OJAI : Benefit Game a Weak Draw but Still Scores

Hampered by a disappointing turnout, the Ojai Valley’s Make-A-Wish softball tournament last weekend raised about $2,000--several thousand less than expected--for Ventura County children with life-threatening illnesses.

Tournament executive director Lenny Roberts said only seven teams participated in the event, about half of those expected.

“We had four weddings and a softball tournament up here,” Roberts said. “Ojai is a small community. When something happens that distracts people, you pay the price.”

Nevertheless, Roberts said he is still pleased that Ojai Valley residents were able to contribute to the Tri-Counties Make-A-Wish Foundation. It was the sixth year the community had held the softball tournament, which has raised a total of $15,000 in the five previous years.

Gail Gower, executive director of the foundation that serves Ventura, Santa Barbara and San Luis Obispo counties, said the money will be used to help fulfill the wishes of about 20 ill children.

Most, she said, have asked to go to Disney World in Florida.