New place to play
      STEADY ON HER FEET- Jayden Rollins, 3, is enjoying herself while climbing in the all-new Jungleland-themed play area at The Oaks shopping center in Thousand Oaks. The regional mall is a popular destination for holiday shoppers.
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Adoption orientation planned
      Children's Bureau will present an orientation for adults, single or married, who are interested in adoption from 7 to 8:30 p.m. Wed., Dec. 19 at the Grant Brimhall/Thousand Oaks Library, 1401 E. Janss Road.
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Beware of danger during the holidays
      The holiday season brings with it an increase in vehicle burglaries, identity theft and other crimes, according to the Ventura County Sheriff's Department, which offers tips to lessen the chances of becoming a victim by removing opportunities for criminals to act.
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Suggestions made for pet-proof holiday parties
      Family gatherings, holidays and at-home get-togethers can be fun ways to spend time with loved ones. But they can sometimes be stressful occasions for furry friends. Try these simple tips for holding pet-safe events: •Petproof decor. When decorating for a get-together, check that the wall hangings and other decorations are well out of reach of curious pets.
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More screen time results in less activity time
      Don't touch that dial! Every day, children ages 8 to 13 spend nearly six hours watching TV, playing video games or on the computer. Two-thirds of youth have a TV in their room, and those kids spend another 11 to 12 hours watching TV than their peers.
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There are tales to tell at the heart of most Christmas traditions
      No matter how a family may celebrate the holidays, whether following age-old traditions or creating new ones, it's a time for remembering the past and celebrating the future. Here's a little background on some of the more well-known holiday traditions that are still part of modern celebrations.
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Take the train to buy tree, visit Santa
      The Fillmore & Western Christmas Tree Train will chug through Ventura County's Heritage Valley until Dec. 23. Guests can select and cut down their own Christmas trees and bring the trees back on the train. Trains depart at 10 a.m. and 2 p.m.
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YMCA receives funds for child-care programs
      The Southeast Ventura County YMCA received a $32,812 grant from the J.C. Penney After-school Fund to help support its childcare programs in Agoura Hills, Moorpark, Oak Park, Newbury Park, Simi Valley, Thousand Oaks and Westlake Village.
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