Taste of Camarillo offers beefed up agenda

IRIS SMOOT/Acorn Newspapers SMOOTH TASTE- Local wine tastings are becoming increasingly popular. Camarillo-based wineries play a big role. Despite a downturn in the economy, those attending the 21st annual A Taste of Camarillo on July 26 and 27 at the Adolfo Camarillo Ranch House will get more for their money.

For the same two-day ticket price of last year- $100- attendees on Saturday can enjoy a dinner buffet of New York strip steak and champagne salmon along with the festival's official wine. Only appetizers and wine were served at the Live Wine Auction Gala on Saturday last year.

On July 27, food and wine enthusiasts can taste samples from more than 100 wineries and eateries across Southern California.

One-day tickets to the event are also available.

The Meadowlark Service League's largest charity fundraiser also has new sponsors this year- Steve Thomas BMW and Creekside Executive Center, an office complex under construction next to the Adolfo Camarillo Ranch House.

Besides that, little else has changed. Live entertainment is still included in the price of admission, and a raffle is held on Sunday.

"That's always fun because somebody gets $1,000 on the spot," said Paige Hibbits, Meadowlark president-elect.

The Meadowlark Service League is composed of about 40 volunteers who hold two other annual fundraisers: A tennis tournament in the spring and a home holiday tour in December. All three fundraisers enabled the philanthropic group of Camarillo and Somis women to give away more than $225,000 to 33 charities throughout Ventura County last month.

Hibbits said A Taste of Camarillo raised $170,000 last year, and the Meadowlarks expect it to raise about the same amount or slightly more this year. Although new sponsors have come on board, the money is offset by keeping ticket prices the same as last year, she said.

"They are just a wonderful organization," said Carole Davis of Rabobank, formerly Mid-State Bank, another festival sponsor. "I really am a fan of theirs."

Five-year sponsor Becky Duarte said she, too, is impressed with the nonprofit group.

"They do such an amazing job," said Duarte, owner of sixyear-old Premiere Options Real Estate in Camarillo. "These women are really dedicated to giving back to the community. They really put their heart into it."

Duarte said she's heard vendors say they look forward to returning to the event year after year.

Hibbits said though Meadowlarks members work very hard on their fundraisers they also look forward to the events.

"We get very excited the closer we get," Hibbits said.

On Saturday, acoustic guitarist Varon Thomas is scheduled to perform. Jeanne Tatum & Company and Bryan McCann & the Grooveheads will appear on Sunday.

For details, please call (805) 388-7158 or visit meadowlarkserviceleague.com.