Andra Belknap’s four-part series, OUSD, Wtf, about Ojai Unified School District, continues with Part Three.

She also took a little detour to Taft Gardens to explore the fascinating world of artist-in-residence Natasha Wheat and her unique approach to art inspired by the Taft Gardens. During her nine-month residency, Wheat has found inspiration in the garden's organic waste and burn piles to create pieces exploring the beauty of discarded items. Her work will be featured in an exhibition on May 6, which will also showcase live performances and interactive work by fellow artists. Don't miss this opportunity to experience the wonder of nature through the eyes of these talented artists. Read the full story to learn more about Wheat's journey and the Art in Nature program at Taft Gardens. If you are interested in a residency, Taft is accepting applications through July 15.

Blast to the Past

Time-travel to 1951 with Drew Mashburn's article about the Nordhoff High School Rangers' football season! He delves into their nail-biting league wins and the epic showdown against Villanova. And, if you're feeling extra adventurous, check out an interactive map of Ojai in the 1950s to really transport yourself back in time. 

After that, jump to the 1970s for another tale from Drew’s time posted at Matilija Lake Campground.

Another New Contributor!

Meet Serena!

VORTEX is excited to participate in Nordhoff's Digital Media Academy’s Pathway internship program.  Our first project is about OUSD Family Fund's Prom Closet initiative.

Local Politics:

Councilmember's Information Breach May Have Consequences

Seven Ojai Valley residents are taking legal action against Councilmember Leslie Rule and her agent Jon Drucker for allegedly violating the Brown Act. The plaintiffs claim that Rule disclosed information from closed sessions during City Council meetings while Drucker distributed a list of those details on social media and local news outlets. READ IT

OLO Member-Only:

VC DA to Ojai City Council AND Councilmember Leslie Rule: Knock it Off.

But, you know, but in legal words. Turns out, everyone violated the Brown Act.

Recaps of the May 19 City Council Meeting

The General Public Comments were tame, but a lawsuit from an outside group regarding Ojai’s Housing Element puts pressure on the process.

Culture

Gallery shows thru June:

SPORE SPACE

CANVAS AND PAPER

BEATRICE WOOD CENTER

SANTA PAULA ART MUSEUM

SULLIVAN GOSS

BUDDY’S WINE BAR

OJAI ART CENTER

CAROLYN GLASOE BAILEY

TAFT GARDENS

Stream This: Spring

A terrifying look at pesticides in the Ojai Valley and Ventura County overall: Regenerate Ojai.

Ojai Music Festival’s Podcast.

A new album from Will Thomas.

A romp through Australian Natives Nursery with Cade from Embers Only Pizza Club.