Happenings includes community events, meetings, classes, community resources and needs. To submit an item for inclusion email to: happenings@vcreporter.com
THURSDAY
ART TERRORISM ON EXHIBITION | 10 a.m.-12 p.m. via Zoom. This lecture will highlight the history of art vandalism and examine the recent surge in incidents. Most importantly, we will identify the organizations and their silent partners funding these actions. Taught by Christine Maasdam. Part of the Fifty and Better FABulous Summer Lecture Series at California Lutheran University. $10; bundles $60-165. More information and registration at
www.callutheran.edu/centers/lifelong-
learning/fifty-better/lecture-series.html.
EXISTENTIALIST THOUGHT IN THE LIFE AND WORKS OF ALBERT CAMUS | 10 a.m.-12 p.m. at SCIART and via Zoom. Through an examination of Camus’ life and works, we will analyze how he expressed and developed Existentialist ideas, and how he contributed to shaping the movement’s legacy. Taught by Bill Garlington. Part of the “Taste of OLLI” series for people age 50+. $15-90. For more information, go to go.csuci.edu/olli or call 805-437-2748.
FAMILY BOARD GAMES: TACO CAT GOAT CHEESE PIZZA | 3-4 p.m. Enjoy some family time playing games at the library! Ages 5+. Children’s Library of the Camarillo Public Library, 4101 Las Posas Road, Camarillo, 805-388-5222, camarillolibrary.org.
JACKBOX PARTY GAMES | 4-6 p.m. Need a boredom buster this summer? Join us for Jackbox Party Games and connect with your friends! Ages 13-18. YA Library of the Camarillo Public Library, 4101 Las Posas Road, Camarillo, 805-388-5222, camarillolibrary.org.
SUMMER READING PROGRAM: BAD ART NIGHT | 5-6 p.m. Get silly with it at “Bad Art Night” where we encourage you to make the worst art creations. Afterwards, participants will vote on the worst piece! Materials provided. Community Room of the Camarillo Public Library, 4101 Las Posas Road, Camarillo, 805-388-5222, camarillolibrary.org.
FRIDAY
SUMMER PALOOZA | 4 p.m. Come out for the Pleasant Valley Recreation and Park District’s Summer Palooza! Kick off your summer with live music, food trucks, lawn games, a bubble zone, a beer garden, sidewalk art, inflatable obstacle course, vendors and more. Stick around after the party on Friday to enjoy the first Movie in the Park, DC League of Super-Pets, which will be shown on a giant inflatable screen on the stage (be sure to bring your own low folding chairs or a blanket). Fun and games begin at 4 p.m.; movie screening starts at sunset. Free admission. Community Center Park, 1605 East Burnley Street, Camarillo, 805.482.1996,
www.pvrpd.org/2023-06-30-summer-palooza.
TEEN ZINE SCENE | 6-9 p.m. This FREE four-day workshop for ages 13-19 is an exciting and empowering experience designed specifically for LGBTQ teens. Artist Vanessa Wallace aims to provide a safe and inclusive space for young individuals to explore their identities, express their thoughts and emotions and create unique zines that reflect their experiences and perspectives. Pre-registration required. Vita Art Center, 28 W. Main St., Ventura,
www.vitaartcenter.com.
BANDA MAGDA | 7 p.m. Even if you don’t speak any of the six languages they sing in, you are still transported into beautiful imagery with tales of love and devotion. Led by firecracker performer, composer and multi-instrumentalist Magda Giannikou, Banda shines with cross-pollinating melody and rhythm. Part of the Pop Up Arts and Music Festival. Free. Wildwood Neighborhood Park, 650 W. Avenida de los Arboles, Thousand Oaks. More information at bapacthousandoaks.com/show-details/pop-up-arts-music-festival23.
CAMARILLO ACADEMY OF PERFORMING ARTS | 7 p.m. Join Camarillo Academy as we celebrate our dancers at our 23rd annual dance recital. Enjoy performances in ballet, pointe, tap, jazz, lyrical/contemporary, musical thester, pom/cheer, acrobatics and aerial. All ages and levels are showcased during this fun, upbeat performance. . $30-45. Scherr Forum Theatre, 2100 E. Thousand Oaks Blvd., Thousand Oaks, 805-449-2787, bapacthousandoaks.com.
SATURDAY
PLANT AND COLLECTIBLES SALE | 8 a.m.-2 p.m. Our monthly plant and collectibles sale continues on the grounds at the Dudley House. Bromeliads, orchids and succulents will be on sale along with a variety of collectibles. Vendors please call Charlie at 805-746-4317 for details. The museum is located at the corner of Loma Vista and Ashwood Streets (197 N. Ashwood) in Ventura. Free. dudleyhouse.org.
BACK STACKS BLOWOUT BOOK SALE | 10 a.m.-2 p.m. This is our last Saturday sale before the library begins a major renovation and closes for five months. All books are 50% off: fiction, nonfiction, children’s books, collectibles and more. All proceeds support the Blanchard Community Library. 119 N. Eight St., Santa Paula. Enter via the north parking lot, through the roll-up door in back.
JULY JAM ON SILVER STRAND | 10:30 a.m.-4 p.m. Find unique handcrafted treasures, be a part of a vibrant community of artists, crafters and artisans. Join us for a jammin’ day of art and entertainment with music and exciting raffles for all. 2301 Roosevelt Blvd., Silver Strand. Hosted by Miscellaneous Treasures.
YOGA WITH ALANA MITNICK | 12-1:30 p.m. Meditation Mount is pleased to present Yoga with Alana Mitnick every first Saturday of the month in the Auditorium. Yoga brings us into a more loving, conscious, and honest relationship with ourselves, others, and the natural world. Drawing awareness towards the subtle body through breath and sensation, this gentle yoga flow is designed to awaken the heart and inspire a flow of energy in preparation for meditation. Her yoga classes are accessible to people of all ages, bodies and abilities. $27. 10340 Reeves Road, Ojai, meditationmount.org.
SUMMER PALOOZA | 12-4 p.m. Come out for the Pleasant Valley Recreation and Park District’s Summer Palooza! Kick off your summer with live music, food trucks, lawn games, a bubble zone, a beer garden, sidewalk art, inflatable obstacle course, vendors and more. Free admission. Community Center Park, 1605 East Burnley Street, Camarillo, 805-482-1996, www.pvrpd.org/2023-06-30-summer-palooza.
MEET AND GREET WITH VEZNA ANDREWS | 1-3 p.m. Timbre Books welcomes author Vezna Andrews for an in-store meet-and-greet celebrating her debut young adult novel, One With the Waves (Santa Monica Press, May 23, 2023), about a city girl who emerges from grief through her passion for surfing. Free. 1910 E. Main St., Ventura, 805-628-3370, timbrebooks.com.
FEE-WAIVED PET ADOPTIONS | 1-6 p.m. Now is the perfect time to adopt if you have been considering adding a furry friend to your family. 600 Aviation Drive, Camarillo and 670 W. Los Angeles Ave., Simi Valley. www.vcas.us.
CAMARILLO ACADEMY OF PERFORMING ARTS | 3 p.m. and 7 p.m. Join Camarillo Academy as we celebrate our dancers at our 23rd annual dance recital. Enjoy performances in ballet, pointe, tap, jazz, lyrical/contemporary, musical thester, pom/cheer, acrobatics and aerial. All ages and levels are showcased during this fun, upbeat performance. $30-45. Scherr Forum Theatre, 2100 E. Thousand Oaks Blvd., Thousand Oaks, 805-449-2787, bapacthousandoaks.com.
CHA WA | 7 p.m. Combining the thumping sousaphone bass beats and interlocking riffs of a New Orleans brass band with the rituals, moves and garb of a Mardi Gras Indian troupe, Cha Wa brings a blast of soul straight from out of New Orleans. Part of the Pop Up Arts and Music Festival. Free. Triunfo Community Park, 980 Aranmoor Ave., Thousand Oaks. More information at bapacthousandoaks.com/show-details/pop-up-arts-music-festival23.
SUNDAY
REIKI INFUSED SOUND BATH | 9:30-10:30 a.m. Nurture your body, mind and soul. Join Kimmy Bragat, Reiki Master and Sound Healing Practioner for an immersive sound experience. Let the sound wash over you while you are laying in a restful posture. A combination of chimes, crystal singing bowls and other healing instruments will be used to lull you into relaxation. $25. Vita Art Center, 28 W. Main St., Ventura, 805-644-9214, www.vitaartcenter.com.
DUDLEY MUSEUM OPEN HOUSE | 1-4 p.m. Open house tours of the 1892 Dudley Historic House Museum will take place on Sunday, July 2, 1-4 p.m. including a special visit by “Mrs. Dudley.” Admission is free. The museum is located at the corner of Loma Vista and Ashwood Streets (197 N. Ashwood) in Ventura. For information please call 805-642-3345 or visit the website at dudleyhouse.org.
LA WINDS PRE-JULY 4 CONCERT | 2:30 p.m. The Los Angeles Symphonic Winds come to Thousand Oaks for their traditional pre-July 4 concert featuring your favorite patriotic melodies and inspiring concert works. Don’t miss this exciting conclusion to our 2022-2023 Season. $33-38. Scherr Forum Theatre, Bank of America Performing Arts Center, 2100 E. Thousand Oaks Blvd., Thousand Oaks, 805-449-2787, bapacthousandoaks.com.
SILENT BOOK CLUB | 3-4 p.m. Shhh, we’re reading! Do you love the idea of a book club but hate being told what book to read? Then this is the book club for you. Bring whatever book you want and enjoy quietly reading with fellow book lovers. Everyone will have the chance to share what they are reading. Conference Room of the Camarillo Public Library, 4101 Las Posas Road, Camarillo, 805-388-5222, camarillolibrary.org.
JULY FULL MOON SUNSET NATURE HIKE | 6:45-9:15 p.m. Join Lanny Kaufter to a vista point above the Ojai Valley where you can watch the near-simultaneous sunset and moonrise. Both will happen around 8:15 p.m. Meet at the trailhead at 6:30 p.m. for a 6:45 p.m. start, then gradually hike about 1.5 miles to the viewing site, experiencing some elevation gain on a well-worn, dirt fire road with uneven footing in places. Walk back to the trailhead by remaining daylight, moonlight and flashlight, returning to the trailhead at about 9:15 p.m. No dogs, no smoking. $35. Registration and more information at HerbWalks.com.
MONDAY
SCHWAB ACADEMY | Through July 23. Enrollment is open for the third annual Schwab Summer Academy at Ventura College. Come make music with us! Three weeks of intensive training and performance alongside professional musicians with courses in orchestra and chamber music. Open to ages 12 and up, including adults. $77 per class. Registration and more information at www.venturacollege.edu/departments/academic/music/schwab-academy-of-music.
MASTER GARDENER | 3:30 and 6:30 p.m. Oxnard Film Society presents this thrilling drama about the dark secrets and violence that get uncovered when a gardener takes as an apprentice the troubled niece of his employer. Rated R for brief sexual content, nudity and language. Runtime: 1 hour, 72 mins. In English. $8 seniors, $11.25 general admission. Plaza Cinemas 14, 255 West Fifth St., Oxnard,
www.oxnardfilmsociety.org.
MEDITATION SERIES | 4-5 p.m. With just a few moments of meditation your whole day can change. By connecting to our heart, and intentionally cultivating inner peace, we can access the best of ourselves. No previous experience necessary. No special clothing is required. Just show up! Community Room of the Camarillo Public Library, 4101 Las Posas Road, Camarillo, 805-388-5222, camarillolibrary.org.
3RD OF JULY FIREWORKS EXTRAVAGANZA | 4-9:30 p.m. Celebrate Independence Day early in Moorpark! Food trucks and booths, presentation of the U.S. flag, games and attractions, live music by Electric Vinyl and more. Aerial fireworks start at 9 p.m. $8 advance purchase; $10 cash at the gate. Parking passes are $5 per vehicle and must be purchased in advance to present onsite. No refunds. Arroyo Vista Community Park, 4550 Tierra Rejada Road, Moorpark. More information at moorparkca.gov/578/3rd-of-July-Fireworks-Extravaganza.
INDEPENDENCE DAY CONCERT | 6 p.m. A free evening of music to get everyone in the red, white and blue spirit. Presentation of Colors by the Navy Sea Cadets and live music by Shanti Kettles and the Ojai Band. 210 S. Signal St., Ojai, libbeybowl.org.
FILLMORE FIREWORKS | 9 p.m. In partnership with numerous organizations, the city of Fillmore will be hosting a professional fireworks show on Monday, July 3, at 9 p.m. This year’s show will be launched from the Fillmore Middle School, 543 A St. There will be no seating from the school, but residents and visitors will be able to enjoy the display from their homes, city parks and the train.
HITCHCOCK SUMMER MOVIE NIGHT | 7:30 p.m. The Agora Foundation and the Ojai Valley Brewery and Winery are teaming up to host Hitchcock Summer Movie Nights! Films begin at 7:30 p.m. Purchase your food and beverages onsite and no reservations are required. Fantastic films in our fantastic community… what could be better? This week’s film will be Rope. Ojai Valley Brewery, 307 Bryant St., Ojai,
ojaivalleybrewery.com.
TUESDAY
OJAI’S FOURTH OF JULY | 7 a.m.-10 p.m. A full day of fun is planned for Independence Day in Ojai. Enjoy a pancake breakfast at the Chaparral Auditorium 7-10 a.m. ($5-7). The Youth Freedom Run starts at the Libbey Park fountain at 9 a.m. Then it’s parade time (“Our Lady Liberty”) at 10 a.m. on Ojai Avenue, starting at Country Club Drive and continuing to Park Road. Did we mention the great raffle prizes? The Nordhoff High School Stadium is the site for the fireworks show; gates open at 5:30 p.m. and the sky lights up at 9:15 p.m. $5-50. For locations, online tickets and more information, visit www.4thofjulyinojai.com.
WESTLAKE VILLAGE FOURTH OF JULY PARADE | 8 a.m.-12 p.m. The Westlake Village Fourth of July parade is BACK! Come dressed in your best red, white and blue attire to walk in the parade with us! Meet us at the old hospital site parking lot on 4415 Lakeview Canyon Road for some coffee and donuts starting at 8 a.m. The parade will begin at 9:30 a.m. and end at Berniece Bennett Park, 31800 Village Center Drive. At the end of the parade at the park, there will be hot dogs, popsicles, and fun activities for the whole family until 12 p.m. Jolly Jumps, face painting and more.
www.wlv.org/254/4th-of-July-Parade.
SESPE CREEK CAR SHOW AND STREET FESTIVAL | 9 a.m. Fillmore City Hall, 250 Central Ave., Fillmore, https://m.facebook.com/events/1145601856834196.
FOURTH OF JULY STREET FAIR AND PUSHEM-PULLEM PARADE | 10 a.m.-4 p.m. Join us for the City of Ventura’s 46th annual Fourth of July Street Fair and Pushem-Pullem Parade in Ventura’s Downtown District. This year’s theme is “2023: Celebration by the Sea!” This year’s event will feature an artisan street fair, a car exhibit, food trucks, live entertainment, and more. Attendees will also be able to enjoy many of downtown’s local shops and outdoor dining as part of Main Street Moves. More information at www.cityofventura.ca.gov/1737/4th-of-July-Street-Fair-Pushem-Pullem-Pa.
FOURTH OF JULY CELEBRATION AT THE REAGAN LIBRARY | 10 a.m.-3 p.m. Join us to celebrate our Nation’s 248th birthday! The celebration will include a patriotic concert by the Los Angeles Sheriff’s Department Band, family entertainment, lawn games, crafts and so much more! Activities include face painting, carnival picnic games like sack races and water balloon toss and more. Presidential look-alikes will tell interesting stories. Our bistro will be open with food and drinks available for purchase. New this year: a statue unveiling of Sally Ride, the first American woman to fly in space. This program will be open to the public at 12 p.m. All outdoor activities are free; admission rates apply to view the museum and all exhibits. $19.50-$29.95. Ronald Reagan Presidential Library, 40 Presidential Drive, Simi Valley, www.reaganfoundation.org/programs-events/events-calendar/annual-fourth-of-july-celebration-2023/.
FOURTH OF JULY FAMILY PARADE | 10:30-11:30 a.m. The Channel Islands Harbor Fourth of July Children’s Parade is back! The parade begins at 10:30 a.m. at Albacore Way, travels north up Harbor Boulevard and ends at Cabezone Circle, home to Marine Emporium Landing. You must have a Fourth of July Children’s Parade form filled out and submitted prior to participating. On July 4, there will be a sign-in table at the corner of Harbor Blvd. and Albacore Way – the start of the parade route. More information and registration form at www.channelislandsharbor.org/event/4th-of-july-family-parade-2023/.
STAR SPANGLED ROCK AND COUNTRY JAM AND FIREWORKS EXTRAVAGANZA | 3 p.m. The Kiwanis Club of Simi Valley has joined with the City of Simi Valley and the Rancho Simi Recreation and Park District to bring this exciting event to Simi Valley. We are proud to be a part of this exciting event featuring fireworks and entertainment for the entire family. The gates open at 3 p.m. with non-stop entertainment, food and FREE fun for kids. Bring your family and friends, and don’t forget your lawn chairs and blankets. Proceeds support various charitable foundations and community organizations. Free; donations welcome. VIP tickets ($45-100) include a barbecue dinner, great view of the fireworks and more. Rancho Santa Susana Community Park, 5005 E. Los Angeles Ave., Simi Valley, starspangledsimi.com.
2023 CHANNEL ISLANDS HARBOR FOURTH OF JULY ELECTRIC BOAT PARADE | 4-6 p.m. Bring your family and sit harborside to watch the Fourth of July Electric Boat Parade! At 4 p.m., more than 75 patriotic-themed electric boats will cruise around the east and west channels of the harbor. The parade is sponsored by Central Coast Electric Boats and the Channel Islands Yacht Club. Parade begins at the turning basin in front of the old Lobster Trap and finishes at Channel Islands Yacht Club. More information and map at centralcoastelectricboats.com.
JULY FOURTH SPECTACULAR AT JANSS | 5-9:30 p.m. The best free fireworks viewing in the Conejo Valley is at Janss Marketplace! Join us for a free event with live music, entertainment for kids and food booths culminating with a fireworks presentation by the Greater Conejo Recreation and Park District and City of Thousand Oaks. Do you have a passion for pie? Enter our annual July Fourth Pie Eating Contest for a chance to win a $300 cash prize! Email us at info@janssmarketplace.com for more information and to enter. Space is limited! Festivities take place on the rooftop of the Janss parking garage, Moorpark Road and Hillcrest Drive, Thousand Oaks. More information at
janssmarketplace.com/events/july-4th-spectacular-2/.
SANTA PAULA ROTARY CLUB FIREWORKS CELEBRATION | 5-9:30 p.m. The Santa Paula Rotary Club is sponsoring this year’s Fireworks Celebration, which has been a city tradition for many years. “This free event has consistently mesmerized spectators with its breathtaking firework displays, and the Santa Paula Rotary Club is honored to be the catalyst in supporting this remarkable event, bringing joy and a sense of togetherness to our community on the Fourth of July,” said former Mayor and Rotary Club Member Ginger Gherardi. The fireworks display will take place at Harding Park and begin at 9 p.m. on July 4; however, spectators are welcome to start entering the fields around 5 p.m. Harding Park, 1314 E. Harvard Blvd., Santa Paula.
VENTURA ROTARY FOURTH OF JULY FIREWORKS SHOW AND FAMILY PICNIC | 5-10 p.m. This joyous event is spread across several acres of beautiful lawn at the Ventura College Athletic Fields, and includes a spectacular fireworks show, live music, food vendors, a Kids Fun Zone and what we like to call “the friendliest hometown picnic in America!” The Ventura Fourth of July Fireworks Show and Family Picnic is presented by the Ventura Rotary Club, and 100% of the event net proceeds benefit charitable community programs right here in Ventura! Gates open at 5 p.m.. Fireworks show begins at approximately 9 p.m. Ticket Sales end at 8:45 pm. You may bring picnic items, including blankets, soft folding chairs, small coolers and food. Small personal umbrellas are allowed; pop-ups and large umbrellas are not allowed. Please remember: No glass. No alcohol. No pets. No smoking. $5-28. Cash only accepted at the gate. Ventura College, 4667 Telegraph Road, Ventura. For more information and online tickets, visit www.venturafireworks.com.
WESTLAKE VILLAGE FIREWORKS SPECTACULAR | 5-9:30 p.m. The City of Westlake Village presents its Seventh Annual Fireworks Spectacular Show from the Westlake Village Golf Course, with additional viewing locations available. Activities begin at 5 p.m., including family-friendly activities like Jolly Jumps Inflatables and a putting contest, live music by The Rock Revival, military plane flyover, food trucks and more. The show will start around 9 p.m. 4812 Lakeview Canyon Road, Westlake Village,
www.wlv.org/366/4th-of-July-Fireworks-Show.
2023 FOURTH OF JULY FIREWORKS SHOW | 9 p.m. The city of Camarillo is pleased to announce that the annual Fourth of July Fireworks Show will be hosted from the Camarillo Premium Outlet parking lots. Join us for a free, fun-filled evening as we light up the sky for the Fourth of July! Fireworks are best viewed from the Camarillo Premium Outlets parking lots and surrounding areas. Tune in to FM Radio 95.1 KBBY to listen live. Free. No smoking, alcohol, personal fireworks or illegal substances. Please refrain from large picnic setups. More information at www.cityofcamarillo.org/visitors/attractions/fireworks.php.
FIREWORKS BY THE SEA | 9-10 p.m. Ventura County’s only Independence Day seaside fireworks show is back! After dark, the night sky over Channel Islands Harbor will light up with a fabulous and festive fireworks display full of patriotic spirit. For all the details, visit
www.channelislandsharbor.org/events-festivals/.
FIREWORKS SPECTACULAR | 9 p.m. The Conejo Recreation and Park District and the city of Thousand Oaks present the annual July Fireworks Spectacular! This year’s patriotic radio simulcast is graciously presented by KHAY 100.7 FM radio. Fireworks will light up the sky over “Fireworks Hill,” above CRPD’s Hillcrest Center. The best viewing locations will be from Janss Mall Marketplace and The Oaks Mall. For more information, visit www.crpd.org/events/fourth-of-july-activities/, janssmarketplace.com/events/july-4th-spectacular-2/, and www.shoptheoaksmall.com/Events/Details/570469.
WEDNESDAY
PROTECTION FROM TODAY’S SCAMS | 10 a.m.-12 p.m. CSUCI Library and via Zoom. What are the top scams to watch out for in 2023? Which age group is most likely to be targeted by each of these scams? This course will outline a straightforward approach to remaining calm and confident while assessing trustworthiness. This approach focuses primarily on embracing helpful levels of skepticism and building a well-informed support team. Taught by Kevin Cruz. Part of the “Taste of OLLI” series for people age 50+. $15-90. For more information, go to go.csuci.edu/olli or call 805-437-2748.
GENEALOGY WORKSHOP | 10:30 a.m.-12 p.m. Research your family history in these monthly workshops. Open to all levels. Community Room of the Camarillo Public Library, 4101 Las Posas Road, Camarillo, 805-388-5222, camarillolibrary.org.
THURSDAY
IS THE STATUE OF LIBERTY JEWISH? | 10 a.m.-12 p.m. via Zoom. Is it possible that the Statue of Liberty is most appropriately considered a Jewish statue? How might we define a work of art as Jewish? Taught by Clifford Wilcox. Part of the Fifty and Better FABulous Summer Lecture Series at California Lutheran University. $10; bundles $60-165. More information and registration at www.callutheran.edu/centers/lifelong-learning/fifty-better/
lecture-series.html.
CHRISTIAN NATIONALISM—IS IT CHRISTIAN? | 10 a.m.-12 p.m. at SCIART and via Zoom. What is Christian Nationalism (sometimes called Integralism)? We need first to understand what Christian Nationalists are (or think that they are) doing. We ask what might motivate its sincere (not all are) supporters. Living in a democracy requires intelligent, compassionate dialogue, not shock, disgust and name-calling. Taught by Janice Daurio. Part of the “Taste of OLLI” series for people age 50+. $15-90. For more information, go to
go.csuci.edu/olli or call 805-437-2748.
SUMMER MOVIE: ELVIS | 2-4:30 p.m. This week we’re screening Elvis (2022), which “explores the life and music of Elvis Presley” (Rotten Tomatoes). Community Room of the Camarillo Public Library, 4101 Las Posas Road, Camarillo, 805-388-5222, camarillolibrary.org.
BORED TEACHERS COMEDY TOUR | 7 p.m. The biggest entertainment platform for teachers in the world, Bored Teachers, presents the funniest teacher-comedians in the world all on one stage. Their hilarious skits have amassed hundreds of millions of views on the internet, and they’re all joining comic forces on the stage for a night of laughter not to be missed. Put that red pen down, pause that Netflix series you’ve been bingeing, throw on your comfiest teacher tee, call your teacher besties, and come burn off some of that stress this school year has been dumping on you!$34.50-45.50. Fred Kavli Theatre, 2100 E. Thousand Oaks Blvd., Thousand Oaks, 805-449-2787, bapacthousandoaks.com.
CAMARILLO COMMUNITY BAND | 7 p.m. Enjoy free concerts at Constitution Park in Camarillo every Thursday in July. A new guest conductor every week. 601 Carmen Drive, Camarillo, www.pvrpd.org/2023-07-06-camarillo-community-band.
COMMUNITY NEEDS, OPPORTUNITIES AND RESOURCES
BIG ROCK PRESERVE VOLUNTEERS WANTED | Get outside and assist Ventura Land Trust staff with preserve maintenance and restoration activities such as mulching, invasive species removal and trail maintenance. More information and sign up at www.venturalandtrust.org/big_rock_beautification.
CAREER PATHWAYS AT BLANCHARD COMMUNITY LIBRARY | Patrons of Blanchard Community Library can now access CAreer Pathways, a collection of digital platforms for online learning tools designed to meet the needs of those entering the workforce or who want to get a better job. Funded by the state and administered by the California State Library, CAreer Pathways offers Coursera, Linkedln Learning, GetSetUp, and Skillshare — resources that offer specialized courseware that help people improve job skills and prepare for high-wage jobs. Access to CAreer Pathways is free and available through the Blanchard Community Library’s website at www.blanchardlibrary.org/resources/online-learning and via the “CAreer Pathways” link on the library’s main page. For additional information, please contact the Adult Services Librarian, Justin Formanek, at 805-525-3615 or email justin.formanek@blanchardlibrary.org.
FIND YOUR VOICE SUMMER READING PROGRAM | Through Aug. 4. The Ventura County Library encourages the love of reading with a range of free activities for children, teens and adults throughout the summer. Summer is a wonderful time to explore a variety of topics or learn about a new hobby with books available from VCL. This initiative helps keep youth and families engaged in a range of critical thinking and skill building, and fun throughout the summer months to avoid the summer slide. Participants may register at vencolibrary.beanstack.org and record their reading with opportunities to win prizes for reaching reading goals. Once again VCL will give away 13 Nintendo Switch Grand Prizes as well as other STEAM prizes throughout the summer to readers who reach various reading challenge goals. Youth may visit their local branch to choose a free new book to add to their personal collections, once they log 500 minutes of reading. To learn more about the summer reading adventure at the library, please call your local branch or view the library’s website at vencolibrary.org.
FREE DAYS AT VENTURA BOTANICAL GARDENS | The public is invited to visit the Ventura Botanical Gardens free of charge on the following dates: Aug. 17, Sept. 4, Oct. 31, Nov. 23 and Dec. 25. Come enjoy this beautiful, natural environment boasting picturesque paths, thousands of plants and extraordinary views at no cost! 567 Poli St., Ventura,
venturabotanicalgardens.com.
INTERN WITH VENTURA WILD | Through Aug. 19. Ventura Wild’s internship program is a professional development opportunity for those interested in working with children in an education environment that promotes awareness, understanding and profound respect for nature. Interns are scheduled to assist one of our Summer Camps (one week, 5-7 hours/day) with the opportunity to secure additional camps. We ask for interns to be present for the whole week to best establish a rapport with the group and build a consistent and meaningful group dynamic. Interns will work alongside three experienced outdoor educators to support a group of 12 participants. Camps run June 12 through Aug. 19. For more information and to apply, visit www.venturawild.com/internships.
LANDLORD ENGAGEMENT PROGRAM | Are you a Ventura County property owner/housing provider seeking stable tenancies, rental income, and a way to help our neighbors who need a home? Do you have a housing unit to lease in the near or immediate future? We are seeking studios to 3+ bedrooms. United Way will provide financial and supportive services to ensure a smooth and mutually beneficial housing process. Join the effort and receive a leasing bonus of up to two times the rent charged for the unit! This incentive is available for landlords and is separate from any costs incurred by program participants. For more information or to learn more about the Landlord Engagement Program, contact Carie Bristow at
carie.bristow@vcunitedway.org or 805-485-6288 x235.
MENTORS NEEDED FOR WOMEN UNITED EDUCATION AWARD RECIPIENTS | Women United is seeking potential mentors in professional positions who would like to guide a single mother college student and help her reach her career goals. Anyone who has professional experience in a business environment and is willing to meet with a mentee for 2-3 sessions during the semester (in person or via Zoom) is encouraged to apply. To learn more, contact Leslie Osuna at leslie.osuna@vcunitedway.org or 805-485-6288, ext. 224.
VC 150 MEMORIES WEBSITE | Designed to be a community-driven project, “VC 150 Memories” aims to celebrate and preserve the cherished memories of residents in Ventura County. The website provides an opportunity for residents from across the county to collectively contribute photos of special moments and experiences, both past and present, that have shaped their lives in Ventura County. Community members are invited to submit their favorite images, which will be featured in a public photo gallery on the website. Images submitted will be used to create a visual representation of the county’s rich history and diverse communities. In partnership with the Museum of Ventura County, photos that are submitted will be incorporated into public event exhibits and later archived by the museum. To access VC 150 Memories, please visit: www.venturacounty150.com. Submissions are open to all who would like to participate in the project.
ONGOING/UPCOMING EVENTS
CAMARILLO QUILTERS | 9:30 a.m., second Tuesdays of the month. The Camarillo Quilters meet the second Tuesday of every month. Quilting speakers, workshops, library, free table and community quilts. All are welcome. Pleasant Valley Community Center, 1605 E. Burnley St., Camarillo, camarilloquilters.com.
DEPRESSION AND BIPOLAR SUPPORT ALLIANCE MEETING | Tuesdays, 6:30-8 p.m. This Ventura-based peer support group for those experiencing depression and bipolar disorder will resume its free weekly meetings at the Unitarian Universalist Church of Ventura. Enter by way of the main door. Please bring your own N95 mask. For more information, contact Wendell Jones at 805-640-6472, wenj16630@sbcglobal.net or DBSAlliance.org. 5654 Ralston St., Ventura.
FAMILY STORYTIME | Mondays, 4 p.m. Every Monday the South Oxnard Library hosts an all-ages storytime with Miss Joanne in the Children’s Area. South Oxnard Branch Library, 4300 Saviers Road, Oxnard, 805-385-8129, www.oxnard.org/library/south-oxnard-branch-library/.
FREE TUTORING FOR ADULTS | Aimed at anyone 18+ who wants to learn or improve their English and learn American culture. One-on-one tutoring is arranged by the tutor. Instruction is available in Oxnard, Ventura, Camarillo, Ojai, Saticoy, Santa Paula, Thousand Oaks and Moorpark. Locations can be in public libraries, coffee shops, churches, outdoors, or any place convenient to the tutor and adult learner. Free. For more information, contact Laubach Literacy of Ventura County, 805-385-9584 or
www.laubachventura@gmail.com.
GRIEF AND BEREAVEMENT SUPPORT | The Livingston Memorial Visiting Nurse Association and Hospice offers compassion and understanding through a variety of support groups that focus on restorative activities, seeking meaning and purpose, identifying changes to self and receiving support in making life good again. All support groups are free for the community. To find a support group near you, visit
www.lmvna.org/grief/.
HOPE AND HELP FOR OVEREATERS | Saturdays, 10-11 a.m. Is your eating out of control? Are you feeling fat? Overeaters Anonymous can help. 133 S. Laurel St., Ventura (building next to the church). For more information call Amy at 805-340-5882. Donations only.
JEST IMPROV | Saturdays, 2-4 p.m. Need to laugh or be silly? JEST Improv holds weekly, improv drop-in classes for beginners and all experience levels, Saturdays, 2-4 p.m. at 2750 E. Main St., Ventura. Classes are $15 each, or $10 each with JEST membership. For more information call Alex Sattler at 805-630-7574, email alex@jestimprov.com or team@jestimprov.com, or visit www.jestimprov.com.
LUNCH AT THE LIBRARY FARM TO SUMMER PROGRAM | Through Aug. 10. This summer, Ventura County Library (VCL) will host Lunch at the Library Farm to Summer Program at three locations (Avenue, Saticoy, and Albert H. Soliz) for children and teens 18 years and under. Local youth will be served healthy meals and are invited to participate in a series of Summer Reading Program activities. These will include daily fun activities, book giveaways, and performers. Speakers will visit each location and encourage youth to learn about local agriculture and the food cycle, how to garden at home and practice healthy eating, as well as share information on Science, Technology, Engineering, and Mathematics (STEM) careers in agriculture. More information at www.vencolibrary.org.
MEDITATION | Mondays, 7-8:30 p.m. Freely offered by Insight Meditation of Ventura at St. Paul’s Episcopal Church, 3290 Loma Vista Road, Ventura, room 13. Arrive by 6:45 pm. Forty-minute meditation begins at 7 p.m. We break for conversation and connection before a talk and discussion. ventura.net/meditate-with-us/ and info@insightventura.net.
OUTDOOR MEDITATION | 11:30 a.m.-12:30 p.m. Freely offered by Insight Meditation of Ventura at Arroyo Verde Park, 5000 Foothill Road, Ventura. Bring a chair, blanket or cushion to sit on. Layered clothing, a water bottle, and sunscreen recommended. Meditate for 20 minutes followed by a brief talk and discussion. We gather towards the south end of the park, just past the entrance. Turn left into the first parking lot and park. We’re about 100 feet across the grass on a slight incline under a tree in a circle of chairs. insightventura.net/meditate-with-us/ and info@insightventura.net.
SOUND MEDITATION | Fridays and Sundays. Morning and sunset sound meditation sessions will take place weekly in person at the Viewpoint at Meditation Mount. Sunday morning sessions 10 a.m.-12 p.m. with Suburbanoid. Friday evening sessions 6-7:30 p.m. with DeAnna Carpenter and Kelly Jean Anderson. $25; registration is required. 10340 Reeves Road, Ojai. For exact dates and times, visit meditationmount.org/events.
SUMMER WHALE WATCHING WITH ISLAND PACKERS | Through Aug. 31. View these magnificent mammals as they migrate this summer. Passengers on Summer Whale Watch trips have an excellent chance to view several whale species in the Santa Barbara Channel, who migrate here to feed on the abundant shoals of baitfish and krill found here. Summer species currently being seen include Blue Whales, Fin Whales, and Humpbacks, as well as year-round residents such as Common Dolphin, seals, and sea lions. Historically, over 28 species of whales and dolphins have been identified within the waters of the Channel Islands National Marine Sanctuary. A day spent on the ocean in the company of these creatures can be an awe-inspiring and truly memorable experience. $60-75. For schedule, tickets and more information, visit islandpackers.com/home.
SUNSET YOGA AND SOUND MEDITATION | Thursdays, 6:30-8 p.m. Connect with your mind, heart and body in a picturesque outdoor garden setting overlooking the beautiful Ojai Valley. Please bring your own yoga mat and props, and a blanket (optional) for closing meditation, which will be accompanied by crystal singing bowls. $20; registration is required. 10340 Reeves Road, Ojai. For exact dates and times, visit meditationmount.org/events.
SURVIVORS OF SUICIDE LOSS GRIEF SUPPORT GROUP | First and third Wednesdays, 6:30-8 p.m. If you have experienced the loss of a loved one due to suicide, do not hesitate to join this Livingston Memorial Visiting Nurse Association and Hospice group. Livingston’s Grief and Bereavement Programs are committed to maintaining an open, accepting, confidential atmosphere. All are free of charge and conducted over Zoom. More information at www.lmvna.org.
SWAP MEET | Wednesdays, 7 a.m.-2 p.m. Every week, the Ventura County Fairgrounds hosts dozens of vendors selling a wide array of antiques and collectibles. Vendor space available; contact Sue Adams at 818-590-5435. $2 admission.10 W. Harbor Blvd., Ventura,
www.snaauctions.com.
VENTURA COUNTY PHILATELIC SOCIETY | First and third Mondays, 7:30 p.m. The society meets twice a month at the Church of the Foothills, Ventura. More information at
venturacountyphilatelicsoc.org.
VENTURA SENIOR MEN’S GROUP | Twice monthly–NO MEETINGS IN JULY. Any man who considers himself in the “senior” category, (and many who don’t) might benefit from a visit to the Ventura Senior Men’s Group lunch meetings at the Ventura Poinsettia Pavilion twice monthly. We’re strictly a social bunch, with no governing agenda and no obligation to any sponsor. Drop in and say YOUR piece; we might all benefit by it and we’ll treat you to a lunch to hear it. Call Lyle at 805-341-9820 if you’d like to know more; he’ll fill you in.
