Happenings

Happenings includes community events, meetings, classes, community resources and needs. To submit an item for inclusion email to: happenings@vcreporter.com

THURSDAY

CHANNEL ISLANDS GULLS FUNDRAISING

LUNCHEON | 11 a.m. Join in the fun at our November luncheon and help raise funds for Ventura County charities. All of our charities will be present to receive their 2022 donations. Social hour begins at 11 a.m., followed by meeting and lunch at 12 p.m. $40 per person; advance reservations and payment required: cigullsreservations@gmail.com or 805/263-7759. Los Posas Country Club, 955 Fairway Drive, Camarillo; www.channelislandsgulls.org.

THE DEAD SEA SCROLLS: ORIGINS, DISCOVERY AND MEANING, PART 1 | 1-3 p.m. via Zoom.

This two-part lecture will consider where these writings originated and why, as writings of a small Dead Sea community, they have made such a major impact on scholarship. Taught by Jason Hensley. Part of the Fifty and Better lecture series, designed to offer university-level courses and lectures (no tests, no homework) taught by experts in the field, and to host social engagement activities for people age 50 and older. Individual and two-Part lectures are $10 each; bundle all fall lectures for $60. www.callutheran.edu/centers/ lifelong-learning/fifty-better/lecture-series.html.

JACKBOX PARTY GAMES FOR TEENS | 4-5:30

p.m. Bring your own device and play Jackbox Party Games with other teens in the Young Adult Center. YA Library at the Camarillo Public Library, 4101 Las Posas Road, Camarillo, 805-388-5222, camarillolibrary.org.

NETWORK AND LEARN: TECH BUSINESSES |

6-7:30 p.m. Calling all tech business owners and tech entrepreneurs! Learn about resources available from the Russell Fischer Business Collection (RFBC) and Inclusive Innovation Hub (iHub2). The iHub2 program will accelerate technology and science-based firms in key industry areas with a strong outreach focus on diverse founders. Don’t miss this opportunity to network with other tech business owners. Community Room of the Camarillo Public Library, 4101 Las Posas Road, Camarillo, 805-388-5222, camarillolibrary.org. 10X10 | 6:30 p.m. The Conejo/Las Virgenes Future Foundation will present its eighth annual 10x10 Event at the Lundring Event Center (in the Gilbert Sports and Fitness Center) at California Lutheran University. The 10 x10 is a community-wide event that consists of 10 experts speaking on 10 different topics for 10 minutes each. Discussions will focus on the role of technology in different disciplines – law, mental health, mobility, retail, robotics, sports, fire, water and biotech. Free; $10 donation requested. 67 W. Olsen Road, Thousand Oaks, clvff.org.

PARANORMAL CIRQUE II | 7:30 p.m., through

Nov. 20. Paranormal Cirque is Cirque Italia’s traveling show for mature audiences. Paranormal is a very unique show, and will expose you to a unique creation of combined theater, circus and cabaret with a new European style flare. Adults only; ages 13-17 with parent or adult guardian. $20-60. Ventura County Fairgrounds, 10 W. Harbor Blvd., Ventura, www.paranormalcirque.com.

DISTINGUISHED SPEAKER SERIES: NEIL

DEGRASSE TYSON | 8 p.m. The Distinguished Speaker Series of Southern California presents six powerful evenings guaranteed to inspire, enlighten, entertain and inform! On Nov. 17, the featured speaker will be world-renowned astrophysicist and host of Cosmos and StarTalk Neil deGrasse Tyson. Tickets sold as part of a series; $228-618. Bank of America Performing Arts Center, 2100 E. Thousand Oaks Blvd., Thousand Oaks, 805-449-2787, bapacthousandoaks.com.

FRIDAY

PHOTOS WITH SANTA | Through Dec. 24. The holiday season isn’t complete without a family picture with old St. Nick! Be sure to visit Santa’s Workshop at 620 Collection Boulevard to create special memories with keepsake photos that will bring holiday joy for years to come. Reservations are required and can be made online at thecollectionrp.com/events/. The Collection at RiverPark, 2751 Park View Court, Oxnard, 805-278-9500, thecollectionrp.com. STARGAZING AT TAFT GARDENS | 5-9 p.m. Taft Gardens invites you to explore the night sky with visiting artist and astronomy enthusiast Russell Crotty, along with assistance from his wife Laura Gruenther. Russell will begin with a little background on astronomy and the basics of night sky observing, then describe the celestial objects as we view them. We encourage you to bring warm clothes, a flashlight, binoculars, if you have them. This event is open to 12 years and older. Chairs will be provided. $35. Tickets and more information by calling 805-649-2333 or visiting www.taftgardens.org/events. RISE UP SINGING | 7 p.m. The third Friday of every month, the Universalist Unitarian Church of Santa Paula hosts an evening of communal singing with rounds, freedom songs, songs of summer solstice and more. Singers and instrumentalists of all ages welcome. $5 suggested free will offering. UUCSP, 740 E. Main St., Santa Paula, 805-5254620, uucsp.org.

VENTURA COUNTY FUSION V. HAMBURGER

SV | 7 p.m. Fresh off its second USL League 2 Championship, the Ventura County Fusion will take on historic German side Hamburger SV. This match will be the first time the Fusion has gone up against a team from Germany. Hamburger SV is one of the oldest clubs in Germany and has won league titles in both the amateur and pro eras, including three Bundesliga championships. This season, playing in Bundesliga 2, Hamburg currently sits in second place with a record of 10-1-4. The stadium opens at 6 p.m. $15-20. Ventura College Sportsplex, 4667 Telegraph Road, Ventura, www.vcfusion.com.

A HOLIDAY GUIDE FOR FIRST-TIME TELESCOPE

BUYERS | 7:30-9 p.m. Victor Jimenez, the Telescope and Astro-imaging Specialist at Woodland Hills Camera and Telescope, will guide us on astronomy from beginner to advanced, inexpensive to the-skies-the-limit options. Moorpark College Forum, 7075 Campus Dr., Moorpark. Admission and parking free. Please no pets. VCAS.org.

PARANORMAL CIRQUE II | 7:30 p.m., through

Nov. 20. Paranormal Cirque is Cirque Italia’s traveling show for mature audiences. Paranormal is a very unique show, and will expose you to a unique creation of combined theater, circus and cabaret with a new European style flare. Adults only; ages 13-17 with parent or adult guardian. $20-60. Ventura County Fairgrounds, 10 W. Harbor Blvd., Ventura, www.paranormalcirque.com.

SPEAKING MOVEMENT DANCE CONCERT |

7:30 p.m. Speaking Movement celebrates the continued navigation of our human experience through the medium of movement. Proudly presented to you by the Moorpark College Dance Department under the direction of Beth Megill, this evening of dance showcases the creative voices of our MC dance students and faculty in a visceral performance that is guaranteed to move you. $12-15. Main stage of the Performing Arts Center on the Moorpark College campus, 7075 Campus Road, Moorpark, 805-378-1485 or moorparkcollege.edu/pac.

Hindustani soprano Saili Oak (pictured) is a featured vocalist for New West Symphony’s Ode to Joy on Saturday, Nov. 19, in Thousand Oaks and Sunday, Nov. 20, in Camarillo. Photo by Vikram Bhide

SATURDAY

GINGERBREAD SCAVENGER HUNT | Through

Dec. 24. Explore every exciting nook and cranny of The Collection with a festive adventure. The fun begins at Guest Services on Park View Court, where guests can pick up their Gingerbread Scavenger Hunt. From there, guests are invited to find all the hidden gingerbread before returning their completed scavenger hunt to Guest Services to be entered to win a holiday surprise! The Collection at RiverPark, 2751 Park View Court, Oxnard, 805-278-9500, thecollectionrp.com.

LETTERS TO SANTA | Through Dec. 18.

The Collection’s elves are back to help make sure every holiday wish list makes it to the North Pole. Families can bring their own custom cards or write their special message on a complimentary postcard available at Guest Services. Letters to Santa should be dropped off in the special North Pole mailbox located on Collection Boulevard. The Collection will help carefully deliver letters written to Santa to ensure they are mailed and received at the North Pole, where Santa and Mrs. Claus will reply to every letter that has a return address and is placed in the mailbox by Dec.18. The Collection at RiverPark, 2751 Park View Court, Oxnard, 805-278-9500, thecollectionrp.com.

BILINGUAL ENGLISH/SPANISH GUIDED HIKE AT HARMON CANYON PRESERVE | 9-11

a.m. Join Ventura Land Trust staff on a guided hike of Harmon Canyon Preserve conducted in both Spanish and English. This easy to moderate 90-minute hike will cover a two-mile loop in lower Harmon Canyon with stops to learn about natural and cultural elements of the preserve. Water, sun protection, and closedtoe footwear are recommended. This hike is free and open to the public. RSVP to Leslie Velez, leslie@venturalandtrust.org. Harmon Canyon Preserve, 7511 Foothill Road, Ventura, www.venturalandtrust.org.

NATURAL HISTORY WALK AT TAFT NATURE

PRESERVE | 10 a.m.-12 p.m. Join Lanny Kaufer for a Natural History Walk at Taft Nature Preserve. We will explore trails through the wild parts of the property, identify and discuss native plants, and observe birds and animal tracks in the context of local ecology. $35. Registration and more information at www.taftgardens.org/events. SPOTLIGHT ON STYLE | 10 a.m.-3 p.m. Casa Pacifica Angels and hosts Susan and Ken Bauer present the 21st annual Casa Pacifica Angels Spotlight on Style Fashion Show, a chic midday affair with a runway fashion show showcasing selections from top designers, lunch and unique boutique shopping experiences to appeal to a wide range of tastes. Proceeds support Casa Pacifica Centers for Children and Families’ programs and services. A specially curated online auction will feature an array of entertainment packages and personal pampering offerings. Tickets start at $175. Four Seasons Westlake Village, 2 Dole Drive, Westlake Village. For tickets and more information, visit www.casapacifica. org/news/events/spotlight_on_style.

PEPPERMINT KIDS CLUB | 11 a.m.-1 p.m.

Everyone’s favorite holiday characters are stopping by The Collection once again for a morning of fun, sponsored by Sunny Smiles Dentistry for Children and Young Adults. Stop by Park View Court for arts and crafts, dance parties and fun surpises. The Collection at RiverPark, 2751 Park View Court, Oxnard, 805278-9500, thecollectionrp.com.

VISUAL PERCEPTION OF ART WITH JERRY

CLIFFORD | 1-2 p.m. Jerry Clifford is a scientist and educator who has taught physics and astronomy at CSU Channel Islands from 2004 to today, where he still teaches adult learners in the Osher Lifelong Learning Institute. He will discuss visual perception, showing how the eye and brain form visual images. Through classical and modern artwork, we will get a new look at some familiar masterpieces and at works by Carlos Grasso from the gallery’s current Colorspace exhibit. $10. Studio Channel Islands Blackboard Art Gallery, 2222 Ventura Blvd., Camarillo. Register at studiochannelislands.org.

WINTER WONDERLAND PAINTING WORKSHOP

| 1-3 p.m. Sisters Amy Lynn and Jessi May Stevenson will guide participants through an afternoon of creative expression. Learn a variety of abstract painting techniques as you paint along with them step by step, adding vibrant layers of acrylic paint on canvas to create a winter scene. No experience necessary; all materials included. $60. Back Stage at Santa Paula Theater Center, 125 S. Seventh St., Santa Paula, 805-765-0171, amylynnstevenson@me.com.

NANOWRIMO LETTER WRITING FOR KIDS |

2-3 p.m. November is National Novel Writing Month (NaNoWriMo). Practice your writing skills by learning the five basic parts of a letter. Write letters to friends, family and maybe even Santa!. For ages 5-10. Community Room of the Camarillo Public Library, 4101 Las Posas Road, Camarillo, 805-388-5222, camarillolibrary.org.

SPEAKING MOVEMENT DANCE CONCERT | 2

p.m. and 7:30 p.m. Speaking Movement celebrates the continued navigation of our human experience through the medium of movement. Presented by the Moorpark College Dance Department under the direction of Beth Megill, this evening of dance showcases the creative voices of MC dance students and faculty in a visceral performance. $12-15. Main stage of the Performing Arts Center on the Moorpark College campus, 7075 Campus Road, Moorpark, 805-3781485 or moorparkcollege.edu/pac.

SOUND HEALING EXPERIENCE AT TAFT

GARDENS | 3-4 p.m. In this 60-minute sound bath, you will be guided in a grounding meditation and breathwork before being immersed in a continual sound healing vortex. Instruments include clear quartz singing bowls, Tibetan bowls, gongs, chimes and shakers, rain sticks, harmonium, voice, and more. Register today and prepare for the ultimate in self-care, restoration, and relaxation set amidst the beauty and grandeur of Taft Gardens. $45. Tickets and more information by calling 805-649-2333 or visiting www.taftgardens.org/events.

BOYS AND GIRLS CLUBS OF GREATER OXNARD AND PORT HUENEME KIDS AUCTION

AND GALA | 5-10 p.m. The organization’s biggest fundraising event of the year features spectacular live and silent auctions, an elegant dinner and more. Tickets start at $150. Ventura Beach Marriott, 2055 E. Harbor Blvd., Ventura, www.bgcop.org/events.

CALIFORNIA NATIVE LANGUAGE REVITALIZATION WITH AUTHOR LEANNE

HINTON | 5 p.m. Join us in our courtyard for a talk on California’s first languages with Leanne Hinton, author of Flutes of Fire: An Introduction to California Native Languages. Hinton will be joined by local Chumash tribal leader Matthew Vestuto and the ever-growing mitsqanaqan (Ventureño Chumash) speaking community. Bart’s Books, 302 W. Matilija St., Ojai, 805-646-3755, bartsbooksojai.com.

PARANORMAL CIRQUE II | 6:30 and 9:30

p.m., through Nov. 20. Paranormal Cirque is Cirque Italia’s traveling show for mature audiences. Paranormal is a very unique show, and will expose you to a unique creation of combined theater, circus and cabaret with a new European style flare. Adults only; ages 13-17 with parent or adult guardian. $20-60. Ventura County Fairgrounds, 10 W. Harbor Blvd., Ventura, www.paranormalcirque.com.

The Distinguished Speaker Series continues at the Bank of America Performing Arts Center with astrophysicist Neil deGrasse Tyson on Thursday, Nov. 17, at 8 p.m.

The Four Seasons Hotel in Westlake Village hosts the 21st Annual Spotlight on Style, the glamorous fashion-focused fundraiser for Casa Pacifica Angels, on Saturday, Nov. 19, 10 a.m. to 3 p.m.

NEW WEST SYMPHONY: ODE TO JOY | 7:30

p.m. The California Lutheran University Choir and Pepperdine University Concert Choir join Hindustani soprano Saili Oak and other leading vocal soloists under the direction of Michael Christie for this New West Symphony program which includes Beethoven’s Symphony No. 9 and Reena Esmail’s Meri Sakhi Ki Avaaz (My Sister’s Voice). Tickets $30-120. Fred Kavli Theatre at the Bank of America Performing Arts Center, 2100 E. Thousand Oaks Blvd., Thousand Oaks. Tickets and more information by calling 805-497-5800 or visiting newwestsymphony.org.

SUNDAY

CERAMIC BUST PLANTERS | 10 a.m.-1 p.m.

Thomas Weber teaches this two-day workshop focused on hand building techniques to create a human bust that will function as a planter. The finished piece will be glazed during the second class then fired and ready for pickup in two weeks. $90. Vita Art Center, 28 W. Main St., Ventura, 805-644-9214, www.vitaartcenter.com. GONG YOGA NIDRA | 12-2 p.m. A guided process known as Yoga Nidra or “yogic sleep.” Yoga Nidra induces deep relaxation, heightens awareness, integrates changes, and accelerates healing. It is a powerful tool for therapeutic change. The Symphonic Gong is an amazing instrument that facilitates balance and ease in our physical and subtle bodies, releases stress, and is an opportunity for our entire nervous system to adjust and heal itself. Gong Yoga Nidra is an experience of deep relaxation and healing. Led by Carrie Gorrell and Lida Martin. Please bring water, a yoga mat, blankets, and anything you may need to feel comfortable. No pets, no picnics, no alcohol. $37. Meditation Mount, 10340 Reeves Road, Ojai, 805646-5508, meditationmount.org.

DIVERSITY COLLECTIVE TRANSGENDER DAY

OF REMEMBRANCE | 2-3 p.m. Nov. 20 is Transgender Day of Remembrance. Diversity Collective will be on site to answer questions and discuss issues involving the transgender community. Everyone interested in this vibrant community is invited to join the conversation. Community Room of the Camarillo Public Library, 4101 Las Posas Road, Camarillo, 805-388-5222, camarillolibrary.org. TECHNOLOGY HELP | 2-4 p.m Technology can be confusing, let us help! Stop by the second floor Tech Lab on Sundays for assistance with your tech questions. Tech Lab of the Camarillo Public Library, 4101 Las Posas Road, Camarillo, 805-3885222, camarillolibrary.org.

NEW WEST SYMPHONY: ODE TO JOY | 3

p.m. The California Lutheran University Choir and Pepperdine University Concert Choir join Hindustani soprano Saili Oak and other leading vocal soloists under the direction of Michael Christie for this New West Symphony program which includes Beethoven’s Symphony No. 9 and Reena Esmail’s Meri Sakhi Ki Avaaz (My Sister’s Voice). Tickets $30-120. Rancho Campana Performing Arts Center, 4235 Mar Vista Dr., Camarillo. Tickets and more information by calling 805-497-5800 or visiting newwestsymphony.org.

PARANORMAL CIRQUE II | 5:30 and 8:30 p.m.

Paranormal Cirque is Cirque Italia’s traveling show for mature audiences. Paranormal is a very unique show, and will expose you to a unique creation of combined theater, circus and cabaret with a new European style flare. Adults only; ages 13-17 with parent or adult guardian. $2060. Ventura County Fairgrounds, 10 W. Harbor Blvd., Ventura, www.paranormalcirque.com.

MONDAY

ARGENTINA 1985 | 3:30 and 6:30 p.m. Inspired by the true story of Julio Strassera, Luis Moreno Ocampo and their young legal team of unlikely heroes in their David-vs-Goliath battle in which, under constant threat, they dared to prosecute Argentina’s bloodiest military dictatorship against all odds and in a race against time to bring justice to the victims of the Military Junta. Argentina’s official submission to the 2023 Academy Awards. Runtime: 2 hours, 20 min. Rated R. In Spanish with English subtitles. $8 seniors, $11.25 general admission. Plaza Cinemas 14, 255 West Fifth St., Oxnard, www.oxnardfilmsociety.org.

EVENING MOVIE: TOP GUN: MAVERICK | 5-7

p.m. A follow-up to the 1986 hit about U.S. Navy fighter pilots. Starring Tom Cruise, Miles Teller and Jennifer Connelly. Community Room of the Camarillo Public Library, 4101 Las Posas Road, Camarillo, 805-388-5222, camarillolibrary.org.

TUESDAY

NANOWRIMO WRITERS SALON | 5-8 p.m.

Are you ready for National Novel Writing Month? Grab your pen and paper and start writing with the Ventura County Writers Salon. Every Tuesday in November, the Writers Salon will host writing sessions that include writing sprints and prompt cards. Conference Room of the Camarillo Public Library, 4101 Las Posas Road, Camarillo, 805-388-5222, camarillolibrary.org.

SANTA PAWS PET PHOTO NIGHT | 5-8 p.m.

Four-legged fur friends are part of the family, and part of the fun! Every Tuesday, furry friends are invited to meet Santa for a photo at Santa Paws Pet Nights, sponsored by Dioji K-9 Resort and Athletic Club. Reservations required: thecollectionrp.com/directory/santa-paws-pet-photo-nights/. The Collection at RiverPark, 2751 Park View Court, Oxnard, 805278-9500, thecollectionrp.com. POPPIES BOOK CLUB MEETING | 6 p.m. Gather at a private residence in Ojai to discuss The Open Book: A Family Memoir of Adventure, Trauma and Resilience by Roselle Madrone, Robin Detmer and Kris Dutter. Email tireswingstudio.gmail for more information and to be added to the book club mailing list. Call 805-798-0033 for address.

WEDNESDAY

~ No events ~

THURSDAY COMMUNITY NEEDS, OPPORTUNITIES AND RESOURCES

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.

CHANNEL ISLANDS CHORAL ASSOCIATION |

Community singers are needed! Audition now for the California State University, Channel Islands University Chorus, composed of CSUCI students, faculty, staff and alumni as well as community singers. Auditions are by appointment with Dr. KuanFen Liu. The chorus meets Monday evenings, 6:30-9:15 p.m., in Malibu Hall 100. Concerts on Dec. 2 and 4. To request an audition, email downbeatplus@gmail.com. More information at cicachoir.org.

HOLIDAY COMMUNITY COOKBOOK

SUBMISSIONS | Through Nov. 23. Share your favorite holiday recipes with others from Nov. 1 through Nov. 23. Drop off your recipes at the second floor Reference Desk or email them to Adult Services Librarian Allison Williams (awilliams@ camarillolibrary.org). Camarillo Public Library, 4101 Las Posas Road, Camarillo, 805-388-5222, camarillolibrary.org.

INFORMATION ON THE HIGH SCHOOL AT

MOORPARK COLLEGE | Through March 28. The High School at Moorpark College allows students to earn both their high school diploma and college credits at the same time. HSMC is located on the Moorpark College campus where high schoolers, beginning their freshman year, take both high school and college-level classes. The school is open to any student in Ventura or Los Angeles counties. HSMC will host in-person information nights on Jan, 24 and Feb. 28. Virtual sessions are offered Nov. 29 and March 28. For more information, call Dr. Shirleen Oplustic at 805-378-6312 or contact her via email at soplustic@mrpk. org. Additional information can also be found at www.hsmc.mrpk.org. 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.

PARADE OF LIGHTS (CHANNEL ISLANDS

HARBOR) VESSEL REGISTRATION | The 56th Annual Parade of Lights at Channel Islands Harbor will take place on Dec. 10. Registration is now open for boaters interested in participating. The 2022 theme is “Let It Glow.” Entrants are asked to decorate their vessels as bright asthey can with a holiday twist. Entry form and information at www.channelislandsharbor.org/ event/56th-annual-parade-of-lights/.

PARADE OF LIGHTS (VENTURA HARBOR)

VESSEL REGISTRATION | The Ventura Harbor Parade of Lights is back Dec. 16-17. The 2022 theme is “Out of This World!” We anticipate fun boat decor to include twinkling stars, colorful planets, perhaps even astronauts and aliens. If you are interested in entering your boat and participating in the parade, email marketing@ venturaharbor.com.

SPARK OF LOVE TOY DRIVE | Through Dec.

16. The Fire Departments of Ventura County team up every year with ABC7 and local sponsors for the Spark of Love toy drive, the largest community toy drive in the nation. For 30 years, your local firefighters have been collecting donations for distribution to Ventura County children and teens in need of a happier holiday experience. This special community campaign collects new, unwrapped toys and sports equipment for underserved children and teens in Ventura County. Our newest partner this year, Food Share, will be providing boxes of food to families served through this year’s toy drive. Non-perishable food and toys can be dropped off at any participating location. Donations collected stay within our community. Find a dropoff location at vcfd.org/sparkoflovedropoff/. Donate online at www.venturafirefoundation. org/sparkoflove. Purchase a gift through the Spark of Love registry at www.amazon.com/ registries/holiday/16IXO8KYJRTMH/guest-view.

VOLUNTEERS NEEDED FOR FREE TAX

PREPARATION | Help low-income families and individuals improve their financial stability by joining our Volunteer Income Tax Assistance (VITA) team of tax preparers and interviewers for the 2022 Tax Year. Volunteers prepare federal and state tax returns at no cost at multiple sites across Ventura County and are asked to commit four hours per week during the VITA tax season, Feb. 1-April 30, 2023. No experience is necessary; training is provided. A two-session training course (in-person and virtual) will be offered on Nov. 12 and 19, 2022 at Moorpark College. To learn more or to register, visit volunteerventuracounty.org/ need/detail/?need_id=372430.

ONGOING/UPCOMING EVENTS

CIRCLE OF FRIENDS | First Wednesday of the

month. Want to cure the Holiday Blues? Consider joining Circle of Friends, a social group for retired women. The Club is seeking new members. The group meets once a month for business/luncheon on the first Wednesday of the month at the Poinsettia Pavilion, 3451 Foothill Road, Ventura. Various events promote friendship and fun by the members hosting several special interest activities: cooking, walks, crafts, Scrabble, excursions, discussion group, movie night and card and board games. For more information, call Loretta at 805216-1694 or Carol at 805-340-6336. Price for luncheon is $25 and annual fee is $50.

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 allages 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/.

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 Diversity Collective, 2471 Portola Road, Ventura. Classes are $15 each, or $10 each with JEST membership. More information at www.jestimprov.com.

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 10:30 a.m.-12:30 p.m. with Suburbanoid. Friday evening sessions 6:15-8:15 p.m. with Trinity of Sound. $25; registration is required. 10340 Reeves Road, Ojai. For exact dates and times, visit meditationmount.org/events.

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.

Head to Santa Paula Theater Center on Saturday, Nov. 19, for a Winter Wonderland Painting Workshop taught by Amy Lynn and Jessi May Stevenson. The class takes place 1-3 p.m.; registration required.