April 13 — UCSB Arts & Lectures presents the Danish String Quartet at Campbell Hall

UCSB Arts & Lectures (A&L) presents the Danish String Quartet on Thursday, April 13 at 7 p.m. at Campbell Hall. “One of the best quartets before the public today” (The Washington Post), the Danish returns with the third concert in its Doppelgänger Project, pairing Schubert’s “Rosamunde” and “Quartettsatz” quartets with a newly commissioned work by Icelandic composer Anna Thorvaldsdóttir. One of the most original voices of her generation, Thorvaldsdóttir wields a “seemingly boundless textural imagination” (The New York Times) to create captivating musical landscapes at once grand and personal.

April 13 — Annual VCCCD Diversity Festival Focuses on Community Wellness

Oxnard and Ventura colleges in partnership with the Ventura County Community Foundation, Ventura College Foundation, and other sponsors are proud to announce the 8th annual Diversity in Culture Festival, which will take place April 12-13. The festival is dedicated to promoting diversity, health, and wellness in the community and honoring civil rights advances.

The festival planning committee found inspiration for this year’s theme after realizing their own wellness had been neglected in the post-pandemic world. The festival activities will focus on encouraging the community to refocus and reclaim their health through diverse cultural lenses.

April 13 — CSUCI, Oxnard College present free dance concert by Ballet Nepantla

Dancers conveying the stories and identities of Mexican Americans through a combination of ballet and folklorico will present a free public performance in Oxnard and a master class for CSU Channel Islands (CSUCI) and Oxnard College students. 

Ballet Nepantla will perform “Valentina” on Thursday, April 13, at 6 p.m. in the Oxnard College Performing Arts Building (PAB). The master class for Dance Studies majors at CSUCI and Oxnard College students will be held the morning of April 13 at the University in Camarillo. 

“Too often, art produced and performed by people of color is invisible, and the opportunity to offer this folklorico ballet performance to the community pushes back against that trend,” said CSUCI Vice Provost Jessica Lavariega Monforti. 

April 14 — CSUCI and Santa Barbara Zoo launch educational partnership and campus conservation center

California State University Channel Islands (CSUCI) and the Santa Barbara Zoo are pleased to announce a partnership that will enrich academic opportunities for students and enhance wildlife conservation, research, and outreach throughout the region.

On Friday, April 14, at 10 a.m., at the Santa Barbara Zoo, CSUCI President Richard Yao and Zoo President and CEO Richard Block will sign a memorandum of understanding formalizing the relationship. The agreement paves the way for future collaboration and outlines plans for a zoo-owned and managed conservation center on the CSUCI campus.

“By partnering with a world-class zoo right here in our backyard, we are strengthening our commitment to be a ‘conservation campus’ on the Central Coast,” said Yao. “We are excited about the opportunities for our students to work side by side with Zoo personnel and CSUCI faculty to protect and reestablish threatened species in our region and to develop vital skills in conservation education and management. It is our hope that students and faculty from all disciplines and programs of study will have a chance to benefit from and contribute to our partnership with the Zoo. It will present rich opportunities for interdisciplinary collaborations.”

April 14, 15, 16 — Bilingual report — ¡Viva el Arte de Santa Bárbara! Presents Three Free Performances of Tres Souls

SANTA BARBARA — ¡Viva el Arte de Santa Bárbara! (Viva) is back with its next free community event. Relive the vintage sounds of the Golden Era of Mexican Cinema with three free performances by the musical trio, Tres Souls. Viva is a collaboration…

April 15, 16 — VCFD to Help Develop ‘Girls with Grit’ Fire Camp

CAMARILLO — Thirty girls will learn what it’s like to be a firefighter during the Ventura County Fire Department’s Girls Fire Camp April 15 and 16.

Reporters and photographers are invited to cover the event at the fire department’s Regional Training Center adjacent to the Camarillo Airport. Camp runs from 8 a.m. to 4 p.m. each day.

The camp is led and taught by female firefighters from VCFD and fire departments across the West Coast. The youth empowerment program is designed to showcase firefighting, and help them become “Girls with Grit” whether they pursue a firefighting career or not.

April 16 — SAVE THE DATE — Earth Day EcoFest in Ventura

Ventura Charter School is pleased to once again present Earth Day EcoFest, a celebration of our planet for the community of Ventura. After a three-year hiatus, this family-friendly FREE event welcomes the community to enjoy live performances, exhibitions, food trucks, an electric vehicle expo, and more. Earth Day EcoFest will take place on Sunday April 16th, 2023, from 11:00 a.m. to 4:00 p.m. at the Ventura Charter School campus, 2060 Cameron St., Ventura.

Through April 20 — Livingston Memorial presenting Teen Grief Support Group Session

 Many teens have experienced the death of a loved one. This is a difficult time for anyone grieving a loss. Livingston’s Grief and Bereavement Program is providing a free support group for teens through April 20th on Thursdays 6 – 7 pm. For reservations contact 805-389-6870 or online at lmvna.org/grief. Space is limited.

April 21 — UCSB Arts & Lectures presents So Percussion with Caroline Shaw at Campbell Hall

UCSB Arts & Lectures (A&L) presents S? Percussion with Caroline Shaw on Friday, April 21 at 8 p.m. at Campbell Hall. Pulitzer Prize-winner Caroline Shaw joins S? Percussion as vocalist for ten songs she co-composed with the quartet members. Let the Soil Play Its Simple Part explores soil cultivation as a metaphor for creativity and collaboration. Shaw’s remarkable ear for melody and harmony and S?’s playful sense of rhythmic invention come together in this strikingly original music. Taking inspiration from James Joyce, ABBA, American roots music, plainchant, Christian hymns and stories from the Old Testament, S? Percussion and Caroline Shaw dissolve the boundaries between classical and pop. In the first half of the program, S? Percussion will perform works in its repertoire from a trio of young composers including ensemble member Eric Cha-Beach, Angélica Negrón and Nathalie Joachim.

April 22 — UCSB Arts & Lectures to present Ukulele Orchestra of Great Britain

Lady Gaga. Wagner. Talking Heads. No repertoire is safe from the artistry and insanity of the Ukulele Orchestra of Great Britain. With punk rock sensibilities and restrained British humor, this eight-piece band of expert strummers and singers has charmed audiences the world over. Devilishly irreverent and shockingly eclectic, the orchestra is a bona fide U.K. national treasure, inspiring an international love affair with its humble four-string namesake. 

April 22 — Bilingual report — This Earth Day, RESCUECON puts at-risk animals front and center at the Oxnard Performing Arts Center

OXNARD — For the first time since the start of the pandemic, the Oxnard Performing Arts Center Corporation (OPAC) welcomes back RESCUECON, a one day event bringing creativity and community together to celebrate and facilitate animal rescue and adoption. The event is free and open to the public and will be held on Saturday, April 22 (Earth Day) from 10 am to 3 pm at the Oxnard Performing Arts & Convention Center. More information can be found at: theopac.org/rescuecon

RESCUECON is a convention like no other, where the human-animal bond takes center stage. Through animal adoptions and the arts, hands-on workshops, a kid’s area, talks by really amazing people, an artisan marketplace, and so much more, attendees will learn, play, explore, and, above all, refresh their relationship with animals… and each other.

April 22 — Studio Channel Islands presents Gypsy Interlude — Concert in the Gallery

Studio Channel Islands Art Center (SCIART) Presents long-time friends Armen Guzelimian and Gilles Apap are performing together for the first time ever at Studio Channel Islands.

Armen Guzelimian is celebrated for his versatility as a top-notch collaborative artist, a brilliant soloist and first-rate chamber musician not only in Southern California, but all over the world. He has received national and international critical acclaim for his appearances in many of the major concert halls in the U.S.A and Europe.

As a chamber musician, Mr. Guzelimian’s has appeared with the Rossetti String Quartet, the Los Angeles String Quartet, Camerata Pacifica, the Dilijan Chamber Music Series, Chamber Music in Historic Sites, the Santa Fe Chamber Music Festival, and the Aspen Festival. He made his Disney Hall debut in March of 2014 with the Los Angeles Philharmonic Chamber Music Society and returned to the delight of audiences in November 2016.

April 22 — People’s Self-Help Housing announces 2023 Builder Games – Get your tickets early and save!

This Spring, support People’s Self-Help Housing at their signature fundraiser – The Builder Games!

Cheer on teams building playhouses, as they race against the clock and face fun challenges. See who becomes this year’s ‘Builder Games Champion’, while enjoying gourmet food, fine wine, craft beer, and live music.

April 22, 23 — CSUCI University Chorus and four high school choirs will sing in Choral Spectacular 2023

Five choruses totaling more than 100 singers will perform together April 22 and 23 in CSU Channel Islands (CSUCI)’s Choral Spectacular 2023.

The CSU Channel Islands University Chorus will be joined by the Pleasant Valley School District Chorus, Santa Paula High School Cardinal Concert Choir, Ventura High School Chorale and Rancho Campana High School Concert Choir as they sing a variety of musical pieces in several languages. The performance will also feature the Channel Islands Chamber Orchestra (CHICO).

April 22 — SEEAG To Host Earth Day Plantopia U Pick Transplant Fundraiser At Farm Lab in Saticoy

Students for Eco-Education and Agriculture (SEEAG) will host its first annual Plantopia U Pick Transplant Fundraiser to celebrate Earth Day. The event, held on Earth Day, April 22, will raise funds to support SEEAG’s agricultural education programs where students learn about the farm origins of their food, water resources, soil health, entomology and locally grown fruits and vegetables.

April 23 — UCSB Arts & Lectures presents ARTEMIS at Campbell Hall

UCSB Arts & Lectures (A&L) presents ARTEMIS on Sunday, April 23 at 7 p.m. at Campbell Hall. ARTEMIS is an international ensemble of modern jazz masters named for the ancient Greek goddess of the hunt. Founded in 2017 under the banner of International Women’s Day, it made a memorable splash at the 2018 Newport Jazz Festival, followed by a debut recording on Blue Note in 2020. Each member is a composer and bandleader in their own right, and the collective’s repertoire draws from new compositions written expressly for them, to classics by Lee Morgan, Thelonious Monk and Wayne Shorter.

April 23 — UCSB Arts & Lectures  presents Artemis at UCSB Campbell Hall

ARTEMIS is an international ensemble of modern jazz masters named for the ancient Greek goddess of the hunt. Founded in 2017 under the banner of International Women’s Day, it made a memorable splash at the 2018 Newport Jazz Festival, followed by a debut recording on Blue Note in 2020. Each member is a composer and bandleader in their own right, and the collective’s repertoire draws from new compositions written expressly for them, to classics by Lee Morgan, Thelonious Monk and Wayne Shorter.

April 25 — UCSB Arts & Lectures presents 24th U.S. Poet Laureate Ada Limón at Campbell Hall

UCSB Arts & Lectures (A&L) presents Ada Limón on Tuesday, April 25 at 7:30 p.m. at Campbell Hall. For Ada Limón, poetry is elemental, necessary and deeply human. Known for “clear storytelling, vivid visuals, and a final turn that snaps you like a twig” (Guernica Magazine), Limón is the author of six books of poetry. The Carrying won the National Book Critics Circle Award. Bright Dead Thingswas nominated for the National Book Award. Her newest book of poetry, The Hurting Kind, was named one of The New York Times’ 100 Notable Books of 2022. The first woman of Mexican ancestry to be named U.S. poet laureate, Limón views identity – and poetry – as an avenue to greater possibilities.

April 26 — Free LightGabler Webinar: ‘What Have You Done for Me Lately?–Evaluating Employee Performance’

Employment law firm LightGabler is presenting a free employment law webinar, “What Have You Done for Me Lately?–Evaluating Employee Performance.” The webinar is Wednesday, April 26 from 10:30 a.m. to noon.

Preparing employee performance evaluations is a task often dreaded by managers and human resource professionals alike. And yet, documenting performance is critical for employee productivity, workplace morale, effective supervisor-subordinate communication and legal protection. Like all employment documentation, poorly-prepared evaluations can be more dangerous than no evaluations at all.

April 27 — Economic Development Collaborative (EDC) to present free Social Media In-Person Workshop

Economic Development Collaborative (EDC), City of Santa Paula and Santa Paula Chamber of Commerce are teaming up to bring you a NO-COST in-person workshop on social media planning, unique marketing strategies and boosting sales through advertising. Don’t miss out on this opportunity to learn valuable business skills!

April 27 @ 6:30 PM

Address: Glenn Tavern Inn,134 N Mill St, Santa Paula, CA 93060

April 27 — UCSB Arts & Lectures presents Isabella Rossellini in Conversation with Pico Iyer at The New Vic

A storied model and movie star, Isabella Rossellini represents a startling example of self reinvention. Born into European film royalty as the daughter of director Roberto Rossellini and actor Ingrid Bergman, her own performances are some of the definitive images in film. After a successful career in acting and modeling, she earned a master’s degree in animal behavior and now creates unique and humorous works of performance art based on her research. Known for her philanthropic efforts in animal conservation among other areas, Rossellini runs an organic farm in Bellport, New York. As former muse and partner to artists like David Lynch, Martin Scorsese and Gary Oldman, Rossellini has stories to share and ideas of her own about the trials and tribulations of a life lived almost entirely in the public eye. 

April 28 — West Ventura County Business Alliance to present address by CSU Channel Islands President Richard Yao

The West Ventura County Business Alliance, the chamber of commerce serving Camarillo and Oxnard, will host the State of the University address by President Richard Yao, Ph.D., of California State University Channel Islands on Friday, April 28.

Each year the president addresses the business community at the CSUCI Connection Luncheon with updates from the University, one of the major economic engines in the region. Yao will discuss highlights from the University’s 20th Anniversary last year as well as major plans, projects and initiatives for the next decade.

April 28, 29, 30 — Ventura College to present ‘These Shining Lives’ by Melanie Marnich at the Ventura College Theatre

It’s the roaring 20s and gender norms have started to shift. Four young women celebrate their new-found freedoms as employees of the Radium Dial Company, decorating watches and clockfaces with a new invention, glow-in-the-dark paint. As decades pass and a toxic truth begins to emerge, the women struggle to hold the company accountable for stealing their health by valuing profit over safety. Based on the true story of the Radium Girls, Melanie Marnich’s “These Shining Lives” illuminates the spirits of these ordinary women whose courageous battle for social justice continues to resonate in the laws that protect today’s worker.

April 29 — Santa Barbara Maritime Museum & Anchor Rose Restaurant to present book signing with author Will Sofrin

The Santa Barbara Maritime Museum and the Anchor Rose Restauran will present a book signing with author Will Sofrin of the memoir “All Hands on Deck: A Modern-Day High Seas Adventure to the Far Side of the World” from 4:30 to 9:30 p.m. Saturday, April 28 at 113 Harbor Way, Santa Barbara.

The event will include an outdoor screening of the feature film Master and Commander.

April 29 — Bilingual report — Economic Development Collaborative (EDC) presenting free workshop ‘Working for a Better Future: The Power of Family Child Care Providers’

Join us in recognition of Ventura County’s family child care providers with a day filled with professional learning, networking and celebration! This free event will feature a keynote presentation from Miriam Beloglovsky, author of Loose Parts: Inspiring Play in Young Children and workshops on:

April 29-30 — Santa Barbara Earth Day Festival Back in Full Force – Highlights Announced

The Community Environmental Council and its long-time festival partner, CarpEvents, are thrilled to bring the Santa Barbara Earth Day Festival  back to Alameda Park on Saturday, April 29 from 11:00 a.m. to 7:00 p.m. and Sunday, April 30 from 11:00 a.m. to 6:00 p.m. 

Tens of thousands of community members are anticipated to attend to connect with climate-forward businesses and organizations, engage in climate-focused educational activities, hear from dozens of speakers on a variety of environmental topics, savor locally sourced, climate-friendly food and beverage, and enjoy live music. 

April 29 — Oxnard Performing Arts Center to celebrate 55 Years with Casino Night Fundraiser

The Oxnard Performing Arts & Convention Center celebrates its 55th anniversary this Spring! The Center’s nonprofit arm, the Oxnard Performing Arts Center Corporation (OPAC), is kickstarting the festivities with a Casino Night on Saturday, April 29 to raise funds for its community programs which provide 5,000 low-income students with free access to art and music education.

Through April 30 — Channel Islands Maritime Museum to Present Annual Oxnard Union High School District Student Art Show

The Channel Islands Maritime Museum (CIMM) will be presenting its latest exhibition, The Oxnard Union High School District Student Art Show, in its Brenda and Gary Farr Gallery through April 30.

Art is a strong, unifying element within the community and students will be showcasing their talents in a variety of two-dimensional and three-dimensional mediums.

“We are proud to host a show where students can share their creative expressions and lived experiences,” said CIMM’s Collections and Exhibitions Manager Olivia Williamson. “We invite you to come and witness the next generation of great artists.”

April 30 — Santa Barbara Museum of Art to present acclaimed poet and art critic John Yau in conversation with artist Joan Tanner

Artist Joan Tanner joins acclaimed poet and art critic, John Yau, Professor of Critical Studies at Rutgers University, for a conversation. Tanner is currently the subject of a solo SBMA exhibition, Out of Joint: Joan Tanner (through May 14). Yau has edited the Brooklyn Rail and Hyperallergic Weekend, and has authored some 50 books of poetry.

May 2 — Pacific Coast Futures Retreat brings together forward thinkers to navigate AI, Climate and Aging population

Artificial intelligence. Aging populations. The climate crisis. The world is changing more rapidly than any other moment in history, opening the door to both unprecedented volatility and unmatched innovation. The time to prepare for tomorrow’s challenges is now — and an immersive Santa Barbara conference is equipping future-forward thinkers to lead the charge. 

Hosted by Global Futurist and Innovation Keynote Speaker Robert. B Tucker, the Pacific Coast Futures Retreat will bring the nation’s leading minds to Santa Barbara for an immersive one-day exploration in innovation. Registration is now open for the May 2 retreat, which is limited to 60 future-minded attendees. 

Through May 2 — Economic Development Collaborative (EDC) to present In-person NO-COST QuickBooks Workshop

The Economic Development Collaborative (EDC) and the Fillmore Association of Business (FAB) are partnering to offer a no-cost 4-week QuickBooks Online workshop led by Juliana Ramírez, a financial advisor from EDC’s Small Business Development Center. Juliana is an experienced accountant, entrepreneur, business advisor and Certified QuickBooks Online ProAdvisor who has helped numerous small businesses, including her own, ranging from restaurants to retail stores, car dealerships to dental offices and non-profit organizations.

May 2 — Economic Development Collaborative (EDC) business alert — World Trade Week Southern California

World Trade Week Southern California, presented by the Los Angeles Area Chamber of Commerce, has been promoting global trade and supporting our region’s economic growth for almost a century. The annual Kickoff Conference and more than 30 events held throughout May create a platform for innovation, collaboration and exploring new growth opportunities. As a driving force for our region’s success, World Trade Week highlights the critical role of international trade in sustaining our global economy.

May 3 — UCSB Arts & Letters to present Laura Dern & Diane Ladd in ‘Honey, Baby, Mine: A Mother and Daughter Talk Life and Love’

During the global pandemic, acclaimed actor Laura Dern (Big Little Lies, Twin Peaks, Jurassic Park) and legendary talent Diane Ladd (Alice Doesn’t Live Here Anymore, Chinatown) began taking long walks together. The mother and daughter had appeared alongside one another in Rambling Rose and David Lynch’s Wild at Heart, and their relationship deepened as they were able to break down the traditional barriers between parent and child, speaking honestly about moments that profoundly impacted them.

May 3 — Cal Lutheran to present New Venture Fair (NVF)

Cal Lutheran’s New Venture Fair (NVF) is back in person! The NVF 2023 showcases over 70 student-led startup projects, including those from Cal Lutheran’s undergraduate, graduate, and Executive MBA in Europe programs, in addition to high school teams from Bakersfield Christian High School, Newbury Park High School, Oaks Christian School, Thousand Oaks High School, and a middle school team from OCS.

The NVF is an expo-style event where each team furnishes its booth and demos its product. The community is invited to circulate the room, meet the teams, learn about their startup ideas, and vote for their favorites. Awards will be presented at the end of the evening.

May 4 — Founder of Safe Passage Youth Foundation Tim Hagel To Keynote Southeast Ventura County YMCA National Day of Prayer Breakfast

 Founder of Safe Passage Youth Foundation Tim Hagel is the keynote speaker at the Southeast Ventura County YMCA’s National Day of Prayer Breakfast, Thursday, May 4 at California Lutheran University’s Gilbert Sports Center in Thousand Oaks.

“Tim’s roots are deep in the Conejo Valley and he’s been an inspiration to the community for years,” says Ronnie Stone, Southeast Ventura County YMCA President/CEO. Hagel is the former Police Chief Ventura County Sheriff’s Office and is on the board of many community non-profits.

May 6 — Social Justice Fund for Ventura County announces event promoting health equity in Nyeland Acres

The Social Justice Fund invites you to join us on May 6th to learn more about the work of one of our Fellows, Brenda Heredia, and the movement for promoting health equity in Nyeland Acres!

Please click here to find more details and RSVP. We look forward to seeing you there!

As our SJFVC Fellows progress through their projects, the SJFVC wants to highlight the thoughtful and compassionate leadership displayed by these wonderful individuals. They demonstrate a form of leadership that prioritizes the voices and needs of the communities they work alongside. Thanks to supporters like you, our Fellows have the ability to address particular forms of inequity and deepen their support of their communities.

May 6 — First Santa Barbara Black Grad event to celebrate local Black graduates from TK-SBCC

Santa Barbara City College (SBCC), in partnership with the Santa Barbara Unified School District (SB Unified), announces a special, invitation-only ceremony honoring and celebrating the promotion, culmination, graduation and transfer of Black students in south Santa Barbara county, from transitional kindergarten through City College.

The ceremony, hosted by the SBCC Umoja Community, is scheduled for Saturday, May 6, 1-3 p.m. at the Fe’ Bland Forum on SBCC’s West Campus. Graduating Black scholars in the Santa Barbara community will be honored by VIP guests including family members, administrators from local elementary, junior high and high schools, as well as administrators from the Santa Barbara and Goleta Union School Districts. SBCC Board members and selected local officials are also invited.

May 6 — Free Mental Health Fair at Santa Barbara Cottage Hospital

After a three-year pause, the Cottage Mental Health Fair is back in person. The purpose of the fair is to provide information about mental illness, substance use disorders and services in the community.

This year’s fair will be held at Santa Barbara Cottage Hospital on Saturday, May 6, 10 a.m. – 2 p.m.

The event will feature 15-20 community nonprofit agencies covering topics ranging from mental health and wellness, substance use disorders, community resources, wellness and recovery.

May 6 — UCSB Arts & Lectures presents Mark Morris Dance Group at The Granada Theatre

Mark Morris Dance Group’s evening-length work, The Look of Love, is the newest collaboration from choreographer Mark Morris and arranger Ethan Iverson. An homage to the chart-topping songs of Burt Bacharach – including popular compositions for Dionne Warwick such as “Walk on By” and “I’ll Never Fall in Love Again” – the piece features original choreography, a live musical ensemble and lush new arrangements of more than a dozen legendary hits by the multi-award-winning composer.

May 7 — Oxnard College to Host Second Annual Family Festival

Oxnard College will host its second annual Family Festival on Sunday, May 7, 2023 from 12-4 p.m. This family-friendly event is free and open to the community; it will take place in front of the college’s Performing Arts Building and in tandem with the Oxnard College Foundation’s weekly Community Market.

“We’re proud to continue growing this tradition here in Oxnard,” shared Dr. Oscar Cobian, interim president of Oxnard College. “Our annual festival invites friends of Oxnard College to visit our beautiful campus for a day of fun and to learn about our award-winning programs. We hope young children attending the event will also begin thinking about their dreams and goals for attending college.”

May 9 — Join Sugar Lab Bake Shop In Ventura Harbor Village for Two Cookie Decorating Classes Just In Time For Mother’s Day

Sugar Lab Bake Shop In Ventura Harbor Village has converted one of their storage rooms upstairs to be able to offer in person cookie classes. 

The Beginner Cookie Decorating Course is a 4 hour introductory course to cookie decorating. I’ll go over my recipes, icing consistencies, and various piping techniques to decorate beautiful cookies. This course is definitely for those that want to get into cookie decorating as a hobby, or even turn it into a side hustle as a few of my former students have. You’ll decorate two sets of cookies to learn even more techniques. This class is on Monday May 8, 5:30-9:30 pm. 

May 9 — UCSB Arts & Lectures presents Woman. Life. Freedom at UCSB’s Art, Design & Architecture Museum

Woman. Life. Freedom. is a public art projection featuring 30 artworks by anonymous international artists. These monumental digital images, which will be projected onto the façade of the UCSB Art, Design & Architecture Museum, respond to systemic gender inequity and discrimination in Iran.

May 9 — Channel Islands Maritime Museum Presents New Exhibition, PORT/TRAIT

Beginning May 9, 2023, the Channel Islands Maritime Museum (CIMM) will be presenting its latest exhibition, PORT/TRAIT, in its Brenda and Gary Farr Gallery.

From the inception of photography in the early 1840s, cameras captured the international migrations of sailors around the world. The invention of photography can be credited to Louis Daguerre, a French inventor and artist who first introduced the concept to the French Academy of Sciences in 1839. That same year, the American inventor Robert Cornelius produced what’s considered the first photographic self-portrait. Their creation of portrait photography generated a multitude of encounters between sailors and photographers, capturing their lives at sea for global audiences.

May 10 — UCSB Arts & Lectures presents Charles Montgomery ‘Happy City: Transforming Our Lives Through Urban Design’ at UCSB’s Campbell Hall

The city you live in has a powerful effect on how you behave. How, then, do we design happy cities? Urban design consultant, award-winning journalist and author of Happy City, Charles Montgomery looks for answers in psychology, neuroscience, behavioral economics and cityscapes from Disneyland to Dubai.

May 11 — Housing Trust Fund Ventura County to host another guest immersion experience

Housing Trust Fund Ventura County (Housing Trust Fund VC) will host their fourth annual Compassion Campaign on May 11, 2023, from 5PM-9PM, in-person at the Museum of Ventura County. Sponsored in part by Ventura County Credit Union, this year promises to be another memorable evening as guests of COMPASSION CAMPAIGN – HOME MADE: FUND IT + BUILD IT + LIVE IT are invited to stroll through three powerful exhibits showcasing how safe, equitable, and affordable homes are funded, built, and lived in within Ventura County. For tickets and sponsorship opportunities, please visit www.housingtrustfundvc.org/2023cc-tickets

May 11 — UCSB Arts & Lectures presents Víkingur Ólafsson at Hahn Hall

UCSB Arts & Lectures (A&L) presents Víkingur Ólafsson on Thursday, May 11 at 7 p.m at Hahn Hall. Icelandic virtuoso Víkingur Ólafsson combines out-of-this-world musicianship with an unusual gift for programming. His concerts are carefully calibrated compositions; each segment comments on those that come before and after. At Hahn Hall, Ólafsson will perform a Mozart & Contemporaries program that sheds light on lesser-known figures such as Domenico Cimarosa and Baldassare Galuppi and illuminates obscure, daring works by Mozart and Haydn. This intimate recital offers a rare opportunity to explore unheard depths and connections among music’s greatest composers.

May 12 — Ventura College to present Ventura Chamber Music’s ‘Music for a May Night’ with director Ashley Walters

On Friday, May 12, Ventura College Chamber Music (Ashley Walters, Director) presents its talented chamber music students in organically-formed ensembles collaborating to perform highly varied repertoire spanning the classical era to present day. The program for this concert features music by composers including Clara Schumann, Henri Duparc and Francis Poulenc. One performance only!

May 13 — Dreams Bloom at Family Service Agency Fundraiser

Join Family Service Agency (FSA) of Santa Barbara County, as it turns compassion into action at its spring fundraiser, Dreams in Bloom. The event takes place on May 13, from 5-8 p.m. at the Santa Barbara Woman’s Club at Rockwood. Proceeds benefit the children, families, and seniors served by FSA—which includes Santa Maria Valley Youth & Family Center and Guadalupe’s Little House by the Park. 

Dreams in Bloom celebrates the resilience and growth of the 28,000 people served by the nonprofit each year. The event features a cocktail hour, music, dinner, auction, and flowers galore! Last year, FSA’s spring fundraiser raised over $150,000 to support the agency’s provision of basic needs assistance, family support, and mental health counseling programs countywide.

May 13 — ‘Andrea Vargas: On the Ranch’ Opens at Santa Paula Art Museum

The Santa Paula Art Museum is pleased to present “On the Ranch,” a solo exhibition by Santa Fe artist and longtime Ventura County resident Andrea Vargas. Featuring over 40 all-new paintings and drawings, “On the Ranch” honors the places at the heart of Vargas’ life and art: her familial homes in Santa Paula and Ventura, California. Meet the artist during the exhibit premiere party on Saturday, May 13, 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. “On the Ranch” will be on view at the Santa Paula Art Museum from May 13, 2023, to September 10, 2023. All of the artworks are available for purchase.

May 14 — Ventura College Symphony & Chamber Orchestras to present ‘The Sounds of Springtime’ with director Ashley Walters

This mother’s day join Ventura College Instrumental Ensembles for a very special concert. The Symphony & Chamber Orchestras will perform music including Tchaikovsky’s Serenade for Strings; Copland’s Rodeo, plus music by Duke Ellington. VC is proud to present Juan Pablo Conteras’s Mariachitlán. The composer has been working with VC’s student musicians on this piece and plans to join us for the concert.

May 15 — Bilingual report — County of Ventura Elections Office seeking community leaders for Language Accessibility Advisory Committee

The County of Ventura Elections Office seeking community leaders to serve on a Language Accessibility Advisory Committee Committee (LAAC) in Ventura County.

You are cordially invited to participate in the quarterly LAAC meeting as we prepare for the 2024 Presidential Primary Election. Your voice matters!

The next quarterly meeting will be held at 10 a.m. Monday, May 15. We will be conducting the meeting via the Zoom web conference platform.

Topic: LAAC Quarterly Meeting to discuss language preparation for the 2024 Presidential Primary Election

May 20 — Take a Road Trip to Lompoc To Experience Sheep Shearing Day At La Purisima Mission State Historic Park

Travelers to Lompoc can witness Sheep Shearing Day at La Purisima Mission State Historic Park in Lompoc, California on May 20, 2023 from 10AM to 2:00 PM with times subject to change! 

Visitors from near and far can watch as the sheep get their annual hair cut and learn all about wool production. 

Additionally, there will be fun activities for the entire family.  These include touring the historic Mission grounds, visiting the La Purisima Visitor Center, viewing exhibits that cover the history of the Mission, and exploring 25 miles hiking trails.

May 20-21 — 37th Annual California Strawberry Festival to be held at the Ventura County Fairgrounds

After a three-year hiatus due to challenges brought on by the pandemic, the 37thAnnual California Strawberry Festival will take place Saturday and Sunday, May 20-21. For the first time, the event will be held at the Ventura County Fairgrounds (10 W. Harbor Blvd., Ventura, CA 93001). Festivalgoers can indulge in strawberry treats from over 50 food and beverage booths. The festival features artists and crafters, a Ninja Nation obstacle course, live entertainment on two stages, Strawberryland for kids and “build-your-own” strawberry shortcake.

May 20 — Bilingual report — Health & Wellness Resource Fair to be held in Fillmore

n recognition of Mental Health Awareness Month in May, the Fillmore Health and Wellness Resource Fair aims to showcase the many health, wellness, safety, social services and educational resources that are available to residents of Fillmore and the Santa Clara Valley, for everyone from young children to seniors to be healthy, stay engaged and to thrive. 

May 21 — Wildling Museum’s 2023 Wilderness Spirit Brunch to honor Beth Pratt & P-22

The Wildling Museum is pleased to announce that tickets are on sale now for the 2023 Wilderness Spirit Brunch, taking place Sunday, May 21st at Craft House at Corque in Solvang. This year’s Wilderness Spirit Award recipients are Beth Pratt and cougar P-22. 

VIP ticket holders will enjoy a pre-reception mixer with Pratt before savoring a delicious brunch buffet, complete with a Bloody Mary and mimosa bar. Attendees will also enjoy a spirited live auction supporting the Wildling Museum with opportunities to bid on getaways, including a once-in-a-lifetime Alaskan cruise, Santa Ynez Valley experiences, one-of-a-kind artworks, and more. 

May 22 — UCSB Arts & Lectures presents a conversation with Jonathan Greenblatt at Campbell Hall

UCSB Arts & Lectures (A&L) presents a conversation with Jonathan Greenblatt on Monday, May 22 at 7:30 p.m. at Campbell Hall. As the chief executive of the Anti-Defamation League, the world’s leading anti-hate organization, Jonathan Greenblatt has created innovative approaches to carry out what has been ADL’s mission since its founding in 1913: to fight the defamation of the Jewish people, and to secure justice and fair treatment to all. His recent book, It Could Happen Here, warns that hate and systemic violence are gathering momentum in the U.S. Drawing on ADL’s decades of experience in fighting hate through investigative research, education programs and legislative victories, as well as his own personal story and his background in business and government, Greenblatt offers a bracing primer on how we can strike back against hate.

May 23 — Bilingual report — Ventura County Public Works to Host over 1,300 Local Students

For this year’s National Public Works Day on May 23rd, more than 1,200 students in Ventura County will visit the Ventura County Public Works Agency! National Public Works Day is an opportunity for kindergarten through high school students to learn about the world of public works. PWA provides water, sanitation, vertical construction, survey, grading, roads, transportation systems, controlling and conserving storm waters, and working as first responders for major events. This year’s theme, “Connecting the World Through Public Works,” highlights how public works professionals connect us through infrastructure, planning, and building.

VCPWA will transform the “G” lot at the Government Center into a display of heavy equipment and booths demonstrating the agency’s work. Local students will participate in interactive demonstrations focused on science, technological innovations, illustrations of current engineering projects, career opportunities, and more.

May 26 — Oxnard College’s Athletic Department Hosts Second Annual Hall of Fame Banquet

The Oxnard College Athletic Alumni Association is hosting its second annual Hall of Fame Gala on Friday, May 26, at the Oxnard College Performing Arts Center. Former athletes, alumni, and the general public are invited to attend the reception and dinner to honor two Oxnard College Athletic Alumni superstars, Randi Walters (2006-2008) and Jeremiah Massey (2001-2003). 

Honoree Randi Walters was voted the Western State Conference Player of the Year during her athletic career at Oxnard College and was also named first-team All-Ventura County. During her time at Oxnard College, Walters also played on the college’s inaugural softball team. She was later recruited to play soccer at the University of Hawaii-Hilo for her sophomore and junior years, where she was second team All PacWest conference selection. Walters then transferred to Colorado State University-Pueblo, where she was voted MVP by her teammates.   

May 24 — City of Santa Paula Parks & Recreation Department presents “Wellness Fair” for Seniors

The City of Santa Paula Parks and Recreation Department is proud to announce the upcoming “Wellness Fair” for seniors, which will be held on Wednesday, May 24th, 2023, from 10:00 am – 1:30 pm at the Parks and Recreation Community Center – Cultural Arts Building, located at 530 West Main St. This free event is taking place along with the regular monthly luncheon and is open to all seniors in our community and will feature a BBQ lunch, music, and various booths focused on promoting health and wellness.

May 27 — Second Annual Asian American Pacific Islander (AAPI) returns to Oxnard Performing Arts Center

OPAC is proud to partner with Pinaysphere, a Filipinx Arts Mentorship nonprofit, to present the Second Annual Asian American Pacific Islander (AAPI) Festival, Saturday, May 27, 2023 from 12 noon to 5 pm at Heritage Square in Downtown Oxnard. The event is in celebration of AAPI Heritage Month which recognizes the contributions and influences of Asian Americans and Pacific Islander Americans to the history, culture, and achievements of the United States. OPAC’s event amplifies the narratives of our AAPI community by spotlighting local talent, entrepreneurs, artists, and grassroots leaders. 

Through May 27 — Studio Channel Islands Art Center (SCIART) will present DIS CONNECTION

Studio Channel Islands Art Center (SCIART) will present DIS CONNECTION, a program of visual and performing art in the Blackboard Gallery through May 27. The exhibition has been Curated by SCIART Artist-in-Residence Elana Kundell, featuring the work of eight contemporary female artists who have a family history of displacement by global events. The exhibition includes paintings, installation artworks, photography and sculpture responding to the personal impact of losing one’s home and community, one of the most consequential topics of our time.

May 29 — Join the Pierre Claeyssens Veterans Foundation as we remember those who gave the greatest sacrifice for our country

This Memorial Day, join the Pierre Claeyssens Veterans Foundation (PCVF) at the Santa Barbara Cemetery as we remember those who gave the greatest sacrifice for our country. This free event will be Monday, May 29, 2023 at 11:00 am sharp at the Santa Barbara Cemetery, 901 Channel Drive., Santa Barbara, CA 93108. 

May 29 — Save The Date – San Luis Obispo Memorial Day Remembrance Ceremony with Lunch and Special Museum Exhibit

Join us for an annual Memorial Day Remembrance Ceremony taking place outside at the Veterans Memorial Building in San Luis Obispo on Monday, May 29, at 11:00 a.m. located at 801 Grand Avenue, near the Cal Poly entrance.  Co-hosted by American Legion Post 66 and Central Coast Veterans Memorial Museum. San Luis Obispo County residents and visitors of all ages will come together on this special day, to honor and remember all who lost their lives making the ultimate sacrifice during their service to our country.  

May 29 — City of Oxnard to hold Memorial Day Ceremony

Please join the City of Oxnard on Monday, May 29, 2023, for a Memorial Day Ceremony in Downtown Oxnard at Plaza Park (500 South C Street), starting at 11:00 a.m.

Memorial Day is a solemn day of remembrance for everyone who has died serving in the American Armed Forces. We welcome the Oxnard community to participate in honoring and remembering our fallen service members.

May 31 — Compassionate Care of Carpinteria Luncheon to Remember Those We’ve Lost

Compassionate Care of Carpinteria (CCC) will host its 5th Annual luncheon, The Light Shines Ahead on Wednesday, May 31, 2023, in person, from 11:30 am to 1:30 pm at the Rincon Beach Club, located at 3805 Santa Claus Ln, Carpinteria, CA. This year’s event will have a special focus on remembering loved ones who have passed away and their impact on our lives. Guests will be provided with an opportunity to donate and support the wonderful work of CCC in the name of their loved ones, helping bring programs and services, completely free of charge, to adults, children and seniors who are struggling with grief or life-threatening illness. Guests are also invited to bring a photograph of their loved ones to place at their table.

May 31 — Free LightGabler Webinar: ‘There Must Be Fifty Ways to Leave Your Employee-Handling Employee Terminations’

Employment law firm LightGabler is presenting a free employment law webinar, “There Must Be Fifty Ways to Leave Your Employee: Handling Employee Terminations.” The webinar is Wednesday, May 31 from 10:30 a.m. to noon.

California is an at-will employment state, and yet it also has the highest number of wrongful termination cases in the nation. Avoiding employee lawsuits (even when they are frivolous) requires that employers effectively and lawfully handle employee terminations.

June 1 — Economic Development Collaborative (EDC) to present N PERSON EVENT: Broadband for All, Digital Equity and BEAD Regional Planning Workshop

Economic Development Collaborative (EDC), Santa Barbara Foundation (SBF), the California Department of Technology (CDT) and the California Public Utilities Commission (CPUC) are hosting a workshop to seek input on the development on the State Digital Equity Plan (SDEP) and the Broadband Equity, Access and Deployment (BEAD) Five-Year Action Plan.

EDC, SBF, CDT and CPUC are working to close the digital divide and ask community members from all walks of life to take part by sharing their experiences with connectivity and adoption issues, device access and knowledge/training about how to use devices.

June 1 — Bilingual report —Experts Share How to Prepare for Upcoming Heat Waves

entura County is warming faster than any other county in the contiguous U.S., with neighboring Santa Barbara and San Luis Obispo Counties not far behind. Higher temperatures put the health and well-being of the most vulnerable—including agricultural workers, youth, and the elderly—in serious jeopardy. 

On Thursday, June 1, the Community Environmental Council (CEC) will bring together local and national experts who are on the frontlines of developing solutions to safeguard community members when temperatures soar. 

June 3 — First Wild Oaks Country Music Festival Debuts in Thousand Oaks

The first annual Wild Oaks Country Music Festival will take place Saturday, June 3 in Thousand Oaks and will feature some of Nashville’s favorite country artists.

Performers set to appear include country chart-topping Craig Morgan, grammy-nominated CAM, and local favorites Justin Honsinger and Chris Johnson and the Hollywood Hillbillies (straight from the Cowboy Palace in Chatsworth).

Through June 5 — Bilingual report — Alternative Action Programs (AAP) presenting 12-week Community Workgroup Series ‘Parenting Groups’ in Oxnard, Ventura

Alternative Action Programs (AAP) in Oxnard will present a 12-week  Community Workgroup Series Parenting Groups through June 5 in Ventura and Oxnard. 

Click on images for more information.

June 5 — VITA E-bus coming to Ventura County to help those with low-moderate incomes to file for Available Tax Credits through VITA Program

Due to the winter storms the tax filing deadline for Ventura County has been extended and now low- to moderate-income Ventura County residents can have their state and federal tax returns prepared and e-filed for free on June 5th when the United Way E-bus tour comes to Ventura County. Residents can put more money back in their pocket with the help of the Volunteer Income Tax Assistance (VITA) Program offered by United Way of Ventura County and the County of Ventura Human Services Agency.

June 7 — Bilingual report — Dementia Friendly Ventura County One-Stop Shop

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, June 7, at the Goebel Adult Community Center in Thousand Oaks.

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.

June 8 — The Port of Hueneme invites you to our World Oceans Day Sustaining the Seas Summit

As stewards of the water, the Port of Hueneme is hosting a series of four short sessions on June 8th, seeking to inspire change and celebrate World Oceans Day! The Presenters and topics will showcase individuals whose organizations, projects, and initiatives align with the port’s mission of growing a blue economy while protecting and preserving one of the most critical pieces of our biosphere.

June 9 — Boys & Girls Clubs of Greater Conejo Valley to present After Dark Comedy Event

On June 9, we will be hosting a night of laughter and entertainment with some of the best comedians in the business. Our event will be held at the John L. Notter Family Boys & Girls Club, and all proceeds will go directly to supporting our programs and services for youth in our community.

Tickets are available at: funnygirlevents.com

June 10 — Promoting LGBTQ+ Youth Pride in Santa Clara Valley

Join us as we launch the 2nd Annual LGBTQ+ Youth Pride in Santa Paula as a community gathering and resource fair, celebrating PRIDE Month ? in a welcoming space to engage and empower LGBTQ youth and their allies from the Santa Clara Valley. Rainbow Breakfast is presented by Big Brothers Big Sisters of Ventura County, Coalition for Family Harmony, and the Museum of Ventura County and will include Santa Paula’s first openly gay City Council Member Pedro Chavez as emcee along with special guests.

June 10 — Livingston Memorial Visiting Nurse Association & Hospice to Honor Terri & Mark Lisagor at 75th Anniversary Celebration

 Livingston Memorial Visiting Nurse Association & Hospice (LMVNA) will pay tribute to community leaders Terri & Mark Lisagor at its upcoming 75th anniversary celebration. The event, Soirée at the Ranch, will be held on Saturday, June 10, 2023, at the exclusive Petersen Ranch in Somis. The evening will feature live music and dancing and honor the Lisagors for their lasting contributions to Livingston and their commitment to serving the community.

June 11 — Temple Etz Chaim in Thousand Oaks to host acclaimed Jewish musical groups

Temple Etz Chaim is proud to announce it will host two critically-acclaimed music groups, Nefesh Mountain Band and Mostly Kosher, on June 11 for a community concert, Cantor Kenny & Friends: An Entertaining Evening Celebrating Jewish Music. 

Cantor Kenny Ellis, who will emcee the event,  has been a cantor for over 30 years, serving at numerous synagogues in the Los Angeles area. Cantor Kenny produced Hanukkah Swings!, the world’s one-and-only big band Hanukkah album. He has performed at West Point and Avery Fisher Hall at the Lincoln Center. He has played a rabbi on many shows including Curb Your Enthusiasm and Law and Order.

The concert will be held Sunday, June 11 from 6:30 p.m. to 9 p.m. at Temple Etz Chaim at 1080 East Janss Road in Thousand Oaks. The concert will be held in the temple’s newly re-opened state-of-the-art sanctuary and social hall. 

June 14 — Livingston Memorial Visiting Nurse Association & Hospice holding training for Life Story program

Livingston Memorial Visiting Nurse Association & Hospice is bringing back its beloved Life Story program. This program is designed to provide both community members and hospice patients the opportunity to record their personal memoirs. Helping one share their personal story, which might be lost if not passed along to the next generation, is a valuable gift that our Life Story volunteer provides. Volunteers will get the opportunity to record and edit these stories that members of our community can share for years to come.

June 16 — WVCBA Presents Oxnard’s State of the City Address

The West Ventura County Business Alliance is proud to present Oxnard Mayor John C. Zaragoza’s 2023 State of the City address on Friday, June 16. He will discuss the city’s overall stability and socio-economic impacts on local government, as well as provide updates about the City Council’s priorities, citywide restorations, and economic development.

“We are continuing restorations to Oxnard’s streets and alleys, and maintaining our public safety services,” said Mayor Zaragoza. “Despite the global impacts of supply chain disruptions, inflation and labor shortages, our City Council remains committed to investing in the services and projects that are important to our community. It may not be happening as fast as we’d like, but we are maintaining steady progress.”

June 17 — VCCDC’s Homeownership Virtual Conference

VCCDC’s Homeownership Virtual Conference is the place to be if you want all your homeownership questions answered! Whether you are a renter or homeowner, this is an event you don’t want to miss!

If you’re ready to learn and connect with experts in the homeownership industry, you’re in the right place. Most people come to us feeling like homeownership is impossible, but with over 2,000 families who have successfully purchased homes, and countless more engaged on the path, we can confidently be the source of information that you need to make homeownership happen for you and your family. Through resources like our Homeownership Conference, we can help you find “a new way home”. Register for FREE today!

June 21 — District 216 in Santa Barbara to present Film Screening – ‘Trip of Compassion’ MDMA-Assisted Therapy for Trauma

Film Screening: “Trip of Compassion” – “I felt like I went through 15 years of psychological therapy in one night.”

When: Wednesday, June 21st; 5pm Networking; 6:30 Screening

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

NOTE: Refreshments provided.

June 21 — Bilingual report — Discover Limitless Career Opportunities at Local Youth Job Fair

The Workforce Development Board of Ventura County (WDBVC) in partnership with Goodwill Industries of Ventura and Santa Barbara Counties are hosting a job fair this summer to help local youth discover limitless career possibilities and connect with top employers. The WDBVC provides over 5,000 services to job seekers annually, and they want to provide the local youth with the opportunity to make connections and find an abundance of career opportunities.  Local employers hiring youth and are interested in participating are encouraged to sign-up here https://workforceventuracounty.org/events/ 

June 22 — Channel Islands Maritime Museum to present An Evening with Simon Spalding ‘Food at Sea from Ancient to Modern Times’

Simon Spalding presents a sweeping panorama of food at sea, based on his book “Food at Sea – Shipboard Cuisine from Ancient to Modern Times.” Simon offers tantalizing stories of maritime culinary history, from the ingredients and practices of ancient Argonauts and Vikings through Renaissance explorers, sailing navies and merchant ships, steamships, ocean liners, cruise ships, and submarines.

June 23 — Economic Development Collaborative (EDC) — Meet Part of Our International Trade Team in Person!

Join EDC SBDC Center Director Dr. Ray Bowman and International Trade Specialist Simona Racek in Los Angeles

NO-COST Event: Building Bridges to Global Markets 

June 22 at 8:30 am

Location : The Beehive, 961 E. 61st, Los Angeles, CA 90001

Building Bridges to Global Markets is a first-of-its-kind event series organized by the U.S. Commercial Service, as part of their Global Diversity Export Initiative. Designed to connect SMEs in underserved communities with global business opportunities, events will be taking place in major cities throughout the U.S., including Los Angeles, California!

CLICK HERE TO REGISTER

June 23 — VCCDC’s Virtual Loan Center accepting appointments

VCCDC’s Virtual Loan Center gives you the opportunity to obtain a free no-obligation pre-qualification session with VCCDC or one of our partner loan experts. You can walk away one step closer to purchasing your home by being ready to go when that perfect house comes along or find out what you need to do to prepare to be mortgage ready in the future.

June 24 — United Way of Ventura County’s 18th Annual Spirit Awards

VENTURA — United Way of Ventura County (UWVC) will host its 18th annual Spirit Awards Gala, where it will present awards for volunteerism, community impact and corporate citizenship to local community champions. The event will take place from 6-8:30 p.m. at the Zachari Dunes on Mandalay Beach, located at 2101 Mandalay Beach Road, Oxnard.

This year, Dr. Lisa L. Buono will be recognized with the Milton M. Teague Award for Outstanding Community Volunteerism. She is receiving this award for her efforts as a volunteer leader with a focus on education and building strong communities.

Through June 25 — 67th Annual Conejo Valley Days

The 67th Annual Conejo Valley Days is set for June 15 through June 25 (dark June 19 and 20) at Conejo Creek Park South (23 Freeway/Janss Rd. exit) in Thousand Oaks. 

Festival goers can enjoy carnival rides from Kastl Amusements plus midway games for all ages along with traditional fair and specialty foods. CVD features live rock and country bands including the Colette Lovejoy Band and 805 Social Club, and line dancing led by instructor Kristal Lynn.

June 25 — Oxnard Guelaguetza Festival 2023!

Mixteco/Indigena Community Organizing Project (MICOP) is inviting the public to attend its annual Oxnard Guelaguetza Festival on June 25th, 2023, from 11 a.m to 5 p.m at Plaza Park in Oxnard: 500 S. C Street, Oxnard, CA, 93030.  

MICOP (Mixteco/Indígena Community Organizing Project) was founded in 2001 “to support, organize and empower the Indigenous immigrant community in California’s Central Coast.” MICOP serves over 12,000 unduplicated Indigenous migrant men, women, and children annually. MICOP organizes and trains the indigenous migrant community to become self-sufficient and successful members of the broader community. MICOP programs and advocacy in California’s Central Coast have created the state’s most advanced network of services available to indigenous farm workers.

June 27 — Bilingual report — Community Environmental Council (CEC) in Santa Barbara presents free bilingual community webinar on financial incentives and programs available to make going electric more affordable

On Tuesday, June 27,  the Community Environmental Council (CEC) will host a free, interactive webinar, offered in English and Spanish, from 12 to 1:15 p.m. PST that will review the tax credits and incentive programs available to make going electric affordable, and describe how homeowners can combine these financial incentives to make their homes more efficient and climate friendly. Participants will also learn how to access CEC’s newElectrify Your Life service, which walks individuals through the process of determining their eligibility and applying for financial incentives.

June 28 — Free LightGabler Webinar: ‘Pay Me Now Or Pay Me Later—The Joys of California’s Wage & Hour Laws’

CAMARILLO — Employment law firm LightGabler is presenting a free employment law webinar, “Pay Me Now Or Pay Me Later—The Joys of California’s Wage & Hour Laws.” The webinar is Wednesday, June 28 from 10:30 a.m. to noon.

California’s wage and hour laws are more burdensome than those of any other state. In this webinar for employers, supervisors and human resource professionals, LightGabler employment law attorney Kathleen M. Fellows will discuss some of the most common wage and hour pitfalls that impact employers across the state. Topics include meal and rest period compliance, expense reimbursements, exempt/non-exempt employees and how to avoid paystub violations.

June 29 — Cottage Center for Orthopedics to Host FREE Virtual Meet the Doctor: Joint Pain Seminar

SANTA BARBARA — The Cottage Center for Orthopedics will present a free Virtual Meet the Doctor event on Thursday, June 29, from 4 – 5 p.m., featuring Dr. Chris Birch and Dr. Danielle Thomas, orthopedic surgeons affiliated with Cottage Health, who will discuss how to keep joints healthy.

Doctors Birch and Thomas will provide information on joint pain relief, joint replacement, joint preservation surgery, and partial knee replacement. They will also review causes and symptoms, strategies for prevention and treatment, advanced treatment options as well as offer a Q&A session.

July 1 — Ventura County Animal Services, Santa Barbara Animal Services present Dual-County Pet Adoption Event

Ventura County Animal Services and Santa Barbara Animal Services are thrilled to announce a groundbreaking partnership aimed at finding loving homes for animals in need. In an unprecedented move, both organizations have joined forces to organize a fee-waived pet adoption event that will take place simultaneously across all five (5) shelters along the south coast. This occasion marks the first of its kind, showcasing the dedication and commitment of both organizations to the welfare of animals.

July 1 — Cottage Trauma Services and Santa Barbara Agencies Partner to Host FREE Summer Safety and Fun Event

SANTA BARBARA – Cottage Health’s Trauma Services, in partnership with Santa Barbara agencies, is thrilled to invite the community to its free Summer Safety and Fun Event on Saturday, July 1, from 10 a.m. to 2 p.m. at Ortega Park and Pool located at 604 East Ortega St., Santa Barbara.

Designed to ensure the safety of children during the summer season, the Summer Safety and Fun Event promises a day of excitement, engagement, and education for families. Children of all ages can partake in a wide array of activities while learning important safety tips.

July 2 — Music At Portside — Chamber music concerts by the sea at Ventura Harbor

Music At Portside, a new classical concert series in Ventura County, offers monthly chamber music recitals, played by brilliant local and international musicians.

Our opening concert features classical duo Nicole Taylor, soprano and Natasha Marin, piano — performing an intimate program on the different seasons of love, with beautiful songs by Brahms, Rachmaninov, R. Strauss, Chausson, and Hahn.

This is classical music in an intimate, informal, “come as you are” setting, perfect for a relaxing Sunday afternoon, a few steps away from the sea at Portside Ventura Harbor. If you are a classical music lover or if you don’t know very much about classical music, but want to learn more… Come and listen!

Doors open at 5:15PM. The exact location at Portside Ventura Harbor will be shown after ticket purchase.

July 4 — Pierre Claeyssens Veterans Foundation Invites the Community to a Free Patriotic Outdoor Concert featuring Santa Barbara’s Beloved Prime Time Band and a Special Performance by Hula Anyone

SANTA BARBARA — Celebrate Independence Day with Pierre Claeyssens Veterans Foundation’s free outdoor concert featuring Santa Barbara’s beloved The Prime Time Band, Vandenberg Space Force Base Honor Guard, and a special performance by Hula Anyone. The concert will take place on Tuesday, July 4, 2023 at 5:00 PM at the Santa Barbara County Courthouse Gardens (1100 Anacapa St, Santa Barbara, CA 93101).  

Through July 6 — Bilingual report — Alternative Action Programs (AAP) presenting a 12-week Community Workgroup Series ‘Anger Management Groups’ in Oxnard, Ventura

OXNARD — Alternative Action Programs (AAP) in Oxnard will present a 12-week Community Workgroup Series Anger Management Groups in Oxnard, Ventura.

Click on images for more information.

July 6 — SBMA to present Art Matters Lecture on Zurbarán and Murillo

During the 1620s and 1630s, Seville’s many religious foundations kept Francisco de Zurbarán and his large workshop busy with commissions. After about 1640, however, Zurbarán’s sober and restrained style lost favor to the softer look and more emotional appeal of younger artists, and he began to actively produce paintings for export to the New World.

July 6 — Community Environmental Council opening Central Coast’s first Environmental Hub

The Community Environmental Council is opening the Central Coast’s first Environmental Hub – and you’re invited to the party!

Please join us on Thursday, July 6, 2023 at 5:30 p.m. for the Ribbon Cutting and Grand Opening Celebration! Part of Downtown Santa Barbara’s 1st Thursday Art Walk, the grand opening will feature “Return of the Western Monarch Butterfly: A Photographic Exhibit and Scientific Roadmap for Protecting this Endangered Species” by resident artist Elizabeth Weber.

Through July 7 — Bilingual report — Alternative Action Programs (AAP) presenting a 12-week Community Workgroup Series ‘Grief Groups’ in Oxnard, Ventura

OXNARD — Alternative Action Programs (AAP) in Oxnard will present a 12-week Community Workgroup Series “Grief Groups” in Oxnard, Ventura starting April 21 in Oxnard, April 24 in Ventura and April 25 in Zoom. on Zoom and April 27 in Ventura.

Click on images for more information.

July 8 — Bilingual report — California Rural Legal Assistance Inc. (CRLA) to present free ‘Clean Slate Clinic’

The California Rural Legal Assistance Inc. (CRLA) will host a free-of-charge “Clean Slate Clinic” record clearing clinic from 10 a.m. to 6 p.m. at E.P. Foster Library at 651 E Main St, Ventura.

For more information and to make an appointment, contact: 805-902-CRLA (2752) or contact reentry@crla.org

July 12 — Meet Isabel Campanelli and learn about ‘Doing the Work’

Topic: “Love & Relationship Coach – Doing the Work: What is it really?”

When: Wednesday, July 12th; 5pm Networking; 6:30pm Speaker

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.

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

July 12 — Economic Development Collaborative (EDC) — NO-COST Event: Empowering Business Growth

Join EDC Staff Tiffany Hunsberger, Vivian Vázquez and EDC SBDC Financial Business Advisor Anthony Elliott

NO-COST Event: Empowering Business Growth

July 12 at 8:00 am

Location: Simi Valley Public Library, 2969 Tapo Canyon Road, Simi Valley, CA

The Simi Valley Chamber of Commerce, in partnership with the City of Simi Valley, County Supervisor Janice Parvin and Mid Valley Properties, is excited to announce that they are offering a Business Resources Forum. This is a free event designed to inform businesses about free and low-cost programs available to bolster growth and success.

CLICK HERE TO REGISTER

July 13 — Bilingual report — Economic Development Collaborative (EDC) Upcoming Uplift Central Coast Community Convenings

Join the Uplift Coalition for community meetings across the region for an opportunity to learn about the Community Economic Resilience Fund planning process and project progress, meet with community members and organizations engaging in the work and voice your experiences and insight on both the issues and challenges that face our communities and the opportunities and possibilities that are in the future of our Central Coast region.

Your participation is critical to the success of the project as Uplift works to develop an understanding of the barriers to economic opportunity across the diversity of Central Coast communities and builds a plan to invest in possible solutions into the future.

Refreshments provided. Meeting is open to the public until capacity.

Registration is required.

Check Where Your Nearest Community Convening Is Below:

July 14 — UCSB Arts & Lectures presents Alien at the Santa Barbara County Courthouse Sunken Garden

SANTA BARBARA — Get ready to explore the galaxy this summer with UCSB Arts & Lectures’ 2023 FREE Summer Cinema line-up: “Out of This World.” The series continues with Ridley Scott’s feminist space horror classic, Alien, at the Santa Barbara County Courthouse Sunken Garden on Friday, July 14 at 8:30 pm.

July 14 — Announcing Puccini’s timeless opera La bohème at the Granada Theatre

SANTA BARBARA — The Music Academy, currently in week four of its 76th annual Summer Festival, presents a timeless classic opera in a brand-new setting.

La bohème will be performed in the original Italian on Friday, July 14 at 7:30 pm and Sunday, July 16 at 2:30 pm at the Granada Theatre in downtown Santa Barbara. The fully staged and costumed production will showcase the 2023 Lehrer Vocal Institute fellows and 50 Instrumental fellows from the Academy Festival Orchestra, joined by a full chorus consisting of Lehrer Vocal Institute fellows and studio artists, and a children’s chorus comprised of members of the Music Academy’s SING! program.

July 15 — July @ SPAM: California Art League, Fused Glass, Florals in Oil, and More

Premiere Party: California Art League’s “The California Scene”

Saturday, July 15, 2023, from 4 PM to 6 PM

$5 SPAM Members • $10 Non-members

Join us at the Santa Paula Art Museum for the premiere of “The California Scene,” a spectacular summer exhibition showcasing 59 quintessential California scenes in a variety of media by 44 artists from the long-established California Art League (CAL). The show is CAL’s 2023 Gold Medal Exhibition and multiple awards will be announced during the premiere party. Meet the artists and delight in a diversity of California scenes: from beaches to barns, from wildflowers to waves, to vineyards, the desert, the High Sierra, and more. Many of the artworks will be available for purchase.

July 15 — Local Artist Chris Gocong’s Art Exhibit MAGNETIC Opens at Helena Mason Art Gallery in Santa Barbara

SANTA BARBARA — Get ready for Magnetic by Chris Gocong. In each generation a handful of individuals emerge that resonate and represent the collective. Gocong’s newest portrait series attempts to capture magnetic icons through explorative portraiture. 

This event is happening on Saturday, Jul 15, 2023, from 6 – 9 pm at Helena Mason Art Gallery located at 48 Helena Avenue, Santa Barbara, CA 93101.

It will be an unforgettable night filled with art, beats by Diego Rockwell, drinks by Cutler’s Artisan Spirits and Flying Embers. Don’t miss out on this opportunity to be a part of something truly special. 

July 16 — Temple Etz Chaim to present Jared Diamond at the Bank of America Performing Arts Center, Scherr Forum Theatre in Thousand Oaks

Temple Etz Chaim is proud to host an annual speaker series for the local community. The 2023 Speaker Series is entitled “Our World Evolving: Global Thought Leaders in Our Community.” This is a series of socially relevant conversations with modern thought leaders, authors and scholars. Rabbi Averbach will introduce our speakers and moderate a Q&A with those in attendance after the speech. 

July 18 — Economic Development Collaborative (EDC) — Free Webinar Selling to South Korea, Your Next Big eCommerce Opportunity

Join the U.S. Commercial Service who has partnered with Coupang, Inc., one of the largest South Korean eCommerce companies, on this upcoming webinar where they will be discussing:

Export assistance from the U.S. Commercial Service
Market insights on the Korean eCommerce landscape
Insights from an industry expert on building brand awareness with South Korean consumers
You will hear directly from the eCommerce experts about Coupang’s state of the art logistics and delivery infrastructure and a look at their ecommerce marketplace.

July 18 at 9:00 am PST

CLICK HERE TO REGISTER FOR FREE

July 21, 22, 23 — Ventura College’s Schwab Academy of Music to present a series of orchestra, chamber music performances

The Ventura College’s Schwab Academy of Music will present a series of orchestra and chamber music performances as part of its this intensive three-week summer institute. Talented students perform alongside the Academy’s nationally-recognized faculty in diverse and exciting repertoire.

July 21 — The Apocalypse Is Here in New ‘King Lear’ at CLU

THOUSAND OAKS — The Kingsmen Shakespeare Festival (KSF) concludes its 26th season with “King Lear,” running Fridays through Sundays from July 21 through Aug. 6 on the California Lutheran University campus. A novel twist on Shakespeare’s classic tragedy, which is set in a pre-Christian, pagan time and place, the Kingsmen production takes place in the near future, in an abandoned shopping mall after an apocalyptic event.

“We don’t know what this apocalyptic event is, or when it takes place,” said KSF co-founder and Artistic Director Michael J. Arndt, who is directing the play, “but there’s a sense of this person trying to maintain power in his ‘kingdom.’”

Through July 21 — Bilingual report — Alternative Action Programs (AAP) presenting a 12-week Community Workgroup Series ‘Co-Parenting Groups’ in Oxnard, Ventura

OXNARD — Alternative Action Programs (AAP) in Oxnard will present a 12-week  Community Workgroup Series “Co-Parenting Groups” through July 21.

Click on images for more information.

July 21 — UCSB Arts & Lectures presents Mars Attacks! at the Santa Barbara Courthouse Sunken Garden

SANTA BARBARA — Get ready to explore the galaxy this summer with UCSB Arts & Lectures’ 2023 FREE Summer Cinema line-up: “Out of This World.” The series continues with Tim Burton’s send-up of vintage sci-fi invasion flicks, Mars Attacks! at the Santa Barbara County Courthouse Sunken Garden on Friday, July 21 at 8:30 pm.

July 23 — Bilingual report — Music Academy’s SING! and Young People’s Chorus of NYC to hold joint concert in Santa Barbara

The Music Academy’s SING! Children’s Choir and the renowned Young People’s Chorus of New York City (YPC) are excited to announce their joint concert, taking place at the Lobero Theatre in Santa Barbara. The much-anticipated performance will be held on Sunday, July 23 at 3 pm and promises to captivate audiences of all ages.

July 23 — BEYOND CONVERSATION at the Santa Barbara Museum of Art presents Radiant Frequencies

SANTA BARBARA — At the invitation of the Santa Barbara Museum of Art (SBMA), Awol Erizku, a noted photographer, sculptor, and painter and subject of a recent New Yorker profile, is collaborating with nine 2023 fellows at the Music Academy of Santa Barbara to plan a memorable one-night-only performance on July 23, that will bridge visual art and classical music.  

Erizku is a natural choice for Radiant Frequencies project because music threads through his unusually varied and impossible to easily package practice. Nefertiti—Miles Davis Gold (2022) is a gold mirrored mosaic in the form of the ancient Egyptian queen, which also references Miles Davis’s album Nefertiti (1968). Moreover, the artist says that No Hesi(2022), from his new Cosmic Drill series, relates to Drill, a genre of hip hop. Both artworks are in the Museum’s collection and are currently on display. He is also widely known for his photographs of musicians, including Beyoncé, Nipsey Hussle, J-Cole and Bad Bunny.