Array of events planned next week

Simi Valley Days, now in its 22nd year, is scheduled for next week, Sept. 13 through 17, at the corner of Madera Road and Los Angeles Avenue.

The event will include a special kids' area, live entertainment by local bands, and the Merchants and Crafters Pavilion

This year's event will promote youth sports and the theme is Simi Valley Days Games-"Let the Games Begin." Area youth will have an opportunity to participate in an array of sports exhibitions, such as football, hoops, baseball and soccer.

"We really wanted to add a sports element to this year's carnival because Simi Valley is such a big youth sports city," said Jason Conrad, chair for Simi Valley Days.

Special activities for Simi Valley Days will include the Battle of the Bands on Sept. 14 and the Simi Valley Days parade on Sept. 16. Kowchip Bingo (an event you have to see to believe), an oldfashioned picnic and the Youth Sports Exhibition are all scheduled on Sept. 17.

The proceeds from Simi Valley Days will benefit more than 40 local charities.

For more information about Simi Valley Days, call (805) 5814280 or visit the website at www.simivalleydays.org or email Wayne Schultz at simivalleydayso4@aol.com.