Community Update
Uplift Central Coast is having a Community Update available in both English and Spanish on Zoom on May 17 at 12:00 pm!
During the session, Uplift Central Coast will cover:
Updates on ongoing community engagement efforts
Input and information learned from Roundtables and Listening Sessions across the region
Progress and plans on strategy Regional Plan Part II
Opportunities for discussion and input from community members
Register for the community update HERE!
THOUSAND OAKS — What began as a golf game conversation in the early 1970s, has become the largest Nordic festival in Southern California. The Scandinavian Festival — the legacy of the late Professor Armour Nelson and the late John Nordberg — will celebrate its 50th anniversary on May 18 and 19. Held at California Lutheran University in Thousand Oaks, the family-fun festival honors the founding of the university and the history of the Conejo Valley, which Norwegians settled in the 1890s.
VENTURA — Strawberry nachos, chocolate dipped strawberries and strawberry kabobs are just some of the tasty treats offered at the 38th Annual California Strawberry Festival, Saturday and Sunday, May 18 and 19 at the Ventura County Fairgrounds (10 W. Harbor Blvd., Ventura, CA 93001). The festival also features over 150 artists and crafters, a Ninja Nation obstacle course, live entertainment on three stages, carnival rides, a “build-your-own” strawberry shortcake and more.
You asked, we listened! Back by overwhelming demand, five time Grammy-winning artist Jacob Collier bookends Arts & Lectures’ 2023-2024 season with an entirely new show featuring a full band and music from his forthcoming (Feb 29) album, Djesse Vol. 4.
Tickets on sale Fri, Feb 2 at 10 AM
THOUSAND OAKS — The Greater Contribution, a non-profit that provides micro loans for women in remote villages in Uganda, hosts a “A Woman’s Worth” celebration Sunday, May 19th from 3:00pm to 5:30pm in Thousand Oaks.
In a beautiful outdoor garden, guests will enjoy live entertainment with Ugandan dancers, African drumming, storytelling, and international foods and refreshments. Dedicated to empowering Ugandan women to reach higher, this exclusive fundraising event gives guests an immersive cultural experience while enabling brighter futures and stronger communities beyond our borders.
Tickets are $40 per person, or $30 each with a friend; available at www.greatercontribution.org/a-womans-worth
SANTA BARBARA — One805 will host its annual Sunstone Winery One805Live! Concert with headliner Steve Postell & The Night Train Music Club on Sunday, May 19, 2024 from 2 – 7 pm at Sunstone Winery, 125 N Refugio Rd, Santa Ynez, CA 93460.
Experience an amazing afternoon of music, food and fun as groove to the best session and touring musicians in the world. And as always, be prepared for surprises.
The lineup also includes: Tariqh Akoni, Josh Groban’s Music Director, and multi-talented artist who has played with Stevie Wonder, Whitney Houston, Weezer and LeAnn Rimes and John Mayer; Steve Ferrone, drummer for Tom Petty and the heartbreakers, Average White Band, and played with Eric Clapton, George Harrison, Mick Jagger and many more; Leland Sklar, Bassist for “The Immediate Family”, has performed with Phil Collins, James Taylor, Toto, and Billy Cobham; Russ Irwin, vocalist who has performed with Aerosmith, Sting, Jeff Beck and John Fogerty; Elliot Easton from The Cars, and surprise guests.
Join us for a presentation and signing of the book The Butterfly Wood House by Robert Ooley, FAIA. Robert has been an architect for the private and public sector on the Central Coast for over 25 years. He is an author, playwright, and the Director of Facilities for SBMA.
Frank Lloyd Wright’s Butterfly Wood house opens the door into one of the architect’s last commissions of his Prairie Style and is the only example of that time in his career on the west coast of the United States. Located in the secluded enclave of Montecito, California, at the corner of Hot Springs and Summit Roads is this 4,500-square-foot redwood treasure. This story weaves together the family that wanted a coastal retreat, a world-renowned embattled architect, and the house they made together.
The Monk And The Gun captures the wonder and disruption as Bhutan becomes one of the world’s youngest democracies. Known throughout the world for its extraordinary beauty and its emphasis on Gross National Happiness, the remote Himalayan Kingdom of Bhutan was the last nation to connect to the internet and television. And if that weren’t enough change, the King announced shortly afterwards that he would cede his power to the people via their vote and a new form of government: Democracy.
CAMARILLO — Employment law firm LightGabler LLP is presenting a free employment law webinar for employers, “Protect My Job, I Might Come Back! A Map Through the Maze of Leave of Absence Laws in California.” The webinar is Monday, May 20 from 10:30 a.m. to noon.
California has the most leave of absence laws of any state. To avoid costly litigation while maintaining functional business operations, employers must understand what leaves are available, know when a leave is appropriate for a particular employee, correctly apply available rights for covered employees, and manage what employee obligations can or cannot be enforced.
EVENT POSTPONED —
Located at 855 4th Street, adjacent to bus routes, and community resources, this new construction development is comprised of 50 units. Residents will have access to a community center, picnic area, laundry room, playground, on-site property management, and supportive services. Some units will be designated for No Place Like Home households.
CAMARILLO — Livingston’s Camarillo Grief Center is adding new grief support groups that cater to specific bereavement needs. These close-ended support groups are Adult Loss of Sibling (March 26th through May 7th), Healing Grief Through Art (April 4th through April 25th), and Anticipatory Loss (March 4th through May 23rd). For reservations, contact 805-389-6870 or online at lmvna.org/grief. Space is limited.
VENTURA — The Santa Paula Branch Line (SPBL), a historic railway tracing back to 1887, is transforming to include a modern multi-use trail, enriching Ventura County’s transportation landscape and connecting communities in new ways.
Public meetings and workshops will be conducted throughout the project phases to ensure community involvement and gather valuable input. An in-person meeting will be held on Thursday, May 23, from 6:00 p.m. – 8:00 p.m. at the Jose Flores Community Center, Spanish interpretation will be offered.
“We are excited to witness the Santa Paula Branch Line’s transformation into a multi-use trail. This project clearly signifies our dedication to fostering community connections and strengthening partnerships with the agricultural sector, including the Farm Bureau and CoLAB,” said Ventura Public Works Director Charlie Ebeling. “It also fits well with our newly adopted active transportation plan, which focuses on projects that improve walking, bicycling, and other transportation methods for our community’s benefit.”
SANTA BARBARA — Due to unforeseen and extenuating circumstances, José Andrés is unable to join the UCSB Arts & Lectures series this Sunday. Mr. Andrés’ ongoing commitments to World Central Kitchen as they mourn the loss of their team members have made his attendance at the event impossible at this time.
We have worked closely with his team to reschedule his appearance for Thursday, May 23 at 5:30 PM at the Arlington Theatre, Santa Barbara. We offer our sympathies to José Andrés and the entire World Central Kitchen organization during this incredibly challenging time.
Comedy + Science + Art + Psychedelics = A Better Trip Journey into the mind of a psychedelic astronaut with a consciousness-expanding comedy experience. At the intersection of science, humor, and psychedelics comes “A Better Trip,” the latest work from…
Artists today struggle with the question of what kind of art to make in light of contemporary issues. A century ago, artists faced similar questions. This exhibition looks at how artists negotiated the extraordinary changes and tragedies of the early 20th century: the mass casualties in the First World War, economic despair because of worldwide depressions, colonized people struggling for freedom, and the rise of communism, fascism, and totalitarian dictatorships.
SANTA BARBARA — The Pierre Claeyssens Veterans Foundation (PCVF) and the Veterans of Foreign Wars Post 1649 will remember those who gave the greatest sacrifice for their country on Memorial Day. This free event is open to the public. Join PCVF on Monday, May 27, 2024 at 11:00 am sharp at the Santa Barbara Cemetery, 901 Channel Drive.
The open air ceremony includes presentations and performances by the UCSB ROTC Color Guard; Gold Coast Pipe & Drum Band; David Gonzales and the Santa Barbara Choral Society, The Prime Time Band, and a flyover by The Condor Squadron. 150 White doves will be released during the singing of the Star Spangled Banner.
Monday, MAY 27, 2024
11:00 am – Ceremony (outside)
12:00 pm – Tri-tip BBQ (inside and outside seating)
1:00 pm & 2:00 pm – Special Exhibit Talks on new special exhibit:
“WWII in the Philippines” in museum onsite
VENTURA — In celebration of Historic Preservation Month, the Ventura County Planning Division, in collaboration with the Ventura County Cultural Heritage Board, is proud to host a Preservation Awards Ceremony on Tuesday, May 28th at 1:15 pm. The event will take place at the Ventura County Government Center’s Hall of Justice in the Pacific Conference Room, located adjacent to the cafeteria.
VENTURA — The Ventura Police Department, in collaboration with Finney’s Crafthouse, is excited to announce the return of the Tip-A-Cop fundraiser, supporting the inspiring athletes of Ventura County Special Olympics. The public is invited to join officers for this community event on Tuesday, May 28, 2024, from 11:00 a.m. to 2:00 p.m. at Finney’s Crafthouse, located at 494 E. Main Street in Downtown Ventura.
VENTURA — “Latina Characters & Women’s Voices” featuring local authors Cara Lopez Lee and Mona Alvarado Frazier to be held from 7 to 8 p.m. Wednesday, May 29 at Timbre Books, 1910 E. Main St., Ventura.
VENTURA — Make your Memorial Day plans to venture seaside to Ventura Harbor Village as the majestic Tall Ship Mystic Whaler makes its voyage into Ventura.
Made possible by Central Coast Ocean Adventures Foundation (CCOAF), the 110-foot schooner will make its journey up the Santa Barbara Channel along the California coast.
During its visit to Ventura Harbor Village, the ship will dock at Ventura Harbor Dock-C, (near Ventura Boat Rentals, in front of Brophy Bros and On the Alley restaurants) through May 30, 2024, and coincides with Ventura Harbor Village’s ongoing Spring seaside events/activities throughout May. https://www.venturaharborvillage.com/events/
VENTURA — Ventura Harbor Village, California’s sun-kissed seaside playground, celebrates the kick-off to summertime with an engaging lineup of events in June. Paired with relaxing moments to waterfront dine and wine taste, one-of-a-kind coastal boutiques, and boat rental options that glide visitors on the water, this seaside destination specializes in curating events and activities for time well spent with family and friends. Below is a roster of “must-SEA” happenings, accompanied bycomplimentary parking near the seashore. https://www.venturaharborvillage.com/events/
Here’s a look at what’s trending seaside:
“We are proud to be joining the first ever California Adopt-a-Pet Day,” said Nicky Gore-Jones, SPARC’s Development Director. “We encourage our community to help us find loving homes for our pets and to raise awareness about the issues of overcrowding in animal shelters. We look forward to this being a very special adoption day for many of our dogs and cats and for our volunteers and staff.”
VENTURA COUNTY — The Ventura County Department of Child Support Services, in partnership with the Rio School District, First 5 Ventura County, and Hope & Comfort will host the inaugural Fatherhood Summit. Registration is encouraged, and additional information is available online at bit.ly/Fatherhood_Summit.
The exhibition showcases the vibrant creativity and talent of artists ages 60 and older within our community through an open call. While there is no specific theme, artwork is encouraged that explores the sharing of experiences, traditions, customs, and stories across generations.
After the death of the love of his life, English archaeologist Arthur (Josh O’Connor) is desperate to find the mythical door to the afterlife — but to do so, he must team up with a network of tomb raiders who break into ancient tombs in search of archaeological wonders to sell on the black market.
SANTA BARBARA — In a world fraught with chaos and uncertainty, it can be hard to keep ourselves together emotionally as we navigate the pressures of life and work.
A half-day workshop on June 4 presented by licensed psychologist Relly Nadler will offer strategies and tools for mastering emotions and rising above chaos to achieve success in any situation. Titled Unleash your Performance Edge: Harnessing Emotional Intelligence for Success, the workshop will take place from 8:30 a.m. to 12 p.m. at the Workzones coworking space at 351 Paseo Nuevo in the Paseo Nuevo mall. Tickets start at $89 (or $79 for an additional attendee).
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, which may include 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.
“The Flame of Hope is more than just a symbol; it embodies the resilience and dedication of Special Olympics athletes who inspire us with their commitment and perseverance,” said Sergeant Ryan Reynosa, Special Olympics Liaison with the Ventura Police Department. “Being part of Team Ventura PD, we are dedicated to raising funds and fostering awareness and acceptance for these extraordinary athletes.”
After 35 years in Southern India, transdisciplinary artist Ashwini Bhat now lives and works in the foothills of Sonoma Mountain, CA. Coming from a background in literature and training in Bharatanatyam, a classical Indian dance, Bhat uses sculptures, installations, video, and text to develop a unique visual language exploring the intersections between body and nature, self and other.
SANTA MARIA — Allan Hancock College is hosting its second annual wine festival at the college’s Santa Maria campus and is inviting the public to attend.
The college is currently selling tickets to its second West Coast College and University Wine Festival, which will take place on Saturday, June 8, from 1-4 p.m. This year’s festival is sponsored by the Santa Maria Valley Chamber of Commerce.
The festival will include wines from eight community college and university winemaking programs, including Hancock, Cal Poly, Napa Valley College, Fresno State University and colleges from Oregon, Washington State and Arizona. In addition, the festival will also feature wines from 11 California wineries including Flying Goat Cellars, Amplify Wines, El Vinero, and others.
CSCVVSB’s Hope Walk is a family-friendly, community event that promotes awareness and education about cancer while raising critical funds in support of CSCVVSB’s mission to ensure that all people impacted by cancer are empowered by knowledge, strengthened by action, and sustained by community. Music, health and wellness booths, refreshments, and kids’ activity tables will also be on-site.
Created by the founders of Mujeres Makers Market, Mujeres Summit 2024 helps existing and potential small business owners learn from entrepreneurs’ experiences and challenges and share valuable and practical resources.
Get a Chance to Meet EDC Director of Strategic Relations Alondra Gaytán!
EDC Director of Strategic Relations Alondra Gaytán, will speak about insights on forging pathways to inclusive economic development.
Click Alondra’s image below to read her bio!
VENTURA — Two new exhibits opening at the Museum of Ventura County highlight the county’s rich artistic legacy with a focus on Master Artists and Young Innovator.
Masters from the Museum of Ventura County Collection
(June 8, 2024 -January 5, 2025)
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InnoVision: Ventura County Artists to Watch
(June 8, 2024 – May 11, 2025)
PORT OF HUENEME — As stewards of the water, the Port of Hueneme is hosting an event on June 11th, seeking to Catalyze Action for Our Ocean & Climate and celebrate World Oceans Day! The event will showcase organizations, projects, and initiatives that align with the port’s mission of growing a blue economy while protecting and preserving one of the most critical pieces of our biosphere. Stay tuned for more details and contact Adam Vega at avega@portofh.org for more information.
WESTLAKE VILLAGE — Parents can have an evening out or spend a quiet evening at home while their kids have fun under supervised care at the Yarrow Family YMCA, Friday, June 14 from 6:30 p.m. to 9:00 p.m. The Y’s Parents’ Night Out is open to YMCA members and nonmembers.
The evening will have a Hawaiian theme. Kids will take part in a Hawaiian Luau Party featuring games, arts & crafts, a themed game room and free play. All activities are monitored/led by YMCA staff. Kids must be age 4 through 11 and be able to use the restroom on their own.
North Macedonia’s Submission to the Academy Awards for Best International Film.
After the death of the love of his life, English aFrom acclaimed filmmaker Goran Stolevski comes a story exploring the universal truths of family, both the ones we’re born into and the ones we find for ourselves. Dita never wanted to be a mother, but circumstances force her to raise her girlfriend’s two daughters, tiny troublemaker Mia and rebellious teen Vanesa. A battle of wills ensues as the three continue to butt heads and become an unlikely family that must fight to stay together. NYTimes Critic’s Pick
