Author: Community Contributor

July 28 — A Taste of Camarillo Wine, Brew & Food Festival Premiere Charity Event in Ventura County

CAMARILLO — The Meadowlark Service League is hosting A Taste of Camarillo Wine, Brew & Food Festival this year on Sunday, July 28, from Noon – 4:30 pm, at the Camarillo Ranch.  Exhibitor & Vendor spaces are already filling up for the region’s longest-running Wine, Food, and Brew Festival. 

Through July 28 — CLU’s Kingsmen Shakespeare Company performs ‘Romeo and Juliet’ and ‘Much Ado About Nothing’

THOUSAND OAKS — It’s “The Season of Love” this summer as the Kingsmen Shakespeare Company performs two of William Shakespeare’s most beloved plays: “Romeo and Juliet” and “Much Ado About Nothing.” The comedy “Much Ado About Nothing” kicks off the 27th Annual Shakespeare Festival with performances through July 7; “Romeo and Juliet” follows from July 12–28. All performances are at 8 p.m., Friday through Sunday.

This is the first time since 2012 that the nonprofit, professional theatre company of California Lutheran University has produced these two plays.

Aug. 2, 3, 4 — Ventura Music Festival announces upcoming events including performance by Perla Batalla (Aug. 2)

Perla Batalla

Friday, August 2, 2024
7:00 PM
Ventura College PAC

A festival favorite returns! Singer-songwriter Perla Batalla earns critical acclaim for her distinctive voice, emotional honesty, and culture-merging compositions.

Aug. 3 — Bilingual report — Allan Hancock College to host one-day fire camp for women

Women who sign up for this event will have the opportunity to work with staff from Hancock’s fire technology program and the college’s state-certified Fire Academy. Several female Hancock College Fire Academy graduates, who are now professional firefighters, will be on hand to share their knowledge and experience. Participants will take part in various team-building exercises and hands-on training with the techniques and equipment used by firefighters.  

Through Aug. 3 — Music Academy of the West Kicks Off 2024 Summer Music Festival

SANTA BARBARA — The Music Academy of the West, now in its 77th season, inspires artists and concert-goers alike with the 2024 Summer Music Festival themed “The Magic of Music.” The Festival showcases talented young musicians and outstanding teaching and guest artists in a wide array of one-of-a-kind performances, chamber concerts, public masterclasses, and competitions.

Aug. 5 — Oxnard Film Society to present ‘Evil Does Not Exist’

In the rural alpine hamlet of Mizubiki, not far from Tokyo, Takumi and his daughter, Hana, lead a modest life gathering water, wood, and wild wasabi for the local udon restaurant. Increasingly, the townsfolk become aware of a talent agency’s plan to build an opulent glamping site nearby, offering city residents a comfortable “escape” to the snowy wilderness. When two company representatives arrive and ask for local guidance, Takumi becomes conflicted in his involvement, as it becomes clear that the project will have a pernicious impact on the community.

Aug. 7 — County of Ventura to host Career & Resource Expo

VENTURA — The County of Ventura invites the public to the Career & Resource Expo on Wednesday, August 7, 2024, from 11:00 a.m. to 2:00 p.m. The event and parking are free. The expo will be held in the main courtyard of the Ventura County Government Center, located between the Hall of Administration and the Hall of Justice.

Attendees will be able to explore a wide array of career opportunities in fields such as County administration and support, engineering, environmental protection, planning, agriculture, health care, law enforcement, public safety, public works, recreational services, technology, and more.

Aug. 7 — The Collection at RiverPark in Oxnard announces upcoming Summer events

Get ready to kick off some serious fun at our Summer Kids Club Series, right here at The Collection at RiverPark! Mark your calendars for Wednesday August 7th, all from 10:30 AM to 12 PM! Gather up the kiddos, pack your favorite picnic blanket, and head over to Collection Park for a morning jam-packed with excitement.

Aug. 8 — Santa Barbara Museum of Art to present docent recruitment reception

If you have a passion for art and are interested in serving the community, the SBMA Docent Program is a rewarding and supportive environment to learn and have fun. Volunteer docents engage with visitors of all ages through guided tours to make works of art accessible to everyone. An art background is not required.

Aug. 9 — UCSB Arts & Lectures presents The Life Aquatic with Steve Zissou at the Santa Barbara County Courthouse Sunken Garden

SANTA BARBARA — Get ready to make waves this summer with UCSB Arts & Lectures’ 2024 FREE summer films line-up: Sun, Surf and Cinema. The program continues with Wes Anderson’s 2004 film The Life Aquatic with Steve Zissou starring Bill Murray and an all-star cast at the Santa Barbara County Courthouse Sunken Garden on Friday, August 9 at 8:30 pm. Enjoy pre-screening fun including a live DJ set from Val Mar Records, raffle prizes and more.

Aug. 10 — California Nature Art Museum in Solvang to free End-of-Summer Family Day

SOLVANG — The California Nature Art Museum (calnatureartmuseum.org) in Solvang will hold its annual free-admission, End-of-Summer Family Day from 10 a.m. to 3 p.m. Saturday, Aug. 10. This event invites visitors to bring the whole family and enjoy free admission to the Museum and participate in a variety of art-and-nature inspired activities. 

Aug. 13 — Bilingual report — Ventura Police host community presentation on military equipment use

“We recognize the value of keeping communication open and want to reaffirm our commitment to transparency, accountability, and professionalism by providing this information to our community,” said Chief Darin Schindler. “Our goal is to ensure residents are well-informed about how these resources are utilized to protect public safety.”

Aug. 14 — Cottage Health to Host Blood Drive in August

SANTA BARBARA — To bolster local blood supply and contribute to the community’s well-being, Cottage Health, in partnership with Vitalant, is hosting a blood drive in August.

Santa Barbara Cottage Hospital

Wednesday, August 14, 2024

10a.m.-1p.m.
400 W Pueblo St, Santa Barbara, CA 93105 The Vitalant Bloodmobile will be parked at the hospital main entrance at Castillo and Pueblo.

Register at cottagehealth.org/sbblooddrive

Appointments are recommended. Please visit the provided links to secure your appointment.

Aug. 15 — Ventura County Fire Dept. to dedicate new headquarters in Thousand Oaks

THOUSAND OAKS — The Ventura County Fire Department will dedicate its new headquarters at 2400 Conejo Spectrum Street in Thousand Oaks on Aug. 15, starting at 10 a.m.

Reporters and photographers are invited to cover the event, which will include remarks from Fire Chief Dustin Gardner and elected officials from Ventura County and the City of Thousand Oaks, followed by a ribbon-cutting and tour of the facility.

Aug. 16 — UCSB Arts & Lectures presents Mamma Mia! at the Santa Barbara County Courthouse Sunken Garden

SANTA BARBARA — Get ready to make waves this summer with UCSB Arts & Lectures’ 2024 FREE summer films line-up: Sun, Surf and Cinema. The program continues with the smash hit ABBA musical Mamma Mia! at the Santa Barbara County Courthouse Sunken Garden on Friday, August 16 at 8:30 pm. Enjoy pre-screening festivities with KLITE’s Catherine Remak, enter to win raffle prizes, and more. Costumes are encouraged.

Aug. 17 — Bilingual report — Join SBCC’s School of Extended Learning for an OPEN HOUSE!

SANTA BARBARA — Join SBCC’s School of Extended Learning for an OPEN HOUSE! from 11 a.m. to 2 p.m. Saturday, Aug. 17 at SBCC Extended Learning Wake Campus at 300 N. Turnpike Road, Santa Barbara.

Get help with registration while enjoying free giveaways, food, face painting and more! 

The event is free and open to all.

Aug. 18 — Ventura Harbor Village Welcomes Back Canine Adoption and Rescue League’s Pooch Parade

VENTURA — Get ready to bring your best four-legged friends to the 24th Annual Canine Adoption and Rescue League (C.A.R.L.) Pooch Parade. This year’s theme, “Fun, Sun, Sand, and Supporting Rescue Dogs!” invites registered walkers to walk with their dogs individually or as part of a team while wearing beach attire. Join us at Ventura Harbor Village, 1583 Spinnaker Drive, on Sunday, August 18, from 10 a.m. to 3 p.m. Event Details.

Aug. 18 — Flying Goat Cellars in Lompoc to host ‘Pinot & Polo’ at La Herradura Polo Club

LOMPOC — Join Flying Goat Cellars, located in Lompoc, California’s Wine Ghetto for “Pinot & Polo” at La Herradura Polo Club on Sunday, August 18, from 9:30 AM -Noon at La Herradura Polo Club.

For the grand finale of Wine & Fire Weekend, all are welcome to experience Club Chukkers with Pinot & Bubbles poured field side by winemaker Norm Yost under the shade of tents. Flying Goat Cellars is La Herradura Polo Club MVP Sponsor this season. Co-owners Norm and Kate invite wine enthusiasts to be their guest at La Herradura Polo Club, located at 3720 Baseline Ave. in Santa Ynez.

Aug. 19 — Oxnard Film Society to present ‘Green Border’

In the treacherous and swampy forests that make up the so-called “green border” between Belarus and Poland, refugees from the Middle East and Africa are lured by government propaganda promising easy passage to the European Union. Unable to cross into Europe and unable to turn back, they find themselves trapped in a rapidly escalating geopolitical stand-off. An unflinching depiction of the migrant crisis captured in stark black-and-white, this riveting film explores the intractable issue from multiple perspectives: a Syrian family fleeing ISIS caught between cruel border guards in both countries; young guards instructed to brutalize and reject the migrants; and activists who aid the refugees at great personal risk.

Aug. 21 — CSUCI’s ‘AI Basecamp’ to explore the impact of Artificial Intelligence on education and regional workforce

“We’re calling it a base camp (as opposed to a summit) because as far as AI has come in such a brief period of time, it still feels like a moment where we’re just beginning,” said Assistant Vice President of Digital Learning Lorna Gonzalez. “An event like this is meant to bring our community together to hear about what’s happening regionally and to have a shared experience about something that has been highly disruptive and will continue to be.”

Through Aug. 23 — UCSB Arts & Lectures and the Santa Barbara County Office of Arts & Culture present Sun, Surf and Cinema, FREE Summer Films at the Santa Barbara County Courthouse Sunken Garden

SANTA BARBARA — UCSB Arts & Lectures and the Santa Barbara County Office of Arts & Culture present the FREE outdoor summer film series, Sun, Surf and Cinema, seven classic flicks celebrating the thrills and delights of beach and ocean life, Friday evenings under the stars through Fri. Aug 23 at 8:30 p.m. at the County Courthouse Sunken Garden. This year’s totally tubular lineup includes: Jaws, Point Break, 50 First Dates, Blue Crush, The Life Aquatic with Steve Zissou, Mamma Mia! and Crazy Rich Asians. Bring breathable blankets, low chairs, a picnic and your friends!

Aug. 23 — UCSB Arts & Lectures presents ‘Crazy Rich Asians’ at the Santa Barbara County Courthouse Sunken Garden

SANTA BARBARA — Get ready to make waves this summer with UCSB Arts & Lectures’ 2024 FREE summer films line-up: Sun, Surf and Cinema. The program concludes with the 2018 romantic comedy Crazy Rich Asians at the Santa Barbara County Courthouse Sunken Garden on Friday, August 23 at 8:30 pm.  Arrive early for pre-screening festivities, giveaways and a playlist curated by DJ Darla Bea.

Aug. 23 — Bilingual report — Residents Invited to National Night Out Friday at Veterans Memorial Park

SANTA PAULA — Residents from neighborhoods throughout Santa Paula are invited to join in the National Night Out Event Friday, August 23, 2024, 6:00 p.m. to 8:30 p.m. at Veterans Memorial Park located at 114 S. 10th St. in Santa Paula. The event is sponsored by the Santa Paula Police Officers Association and the Santa Paula Police & K9 Foundation. The event is free and residents from the City of Santa Paula are welcome to attend.

Aug. 24 — District 216 to present Torkom Ji’s “Hypnosonic Frequency Transmission”

6:00 PM – 7:00 PM

Networking
Meet District216 members and guests while enjoying snacks and beverages.
7:00 PM – 9:00 PM

Live Frequency Transmission
Featuring Torkom Ji of Quantum Harmonix!
9:00 PM – 10:00 PM

Integrate + Hangout
Chat about what you just experienced and integrate a bit.
District216 Members: $45

Guest Tickets: $65

Facilitator: Torkom Ji of Quantum Harmonic

Aug. 24 — Torkom Ji’s ‘Hypnosonic Frequency Transmission’ More events Aug. 28

6:00 PM – 7:00 PM

Networking
Meet District216 members and guests while enjoying snacks and beverages.
7:00 PM – 9:00 PM

Live Frequency Transmission
Featuring Torkom Ji of Quantum Harmonix!
9:00 PM – 10:00 PM

Integrate + Hangout
Chat about what you just experienced and integrate a bit.
District216 Members: $45 (Available to Newsletter Subscribers too!)

Guest Tickets: $65

Facilitator: Torkom Ji of Quantum Harmonic

Aug. 25 — Santa Barbara Museum of Art Presents A Day of Music in the Galleries

Featured musicians Jessica Guideri (violin), concertmaster of the Santa Barbara Symphony, and Amy Tatum, principal flute for the Santa Barbara Symphony, will play a combination of solo pieces and duets. Each piece will be roughly 20 minutes in length, each responding to a different work in the exhibition. Performances are at 1 pm, 1:15 pm, 1:45 pm, and 2:15 pm.

Through Aug. 25 — Santa Barbara Museum of Art Presents Made by Hand/Born Digital

SANTA BARBARA — The Santa Barbara Museum of Art’s (SBMA) exhibition Made by Hand/Born Digital features 12 artworks and 9 artistswho use brushes, AI, paint, 3D printers, scissors, magazines printed on paper, digital looms, potter’s wheels, Photoshop and Apple Photo. By continuing to craft ceramics, paintings, and textiles by hand and also using the latest digital tools, many of the artists in the exhibition blur a distinction between the handmade and digital.

Aug. 27 — Port of Hueneme — 10-Year Strategic Plan Review – JOIN US!

Your voice is important and your port wants to hear it!

Join us next Tuesday, August 27 at the Port of Hueneme 333 Ponoma St. from 9AM – 6PM for the Port’s final draft presentation for feedback before adoption of the plan.

Presentations will take place at 9 AM, 12 PM, and 6 PM.

To comment and review the draft visit: https://www.portofhueneme.org/10-year-strategic-plan/

Aug. 28 — District 216 to present Dr. Allie Melendez’s ‘Sex, Drugs & Rock n Roll’

Topic: “Sex, Drugs & Rock n Roll”

When: Wednesday, August 28th, 2024 from 5pm to 9pm (Speaker at 6:30pm)

Where: LoDo Studios, 216 E. Gutierrez Street, Santa Barbara, CA 93101
(Please only park across the street on the Office Max side of the lot.)

Members are Free to attend The District House evenings, and are prioritized when we reach capacity.

Guests Welcome to purchase $50 tickets to The District House evenings.

Note: We will be filming the speaker for the District216 Change Your Lens Series. Refreshments provided.

Aug. 29 — Cottage to Host FREE Virtual Meet the Doctor — ‘Shoulder Pain: Common Causes and Treatment’

Participants will gain an understanding of the importance of a thorough shoulder exam, what to expect during the exam, and various treatments available for shoulder issues.

The event will include a Q&A session, during which attendees will have the opportunity to have their questions answered by Dr. Bailey.

Aug. 29 — Free LightGabler LLP Employment Law Webinar: ‘Don’t Get ‘ICED’: Conducting Effective I-9 Audits’

CAMARILLO — Employment law firm LightGabler LLP is presenting a free employment law webinar for employers, “Don’t Get ‘ICED”: Conducting Effective I-9 Audits.” The webinar is Thursday, August 29 from 10:00 a.m. to 10:30 a.m..

It is critical for employers to properly fill out immigration I-9 forms for employees. Failing to fill out forms correctly may result in civil and criminal penalties. It is important to know how to conduct I-9 audits to ensure that current I-9s are maintained and old I-9s are timely purged. In this informative 30-minute webinar, LightGabler employment attorney Bree Cortes discusses how to conduct an I-9 audit and how to correct I-9 forms.

Aug. 31 — Chubby Checker and the Wildcats are Twisting for Good at the Lobero Theatre

“This is a once in a lifetime opportunity to see this Grammy Award-winning American icon at a price everyone can afford,” said Earl Minnis of Earl Minnis Presents who is producing the event. “We decided to take a different approach with this event and allow ticket purchasers the opportunity to purchase an affordable ticket with the option of making a larger contribution.” Donations are tax-deductible.

Sept. 2 — Museum of Ventura County’s Agriculture Museum to present 9th Annual Labor Day Tractor Fair

The fair offers a fresh perspective on bridging farming’s past, present, and future through engaging exhibits and interactive activities. It aims to unite our community, promote sustainable farming practices, and inspire the next generation to explore rewarding careers in agriculture.

Through Sept. 2 — California Nature Art Museum in Solvang to present ‘The Birds and the Bees and More: Pollinators’

SOLVANG — California Nature Art Museum (formerly the Wildling Museum) is excited to bring the important topic of pollinators to their gallery for the first time with the exhibit The Birds and the Bees and More: Pollinators. Featuring original art by Ava Roth, Susan McDonnell, Elizabeth Weber, and Cynthia James, each artist brings a unique perspective to their pollinating subjects.

Sept. 4 — District 216 to present Kathryn LaRoe-Higgs & Lisa McJunkin ‘Psychedelics & Harm Reduction in Trauma Populations’

Kathryn LaRoe, (Katie) is a licensed therapist, graduating from USC with her Masters in Social Work with a focus on military and mental health. She previously held the position as Lead Therapist for The Mission Within, and now is now the Therapeutic Lead of Illuminating Warriors (previously Heroic Path To Light).

Sept. 4 — Bilingual report — Ventura County Chapter of SCORE Announces Bilingual In-Person Workshops for Small Businesses and Entrepreneurs

The first workshop, entitled “Digital Marketing Guide: What, When and How to Post Content” will be held on September 4 at the Oxnard Public Library, Meeting Room B at 10:00AM. The workshop will be presented by Luisa Arzate who has more than 15 years of experience in graphic design and marketing. In addition to owning and operating her own local business, Luisa is a Marketing Business Advisor with the Economic Development Collaborative.

Sept. 4 — Bilingual report — Economic Development Collaborative (EDC) to present NO-COST Partner Event: Digital Marketing Guide: What, When and How to Post Content

Join SCORE Ventura County and the City of Oxnard!

Wednesday, September 4 @ 9:30 am – 11:00 am at the Oxnard Public Library

251 South A Street., Meeting Room B, Oxnard, CA

Many small businesses need help with marketing. They often need help with what, how and when to post. While they understand the importance of marketing and promotion for their business, they are still determining how to implement it daily. This workshop offers practical and straightforward solutions to address these issues.

Presented in English With Simultaneous Interpretation in Spanish …

Sept. 4 — Camarillo Mayor Tony Trembley to Deliver 2024 State of the City

Mayor Trembley will focus on five key themes during the address: investment in infrastructure, sustainability, economic development, transparency and engagement, and community well-being.

An outdoor networking reception on the Camarillo Ranch House Lawn will be accompanied by live music, drinks, hors d’oeuvres, carving stations and desserts. The reception will facilitate connections amongst elected officials, community leaders, developers, business owners and others involved in making Camarillo a coveted place to work, live, and do business.

Sept. 4 — Santa Barbara City College hosts Blue Economy Symposium to foster sustainable ocean careers and Santa Barbara Ocean Collective

The event — the first of its kind in Santa Barbara — is designed to foster greater awareness and engagement with the Blue Economy, a vital sector that encompasses sustainable fishing, aquaculture, coastal conservation, renewable ocean energy and blue tech. The symposium will also mark the launch of the Santa Barbara Ocean Collective, a unique partnership between SBCC, the Commercial Fishermen of Santa Barbara (CFSB), SBCC Foundation, the City of Santa Barbara and the Economic Development Collaborative. This collaboration aims to build robust ocean career pathways and support the necessary infrastructure for sustainable ocean industries on the SBCC campus.

Sept. 7 — Ventura County Animal Services to present ‘Free Adoptions at Clear the Shelters’ event

Clear the Shelters is almost here!   Adopt your next best friend at CLEAR THE SHELTERS on Saturday, September 7th, 2024, from 11:00am – 5:00pm at both the Camarillo and Simi Valley Animal Shelters!  This FEE-WAIVED pet adoption event comes…

Through Sept. 8 — Santa Paula Art Museum presents Christopher Noxon’s ‘Greenbelt: Interplay and Imagination on the Edge of Wildness’

Born in Los Angeles to a family of filmmakers and writers, Christopher Noxon began his career as a journalist and illustrator. His writing and illustrations have appeared in The New Yorker, The Atlantic, New York Times Magazine, and several of his own books.

In 2020, Noxon moved out of L.A. to Ojai. He also became steward to a large collection of paintings and drawings by his late grandmother, Betty Lane (1907-1996). Looking to Betty’s art and the work of other artists, including Huichol yarn paintings and Fauve painters like Henri Matisse, Noxon taught himself to paint.

Sept. 11 — District 216 to present Conscious Connections Roundtable ‘Psychedelic Ceremonies: What to Expect,’ other upcoming events

“Psychedelic Ceremonies: What to Expect”

Unearth the uncharted territories of the mind, engage in thought-provoking conversations, and connect with a community of kindred spirits. An evening of intellectual stimulation, introspection, and connection that lasts.

Prepare to have your perceptions expanded as we dive into the potential insights and transformations that psychedelics offer. Through personal anecdotes, scientific breakthroughs, and philosophical pondering, we’ll uncover new horizons and perspectives on the role of psychedelics in the realms of creativity, spirituality, mental health, and beyond.

Sept. 12 — Museum of Ventura County — Journey Back in Time and Savor a Taste of History

This evening of refined taste and unexpected histories will lead guests on a journey back in time to the early mid-century. This decadent evening will begin with a cocktail hour featuring classic specialty drinks, a red carpet, keepsake polaroids, and live jazz music. Guests will enjoy a live cooking demonstration by Chef Adam Hart of Oxnard College and an artifact gallery with objects from MVC’s historic collection. The open-air dinner will transport diners to an elegant mid-century supper club, with each dish paired with wine chosen by local restaurateurs. Entertainment will continue in the form of a jazz quartet and an oral history of Olivas Adobe’s historic caretaker Iva Reeder performed by MVC’s Executive Director Elena Brokaw.

Sept. 13 — Bilingual report — Community invited to celebrate Ventura River Trail Improvements Project completion

VENTURA — The public is invited to a ribbon-cutting ceremony and a community bike ride on Friday, September 13, 2024, at 4:00 p.m., as the City of Ventura celebrates the completion of the Ventura River Trail Improvements Project.

The upgrades, funded by a nearly $5 million Caltrans Clean California grant, include new pavement, wayfinding signage, improved accessibility, solar lighting, urban greening, and a new public art mural. These enhancements revitalize 1.8 miles of the highly used trail connecting Ventura to Ojai.

“This project is a testament to our commitment to creating a sustainable, vibrant community,” said Mayor Joe Schroeder. “By enhancing Ventura’s active transportation with improved infrastructure for pedestrians and cyclists, and incorporating public art, we’re not just beautifying our city—we’re fostering a healthier, more connected, and environmentally conscious Ventura.”

Sept. 14 — Bilingual report — Santa Paula Fiesta de Mariachi

SANTA PAULA — The Santa Paula Parks & Recreation Department is happy to announce the much-anticipated return of the 11th Annual Mariachi Dinner, a captivating evening of cultural celebration, live music, and dining. Hosted by the City of Santa Paula Parks & Recreation Department, this event promises a memorable experience for all attendees, young and old.

The 11th Annual Mariachi Dinner is an opportunity for the community to come together and revel in the joy of shared moments. Immerse yourself in the vibrant sounds of Mariachi Quinto Sol, an exceptional Mariachi band, while savoring delicious traditional cuisine.

Sept. 14 — Allan Hancock College’s industrial technology program hosing annual All Ford Car Show

“This event is a great opportunity to come together and give back to our community and we look forward to hosting it every year,” said Jay McCord, a Model A Ford Club member and car show chairman. “Many of the students that received past scholarships now have successful careers in their industry.”