Although Jackson transferred title to the Sycamore Valley Ranch Company in November of 2008, so much media attention has centered around the Neverland ranch.  We thought it would be fun just to take a peek inside. 

We found a short video of pictures inside the infamous Neverland.  Check it out.

There will be demonstrations, music, crafts, food and lots of lavender.  Savor the smell…..

This is the weekend that Ventura County shows off its “stuff” —  STRAWBERRIES.

This weekend, May 16 and 17, is the California Strawberry Festival and promises to be jam packed with rides, shows, exhibits, presentations, strawberry pie eating contests, recipe contests, art contests and on and on.  The festival has grown each year since its beginnings in 1984.

Check out the website for the California Strawberry Festival before you go to by tickets on line, discover event times, and the strawberry express shuttle locations.  Have a Berry Good Weekend!

This year Kay is again organizing “Barbie Care and Share” with friends and family to donate Barbies, clothing and accessories to needy children in various Ventura County agencies.  Last year’s “Barbie Care and Share” was a community effort with a Camarillo Girl Scout troop and others helping to clean, dress and package the dolls donated by generous citizens through out Ventura County. 

Kay is looking forward to another positive response from the people of Ventura County.  Anyone interested in donating gently used dolls, clothing, or accessories can email Kay or call her at (805) 482-4560. 

Each doll come with its own cloth carrying bag which Kay needs help sewing the dozens of bags that are needed to package the dolls.

Thanks Kay for your fine work and contribution.  Just another reason why living in Ventura County is so special — the people!!

 Happy Thanksgiving!

One City, One Book is a City-wide book club that is a month-long celebration from September 20 to October 18, 2008.   This year the chosen book is What is the What. 

What is the What is a novelized autobiography of Valentino Achak Deng, from his pre-war life in southern Sudan to his resettlement in the United States. 

Separated from his family when Arab militia destroy his village, Valentino joins thousands of other ‘Lost Boys,’ beset by starvation, thirst and man-eating lions on their march to refugee camps in Ethiopia and Kenya, where Valentino pieces together a new life. He eventually reaches America, but finds his quest for safety, community and fulfillment in many ways even more difficult there than in the camps.

The entire community is invited to read and discuss the same book, participate in book discussions, film screenings, drama, an essay contest and other events held throughout the city.

I read What is the What several months ago initially thinking that it was not ’my type’ of book but soon discovered it was a compelling, powerful account of human spirit over tragedy.  It is not possible to read this book and not be humbled.  It is a story of courage and hope to be shared.

Talk about appreciate your 805 home — read What is the What!   There is no place like home especially our paradise in the 805.

All Day Art and Jazz

From 10 a.m. to 5 p.m. local professional artists and a range of musical guests will be featured.  The juried art walk will take place on the sidewalks and in participating businesses.  Daytime events are free to the public.  Music performances will be highlighted on two outdoor stages throughout the day. Terrific jazz from swing to Latin jazz to smooth jazz styles of music and entertainment will be presented.

Evening Under the Stars

The conclusion of the day’s activities brings the evening’s featured ticketed event in Old Town Camarillo.  The opening act will be the winner of the 2008 Art & Jazz “Battle of the Bands” competition from earlier in the day.  The Royal Crown Revue will perform beginning at 6:15 p.m.   Dave Koz and Friends will dazzle the audience with his saxophone and smooth jazz. 

How could it get better? Bring a picnic basket, blanket and get ready to have a good time! Tickets are available on line as well at several businesses in Old Town Camarillo.