Category: Events

CSUCI’s STEAM Carnival on March 9 will introduce kids to the fun side of science, technology, engineering, art and math

CAMARILLO — After years of transformation, the CSU Channel Islands (CSUCI) Science Carnival is back, bigger and better, as the CSUCI School of Arts and Sciences STEAM Carnival. STEAM stands for science, technology, engineering, arts and mathematics.

“It took a while to make this happen again, but I am so, so, so excited,” said Acting Dean of Arts & Sciences Phil Hampton, who started the carnival. “COVID nearly eliminated the event but now it has grown up into the Arts and Sciences (A&S) STEAM Carnival. We’ve added the arts, but it’s a very long bar over the ‘A’ to make it include art, social science and humanities.”

UCSB — The Current — ‘Untangling a sticky mystery: Researchers make progress into a genetic form of Alzheimer’s disease’ and more news, events

Members of a single Colombian family each carry a mutation linked to accelerated development of the sticky plaques that, in addition to tangles of a misfolded structural protein called tau, are the hallmarks of Alzheimer’s disease.

5 Fun Things to Do At La Purisima Mission State Historic Park In Lompoc

LOMPOC — Step into history at one of California’s most extensively restored missions – La Purisima Mission State Historic Park! The Mission offers visitors a remarkable historic journey to life in the 1800’s. Within minutes of downtown Lompoc, you can explore the grounds of this meticulously preserved mission, and find yourself immersed in the rich tapestry of California’s past. From the imposing adobe walls to the tranquil courtyards, every corner of La Purisima Mission resonates with history.

Visitors can wander through the well-preserved buildings, including the chapel, living quarters, workshops, and gardens, gaining insight into the daily lives of the Spanish missionaries and the indigenous Chumash people who once inhabited this site.

YMCA’s Model United Nations For Middle Schoolers Begins March 6

WESTLAKE VILLAGE — The YMCA’s Model United Nations for middle schoolers will begin in the Conejo and Simi valleys on March 6. Students in grades sixth through eighth are eligible. The program is sponsored by the Southeast Ventura County YMCA.

The program, which runs from March 6 through April 28, enables participants to come together with peers from across California to discuss international issues, discover other cultures, develop life-enhancing skills and make new friends. These students will become “delegates” and be assigned to one of two program areas, each focusing on improving the international community.

Santa Paula Art Museum to presenting ‘The 15th Annual Art About Agriculture Exhibition’ through March 3, more events

“Art About Agriculture” is a group exhibition presented by the Ag Art Alliance, a collective formed in 2007 by Santa Paula photographer John Nichols and Santa Paula painter Gail Pidduck. The purpose of the exhibit is to promote awareness of agriculture by exploring its many facets through art—from workers to water, from machinery to fields, to the food that goes on our plates. All of the artworks are available for purchase.

UCSB Arts & Lectures’ presentation of Abraham Verghese in Conversation with Pico Iyer featured a surprise introduction by Oprah Winfrey

SANTA BARBARA — A capacity Arlington Theatre audience thrilled to a surprise appearance by Oprah Winfrey at last night’s UCSB Arts & Lectures Speaking with Pico event. Winfrey came out to celebrate the success of her friend Dr. Abraham Verghese, whose novel The Covenant of Water was an Oprah’s Book Club pick in 2023 and has been on the New York Times fiction bestseller list continuously since its release.

UCSB — The Current — ‘Researchers develop molecules for a new class of antibiotics that can overcome drug resistant bacteria’ and more news, events

The team in chemistry Professor Guillermo Bazan’s lab was trying to develop compounds to harness energy from bacteria. They wound up developing the basis for a new class of antibiotics.

Museum of Contemporary Art Santa Barbara — Artist Party This Sunday with Janna Ireland

Janna Ireland’s photographic practice is primarily concerned with the themes of family, home, and the expression of Black identity in American culture. In 2016, she began photographing structures designed by legendary Black architect Paul R. Williams. A collection of 250 of these photographs was published in the major 2020 monograph, Regarding Paul R. Williams: A Photographer’s View. These multiple aspects of Ireland’s work will be featured and interwoven across both venues.

Bilingual report — County of Ventura, Ventura County Community Foundation, and Ventura Arts Council announce the Arts and Culture Investment Fund grant opportunity

VENTURA —The County of Ventura, in partnership with the Ventura County Community Foundation and the Ventura County Arts Council, has announced the Arts and Culture Investment Fund grant opportunity to support Ventura County-based arts and culture organizations and independent artists.

A total of $800,000 in funding will be available through this program, making it one of the largest arts and culture specific grant programs offered by local government in Ventura County. Of this funding, a total of $700,000 is available to nonprofit art organizations, independent artists, and arts projects.  The remaining $100,000 will be dedicated to providing matching funds from the County to support arts and culture organizations applying for grant opportunities where a grant match is required.

Museum of Ventura County — Exhibit Opening This Thursday – Napoleon: Revolution, Romance, and Rivalries, more events

Explore the complex life of Napoleon Bonaparte in a new exhibition of George Stuart Historical Figures®. As a charismatic leader, military strategist, and political figure, Napoleon rose to power during the tumultuous aftermath of the French Revolution. Immerse yourself in his journey, from the forces that propelled him to prominence, his marriages, and his entwined destinies with other global leaders. Through George Stuart’s intricate creations, experience Napoleon Bonaparte’s significant impact on the course of history.

UCSB — The Current – “Earl Louis Stewart’s ‘Homage to Swing’ recognized by American Prize Competition” and more events, news

The College of Creative Studies and Black studies professor emeritus described the work as a “tribute to the tradition of swing” and “an exercise in contemplative jazz.”

CLU — Last Chance to Register for ‘Separating Myths From Realities — Challenges Undocumented Immigrants Face and Their Economic Impact in California’ on Feb. 22

Join, explore, and participate in discussions on the social and economic challenges undocumented families face in California and their irreplaceable value for the entire state, organized by the Center for Economics of Social Issues. 

UCSB — The Current — ‘Embracing single life: Love, intimacy and family beyond the couple’ and more news, events

View this email online February 13, 2024 Top News Embracing single life: Love, intimacy and family beyond the couple Using survey data from more than 20,000 people from over 100 countries, and drawing from research by other social scientists, Bella…

CSUCI highlights Hispanic culture with a Chicana/o Studies quinceañera fundraiser and a lowrider car show on Feb. 10

CAMARILLO — The CSU Channel Islands (CSUCI) campus will be alive with two Latina/o cultural celebrations from 11 a.m. to 10 p.m. on Saturday, Feb. 10, and the public is invited to join in.

Just as it is customary to honor a Latina’s 15th birthday with a grand celebration including music, dancing, food, tiaras and elaborate gowns, the Chicana/o Studies program is celebrating its 15th birthday with a big party in the Grand Salon with longtime Chicana/o activist Carlos Montes and his daughter, artist/activist/educator Felicia Montes, as keynote speakers.

“The quinceañera in Latina/o culture marks an important time of transitioning from a girl into a woman,” said Professor of Chicana/o Studies José Alamillo. “It’s acknowledging the next stage of life and the fact that the young woman will be doing big things. Our department is also becoming more mature and we’re also going to do some big things involving social justice and scholarship.”

Early Summer Camp Registration Begins At Southeast Ventura County YMCA Branches

WESTLAKE VILLAGE — Southeast Ventura County YMCA branches are taking early registrations for their summer camps. Camp is from June 17 to August 16 through the Yarrow Family YMCA and from June 10 to August 8 through the Simi Valley Family YMCA.

Campers in TK to 5th grade can attend day camp full-time (four to five days a week) or part-time (two to three days a week) for the entire camp session or selected weeks.

UCSB — The Current — ‘Reinforcing the diverse ways people access seafood can ensure healthy communities in the face of change’ and more news, events

Understanding and bolstering existing pathways for acquiring seafood — as opposed to creating new programs and processes — can promote food system resilience in the Pacific Islands.

Santa Paula Art Museum — This Weekend: Art, Wine & Cider Tasting, Live Music, and More!

Art & Aperitifs: “Art About Agriculture”

?Saturday, February 10, 2024 • 4 PM to 6 PM
$35 per person

Have plans Saturday evening? Spend it at the Santa Paula Art Museum during our all-new Art & Aperitifs event from 4 PM to 6 PM! Enjoy the current “Art About Agriculture” exhibition while sampling locally grown and made wine and cider from Santa Paula Cellars and Anna’s Cider. Listen to live music by Santa Paula chanteuse Shay Moulder, and watch a live painting demonstration by “Art About Ag” artist Gabriel Islas.

Friendship Center hosts 25th Annual Festival of Hearts Event

SANTA BARBARA — Friendship Center successfully hosted its 25th Annual Festival of Hearts. This year’s seaside-elegance themed, Silver Jubilee celebration took place on Saturday, February 3rd, 2024 at the stunning Rosewood Miramar Beach, located across the street from Friendship Center at 1759 S Jameson Lane, Montecito. 

Dr. Cynder Sinclair, Board President & David Moorman, emcee.
Special honorees included member “Sir Robert” who was featured in a video about his 6 years of coming to Friendship Center and how it improves his quality of life.  Shianne Motter spoke passionately about her family and father with dementia and how Friendship Center was a lifesaver for her as a younger caregiver. 

Museum of Ventura County — Join Us for One of MVC’s Inspired Upcoming Itineraries!

6 Generations 200 Years Later

Saturday, February 17

1:00 pm – 3:00 pm

@Museum of Ventura County

100 E. Main St., Ventura

Join us for a screening of “6 Generations,” followed by an insightful Q&A session with Chumash elder Ernestine Ygnacio-De Soto and Professor Kristina Foss. There will also be a curated display on the 1824 Chumash Revolt, offering a glimpse into a pivotal moment in Chumash history.

Discover the untold stories, triumphs, and challenges that have shaped the shared heritage of the Chumash people. Cost: $10 non-members, free for members at Individual/Family level or higher. Includes admission to the Museum. Made possible, in part, by the Bauer Foundation. Click HERE for more information and to register.

UCSB — The Current — ‘Los Angeles Times columnist Gustavo Arellano to receive Luis Leal Award’ and more news, events

The author of “¡Ask a Mexican!” (2007), “Orange County: A Personal History” (2008) and “Taco USA: How Mexican Food Conquered America” (2012) will join Mario T. Garcia to discuss his work as a journalist, politics and the future of print media.

Music Academy of the West in Santa Barbara announces new Chief Artistic Officer

Music Academy of the West is delighted to announce the appointment of Nate Bachhuber to the position of Chief Artistic Officer. Nate is recognized for his collaborative and strategic approach to artistic planning with prestigious performing arts organizations including the LA Phil, Cincinnati Symphony Orchestra, and St. Louis Symphony Orchestra. He takes up this new post on February 26, and looks forward to engaging Santa Barbara’s vibrant communities through music and, with his colleagues, expanding the Music Academy’s future artistic impact.

Cottage Health to Host Blood drives on Feb. 22, 23

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

The blood drives are scheduled in Goleta and Santa Barbara on the following dates:

Ticket sales have begun for Chicana/o Studies at CSUCI celebrates ‘Nuestra Quinceañera’ fundraiser on Feb. 22

CAMARILLO — Chicana/o Studies at CSUCI celebrates “Nuestra Quinceañera” at 5 p.m. Saturday, Feb. 10 at the Grand Salon at CSU Channel Islands.

Join us to mark our 15th year milestone! You are cordially invited to Nuestra Quinceañera: 15 Years of Chicana/o Studies at CSU Channel Islands. This fundraising dinner and celebration will honor the impact of Chicana/o Studies at CI and beyond. We will be featuring live music, delicious food, and engaging speakers. Taking place on February 10, 2024 (Saturday) from 5:00 PM to 10:00 PM at Grand Salon, CSUCI.

UCSB — The Current — ‘Sea otters stabilize salt marsh banks as they recolonize a California estuary’ and more news, events

A new study finds that some features essential to the resiliency of Elkhorn Slough, a salt marsh-dominated coastal estuary in Monterey County, are improved by the return of sea otters and their insatiable appetite for herbivorous marsh crabs.

February @ SPAM: Art & Aperitifs, Secrets of the Impressionists and More!

Art & Aperitifs: “Art About Agriculture”

Saturday, February 10, 2024 • 4 PM to 6 PM

$35 per person

Elevate your taste in art and beverages during Art & Aperitifs, an all-new event at the Santa Paula Art Museum! Experience a new appreciation for the Museum’s current “Art About Agriculture” exhibition while sampling locally grown and made aperitifs, including wine and cider by Santa Paula Cellars and Anna’s Cider. Enjoy live music by homegrown Santa Paula musician Shay Moulder, and a live painting demonstration by “Art About Ag” featured artist Gabriel Islas.

Advance ticket purchase is required and space is limited. (Please note, this event is for 21-and-overs only.)

MORE INFO + GET TICKETS

UCSB — The Current — ‘Extreme drought hits grasslands and shrublands harder than anticipated’ and more news, events

A global experiment covering 100 sites, undertaken to generate a baseline understanding of the potential losses of plant productivity in these vital ecosystems, quantifies the impacts of extreme drought across six continents.

Performing Arts Scholarship Foundation in Sant Barbara invites area music organizations, teachers to lunch

SANTA BARBARA — The Performing Arts Scholarship Foundation (PASF), a nonprofit that supports music education and scholarships for local students, is hosting a luncheon to gather input from Santa Barbara-area music organizations, schools and teachers.

The event, which is by invitation only, will be held on Saturday, Feb. 10, at the La Cumbre Country Club from 11:30 a.m. to 2 p.m. Invitations have been sent to more than a dozen schools, colleges, teachers and music education groups involved in training junior instrumental, adult instrumental and adult vocal students.

UCSB — The Current — ‘Jody Enders’s ‘naughty’ French comedies nab prize for translation’ and more news, events

For her translation of raunchy Middle French stage comedies, Enders, a theater historian and professor of French, has won the Lois Roth Award from the Modern Language Association.

Explore Lompoc Announces 2024 Events & Festivals

LOMPOC —  Dive into the New Year in Lompoc! From now until December 31, 2024, we have a calendar brimming with fun events. Throughout the year, immerse yourself in the small town charm of Lompoc while you indulge in local cuisine, explore vibrant flower fields, discover history and art, find unique festivals and more. Whether you’re exploring the craft of winemaking or taking a step back into history, the Lompoc Valley has it all.

Here’s a sneak peek into some of the standout Lompoc events of 2024. Check our event calendar for all events and the most current information.

Museum of Ventura County — ‘Come together, right now’ with Ivor Davis: Up Close and Personal with the Beatles!

Ivor Davis: Up Close and Personal with The Beatles

Thursday, January 25
6:30 pm – 8:00 pm
@Museum of Ventura County
100 E. Main St., Ventura

Ventura County author and journalist Ivor Davis had a front row, eyewitness seat as The Beatles revolution unfolded in all its gory detail. He travelled with them, ate with them, drank with them, and reveals the behind-the-scenes story of what unfolded from sea to shining sea in his 60th anniversary “Beatles and Me on Tour” book. Doors open at 6 pm for refreshments. Those who are not able to join in-person are invited to view via Zoom. Registration is free for members at the Individual/Family level and higher, $10 non-members, $5 non-members Zoom. Registration and information can be found HERE.

UCSB — ‘The Current’ — ‘The exiles who shaped the contours of modern dance’ and more news, events

“Border Crossings: Exile and American Modern Dance 1900-1955,” opening Jan. 25 at the Art, Design & Architecture Museum, “rests on the idea that the immigrant, the asylum seeker, the exiled artist, shaped the language of dance modernism.” Performances by Jose Limón Dance Company, Santa Barbara Dance Theater and UCSB Dance Company, as well as a symposium, complement the exhibition.

Santa Barbara County First District Supervisor Das Williams — Mapping our Justice and Mental Healthcare System

This coming Tuesday at the Board of Supervisors we will discuss a report showing that our County has a higher-than-average jail incarceration rate compared to the rest of California, and hear an update on efforts to better manage the population of the jail. The most basic service in government is public safety, but it does not make us safe when some people are ending up in jail, or coming back to it, because of a lack of mental health services. We have a moral imperative to improve the situation. But we also have a financial need as well.

Santa Paula Art Museum — 30 Under 30 Opens Saturday + New Events and Classes Just Added!

Premiere Party: “30 Under 30”

Saturday, January 20, 2024 • 4 PM to 6 PM

$5 SPAM members • $10 Non-members

Meet a new generation of California artists during the premiere of “30 Under 30” at the Santa Paula Art Museum on Saturday, January 20! The group exhibition features 30 diverse California artists between the ages of 18 and 29, who are pushing the boundaries of traditional fine art and heralding an exciting new chapter for California’s art scene. Beer, wine, and hors d’oeuvres will be served. “30 Under 30” will be on view from January 20 to May 5, 2024.

MORE INFO

Museum of Ventura County Gratefully Acknowledges Community Support and Announces Changes in Admission Policy

VENTURA COUNTY — The Museum of Ventura County extends heartfelt gratitude to our vibrant community for its unwavering generosity, allowing us to offer free admission throughout 2023. As we look ahead to the new year, the Museum of Ventura County, Downtown Ventura location, will undergo a transition in its admission policy beginning February 1, 2024. The grant that has sustained free admission will conclude, necessitating a shift to a sustainable funding model.

Starting February 1, 2024, the Museum of Ventura County, Downtown Ventura, will implement the following admission fees:

38th Annual California Strawberry Festival Seeks Sponsors & Exhibitors

VENTURA — The 38th Annual California Strawberry Festival is seeking corporate sponsors and commercial exhibitors. The festival is taking place May 18 and 19 at the Ventura County Fairgrounds in Ventura.

Last year, the family-friendly festival drew more than 57,000 visitors from throughout Southern California including Los Angeles, Ventura, San Bernardino, Kern, Santa Barbara and Orange counties.

District 216 — 20% DISCOUNTED TICKETS ‘Veterans, PTSD & Psychedelics’ Marquee Event on Jan. 20, more news

Fireside Chat + Discussion Panel + Dinner + Live Music + Lounge + Vendors + Networking = COMMUNITY

RAIN OR SHINE! WE HAVE A BEAUTIFUL TENT AND HEATERS READY TO KEEP YOU WARM AND COZY DURING OUR EVENT.

UCSB — ‘The Current’ — ‘A global study reveals pathways to save threatened sharks, despite rising mortality trends’ and more news, events

View this email online January 18, 2024 Top News A global study reveals pathways to save threatened sharks, despite rising mortality trends Geographic protections and fishing regulations could improve what is currently a bleak outlook for sharks, but new policies…

Deadline is Feb. 12 for Applicants, Makers of Unique, Quality Handcrafted Artwork and Craft items to participate in the 38th Annual California Strawberry Festival Call for

The festival, which attracts more than 60,000 visitors,features dozens of different kinds of foods and beverages made from fresh strawberries. About 150 artists and crafters from across the county showcase their original works including paintings, sculptures, ceramics, children’s toys, accessories, photography, textiles, outdoor furniture, jewelry and specialty foods.

UCSB — The Current — ‘The choreography of cross-ecosystem subsidies that connects the kelp forest to the beach’ and more news, events

A multi-institution collaboration of scientists investigates the rise and fall in the abundance of kelp, and how it affects shorebirds.

Island Packers Whale Watching and Island Excursions Now Offered Through April, 2024 To The Channel Islands National Park and National Marine Sanctuary

VENTURA — A winter Whale Watch trip is a perfect way to gather with family and friends to view Pacific Gray Whales migrating through the Santa Barbara Channel from their feeding grounds in Alaska to  their breeding grounds in Baja. 

Pacific Gray Whales are normally sighted in the SB Channel near Anacapa and Santa Cruz Island, and whale watching excursions to witness the whales are offered, now available through April, 2024, by  Island Packers, a family-owned and founded in 1969, and the official concessionaire to the Channel Island National Parks.  For more information, visit www.Island Packers.com.  The mammoth migration of more than 20,000 whales and 6,000 miles twice a year remains a major attraction in Southern California. 

Museum of Ventura County — There’s so much to do at MVC this month!

Autism Society Ventura County Presents: Celebrating the Autistic Mind Art Show

Opening Reception Thursday, January 11

5:30 pm – 7:00 pm

@Museum of Ventura County

100 E. Main St., Ventura

Museum of Ventura County welcomes Autism Society Ventura County’s “Celebrating the Autistic Mind Art Show” January 11 – 14 from 11 am – 5 pm daily with a special opening reception on January 11 from 5:30 – 7 pm. Explore the imaginative works of 43 neurodiverse artists of all ages. Reserve your spot HERE and immerse yourself in creativity!

UCSB — The Current — ‘When bad cells go good: harnessing cellular cannibalism for cancer treatment’ and more news, events

Scientists decipher a cellular murder mystery in fruit flies, solving a human immunodeficiency. The discovery has the potential to enhance cancer immunotherapy.

There is still time to register for the upcoming free exhibit talk ’50 Years Beyond Vietnam’ on Jan. 9 at the Central Coast Veterans Memorial Museum in SLO

There is still time to register for the upcoming exhibit talk, TUESDAY 1/9/24 at 2:00 pm, hosted by the Central Coast Veterans Memorial Museum at 801 Grand Avenue, Suite 102, San Luis Obispo.

This history presentation is FREE to attend. Please register to ensure seating is available for all.
Join the Central Coast Veterans Memorial Museum (CCVMM) to learn more about the new, special exhibit, “50 Years Beyond Vietnam,” unveiled in November 2023, specially co-curated in honor of the 50th Anniversary of the last American combat troops leaving Vietnam. This history talk will be presented by Dennis Hennessey, local US Army veteran who served in the Vietnam War, and current board member of of Central Coast Vietnam Veterans of America (CCVVA), Chapter #982, Guadalupe.

The display was co-curated by CCVMM, CCVVA and Cal Poly History intern, Grant Kolassa to highlight the United States in Vietnam from November 1, 1955 to April 30, 1975, spanning the administrations of six U.S. presidents. The display includes topics such as the Gulf of Tonkin incident, Operation Rolling Thunder, the Battle of Ia Drang, the My Lai massacre, the antiwar movement, the Battle of Hamburger Hill, the Tet Offensive, the Paris Peace Talks and the Fall of Saigon.

REGISTER TO ATTEND

Jan. 12 is the deadline to enter California Strawberry Festival Artwork Contest

OXNARD — The deadline to submit an entry into the 38th Annual California Strawberry Festival Artwork Contest is fast approaching. The deadline is Friday, January 12. The winning artist will receive $2,000 and VIP tickets to the festival, which takes place May 18-19 at the Ventura County Fairgrounds.

This is the first California Strawberry Artwork Contest since 2020 when the pandemic resulted in the cancellation of that year’s festival. A panel of judges will look for creativity and the incorporation of a strawberry theme into the design. The winning entry may be used in the festival’s printed and digital advertising collateral as well as on souvenir merchandise such as t-shirts.