Happenings includes community events, meetings, classes, community resources and needs. To submit an item for inclusion email to: happenings@vcreporter.com
THURSDAY
VENTURA COUNTY MOBILE LIBRARY AT HARMON CANYON PRESERVE | 9:30-11:30 a.m. The Ventura County Mobile Library visits the trailhead of Harmon Canyon Preserve on the second Thursday of every month. A free story and activity time for children starts at 10:30 a.m. You can check out a book to read under Harmon’s oak trees, get a library card, pick-up book holds, check out and return items. Harmon Canyon Preserve, 7511 Foothill Road, Ventura. RSVP and more information at www.venturalandtrust.org/events.
THE SOMIS THURSDAY CLUB | 11:30 a.m. Local women’s club meeting and catered lunch. This month’s program will be member Marci Diller showing her travelogue of Thailand and the presentation of our Scholarship Winners. Visitors and prospective members are welcome. Please call 805-469-5059 or email patti.dizazzo@gmail.com to RSVP.
FRIENDSHIP CONNECTION 08 MEMBERSHIP DRIVE 1 p.m. Friendship Connection 08, a group of retired ladies, will hold its annual membership drive at Community of Christ Church in Ventura. Gary Stephens, a National Parks T and R guide, will speak about Trails and Rails, an Amtrak trip along the coast. Light refreshments will be served. 1848 Poli St., Ventura. Call 805-825-6969 for further information.
RELIGION AND GENOCIDE | 1-3 p.m. via Zoom. This course explores the relationships between genocide and religion in both its institutional and theological frameworks. Taught by Jason Hensley. Part of the Fifty and Better Course Sessions at California Lutheran University. $15-40; bundles $150-200. More information and registration at www.callutheran.edu/centers/lifelong-learning/fifty-better/upcoming-sessions.html.
MOTHER’S DAY MAKERS MARKET | 3-7 p.m. Food artisans, local farmers and live music. Come find something special for the mothers in your life! 414 E. Ojai Ave., Ojai, @ojaicommunityfm.
QUICK RESUME REVIEW | 4-5 p.m. If you need a second set of eyes on your résumé (and you do) and you’ve got 20 minutes, stop by the résumé review table. Our seasoned résumé reviewer and Business Services Coordinator will give you suggestions and resources to improve your résumé. Inquire at the second floor Reference Desk for availability. This program is sponsored by the Russell Fischer Business Collection. Camarillo Public Library, 4101 Las Posas Road, Camarillo, 805-388-5222, camarillolibrary.org.
TEEN ADVISORY BOARD | 4-6 p.m. Teen Advisory Board (TAB for short) is an engaging leadership group that develops programs and services. Earn service hours at our meetings, which are held every second and fourth Thursday of the month. Community Room of the Camarillo Public Library, 4101 Las Posas Road, Camarillo, 805-388-5222, camarillolibrary.org.
HOME MADE: FUND IT + BUILD IT + LIVE IT | 5-9 p.m. Housing Trust Fund Ventura County presents Camarillo-based RAIN Communities, Inc. President David Kohlmeier as emcee of a powerful on-stage conversation during its annual fundraising Compassion Campaign at the Museum of Ventura County. This year it features three museum-quality exhibits that invite guests to learn what it takes to fund, build and live in safe, equitable, and affordable homes in Ventura County. For tickets and sponsorship opportunities, please visit www.housingtrustfundvc.org/2023cc-tickets. 100 E. Main St., Ventura, venturamuseum.org.
FRIDAY
A HISTORY OF GENETICS AND BIOTECHNOLOGY | 10 a.m.-12 p.m. via Zoom. Both the science of genetics and the biotech industry have shaped and prolonged human life greatly. This two-part lecture will cover topics related to the progression of this field of study, starting with Mendel and Darwin’s seminal work that inspired early geneticists and the beginnings of what is called the Modern Synthesis of Genetics. Taught by Wesley Tierney. Part of the Fifty and Better Course Sessions at California Lutheran University. $15-40; bundles $150-200. More information and registration at www.callutheran.edu/centers/lifelong-learning/fifty-better/upcoming-sessions.html.
SATURDAY
STAMP OUT HUNGER FOOD DRIVE | 8 a.m. Thanks to the National Association of Letter Carriers, the people of Ventura County have additional opportunities to help their neighbors. The “Stamp Out Hunger” event is the country’s largest food drive and a major source of food for our hungry friends and neighbors who are being pushed to the limit by rising food, gas and home rental costs. If you live in zip code 91320, 91360, 91361, 91362, 93001, 93003, 93004, 93010, 93012, 93030, 93033, 93035, 93036 or 93041, please leave a sturdy bag of non-perishable shelf-stable pantry items on your doorstep by 8 a.m. on Saturday, May 13. The items most requested by the people we serve are rice, pasta, beans, canned proteins like chicken and tuna, peanut butter and cereal. More information at foodshare.com/event/stamp-out-hunger-food-drive/.
RIDE READY BICYCLE SKILLS CLASS | 9 a.m.-1 p.m. Update your cycling skills and become a safer, more confident street rider. Proper bike fit, bike safety inspection, safely riding in traffic and more. Plus, you’ll have a chance to win a Trek bike! Free. Trek Ventura, 4060 E. Main St., Ventura. Register at bikeventura.org/rideready/.
STEVE BENNETT MEET AND GREET | 10-11:30 a.m. State Assemblymember Steve Bennett will host a casual coffee and conversation event with his Oxnard-based constituents to discuss state, local, legislative issues. Downtown Oxnard Library, Meeting Room B, 251 S.A St., Oxnard.
FINDINGS MARKET SPRING FAIR | 11 a.m. Shop over 100 makers, creatives, vintage merchants and more! There will be live music throughout the day, the return of the farmers market food court with delicious bites and treats, and tasty sips inside the shop from our friends at Ventura Spirits and Wildflower Winery. You can also enjoy an array of fun happenings, including nature-based activities with Ventura Wild, air-dry clay with Clay Parlor, custom candle creating with Shop Dusk, and a bracelet-making bar with Brooklyn Charm. South Oak Street, Downtown Ventura. More information at www.venturalandtrust.org/events.
ART IN THE GARDEN | 11 a.m.-12:30 p.m. Spring has sprung at the Agriculture Museum and the gardens are a work of art! Julie Salomonson from Ventura County’s 4H will lead a fun and educational day in the Agriculture Museum garden that will be perfect for children of all ages. Storytime will be followed by a creative craft and free play throughout the museum and its gardens. All participants will be given antennae to keep in honor of our Agriculture Museum residents – our own beehive! This event is free. 926 Railroad Ave., Santa Paula, 805-525-3100. Registration required: venturamuseum.org/event/art-in-the-garden/.
VENTURA POTTERY GALLERY MOTHER’S DAY MARKET | 11 a.m.-6 p.m. Let us help you celebrate Mother’s Day with a hand-crafted ceramic piece. Over 40 local artisans will be displaying work suitable for a queen, but not at royal prices. You’ll find mugs, vases, hearts, bowls, wall hangings, jewelry holders, jewelry and much more will be displayed both inside and outside the gallery. 1567 Spinnaker Dr., Suite 105, Ventura Harbor Village, 805-644-6800, vcpg.org.
BOY SCOUTS OF AMERICA VENTURA COUNTY COUNCIL ANNUAL DINNER AND AUCTION | 5 p.m. Over 200 community leaders, parents, chartered organizations and friends of scouting will come together to celebrate the Ventura County Council’s 47th Annual Auction and Dinner. This annual event will be held at the historical C.J Daily Ranch in Camarillo starting with a cocktail hour showcasing the “Ultimate Scouting Experience” with Dutch Oven Desserts, Axe Throwing, CampSite Trivia & Scouting Since 1921. We will have a silent auction and music by the talented DJ Kaaos Jones starting at 5 p.m. followed by dinner, live auction with Auctioneer Todd Ventura and Master of Ceremonies Sheriff Jim Fryhoff. Tickets start at $160. 509 E. Daily Dr., Camarillo. Tickets and information at www.vccbsa.org/adventure23.
TALK ON DAM REMOVALS WITH AUTHOR STEVE HAWLEY | 6-7 p.m. Patagonia author Steve Hawley will discuss his new book, Cracked: The Future of Dams in a Hot, Chaotic World, with Ojai Valley Land Conservancy Director Tom Maloney. Free; RSVP required. Bart’s Books, 302 W. Matilija St., Ojai, 805-646-3755, https://bit.ly/bartsevents.
UP CLOSE AND PERSONAL: AMANDA MCBROOM IN CONCERT | 7 p.m. The legendary singer-songwriter and actress will captivate audiences with her stunning voice and masterful songwriting in an intimate and unforgettable performance. McBroom is known for her timeless music, which has been covered by some of the biggest names in the industry, including Bette Midler, Barbra Streisand and Diana Krall. Her most famous #1 hit song, “The Rose,” garnered a Golden Globe Award for Best Song. This special one-night-only engagement is the first in Rubicon’s May Concert Series. $69.50. Rubicon Theatre Company, 1006 E. Main St., Ventura, 805-667-2900, www.rubicontheatre.org.
SUNDAY
PLANT AND COLLECTIBLES SALE | 8 a.m.-2 p.m. Our monthly plant and collectibles sale continues on the grounds at the Dudley House on Mother’s Day, 8 a.m. to 2 p.m. Bromeliads, orchids and succulents will be on sale along with a variety of collectibles. Free. 197 N. Ashwood Ave., Ventura, dudleyhouse.org.
VENTURA POTTERY GALLERY MOTHER’S DAY MARKET | 11 a.m.-6 p.m. Let us help you celebrate Mother’s Day with a hand-crafted ceramic piece. Over 40 local artisans will be displaying work suitable for a queen, but not at royal prices. You’ll find mugs, vases, hearts, bowls, wall hangings, jewelry holders, jewelry and much more will be displayed both inside and outside the gallery. 1567 Spinnaker Dr., Suite 105, Ventura Harbor Village, 805-644-6800, vcpg.org.
SONGWRITER’S WORKSHOP WITH GARY BEST | 2 p.m. A workshop for songwriters and aspiring songwriters to share and support each other in the creative process. Donations appreciated. NAMBA Performing Arts Space, 47 S. Oak St., Ventura, 805-628-9250, www.nambaarts.com.
CAMERATA PACIFICA | 3 p.m. Male soprano Samuel Marino is lighting up opera and concert stages around the world. In his debut with Camerata Pacifica, he’ll perform Bach and Pergolesi’s heart-stoppingly beautiful Salve Regina. The program opens with the baroque-like rhythmic motor of John Adams’ Shaker Loops. $73. Scherr Forum Theatre, Bank of America Performing Arts Center, 2100 E. Thousand Oaks Blvd., Thousand Oaks, 805-449-2787, bapacthousandoaks.com.
MONDAY
BIKE TO WORK WEEK | Through May 21. May is Bike Month, when residents are encouraged to leave their vehicles at home and use bicycles to get out and about. In addition, commuters are encouraged to swap their cars for bikes during Bike to Work Week, Monday-Friday, May 15-21. The Ventura County Transportation Commission’s new guide, “Biking Ventura County: Routes and Tips for Beginners and Families,” makes it easy to find a place to ride, and the “Go Ventura Bikeways Map” outlines routes across Ventura County. Both are available at goventura.org/getting-around/bike; find printed copies at local bike shops or email bike@goventura.org. VCTC invites people to pledge to bike during the month of May. Those who make the pledge at goventura.org/pledge will be entered for a chance to win one of six $250 Amazon gift cards. For more information about transportation and biking, follow VCTC (@GoVCTC) on Facebook, Twitter, or Instagram, or visit goventura.org.
CAMARILLO HEALTH CARE DISTRICT SPEAKER SERIES | 11 a.m.-1 p.m. Join the Camarillo Health Care District as they host a six-week speaker series, “Elder Legal Answers Your Questions On…,” geared toward older adults. Topics include elder abuse, how to avoid fraud/scams and estate planning. Series will be recorded live for the Health Care District’s YouTube channel. Community Room of the Camarillo Public Library, 4101 Las Posas Road, Camarillo, 805-388-5222, camarillolibrary.org.
LAST FILM SHOW | 3:30 and 6:30 p.m. Oxnard Film Society presents this Indian drama about a group of cinema-loving children who find an innovative hack to achieve a 35mm film projection. Runtime: 1 hour, 50 mins. Rated PG-13. In Gujarati with English subtitles. $8 seniors, $11.25 general admission. Plaza Cinemas 14, 255 West Fifth St., Oxnard, www.oxnardfilmsociety.org.
SUMMER READING TEEN VOLUNTEER TRAINING | 4-5 p.m. Teens, are you interested in volunteering at the library this summer? Meet fellow library lovers and make a difference in your community! Volunteers must attend one training session on May 15 at 4 p.m., May 26 at 1:30 p.m. or June 13 at 2 p.m. The training session will discuss service expectations. Contact Volunteer Coordinator Stephanie Levin (slevin@camarillolibrary.org) for more information. YA Library of the Camarillo Public Library, 4101 Las Posas Road, Camarillo, 805-388-5222, camarillolibrary.org.
TUESDAY
RESPITE? YOU’VE GOT TO BE KIDDING! | 3-4 p.m. via Zoom. How to take a break when you don’t have time for a break, a webinar for caregivers (but especially long-haul family caregivers) offering a fresh look at self care. Registration and more information at www.seniorconcerns.org/seminars.
TEEN CRAFTERNOON: RECYCLED MAGAZINE BUTTERFLY GARLAND | 4-5:30 p.m. We love recycling! Turn old magazines into a butterfly garland to decorate your room this spring. Materials provided. Crafternoons is a series of afterschool craft activities for teens held in the Young Adult Center. Aimed at ages 13-18. YA Library of the Camarillo Public Library, 4101 Las Posas Road, Camarillo, 805-388-5222, camarillolibrary.org.
WILDFIRE PREPAREDNESS PRESENTATION | 5-6 p.m. The Ventura Regional Fire Safe Council will host a workshop for the local community about protecting your home against the threat of wildfires. This workshop will deliver a brief overview of wildfire history and behavior, provide steps you can take to protect your home and families, and give resources for emergency preparedness. This event is free and open to the public. For additional information, contact Linda Cherry, Librarian, at 805-677-7180. Hill Road Library, 1070 S. Hill Road, Ventura, www.vencolibrary.org.
WEDNESDAY
12 MONTHS OF FUNDRAISING | 9 a.m.-12 p.m. Every fundraising activity requires time and resources. Balance out the yearly workload and cashflow with a thoughtful development plan that progresses from month to month. Engage donors with mission-driven fundraising that invites their philanthropic support. Workshop participants will create an annual plan that incorporates different types of fundraising and flows smoothly over the course of a year. Free for members of CLU’s Center for Nonprofit Leadership; $55 for nonmembers. Oxnard Center for California Lutheran University, 2201 Outlet Dr., Suite 600, Oxnard. More information and registration at www.callutheran.edu/centers/nonprofit/.
TWEEN SILENT BOOK CLUB | 2-3 p.m. Shhh, we’re reading! Bring a book you’re currently reading and read for twenty minutes with fellow tweens. Everyone will have the chance to share what they’re reading. Afterwards, participants will receive a free book. Aimed at ages 8-12. Children’s Library of the Camarillo Public Library, 4101 Las Posas Road, Camarillo, 805-388-5222, camarillolibrary.org.
THURSDAY
2023 WOMEN UNITED EDUCATION AWARDS LUNCHEON | 11:30 a.m.-2 p.m. The mission of United Way of Ventura County’s Women United is to mobilize the power of women as change-makers, creating a community where women, families, and communities thrive. We ignite the power of women — who bring the passion, expertise, and resources needed to get things done — to create lasting change in their communities. The keynote speaker will be Dr. Trudy Arriaga, who served the Ventura Unified School District for 14 years as the first female superintendent. Tickets start at $100. Gilbert Sports and Fitness Center, California Lutheran University, 1-67 W. Olsen Road, Thousand Oaks. More information at vcunitedway.org/women-united-luncheon/.
WHAT YOU NEED TO KNOW IF HIRING A CAREGIVER PRIVATELY | 3-4 p.m. via Zoom. Join this virtual workshop to understand your legal obligations as an employer, learn about the law and know what you need to protect yourself. Registration and more information at www.seniorconcerns.org/seminars.
QUICK RESUME REVIEW | 4-5 p.m. If you need a second set of eyes on your résumé (and you do) and you’ve got 20 minutes, stop by the résumé review table. Our seasoned résumé reviewer and Business Services Coordinator will give you suggestions and resources to improve your résumé. Inquire at the second floor Reference Desk for availability. This program is sponsored by the Russell Fischer Business Collection. Camarillo Public Library, 4101 Las Posas Road, Camarillo, 805-388-5222, camarillolibrary.org.
MONTHLY MOVIE: DEVOTION | 5-7:30 p.m. This month we’re screening Devotion (2022), which “tells the harrowing true story of two elite U.S. Navy fighter pilots during the Korean War. Their heroic sacrifices would ultimately make them the Navy’s most celebrated wingmen” (Rotten Tomatoes). Community Room of the Camarillo Public Library, 4101 Las Posas Road, Camarillo, 805-388-5222, camarillolibrary.org.
COMMUNITY NEEDS, OPPORTUNITIES AND RESOURCES
BIG ROCK PRESERVE VOLUNTEERS WANTED | Get outside and assist Ventura Land Trust staff with preserve maintenance and restoration activities such as mulching, invasive species removal and trail maintenance. More information and sign up at www.venturalandtrust.org/big_rock_beautification.
CAREER PATHWAYS AT BLANCHARD COMMUNITY LIBRARY | Patrons of Blanchard Community Library can now access CAreer Pathways, a collection of digital platforms for online learning tools designed to meet the needs of those entering the workforce or who want to get a better job. Funded by the state and administered by the California State Library, CAreer Pathways offers Coursera, Linkedln Learning, GetSetUp, and Skillshare — resources that offer specialized courseware that help people improve job skills and prepare for high-wage jobs. Access to CAreer Pathways is free and available through the Blanchard Community Library’s website at www.blanchardlibrary.org/resources/online-learning and via the “CAreer Pathways” link on the library’s main page. For additional information, please contact the Adult Services Librarian, Justin Formanek, at 805-525-3615 or email justin.formanek@blanchardlibrary.org.
CHANNEL ISLANDS NATIONAL MARINE SANCTUARY ADVISORY COUNCIL | Through June 8. NOAA’s Channel Islands National Marine Sanctuary is seeking applications to fill a Commercial Fishing-alternate seat on its advisory council. The Sanctuary Advisory Council ensures public participation in sanctuary matters and provides advice to sanctuary management. Candidates will be selected based on their expertise and experience, community and professional affiliations, and views regarding the protection and management of sanctuary resources. Applications are accepted until June 8, 2023. Application kits can be downloaded from the sanctuary’s website: channelislands.noaa.gov/sac/apply.html. For more information, contact Kacy Cooper: kacy.cooper@noaa.gov; 805-203-6004; NOAA Channel Islands National Marine Sanctuary, Ocean Science Education Building 514, MC 6155, University of California, Santa Barbara, Santa Barbara, CA, 93106.
FREE DAYS AT VENTURA BOTANICAL GARDENS | The public is invited to visit the Ventura Botanical Gardens free of charge on the following dates: May 29, June 21, Aug. 17, Sept. 4, Oct. 31, Nov. 23 and Dec. 25. Come enjoy this beautiful, natural environment boasting picturesque paths, thousands of plants and extraordinary views at no cost! 567 Poli St., Ventura, venturabotanicalgardens.com.
INTERN WITH VENTURA WILD | June 12-Aug. 19. Ventura Wild’s internship program is a professional development opportunity for those interested in working with children in an education environment that promotes awareness, understanding and profound respect for nature. Interns are scheduled to assist one of our Summer Camps (one week, 5-7 hours/day) with the opportunity to secure additional camps. We ask for interns to be present for the whole week to best establish a rapport with the group and build a consistent and meaningful group dynamic. Interns will work alongside three experienced outdoor educators to support a group of 12 participants. Camps run June 12 througFor more information and to apply, visit www.venturawild.com/internships.
LANDLORD ENGAGEMENT PROGRAM | Are you a Ventura County property owner/housing provider seeking stable tenancies, rental income, and a way to help our neighbors who need a home? Do you have a housing unit to lease in the near or immediate future? We are seeking studios to 3+ bedrooms. United Way will provide financial and supportive services to ensure a smooth and mutually beneficial housing process. Join the effort and receive a leasing bonus of up to two times the rent charged for the unit! This incentive is available for landlords and is separate from any costs incurred by program participants. For more information or to learn more about the Landlord Engagement Program, contact Carie Bristow at carie.bristow@vcunitedway.org or 805-485-6288 x235.
MENTORS NEEDED FOR WOMEN UNITED EDUCATION AWARD RECIPIENTS | Women United is seeking potential mentors in professional positions who would like to guide a single mother college student and help her reach her career goals. Anyone who has professional experience in a business environment and is willing to meet with a mentee for 2-3 sessions during the semester (in person or via Zoom) is encouraged to apply. To learn more, contact Leslie Osuna at leslie.osuna@vcunitedway.org or 805-485-6288, ext. 224.
MOST OPTIMISTIC COMMUNITY MEMBER NOMINATION 2023 | Through June 1. Do you know someone who has moved, touched, or inspired you by their optimism? Do you know someone who encourages you to be your best self? Do you know someone who sees hope and makes a positive difference in the lives of others? The second annual Most Optimistic Community Member nominations are now being accepted by the Sunrise Optimist Club until June 1, 2023. To access the nomination form, go to the Club’s website at www.venturasunriseoptimist.org. For more information about the nomination process for the 2023 Most Optimistic Community Member or about the Sunrise Optimist Club of Ventura contact MOCM.VenturaSOC@gmail.com.
VC 150 MEMORIES WEBSITE | Designed to be a community-driven project, “VC 150 Memories” aims to celebrate and preserve the cherished memories of residents in Ventura County. The website provides an opportunity for residents from across the county to collectively contribute photos of special moments and experiences, both past and present, that have shaped their lives in Ventura County. Community members are invited to submit their favorite images, which will be featured in a public photo gallery on the website. Images submitted will be used to create a visual representation of the county’s rich history and diverse communities. In partnership with the Museum of Ventura County, photos that are submitted will be incorporated into public event exhibits and later archived by the museum. To access VC 150 Memories, please visit: www.venturacounty150.com. Submissions are open to all who would like to participate in the project.
YOUTH POET LAUREATE APPLICATION | Through May 31. We are still accepting applications from emerging poets between the ages of 13 to 19 to be selected as the next Ventura County Youth Poet Laureate. If you or someone you know is a young writer and leader committed to poetry, performance and community engagement, visit our website to apply at vcartscouncil.org/en/programs/youth-poet-laureate/ and apply by May 31.
ONGOING/UPCOMING EVENTS
CAMARILLO QUILTERS | 9:30 a.m., second Tuesdays of the month. The Camarillo Quilters meet the second Tuesday of every month. Quilting speakers, workshops, library, free table and community quilts. All are welcome. Pleasant Valley Community Center, 1605 E. Burnley St., Camarillo, camarilloquilters.com.
DEPRESSION AND BIPOLAR SUPPORT ALLIANCE MEETING | Tuesdays, 6:30-8 p.m. This Ventura-based peer support group for those experiencing depression and bipolar disorder will resume its free weekly meetings at the Unitarian Universalist Church of Ventura. Enter by way of the main door. Please bring your own N95 mask. For more information, contact Wendell Jones at 805-640-6472, wenj16630@sbcglobal.net or DBSAlliance.org. 5654 Ralston St., Ventura.
FAMILY STORYTIME | Mondays, 4 p.m. Every Monday the South Oxnard Library hosts an all-ages storytime with Miss Joanne in the Children’s Area. South Oxnard Branch Library, 4300 Saviers Road, Oxnard, 805-385-8129, www.oxnard.org/library/south-oxnard-branch-library/.
FREE TUTORING FOR ADULTS | Aimed at anyone 18+ who wants to learn or improve their English and learn American culture. One-on-one tutoring is arranged by the tutor. Instruction is available in Oxnard, Ventura, Camarillo, Ojai, Saticoy, Santa Paula, Thousand Oaks and Moorpark. Locations can be in public libraries, coffee shops, churches, outdoors, or any place convenient to the tutor and adult learner. Free. For more information, contact Laubach Literacy of Ventura County, 805-385-9584 or www.laubachventura@gmail.com.
GRIEF AND BEREAVEMENT SUPPORT | The Livingston Memorial Visiting Nurse Association and Hospice offers compassion and understanding through a variety of support groups that focus on restorative activities, seeking meaning and purpose, identifying changes to self and receiving support in making life good again. All support groups are free for the community. To find a support group near you, visit www.lmvna.org/grief/.
HOPE AND HELP FOR OVEREATERS | Saturdays, 10-11 a.m. Is your eating out of control? Are you feeling fat? Overeaters Anonymous can help. 133 S. Laurel St., Ventura (building next to the church). For more information call Amy at 805-340-5882. Donations only.
JEST IMPROV | Saturdays, 2-4 p.m. Need to laugh or be silly? JEST Improv holds weekly, improv drop-in classes for beginners and all experience levels, Saturdays, 2-4 p.m. at 2750 E. Main St., Ventura. Classes are $15 each, or $10 each with JEST membership. For more information call Alex Sattler at 805-630-7574, email alex@jestimprov.com or team@jestimprov.com, or visit www.jestimprov.com.
MEDITATION | Mondays, 7-8:30 p.m. Freely offered by Insight Meditation of Ventura at St. Paul’s Episcopal Church, 3290 Loma Vista Road, Ventura, room 13. Arrive by 6:45 pm. Forty-minute meditation begins at 7 p.m. We break for conversation and connection before a talk and discussion. ventura.net/meditate-with-us/ and info@insightventura.net.
OUTDOOR MEDITATION | 11:30 a.m.-12:30 p.m. Freely offered by Insight Meditation of Ventura at Arroyo Verde Park, 5000 Foothill Road, Ventura. Bring a chair, blanket or cushion to sit on. Layered clothing, a water bottle, and sunscreen recommended. Meditate for 20 minutes followed by a brief talk and discussion. We gather towards the south end of the park, just past the entrance. Turn left into the first parking lot and park. We’re about 100 feet across the grass on a slight incline under a tree in a circle of chairs. insightventura.net/meditate-with-us/ and info@insightventura.net.
SOUND MEDITATION | Fridays and Sundays. Morning and sunset sound meditation sessions take place weekly in person at the Viewpoint at Meditation Mount. Sunday morning 10 a.m.-12 p.m. with Suburbanoid. Friday evening 6-7:30 p.m. with DeAnna Carpenter and Kelly Jean Anderson. $25; registration required. 10340 Reeves Road, Ojai. More info: meditationmount.org/events.
SUNSET YOGA AND SOUND MEDITATION | Thursdays, 6:30-8 p.m. Connect with mind, heart and body in a picturesque outdoor garden. Please bring your own yoga mat and props, and a blanket (optional) for closing meditation, which will be accompanied by crystal singing bowls. $20; registration is required. 10340 Reeves Road, Ojai. For exact dates and times, visit meditationmount.org/events.
SURVIVORS OF SUICIDE LOSS GRIEF SUPPORT GROUP | First and third Wednesdays, 6:30-8 p.m. If you have experienced the loss of a loved one due to suicide, do not hesitate to join this Livingston Memorial Visiting Nurse Association and Hospice group. Livingston’s Grief and Bereavement Programs are committed to maintaining an open, accepting, confidential atmosphere. All are free of charge and conducted over Zoom. More information at www.lmvna.org.
SWAP MEET | Wednesdays, 7 a.m.-2 p.m. Every week, the Ventura County Fairgrounds hosts dozens of vendors selling a wide array of antiques and collectibles. Vendor space available; contact Sue Adams at 818-590-5435. $2 admission.10 W. Harbor Blvd., Ventura, www.snaauctions.com.
VENTURA SENIOR MEN’S GROUP | Twice monthly. Any man who considers himself in the “senior” category, (and many who don’t) might benefit from a visit to the Ventura Senior Men’s Group lunch meetings at the Ventura Poinsettia Pavilion twice monthly. We’re strictly a social bunch, with no governing agenda and no obligation to any sponsor. Drop in and say YOUR piece; we might all benefit by it and we’ll treat you to a lunch to hear it. Call Lyle at 805-341-9820 if you’d like to know more; he’ll fill you in.