Richard and Debbie Senate vacationing in Long Grove, Illinois
The Sock Money Museum has the world’s largest collection of sock monkey dolls! Debbie and Richard’s daughter, Megan, works there as a tour guide. You can learn how to turn an old pair of socks into a doll monkey!
Ventura
NAMBA Performing Arts Space: Events throughout August.
NAMBA provides an intimate theatre for residents and visitors in the Ventura area to experience a variety of performing arts and education programming. In addition to being a venue for touring acts, we host showcases, community and cultural events, workshops, and educational programs related to performing arts. Our calling is nurturing new projects, fostering collaboration and enriching the cultural landscape of our community and beyond. www.nambaarts.com
The Throw Down Cornhole Festival: Fri, Aug 23 – Sun, Aug 25, Ventura County Fairgrounds
Spencer Makenzie’s invites all players of all skill levels to enter the World’s Largest Cornhole Tournament “The Throw Down”. This cornhole tournament is the largest in the world. Come enjoy the tournament as a cornhole player or spectator there is plenty of food, drinks, cold beer, live music, truck show and vendors. All players who play will be competing for over $300,000 in guaranteed payouts. Plus, all teams with Ventura County residency will be competing for a additional payouts. 1088 teams will be playing. www.thethrowdowncornholetournament.com.
Fractured Actors Theater Company: August 16-31, Fridays & Saturdays at 8:00 p.m.* Sundays at 5:00 p.m. Extra matinee performance on August 24th at 2:00 p.m. and Thursday August 29th at 8:00 p.m. Theater @ Liminal Ventura, 1956 Palma Drive, Suite J.
Actors Theater Company presents The Speakeasy PROM: Never Say Goodbye, their 5th annual festival of new plays and live music. This year’s edition features five world premiere one-acts by local playwrights and live music from Class Action. The Speakeasy PROM is an immersive theater and musical experience. It is all accompanied by modern and classic rock from Class Action, your new favorite band composed of Ventura County’s finest musicians. Speakeasy PROM: Never Say Goodbye is hosted at Sweet Jay’s, our charming and spacious black box theater that will be transformed into a colorful and celebratory high school dance. Purchase tickets at fracturedactors.com. *Prom attire is encouraged.
Ventura Harbor Village Movie Night (The Endless Summer 60th Anniversary): August 17, 6pm. Movie starts at 7:30pm. Sat, Sept 21, Hook.
With their surfboards as luggage, wave riders Robert August and Mike Hynson travel from one coastline to the next, trying the waves in Hawaii, Africa, Australia, Tahiti and a number of other places where most folks had never even seen a surfboard before. Rated PG. Kettle Corn, Volkswagens and Woodys on display, live music, local surf groups and giveaways, venturaharborvillage.com/events.
Watch/Clock Collectors Meet Up: Sun, Aug 18, Ventura College, Campus Student Center from 11am – 2pm
Anyone interested in timepieces, both antique and modern, can attend the Ventura County chapter of the National Association of Watch and Clock Collectors meeting for a watch/clock marketplace, lunch, and a presentation on a horological topic. Bring a watch or clock for a free evaluation. nawcc-ch190.com.
Ventura Land Trust Wild Scenic Film Festival: Sat., Aug 24, 5-10pm, Ventura County Credit Union Headquarters, Ventura.
Ventura Land Trust’s annual flagship event, the Wild & Scenic Film Festival is entering its 15th year and will be held on the lawn of the Ventura County Credit Union headquarters. In addition to nearly two hours of inspiring environmental and activism-focused films, festival-goers can expect incredible music, food, and a selection of beer and wine from Ventura County locals. The evening’s festivities will feature the live music of local legends Spencer the Gardener, an onsite raffle, and an online silent auction. Beverages from Topa Topa, Castoro Cellars, Balcom Cider, Ventura Spirits, and food from a variety of local food trucks will be available for purchase.
General admission tickets are $40, with children’s tickets available for $5 and teen tickets (ages 13-17) at $10. For those seeking an elevated experience, VIP tickets are available for $125 and offer exclusive early access to the Ventura Vibe VIP Lounge, providing additional free beverage and food options. Tickets and vendor details can be found at www.venturalandtrust.org/wsff2024.
C Street Classic Surf Contest: Sat, August 31 – Sun, September 1, C Street.
The C Street Classic is dedicated to celebrating the spirit of surfing at the iconic C Street in Ventura, California. Open to short and longboard surfers of all ages and genders, our contest fosters an inclusive community that emphasizes fun, camaraderie, and sportsmanship. We strive to create an unforgettable experience that honors the rich tradition of surfing, inspires personal excellence, and builds lasting friendships among surfers. Join us in riding the waves with joy and respect for the ocean and each other. www.cstreetclassic.com
Aloha Beach Festival: Sat, Aug 31- Sun, Sept 1, Surfer’s Point/Promenade Park
ALOHA BEACH FESTIVAL brings Hawaiian culture to Ventura with unity, respect, mind & spirit! West of Ventura Pier @ Surfers Point. www.alohabeachfestival.us
Olivas Adobe House Tours: Every Sunday in August
The Olivas Adobe historic site features the original two-story adobe home of Don Raymundo Olivas built in 1847. Celebrating Ventura’s Rancho and Latino heritage. Located at 4200 Olivas Park Drive, Ventura. House tours are $5 for Adults and $3 for children and Seniors. More Information is available at https://www.cityofventura.ca.gov/648/Olivas-Adobe-Historical-Park.
The Assisted Home Health & Hospice Foundation Fundraiser: Thurs, Sept 5, 6:00 pm- 9:00 pm, Golf N’ Stuff, Ventura
Engage in the spirit of friendly competition and help support access to in-home healthcare for the underserved. The foundation provides assistance to individuals and families across Ventura County that range from short-term caregiving, hospital beds, refrigerators, pet care, etc. The money raised at the event stays in Ventura County to ensure that assistance is provided to families in need. Asssitedcares.com/foundation.
National Heirloom Expo: Tues, Sept 10-12. Ventura County Fairgrounds
The National Heirloom Expo is America’s largest celebration of pure food and heirloom gardening. The Expo offers an unparalleled opportunity to learn from some of the best minds working in gardening, health, non-GMO activism, heirloom seed protection and preservation, permaculture, and regenerative soil practices. This year’s speakers include gardening expert John Kohler and long-time medical doctor Dr. Jeff Pierce; anti-GMO activist Rachel Parent; permaculture expert Nikky Schauder; renowned herbalists Susan Belsinger and Tina Marie Wilcox; and author and seed saver Bevin Cohen. A larger, second speaker hall has been added for 2024 and will feature talks by local experts, roundtable discussions, and workshops. Produce is the real star of the show at the expo, and a trip around the fairgrounds is like an international adventure in heirloom seeds and vegetables. The Expo Hall features hundreds of heirloom vegetables, fruits, herbs, and flowers, plus exhibits, fruit carvers, and more!
A one-day pass is $15. Three-day passes are available for $30. All profits benefit school garden and food programs. School groups are admitted free, and assistance is available to defray transportation costs for school groups. For more information, visit theheirloomexpo.com or www.rareseeds.com/national-heirloom-expo.
Taste of History Dinner: Thurs, Sep 12, 6:00 pm – 9:00 pm. Museum of Ventura County
Journey back in time for a classic evening of refined taste and unexpected histories. This open-air dinner will transport diners to an elegant mid-century supper club with a three-course meal and wine pairing. The decadent evening will begin with a cocktail hour and red carpet followed by dinner, an artful auction, and entertainment including a live jazz quartet, cooking demonstration, historic artifact gallery, and an oral history reading. www.venturamuseum.org.
Ventura’s ArtWalk: Sat, Sept. 21, 12 – 5pm and Sunday, Sept. 22, 11am – 4 pm. Downtown.
The family-friendly event will feature hundreds of artists in local galleries, businesses, restaurants and on the grounds of Mission Park and the Albinger Museum. Artist booths, popular local bands, aerialists, poetry, dance, a film festival, street painting, puppetry and a children’s area will all be a part of this event run by an enthusiastic all-volunteer team. Live painting and pottery demonstrations will also be featured. This huge, free event unites Ventura’s west side neighborhoods, businesses and arts community in a two-day celebration of the creative spirit. Transit to ArtWalk Ventura and along the route will again be at no cost through the generosity of Gold Coast Transit. Register to participate at www.artwalkventura.org.
American Foundation for Suicide Prevention’s Out of the Darkness Community Walk: Sat, Sept. 21, Promenade Park near the Ventura Pier
Join the walk to promote the importance of suicide prevention. In 2021, over 420 Out of the Darkness Walks took place in communities and on campuses across the United States, attended by over 80,000 dedicated people who shared their passion for a growing movement. The goal is to spread awareness of what is currently a leading cause of death in the U.S., and let others know they are not alone. Help ensure that mental health is looked upon with equal importance to physical health and continue to bring hope to those affected by suicide. Register: afsp.org/vc.
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 Tuesdays each month: 11:30am – 1:30pm – 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 Tuesday, Wednesday, and Thursday – 12:30pm.
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 Monday’s each month – 7:30pm.
Church of the Foothills, Ventura. For more information, visit https://venturacountyphilatelicsoc.org.
Beach Cleanup: First Saturday of every month – 8:30 -10:30am.
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:
10th Annual Mountain Film On-Tour: Saturday, September 21, Ojai Valley School (Lower Campus Sports Field). Gates open at 5 pm – Films start at 7:15 pm
OVLC celebrates 25 years of work at the Ojai Meadows Preserve! Bring your blankets and low-back chairs and join the festivities on the field at Ojai Valley School’s Lower Campus Sports Field for another fantastic year of films and fun! Experience the beauty of nature, the thrill of wild adventures, and the power of environmental storytelling through a carefully curated selection of films from the Mountainfilm Festival in Telluride. ovlc.org/mountainfilm.
Make it a weekend – Friday, September 20, at Under the Open Sky—a locally sourced farm-to-table dinner by Seasons Catering with live music, a photo booth, beer, wine, a virtual auction, and a paddle raise at our historic Ventura River Steelhead Preserve. When the sun sets, we will enjoy a collection of films selected for this special event that will not be shown on Saturday night. https://ovlc.org/events
Ojai Storytelling Festival – tickets ON SALE NOW! Thurs, October 24 – Sun, 27. Libbey Bowl. Early bird pricing ends September 15th
Join us for an exciting weekend of stories, music, and art, October 24th-27th! Group ticket packages and specialized bundles available. www.ojaistoryfest.org.
Story Slam 2024: Thurs, October 24th, 6-9pm. Libbey Bowl
Everyone has a story to tell. Does yours have what it takes to win our second annual Story Slam? Enter your story for consideration by 11:59 pm August 30th. Tickets are only $10 in support of our efforts to sell out The Bowl! #SellOutTheBowl. Applications are in the form of a recorded 2-minute excerpt of your story on the dedicated Story Slam phone line- (805) 669-6842. Include your name and email address in your message! Six finalists will be selected to tell at the Ojai Storytelling Festival on Thursday, October 24th. PRIZES; First place: $200, Second place: $100, Third place: $50. All finalists will receive a weekend ticket to the Festival.
Camarillo:
43rd Annual Wings Over Camarillo Air Show! Sat, Aug 17 – Sun, Aug 18. Gates open 9:00 am and close at 5:00 pm.
This fun-filled, high-octane event is fit for all ages, with 2024’s show promising to have more G’s than ever before. See performers soar through Camarillo’s bluebird skies, view hundreds of aircraft, chat with real pilots, and join us for some hands-on learning at the mesmerizing STEM Pavilion. The Opening Ceremony begins at approximately 12 PM, with the aerobatic portion of the airshow following the ceremony. The classic car and motorcycle parade is scheduled to begin at approximately 1:30 PM on both days. Enjoy this year’s SPECIAL FLIGHTLINE PREVIEW (9:00am – 11:00am). You will be able to see the performing aircraft up close before the start of the aerial part of the show. Pilots, crew and docents will be on hand to answer questions. You will also be able to take photos of each aircraft up close. visitcamarillo.com/wings-over-camarillo-air-show.
Free Genealogy Workshop: Wed, Sept 4, 10:30 – 11:30am. Doors open at 10:00 am. Camarillo Public Library, 4101 Las Posas Road.
Help offered with family history and genealogy questions. No registration needed. Free and open to the public. Suitable for all levels, including beginners. Get help or offer help to others. General questions and topics for discussion are always welcome. For more information about the society visit www.venturacogensoc.org. VCGS is an all-volunteer, public benefit non-profit corporation [501(c)(3)]. Donations are appreciated.
Santa Barbara
Play It Forward: Legends of Broadway: Sat, Aug10th, 7pm. Ensemble Theatre.
A celebratory benefit concert for ETC education and outreach featuring Broadway Veterans Teri Bibb, David Burnham, Anthony Fedorov, Jennifer Paz, Kate Reinders, Andrew Samonsky, and more! with a special performance from State Street Ballet. Concert Tickets $30 / $50. Premium Seating $250 includes a post-show VIP Reception with the Artists at Scarlett Begonia. https://etcsb.org, (805) 965-5400.
Anacapa Island’s Hidden Shipwreck of 1853
by Nella Nelson
“A terrible jar and crashing of timbers. I hurried out on deck, where my attention was fixed on a wall of towering cliffs, the tops of which were hidden by a fog and darkness and appeared to fall and crush us. All round was the loud booming of angry breakers surging about invisible rocks.”
These were the words of Asa Cyrus Call, one of the 500 passengers aboard the steamship Winfield Scott on December 2, 1853. The 1,291 gross ton passenger and mail ship departed from San Francisco on the morning of December 1 in the height of California’s Gold Rush era. In addition to passengers and crew, the ship was transporting gold bullion (worth an estimated US $2 million). Progress was slowed in the afternoon when a leaking boiler needed repairing. She then resumed course at full speed. Later that evening, Captain Simon F. Blunt navigated the ship into the Santa Barbara Channel to save time. Captain Blunt knew the Channel well, having previously helped survey it years earlier.
At approximately 11 PM, the Winfield Scott encountered heavy fog and ran aground into Middle Anacapa Island (400 miles from port), her speed being about 10 knots (12 miles per hour). She struck the island bow first. When the captain attempted to back away, the stern was struck, removing the ship’s rudder. Soon, the ship took on massive amounts of water and became unable to steer. All aboard began scrambling for land.
In a matter of two hours, the approximate 500 people aboard were evacuated with no lives lost. The survivors spend the first night on a pinnacle of rock of 50 x 25 yards. The next day, they moved to a large piece of land on the island.
When a gun was fired by the survivors, it alerted the passing steamship SS California. En route to San Francisco from Panama, the California rescued the women, children and gold bullion. On December 9th, the California returned to rescue the remaining passengers. The crew had stayed behind to recover as much mail and passenger luggage as possible. The Winfield Scott was left in the waters of the channel where it remains to this day, under 30 feet of water.
The wreckage was verified in 1981 and registered with the National Register of Historic Places in 1988. The site is protected by California and U.S. Law which prohibits divers from removing any part of the wreckage.
SS Winfield Scott’s Characteristics:
Sources:
US National Register of Historic Places
NPS.gov/Park Home/Learn About the Park/History & Culture/Stories/Shipwrecks: The Winfield Scott
NOAA. Sanctuaries.noaa.gov
The Wreck of the Winfield Scott – Santa Barbara Maritime Museum. Facebook Video June 17, 2020.
The Arc of Ventura County is marking 70 years of improving the quality of life for local residents with intellectual and developmental disabilities (IDD). To celebrate the organization and the people it impacts, The Arc will host open house events at its program sites throughout Ventura County in August. The public is invited to the free events that will provide an opportunity to learn more about the services and programs available in their communities.
“As The Arc of Ventura County celebrates its 70th anniversary, we reflect on how our programs and services have evolved over the years as we empower our program participants with the tools, skills, and accessibility they need to thrive,” says Mary Platt, The Arc president. “The dedication and support from the community has been invaluable, and we look forward to continuing this journey together.”
Established as a 501(c)(3) nonprofit corporation on August 13, 1954, The Arc of Ventura County provides programs, services and support to individuals with intellectual and developmental disabilities (IDD) to achieve their goals toward a life of opportunity, choice, participation and contribution. The Arc’s services are provided at no cost to the individual served or their families.
With an annual budget of $13.2 million, The Arc of Ventura County receives grants, donations and reimbursement for provided services from California’s Department of Developmental Services and the Department of Rehabilitation. The Arc also receives major financial support from The Arc Foundation of Ventura County, a separate nonprofit organization established in 1989 for the sole purpose of raising funds to benefit The Arc of Ventura County. The Foundation operates The Arc Foundation Thrift Store in Oxnard – https://www.arcvc.org.
Last year, The Arc assisted over 700 individuals and their families. Adult day programs, offered at seven Ventura County locations, help participants develop friendships, express creativity, provide valued volunteer service and encourage further independence.
The Arc’s supported employment services enable individuals to discover their employment goals, interests and strengths through job development and training that leads to successful employment placement in Ventura County. Its independent living services provide training and support on effective decision-making and daily living skills that assist individuals to live successfully and independently in their community.
“Before The Arc of Ventura County was ‘pioneered’ 70 years ago by its founding families, individuals with IDD did not have exclusive opportunities for services and support. Now, 70 years later, the individuals we serve are included and are proudly contributing members of their communities,” says Esther Anaya, executive director. “The future of The Arc of Ventura County is one that continues to educate individuals of their rights, and supports a path to independence through our programs, services and the mentorship of our dedicated staff.”
Open house schedule: Ventura – August 13, 14 and 30. For more open house details, visit www.arcvc.org/70th-anniversary.
Ventura’s $531 Million Budget Includes $13.3 Million for Road Repairs Amidst Resident Frustrations
Congrats to the Ventura CC for adopting the $531 million dollar budget. But the HIGHLIGHT of it all was bringing the total budget for road repairs in 2024-2025 to $13.3 million. We lost our home in the Thomas Fire back in 2017. So did 60 other homeowners just on my street Colina Vista. To date the same street has never been re patched, oiled, stripped. At a transportation meeting last year with the city, I was told that my street is not on their roadway repair list and we should plan not see anything positive in future repairs/improvements for 10 years. ARE YOU SERIOUS??? Hey Bill Ayub, I will not live that long. Currently every Saturday night I mix up a hot batch of quick drying cement and repair in front of my, and my neighbors houses with a slurry of mix. One day my mail person truck dropped into a hole so sharp and deep that it broke the vehicles front axle and blew the tire. Finally, please stop sending the city’s street sweeper up and around the Ondulando area every 2 weeks. All that gets accomplished is tearing up old, cracked wore out, broken asphalt which has cracked my wife’s car windshield on 2 separate occasions. Have to run to Lowes and pick up tonight’s cement to patch once again.
Chris Dryden, Ventura
“Our favorite holding period is forever.”
~ Warren Buffet
For more listings, additional times and genres go to VenturaRocks.com
All Kinds Studio
433 E. Main St., Ventura
Wed 8/7: Mechanical Plague, Stellar Ruins, Keep the Giraffe Burning, Liquid Indigo
The Amendment
350 N. Lantana St., Camarillo
Sun 8/11: Lisa Ritner
Sun 8/18: Tony Maddox
Aqua Beachfront Bar (Crowne Plaza)
450 E. Harbor Blvd., Ventura
Wed 8/7: Déjà vu Too
Sat 8/10: House Arrest
Wed 8/14: Big Adventure Duo
Sat 8/17: Mark Masson and Friends
Sun 8/18: Psychedelic Summer
Boatyard Pub
1583 Spinnaker Dr., Ventura
Music 6-9; except Thurs 4-9; Sundays 4-7
Wednesdays: Frank Barajas
Thursdays: Jim Friery (4 pm ); Bluegrass Jam (6:30 pm)
Fri 8/9: Karen Eden and the Bad Apples
Sat 8/10: Guy & Dave
Sun 8/11: Ken Devoe
Fri 8/16: Teresa Russell & Stephen Geyer
Sat 8/17: Déjà vu Three
Sun 8/18: Epitome of Dreams
Bombay Bar and Grill
143 S. California St., Ventura
Thursdays: Ventura Blues Night
Sat 8/17: Invincible Benatar, Blackstar
Cantara Cellars
126 N. Wood Rd., Camarillo
Fri 8/9: Brittney & the B-sides
Sat 8/10: Sea Hunters
The Cave
4435 McGrath St., Ventura
Wed & Thurs: Bobby Apostol
Fri & Sat: Warren Takahashi
Constitution Park
601 Carmen Dr., Camarillo
Sat 8/10: 805 Social Club
Copper Blues
591 Collection Blvd., Oxnard
Fri 8/9: Some Girls
Deer Lodge
2261 Maricopa Hwy., Ojai
Thurs 8/8: Big Search, Ted Lennon
Fri 8/9: The Mexican Standoff, Scott Hirsch
Duke’s Beach Grill
1124 S. Seaward Ave., Ventura
Sat 8/10: Looking West
Sat 8/17: The Bob Bishop Band
Four Brix
2290 Eastman Ave., Ventura
Fri 8/9: The Renegades
Sun 8/11: Milo Sledge Trio
Fri 8/16: Inna Rude Mood
Sat 8/17: Little Alice and the Cats
Sun 8/18: Brenda Carsey
Garage
1091 Scandia Ave., Ventura
Sat 8/10: Operation 90s
Sun 8/11: Duke Flame
Fri 8/16: What the Funk
Sat 8/17: We are the 80s
Sun 8/18: Steph’s Rockin’ Roadshow
The Grape
2733 E. Main St., Ventura
Tues: The Gratitude Jazz Jam
Wed 8/7: RJ Mischo Blues Showcase
Fri 8/9: Barrelhouse Wailers
Sat 8/10: Gordon Goodwin’s Big Phat Band
Wed 8/14: Luis Munoz Quintet feat. Lois Mahalia
Fri 8/16: George Kahn Quartet
Sat 8/17: Matt Lomeo (2p); Jonathan Stout & his Campus Five (8p)
Harbor View Park
3600 Harbor Blvd., Oxnard
Sat 8/10: Natalie Gelman
Sat 8/17: Sean Wiggins
Heritage Square
715 S. A St., Oxnard
Fri 8/9: Sound Effect
Fri 8/16: Los Cool Arrows
High Street Arts Center
45 E. High St., Moorpark
Fri 8/9: Stevie Nicks Illusion
Sat 8/10: Mark Wood and the Parrot Head Band
Fri 8/16: Smooth Sounds of Santana
Sat 8/17: Raymond Michael
Keynote Lounge
10245 Telephone Rd., Ventura
Thursdays: Open Mic
Sat 8/10: Heartbreak over Petty
Fri 8/16: Pull the Trigger
Sat 8/17: Heart and Soul
House of Dance
3007 Bunsen Ave., Ventura
Sun 8/18: Swing Shift
Leashless Brewing
585 E. Thompson Blvd., Ventura
Fri 8/9: Jacob Marquez & the Good Vibes
Sat 8/10: Monkey Bump
Sun 8/11: Keyth G & the Universouls, the Wiseowls
Fri 8/16: Jangala Roots
Libbey Bowl
210 S. Signal St., Ojai
Thurs 8/8: Los Lonely Boys
Sat 8/10: Don McLean
Sun 8/11: Scott Bradlee’s Postmodern Jukebox
Fri 8/16: Queen Nation
Sun 8/18: Maxi Priest
Limon y Sal
598 E. Main St., Ventura
Music 1-4 pm
Sundays: In Stone
Lucas Sellers Wine
330 Zachary St., Moorpark
Sat 8/10: Jayden Secor
Sat 8/17: Ellis
Magnavino Cellars
961 Rice Ave., Oxnard
Fri 8/9: Breaking Bored
Sat 8/10: Adam & Sam
Sun 8/11: Natlie Wattre
Sat 8/17: Cary Park
Majestic Ventura Theater
26 S. Chestnut St., Ventura
Tues 8/13: Dread Mar-I
Fri 8/16: Candlelight concerts
Manhattan
5800 Santa Rosa Rd., Camarillo
Thursdays: Tom McMorran
Wed 8/7: Mary White
Fri 8/9: Annette Dinardo duo
Sat 8/10: Jeanne Tatum Trio
Sun 8/11: Warren Takahashi
Wed 8/14: Robert Van
Fri 8/16: Tour Support
Sat 8/17: Tony Maddox
Sun 8/18: Warren Takahashi
Margarita Villa
1567 Spinnaker Dr., Ventura
Fri 8/9: Red Rhythm
Sat 8/10: Vinyl Gypsies
Sun 8/11: Smokey & Friends
Tues 8/13: Doc Rogers
Fri 8/16: The Riffs
Sat 8/17: Cinnamon Whiskey
Sun 8/18: Doc Rogers Band
Tues 8/20: Bobby Campbell
MooFish Café
450 E. Harbor Blvd., Ventura
Thursdays: Seth Andre Oster & Michael Velasquez
Mrs. Olson’s
2800 Harbor Blvd., Oxnard
Fri 8/9: Ardi, Romper, Angel Fury
Sun 8/11: Teresa Russell
Music Under the Stars
4200 Olivas Park Dr., Ventura
Sat 8/10: Dirty Cello
Sat 8/17: Phazze One
Namba Arts
47 S. Oak St., Ventura
Fri 8/16: Tommy Quayle
Ojai Pub
914 E. Ojai Ave., Ojai
Wed 8/7: Beau Red
Fri 8/9: Corey Highberg
Sat 8/10: Van Allen Twins
Wed 8/14: Drea Van Allen
Fri 8/16: Chelsey Sanchez
Sat 8/17: Talitha Gabrielle
Sun 8/18: Beau Red
Ojai Underground Exchange
616 Pearl St., Ojai
Fri 8/10: Shane Alexander & Jamie Drake
Sat 8/17: Luis Munoz
Ojai Valley Brewing
307 Bryant St., Ojai
Fri 8/9: Milo Sledge Blues Trio
Sat 8/17: Top Shelf Brass Band
Oxnard Performing Arts Center
800 Hobson Way, Oxnard
Fri 8/9: Frankie J & Bobby V
Poseidon Brewing Co.
5777 Olivas Park Dr., Ventura
Sat 8/10: Steve and Sally Williams
Sun 8/11: Frank Barajas
The Raven Tavern
1651 S. Victoria Ave., Oxnard
Fri & Sat 8 pm; Sundays 2 pm
Thursdays: Doc Rogers solo acoustic
Fri 8/9: NDR CVR SPR GRP
Sat 8/10: Teresa Russell
Sun 8/11: Doc Rogers Acoustic
Fri 8/16: Holgers Heroes
Sat 8/17: Duke Fame Band
Sun 8/18: Teresa Russell
Ric’s Restaurant Sports Lounge
2500 Las Posas Rd., Camarillo
Tuesdays: Tour Support
Thurs 8/8: Adrian Floy and THC
Rincon Brewery
4100 Telegraph Rd., Ventura
Fri 8/16: Ken Devoe
Rocks & Drams
14 S. California St., Ventura
Wednesdays: Angelo Arce
Rock the Collection
2751 Park View St., Oxnard
Thurs 8/15: Bruno and the Hooligans
The Shores
1031 Harbor Blvd., Oxnard
Wednesdays: Jake McClelland
Fri 8/9: Pull the Trigger
Sat 8/10: Brandon Ragan
Sun 8/11: Karen Eden & the Bad Apples
Fri 8/16: Ventu Park
Sat 8/17: Steph’s Rockin’ Roadshow
Sun 8/18: Tommy Foytek
Slate Bistro
4850 Santa Rosa Rd., Camarillo
Wed 8/14: Doc Rogers
Strey Cellars
951 N. Rice Ave., Oxnard
Sat 8/10: Ignition
Sun 8/11: Clear Sky
Sun 8/18: Adrian Floy and THC
Taqueria Jalisco
4275 Tierra Rejada Rd., Moorpark
Tuesdays & Fridays: Jim Friery
Tony’s Pizzeria
186 E. Thompson Blvd., Ventura
Wed 8/7: Los Amigos
Thurs 8/8: Singular Nature
Fri 8/9: Shaky Feelin’
Sat 8/10: Heathers on Fire
Sun 8/11: House Arrest
Thurs 8/15: Adrian Floy and THC
Fri 8/16: The Blue Moon Boys
Sat 8/17: Johnny Knows No One
Sun 8/18: Freddy and Friends, Tempted Soul
Twist on Main
454 E. Main St., Ventura
Tuesdays: 805 The Shakedown
Wed 8/7: Jazz Jam
Sat 8/10: Mark Masson (1p); Lynnzee Fraye (4p); Crosscut 805 (8p)
Sun 8/11: Journey in Time (1p); Shawn Jones (5p)
Sat 8/17: Jordan Hubba (1p); Joe Delia (4p)
Sun 8/18: Matt Bartels (1p); Keyth G (5 p)
Vaquero y Mar
435 E. Thompson Blvd., Ventura
Sundays: Mariachi
Tuesdays: The Sea Hunter, Lowered Expectations
Wed 8/7: Tribal Me
Fri 8/9: The Blue Moon Boys
Sat 8/10: Spider Baby, Defeating the Purpose, the Furys, Bullpen
Wed 8/14: Up Country
Ventura County Fair
10 W. Harbor Blvd, Ventura
Grandstand Stage
Wed 8/7: Gary Allan
Ventura Music Hall
1888 E. Thompson Blvd., Ventura
Thurs 8/8: Landon McNamara & Cisco Adler
Sat 8/10: The Buttertones, SWMRS, Lady Denim
Winchesters
632 E. Main St., Ventura
Music Thurs 5:30; Fri 7 pm; Sat 3 pm; Sun 3 pm
Fri 8/9: Crosscut 805
Sat 8/10: George & Michael
Sun 8/11: Dianne Miller Trio
Fri 8/16: Ray Jay Trio
Sat 8/17: Teresa Russell
Sun 8/18: Nautical Thrust
Wicks Roofing and Solar is a leading provider of roofing, solar, and energy storage solutions across California’s Central Coast. Established in 1985, Wicks Roofing, Inc. has become a trusted name in residential and commercial roofing, known for its commitment to quality and innovation. In response to the growing need for reliable solar solutions, Wicks Solar, Inc. was founded in 2017, extending the company’s expertise into the burgeoning field of renewable energy. Today, Wicks proudly serves San Luis Obispo, Santa Barbara, and is now making a significant impact in Ventura County.
Ventura County represents a new chapter for Wicks, where the company’s dedication to cutting-edge technology and integrity shines through. The region’s transition toward sustainable energy solutions is epitomized by Wicks’ latest achievement: the completion of a 104kW Solar Photovoltaic System with Battery Energy Storage for CD Lyon, Inc. on Ventura’s Westside. This state-of-the-art system showcases Wicks’ expertise in delivering high-quality, reliable energy solutions. The system not only meets 57% of CD Lyon’s electricity needs but also enhances the facility’s resilience during grid outages and utilizes the batteries massive power storage to reduce demand charges.
Wicks Roofing and Solar stands out for its comprehensive approach, providing everything from design and sales to project management and installation. The team’s vast experience ensures projects are completed on time and within budget, meeting the highest standards of quality and safety. This commitment is underpinned by core values: proactively informing clients, building trust, delivering quality results, staying connected with the community, and working together to continuously improve. The enthusiastic team in Ventura is supported by bright leadership and a passionate crew who live, work, and thrive in the community. They are excited about the future and are eager to continue leading the way in sustainable solutions.
As Wicks expands its presence in Ventura, the company is excited to contribute to the region’s sustainable growth. We are currently hiring in Ventura and welcome talented individuals to join our dedicated roofing team. Together, we aim to continue setting industry standards and fostering a cleaner, more efficient future for the community.
Clarissa Sanchez picks a favorite at Crown Classics & Exotics in Ventura
Crown Classics & Museum has moved from their warehouse in the old Toys R Us building to a fresh location a few blocks away in the Ventura Auto Center. The family-owned collector car dealership is now on the same lot as Crown Dodge Chrysler Jeep Ram, and occupies the building previously occupied by Hertz. Classic automobile enthusiasts and fans of exotic cars alike are enthralled with the selection of autos and trucks in the showrooms and on the lot. The business changed its name to Crown Classics & Exotics. It is located at 6100 King Drive, at the far end of the Crown lot.
“Many people have wondered what happened to all of the cars in the old location,” says Michelle Annette Leveille, Graphics Curator at the new Crown Classics & Exotics. “We just drove them a few blocks to the new location on the other side of the freeway.” The selection of vehicles can be viewed without reservation or appointment at their new location on the Crown lot, any day from 9am-6pm.
Upon entering the building, one visitor was overheard exclaiming, “Whoa – this is like James Bond’s garage.”
The airy, 2-story showroom is filled with exotic and collector automobiles. A custom Rolls-Royce SUV stands proudly, signed by its previous owner, tennis star Venus Williams. A Shelby Cobra roadster crouches as i ready to race, facing off with a compact Lamborghini convertible. Outside, enough pristine vintage American cars and trucks are displayed to resemble the set of your favorite classic film.
Crown Classics & Exotics is hosting car meets and shows on its spacious parking lot. On the third Sunday of each month, car guys and gals are invited to bring their best-loved four-wheeled vehicles to meet for Crown Cars & Coffee from 8am-10aam. Contact Michelle for more information: [email protected]
August 10
Dirty Cello
Unique spin on blues, rock & Americana
Led by vivacious cross-over cellist Rebecca Roudman, Dirty Cello is like you’ve never heard before. From down-home blues and rock with a wailing cello to virtuosic stompin’ Americana, this performance gets your heart thumping and your toes tapping!
Presented by The Breeze
August 31
Susie Hansen Latin Band
High-energy Latin dance music
Electric violinist Susie Hansen and her band play high-energy Latin dance music, including salsa, cumbia, merengue, bachata, bolero, charanga, cha cha cha, and Latin jazz. They perform recognizable songs in Spanish, catchy originals, and familiar standards in English set to a Latin beat.
Presented by Presto Pasta
by Janie Tran
The Ventura Botanical Gardens (VBG) is dedicated to creating and maintaining public gardens that foster preservation, education, cultural enrichment, and community enhancement.
For the first time, VBG members enjoyed alfresco tastings on July 25 and August 4, inspired by the distinctive cultures of two climate regions—Mediterranean and Californian—both represented in the gardens. These adults-only events guided attendees through the unique characteristics of two wines, three cheeses, and specialty food samplings from each region.
Surrounded by the stunning garden and panoramic views of the Ventura coastline and the Channel Islands, Executive Director Joe Cahill shared details about the Garden’s conservation efforts in the surrounding plant collections.
Each Curated Tasting event focused on a specific region. On July 25, the event took place in the Mediterranean Garden, showcasing the diversity of the olive grove, home to 200 olive tree saplings. On August 4, another enchanted evening was held in the Californian Garden, with tastings centered on California pantry staples, wine, and cheese.
These events were made truly special by the interlacing of the gardens. Like-minded members enjoyed food, wine, and fine conversation while forging new friendships.
What better way to help your friendships flourish than on Friendship Day at the Gardens! On Wednesday, August 7, entry is free all day. It’s a great opportunity to invite a friend for a walk among the many plants and flowers while enjoying spectacular views of the California coastline.
As part of a 40-year project, VBG will continue to grow and create new outdoor opportunities for training, research, and educational programs ranging from horticulture and botany to sustainability. Garden expansion will be ongoing for decades to come. www.venturabotanicalgardens.com.
