Category: Local

Oct. 30 — Julieta Venegas to peform at the Oxnard Performing Arts & Convention Center

by Community Contributor • January 1, 2023 • Comments Off

OXNARD — Julieta Venegas to peform at the Oxnard Performing Arts & Convention Center on Monday, Oct. 30, 800 Hobson Way, Oxnard.Doors open at 6 p.m. with the show at 8 p.m.

Venegas is one of the greatest exponents of Latin pop music. Composer, singer and Mexican musician, she has established herself as a Latin reference worldwide.

Her great versatility and talent have led her to perform in biggest stages and festivals worldwide, obtaining the recognition of Gold and Platinum Disc in countries such as Mexico, USA, Italy, Argentina, Brazil and Spain.

Nov. 1 — Santa Barbara Museum of Art to present Manderling Quartet

by Community Contributor • January 1, 2023 • Comments Off

SANTA BARBARA — The Santa Barbara Museum of Art will present the Manderling Quartet at 7:30 p.m. Wednesday, Nov. 1 at SBMA’s Mary Craig Auditorium, 1130 State St., Santa Barbara.

The Mandelring Quartet, founded in 1983, is the winner of major competitions, including ARD’s International Music Competition and the Premio Paolo Borciani. They are frequent performers at international musical centers and leading festivals such as the Schwarzenberg and Hohensems Schubertiades, the Lower Rhine Music Festival, and the Ludwigsburg Castle Festival. The ensemble was Quartet-in-Residence for the 2020/21 season in the Circulo de Bellas Artes in Madrid.

Nov. 1 — Ventura County Civic Alliance — 2023 State of the Region Report

by Community Contributor • January 1, 2023 • Comments Off

Every two years, the State of the Region Report provides a trusted and unique perspective on Ventura County life.

Plan to join us at our launch event to hear analysis, highlights and insights from the report’s author and our panel of community leaders.

Registration info coming soon!

Nov. 1 — Inlakech Cultural Arts Center and Garcia Mortuary to present 42nd annual ‘Dia de Los Muertos Monarch Butterfly Celebration’ in Oxnard

by Community Contributor • January 1, 2023 • Comments Off

OXNARD — The Inlakech Cultural Arts Center and Garcia Mortuary will present the 42nd annual “Dia de Los Muertos Monarch Butterfly Celebration” from 4 to 7 p.m. at the Masonic Cemetery, 2242 E. Pleasant Valley, Oxnard.

A FREE Family Event.

The event includes ofrendas / altars honoring the dead, guest speakers, entertainment by Luzma Espinoza, Danza Tonantzin and California State University Channel Islands’ Teatro Dept.’s “El Gran Fandango de la Muerte.”

Call 805-469-9303 for more information.

Nov. 1 — District 216 in Santa Barbara to present Timo Brind’Amour, Dr. Samantha Morse, Camino Brillante ‘How to Hold a Personal Medicine Ceremony’

by Community Contributor • January 1, 2023 • Comments Off

Topic: “How to Hold a Personal Medicine Ceremony”

When: Wednesday, November 1st; 5:00pm Networking, 6:30pm Interview, Music & Presentation

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.)

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

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

Nov. 1 — SBCC College Transfer Fair to help students turn transfer goals into realities

by Community Contributor • January 1, 2023 • Comments Off

SANTA BARBARA — Santa Barbara City College (SBCC) will host more than 70 colleges and universities on its West Campus Great Meadow on Wednesday, Nov. 1, 11 a.m.-2 p.m., for its annual College Transfer Fair — a large scale example of the many ways the college has championed transfer success for its students, especially in recent years.

Students who are just starting their college education, plan to transfer to a four-year college in Fall 2024, or are somewhere in between, can explore their higher education possibilities with representatives from the University of California; California State University; and California private/independent, out-of-state, and international institutions. The Transfer Fair is a community event and all are welcome to attend.

Nov. 2 — UCSB Arts & Lectures presents Eddie Ndopu delivering a public lecture titled Sipping Dom Perignon Through a Straw: Reimagining Success as a Disabled Achiever

by Community Contributor • January 1, 2023 • Comments Off

SANTA BARBARA — UCSB Arts & Lectures presents disability rights advocate Eddie Ndopu delivering a FREE public lecture titled Sipping Dom Perignon Through a Straw: Reimagining Success as a Disabled Achiever on Thursday, November 2 at UCSB Campbell Hall. Called “one of the most powerful disabled people on the planet” by TIME magazine, Eddie Ndopu is an award-winning global humanitarian and disability justice advocate. Diagnosed with Spinal Muscular Atrophy at age 2 and given only five years to live, he has gone on to become a beacon of hope and possibility for people with disabilities around the world. His debut memoir, Sipping Dom Pérignon Through a Straw, captures his effervescent, indefatigable spirit. As a UN Global Changemaker, Ndopu actively demands equity for the most marginalized segments of global society and is a vital voice at the intersection of disability, sustainability and how we can best work together to make meaningful change for our planet’s future. Attend the event and receive a free copy of Ndopu’s new book.

Nov. 2 — Santa Barbara Museum of Art to present ‘The Interior Sublime: Wilhelm Hammershøi and the Painting of Silence’

by Community Contributor • January 1, 2023 • Comments Off

In the last thirty years, the Danish painter Wilhelm Hammershøi (1864-1916) has regained the critical recognition that he enjoyed during his lifetime as “the Danish Vermeer.” His route to the uncanny and the sublime was unique, in that he chose to focus on domestic interiors, typically populated by a lone figure, often seen from behind, and in his most memorable compositions, entirely empty. This lecture seeks to locate his art in the European tradition, while describing his unique strategies towards a kind of interior sublime accessed through mundane experience of everyday life.

Nov. 2 — Museum of Contemporary Art Santa Barbara to present ‘Welcome Back! Bienvenidos de vuelta!’

by Community Contributor • January 1, 2023 • Comments Off

Featured in the MCASB exhibition This Basic Asymmetry
Strongly influenced by growing up in LA’s San Fernando Valley to immigrant parents from Mexico, Ruiz’s practice is a reflection of the DIY work ethic she was raised under, the vibrancy of Mexican cultural and artistic traditions, and her exposure to subculture and fantasy at a young age as a means to escape the realities of daily life.

Nov. 2 — Oxnard College to present Día de los Muertos celebration

by Community Contributor • January 1, 2023 • Comments Off

OXNARD — Oxnard College will present a Día de los Muertos celebration from 4:30 to 9 p.m. Thursday, Nov. 2 at the Oxnard College Performing Arts Building, 4000 S. Rose Ave., Oxnard.

A FREE Family Event!

Sponsored by The Port of Hueneme, Oxnard College, the Inlakech Cultural Arts Center, Vida Newspaper and the League of United Latin American Citizens.

Nov. 2 — County of Ventura to present ‘State of the County 2023’

by Community Contributor • January 1, 2023 • Comments Off

on’t miss the 2023 State of the County celebrating the County’s 150th Anniversary! Keynote speaker and County Executive Officer Dr. Sevet Johnson will share an update and unforgettable message followed by a networking reception under Air Force One.

Thank you to our presenting partners who made this year’s event possible. Proceeds will benefit the Museum of Ventura County and the Economic Development Collaborative’s work empowering social, cultural, and economic opportunities for all residents in our County.

The 2023 State of the County will be held at the Ronald Reagan Presidential Library on Thursday, November 2.

Nov. 4 — The 42nd annual ‘Día de los Muertos — The Grand Fandango De La Muerte’ to be held in Camarillo

by Community Contributor • January 1, 2023 • Comments Off

CAMARILLO — The 42nd annual “Día de los Muertos — The Grand Fandango De La Muerte” celebration will be held from 10 a.m. to 6 p.m. Nov. 4 at Conejo Mountain Funeral Home, Memorial Park & Crematory at 2052 Howard Road, Camarillo.

The event is FREE to the public.

Presented by Conejo Mountain and the Inlakech Cultural Arts Center in Oxnard, the event will feature, 50 vendors, ofrendas-altar- art exhibitions, lowrider car showcase, art workshops for the community, Prizes for the best depiction of the spirit of the dead, and cultural performances by performing artists, including Caliente 805, In Stone, and the Inlakech singers. CSUCI students will be performing a theatrical production called “El Gran Fandango de La Muerte.”

Danza Azteca Tonantzin will lead a ceremonial procession honoring those buried at the cemetery with the public participating in the spiritual walk. Guest and relatives will be encouraged to adorn their burial plots with food, prayer and love.

Nov. 4 — UCSB physician to give keynote speech on women’s health equity at Savie Health luncheon

by Community Contributor • January 1, 2023 • Comments Off

LOMPOC — Dr. Melissa Smith, the director of Health Equity Initiatives at the University of California, Santa Barbara, and an international advocate on women’s health issues will be the keynote speaker at a Nov. 4 luncheon organized by Lompoc-based free medical clinic Savie Health.

A family medicine physician, Smith has worked in primary care clinics in low-income communities in the U.S. and Central America for three decades. She collaborated most recently on pandemic response and health equity initiatives with the Santa Barbara County Public Health Department’s clinic in Santa Maria. In all these settings, she has also been involved in health and social justice efforts to complement her clinical work.

Smith’s keynote speech is titled “Taking action for women’s health equity: local and global grassroots strategies.” She will appear at Savie Health’s “Thanks for Giving” luncheon, to be held Nov. 4 from 11:30 a.m. to 2:30 p.m. at the Pico Los Alamos restaurant in Los Alamos. The luncheon is to honor individuals and organizations that have contributed to Savie Health’s successful first year providing free medical care to Santa Barbara County’s uninsured population.

Nov. 4 — Savie Health in Lompoc to honor healthcare heroes at ‘Thanks for Giving’ luncheon

by Community Contributor • January 1, 2023 • Comments Off

LOMPOC — Savie Health, a non-profit medical clinic offering free care to the uninsured, will host a luncheon on Saturday, Nov. 4, to recognize the individuals and organizations that have contributed to the clinic’s successful first year in operation.

The luncheon will be held from 11:30 a.m. to 2:30 p.m. at the Pico Los Alamos restaurant in Los Alamos, and feature a multi-course lunch with wine pairings, entertainment, and a raffle. The event will honor Savie Health’s supporters and sponsors including Executive Director of Lompoc Valley Community Healthcare Organization Ashley Costa, and the Lompoc Valley Medical Center. Jon Clark, president of the Bower Foundation and also a Savie Health supporter, will emcee the celebration.

Nov. 4 — 4 de noviembre — Bilingual report — Free Citizenship Fair in Thousand Oaks / Feria de ciudadanía gratuita en Thousand Oaks

by Community Contributor • January 1, 2023 • Comments Off

THOUSAND OAKS — Free Citizenship Fair, 9 to 11 a.m. Saturday, Nov. 4, Hispanic Ministry of Saint Paschal Baylon, 155 E. Janss Road, Thousand Oaks.

Free assistance on:

filling out your citizenship application (N-400)
DACA Renewal
Residency Renewal
Please RSVP at: (805) 395-6870, no walk-ins

Nov. 4 — UCSB Arts & Lectures presents David Sedaris at the Arlington Theatre

by Community Contributor • January 1, 2023 • Comments Off

SANTA BARBARA — UCSB Arts & Lectures presents David Sedarison Saturday, November 4 at 7:30 p.m. at the Arlington Theatre. One of today’s most observant writers addressing the human condition, satirist and bestselling author David Sedaris returns with his acerbic humor, social commentary and outlandish stories. Cutting through cultural euphemisms and political correctness, he delights audiences with twists of humor and perspicacity as he shares both published stories and works-in-progress. Stick around after the event for one of Sedaris’ legendary book signings.

David Sedaris on storytelling, humor and chatting with strangers (Jimmy Kimmel Live)

Nov. 4 — 5th Annual Southeast Ventura County YMCA Gala to be held at the Ronald Reagan Presidential Library

by Community Contributor • January 1, 2023 • Comments Off

WESTLAKE VILLAGE — The Southeast Ventura County YMCA is hosting its 5th Annual Gala on Saturday, November 4 beginning at 5:30 p.m. at the Ronald Reagan Presidential Library in Simi Valley. The evening features gourmet cuisine, live entertainment and auction opportunities. The theme this year is “The Future is Bright.”

Proceeds from the evening go to a number of YMCA programs.

–Find My Genius is a five-week, no-cost achievement gap program for low- and moderate-income students who are not reading at grade level. It is also offered year-round in the Moorpark and Simi Valley Unified School Districts.

Nov. 4 — 11th Annual Ventura County Farm Day – ‘Meet The Hands That Feed You’

by Community Contributor • January 1, 2023 • Comments Off

VENTURA — More than 15 Ventura County farms, ranches and agricultural organizations will open their doors to the public to experience a day of free agricultural activities and tours during the 11th Annual Ventura County Farm Day, Saturday, November 4 from 10 a.m. to 3 p.m. The Farm Day’s theme is “Meet The Hands That Feed You.”

The day includes behind-the-scenes tours, tractor-with-trailer rides, tastings, giveaways and kid-friendly activities. Farm Day allows the public to meet local farmers who grow the food we eat.

Nov. 4 — Pierre Claeyssens Veterans Foundation to Host 26th Annual Veterans Day Gala to Honor Local Veterans and Active Duty Service Members

by Community Contributor • January 1, 2023 • Comments Off

SANTA BARBARA — Pierre Claeyssens Veterans Foundation (PCVF) will host its 26th Annual Veterans Day Gala to honor local veterans and active duty service members. The Veterans Day Gala will be November 4th from 5:00 p.m. – 10:00 p.m. at The Star Spangled Hall at the Elks Lodge (150 N Kellogg Ave, Santa Barbara, CA). The evening will be filled with live music, dancing, a wonderful meal, and patriotic presentations.

This year, PCVF is proud to present special guest, Don Nichols, formerly with NASA and Technical Director for the Space Shuttle program at Vandenberg Air Force Base (Now Vandenberg Space Force Base). Mr. Nichols has been on the leading edge of space technology and will share the exciting history of the U.S. space program.

“Our hope is to create a fun night of patriotism and celebration to show appreciation to the men and women in uniform who serve and protect our country,” said PCVF co-founding director John Blankenship.

Nov. 4 — Casa De Vida to celebrate 18th Anniversary in Ventura

by Community Contributor • January 1, 2023 • Comments Off

OXNARD — Casa De Vida to celebrate 18th Anniversary from 4 to 6:30 p.m. Saturday, Nov. 4 at Ventura Missionary Church, 500 High Point Drive, Willett Center, Ventura.

Nov. 5 — Santa Barbara Museum of Art to present ‘Crossing Cultures, Crossing Artforms: Suzanne Jill Levine, Aldon Nielsen, and Jeanne Heuving’

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SANTA BARBARA — Santa Barbara Museum of Art to present “Crossing Cultures, Crossing Artforms: Suzanne Jill Levine, Aldon Nielsen, and Jeanne Heuving” AT 2:30 p.m. Sunday, Nov. 5 at SBMA’s Ridley-Tree Education Center at McCormick House, 1600 Santa Barbara St., Santa Barbara.

Inside Stories/Outside Tales
Three writers read and discuss their works. Distinguished scholars and creative writers discuss how their work has involved them in intensive explorations of cultures and arts apart from their immediate backgrounds.

Nov. 5 — UCSB Arts & Lectures presents Kristin Chenoweth’s For the Girls at The Granada Theatre

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SANTA BARBARA — UCSB Arts & Lectures presents Broadway star Kristin Chenoweth on Sunday, November 5 at 7:00 p.m. at The Granada Theatre. In this rollicking cabaret-style revue, Chenoweth presents an evening of unforgettable songs made famous by her heroes and friends. The Tony and Emmy award-winning actress pays tribute to the great women singers who have inspired her with classics like Doris Day’s “When I Fall In Love,” Barbra Streisand’s “The Way We Were,” Peggy Lee’s “I’m a Woman” and Dolly Parton’s “I Will Always Love You.” With her charming and conspiratorial style, Chenoweth cultivates a warm and intimate atmosphere, telling stories and joking with her band and backup singers. “For the Girls… exudes the snuggly promise of a slumber party” (The New York Times).

Nov. 5 — Santa Barbara Museum of Art to present ‘Sketching Ideas’: Writing’s Visuality in Chinese Flower-and-Bird Painting

by Community Contributor • January 1, 2023 • Comments Off

SANTA BARBARA — The Santa Barbara Museum of Art to present ‘Sketching Ideas’: Writing’s Visuality in Chinese Flower-and-Bird Painting Lecture by Peter Sturman, Professor, Department of History of Art and Architecture, UC Santa Barbara at 2:30 p.m. Sunday, Nov. 5 at SBMA’s Mary Craig Auditorium, 1130 State St., Santa Barbara.

Xieyi, “the writing or sketching of ideas,” refers to a particularly free-form mode of painting in China that showcases the artist’s virtuosity wielding a quick-moving brush to capture vibrant and seemingly spontaneous images. Forefronting the dynamic potential of the brush, the technique naturally calls to mind the art of calligraphy, especially the dynamic cursive script, but Xiyu’s association with the art of writing goes far deeper than surface appearances. Spontaneity implies naturalness and authenticity, even spiritual transcendence. Moreover, for scholar-official painters, Xiyu’s linkage to calligraphy offered an essential bridge between image-making and literary expression.

Nov. 7 — Santa Barbara Museum of Art to present ‘An Artist Talk — Whitney Bedford’s Landscapes’

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SANTA BARBARA — Santa Barbara Museum of Art to present “An Artist Talk — Whitney Bedford’s Landscapes” AT 5 p.m. Tuesday, Nov. 7 at the Atkinson Gallery, Humanities Building, H-202, Santa Barbara City College, 721 Cliff Drive, Santa Barbara.

The Atkinson Gallery at Santa Barbara City College and the Santa Barbara Museum of Art have co-organized an artist’s talk with Whitney Bedford, a California artist who looks to art history, especially Impressionist painters, to make startlingly colored and brilliantly graphic images. Even though Bedford is a thoroughly contemporary artist, her work exists in a deep dialog with 18th-, 19th-, and 20th-century artists.

Nov. 8 — Western Ventura County Employer Advisory Council Presents ‘Active Shooter Preparedness for the Workplace’

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OXNARD — The Western Ventura County Employer Advisory Council Presents “Active Shooter Preparedness for the Workplace” from 11:30 a.m. to 1:30 p.m. Wednesday, Nov. 8 at Courtyard Marriott, 600 E. Esplanade, Oxnard.

In partnership with EDD. Earn HRCL and SHRM-CP Credits.

Nov. 8 — Standing Together: A Night of Community at Temple Etz Chaim, Thousand Oaks

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THOUSAND OAKS — In a time when unity and solidarity are needed more than ever, Temple Etz Chaim is proud to host “Standing Together: A Night of Community” on Wednesday, Nov. 8, 2023 at 6:30 p.m. The event is open to all who stand with Temple Etz Chaim in support of the endurance, resilience and compassion of its community.

The evening will feature an inspiring program that includes a collection of poems, readings and songs, all focused on the theme of unity and strength in the face of challenges. Rabbi Averbach, a respected leader in the community, will provide the opening remarks and deliver the keynote speech, emphasizing the values of togetherness and solidarity that have always defined Temple Etz Chaim.

Through Nov. 8 — Wildling Museum of Art and Nature in Solvang announces the return of its Annual Fall Online Auction

by Community Contributor • January 1, 2023 • Comments Off

SOLVANG — The Wildling Museum of Art and Nature (www.wildlingmuseum.org) announces the return of its Annual Fall Online Auction. Online bidding goes live on Oct. 30th and closes on November 8th at 4 p.m.

Featuring more than 60 remarkable items, all proceeds will raise needed funds in support of the Wildling’s programs and exhibitions. With relaxing getaways, unique fine jewelry and art, local wines, and dining experiences, it’s the perfect way to shop and support the Wildling’s many exhibits and offerings.

Nov. 9 — The Downtown SLO Farmers’ Market Veterans’ Day Celebration

by Community Contributor • January 1, 2023 • Comments Off

SAN LUIS OBISPO — The County of San Luis Obispo’s Veterans Services Office (VSO) will be present along with other vendors at the Downtown SLO Farmers’ Market Veterans’ Day Celebration.

The event will be held at The Downtown SLO Farmers’ Market on Broad Street between Higuera and Monterey from 6-8:30 p.m on Nov. 9, 2023. There will be several military organizations, County services, and other vendor booths. Vendors who will be present include financial, medical, employment, housing organizations, counseling, VA resources, senior, mental health and other general resources for Veterans and their families. Music will be provided by MarciJean & the Belmont Kings who specialize in Jump Blues, Swing, Rock n Roll and Rhythm & Blues.

Nov. 9 — Santa Barbara Museum of Art to present free film screening of ‘América Tropical: The Martyr Mural of Siqueiros’

by Community Contributor • January 1, 2023 • Comments Off

SANTA BARBARA — Santa Barbara Museum of Art to present free film screening of “América Tropical: The Martyr Mural of Siqueiros” at 5:30 p.m. Thursday, Nov. 9 at SBMA’s Mary Craig Auditorium, 1130 State St., Santa Barbara.

This free screening of the documentary América Tropical: The Martyr Mural of Siqueiros, is followed by a discussion with Dignicraft filmmakers Omar Foglio, Paola Rodríguez, and José Luis Figueroa and moderated by Edgar Garcia, Assistant General Manager, El Pueblo de Los Angeles, and James Glisson, SBMA Curator of Contemporary Art.

Nov. 9 — Free LightGabler Webinar: ‘New Hires…No Problem! Effective (and Lawful) Hiring and On-Boarding of Employees’

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CAMARILLO — Employment law firm LightGabler is presenting a free employment law webinar for employers, “New Hires…No Problem! Effective (and Lawful) Hiring and On-Boarding of Employees.” The webinar is Thursday, November 9 from 10:30 a.m. to noon.

Nov. 9 — UCSB Arts & Lectures presents ‘American Railroad by Silkroad Ensemble with Rhiannon Giddens’ at The Granada Theatre

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SANTA BARBARA – UCSB Arts & Lectures presents American Railroad by Silkroad Ensemble with Rhiannon Giddens on Thursday, November 9 at 8:00 p.m. at The Granada Theatre. Under the leadership of 2023 Pulitzer Prize-winner Rhiannon Giddens, the genre-defying Silkroad Ensemble embarks on a new initiative that amplifies the untold stories of African American, Chinese, Indigenous, Irish and other communities in the creation of North America’s railroads. Chinese traditional music on the suona and pipa is contrasted with the fiddle and banjo of Black musical traditions, and their Indigenous and Celtic counterparts. These cultural intersections reveal a thread of commonality despite their varied origins, and remind us of the intricately rich American story.

Nov. 9 — Moorpark College and The Colleges of Law Present ‘How to Save Democracy with David Pepper’

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MOORPARK — Moorpark College and The Colleges of Law welcome the community to attend a special event on November 9, 2023, in the EATM Auditorium at the Moorpark College campus. The event, “How to Save Democracy with David Pepper,” will feature a lecture by esteemed author David Pepper on election law and voting rights. Following the lecture, Dr. Jackie Gardina, Dean and Chief Academic Officer of The Colleges of Law, will engage in a conversation and Q&A session with Pepper.

Nov. 11 — Bilingual report — Oxnard Hosts Veterans Day Ceremony

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OXNARD — The City of Oxnard, together with the Disabled American Veterans – Chapter 24; Salvation Army; Knights of Columbus Council 750; Military Officers Association of America Ventura County Chapter; and the Boy Scouts of America – Troop 231—invite the community to attend this year’s Veterans Day Ceremony in downtown Oxnard at Plaza Park (500 South C St.) to honor all who have served our country, including those who are currently serving home and abroad.

“We are forever grateful to our veterans for their selfless service to our country,” said Mayor John C. Zaragoza. “We look forward to our community joining us in celebration of our local heroes who have served in the US Armed Forces on this holiday.”

Nov. 11 — Lucid Therapeutics hosting Grand Opening

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SANTA BARBARA — Lucid Therapeutics, a clinic dedicated to improving mental wellbeing through professionally guided use of psychedelics, will host a Grand Opening celebration for its new Santa Barbara location on Saturday, Nov. 11.Members of the public are encouraged to…

Nov. 11 — FSA’s First Annual Pickleball Tournament – Play for a Cause to be held in Santa Barbara

by Community Contributor • January 1, 2023 • Comments Off

SANTA BARBARA — Family Service Agency is thrilled to announce the inaugural FSA Annual Pickleball Tournament, set to take place at the beautiful Montecito Club courts on Saturday, November 11, 2023, from 8:00 a.m. to 4:00 p.m. Proceeds from the event will benefit the agency’s senior programs and youth mental health, two crucial programs serving Santa Barbara County residents.

Tournament Director Natalie Collins-Smith, a Pickleball Pro at the Montecito Club and an expert in organizing successful pickleball events, guaranteeing an engaging and memorable experience for all participants.

Through Nov. 12 — Wildling Museum of Art and Nature partners with award-winning artist Mara Abboud for joint exhibition and fundraiser

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SOLVANG — The Wildling Museum is pleased to partner with award-winning artist Mara Abboud in presenting Mara Abboud: Visions of Beauty, an exhibition and fundraiser supporting the Wildling on view through Nov. 12, 2023 in the Valley Oak Gallery.

Abboud has been honored with the prestigious “Artist of the Year” award by the Academies Des Beaux Arts (New York, 1977), “Artist of the Year” by the Santa Barbara Arts Council (Santa Barbara Arts Festival, 1987), “International Artist of the Year” by the International Women’s Conference (Santa Barbara, 1998), and the AMAL “International Artist of the Year” (Washington, DC, 1998).

Nov. 12 — Temple Etz Chaim to present Psychotherapist and New York Times bestselling author Lori Gottlieb

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Gottlieb is a masterful guide for helping us rewrite the narratives that keep us stuck. Her TED talk was one of the Top 10 Most Watched of the Year, her book Maybe You Should Talk to Someone has sold over a million copies (and is currently being adapted for television), and she’s the author of The Atlantic’s weekly “Dear Therapist” column.

Nov. 14 — UCSB Arts & Lectures presents Braiding Sweetgrass: Indigenous Wisdom, Scientific Knowledge and the Teachings of Plants with Robin Wall Kimmerer

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SANTA BARBARA — UCSB Arts & Lectures announces two exciting new additions to the 2023-2024 season: Mustafa Suleyman, author of The Coming Wave: Technology, Power, and the Twenty-first Century’s Greatest Dilemma on Thursday, October 5 and Robin Wall Kimmerer, author of Braiding Sweetgrass: Indigenous Wisdom, Scientific Knowledge and the Teachings of Plants on November 14.

Nov. 14 — County of Ventura Elections Office holding quarterly Language Accessibility Advisory Committee meeting

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VENTURA COUNTY — The Ventura County Elections Division invites you to our quarterly Language Accessibility Advisory Committee (LAAC) meeting on November 14, 2023, from 10:00 a.m. to 11:00 a.m. so we may provide you with important information on the voting process for the upcoming March 5, 2024 Presidential Primary Election as well as options for Limited English Proficiency (LEP) voters. It is our hope that you will be able to share this information with the local community. Please review the attached agenda for more information and we encourage you to share the information with anyone you feel would be interested.

Nov. 14 — Santa Barbara Museum of Art to present Valencia Baryton Project Chamber Music Concert

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SANTA BARBARA — The Santa Barbara Museum of Art will present th Valencia Baryton Project Chamber Music Concert at 7:30 p.m. Tuesday, Nov. 14 at SBMA’s Mary Craig Auditorium, 1130 State St., Santa Barbara.

The Valencia Baryton Project was founded in Valencia, Spain with the vision of performing the nearly 160 works written by Franz Joseph Haydn as well as compositions by other composers, both modern and classical.

Nov. 15 — CLU School of Management presents Forward Together Webinar Series presents… Producing Film and Television in a Time of Disruption in the Entertainment Business

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Forward Together Webinar Series presents…
Producing Film and Television in a Time of Disruption in the
Entertainment Business
Wednesday, November 15 | 12:00 – 1:00 pm (PT) | Zoom Webinar

Chris Lytton is the President and COO of The Jim Henson Company. The Jim Henson Company has remained a leader and an iconic brand in family entertainment for over 60 years and is recognized as a top creator of television and film programming and as an innovator in puppetry and animatronics. Mr. Lytton is an experienced manager of film and television companies, a seasoned deal maker and an entertainment industry expert.

Nov. 15 — UCSB Arts & Lectures presents Béla Fleck, Zakir Hussain and Edgar Meyer featuring Rakesh Chaurasia performing music from their 2023 album As We Speak

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SANTA BARBARA — UCSB Arts & Lectures presents Béla Fleck, Zakir Hussain and Edgar Meyer with Rakesh Chaurasia on Wednesday, November 15 at 8 p.m. at UCSB Campbell Hall. Tabla and bansuri meet acoustic bass and banjo in this musical adventure. On their new album, As We Speak, this one-of-a-kind quartet made up of musicians Béla Fleck, Zakir Hussain, Edgar Meyer and flautist Rakesh Chaurasia combines the cerebral complexity of Indian ragas with the gut-level groove of a funky bass line. In concert, they fulfill the promise of the album’s title with brilliant performances that strike an exquisite balance between compositional rigor and conversational improvisation.

Nov. 16 — Santa Barbara Museum of Art to present Rock and Roll Hall of Famer and NYT Bestselling Author John Densmore in conversation with Andrew Winer

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SANTA BARBARA — The Santa Barbara Museum of Art will present Rock and Roll Hall of Famer and NYT Bestselling Author John Densmore in conversation with Andrew Winer at 5:30 p.m. Thursday, Nov. 16 at SBMA’s Mary Craig Auditorium, 1130 State St., Santa Barbara.

Beloved by artists across the decades for his fierce, uncompromising dedication to art, John Densmore occupies a rarified space in pop culture. His musicianship landed him in the Rock and Roll Hall of Fame. His writing consistently earns accolades and has appeared in a range of publications including the Los Angeles Times and Rolling Stone. As his friend and American novelist Tom Robbins recently advised him, “If you keep writing like this, I’ll have to get a drum set.”

Nov. 16 — UCSB Arts & Lectures presents Adam Grant in a public conversation titled Hidden Potential: The Science of Achieving Greater Things

by Community Contributor • January 1, 2023 • Comments Off

SANTA BARBARA — UCSB Arts & Lectures presents Adam Grant in conversation on Hidden Potential: The Science of Achieving Greater Things on Thursday, November 16 at 7:30 p.m. at The Arlington Theatre. In this paradigm-shifting conversation, organizational psychologist and Penn Wharton School of Business professor Adam Grant offers a new framework for raising aspirations and exceeding expectations. Grant is the No. 1 New York Times bestselling author of Think Again and Originals. His new book, Hidden Potential: The Science of Achieving Greater Things, explores how to build the skills and structures to achieve greater things, and how to create opportunities for those who have been overlooked. We can all improve at improving – and when opportunity doesn’t knock, there are ways to build a door.

Nov. 16 — UCSB Arts & Lectures Just Announced: Tennis champion and entrepreneur Maria Sharapova to moderate Adam Grant’s conversation on Hidden Potential: The Science of Achieving Greater Things

by Community Contributor • January 1, 2023 • Comments Off

SANTA BARBARA — UCSB Arts & Lectures presents a conversation with Adam Grant on Thursday, November 16 at 7:30 p.m. at The Arlington Theatre. In this paradigm-shifting conversation, organizational psychologist and Penn Wharton School of Business professor Adam Grant offers a new framework for raising aspirations and exceeding expectations from his new book Hidden Potential: The Science of Achieving Greater Things (just released on Oct 24, 2023).

Nov. 17 — Yarrow YMCA’s ‘Parents’ Night Out’

by Community Contributor • January 1, 2023 • Comments Off

WESTLAKE VILLAGE — Parents can have an evening out, get a head start on holiday shopping or spend a quiet evening at home while their kids have fun under supervised care at the Yarrow Family YMCA, Friday, November 17 from 6:30 p.m. to 9:00 p.m. The Y’s Parents’ Night Out is open to YMCA members and nonmembers.

Activities include games, arts & crafts, dance and basketball gym free play. All activities are monitored/led by YMCA staff. Kids must be age 4 or up and be able to use the restroom on their own.

Nov. 17 — Bilingual report — Community Workshop in Guadalupe To Share First-Ever Continuous Air Quality Data For the Region

by Community Contributor • January 1, 2023 • Comments Off

SANTA BARBARA — In September, wildfire smoke from as far away as Oregon impacted California’s Central Coast, prompting the Santa Barbara County Air Pollution Control District (APCD) and Santa Barbara County Public Health Department to issue an Air Quality Alert for Santa Barbara County. An air quality monitoring system established last year in Guadalupe recorded unhealthy levels of particulate matter for sensitive groups and ensured that the data was available to the community for the first time ever via the Guadalupe Community Air Project website.

Nov. 17 — UCSB Arts & Lectures presents Daniil Trifonov at Campbell Hall

by Community Contributor • January 1, 2023 • Comments Off

SANTA BARBARA — UCSB Arts & Lectures presents Daniil Trifonov in recital on Friday, November 17 at 7 p.m. at UCSB Campbell Hall. Precise, imaginative, tender and above all thrilling, Daniil Trifonov has earned a reputation as the must-hear pianist of the 21st century. Equally adept at discovering new possibilities in mid-18th century works as he is scaling the heights of Beethoven’s majestic “Hammerklavier” sonata, Trifonov combines dazzling technique with depth of feeling and extraordinary musicality.

Nov. 18 — ‘Celebrate the Magic’ – Charity Wine Auction Gala

by Community Contributor • January 1, 2023 • Comments Off

CAMARILLO — The Meadowlark Service League is hosting the 16th Annual Charity Wine Auction Gala on Saturday, November 18th at Las Posas Country Club.

Tickets are available online only at MeadowlarkServiceLeague.com and are priced at $150 each. Join us for the 2023 Wine Auction Gala. This special event will kick off an evening of great wines and food. Guests will enjoy good friends and sips starting with champagne, as well as tastings from the Gala Official Winery Strey Cellars. A gourmet dinner with wines will be featured. The exciting live & silent auctions will offer rare & fine wines plus unique trips and events. Live music will be provided for your enjoyment. Sponsorships available.

Through Nov. 18 — CSU Channel Islands Performing Arts presents ‘The Lightning Thief’

by Community Contributor • January 1, 2023 • Comments Off

CAMARILLO — Percy Jackson is just 12 years old and faced with pursuing a villain across the United States to retrieve the original weapon of mass destruction – the lightning bolt of the Greek god Zeus.

The public is invited to join in on the adventures of the young hero in the CSU Channel Islands (CSUCI) Performing Arts department’s musical production of “The Lightning Thief: The Percy Jackson Musical.”

Nov. 19 — SBMA Presents William Wegman and an Introduction to His Art

by Amigos805.com • January 1, 2023 • Comments Off

William Wegman, best known for his images of Weimaraner dogs, will speak about his pioneering work in painting, drawing, photography, and video, beginning with his start in California in the 1970s. SANTA BARBARA — Santa Barbara Museum of Art (SBMA)…

Through Nov. 19 — Cal Lutheran Presents Radium Girls

by Community Contributor • January 1, 2023 • Comments Off

THOUSAND OAKS — The California Lutheran Theatre and Dance Department is presenting its production of Radium Girls, a play by D.W. Gregory based on a book of the same name by Kate Moore. Performances will be in the Preus-Brandt Forum on the Cal Lutheran campus in Thousand Oaks and will be directed by drama professor Kenneth Gardner.

Radium Girls is set in Orange, New Jersey, during the 1920’s when the radioactive element radium was common in the products of daily life. The main character is Grace, a 14-year-old girl who gets a job at a watch factory that uses radium-based paint to make its products glow in the dark. Grace falls ill with radium poisoning; she and other workers who get sick sue their employer, raising awareness of their plight as they fight for justice.

Nov. 20 — Mariposa Series returns to the Music Academy

by Community Contributor • January 1, 2023 • Comments Off

The Music Academy presents the Mariposa Series: three concerts welcoming our community to Hahn Hall this fall.

Launched in 2022, these homecoming concerts bring Music Academy alumni, teaching artists, and our community to Miraflores for an intimate recital experience.

Post-concert receptions offered to meet the artists, including an introduction to new Music Academy President & CEO Shauna Quill.

Nov. 21 — Greater Santa Barbara Area Clergy Association to present annual Interfaith Thanksgiving Service

by Community Contributor • January 1, 2023 • Comments Off

Our annual Community Interfaith Thanksgiving Service will be held on Tuesday, November 21st, at 7:00 p.m. at the historic, downtown First United Methodist Church.

The Greater Santa Barbara Area Clergy Association, sponsor of this event, includes clergy and religious leaders from over 100 local faith communities. We come together to celebrate and reflect upon unity, peace, hope, prayers and blessings from our diverse religious traditions.

Nov. 29 — District216 presents Comedian Brent Pella ‘Conversations on Comedy and Content Creation w/ a Conscious Bro’

by Community Contributor • January 1, 2023 • Comments Off

Topic: “Conversations on Comedy and Content Creation with a Conscious Bro”

Date: Wednesday, November 29th
Times: 5:00pm Networking; 6:30pm Interview, Presentation + Q&A

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.)

FREE for Members.
Guests Welcome to purchase $50 tickets to The District House evenings.
N?OTE: We will be filming the speaker for the District216 Change Your Lens Series. Refreshments provided.

Nov. 30 — UCSB Arts & Lectures presents Audra McDonald in Concert at Campbell Hall

by Community Contributor • January 1, 2023 • Comments Off

SANTA BARBARA — UCSB Arts & Lectures presents Audra McDonald in Concert on Thursday, November 30 at 7 p.m. at UCSB Campbell Hall. The winner of a record-breaking six Tony Awards, two Grammy Awards and an Emmy, Audra McDonald is as stunningly eloquent in song as she is acting a role. She’s been named one of Time magazine’s 100 most influential people and received a National Medal of Arts for “her rich, soulful voice [that] continues to take her audiences to new heights.” Enjoy an intimate evening with a national treasure as McDonald performs works from Broadway, the Great American Songbook and more.

Nov. 30 — “Los Braceros De Buena Vista” mariachi musical coming to CSU Channel Islands

by Community Contributor • January 1, 2023 • Comments Off

CAMARILLO — A mariachi-style musical about the Mexican guest worker bracero program of the 1940s, ’50s and ’60s will be staged at CSU Channel Islands’ Malibu Hall on Thursday, Nov. 30 at 7:30 p.m.

“Los Braceros Buena Vista” follows a young man who travels from Mexico to the United States in the 1950s, at the height of the bracero program, which was established by executive order in 1942 and lasted until 1964. The federal program allowed seasonal laborers from Mexico to come to the U.S. to work in agriculture or with the railroads.

Animo Theatre Company Director Miguel Orozco had been directing “El Bracero” by Rosalinda Verde through his nonprofit community theater, and was inspired to write and direct his own version of the show centered on the Buena Vista Bracero camp in Oxnard. It was the largest in the nation, and at its peak, housed about 5,000 workers. Orozco’s aim was to reflect the braceros’ journey, including the struggles they faced.

Dec. 1 — UCSB Arts & Lectures presents Seong-Jin Cho, piano, at Campbell Hall

by Community Contributor • January 1, 2023 • Comments Off

SANTA BARBARA – UCSB Arts & Lectures presents Seong-Jin Cho on Friday, December 1 at 7 p.m. at UCSB Campbell Hall. Pianist Seong-Jin Cho returns with an eclectic program demonstrating his remarkable range and subtle approach to the repertoire. Cho captured the world’s attention in 2015 when his flawless performances earned First Prize at the Chopin International Competition in Warsaw. His thoughtful yet assertive style drives an impressive natural sense of balance. His latest solo album, The Handel Project, was released in February 2023.

Dec. 2 — Bilingual report — Ventura County Community Development Corporation (VCCDC) — Join us in Santa Maria this Saturday!

by Community Contributor • January 1, 2023 • Comments Off

VIRTUAL & IN-PERSON

Homebuyer Workshop

Saturday, December 2 – In-person, Santa Maria (in partnership with the Housing Authority of the County of Santa Barbara)

Friday, December 8 – Virtual

Saturday, December 16 – Virtual

If you want to learn what it takes to buy a home of your own and what resources are out there, our HUD-approved Homebuyer Workshops is a class you won’t want to miss! There is no cost for you to attend and you’ll enjoy hearing from a variety of expert speakers who will give you the latest and greatest on credit, money management, real estate, mortgage loans, insurance and more! Register for FREE today!

Dec. 2 — Bilingual report — SBCC School of Extended Learning’s Arts & Crafts Fair a must for holiday shoppers

by Community Contributor • January 1, 2023 • Comments Off

SANTA BARBARA — Just in time for the holiday gift-giving season, more than 50 arts and crafts faculty and students from the SBCC School of Extended Learning will be selling their wares at Wake Campus from 10 a.m. to 2 p.m. on Saturday, Dec. 2. Community members are encouraged to stop by and view and/or purchase one-of-a-kind works including ceramics, jewelry items, fabric arts, cards, glass art and more — crafted by their very own friends and neighbors.
Shoppers can also enjoy a catered lunch during the Fair, available for purchase by Chef Rene’s Cuisine.

Dec. 2 — Bilingual report — Ventura County Animal Services announces return of Santa Paws – Pet Portaits with Santa!

by Community Contributor • January 1, 2023 • Comments Off

hiatus due to the pandemic! Join us at the Camarillo Animal Shelter, 600 Aviation Drive, on Saturday, December 2nd, 2023, from 10:00am to 12:00pm for a festive professional photo session with the one and only Santa Claus!

Capture the magic of the season with your furry friends at the most anticipated holiday photo event of the year! Embrace the holiday spirit and come dressed in festive attire, casual wear, or even matching pajamas – it’s all about capturing those heartwarming moments!

Dec. 3 — Trinity Church Camarillo is presenting its ‘Christmas Craft Fair’

by Community Contributor • January 1, 2023 • Comments Off

CAMARILLO — Trinity Church Camarillo is presenting its “Christmas Craft Fair” fro 2 to 6 p.m. Sunday, Dec. 3 at 2304 Antonio Ave, Camarillo.

We are hosting this Craft Fair/ Tree Lighting as an inexpensive way to spend an afternoon for all! Booths are free for artists, crafters, vendors with a 10 percent donation to MEAL SHARE CAMARILLO recommendation from anything sold.

Dec. 6 — CLU School of Management presenting upcoming Sports Competition talk

by Community Contributor • January 1, 2023 • Comments Off

Wednesday, December 6 | 5:00 (PT) | Lundring Events Center

The competition, presented by the School of Management’s Sports Management program, is designed for students to comprehend how sport organizations’ brand value can drive sustainable innovation.

Through a theory-driven project, students use exploratory research to create a cause activation plan on behalf of an existing sport league or organization. Judged by sport industry executives, students learn how to propose innovative solutions for a better world from a business perspective.

Dec. 6 — UCSB Arts & Lectures presents Mariachi Sol de México in José Hernández’ Merry-Achi Christmas at the Arlington Theatre

by Community Contributor • January 1, 2023 • Comments Off

SANTA BARBARA — UCSB Arts & Lectures presents Mariachi Sol de México on Wednesday, December 6 at 7 p.m. at The Arlington Theatre.Led by one of the foremost masters of mariachi music, José Hernández, Mariachi Sol de México returns for a festive celebration of Mexico’s Christmas traditions. Experience holiday magic in a performance that includes elements of Las Posadas alongside traditional Christmas carols. Mariachi Sol de México has performed for five U.S. presidents and shared the stage with artists ranging from the Beach Boys to Lady Gaga.

Dec. 6 — Sports are More than a Game for Cal Lutheran Students

by Community Contributor • January 1, 2023 • Comments Off

THOUSAND OAKS — California Lutheran University’s Sports Management program, part of the School of Management, is governed by an overarching commitment: Make a better world while providing innovative solutions to problems facing the sports and entertainment industry. The Cal Lutheran Sports Management Sustainable Development Goals (SDG) Competition 2023 showcases the students’ application of these humanistic and business-related goals. The competition will be 5-7 p.m. Dec. 6 in the Lundring Events Center on the Cal Lutheran campus, 60 W. Olsen Road, Thousand Oaks. The public is invited to attend to witness the evolution of innovation through the minds of the next wave of change agents.

Dec. 6 — Bilingual report — Next Dementia Friendly Ventura County One-Stop Shop

by Community Contributor • January 1, 2023 • Comments Off

VENTURA — Dementia Friendly Ventura County’s next one-stop workshop to help people living with a dementia-related disease and their caregivers is scheduled for Wednesday, December 6, at Oxnard Family Circle.

The public is encouraged to stop by anytime during the “Living Well, Caring Well” event and meet with many local providers who can assist with dementia-related issues, including adult day centers, adult protective services, the Alzheimer’s Association, caregiver resources, financial resources, in-home care, health insurance counseling and advocacy, legal and advanced planning, long-term care ombudsman, neurology, and public benefit programs.

Dec. 7 — Santa Barbara Museum of Art to present Edo Pop: Woodblock Prints and Popular Culture in Premodern Japan

by Community Contributor • January 1, 2023 • Comments Off

With their crisp outlines, unmodulated colors, and surprising vantage points, Japanese woodblock prints (ukiyo-e) from the 18th and 19th centuries seem as fresh and captivating today as when they were produced. Sensuality, fashion, decadent entertainments and urban pastimes all reflect the popular tastes of young sophisticates in the premodern era. Matthew Welch will provide an overview of the social milieu of Japan’s “floating world” and the artists who immortalized it through their prints. He will also discuss several contemporary artists whose works reference the ukiyo-e tradition.

9 de diciembre — Los eventos ‘Ilumina una Vida’ de Livingston Memorial Visiting Nurse Association & Hospice

by Community Contributor • January 1, 2023 • Comments Off

CONDADO DE VENTURA – – Los eventos «Ilumina una Vida» de Livingston Memorial Visiting Nurse Association & Hospice brindan alivio, consuelo y una oportunidad para que quienes han perdido y honren la memoria de sus ser queridos. Para aquellos que perdimos cerca o lejos, que se fueron recientemente o hace mucho tiempo, «Ilumina una Vida» es una forma considerada y sentir desde el corazón para honrar sus recuerdos y esparcir un poco de alegría en estas épocas festivas.

Dec. 9 — Livingston Memorial Visiting Nurse Association & Hospice’s to present annual ‘Light Up a Life’

by Community Contributor • January 1, 2023 • Comments Off

VENTURA — Livingston Memorial Visiting Nurse Association & Hospice’s “Light Up a Life” events provide comfort, solace, and an opportunity for those who have lost someone to honor their loved one’s memory. For those we’ve lost near or far, recently departed or long ago, “Light Up a Life” is a thoughtful and heartfelt way to honor their memories and spread some joy this holiday season. The dates and times for this year’s Light Up events are:

Constitution Park, 1287 Paseo Camarillo, Camarillo

Saturday, December 9th from 4:30 pm – 5:30pm

Dec. 9, 10 — Hospice of Santa Barbara to Celebrate 40th Annual Light Up a Life Ceremonies throughout Greater Santa Barbara

by Community Contributor • January 1, 2023 • Comments Off

SANTA BARBARA — Each year, Hospice of Santa Barbara (HSB) brings the communities of Goleta, Santa Barbara, Montecito and Carpinteria together for its annual Light Up a Lifeceremony to remember and honor loved ones who are missed during the holiday season.

The holiday season can stir up a range of emotions, including joy, stress, sadness, and everything in between. For those preparing to navigate the holiday season without cherished loved ones, this time of year can be even more difficult and HSB honors them each year with Light Up a Life.

Through Dec. 10 — Events Highlights at Cal Lutheran

by Community Contributor • January 1, 2023 • Comments Off

THOUSAND OAKS — Nov. 6, 2023) California Lutheran University will present its annual performances and events on the Thousand Oaks campus this holiday season.

Dec. 10 — Ventura Music Festival — Holiday harmonies coming soon!

by Community Contributor • January 1, 2023 • Comments Off

Sunday, December 10 | 5:00-6:30 PM

Ventura Missionary Church, 500 High Point Drive, Ventura

Join us at 4pm before the concert for a complimentary Merry Little Mixer – Refreshments, drinks, and holiday cheer!

Dec. 12 — Bilingual report — Cottage to Host FREE Virtual Meet the Doctor Cardiovascular Disease in Women: How Far We Have Come and Where We Are Going

by Community Contributor • January 1, 2023 • Comments Off

SANTA BARBARA — The Cottage Heart and Vascular Center will present a FREE Virtual Meet the Doctor event with Dr. Bina Ahmed on Tuesday, December 12, from 4 – 5 p.m., on cardiovascular disease in women. The event will be offered in English and Spanish.

Advances in women’s heart health have improved the diagnosis and treatment of heart disease. This event will offer attendees insight into how women can proactively care for their hearts, from preventative measures to intervention and explore what breakthroughs may shape the future of cardiovascular health.

Dr. Bina Ahmed is an Interventional cardiologist and structural heart disease specialist with a strong interest in advancing women’s heart health. Her career path has included specialized training focusing on better understanding sex-based differences in cardiovascular diseases. She hopes to use her interest and expertise to enhance all aspects of cardiovascular care in women, from prevention to intervention.

Dec. 13 — CLU School of Management to present ‘TechDiplomacy Talk presents… Artificial Intelligence in the US, Europe, and Austria’

by Community Contributor • January 1, 2023 • Comments Off

Join us for a discussion on the impact of AI on companies, geopolitics, and diplomatic decision-making in the US, Europe, and Austria.

Dec. 14 — Santa Barbara Museum of Art to present Prof. Caroline Arruda speaking about ‘Making Art and Living the Authentic Life’

by Community Contributor • January 1, 2023 • Comments Off

In conjunction with the SBMA exhibition Inside/Outside(on view until February 18), Prof. Caroline Arruda will give a talk that combines philosophy with art to think about how artists show us what a life well lived might look like. Contemporary culture sees artists as being authentic because many pursue their creative goals above all else, sacrificing family or a stable life to realize their dreams. While few of us doggedly pursue our goals with this intensity, artists still do have something to teach the rest of us about living authentically and living well.

Dec. 15 — ‘Three Cheers For The Holidays’ – New Art City Theatre’s Song, Dance & Comedy Celebration in Thousand Oaks

by Community Contributor • January 1, 2023 • Comments Off

THOUSAND OAKS — Heart-warming holiday songs, laughs for all, and world-class tap-dancing are part of New Art City Theatre’s “Three Cheers for the Holidays,” on Friday, December 15 at the Scherr Forum Theatre in Thousand Oaks. Award-winning veterans of Broadway and London’s West End, David Burnham (Wicked, Light in the Piazza), Beverly Ward (Anastasia, Epic Proportions) and Kirby Ward (Show Boat, Crazy For You) perform their special brand of cheer for a holiday celebration for the whole family. A silent auction will precede the 7:30 p.m. performance to benefit the New Art City Theatre, a Ventura-based pioneering theatre company dedicated to the development of new theatrical works.

Dec. 20 — One805 to host Alan Parsons and Friends Birthday Tribute Concert at the Lobero Theatre Benefiting Local First Responders

by Community Contributor • January 1, 2023 • Comments Off

One805 will host a tribute concert in honor of Alan Parsons’ 75th Birthday to raise funds for Santa Barbara County First Responders on Wednesday, December 20, 2023 at the Lobero Theatre (33 E Canon Perdido St, Santa Barbara, CA 93101).

The lineup includes Alan Parsons OBE, Michael McDonald, Al Stewart, Joe Bonamassa, Terry Sylvester (The Hollies), David Pack (Ambrosia), magicians Stetson and Bill Cook, as well as special guests in an all-star musical and magical tribute concert to Alan on his 75th birthday.

Dec. 20 — District 216 announces Holiday Party + “1 Year Anniversary Sale” + New Online Curriculum

by Community Contributor • January 1, 2023 • Comments Off

Topic: “FREE Holiday Party Open House ”

Tarot Readings • Cookie Decorating • Music • Karaoke • Terpene Lounge • Healing Room • D216 Vendors • Food • Drink

Date: Wednesday, December 20th
Times: 5:00pm to 9:00pm

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.)

FREE for Members. FREE for Guests.

Dec. 21, 22 — First United Methodist Church of Santa Barbara to present 32nd Annual Living Nativity

by Community Contributor • January 1, 2023 • Comments Off

SANTA BARBARA — First United Methodist Church of Santa Barbara will present its 32nd Annual Living Nativity at 7:30 p.m. Wednesday, Dec. 21, 22 at 305 E Anapamu St (at Garden), Santa Barbara.

Once again the congregation of the First United Methodist Church presents its beautiful Seasonal gift to the community by staging a silent re-creation of the Holy Night. Under a redwood tree and adjacent to the church, a grassy area is transformed into a humble wooden stable, complete with a serene Mary, Joseph and tiny baby Jesus asleep in the manger. Three majestic kings stand by with their gifts to the Holy Child, attentive angels appear nearby, and lowly shepherds tend to their flocks. Live camels, donkey, sheep and goats surround the manger taking in the wonder of it all.

Through Dec. 23 — Museum of Contemporary Art Santa Barbara to present Resting, Recharging, and Returning in September / Descanso, Recarga, y vuelta en septiembre

by Community Contributor • January 1, 2023 • Comments Off

Cameron Patricia Downey:
Orchid Blues
September 17 – December 23, 2023
Opening reception: September 17, 12–4pm

Dec. 27 — Western Foundation of Vertebrate Zoology (WFVZ) Bird Museum and Research Center in Camarillo to hold Holiday Open House

by Community Contributor • January 1, 2023 • Comments Off

CAMARILLO — The Western Foundation of Vertebrate Zoology (WFVZ) Bird Museum and Research Center in Camarillo will hold a Holiday Open House from 10 a.m. to 2 p.m. Wednesday, Dec. 27 at 439 Calle San Pablo, Camarillo.

This world-class professional research center and museum is used by scientists from all over the globe. It houses the largest bird’s egg collections in the world from the early 1800s to the present, more than million eggs.

Bilingual report — UCSB Arts & Lectures announces Viva el Arte de Santa Barbara FREE public performances return to Santa Barbara County for Jan.- May 2023

by Community Contributor • December 30, 2022 • Comments Off

¡Viva el Arte de Santa Bárbara! (Viva) is back in 2023 for the first time since 2020! Since its establishment as a free community arts program in 2006, Viva has brought together people of diverse backgrounds from across Santa BarbaraCounty to celebrate the music and dance of Latin America.

Mariachi Garibaldi de Jaime Cuéllar

THREE FREE PUBLIC PERFORMANCES!

Friday,Jan 13 | 7 PM | Isla Vista School, 6875 El Colegio Rd, Goleta

Saturday, Jan 14 | 7 PM | Guadalupe City Hall, 918 Obispo Street, Guadalupe

Sunday, Jan 15 | 7 PM | The Marjorie Luke Theatre, 721 E Cota St, Santa Barbara

Kaiser Permanente’s 2023 Rose Parade® Float Showcases ‘All of us for all of you’

by Community Contributor • December 30, 2022 • Comments Off

Kaiser Permanente’s 2023 Rose Parade® float theme, “All of us for all of you,” celebrates the impact that a connected, compassionate care team supported by research, technology, and innovation, can have on individuals and communities. This theme is depicted through the inspiring stories of the float participants riding and walking alongside the float. They are a combination of dedicated Kaiser Permanente physicians, nurses, and employees, and Southern California patients who have overcome health challenges.

This year, Kaiser Permanente’s 17th annual float entry embodies the 2023 Rose Parade presented by Honda theme, “Turning the Corner.” The parade theme celebrates the potential that each new year brings as we prioritize health. The 55-foot-long float features a series of real-life vignettes highlighting the ordinary and extraordinary moments made possible by next-generation care:

Peoples’ Self-Help Housing (PSHH) — Your support is needed!

by Community Contributor • December 29, 2022 • Comments Off

For over twenty years, our caring supportive service teams have responded with compassion, expertise, and a friendly smile to ensure that all residents have the opportunity to be at their best. Whether it’s a visit from a social worker, help with homework, or connections to the community, our counselors, educators, and advocates are alongside in moments of need.

Explore Lompoc — The Four Best Places To Watch a Sunset on the Central Coast in Lompoc California Off Of Scenic California Highway 1

by Community Contributor • December 29, 2022 • Comments Off

With the winter solstice debuting this month, what better time than now to take a midweek/weekend getaway to view a spectacular winter sunset on California’s Central Coast.

Here are Lompoc California’s Top 4 Picks to view a tranquil one-of-a-kind winter sunset:

Bilingual report — Economic Development Collaborative (EDC) — Get Green Certified For Earth Day 2023

by Community Contributor • December 28, 2022 • Comments Off

From the California Green Business Network

Most businesses in Ventura, Santa Barbara and Los Angeles counties are now eligible for $500 in incentives to help reduce their operational costs and become a certified Green Business. Start off the new year with a resolution to be green, and get certified by Earth Day 2023! The Sustainable Business Challenge is a great opportunity to start reaping benefits now as your business gets started on its sustainability journey.

Santa Barbara County Food Action Network is Ahead of the Curve

by Community Contributor • December 28, 2022 • Comments Off

Last month, food systems took the global stage as a legitimate solution to the climate crisis. For the first time ever, COP27 hosted a Food and Agriculture Pavilion where local, national, and global farmers and food system stakeholders convened to develop solutions for how we can ensure the path from farm to table is more efficient, inclusive, resilient, and sustainable.

Top line solutions included funding and financing, inclusive policy-making, and innovative approaches implemented by a diverse group of food producers. While global leaders play catch-up, SBCFAN is already helping implement these solutions by:

connecting food system projects to accessible, affordable, and equitable funding and financing opportunities
facilitating food policy coordination, navigation, and advocacy
supporting the development of new and innovative food system projects by a diverse group of stakeholders

Museum Ventura County — Thank You

by Community Contributor • December 28, 2022 • Comments Off

The Museum deeply appreciates these thoughtful gifts of tribute
that sustain the legacy of the Museum’s mission.

The following names in bold are those being honored or memorialized,
while the names underneath them are the generous donors giving to
?the Museum of Ventura County in their name.

Best of 2022 from People’s Self-Help Housing!

by Community Contributor • December 27, 2022 • Comments Off

This year was marked with so much success because of strong partnerships, faithful support and visionary investments from people like you. Thank you for every part you played through your advocacy, goodwill and generous support.

Thank you for continuing to build so much more than housing with us.

Wrap up 2022 with a gift to your local Museum!

by Community Contributor • December 27, 2022 • Comments Off

Dear Friend of the Museum,

If you have already made a contribution to the Museum of Ventura County – THANK YOU for your support!

If you would still like to give a gift, thank you for helping the Museum serve our Ventura County community with:

In-person and virtual school tours
Free events for ALL of the community
In-person and virtual discussions and interviews
Historical articles, lectures and videos
Innovative exhibits
FREE ADMISSION at the Museum of Ventura County downtown and at the Agriculture Museum in Santa Paula

VCCCD Installs Three Trustees and Elects Board Leadership

by Community Contributor • December 23, 2022 • Comments Off

Longtime Ventura County resident and educator Lou Lichtl joined the Ventura County Community College District Board of Trustees during the District’s Annual Organizational Meeting on Dec. 13. Lichtl was installed with trustees Joshua Chancer and Gabriela Torres, who were re-elected in November.

At the meeting, Trustee Bernardo M. Perez, who has served on the board of trustees since 2010, was elected board chair. Torres was elected vice chair, and Chancellor Rick MacLennan will serve as secretary.

“I look forward to working with my fellow trustees to continue our commitment to bettering the lives of students at Moorpark, Oxnard and Ventura colleges and strengthening our partnerships with the community,” said Perez, who is serving his fourth term as chair over his 12 years on the board. He has a long history of dedication and involvement in Ventura County, having served previously as mayor of the City of Moorpark and a member of the Moorpark City Council.

The five-member board of trustees, which also includes Trustee Stan Mantooth, works collaboratively to adopt policies that oversee all activities relating to the business of the District and Moorpark, Oxnard and Ventura colleges. Student Trustee Azure Heirshberg advocates on behalf of VCCCD students.

Bilingual report — Dedication of the ‘Mark A. Lunn Wedding Room’ to be Held Dec. 29, 2022 at the Ventura County Government Center – Hall of Administration

by Community Contributor • December 23, 2022 • Comments Off

The Wedding Room in the Ventura County Clerk and Recorder’s office was officially named in honor of retiring County Clerk-Recorder, Registrar of Voters Mark Lunn, following the Ventura County Board of Supervisors’ approval this month. The public and media are invited to commemorate the dedication of the “Mark A. Lunn Wedding Room” on Dec. 29 at the Ventura County Government Center – Hall of Administration, 800 S. Victoria Ave. in Ventura.

Supervisor Matt LaVere, chair of the Board of Supervisors, made the recommendation to name the wedding room in honor of Mr. Lunn at the Board’s Dec. 13 meeting.

Bilingual report — Happy Holidays from Economic Development Collaborative (EDC)

by Community Contributor • December 23, 2022 • Comments Off

All of us at the EDC are wishing you and your families a happy and safe holiday season! We are grateful to have worked with you over the last year and are excited to connect with you again in the new year.

The EDC will be closed on:
Friday, December 23
Monday, December 26
Monday, January 2

Need business assistance? CLICK HERE to register for a phone call appointment!

Economic Development Collaborative (EDC) — free January webinar schedule

by Community Contributor • December 22, 2022 • Comments Off

SBA: INTRO GOVERNMENT CONTRACTING CERTIFICATION PROGRAMS

January 3 @ 10:00 am

This webinar will provide an overview of SBA programs and services, with an emphasis on SBA’s federal contracting resources! This will be an intro to small business certification programs. Government contracts are a tremendous financial opportunity for small businesses, and the U.S. government is the largest customer in the world. It buys all types of products and services — in both large and small quantities — and it’s required by law to consider buying from small businesses. The SBA has several contracting assistance programs, and federal contracting resources available to assist entrepreneurs. This is a great opportunity to get any questions you may have answered and find out about the multiple resources available to help you on your way to small business success. This event will take place online, please register for the log on information. SBA programs and services are extended to the public on a nondiscriminatory basis. For reasonable accommodation request please send an email to lado@sba.gov at least 7 days in advance.

CLICK HERE TO REGISTER

Happy Holidays from the Port of Hueneme

by Community Contributor • December 22, 2022 • Comments Off

The Port of Hueneme appreciates everyone who has journeyed with us through 2022. As we look towards 2023 we invite you to remember some of our highlights from this year. Click below to view a message from our CEO and President.

CSUCI Computer Science faculty member with connections to nuclear fusion lab’s groundbreaking discovery explains what it means

by Community Contributor • December 22, 2022 • Comments Off

When CSU Channel Islands (CSUCI) Assistant Professor of Computer Science Scott Feister, Ph.D., heard that Lawrence Livermore National Laboratory (LLNL) had achieved “fusion ignition” — a significant step toward clean energy —he sent congratulatory emails to the scientists, many of whom he has known and worked with for years.

“I know the people involved,” Feister said. “I’ve been involved in the wide net of all these people around the world working on these kinds of projects. I think it’s cool that the groups I am associated with are the ones that crossed the threshold.”

Feister has been visiting LLNL in Northern California for years, either to conduct academic research or to observe. And for the last two years, he has led a group of CSUCI undergraduates in a research project funded by one of the major figures at Livermore’s National Ignition Facility (NIF).

Commitment to High Standards and Continued Use of BestPractices Results in Consecutive Win for the Port of Hueneme

by Community Contributor • December 22, 2022 • Comments Off

For a 12thconsecutive year, the Government Finance Officers Association (GFOA) of the United States and Canada has awarded the Oxnard Harbor District with a Certificate of Achievement for Excellence in Financial Reporting. The Oxnard Harbor District, which owns the Port of Hueneme, received this award for its Annual Comprehensive Financial Report (ACFR) for the fiscal year that ended on June 30, 2021.

Final Results of Ballot Recount for the Office of Ojai City Mayor in the November 8, 2022 Election

by Community Contributor • December 21, 2022 • Comments Off

VENTURA — Ventura County Clerk-Recorder, Registrar of Voters Mark Lunn today announced the official recount results for election results certification for the office of Ojai City Mayor in the November 8, 2022 election. The certified results for the election were announced…

Santa Paula Art Museum Presents Mary Neville’s ‘Field Trip: 30 Days at a Higher Elevation’

by Community Contributor • December 21, 2022 • Comments Off

The Santa Paula Art Museum presents “Field Trip: 30 Days at a Higher Elevation,” a solo exhibition by Ojai mixed media artist Mary Neville. Featuring all-new abstract paintings and works on paper, “Field Trip” tells the story of Neville’s recent, month-long artist residency at Ghost Ranch in northern New Mexico, once home to legendary artist Georgia O’Keeffe. Meet artist Mary Neville during the exhibit premiere on Saturday, January 14, 2023, from 4:00 p.m. to 6:00 p.m. Admission to the premiere reception is $5 for SPAM members and $10 for non-members. Wine, beer, and hors d’oeuvres will be served. “Field Trip: 30 Days at a Higher Elevation” will be on view at the Santa Paula Art Museum from January 14, 2023, to May 7, 2023. Many of the artworks will be available for purchase.

Community Environmental Council Invites Community Members to Become Active Climate Stewards

by Community Contributor • December 21, 2022 • Comments Off

Enrollment is now open for the upcoming session of the Community Environmental Council’s (CEC) Climate Stewards certification course, designed to empower local community members to take action on climate change. CEC is proud to be the first and only nonprofit on the Central Coast to deliver the Climate Stewards certification program, and one of only a handful across the state.

“The climate crisis is too big and complex to be solved by a single organization, policy, or system. We must mobilize people and resources to ensure that the climate crisis is seen as an immediate, real, and present danger that affects just about every issue we care about. That’s why we are building a committed corps of volunteer leaders ready to effectively engage in transformative local solutions to promote community and ecosystem resilience in a changing climate,” said CEC CEO Sigrid Wright.

Bilingual report — EDC’s Economic 411 Labor Market Report for November

by Community Contributor • December 20, 2022 • Comments Off

The California Labor Market Information Division (LMID) released its November 2022 report on Friday, showing a rise in the Ventura County unemployment rate, from 3.4% in October to 3.7% in November. While that’s still an extremely low rate by any standard, the November increase is a bit unusual, given how we used to get a more substantial holiday boost in Retail hiring, and thereby a lowering of unemployment. That seasonal hiring of course has slowed in recent years, with the shift away from bricks and mortar Retail toward on-line purchasing. Ventura County did add 1,200 Retail jobs in November, but that’s low compared to what had been more commonly more than 2,000 up until around 2014, when the slide became more noticeable.

Looking at the larger picture for November, hiring in the other industry sectors wasn’t enough to compensate for the relatively slow holiday hiring in Retail, as we gained only a net 200 industry jobs. For the official November data, click here.

Bilingual report — A No-Cost Building & Construction Trades Pre-Apprenticeship for Ventura, Santa Barbara, and San Luis Obispo County Residents!

by Community Contributor • December 20, 2022 • Comments Off

The Workforce Development Board of Ventura County (WDBVC), Workforce Development Board of San Luis Obispo County (WDBSLO), Workforce Development Board of Santa Barbara County (WDBSB), and the Tri-Counties Building & Construction Trades Council are offering accelerated pre-apprenticeship training at no cost to residents in Ventura, Santa Barbara, and San Luis Obispo Counties. This pre-apprenticeship training is designed to prepare applicants to successfully enter full time paid apprenticeships and employment in a multitude of Construction Trades.

Livingston Memorial Visiting Nurse Association — Grief Support During The Holidays

by Community Contributor • December 19, 2022 • Comments Off

It’s that time of year when the expectations we place on ourselves can be unrealistic, especially when faced with the absence of a loved one. Livingston Memorial’s Grief and Bereavement Program can offer compassion and understanding during this difficult time of year. Livingston offers multiple support groups that focus on restorative activities, seeking meaning and purpose, identifying changes to self, and receiving support in making life good again.

Every GIFT to MVC brings people together!

by Community Contributor • December 19, 2022 • Comments Off

During this holiday season, we have been asking our community to tell us their favorite highlight from the Museum. Elena Brokaw, The Barbara Barnard Smith Executive Director of the Museum of Ventura County, recently shared her favorite MVC highlight and her son added his emphatic favorite as well.

We would love to hear what you love about the Museum. Please consider enhancing the cultural life of our region with your support for our exhibits, collections, and programs. You can donate by clicking on the button below. Please be sure to note your favorite MVC highlight on the donation page.

Economic Development Collaborative (EDC) Free Webinar Schedule

by Community Contributor • December 19, 2022 • Comments Off

SBA: SAM REGISTRATION – (SYSTEM AWARD MANAGEMENT)

December 22 @ 10:00 am

Join the Small Business Administration (SBA) Los Angeles District Office for a virtual workshop to increase your potential for federal contract opportunities through the System Award Management Registration. This virtual workshop is targeted to small businesses located in the SBA Los Angeles District Office service area — Los Angeles, Ventura and Santa Barbara counties. SBA programs and services are extended to the public on a nondiscriminatory basis. For reasonable accommodation request please send an email to lado@sba.gov at least 7 days in advance.

CLICK HERE TO REGISTER

The Collection celebrates another year of success and announces big plans for 2023

by Community Contributor • December 19, 2022 • Comments Off

All year long, The Collection at RiverPark has been bringing excitement to the community with grand openings, community events, shopping, dining and entertainment for all ages. As The Collection looks ahead to 2023, it is celebrating the successes of one of its best years yet.

“Here at The Collection, our goal is to bring people together, offering all their favorite shops, services, restaurants, entertainment destinations and events in a single location that provides a sense of community,” said The Collection’s Marketing and Business Development Manager, Juliana Finberg. “As we reflect on another terrific year, we look forward to what’s to come in 2023 — and we’ve got tons of exciting plans lined up already.”

Farm Bureau of Ventura County — Events Happening in the New Year

by Community Contributor • December 19, 2022 • Comments Off

The Science Behind Regeneration Practices, 10 a.m. to 4:30 p.m. Thursday, Jan. 12, McGrath Family Farm, Camarillo.
CERF’s 2023 Ventura County Forecast, 8:30 to 11 a.m., Tuesday, Feb. 21, Scherr Forum Theatre, Thousand Oaks.

Agromin Expects To Recycle Thousands Of Christmas Trees

by Community Contributor • December 19, 2022 • Comments Off

The weeks after Christmas are a busy time for green waste recycler Agromin. The Oxnard-based company will receive thousands of Christmas trees from local waste haulers in the weeks following Christmas.

Once the holidays are over, tree owners are asked to cut up their trees so limbs and branches fit in their green waste recycling barrel. Waste haulers will collect the trees on regular waste pick-up days and deliver them to Agromin.

From Santa Paula to the halls of the nation’s capital, CSUCI senior learns to be a voice for the vulnerable

by Community Contributor • December 16, 2022 • Comments Off

When she arrived in Washington D.C. to spend the Fall semester as a Panetta Institute Congressional Intern, CSU Channel Islands (CSUCI) Chicana/o Studies major Lyzette Cornejo felt like she didn’t quite belong.

“I had ‘trespassing syndrome,’” she said. “It’s like the imposter syndrome. You feel like you’re trespassing into the spaces of power. I felt like a trespasser because I’m a woman of color.”

But it wasn’t long until Cornejo realized she was exactly where she needed to be, and that her voice indeed mattered.

“I helped in drafting a bill!” Cornejo said. “They weren’t afraid of having an intern involved in the first draft of a bill. They wanted to put my opinion in this bill to make sure every voice was heard. I was so surprised when the senior legislative officer said: ‘What do you think about this?’ My opinion mattered.”

Bilingual commentary — Dancing on the Pyramid

by Community Contributor • December 16, 2022 • Comments Off

“Dance like no one is watching,” they tell us. These words are meant to encourage those of us at the next wedding party who might feel a bit inhibited about showing off whatever “dance skills” we may (or may not) possess.

One female Spanish tourist in Mexico thought she would test that motivational phrase last month at a famous archaeological site. She did dance as if no one was watching. The problem was that there were plenty of people watching her from the base of the pyramid at the site. But, unlike at your typical wedding party, the Mexicans who witnessed this sacrilege were quite angry and vitriolic about her “moves.”

Bilingual report — Ventura County Supervisors Parks, Huber prepare for retirement after collectively serving 24 years

by Community Contributor • December 16, 2022 • Comments Off

As the County of Ventura prepares to welcome two new faces to the Board of Supervisors at the January 10th meeting, the focus now lies on honoring Supervisors Linda Parks and Bob Huber for their distinguished service to the County and its communities. While they have collectively served as members of the Board for 24 years, their commitment to Ventura County extends well beyond their time at the helm of local leadership.

Elected to represent District 2 in 2002, Parks immediately tackled issues related to fiscal policies and environmental justice. She was no stranger to the needs of Ventura County, having previously served as Planning Commissioner, City Council member, and Mayor for the City of Thousand Oaks. Her most noted accomplishments include leading fiscal policy to establish a 15 percent reserve fund that has taken Ventura County from no reserves in 2002 to $160 million in reserve funds today.

December News from People’s Self-Help Housing

by Community Contributor • December 15, 2022 • Comments Off

Thanks to your continued and generous support, we are encouraged to be ending 2022 strong! Though many challenges came along this year, there has been much to celebrate:

Construction Pipeline: Taking advantage of all possible solutions to the continuing housing crisis, we put 1,300 units into our pipeline. We built new units, substantially rehabilitated existing ones, and secured several new tracts for ‘self-help’ owner builders.
Creative Collaborations: The brick-and-mortar of construction is only part of the multi-faceted challenge of development. The quest for buildable land saw us creatively collaborating with state and local governments, private owners, and faith-based partners.

Bilingual report — Lumina Alliance launches campaign supporting parents of school aged youth

by Community Contributor • December 15, 2022 • Comments Off

Lumina Alliance is launching ReDefine Parenting: An educational program focused on improving the social, emotional and physical well-being of children and pre-teen boys.

Parents are tasked with an impossible job: Raise and educate children, while navigating life and family, with no guidance or resources, in the midst of a changing and turbulent world. ReDefine Parenting aims to support parents and caregivers by providing them the tools to tackle some of the most difficult and nuanced issues facing youth today.

Museum of Ventura County presents Las Posadas Dec. 17 at Agriculture Museum, Santa Paula. See other events here

by Community Contributor • December 15, 2022 • Comments Off

Las Posadas
?Saturday, December 17th from 6-8pm
at the Agriculture Museum
Free
Las Posadas (The Inns in Spanish) is a Latinx traditional holiday that commemorates the biblical journey of Mary and Joseph from Nazareth to Bethlehem in search of lodging and a safe refuge for Mary to give birth to Jesus. After nine days of searching for lodging (Las Posadas are celebrated December 16th through 24th, representing the nine days), an Innkeeper gave Mary and Joseph shelter in a stable as there was no room at the inns.

Friendship Center Adult Day Services Festival of Hearts 2023 call for sponsorship

by Community Contributor • December 15, 2022 • Comments Off

We are excited to be holding our biggest fundraiser event of the year in person again! This year we will also be hosting a preview event online, as well as the in-person event.

Thank you for considering sponsoring our Festival of Hearts event, raising funds for low income seniors through our HEART program (Helping Elders at Risk Today)- for those who want to attend our program and are in need of financial assistance.

UCSB — The Current — ‘Recording Latinx Dance Histories’ and more events, news

by Community Contributor • December 15, 2022 • Comments Off

Former Ballet Hispánico leader Kiri Avelar takes a borderlands approach to understanding the American dance archive as a doctoral research fellow.

Bilingual report — Economic Development Collaborative (EDC) — California Competes Tax Credit Program

by Community Contributor • December 14, 2022 • Comments Off

The California Competes Tax Credit (CCTC) is an income tax credit available to businesses that want to locate in California or stay and grow in California. Businesses of any industry, size, or location compete for over $180 million available in tax credits by applying in one of the three application periods each year. Applicants will be analyzed based on twelve different factors of evaluation, including number of full-time jobs being created, amount of investment, and strategic importance to the state or region.

SBCC’s The Bridge Newsletter – DECEMBER 2022

by Community Contributor • December 14, 2022 • Comments Off

Recruitment of new Superintendent/President underway
Recruitment of SBCC’s new superintendent/president officially began on Dec. 7. For a full job description, hiring timeline and updates, visit the SBCC Superintendent/President search webpage.

Choose Ventura County Animal Services as your year-end charity!

by Community Contributor • December 14, 2022 • Comments Off

Many of our life-saving programs depend on donor dollars from the community. Please consider making Ventura County Animal Services your end-of-year charity. Visit www.vcas.us/donate to make an online donation to our non-profit Foundation. And make your donation before December 31, 2022 to claim the deduction on your 2022 Tax Return. Thank you for your support of our lifesaving mission!

Registration for Spring 2023 at SBCC now open

by Community Contributor • December 14, 2022 • Comments Off

Santa Barbara City College is pleased to announce that class registration for the Spring 2023 semester is now open to everyone in the community. Classes begin on Monday, Jan. 23. SBCC offers classes for credit for students looking to pursue an associate degree or certificate, including those needed to transfer to a four-year university. It also offers a variety of noncredit programs through its School of Extended Learning in areas including English as a Second Language, classes for older adults and career skills building.

Boys & Girls Clubs of Greater Conejo Valley still needs your help

by Community Contributor • December 14, 2022 • Comments Off

There’s still time for you to help make a difference! By supporting the Boys & Girls Clubs of Greater Conejo Valley this December, you’ll be increasing our ability to impact even more lives in 2023. Your continued generosity this holiday season can bring LEAP programming to any youth who needs it in the New Year.

Please visit our website to give and don’t forget to share our goals and programs on social media!

20th Annual Chanukah Festival Celebrates Sculpting & Lighting of Six-Foot Ice Menorah, Snow, Treats & More At Ventura Harbor Village on Dec. 25

by Community Contributor • December 13, 2022 • Comments Off

Gather together with the entire family to celebrate the eighth night of Chanukah at the 20th Annual Chanukah Festival on Sunday, December 25, 2022, from 2:30-4:30pm at the Ventura Harbor Village presented by Chabad of Oxnard, Camarillo, Ojai, and Ventura. Kids of all ages can bring their hats, gloves, and scarves and enjoy tons of snow and warm up with sizzling hot latkes. Plus, the festival features a live demonstration ice sculpting a six-foot ice Menorah, with the “coolest” lighting at 4:00pm. Visitors to the Chanukah Festival can also enjoy a Judaica Boutique and musical entertainment all while spending time by the seashore at Ventura Harbor Village.

CSUCI professor part of a $85,884 research project to help the state of California manage coastal resource erosion

by Community Contributor • December 13, 2022 • Comments Off

CSU Channel Islands (CSUCI) Professor of Environmental Science & Resource Management (ESRM) Sean Anderson, Ph.D., is among four CSU faculty members to receive part of a research grant for $865,884 to help the state of California effectively manage its ever-changing coastline.

The California State University Council on Ocean Affairs, Science and Technology (COAST) has awarded $765,884 through its State Science Information Needs Program (SSINP) to four CSU faculty members and over 26 students at three different CSU campuses as well as collaborators at three institutions outside the CSU. All will be conducting research projects aimed at restoring, preserving, or minimizing nature and humankind’s impact on the state’s coasts, wetlands, and other aquatic resources.

UCSB — The Current — ‘Ethical Tech, Museums of Memory’ and more news, events

by Community Contributor • December 13, 2022 • Comments Off

A collaborative, cross-disciplinary study on socially responsible augmented reality for human rights museums receives a National Science Foundation grant.

Big Brothers Big Sisters of Ventura County (BBSVC) celebrated 13th annual Bags, Bling & Bubbly champagne luncheon

by Community Contributor • December 13, 2022 • Comments Off

… During the lunch program, BBSVC CEO Danica Selvaggio shared the importance of youth mentoring in Ventura County, and the impact the agency has had on the community. Big & Little Sisters of The Year 2022 for Ventura County and California Statewide, Karyn and Marcie, shared their story of their long and happy mentoring relationship while sharing photos from the lifetime of their match.

All proceeds from the Bags, Bling & Bubbly champagne luncheon went towards providing the financial support BBSVC needs to help serve youth in Ventura County schools and the greater community.

Economic Development Collaborative (EDC) free webinar schedule

by Community Contributor • December 12, 2022 • Comments Off

VENTURA COUNTY SCORE: HOW TO INFLUENCE, PERSUADE AND SELL ANYONE

December 14 @ 10:30 am

Have you ever struggled to get someone to accept your ideas or buy your product or service? Well, help is finally on the way, with this breakthrough webinar! In less than an hour you will learn how to convince and sell almost anyone. Suddenly, you’ll have an incredible power to persuade all the people in your life, unlike anything you’ve ever been able to do before. From friends and family members to prospects and clients, you will suddenly be able to enjoy more stress-free, predictable and FUN ways to get people on your side and buying from you… whether it be face-to-face, from your website, from your ads and emails and more! In this webinar for small business owners, top behavioral management specialist James I. Bond will share secrets that will help you grow your business and simplify your life almost immediately.

CLICK HERE TO REGISTER

Retail Theft Surging to Nearly $100 Billion A Year; Security Guards Added To Help Stem The Tide

by Community Contributor • December 12, 2022 • Comments Off

Retailers lost nearly $100 billion from shoplifting and organized retail crime (ORC) activity. According to a National Retail Foundation (NRF) survey, the “shrink” rate in 2021 was 1.4% representing $94.5 billion in losses. ORC crime was up 26.5 percent from 2020. Retailers are adding more security guards in stores to help reduce crime.

“We’ve been asked to post guards at store entrances and in other strategic store locations, especially in cities where retail crime is running rampant,” says Fahim Abid, security director for Access Patrol Services (APS), a security guard company serving California and Arizona. “We’ve never seen such a high demand for retail security services.” Thirty-two percent of NRF survey respondents said they are increasing their budget for guards.

UCSB Arts & Lectures announces Viva el Arte de Santa Barbara FREE public performances return to Santa Barbara County for Jan.- May 2023

by Community Contributor • December 9, 2022 • Comments Off

SANTA BARBARA — ¡Viva el Arte de Santa Bárbara! (Viva) is back in 2023 for the first time since 2020! Since its establishment as a free community arts program in 2006, Viva has brought together people of diverse backgrounds from across Santa Barbara County to celebrate the music and dance of Latin America. The program, which has been on hiatus due to the Covid-19 pandemic, returns in 2023 with FREE performances and community outreach events from four stellar ensembles, including Mariachi Garibaldi de Jaime Cuéllar (Jan. 13-15), Grandeza Mexicana (Mar. 17-19), Tres Souls (Apr. 14-16), and Las Cafeteras (May 19-21).

“At Arts & Lectures, we are thrilled to resume the exciting and deeply rooted ¡Viva el Arte de Santa Bárbara! program at multiple locations throughout the region,” says Miller McCune Executive Director Celesta M. Billeci. “These free community events wouldn’t be possible without our partners The Marjorie Luke Theatre, the Guadalupe-Nipomo Dunes Center, and the Isla Vista School Parent Teacher Association, and the many community coordinators and volunteers. From Carpinteria and Santa Barbara to Isla Vista, Lompoc, Guadalupe and New Cuyama, people will again enjoy the best ensembles from Latin America and the rich traditions they represent.”

Clinicas del Camino Real, Inc. Spreading Holiday Cheer with Annual Toy Distribution

by Community Contributor • December 9, 2022 • Comments Off

Clinicas del Camino Real, Inc. will continue its annual holiday tradition to distribute toys to its pediatric patients during this year’s holiday season. This year Clinicas plans on distributing approximately 4,500 toys for its patients.

The holidays can be an especially difficult time for families in need and Clinicas is happy to help support the community. This annual tradition is very meaningful to Clinicas because it offers staff an opportunity to not only thank patients but also help create joy and contributes to patients’ health and well-being.

Bilingual commentary — Restroom Blues on Our Public Transportation

by Community Contributor • December 9, 2022 • Comments Off

The past few months, I took it upon myself to become “greener.” I wanted to experience and learn about the public transportation system in our Ventura County region. The system we have is quite good. However, of course, it does not afford the innumerable and frequent options available in the massive systems of metropolises such as Los Angeles, New York, Mexico City, or Tokyo.

One of the great deficiencies of our bus system that I discovered is the lamentable lack of restrooms for passengers and for the bus drivers themselves. The transportation authorities seem to think that we don’t need them. Or possibly they think that our bladders are larger than they are. In any case, passengers are left to “make do,” so to speak, with whatever restroom facilities they can find and access.

Bilingual report — Metrolink’s Tips for Holiday Train Travel with Kids

by Community Contributor • December 9, 2022 • Comments Off

Traveling with children is an adventure in itself, so this holiday season Metrolink is sharing a few tips for smooth travel with children on our trains.

Plan where you’ll go in advance. There are many holiday event destinations accessible by Metrolink trains. The EXPLORE page on our website shares many of this season’s best. Pro tip: Metrolink has free and convenient connections to many transit agencies throughout our service area, including L.A. Metro, making it easy to travel car-free.
Purchase tickets with ease. Download the Metrolink mobile app to a smart phone to easily access routes, schedules, fares and stress-free purchases all in the palm of your hand. Pro tip: up to three kids ride free on weekends with a paying adult, and with the Weekend Day Pass, the adult fare is just $10 all day, anywhere we go.

American Veterinary Medical Association Gives Prestigious Stamp of Approval to Ventura College’s Veterinary Technology Program

by Community Contributor • December 9, 2022 • Comments Off

Ventura College’s veterinary technology program is less than two years old and already has been granted initial accreditation by the American Veterinary Medical Association (AVMA). This recognition signifies the success and rigor of the young program, as graduates will now be qualified to sit for the Veterinary Technician National Exam to become Registered Veterinary Technicians.

The accreditation process involves detailed evaluations by the AVMA’s Committee on Veterinary Technician Education and Activities (CVTEA) and is designed to ensure veterinary technology programs produce practice-ready graduates. Students are required to demonstrate competency in over 300 essential skills that span all sectors of veterinary medicine and involve hands-on skills working with over 10 species of domestic animals.

Friendship Center Adult Day Services Call for Sponsorships for ‘Festival of Hearts’ on Feb. 4

by Community Contributor • December 9, 2022 • Comments Off

We are excited to be holding our biggest fundraiser event of the year in person again! This year we will also be hosting a preview event online, as well as the in-person event.

Simi Valley Will Soon Become a Quiet Zone

by Community Contributor • December 8, 2022 • Comments Off

Assemblymember Jacqui Irwin (D-Thousand Oaks) announced this morning at the Metrolink Station in Simi Valley that $4.5 million in funding was secured in the 2022/2023 State Budget for local improvements. The funding will allow completion of safety enhancements at the one remaining rail crossing that was not part of a previously approved and funded Southern California Optimized Rail Expansion (SCORE) Project.

“With this funding, trains passing through Simi Valley will no longer have to blow their horns creating a “Quiet Zone” while also improving safety,” said Assemblymember Irwin. “I am glad I was able to secure this funding for our community that will ensure that the safety of the public is prioritized and businesses and residents living adjacent to the tracks will no longer be disturbed by the sounding of train horns.”

Ventura County Animal Services — $40 dog, and $55 cat adoptions this weekend only!

by Community Contributor • December 8, 2022 • Comments Off

December 9-11, 2022 is National Adoption Weekend and Best Friends Animal Society is celebrating by sponsoring a part of all dog and cat adoption fees with Network Partners! Adopt a dog or cat during this promotion and pay only a $40 fee for a dog adoption, and $55 for a cat adoption. View all of our pets online at www.vcas.us/pets and learn more about our adoption process at www.vcas.us/adopt.

Thank you and we hope to see you at the shelter!

Santa Paula Art Museum — Meet John Galan + Creative Gift Ideas

by Community Contributor • December 8, 2022 • Comments Off

MEET THE ARTIST

Artist Talk: John Galan

Saturday, December 10, 2022, at 2 PM
Included with regular admission (free for SPAM members)

Meet artist John Galan at the Santa Paula Art Museum on Saturday, December 10. Galan will lead a 45-minute talk and tour of his popular exhibition, Remedios (Remedies), starting at 2:00 PM. Galan will share the stories behind his deeply personal works, which are on exhibit now through January 8, 2023. Plus, one lucky attendee will take home a print of one of Galan’s artworks! Reservations are not required.

UCSB — The Current — ‘Centering LBTQ+ Women, Nonbinary Health’ and more news, events

by Community Contributor • December 8, 2022 • Comments Off

Alison Cerezo leads a program evaluation team for California’s $17.5 million LBTQ Health Equity Initiative.

Bilingual report — Ventura County Official Final Results and Certification Announced for November 8, 2022 General Election

by Community Contributor • December 7, 2022 • Comments Off

Ventura County Clerk-Recorder, Registrar of Voters Mark Lunn today announced the official election results certification for the November 8, 2022 General Election with 100% of Ventura County’s 1,640 precincts reporting. A total of 284,013 ballots were cast in this General Election: 89% of the ballots were cast by Vote-By-Mail ballots and 11% were cast in person at County Vote Centers. Ventura County had an overall voter turnout of 56.2%. This Election plus the June 7, 2022 Statewide Direct Primary Election complete the first full Voter’s Choice Act (“VCA”) Election cycle for Ventura County.

Full election results from Ventura County are available on the VenturaVote.org website. Statewide contest results are on the Secretary of State website: https://electionresults.sos.ca.gov/

Ventura County Fire Dept. announces Prescribed Burn Pile Training

by Community Contributor • December 7, 2022 • Comments Off

The Ventura County Fire Department, in cooperation with Ventura County Air Pollution Control District (APCD) and the Ventura County Prescribed Burn Association (PBA) District will be conducting a small live fire training exercise on December 9th at a ranch located off of Hidden Valley Road in Thousand Oaks.

Bilingual report — Ventura County Businesses receive over $12m in State loans

by Community Contributor • December 7, 2022 • Comments Off

Three Ventura County businesses were recently approved for 4%, fixed-rate loans totaling $12,739,000 through the Ventura County Recycling Market Development Zone (RMDZ) program. The RMDZ is a statewide program consisting of 40 zones, and is administered in Ventura County by the Ventura County Public Works Agency.

SBCC begins search for next Superintendent/President

by Community Contributor • December 7, 2022 • Comments Off

The Santa Barbara Community College District Board of Trustees has opened the application process for hiring the next Santa Barbara City College (SBCC) Superintendent/President. Recruitment will be open through January 20 with a goal of having a new president start in summer 2023. SBCC has been led by Interim Superintendent/President Kindred Murillo, Ed.D. since September 2021.

People’s Self-Help Housing — Your support is needed!

by Community Contributor • December 7, 2022 • Comments Off

At one of our ten Learning Centers, 62% of students began the academic year two or more grade levels behind their peers. By the end of the year, only 5% of students were still two or more grade levels behind.

Also greatly improved was the number of students reading at or above grade level: increasing from 10 to 42%.

UCSB — The Current — ‘Extending the Spectrum’ and more news, events

by Community Contributor • December 7, 2022 • Comments Off

Researchers create visible-to-near-infrared-light lasers on silicon chips, paving the way for scientific and consumer applications.

Santa Barbara County First District Supervisor Das Williams — Rec Master Plan, Point in Time Count, Vaccinations and more

by Community Contributor • December 6, 2022 • Comments Off

The County of Santa Barbara Rec Masterplan Workshop
All are welcome to join a Virtual Public Workshop for Parks, Recreation, and Trails Planning for the County of Santa Barbara
Thursday, December 8 at 5:00 PM

The Comprehensive Plan provides goals and policies to guide land use and development, and the Land Use Development Code (LUDC) regulates development consistent with the Comprehensive Plan. This existing recreation policy framework is outdated and no longer reflects current and future parks, recreation, and trails needs.
The County is developing potential amendments to its recreation policy framework to guide the long-term provision of parks, recreation, and trails in unincorporated areas. These amendments will provide goals and policies for park and recreation projects and support for the implementation of the Countywide Recreation Master Plan, which is currently under development.

The County is seeking public participation in the development of new goals and policies for parks, recreation, and trails, including:
Parks serving local neighborhoods and communities
Sports fields and courts
Community centers and recreational facilities, including pools and aquatic centers
Trails for hiking, biking, and equestrians
Coastal access and beaches
Camping and low-cost overnight accommodations
Rural and agricultural recreation and agritourism
Equitable access & recreation for all
Sustainable recreation
Community health and active living
Public-private partnerships to support public recreation projects

We invite everyone receiving this notice to spread the word about this important opportunity to participate in recreation planning for the unincorporated areas of Santa Barbara County.

Historic $10.4 Million to Electrify Auto Terminal Will Make the Port of Hueneme the First West Coast Port to Offer All-Electric Plug-in Capable Wharfs

by Community Contributor • December 6, 2022 • Comments Off

The Port of Hueneme received $10.4 million in funding from Ventura County Transportation Commission (VCTC) to help build shoreside power plug-in infrastructure on its North Terminal. The Port also recently received state and federal funding from the Environmental Protection Agency (EPA) and the Volkswagen Environmental Mitigation Trust to implement innovative technologies to increase electrification efforts, track air quality progress, and further reduce particulate matter. These environmental wins benefit the Port and its surrounding community.

Oxnard College Men’s Soccer Wins California State Championship

by Community Contributor • December 6, 2022 • Comments Off

The Oxnard College Men’s soccer team won the California State Championship Title in a match against defending champions Mt. San Antonio College (Mt. SAC) on Sunday, Dec. 4, with a final score of 2-1. The competition was held by the California Community College Athletic Association (CCCAA) and hosted by American River College in Sacramento. Oxnard College last appeared in the state championship in 2015 when its Condors defeated Evergreen Valley College to claim the title.

Southeast Ventura County YMCA Offer Winter Camp

by Community Contributor • December 5, 2022 • Comments Off

hool break in the Conejo Valley, Simi Valley and in Moorpark.

Camps provided by the Simi Valley Family YMCA and the Yarrow Family YMCA will include STEAM learning, group games, sports and holiday arts and crafts. Overseeing the camps are qualified staff who are CPR and first aid trained.

Simi Valley camps are at Atherwood Elementary and White Oak Elementary YMCA daycare centers. Dates are December 27 to 30 and January 3 to 6.

Economic Development Collaborative (EDC) Free Webinar Schedule

by Community Contributor • December 5, 2022 • Comments Off

SBA: 8(A) BUSINESS DEVELOPMENT CERTIFICATION WORKSHOP

December 6 @ 10:00 am

Join the Small Business Administration (SBA) Los Angeles District Office for a virtual workshop to increase your potential for federal contract opportunities through the 8(a) Business Development (BD) Program. The SBA’s 8(a) Business Development Program is a nine-year program created to help socially and economically disadvantaged entrepreneurs gain access to—and succeed in—the federal marketplace. Businesses that participate in the 8(a) BD Program receive training, technical assistance, business development services and exclusive access to reserved federal contracting opportunities. Attendees will also have the opportunity to ask questions related to this program. Find out if your eligible! SBA programs and services are extended to the public on a nondiscriminatory basis. For reasonable accommodation request please send an email to lado@sba.gov at least 7 days in advance.

CLICK HERE TO REGISTER

Three Triunfo Water & Sanitation District Board Members Start New Terms

by Community Contributor • December 5, 2022 • Comments Off

Three incumbent Triunfo Water & Sanitation District (TWSD) Board members were sworn in at the district’s November 28 board meeting to serve new four-year terms. Returning board members are Jane Nye, Janna Orkney and Ray Tjulander.

All three board members were scheduled to be up for re-election in November but since there were no additional candidates, state law states that in lieu of an election, incumbents who filed nomination papers are to be seated and serve new terms.

“I’m honored to continue to represent Triunfo Water & Sanitation District customers for another four years,” says Director Nye who has served on the board since 2020 and is currently board vice-chair. “We strive to protect the environment and maintain public trust and confidence as demonstrated by the Las Virgenes/Triunfo Pure Water Project. The Pure Water Project is an important step to assure that everyone in our community has a safe, drought-resilient and sustainable source of potable water.”

Ventura County Community Development Corp. celebrates 2nd annual awards ceremony

by Community Contributor • December 5, 2022 • Comments Off

We recently held a very special celebration at Spanish Hills Club in Camarillo to honor four important leaders who have inspired our work and four award winners who are making significant contributions in our community. Together with our friends and supporters, we enjoyed a wonderful evening filled with heart-warming stories and inspirational award presentations.

We were honored to have Lourdes Castro Ramírez, Secretary of the Business, Consumer Services and Housing Agency, as our keynote speaker. Also joining us for the festivities were our emcee David Cruz, a longtime TV and radio host, and Jasmine Padilla, VCCDC homeowner and board member, who delivered a powerful client testimonial. The crowd gathered included many VCCDC sponsors, our four award recipients and their friends and families, and family members of those honored with the naming of the four VCCDC leadership awards.

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