Take precautions during holiday decorating
      Holiday lights can look great on the tree and adorning a home's exterior, but safety should be at the top of the list when decorating. During the holidays, many people put themselves at increased risk of fire and electrocution.
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Students invited to enter art, poetry contest
Entries must be postmarked by Jan. 31
      The California Coastal Commission invites students in grades kindergarten through 12 to enter the 2008 California Coastal Art and Poetry Contest. Arts and poetry must have a California coastal or marine theme to be eligible.
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Weekend of birthdays
      When I was younger my parents just dropped us kids off at our friends' birthday parties then picked us up when the party was over. Not today's generation. My 4-year-old was invited to four birthday parties last weekend. By today's standards, us parents were expected to attend.
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Poinsettias thrive in the right conditions
      If there is one flower that's recognized as a sign of the holidays, it's the poinsettia. In addition to their role as traditional Christmas decorations, poinsettias can serve as tokens of goodwill, friendship and joy during the season and beyond. More than 50 million Americans will purchase...
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Maritime Museum presents ship sale
      The Ventura County Maritime Museum presents its annual holiday ship model sale throughout December. A wide selection of sailing ship models is available. All proceeds from sales benefit the educational programs of the museum.
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Farmers' Market will be open for holiday season
      The Thousand Oaks Farmers' Market at 403 W. Hillcrest Drive will be open Thursdays from 2 to 6:30 p.m. throughout the holiday season except on Thursday, Dec. 27. Gift certificates in any amount are available for the holiday season and can be obtained during the hours of operation.
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Go for a sleigh ride in Ventura Harbor
      California Sleigh Rides will present holiday boat cruises in Ventura Harbor. Public cruises depart nightly in December from 6 to 7:30 p.m. and 8 to 9:30 p.m. The cost is $20 for adults and $10 for children and includes free hot chocolate and cookies.
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