BUSINESS CALENDAR

* “Best Employment Practices,” the first in a series of five monthly workshops offered by the Gold Coast Small Business Development Center, will be held from 8 to 10 a.m. today at 5700 Ralston St., Ventura. The meeting covers how to classify exempt employees and independent contractors, new overtime laws and evaluating your employment practices.

The cost is $15, which includes breakfast and a workbook. Make reservations at 658-2688.

* “The Basics of Business,” a workshop for those interested in self-employment, will be held Wednesday from 1 to 4 p.m. at the Gold Coast Small Business Development Center, 5700 Ralston St., Ventura. It is the first in a series of four workshops, which will be held on successive Wednesdays.

The cost is $15. Make reservations at 658-2688.

* Workers’ Compensation Update 1999, sponsored by the Western Ventura County Employer Advisory Council and the state Employment Development Department, will be held Oct. 13 from 7:30 a.m. to noon at the Radisson Hotel, 600 Esplanade Drive, Oxnard. The presenter will be author and attorney David William O’Brien, who specializes in workers’ compensation and unemployment insurance law.

The cost is $55. Make reservations by Friday with Lupe Ortiz at 382-5125.