The Ojai Post

Guest editorial by Michael Shapiro, Ojai activist and one of the leaders of Stop the Trucks

Why I'm Endorsing Lenny Klaif for Ojai City Council

While his opponent is a talented individual who brings professional expertise and experience, only Lenny Klaif adds to his own career as an attorney - years of regularly attending Ojai City Council meetings.

His constant vigilance and attendance at Ojai City Council meetings – frequently and actively engaging the Council on a wide variety of issues that are important to Ojai’s citizens – has truly demonstrated an unyielding interest in, and concern for, his beloved Ojai while also gaining invaluable experience and understanding of how to best govern if he were to be elected.

Continue reading "Michael Shapiro: Why I'm Endorsing Lenny Klaif for Ojai City Council" »

Posted by Suza Francina at 11:14 AM | Permalink | Comments (0) | author bio

Today is the last day to register to vote for the upcoming June 8th Primary Election. If you are not yet registered you can still do so before this evening. Go to the post office and you can register there.

The next meeting of the Ojai Valley Democratic Club is today, Monday, May 24, 2010 at 7:00 p.m. at the Ojai Art Center, 113 South Montgomery St. At the beginning of this meeting we will be doing phone banking on behalf of Ojai City Council Candidate, Len Klaif. Those interested in helping in phone banking and discussing future planned precinct walks, please feel free to come to the Ojai Art Center Gallery early at 6:00 p.m. Bring a charged cell phone and a laptop computer if you have one. If you don't have a laptop, that's not a problem. The rest of the meeting after 8:00 p.m. will be given over to operations planning and a discussion of Get Out The Vote strategies for the June 8th Primary election.

If you're not sure about other people/things on the ballot, follow after the break to see the OVDC, County and State Democratic Voters Guide.

Continue reading "Register To Vote! OVDC Meeting and Voter's Guide" »

Posted by Sean P. Keenan at 02:05 AM | Permalink | Comments (2) | author bio

Every Day is Bike-to-Work-Day in Europe!

The following video offers a look into the beautiful country of Holland, a place where transit is clean, efficient, and safe.
Translation: Everyone rides bikes and uses public transportation.

http://www.good.is/post/what-rush-hour-could-look-like-the-glorious-bike-traffic-of-utrecht-holland

Thanks to Ojai Trees for sending this video!

Posted by Suza Francina at 10:57 PM | Permalink | Comments (20) | author bio

Celebrate Bike-to-Work Week, May 17-- 21, 2010
May is National Bike Month, and the League of American Bicyclists is partnering with hundreds of cities across the country to promote Bike-to-Work Week from May 17-21 and Bike to-Work Day on Friday, May 21.

If you grew up in Ojai fifty years ago, as I did, you’ll remember a time when you could safely walk and bicycle everywhere, even during peak hour traffic times. Ojai was naturally bicycle-and-pedestrian-friendly. Times have changed. According to the most recent (2008) Ojai Bicycle and Pedestrian Master Plan, 6,000 cars a day now travel on Grand Avenue.

Continue reading "A New Look at the Top Ten Reasons for Making Ojai a Bicycle-and-Pedestrian Friendly Community" »

Posted by Suza Francina at 10:13 PM | Permalink | Comments (13) | author bio

VISIT BICYCLE CITY: http://www.bicyclecity.com/

Ojai Valley Green Coalition Transportation Committee Meeting
Wednesday, May 5, 4:00 -5:00 pm,
at Papa Lennon’s Pizzeria, 515 West El Roblar in Meiners Oaks
across the street from the Project Ride community bike shop.

May is National Bike Month! http://www.bikeleague.org/programs/bikemonth/

About the Ojai Valley Green Coalition Transportation Committee

Continue reading "Get Inspired! Ojai Valley Green Coalition Transportation Meeting, Wed, May 5, 4:00 pm " »

Posted by Suza Francina at 03:16 AM | Permalink | Comments (0) | author bio

This seems important and direct to me. Maybe it does to you, too!

From AfterDowningStreet.org:
On Thursday, April 29, 2010, a "Teach-In on Capitol Hill," was held in Room 2168 of the Rayburn House Building, in Washington, D.C., dealing with the question of what the U.S. Congress must do to end the U.S. Wars and secure a peaceful Middle East. Rep. Dennis J. Kucinich (D-OH) served as the moderator. On the panel were: David Swanson, Chris Hedges, Ann Wright, Jeremy Scahill, and Josh Stieber. You can view the entire 80-minute teach-in by clicking here.

Funding an escalation of war in Afghanistan with $33 billion is:
illegal,
immoral,
against the public will,
economically catastrophic,
counterproductive on its own terms, and
a cynically motivated intentional failure
READ WHY

Continue reading "Seven Reasons for Congress to Vote NO on Escalation" »

Posted by evan austin at 11:22 PM | Permalink | Comments (4) | author bio

May 1, 2010. 10:00am --12:00pm.
Theater 150, located at 316 E. Matilija, Ojai, California.

Slide show/Lecture with Ann Bryant, Executive Director and Founder of the Tahoe Bear League
$10 donation. No one turned away due to lack of funds. Children free.
Same day at 3:00 pm, Bear Encounter Training
Please note that you must attend the morning event to attend the afternoon Bear Encounter Training. Location to be announced at the morning event. Please come. Our goal is to train as many Ojai residents as possible so that we can prevent another tragedy like the Aliso Bear incident.

Continue reading "Living with Bears and Bear Encounter Training, in Ojai, Saturday, May 1st, 10:00 am, Theater 150" »

Posted by Suza Francina at 12:47 PM | Permalink | Comments (18) | author bio

As was the case with millions of Americans, I had my own idealistic vision of what an Obama presidency might look like. One aspect of my view through the looking glass was a 21st century WPA.

Continue reading "Don't let a crisis go to waste" »

Posted by Todd Miller at 04:17 AM | Permalink | Comments (0) | author bio

Tonight, starting at 7pm in the Chaparral Auditorium at 414 E. Ojai Avenue.
Walk or ride your bicycle by the light of the full moon, if you can!

Don't miss this presentation by the Ojai Valley Green Coalition Watershed Committee chair and conservation biologist, Brian Holly. Learn about the Ojai Creek riparian habitat restoration project -- a vision for ongoing stewardship and restoration of the Ojai watershed.

Brian Holly will lead the audience through an explanation of why we needed the restoration work and the progress of this project that began in November of 2009. Brian will then move to the bigger picture and show how we can continue with the success of this endeavor in other parts of the Ojai Watershed.

Download a flyer with event details HERE http://www.ojaivalleygreencoalition.org/CreekRestorationFlyer.pdf

Continue reading "Reminder: Ojai Creek Restoration Project and Watershed Presentation -- Wednesday, April 28, 2010" »

Posted by Suza Francina at 08:00 AM | Permalink | Comments (0) | author bio

Come out and meet the Democratic Candidates for the Democratic Nomination to go up against Elton Gallegly in November.

The Primary is June 8th!

Tim Allison---------------------Marie Panec-----------------Shawn Stern

*recently endorsed by
the California Democratic Party

Where: Ojai Art Center
When: Monday April 26th, 7PM

Posted by Sean P. Keenan at 12:19 PM | Permalink | author bio

Saturday, April 24th, 11am--5pm. EarthWalk starts at 10 am.
Valet Bike Parking
Ride your bike to EarthPlay on the Meadow and the Ojai Valley Green Coalition will see that you get Valet Bike Parking for your trusty ride! http://www.ojaivalleygreencoalition.org/2010/04/valet_bike_parking_at_earthpla.shtml

Here are Ojai's Earth Day Details:
If you’re looking for some good old-fashioned fun for Earth Day, no need to look very far! The Ojai Valley Land Conservancy, in partnership with Oak Grove School, Ojai Valley Green Coalition, Rotary Ojai – West, Rotary Club of Ojai, and other earth friendly Ojai organizations will offer a community-wide Earth Day celebration on Saturday, April 24th, 11am -- 5pm. (EarthWalk starts at 10 am)

Starting at Rotary Park on Ojai Avenue, check out alternative transportation at Rotary West’s exhibit, and find out how you can win a great prize by getting out of your car for the day. From there, join an EarthWalk at 10am, to EarthPlay on the Ojai Meadows Preserve for an earthly fun day of eco-friendly activities celebrating the earth beneath our feet on Ojai’s own nature preserve. Located on Maricopa Highway next to Nordhoff High School, the Preserve is just minutes away from just about anywhere in Ojai.

Continue reading "Reminder: Ojai's EarthPlay on the Meadow Today-- April 24" »

Posted by Suza Francina at 07:26 AM | Permalink | Comments (7) | author bio

DEM2010

UPDATE For the full list of CDP Endorsements Click HERE UPDATE

It's that time of year again and I'm at the California Democratic Party Convention at, of all places, the JW Marriott at "L.A Live". This is a brand new hotel, yet this is their choice for carpet in the conference rooms which are all named after precious metals or gems.

Follow after the break to hear what other atrocities I'm being subjected to.

Continue reading "**UPDATE FINAL** California Democratic Convention in Los Angeles" »

Posted by Sean P. Keenan at 12:03 AM | Permalink | Comments (21) | author bio

PR from the fine folk at that new store in town...

Love Heals Jewelry, the family-owned, California-based eco-luxury jewelry collection, announced the official launch of their flagship store location in Ojai, California scheduled for Saturday, April 24th, 2010 at 230 East Ojai Ave from 5:00pm – 8:00pm.

Continue reading "Love Heals Opens in Ojai" »

Posted by Tyler Suchman at 10:13 AM | Permalink | Comments (0) | author bio

from the Ojai Peace Coalition's Action Blog:

So today was (is, really, until midnight) Tax Day in America, and while some will clamor that income taxes are illegal and shouldn't be paid at all, others will offer reasons and ways to resist paying all or part of one's taxes on moral/philosophical grounds. Still others are disgruntled at the extra cash they shell out simply because their marriage is not recognized by the nation, and the Tea Partiers will be doing whatever the hell it is that they do, and deleting differing viewpoints from their Facebook pages.

Tax Day in America seems to me to be an excellent time to check in on our national priorities, for two reasons: 1) in this capitalist nation, where we've spent our money is a clear indicator of where our priorities are NOW, and 2) while everyone's mind is on the money they're paying and expecting back, including our politicians, is a great time to have a discussion about how we want our money - capitalism's word for "priorities" - to be invested in the future.

Obviously the wars are fucking us over in every way. If that language is too strong for you, check out how you might be avoiding or denying the realities of war, both on the battlefields and back here at home. Our language has exceptionally strong words like that for a reason, and i can think of no better application than here.

Continue reading "Tax Day Priorities" »

Posted by evan austin at 11:51 PM | Permalink | Comments (13) | author bio

The Bicycle and Pedestrian Master Plan will be on the Ojai City Council Agenda, Tuesday, April 13, 2010. (See article below or click here) http://www.ojaipost.com/2010/04/bicyclepedestrian_master_plan.shtml

John van Houten, M.D., sent the following cover Letter concerning the City's Bike/Ped Plan to Ojai City staff and Council in September, 2009.

To the Ojai City Council members and the City Manager,

Attached please find a copy of a letter that I submitted to the Ojai Valley News that was published last week (September 18, 2009).

My motivation for writing this letter lay in the fact that my children are unable to safely ride their bikes to school despite living within a mile from both schools. Riding down any main street in Ojai is an exercise in weaving around parked cars, avoiding being “mirrored” by passing cars on the left and “doored” by the parked cars on the right.

Continue reading "Letter to the City from John van Houten, M.D., "It is time for Ojai to take a new look at the existing Bike Plan" " »

Posted by Suza Francina at 08:12 PM | Permalink | Comments (0) | author bio

Alternative Transportation is on the Ojai City Council Agenda, Tuesday April 13, 2010. The meeting starts at 7:30 pm. It's hard to predict when the council will discuss the items below, as it depends in part on how many people speak at the beginning of the meeting on "Unscheduled Items." My guess is around 8:15 pm.
Item 4 - Grand Avenue Bicycle Lanes
Item 5 - Bicycle/Pedestrian Master Plan
Item 6 - Transit System Service Reduction Options
Click here to read the full agenda and staff reports: http://www.ci.ojai.ca.us/

The Grand Avenue Bicycle Lanes were on the Ojai City Council agenda way back in 1997. Teachers, parents and students wrote numerous letters and testified at City Council meetings on why Safe Routes to School are needed.

Continue reading "Bicycle/Pedestrian Master Plan on Ojai City Council Agenda " »

Posted by Suza Francina at 06:17 PM | Permalink | Comments (1) | author bio

[PR] In the next of her "Behind the Headlines" series at Ojai's Theater 150, journalist Nomi Morris will discuss "BANKRUPT NATIONS: ICELAND, GREECE - IS THE UNITED STATES NEXT?" Monday, April 12th at 7 pm

Continue reading "Theater 150: Bankrupt Nations: Is the U.S. Next?" »

Posted by Tyler Suchman at 08:57 AM | Permalink | Comments (18) | author bio

Ojai Valley Green Coalition Transportation Meeting
Wed April 7, 4:00 -5:00 pm,
at Papa Lennon’s Pizzeria, 515 West El Roblar in Meiners Oaks
across the street from the Project Ride community bike shop.

New Transportation Committee members are welcome, and anyone who can’t attend this meeting but would like to join may contact Suza at Sfrancina@aol.com or (805) 646-2613.

Continue reading "Reminder: Bicycle Friendly Ojai Valley Green Coalition Meeting, Wednesday, April 7 at 4pm. " »

Posted by Suza Francina at 02:25 PM | Permalink | Comments (15) | author bio

Evan Austin's article about Von's bag policy reminded me to post this item sent by Ojai City Council member Betsy Clapp

In the Bag: Santa Barbara Council Considers Reusable Bags Initiative

Shopping at the grocery store might get slightly more expensive in Santa Barbara if residents would be open to imposing a tax on customers who don’t bring their own re-usable bag when they shop. In order to see if residents would be in favor of such a measure, Santa Barbara’s city council will consider conducting a survey of residents to determine not only if they would approve a tax but also how much the tax should be, according to Noozhawk.

Continue reading "Santa Barbara City Council Considers Reusable Bags Initiative. Will Ojai follow? " »

Posted by Suza Francina at 07:19 PM | Permalink | Comments (2) | author bio

The consciousness shift away from plastic bags is taking hold, for sure...although at times it can seem maddeningly slow. And like most social/environmental/economic movements, the change will have long taken place in the lives of the public before the last holdouts - businesses, institutions, political structures - are drug along weakly protesting (and lamely pretending to have invented the movement in the first place).

i directly observed a woman in the checkout line at Ojai's Vons market, trying to negotiate carrying out her minor purchase - a single bottle of wine - under her arm, rather than in a brand-new, planet-choking petroleum bag. The clerk informed her that it is the policy of the store that every purchase leaves the store in a bag. The customer took her plea to the manager, who confirmed the policy.

Continue reading "Wanna Go Bagless? Not At Vons..." »

Posted by evan austin at 09:52 PM | Permalink | Comments (55) | author bio

From Sue Williamson and the Ojai Wildlife League

I’m very happy to announce that Ann Bryant, Executive Director and Founder of the Tahoe Bear League will be giving a lecture/slide show on LIVING WITH BEARS on May 1st, 10 AM, at Theater 150, 316 E. Matilija Street, in Ojai.

The Lecture/Slideshow will be from 10:00 to noon. $10 suggested donation -- no one turned away, children free. There will be a BEAR RESCUE INTENSIVE workshop offered later in the afternoon for those who have attended the lecture and would like to be part of a Bear Response Team in Ojai, or just would like to learn more skills for handling bear encounters. So set the date aside, and if you can help us get the word out to publicize this event please call the Ojai Wildlife League at (805) 640-0187, or email us at sue@ojaiwildlifeleague.com

Continue reading "Living With Bears Expert Ann Bryant Coming to Ojai!" »

Posted by Suza Francina at 08:47 AM | Permalink | Comments (5) | author bio

"The indigenous people of what is now California revered both black and grizzly bears alike. The bear was a sacred animal, a spiritual brother of the wild. What a sad, sorry sight this society has become when we continually try to justify killing more predators as people continually encroach and build homes and ranches deeper and deeper into their habitat. " -- Anthony Prieto

Anthony Prieto, a hunter from Santa Barbara, wrote the following Opinion in response to Julia Di Sieno's guest commentary, "Too Hard to Bear." Julia is the executive director of the Animal Rescue Team who tried to save the Aliso Street Bear killed in Ojai last year.

Opinion: Bear hunting plan a grisly affair
In response to Julia Di Sieno's recent guest commentary, "Too hard to bear," and after reading some of the follow-up responses, I felt I had to speak up as well. I've hunted in Santa Barbara's back country for almost 25 years. I hunt wild pigs and black-tail deer only. I only shoot what I'm going to feed my family.

Continue reading "A Hunter Speaks Out On Fish & Game's Proposed Bear Hunting Changes" »

Posted by Suza Francina at 07:51 AM | Permalink | Comments (5) | author bio

Film Showing -- Power of Community: How Cuba Survived Peak Oil
Opening remarks by Das Williams

Click here for film poster: POC_Poster.pdf

On Saturday afternoon, March 27th, at 4:30pm at the Ojai Theatre, the Ojai Valley Green Coalition will make a special presentation of the documentary film, The Power of Community: How Cuba Survived Peak Oil.

The film focuses on the oil supply crisis that the collapse of the Soviet Union brought upon Cuba. This Cuban experience of the 1990s offers lessons to help prepare other nations with petroleum-based economies—such as our own—for a future in which oil will become more more expensive and could eventually be unavailable.

Speaking prior to the film screening will be Santa Barbara City Councilmember Das Williams, who grew up in Ojai. He is a candidate for the California State Assembly and a community organizer for the Ventura-based nonprofit CAUSE,
Coastal Alliance United for a Sustainable Economy

Continue reading "Reminder to see, "The Power of Community: How Cuba Survived Peak Oil," Saturday, March 27th" »

Posted by Suza Francina at 04:14 PM | Permalink | Comments (1) | author bio

News Release

Ojai Valley Democratic Club

For immediate Release:

Ojai Valley Democratic Club Endorses Len Klaif for City Council

Continue reading "OVDC endorses Len Klaif for Ojai City Council" »

Posted by Sean P. Keenan at 01:24 PM | Permalink | Comments (5) | author bio

I just returned from the candidate's forum hosted at Ojai Arts Center by the Ojai Democratic Club. I left as the club was about to take a vote on who they will endorse for the special election. It's a tough call between Len Klaif and Paul Blatz. I felt they both presented their cases very well. I liked some answers better than others but overall there was a clear choice, for me, on the best one to take the remaining time left of Joe DeVito's seat.

But as much as they did say that I concurred with, there were a couple of things that weren't said. How to serve the youth of the community became a particular bone of contention as one audience member asked what the candidates would do for the young people in town. Carol Smith's response to the young mother did not go over very well, drawing a quite few grunts and groans as she replied, "There's nothing for them to do here." I did so want to be a part of the discussion at that point having taught hundreds of kids in the valley who are now of voting age. But I thought I'd keep my big trap shut until July, when the nomination cycle starts again.

The other thing that wasn't mentioned or didn't factor in enough for my taste was how important the arts community is to the city. These two issues I'd like to see the candidates explore further in their campaigns. They will be the deciding issues for me and a lot of parents out there.

I'm glad this race is off to a good start and I hope the issues raised by the candidates and by the citizens will give insight to the city council on how to better serve the citizens. And I can't wait to hear who gets the nomination from the Ojai Democratic Club. Thanks Sean, for putting together this event.

Posted by Demitri Corbin at 09:32 PM | Permalink | Comments (13) | author bio

Ojai is fortunate to have two outstanding, experienced candidates: Paul Blatz and Leonard Klaif. Both of them are familiar with the issues before us. Tonight is an opportunity to ask questions and learn about the differences between them. Below is information on tonight's (Monday night) event, sponsored by the Ojai Valley Democratic Club. Open to the public.

WHEN: Monday March 22nd at 7PM
WHERE: Ojai Art Center
WHY: To get to know the two candidates for city council on the June ballot

Posted by Suza Francina at 08:36 AM | Permalink | Comments (1) | author bio

Thanks to Ojai bicycle/pedestrian advocate John van Houten, M.D., for calling my attention to this article.

As the new Chair of the Ojai Valley Green Coalition Transportation Committee this is the best news for making Ojai a model bicycle/pedestrian friendly city that I've seen in years. It will help us move forward in implementing the Bicycle and Pedestrian Master Plan that the City of Ojai adopted over ten years ago.

Here are some excerpts-- a link to the entire article appears at the end.

Feds Deem Pedestrians, Cyclists and Motorists Equals

At long last, the feds have said the needs of pedestrians and cyclists must be placed alongside, not behind, those of motorists.

Continue reading "Good News for Ojai: Feds Deem Pedestrians, Cyclists and Motorists Equals" »

Posted by Suza Francina at 06:31 AM | Permalink | Comments (15) | author bio

Now that the campaign for the vacant city council seat left by Joe DeVito is officially underway, I feel it's time to announce the launch of Leonard Klaif’s website: Klaif4ojai.com

Here you can not only peruse his political views but you can get to know Len as a human being and meet his whole family!

Posted by Suza Francina at 10:16 PM | Permalink | Comments (0) | author bio

WHEN: Monday March 22nd at 7PM
WHERE: Ojai Art Center
WHY: To get to know the two candidates for city council on the June ballot.

Continue reading "Candidate's Forum for City Council Special Election" »

Posted by Sean P. Keenan at 12:02 PM | Permalink | Comments (1) | author bio

I just got word from the county that I was once signature shy of nomination, so I will not be a candidate in the special election. Best of luck to Paul and Lenny and may the best man win!

Posted by Demitri Corbin at 09:04 AM | Permalink | Comments (4) | author bio

To all Ojai Wildlife League Supporters,
We are getting down to the wire with the California Fish and Game Commission making a decision on April 21, 2010, regarding whether to expand bear hunting, the use of dogs and permit unlimited killing of bears. If you haven't written a letter please do so as soon as possible. The email address is fgc@fgc.ca.gov For sample Letters visit www.OjaiwildlifeLeague.com.

Expanded bear hunts don't pass smell test
By Wayne Pacelle, president, Humane Society of the United States.

For too long, the California Department of Fish and Game has served the interests of the trophy-hunting lobby over the interests of the millions of California residents who do not hunt. Wildlife watchers in California outnumber bear hunters by a factor of 250 to 1. But nothing demonstrates just how far the agency will go to placate this narrow trophy-hunting constituency than new proposals to expand the range and the terms for killing black bears with packs of dogs in California.

Continue reading "Opinion: Expanded bear hunts don't pass smell test" »

Posted by Suza Francina at 10:34 PM | Permalink | Comments (0) | author bio

Are you interested in learning how Ojai can respond to the challenges and opportunities of Peak Oil, Climate Change, and Economic Instability?

The third in a series of meetings of Transition Ojai
Tuesday, March 2, at 6.45 pm
Glen Muse
815 Libbey Ave, Ojai
For directions and map click here: Transition Ojai

"We'll be bringing our ideas for actions/events/publicity/work groups etc. together in order to move Transition Ojai onto the next phase. This will not be a meeting for those who are new to transition, but of course everyone is welcome:), however, there will not be an opportunity at this meeting to present the basic ideas of our Transition Initiative," said Wayne Thompson, Transition Ojai organizer.

Continue reading "Transition Ojai meeting tonight, March 2, 6.45 pm at Glen Muse" »

Posted by Suza Francina at 07:50 AM | Permalink | Comments (1) | author bio

The following letter by Julia J. Di Sieno, executive director of Animal Rescue Team Inc., made the front page of the Santa Barbara News-Press editorial section yesterday (February 28, 2010). Animal Rescue Team was one of the wildlife organizations that offered to help save the Aliso Street bear last October. Julia spoke at the Ojai City Council following the killing of this Ojai bear. Her organization is a resource for the Ojai Wildlife League.

To Eric Loft, Chief, California Department of Fish and Game:
The effects on the statewide black bear population that shall be addressed in the April Environmental Document Regarding Bear Hunting include:
• Increasing the regulated annual harvest up to 2,500 bears;
• Incorporating portions of San Luis Obispo, Modoc, Lassen and Inyo counties into the black bear hunt zones;
• Eliminating the in-season closure mechanism;
• Altering the dog control use boundary;
• Modifying the dates for archery bear season.

Continue reading "Opinion: TOO HARD TO BEAR: Why does the Department of Fish and Game want to expand bear hunting?" »

Posted by Suza Francina at 04:42 AM | Permalink | Comments (0) | author bio

My nephew, Das Williams, is running for California State Assembly. Das grew up in Ojai and attended local schools. Old-timers may recall that as a young lad Das played the lead role in Badger Claws, an Illusions Theatre production based on the book, Badger Claws of Ojai, a story about a Chumash Indian boy. His mother (my middle sister) and I are looking forward to attending the debate.

Ventura County Democratic Party: 35th Assembly District Debate
On Thursday, February 25th at 6:30 p.m. the Democratic Club of Ventura will host a debate between 35th Assembly District candidates Susan Jordan and Das Williams. The debate will be moderated by local business owner and political consultant David Maron. CAPS will film the debate for future broadcast.

The debate will be held in the Topping Room of E.P. Foster Library at 651 Main Street, Ventura, CA 93001. Ample parking is available in the public lot behind the library. Members and non-members are invited. The event is free of charge though a $5 donation is requested to help the club cover expenses. Doors will open at 6 pm and the meeting will start at 6:30 pm. Snacks will be served.

Continue reading "Susan Jordan-Das Williams Debate:Thurs.Feb. 25th, 6:30 pm." »

Posted by Suza Francina at 07:25 PM | Permalink | Comments (5) | author bio

Yesterday morning, as I was about to turn off my computer and fly out the door for an early morning yoga class, I received an email from one of my students with the following editorial in the New York Times.
OPINION February 19, 2010
Op-Ed Contributor: Not Grass-Fed, but at Least Pain-Free

The author, Adam Shriver, is a doctoral student in the philosophy-neuroscience-psychology program at Washington University. According to his editorial, "Recent advances in neuroscience suggest it may soon be possible to genetically engineer livestock so that they suffer much less."

I contemplated the insidious implications of removing the ability to feel pain all the way to my yoga class. By the time I arrived I was fed up with the arrogance of the human race.

When I first started teaching forty years ago I had this innocent hope that yoga would lead to enlightenment. Enlightenment begins with empathy. Empathy encompasses the ability to experience the pain and suffering of other living things. Empathy is the first step. And, as J. Krishnamurt pointed out, "The first step is the last step."

Continue reading "Enlightenment Begins With Empathy" »

Posted by Suza Francina at 08:00 AM | Permalink | Comments (11) | author bio

California Fish and Game Commission,

Dear California Fish and Game Commission:

Only recently did I learn my home state of California lists the Black Bear as a 'game' animal and permits killing of cubs as small as 50 pounds. I am horrified! Bears are shy, gentle animals that only come into contact with humans when they are looking for food or water or when people enter their territory.

I have seen these magnificent creatures in the Sierras and in natural habitat close to Ojai. Usually the bears climb a tree and wait until people have left - mom sends her cubs up first.

Continue reading "Letter from Marjorie Emerson, Ojai, to Fish & Game re Plan to Expand Bear Hunting" »

Posted by Suza Francina at 08:04 AM | Permalink | Comments (13) | author bio

Today is Day 18 of the 64-Day Season for Nonviolence that spans the death dates of Mahatma Gandhi and Martin Luther King, Jr. One source lists the following as today's Quotation, Affirmation, and Practice, and i thought the OP community might enjoy participating!:

FREEDOM:

Quotation: "Every human has four endowments - self awareness, conscience, independent will, and creative imagination. These give us the ultimate human freedom... The power to choose, to respond, to change." -Stephen Covey

Affirmation: Freedom means that we have the independent will to act and respond creatively, that we have the self-awareness to self-reflect and to change as dictated by the compass of conscience. Moment by moment today, I become conscious of my freedom.

Practice: Claim your definition of freedom. Write a haiku poem about freedom.

Posted by evan austin at 07:49 AM | Permalink | Comments (0) | author bio

An Invitation from Marcia Benkert

Although the notice is short, I’m excited to share the news, and invite you to an important Public Art Dedication, in Ojai, California, Friday, February 12, 2010, at 4:00 p.m., 328 E. Ojai Avenue (fountain plaza behind Bonnie Lu’s).

This majestic, steel sculpture of a Black Bear represents a memorial to our respected wildlife, and a reminder to ourselves, of the painful lessons that we, as a community, have needed to learn in order to effect a change in the way we respond to innocent animals wandering into our neighborhoods.

Continue reading "Bear Art Dedication – Friday, Feb. 12, 4 pm, Fountain Plaza" »

Posted by Suza Francina at 08:28 PM | Permalink | Comments (3) | author bio

Interesting article from the VC Star on buying businesses during the downturn. Featured is the Mother's Guild and Ojai resident Renee Mandala.

Some creative thinking led to the sale of Mother’s Guild to two local entrepreneurs nearly a year ago. After moving to Wisconsin, the owner wanted to sell. Renee Mandala and Monica Marshall, who had both worked for the company, were graduates of the Self-Employment Training course at Women’s Economic Ventures and were looking for their own businesses.

Posted by Tyler Suchman at 11:12 AM | Permalink | Comments (3) | author bio

This shows the monthly job losses, which are horrendous, but improving. Of course the official job numbers don't tell the whole story, but I think the trend in general in promising. Regardless, its still an awful climate for job hunters out there. What's your story?

Posted by Tyler Suchman at 03:52 PM | Permalink | Comments (0) | author bio

Posted by Mike Didj at 03:36 PM | Permalink | Comments (0) | author bio

Today is January 30: Day One of the 64-day Season For Nonviolence that spans the death dates of Mahatma Gandhi and Martin Luther King, Jr. It is in honor of the lives, work, and commitment of these men and others who advanced the consciousness and practice of nonviolence in profound and dramatic ways, and who continue to inspire peoples’ personal, social, and political lives to this day, that we invest the energy to consider one reflection or practice each day during this period.

1. Today, I will reflect on what Peace means to me.

COURAGE: Light a candle to symbolize your commitment to accept the courage to practice 64 Ways of living nonviolently.

Follow the Season at ojaipeace.org!

Posted by evan austin at 08:34 AM | Permalink | Comments (4) | author bio

Join the Ojai Valley Democratic Club for a FAREWELL CELEBRATION in honor of

SUE BROIDY

Many people in Ojai know Sue, not just through her work with the OVDC and the California Democratic Party, but through her volunteer work in everything from the OVGC to affordable housing and the homeless task force. Come help us celebrate this wonderful member of our community.

When: Monday, Jan 25th at 7 pm

Where: Ojai Art Center
113 S. Montgomery St
Ojai, CA 93023

Potluck information and Details after the break.

Continue reading "Sue Broidy is leaving Ojai -- *2nd UPDATE*" »

Posted by Sean P. Keenan at 06:48 PM | Permalink | Comments (5) | author bio

Corporatist Rising

Not many people realize that we have a constitutionally limited, representative democracy in this country. It hasn't worked perfectly, but it did work better than no democracy at all. I say DID because it is now dead. This post isn't about the election Tuesday in Mass or the DLC infiltration of the of the Obama administration or any of those little problems. All of those little problems are swept away with today's Supreme Court decision.

Continue reading "Say Buy Buy to American Democracy" »

Posted by Sean P. Keenan at 12:18 PM | Permalink | Comments (69) | author bio

The other day Tyler Suchman posted a brief item entitled, Medical Marijuana on the OVN (January 17, 2010) in which he noted that the Ojai Valley News is accepting advertising for medical marijuana. He asked the question, "When did the public perception shift enough that a rather conservative publication such as the OVN would accept a medical marijuana advertisement? Was there a tipping point, such as Attorney General Eric Holder’s statement in February that the DEA would end its raids on state-approved marijuana dispensaries? "

Here's a related editorial by Ojai writer John Wilcock, who has been studying marijuana since 1961.

Guest Editorial by John Wilcock: Contemplating Medical Marijuana
Now that virtually every community is suffering a surfeit of medical marijuana clinics, it’s become an issue that clamors for discussion. Sure, there are too many of these places, many run by greed heads whose life plan is to make a good living out of patients’ suffering. (There are also too many for-profit hospitals).

Continue reading "From the Ojai Orange: Contemplating Medical Marijuana" »

Posted by Suza Francina at 08:10 PM | Permalink | Comments (2) | author bio

The National Disaster Search Dog Foundation (SDF) Search Team, based in Ojai, found three young girls trapped in the rubble yesterday. It is times like this that all the training, all the work over the years, really pays off. Three girls will now (hopefully) have a future.

From their website:
"At 1:15pm local (Haiti) time yesterday, an SDF Search Team in Port-au-Prince located three girls, trapped alive since Tuesday in the rubble of Haiti’s devastating earthquake.

Bill Monahan and his Border Collie, Hunter, were searching a neighborhood near the Presidential Palace, concentrating on a large bowl-shaped area of rubble which was all that remained of a 4-story building.

After criss-crossing the area, Hunter pin-pointed the survivors’ scent under 4 feet of broken concrete and did his “bark alert” to let Bill know where the victims were. Bill spoke with the survivors, then passed them bottles of water tied to the end of a stick. As they reached for the water one of the girls said, “Thank you.” Highly trained rescue crews from California Task Force 2 are now working to extricate the girls from the wreckage and provide first aid."

Continue reading "Ojai Search Dogs Find Haiti Earthquake Survivors" »

Posted by Suza Francina at 07:04 AM | Permalink | Comments (22) | author bio

Good news for Upper Ojai residents who have been longing to purchase necessary supplies without navigating the Dennison Grade on a daily basis.
After a nearly six month closure the Upper Ojai convenience store has reopened and is now selling beer and wine.
Located at 12679 Ojai Santa Paula Road, Stagecoach Station is open from 6:30 a.m. to 7 p.m. Monday - Saturday.

Posted by Chris Wilson at 11:10 AM | Permalink | Comments (0) | author bio

From Twitter...

@kenleyneufeld - 8:32pm, Jan 12
Sue Horgan just made a motion to reconsider appontment and do election instead. #ojaicc

@kenleyneufeld - 8:34pm, Jan 12
Ojai City Council voted unanimously to reconsider appointment. Second motion being made now to call for an election in June. #ojaicc

@kenleyneufeld - 8:48pm, Jan 12
Public comment going equally for and against an election instead of appointment. Public comment closed. #ojaicc

@kenleyneufeld - 8:51pm, Jan 12
Council voted 3-1 to hold special election in June. Deadline to submit papers is March 12. Only no vote was Carol Smith. #ojaicc

Posted by Tyler Suchman at 08:40 PM | Permalink | Comments (38) | author bio

It should be an interesting meeting tonight! This evening our City Council members will be deliberating on applicants for the vacancy created by the resignation of Joe DeVito last month. While appointing a fifth member to the council is a serious matter, I anticipate some humorous small town drama.

For those new to city meetings, they are held at Ojai City Hall, 401 S. Ventura Street. Meetings start at 7:30 p.m. This Item, "Appointment to City Council to Fill Unexpired Term," is number four on the agenda, so it might be after 8 p.m. before it comes up. I recommend arriving on time, if you can, so that you get your bearings, especially if you plan to speak at the podium for the candidate of your choice.

Delicious Pepperidge Farm cookies, coffee, assorted herbal teas and spring water are available in the city hall kitchen to add to the small-town friendliness of the meeting and to help keep you awake when things get bogged down. I have also been known to take home a handful of chocolate lady fingers to ease the pain of disappointment at the outcome -- or to celebrate small victories -- as the case may be.
WARNING: The coffee at city hall is real. This is not your low-caffeine-organic type brand. I drank it once and immediately felt a terrific jolt to my nervous system -- got the shakes and was up all night.

Back to the matter at hand:

As of this morning, five brave souls have applied for the position. In alphabetical order, the five candidates are:
Paul Blatz, Demitri Corbin, Leonard Klaif, Mike Lenehan and John Mirk.

Continue reading "Ojai City Council Appointment On Agenda Tonight, Tuesday, January 12, 2010" »

Posted by Suza Francina at 06:42 AM | Permalink | Comments (3) | author bio

Transition Ojai is now live!

The Transition Town movement represents one of the most promising ways of engaging people and communities to take the far-reaching actions that are required to mitigate the effects of peak oil, climate change and the economic crisis. Here in Ojai I see the Transition Town model as a way to bring together and empower many different community projects, organizations and endeavors that are part of creating a sustainable community.

The first in a series of informative Transition Town meetings will be held on Tuesday, January 12, 7pm, at 1215 Drown Avenue, Ojai (above Grand, last house on left before intersection with Pleasant Ave).
For more information contact Wayne Thompson at 805 798 2152 or e-mail transitionojai@gmail.com

How Do Transition Towns Begin?

Continue reading "Welcome to Transition Ojai! Learn All About Transition Towns Here." »

Posted by Suza Francina at 06:54 AM | Permalink | Comments (0) | author bio

Below is a link to a great article in the VC Star about the 2009 adventures of Ojai locavores Kristofer and Joanne Young
and their new local-food project ~ Locavore Light 2010

The year of eating locally
Ojai couple's new challenge has easier guidelines
http://www.vcstar.com/news/2009/dec/31/the-year-of-eating-locally-ojai-couples-new-has/

Continue reading "Kristofer and Joanne Young: The Year of Eating Locally " »

Posted by Suza Francina at 05:19 AM | Permalink | Comments (2) | author bio

I'm a sci-fi movie fan, and "Rollerball" is a favorite of mine. Mind you, I'm not talking about the disposable 2002 retread, but instead the original 1975 classic with James Caan and John Houseman, in which an oligarch of giga-businesses have done away with archaic traditional governments and now run the world, well, like a business. To maintain their employee citizens' contented complacency, the corporate regents have provided a modern bread-and-circuses in the form of Rollerball, a violent fusion of roller derby and basketball. Rollerball starts as an action flick, but it quickly peels away deeper layers, revealing the corporations' evil mass social management agenda. Rollerball's opening music, Bach's Toccata and Fugue, sets the incongruous tone, intertwining levitas and gravitas as we watch the stage set, literally, for the movie's first rock 'em sock 'em Rollerball match.

Continue reading "Rollerball and the Public Option" »

Posted by Todd Miller at 09:24 AM | Permalink | Comments (15) | author bio

All I Want For Christmas is Safe, Clean Drinking Water
On a drizzly Sunday night, I went with a friend to Meditation Mount to hear a talk on "Ending World Hunger." To be honest, it was the last thing I wanted to do. I had a tooth-ache, I was tired and I have enough problems of my own taking care of my elderly parents, my animals, paying my bills and working on local issues, without adding "ending world hunger," to my already impossible to-do list.

I made the effort to show up for this event mainly because the speakers, Lyn Hebenstreit and Tara Blasco, directors of the Ojai-based Global Resource Alliance (GRA) organization, are my longtime friends. They had just returned from a two-months trip to rural East Africa to help locate new sources of clean water. I figured the least I could do was show-up to hear about it.

Continue reading "Despair and Disparity" »

Posted by Suza Francina at 09:40 AM | Permalink | Comments (13) | author bio

Dear City Council,

I, Demitri Corbin, hereby submit my application for consideration of the city council seat to be filled upon Joe DeVito's official resignation. This decision comes after careful consideration and in light of the city's announced plans to fund the Ojai Chamber of Commerce plan to promote Ojai tourism. Given this forward movement on a long-contemplated plan along with current development plans on the council's agenda, I feel that appointing someone within the city government will give continuity to immediate agenda items and make way for a smooth transition to a newly elected official.

Continue reading "Demitri Corbin Files For Council" »

Posted by Tyler Suchman at 06:20 PM | Permalink | Comments (17) | author bio

Here we are on this shortest day of the Winter Solstice. A day to pause, reflect and light a candle. As we look out on the foggy early morning landscape, imagine how bleak these winter days would be without our trees, the lungs and guardians of the earth.

A few days ago one of the young readers of the Ojai Post gleefully left a video clip with a comment that said, "Check out the Ojai Hippies in the forest !" I confess the child in me laughed at the clip -- but truth is, there's nothing funny about clear-cutting trees.

Continue reading "From Copenhagen to Ojai: Clear-Cutting the Truth About Trees " »

Posted by Suza Francina at 08:16 AM | Permalink | Comments (19) | author bio

In response to Mr. Leeman's guest editorial I think it's appropriate to post my original blog. I took it down because I was put off by the disrespect shown to Betsy Clapp and intended to post an edited version. But with trying to keep the calendar project from becoming a total disaster, tending to my personal life, as well as the other community services I do, I've not had the time. But there have many requests for me to re-post and positive comments, as well.

I am posting the original version which is written from recollection rather than notes and may contain factual inaccuracies. If anything in this blog can be refuted, I welcome the correction. I do not wish to vilify anyone or to cause division. I trust that we all wish the same thing - that our local newspaper succeed.

Continue reading "The Bret Blog" »

Posted by Demitri Corbin at 11:17 AM | Permalink | Comments (17) | author bio

"You can bomb the world to pieces, but you can't bomb it into peace" -Michael Franti
You can't slash away uncomfortable truths, either...but that doesn't mean people won't try. The above photograph is of my car, a 2001 Ford Focus that you've probably seen around the valley for almost as long as this war's been on, which i call "Arlington Mobile" after the Arlington West temporary memorials in Long Beach and Santa Barbara (which, of course, take their names from Arlington National Cemetary). Both of my driver's side tires were slashed sometime late last week, which affords me the opportunity to reflect on the dramatic, terrifying, confounding, and even amusing disconnect between the message and the response, and to "ping" our local collective consciousness with the fact that "the holidays are here, and we're STILL at war".

i've reflected on this before, and yet it still comes as a poignant reminder: the gap between an uncomfortable Truth (the persistence of war and the actual number of American military dead) and a violent response (nasty notes, egging, slashing tires) is ENORMOUS, MISPLACED, and INDIRECT. That gap SHOULD be filled with education, social skills and awareness, and democratic empowerment...a tall order, for sure.

Some friends have come forward to help me replace the tires. That's the easy part. The OTHER things we need...to have healthy, communicative, and non-violent people all around? Of course, those are more difficult. i suggest we start with education...even sixth grader Ethan Matsuda knows that.

Posted by evan austin at 09:34 AM | Permalink | Comments (11) | author bio

Sue Horgan, Ojai City Council Member and two term Mayor, announces that she intends to run for the Ventura County Treasurer and Tax Collector position.

Continue reading "Ojai City Council Member, Sue Horgan, Announces Intent to Run for Ventura County Treasurer and Tax Collector" »

Posted by Suza Francina at 10:09 AM | Permalink | Comments (5) | author bio

Steve Olsen, Mayor Pro Tem
Sue Horgan, Councilmember
Carol Smith, Councilmember
Betsy Clapp, Councilmember

Re: Upcoming Ojai City Council Vacancy

Dear Members of the Council:

It will come as no surprise that I submit my name for consideration for appointment to fill Joe DeVito’s term on the Ojai City Council. I have attached my resume to my application, but believe that this letter outlining my more pertinent experience is appropriate.

I moved to Ojai some seventeen years ago; I had come up to explore Rose Valley Falls at the suggestion of a friend. I immediately fell in love with Ojai, came back the following weekend looking for a place to live, and moved here shortly thereafter.

Continue reading "Ojai City Council Vacancy -- Letter from Leonard J. Klaif " »

Posted by Suza Francina at 07:04 PM | Permalink | Comments (0) | author bio

"Copenhagen police ended up preemptively arresting nearly a thousand people Saturday. Another 230 protesters were preemptively arrested on Sunday during a demonstration to block the city's ports." --Democracy Now, Dec.14,2009
http://i3.democracynow.org/2009/12/14/using_controversial_law_danish_police_preemptively

Thank you en dank je wel to Jan Lundberg, my long-distance Dutch mentor, for keeping me in the loop over the years with his missives on Culture Change. Jan is founder of the Sustainable Energy Institute (formerly Fossil Fuels Policy Action), a nonprofit organization. Today I received the following article and photographs:

Cop-enhagen: Preemptive Mass Arrests in Context of History of Danes'Movement
By David Rovics

"The signs up all over the airport and various places elsewhere in town are calling it Hopenhagen, but everybody I know is calling it Cop-enhagen, which seems far more appropriate.

Continue reading "Ojai Culture Change: Update on Copenhagen Climate Summit" »

Posted by Suza Francina at 06:32 AM | Permalink | Comments (16) | author bio

Yesterday I received a message from a longtime friend, someone I dearly love and respect. We had been e-mailing back and forth about global warming. Much to my surprise, he wrote:

"I'm no expert on global warming, but I do know that there are many seemingly qualified opinions that refute the so called "scientific consensus". Most new books coming out now - and there are dozens of them, seem to come down on the side of either yes, there may be global warming, but it is due primarily to natural causes - most likely solar cycles, or no, global warming is over and we have entered a period of global cooling, or the view that political, scientific and economic self interest have distorted the IPCC "consensus" and are an example therefore "bad science".

Continue reading "To my Ojai friends: Don't let the climate doubters fool you" »

Posted by Suza Francina at 08:42 AM | Permalink | Comments (38) | author bio

Indian Activist Vandana Shiva Speaks at Climate Summit Protest:
"The Earth Must Call The Shots. The Earth Will Make The Rules."

Protests rocked Copenhagen on Saturday as anywhere from 30,000 to 100,000 people (depending on who you talk to) marched to the UN Climate Change Summit in Copenhagen to demand a strong climate treaty to reduce global greenhouse gas emissions. Indian physicist, author, and activist Vandana Shiva spoke to the crowd before the march: http://www.commondreams.org/video/2009/12/14-0

Posted by Suza Francina at 08:12 AM | Permalink | Comments (3) | author bio

Sunday, December 13, 5:00 pm, at Meditation Mount

Lyn Hebenstreit and Tara Blasco, directors of the Ojai based non-profit Global Resource Alliance (GRA) and recipients of Ojai's 2008 Noble Peace Prize, are back from their tenth field trip to Africa. They will present an inspiring two-hour program entitled, "Ending World Hunger," on Sunday, December 13, 5:00 pm, at Meditation Mount.

Lyn and Tara will give a brief overview of hunger worldwide and share their most recent two month experience in rural East Africa. Their slide-show presentation will present a first hand view of poverty and explore how to empower people to break the cycle of hunger, poverty and disease.

Continue reading "Ojai Noble Peace Prize Recipients Back from Africa -- Will Present Progam on Ending World Hunger " »

Posted by Suza Francina at 07:53 AM | Permalink | Comments (6) | author bio

Drive the length and breadth of Silicon Valley, and you'll see lots of office buildings, homes to the biggest names in technology. Some are fantastic campuses, like the Googleplex. Some are garden variety leased office space. So what do they actually manufacture in these hi-tech HQs?

Coffee.

Bold, medium roast, espresso, latte, caf, de-caf, you name it. Silicon Valley makes really good coffee. But do they make anything else?

Continue reading "Coffee Klatch" »

Posted by Todd Miller at 01:02 PM | Permalink | Comments (3) | author bio

Ojai council votes for appointment, not election, to fill seat of retiring mayor
By Kevin Clerici
Posted December 9, 2009 at 6:53 a.m.

http://www.vcstar.com/news/2009/dec/09/ojai-council-votes-for-appointment-not-election/

Posted by Suza Francina at 08:59 AM | Permalink | Comments (10) | author bio

Thanks to Ojai Wildlife League (OWL) member, Leslie Purcell, for the following information.

The Fish & Game Commission is meeting this week in Los Angeles (usually they meet in Sacramento).
Meeting Agenda:http://www.fgc.ca.gov/meetings/2009/120909agd.asp
This is an opportunity to have public input regarding their policies. According to the Agenda, on Wed. Dec 9, they are addressing Marine Protected areas, and have public comment from 10-12:30. Thursday public comment at 9:30 am. There is also an issue in LA about the eight coyotes shot and killed in Griffith Park in September. (as I understand it, killed by Dept of Agriculture at night, per request of Dept. F&G).

Two OWL members, Sue Williamson and Cheryl Palmer (possibly others) will be attending Thursday morning to read OWL's Letter to Assemblymember Pedro Nava (link after the jump) and comment on possible future policy changes.

Continue reading "Ojai Wildlife League Members Will Speak at Fish & Game Commission in LA, Dec 9-10, 2009" »

Posted by Suza Francina at 07:58 AM | Permalink | Comments (1) | author bio

Dear OWL Member, Ojai Valley resident, or other member of the public,

Please read the letter below. If you approve, reply with your first and last name, to suewill@roadrunner.com as soon as possible and we will add your name to the signatures. Please respond even if you have already sent an individual letter.

Response to Pedro Nava Memorandum on Ojai Bear Incident
To: Ben Turner, Legislative Aide, Assemblymember Nava’s Capitol Office, ben.turner@asm.ca.gov

From: the Ojai Wildlife League, (OWL) http://www.ojaiwildlifeleague.com/

Dear Assemblyman Pedro Nava and Mr. Ben Turner,

Thank you for investigating the protocol and policies that resulted in the killing of an Ojai black bear by the California Department of Fish and Game on October 10th, 2009.

Continue reading "Please Sign Letter to Pedro Nava from the Ojai Wildlife League" »

Posted by Suza Francina at 08:29 AM | Permalink | Comments (5) | author bio

A deep bow and sun salute to Ojai Valley Green Coalition member Kayla Capper for calling my attention to this nicely put together article on why the roadmap to a sustainable Ojai Valley should include rethinking our habit of eating animals.

Source: Huffington Post , December 6, 2009
Top 10 (Recent) Developments On Factory Farming And Vegetarianism
By health and wellness expert Kathy Freston

On Thanksgiving, I spent some time taking stock of my life and the world around me and, as we're supposed to do over the holiday, giving thanks for all the joys -- little and big -- in my life. One of the larger joys for which I am giving thanks is all of the recent attention that has been lavished on a topic that is near and dear to my heart -- the cruelty and environmental harm involved in raising animals for food.

Continue reading "Roadmap to Sustainable Ojai: The Latest News On Eating Animals" »

Posted by Suza Francina at 07:40 AM | Permalink | Comments (7) | author bio

Even though I wrote the previous entry on supporting local businesses, here we can explore the complicated nature of shopping. A decision on where to purchase and what to purchase can be difficult if you weigh all the options, but especially social and environmental responsibility.

One of my favorite sources for grading products and companies is Better World Shopper. Even with a product like gasoline, there is a range of grades.

Better World Shopper ranks on a company level but there are other aspects you could weigh.

Continue reading "Better Shopping" »

Posted by Kenley Neufeld at 11:18 AM | Permalink | Comments (2) | author bio

To: Roland Takayama, rtakayama@dfg.ca.gov
Dear Roland Takayama,

I hope this letter finds you in good spirits. It is a beautiful day here in Ojai.

I am writing because even though I have done my best to understand the circumstances and policies that resulted in the order to kill the Ojai black bear on October 10th, 2009, I am still filled with grief when I think about what happened.

Continue reading " Letter to Captain Roland Takayama, California Department of Fish and Game, re Ojai Bear Incident" »

Posted by Suza Francina at 07:13 AM | Permalink | Comments (0) | author bio

This Letter is in response to Pedro Nava Releases Memorandum on Ojai Bear Incident

To: Ben Turner, Legislative Aide, Assemblymember Nava’s Capitol Office, ben.turner@asm.ca.gov

Dear Mr. Turner and Assemblyman Pedro Nava,

Thank you for investigating the circumstances and policies that resulted in the killing of an Ojai black bear by the California Department of Fish and Game on October 10th, 2009.

I have read the official CDFG Report, as well as all the articles and interviews with Roland Takayama, the local head warden responsible for "dispatching the bear," in various Ojai, Ventura and Santa Barbara publications.

As someone who witnessed the bear’s death, I have written several Letters and articles pointing out the conspicuous omissions in Mr. Roland Takayama’s version of the bear incident. (See Letter below).

"Dispatching" a bear should be an action of last resort --not the ignorant and cruel Fish & Game back-up plan that we witnessed here in Ojai. Killing bears does not keep bears out of residential neighborhoods. As long as attractants are present and as long as there is no mitigation during years of fire and drought, bears will come.
:

Continue reading "Letter to Assemblymember Nava from former Ojai Mayor, re Ojai Bear and Department of Fish & Game" »

Posted by Suza Francina at 11:56 AM | Permalink | Comments (2) | author bio

Let's support local business in Ojai.

For various reasons, three franchises have left Ojai in the last six months. Radio Shack. Best Western. Union 76.

Casa Ojai Inn, as it is now known, is franchise free. According to Geoff Wells, "“After 28 years as a member of Best Western, we have decided to embrace Ojai’s desire for a franchise-free, small town atmosphere by separating ourselves from the Best Western label." Learn more. Right now they are offering discounts to celebrate the change. You can also follow them on Twitter.

I spoke to a young man at the Union 76 station on Maricopa and the reason for the change was they were having difficulty getting gas delivered from 76 and his contract allowed him to go independent without the franchise. At this time, they continue to get gas from 76 but the station is no longer branded.

What's important to remember is that all three businesses remain in tact without the franchise support. That leaves it up to us.

Posted by Kenley Neufeld at 07:45 AM | Permalink | Comments (5) | author bio

Reposted from ojaipeace.org, from OPC member Kris Young:

Dear Friends in the Ojai Valley, and others,

MoveOn.org has invited us to join hands across our Nation on Tuesday, December 8 at 5:30 to vigil for healthcare reform now, entitled “Cost of Delay”. We need to convey the unbearable costs of delaying healthcare reform.

I would be hosting a vigil in Ojai, but I will be in Ventura that evening for an executive board meeting for Citizens for Peaceful Resolutions, so I will join the vigil in Ventura.

Please consider standing up for yourself and for us for healthcare reform now by hosting a vigil in Ojai. It is so simple to host one of these events; simple online directions from MoveOn.

Create the vigil for any locality by going HERE!

In health and peace and citizen involvement,
Kris

Posted by evan austin at 01:12 PM | Permalink | Comments (0) | author bio

An Open Letter from Michael Moore to Obama re: sending more military, i.e. sons and daughters to Afghanistan

Posted by Raymond Powers at 12:35 PM | Permalink | Comments (2) | author bio

The Ojai Valley Democratic Club unanimously passed a Resolution at its November 23, 2009 general meeting asking the Ojai City Council to fill Joe DeVito’s seat with an election. DeVito resigned before his term was up next November and will leave office at the end of December 2009. Should the council not have an election, the Club asked the Council to appoint Leonard Klaif who lost by only 70 votes when DeVito’s seat was last up for election.

Continue reading "Ojai Democratic Club Wants Election to Fill DeVito Council Seat, or Appoint Leonard Klaif" »

Posted by Suza Francina at 01:43 PM | Permalink | Comments (2) | author bio

Note: The Aliso Street Bear was killed by the California Department of Fish and Game on Saturday night, October 10th, 2009. These past seven weeks there have been several interviews with Roland Takayama, the local head warden responsible for "dispatching the bear," in Ventura and Santa Barbara County Publications. My reponses to these interviews will follow in a separate Post. Here is an update from Assemblymember Pedro Nava.

FOR IMMEDIATE RELEASE
CONTACT: John D. Mann (916) 718-7420
November 24, 2009

Pedro Nava Releases Memorandum on Ojai Bear Incident and California Department of Fish & Game Tranquilization and Euthanizing Policies. Nava Asks for Public Input

Following a series of meetings with the California Department of Fish and Game (DFG), Assemblymember Pedro Nava (D-Santa Barbara) is requesting public input regarding the policies and actions that resulted in the euthanizing of a black bear in Ojai in October. A memo summarizing DFG’s policies and reasoning behind the decision to euthanize the bear follows below.

Continue reading "Pedro Nava Releases Memorandum on Ojai Bear Incident " »

Posted by Suza Francina at 01:19 PM | Permalink | Comments (19) | author bio

1. Select a tray(s) to prepare: mashed potatoes, dressing, green beans, or turkey.

2. Purchase food item(s) and large foil baking tray or pick up a tray at no cost from Ventura Missionary Church. Turkeys will also be available at no cost beginning 11/19 at Ventura Missionary. One tray should yield approximately 40 servings.

3. Prepare the dish* at home and place in full size foil baking tray.

4. Cover. Label. Refrigerate.

5. Deliver to rear entrance of the Knights of Columbus Hall at 36 Figueroa, downtown Ventura at 8:45am Thanksgiving morning.

*Turkeys are to be pulled and deboned right away, and immediately refrigerated.

More information and full event press release follows:

Continue reading "Save Thanksgiving!" »

Posted by evan austin at 03:01 PM | Permalink | Comments (0) | author bio

I've created a new resource page in the upper right called Ojai City News. I'll post items of interest, forms, deadlines, etc. There is a deadline coming up on evaluations of the City Manager and the City Attorney. If you would like to provide input, download and fill out the forms below, and return to a City Council member - NOT City Hall. Details on how to correspond are on the Ojai City News page and the City's website.

Ojai City Manager Evaluation (PDF)
Ojai City Attorney Evaluation (PDF)

Posted by Tyler Suchman at 09:55 AM | Permalink | Comments (1) | author bio

A few days ago I posted a video, What Can The (Seasonal) Flu Shot Do For You? The following article, "H1N1 Flu Vaccine: Will history repeat itself?" by Lauren Feder, M.D., is a follow-up to the video and Comments.

Dr. Feder writes: "On October 1, 2009 I attended the International Public Conference on Vaccination in Washington, D.C. where renowned experts spoke to approximately 600 participants from health professionals to families who had been affected by vaccine reactions. Although the theme centered on, "Show Us the Science & Give Us the Choice," the timing of this meeting coincided with the beginning of the flu season and the major concerns about the H1N1 flu (Swine Flu) and the new vaccine.

Continue reading "Ojai residents want to know, "H1N1 Flu: Will history repeat itself?"" »

Posted by Suza Francina at 06:36 AM | Permalink | Comments (49) | author bio

This note was sent via email by Clive and Marion Leeman of the Ojai Peace Vigil, 2007 recipients of the OPC’s Noble Peace Prize, and is originally posted at ojaipeace.org:

Dear Peace Friends,

Today, November 13, was the fifth anniversary of the Ojai Peace Vigil, which started one week after Bush won re-election in 2004.

By fortunate coincidence, we also received the first sign yesterday, Thursday, November 12, that a huge policy change in the Afghan War may be coming. News was leaked yesterday that U.S. Ambassador to Afghanistan, Karl Eikenberry, a retired general and former commander of U.S. and allied troops in Afghanistan, has been advising President Obama by email not to send any more U.S. troops to Afghanistan. Apparently, the president has now scrapped the four military options he has been considering, all entailing an increase in troops.

Just as intriguing is the news presented on The Rachel Maddow Show last night that President Obama has been reading Lessons In Disaster: McGeorge Bundy and the Path to War in Vietnam, by Gordon Goldstein, which demonstrates how JFK rejected the advice of his generals on Vietnam and took control of the decision-making process himself, and how LBJ acquiesced to the generals and ended up with a disaster.

Continue reading "Friday the 13th...A Day For Hope?" »

Posted by evan austin at 08:30 AM | Permalink | Comments (0) | author bio

http://www.youtube.com/watch?v=149Aa-ZYjcc

When you see this aired on national television, you will know the government is really concerned about your health.

Posted by Suza Francina at 06:27 AM | Permalink | Comments (12) | author bio

From Sue Williamson: Greetings all Bear Fans!

On Thursday, November 12, 7pm, we will be having our first organizational meeting to officially form the Ojai Wildlife League. The meeting will be held at Sacred Space Studio, 410 Bryant Circle, Suite A, in Ojai.

This meeting is for people who have the committment, interest, time and resources to do some level of work for this new organization.

This is your opportunity to have a say in how the wildlife of California are going to be treated!

Continue reading "Ojai Wildlife League Meeting, Thursday, Nov. 12, 2009" »

Posted by Suza Francina at 06:22 AM | Permalink | Comments (0) | author bio

It's a beautiful, sparkling, sunny autumn day here in the Ojai Valley. Three weeks have gone by since the death of the Aliso Street Bear. Some are saying, "Why all the fuss over one bear, when every day millions of other animals and people are suffering and dying?" That first Sunday morning, a few hours after I heard the bear crashing down from the tree, I knew at some level that my grief was not only for this individual bear, but for all the injustice and senseless death in the world.

The Ojai Bear Poems featured here are by local poets David Moody, Robert Peake, mt2 and Crow.

Ballad of the Aliso Street Bear
By David E. Moody, Ph.D.

I fear the two-legged creature
More than any other.
I know not why.
But my thirst
Drives me into his lair.

I wait until dark
When all his kind
Have gone into their caves
And my blackness
Blends into the night.

And there in the very heart of his land
I find where the two-legged creature
Keeps his supply of sacred water
A whole fountain of precious water
And I slake my aching thirst
To my heart's content.

Continue reading " Ojai Poetry: The Ballad of the Aliso Street Bear and Other Poems" »

Posted by Suza Francina at 09:56 AM | Permalink | Comments (8) | author bio

Malalai Joya and the Tale of 2 CNNs
http://www.commondreams.org/video/2009/10/30-1

Published on Friday, October 30, 2009 by AntiWar.com
Malalai Joya and the Tale of 2 CNNs
by Eric Garris

"The Bravest Woman in Afghanistan," Malalai Joya did two CNN interviews on Thursday. Joya is an elected member of the Afghanistan parliament who has been suspended for "insulting fellow members of parliament" in a television interview. She is articulate and firm in her position that the Western occupation is feeding the violence.

The first interview was broadcast on CNN (US). In the middle of the interview, as Joya made clear she opposed US occupation, interviewer Heidi Collins said "occupation would certainly be your word, a lot of people would take great issue with you calling the US presence in your country an ‘occupation'." Joya went on to defend her position as Collins' interrupted snidely. As Joya tried to respond to Collins, she was cut off.

Posted by Suza Francina at 08:56 AM | Permalink | Comments (6) | author bio

Today
Chapparal Auditorium
October 28, 2009 7:00pm-8:30pm

The Ojai Valley Green Coalition is now three years young, and the group would like you to help them celebrate on Wednesday, October 28, from 7 to 8:30 P.M. at Chaparral Auditorium, 414 E. Ojai Avenue in Ojai. Flyer Here
In addition to toasting the start of their fourth year with sparkling cider, they’ll be enjoying delicious organic cupcakes.

Continue reading "OJAI: YOU’RE INVITED TO A BIRTHDAY CELEBRATION!" »

Posted by Suza Francina at 08:38 AM | Permalink | Comments (0) | author bio

Thanks to Cory Sipper and her husband Brad, the OWL website is up:
www.ojaiwildlifeleague.com

The following is a good example of what you will learn from the website.

Being Bugged by a Bothersome Bear? Get Educated

Continue reading "Not sure what to do if you see a bear? Check out the Ojai Wildlife League OWL website" »

Posted by Suza Francina at 08:29 AM | Permalink | Comments (23) | author bio

The question has been raised as to whether or not Joe DeVito can vote to appoint his own successor. I was on the City Council the last time a council member was unable to complete her term. While this person was involved in the selection process, she did not actually vote, as the vote was taken after she left the council. A vacancy cannot be filled until there is actually a vacancy. If it turns ot that I am wrong about this, I will publish a correction here.

The time table on the City website http://www.ci.ojai.ca.us/ (Item 3 - Process to Fill Unexpired Council Term) states that the council plans to fill the vacancy December 8 or 15, while Devito is still in office. To learn more, come to the council meeting this Tuesday night.

Why I support Lenny Klaif
As a former mayor of the City of Ojai, I would like people to know why I support City Council candidate Leonard Klaif, either by appointment or special election.

Continue reading "Why I Support Ojai City Council Candidate Lenny Klaif " »

Posted by Suza Francina at 07:50 AM | Permalink | Comments (30) | author bio

Ojai City Council News: Following the announcement by Councilmember Joe De Vito that he is retiring at the end of the year, Ojai activists are stepping forward with a nomination.

It's official, Lenny Klaif has agreed to step forward to become our next City Council member. We are circulating a petition to the City Council asking them to appoint Lenny as Joe's replacement at the end of this year. As you may recall, Joe won the last election over Lenny by just a few votes, and the final count was not available for days after the election ended. I personally endorse Lenny and feel if he were on the council we would not have the problems with the Skate Park or the expensive law suit and delay in writing the chain store ordinance. Lenny is an attorney who knows how to stand up when it counts.

Continue reading "A Message from Ojai Resident Pat McPherson:"It's official, Lenny Klaif has agreed to step forward ..."" »

Posted by Suza Francina at 08:09 AM | Permalink | Comments (7) | author bio

From local attorney Leonard Klaif, who for years has been a frequent speaker at Ojai City Council meetings:

"When Joe Devito’s resignation becomes effective at the end of 2009, the City Council will either schedule a special election or appoint someone to complete the remainder of Joe’s term. In either case, I am a candidate. I love the City of Ojai, my home for nearly 20 years. I have attended City Council meetings for nearly that long as an outspoken advocate for the arts, for the skate park, the preservation of open spaces, and, in general, to preserve our small town charm. I have been a member of the Board of the Ojai Art Center for 15 years. I am an attorney, and can quickly read and understand the legal documents presented to the Council before each meeting."

Continue reading "Good News for Ojai: Len Klaif for City Council" »

Posted by Suza Francina at 05:10 AM | Permalink | Comments (16) | author bio

Note from Suza: Ann Bryant is executive director of the BEAR League of Lake Tahoe. Ojai resident Sue Williamson, one of the organizers of the Ojai Wildlife League, has discussed the Ojai incident extensively with Ann. To learn more, please join us at the Bear meeting tonight, 7:30 pm, Matilija Auditorium.

Bear's death due to Department of Fish & Game incompetence,

The beautiful but unfortunate bear who inadvertently ventured into Ojai recently should most certainly still be alive today and would be were it not for the inappropriate and woefully disturbing actions of a governmental agency --the Department of Fish and Game -- that answers to no one and blatantly disregards its own mission to protect California's wildlife.

Continue reading "Ojai Bear's Death Due to Department of Fish & Game Incompetence -- Guest Editorial by Ann Bryant " »

Posted by Suza Francina at 07:43 AM | Permalink | Comments (15) | author bio

http://www.sciencedaily.com/releases/2009/10/091020181257.htm

ScienceDaily (Oct. 21, 2009) — Young men who voted for Republican John McCain or Libertarian candidate Robert Barr in the 2008 presidential election suffered an immediate drop in testosterone when the election results were announced, according to a study by researchers at Duke University and the University of Michigan.

In contrast, men who voted for the winner, Democrat Barack Obama, had stable testosterone levels immediately after the outcome.

Female study participants showed no significant change in their testosterone levels before and after the returns came in.

Continue reading "From Science Daily: Presidential Election Outcome Changed Voters' Testosterone" »

Posted by Howard Smith at 04:40 PM | Permalink | Comments (1) | author bio

FOR IMMEDIATE RELEASE CONTACT: John D. Mann
Note from Suza: Pedro Nava is going to be running for the Attorney General of California--he was a prosecuting attorney and is an animal advocate.

Assemblymember Pedro Nava (D-Santa Barbara) sent a letter today to the Director of the California Department of Fish and Game (DFG) requesting a review of the Department’s policies in regards to tranquilizing and euthanizing wildlife that are deemed to be a public threat.

Earlier this week, DFG officials were contacted to respond to a large black bear that had climbed a tree in Ojai. The animal was ultimately tranquilized and euthanized.

Continue reading "Ojai Bear News: Pedro Nava Seeks Review of State Tranquilization and Euthanizing Policies" »

Posted by Suza Francina at 09:21 AM | Permalink | Comments (1) | author bio

Please join Sue Williamson, Tom Farmer and Chris Nottoli, three of the people forming the Ojai Wildlife League in an effort to bring together the people and organizations willing to prevent the deaths of wild animals who come into Ojai. Information is being sought and will be shared about the resources we have as a community to form effective strategies and organizations that can ensure public safety, educate the public about wild animal encounters and carry out non-lethal wildlife removal.

When: Thursday Oct. 22nd, 7:30 pm
Duration: 1 1/2 hours
Location: Matilija Jr. High School Auditorium, 703 El Paseo Road.

Format: Sue, Tom and Chris will share all of the specific information about the incident and give reports on how other communities and organizations handle such incidents.

Continue reading "Aliso Street Bear Incident Ojai Community Meeting - Thursday Oct. 22nd, 7:30 pm" »

Posted by Suza Francina at 03:58 PM | Permalink | Comments (15) | author bio

I just sat down with John Broesamle, President of the newly formed Ojai Valley Defense Fund, a 501c3 with a mission to "provide financial support to groups undertaking legal action to protect and sustain the environmental quality of the Ojai Valley for the public benefit." The OVDF will officially begin their campaign to raise $1,000,000 tomorrow at Ojai Day. Listen to my interview with John to find out if OVDF is looking to pick up where CPO left off, how they feel about affordable housing, whether they consider themselves a NIMBY and what threats they feel need to be acted upon. And stop by their booth tomorrow to find out more about them. Listen here.

Posted by Lisa Snider at 05:38 PM | Permalink | Comments (0) | author bio

The Council Chambers were overflowing. Every seat was taken. People were sitting on the floor. People were floating out the door. There was not enough room to hold all the outrage!

I wondered what Jere Kersnar, our City manager was thinking. He often has a smirk on his face, like a father who tolerates the foibles of his children. Tonight it was his fate to listen to testimony from two officers from Fish & Game, the Chief of Police, an animal rescuer, a pet psychic, a Chumash Elder, an avocado Rancher who has co-existed with bears for twenty years, a young boy who asked why couldn't there be a bear bag (or a net) at the bottom of the tree, and all the residents of Aliso and Signal and rest of Ojai who witnessed the Bear saga from beginning to the sad, tragic end.

Continue reading "Bears To Be On Future Ojai City Council Agenda" »

Posted by Suza Francina at 09:01 AM | Permalink | Comments (24) | author bio

Thanks to Ojai resident Cory Sipper for alerting me to the front page Ojai Bear story in today's Santa Barbara News-Press. Angel Pacheco, News-Press Staff Writer, reports new information that is critical in undertanding the full scope of what took place here in Ojai.

Here are some highlights:

" Fish and Game officials shot it with bean bags and tranquilizers, causing it to fall 40 feet to the ground, according to Julia Di Sieno, executive director of Animal Rescue Team Inc. Further shots were fired into the bear, which had been in the tree sleeping, she said.

"It's unbelievable what happened," said Ms. Di Sieno, who, as the incident was unfolding, offered her nonprofit group's trailer and cage to transport and hold the bear. She also reportedly offered to bring a veterinarian to the area. Ms. Di Sieno said while sheriff's officials were on board with her idea to hold the bear, Fish and Game personnel would not speak with her once they took over the scene...

Continue reading "New Information on Ojai Bear Story Reported On Front Page of Santa Barbara News Press" »

Posted by Suza Francina at 11:06 AM | Permalink | Comments (40) | author bio

Part One in a series on the Ojai Community's response to a killing of a black bear in Ojai.

One of the most misunderstood of all creatures is the bear. Like so many other Ojai residents I am filled with sorrow and anger over the killing of a black bear who climbed a tree on Aliso Street, a residential street in downtown Ojai, a few miles away from the mountains that surround the Ojai Valley.

This is not the first bear that has been killed in recent years in the neighborhoods of our valley, but we hope that it will be the last.

In our efforts to prevent this from happening again in the future, a group of concerned citizens is in the process of educating themselves about the habits of black bears, the statewide policies of the Department of Fish & Game's policy on bear encounters, and local law enforcement, as well as how other communities are handling the problems that arise when bears show up in residential neighborhoods.

The constructive idea of an "Ojai Bear Commission," has also been proposed, and will be included in this series.

Continue reading "More Ojai Residents Speak Out About the Killing of the Aliso Street Bear " »

Posted by Suza Francina at 04:08 AM | Permalink | Comments (7) | author bio

Joe DeVito, long-time Ojai City Councilman, has announced his last day on the council will be December 31.

I spoke to Steve McClary, Assistant to the City Manager, who confirmed. The council will need to either appoint someone in Joe's place or call a special election, with all the costs that incurs, and will need to do so within 30 days of the effective date, so roughly the end of January.

The council will most like take up this discussion in two weeks, on October 27th. We'll hopefully have a statement from Joe DeVito shortly.

Posted by Tyler Suchman at 01:47 PM | Permalink | Comments (21) | author bio

"After court decisions in Arizona eroded the state’s longstanding immunity from being sued over the actions of wild animals, lawyers began obtaining large verdicts from public managers over humans’ harmful encounters with wildlife — with the result that managers began moving to a “when in doubt, take it doubt” policy of slaughtering wild creatures that might pose even a remote threat to people. The continuing results of the policy came in for some public discussion after a bear wandered into a residential area near Rumsey Park in Payson, Ariz. and was euthanized by Arizona Game and Fish personnel.

Continue reading "The bear’s death warrant? Public liability." »

Posted by Suza Francina at 05:17 PM | Permalink | Comments (5) | author bio

On this day in 1940, John Lennon was born. Today, 69 years later - and 29 years after his murder - many people around the world still consider him a cultural icon and hero, and his songs still find meaning, particularly within the struggle for peace.

In other recent news:
NASA bombed the moon last night, in search of water. The explosion was intended to send up a plume through which a special spacecraft would fly, hoping to detect water particles. The hope being that where there's water, there may be life...to which i respond, "So WHAT?" Here's my fear: finding any scrap of water/life on the Moon may allow us to more legitimately imagine moon colonies, which further separates us from the urgent need to manage the population and planet we ALREADY HAVE.

President Obama receives Nobel Peace Prize while waging two wars. It's a shocker to many...my early read of things is that most people of all stripes think it a little heavy and premature and cheapens the value of the award (though possibly improving the U.S.'s image), while smaller pockets of fanatics continue to hail Obama as either the messiah or satan. This NYTimes article seems to do a good job of describing the challenges and options on the President's table relative to Afghanistan. The Nobel Committee's own literature and a statement by Chairman Jagland remind us that the Prize has historically been given sometimes as an incentive to continue peace work that one has begun, not necessarily in recognition of goals accomplished.

Posted by evan austin at 09:51 AM | Permalink | Comments (11) | author bio

WHAT: 6th Annual Earth Charter Summit Celebration and Awards Presentations. FREE admission and refreshments.

WHEN: Saturday, October 10, 2009, 3:00 p.m.

WHERE: Ventura College Guthrie Hall. Event co-sponsor: Ventura College International Studies Program. Directions to Ventura College and campus map.

BACKGROUND: The CPR-endorsed Earth Charter is a UN-commissioned declaration of principles for building a just, sustainable, and peaceful global society for the 21st century.

CPR, in conjunction with VC's International Studies Program, coordinates Ventura County's annual Earth Charter Summit and presents Earth Charter Awards to those community activists who best embody the Earth Charter's core values. Please join us in celebrating the Earth Charter and honoring the 8 local heroes and sheroes selected as this year's Ventura County ambassadors of Earth Charter Principles:

Continue reading "Sixth Annual Earth Charter Awards Honor Local Activists" »

Posted by evan austin at 10:35 PM | Permalink | Comments (1) | author bio

For me, this article brings to question if a town's economy is based on tourism, yet the rate of consumption isn't sustainable, what other options are there to maintain the fiscal budget so the infrastructure remains strong.

http://news.bbc.co.uk/2/hi/science/nature/8273791.stm

Posted by Raymond Powers at 11:52 PM | Permalink | Comments (0) | author bio

UPDATE 6:15pm 9_25 below the fold
Mac is out of the city of Pittsburgh and on the way back to Cleveland to visit his family. He promises to write up a full report of his experiences and analysis later this evening and I'll be posting that as soon as I get it. Just finished looking at the G20 Conference accord and the first thing that strikes me is that they claim they are interested in re-regulating the financial sector. Well, yeah. That's the smart move based on the collapse of the global economy and the political pressure. BUT, they also say that the what's known as the Doha Round of the WTO, their last meeting that ended in failure, should be adopted. The Doha Round called for total deregulation of the financial sector. I'm sorry, but those two positions are mutually exclusive and they cannot be inhabited simultaneously. They may be able to close down an entire American city, ship in 5,000 cops from all over the country and deploy a combat hardened National Guard battalion to stop like 6,000 kids from annoying them, but they can't be for continued deregulation of capital and re-regulation of capital. More later...

The Ojai Post is lucky enough to actually have a person on the ground with the protesters. My good friend Mac Lojowsky has arrived in Pittsburgh this evening and he will be updating me with photos, and his impressions from the scene. Mac Lojowsky is a freelance journalist who has covered and participated in the global justice movement since 1999. He is a graduate of the Evergreen State College and makes his living as a carpenter. After the break is his first dispatch from Pittsburgh from earlier this evening.

Continue reading "G20 - Live Blog from Mac Lojowsky - UPDATE 6:15 pm 9_25" »

Posted by Sean P. Keenan at 01:49 PM | Permalink | Comments (10) | author bio

Imagine a healthcare system that:

• offers affordable healthcare to all American citizens
• does not deny coverage to any American due to preexisting conditions, or cancels coverage because of a catastrophic condition
• enables you to see any doctor of your choosing
• has no insurance paperwork whatsoever for patients or doctors – no forms, claims -- nothing
• offers instant approval and reimbursement – no fights with insurance companies
• offers a net decrease in health costs for most Americans
• offers a substantial decrease in health costs for most major employers
• significantly reduces state contributions to Medicaid, freeing up badly needed money for other needs
• is not socialized medicine, but is a uniquely American system that promotes free market competition, efficiency, and healthy living

Continue reading "Debit card Healthcare - One American’s answer to the healthcare crisis" »

Posted by Todd Miller at 10:46 AM | Permalink | Comments (2) | author bio

The vision for the forum is to create an annual international gathering on the New Economy in Ojai. Imagining into the new economy is focused on creating a sustainable future for ourselves and generations to come. We are not trying to fix the old but rather exploring new models and approaches, such as complementary currencies, mutual credit system, new investment tools, governance, and communications that builds healthy communities.
http://www.ojaiforum.com/

Friday, September 25th

5pm – Ojai Theater

Program: What is the global perspective on the new economy? Solutions from a whole systems approach lead directly to a local living economy.

Hazel Henderson: Ethical Markets (live via video feed)
Stuart Valentine, Iowa Progressive Asset Management
Rinaldo Brutoco, World Business Academy

Hazel is the author of Ethical Markets: Growing the Green Economy (2006). A consultant on sustainable development in over 30 countries and a syndicated columnist. She is an advocate for socially responsible business and investment. As founder of Ethical Markets Media she also produces a public television series.

Continue reading "Ojai Forum on the New Economy Starts Friday!" »

Posted by Howard Smith at 08:20 PM | Permalink | author bio

From the fine folk at Made In Ojai...

Made In Ojai - Artisans & Mercantile invites you to celebrate its first year in business with a birthday party this Sunday, September 27 from 4-8 PM on the patio behind the store, 323 E. Matilija Street in Ojai. There will be live music, dancing, refreshments, local authors signing books, and more.

Continue reading "Made In Ojai - Artisans & Mercantile Birthday Party" »

Posted by Tyler Suchman at 10:36 AM | Permalink | Comments (1) | author bio

The vision for the forum is to create an annual international gathering on the New Economy in Ojai. Imagining into the new economy is focused on creating a sustainable future for ourselves and generations to come. We are not trying to fix the old but rather exploring new models and approaches, such as complementary currencies, mutual credit system, new investment tools, governance, and communications that builds healthy communities.

You are invited to participate in a deep exploration into the design of an action-based road map leading to new models for a vibrant economy in Ojai and beyond. The confluence of various tipping points in global, national and local economies have come together to provide an extraordinary opening for innovation and positive social change.

http://www.ojaiforum.com/

Schedule:

Continue reading "Ojai Forum on the New Economy: Updated Schedule of Events" »

Posted by Howard Smith at 01:12 PM | Permalink | author bio

Guest Editorial by John van Houten, M.D.

The city of Ojai has made a concerted effort to become a “green” city in the past few years. However, it has ignored one very effective way to be more environmentally responsible, and that is by promoting cycling as an alternative form of transportation.

Ojai is a haven for recreational cyclists and even pro level cycling teams due in large part to our beautiful terrain and agreeable year round weather. However, there is no support for cycling as a form of daily transportation.

Continue reading " It's About the Bike: A Doctor's Prescription for a Healthy, Wealthy and Green Ojai " »

Posted by Suza Francina at 06:41 AM | Permalink | Comments (4) | author bio

From Steve Bennett's office... the documents can be downloaded from the Ojai MAC Archive:

Agenda and Planning Division staff report for next Monday's meeting. Note that the agenda has a link to the County website where the full text of the proposal and map of proposed SRP zone expansion can be found. The map can be enlarged to show individual property lines.

Posted by Tyler Suchman at 10:36 AM | Permalink | Comments (0) | author bio

You are invited to participate in a deep exploration into the design of an action-based road map leading to new models for a vibrant economy in Ojai and beyond. The confluence of various tipping points in global, national and local economies have come together to provide an extraordinary opening for innovation and positive social change.

The vision for the forum is to create an annual international gathering on the New Economy in Ojai. Imagining into the new economy is focused on creating a sustainable future for ourselves and generations to come. We are not trying to fix the old but rather exploring new models and approaches, such as complementary currencies, mutual credit system, new investment tools, governance, and communications that builds healthy communities.
http://www.ojaiforum.com/

Schedule:

Continue reading "Ojai Forum on the New Economy: Schedule of Events" »

Posted by Howard Smith at 07:39 PM | Permalink | author bio

As you've seen here on the Post, and in numerous media outlets including KABC-7, the Ventura County Star and Pacific Coast Business Times, The Ojai Economy Group is moving forward on initiatives to strengthen the local economy, including a community currency (aka Ojai Bucks) and The Ojai Forum (Sept 25-27).

I encourage you to join us for the interactive conversation, learn about the "New Economy", ask good questions, and roll up your sleeves to help us enact initiatives that are designed to aid all of us.

www.OjaiForum.com - register for the Ojai Forum.
www.OjaiEconomy.com - bookmark the main site.
OEG on Facebook - become a Fan!
OEG on Twitter - follow us.
OEG on YouTube - Subscribe to the channel.

Read on for a detailed open letter to the community from former Ojai mayor Ellen Hall, a member of the Ojai Economy Group and co-organizer of the Ojai Forum.

Continue reading "Exploring New Economic Models for Ojai" »

Posted by Tyler Suchman at 11:18 AM | Permalink | Comments (1) | author bio

http://www.ojaiforum.com/

You are invited to participate in a deep exploration into the design of an action-based road map leading to new models for a vibrant economy in Ojai and beyond. The confluence of various tipping points in global, national and local economies have come together to provide an extraordinary opening for innovation and positive social change.

The vision for the forum is to create an annual international gathering on the New Economy in Ojai. Imagining into the new economy is focused on creating a sustainable future for ourselves and generations to come. We are not trying to fix the old but rather exploring new models and approaches, such as complementary currencies, mutual credit system, new investment tools, governance, and communications that builds healthy communities.

http://www.ojaiforum.com/

Presenters:

Joshua Addison - Bell Arts Factory
Ojai Community Bank
Rinaldo Brutoco - World Business Academy
Roger Collis - Ojai Economy Group, Meditation Mount
Susan Davis - Capital Missions Company
Dulanie Ellis - Ojai Valley Green Coalition
Tim Gallagher - Gallagher 20/20, previously Ventura County Star
Tim Hall - Eco Ranchos
David Hedman, ThermaPure
Hazel Henderson - Futurist, Ethical Markets
Michael Lind - REC Solar
Michael Lindfield - Meditation Mount
Ted Moore - ICEL
Zhena Muzyka - Zhena’s Gypsy Tea
Stephen Nellis - Pacific Coast Business Times
Bill O’Brien - Hawkes and Associates
Lena Robinson - San Francisco Federal Reserve
Mary Anne Rooney, Global Entrepreneur Training in Trade
Carrie Rosenbloom - eMommy
Dave Smith - Ventura County United Way
Howard Smith - Morgan Stanley Smith Barney
Bruce Stenslie - Economic Development Collaborative - Ventura County
Ava Stern - Rainbow Vision, Santa Fe
Tyler Suchman - Ojai Economy Group, The Ojai Post
Julie Tumamait - Chumash Elder
Stuart Valentine - Iowa Progressive Asset Management
Thayne Whipple - Ojai Economy Group
Jodi Womack - The Womack Company, No More Nylons
Ken Wright - Showerminder

http://www.ojaiforum.com/

Continue reading "Ojai Forum on the New Economy - Register Now!" »

Posted by Howard Smith at 11:15 AM | Permalink | Comments (3) | author bio

PROMISES explores the nature of boundaries and tells the story of a few children who dared to cross the lines to meet their neighbors. Rather than focusing on political events, the seven children featured in PROMISES offer a refreshing, human and sometimes humorous portrait of the Palestinian-Israeli conflict.

Living Peace in Ojai's 2009 film series presents PROMISES at the Ojai Playhouse on Saturday September 12, 2009 at 4:30pm, by donation. Please join us.

Posted by evan austin at 12:06 AM | Permalink | Comments (2) | author bio

The time for glitz and feel-good campaign/advertising rhetoric is over. Now we need to hear definitively what our new President is really all about.

Will he come out and support real change and reform of the health care system or will he abandon the Progressives and the people who worked so hard to get him elected last year? In short,

Will he be FDR

or will he be Grover Cleveland

It's all up to him.

Continue reading "Obama's Defining Speech Tonight! 5PM UPDATED - EPIC !" »

Posted by Sean P. Keenan at 03:45 PM | Permalink | Comments (78) | author bio

Check this out thrill ride.... Filmed from a motorcycle going up Maricopa Highway, Route 33, from just before the Double Tunnels to just past the Rose Valley turn off, you will dodge Gravel Trucks coming out from behind blind curves...

During these ten minutes you will pass no less than 5 double hoppers, most of which are clearly and dangerously crossing over the double yellow lines. That's one truck every 2 minutes!

The first three appear at about 1:50 (one minute, 50 seconds in). The fourth appears around blind curve at around 8:25. The fifth also crosses over the double yellow line at around 9:50.

You can advance the player if you want or just watch the whole thing from the bottom of the mountain to the top. We suggest you turn your volume way down low!

Also, you can blow up to a Full Screen view (pretty wild!) by hitting the Google View tab at the bottom right of the Flash Player.

Continue reading "Stop the "Gravel" Trucks: Live Video of Gravel Trucks Racing Down Maricopa Highway" »

Posted by Howard Smith at 04:14 PM | Permalink | Comments (1) | author bio

You are invited to participate in a deep exploration into the design of an action-based road map leading to new models for a vibrant economy in Ojai and beyond. The confluence of various tipping points in global, national and local economies have come together to provide an extraordinary opening for innovation and positive social change.

The vision for the forum is to create an annual international gathering on the New Economy in Ojai. Imagining into the new economy is focused on creating a sustainable future for ourselves and generations to come. We are not trying to fix the old but rather exploring new models and approaches, such as complementary currencies, mutual credit system, new investment tools, governance, and communications that builds healthy communities.

Presenters: Lena Robinson (San Francisco Federal Reserve), David Brubaker (Ojai Community Bank), Tim Gallagher (Gallagher 20/20, Ventura County Star), Stephen Nellis (Pacific Coast Business Times), Rinaldo Brutoco (World Business Academy), Bruce Stenslie (Economic Development Collaborative), Dave Smith (Ventura County United Way), Stuart Valentine (Iowa Progressive Asset Management), Hazel Henderson via live satellite remote, many more.

http://www.ojaiforum.com/

Continue reading "Ojai Forum on the New Economy, " »

Posted by Howard Smith at 03:37 PM | Permalink | author bio

Continue reading "Ojai Economic Forum, September 25th - 27th" »

Posted by Howard Smith at 02:53 PM | Permalink | author bio

AN ARTICLE THAT JUST APPEARED IN SCIENCE DAILY CONFIRMS SOME OF OUR GREATEST FEARS.

Damage to our air quality is one of the reasons the Coalition has been opposed to gravel trucks traveling through the Ojai Valley on their way from the Cuyama valley to Oxnard and Ventura. Ojai has what is known as a "closed" air shed, which means that pollutants collect here in the valley and remain trapped. Despite appearances that might suggest otherwise, Ojai has some of the worst air quality in the County.

Scientists have demonstrated that the link between diesel fume exposure and cancer lies in the ability of diesel exhaust to induce the growth of new blood vessels that serve as a food supply for solid tumors.

Continue reading "Stop the "Gravel" Trucks: Diesel Exhaust Linked To Cancer" »

Posted by Howard Smith at 06:37 PM | Permalink | Comments (3) | author bio

Guest Editorial by Marty Fast, a former 4-H leader who lives in Ojai

The Ventura County Fair is over. What happened to the 4-H pet market animals? Most of them have been transported to the slaughterhouse. How many of the 4-H animal owners accompanied their pets to the slaughterhouse? How many of the 4-H pet owners have ever been to a slaughterhouse to witness the horrific process of slaughter?

Continue reading "Fair No Fun for 4-H Pet Market Animals, but Happy Ending For One Lucky Pig" »

Posted by Suza Francina at 05:54 AM | Permalink | Comments (4) | author bio

from the fine folk at OMF...

Artistic Director Thomas W. Morris re-caps successful 63rd Ojai Music Festival and presents updates on the 2010 season; award-winning journalist Doug McLennan is special guest speaker.

The Annual General Meeting of Ojai Festivals, Ltd. will be held on Saturday, September 12, at Suzanne’s Cuisine in Ojai. An optional sit-down lunch will begin at 12:30 pm with the general meeting commencing at 1 pm.

Continue reading "Ojai Music Festival - Annual Meeting" »

Posted by Tyler Suchman at 08:15 AM | Permalink | Comments (0) | author bio

...not unusual for Ojai, mind you. But as compared to similarly-themed gatherings across our nation, Friday night's town hall meeting was marked by order and respect that we can and should be VERY proud of.

From the Ventura County Star article by Tom Kishen:

Amid rallies and forums across the country that have sometimes been angry and often accusatory, the Ojai event was different from the beginning. Organizer Kristofer Young, a holistic chiropractor, asked the about 80 participants to stand if they wanted a respectful meeting. Everyone did.

Ojai citizens will rally at the Y from 5-7pm on Monday August 31st for healthcare reform.

A town hall meeting on healthcare reform will take place in Ventura on Monday August 31st at 7pm in the Topping Room of the E.P. Foster Library, 651 East Main Street.

Posted by evan austin at 08:44 AM | Permalink | Comments (7) | author bio

The Ojai Economy Group, and the upcoming 2009 Ojai Forum on the New Economy, were covered recently by the Ojai Valley News.

One big correction - "ojai bucks" (working title) will NOT cost more than the dollar equivalent! Anyway there is an anonymous merchant who thinks that local economic development is communist. Go figure.

Visit the Ojai Forum to find out more and register!

Posted by Tyler Suchman at 11:34 AM | Permalink | Comments (1) | author bio

The Ojai Valley Democratic Club invites you to Join us today, Monday 24th at the Health Care Reform Rally at the Y in front of Vons ( Maricopa and the 33) between 5pm and 6.30pm.

Bring signs if you have them!

THEN

Join us for the political satire "Bob Roberts" at The Village Jester

LOCATION: The Village Jester, 139 E Ojai Ave

COST: $12 for simple menu and one drink!

Posted by Sean P. Keenan at 01:21 PM | Permalink | Comments (0) | author bio

From neighbor Kris:

Hello Friends in the Valley!
 
I am the lead organizer for Citizens for Peaceful Resolutions, the Ojai Peace Coalition, Organizing for America, and Health Care for America Now, in creating a Town Hall Meeting on Healthcare Reform this Friday, the 28th of August from 7-9 PM at Chaparral Auditorium.
 
I hope that you will come to the meeting. I hope that you will actually be responsible for making sure that 5 other people actually come to the meeting . I hope that at least 500 people show up. The room won’t hold 500; that is the point. Our current health (disease) system won’t hold us either. We need to spill out peacefully into the street. We need to be seen. We need to be counted. We need to be heard. But, will you be there? And will your 5 be there?
 
Now is the time! Let us make it happen! You know that we cannot go on paying double for second rate healthcare in this Country.
 
These are groups and bodies that need to be notified and invited; Ojai City Council, Board of Education, Food for Thought, the Green Coalition, and every organized faith in the Valley. Who else?
 
Please post here if you will attend. Feel free to post the names of your 5 friends that will be attending. Please post the groups and individuals that you will be contacting. Don’t worry about groups or individuals being invited by 20 different people. All that does is show the interest and involvement.
 
Please shake it up peacefully. We need change now.
 
See you on Friday the 28th at 7 PM.
 
In cooperation,
Kris
Kristofer Young, DC

[You can also RSVP through Facebook]

Posted by evan austin at 10:12 AM | Permalink | Comments (19) | author bio

The Ojai Forum is co-presented by the Ojai Economy Group and Meditation Mount - the theme for this first annual forum is "Healthy Local Communities, Civic Engagement and Global Sustainability."

September 25-27
Venues: Meditation Mount, Ojai Art Center, Ojai Theater

Speakers and Overview after the jump...

Continue reading "The 2009 Ojai Forum on the New Economy" »

Posted by Tyler Suchman at 10:44 PM | Permalink | Comments (17) | author bio

At first I thought it was some clever ploy.

Orchestrated by those who understand the problem and the solution.

Here’s what we’ll do, they said. We’ll float the idea of “single-payer”. We’ll get the insurance companies, drug companies and other assorted political contributors to wail, moan and decry the takeover of health care by the inefficient socialists who run government.

We’ll repeat, over and over, that health care in the U.S. is half again as costly as any other civilized country, produces no better results, and fails to provide adequate care to one out of seven of its citizens.

Continue reading "What health care reform?" »

Posted by Fred Rothenberg at 01:14 PM | Permalink | Comments (24) | author bio

CLICK THE IMAGE to go straight to the nomination page, hosted right here on the OP!

Posted by evan austin at 07:56 PM | Permalink | Comments (1) | author bio

Today is auction day for the 4-H market animals at the Ventura County Fair. Yesterday, I had another talk with a friend who has been involved with 4-H since childhood. He knows everything that happens to each kind of animal from beginning to end. I do my best to be respectful of his views. But at one point in our conversation, when he was questioning why I want to save the llife of the lamb he has raised, I heard myself say, "Just imagine if the lamb were a dog. Then you would undertand how I feel."

Continue reading "Today is Auction Day for the 4-H Animals." »

Posted by Suza Francina at 06:49 AM | Permalink | Comments (17) | author bio

FOR MORE INFORMATION GO TO: www.ojaieconomy.com/2009-ojai-forum/

Continue reading "Ojai Economic Forum - SAVE THE DATE!" »

Posted by Howard Smith at 06:22 PM | Permalink | author bio

Guest Editorial by Marty Fast, a former 4-H leader who lives in Ojai

Once again this year, the 4-H animals are on display at the Ventura County Fair. Many of these animals return home once the fair is over, but what happens to the pigs and other market animals? Market pigs begin their life with great pain and suffering. Procedures such as castration, tail docking and ear notching are all done with no painkillers or anesthesia.

Continue reading "4-H Kids and Their Animals: the Ultimate Betrayal at the Fair" »

Posted by Suza Francina at 10:49 PM | Permalink | Comments (9) | author bio

From Steve Offerman in Supervisor Steve Bennett's office... documents are the two most recent on the Ojai Post MAC Archive page.

Greetings-

The agenda for the August 17th MAC meeting and the staff report from the Planning Division on the Scenic Resource Protection issue are attached.

This is intended to be the final MAC approval meeting for this substantial package of new scenic resource protection policies for the Ojai Valley.

Steve

Posted by Tyler Suchman at 09:45 PM | Permalink | Comments (0) | author bio

Dear Suza,

I have been reading your articles about 4-H kids. I understand why they should not send their animals to the slaughterhouse.

What I am about to tell you here are events that actually transpired, as accurate as my memory can recall. I could never in my life think up anything like this.

Several years ago I was living on a five-hundred acre ranch right in the middle of the Wind River Indian Reservation, a hundred miles east of the Grand Teton Park in Western Wyoming. I was trading my husbandry talents and the feeding and care of fifty horses and mules, plus summer time irrigating of all the pastures, in exchange for a nice ranch house and the use of any of the stock I wanted to ride. For me and my many dogs and cats, it was ideal.

Continue reading "Why 4-H Kids Should Not Send Their Animals to the Slaughterhouse" »

Posted by Suza Francina at 03:01 PM | Permalink | Comments (42) | author bio

I watered the olive trees yesterday. My ritual includes turning on the water, grabbing drip system replacement parts, and checking the 1/2 inch line and emitters for leaks. It’s been a really dry year. Even drier for the critters who amuse themselves by chewing into the lines looking for water. Can’t blame them, but that doesn’t stop me from screaming epithets as I struggle with the repairs. On the other hand, it’s a little cathartic standing alone in the middle of the trees and saying whatever I like.

Sort of like the opponents of health care reform. The only difference between them and me is that somebody can hear them.

Continue reading "Health Care Critters" »

Posted by Fred Rothenberg at 01:45 PM | Permalink | Comments (0) | author bio

With the Ojai Economy Group receiving so much press, and with so many questions from the community about the group and its plans, I thought I would take the opportunity to share more about it. I'll try to be as accurate as possible, but I don't "represent" the OEG as anything but a member of the core group, and welcome any clarification or correction.

First of all, a little housekeeping - following are some links with action items. Would you be so kind as to do the following, wherever you are signed up?

www.OjaiEconomy.com - bookmark the main site.
OEG on Facebook - become a Fan!
OEG on Twitter - follow us.
OEG on YouTube - Subscribe to the channel.

Continue reading "About the Ojai Economy Group" »

Posted by Tyler Suchman at 12:10 PM | Permalink | Comments (20) | author bio

I was rowing yesterday. Not on Lake Casitas. In the house on the rowing machine in front of the TV. It’s a chore that’s made bearable when there’s something good on the screen. Like news that’s actually news or a movie that I haven’t seen three or four hundred times.

I often wonder why people keep paying the cable companies outrageous fees for the privilege of seeing the same flick run over and over and over again. And then I remember that I’m one of those fools.

Luckily, I stumbled on The Girl in the Cafe. A 2005 made-for-TV movie starring one of my favorite actors, Bill Nighy. Not a household name, but an actor whose versatility is extraordinary. Whether as the vicious, overpowering chief vampire in Underworld or, as an introverted, somewhat pathetic bureaucrat in The Girl in the Cafe, Nighy tends to steal the screen whenever he appears.

In Cafe, Nighy is a third level bean-counter attending a G8 conference in Iceland. As a result of a chance encounter, he is accompanied by a young woman, played by Kelly Macdonald, whose background is a bit hazy. At the conference, the G8 wrestles with the tragedy that afflicts millions of African children who die needlessly from malnutrition. The conferees agree that something must be done. But they are reluctant to negatively impact their own economies by providing financial aid to the suffering masses.

Continue reading "Shame on us..." »

Posted by Fred Rothenberg at 08:45 AM | Permalink | Comments (0) | author bio

Posted by Howard Smith at 04:08 PM | Permalink | author bio

Bonus: Tyler Suchman sighting!
[UPDATE] YouTube video more easily embedded!:

Posted by evan austin at 08:45 AM | Permalink | Comments (8) | author bio

(This post contains a guest post emailed to me by a friend who wishes to remain anonymous, but first I have to set the stage)

The fact that the Blue-Dog(Blue Cross) Democratic Caucus and Senators like Baucus(Hey, that rhymes) can block meaningful health care reform is a disturbing outrage. Now, the situation is extremely fluid and big things are afoot. The Progressive Caucus has come out to block any bill in the house that has a watered down "Public Option." We need to support those Representatives and tell them to fight for us.

Go HERE to help support the people in the House who are fighting for us.

Continue reading "Now is the time to be heard on Health Care Reform" »

Posted by Sean P. Keenan at 12:25 PM | Permalink | Comments (28) | author bio

The following is a message from Skate Ojai

Your patience and support for the new Ojai permanent skate park have been tremendous. Hopefully, you are as tired of all the emails, city council & school board meetings, and talk, talk, talk, as we are.

The saga goes on and the School District is truly now trying to stop this project.

Please read the recent article in the View entitled, Oh What a Tangled Web We Weave, When at First We Practice to Deceive. It spells out what the scenario might really be as we go into Year Two of this effort.

During the last year the School Board has written several times in the paper that they do not want the new skate park located there due to excessive drug use and vandalism. Recently we acquired the crime statistics from the Ventura County Sheriff's Department.

Continue reading "Skate Ojai Saga Continues: Year Two" »

Posted by Kenley Neufeld at 07:36 AM | Permalink | Comments (9) | author bio

Two more articles to add to the lively debate right here on the Ojai Post.

Study: World to Warm Faster Than Predicted

New estimate based on the forthcoming upturn in solar activity and El Niño southern oscillation cycles is expected to silence global warming sceptics

by Duncan Clark

The world faces a new period of record-breaking temperatures as the sun's activity increases, leading the planet to heat up significantly faster than scientists had predicted over the next five years, according to a new study.

Continue reading "Ojai's Lively Debate on Global Warming: World to Warm Faster Than Predicted In Next Five Years, Study Warns " »

Posted by Suza Francina at 09:58 PM | Permalink | Comments (1) | author bio

"All I know is what I read in the newspaper," said Will Rogers. If I believed this too, then the recent article in the July issue of the Ojai Ventura View* would concern me.

The delays to get the skate park built bring up some serious questions that need to be addressed. Some people say other cities have built a skate park in less than a year from inception to ribbon cutting. So why does it take Ojai so long? Is it because we don’t have the resources or expertise to manage such a project, or is it a delay tactic as is suggested by the View? This is a simple project compared to what is in store for us to raise money and remodel the Bowl, and raises serious questions whether the City is capable of undertaking such a project.

Continue reading "Guest Editorial by Pat McPherson:"Why does it take Ojai so long to build a skate park?"" »

Posted by Suza Francina at 04:30 PM | Permalink | Comments (3) | author bio

For a long time now I have been wondering who else in Ojai subscribes (free) to Common Dreams. Common Dreams has become my number one source of "News." Here are the Headlines from their week-end ediition. If you wonder why we are in Afghanistan, be sure to read:
Malalai Joya: The Big Lie of Afghanistan
http://www.commondreams.org/view/2009/07/26

Headlines.

Revealed: Secret Climate Change Evidence Bush Tried to Hide
http://www.commondreams.org/headline/2009/07/26

Continue reading "Where do you get your news? CommonDreams.org" »

Posted by Suza Francina at 12:19 PM | Permalink | Comments (35) | author bio

http://www.ojaieconomy.com/2009-ojai-forum/

Continue reading "2009 Ojai Forum on the New Economy - Save The Date" »

Posted by Howard Smith at 12:08 PM | Permalink | author bio

As I write this the California Assembly is voting for the bills that will implement the Governor and the minority Republican's ALL-CUTS-BUDGET. The Democrats in the Assembly are caving in and passing this thing which will steal from local and county governments and allow new oil drilling off Santa Barbara among other horrible things. The State Senate already passed all the bills and went on vacation. The Assembly is the only thing standing in front of the Closing of California, and the Democrats just do not have the courage or the wits to stop this. We are witnessing the drowning of the state of CA in a bathtub. Hope you enjoy the future oil spills. It is a very sad day for my home state.

Posted by Sean P. Keenan at 02:52 PM | Permalink | Comments (16) | author bio

Once upon a time, in the kingdom of US, a great calamity fell upon the land. A pestilence so mighty that all of the people in the kingdom were afflicted.

King Bama gathered his council, lords of the kingdom, wise men, and even those with whom the Black King did not always see eye to eye. They assembled in the Great Hall of the White Castle.

The King began. “Woe is US. This pestilence shall be our undoing unless some noble and worthy actions are taken to defeat it. It afflicts the best and worst of us. And, yea, we have spent most of the royal treasury battling it without respite.”

Continue reading "A Fairy Tale" »

Posted by Fred Rothenberg at 03:56 PM | Permalink | Comments (2) | author bio

from Calitics on Sunday:

And so the budget drama hurtles toward its inevitable conclusion, perhaps as soon as tomorrow. Democrats have caved and given Arnold Schwarzenegger what he wanted - a cuts-only budget that does massive and lasting damage to the state of California, to the people who live here, and to our collective future...

In the coming days we will hear Democratic legislators claiming this is some sort of victory - that Cal-WORKS wasn't eliminated, that California can again pay its bills. These are hollow, pyrrhic victories. The raid on local government funds will ensure dozens of cities go bankrupt and will lead to reckless public safety cuts, especially to firefighters. Schools are going to get another hit without any firm guarantee that they will be repaid - we haven't seen details of the "agreement" to repay the $9.5 billion schools are owed, but Arnold seems to have won the battle to prevent repayment from becoming a constitutional mandate, meaning that repayment shouldn't be counted on until the checks are actually cut.

Posted by Tyler Suchman at 01:40 PM | Permalink | Comments (0) | author bio

Yesterday, Saturday evening, the Ojai Economy Group co-sponsored an economic event entitled Global Economic Dissolution & Evolution: A Creative Dialogue on Emerging Opportunities. Representatives from the World Business Academy, Progressive Asset Management and Morgan Stanley Smith Barney convened at Meditation Mount in Ojai, CA for a provocative evening of dialogue and inquiry exploring the green shoots of economic recovery and opportunities rising from the ashes of the recent global meltdown.

Posted by Tyler Suchman at 01:53 AM | Permalink | Comments (42) | author bio

Daughter Nancy and grandson Morey came to visit yesterday. It isn’t a long trip from Calabasas but it takes some effort to make the shlep. Good girl.

We met at Bonnie Lu’s, one of our favorite eateries. The waitresses are friendly. The cooks, though at times a bit grumpy looking, plate up some pretty good food. And, it doesn’t require dipping into your IRA to pay the bill. I had the Yippie Dippie Veggie sandwich on wheat toast. And balanced the healthy stuff with a big helping of fries.

Nancy is a bleeding heart liberal, a Democrat, and a champion of social causes. We taught her good. Our conversations generally include robbing the rich to give to the poor. And, of course, the Bushies. Like her mother, she finds it hard to get off that subject.

Continue reading "No News is Good News" »

Posted by Fred Rothenberg at 09:12 PM | Permalink | Comments (8) | author bio

SATURDAY, JULY 18th: 5:00pm to 7:00pm -- A FREE event at Meditation Mount

Global Economic Dissolution & Evolution: A Creative Dialogue on Emerging Opportunities.

Join the World Business Academy, Progressive Asset Management, Morgan Stanley Smith Barney, the Ojai Economy Group and Meditation Mount for a provocative evening of dialogue and inquiry exploring the 'green shoots' of economic recovery and opportunities rising from the ashes of the recent global meltdown. Featuring Howard Smith, Rinaldo Brutoco, Stuart Valentine and Roger Collis.

REGISTER HERE

Posted by Howard Smith at 01:27 PM | Permalink | author bio

The following note is from Steve Offerman in County Supervisor Steve Bennett's office. See our MAC archive for the docs.

The July 20th meeting agenda is attached along with the Planning Division staff report on the Scenic Resource Protection project. The MAC is reaching a critical stage in completing this important project to protect the scenic resources of the Ojai Valley area, including rezoning of hillside properties to Scenic Resource Protection Overlay Zone and adoption of new policies in the Ojai Valley Area Plan. Public participation in the MAC meeting is encouraged.

Posted by Tyler Suchman at 10:05 AM | Permalink | Comments (9) | author bio

(Illumination News Service)

The Coalition recently followed up with Kim Rodriguez, Director, Planning Division of the Ventura County Resource Management Agency in order to highlight our ongoing concerns about what we believe are possible continual violations of the Ozena mining permit:

Continue reading "Stop The Trucks: Follow Up to the Scoping Meeting" »

Posted by Howard Smith at 10:28 AM | Permalink | author bio

I was listening with one ear to the news this morning. NPR’s Steve Inski reported that Governor Terminator has offered some new, ground breaking proposals to balance the California budget.

Having already visited the LA Times website to find the latest on California’s trip to Armageddon and finding nothing but references to whether Michael Jackson was really alive and hiding in Venezuela, I carefully considered Ahnold’s latest outburst.

The Gov’s ideas centered on increasing the number of unpaid days off for government employees, further reductions to aid for poor folks and, I think, the abolition of both houses of the legislature. All of these solutions deserve careful consideration by Karen Bass, the Assemply leader, but she is chronically peeved and currently indisposed.

Continue reading "Feed Mayonnaise to the Tuna" »

Posted by Fred Rothenberg at 09:56 AM | Permalink | Comments (2) | author bio

The Ojai Peace Coalition is SO proud to have borne our 2008 Noble Peace Prize honorees, Tara Blasco and Lyn Hebenstreit, as dignitaries in last Saturday's Independence Day parade (along with former Marine Sergeant Lyn Weeks, representing Veterans for Peace)! In addition to working to increase public health and decrease poverty in Africa, Lyn and Tara engage in spiritual activism right here in our valley community by leading meditation groups, as well as providing support for mothers and infants. Learn about their work in Africa by visiting the Global Resource Alliance website.

Nominations for the 2009 Noble Peace Prize are open now!
CLICK HERE to nominate your most valued local s/hero of peace!
(Need suggestions to get started? How 'bout this thread on community organizers, from September '08?)

Posted by evan austin at 01:43 PM | Permalink | Comments (2) | author bio

By Ojai author Stephen Mitchell

Take a gentle deep breath, turn on the sound,
and please click here: Psalm 122

I rejoiced when I heard them announce,
“The time of warfare is past.
No more will brother hate brother
or violence have its way.
No more will they drown out God’s silence
and shut their hearts to his song.”

Pray for peace in the cities
and harmony among the races.
May peace come to live on our streets
and justice within our walls.
With all my heart I will pray
that peace comes to live among us.
For the sake of all earth’s people,
I will do my utmost for peace.

(The Psalms, translated by Stephen Mitchell)

I dedicate Psalm 122
to evan Austin and his family,
Tara Blasco and Lyn Hebenstreit, the 2008 Noble Peace Prize honorees,
and the Ojai Peace Coalition.
Look for them in the 2009 Parade, Entry #46!

Posted by Suza Francina at 09:39 PM | Permalink | Comments (1) | author bio

Wow. Here's the AP news story lead:

Alaska Gov. Sarah Palin made a surprise announcement Friday that she is resigning from office at the end of the month without explaining why she plans to step down, raising speculation that she would focus on a run for the White House in the 2012 race.

Right, she is stepping down to run for the White House, and has nothing to do with mounting legal fees associated with ethics complaints. We'll see.

Posted by Tyler Suchman at 02:22 PM | Permalink | Comments (13) | author bio

The world’s greatest newspaper, the Ventura Star, in it’s quest to provide a balanced point of view, has outdone itself by publishing just about anything. Including letters from unhappy folks who seek a platform to misinform.

Carla Bonney claims to be part of a “diverse, nonpartisan group of people, who share a common commitment to work as hard as we can to stop our government from running wild over our rights and freedoms.”

Carla is the organizer of one of many Tea Party protests scheduled for the Fourth. She and others are opposed to the continuation of the tax and spend policies that have brought us to the brink of insolvency and moral ruination. Evidence of her glowing patriotism and her supporters can be found at her website Patriot Revival.

Included in Carla’s list of objections are socialized medicine, deficits, and the administration running roughshod over the Constitution. Good thing socialized medicine was in the list or I would have thought she was talking about her favorite past president. Ooops. Excuse me. She’s non-partisan.

Continue reading "Tea Parties on the Fourth" »

Posted by Fred Rothenberg at 03:49 PM | Permalink | Comments (5) | author bio

No, the title of this article is correct.

We had our monthly Ojai Valley Library Friends and Foundation meeting last night. I’ve been the treasurer since the end of the ice age. Lots of good folks on the OVLFF board. We don’t always agree but we seem to get things done.

The Foundation has been blessed of late with more income than expense. Funds provided by the community let us support the three branches in the Ojai Valley by providing equipment, building improvements, and programs that augment what the County spends.

The Wright Library is located in Ventura and is not in our sphere of influence. Hard times have hit Wright as County tax revenues have fallen. Cuts have been made. Wright has been targeted for closure even though it is an active, busy place. As with any change, those most affected by it have risen to Wright’s defense. The Friends Foundation in Ventura that supports Wright has taken on a herculean task to keep the doors open. The community is up in arms, money raised, ballot propositions written, sales tax increases contemplated, and commitments extracted from elected representatives.

Continue reading "No representation without taxation" »

Posted by Fred Rothenberg at 02:11 PM | Permalink | Comments (2) | author bio

Single Payer – The Way Forward

Monday June 22nd 2009
Ojai Arts Center
113 S Montgomery, Ojai
7pm

Congress will be moving forward with healthcare reform legislation in the coming weeks. The draft bill was scheduled to be released the week of June 15 and has been slowly move through different committees. We want to ensure that real reform really happens. Come and listen to some great speakers, learn more about Single Payer and take action with letter writing.

Speakers:

Al Stroberg, an Ojai resident for 17 years, with a great interest in and personal knowledge of medical care delivery systems.

Dr Rochelle Wilson, an Ojai Valley physician with a B.S is in Nutrition and Food Science from Cal State Long Beach. Medical school was the College of Osteopathic Medicine of the Pacific and residency was at University of California, Irvine. As a family physician for 25 years I continually deal with the serious dysfunction of a system that challenges, if not impairs, the quality of the doctor-patient relationship.

Dr. Bill Honigman Progressive Democrats of America, California State Coordinator

Garrett Clifford, an Ojai Valley resident with experience in the health care industry

Refreshments will be available. Small donations always welcome

For more information call 640 7340 or visit the Ojai Valley Democrats website

Posted by Sean P. Keenan at 01:38 PM | Permalink | author bio

Sponsored by Heal the Community, a group of local parents and residents impacted by the April gang-related murder of Seth Scarminach, the forum will allow residents to discuss the issue of gangs in our valley with a panel of community leaders and experts.

i was there at the start, but my almost-two-year-old insisted that we leave early. The Matilija auditorium holds 300 people, and there were more folks crowding around every door and sitting outside. Notes were taken and will be available at a later date, and there will be an additional forum in late summer/early fall.

What did you see, hear, or say tonight? Who provided the best solutions? What were they?
And, as MC Brett Bradigan asked, what are YOU willing to do to help?

Posted by evan austin at 07:29 PM | Permalink | Comments (14) | author bio

Carin sent me an e-mail this morning asking that I write my state legislators and tell them that we should keep the parks open. The Governator has proposed shutting most of them down to keep California finances from falling into the Pacific.

Now I like trees as much as the next guy. But I have so many requests to contact my legislators that I don’t know where to start. Food for the home-bound, health care for the indigent, school class sizes smaller than the Mormon Tabernacle Choir, help for single mothers with a dozen or more kids housed at Motel Six, prison guards who won’t be able to spend their normal two weeks on the French Riviera, and my own local library that may have to burn its books. What’s a guy to do?

Continue reading "Brother, can you spare a dime?" »

Posted by Fred Rothenberg at 04:17 PM | Permalink | Comments (4) | author bio

The ill-conceived budget and constitutional amendments that went with it have been rejected...now what?

Fear not. All is not lost. Now the fun begins. The state budget, like most state budgets, is in a shambles. Unlike most states, however, here in California we have no good solutions because of the undemocratic 2/3 rules. In an act of deliberate irony I'll quote the godfather of casino capitalism and deregulation, Milton Friedman “Only a crisis produces real change. When that crisis occurs, the actions that are taken depend on the ideas that are lying around." Well, we do have some good ideas lying around right now and I will outline them below, but first we must give our Democratic Assembly members and Senators some much need courage.

Continue reading "Help Repeal 2/3 Rules in California" »

Posted by Sean P. Keenan at 04:31 PM | Permalink | Comments (13) | author bio

Anti-War Vigil
Military Recruiting Center
4300 E. Main St., Ventura, CA
4:30pm - 5:30pm,
Friday May 22, 2009
(near the mall, south of where 101 freeway and Highway 126 intersect)

Stop Sending our Children to War! Bring a sign to hold!

We will be joined by the Santa Maria Catholic Worker which has led protests at Vandenberg Air Force Base for years. Sponsored by the Oak View Catholic Worker

Posted by evan austin at 02:42 PM | Permalink | Comments (0) | author bio

Confused about the May 19th Special Election?

Recommendations from the Ojai Valley Democrats:
___________________
1A - NO
1B - YES
1C - NO
1D - NO
1E - NO
1F - YES
___________________
As some of you are aware, there's an election coming up. May 19th you will be asked to vote on Propositions 1A, B, C, D, E & F. This is a special election called because the legislature needs your vote to change the Constitution of the State of California. This is a direct result of the budget the legislature passed in February to deal with a $42 billion deficit. Since the budget was fashioned back in January - February, the deficit has grown, some say higher than $50 billion, so this budget doesn't even actually solve the whole budget shortfall to date. The Ojai Valley Democrats met on Monday, April 27th and we discussed in depth and voted on our recommendations, the following is what we decided.

Continue reading "Are you ready to Vote?" »

Posted by Sean P. Keenan at 02:32 PM | Permalink | Comments (3) | author bio

from Kristofer Young:

Have you EVER heard ANYBODY say that health insurance and health care are affordable in America? Me neither.

Our health care system is broken, has been so for a long time, and is bankrupting our Country.

We have tried the free-market approach, but greed, waste, and the absence of wellness and preventive care, have made it an expensive and abysmal failure. Since 2000, health insurance premiums have almost doubled and health care premiums have grown three times faster than wages.

It is not time for more of the same. It IS time for change. It is time to provide an affordable public option for health care.

Insurance companies, hospitals, pharmaceutical companies, medical device manufacturers, and providers, all big-money and big-lobbying players, just met with the President and offered to try to cut the 6% annual inflation of health care costs by 1.5 % per year. Such a deal. This offer is business as usual; more of the same.

Join “Health Care for America Now” to make certain that everyone in this Country has accessible, quality health care they can afford, and to guarantee coverage and real choice: keep your private insurance plan or join a new public health insurance plan so you are no longer at the mercy of the private insurance industry.

Contact: Health Care for America Now, 1825 K Street NW, Suite 400, Washington, DC 20006
(202) 454-6200 info@healthcareforamericanow.org http://healthcareforamericanow.org/

Stand up this year, stand up now, for your family’s health and for our Country.

Kristofer Young, DC

Continue reading "Health Care Reform NOW" »

Posted by evan austin at 01:13 AM | Permalink | Comments (5) | author bio

Image via Wikipedia

CONCEPT REVIEW (CR 09-02) FOR THE REVAMPMENT OF A BOWLING CENTER THAT INCLUDES SITE IMPROVEMENTS, ADDITION OF APPROXIMATELY 475 SQUARE FEET TO THE EXISTING BUILDING, AND CONSTRUCTION OF THREE PATIO AREAS FOR OUTDOOR DINING AND A BATTING CAGE for property located at 1202 E. Ojai Avenue, Ojai, California, Assessor’s Parcel Number 028-0-073-010. The General Plan Land Use designation of the site is General Commercial (GC) and the Zoning classification of the site is General Commercial (C-1). Property Owner: Gail Bazzano. Applicant: Stacey Benotto.

Wouldn't it be great to have the bowling center back after all these years?

Posted by Kenley Neufeld at 09:25 PM | Permalink | Comments (28) | author bio

Sweetie and I were cruising down the Dennison Grade yesterday. Beautiful day, crystal clear even with that awful fire in Santa Barbara. About halfway down the grade we stopped at the temporary stoplight that heralds the road work on the cliff-side. Two guys with shovels were poking at the newly graded area. “At this rate they may finish before the next ice age ” I said to Sweetie.

The radio came to life with the 10 o’clock news. “State budget deficit to increase dramatically even if all six ballot propositions pass voter scrutiny on May 19. Bills won’t be paid. People in need will go without.”

“Those guys in Sacramento should be ashamed of themselves. What do we need them for?” my lovely wife said in her own unique style. “They should be doing their job. It’s their fault we’re in this mess. They shouldn’t get paid for doing nothing.”

Continue reading "Throw the bums out...whoever they are" »

Posted by Fred Rothenberg at 04:58 PM | Permalink | Comments (10) | author bio

Posted by Sean P. Keenan at 10:56 AM | Permalink | Comments (13) | author bio

Yesterday, May 3rd, was the undefinable Pete Seeger's 90th birth day. i recorded my favorite Seeger tune for him this morning, and there's also a movement/petition to give Pete a Nobel Peace Prize.

Posted by evan austin at 10:01 AM | Permalink | Comments (4) | author bio

This "swine flu" article by F. William Engdahl is one of the most interesting ones I've found so far and if I make a fool of myself posting this, so be it. I'm most curious to find out what Ojai Post readers think. The original source with photographs can be viewed here:
http://www.globalresearch.ca/index.php?context=va&aid=13408

Flying Pigs, Tamiflu and Factory Farms
If we are to believe what our trusted international media report, the world is on the brink of a global pandemic outbreak of a new deadly strain of flu, H1N1 as it has been labelled, or more popularly, Swine Flu. As the story goes, the outbreak of the deadly flu was first discovered in Mexico. According to press reports, after several days, headlines reported as many as perhaps 150 deaths in Mexico were believed caused by this virulent people-killing pig virus that has spread to humans and now is allegedly being further spread from human to human. Cases were being reported hourly from Canada to Spain and beyond. The only thing wrong with this story is that it is largely based on lies, hype and coverup of possible real causes of Mexican deaths.

Continue reading "Do Your Own Research: Flying Pigs, Tamiflu and Factory Farms" »

Posted by Suza Francina at 12:31 PM | Permalink | Comments (8) | author bio

The Ventura County Planning Agency has issued a Notice of an Environmental Impact Scoping Meeting for the Ozena Valley Ranch Mine to be held in the Chaparral High School Auditorium at 6:00 pm on Wednesday, May 6th.

Scoping Meetings are an important forum to establish the breadth of a EIR. This one time meeting provides Ojai an opportunity to comment on issues that must be addressed in the EIR, and to the extent that the County has not adequately identified those issues, to give the reasons why the issue must be addressed, and how it should be addressed.

If a "fair argument" is made that a significant impact may occur as a result of the Project, legally the County must analyze the issue regardless of what Ozena wants or the cost of such reports. Establishing a record on such matters is vitally important.

Issues to be discussed include but are not limited to the following impacts upon the totality of the haul route from Lockwood Valley to the 101: Air Quality; Toxic Wastes; Road Safety; Road Damage; Hours of Operation; Hours of Allowable Trucking through the Ojai Valley; Establishing a Restricted Zone that actually protects critical parts of the Ojai Valley, such as our schools, hospital, medical clinic, senior mobile home parks and condo complexes, the "Y" Shopping Center; and provide for Reasonable and Feasible Monitoring and Compliance, etc.

We need to have every single person who opposes gravel trucking through the Ojai Valley to attend and pack the room. This is one of our very few opportunities left to make our feelings about this project known directly to the Planning Agency. If we fail to act now as a community, it may be too late to act later! Please be there and bring all of your friends and family!

The current proposal for a modification of the existing permit would DOUBLE the amount of trucking through the Ojai Valley from Cuyama that we experienced in 2007 - 2008 and strip away almost every single protection we have fought for over the past two and a half years!

The Stop the Trucks! Coalition will also be sending around "Individual Petitions" for concerned Ojai residents to forward to the Planning Division. These petitions will list many of the specific issues that must be examined in the EIR and/or reviewed by the Planning Division in their consideration of these permit applications.

Continue reading "Stop The Trucks: CRITICAL MEETING TO BLOCK OZENA, WEDNESDAY, MAY 6TH AT 6:00 PM AT CHAPARRAL" »

Posted by Howard Smith at 07:42 PM | Permalink | author bio

Check out this article by Journalist David Kirby on the Huffington Post:
Swine Flu Outbreak -- Nature Biting Back at Industrial Animal Production?
http://www.huffingtonpost.com/david-kirby/swine-flu-outbreak----nat_b_191408.html

Posted by Suza Francina at 02:02 PM | Permalink | Comments (7) | author bio

DAY 3 Update

CALIFORNIA STATE DEMOCRATIC PARTY CONVENTION
Quick reference for the Propositions and the position of the CDP on the props on the ballot May 19th:

Prop 1A State Budget Change = Neutral
Prop 1B Education Funding = Yes
Prop 1C Lottery Modernization(Read License to Steal) = Yes
Prop 1D Children's Services = Neutral
Prop 1E Mental Health Services Funding = Neutral

I'll post the info on all the other resolutions as another article here on the ojaipost.

Continue reading "Live Blogging the California Democratic Party Convention" »

Posted by Sean P. Keenan at 05:56 PM | Permalink | Comments (9) | author bio

REMEMBERING ROUTE 33 THE WAY IT WAS WAY BACK IN 2001 BEFORE THE OZENA MINE BEGAN OPERATING

As we approach the May 6th EIR Scoping meeting at 6:00 pm at Chaparral, we thought it useful to reprint this article purchased some time ago from the LA Times that describes Route 33, Maricopa Highway, way back in 2001 before the gravel trucks came to town. Life was very different then, wasn't it...

Road Low on Traffic but High on Tales of Death, Mystery

Highways: California 33 is a lure to those seeking solitude--and others wanting to dump bodies.
By MATT SURMAN, Times Staff Writer

Sunday, February 4, 2001

Up in the back country of Ventura County, beyond the mountains on curving California 33, legend had it 100 years ago that this was Satan's stagecoach route to hell.

Only evil people could see Satan on his infernal rides. But good people could sense him in the ghostly whoosh of wind and the goose bumps left behind.

In many ways, the sense of mystery and danger and a touch of evil have only grown with the passing of a century.

This road--scratched from the coast across the mountains above Ojai to the Santa Barbara County line--can get downright spooky.

Step right off the highway and into the woods, and it's not unusual to find folks blasting away at trees, road signs or an abandoned trailer.

Go a little farther and you could stumble across an illegal field of marijuana--thousands of plants have been seized in the past year alone--and find yourself worrying whether the growers might be lurking nearby.

Even worse, it could be a body. This road over what was once the path to hell has become the favorite dumping ground for some of the county's most notorious modern-day killers.

Nichole Hendrix, a 17-year-old allegedly killed by skinhead associates, was one of the victims. Her remains were found in October 1999--nearly six months after her killing--far below a hill offering a pristine view of impenetrable pines.

The body of Kali Manley, an Oak View teenager killed when she took a ride with the wrong man, lay in a culvert beneath the highway for days as cars drove overhead, until her killer, David Alvarez, led authorities to the remains the day after Christmas 1998.

In a campground "back there" in 1994, Andy Lee Anderson and his Australian shepherd lost their lives because a teenager with a shotgun wanted Anderson's shiny blue pickup truck.

And they were only a few of the victims.

Continue reading "STOP THE TRUCKS: Maricopa Highway: Road Low on Traffic but High on Tales of Death, Mystery" »

Posted by Howard Smith at 07:41 PM | Permalink | Comments (0) | author bio

There's a statewide special election coming up on May 19, covering Proposition 1A through 1F.

What's important, how are you voting?

Posted by Tyler Suchman at 06:42 PM | Permalink | Comments (1) | author bio

URGENT!! URGENT!!

The current proposal for a modification of the existing permit would DOUBLE the amount of trucking through the Ojai Valley from Cuyama that we experienced in 2007 - 2008 and strip away almost every single protection we have fought for over the past two and a half years!

PUBLIC HEARING
NOTICED BY THE VENTURA COUNTY PLANNING DIVISION
WEDNESDAY - MAY 6 AT 6:PM
OJAI’S CHAPARRAL AUDITORIUM
414 E. OJAI AVENUE @ 6:00 PM

STOP THE TRUCKS! COALITION
Contact: Michael Shapiro, Chairperson
805-646-7484

Details to follow in subsequent posts.

Continue reading "STOP THE TRUCKS: SAVE THE DATE! CRITICAL MEETING TO BLOCK OZENA! WEDNESDAY, MAY 6TH AT 6:00 PM AT CHAPARRAL " »

Posted by Howard Smith at 05:13 PM | Permalink | Comments (1) | author bio

MOVIE NIGHT AT THE JESTER!

This month's film is Running Dry

Continue reading "Movie Night at the Jester Tonight" »

Posted by Sean P. Keenan at 10:40 AM | Permalink | Comments (2) | author bio

This is interesting... from the VC Star:

A revision to the rules that govern the Ojai Valley Municipal Advisory Council sailed through the Ventura County Board of Supervisors today, with none of the opposition promised by one advisory council member.

The supervisors voted 5-0 to approve Bennett’s revisions. One Ojai Valley MAC member, Jerry Kaplan, had lobbied against the changes, but he did not attend Tuesday’s hearing.

And why didn't anyone attend Tuesday's hearing? A procedural change took care of that. The VC Star missed half the story.

LETTER TO THE EDITOR
FROM JERRY KAPLAN, ELECTED OJAI VALLEY MAC DISTRICT 7 MEMBER

Steve Bennett’s Limitation of Ojai Valley MAC Passed in “Tricky Political Style”

Supervisor Steve Bennett showed Tuesday that he is definitely no novice in the world of political dirty tricks. Bennett recently proposed an amendment to the rules governing the Ojai Municipal Advisory Council which would limit matters the Council could discuss to only those relating to planning (eliminating the discussion of matters regarding health, safety and welfare) and which were placed on the agenda by Bennett or the Planning Department (eliminating the right of Council members to place matters on the agenda).

Council member Jerry Kaplan has been a staunch opponent of these proposals to marginalize the Council and notified Bennett’s office that he planned to attend to Board of Supervisor’s meeting, where the agenda showed that discussion of the proposal was the 12th item on the afternoon session agenda, which started at 1:30 PM. Kaplan was there, armed with documentation and prepared to speak. Council Chairman Russ Baggerly was also present. HOWEVER, Supervisor Bennett, as chairman of the Board of Supervisors exercised his prerogative and took the proposal out of order during the 8:30 AM morning session, where it passed with no one present to speak against it. Would the result have been different if Kaplan and Baggerly had been allowed to present documents and speak. Who knows? Certainly the citizens of unincorporated Ojai Valley won’t know. Is this democracy in action?

Posted by Tyler Suchman at 08:02 AM | Permalink | Comments (3) | author bio

from the OV Chamber...

At the April 14, 2009 City Council meeting, the Council passed to a second reading, the amendment to the Zoning Ordinance regarding Outdoor Merchandise Displays. In essence, this means that barring anything unforeseen, the amendment will be passed into the books on April 28 and become law as of May 15, 2009.

Continue reading "Final General Standards For All Outdoor Displays" »

Posted by Tyler Suchman at 04:37 PM | Permalink | Comments (1) | author bio

There's a lot of noise coming from the right-wing echo chamber about the "Tea Parties" taking place in a lot of places throughout the country today. FOX News is reporting that the illustrious House Minority Leader, John Boehner (R-Ohio) had this to say: "Across our nation, thousands of Americans are participating in taxpayer tea parties today for one simple reason: overtaxed families and small businesses have had enough,"

Continue reading "Who are the real Teabaggers?" »

Posted by Sean P. Keenan at 01:47 PM | Permalink | Comments (10) | author bio

From the VC Star...

Ventura County Supervisor Steve Bennett could be heading for a showdown with some of his constituents today as he tries to revise the ground rules for an advisory committee in the Ojai Valley.

During its meeting today, the supervisors are scheduled to vote on an update to the ordinance that created the Ojai Valley MAC in 1974. It would sharpen the group’s focus, so it is tasked only with reviewing land use, development and public works projects. The old rules included a much longer description of topics the MAC might address, “including, but not limited to, matters of public health, safety, welfare, public works and planning.”

Posted by Tyler Suchman at 01:08 PM | Permalink | Comments (0) | author bio

Amy Goodman of Democracy Now! interviewed Professor Noam Chomsky of MIT.

Here is the mp3 from Democracy Now! I encourage you to listen to the interview. If, for some reason, you can't listen to mp3 go here. This interview will go a long way toward clearing your head about what is happening, on all fronts, with the Obama Administration. Settle in and imagine you are putting on some classical music to which you want to actively listen. I always find Chomsky to be the audio/rhetorical equivalent of burning sage.

Continue reading "Noam Chomsky on Democracy Now!" »

Posted by Sean P. Keenan at 07:46 PM | Permalink | Comments (11) | author bio

Image via Wikipedia

The following guest editorial is from Ojai Valley resident Sunday Rylander.

Sometimes I can't believe how long of a journey this has been, but it looks like we are finally reaching the end of the process to get the skate park built in Ojai.

For those of you who skateboard or read the local newspapers you can't miss the fact that during this past year of fundraising for the Ojai Skate Park, and attending what feels like a thousand meetings, a 22, 000 sq. foot Fillmore skate park opened, Piru is starting the process and Moorpark was just approved to start building a 1.7 million skate park that will be finished by the end of summer! Oh... and I can't forget the amazing 40,000 sq. foot Santa Clarita skate park that opened two weeks ago.

We would greatly appreciate it if you and your children, grandchildren, neighbors and community members that support the Ojai Skate Park could join us Tuesday at the OUSD School Board meeting. It's really important that we go to this meeting and show how supported and important the Ojai skate park is to our community and see the latest plans of the Ojai skate park that our community donated $261,000 in 6 months time (totaling $361,00 with the City of Ojai's donation of $100,000) for the children to have a concrete skate park.

Continue reading "Guest Editorial: Skate Park Update and Action" »

Posted by Kenley Neufeld at 02:10 PM | Permalink | Comments (3) | author bio

A letter from OV Municipal Advisory Councilman Jerry Kaplan...

Dear Supervisors Linda Parks, Kathy Long, Peter Foy and John Zaragosa,

My name is Jerry Kaplan and I was elected to the Ojai Valley Municipal Advisory Council (OVMAC) in November, 2008. This was the first contested OVMAC election in 14 years. A significant point of my platform was that the OVMAC should reclaim the role of a community voice. Other MAC’s in Ventura County appear to have “flourished” by doing so, while the OVMAC has “wilted”.

At the March meeting of the OVMAC, Supervisor Steve Bennett submitted a proposed amendment to be brought before the Board of Supervisors which would eliminate those important areas of OVMAC involvement including the “HEALTH, SAFETY AND WELFARE” of the residents of the unincorporated areas of the Ojai Valley and would also further prohibit OVMAC members from placing any items on the agenda. Only Supervisor Bennett or the Planning Commissioner would have that power.

Continue reading "OVMAC : On To The County" »

Posted by Tyler Suchman at 09:04 AM | Permalink | Comments (1) | author bio

From the SF Chronicle, looks like the Democratic Congressional Campaign Committee will be pouring money into CA-24 in 2010 in an attempt to oust stalwart Republican Elton Gallegly:

California GOP voter registration is "dropping like a rock," a new study shows, declining so fast that Democratic Party officials see an unprecedented opportunity to gain voters and House seats in the 2010 election.

The Democratic Congressional Campaign Committee has targeted 35 districts across the country represented by Republicans in the U.S. House of Representatives - including eight in California [on the list is Gallegly - ed.]...

UPDATE, 11:37pm: Nice link from Brian Dennert at the VC Star. Where's SPK on this?

Posted by Tyler Suchman at 05:37 PM | Permalink | Comments (11) | author bio

The 2009 Season for Nonviolence began on January 30. This 65-day period between the memorial dates of Gandhi and Martin Luther King Jr. (April 4th) and is used globally as a time for personal and community reflection on the healing and transforming power of nonviolence and the contributions towards Peace made by these two great leaders.

Apr 04: Peace Free-For-All! Know it, Love it, Live it!

Continue reading "[UPDATED DAILY!] Reflections on Peace" »

Posted by evan austin at 08:40 AM | Permalink | Comments (39) | author bio

I went to the Ojai Friends of the Library meeting last night. As usual, on the way I picked up Martha. “Hi Martha, waiting long for me?” She said “No, I was listening to the President’s talk and then answer the reporters’ questions.” Crap, I thought. I had forgotten all about the press conference. “How did he do” I said. “He’s pretty glib” she said.

Not a bad assessment coming from a 92 year-old woman who’s probably seen it all, even with severe eyesight problems. I made a mental note to click on CNN when I got home.

Continue reading "Mission accomplished...not yet" »

Posted by Fred Rothenberg at 04:58 PM | Permalink | Comments (0) | author bio

LETTER TO THE EDITOR OF THE OJAI POST

From Jerry Kaplan, recently elected to the MAC for District 7

RE: SUPERVISOR STEVE BENNETT RECENT PROPOSED CHANGES TO “CUT OUT THE HEART” OF THE MAC (OJAI VALLEY MUNICIPAL ADVISORY COUNCIL).

County Supervisor Steve Bennett (District 1, Ojai Valley) interrupted the most recent monthly meeting of the MAC (March 16) to announce and pass out his proposed changes to the 35 year old resolution forming the MAC. The MAC had just started a discussion of a noticed agenda item “A discussion of the MAC’s Mission and the responsibilities of duly elected or appointed members of the MAC, in relationship to the contents of the Board of Supervisors original, and amended, resolution forming the MCA, on July 23, 1974.

Continue reading "Proposed OVMAC Changes" »

Posted by Tyler Suchman at 10:24 AM | Permalink | Comments (2) | author bio

There are a lot of things happening with the new Ojai Valley Democratic Club. There is a meeting tonight at 7 pm at the Ojai Art Center for anyone interested attending.

Continue reading "It's your Democracy..." »

Posted by Sean P. Keenan at 06:01 PM | Permalink | Comments (3) | author bio

AIG…bet you can’t even tell me what it stands for. All you know is that it must be populated with hordes of money hungry capitalists. People who are out for the fast buck. Men (and women) who cut and run. The worst of America’s shining lights. In short, folks who reflect the values we all cherish. Or seem to.

As evidenced by the remorseless blood-lust displayed by the media, members of Congress and the President, the 416 people who salted away $165 million deserve to be drawn and quartered, at least. A public hanging might be better…with street vendors selling voodoo dolls and popcorn. Bring back the guillotine. Off with their heads. Even Sweetie is beside herself not knowing who to blame for this effrontery. So she, like you, blames everyone.

Continue reading "Madame DeFarge Would Be Pleased" »

Posted by Fred Rothenberg at 02:04 PM | Permalink | Comments (6) | author bio

Michael Shapiro, Chair of Stop the Trucks, sent the following letter regarding Weigh Tickets as a response to an email (below) from Chris Stephens, Director of Resource Managment for the County of Ventura.

Hello Chris -

I've finally read your email regarding how the Coalition might obtain a full year's worth of weigh tickets from the Ozena Ranch Mine facility. Obviously - the "evidence" you've collected is entirely insufficient.

I've turned your email over to our attorney -- for I do not have the legal skills to know how to go from here. Naturally - I view your email not only with great disappointment - but I also see it as one more example of how the Planning Division does not wish to let genuine evidence come to light by conveniently hiding behind a rather poorly collected and insufficient randsom sample of Ozena weight tickets. I'm not that naieve, Chris, to believe that if you and your other colleagues really wished to collect a full year's data that you would certainly be able to do so. The fact that you aren't willing to do that speaks volumes: You fear the TRUTH and simply can't handle the TRUTH.

We'll have to seek another legal remedy to get to the bottom of this. How unfortunate.

Sincerely,

Michael Shapiro
Chair - Stop The Trucks! Coalition

Continue reading "Stop The Trucks: The First Casualty of War is the Truth" »

Posted by Howard Smith at 05:21 PM | Permalink | Comments (4) | author bio

My usual Monday bus driving ended on a high note. I heard that rich people were going to be as poor as the rest of us. Or nearly.

As I swung onto Sulphur Mountain Road I listened to an interview conducted by Warren Olney, host of NPR’s To The Point. I love Warren Olney. He gets the best from his guests without inserting his own opinions. Much different than David Gregory, Tim Russert’s replacement on Meet the Press. David doesn’t need guests. He knows the answers to the questions before he asks them. Oh how I miss Tim.

But I digress. Warren’s show focused on Obama’s proposed tax adjustments that would steal from the rich to give to the poor. Visions of Errol Flynn in tights danced through my head as he battled Basil Rathbone, while Olivia DeHaviland waited with breasts heaving.

Continue reading "Taking from the rich" »

Posted by Fred Rothenberg at 09:06 AM | Permalink | Comments (5) | author bio

Tonight's City Council meeting was a great one...government in action, with a full room of energetic Citizens. We heard proclamations to the group behind our local Arbor Week activities and to the 2010 Census, some salient public comments dealing mostly with small business signage (specifically, being able to have a small display or sandwich board out to advertise specials or sales), and a quickly approved Consent Calendar totaling $429,714.62 and approving the minutes of six meetings. Discussion Items 2 and 3 dealt with the City's use of pesticides and the proposed purchase of a City-wide phone system, respectively. Public Works Director Mike Culver gave what i thought were brilliantly coherent and detailed reports on both these topics and the research and planning that he and his staff had put together at the Council's direction (short version: the City uses some pretty low-impact herbicides a few months a year and will be putting together a comprehensive Integrated Pest Management program with direction from a task group to include diverse Citizenry and mindful via public comment of instances in which killing "weeds" might be completely unnecessary. Councilwoman Betsy Clapp playfully urges the use of goats for weed control. The current phone system is physically broken and antiquated and splits the City into three departments...the new one funnels all calls through City Hall and connects the public with the department they're after with an extension after that, makes interdepartmental communication easier, and will pay for itself - $40,623 - after 14 months, saving us $5,000 per year after that on our phone bills.)

Then we got to the main reason i was there: the proposed repeal of the City's ordinance regarding leaf blowers.

Continue reading "Total Leaf Blower Ban Proposed!" »

Posted by evan austin at 12:08 AM | Permalink | Comments (38) | author bio

Today is International Women’s Day, which has been observed since 1911 (just 9 years later, women in the U.S. were given the right to vote). This year’s theme, as designated by the U.N. (individual countries also develop their own themes) is “Women and men united to end violence against women and girls.”

A great way to honor and recognize women locally is to attend the Ventura County Women’s EXPO, taking place this weekend, March 13-15, at the Ventura County Fairgrounds. Fifty dynamic guest speakers will present on various topics over the three-day event, including health, relationships, career, finances and motherhood. The topic I am presenting is much less weighty and ambitious – I will be talking about local wines!

Continue reading "Happy International Women's Day! Come to the VC Women's EXPO 3/13-15" »

Posted by Lisa Snider at 08:41 AM | Permalink | Comments (0) | author bio

For the life of me, I don't see how our city manager's recommendation to direct staff to prepare an ordinance repealing Section 5-11.05(e) of the Municipal Code, dealing with leaf blowers, fits in with the Roadmap to a Sustainable Ojai (posted on the City's web site) and our stated goal of making Ojai a model green community.

If you Google questions like "what Cities ban leaf blowers?" or "do leaf blowers make workers hard of hearing?" etc., hundreds of web sites pop up. This morning I e-mailed a copy of the most comprehensive document I've found so far, copied below, to our city manager, council members and interested members of the public.

FACTS

Click on Links Below for Everything You Ever Wanted to Know About Leaf Blowers:

Leaf Blower Noise and Its Consequences
http://www.nonoise.org/quietnet/cqs/leafblow.htm#conseq

Air Pollution From Leaf Blowers
http://www.nonoise.org/quietnet/cqs/leafblow.htm#air

Leaf Blowers and Health: Letter to California Air Resources Board
http://www.nonoise.org/quietnet/cqs/leafblow.htm#carblett

Continue reading "Are Leaf Blowers On the Roadmap to a Sustainable Ojai?" »

Posted by Suza Francina at 08:41 AM | Permalink | Comments (7) | author bio

I noticed a couple items of interest on the upcoming City Council agenda (scheduled for Tuesday at 7:30pm)

Report on City Use of Pesticides. RECOMMENDATION: Direct staff to develop an Integrated Pest Management program for the City

Ordinance Regarding Leaf Blowers. RECOMMENDATION: Direct staff to prepare an ordinance repealing Section 5-11.05(e) of the Municipal Code, dealing with leaf blowers.

Follow the links to RECOMMENDATION above for the staff reports; both are important issues for the environment of Ojai, and citizens should be aware of the discussion.

Also, I think we need to revisit the topic of the Housing Element, another environmental issue for our Valley. Nearly four cities in ten and a quarter of counties are out of compliance with the law, so maybe it isn't even important. The Housing Element is intricately tied to affordable housing, not just growth, and so that aspect is important. The Public Policy Institute has an interesting report on the issue of noncompliance. Where are we on this process? Do you know? What are your thoughts?

Posted by Kenley Neufeld at 09:29 AM | Permalink | Comments (28) | author bio

I was about to head down the hill to buy a cigar. It’s one of those forbidden pleasures I engage in a couple of times a year. In order to curb my usage, I only buy one at a time. That gives my guilt complex a chance to work on me before I actually lay out the cash. It’s an awful habit. Mouth tastes like the inside of a shoe for two days.

So I said to Sweetie “You know what…I think I’ll shlep down the hill to get a cigar.” She said with a beautiful smile “Go ahead. You’ll enjoy it.” OK, I said, I’ll just check my e-mail. Bad decision.

Continue reading "I'd Rather Smoke a Cigar" »

Posted by Fred Rothenberg at 05:34 PM | Permalink | Comments (1) | author bio

The California Supreme Court will hear oral arguments TODAY, March 5, 2009, from 9:00 a.m. to 12:00 p.m., in three cases challenging the constitutionality of Proposition 8, a statewide ballot initiative that was passed by a majority of California voters in November 2008.

Watch the proceedings live at eqca.org, on the California Channel online, or on local television channel 25.

cross-posted at ojaipeace.org

Posted by evan austin at 08:11 AM | Permalink | Comments (1) | author bio

Funny you should ask.

On Monday Feb. 23rd at the Ojai Valley Democrats general meeting at the Ojai Art Center, we were treated to a very enlightening presentation about a poorly understood, often boring subject—the California State budget. Professor Scott Frisch of the Political Science Department at California State University Channel Islands (CSUCI) came and talked to us about our dysfunctional budget process. Prof. Frisch is incredibly knowledgeable about budget issues, in fact, it happens to be his specialty, and he really schooled us on the fact that the entire sordid mess is our own fault.

Join me after the flip to see what you can do.

Continue reading "Sooo... What the f*** happened with the California Budget?" »

Posted by Sean P. Keenan at 09:02 PM | Permalink | Comments (13) | author bio

i'm very excited to announce the NEW Ojai Peace Coalition Action Blog at

www.ojaipeace.org

Posted by evan austin at 06:42 PM | Permalink | Comments (0) | author bio

The Ojai Post, February 27, 2006, entry #1:

The Ojai Post is a community blog, featuring Ojai residents from all walks of life writing about the unique Ojai experience. Ojai is a special place, not just for its geography, flora and fauna, small-town architecture and rich native American history - its also because of the people - talented, creative souls who tend to walk to the beat of their own drummer and carve their own path through life. Check in for daily musings, rants, Ojai news and greater goings-on from the place some call Shangri-La.

Posted by Tyler Suchman at 12:01 PM | Permalink | Comments (14) | author bio

Golda Meir, (1898-1978) will be portrayed by noted Ojai actor, Catherine Dain, in a 45 minute staged abridged reading of William Gibson's play:

GOLDA'S BALCONY

Directed by Gai Jones and produced by Edie Smith
7 PM Saturday Feb 28, 2009

Jewish Community of the Oaks
530 West El Roblar, Meiners Oaks
Suggested minimum Donation $10
Program will be followed by a Dessert Reception

"Golda’s Balcony" offers the compelling story of Golda Meir’s transformation from a young Russian immigrant in Milwaukee to an activist for a Jewish state in Palestine and then to its leader – Prime Minister of Israel.

Framing her tale with the decisions she was forced to make during the 1973 war, she attempts to answer the question “What is the price for survival?” There were no easy answers for Golda, who sacrificed her relationships with her husband and children for her obligations to her country. Her uneasy conclusion was,

“Peace, there will be peace when the Arabs learn to love their children more than they hate the Jews".

"Perfect!" New York Magazine "Enlightening!" New York Times

"Amazing Personal History!" Variety

"Laughter and Tears!" Akron Beacon Journal "Fascinating !" AP

"Momentous ! Riveting!" The Detroit News

Posted by Howard Smith at 07:13 PM | Permalink | author bio

President Obama pledged to end the war in Iraq in 16 months. That means the last soldier should be gone by May 20, 2010 — 5/20/10.

(as of today, 4,237 American military deaths and )

Posted by evan austin at 08:35 AM | Permalink | Comments (2) | author bio

The Ojai Valley Municipal Advisory Council is a valley-wide elected board which makes policy recommendations to Steve Bennett's office, the County Board of Supervisors and other bodies. We're going to be tracking the MAC a little more closely, as there are some big valley issues such as the trucks, Casitas Dam removal, flood plain designation and more. I've included a link to an archive page up in the Resource section in the upper-right. I just posted an agenda for the next meeting, Feb 9th, 7pm.

Posted by Tyler Suchman at 05:19 PM | Permalink | Comments (0) | author bio

The Ojai Valley Green Coaliton is bringing Gretchen Lewotsky (a.k.a. the Climate Jedi) to Ojai next week to present an updated version of Al Gore’s Academy Award-winning documentary, “An Inconvenient Truth.” Trained by Al Gore himself, Gretchen talked with me today on Radio Ojai about the latest information on climate change and why you can't miss this event. The event takes place Wednesday, January 28, 2009, at 7:00 PM at Matilija Junior High School Auditorium, located at 703 El Paseo Rd in Ojai. A donation of $5.00 at the door is suggested. Click here for more information. And click here to listen to the 10-minute interview.

Posted by Lisa Snider at 04:35 PM | Permalink | Comments (4) | author bio

Subtitled for the sign-impaired.

Posted by evan austin at 01:38 PM | Permalink | Comments (8) | author bio

From the AP:

Sens. Robert C. Byrd, D-W.Va., and Edward M. Kennedy, D-Mass., have been taken from an inauguration luncheon for President Barack Obama. A Capitol police officer stood up at the luncheon and said medical attention was needed. The 76-year-old Kennedy, who had been attended Obama's oath-taking on the Capitol's West Front, has been battling a brain tumor.

During a talk to members of Congress and others, Obama called attention to Kennedy, saying "I know that while I was out of the room, concern was expressed about Teddy."

Obama said that Kennedy "was there when the voting rights act passed, along with John Lewis, was a warrior for justice."

"And so I would be lying to you if I did not say that right now a part of me is with him," Obama added. "And I think that's true for all of us. This is a joyous time. But it's also a sobering time. And my prayers are with him and his family and (Kennedy's wife) Vicki."

Posted by Tyler Suchman at 12:21 PM | Permalink | Comments (0) | author bio

check out whitehouse.gov

Posted by Tyler Suchman at 11:41 AM | Permalink | Comments (2) | author bio

Wow, Ojai Playhouse was packed - we sat in the aisle. What a great experience. What's on your mind?

Posted by Tyler Suchman at 10:05 AM | Permalink | Comments (15) | author bio

Everything changes --that is the only thing certain in this world. If you stand or sit still, with your mind quiet and attune to the cosmos, any place in Ojai--or anywhere on the Planet--you will see not only the exquisite detail of the present moment--but, if you go very deep, you will "see" and sense into what has transpired over the years on the very place you are now on ...

The Closing of a Circle
By Francis X Cline

There are unsettling ghosts of America past all about the National Mall. Hundreds of thousands of people will gather there Tuesday for the inauguration of the nation’s first African-American president. Three blocks from where Barack Obama takes the oath, there was once the Saint Charles Hotel, a popular accommodation on Pennsylvania Avenue before emancipation ruined business for slave traders. It proudly advertised that down below its first-rate restaurant, guests could avail themselves of six, 30-foot-long arched slave cells, replete with wall rings and shackles. The management promised: “In case of escape, full value for the Negro will be paid.”

Continue reading "On this happy day, this memory took my breath away" »

Posted by Suza Francina at 05:39 AM | Permalink | Comments (2) | author bio

Posted by Suza Francina at 09:56 PM | Permalink | Comments (10) | author bio

Posted by Tyler Suchman at 08:47 PM | Permalink | Comments (2) | author bio

So I've had a couple emails asking me if I knew of any celebrations, viewing parties, general debauchery going on in Ojai for the inauguration. Anyone know of anything going on? Sue, SPK, Carol, Dennert, what do ya know?

Posted by Tyler Suchman at 04:55 PM | Permalink | Comments (8) | author bio

I just read this article about regional job cuts in the Pacific Coast Business Times. Here is an excerpt:

The Ojai Valley Inn & Spa alone shed more than 700 positions, according to state records, at least 37 of them in accounting, engineering and the resort’s executive office. Nearly 350 housekeeping and food service employees lost jobs at the resort, according to state records.

The article goes on to say:

The Ojai Valley Inn & Spa shed the most jobs of any single company, eliminating more than 700 jobs in at least two rounds of cuts. The resort did not return several phone calls and messages from the Business Times requesting comment.

It’s unclear whether the resort’s job cuts were seasonal or related to larger economic forces, though it made no such cuts in 2007.

I knew things were rough over there, but I had no idea.

Posted by Lisa Snider at 11:44 AM | Permalink | Comments (21) | author bio

Ojai Silent Candlelight Vigil for Peace in Gaza/Israel
Thursday January 15, 2009  4:30-5:30 pm
At the "Y" in Ojai (corner of Vons shopping center Hwy 33 and Hwy 150)

Join us as we mourn the loss of lives in this conflict and as we take a public stand for an immediate ceasefire and end to the blockade on Gaza. We ask participants to respect the silence of this vigil and to not bring signs or banners (we will have one large one identifying our intent). Bring a candle, your prayers, and your spirits of hope.

Contact for more info: Email Tanya Cole or call 805-640-3650

Sponsoring Organizations: Integrity Now, Ojai Peace Coalition, Ojai Code Pink

Posted by evan austin at 11:10 AM | Permalink | Comments (56) | author bio

Brian Dennert, blogger-extraordinaire at the VC Star, hosts an online debate: Is America A Center Right Nation?. If you're a political junkie, its good readin'. David Atkins, who represents the left, is thereisnospoon, one of the more active and popular diarists on 800-lb progressive gorilla DailyKos.com.

Posted by Tyler Suchman at 07:39 PM | Permalink | Comments (13) | author bio

Tired of having your windshield smashed by loose rock flying off a double hopper gravel truck?

The Conditional Use Permit for the Ozena mine requires that all gravel trucks be covered but no one that we've spoken to in the Ojai Valley has ever remembered seeing a covered gravel truck... Ever!

Continue reading "Stop the Trucks: Naked & Topless No More?" »

Posted by Howard Smith at 06:57 PM | Permalink | Comments (2) | author bio

We were treated to not one, but TWO gas-powered leaf blowers this morning! Not only did they wake up Noa, but the timestamp clearly indicates a violation of our City's Municipal Code, which states in part that

"Leaf blowers may be operated from 8 a.m. to 6 p.m. everyday, except legal holidays. While electric leaf blowers are allowed in all zones, gas-powered blowers will only be allowed in non-residential zones after December 31, 1998. Other special provisions governing gas blowers include: (1) they may not be operated within 150 feet of residences, motels, schools, and hospitals; and (2) they must be operated with their factory mufflers in good working order."

While the grounds maintenance folks usually do come after 8 a.m., i count THREE violations this morning (not counting Planet-Killing and Baby-Waking). i live in apartments governed by the Area Housing Authority of the County of Ventura. What's my next move?

Posted by evan austin at 08:09 AM | Permalink | Comments (27) | author bio

from local event organizers, and posted at the OPC Action Blog:

Ventura County Caravan to National Day of Emergency Mass Action
in LA at Westwood Federal Building (11000 Wilshire Blvd)

LEAVES:
Ojai, 9:30 am at Full of Beans parking lot on 11534 N Ventura Ave Ojai. RSVP hola2tanya@yahoo.com or call 805-421-9708

Ventura, 10 am at Coffee Bean & Tea Leaf, 4360 E. Main St. corner with Telephone Rd.
Call 805-641-1789 if you are interested. No calls, no ride! (Go to TO instead.)

Thousand Oaks, 10:30 am at TO Trans Center, Rancho & Hwy 101

Contact organizers at 805-241-0708 or answervc@riseup.net

TWO MORE (ONLINE) ACTIONS AFTER THE JUMP!

Continue reading "Carpool to Emergency Mass Protest of Violence in Gaza" »

Posted by evan austin at 01:20 AM | Permalink | Comments (17) | author bio

(originally posted September 26, 2008 at Huffington Post)

One of the greatest benefits of an Obama presidency is hidden in plain sight: the relationship between Michelle and Barack. They provide a great role model of a healthy relationship, at a time when such models are sorely needed.

For example…

Imagine having a president who is not distracted from the nation’s business by the stresses of secrets in the presidential marriage.

Continue reading "The Obama Relationship: A Major Benefit Nobody Is Talking About" »

Posted by Gay Hendricks at 10:45 AM | Permalink | Comments (10) | author bio