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

Tonight at Chaparral Auditorium, 414 E Ojai Ave, 7pm, check out a presentation by Brock Dolman, Director of the WATER Institute and author of Basins of Relations: Think Like a Watershed. This will be preceded by a short film: The Cycle of Insanity: The Real Story of Water.

Posted by Tyler Suchman at 05:42 PM | 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

Following is a letter to the Vons Corporation from the fine folk at the Ojai Valley Green Coalition. At issue is that Vadnais Investments, the owner of the Ojai Vons shopping center, has historically refused to allow or install bike racks, despite Vons' public commitment to sustainability initiatives.

My two cents: Vons corporate should strongly encourage Dean Vadnais to take the Green Coalition up on their offer, and then issue a press release on their commitment to sustainability with this Ojai project as an example. Don't do anything, and they risk getting pulled into the negative PR that could ramp up as a result of stonewalling. Do the right thing for the community and the environment, and reap the rewards - pretty simple.

Continue reading "OVGC: Letter to Vons Corp re: Bike Racks" »

Posted by Tyler Suchman at 01:48 PM | Permalink | Comments (14) | 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

from the fine folk at the Ojai Valley Green Coalition...

Thinking like a watershed is what Brock Dolman of the WATER Institute would like all of us to start doing. On May 26 he’ll be in Ojai to comment on a 20-minute documentary produced by the Surfrider Foundation called Cycle of Insanity: The Real Story of Water and speak on water issues. Dolman, who is cofounder of the Occidental Arts and Ecology Center, is a wildlife biologist and a permaculture, erosion control and watershed restoration consultant. He maintains that we’re not in a water crisis; it’s our water-management system that is in crisis.

Continue reading "OVGC: Thinking Like a Watershed" »

Posted by Tyler Suchman at 05:08 PM | Permalink | Comments (0) | 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

BP welcomes military help for larger Gulf oil leak: But time may be running out: Oil from the spill had crept to within 12 miles of the coast, and it could reach shore as soon as Friday. A third leak was discovered, which government officials said is spewing five times as much oil into the water as originally estimated — about 5,000 barrels a day coming from the blown-out well 40 miles offshore.

Size of Spill in Gulf of Mexico Is Larger Than Thought: Wind patterns may push the spill into the coast of Louisiana as soon as Friday night, officials said, prompting consideration of more urgent measures to protect coastal wildlife. Among them were using cannons to scare off birds and employing local shrimpers’ boats as makeshift oil skimmers in the shallows. In a hastily called news conference, Rear Adm. Mary E. Landry of the Coast Guard said a scientist from the National Oceanic and Atmospheric Administration had concluded that oil is leaking at the rate of 5,000 barrels a day, not 1,000 as had been estimated.

Oil spill in Gulf of Mexico now worse than feared: [S]ome parts of the swampy coastline will be impossible to protect, said NOAA ecologist Tom Minello. Once it hits those mangroves, he said, "it'll just kill all the vegetation. It's years before it will recover. The stuff's pretty toxic, and it will kill all the growth that supports the shrimp and crabs," hurting a seafood industry that's still recovering from Hurricane Katrina. While noting he wouldn't want oil to hit any of Florida's coast, Sole said it would be easier cleaning it off of a beach than scrubbing sensitive estuaries. The only way to get oil out of a contaminated marsh, he said, "is to burn the marsh."

Posted by Tyler Suchman at 10:26 AM | Permalink | Comments (32) | 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

Good news for Ojai! The US Department of Transportation has declared that the needs of pedestrians and cyclists must be placed alongside, not behind, those of motorists. In what amounts to a true paradigm shift, the automobile will no longer be the prime consideration in federal transportation planning.

Continue reading "Pedaling Toward a Greener Ojai: Moving Forward On Our Bicycle and Pedestrian Master Plan" »

Posted by Suza Francina at 07:04 AM | Permalink | Comments (0) | 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

Sunday, April 18, 2:00pm-4:00pm
Ojai Retreat 160 Besant Road in Ojai (above the Ranch House Restaurant)

The story of the development of life on Earth is not just a theory for biology books. It is the key to understanding our world today – not only our environment, but the moral and spiritual dimensions of our world as well.

This is the theme of ‘Deep Time and the Meaning of Life’, a talk to be given by David E. Moody, Ph.D. Dr. Moody’s talk explores the intersection between science and the sacred. It examines the extraordinary mystery of why our planet is so perfectly suited for life, with just the right climate and chemistry for us and all living things. Did this happen because God made it this way? Or are we just lucky? Or is there a deeper, more interesting explanation?

Continue reading "Deep Time and The Meaning of Life -- Sunday, April 18th, at the Ojai Retreat" »

Posted by Suza Francina at 08:35 PM | Permalink | Comments (16) | 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

I've often thought a bicycle delivery service made good sense for our Valley, and now I'm pleased to see that its happening.
I was sifting through boxes of junk and furniture on Craigslist last night and found this interesting ad.

green shipping - $1 (ojai)

Date: 2010-04-13, 1:52PM PDT
Carbon-free shipping is now available in Ojai!
This is currently in the form of bike and cart transportation and will
lead to sailboats.
Let us haul your stuff or please get involved!
This is a grass-roots org' just starting... up; there's lots of room for
your involvement.
see: www.greenshipping.yolasites.com
LEAVE YOUR CAR AT HOME!

Posted by Chris Wilson at 12:04 PM | Permalink | Comments (7) | author bio

A number of fine organizations are running a Win This Electric Bike Contest at Earth Day on April 24th. Just arrive by alternative transportation at the old Ford dealership to start. Read more by clicking the image to the left and viewing the full flyer.

Presented by Rotary Club of Ojai West, Rotary Club of Ojai, Ojai Valley Land Conservancy, Ojai Valley Green Coalition and Oak Grove School. The Folding Dogleg Electric Bike is provided by the Ojai Rotary Clubs and Kelly Pasco of Project-Ride in Meiners Oaks.

Posted by Tyler Suchman at 09:24 PM | Permalink | Comments (3) | author bio

from the fine folk at the Ojai Valley Green Coalition... the Energy committee has a new Chair and new, ahem, energy. And an update on the watershed restoration. Both stories in full after the jump...

Restoration and Stewardship of Ojai’s Watershed

Why were all those volunteers needed to help restore the creek that flows through Libbey Park? How did the new native plantings fare during the most recent storms? Are any other parts of the Ojai watershed in need of restoration? Did you know that the Ojai Creek Riparian Habitat Restoration project is in the running for the Ventura County 2010 Climate Change Award? Learn about all this and more Wednesday, April 28, 7:00 P.M. at the Ojai Valley Green Coalition’s monthly presentation at Chaparral Auditorium, 414 E. Ojai Avenue.

Continue reading "News from the Green Coalition" »

Posted by Tyler Suchman at 09:08 PM | Permalink | Comments (0) | author bio

Who Is The Compact for a Sustainable Ventura County?

The Compact for a Sustainable Ventura County is a broad partnership of the 10 cities and Ventura County, The Ventura Council of Governments, Ventura County Transportation Commission, the Ventura County Civic Alliance, Ventura County Air Pollution Control District, and the Southern California Association of Governments.

What are they up to?

The Compact for a Sustainable Ventura County is presenting information from last fall's Map-The-Future workshops at five Sustainability Summits in April throughout Ventura County. Click the image on the left to see the flyer. Or visit The Compact for a Sustainable Ventura County online.

Posted by Tyler Suchman at 08:56 PM | Permalink | Comments (0) | 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

Really great video Christie's put together as a selling tool for the Hagman estate in Upper Ojai. Gives a rarely seen flavor of the entire estate, which is quite spectacular. I'll invite you all up when I close escrow.

Posted by Tyler Suchman at 01:51 PM | Permalink | Comments (7) | 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

A great short film about a plastic bag voiced by Werner Herzog, via Reddit.

Posted by Chris Wilson at 11:33 PM | Permalink | Comments (2) | 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

By Ojai author David E. Moody

Most of us know that people who live in Alaska or near the North Pole do not see much daylight for long stretches of time, while those who live on the equator see a great deal of sunlight. And so you might think that on the equator the sun is exactly, directly overhead pretty often -- maybe once a day, every day, for most or all of the year.

But actually that is not the case. Because the Earth's axis of rotation is tilted, the sun is almost never directly overhead even on the equator. Instead, the entire northern hemisphere leans toward the sun all day long and all night long for six months of the year, and away from the sun all day and all night for the other six months of the year.

Continue reading "Spring Equinox: One Brief Shining Moment" »

Posted by Suza Francina at 06:41 AM | Permalink | Comments (6) | 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

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

On Saturday afternoon, March 27, at 4:30 p.m. 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.

Continue reading "OVGC Film: How Cuba Survived Peak Oil" »

Posted by Tyler Suchman at 12:02 PM | Permalink | Comments (1) | author bio

Welcome to Day 38 of the 64-day Season for Nonviolence; one of today's affirmations and practices is

KINDNESS: Do something kind for someone for no reason other than to be kind. Bring beauty to a place where it may be needed without letting anyone know that you were the one who did it. Write about how it felt and then share this story with someone.

Tell us what you've done or will do...anonymous posts welcome!

The Season's daily affirmations and practices are updated EVERY DAY at ojaipeace.org.

Posted by evan austin at 09:00 AM | Permalink | Comments (2) | 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

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

No doubt you are well aware of the disaster, needs, and response in Haiti, and if you're like me it can seem overwhelming to know how to help. Specifically, there can be a general doubt about where your money (if that's how you choose to reach out) is best placed, given that many relief organizations - including the Red Cross - have high overhead costs that divert some of the funds away from direct relief. It is not my intention to judge or discourage past or future donations to great orgs like the Red Cross, Doctors Without Borders, and others...but i would like to make you aware - with a grateful hat-tip to Lisa Snider of Radio Ojai - of Direct Relief International, which "provides medical assistance to improve the quality of life for people affected by poverty, disaster, and civil unrest at home and throughout the world. We work to strengthen the in-country health efforts of our partners by providing essential material resources – medicines, supplies and equipment."

Why is DRI so special? For one thing, spending less than one-half of one percent of their annual support on fundraising and less than one percent on administration means that 99% of funds go directly to relief. For those of us in Ventura County, there's another bonus: DRI is based in nearby Santa Barbara. Two great reasons to donate to Haiti relief today? i think so.

Cross-posted on the Ojai Peace Coalition Action Blog.

Posted by evan austin at 11:47 AM | Permalink | Comments (0) | 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

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

Gozo Farm and The Farmer and The Cook have memberships available in their CSA program. Community Supported Agriculture is a popular, international movement that connects consumers with farmers who provide produce to that membership on a weekly basis. Memberships are $100 per month. Over time, the expense is a definite value to members, who also enjoy picked-that-day freshness and superb post-harvest handling, providing a highly nutritious product. Products vary from season to season and week to week. Eight to twelve items are in every membership box. Occasionally we supplement our organic produce with local organic produce ( mostly fruit) or things we encounter regionally from other organic farmers, like late season tomatoes from Buelton or avocados from Santa Paula. Pick-ups are at the Farmer and The Cook in Meiners oaks every Wednesday or Thursday. write to Steve Sprinkel at farmerandcook@gmail.com for Ojai memberships.

If you had placed your name on our waiting list previously, please let me know. Our list got wings and is somewhere else.

A similar program from the same farm also serves Ventura. Call John at 272-5337 for VENTURA delivery.

Posted by Steve Sprinkel at 09:36 PM | Permalink | Comments (0) | 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

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

"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

"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

From an online article published today, entitled "Chalica, new weeklong UU holiday, slowly gains adherents - slowly":

Part of the reason that Chalica has the following that it does is that it has a song. Two songs actually. Evan Austin, a member of the UU Church of Ventura, Calif., wrote “The Chalica Song,” several years ago, using the same tune as the “Hanukkah Song” sung by comedian-actor Adam Sandler. Austin’s song, molded in part around names of famous UUs, found its way onto YouTube where it has been viewed more than 1,300 times. [Posted here is the updated, second version]

Austin said, “I just liked the idea of Chalica as a fresh new thing.” Could there be a copyright issue in emulating Sandler’s song? “It’s just four guitar chords repeated over and over,” he noted.

Continue reading "Happy, Merry, Joyous, Cheery Chalica!" »

Posted by evan austin at 07:25 AM | Permalink | Comments (0) | 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

A few moments ago, in Meiners Oaks:

Continue reading "In With the New!" »

Posted by evan austin at 01:06 PM | Permalink | Comments (8) | 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

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

According to climatologists, it's going to be wet this winter.

Experts on El Niño, the well-known global weather circulation pattern that often brings warm winters and heavy rain to the West Coast, recently released a chart showing the El Niño Southern Oscillation (ENSO) strengthening across the Pacific.

This is good news for those of us in SoCal hoping for rain.

Here's a recent satellite picture, from the NASA-affiliated Jet Propulsion Lab in Pasadena, showing the elevation of a Kelvin wave building along the equator as of two weeks ago. 

JPL's forecaster extraordinaire Bill Patzert, who earlier this year doubted that El Nino would significantly increase our chances of rain, now sounds convinced.

"In the American west, where we are struggling under serious drought conditions, this late-fall charge by El Niño is a pleasant surprise, upping the odds for much-needed rain and an above-normal winter snowpack," he said.

Continue reading "Acorns Appear Abundant: Wet Winter on the Way?" »

Posted by Kit Stolz at 01:25 PM | Permalink | Comments (8) | 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

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

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

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

Ojai Valley Green Coalition Three-Year Birthday Party
Wed., Oct 28, 7pm-8:30pm, Chaparral Auditorium

Ojai Day Bike Valet
Sat., Oct 17th, 10am-5pm, Ojai Library parking lot

details after the jump...

Continue reading "OVGC Upcoming Events" »

Posted by Tyler Suchman at 01:30 PM | Permalink | Comments (1) | 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

Sally Carless, founder and Executive Director of Global Village School, recently received the Ojai Peace Coalition’s Noble Peace Prize. Each year, the Coalition honors a local individual who works for and exhibits peace in their lives.

The nomination most specifically cited Carless’s attention to peace and justice issues through the establishment and continued operation of the Ojai-based Global Village School, an international K-12 homeschool diploma program with a creative, flexible approach and an emphasis on peace, justice, diversity, and sustainability. Global Village offers a full diploma program and college preparatory classes that prepare students to be wise and capable stewards of the planet and each other.

According to evan austin, founder of the Ojai Peace Coalition, “The purpose of the Noble Peace Prize is to recognize and honor local actions and lifestyles that positively affect our community in ways consistent with the Ojai Peace Coalition's aims and values, and to create S/Heroes of Peace with the idea that culture is defined in part by our traditions, rituals, and honored individuals.”

Continue reading "Global Village School Founder Honored on Int'l Day of Peace" »

Posted by evan austin at 03:05 PM | Permalink | Comments (2) | author bio

How about them apples? From the VCSD Office of Emergency Services...

At 10:48 AM on September 29th, an earthquake with preliminary magnitude 8.0 occurred in the Samoa Islands region. A Tsunami Advisory is in effect which includes the coastal areas of California and Oregon from the California-Mexico border to the Oregon-Washington border.

Continue reading "Tsunami Advisory" »

Posted by Tyler Suchman at 06:48 PM | Permalink | Comments (1) | 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

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

On an insufferably hot Santa Ana condition day in SoCal, with the Guiberson fire eating its way into the Moorpark area, it's worth asking if the fires we face this year are directly linked to the lack of rain we've experienced for the last three years, and if they are linked, more broadly, to the "megadrought" identified by numerous researchers that has taken hold in SoCal in the latter half of this century.

Continue reading "SoCal Megadroughts and Megafires: Caused by Global Warming?" »

Posted by Kit Stolz at 03:27 PM | Permalink | Comments (6) | author bio

This year's expected El Nino (the boy child) is looking considerably less robust than advertised just three months ago. From a typically excellent story by Rob Krier in the San Diego Union Tribune:

Anyone counting on El Niño to wipe out California's drought this winter may be counting chickens long before they've hatched.

Long-range forecasters are less and less bullish about El Niño, a global atmospheric condition that could bring extra precipitation to San Diego County.

Most of them say the odds still slightly favor a wetter-than-normal rainfall season in California, which could use a drenching after three straight years of drought. But the fledgling El Niño is showing signs of losing steam.

Continue reading "El Nino or El Fizzle? " »

Posted by Kit Stolz at 09:54 AM | Permalink | Comments (9) | 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

Paul Jenkin has a Facebook article: "New Solution for Dam Removal," including a recap of Wednesday night's Matilija Dam Design Oversight Group (DOG) Meeting.

The primary topic of discussion was how to reduce the escalating costs of the project and re-energize the efforts to remove this obsolete dam. Project managers presented a new proposal that may provide a solution to the problem of managing the fine sediments trapped behind Matilija Dam.

Become a Fan of the Ojai Post while you're there... www.facebook.com/ojaipost

Posted by Tyler Suchman at 12:16 PM | Permalink | Comments (9) | 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

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

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

from a reader - unconfirmed...

fire by Lake Casitas ranger station? smoke visible from South Mira Monte - Wormword and Bonmark

...more in the comments...

photo from reader Vicki - click to enlarge

Posted by Tyler Suchman at 12:14 PM | Permalink | Comments (24) | author bio

Tim Broderick, Energy Consultant and co-chair of the OVGC Building & Construction committee, will give a presentation on saving energy and saving money as a result. Click the image to the left to download a flyer.

Save the date:
Sept 23, 7-8:30pm
Chaparral Auditorium

Posted by Tyler Suchman at 09:46 AM | Permalink | Comments (0) | 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

...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 Valley Green Coalition presents:

The American Southwest: Are We Running Dry?
Saturday August 29, 4:30pm
Ojai Theatre
$10 suggested donation

"This documentary is a definitive look at how the water crisis affects the American Southwest states and its escalating economic toll. From the White House to the House of Representatives, the film's writer, director, and executive producer, Jim Thebaut, interviews key thinkers in an intelligent and informed discussion about the evolving water crisis."

Posted by Tyler Suchman at 09:06 AM | Permalink | Comments (3) | 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

You may remember that in 2005 the Bush administration decided to open up national forests to building more roads so commercial interests could log and mine more effectively. 58 million acres in US states and Puerto Rico were to be opened, including 465,000 acres in Los Padres alone. There have been court battles ever since.

As irritating as I can find him, Schwarzenegger did go to bat for this land, which includes the Sespe and the Topa Topas and the Nordhoff Ridge and Chief Peak, by petitioning for protection in 2006. These appeals were denied in 2007, and in 2008, CA Secretary for Resources Mike Chrisman along with AG Jerry Brown brought suit against the feds, claiming that the US Forest Service had failed to manage the land appropriately.

Well, the Obama administration has come down on the side of the forest angels, and is siding with environmentlists in a Wyoming court case that could go a long way towards settling this permanently.

More in the Huffington Post...

Sure would be nice to not ever have to worry about a line of oil derricks adorning the Topa Topas...

Posted by Leigh Melander at 05:47 PM | Permalink | Comments (4) | 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

observations from M.O. resident, native plant grower, exemplary musician and all-around good guy Smitty West...

Bees

Last week, I saw a contractor measuring and marking along the right-of-way in front of Euterpe Farms, and I stopped and chatted with the guy to see what was up.

He was working for the utility company (I assume Edison) and told me he was surveying for the replacement of a rotten utility pole. I saw it was an old wood one, and I asked him if they were going to put in those new fancy brown fiberglass ones that I have seen all over town.

Continue reading "Guest Editorial: Smitty West on Bees" »

Posted by Tyler Suchman at 09:29 PM | Permalink | Comments (6) | 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

reader Jack passed this on - the California Building Standards Commission passed a new graywater code, which is a good step in addressing unsustainable water resource consumption.

Half of all carbon emissions are from buildings. Buildings built to current codes are sucking the groundwater out from under California. Graywater permits are part of an outdated system that focuses on microscopic risk as our species is engulfed by huge, emerging risks.

"On August 4th, 2009, California can legally install simple laundry and single fixture systems without a permit. For the first time, licensed professionals can legally help with the 1.7 million existing graywater systems in the state. " - Art Ludwig, graywater researcher and educator

Continue reading "New Graywater Code" »

Posted by Tyler Suchman at 10:47 AM | Permalink | Comments (12) | author bio

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

I hear this is a must see... looks really fun and of great relevance to our community.

Saturday, July 25th at 4:30pm, Ojai Theater will be the local premiere of the film, "Mad City Chickens," a wacky and wonderful documentary about one Wisconsin city's "chicken underground" fighting city hall to make their poultry passion legal. This is a film you don't want to miss, even if you don't eat eggs or have a hankering for feathered friends. You will laugh out loud and even Sci-Fi and Twilight Zone fans will appreciate the style of the film.

One thing's for sure, if you've been on the fence about getting chickens, you'll be convinced to join the growing ranks of home farmers who are committed to a more sustainable food system and to make happy hens a part of your life.

After the film we'll be having a chat with Garm Beall, founder of the website backyardchickens.com about how to get started raising chickens with Q&A at the Village Jester pub next door.

This is a fundraiser ($10) for the Food & Agriculture Committee of the Ojai Valley Green Coalition, so that we can plant more vegetable gardens for folks and conduct more culinary events. So please broadcast this to others (Ojai and beyond) who love food and need a good laugh!

Keep it fresh, keep it fun!
Dulanie Ellis-La Barre
Grow Food Party Crew & the Culinary Club

Posted by Tyler Suchman at 12:50 PM | Permalink | Comments (0) | author bio

A couple stories that caught my eye...

Australian town bans bottled water sales: Residents of a rural Australian town hoping to protect the earth and their wallets have voted to ban the sale of bottled water, the first community in the country — and possibly the world — to take such a drastic step in the growing backlash against the industry.

El Nino conditions return to affect weather: In general, El Nino conditions are associated with increased rainfall across the east-central and eastern Pacific and with drier than normal conditions over northern Australia, Indonesia and the Philippines. A summer El Nino can lead to wetter than normal conditions in the intermountain regions of the United States and over central Chile. In an El Nino year there tend to be more Eastern Pacific hurricanes and fewer Atlantic hurricanes. The forecasters said they expect this El Nino to continue strengthening over the next few months and to last through the winter of 2009-2010.

Posted by Tyler Suchman at 01:09 PM | Permalink | Comments (2) | 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

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

The following is from our fellow Ojai citizen, Alasdair Coyne. I thought it was a great read...

A Brief History of Environmental Activism in the Ojai Valley

The citizenry of Ojai has a long history of successful fights against major development proposals which threatened to change the nature of the Ojai Valley. This brief summary presents an overview of the biggest campaigns that Ojai residents have led over the past half century.

Some of these campaigns opposed specific projects slated for the Ojai Valley. Others contested proposals outside Ojai, whose air quality impacts would have led to greatly reduced air quality in the Ojai Valley. Air pollution blows in to Ojai from the direction of the ocean and gets held there by the hills that surround the valley.

Continue reading "Guest Editorial: Alasdair Coyne" »

Posted by Tyler Suchman at 09:57 AM | Permalink | Comments (8) | author bio

Cities across the Nation are reconsidering where to put their funding. The idea of fireworks is becoming a luxury when stacked up against citizens going hungry or people losing their jobs. http://www.latimes.com/news/nationworld/nation/la-na-fireworks29-2009jun29,0,2351470.story

"The last food bank line I saw had more than 1,000 people in it," said Mayor Rosemarie Vasquez of Montebello Ca. "We figured that, instead of burning the money in the air, why not give it to people who need it." ~~ on why she's spending the $39,000 budget on food rather than fireworks.

Posted by DK Crawford at 02:39 PM | Permalink | Comments (44) | author bio

Death cuts you off with a very, very, very sharp razor from your attachments, from your gods, from your superstitions, from your desire for comfort . . . So how can I find out, actually, not theoretically, what it means to die? It means to be totally free, to be totally unattached to everything that man has put together, or what you have put together . . . totally free. . . While you are living, every moment you are dying, so that throughout life you are not attached to anything. That is what death means.
-- J. Krishnamurti, public talk, January 1, 1986, six weeks before his death

The Ojai Valley News web site has a spot that lists "RECENT DEATHS." There I read the names of my teachers and classmates from Matilija and Nordhoff... childhood dentists and doctors from long ago...my yoga students.... former mayors and city council members....Ojai activists....old friends and acquaintances... I am aware that someday my parent's name and then my own name....will appear under "RECENT DEATHS..."

Yesterday I got a shock when I suddenly saw the name of Ted Cartee, a man with deep roots in Ojai, a man only a few years older than me. I got on the phone and called one of his longtime friends. Today I read his obituary in the Ventura County Star. I am posting it here. I don't know what else to do. Life goes by in the twinkling of an eye. One brief moment in eternity he and I were carpooling to a meeting at the Government Center. We were laughing, speaking out, celebrating some small victory for Life On Planet Earth. Next moment we drop the body and fly free of this Earthly realm, with all it's joys and sorrows.

Yoga classes end with Savasana, Corpse Pose. Why do we do yoga? We do yoga to fully incarnate and consciously inhabit our bodies. And to prepare for death.

Continue reading "In Memory of Theodore "Ted" L. Cartee, Ojai Activist, Spiritual Seeker, Kindred Spirit" »

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

Press Release:

New Film Answers the Question “What Is a Watershed?”

(Ojai, Calif. - May 18, 2009) Stunning high–definition cinematography will be featured in the film premiere of Watershed Revolution on June 24 at Ojai’s Chaparral High School Auditorium.

The 30-minute documentary film, which is being shown by the Ojai Valley Green Coalition, profiles our Ventura River watershed and the community members and organizations working to protect and restore it. It highlights the unique challenges faced by a river that is this community’s main source of water. The film emphasizes the need for floodplain protection, sustainable agriculture, and community awareness of local water resources.

Continue reading "Watershed Revolution Documentary" »

Posted by Lisa Snider at 02:08 PM | Permalink | Comments (4) | 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

I pulled this photo from changents.com. The garbage patch the size of Texas continues to grow and is off the coast of California, surrounds the Hawaiian islands and stops just off the coast of Japan. The above photo demonstrates that plastic has encroached our food supply.

Continue reading "Plastic Rainbow" »

Posted by Mike Didj at 03:33 PM | Permalink | Comments (5) | author bio

from the Ojai Valley Green Coalition...

WATERSHED REVOLUTION DOCUMENTARY
New Film Answers the Question “What Is a Watershed?”

Stunning high–definition cinematography will be featured in the film premiere of Watershed Revolution on June 24 at Ojai’s Chaparral High School Auditorium.

The 30-minute documentary film, which is being shown by the Ojai Valley Green Coalition, profiles our Ventura River watershed and the community members and organizations working to protect and restore it. It highlights the unique challenges faced by a river that is this community’s main source of water. The film emphasizes the need for floodplain protection, sustainable agriculture, and community awareness of local water resources.

Continue reading "Film premiere: Watershed Revolution" »

Posted by Tyler Suchman at 10:45 AM | Permalink | Comments (1) | 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

On May 27 at 7 p.m. in the Chaparral Auditorium located at 414 E. Ojai Ave., Ojai, Wayne Pendrey will be presenting a program called “The Passive Design Revolution” at the monthly community gathering of the Ojai Valley Green Coalition.

Download the PDF.

Wayne's letter to the editor after the jump...

Continue reading "OVGC: The Passive Design Revolution" »

Posted by Tyler Suchman at 02:23 PM | Permalink | Comments (1) | author bio

From the Ojai Valley Green Coalition:

For the May event in its “Ecology and Community” series, the Ojai Valley Green Coalition will share smart, time-tested heating and cooling strategies of architectural design as the new way to control indoor temperatures. A presentation entitled “The Passive Design Revolution” will be given on May 27 from 7:00 to 8:30 p.m. at the Chaparral High School Auditorium, 414 E. Ojai Avenue.

Continue reading "OVGC: The Passive Design Revolution" »

Posted by Tyler Suchman at 10:12 AM | Permalink | Comments (0) | 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

featuring Ojaian Bernadette DiPietro...

Posted by Tyler Suchman at 07:27 PM | Permalink | Comments (12) | author bio

I didn’t get a chance to watch all of Obama’s press conference on Wednesday. Too busy wrestling with our well booster pump, visiting Dr. Thacher for our annual inspection, and soaking up the beautiful Ojai spring wonderland.

Our booster pump went south about ten days ago. For the uninformed, a booster pump forces water up the hill to storage tanks where it is eventually gravity fed back down to our house. Since water has yet to learn how to run uphill, once your storage tanks empty you’re done, fini, over, dry.

When I tell people that we get our water from a well, their first reaction is “Wow, lucky for you that you don’t have to pay those rates charged by Casitas Water.” Then, I recite the litany of costs associated with owning a well and they quickly move to a new subject. Booster pumps are the least of it.

Continue reading "Water, water, everywhere" »

Posted by Fred Rothenberg at 08:57 AM | Permalink | Comments (1) | author bio

"style, naturally" is written by eco-supermodel Summer Rayne Oakes, who presented last month at a gathering up at Ojai Valley Inn & Spa. It is hand-autographed, and a perfect gift for someone who is interested in fashion and eco-trends.

Posted by Tyler Suchman at 06:42 PM | Permalink | Comments (0) | 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

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

April 22, 2009

Dear UCSB Students:

I have been Vice Chancellor for Student Affairs at UCSB for almost twenty years, and during that time I have found countless reasons to be proud of UCSB students. I have watched as students championed issues of social justice—militating for the rights of gays/lesbians/bi-sexual/transgender citizens, fighting for equal pay and equal rights for women, working to ensure that the full range of opportunities are available to all Americans. I have watched as you organized to protect academic preparation programs for underserved communities, and as you provided such programs yourselves. Time and again, you have backed up your protests and your talk with hard work and resources. You entered the political arena registering more students to vote than any other university in the nation. You have spoken out against sexual violence against women, and you have protested manifestations of hate in our community. You, as UCSB students, have routinely stood at the forefront of the hard issues, showing yourselves to be true scholars, leaders and citizens of the 21st Century.

It is from this perspective that I find the general student reaction around Floatopia to be so stunningly perplexing.

Continue reading "UCSB'S "Floatopia" Bad For Community And Planet" »

Posted by evan austin at 12:00 PM | Permalink | Comments (3) | author bio

Touch the soil today.

(photo: HoNbLeSs)

Posted by Tyler Suchman at 08:33 AM | Permalink | Comments (2) | author bio

(from the OVGC) April the 22nd—which happens, appropriately enough, to be Earth Day—will be the date of this month’s gathering for the Ojai Valley Green Coalition’s Ecology and Community series. The presentation will again be held from 7:00 to 8:30 p.m. at the Chaparral High School Auditorium at 414 E. Ojai Avenue, with a discretionary donation jar at the door.

The focus of the evening will be citizen advocacy, or how to work within an established system to create change. “Advocacy 101,” as the presentation is being called, will provide know-how for the active support of an idea or cause or the promotion of a change in governmental policy.

Posted by Tyler Suchman at 04:10 PM | Permalink | Comments (2) | 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

Reader H. sends the following from Science Digest - "Cure For Honey Bee Colony Collapse?"...

For the first time, scientists have isolated the parasite Nosema ceranae (Microsporidia) from professional apiaries suffering from honey bee colony depopulation syndrome. They then went on to treat the infection with complete success.

And more from Ars Technica...

A new study published in the journal Environmental Microbiology Reports may clarify things, as a team of Spanish researchers report the cause of the colony collapse disorder, and also suggest a cure. The researchers isolated the parasitic fungi Nosema ceranae from a pair of Spanish apiaries, while finding none of the other proposed causes—Varroa destructor, IAPV, or pesticides. With the identification of the invading pathogen, the team treated other diseased colonies with fumagillin—an antibiotic—and observed a complete recovery of the colony.

Posted by Tyler Suchman at 11:57 AM | Permalink | Comments (3) | author bio

It was the perfect night to have the ordinance Banning All Leaf Blowers within the City on the agenda. The winds were howling and the leaves were blowing wild and free. Surely the whole Ojai City Council would see that leaf blowers are among the least justifiable and most obnoxious technological inventions dreamed up by modern man.

Six weeks ago, at the March 4 City Council meeting, a recommendation was made by City staff to repeal the ordinance dealing with gas-powered leaf blowers in residential neighborhoods. At that meeting (as well as other meetings in recent years) numerous members of the public spoke up in favor of a city-wide ban on all leaf blowers, gas and electric.

At last night's meeting this was item #9 on the agenda and the hour was late. This time only Marleen Luckman and I spoke up in support of Option A: "No person shall operate a leaf blower, whether fuel or electrically powered, within the City."

Marleen Luckman, an environmental health expert and member of the Ojai Valley Green Coalition, reiterated the many health issues that she and other speakers had addressed in past meetings.

When it was my turn to speak at the podium I expressed that there should be no question that at the very least a City as classy as Ojai should adopt Option B: "No person shall operate a gas or fuel powered leaf blower within the City." This would strengthen the current ordinance, described above.

Continue reading "Update on the Ordinance Banning All Leaf Blowers in Ojai" »

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

OK, new Gypsy Moth Spraying Resource Page has been started to track the conversation around the issue. It's chronological, so if you're new to this issue, start from the bottom up.

It's also listed in the upper-right under Resource Pages.

(photo credit: University of Wisconsin Urban Horticulture website

Posted by Tyler Suchman at 11:25 PM | Permalink | Comments (0) | 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

Jeff Kuyper, Executive Director of Los Padres ForestWatch, joined me on Radio Ojai recently to talk about the Ojai Wild! Annual Benefit on Saturday, April 4. He also talked about his organization and how it keeps our wild lands wild.

Tickets for Ojai Wild! are $75 for adults, $20 for children under 14 years of age, and a table for 8-10 people may be reserved for $600. Tickets are available by calling the Los Padres ForestWatch office at 805-617-4610.

Listen to the interview here.

Learn more about the event after the jump.

Continue reading "Ojai Wild!" »

Posted by Lisa Snider at 12:39 PM | Permalink | Comments (13) | author bio

EARTH HOUR 2009 is tonight, 8:30pm local time. From EarthHour.org:

This year, Earth Hour has been transformed into the world’s first global election, between Earth and global warming.

For the first time in history, people of all ages, nationalities, race and background have the opportunity to use their light switch as their vote – Switching off your lights is a vote for Earth, or leaving them on is a vote for global warming. WWF are urging the world to VOTE EARTH and reach the target of 1 billion votes, which will be presented to world leaders at the Global Climate Change Conference in Copenhagen 2009.

This meeting will determine official government policies to take action against global warming, which will replace the Kyoto Protocol. It is the chance for the people of the world to make their voice heard.

Posted by evan austin at 09:31 AM | Permalink | Comments (8) | author bio

Mark your calendars for summer solstice - Saturday, June 20th, when the 2009 installment of the Locally Grown benefit concert for Food for Thought Ojai returns to Libbey Bowl.

PR: Locally Grown Benefit Concert Returns to Libbey Bowl

“This year’s Locally Grown benefit concert will celebrate the diversity of our community, as well as continue our focus on environmental stewardship” announced Food For Thought president, Marty Fujita, today. “It also takes place on Saturday, June 20th at summer solstice, which is significant to us, since a big part of Food For Thought’s mission is to reconnect people to the natural cycles of the earth by eating seasonal, locally grown produce.” The event will feature an eclectic mix of musical styles including American roots rock, Mexican-American rhythms, Reggae and Afro-Cuban beats.

Continue reading "Locally Grown Benefit Concert 2009" »

Posted by Tyler Suchman at 01:15 PM | Permalink | Comments (1) | author bio

Having heard that it was part of President Obama's stimulus plan, I volunteered to look into weatherization programs for our community on behalf of the Ojai Valley Green Coalition.

A brief overview from the Department of Energy:

The Weatherization Assistance Program enables low-income families to permanently reduce their energy bills by making their homes more energy efficient. During the last 32 years, the U.S. Department of Energy 's (DOE) Weatherization Assistance Program has provided weatherization services to more than 6.2 million low-income families.

By reducing the energy bills of low-income families instead of offering aid, weatherization reduces dependency and liberates these funds for spending on more pressing family issues. On average, weatherization reduces heating bills by 32% and overall energy bills by about $350 per year at current prices. This spending, in turn, spurs low-income communities toward job growth and economic development.

Continue reading "Weatherization in Ventura County" »

Posted by Tyler Suchman at 01:20 PM | Permalink | Comments (1) | author bio

from MAC member Jerry Kaplan...save the date if you're interested.

I have just been officially informed by representatives of FEMA and Ventura County that they are planning a joint Community-Wide meeting in Ojai the evening of April 7, 2009... Supervisor Steve Bennett made a preliminary announcement of this meeting at the MAC (Municipal Advisory Council) meeting on March 16th.

Continue reading "FEMA / Flood Plain Re-Mapping Meeting" »

Posted by Tyler Suchman at 04:28 PM | Permalink | Comments (3) | author bio

The following is a white-paper from 52-year Ojai Valley resident and member of the Ojai Conservation District board Jim Ruch. Jim prepared two papers regarding water constraints, one for the City of Ojai and one for the Unincorporated Areas. I'll print out the City of Ojai version below to start the conversation.

Download them here:
City of Ojai
Unincorporated Areas

Faced with a deadline to complete a growth-accelerating housing element for its general plan, the City of Ojai must determine whether the limited availability of water constitutes a resource constraint requiring a housing management policy that provides for significantly less new development than arbitrarily mandated by the State.

Continue reading "Jim Ruch: How will limited water constrain Ojai growth?" »

Posted by Tyler Suchman at 07:13 PM | Permalink | Comments (6) | author bio

I'll preface this to say that I think having a lawn is completely wasteful, in terms of upkeep and water consumption, and that native plant gardens and/or food forests are a wiser choice for land management. Given that, for those die hards who have lawns Ventura County is offering a trade in program to encourage you to change from your gas powered mower to an electric one.

Sponsored by the Ventura County Air Pollution Control District
Trade in any gas-powered lawn mower and get a huge discount on any electric mower at Lowe’s in Ventura or Simi Valley.

Turn in your mower to either Oxnard Metal (805) 483-0512 or Standard Industries in Ventura (805) 643-6669. Make sure you get a receipt for your old mower. Mowers must be drained of any oil or gasoline. Fluids should be recycled at your local Household Hazardous Waste program. More information on Household Hazardous Waste Collection Programs is available at http://www.wasteless.org/5_5HHWCollect.html.

Ventura County Air Pollution Control District staff will issue you a voucher worth $129 off the price of a standard corded electric mower or $200 off the price of a cordless electric mower. Customer pays sales tax. Vouchers limited to one per household.

Posted by Raymond Powers at 05:44 PM | Permalink | Comments (5) | 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

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

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

Sunday, March 8th

There will be a Non-Violent training for our protest rally this Sunday, March 8th, 3pm - 6pm at Golden Oaks Mobile Home Park Clubhouse, 1273 S Rice Rd in Meiners Oaks. Please park on the street and walk in. There is no parking inside the Mobile Home Park. Please carpool, if possible.

Please bring an organic dish for a potluck following the training...
For more information, please call 805.794.1856 or e-mail pesticidefreeojaivalley@gmail.com

Peaceful protest against the spraying, March 9th

The California Department of Food and Agriculture will begin the spraying of Dipel, a Btk formulation, March 9 in Meiners Oaks, in an attempt to eradicate the gypsy moths in the area. Many residents are very concerned about the possible negative environmental and health impacts. Pesticide Free Ojai Valley is planning a peaceful protest against the spraying on Monday March 9th.
Please meet at the intersection of El Roblar and Hwy 33 at 7:30 a.m.
People are encouraged to bring signs.
For more information please call 805.639.3764 or email pesticidefreeojaivalley@gmail.com

Posted by evan austin at 08:01 PM | Permalink | Comments (18) | author bio

Ojai Valley Land Conservancy events upcoming...

Friday March 13, 7pm - presentation by Stevie Adams at the OVLC office
Saturday March 14, 8:30am - river walk at the river bottom with Lanny Kaufer
Saturday March 14, 1pm - watershed driving tour from Matilija Dam to Foster Park

Great stuff from the OVLC. Reservations required. Flyer after the jump.

Continue reading "Wild About Ojai 2009" »

Posted by Tyler Suchman at 04:38 PM | Permalink | Comments (1) | 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

On yesterday's radio news show Here and Now, economist Roger Lowenstein warned that Medicare is on track to fail in 2016. By sheer coincidence, 2016 is also the year that the Arctic will be ice-free in the summer, according to the climate pessimists.

But there's a difference between these two crises. Fixing Medicare, although not easy, is within the bounds of possibility. To rework the climate to keep the Arctic frozen, on the other hand, is beyond our powers, at least for the next couple of decades.

This crucial difference is the subject of an op-ed I wrote for this past Sunday's Ventura County Star. For a linked version, please see my site at A Change in the Wind. Or simply read more....

Continue reading "Climate: It's Not Just a Metaphor" »

Posted by Kit Stolz at 09:23 AM | Permalink | Comments (1) | 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

   Earth Hour 2009 by WWF - Sign up for Earth Hour!

VOTE EARTH! YOUR LIGHT SWITCH IS YOUR VOTE.

This year, Earth Hour has been transformed into the world’s first global election, between Earth and global warming.

For the first time in history, people of all ages, nationalities, race and background have the opportunity to use their light switch as their vote – Switching off your lights is a vote for Earth, or leaving them on is a vote for global warming. WWF are urging the world to VOTE EARTH and reach the target of 1 billion votes, which will be presented to world leaders at the Global Climate Change Conference in Copenhagen 2009.

This meeting will determine official government policies to take action against global warming, which will replace the Kyoto Protocol. It is the chance for the people of the world to make their voice heard.

Read more at earthhour.org.

Posted by evan austin at 02:58 PM | Permalink | Comments (4) | 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

Whoops sorry for the late notice... hope you can head on down.

Chaparral Auditorium, 7pm-8:30pm tonite.

OJai Valley Green Coalition - Energy Action Committee presents:
SOLAR NIGHT
comprehensive slide show about the solar electric industry, followed by a panel discussion and Q&A with solar specialists from the Energy Committee. Attendees will learn about utility rates, solar power, costs and financing and how to determine if you're a good candidate for solar power.

Posted by Tyler Suchman at 06:45 PM | Permalink | Comments (0) | author bio

from the fine folk at the Ojai Valley Green Coalition:

A comprehensive educational slideshow and general overview of the solar electric industry will be presented by the Ojai Valley Green Coalition’s Energy Committee on Feb 25, 7 pm at the Chaparral High School Auditorium, 414 E. Ojai Ave

Continue reading "Green Coalition: Solar Night Slideshow" »

Posted by Tyler Suchman at 12:10 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

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

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

I'm so happy to hear about this. I've been saying for years that this is a viable way to harness people power and curious why no one had taken the simple dynamo design and applied it.

BBC
A US gym has installed specially-adapted exercise bikes that recycle energy generated by people as they work out. The Green Microgym in Portland, Oregon, aims to be a carbon neutral exercise facility through the use of solar power and human-generated energy from clients as they pedal and run.

Continue reading "Can This Be Part of the Green Revolution for Ojai?" »

Posted by Raymond Powers at 03:11 AM | Permalink | Comments (7) | author bio

New Year's Resolution: responsibly get rid of a bunch of crap on January 10th...

Saturday, Jan. 10 - legally dispose of electronic equipment and small appliances Saturday, January 10, from 9 a.m. to 1 p.m., in the parking lot of Ojai Community Bank, 402 W. Ojai Ave. Electronic devices, including computers, monitors, and accessories, TVs, radios, stereos, as well as small appliances such as toasters and microwaves will be accepted. It is illegal to throw such equipment into the trash or even the recycling bin. The Ojai Valley Green Coalition will also be accepting CDs, DVDs, iPods, cell phones, ink and toner cartridges, incandescent holiday lights, and household batteries weighing up to five pounds. For more information call (805) 653-8445.

Download E-Waste Event Flyer (PDF)

Continue reading "E-Waste Recycling Day" »

Posted by Tyler Suchman at 05:37 PM | Permalink | Comments (4) | author bio

The following message from long-time environmental advocate, Robert Redford, urges Americans to protest President Bush's plan to auction off Utah's Redrock wilderness to oil and gas speculators on December 19. It was sent to you by

http://www.nrdcactionfund.org

Dear Friend,

No one voted on Election Day to hand over Utah's Redrock wilderness to oil companies.

But the Bush Administration cynically chose that very day to advance an outrageous plan that will sell off leases for some 300,000 acres of spectacular Utah canyonlands to oil and gas speculators.

Continue reading "Is this true? Did anyone else hear about this?" »

Posted by Raymond Powers at 01:26 AM | Permalink | Comments (2) | author bio

In a case titled "Elizabeth Ann Vergilio Vs. County of Ventura," the owners of the Ozena gravel mine challenged the County's right to impose hours of operation and transit through the Ojai Valley.

Judge Reiser ruled against Virgilio and Ozena. Even though Stop the Trucks was not a direct participant in this case, it is a huge victory for the Coalition. Much of the County's brief was based on our research and complaints.

The "Stop the Trucks" Coalition has not only been supporting the County's contention that the rules must hold, we've also insisted that the County also actually enforce those rules.

Continue reading "Stop the Trucks: Ozena Loses Court Case on Trucking Hours" »

Posted by Howard Smith at 08:09 PM | Permalink | Comments (4) | author bio

Brazilian Indians 'win land case'
BBC

Indigenous people say the case could set a precedent to protect their lands. Indigenous leaders in Brazil say they have won an important victory for the rights of their community, at a key hearing of the Supreme Court. Eight of the court's 11 judges voted to keep a reservation in the Amazonian state of Roraima as a single territory.

However the case is not expected to be formally concluded until next year as one judge asked for more time to consider his ruling. The judgement will lead to the eviction of non-indigenous farmers. There are more than 100 similar cases before the Supreme Court but it is thought this ruling will establish an important legal precedent, which touches on a number of sensitive issues.

Continue reading "Brazilian Indians 'win land case'" »

Posted by Raymond Powers at 09:41 PM | Permalink | Comments (2) | author bio

Today is the last day of Chalica, a seven-day celebration of the principles that underlie the Unitarian Universalist movement, beginning on the first Monday in December. Like all holy-days, it was conceived by a person to meet a need; in this case is was a woman named Daylene Marshall from British Columbia, who a few years ago decided that a winter holiday to honor the UU principles would be a community-building and unifying thing. Chalica continues to grow grassroots-style, with people discovering and creating it every year. The general practice is to light a chalice (or candle) in one's home each day in honor of one principle, and to give gifts or take actions that further it. Part of its beauty for me is that, just as one needn't be a Christian to celebrate Christmas, you don't have to identify as a Unitarian Universalist to appreciate and celebrate these ideals! The seven principles are:

1. The inherent worth and dignity of every person;
2. Justice, equity and compassion in human relations;
3. Acceptance of one another and encouragement to spiritual growth in our congregations;
4. A free and responsible search for truth and meaning;
5. The right of conscience and the use of the democratic process within our congregations and in society at large;
6. The goal of world community with peace, liberty and justice for all;
7. Respect for the interdependent web of all existence of which we are a part.

**Read on for an exclusive Radio Ojai interview and hilarious video!**

Continue reading "Happy Chalica!" »

Posted by evan austin at 08:03 AM | Permalink | Comments (5) | author bio

If you talk to the National Weather Service, they will tell you (link) that we're in an "ENSO-neutral" condition, and for that reason they're unwilling to predict the upcoming rain season in our region.

But according to this typically excellent story from Rob Krier at the San Diego Union-Tribune, many forecasters who spoke at a winter forecasting seminar last weekend suspect that despite normal sea surface temperatures in the Pacific today, we will have a dry winter in our region. Krier explains:

The Climate Prediction Center explains their logic, or tries to, in their inimitably eye-glazing way:

Huh? They write that badly and still couldn't even reference the models?

This is why we need reporters. Krier writes that Klaus Wolter, a climate research at NOAA, predicted "a more bleak picture for Southern California. He believes that the atmosphere is dialing up a weak La Niña and that other forces will contribute to a drier-than-normal winter."

Meanwhile a little rain is expected this evening, and more tomorrow. The call is for "a slug of moisture" that will move "directly over L.A. and Ventura County." Sounds like good news...

Below see an infrared image of the incoming clouds and moisture from the NWS:

From A Change in the Wind

Continue reading "Experts Agree on Rain Forecast: It'll Be Dry. Or Not. " »

Posted by Kit Stolz at 01:05 PM | Permalink | Comments (2) | author bio

The following article is by my friends Gordon Davidson and Corinne McLaughlin, who frequently visit Ojai and teach at Meditation Mount.

There has always been a higher, spiritual hand active in the life of the United States, beginning with its founding in 1776 by one of the greatest gatherings of political geniuses ever seen on the planet. And throughout its 212 year life, at each moment of agonizing need, the United States has seen an inspired leader emerge to meet the crises of the times with vision, strength and the gifts required. Abraham Lincoln saved the Union and ended slavery, Franklin D. Roosevelt acted boldly to help end the Great Depression and defeat the Axis Powers. And now, in this moment of historical crisis, another great leader, uniquely qualified to meet the needs of our nation and the world, has come forth, overlighted by Spirit, as an expression of the soul of the American people.

Continue reading "The Spiritual Dimensions of Obama's Leadership" »

Posted by Suza Francina at 07:06 PM | Permalink | Comments (22) | author bio

I read recently (but couldn’t track down the source) the following statistic:

48 percent of those polled mistakenly believed that buying “green” products was actively good for the planet. In contrast, only 22% understood that “green” products are simply less harmful.

Continue reading "Reduce, Reuse, Recycle" »

Posted by Heather McKenzie at 09:42 AM | Permalink | Comments (5) | author bio

Here we are! The River of Life has brought us to this day. It's easy to be philosophical about the outcome of a small-town City Council Election, but I cannot imagine the state of mind of Barack Obama and John McCain as the clock is ticking down.

Yesterday I met with Carlon Strobel, our wonderful Ojai City Clerk, and she reminded me of what happens if there is a tie. Here in our small town, where only about 8,000 residents live within the City Limit, (approximately 4,800 registered voters), if a candidate loses by even a single vote, there is no provision for a recount. Therefore... if it's a tie.... the winner is determined by A TOSS OF THE COIN! (Or, they can pick straws. Either way, it's in the hands of fate.)

So in case there are any undecided voters, here are my
Endorsements from the Ojai Community and Beyond
FrancinaSuzaflyer.pdf

Continue reading "Ojai Elections: What Happens If There Is A Tie?" »

Posted by Suza Francina at 05:58 AM | Permalink | Comments (5) | author bio

from Dulanie Ellis, Chairperson of the OVGC Food & Agriculture Committee, via Suza:

Meiners Oaks is quarantined because of findings of Gypsy Moths. The findings are on Rice Road, the quarantine area extends as far east as Rancho Matilija and west to the Ojai Valley Country Club. THIS IS A SERIOUS THREAT. There are no natural predators for the Gypsy Moth and they can potentially destroy our oak forests. They have absolutely devastated the forests of Pennsylvania and other Eastern States.

RESTRICTIONS: Residents must not move any of the following from their property without first getting a free inspection and clearance from the Ventura County Agricultural Commissioner:

** Mobile homes, recreational vehicles, trailers, boats and associated equipment (they cling to tires & underneath vehicles)
** Outdoor household articles including furniture, garden tools and garden machinery. (This means we need to carefully inspect any tools we'd be using to work on other people's gardens!)
** Trees & shrubs with persistent woody stems, including green waste & garden pruning material. (How this affects buying plants from Mountain Meadow nursery, I'm not sure. But it will also have implications for using compost from the recycling yard).
** Timber and building material, including lumber, planks, poles, logs, firewood, fencing and building blocks.

To schedule a FREE inspection, contact the Ventura County Agricultural Commissioner's Office from 7:00am-4:00pm Monday to Friday 933-2926, or Saturdays at 665-7295.

Please broadcast this far and wide. The moths are in the cocoon stage now, when they hatch to larvae each one can eat up to a square foot of leaves a day. This quarantine is in effect for the next 2 years, in order to monitor several life cycles worth of Gypsy Moths. This means we need to be diligent about our living habits for quite some time.

Thanks for your help, and please welcome the inspectors who will be happy to inspect your property free of charge.

Downloads:
Gypsy Moth Info Sheet (.pdf, 213kb)
Gypsy Moth Q&A (.doc, 38kb)
Gypsy Moth Official Letter & Map (.doc, 1.2MB)

Posted by Tyler Suchman at 03:50 PM | Permalink | Comments (0) | author bio

Here is a list of the questions that were asked of our intrepid City Council Candidates, in the video of the Ojai Valley Green Coalition Environmental Forum, posted below. This Green Forum was devoted entirely to environmental issues. The Candidates were not given the questions in advance. Pity the person that had to go first!

1. Please take one minute and introduce yourself. In your introduction, please tell us what type of support for environmental issues we can expect from you as an Ojai city council member.

2. What do you see as Ojai’s most pressing environmental concern? How would you work on this as a city council member?

Continue reading "Would You Be in Favor of a Ban on Plastic Bags?, and Other Questions at the Ojai Green Coalition Candidates Forum " »

Posted by Suza Francina at 01:52 AM | Permalink | Comments (35) | author bio

Following are parts 1-4, in its entirety, of the Ojai Valley Green Coalition Environmental Forum in which the five City Council candidates participated on Monday. Big thanks to Ojai Post author Christopher Foley, and his company Foleypod, for filming, editing and posting this video.

Continue reading "Green Coalition Candidates Forum" »

Posted by Tyler Suchman at 02:22 PM | Permalink | Comments (18) | author bio

From a VCSD press release:

The giant reed, commonly known as arundo, is being cleared with the use of heavy equipment. All required permits have been obtained by the property owners...

Since transient individuals were known to reside in the area, the Ventura County Sheriff’s Department was asked to provide assistance in notifying trespassers of the impending action...

On November 3rd and 4th, sheriff’s deputies and social services personnel will again be on scene. November 3rd is the date designated for moving. Assistance will be provided to those who want help moving their property to storage containers for later retrieval. On November 4th, anyone still remaining on the private property will be evicted. This is absolutely necessary to ensure that no one is injured during the brush clearing process. The Department prefers to resolve this situation without making arrests and is hopeful that voluntary compliance will occur.

The goal of this operation is to keep the peace, ensure that the rights of all individuals are protected, and treat all persons humanely and with respect...

Posted by Tyler Suchman at 08:58 PM | Permalink | Comments (1) | author bio

It seems like a hundred years since I bicycled over to City Hall to take out candidate papers for this year's Ojai City Council election, but it was only August 6th.

In order to qualify, I needed at least 25 signatures of registered voters living within the City of Ojai. That part only took a few hours. Then I discovered that the cost of a ballot statement has gone up from $350 in 1996 to $600. As a writer and yoga teacher of modest means, with many four-legged friends to feed, that almost stopped me in my tracks.

As the word got out, the universe delivered a sprinkle of checks and $20 bills. By the end of the week I was an official Ojai City Council Candidate. Since then there have been about ten interviews, four Candidate forums, and dozens of other campaign related activities. Today, for the first-time, there is no forum to prepare for, no questionnaire or other time-sensitive document to fill out. In case anyone is curious what all is involved in running for office, here are some of the highlights, and a list of the interview/forum questions, in chronological order.

Continue reading "101 Questions for Ojai City Council Candidates" »

Posted by Suza Francina at 08:29 AM | Permalink | Comments (3) | author bio

Please come on down and check out the Green Coalition Candidates Environmental Forum this evening at Chaparral Auditorium, 7pm. Listen to all of the City Council Candidates on the major environmental issues and opportunities facing Ojai.

More here...

UPDATE 9:18pm: Thank you to our five City Council Candidates, all of the volunteers, including Chris Foley of Foleypod and Jim and Camilla Becket of Becket Films, and certainly all of the citizens who came out to support the environmental forum. Use this as a discussion thread for now. We will be posting and archiving video in its entirety in the next couple days.

UPDATE 08/29 - 8:42pm: Following the jump are notes on candidate responses from the Forum. Feel free to take a look, and we are still working on archiving the video, which we will post when ready.

Continue reading "City Council Candidate Forum Tonight" »

Posted by Tyler Suchman at 02:13 PM | Permalink | Comments (34) | author bio

(photo credit to Ray Smith, Daly Road Graphics)

1) Do you now or have you in the past personally supported "Stop the Trucks!"

The City Council has agreed to give financial support to the "Stop the Trucks" organization. There are some legal hurdles that need to be addressed, but I believe we need to find a way to make it happen.

Continue reading "Stop the Trucks: City Council Candidate, Betsy Clapp, Answers Our Election Year Questions" »

Posted by Howard Smith at 02:41 PM | Permalink | author bio

Monday, Oct. 27 - City Council Candidates’ Environmental Forum – The Ojai Valley Green Coalition and The Ojai Post will co-sponsor a candidates’ forum, where the subject matter of all questions will revolve around environmental issues pertinent to the Ojai Valley. The moderators will be Tim Baird, president of the Green Coalition and Tyler Suchman, founder of The Ojai Post. The questions were suggested by the Green Coalition’s 10 committees. The forum starts at 7 pm, at the Chaparral High School Auditorium, 414 E. Ojai Ave. For more information call 805-653-8445 and visit OjaiValleyGreenCoalition.org.

Download the PDF Flyer

Posted by Tyler Suchman at 11:34 AM | Permalink | Comments (4) | author bio

Danger Apparently Still Being Ignored by Planning Division

(All pictures are courtesy of Maureen and Dan Smith, Wheeler Hot Springs)

In a August 21, 2006 letter regarding the Ozena Valley Ranch Mining project, the Board of the Ojai Valley Municipal Advisory Council warned Christopher Stephens, then the Director of Planning for the Ventura County Planning Division and now the head of the entire Resource Managment Agency for the County, that "SR-33 has suffered many landslides and slipped roadways in past years. The vibration created by the mine's trucks on SR-33 may be adding significantly to the problem of road slippage, slumps, and slides. No review of vibration as a potential impact on SR-33 has been included in the Draft MND and vibration from trucks may present a significant adverse impact on the environment."

In February of 2008 a portion of Route 33 collapsed into the river. Below are a dozen photographs of the damage done, indicating the collapse was far more significant than originally reported.

Continue reading "Stop the Trucks: County Planning Officials Failed to Heed Warnings About Potential Road Collapse " »

Posted by Howard Smith at 04:31 PM | Permalink | author bio

At last night's Ojai City Council forum/debate, someone in the audience asked the question, "Do you consider it appropriate for the city council to take a position on state issues, such as Proposition 2, or national issues, such as the war in Iraq, or international issues, such as global warming?"

In my one-minute response, I pointed out the fact that many California City Councils, individual City Council Members, Mayors and Former Mayors, Senators, Representatives, Assembly Members and other elected officials do in fact take a position on state and national issues.

For example, if you visit the YesOnProp 2 website you will see endorsements from over one hundred elected federal, state and local officials including US Senators Barbara
Boxer and Dianne Feinstein; State Superintendent of Public Instruction Jack O’Connell and

Continue reading "Does Ojai Care About Animals?" »

Posted by Suza Francina at 05:23 PM | Permalink | Comments (68) | author bio

FILM FESTIVAL DATES
November 6-7-8-9, 2008
PRESS CONTACT: Maureen McFadden
(805)966-0190/momcfadden@aol.com

Ojai’s Ninth Annual Film Fest
2008 SLATE OF FILMS ANNOUNCED ALONG WITH CELEBRITIES

Ninth Annual Ojai Film Festival spools out its programs November 6 – 9 with 57 independent films, lifetime achievement honor ceremonies, and a seminar to fill in the four-day event. Hosting sponsor and headquarters for the festival is the premiere AAA five-diamond award-winning resort, the Ojai Valley Inn & Spa.

Ojai has become a viable path for filmmakers and their work to get noticed. Hollywood producer, Peter Guber said of the Ojai FF at the podium of the Toronto Film Festival last year, “Ojai is the next Telluride!” That festivalis like Ojai, a four-day event focused on films one would not otherwise see in the mainstream but of a very high caliber. Artistic Director, Steve Grumette, who was one of the founders of the festival in 2000 said, “There are so many more films being made since the advent of digital technology, and in the past eight years, the festival has sent over a dozen films on to win the highest honors in the industry, including Academy Award nominations and Oscars.”

Continue reading "Ojai Film Festival Announces Slate of Films" »

Posted by Howard Smith at 06:29 PM | Permalink | author bio

"Stop the Trucks" has turned its attention from Diamond Rock to the Ozena Valley Ranch and Gravel mine.

At Tuesday night’s City Council meeting the council agreed to give financial support to the Stop the Trucks Coalition, after a victory for the citizens’ group in August...

“After this agreement has been worked out, keeping the Diamond Rock Mine’s trucks out of Ojai, it has been pretty clear to me that whatever this group did, they did it successfully,” said Mayor Sue Horgan.

For Nao Braverman's full story go to the Ojai Valley News Blog at:

http://ojaivalleynews.blogspot.com/2008/10/council-to-help-fund-stop-trucks-effort.html

Posted by Howard Smith at 05:59 PM | Permalink | author bio

This Tuesday, October 14th, at 7:30 pm the Ojai City Council will meet for its regular session. Part of the agenda will be devoted to discussions on how to co-ordinate efforts to deal with the Ozena Valley Ranch & Gravel Mine's proposed renewal and modification of their C.U.P. with the County of Ventura.

Given the well documented negative impact of these highly disruptive and polluting mining and trucking operations on agriculture, fishing, the economy, our water supply, our environment and the health of our children, the "Stop the Trucks" Coalition urges everyone in the Ojai Valley to attend and share your opinions with the City Council.

Posted by Howard Smith at 09:52 AM | Permalink | author bio

(Trucks passes through town on Ojai Ave & Montgomery, photo credit to Ray Smith, Daly Road Graphics)

In documents recently obtained by the Ojai "Stop the Trucks" through a Ventura County Public Records Request, the Coalition has learned that Ozena wants to alter their existing permit so that trucking through the Ojai Valley will begin as early as 3:00 am and continue as late as 6:00 pm during the week with "No Route Restrictions" at all on Saturdays!

This proposal would more than double trucking from a total of seven hours a day during the week to a new and even more intrusive and disturbing 15 hours a day!

In a recent review of weigh tickets from 2007, the "Stop the Trucks" Coalition estimated that Ozena is likely now violating existing permit hours in trips through Ojai by as much as 55%. In a letter to "Stop the Trucks," County CEO, Ms. Marty Robinson, agreed with the Coalition that violations have been under reported by the Planning Division.

In a further review of emails obtained through that same Records Request, we found that the agent for Ozena, John Hecht of West Coast Environmental & Engineering, rejected the consultant the County originally selected, URS, because: "...the proposed costs did not appear in line to the anticipated scope of work. Ozena believes that a competitive process will provide a qualified CEQA contractor in a more cost effective manner."

In a separate email Mr. Hecht then went on to propose the names of three other firms:

Continue reading "STOP THE TRUCKS: Ozena Wants to Expand Hours of Trucking Thru Ojai and Hand Pick the Consultant who will Review their new Proposal!" »

Posted by Howard Smith at 09:22 AM | Permalink | author bio

In a letter to the Ojai "Stop the Trucks" Coalition, Ventura County CEO, Ms. Marty Robinson, wrote: "After the CEO's office reviewed the July and August 2007 weigh tickets tickets communicated by the RMA" (Resource Management Agency) "a statistically significant sampling of the 649 original tickets was conducted by our office and it was determined that potential northbound violations were omitted from consideration by the Planning Division. If these potential northbound violations had been included , the number of violations would have been materially higher..."

"Stop the Trucks" had previously reported that upwards of 55% of all Ozena related trips through the Ojai Valley were likely in violation of these rules.

Continue reading "STOP THE TRUCKS: County CEO Finds Ozena Violations Greater Than Reported" »

Posted by Howard Smith at 08:18 AM | Permalink | author bio

There is a significant cost to farmers that go organic, from initial crop setup to decreased initial yields. The new farm bill provides for financial support to encourage the transition.

The new farm bill could help feed America's appetite for organic food by enticing more farmers to switch from conventional agriculture. The legislation, which passed this year, offers farmers as much as $20,000 a year to cover the cost of converting their farms to organic agriculture. There also is money to offset certification costs and new funding for organic research.

Posted by Tyler Suchman at 09:39 AM | Permalink | Comments (1) | author bio

I have five pairs of tickets to give away FREE to Ojai's First Green Home and Building Tour on Saturday from 10am to 4pm. Email me with your full name and I'll confirm, and put your name +1 on a will call list. It's going to be a really cool event, where you can talk to the designers, contractors and "green building docents."

Posted by Tyler Suchman at 10:22 PM | Permalink | Comments (3) | author bio

Continue reading "OJAI FILM FESTIVAL ARRIVES SOON!" »

Posted by Howard Smith at 04:31 PM | Permalink | author bio

SuzaforOjai.com

More Info About Suza at SmartVoter.org

I am pleased to announce that I have been endorsed by the National Women's Political Caucus
Ventura County

Note: Endorsements are valley-wide and beyond. You do not need to live in the City of Ojai to endorse an Ojai City Council Candidate. If you would like to endorse me, please send your name, address and phone number to info@suzaforojai.com . (To learn more about all the candidates, visit the Ojai City Council link at the upper right corner of the Ojai Post page.)

I welcome your questions, suggestions and ideas for making Ojai a model green and sustainable community.

Posted by Suza Francina at 10:28 AM | Permalink | Comments (17) | author bio

Continue reading "Green is Gold: The New CA Gold Rush" »

Posted by Howard Smith at 06:14 PM | Permalink | author bio

What an incredible effort on behalf of these volunteers to clean up our waterway... letter to the editor follows the photo, but here's a key quote:

...our band of enthusiastic volunteers picked up 212 pounds of trash and recyclables, plus at least 1,000 pounds of large items such as couches, tires, lawnmowers, and construction material. You read right, there are folks using an embankment off south Matilija Road as their personal landfill.

Continue reading "Waterway Cleanup" »

Posted by Tyler Suchman at 09:20 AM | Permalink | Comments (2) | author bio

Posted by Howard Smith at 04:45 PM | Permalink | author bio

OVN has an article... an excerpt:

Relocating the removed sediment in the amount of 2 to 6 million cubic yards will be no mean feat. The people who attended the meeting apprehensively sat through the first half hour of slide show presentation reviewing the history of the dam and asked a few questions as the anxiety among them grew more vocal. Besides doubt that the levee, planned to be built south of Meyer Road near the Ventura River trailhead, would serve to protect their community from flooding, several people expressed concern that the levee would, instead, increase the dangers of flooding to their homes and properties by changing the contours of the river bed.

And this from a stellar supporting cast member... blah blah blah, me me me. Lovely.

Posted by Tyler Suchman at 12:07 PM | Permalink | Comments (3) | author bio

I hope I can stop laughing long enough to post this piece by Garrison Keillor. What a pity he lives in Lake Wobegon and not in Ojai! If you need some comic relief, read on...

Continue reading "Comic Relief" »

Posted by Suza Francina at 04:19 PM | Permalink | Comments (2) | author bio

In a story that has yet to be covered by the San Diego Union-Tribune, the San Francisco Chronicle, or even the Los Angeles Times, this week the Ventura County Star featured on the front page (see here) a story about a San Jose State researcher, Robert Bornstein, who has found substantial evidence that global warming in California over the last fifty-plus years has led to a cooling along the coast in the summer.

Bornstein revealed his study at the state-funded California Climate Change Research conference. The curious can find his slides at the portal (along with numerous other studies).

The study is called Cooling Summer Daytime Temperatures in Coastal California during l948-2005: Observations and Implications for Energy Demand.

Two aspects of the study are especially striking for Ventura County residents.

Continue reading "Global Warming Helps Cool California Coast, Study Finds" »

Posted by Kit Stolz at 07:53 AM | Permalink | Comments (6) | author bio

(Caltrans photo of the collapse of Maricopa Highway in Cuyama Valley)

Last week in a Ventura County Star article by Tony Biasotti, Ventura County officials conceded that there are significant problems in the Planning Division but the real questions is this: Are they Willing To Change?

http://www.venturacountystar.com/news/2008/sep/04/officials-concede-land-use-problems/

According to Biasotti Ventura County officials hosted an unusual meeting in a conference room just off of the courthouse cafeteria.

"Everyone on our team has affirmed we have a problem here," Matt Carroll, the top deputy to County Executive Officer Marty Robinson, said at the opening of the meeting. "The facts speak for themselves."

"Complaints about the system from developers and property owners are nothing new..." " But this time, the county is listening and often agreeing..."

"Last year, the county commissioned a report on its land-use procedures by Tom Berg, a consultant who once held (Chris) Stephens' current position as Resource Management Agency director. Based on interviews with 75 people in and out of county government, Berg's report concluded that the land-use process was in need of "systemic changes."

"The county put together a committee of high-level managers, including Carroll and Stephens, to analyze Berg's recommendations and start putting them into action."

Continue reading "Stop the Trucks: Ventura County Officials Finally Admit there are Problems and MAC Candidate Jerry Kaplan Responds to our Election Year Questions" »

Posted by Howard Smith at 02:33 PM | Permalink | Comments (1) | author bio

Suza Francina for Ojai City Council

Dear Ojai Post Reader,

As you may know, I am running for re election to the Ojai City Council. This election takes place the same time as the General Election, on November 4th.

There are two open seats on the Ojai City Council. I am asking for your vote for one of them.

If you are a regular reader of the Ojai Post you have probably seen my articles on a wide range of topics, from birth to death to animals, leaf-blowers, alternative transportation and other environmental issues*. The fact of the matter is that local, national and global politics touches every aspect of our lives from the moment we enter the Planet till our inevitable departure.

When I ran in 1996 there were no web sites like the Ojai Post. E-mail and the Internet was not yet a part of our daily lives. After I was elected, the city manager laughingly told me that I sent the first ever e-mail to City Hall. So here I am, posting the first Ojai City Council fund-raising letter on the Internet.

Continue reading "Preserving the Spirit of Ojai " »

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

Tonight Alaska Governor Sarah Palin will accept the Republican nomination for Vice President, a position that would put her second in line to be President of the United States. The Defenders of Wildlife Action Fund is asking for help letting people know where she stands on the brutal and needless aerial hunting of wolves and bears. So I am posting the video below in response to this request:
http://actionfund.defenders.org/palinvideo

Warning: This video is extremely disturbing. It contains graphic images of aerial hunting of wolves -- a brutal and needless practice that Governor Palin has fought hard to promote and expand. Despite strong scientific, ethical and public opposition to aerial hunting, Governor Palin has:Proposed paying a $150 bounty for the left foreleg of each dead wolf; Approved a $400,000 state-funded propaganda campaign to promote aerial hunting; Introduced legislation to make it even easier to use aircraft to hunt wolves and bears.

Posted by Suza Francina at 11:58 AM | Permalink | Comments (13) | author bio

Do You Support this Vision of Ojai?

(Downtown Ojai in Winter, photo credit to Lauren Simone)

Or This Vision?

(A traffic at the "Y." Photo credit to Daly road Graphics, Ray Smith)

Suza Francina was the first of the five candidates competing for two City Council vacancies to respond to our questions for candidates. (see below) "Stop the Trucks" hopes the other City Council candidates and those running for the MAC (Municipal Advisory Council) will take a few moments to answer a few questions online. We would like each candidate to share their thoughts with the public on the how they intend to deal with the long term threat posed by gravel trucking through Ojai and the blind eye that the Ventura County Planning Division is seemingly paying to regular daily violations of the existing Conditional Use Permits (C.U.P.'s).

Continue reading "Stop The Trucks - Second Election Edition" »

Posted by Howard Smith at 03:09 PM | Permalink | Comments (1) | author bio

The World Affairs Council CA Central Coast Presents:
When China Ruled the Seas, the Treasure Fleets of the Ming Dynasty 1405-1433.

September 11, 2008 at the Ventura County Maritime Museum
2731 S. Victoria Avenue
Oxnard, CA 93035
5:30 p.m. -7:30 p.m.
(Reception with appetizers and no-host bar 5:30-6:30, presentation 6:30-7:30)
Cost: $15 members, $20 non-members

During the Opening Ceremonies for the Olympics, China celebrated the achievements of the great navel fleets of the Ming Dynasty, events hardly known or recounted in the West.

By 1405 China had been a powerful empire for nearly two thousand years. The crown jewels of Emperor Zhu Di’s navy were his Treasure boats. These behemoths, nearly half the size of World War II aircraft carriers, were largest wooden sailing ships ever built. And although the wealth they carried back to China was staggering, it created conflict between the two factions that served the emperor; the Military and the Mandarin bureaucrats.

After the emperor’s death, the chief Mandarin sought to undermine the power of his foes by decreeing that the fleets be grounded, the records destroyed and overseas trade forbidden. The result crippled China for the next 600 years - a decline that is only being reversed today as witnessed during the Olympics.

Continue reading "World Affairs Council Presentation: When China Ruled the Seas, the Treasure Fleets of the Ming Dynasty 1405-1433" »

Posted by Howard Smith at 08:45 AM | Permalink | author bio

Today's Washington Post has a great article entitled, "As Food Becomes a Cause, Meeting Puts Issues on the Table." It describes how far some people will go these days to get locally grown food. In California, more than 40 residents volunteered their back yards to an aspiring young bicycle-riding farmer who couldn't afford to buy land of his own. In exchange for a weekly supply of produce, they would let him till their all-American lawns into rows of lettuce, broccoli, squash and peas.

I bet the Washington Post would love to feature a story on Steve Sprinkel and his wife, Olivia Chase, of Farmer and the Cook; Dulanie Ellis-La Barre and other members of the Ojai Valley Green Coalition Food and Agriculture Committee; Kris and Joanne Young, leaders of the Ojai Locavores; and other Ojai foodies...
Here's a link to the Washington Post story:
http://www.washingtonpost.com/wp-dyn/content/article/2008/08/29/AR2008082903447.html?referrer=emailarticle

Posted by Suza Francina at 06:43 AM | Permalink | Comments (0) | author bio

photo taken today, August 29, 2008 by evan austin

Posted by evan austin at 10:49 PM | Permalink | Comments (1) | author bio

Ray Smith of Daly Road Graphics sent us these notes and photographs about Gravel Trucks in which it appears that trucks coming and going from Santa Paula are driving on residential streets. If true this would a clear violation of local road and traffic regulations. While we await further confirmation, here is Ray's first person report:

" I spotted another truck near my home. Apparently, they are coming from Santa Paula, but instead of going through downtown via Ojai Avenue, they cut north to Grand Avenue. They head east, turn onto West Summer St.,
then south on Canada to pick up Ojai Avenue again. This is the third time I've seen one do this. "

Continue reading "Stop the Trucks: Sneaking Through Town on Grand Avenue???" »

Posted by Howard Smith at 03:22 PM | Permalink | Comments (3) | author bio

Do You Support this Vision of Ojai?

Or This Vision?

(A double hopper stuck in traffic at the "Y" heads into the heart of Ojai on Route 150/Ojai Avenue.. Photo credit to Daly road Graphics, Ray Smith Monday, May 6, 2008)

With five candidates competing for two City Council vacancies and several of the MAC (Municipal Advisory Council) seats also facing competitive races, the Ojai "Stop the Trucks!" Coalition is asking everyone running for office to take a few moments to answer a few questions online. We would like each candidate to share their thoughts with the public on the how they intend to deal with the long term threat posed by gravel trucking through Ojai and the blind eye that the Ventura County Planning Division is seemingly paying to regular daily violations of the existing Conditional Use Permits (C.U.P.'s).

Continue reading "Stop the Trucks: Election Year Edition" »

Posted by Howard Smith at 10:03 AM | Permalink | Comments (5) | author bio

Today's New York Times has a great article by Stephanie Rosenbloom entitled "Giant Retailers Look to Sun for Energy Savings," on how green energy is now front and center in the minds of the business sector.

“It’s very clear that green energy is now front and center in the minds of the business sector,” said Daniel M. Kammen, an energy expert at the University of California, Berkeley. “Not only will you see panels on the roofs of your local stores, but I suspect very soon retailers will have stickers in their windows saying, ‘This is a green energy store.’ ”

Here's the rest of the article:
Giant Retailers Look to Sun for Energy Savings

Posted by Suza Francina at 09:52 AM | Permalink | Comments (48) | author bio

The Ojai Valley Green Coalition welcomes
best-selling author Brad Lancaster to the Ecology and Community series:

Thursday August 28, 2008 • 7:00 pm • $2 donation
Chaparral Auditorium, 414 E. Ojai Avenue
(805) 653-8445

Based on his book Rainwater Harvesting, Vol. 2, Brad will show you how to select, place, size, construct, and plant your chosen water-harvesting earthworks and present detailed how-to information and variations of a diverse array of earthworks, including mulch, vegetation, and greywater recycling, so that you can customize the techniques to your site.

Jim MacDonald, a Ventura County top building official, will start the evening with a discussion of the county’s new greywater codes.

Rainwater Harvesting Flyer (PDF)

Posted by Tyler Suchman at 10:17 AM | Permalink | author bio

World Affairs Council CA Central Coast

September 11, 2008
Location: Ventura County Maritime Museum
2731 S. Victoria Avenue
Oxnard, CA 93035
Time: 5:30 p.m. -7:30 p.m.
(Reception with appetizers
and no-host bar 5:30-6:30,
presentation 6:30-7:30)
Cost: $15 members, $20 non-members

By 1405 China had been a powerful empire for nearly two thousand years. The crown jewels of Emperor Zhu Di’s navy were his Treasure boats. These behemoths, nearly half the size of World War II aircraft carriers, were largest wooden sailing ships ever built. And although the wealth they carried back to China was staggering, it created conflict between the two factions that served the emperor; the Military and the Mandarin bureaucrats.

Continue reading "World Affairs Council Presentation" »

Posted by Howard Smith at 08:40 PM | Permalink | author bio

OJAI FILM FESTIVAL

GLEN MUSE, 815 Libbey Ave., Ojai, CA 93024

Continue reading "Ojai Film Festival Party In Paradise" »

Posted by Howard Smith at 08:17 PM | Permalink | author bio

OBAMA CAMPAIGN OFFICE OPENS — All are invited to the grand opening of the Barack Obama campaign office and birthday celebration on Monday, August 4, from 6 to 9 p.m. at 323 E. Matilija St., Suite 116, at the corner of Montgomery.

For more information go to OjaiforObama or e-mail info@ojaiforobama.com.

Posted by Suza Francina at 09:46 AM | Permalink | Comments (7) | author bio

Hi,
We understand that there was an Earthquake today in the Chino Hills area of California at approx. 11:40am today, July 29th.

More info will be posted on this thread. Post any info you might have on this quake.

Thanks

Posted by Chris Foley at 12:18 PM | Permalink | Comments (1) | author bio

The Ventura County chapter of the American Red Cross announced it is going green - they are renovating their headquarters to meet LEED Silver status. Nice effort that will help continue the trend of green building throughout the county. Combine that with natural building code changes, and we really will have a plan for the future here in Ventura County. Press release after the jump.

Continue reading "Red Cross goes green with LEED cert" »

Posted by Tyler Suchman at 03:31 PM | Permalink | Comments (1) | author bio

If you're a motorist and are heading out this morning, here's what you have to look forward to:

Regular Unleaded (87 Octane):
Valero, Ojai - $4.39
Chevron, Ojai - $4.49
Union 76, Ojai - $4.49
Circle K, Mira Monte - $4.22
Shell, Oak View - $4.21
Thrifty, Oak View - $4.19
American Gas, Meiners Oaks - $4.29
updated July 25, 2008

as reported at ojainews.com

Posted by evan austin at 07:34 AM | Permalink | Comments (3) | author bio

In a game-changing speech reminiscent of JFK's call to put a man on the moon, Al Gore calls for the US to abandon electricity generated by fossil fuels within a decade, and ties it directly to the economy and national security.

“We’re borrowing money from China to buy oil from the Persian Gulf to burn it in ways that destroy the planet,” Mr. Gore said. “Every bit of that’s got to change.”

...and here's a technical feasibility article by energy banker and international geopolitical author Jerome Guillet on moving to 100% electricity from renewables by 2020. The final paragraph below...

While a goal of 100% of carbon-free electricity is probably unrealistic, it therefore seems possible to get pretty close to that, especially if [existing] nuclear and hydro are included in the mix. A plan that announced a specific goal of 40-50% of wind-generated electricity by 2020 and 10-20% of solar, with the appropriate feed-in mechanisms, demand guarantees for manufacturers and investment in the grid would therefore be realistic, make economic sense, and fulfill two major strategic goals: reduce carbon emissions, and lower fossil fuel demand.

Posted by Tyler Suchman at 12:25 PM | Permalink | Comments (2) | author bio