Films & programs

L.A. RIVER

Documentary

When kayaker George Wolfe organized a boating expedition down the Los Angeles River, he and his crew became entangled in a legal controversy of national proportions. “Rock the Boat” looks at the challenges society faces in providing clean water to urban populations and delivers an alternative to doomsday docs.

When, where: 7 p.m. Wednesday at the REI store in Northridge, 18605 Devonshire St., and Thursday at the REI store in Arcadia, 214 N. Santa Anita Ave.

Admission, info: Free. (818) 831-5555 for Northridge; (626) 447-1062 for Arcadia.

HIKING

Presentation

Craig Carey, author of “Hiking and Backpacking Santa Barbara and Ventura,” will

relate tales and experiences from his wanderings in Santa Barbara and Ventura counties.

When, where: 7 p.m. Friday at the Adventure 16 store, 11161 W. Pico Blvd., Los Angeles.

Admission, info: Free. (310)

473-4574.

SOUTHEAST ASIA Workshop

Veteran travelers will offer tips for first-time travelers to the region, including planning, health and cultural awareness.

When, where: 10 a.m. Saturday at the Hostelling International Travel Store, 1434 2nd St., Santa Monica.

Admission, info: Free. RSVP to (310) 393-6263. Please email announcements at least three weeks before the event to travel@latimes.com.