Introduction
President Wendy welcomed Rotarians who gathered for fellowship and service. Bret Bradigan reminded us that this was the 63rd anniversary of John Glenn’s first foray into space.
Visitors and Guests
Rotarians Bill and Mary from Jefferson City, Missouri were welcomed. Jack McClanahan reminded us that the wine festival is scheduled for June 21.
Service above Self-Bill Hatch
Service Above Self recipient Christopher Cash Madera, his family, his teacher and his principal from Sunset School were welcomed. Bill present young Mr. Madera will a certificate and a check for $100. His family and teacher beamed their approval.
Announcements
- Gamenight social next week at 6pm at the Ojai Art Center. Dave Brubaker will give lessons in Texas Hold ‘em.
- Kelly Rasmussen and Bret Bradigan will be co-Presidents in 2026-2027
- Deidre Daly is heading a committee search for other options for our meeting
- Dr. Jerry M. described the program to acquire and deploy an AED (Automatic Electronic Defibrillator). The unit will be housed at the Gables and will be available to the community groups who want to borrow it for their events.

- Allan West described this year’s Arbor Day
- Bruce Hanson continues to head up the 2025-26 Program Committee
- Bob Eisler asked for volunteers for the Ethics award
- Pradeep K. will talk on March 7; City Manager Ben Harvey on March 14; EJ Harrison March 21.
Museum Moment
President Wendy showed us some excerpts from an early publication called “Away in Ojai”. The writer of this pamphlet painted Ojai as a splendid place to visit or live. Still true.
Fining-Bill Hatch
Bill did his usual good job in extracting funds by asking the most obscure questions on the most arcane topics.
Program-Bill Wagner OUSD Music Teacher
Bill, who has taught many of our children to appreciate music, gave a spirited talk about the history and current status of the Nordhoff music program. Here are some highlights:
- Bill joined OUSD in 1988
- Matilija was the site of the first Ojai Music Festival
- The merger of MJHS and NHS was difficult but has turned out well
- Bill is still using Marty Babayco’s playbook when putting on musicals
- The next musical will be “The Addams Family”. Go to Nordhoffmusic.com for tickets.
Recommendations
- Huberman Lab with Ellen Langer
- Prime Target-Apple TV