ojai news at The Ojai Post :: blog, newspaper, events in Ojai, California

Happy Mother's Day to all the Moms in Ojai!

A few weeks ago, I posted a story about the birth of my son, Forty Years Ago, in the Small Town of Ojai
In celebration of Mother's Day, I'd like to share with you the story of the birth of my daughter.

Birth Without Violence

Birth and death, the two great mysteries of life, are all but hidden from view in our modern culture. By the time I was pregnant with my second child, I was much better educated about childbirth and realized more fully what I had been up against fourteen years earlier, when I gave birth to my first child at age eighteen.

In the intervening years, while I was studying to be a yoga teacher, the publishers of Yoga Journal organized a conference of pioneers in the birth movement. The panel of speakers presented pregnancy, childbirth and breastfeeding from a natural and spiritual perspective, in line with yoga philosophy. One of the speakers was the French obstetrician, Frederick Leboyer, author of the revolutionary book, Birth Without Violence. Leboyer was a student of BKS Iyengar and his book on prenatal yoga, Inner Beauty, Inner Light became my bible during this pregnancy.

Continue reading "A Birth Story for Mother's Day" »

Posted by Suza Francina at 06:46 PM | Permalink | Comments (4) | author bio

Look out for the locavores: New Ojai group to eat only food grown locally for a year
http://vcreporter.com/cms/story/detail/look_out_for_the_locavores/5946/

By now you have probably heard that Kristofer and Joanne Young are organizing a locavore project in the Ojai Valley for the entire year of 2009. A locavore is a person who pays attention to where her/his food comes from and commits to eating local food as much as possible. I just finished reading the link above to a great article in the VC Reporter that answers the questions I had about committing to a local eating lifestyle. Turns out you can sign up and still hang on to three foods each month that are things that may not be available locally. In my case I was worried about giving up organically grown brown rice, millet and tofu --three things my Dutch-Indonesian bones cannot live without. Now that I know I can eat grains with my local vegies, I'm ready to sign up.

There is an introductory meeting on Saturday, May 10th at 7:00 PM at the Young's house in Ojai. Here is an invitation with the details: .http://groups.google.com/group/eat-local-one-year

Download, view, or print the meeting flyer here.

Continue reading "EAT LOCAL ONE YEAR ~ BE THE CHANGE OJAI " »

Posted by Suza Francina at 11:32 AM | Permalink | Comments (15) | author bio

TODAY, Sunday May 4th at 3:00pm, Citizens for Peaceful Resolutions will host a public meeting to celebrate, discuss and reaffirm Julia Ward Howe's 1870 Mother's Day Peace Proclamation:

"As men have often forsaken the plow and the anvil at the summons of war, let women now leave all that may be left of home for a great and earnest day of counsel . . . to promote the alliance of the different nationalities, the amicable settlement of international questions, the great and general interest of peace."
[read the full Proclamation here.]

Continue reading "Mother's Day for Peace!" »

Posted by evan austin at 11:59 PM | Permalink | Comments (1) | author bio

Iraq Veterans Against the War held a series of hearings on the weekend of March 14 through 16, 2008 (the same weekend as Not One More! here in Libbey Park) called "Winter Soldier 2008", modeled after the Winter Soldier hearings in 1971 during the Vietnam War.

i have downloaded all of the testimony from these emotional and enlightening hearings, and will gladly burn you a 10-disc audio set for $10 (a single mp3 disc for $1). $5 will go to the Ojai Peace Coalition, and $5 will go toward the new IVAW Chapter in Ventura. email me to request a copy.

here's Infantrymen Clifton Hicks and Steven Casey giving testimony as part of the March 14th panel "Rules of Engagement, Part One": LISTEN. DOWNLOAD.

Continue reading "Winter Soldier Audio Discs Available" »

Posted by evan austin at 11:33 AM | Permalink | Comments (0) | author bio

Enriching The Human Spirit Through Film

Ojai Film Festival seeks volunteers for its' 9th annual edition with dates
November 6 through 9 (previously in October).

Host Sponsor for 2008 Festival is the Ojai Valley Inn & Spa. Volunteers are
sought in all areas. Please contact the film festival office and find out how
you can get involved as a volunteer NOW.

Call now (805)640-1947 or e-mail:
info@ojaifilmfestival.com

Volunteer applications are also available at the film festival office at
111 West Topa Topa by appointment only.
Please phone ahead (805)640-1947.

Continue reading "Ojai Film Festival Seeks Volunteers -- VIP Tickets Now On Sale" »

Posted by Howard Smith at 07:19 PM | Permalink | author bio

from Peace Action's Peace Blog:
April has been the most deadly month for U.S. troops since September.

Those who died in Iraq in recent weeks:
Sgt Michael Lilly 23 Boise ID
Sgt Jeremiah McNeal 23 Norfolk VA
Cap Ulises Burgos Cruz 29 Puerto Rico
Spc Matthew Morris 23 Cedar Park TX
Pvt Shane Penley 19 Sauk Village IL
Col Stephen Scott 54 New Market AL
Maj Stuart Wolfer 36 Colorado Springs FL
Sgt Emanuel Pickett 34 Teachey NC
Spc Jason Kazarick 30 Oakmont PA
Maj Mark Rosenberg 32 Miami Lakes FL
Sgt Jeffrey Hartley 25 Hempstead TX
Sgt Richard Vaughn 22 San Diego CA
Spc Jeremiah Hughes 26 Jacksonville FL
Sgt Timothy Smith 25 So Lake Tahoe CA
Sgt Anthony Capra 31 Hanford CA
Sgt Shaun Tousha 30 Hull TX
Cpl Dean Opicka 29 Waukesha WI
Air Adrian Campos 22 El Paso TX
Cpl Jordan Haerter 19 Sag Harbor NY
PO Cherie Morton 40 Bakersfield CA
Ltn Matthew Vandergrift 28 Littleton CO
Pvt Ronald Harrison 25 Morris Plains NJ
Spc Stephen Christofferson 20 Cudahy WI
Sgt Adam Kohlhaas 26 Perryville MO
Sgt Guadalupe Ramirez 26 Mohave Valley AZ
Cpl Jonathan Yale 21 Burkeville VA
Ltn Timothy Cunningham 26 College Station TX
Pvt John Bishop 22 Gaylord MI
Sgt Ronald Blystone 34 Springfield MO
Sgt Shaun Whitehead 24 Commerce GA

426 Iraqi sisters and brothers were killed.

Cf: www.icasualties.org

Posted by evan austin at 09:48 AM | Permalink | Comments (5) | author bio

New on the Ojai Peace Coalition Action Blog:

• Mother's Day for Peace: Sunday May 4th from 3-5pm at the E.P.Foster Library on Main Street in Ventura.

• The Future of Local Transportation, Saturday, May 10, 2008 (National Train Day) from 2-3:30pm at Ruby's Café of Oxnard, 348 South Oxnard Blvd.

• Nominate a Peace Pioneer for a $10,000 prize from Ben & Jerry's!

• Tell the Presidential candidates to declare clean cars a priority starting Day One of their administration.

• Women today make up 56% of college graduates and nearly half of the labor force in this country, yet women make only 73 cents to a man's dollar, and mothers only make 60 cents, for the exact same job. AND THE SENATE FAILED TO PASS THE FAIR PAY ACT LAST WEEK, with Senator McCain saying that women just need "education and training". Tell him he's off-target.
(for the energetic: sign this petition in support of the Fair Pay Act through Commitee for a Democratic Majority)

• DVDs of last week's "Are Peace and Impeachment Possible?" town hall are coming...email me if you'd like a copy!

• Tell DHS that the Social Security database is not an appropriate tool for enforcing the immigration laws.

• Share your story or comments about how important it is to provide healthcare coverage for all kids in California. MomsRising.org will share your comments and pictures with California lawmakers to show them that real families are impacted and care about this issue.

Posted by evan austin at 12:48 AM | Permalink | Comments (0) | author bio

from the VC Star - Ojai groups team up to keep schools open closure

Ojai parents got a goal and a deadline this week from their public school district.

If they raise about $330,000 by June 3, then their schools might be spared from the chopping block this year. If not, Ojai Unified School District trustees might have to close one of the campuses.

The Ojai Education Foundation and Parent Teacher Associations in the K-12 district have banded together and started a campaign called Save Ojai Schools, or SOS. They plan to push for more state funding for public schools while raising money on their own for Ojai Unified.

On Tuesday night, the groups asked the school board to join in the effort, and trustees unanimously agreed. If enough money is raised, the board agreed, it will be used for the groups' priorities: saving schools from closing and stopping class sizes from increasing.

"Can we raise the money? The only thing I can tell you is this: I'll give," said Glenn Fout, a Meiners Oaks School parent and SOS member. "I'll give an amount I never thought I would reasonably have to give to my school. I won't ask for cookie dough or cheesecakes or T-shirts. I just want to save our children's educational experience at all of our schools."

more at the Star...

Posted by Tyler Suchman at 05:43 PM | Permalink | Comments (3) | author bio

Green Yoga by Georg Feuerstein, Ph.D. and Brenda Feuerstein
View image

It's a beautiful Earth Day here in the Ojai Valley. Yet we cannot turn a blind eye to the fact that growing numbers of scientists and biologists are proclaiming that our planet is dying. We who are alive today are living in the midst of an unprecedented ecological crisis in which the fate of our entire planet hangs in the balance. Biologists have labeled this tragedy the Sixth Mass Extinction: Every day, an estimated 150 species are becoming extinct -- an entire species comprising tens of thousands and even millions of individual plants, insects and animals.

As others have pointed out, individual action is both a drop in the bucket --- and potentially, collectively, supremely important.

Green Yoga is a blueprint for how the philosophy of yoga, with its reverence for life and recognition of universal consciousness, provides the spiritual wisdom to enable us to respond intelligently in our daily life.

Continue reading "A Yoga In the Ojai Valley Earth Day Review: Green Yoga" »

Posted by Suza Francina at 02:35 PM | Permalink | Comments (2) | author bio

There is life after taxes (even though said taxes are funding the estimated $3 trillion war bill and and annual $54 billion in nuclear weapons, which are all about Death), and in the Valley of Plenty, there's lots of living to be done:

Tomorrow (Friday April 18th, 2008) sees parents socializing about their joys and challenges and Besant Hill School students performing Broadway's 27th longest running musical. The long-fenced Wetlands Project between Nordhoff High and Meiners Oaks is newly restored and open once again to the public, and a rally and fundraising kickoff to Save Ojai Schools (from State budget cuts) will be held on Sunday April 20th at OUSD Headquarters. An ongoing art exhibit titled "A Sense of Place" will feature the paintings of local artist Tegan Hope at Busy Babes hair salon until May 31st, and the Ojai City Council will meet on Tuesday the 22nd at 7:30pm. That same evening, co-founder of afterdowningstreet.org, David Swanson, will be speaking at the Ojai Retreat on strategies for saving our Constitution, Economy and Environment.

Just around the corner, the Ojai Storytelling Festival will open May 1st in Libbey Bowl, and an organizational meeting for Ojai's new locavore group is slated for May 10th (sign up here).

Click on over to the Ojai Post for current discussions of global warming, downed power lines, ending the war, illegal immigration, 9/11, childbirth, and more!

cross-posted at OjaiNews.com

Posted by evan austin at 11:15 PM | Permalink | Comments (12) | author bio

provided by event organizer Marianne....

A public rally to Save Ojai Schools will be held Sunday, April 20, from noon to 3 p.m., at Ojai Unified School District headquarters, 414 E. Ojai Ave. There will be delicious food, great entertainment, children’s activities and keynote speakers, including Ojai Mayor Sue Horgan. The public is urged to attend to show support for public education in the Ojai Valley.

Download the PDF Flyer

Because of proposed state budget cuts and declining student enrollment, the OUSD is facing drastic cuts of nearly $2 million to the school district budget, including the possible closure of two elementary schools, cuts to P.E., library hours, hot lunches, school bus transportation and more.

Continue reading "Save Ojai Schools public rally on April 20th" »

Posted by Tyler Suchman at 11:12 AM | Permalink | Comments (5) | author bio

(photo courtesy of Daly Road Graphics & Ray Smith)

On Tuesday afternoon, April 8th, members of "Stop the Trucks" coalition successfully testified before the Ventura County Board of Supervisors at their regular weekly meeting after a presentation by consultant Tom Berg, who had been hired to assess issues and problems at the county's Resource Management Agency which includes the Planning Division.

The Coalition stressed the need for monitoring and enforcement of permit conditions, particularly of gravel mine operations, a fact that was reflected back by four of the Supervisors to County staff at the end of the meeting.
The Planning Division currently is responsible for oversight of the Conditional Use Permit (CUP) issued to the Ozena Mine and Gravel operation.

According to an article in the Ventura County Star by Tony Biasotti on Wednesday, April 9, 2008, Berg's noted that there are there are many ways in which the county could be more "transparent, predictable and accountable."
And, " the system has some problems."

Continue reading ""Stop the Trucks:" Expert cites problems in Ventura County's Resource Mangement Agency & Planning Division " »

Posted by Howard Smith at 07:18 PM | Permalink | author bio

The Friends Committee on National Legislation, in their most recent newsletter, cites three recent polls that indicate a majority of Americans think that U.S. military spending is too high and should be capped or reduced. And yet Congress is scheduled this month to consider President Bush's demand for an additional $102 Billion for the disaster in Iraq, which is on top of the $562 Billion already given to the occupation since 2003 and on top of the $3 Trillion the war is estimated to cost for veterans' care, weapons replacement, and higher oil prices. It's also on top of the human cost of over 4,000 Americans and over 1,000,000 Iraqis.

Closer to home, the State of California is out nearly $64.5 Billion from this war (while facing a $16 Billion deficit), and Ojai's share is $14.4 Million to date.

What to do?
• Sign the Ojai Peace Coalition's petition to the Ojai City Council, urging their adoption of a resolution calling for withdrawal of troops, contractors, and bases; appropriation of medical, psychological, financial, and educational assistance for veterans; redirection of war funds to neglected domestic needs; providing non-military support for rebuilding Iraq; and transfer of authority to Iraqis with the help of U.N. peacekeepers.

• Attend a presentation and discussion TODAY at 4:30pm about resisting war through taxes and counter-recruitment. Joseph Maizlish of Southern California War Tax Resisters will be presenting along with Norm Bauer of the Ventura County Committee to Stop the War and the War Resister's League. This is taking place at a private home...contact me for exact location.

Continue reading "Approaching Spiritual Doom (Plus What To Do About It!)" »

Posted by evan austin at 06:29 AM | Permalink | Comments (11) | author bio

In a news story written by Nao Braverman in Friday's Ojai Valley News, "owners of the Ozena Valley Sand and Gravel Mine and the Virgilio Family Trust filed a lawsuit against Ventura County last week, for allegedly changing the scope of their permitted operations without prior notice, hearing or environmental review, according to the lawsuit. They are also filing charges against the county for restricting the use of State Highway 33, which is allegedly in excess of the authority granted to the county, according to the legal petition."

Continue reading "STOP THE TRUCKS: Gravel Truck Owners Suing Ventura County" »

Posted by Howard Smith at 08:47 AM | Permalink | author bio

Up to 54 cents of every dollar you send to Uncle Sam this tax season will go to the United States military in some way, and yet even as militarism is touted as a solution to the world's ills, we live in a time of unprecedented global unrest. The Ojai Peace Coalition invites you to spend an evening discovering the connections - both personal and collective - between the world's violence and our own hard work, and what nonviolent means are available for resistance.

Joseph Maizlish of Southern California War Tax Resisters and Norman Bauer of the Ventura County Committee to Stop the War will co-present about protesting war through tax resistance and counter-recruitment at a private home in Ojai on Saturday, April 5th, 2008.

Contact me for exact location and time.
This event is FREE, with donations accepted.

Posted by evan austin at 08:09 AM | Permalink | Comments (0) | author bio

The corner of Montgomery Street and Ojai Avenue is ALIVE right now, and it's not just the heavy morning traffic. That collection of corners informally make up what some call a DLS, or Day Laborer Site, and there are at least three different groups there this morning, representing many sides of the immigration issue.

Save Our State and No More Invasion chose that corner in Ojai for an anti-illegal-immigration protest this morning, and their message seems to be heightened border security, more strict laws to deal with people who are currently here illegally, and mass deportation. These two groups are known for working together and for embracing tactics of fear and intimidation, including having used pepper spray on someone in recent months. They also videotape much of their protests and post the videos on YouTube.

One of the group's emails was intercepted, and so a second group present is the "ad-hoc anti-fascist coalition" which i believe is based in Ventura. They are mostly young people, dressed in much black and metal, and equipped with banners, signs, flags, and a bullhorn. This group equates SOS and NMI with fascists, Nazis, and white supremists, and so their call is for these Minutemen to go away.

A third, very small group is comprised of some locals who have a distaste for the negative and violent energies of the previous ones, who desire to stand in solidarity with the day laborers in a spirit of compassion. A fourth group is of course the laborers themselves, who were made aware of the impending protest within the past couple of days both by local activists and police. They are mostly quiet, having receded from the corner and watching in a loose group as the Minutemen and anti-fascists have their yelling match. Ultimately, they are not able to be on the actual corner where it's easiest to be picked up, so in a sense the Minutemen have succeeded for today.

The protests will last at least until noon...if you're going through downtown Ojai, you can't miss it.
Photos coming soon.

Posted by evan austin at 11:04 AM | Permalink | Comments (77) | author bio

Saturday, March 29, 2008, 8-9pm local time.

http://www9.earthhourus.org/

Posted by evan austin at 12:00 AM | Permalink | Comments (1) | author bio

...graciously provided by reader m...

Ojai Unified School District Superintendent Tim Baird spoke for two hours to about 150 people who jammed Chaparral auditorium Wednesday night (March 26, 2008) to hear about possible cuts to Ojai public schools, including the suggested closure of two elementary schools – either Meiners Oaks or Mira Monte, and Summit in Upper Ojai. A final decision by the school board on closures could come as early as May 13, he said. Hard choices have to be made because proposed state budget cuts, declining enrollment and increased costs in areas such as employee health benefits and utilities equal a nearly $2 million hit to the district’s annual budget of about $25 million.

The time line for the Ojai Unified School District board of trustees to make budget decisions is short, with the next school board meeting set for April 1, with possible additional special meetings in April. Trustees could take certain proposed cuts off the table at the regularly scheduled May 6 school board meeting, Baird said. Then, he would likely call for a special school board meeting May 13 “where some pretty tough decisions are going to have to be made,” he said.

Continue reading "OUSD Public Meeting" »

Posted by Tyler Suchman at 04:26 AM | Permalink | Comments (11) | author bio

OJAI FILM FESTIVAL ANNOUNCES
LIFETIME ACHIEVEMENT HONOREES
Richard + Lauren Shuler Donner
and Ray Bradbury

Early Entry Deadline for Filmmakers April 15

(Ojai, CA) Ojai Film Festival has announced it will produce two Lifetime Achievement Awards programs to honor high powered producers, Lauren Shuler Donner and Richard Donner, Friday, Nov. 7 as well as an American icon, Ray Bradbury on Saturday November 8 as part of its ninth annual event set to run November 6 through 9, at the five-diamond resort – the Ojai Valley Inn & Spa.

Chairman of the Festival Board, David Shor enthused, “I am pleased and honored to announce, Ray Bradbury and the Donners' have accepted our invitation to be honored at the Ojai Film Festival with a Lifetime Achievement Award for their amazing bodies of work that have inspired and entertained so many people around the world. All the honorees have one thing in common – they can’t be categorized in any one genre. These are major developments for our festival.”

Continue reading "OJAI FILM FESTIVAL TO HONOR RAY BRADBURY AND RICHARD & LAUREN SHULER DONNER" »

Posted by Howard Smith at 06:25 PM | Permalink | author bio

Posted by Mike Didj at 06:46 PM | Permalink | Comments (48) | author bio

Hey, it's time for a book thread for you literary types. What have you been reading? I've been flipping back and forth between "Einstein's Dreams" by Alan Lightman, "Desolation Angels" by Jack Kerouak and "The E-Myth Revisited" by Michael Gerber.

Posted by Tyler Suchman at 03:09 PM | Permalink | Comments (40) | author bio

A Yoga in the Ojai Valley DVD Review

EARTHLINGS
Nature Animals Humankind MAKE THE CONNECTION

Watch the movie here: http://freedocumentaries.org/film.php?id=119

Written, produced and directed by Shaun Monson.
Narrated by Academy Award Nominee Joaquin Phoenix.
Music by critically acclaimed platinum artist Moby.

This is the single most powerful and informative movie about society's treatment of animals! A must-see film for anyone who cares enough to know.
-- Woody Harrelson

The Humane Society calls EARTHLINGS "The definitive documentary film of all times that Americans don't want to see. "

If I had to name one movie that I want everyone to see, including my family, friends and yoga students, it would be EARTHLINGS . Then they would understand why I am so adamant that human beings must speak out on behalf of animals.

Continue reading "EARTHLINGS" »

Posted by Suza Francina at 11:14 AM | Permalink | Comments (15) | author bio

"Effective September 19, 2007, the time announcement information service has been discontinued. We apologize for any inconvenience."

What the F? How did i not know about this, and how am i to calibrate my clocks with carefully synchronized phone-holding, listening, and button-pushing-or-dial-turning? Is this a Republican plot to make us lose track of time and therefore be unable to know how long we've been at war or without health care? What does it have to do with the new studies showing that daylight savings time doesn't actually increase useful working hours, and actually raises utility bills?

What time IS it? Ack!

Posted by evan austin at 11:29 PM | Permalink | Comments (12) | author bio

Dear Moms: These articles are for you; for your love, your sweetness and your natural talent for healing. I’m here to remind you how smart, intuitive, beautiful and capable you are - and to lighten up about this whole thing called parenting, which has become such a concern for so many.

We take our roles as parents so seriously, because of the media, our friends, our family, Oprah, and the latest experts, who bombard us with their new theories on how to raise our children. They discuss endlessly how difficult this parenting job is and unfortunately many of us have fallen for all the rhetoric. I propose that, parenting is easy when you discover who you truly are to your children. You are “THE HEART, SOUL, JOY AND SPIRITUAL FOUNDATION of those Kids!

That means you can play this parenting game any way you want (I ‘m talking about loving parents who want the best for their children and that is most of us). These children came into your life - you didn’t come into theirs. They came into your house, your lifestyle, your consciousness, your craziness. And that is completely wonderful! Because they need a foundation to start their life from, and your life is their foundation (exactly as it is confusion and all!)

It’s time for you to stop apologizing for who you are and how you live your life. So what? - if you don’t keep your house sparkling clean and dishes washed all the time? So what - if you don’t have that great job or extra money to get those Nike’s? So what - if you didn’t marry Mr. Perfect and ended up getting a divorce then a boyfriend? And So what - if you’re impatient with your little darling after telling her for the hundredth time to put on her shoes or she’s going to be late for school? One big SO WHAT?

Continue reading "Moms Come First! Enlightened Parenting" »

Posted by Dvorah Adler at 02:09 PM | Permalink | Comments (41) | author bio

I recently attended an EdTech conference in Ohio where I was able to hear Ray Kurzweil speak. Ray is a brilliant fellow. I was introduced to him by one of my students a few years back. He is the author of three interesting books: The Age of Intelligent Machines(1989), The Age of Spriitual Machines (1999) , and The Singularity Is Near(2007). He writes elegantly about intelligent machines and more precisely about where technology is taking our culture and the world that we are about to live in. For those who may be interested, I have included an excerpt from a graduation address he gave in 2005. Some of you may find it interesting, some will find it scary, and others may just find it boring…For those who want to really wade in, here is his website: http://www.kurzweilai.net/index.html?flash=1

Continue reading "A Peek at the Future" »

Posted by Dennis Rice at 09:42 AM | Permalink | Comments (3) | author bio

At my request, the National Priorities Project, which bills itself as "a 501(c)(3) research organization that analyzes and clarifies federal data so that people can understand and influence how their tax dollars are spent", has calculated war cost data specifically for the City of Ojai (previously the closest data available was for Ventura County).

By the numbers:
Taxpayers in Ojai, California will pay $12.6 million for the cost of the Iraq War through 2007. For the same amount of money, the following could have been provided:

5,170 People with Health Care OR
22,429 Homes with Renewable Electricity OR
234 Public Safety Officers OR
188 Music and Arts Teachers OR
1,933 Scholarships for University Students OR
1 New Elementary Schools OR
38 Affordable Housing Units OR
4,695 Children with Health Care OR
1,494 Head Start Places for Children OR
190 Elementary School Teachers OR
168 Port Container Inspectors

Posted by evan austin at 09:55 AM | Permalink | Comments (33) | author bio

(Photo by Troy Harvey/Special to the VC Star)

In this Sunday's edition of the Ventura County Star, we see barracades divert traffic around a section of Maricopa Highway - Route 33 - about 10 miles north of Ojai that has collapsed into the North Fork of Matilija Creek.

Only residents and emergency personnnel are allowed to use northbound lanes. For all other vehicles, the CHP expects a long-term closure of the highway between Lockwood Valley to the north, where most of the gravel mines in dispute are located, and Matilija Road and the Ojai Valley to the south.

Continue reading "Stop the Trucks: Collapse of Route 33" »

Posted by Howard Smith at 07:59 AM | Permalink | Comments (2) | author bio

Ojai Valley News has the story...an excerpt:

McMichael, a 26-year teacher at San Antonio School, said she was crying with relief. “I’m in shock; I’m overwhelmed,” she said. “It’s been a lot for three years to hold onto.”

She said the suit had changed her forever: “I’m much more diligent about what I do and fearful,” she said. “It’s affected all the teachers in our district because everyone is now terrified of litigation.”

Baird, also a defendant in the case, said he was relieved and that the district’s actions had now been proven justified. “I would say it was a waste of money and time,” he said. “And I’m glad it’s over.”

VC Star covered it as well...

[Defandant's attorney] Light said in an interview that the case should have never gone to trial, but that Thursday's outcome was a "huge surprise."

"We expected a full-blown trial. We've been doing this for three years, and they seemed ready to keep going. This was a total shock," he said. "It's unfortunate it got this far. There wasn't really any animosity here. It got blown out of proportion."

Posted by Tyler Suchman at 08:12 PM | Permalink | Comments (13) | author bio

On Thursday, February 28th, Reverend Michael Dowd will be sharing ideas from his recent book "Thank God for Evolution: How the Marriage of Science and Religion Will Transform Your Life and Our World", an epic on evolution written in a spiritual context. See for yourself why Nobel Prize winning scientists and religious leaders across the spectrum are praising his bold new book that builds bridges, provides guidance, and restores realistic hope for people of any religion or belief system.

7:00 PM Thursday, February 28th
Meditation Mount, 10340 Reeves Road.
For more info, call 805-640-8815.

Posted by evan austin at 08:44 AM | Permalink | Comments (13) | author bio

over-pass-work2.pdf

In today's Ventura County Star:
Saturday, February 23, 2008, from staff reports:

Bridge on Highway 33 Collapses: No One Hurt

A bridge support beam failure caused 130 to 150 feet of embankment along south-bound Highway 33 above Ojai to slide into the North Fork of Matilija Creek on Friday evening, authorities said.

The roadway was empty at the time of the collapse and no one was hurt, California Highway Patrol officials sad.

The bridge, located 10 to 12 miles north of Ojai, reportedly gave way about 6:15 p.m., according to the CHP.

Only southbound lanes were affected, officials said and northbound lanes remained open to residents and emergency personnel.

For all other vehicles, the CHP expects a long-term closure of the highway between Lockwood Valley Road to the north and Matilija Road to the south.

Caltrans crews worked to repair the roadway Friday night, authorities said.

Continue reading "Stop the Trucks: Highway 33 Bridge Collapses!" »

Posted by Howard Smith at 08:00 AM | Permalink | Comments (1) | author bio

From a letter sent by the Ojai Valley Democratic Club:

Because of the hard work we have all been doing, Ventura County is about to change from Republican to Democrat. Four years ago we were 16,000 behind. Now the gap is only 473! Help us close the gap and move on to a decisive majority!

To discuss common objectives and strategies in that pursuit, supporters of Hillary Clinton, Barack Obama, and Dennis Kucinich, along with members of the Ojai Peace Coalition, MoveOn.org, and the Ojai Green Coalition, are invited to attend a general meeting of the Ojai Valley Democratic Club this Saturday, February 23rd at 10:00am at the Ojai Arts Center, 113 South Montgomery Street, Ojai.

Posted by evan austin at 05:51 PM | Permalink | Comments (0) | author bio

Happy Belated Valentines Day!! Here's Hoping you
find your Soul Mate, Love Dvorah

Posted by Dvorah Adler at 10:00 AM | Permalink | Comments (11) | author bio

from the US Forest Service...

Conifers and Fire
Part One in a series on Fire Ecology in the Los Padres National Forest

February 20, 2008
7:00 p.m.
Botanic Garden Blaksley Library
1212 Mission Canyon Road
Santa Barbara

Los Padres ForestWatch and the Santa Barbara Botanic Garden are pleased to sponsor a three-part series: Fire Ecology in the Los Padres National Forest. The first presentation in this series, Conifers and Fire, will be held February 20, 2008, at 7:00 PM in the Botanic Garden’s Blaksley Library. The evening will include talks by Dr. Bob Haller, Botanic Garden Research Associate and expert on conifer forests in California, and Mark Borchert, Province Ecologist for the US Forest Service, who has conducted extensive research on conifers in the Los Padres. Los Padres ForestWatch is a local nonprofit, working to protect the Los Padres National Forest. Additional information on this event can be found on the ForestWatch website at www.LPFW.org or by calling ForestWatch at 805-617-4610. Future presentations include one on chaparral in March and one on rare plants in April.

Posted by Tyler Suchman at 09:50 AM | Permalink | Comments (1) | author bio

Christmas in Ojai from Daly Road Graphics

On February 1, 2008 "Stop the Trucks," filed the following formal complaint against the Ozena Mine with the head of the Ventura County Planning Division, Kim Rodriguez:

Please consider this letter on behalf of Ojai residents, John Broesamle, Howard Smith and the “Stop the Trucks” coalition a formal request to re-open the investigation of possible C.U.P violations on August 14, 2007 in the operation of gravel trucks in conjunction with the Ozena Valley Sand and Gravel Mine.

The Ojai “Stop the Trucks Coalition is comprised of the City of Ojai; Forestwatch; the Ojai Valley Chamber of Commerce; the Ojai Valley School District; the Ojai Valley Board of Realtors; and many hundreds of private citizens.

In your September 27, 2007 letter to Howard Smith (prepared by Pat Richards) and your January 8, 2008 letter to John Broesamle, the department denies both complaints of early morning and late afternoon CUP truck violations by citing the weigh tickets provided to the Planning Department by Ozena.

After an extensive forensic study of the weigh tickets turned over to the Planning Division by the agent for Ozena, John Hecht of West Coast Environmental & Engineering, “Stop the Trucks,” now firmly believes that the use of self-prepared weigh tickets, which appear to be the sole tool used by the division to monitor truck traffic, is not valid. It is a method in which the results can seemingly be manipulated at will by the mine operator; and/or the weigh master; the trucking contractor; and/or their designated drivers; and may result in fraud or misrepresentation of the facts. Clearly they fail the test as the evidentiary basis for any claims, pro or con.

Details of our review are in the “Analysis” provided both below and attached separately.

Continue reading "Stop the Trucks: Complaint Against Ozena" »

Posted by Howard Smith at 04:01 PM | Permalink | Comments (1) | author bio

A new story by Nao Braverman of the Ojai Valley News along with last year's press release from the Federal Bureau of Alcohol, Tobacco, Firearms and Explosives (ATF) reveals the heightened threat to our community: "Mine Owners Seek Expanded Routes, Hours; Despite death, bid to expand mine continues."

Some of the highlights from the OVN: "In mid-January, owners of the Ozena Valley Mine applied for modifications to their Conditional Use Permit to mine sand and gravel in Ozena Valley. Included in the application is a request to increase the number of truck trips hauling sand and gravel to and from the plant and expand the hours that their gravel hauling trucks are permitted to travel on Highway 33."

Continue reading "Stop the Trucks: Ozena Mine Seek Expanded Routes & Hours" »

Posted by Howard Smith at 05:46 PM | Permalink | Comments (1) | author bio

This year the California Supreme Court is expected to rule on the legal right for gay and lesbian couples to marry. Join millions of like-minded Californians and sign this open letter asking the Governor to tell the court that the current law is unconstitutional and that all loving couples deserve the freedom to marry.

By adding your name, you’re taking a stand and showing that you’re someone who supports the freedom to marry and the honor, dignity and respect that come along with it. Make your voice heard by February 14, in this critical year for LGBT Californians. The time is now.

Happy Freedom To Marry Week, my LGBT friends. I DO support your freedom to marry if you choose to.

Today's Season for Nonviolence mantra:
Feb 11: Today, I will look beyond stereotypes and prejudices.

Posted by evan austin at 12:11 AM | Permalink | Comments (6) | author bio

I walked into Rainbow Bridge, the local health food Store and Deli and was happily greeted by college age Lindsey, Heather & Kristen at the registers, “How ya doing Dvorah?” chirps Lindsey, “I sold one of your books today.” “You want some sample chocolates?” asks Kirsten.

I’m always happy to see them, and feel at home the second I walk in. These beautiful young people who serve so open-heartedly, represent great hope and pride for this New Generation, that’s been so bombarded with sex/porn, drugs and Rockn'Rap.
I walk into the Deli for a bite to eat, and Christian (18-years-old) comes up to greet me behind the counter “Hey Dvorahji!” What can I get you? How’s Lilly?” I make a funny face. (He knows how much I love Lilly). I order a little of everything, and a ginger/coconut smoothie. Danny (a local college student) makes it and doesn’t even wince at my detailed instructions.

I watch Christian’s older brother Oscar help a difficult customer with good humor and a beautiful smile. I feel so proud of them. I notice the two twins Tony and Miguel cleaning the food area, getting ready to make sandwiches. I tease them about liking one more than the other – because he’s better looking. We laugh about it again. I take my meal outside and sit with Lilly. I see Monika & Byonca cleaning the tables, and when they see me they wave their rags. I wave my fork. I watch as Louis drags out a huge bag of garbage and Sharky sweeps up after him. “Dvorah! Whatchadoin’?” asks Sharky cheerfully. Both my thumbs go up, and I ask him about his love life. He gives me a big grin. I assume that mean good news. I’m happy for him. He’s adorable.

I stop for a minute to pick up some vitamins and see Khanun, Vanessa, and Dianne busy answering endless repetitive questions about upset stomach, indigestion constipation, desperation. They don’t roll their eyes once, but patiently continue to offer their knowledge and commitment to alternative health.

Rainbow Bridge has truly become a “Community Gathering Place” and it’s largely because of these wonderful young people and Ernest Niglio, Marianne and Mary Trudeau (the creative brains behind this store) that it works so well. They transformed a prior crammed space, into an open beautifully clean friendly grocery store and deli, where you can meet for lunch, have a snack or just sit and read. Everyone is welcome.

Business is often done with a handshake, and Ernest, the general manager is a frank, honest New Yorker with an Ojai heart beating for peace. I’ve seen him keep his cool and good humor, even when challenged with outrageous requests (that only an educated, health conscious often wealthy clientele can demand). If you want chips from the Himalayas or a dip from the Ganges – well, he’ll try and get them for you, and so will the assistant managers Scott and Richard.

I love coming to Rainbow Bridge and appreciate everyone’s hard work, humor and commitment, especially the “Young, Cool, Kids” who so graciously SERVE us every day. Much Love and a Big THANK YOU to all of you:

Sharon, Susan, Joanie, Heather, Holly, Kim, Lindsey, Kimberly, Kirsten: Tracy, King David, Kelsey, Bill, Naomi, Marie, Louis, Monica, Danny, Danica, Terry, Tony, Miguel, Oscar, Christian, Byanca, Sharky, Patrick, Tyson, Seth, Dianne, Khunan, Vanessa, Jan, and of course, Ernest, Marianne and Mary.
See www.rainbowbridgeojai.com or you can always call 805-646-4017

Posted by Dvorah Adler at 10:02 AM | Permalink | Comments (34) | author bio

Your Daily Yoga Vitamin -- Downward Facing Dog Pose

The Downward-Facing Dog Pose, known in Sanskrit as Adho Mukha Svanasana, is named for the way dogs and other animals naturally stretch their bodies several times a day. The shape of the pose resembles a dog stretching, with the arms and hands stretched out like a dog’s forepaws; the shoulders, spine and chest stretching; and the pelvis and tail bone high up in the air, stretching as far back away from the hands as possible.

When dogs stretch, they do so with great enjoyment--with all their heart and soul and a smile on their face!

Stretching daily in Downward-Facing Dog removes a lifetime of stiffness from the body and develops spinal strength and agility.

Continue reading "Yoga In the Ojai Valley" »

Posted by Suza Francina at 07:33 AM | Permalink | Comments (12) | author bio

Silly, sure...but it gets the point across and is no more complex than it needs to be:

Can we do this?

Continue reading "Happy Democracy Day!" »

Posted by evan austin at 10:17 AM | Permalink | Comments (4) | author bio

I came to the United States on the General Moore, a ship that landed in New York Harbor 57 years ago. My father held me on his shoulders so I could see the Statue of Liberty holding her torch of hope and welcome. We were refugees from Nazi Germany, spared from the ovens and on our way to a distant uncle in Los Angeles, who was willing to take us in and offer us citizenship. I still remember the cheers when we finally hit shore. America! We were safe.

My mother ended up working as a line-man in a Cheetos factory, and my father, a tailor made clothes for Lucille Ball. On Saturdays my Mom and I would go downtown to get colored blouses to match the skirts my Dad made, so I’d look well-dressed for school.

I remember being 8 years old, sitting alone on the grass at Queen Anne Park in South Los Angeles (we lived in a ghetto), eating my lunch, when I notice that a dozen young black boys coming my way, first walking, then running and then shouting. I froze. They encircled me, I couldn’t move. I tried to get up and one of them pushed me down again. Suddenly, a huge black man came running up shouting at the young boys, “Leave her alone! You punks, get outta here!” They scattered, I ran home. Saved again, but for what?

Continue reading "Yes “YOU” Can! It is POSSIBLE!" »

Posted by Dvorah Adler at 02:14 PM | Permalink | Comments (2) | author bio

Your Daily Yoga Vitamin -- the Yoga Splits

For a larger view of this inspiring pose: http://www.suzafrancina.com/media/JHJacobs_060609_055_suza.jpg

This joyous, exhilarating pose is known in yoga as Hanumanasana, the Monkey Pose. When you practice this fabulous stretching pose, it feels--and looks like-- you are taking a giant leap! This powerful stretch, with the arms reaching up toward the heavens represents a "leap in consciousness," a change from one stage of life to the next. The inspiring teacher demonstrating the pose is in her 70's. Hanumanasana is a fun pose to practice at the end of your yoga session, when your body is nice and warmed up from practicing Standing Poses, Downward Facing Dog Pose, Lunges and other Yoga Basics. In the beginning, the pose can be practiced by placing a bolster and folded blankets under the hips and pelvis.

Photo of Betty Eiler by Jim Jacobs.

Posted by Suza Francina at 09:41 PM | Permalink | Comments (4) | author bio

The Ventura County Reporter features news story on "Appeal denied in truck violation case."

Bill Lascher, Editor of the VC Reporter, published in this past week's edition a short article on the Gravel Truck battles, which Bill says is the prelude to a much longer story in the coming weeks.

Some excerpts and a link to the full article follow:

….The most recent development came with County planners’ refusal to hear an appeal by Ozena’s owners of a violation of existing conditional use permits…

“We’re opposed to having this town, which is dependent on a tourist economy, education, and the arts, inject industrialization. “It completely obscures and takes away from the heart and soul of what the town is about…”

Continue reading "Stop the Truck: Between a rock mine and a hard place" »

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

i don't pretend to know a whole lot about economics or all the troubles that the housing market is in right now, but i'm comfortable enough to know that certain frivolities of society (schools, roads, health care, etc) are feeling a pinch. i also tend to believe educated economists when they say that a declining housing market and general loss of net jobs are sure signs of what they call "recession".

i get a little bit worried when, despite January's unemployment rate being higher than December's, President Bush claims that "for the first time in 52 months, we didn't create jobs." i become alarmed when he says that our economy is in a "rough patch", as though the financial standings of the world's only superpower are a neglected corner of his ranch.

what i DO know is that the occupation of and war on Iraq is costing the United States $720 Million every day of the tax money we're about to send more of. locally, that amounts to $487 Million from Ventura County alone to pay for fiscal year 2007, with FY2008 estimated to cost OUR COUNTY $550 Million. that's a lot of money. how much?

Continue reading "My Economic Stimulus Package : End the F#*%ing War!" »

Posted by evan austin at 02:41 PM | Permalink | Comments (2) | author bio

GURU that is. Funny how they appear in the most unexpected forms. My Buddha.

It doesn't matter who your Guru/Buddha is, AWAKENING can happen at any time, regardless of who you are, what you say or what you do. You could be praying or watching tv eating ding-dongs. Contrary to common belief, it doesn't matter how long you've been meditating, chanting, doing yoga, going to church, or doing service. Awakening is always a surprise. A GIFT with no past or present merit or strings attached. A HAPPENING. Two short videos for your entertainment. AWAKENING #1 (the realization) Part #2 (the interviews and breakthrough) - Love, Dvorah

Continue reading "I'LL SHOW YOU MINE - IF YOU SHOW ME YOURS!" »

Posted by Dvorah Adler at 10:56 AM | Permalink | Comments (18) | author bio

Today is January 30th, 2008. It was on this day in 1948 that Mohandas K. Gandhi was shot and killed in Delhi, and it is on this date that we begin the Season for Nonviolence. This 64-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.

In this spirit the Ojai Peace Coalition presents our handy, consolidated, easily-printable, wallet-fittable, fun-to-foldable 64 Daily Reflections Card to keep with you so your commitments to Peace and Compassion are never more than a glance away. Enjoy!

Our first week of reflections are:
Jan 30: Today, I will reflect on what peace means to me.
Feb 01: Today, I will look at opportunities to be a peacemaker.
Feb 02: Today, I will practice nonviolence and respect for Mother Earth by making good use of her resources.
Feb 03: Today, I will take time to admire and appreciate nature.
Feb 04: Today, I will plant seeds--plants or constructive ideas.
Feb 05: Today, I will hold a vision of plenty for all the world’s hungry and be open to guidance as to how I can help alleviate some of that hunger.
Feb 06: Today, I will acknowledge every human being’s fundamental right to justice, equity, and equality.

Posted by evan austin at 01:01 AM | Permalink | Comments (3) | author bio

Hollywood and fans the world over were shocked last week when Oscar-nominated actor Heath Ledger, gaining fame for challenging roles in films such as Monster's Ball, Brokeback Mountain, and this coming summer's The Dark Knight, was found dead in his apartment with sleeping pills nearby, at the age of 28.

Lauded personally as a "down-to-earth, generous, kindhearted, life-loving, unselfish individual", his death prompted remarks from such Hollywood heavyweights as Mel Gibson and Ang Lee, both of whom mourned the "tragic loss" of a young life.

On the same day as Ledger's death, 20-year-old Army Sergeant Michael R. Sturdivant of Conway, Arkansas died in Kirkuk, Iraq "of injuries sustained in a vehicle accident during convoy operations". Those who knew him praise his service-oriented attitude, dedication, and volunteerism. His life was marked by a good heart and kind words. Needless to say, Sturdivant's untimely and tragic death received only local attention.

And why is this? Is an actor's life worth more than a soldier's? Is a tuxedo more prized than camouflage? Many will unhesitatingly (although with some disgust) answer "Yes!", and it would seem that the evidence is on your side. i answer "Yes" also, but not because i believe that one life or vocation is worth more than another. i believe that Mr. Ledger's tragedy is so because it was UNEXPECTED. The difference for Mr. Sturdivant is that death is one of the accepted risks of his job. Rarely mentioned or stated explicitly, to be killed is one of the things a soldier - and those who send him or her into battle - can EXPECT. Soldiers are made to die, and war was made to kill them.

Continue reading "Soldiers Are Made To Die" »

Posted by evan austin at 10:37 PM | Permalink | Comments (23) | author bio

Photo by Daly Road Grapics, Ojai Ave at Montgomery, 7:00am on 1/22/08

Appeal by Ozena Mine to Expand Trucking Hours Rejected

Such changes would have expanded allowable and permitted trucking through our valley from the current seven hours a day on weekdays to more than double that.

Continue reading "Stop the Trucks: Another Victory for Ojai!" »

Posted by Howard Smith at 05:41 PM |