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Category: Entertainment
March 30 — Oxnard Film Society presents special event screening ‘WE REMEMBER: First Casualty’
Through March 31 — Channel Islands Maritime Museum to present The Pastel Society of the Gold Coast Group Exhibition ‘The Living Ocean’
April 1 — UCSB Arts & Lectures presents the 40th Anniversary Tour of Santa Barbara Favorite the Ukulele Orchestra of Great Britain at UCSB Campbell Hall
April 1 through 30 — Spring Events at The Collection 2025: updated with scheduled times
April 2, 23 — Allan Hancock College celebrates National Poetry Month
April 6; May 11, 31 — Mystic Whaler upcoming events
April 7 — Oxnard Film Society to present ‘NO OTHER LAND’
April 8, 9 — Ventura College announces 2025 Diversity in Culture Festival
April 8 — UCSB Arts & Lectures presents the sensational Circa with their next-level circus performance Humans 2.0 at the Lobero Theatre
April 10 — UCSB Arts & Lectures presents Akram Khan, director and choreographer, in GIGENIS, the generation of the Earth at the Granada Theatre
April 11 — Bilingual report — Westpark Community Center in Ventura hosts free Summer Showcase event
April 12 through 30 — Spring into Fun at The Collection at RiverPark with festive activities
April 22 — UCSB Arts & Lectures to present Pete Buttigieg on Making Sense of the 2020s: What the Rest of This Decade Will Require From Leaders in Policy, Politics & Communications at the Arlington Theatre
April 26, 27 — Save the Date: Santa Barbara Earth Day Festival Returns to Alameda Park
April 27 — Ventura Charter School hosts 14th Annual EcoFest!
April 29 — UCSB Arts & Lectures to present Engineer and Former NASA Astronaut José Hernández at UCSB Campbell Hall
Through May 16 — CLU to present Senior Art Exhibit explores bridges of time
May 17-18 — 39th Annual California Strawberry Festival to be held in Ventura
Through May 30 — Oxnard Film Society presents special event — ‘We Remember’ in Camarillo
May 30 — Save the Date — United Way of Ventura County to present ‘Women United Luncheon – Power of the Purse’
June 22 through Sept. 7 — The Santa Barbara Museum of Art presents Vian Sora: Outerworlds
June 29 — Kane Brown to appear at the Boots & Brews Country Music Festival at the Ventura County Fairgrounds
July 19 — Tequila & Taco Music Festival to be held at Ventura County Fairgrounds
Amigos805 taking a break for the holiday season
Wishing you all a very Happy Holiday Season.
Amigos805.com will be taking a holiday vacation, off Monday, Dec. 23, 2024 and returning to work Monday, Jan. 6, 2025. Please submit all your news and events by 5 p.m. Thursday, Dec. 19 for the last newsletter of the year.
CSUCI staff member/alumna plays young Jenni Rivera in a major motion picture about the superstar’s life
CAMARILLO — A CSU Channel Islands (CSUCI) alumna and current employee is appearing in a major motion picture about music superstar Jenni Rivera, who succeeded in the male-dominated world of banda, mariachi, and norteñogenres of regional Mexican music.
STEM Transfer Outreach Coordinator Tatiana Juarez, who graduated with a degree in Health Science, plays young Jenni Rivera in the movie “Jenni,” which was released Friday, Dec. 6 in select theaters and on a bilingual streaming service called ViX.
Juarez, who is part of the first generation in her family to earn a college degree, was born in Ventura and raised in Oxnard. Her parents grew up in the U.S. after being brought here from Mexico as children. Juarez’s mom works as a medical clerk and her dad works a variety of jobs related to construction and architecture.
UCSB — The Current — ‘Season’s greetings from our home to yours’
Wishing you gorgeous sunsets and bright horizons
Before signing off for the year, check out our Most Viewed Stories of 2024. Then meet us right back here on Tuesday, January 7, 2025, when The Current will return to your inbox with more research news, features and exciting UC Santa Barbara content.
Museum of Contemporary Art Santa Barbara — Year in Review – Celebrate with us!
Exhibitions On View
Sangre de Nopal/Blood of the Nopal: Traditional Ecological Knowledge and Contemporary Art is on view at MCASB until April 27, 2025
Sangre de Nopal/Blood of the Nopal: Tanya Aguiñiga & Porfirio Gutiérrez en Conversación/in Conversation at the Fowler at UCLA closes January 12, 2025
H??ng Ngô: Core Memory at MCASB Satellite at the Riviera Beach House has been extended through March, 2025
Santa Paula Museum of Art — Season’s Greetings from Board President John Nichols
Season’s Greetings from the Santa Paula Art Museum! I’m John Nichols, current president of the Santa Paula Art Museum Board of Directors. I have been an exhibiting artist, guest curator, donor, and board member of the Museum since its establishment in 2010, and I have been a resident of Santa Paula for over 50 years.
I believe the arts are essential to the good health of every community. I am incredibly proud of all the Museum has to offer, from our original exhibitions and permanent collection of Ventura County’s best historic and contemporary artists to our free arts education programs for children and families and high-quality fine art, ceramics, and fiber arts courses via the Museum’s Cole Creativity Center.
Bilingual report — City of Ventura announces Ventura’s Spring 2025 Activity Guide is live!
VENTURA — The Spring 2025 Parks and Recreation Activity Guide is now available. Explore 300+ upcoming classes, programs, and events slated February through May 2025 at www.cityofventura.ca.gov/ActivityGuide.
Registration opens on Tuesday, January 7, 2025, at 12 p.m. and is available online, by mail, or in person at City Hall in Room 226, located at 501 Poli Street. Find registration information and policies on page 45 of the guide.
Every Ventura resident will receive a printed copy of the Activity Guide in the mail. Additional copies are available for pick-up at City Hall and other City facilities during business hours, including the Westpark Community Center, Barranca Vista Community Center, Ventura Aquatics Center, and Ventura Avenue Adult Center.
UCSB — The Current — ‘Apparel industry leaks millions of tons of plastic into environment each year’ and more news, events
Global apparel consumption resulted in over 20 million tons of plastic waste in 2019, creating an economic and environmental burden that “falls disproportionately upon the developing economies of the world.”
Jean Sandlin Honored as PR Pro of the Year by the Public Relations Society of America – California Gold Coast Chapter
CENTRAL COAST — Dr. Jean Sandlin, a distinguished communication scholar and public relations strategist and advocate for excellence in the field, has received the 2024 inaugural PR Pro of the Year Award by the Public Relations Society of America – California Gold Coast Chapter. The PR Pro of the Year Award is the chapter’s most esteemed honor recognizing outstanding career achievements of local professionals in furthering the practice of public relations.
“Jean Sandlin exemplifies the very best of public relations,” said Natalie Hernandez, President of the PRSA California Gold Coast Chapter, and County of Ventura Public Information Officer. “Her scholarly research and dedication to mentor and build meaningful relationships with communication students, sets a high standard of excellence for the entire PR profession.”
UCSB — The Current — ‘Humanities Decanted: Daina Sanchez on Jan. 21, 2025’ and more news, events
The Chicana and Chicano studies professor discusses her new book, “The Children of Solaga: Indigenous Belonging across the U.S.-Mexico Border.”
County of Ventura District 2 Supervisor Jeff Gorell — Help Make the Holidays Bright for Local Children – Volunteers Needed
This holiday season, you’re invited to join me in supporting the Spark of Love Toy Drive. Together, we can help bring some cheer to over 33,000 children in need right here in Ventura County! The Fire Departments of Ventura County and ABC7 have teamed up to make sure every child experiences the magic of the season.
I have learned that more volunteers are needed to help out at Toy Central in Camarillo! This is a great way to give some time to help make the season special for local kids in need.
? Toy Center Location: 135b West Ventura Blvd., Camarillo, CA 93010
(Target shopping center off Las Posas, between BevMo and Del Taco)
Museum of Ventura County — Your year-end donation impacts 5,100 children…SUPPORT TODAY!
Museum of Ventura County — Join us this Sunday for our Winter Solstice Storytelling Festival!, other upcoming events
Winter Solstice
Storytelling Festival
Sunday, December 15
12:00 pm – 4:00 pm
@Museum of Ventura County
100 E. Main St., Ventura
Join us for a celebration of Indigenous culture and tradition! This event kicks off with a performance by Hummingbird Women’s Drum and Chumash Singing Sisters followed by storytelling from Chumash Elder Dennis Garcia, Kat High of the Hupa tribe, and Alan Salazar, a Fernandeño Tataviam and Ventureño Chumash Elder. Children are invited to the Kids’ Corner, where they can stay busy with playful puppets and coloring.
Throughout the day, engage in hands-on activities like rock painting and cordage making, guided by Julia Fireflower, a Tataviam tribal member with ties to the Chumash. You can also grab a bite to eat from Island Smoke n Grill, Guamanian BBQ.
As the day draws to a close, join us for a public prayer circle, honoring the spirit of forgiveness, community, and gratitude. This is a free community celebration of culture, storytelling, and togetherness that you won’t want to miss! Click HERE for details.
Teatro de las Américas — iStarELA opening Dec. 7
Hello,
Opening night for iStarELA is almost here and we’d love for you to join us! Your support means the world to us, and we can’t wait to share this special moment with you!
Warm regards,
Teatro De Las Americas
***
Obra en español con subtítulos en ingles /
Play in Spanish with English subtitles
Escrita y Dirigida por/
Written and Directed by
Saúl Escobedo
Presentaciones / Shows:
Diciembre / December 2024
Viernes y sábados /Fridays and Saturdays:
7, 13, 14, 20, 21 – 7:00 p.m.
Boletos/Tickets: General $15.00
Teatro de las Américas
321 W. 6th Street, Oxnard, CA
(805)-983-2876
Ventura Music Festival — The Time is Now… Let’s Share the Gift of Music!
As 2024 comes to a close, we reflect on a year of incredible music, shared joy, and the powerful connections that bring our community together. Your support has been instrumental in making it all possible. This Giving Tuesday, we invite you to join us in starting 2025 on a high note! The time is now to invest in the arts and the transformative power they bring to our community.
Guest contribution — The Ultimate Holiday Guide To Lompoc On California’s Central Coast
LOMPOC — It’s the most wonderful time of the year! Looking for festive fun, delicious treats, and unforgettable sights in Lompoc this holiday season? Dive into our roundup of festive delights and seasonal fun for you and your crew, and enjoy a magical holiday season.
8 Must-See Murals In Lompoc California Along California’s Central Coast
LOMPOC — History buffs and art aficionados, start planning your trip to Lompoc. The city is home to over 30 murals depicting aspects of the town’s history, from the age of dinosaurs and beyond! Here are 8 of our favorite murals to explore when you get here as part of Lompoc’s outdoor mural gallery.
Here’s a mural map to help you plan your journey!
UCSB — The Current — ‘Prof. Meghan Morrissey honored by the American Cancer Society for her work on cancer immunotherapy’ and more news, events
Morrissey is among those pioneering a new kind of immunotherapy, and her efforts have earned her the recognition of the American Cancer Society.
Bilingual report — November news from Peoples’ Self-Help Housing (PSHH)
Thank you to Central Coast Moving for generously sponsoring a Turkey Drive for PSHH residents in Northern SLO County. If you’d like to create more holiday cheer with a year-end gift, visit our website or connect with our team.
Port of Hueneme — CAREGIVERS “Chari-Tee” Putt Putt Golf Tournament: A Celebration of Charity, Community, and Creativity
PORT OF HUENEME — The rain didn’t detract from the fun of the Annual Channel Islands Gulls “Chari-Tee” Putt Putt Golf Tournament was held in the scenic Silver Strand neighborhood for its fifteenth year in a row. This one-of-a-kind event was supported by contributions from the Port of Hueneme and City of Port Hueneme’s Community Benefit Fund (CBF) to support the local Ventura County nonprofit CAREGIVERS: Volunteers Assisting the Elderly. The Strand Bar & Grill, Pepe’s Mexican Restaurant, The Beachcomber Tavern, La Jenelle Cafe and The Strandwich worked together in helping bring the day’s festivities to reality with Stark Realty hosting Oxnard Local Artists who dedicated a portion of their proceeds to help support volunteer caregiving.
“The work of CAREGIVERS in providing support for Ventura County’s senior population is of critical importance,” said Celina Zacarias, President of the Oxnard Harbor District Board of Commissioners. “The Port is honored to be able to sponsor this event and continue in our mission to enrich our community!”
Ventura Music Festival — A Bucket List Opportunity
Prepare to be captivated as The King’s Singers, the world-renowned vocal ensemble, bring their exceptional artistry to Ventura on December 14, 2024. This celebrated group, formed by choral scholars from King’s College, Cambridge in 1968, is one of the most iconic and versatile a cappella ensembles in the world. Renowned for their unique “Pyramid of Sound,” their technique creates a perfect blend with a strong bass and baritone foundation supporting vibrant, ethereal upper voices. With over 200 commissioned works by some of the world’s leading composers—such as György Ligeti, Richard Rodney Bennett, and John Rutter—The King’s Singers continue to shape the future of choral music while honoring its rich tradition. Now is your chance to be a part of the magic…
Oxnard Performing Arts Center Nonprofit Corp. (OPAC) launches ‘Lotería de Oxnard:’ A Celebration of the City’s Culture and Community with events on Nov. 30, Dec. 12
OXNARD — The Oxnard Performing Arts Center Nonprofit Corp. (OPAC) is thrilled to announce the release of “Lotería de Oxnard,” a reimagined, Oxnard-centric take on the traditional Mexican bingo game that highlights the people, places, and iconic things that make Oxnard one-of-a-kind. This project was made possible through the generous support of the Port of Hueneme, commemorated as card #43 in the set
“The Port of Hueneme is more than a global trade hub—it’s a proud part of the fabric of this community and we’re delighted to partner with OPAC in reimagining Lotería as a way to bring people together and celebrate what makes our beautiful region unique,” – Drew Rodriguez, Public & Community Relations Senior Representative for the Port of Hueneme.
Santa Paula Art Museum — Inbox Art Exhibit: Gail Pidduck’s “8² + 10”
Gail Pidduck was born and raised on a citrus ranch in Santa Paula. After earning a B.A. in art from Brigham Young University in Utah, she returned to Santa Paula and started a family. With three young children, Pidduck made art when and where she could, in her kitchen or on her back porch. Her preference for oil painting stemmed from her ability to set the slow-drying medium aside in a house with busy kids.
As her children grew older, Pidduck was able to dedicate more time to painting and exhibiting her work in Ventura County and beyond. She built a studio and acclaim as a rural landscape painter. Gail’s work has been acquired by numerous private and public collections, including the City of Ventura, City of Santa Paula, City of Thousand Oaks, Museum of Ventura County, and Dixie State University.
UCSB — The Current — ‘A new study in Science maps out a comprehensive plan to eliminate plastic pollution by 2050’ and more news, events
If policy makers implemented just four policies acting across the plastic lifecycle (from production to use and disposal), researchers say, we could reduce plastic pollution by 91%.
Museum of Ventura County — Keep Art, History, and Hope Alive – Your Support Makes It Possible
As we reflect on another successful year of bringing history, art, and culture to life, we are excited to share a story that embodies the heart of our mission. It’s the story of Elisa Torres, a young artist whose journey reflects the power of creativity, perseverance, and community—reminding us of why the work we do here at the Museum of Ventura County (MVC) is important.
Elisa’s story began right here in Ventura County. A first-generation Californian born and raised in Oxnard, Elisa’s first job after high school was in an assembly factory, where she worked alongside her mother piecing together fiber optic cables. It was honest work, but not her dream.
Big Brothers Big Sisters of Ventura County kicks off the “WICKED Kindness Challenge” in a BIG way!
VENTURA COUNTY — In a national partnership with NBCUniversal and inspired by the theatrical release of WICKED, Big Brothers Big Sisters of Ventura County (BBSVC) youth led the creation of “The WICKED Kindness Challenge” – an online experience that explores what kindness really means, for oneself, their family and friends, and the greater community.
Fifteen BBSVC youth participants of all ages from across the county came together for four full days to brainstorm ideas on what kindness looks like, and how to teach and inspire others to make kindness an everyday part of their lives. They worked closely with the Big Brothers Big Sisters of America Learning and Development Team, playing a BIG part in structuring, developing, and creating the content and messages for the script and videos for the challenge. A film crew met with youth to create the videos that were featured in the challenge. Everything for the ongoing challenge was organized at the BBSVC@Ventura Youth Room at the Pacific View Mall.
Ventura County Fire Dept. — Sparking Joy: Annual Holiday Toy Drive Returns to Brighten the Holidays
This heartwarming community campaign centers around collecting new, unwrapped toys and sports equipment for underserved children and teenagers in Ventura County. In partnership with the American Red Cross, the drive Spark Of Love will prioritize supporting those will work to prioritize families affected impacted by the recent Mountain fire.
Donations of non-perishable food and toys can be made at any participating Spark of Love donation location, ensuring that your generosity directly impacts our local community.
Teatro de las Américas — Will you be at opening night on Nov. 16 for Nos Traen Cortitos 2024?
Opening night for Nos Traen Cortitos 2024 is almost here and we’d love for you to join us! Your support means the world to us, and we can’t wait to share this special moment with you!
TOArts raises more than $580,000, announces new executive director!
THOUSAND OAKS — Celebrating three decades of arts and culture at the Thousand Oaks Civic Arts Plaza, TOArts held its quinquennial CURTAIN UP!fundraising event on Oct. 25, marking the 30th Anniversary of this iconic venue. The event raised an impressive $583,600, with $291,700 in donations matched 1:1 by TOLD Foundation. With a total match challenge of $350,000, TOLD Foundation has pledged to match an additional $58,300 raised.
Rod Gilbert, President of TOLD Foundation expressed his support, saying, “TOLD Foundation is honored to support TOArts in their mission to make the arts accessible and transformative for all in our community. We are thrilled to play a role in helping TOArts reach new heights with their Sparking Joy! campaign.”
Santa Paula Museum of Art announces Joanne Julian’s ‘Nature’s Spirits now open
Ever inspired by nature, artist Joanne Julian’s solo exhibition, “Nature’s Spirits,” is a meditation on nature’s miracles, from birds, insects, and botanicals found in the garden to clouds, stars, and nebulae witnessed in the night sky.
Ventura Music Festival November News — Dear Music Lover! Look at what you’ve helped us achieve!
A Note of Thanks from our Executive Director
As we welcome November and embrace the shift toward shorter days (and change in general) there’s also something reflective and revitalizing in the air as we approach Thanksgiving season.
As I choose to focus on gratitude and hope, I’d like to start by thanking our long time VMF’s supporters and sponsors, the VMF Board of Directors, and sister organizations with whom we have forged new and renewed collaborations. In 2024 so far we have received funding from VCCF, the City and County of Ventura’s Arts & culture divisions who have supported VMF with generous grants to augment our music and educational offerings for the entire Community. To them we extend a deep gratitude for spending our tax dollars wisely to enrich our culture in so many ways.
County of Santa Barbara November 2024 Newsletter
Have a Food-Safe Thanksgiving Holiday
In a few weeks, loved ones will come together around delicious meals. Take some steps to ensure your food is prepared safely.
UCSB — The Current — ‘Bridging divided views to strengthen communities’ and more news, events
n award-winning video series Research in 60, Tania Israel, a professor in the Department of Counseling, Clinical & School Psychology, discusses strategies for navigating conversations in a divided nation.
Glowing Success: Unite to Light The Night – Lights the Night & the World
SANTA BARBARA — Unite to Light recently hosted its third annual “Unite to Light the Night” art festival and fundraiser at the Community Arts Workshop in Santa Barbara on October 18th and 19th. This vibrant event brought together over 50 artists and performers who used light as either their medium or inspiration, showcasing creativity and innovation in illuminating ways.
Teatro de las Américas — Heard the buzz about Teatro De Las Americas’s production of Nos Traen Cortitos 2024?
Have you heard the buzz about Teatro De Las Americas’s spectacular production of Nos Traen Cortitos 2024? It’s an event you absolutely can’t miss! Secure your seat today by grabbing your tickets online. Join us for an unforgettable experience!
Port of Hueneme Dock Talk — October Recap
Port of Hueneme “Goes Electric” receiving an impressive $42,287,893 grant from the U.S. Environmental Protection Agency (EPA), funding critical to the Port’s goal of zero emissions by 2030.
Read our latest Press Release on how we plan to invest the $42M EPA grant to step towards our Zero Emission goal!
Bilingual report — Guest contribution — Is it Safe for Children to ‘Trick or Treat’ This Halloween?
As children of all ages prepare for and look forward to “trick or treating” this Halloween, many parents are rightfully asking themselves how they can ensure that their little ghosts and goblins will be safe and sound during this upcoming festive holiday.
Dr. Patricia De La Riva, a pediatrician with Kaiser Permanente Woodland Hills/West Ventura Service Area, encourages parents to make lasting memories with their children. However, she notes it’s also important to remember there are important avoidable safety hazards lurking that can result in injury and illness.“A good start is to make sure your children are up to date with their vaccines, such as those that protect against pertussis given the recent rise in cases, and vaccines that help to prevent influenza and Covid-19 infection,” she said. Additionally, Dr. De La Riva addressed several scary health issues parents should be aware of to ensure their little munchkins have a safe and happy Halloween.
Festival Celebrating Early Childhood Education for All A Huge Success
SANTA PAULA — Over 680 children and family members attended the Todos Juntos Por Los Niños Children’s Festival held at Glen City Elementary in Santa Paula on Saturday, Oct. 19. The event hosted by the Isabella Project was designed especially for children ages 0 to 5, creating a joyful space for hundreds of families to connect, play and learn about the vast array of support services available to them.
Ventura Music Festival — What’s on this Halloweekend? Mariachi Camarillo to perform at OPAC on Nov. 2
Mariachi Camarillo
Saturday, Nov 2, 2024 at 6:30 PM
Oxnard Performing Arts Center
We are so proud to be a part of the free Dia de Los Muertos celebration hosted by the Oxnard Performing Arts Center this Saturday! Don’t miss Mariachi Camarillo, brought to you by the Ventura Music Festival, from 6:30 – 8:00pm.
Learn More – OPAC
Bilingual report — Allan Hancock College celebrated grand opening of new Pride Center
SANTA MARIA — Allan Hancock College celebrated the grand opening of its new Pride Center on October 30. The Pride Center functions as a dedicated, inclusive space for LGBTQ students and allies on the college’s Santa Maria campus.
“As we open the doors of our new Pride Center, we reaffirm our commitment to creating an inclusive and supportive environment for all students,” said Hancock Superintendent/President Kevin G. Walthers, Ph.D. “Our goal is to foster a community that not only embraces diversity but actively ensures that every student feels safe and valued.”
Take some time for fun at the Museum of Ventura County
Farm Day 2024
Saturday, November 2
10:00 am – 3:00 pm
@Agriculture Museum
926 Railroad Ave., Santa Paula
Experience over 15 Ventura County farms, ranches, and agricultural organizations as they open their doors for Ventura County Farm Day! Visit the Agriculture Museum in Santa Paula for Master Gardener-led tours, a selfie station, and a stand from the Santa Paula Certified Farmers Market. Plus, don’t miss a special talk at 11:00 a.m. by VC Poet Laureate and Community Activist Luzmaria Espinosa, who will share her experiences as a farmworker.
Farm Day is self-guided — explore the locations on the Farm Day Trail Map at your own pace, and we hope you put us on your map for the day! For more information, click HERE.
UCSB — The Current — How art opens the mind: Prof. Jonathan Schooler’s research on the cognitive effects of art
In Rome, Schooler will present alongside research colleague Madeline Gross, assistant project scientist. Together, they are investigating how art can induce a state of cognitive openness, allowing viewers to approach the world with greater mental flexibility.