Tuesday Night Tango at The Greek: Where Community and Dance Unite

Step into the rhythm of community and connection! Join Tuesday Night Tango at The Greek and experience the magic of dance. Images by Janie Tran

On December 3, The Greek hosted a lively Holiday Tango Party, bringing together friends, great food and drinks, and the shared joy of dancing. For years, The Greek has served as the heart and home of Tuesday Night Tango—a weekly celebration of this beloved dance form.

Since its inception in 2009, Tuesday Night Tango has blossomed into one of the longest-running milongas (tango dance parties) on the West Coast. Known for its warm, inclusive atmosphere, the event regularly attracts dancers from Santa Barbara, Ojai, Thousand Oaks, and beyond. Tangueros from Los Angeles, the Bay Area, and even farther away often join the festivities, along with curious newcomers eager to experience the magic of tango.

What Makes Tuesday Night Tango Special?

  • Social Dancing: Enjoy three hours of tango to a dynamic mix of music—from the classics of Tango’s “Golden Age” to modern and alternative tracks.
  • The “X” Session (6:00–7:00 pm): A dedicated learning hour for beginners and cross-over dancers to refine their skills in a supportive environment.
  • Two Hardwood Floors: Over 500 square feet of smooth parquet space provides ample room to dance and connect.

The vibe is relaxed and welcoming, emphasizing fun, community, and shared learning. Whether you’re an experienced tanguero or taking your first steps, you’ll find a supportive community ready to dance with you.

Join the magic of Tuesday Night Tango every 2nd and 4th Tuesday of the month, from 6:00 to 9:00 pm, at The Greek in Ventura Harbor. www.QuantumTango.net 

Mission Church Illuminates Hearts and Inspires Holiday Giving

Mission Church’s Christmas Party Ex-travaganza, held on Friday, December 6, filled the season with warmth and joy as over a thousand attendees came together to celebrate. This festive event featured bounce houses, face painting, temporary tattoos, popcorn, hot cocoa, cotton candy, giveaways, Christmas candy, and pictures with Santa! Everything was free. Yet beyond the sparkle and excitement, the event carried a deeper purpose: collections of toys for the Holiday Toy Shop and the Christmas Shoppe to support local families and those in need. This heartwarming initiative brought holiday hope and cheer to the community, reminding us all of the power of giving during the season of light. For more information, visit www.missionventura.com.

Are You Allergic to Your Pet? Breathe Easy—You Can Still Keep Your Animal Companion!

From the American Society for the Prevention of Cruelty to Animals® (ASPCA)

Image by Freepik

Although many people have discovered the beneficial effects of caring for a furry friend, the fact remains that roughly 15 to 20% of the population is allergic to animals. The result? Countless pet parents in unhappy, unhealthy situations—and their beloved pets are the cause! Allergen is the medical term for the actual substance that causes an allergic reaction. Touching or inhaling allergens leads to reactions in allergic individuals. Symptoms can include red, itchy, watery eyes and nose; sneezing; coughing; scratchy or sore throat; itchy skin, and most serious of all, difficulty breathing.

The most common pet allergens are proteins found in their dander (scales of old skin that are constantly shed by an animal), saliva, urine and sebaceous cells. Any animal can trigger an allergic response, but cats are the most common culprits. People can also become allergic to exotic pets such as ferrets, guinea pigs, birds, rabbits and rodents. There is no species or breed to which humans cannot develop allergies. Fur length and type will not affect or prevent allergies. Certain pets can be less irritating than others to those who suffer from allergies, but that is strictly on an individual basis and cannot be predicted.

Once the diagnosis of a pet allergy is made, a physician will often recommend eliminating the companion animal from the surroundings. Heartbreaking? Yes. Absolutely necessary? Not always. Keep in mind that most people are allergic to several things besides pets, such as dust mites, molds and pollens, all of which can be found in the home. Allergic symptoms result from the total cumulative allergen load. That means that if you eliminate some of the other allergens, you may not have to get rid of your pet. (Conversely, should you decide to remove your pet from your home, this may not immediately solve your problems.) You must also be prepared to invest the time and effort needed to decontaminate your home environment, limit future exposure to allergens and find a physician who will work with you. Read on for helpful tips:
Improving the Immediate Environment

  • Create an allergen-free room. A bedroom is often the best and most practical choice. By preventing your pet from entering this room, you can ensure at least eight hours of freedom from allergens every night. It’s a good idea to use hypoallergenic bedding and pillow materials.
  • Limit fabrics. Allergens collect in rugs, drapes and upholstery, so do your best to limit or eliminate them from your home. If you choose to keep some fabrics, steam-clean them regularly. Cotton-covered furniture is the smartest choice, and washable blinds or shades make good window treatments. You can also cover your furniture with sheets or blankets which you can remove and wash regularly.
  • Vacuum frequently using a vacuum equipped with a HEPA (high-efficiency particulate arresting) filter or a disposable electrostatic bag. Other kinds of bags will permit allergens to blow back out of the vacuum.
  • Install an air purifier fitted with a HEPA filter. Our modern, energy-efficient homes lock in air that is loaded with allergens, so it’s smart to let in some fresh air daily.
  • Use anti-allergen room sprays. These sprays deactivate allergens, rendering them harmless. Ask your allergist for a product recommendation.
  • Clean the litter box frequently. Use low-dust, perfume-free filler. Clumping litter is a good choice.
  • Dust regularly. Wiping down the walls will also cut down on allergens.
  • Invest in washable pet bedding and cages that can be cleaned often and easily.

Decontaminating Your Pet

  • Bathe your pet at least once a week. Your veterinarian can recommend a shampoo that won’t dry out his skin. Bathing works to wash off the allergens that accumulate in an animal’s fur.
  • Wipe your pet with a product formulated to prevent dander from building up and flaking off into the environment. Ask your veterinarian to suggest one that is safe to use on animals who groom themselves.
  • Note any symptoms of dermatitis exhibited by your companion animal. Dermatitis often leads to accelerated skin and fur shedding, which will up your allergen exposure.
  • Brush or comb your pet frequently. It’s best to do this outdoors, if possible. (The ASPCA does not recommend keeping cats outdoors, so make sure your feline is leashed if you take him outside.)

Taking Care of Yourself

  • If possible, have someone other than yourself do the housecleaning, litter box work and pet washing, wiping and brushing. If you must clean the house or change the litter, be sure to wear a dust mask.
  • Wash your hands after handling your companion animal and before touching your face. The areas around your nose and eyes are particularly sensitive to allergens.
  • Designate a “pet outfit” from among your most easily washed clothes. Wear it when playing or cuddling with your companion, and you’ll leave other clothing uncontaminated.
  • Find a physician, preferably an allergy specialist, who will make sure that your pet is the cause of your allergies and will help alleviate your symptoms. Medications and immunotherapy (desensitizing shots) can often allow you and your companion animal to remain together happily ever after.

Visit www.aspca.org for more information.

Vol. 18, No. 06 – Dec 12 – Dec 24, 2024 – Scamp Club

Meet Sweetness! A perfect example of an extreme misnomer, Sweetness is possibly the most unpleasant, sour little cat you’ll ever have the misfortune to meet. While her family love her unconditionally, they admit that any misguided soul who attempts to stroke, pet, or simply walk in the vicinity of the tiny 6-pound fluffer will meet a swift, brutal, and bloody fate requiring Neosporin and several Band-Aids. Sweetness enjoys eating, sleeping, and randomly attacking her family.

Social Connections and Healthy Habits can Boost Your Mental Health

From the California Department of Aging

Image by Freepik

The holidays can be particularly difficult for seniors. A May 2023 report from the U.S. Surgeon General called attention to the health crisis caused by isolation, loneliness, and lack of connection in the United States, especially for older adults. Social isolation can lead to anxiety, anger, and emotional turmoil. Awareness of the risks of isolation and loneliness is growing, along with efforts to help people of all ages understand steps they can take to reduce loneliness and increase social connections. People are participating in the activities they enjoy – gathering with friends and family, traveling, participating in church or other social groups, or attending other events. But the effects of pandemic-related isolation may still linger.

Tips to Help with Anxiety

For those feeling unable to reconnect because they’re afraid or anxious, there are some simple steps to take. Licensed psychologist Corrine McIntosh Sako, president of the Sacramento Valley Psychological Association, suggests grounding yourself by taking deep breaths through your nose, inhaling into your belly, then slowly breathing out through your mouth. Next, she suggests, sit with the knowledge that you are experiencing fear or anxiety and ask yourself what you’re anxious about and how you can move forward, even with anxiety. The process helps you think more rationally. Remember, everyone experiences these feelings from time to time, so don’t be hard on yourself. Other breathing techniques can help too, including what is called the 4-7-8: Breathe in for four seconds, hold your breath for seven seconds, and slowly let your breath out for eight seconds. Like deep breathing, exercise can work as a psychological immune booster, releasing feel-good hormones called endorphins that can ease anxiety. Even a short walk around the block can bring your emotional temperature gauge back to normal.

Increase Social Connections

Perhaps the most important thing is social connections, like phone calls with friends or family, or attendance at a church or community events. California’s network of 33 Area Agencies on Aging, located in communities throughout California, offers nutrition and health services and group activities that may include exercise and art classes, writing, or yoga. Transportation to and from programs may also be available. In addition, adult day services programs – in which older adults can socialize and receive help with daily tasks – are designed to help people stay mentally and physically active. These programs feature a variety of therapeutic and other activities, as well as meals and snacks, health monitoring, and other services.

You Are Not Alone

For those unable or not ready to leave their home, Friendship Line is there. Anyone can call 888-670-1360 to have a friendly conversation by phone. Caregivers seeking support can access Family Caregiver Support Services through their local Area Agency on Aging. Learn more about the variety of services available to older adults, their families, and caregivers by visiting the California Department of Aging website or calling the California Aging and Adult Information Line at 800-510-2020.

Visit aging.ca.gov for more information and links to the resources listed in this article.

Vol. 18, No. 06 – Dec 12 – Dec 24, 2024 – Forever Homes Wanted

Hi, I’m Canelo, a 4½-year-old Chihuahua mix. I’m loving, sweet, playful, and snuggly—but don’t be surprised if I act like a tough guy until I get to know you. The ideal home for me is with a female human and no other dogs. While I’m great at the dog park and do well on walks, I want to be the center of attention at home. I wouldn’t do well with children, as I might bite if I feel threatened or if there’s competition for my person. I love walks and am excellent on a leash. Car rides and visits to the dog park are also some of my favorite activities. If you can provide a loving home where I can thrive, please submit an online application to meet me.

Hi, I’m Celine, a fluffy, active 2-year-old Maltese/Shih Tzu mix looking for a new home. My previous owner couldn’t keep me due to a busy schedule. I adore children and get along well with other small dogs, though I haven’t been tested with larger dogs or cats. I love going for walks and already know basic commands. I take daily seizure medication, which makes me drink a lot of water, so having a doggy door would be ideal for me to go outside whenever I need to. If you think you can give me the love and attention I deserve, please fill out an online application to meet me.

Hi, I’m Coco, a sweet, almost 6-year-old Chihuahua mix with so much love to give. I may be small, but I have a big personality and a brave heart. Even with my medical needs, I’m a strong and playful pup always ready for my next adventure. I’m affectionate and love cuddling with my favorite humans, but I also enjoy playtime and walks. I’m housebroken and will let you know when I need to go outside. I need a special home with owners who can administer my seizure medication and give me medicated baths for my skin allergies. A quiet home with minimal animals, where I can be the center of attention, would be perfect for me. If I sound like your ideal companion, please fill out an application to meet me—I promise to fill your life with love and joy!

Hi, I’m Lexi, a senior Maltese mix with a lovable personality and a sweet, gentle nature that will melt your heart. I’m friendly and easily fit in with the other pups in my foster home—even the tortoise! While I haven’t been tested with cats, I’m confident I’m too sweet for any “cat-astrophes.” It’s unknown how I’d do with children, but I’m house-trained and well-behaved indoors. I’m surprisingly active for my age and would make a perfect companion for leisurely walks in the park. I do take daily seizure medication, which makes me drink a lot of water, so a home with a doggy door would suit me best. If you’re ready to open your heart and home to me, please fill out an online application.

All of these amazing pets are being cared for by the Canine Adoption and Rescue League (CARL). Could you provide a forever home for one of these wonderful animals? To read full pet bios and submit an application, visit www.CARLDogs.org or call 805-644-738

Vol. 18, No. 06 – Dec 12 – Dec 24, 2024 – Community Events

VENTURA:

40th Annual Memorial Program Light Up a Life: Wed, Dec 11 – 5:30 pm – 6:30 pm. Poinsettia Pavilion, 3451 Foothill Road, Ventura,

Livingston’s Light Up a Life events are just around the corner. For forty years these programs have offered comfort and solace to those who have experienced loss, providing a meaningful opportunity to honor the memories of loved ones. Whether they were lost recently or long ago, near or far, “Light Up a Life” serves as a heartfelt tribute that brings joy and reflection during this holiday season.  

Light Up a Life is for everyone. The events feature touching readings, acts of remembrance, and a beautifully illuminated Tree of Life. Admission is free, and everyone is welcome to take part in this year’s Light Up campaign. By making a tax-deductible donation of $25 or more, you can have a star bearing your loved one’s name displayed throughout the holiday season in our online memory listing and in our touching video tribute at the events. Your contribution plays a vital role in sustaining our hospice and bereavement programs across Ventura County. Reserve your star today at www.lmvna.org/LightUpALife. 

Winter Wonderland, A Magical Evening for Autism Families: Thurs, Dec. 12, 5 PM to 9 PM. Camp Arnaz, 155 Sulphur Mountain Rd.

Girl Scouts of California’s Central Coast is honored to host a Winter Wonderland special event in partnership with the Autism Society Ventura County. This exclusive evening invites Autism families to enjoy the festive beauty of Camp Arnaz. Guests will enjoy stunning holiday lights and displays, visits with Santa and Mrs. Claus, inclusive holiday crafts and activities, fun tractor rides and holiday horses. This event is designed to create a sensory-friendly, joyful environment where families can relax, connect, and celebrate the season together. Thanks to the generous support of Embarc, tickets are fully covered, providing a magical holiday experience at no cost to families. Please register. girlscoutsccc.doubleknot.com/event/special-event-autism-society-at-winter-wonderland/3086233

Ventura Harbor Parade of Lights: Fri & Sat, Dec. 13 – 14

There’s magic in lights (and fireworks) mirrored in the water. Boaters deck their boats to the nines, then parade their shimmering creations on Friday and Saturday night, the visual extravaganza capped by fireworks. There’s child-like magic in the spectacularly decorated boats throwing their lights across the water. On dry land, small-town magic in kiddie rides, sweet treats, and cozy-warm drinks are all about the small Ventura Harbor Village. Cost? Keeping in the spirit, the event and parking are free. This year’s theme CANDYLAND brings all the sweetness of the season!

The Rubicon Theatre: A COWBOY LULLABY: Dec. 4 – 22 (launches their 26th season). The Platters Holiday Concert 12/16 – 12/17. 1006 E Main St.

A Cowboy Lullaby – A Concert of Songs and Poems from the Old West by James O’Neil and Dan Wheetman. Directed by James O’Neil. Musical Direction by Dan Wheetman. From the Drama Desk and Tony Award Nominees who Created Lonesome Traveler and I Dig Rock and Roll. www.rubicontheatre.org.

Dudley House Holiday Boutique: Sat. Dec. 14 & Sun. 15

30th annual fundraiser for the 1892 historic house museum continues into December on Saturdays and Sundays from 11 a.m. to 5 p.m. Come celebrate the spirit of holidays past where you’ll find quality crafts, home décor, antiques and collectibles plus a silent auction and bargain “basement”. An outdoor flea market is added on Sundays from 8 a.m. to 4 p.m. 197 N. Ashwood in Ventura. (805) 642-3345. Free. www.dudleyhouse.org.

Flamenco 805: Sat., Dec 14 & Fri, Dec. 20. NAMBA Performing Arts Space, 47 S Oak St.

Close out the year with a fiery Flamenco music and dance event. Wendy Castellanos, local dance artist and founder of Flamenco 805 creates Ventura’s first traditional Flamenco Tablao. (A Tablao is an intimate venue where Flamenco musicians and dancers improvise a live show).

This is the 8th edition of the Flamenco 805 student recital! The show will open with the dance students of Wendy Castellanos and feature over 30 dancers from all over the 805. The student recital will be followed by an all-star cast of professional musicians & dancers from LA and abroad for a Flamenco Tablao show. Visit Eventbrite for tickets: www.eventbrite.com/e/flamenco-tickets-1009562116467?aff=oddtdtcreator.

Footworks Youth Ballet Presents The Nutcracker: Fri, Dec 13, 7 pm; Sat, Dec 14, 1 pm; Sat, Dec 14, 5 pm; Sun, Dec 15,1 pm. Ventura College Performing Arts Center.

An enchanting holiday tradition for all ages. www.eventbrite.com/cc/footworks-youth-ballet-presents-the-nutcracker-3788733

Epilepsy Awareness Tri-County 1st Annual 1K/5K Run, Roll & Stroll. Sat, Dec. 14. 8:30 am. Promenade Park, Figueroa St. (Across from the Fairgrounds parking lot).

1st Annual Epilepsy Awareness Tri-County Run, Roll & Stroll, to raise funds and awareness for epilepsy! Bring your family and friends for a fantastic day with fun activities, delicious food, and a wonderful community spirit. This event is designed for everyone to enjoy while learning about available resources. Whether you’re a runner, a walker, accompanied by a service dog, or using a wheelchair, all are welcome! Enjoy informative booths, therapy animals, lively vendors, great music, tasty food trucks, and the stunning beauty of Ventura’s beachside. www.epilepsyawarenesstricounty.org/events

Museum of Ventura County – Winter Solstice Storytelling Festival: Sun, Dec 15, 12:00 pm to 4:00 pm.

A vibrant celebration of Indigenous culture, tradition, and community at our Winter Solstice Festival! The day features a performance by Hummingbird Women’s Drum and Chumash Dance Sisters; storytelling from Chumash Elder Dennis Garcia, Kat High of the Hupa tribe, and Alan Salazar, a Fernandeño Tataviam and Ventureño Chumash Elder; a Kids’ Corner; and activities like rock painting and cordage making led by Julia Fireflower, a Tataviam tribal member. Enjoy food by Island Smoke n Grill, Guamanian BBQ, and, as the day concludes, take part in a public prayer circle honoring forgiveness, community, and gratitude. This celebration of culture, storytelling, and togetherness is not to be missed. www.venturamuseum.org.

Ventura Music Festival/NAMBA Collaboration: Sun, Dec 15th. 7 pm. 47 S Oak St.

Ensemble Sangineto is an eclectic band which blends skillfully ancient harmonies and sonorities with modern rhythms. The wide-ranging musical experiences of the individual members converge to create fresh arrangements of traditional Irish, Scottish, Breton & Italian tunes and original compositions that display influences from many varied musical genres ranging from classical to folk, from Gregorian chant to musical, from pop to Celtic music. In December, make it a musical weekend with another wonderful community collaboration with NAMBA Performing Arts. nambaarts.com.

The Longest Night: Remembering Those Who Died Unhoused in Ventura County in 2024: Sat, Dec. 21, 3 pm & Sun, Dec 22, 3:30 pm

Reflection, Music, Inspiration. Organized by Homeless service providers, local city and county government, police, faith groups and people who are or have been homeless. With the support of the Unitarian Universalist Church of Ventura and the City of Oxnard Commission on the Homelessness.

Channel Islands PC User Group (CIPCUG): Sat, Dec 21, 9 am. 2175 Goodyear Avenue, Unit 117.

Online and Live at our temporary location Ventura County Computers. Discussion, Tutorial, and Q&A sessions centered around Computers, email, the Internet, AI, and social media brokers such as X, Facebook, and Google.  Due to limited space live attendance is reserved for members.  Details for connecting to online events are emailed prior to the event.  To receive connection
instructions, please sign up on our website at www.cipcug.org. (805) 289-3960.

Ventura Marathon: Sun, Feb 25

In its 11th year, the Ventura Marathon returns to our shores as another Boston Qualifier marathon in town. Created from a dream of embracing Ventura’s large community in a fun and fast event, thousands have run the course which starts in Ojai and ends in Ventura. Runners breathe in the fresh air and take in the beautiful views along the Ojai Valley Trail all the way to the Ventura River Trail. Run the full marathon or the half – your choice! Register at www.venturamarathon.com.

Ongoing:

Social Golf Club

Actively recruiting new members Men’s golf club. Set Tee times a year in advance for every Tuesday and Thursday at 9 different courses in Ventura County. https://challengersgolfclub.com

Ventura Senior Men’s Group: First and Third Tues each month: 11:30 am – 1:30 pm at Poinsettia Pavilion. 

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.  Buffet luncheon with interesting speakers and good friends. Your first lunch is free. We talk about everything except religion and politics. Eligible to all men 50 plus. Call Tom at 805-657-1071 for more information or visit VSMG.net to find out who our speakers will be.

Play Bridge: Every Tues, Wed and Thurs at 12:30 pm.

ACBL-sanctioned duplicate bridge games. All levels of play, and we will guarantee to have a partner for you if you need one. Lessons are available. Tuesday, Wed and Thursday games are held at Temple Beth Torah, Foothill & Kimball Rd, Ventura. Every Saturday at the Ventura Townhouse.  For additional info visit our website at www.vcbridge.org. Contact Rose at [email protected]. 

Ventura County Philatelic Society: First and third Mon each month – 7:30 pm. 

Church of the Foothills, Ventura. For more information, visit https://venturacountyphilatelicsoc.org.

Beach Cleanup: First Sat of every month – 8:30 -10:30 am.

Meet your neighbors and help keep our beach looking fresh. Hosted by Pierpont Beach Community Council in partnership with Surfrider. Meet up at the end of Seward near the beach. (1140 S Seward St). Arrive any time during the timeframe. Fun for the whole family! Supplies provided – BYO water.

Ojai:

It’s A Wonderful Life: Fri, Dec 6 – Dec 22. Ojai Art Center. 113 S Montgomery St.

Evening shows on Fridays and Saturdays at 7:30 pm and matinees on Saturdays and Sundays at 2:00 pm. Directed by Gai Laing Jones, this timeless story unfolds as a 1946 live radio play, adapted by Joe Landry. Radio shows used to be immensely popular, with the “Golden Age” of radio lasting from approximately the mid 1920’s to the late 1960’s. Tickets can be purchased online, at the door, by phone at 805-640-8797 or email [email protected]. www.ojaiartcenter.org.

Rescheduled Johnny Mercer Concert: Sun, Dec 29, 3 pm. Ojai Woman’s Club, 441 East Ojai Ave.

American Songbook Today honors Johnny Mercer who wrote more songs that became “standards” than any other songwriter in history. They include Moon River, You Must Have Been a Beautiful Baby, Autumn Leaves, Dream, I Wanna Be Around, That Old Black Magic, Accentuate the Positive, Skylark, One for My Baby and One More for the Road, Blues in the Night, Something’s Gotta Give, I’m an Old Cowhand, Jeepers Creepers, My Shining Hour, Too Marvelous for Words, It’s Cold Outside, and about a hundred more! https://ticketsjohnnymercertribute.eventbrite.com   

Santa Barbara:

Million Dollar Quartet: Throughout Dec., Ensemble Theatre Company, 33 W Victoria St.

The Tony® Award-nominated musical MILLION DOLLAR QUARTET is set on December 4, 1956, when an extraordinary twist of fate brought Jerry Lee Lewis, Johnny Cash, Carl Perkins and Elvis Presley together at Sun Records in Memphis for what would be one of the greatest jam sessions ever. The play brings that legendary December night to life with an irresistible tale of broken promises, secrets, betrayal and celebrations that is both poignant and funny. Relive the era with the smash-hit sensation featuring an incredible score of rock ‘n’ roll, gospel, R&B and country hits, performed live onstage by world-class actor/musicians. Showcased hit songs include “Blue Suede Shoes,” “Fever,” “Walk the Line,” “Sixteen Tons,” “Who Do You Love?,” “Great Balls of Fire,” “Folsom Prison Blues,” “Whole Lotta Shakin’ Goin’ On,” “Hound Dog,” and more. https://etcsb.org.

Santa Paula:

Santa Paula Theater Center’s Winter/Spring 2025 Acting Conservatory: See dates below. 125 S. 7th St. Santa Paula

Acting with Intent Mondays from 2 – 5 pm or Mon evenings from 7 – 10 pm from Jan 23 – Feb 24, 2025 with a showcase to follow Mar 3. The Young Actors’ Studio Sat 2 – 4 pm from Mar 1 – Apr 5 with a showcase to follow the last class at 5 pm. Story to Stage Tues 3:00 – 4:30 pm from Feb 4 – Mar 18 with a production on Mar 25 at 3:30 pm. Unleash Your Voice: Write Bold, Short Plays That Pack a Punch Wed 7 – 10 pm from Jan 8 – Feb 5 with a showcase to follow Feb 12. www.santapaulatheatercenter.org

Acting with Intent $200. The Young Actors’ Studio $120. Story to Stage $120. Unleash Your Voice: Write Bold, Short Plays That Pack a Punch $120.

Contacts: Acting with Intent – [email protected]. The Young Actors’ Studio – [email protected]. Story to Stage – [email protected]. Unleash Your Voice: Write Bold, Short Plays That Pack a Punch – [email protected].

 

Vol. 18, No. 06 – Dec 12 – Dec 24, 2024 – Harbor Patrol Blotter

Monday 11/18

 6:33am, observed NWS issued Small Craft Advisory, raised warning pennant.

10:10am, contacting the skipper of a 37ft sailboat that has been looking for a slip for a few weeks. Officers had lined up a slip for the young captain, but he misunderstood that he had to pay to stay in the slip. Escorting him out to sea.

Wednes 11/20

 11:15am, received report of a vehicle running in front of Brophy Bro’s. Officers responded and found the vehicle locked and running with no one inside. Apparently, discovered that a commercial fisherman was in a hurry to get on his boat and left his vehicle running. Contacted tow company to assist opening car.

6:00pm, officers manning the operations center for the Commissioner Meeting.

Thursday 11/21

 2:00pm, after trouble shooting and conducting repairs, officers were able to put Fireboat and Rescue Boat 19 back in full service.

2:35pm, senior officers preparing patrol schedule for the Ventura “Parade of Lights” coming this December 13 & 14 at 6:30-9:00pm, (Friday and Saturday).

3:23pm, dispatched to chest pain in Ventura Isle Marina. Officers responded with VFD/AMR to assist with treatment and assessment.
9:26pm, received a request from Tow Boat US to assist with a large commercial fishing seiner they are towing. Officers responded in Fireboat conducted traffic control and stood by for any emergencies with the tow.

Friday 11/22

 8:55am, officers attempting to put the Pay&Display machine at the launch ramp back in order. They were able to access and reset the machine.

10:10am, received a request to store some bags for a shopper in the village. The caller insisted she had a right to put her seventeen bags in a storage area. Officers tried to satisfy the caller; it became apparent there was a liability issue.

10:55pm, received a request to investigate and/or check the wellness of a transient in the village. Officers responded and ensured the individual was ok.

Saturday 11/23

 6:55pm, dispatched to a sick person at restaurant in the village. Officers responded with VFD/AMR to assist with patient treatment and assessment.

11:20pm, received a request for berthing for a disabled fishing vessel. The vessel’s net was wrapped in the prop, needed to wait till morning to dive it. Officers assisted with the call and granted permission to secure to the longdock.

Sunday 11/24

 8:15am, while on patrol in the Fireboat, observed a petroleum sheen in the VHV commercial slips. After investigation, found evidence that one of the fishing seiners was responsible. Crew denied accusation, officers issued warning and also warned of a ongoing investigation with said vessel for illegal discharge.

11:45pm, contacting crew of fishing vessel berthed at the longdock. Captain advising no diver until tomorrow and most of the fishing gear is underwater and was on the bottom through the harbor main channel.

2:28pm, dispatched to a boat fire in Mandalay Bay, Channel Islands Harbor. Officers responded in the Fireboat. Approximately 3 miles from CI Harbor, Ventura Harbor Patrol Fireboat was cancelled, fire was extinguished.

Monday 11/25

 8:00am, checking in on the fishing vessel secured to the longdock. The diver freed the chain wrapped around the prop, vessel headed back to Long Beach.

 

Vol. 18, No. 06 – Dec 12 – Dec 24, 2024 – Police Reports

Incident: Stabbing Homicide

On November 28, at 1:49 am, the Ventura Police Department responded to reports of a large fight in the 300 block of East Main Street. One caller reported that an individual had been stabbed during the altercation.

When officers arrived, the fight had ended, and the crowd was dispersing. Officers located a 24-year-old male victim lying on the ground, seriously injured, with a stab wound. Despite paramedics’ efforts to provide life-saving medical aid, the victim succumbed to his injuries and was pronounced deceased at the scene.

The Ventura Police Department’s Major Crimes Unit is actively investigating this incident. The victim’s identity is being withheld pending notification of next of kin.

Many witnesses at the scene were uncooperative and declined to provide information about the events leading up to the stabbing. We urge anyone with information regarding this crime to come forward. Please contact the Ventura Police Department at 805-650-8010.

Vol. 18, No. 06 – Dec 12 – Dec 24, 2024 – Ventura Music Scene

by Pam Baumgardner
VenturaRocks.com

Happy holidays!!! Let’s get right to it, so much to share… First off on Thursday, December 12, Candlelight concerts return for two shows at the Majestic Ventura Theater featuring music from the Nutcracker along with several of your holiday favorites all performed by a string quartet with hundreds of candles as the backdrop (Candlelightexperience.com).

You can catch one of those rare Charles Law Band performances at Dave’s Xmas Tree Lot in Santa Paula on Friday, December 13. Dress warmly, huddle round the fire pit, and pick out your tree!

The High Street Arts Center in Moorpark presents “Christmas Magic” featuring the Walnut Canyon Elementary School Choir along with several High Street Performers. This show has several performances running Friday, December 13, through Sunday, December 15 (HighStreetArts Center.com for times and ticket info).

The Ventura Music Festival presents The King’s Singers with a special holiday performance at Ventura Center for Spiritual Living (VenturaMusicFestival.org for ticket availability).

The annual fundraiser, 4 Kids 2 Kids, will be held at Cantara Cellars in Camarillo this year on Sunday, December 15 (1-6 pm). The cost of admission is $10 and one unwrapped toy. In exchange, you’ll enjoy artists including Ray Jaurique Band, Shawn Jones, RJ Mischo, Debbie Davis, Tommy Harkenrider and Steve & Sally Williams.

The Rubicon Theater will have three show times for the Platters Very Merry Christmas Show performance. There will be one show on Monday, December 16, and two on Tuesday, December 17. This ticketed event still had some seats available at press time (RubiconTheatre.org for more details).

The newly renovated Ojai Playhouse has two performances of Christmas at the Movies on Tuesday, December 17, featuring holidays favorites from the big screen. Leading the cast will be two Broadway veterans and Ojai favorites, Douglas Ladnier and Laura Dekkers, plus very special guest appearances (OjaiPlayhouse.com for ticket availability).

The Grape will have Gregg Karukas Holiday Jazz & more Unplugged on Thursday, December 19. Karukas was a founding member of The Rippingtons and has toured with Larry Carlton, Dave Koz, Sergio Mendes, and more (secure tickets at TheGrapeVentura.com).

Quick Notes: Burch Studios will have their next student concert at the Ventura Theater on Sunday, December 15, featuring Muse Collective, Dead Syndicate, Prely Grey, Ahoy!, Electric Shadow, Band of Oneanoother, and Star Synth; The Ska Daddyz and Looking West play Mrs. Olson’s on Saturday, December 14; House of Dance will have the Phoenix Big Band with vocalist Michael Falcone on Sunday, December 15 (1p); The Grape will hold a Squashed Grapes Alumni Show on Wednesday, December 18; and Puddles Pity Party lands at the Ventura Music Hall on Thursday, December 19.

Our next issue will cover New Year’s Eve events, but if you want to look ahead, I suggest you go to VenturaRocks.com and search NYE parties.

Do you have any music-related news or upcoming shows you want help publicizing? Please send all information short or long to [email protected], and for updated music listings daily, go to www.VenturaRocks.com.