VENTURA COUNTY CALIFORNIA | VOL. 2
WHAT ARE ANNUITIES?
An annuity is an investment vehicle that can provide a guaranteed income for an individual or their spouse. It is a contract with an insurance company or financial institution where you contribute money upfront and at a specific time receive payments back over the course of your lifetime. There are several advantages to investing in an annuity. First, it is tax deferred which means no taxes until you begin taking the income. Second, you can choose a fixed rate annuity where you will always receive the
same amount regardless of market conditions. Third, you will receive payment even if you receive more than your original investment. Fourth, there are annuities with death benefits for heirs.
There are many different types of annuities, all of which have different features, benefits and costs but they fall into three main categories: fixed, fixed index and variable. There are two types of payout options- deferred and immediate.
FIXED ANNUITY
A fixed annuity is based on a set interest rate and can increase in value over time. It guarantees income payments over your lifetime with the possibility of death benefits for heirs. There are two ways to purchase - either through a lump sum payment or a series of payments that increase the value of your annuity and therefore the total payout.
VARIABLE ANNUITY
A variable annuity’s value will depend on market conditions and will rise and fall with the stock market. This means the possibility of a higher interest rate when the market is strong but in a weak market, the annuity could even lose value.
INDEXED ANNUITY
An indexed annuity is based on the performance of a particular market index and the value of the annuity will be based on that particular index. Interest will be based on the index’s interest rate.
WHY BUY AN ANNUITY?
It is a good opportunity to be sure you have the resources to cover your essential monthly expenses such as mortgage or rent, insurance, utilities , travel, etc. The best thing about an annuity is that it does not run out no matter your age or the value of the investment. Start by analyzing your monthly expenses to figure out how much
income you need to cover basic bills. Don’t forget to consider and plan for inflation. When considering an annuity, the most important thing is to be sure to understand what you are investing in. They are complicated investments. Work with a trusted financial adviser to ensure your understanding of the risks and potential returns.
FENG SHUI
IN COLOR & DESIGN
Feng Shui, which literally means wind and water, is an ancient Chinese practice rooted in the theory of Yin and Yang. It is the ancient Chinese practice of using energy forces to harmonize individuals with their surrounding environment by organizing furniture, art, plants, and other objects within any given space or room to create peace and harmony.
It has been used for centuries to determine building sites such as the Forbidden City in Beijing, which is built on a north-south axis with the main entrance facing south. It was believed to be the most propitious direction according to the feng shui masters. Additionally, the pyramid addition to the Louvre in Paris, Trump Tower in Manhattan, and the Sydney Opera House in Sydney have all been influenced by feng shui principles.
In interior design, feng shui is a tool to help design a room that makes you feel good and enhances health, prosperity, harmony and balance for a joyful life.
Chinese philosophy is all about opposites - masculine and feminine, dark and light, warm and cold. Additionally, there is a focus on the 5 elements which are wood, fire, earth, metal and water. These symbolize qualities such as stability, wisdom, growth and creativity. Decorating with the five elements is meant to bring joy and balance to your life.
According to Better Homes and Gardens, you can feng shui your home with a few simple tips:
Clear your home of clutter and open up the flow of traffic. This will create an atmosphere of calm by creating a welcoming entryway. Adding feng shui plants and positioning furniture in relation to the door will give a feeling of
control and empowerment, creating balance. And don’t forget to use feng shui with your color selections.
The bedroom is the most important room for applying the principles of feng shui since we all spend so much time there. It is important to have the bed face the door but not straight-on. It is preferable to have a wall behind the bed so that you are aware if anyone is entering your space. This is referred to as command position. Use soft and muted pastel colors or earthen tones that you’d find in nature. Plants are not recommended for the bedroom as they are active and produce energy which is not conducive to the calm environment required in the bedroom. However, they are desirable throughout the rest of the home. Some of the best plants include lucky bamboo, orchids, jade, snake or rubber plants.
Although there is no scientific basis for the use of feng shui in design, it is about making your environment a healthy and happy one for your family, so why not give it a try.
2024 PGA TOURNAMENT SCHEDULE
DATES TOURNAMENT
SEPT 26 - 29
OCT 3 - 6
OCT 10 - 13
OCT 17 - 20
OCT 24 - 27
NOV 7 - 10
NOV 14 - 17
NOV 21 - 24
DEC 5 - 8
DEC 12 - 15
DEC 12 - 15
Presidents Cup
* Schedule subject to change
The Royal Montreal GC • Montreal, Quebec • CAN
Sanderson Farms Championship
NBC, GOLF, PEACOCK, SXM
The Country Club of Jackson • Jackson, MS • USA GOLF, SXM
Black Desert Championship
Black Desert Resort Golf Course • Ivins, UT • USA GOLF, SXM
Shriners Children’s Open
TPC Summerlin • Las Vegas, NV • USA
ZOZO CHAMPIONSHIP
ACCORDIA GOLF • Chiba • JPN
World Wide Technology Championship
SXM
El Cardonal at Diamante • Los Cabos • MEX GOLF, SXM
Butterfield Bermuda Championship
Port Royal Golf Course • Southampton • BER GOLF, SXM
The RSM Classic
Sea Island Golf Club • St. Simons Island, GA • USA GOLF, SXM
Hero World Challenge
Albany GC • Albany • BAH NBC, GOLF
Grant Thornton Invitational
Tiburón Golf Club • Naples, FL • USA
PGA TOUR Q-School presented by Korn Ferry
Dye’s Valley Course • Ponte Vedra Beach, FL • USA
GOLF
+ Signature Event
# Not PGA TOUR Co-sponsored ^ Co-sanctioned with DP World Tour
2024 LPGA
LOCAL EVENTS GUIDE
VENTURA COUNTY
PLEASE NOTE: WE’RE AWARE THAT THESE UNCERTAIN TIMES ARE LIMITING MANY ASPECTS OF LIFE AS WE ALL PRACTICE SOCIAL AND PHYSICAL DISTANCING. DUE TO THE CURRENT OUTBREAK, MANY EVENTS HAVE EITHER BEEN CANCELLED, RESCHEDULED, OR CHANGED TO VIRTUAL EVENTS. PLEASE VERIFY ALL EVENTS PRIOR TO ATTENDING. THANK YOU.
OCTOBER
OCT 1 -
31 | HARVEST FESTIVAL
Come celebrate fall harvest at one of Ventura County’s most beloved family farms. The annual fall harvest festival offers up a fun and unique experience with special themes on the weekends. See below for details. For more info visit: https://tinyurl.com/5n6dtsec
OCT 26 | BOO FEST
Dress in your costume and Trick or Treat up and down the Booooulevard from business to business! We will have designated Costume Contest Entry Locations on our map, where you can enter as a Family, Adult, Pet, or Youth for a chance to win exciting prizes. As you walk up and down the Boooulevard, scan the Camarillo Heritage Days stickers on the sidewalk and learn about the historical landmarks in Old Town!
For more info visit: https://tinyurl.com/3k9dxvhx
NOVEMBER
NOV 2 | DÍA DE LOS MUERTOS
Join us for a mesmerizing and heartfelt celebration of life and remembrance at OPAC’s annual Día de los Muertos Celebration. Immerse yourself in the rich tapestry of Mexican and Filipino culture as we pay homage to our ancestors with vibrant altars, captivating traditional music and dance, and the irresistible aroma of authentic cuisine. This unique cultural experience promises to be a poignant journey filled with colorful calacas, marigold-adorned ofrendas, and a profound sense of community. For more info visit: https://tinyurl.com/33mbdp8m
NOV 3 | PATCHWORK SHOW
Our street festival location in the palm tree-lined downtown streets of Ventura features local handmade vendors. Patchwork Show Ventura brings all the charm of a beach town. You can even see the ocean from the show!
For more info visit: https://tinyurl.com/298w89aj
LOCAL EVENTS GUIDE
VENTURA COUNTY
PLEASE NOTE: WE’RE AWARE THAT THESE UNCERTAIN TIMES ARE LIMITING MANY ASPECTS OF LIFE AS WE ALL PRACTICE SOCIAL AND PHYSICAL DISTANCING. DUE TO THE CURRENT OUTBREAK, MANY EVENTS HAVE EITHER BEEN CANCELLED, RESCHEDULED, OR CHANGED TO VIRTUAL EVENTS. PLEASE VERIFY ALL EVENTS PRIOR TO ATTENDING. THANK YOU.
DECEMBER
DEC 7 | THE WINE WALK
The Wine Walk will showcase Wine, Sparkling Wine, and Craft Beer sampling in your favorite downtown businesses. Plus, the Vendor Fair will feature hundreds of local vendors and crafters lining the streets of downtown with goods available for sale!
For more info visit: venturawinterwinewalk.com
DEC 7 | TAMALE FESTIVAL
Get the tastiest tamales in town –from sweet to savory, traditional to gourmet. Enjoy the holiday crafts fair, kids activities, and live music. The festival will feature a selection of family-friendly activities, tamales and other delectable dishes, and live music. Join us as we ring in the holiday season!
For more info visit: https://tinyurl.com/43js67dd
DEC 8 | SANTA TO THE SEA
In 2008, we started our half-marathon that raises money to give Christmas gifts, food, college scholarships, and more to the underserved in Ventura County. Each year, around 3000 toys are given out, $500,000 in scholarships have been awarded, and basic needs like food have been given through Santa to the Sea. If you are looking to make a difference this year, we would like to personally invite you to join us this year for our Santa to the Sea races! For more info visit: santatothesea.com
JANUARY
JAN 19 - 28 | THE COMEDY OF ERRORS
Prepare for an uproarious twist on Shakespeare’s classic comedy with an electrifying translation of The Comedy of Errors, playing in repertory with Two Trains Running with the same extraordinary cast in association with The Acting Company! This reimagined tale follows the hilarious misadventures of two sets of identical twins
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LOCAL EVENTS GUIDE
VENTURA COUNTY
PLEASE NOTE: WE’RE AWARE THAT THESE UNCERTAIN TIMES ARE LIMITING MANY ASPECTS OF LIFE AS WE ALL PRACTICE SOCIAL AND PHYSICAL DISTANCING. DUE TO THE CURRENT OUTBREAK, MANY EVENTS HAVE EITHER BEEN CANCELLED, RESCHEDULED, OR CHANGED TO VIRTUAL EVENTS. PLEASE VERIFY ALL EVENTS PRIOR TO ATTENDING. THANK YOU.
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separated at birth. Brace yourself for a rollercoaster of mistaken identities, madcap escapades, and side-splitting humor as our talented cast breathes new life into Shakespeare’s timeless masterpiece. Join us for a riotous evening of laughter, love, and the joy of theatrical mayhem that will leave you in stitches from start to finish! For more info visit: https://tinyurl. com/kd26nmsj
FEBRUARY
FEB 9 | CHOPPER FEST
A very special David Mann and Friends Motorcycle Art Exhibit, an All Brand Antique and Custom Motorcycle Show. With custom Bike Builder Displays featuring World Class Bike Builders, hundreds of Motorcycle/Culture Vendors, a New and Used Motorcycle Parts Swap Meet, Live Rock and Blues Bands, food and beer. For more info visit: chopperfestival.com
MARCH
MARCH 26 - 30 | CRAZY MAMA
One woman plays 16 characters in this tour-de-force about Sharon’s decades-long dream of saving her mother from the soul-crushing grip of mental illness. A testament to the steely resilience of the human heart and the enduring nature of hope, Crazy Mama will leave you breathless, moved, and profoundly inspired. For more info visit: https://tinyurl.com/24uh74p6
APRIL
APRIL 4 - 5 | RENAISSANCE FAIRE
You are cordially invited to visit us in the English country village of Wixonshire and celebrate the arrival of Spring on the shores of beautiful Lake Casitas in Ojai, California. For more info visit: ojairenfaire.wordpress.com
LOCAL EVENTS GUIDE
VENTURA COUNTY
PLEASE NOTE: WE’RE AWARE THAT THESE UNCERTAIN TIMES ARE LIMITING MANY ASPECTS OF LIFE AS WE ALL PRACTICE SOCIAL AND PHYSICAL DISTANCING. DUE TO THE CURRENT OUTBREAK, MANY EVENTS HAVE EITHER BEEN CANCELLED, RESCHEDULED, OR CHANGED TO VIRTUAL EVENTS. PLEASE VERIFY ALL EVENTS PRIOR TO ATTENDING. THANK YOU.
MAY
MAY 1 - 18 | BONNIE & CLYDE
With an unforgettable score by Frank Wildhorn that combines rockabilly, blues and gospel music, this new adaptation brings the gripping story of America’s most notorious outlaws to life in a fresh and dynamic way. Join Bonnie and Clyde on their infamous journey through the heartland, as they defy authority, chase their dreams, and ultimately meet their tragic destiny. Don’t miss this riveting theatrical event that will leave you on the edge of your seat! For more info visit: https://tinyurl.com/mrcp8snr
MAY 17 - 18 | STRAWBERRY FEST
The highly-anticipated California Strawberry Festival is making a grand return, and this time it’s bigger and better than ever before! Get ready to indulge in everything strawberry. For more info visit: castrawberryfestival.org
JUNE
JUNE 1 | WINE, FOOD, & BREW
If you love gourmet foods, great wine, and craft brews then you won’t want to miss this special event. This all inclusive festival features sweet and flavorful delicacies from the finest restaurants, catering companies, bakers, and specialty chefs from the Ventura County and Santa Barbara areas. Groove to live music from the VIP lounge and center stage. The Casa Pacifica Angels Food, Wine, & Brew Festival is a fun experience that helps children in Ventura County. For more info visit: https://tinyurl.com/t5zt55xm
JUNE 20 - 22 | GREEK FESTIVAL
For the families of St. Demetrios Greek Orthodox Church, the annual Ventura County Greek Festival is much more than a cultural event. It is an opportunity to share a part of ourselves with the community. Who we are. Where we come from. What we believe. For more info visit: vcgreekfestival.org
LOCAL EVENTS GUIDE VENTURA COUNTY
PLEASE NOTE: WE’RE AWARE THAT THESE UNCERTAIN TIMES ARE LIMITING MANY ASPECTS OF LIFE AS WE ALL PRACTICE SOCIAL AND PHYSICAL DISTANCING. DUE TO THE CURRENT OUTBREAK, MANY EVENTS HAVE EITHER BEEN CANCELLED, RESCHEDULED, OR CHANGED TO VIRTUAL EVENTS. PLEASE VERIFY ALL EVENTS PRIOR TO ATTENDING. THANK YOU.
JULY
JULY 13 - 14
| TACO FEST
Tequila. Tacos. Tunes. That’s what it’s all about! Enjoy an afternoon sipping on an assortment of Margaritas and eating delicious tacos, all while listening to a great lineup of live music! For more info visit: tequilaandtacomusicfestival.com
JULY 16 - 20 | MIDSUMMER
BLOCK PARTY
Get into summer festivities at one of Old Town Camarillo’s most popular festivals. Bring your friends and family to celebrate Camarillo’s rich heritage. Experience Camarillo with local food vendors and trucks, live music, art, car show, and carnival rides. For more info visit: camarillooldtown.org
AUGUST
AUG 1 - 10
| COUNTY FAIR
The Ventura County Fair is one of California’s most popular seaside attractions. Enjoy exciting rides, attractions, and free concerts featuring top artists. Use this travel
guide to inspire you with recommended restaurants, breweries, the best beaches, hotels, and fun things to do. For more info visit: venturacountyfair.org
AUG 16 - 17 | AIR SHOW
Experience the Thrills of California’s Premier Air Show! Witness high-speed aerial acrobatics, live performances, captivating displays, and exhilarating helicopter and airplane rides. But wait, there’s more! Enjoy a spectacular car show, explore the veterans hangar, witness historical reenactments, marvel at a robotics demonstration, and much more! For more info visit: wingsovercamarillo.com
2025 GRAND SLAM TOURNAMENT SCHEDULE
2025 GRAND SLAM TOURNAMENT
SCHEDULE
* Schedule subject to change
MAY 25 - SUN 12:00 PM 1st Round Ladies’ & Gentlemen’s Single MAY 26 - MON 12:00 PM 1st Round Ladies’ & Gentlemen’s Single
MAY 26 - MON 8:15 PM 1st Round Ladies’ & Gentlemen’s Single
MAY 27 - TUE 12:00 PM 1st Round Ladies’ & Gentlemen’s Single MAY 27 - TUE 8:15 PM 1st Round Ladies’ & Gentlemen’s Single MAY 28 - WED 12:00 PM 2nd Round Ladies’ & Gentlemen’s Single MAY 28 - WED 8:15 PM 2nd Round Ladies’ & Gentlemen’s Single MAY 29 - THU 12:00 PM 2nd Round Ladies’ & Gentlemen’s Single
MAY 29 - THU 8:15 PM 2nd Round Ladies’ & Gentlemen’s Single MAY 30 - FRI 12:00 PM 3rd Round Ladies’ & Gentlemen’s Single MAY 30 - FRI 8:15 PM 3rd Round Ladies’ & Gentlemen’s Single MAY 31 - SAT 12:00 PM 3rd Round Ladies’ & Gentlemen’s Single MAY 31 - SAT 8:15 PM 3rd Round Ladies’ & Gentlemen’s Single
JUN 01 - SUN 11:00 PM 4th Round Ladies’ & Gentlemen’s Single
JUN 01 - SUN 8:15 PM 4th Round Ladies’ & Gentlemen’s Single
JUN 02 - MON 11:00 PM 4th Round Ladies’ & Gentlemen’s Single
JUN 02 - MON 8:15 PM 4th Round Ladies’ & Gentlemen’s Single
JUN 03 - TUE 11:00 PM 1/4 Finals Ladies’ or Gentlemen’s Singles
JUN 03 - TUE 8:15 PM 1/4 Finals Ladies’ or Gentlemen’s Singles
JUN 04 - WED 11:00 PM 1/4 Finals Ladies’ or Gentlemen’s Singles
JUN 04 - WED 8:15 PM 1/4 Finals Ladies’ or Gentlemen’s Singles
JUN 05 - THU 3:00 PM 1/2 Finals Singles Ladies’
JUN 06 - FRI 2:30 PM 1/2 Final Gentlemen’s Single
JUN 06 - FRI 5:30 PM 1/2 Final Gentlemen’s Single
JUN 07 - SAT 3:00 PM Final Women’s Single
JUN 08 - SUN 3:00 PM Final Gentlemen’s Single
DATE
2025 GRAND SLAM TOURNAMENT SCHEDULE
* Schedule subject to change
JUNE 30 - MON 11:00 AM Men's & Ladies' 1nd Round
JULY 1 - TUE 11:00 AM Men's & Ladies' 1nd Round
JULY 2 - WED 11:00 AM Men's & Ladies' 2nd Round
JULY 3 - THUR 11:00 AM Men's & Ladies' 2nd Round
JULY 4 - FRI 11:00 AM Men's & Ladies' 3rd Round
JULY 5 - SAT 11:00 AM Men's & Ladies' 3rd Round
JULY 6 - SUN 11:00 AM Men's & Ladies' 4th Round
JULY 7 - MON 11:00 AM Men's & Ladies' 4th Round
JULY 8 - TUE 11:00 AM
JULY 9- WED 11:00 AM
JULY 10 - THU 1:00 PM
Men's Singles Quarterfinals & Ladies’ Singles Quarterfinals
Men's Singles Quarterfinals & Ladies’ Singles Quarterfinals
Ladies' Singles Semifinals & Mixed Doubles Final
JULY 11 - FRI 1:00 PM Men's Singles Semifinals
JULY 12 - SAT 2:00 PM
JULY 13 - SUN 2:00 PM
Ladies' Singles Final & Men's Doubles Final
Men's Singles Final & Ladies’ Doubles Final
2025 GRAND SLAM TOURNAMENT SCHEDULE
TRAIN EXPERIENCES Wonderful
If you haven’t traveled by train, you might like to try it. There are so many fantastic train trips available across the world. They offer opportunities not available any other way. There’s never the hassle of driving and missing the beautiful and scenic countryside. They are eco-friendly,
comfortable, relaxing and also offer refreshments. Trains start and end their journeys in cities and will transport you through diverse and incredible landscapes.
Here are a few amazing train trip options:
JACOBITE TRAIN BERNINA EXPRESS
If you are traveling in Scotland, be sure to check out the Jacobite. This journey is often described as the greatest rail journey in the world. It takes you 84 miles in total from Fort Williams in the highlands of Scotland to the most westerly stop in Arisaig. It passes by lakes and rivers including Lake Nevis, the deepest in Europe and through charming villages. There is a stop in Glenfinnan which was made famous as the site of the Harry Potter films. Then it is on to Mallaig which was founded in 1840 and is now a busy fishing port. It is a great spot for a walk or some shopping and dining. Try the fish and chips! Then take the return trip or consider taking the ferry to Skye and the Small Isles.
In Switzerland, be sure to check out the Bernina Express which is a 90 mile journey from Tirano in northern Italy to Chur in southeastern Switzerland. Highlights include unparalleled panoramic views of the steep peaks of the Swiss Alps, charming villages and shimmering lakes. With 55 tunnels through the mountains and numerous bridges and viaducts, the vistas are stunning. Chur is the oldest city in Switzerland and the old town is actually car-free. The train has earned UNESCO World Heritage Designation due to its architectural features and long history.
SKAGWAY RAILROAD RAILROAD MUSEUM
In Alaska, don’t miss the Bennett Lake Scenic Journey. A trip through history that began with the gold rush of 1898 when men sought routes to the Klondike and the White Pass. It began in Skagway and continued to British Columbia and the Yukon Territory. The train climbs from sea level to 3,00ft - a true marvel of engineering. Travel in a vintage train from Skagway to Carcass in the Yukon Territory. See snow capped peaks, forests, sparkling lakes, and amazing waterfalls. Visit Bennett Station and the White Pass Museum. You can do a walk through an old gold rush town. Then ride through remote sections of the lake that are otherwise only available by hiking the Chilkoot Trail.
In Parrish, Florida, visit the Museum and see the historic trains of the old South. Or take the 6-mile ride on an early 1900s train from Parrish to Willow to see a rail collection and exhibition. Also they host special train events including a train robbery experience.