
CITY COUNCIL MEETING —The Ojai City Council will hold a meeting Tuesday at 7 p.m. in the council chambers at Ojai City Hall, 401 S. Ventura St., Ojai. The public is welcome to attend.
Wednesday, Jan. 15
CMWD BOARD MEETING —The Board of Directors of Casitas Municipal Water District will meet Wednesday at 3 p.m. at the main office, 1055 Ventura Ave., Oak View. The public is welcome to attend.
“KIN KARE” COURSE —If you are helping raise your children's children, the “Kin Kare” Course at Somatic Sanctuary beginning Wednesday from 3 to 4:30 p.m., offered in three parts to grandparents accepting responsibility for caring for their very young grandchildren during the day, will show how intergeneratioal relationships for children from infancy through early preschool years mold their future success when they start school. To pre-register, contact course facilitator and infant specialist Elizabeth Memel at This email address is being protected from spambots. You need JavaScript enabled to view it.
“COMMUNITY RESILIENCE IN THE FACE OF A CHANGING CLIMATE” AT LIBRARY —The Ojai Library, 111 E. Ojai Ave., will host Paul Jenkin, M.S., delivering a presentation titled “Community Resilience in the Face of a Changing Climate” Wednesday at 6 p.m. Jenkin is Ventura Campaign coordinator for The Surfrider Foundation. This event is free and open to the public. Call (805) 218-9146 or 646-1639 for more details.
THIRD FRIDAYS DOWNTOWN —The Ojai Valley Museum and many downtown merchants, restaurants and galleries will be open Jan. 17 from 5:30 to 7:30 p.m. to celebrate Third Friday, featuring live music, refreshments, and more. Museum entry is free. Call (805) 640-1390 for more information.
“BEAUTY AND THE BEAST, JR.” —The Ojai Youth Entertainers Studio, 907 El Centro St., Ojai, will host performances of Disney's “Beauty and the Beast, Jr.” by the performance company Jan. 17 through 19, by the Bears cast Jan. 24 through 26, by the Tigers cast Jan. 31 through Feb. 2, and by the Lions cast Feb. 7 through 9. Showtimes are Fridays at 6 p.m., Saturdays at 2 p.m. and 6 p.m., and Sundays at 2 p.m. Seating is first come, first serve; $10 admission for all ages. A special Tots cast performance will be held Feb. 9 at 11 a.m. (by donation at the door). Group rates available; email This email address is being protected from spambots. You need JavaScript enabled to view it..
“C.G. JUNG'S 'ANSWER TO JOB': A NEW EVALUATION IN THE LIGHT OF 'THE RED BOOK'” —with Stephan Hoeller, Ph.D., will be held Jan. 17 through 19 at Krotona. It has been described as “the theology behind 'The Red Book.'” We will explore the religion of the New Aeon, of its God Image and the return of the Divine Feminine. Hoeller has written and lectured extensively on Jung's esoteric message and relevance. 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. Series $50, single session $15. Krotona School of Theosophy, 46 Krotona St., Ojai, www.krotonainstitute.org or (805) 646-1139. (J17)
WINTER MIGRATION BIRD WALK —The Ojai Valley Land Conservancy will host an “All About Ojai” Winter Bird Walk on the Ojai Meadows Preserve (next to Nordhoff High School), Jan. 18 from 8 to 10 a.m., led by renowned bird expert Jesse Grantham. Wear sturdy shoes, use sun protection, and bring water (and binoculars if you have them). Heavy rain will cancel this event. Free to OVLC members, $10 for non-members. For more information or required reservations: This email address is being protected from spambots. You need JavaScript enabled to view it.or (805) 649-6852.
ADOPT-A-HIGHWAY WORK DAY —An Adopt-A-Highway Work Day on Highway 33 will be held Jan. 18. Meet at the Wheeler Gorge Visitor Center, 17017 Maricopa Highway, at 9 a.m. for instructions. Call (805) 640-9060 or This email address is being protected from spambots. You need JavaScript enabled to view it.for more information.
ORCHARD MANAGEMENT AND PRUNING —A free class on “Orchard Management and Pruning” will be held by the Master Gardeners, Jan. 18 from 9 to 11 a.m. at the Arc Ojai Enrichment Center, 210 Cañada St., Ojai. All are welcome to join this hands-on opportunity to learn about trees in the home orchard, pruning and tool care.
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). Docents Connie Campbell and Jackie Clarke will lead the Jan. 18 tour. Cost is $7 or $15 per family. Drop-ins are welcome. For reservations or tours during the week, call (805) 640-1390.
“FILM EDITING, WRITING, AND 'NOIRMEDY'” AT LIBRARY —The Ojai Library, 111 E. Ojai Ave., will host author Rick Tuber delivering a presentation titled “Film Editing, Writing, and 'Noirmedy'” Jan. 18 at 1 p.m. He will be discussing and answering questions about his three books and will also talk about his long career in film editing and what made him become a writer at the age of 60. This event is free and open to the public. Call (805) 218-9146 or 646-1639 for more details.
DEVOTIONAL RETREAT —The Ojai Retreat, 160 Besant Road, will host the Rev. Karen S. Wylie’s monthly devotional retreat Jan. 19 from 11 a.m. to 2 p.m. The theme will be “We Begin Again!” Open to people of all faiths. Suggested donation: $20. Call (310) 968-8928 or go to www.karenswylie.com.
CHAMBER ON THE MOUNTAIN CONCERT —Chamber on the Mountain will present a performance by the internationally renowned Grigoryan Brothers Guitar Duo on Jan. 19 at 3 p.m. in Logan House at the Beatrice Wood Center for the Arts, 8585 Ojai-Santa Paula Road in Upper Ojai. Slava and Leonard Grigoryan are regarded as Australia's finest guitar duo and among the best musicians of their generation. Audience members are invited to stay and meet the artists at a reception following the performance. For tickets: www.ChamberOnTheMountain.com or call (805) 685-1939.
MARTIN LUTHER KING JR. DAY —The public is invited to a free celebration of Martin Luther King Jr. Day, Jan. 20 from 10 a.m. to 3 p.m. in Libbey Park in Ojai, featuring guest speakers, live music, art and more.
OJAI POETRY SERIES AT LIBRARY —The Ojai Library, 111 E. Ojai Ave., will host the Ojai Poetry Series, Tuesday from 6 to 7:30 p.m. in the Community Room. Ojai resident and poet Scott Charles will be featured, followed by an open reading. This series on the third Tuesday of every month features local and area poets. For information, contact This email address is being protected from spambots. You need JavaScript enabled to view it..
“THE CAT RETURNS” —The Ojai Recreation Department, 510 Park Road, Ojai, will host a Parent's Night Out Jan. 24 in the Boyd Community Center, featuring a screening of “The Cat Returns,” for children ages 5 through 13, with drop-off at 6 p.m., movie at 7 p.m, and pick-up at 9 p.m. For more details, call (805) 646-5581, Ext. 390.
“SHIRLEY VALENTINE” —The Ojai Art Center Theater, 113 S. Montgomery St., will host performances of “Shirley Valentine,” Jan. 24 through Feb. 16, directed by Steve Grumette. This Tony Award-winning play deals with a real “change of life” in a heartfelt and hilarious manner. Shows will be held Fridays and Saturdays at 7:30 p.m. and Saturdays and Sundays at 2 p.m. Get tickets online at ojaiact.org or call (805) 640-8797 for more details.
HOUSEHOLD HAZARDOUS MATERIALS EVENT —The County of Ventura Pollution Prevention Center will host a household hazardous materials collection event Jan. 25 for residents of the unincorporated areas of Ventura County. Call (805) 658-4323 for an appointment or more details. Small businesses should call (800) 714-1195.
“HARVEY” AUDITIONS —Ojai Performing Arts Theater will hold auditions for “Harvey” Jan. 25 from 10 a.m. to 5 p.m. and Jan. 26 from 1 to 5 p.m. in the Sonshine Room at Ojai Presbyterian Church, 304 Foothill Road, Ojai. Directors are Craig Anderson and Richard Camp. Grab your résumé and headshots! Performances will run March 27 through 29 and April 3 through 5 at Matilija Auditorium. For more information, call (805) 646-5433.
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). Docent Barbara Washburn will lead the Jan. 25 tour. Cost is $7 or $15 per family. Drop-ins are welcome. For reservations or tours during the week, call (805) 640-1390.
FAMILY FUN DAY —The Ojai Valley Museum, 130 W. Ojai Ave., will host a free Family Fun Day, Jan. 26 from 1 to 3 p.m. with Dennis Shives and “Bubble Fun.” Just drop in. Call (805) 646-1390 for more information.
RETIRED MEN'S CLUB MEETING —Joel Fox, son of member Bill Fox, will share his creative experiences at the Retired Men's Club's meeting on Jan. 28. He lives in Ojai and creates videos for children's television shows. 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. Retired men are welcome to attend and consider joining. Call (805) 646-3746 for information.
CITY COUNCIL MEETING —The Ojai City Council will hold a meeting Jan. 28 at 7 p.m. in the council chambers at Ojai City Hall, 401 S. Ventura St., Ojai.
“DEATH AND THE POWER OF LIVING” —will be heldJan. 28 at 7 p.m. at the Theosophy in Ojai Valley Lodge, 46 Krotona St., Ojai. Betty Bland will deliver a lecture on “Death and the Power of Living.” No cost; donations appreciated. (630) 815-4810.
MATILIJA MIDDLE SCHOOL BAND CONCERT —Matilija Middle School, 703 El Paseo Road, Ojai, will host a band concert Jan. 28 at 7 p.m. in the auditorium. The concert is free and open to the public.
CMWD BOARD MEETING —The Board of Directors of Casitas Municipal Water District will meet Jan. 29 at 3 p.m. at the main office, 1055 Ventura Ave., Oak View. The public is welcome to attend.
MATILIJA MIDDLE SCHOOL STRINGS CONCERT —Matilija Middle School, 703 El Paseo Road, Ojai, will host a strings concert Jan. 29 at 7 p.m. in the auditorium. The concert is free and open to the public.
NOONTIME OPERA AT LIBRARY —The Ojai Library, 111 E. Ojai Ave., will host members of Opera Santa Barbara Studio Artists, Jan. 30 at noon, presenting a free opera concert in the library's main room, lasting about 45 minutes. All are welcome. Call (805) 218-9146 or 646-1639 for more details.
MATILIJA MIDDLE SCHOOL CHOIR CONCERT —Matilija Middle School, 703 El Paseo Road, Ojai, will host a concert by its choir Jan. 30 at 7 p.m. in the auditorium. The concert is free and open to the public.
“ISLAND OF THE BLUE DOLPHINS” AT LIBRARY —The Ojai Library, 111 E. Ojai Ave., will host retired park ranger Carol Peterson delivering a presentation titled “Island of the Blue Dolphins: Discover the True Story That Inspired the Book” Feb. 1 at 1 p.m. Learn more about the “Lone Woman of San Nicolas Island,” the Native American woman whose life inspired Scott O'Dell to write the award-winning novel. This event is free and open to the public. Call (805) 218-9146 or 646-1639 for more details.
ART CENTER MEETING AND ELECTION —The Ojai Art Center, 113 S. Montgomery St., will hold its annual membership meeting and election of officers, Feb. 3 at 7:30 p.m. The public is welcome. Call (805) 646-0117 for more details.
BOOK DISCUSSION GROUP —The Ojai Library's Book Discussion Group will meet Feb. 5 at 7:30 p.m. to discuss “Born a Crime” by Trevor Noah. The Ojai Library is at 111 E. Ojai Ave. Everyone is invited to join the group. The only requirement for participating in the discussion is to have read the book and come willing to share your opinion and listen to others. Call (805) 646-1639.
ADOPT-A-HIGHWAY WORK DAY —An Adopt-A-Highway Work Day on Highway 33 will be held Feb. 8. Meet at the Wheeler Gorge Visitor Center, 17017 Maricopa Highway, at 9 a.m. for instructions. Call (805) 640-9060 or This email address is being protected from spambots. You need JavaScript enabled to view it.for more information.
LOLA HAAG GOES UNDERGROUND —Lola Haag will perform “A Salute to Tony Bennett” on Feb. 8 at 7:30 p.m. with the Lola Haag Jazz Quartet at the Ojai Underground Exchange, 1016 W. Ojai Ave. The performance will feature Jimmy Calire, Danny Young and David Hunt playing a combination of classic jazz standards and favorites. For more information, call (805) 340-7893.
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 or in speaking or volunteering is welcome. Call Nora Davis at (805) 646-3128 or 207-6177. Donations are welcome; mail to Jane Cusumano Foundation, 1129 Maricopa Highway, PMB 126, Ojai, CA 93023.
SUPPORT FOR FAMILIES WITH CHILDREN 0-5 —Secure Beginnings, 555 Mahoney Ave., Room 2, Oak View, offers parent consultations, newborn home visits, counseling, free diaper bank, breastfeeding-first feeding care line and a young parent program. Scholarships and payment plans available. No family turned away for lack of funds. (805) 646-7559 or www.securebeginnings.org.
GRIEF HAVEN —OjaiCares, 960 E. Ojai Ave., Suite 105, hosts a free, drop-in grief support group for anyone in the comunity every Thursday from 4 to 5 p.m. Call (805) 646-6433.
CELEBRATE RECOVERY —Redemption, 190 E. El Roblar Drive, Ojai, hosts Celebrate Recovery, a Christian AA program every Friday at 7 p.m. Come heal your hurts, hang-ups and habits. Questions, Norm at (805) 320-5499.
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 (805) 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.
ADULT CHILDREN OF ALCOHOLICS MEETINGS —Adult Children of Alcoholics and Dysfunctional Families hold 12-step meetings every Wednesday at 8:30 a.m. at St. Andrew's Episcopal Church, 409 Topa Topa Drive, Ojai. For more information: www.adultchildren.org.
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 (805) 646-0106.
HOME SECURITY PATROL —The Ojai Valley Security Patrol provides home security for when you are on vacation. Call the Ojai Police at (805) 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 (805) 637-4829.
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 (805)640-8293.
SCHOOLINKS HOMEWORK CENTERS —SchooLinks Homework Centers are open at the Ojai Library, Meiners Oaks Library and Oak View Library, Monday, Tuesday and Thursday from 3 to 5 p.m. and Wednesday from 1:30 to 4:30 p.m. when school is in session. Call (805) 289-0368.
CAREGIVER SUPPORT GROUP —OjaiCares, 960 E. Ojai Ave., Suite 105, hosts a free, drop-in caregiver support group on the second Mondays of each month from 9:30 to 10:30 a.m. Call (805) 646-6433.
BRIDGE CLUBS —The Ojai Bridge Club meets Mondays and the Oak View Bridge Club meets Fridays at 12:30 p.m. at the Jewish Community of Ojai, 530 W. El Roblar Drive, Meiners Oaks. All bridge players are welcome; singles will be provided with a partner. For more information, call (805) 512-6746.
UKULELE CLUB AT OJAI LIBRARY —The Ojai Library Ukulele Club meets every Wednesday from 4 to 6 p.m. in the main gallery, 111 E. Ojai Ave., for a jam session and workshop. The club is open to all ages and levels of experience. If you have your own ukulele, bring it along. The club has a couple of extra ukuleles. Call (805)218-9146 for more details.
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.
AMERICAN RED CROSS —meets every second Saturday at 9 a.m. at the Arc Enrichment Center, 210 Cañada St., Ojai. You are invited to join Ojai Valley American Red Cross volunteers at a monthly meeting. No RSVP required. Call Michaela at (805) 236-9959 for information.
“NONVIOLENT COMMUNICATION” AT LIBRARY —The Ojai Library, 111 E. Ojai Ave., will host a practice group for youth and adults on “Nonviolent Communication” on the fourth Sunday of each month at 1 p.m. For more information, call (805) 218-9146.
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 (805) 646-6606.
ALZHEIMER'S CAREGIVER SUPPORT GROUP —Join Deirdre Daly on the second and fourth Monday of each month from 10 to 11:30 a.m., as she facilitates an Alzheimer's Caregiver Support Group at The Gables of Ojai, 701 N. Montgomery St., for caregivers and loved ones of people living with dementia to get support and share information on community resources. Refreshments will be provided. Call (805) 640-5717 for more details.
SHAMBHALA MEDITATION —The Ojai Valley Shambhala Meditation Group meets Sundays from 10 to 11 a.m. and Wednesdays from 6:30 to 7:15 p.m. at 504 Lion St., Ojai, for mindful meditation. For more information and special classes, call Nina at (805) 798-8811.
LEGAL HELP —A volunteer attorney or legal aide 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 (805)640-3320.
STORY TIME AT OAK VIEW LIBRARY —The Oak View Library, 555 Mahoney Ave., hosts story time for youngsters every Tuesday from 4 to 4:30 p.m. during the school year. Call (805)649-1523 for details.
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, (805) 646-6505, Ext. 110.
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 (805) 646-3746 for information.
12-STEP 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 (805) 750-2281 or This email address is being protected from spambots. You need JavaScript enabled to view it..
DONATIONS TO SECOND HELPINGS —Donations are accepted for Second Helpings Thrift Store at Help of Ojai’s West Campus, 370 Baldwin Road, Wednesday through Saturday from 9 a.m. to 3 p.m. Call (805) 649-8750 for more information.
SHAKESPEARE READING SALON —The Shakespeare Reading Salon meets the first and third Monday of every month at 7 p.m. in the Ojai Library's Community Room. All are welcome, whether you know a lot about Shakespeare, or very little, whether you love to read aloud or just listen. For more information write to This email address is being protected from spambots. You need JavaScript enabled to view it.or call Laurie at (805) 646-3733.
OJAI VALLEY BEE CLUB MEETING —The Ojai Valley Bee Club meets the second Thursday of each month at 6 p.m. at Ojai Valley School, 723 El Paseo Road, Ojai. For current information, check www.ojaibeeclub.com or Facebook.
SITTING AND WALKING MEDITATION WITH OJAI MINDFULNESS —Practicing in the lineage of Thich Nhat Hanh and the Plum Village tradition and supported by dharma teacher Kenley Neufeld, we meet at the Resonance Healing Center, 215 Church Road, every Monday from 7 to 8:30 p.m. For more information: https://ojaimindfulness.org.
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 (805) 984-9472.
STRONGER TOGETHER CANCER SUPPORT GROUP —OjaiCares, 960 E. Ojai Ave., Suite 105, hosts two free, drop-in cancer support groups each month, first Tuesdays from 11 a.m. to 12:15 p.m. and third Tuesdays from 6 to 7:15 p.m. Caregivers also welcome. Call (805) 646-6433.
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 (805) 640-8293 to see if you qualify.
OJAI VALLEY PARKINSON’S SUPPORT GROUP —This group meets the second Tuesday of each month from 1 to 3:30 p.m. at Little House, 111 W. Santa Ana St. Everyone is welcome and there is no charge. There are always knowledgeable people, as well as professionals in the field, presenting good information. Call (805) 646-5122.
EARLY LITERACY CLASS AT OJAI LIBRARY —The Ojai Library, 111 E. Ojai Ave., hosts an Early Literacy class for youngsters ages 0 to 5 every Wednesday at 10:30 a.m. Call (805) 646-1639 for details.
FEED YOUR BODY AND SOUL! —Stop by the Ojai Valley Seventh-day Adventist Church, 291 E. El Roblar Drive, Meiners Oaks, each Tuesday at 6 p.m. for a free hot meal followed by a short Bible study at 7 p.m. For more information, call (805) 640-0358.
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 Janine Ames. Donation suggested. Call (206) 909-8918 for more information.
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. Call Scoutmaster Jerry Thurston at(805)419-0504.
GENEALOGY LIBRARY OPEN —Find your roots at the Genealogy Library, 411 San Antonio Drive, Ojai, Tuesdays from 10 a.m. to 8:30 p.m. and Wednesdays and Thursdays from 2 to 8:30 p.m. Call (805) 646-2173 or (805) 640-8351.
PEACE VIGIL —The Ojai Peace Vigil meets every Friday from 5 to 6 p.m. at the Pergola in front of Libbey Park. All are welcome. Placards will be supplied or you may bring your own.
SMALL BUSINESS COUNSELING —Small business counseling is available regularly at the Ojai Valley Chamber of Commerce. Call (805) 646-8216.
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.
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 (805) 640-1283 for information, or just show at up the park.
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.”
FREE CHI LEL QI GONG —To bring in healing energy, try the free classes in chi lel qi gong held Tuesdays from 9 to 10 a.m. at Little House, 111 W. Santa Ana St., Ojai. For more information, call Jan Reason at (805) 208-0693.
BREAKFAST REFERRAL GROUP —The Ojai Valley Chamber of Commerce welcomes business owners to discuss their offerings every month on the first and third Wednesdays from 8 to 9 p.m. Chamber members and prospective members support one another gaining new business. No charge, just buy your breakfast. Call for location: (805) 646-8126.
TOASTMASTERS MEETINGS —Ojai Valley Toastmasters meets Fridays at 6:30 a.m. in the library at The Gables of Ojai, 701 N. Montgomery St., Ojai. Come visit and hear a variety of presentations. For more information, call (805)804-7024.
THERAPEUTIC IMAGERY —OjaiCares, 960 E. Ojai Ave., Suite 105, offers free therapeutic imagery sessions, fourth Thursdays of the month from 2:30 to 3:30 p.m. Caregivers also welcome. Call (805) 646-6433.]
FREE PICKLEBALL —Free pickleball lessons and play are offered at the Matilija Middle School tennis courts, Monday through Thursday from 3:30 p.m. to dusk and Saturdays from 7:30 a.m. to noon. All necessary equipment is provided. For more information: This email address is being protected from spambots. You need JavaScript enabled to view it.
CAREGIVER SUPPORT GROUP —A free Caregiver Support Group meets the first and third Mondays of each month from 10 to 11:30 a.m. in the Fireside Room of the Continuing Care Center, 1306 Maricopa Highway (behind the hospital). Call (805) 633-9056 for more information.
HEARTWARMERS KNITTING CIRCLE —meets in Ojai Library's Community Room, 121 E. Ojai Ave., the second and fourth Fridays of the month from 10 to 11:15 a.m. Knitters of all ages and skill levels are welcome. Members knit 7-inch-by-9-inch pieces which are assembled into blankets, lap blankets and baby blankets for the community. For more information, contact Kit Willis at This email address is being protected from spambots. You need JavaScript enabled to view it.or (805) 646-5810.
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 (805) 646-9724.
STORY TIME IN MEINERS OAKS —The Meiners Oaks Library, 114 N. Padre Juan Ave., will host stories for kids ages 0 through 5 on Tuesdays at 10:30 a.m. Call (805)646-4804 for more information.
MAH-JONGG GROUP —Mah-jongg enthusiasts are invited to join a group Mondays at 1 p.m. at Help of Ojai, 111 W. Santa Ana St. For more information, call Cynthia Leavitt at (805) 947-9238.
OJAI PHOTOGRAPHY COMMUNITY —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. Visit www.ojaiphotographycommunity.com for more information.
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. Call (805) 657-8528 for more details.
BEGINNING KRIYA MEDITATION CLASS —is held Mondays at 7 p.m. in Ojai. Call (805) 646-7575 for directions or details.
OJAI VALLEY DEMOCRATS MEETINGS —The Ojai Valley Democrats meet at 7 p.m. the fourth Monday of every month (except August and December) at Help of Ojai's Kent Hall, 111 W. Santa Ana St., Ojai. For information, see Facebook at Ojai Valley Democrats or call (805) 746-0199.
FOOD GLEANERS NEEDED —Food Share, Ventura County’s food bank, has an ongoing need for gleaners, volunteers who pick fruit from backyard trees and untended orchards for distribution to hungry people throughout the county. Food Share provides all the equipment. Volunteers usually meet at the designated pick spot at around 8:30 a.m. and work for two to three hours. For more information: This email address is being protected from spambots. You need JavaScript enabled to view it.or (805) 983-7100, Ext. 138.
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 (805) 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.
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 (805)646-3583 or (805)646-9072.
FREE MEDITATION TALKS —Transcendental Meditation® free introductory talks by certified teachers from the David Lynch Foundation and the Maharishi Foundation are offered every Thursday or by appointment. For information, call (805) 279-2543.
ANIMAL ADOPTIONS —The Humane Society of Ventura County’s Shelter and Adoption Center in Ojai, 402 Bryant St., is open for animal adoptions Monday through Saturday from 10 a.m. to 5 p.m. Visit humanesocietyvc.org to see photos of animals available. Call (805)646-6505.
PLAY BRIDGE —The Bridge Group meets Mondays and Thursdays from 9 a.m. to noon at Help of Ojai’s Little House, 111 W. Santa Ana St. All bridge players are welcome. For more information call (805) 646-5122.
LIBRARY FIBER ARTS AND KNITTING CLUB —The Ojai Library, 111 E. Ojai Ave., hosts meetings of the Ojai Library Fiber Arts and Knitting Club every Sunday from 3:30 to 4:30 p.m. (beginning Sept. 8). Bring your current project. Call (805) 646-1639.
OJAI QUILTERS ANONYMOUS —Ojai Quilters Anonymous meets Tuesdays from 9 a.m. to noon. Call (805) 649-5956 for more information.
OJAI SRI SATHYA SAI BABA CENTER — The Ojai Sri Sathya Sai Baba Center meets Sundays at 5:30 p.m. Call (805) 646-3250.
ROTARY CLUB OF OJAI WEST MEETINGS —The Rotary Club of Ojai West holds breakfast meetings every Tuesday at 7 a.m. at the Soule Park Golf Course Banquet Room, 1033 E. Ojai Ave. (no meeting if there is a fifth Tuesday in a month). Guests are welcome to come learn about Rotary and the club’s activities. Call (805) 798-1871 for reservations or more imformation.
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 (805) 525-9931.
ADULT BEREAVEMENT SUPPORT GROUPS —Grief Support Groups meet every Tuesday from 10:30 a.m. to noon atHelp of Ojai’s West Campus, 370 Baldwin Road, Ojai. They are free of charge and open to individuals who have experienced a loss within the last two-and-half years. Drop-ins are welcome. For more information, email This email address is being protected from spambots. You need JavaScript enabled to view it..
FREE HEALING SESSIONS FOR VETERANS AND FAMILIES —Healing in America will offer free one-hour energy healing sessions to local veterans and their families: in Ojai, 107 W. Aliso St., the last Tuesday of each month from 11:30 a.m. to 3:30 p.m. Appointments are necessary: This email address is being protected from spambots. You need JavaScript enabled to view it.or (805) 640-0211.
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 (805) 640-6936 or (805) 640-2224.
ENGLISH AS SECOND LANGUAGE CLASSES —ESL classes are offered through Ojai Unified Adult Education at Ojai Unified District offices, 414 E. Ojai Ave. Call (805)640-4330, Ext. 1960, for information.
“EXPLORING WATERCOLORS” —Patty Van Dyke and Gayel Childress will teach an art class, “Exploring Watercolors,” every Friday at 10 a.m. in the clubhouse at The Gables of Ojai, 701 N. Montgomery St. Donations suggested. Call Kelley at (805) 646-1446.
SPEAK WITH POWER TOASTMASTERS —At Speak with Power Toastmasters meetings you can learn public speaking, how to conduct meetings, listen effectively and provide constructive feedback. The club meets the fourth Thursday of each month from 6:30 to 8:30 p.m. at The Lighthouse, 590 Old Ventura Ave., Oak View. Visitors are welcome.
LOW-COST SHOT CLINICS —The Humane Society Shelter and Adoption Center, 402 Bryant St., Ojai, holds low-cost shot clinics on the first and third Saturdays of each month from 10 a.m. to 1 p.m. For more information, call Dr. Lewis at (805) 646-2442.
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: This email address is being protected from spambots. You need JavaScript enabled to view it.or (805) 649-8500.
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: This email address is being protected from spambots. You need JavaScript enabled to view it.or (805)640-1004.
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 (805) 640-8293 to see if you qualify.
OJAI CARS AND COFFEE —Car enthusiasts of all kinds meet the second Sunday of each month from 8 to 10 a.m. for an auto show in the parking lot at Westridge Midtown Market, 131 W. Ojai Ave. All makes and models are welcome or just come to look and discuss auto trends and other motoring subjects with like-minded folks.
OYES presents ‘Beauty and the Beast Jr.’
Ojai Youth Entertainers Studio will present “Disney’s Beauty and the Beast Jr.” Jan. 17 through Feb. 9 at the Ojai Youth Entertainers Studio, located on the Ojai Valley Community Church Campus at 907 El Centro St. in Ojai.
School psychologist pens 'Wendel the Wizard'
'Decade' exhibit will feature Ojai artists
The Ojai Art Center Theater announces 2020 season
