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A new cultural tradition is coming to East County! On Saturday, June 7, 2025, Downtown El Cajon will debut Artivál, East San Diego County’s first-ever arts festival. The free, open-air celebration brings together local creatives, musicians, food and drink vendors, and the community to highlight the city’s cultural identity. Held from 10 a.m. to 6 p.m. in the heart of Downtown El Cajon at Main & Magnolia, the free festival kicks off the summer season with a vibrant showcase of more than 50 artists and makers, interactive installations, live music, and gourmet food trucks. For those 21 and up, East County Arts Association has curated a ticketed Wine & Beer Garden experience that adds an elevated experience with tastings from local wineries, craft brew, and beverage brands. Artivál’s mission is clear – to transform Downtown El Cajon’s public spaces into a living canvas, spark cultural dialogue, and create lasting access to the arts in a part of San Diego that’s long been underserved by creative programming. Featuring a dynamic lineup of visual and performing artists, from rising talents to veteran creatives, Artivál celebrates the full spectrum of local artistry across disciplines and cultures. FESTIVAL HIGHLIGHTS · Art Walk (10 a.m. – 6 p.m.): A vibrant outdoor gallery featuring local and regional artists across diverse mediums. · Food Trucks (10 a.m. – 6 p.m.): Flavor-packed bites from East County’s favorite mobile kitchens. · Wine & Beer Garden (Noon – 6 p.m.): Guests 21+ can sip and relax with beverages JuneShine, Flying Embers, Burning Beard Brewery, The Tap Truck East San Diego, Granite Lion Winery, Fog Wine Co., and Snake Oil Co. · Live Music (Noon – 6 p.m.): - Cassie B (11:30 a.m. – 2:30 p.m.): High-energy pop, funk, and soul. - Kimba Light (2:45 p.m. – 5:30 p.m.): Latin, funk, and Afro-Caribbean fusion. EVENT DETAILS WHEN: Saturday, June 7, 2025. 10 a.m. – 6 p.m. WHERE: Main & Magnolia, El Cajon, CA 92020 TICKETS: FREE Entry Wine & Beer Garden: - 10 Tastings Tickets - $45.00* - 5 Tastings Tickets - $25.00* *Tasting = 1 Ticket *Full Pour = 2 Tickets Cocktail Tickets: $15 each Wine & Beer Garden Tickets and Cocktail tickets will only be available for purchase onsite (cash or card). Wine & Beer Garden Tickets will be sold at the entrance within the fenced garden, while Cocktail Tickets will be sold at Belly Bar next to Snake Oil Canopy. To learn more, visit www.artivalsandiego.com. “El Cajon is one of the most diverse cities in the county, and yet, East County has never had an arts festival to call its own,” said Chris Berg, Marketing & Engagement Manager for the City of El Cajon and Downtown El Cajon Business Partners’ Board Member. “Artivál is our way of creating a new tradition for the community and visitors to experience the city’s creativity. Plus, the sun is always shining in El Cajon in June!”

The Coronado Library is thrilled to announce that children's author Mac Barnett ("Triangle." "Sam and Dave Dig a Hole," "Mac Undercover"), will appear in person on Tuesday, May 20! Starting at 3:30 p.m., Mac will be at the library to meet fans and sign books. At 4 p.m., he will share picture book favorites and showcase the deeply impactful ways picture books blend words and illustrations, and even the turning of a page, to create a uniquely powerful reading experience. Mac will share his passion for picture books and invite children and adults alike to join him in celebrating what’s vibrant, joyful and inspiring about this quintessential – and highly participatory – American art form at this all ages and family friendly event. We were selected with the with the Coronado Unified School District as one of five libraries in the country that Mac would appear at in his role. As the only library West of the Rio Grande, we are thrilled to host Mac's only public appearance in Coronado for this tour. Each year, Barnett will visit only five locations as National Ambassador. Coronado selected out of 350 applicants for this honor and is his only site visit this school year and the very first one of his tour! This visit is made possible thanks to the Library of Congress and Every Child a Reader. Award-winning author Mac Barnett is excited to share his passion for picture books with children and adults. The tradition of the picture book is a tradition of experimentation, just like childhood itself. Every page turn contains infinite possibilities – a journey of discovery and connections. After all, picture books blend words and illustrations to create a uniquely powerful reading experience, one that is often the foundation for a lifetime of reading. On his nationwide tour as national ambassador, Mac invites readers of all ages to join him in celebrating what’s vibrant, joyful and inspiring about this quintessential American art form. “Children deserve entertaining stories and meaningful art! I am, of course, excited to talk to young readers. But I’m also eager to speak to adults – who often underestimate or overlook children’s literature – to champion the power of picture books and the brilliance of the kids who read them.” – Mac Barnett, National Ambassador for Young People’s Literature In partnership with the Library of Congress and Every Child a Reader, the National Ambassador is an advocate for reading across the country. Learn more about the National Ambassador and Behold! The Picture Book on the Library of Congress’ website:https://guides.loc.gov/mac-barnett. Registration is encouraged for this event. Please register each person attending below. Reserved seats will be held until 3:30 p.m. after which any open spots will be given to standby seating. About Mac Barnett: Mac Barnett, a New York Times-bestselling author of stories for children, is the ninth National Ambassador for Young People’s Literature. His work has been translated into more than 30 languages and sold more than 5 million copies worldwide. Barnett’s books have won many prizes, including two Caldecott Honors, three New York Times/New York Public Library Best Illustrated Awards, three E.B. White Read Aloud Awards, the Boston Globe-Horn Book Award, Germany’s Jugendliteraturpreis, China’s Chen Bochui International Children’s Literature Award, The Netherlands’ Silver Griffel, and Italy’s Premio Orbil. He is the co-creator, with Jon Klassen, of “Shape Island,” a stop-motion animated series on Apple TV+, based on their best-selling Shapes series of picture books. Barnett lives in Oakland, California. About the National Ambassador for Young People’s Literature : The National Ambassador for Young People’s Literature is an initiative of the Library of Congress, in partnership with Every Child a Reader, with generous support from The Library of Congress James Madison Council. The program was established in 2008 by the Library, the Children’s Book Council and Every Child a Reader to emphasize the importance of young people’s literature as it relates to lifelong literacy, education and the development and betterment of the lives of young people. Mac Barnett on Facebook / Instagram Visit: https://coronado.librarycalendar.com/event/mac-barnett-hold-35862

Over the past few months, we’ve gathered in deep, honest conversation—at our Community Town Halls and in countless side chats and follow-ups. One truth keeps rising to the surface: our communities are in crisis, and we can’t afford to keep working in silos. It’s time to move together—with clarity, purpose, and care. Now, it’s time to declare it. Join us. Community Town Hall #3: Emergency Declaration LaunchDate: Tuesday, June 17 Location: Chicano Park Museum & Cultural Center 4–6 p.m. | Community Town Hall #3 Be part of this powerful moment. - Learn about the Emergency Declaration - Sign on as an early supporter (our goal: 50 signatures by June 17!) - Celebrate this community-led initiative and help us build what comes nextProgram begins promptly at 4 p.m. Stay after for informal debrief and connection at Mujeres BrewHouse! … and if you can also join us in the morning! 10 a.m.| Press Conference Stand with us in launching the San Diego Emergency Declaration—a bold, collective response to hostile federal executive orders. This declaration is rooted in care, justice, and resourcing our communities. This isn’t just another meeting. It’s a movement—for a coordinated, caring, and just future. Let’s act like our futures are tied—because they are. Check out recaps from previous Community Town Halls: - Thurs 4/3 Community Town Hall #1 - Tues 4/29 Community Town Hall #2 Venue Info & Ways to SupportWe Look Forward to Your Participation! We are proud to hold our Community Town Hall series in Barrio Logan – a community that has long stood as a symbol of cultural strength and activism. Landmarks such as Chicano Park and the Chicano Park Museum and Cultural Center reflect the decades of community-led efforts to preserve heritage and advocate for social justice. By convening in such a historically rich setting, we honor past movements and draw inspiration to collaboratively address current challenges, ensuring our actions are rooted in the enduring spirit of San Diego's communities. Our venue accommodates up to 80 attendees. To ensure broad representation, please coordinate within your organization or group to send 1–2 colleagues on your behalf. How You Can Contribute: Spread the Word: Share this invitation with individuals and networks who should be part of this conversation. Please be mindful of our venue capacity when extending invitations. Sponsorship: We are seeking sponsors to cover for food and refreshments at this community town hall. We love featuring local small businesses. Please email us at ccfsdchapter@gmail.com if you are able to support us in this important cause. Volunteer Your Time: If you're interested in assisting with planning or volunteering on the day of the event, please email us at ccfsdchapter@gmail.com. Let us know your availability and any specific skills or areas you'd like to contribute to. Visit: https://communitycentricfundraising.org/ Community-Centric Fundraising on Facebook / Instagram

The Island Vibe Music Festival is a one-day event that incorporates musical performers High Watah, Anuhea, Siaosi, Bo Napoleon and dancers from across the Pacific Islands including Polynesia, Micronesia, and Melanesia. The event will also feature unique cultural dancers, a vendor village showcasing Islander–inspired merchandise, art, apparel and the taste of the Islands with mouth-watering foods. Visit: Island Vibe Music Festival 2025

Director of National Intelligence Tulsi Gabbard has published the latest in a series of reports that scrutinize years-old intel community conclusions about Russian interference in the 2016 election.

Charming critics and audiences with New Threats From The Soul, his funny, loose, reference-packed album, the veteran Louisville musician is having an unlikely breakthrough at 40 years old.

The Cold War-era test was a staple of school gyms for half a century before the Obama administration replaced it. Trump says his focus on childhood fitness is for both physical and patriotic reasons.

Songwriter Sanctuary, an intimate monthly series that platforms premiere local songwriters in a Nashville-style round, will host its third annual Pride event on Friday, June 27 at Normal Heights United. Featuring performances by LGBTQ-identifying artists Anna Ballew, Kimiko, and In Mazes, the event is hosted by the legendary Jeff Berkley in partnership with Normal Heights United. (4650 Mansfield St. Suggested Donation $10. All ages. Doors 6:30pm, Music 7pm.) “I book all kinds of artists no matter the observance, but I have to say that working with an affirming church to spotlight queer artists during Pride month gives me a little pep in my step,” said Lindsay White, who curates the series and is herself a LGBTQ+ artist and activist. In a time where many institutions appear to be backing away from inclusive policies and practices that help reduce harm for marginalized populations, Normal Heights United (NHU) is vocal about welcoming everyone in the community to participate in their activities. They even have a page on their website entitled “All Are Welcome” dedicated to stating as much that reads: “We recognize and are saddened by the knowledge that many churches, including our own denomination of the United Methodist Church, have and do exclude people from the fullness of participation in the church community and have therefore wounded God’s beloved. At Normal Heights United Methodist Church, we work to include rather than exclude, so that all are actively welcomed and valued at worship, meals, spaces, events and especially in our sacred celebrations including communion, baptism and marriage. The fullness of our community is open to all ages, races, ethnicities, political affiliations, gender identities, sexual orientations, socioeconomic status, faith histories, marital status and mental or physical abilities. We welcome all to come as they are to participate, lead, love, be loved, challenge, edify, push, question, and belong.” While Songwriter Sanctuary is not religiously affiliated, they are dedicated to partnering with a venue who stands firm in these principles, not just in word but in action. “Artists and audiences alike always feel welcome and safe in the sanctuary,” said White. “And thanks to their generous support, we are able to provide 100% of door and pre-sale donations directly to artists, while also remaining committed to not turning anyone away for lack of funds. For this year’s Pride event, Songwriter Sanctuary will be welcoming three talented up-and-coming artists to the round: Anna Ballew (she/her), whose rich, sultry voice and introspective writing make her one of San Diego's most sought-after performers. Kimiko (she/her), a Japanese-American indie artist whose songs feel like a diary entry in a coming of age story. In Mazes (they), a San Diego-based indie moon gaze. Past Pride editions of Songwriter Sanctuary have featured a who’s who of talented LGBTQIA+ artists with San Diego ties, including Billboard-charting Flamy Grant, Joy Fuliga, Kori Gillis, Ben Parks, Virr, and Rhthmx. Other out and proud artists to grace the Songwriter Sanctuary stage include The Lovebirds, Tori Roze, Mariela, Angel René, Julianna Zachariou, and more. But you don’t have to wait for next summer to roll around to see your favorite queer artists get a turn at the mic. “Throw a dart at our music schedule, and you’ll find a lot of queer representation,” said White, joking, “As an elder queer with loads of religious trauma, it’s basically my field of dreams to be building up gay stuff in a church.” Event Details: Location: Normal Heights United Church 4650 Mansfield St, San Diego, CA 92116. Thank you to our generous venue partner for sharing this beautiful space with the local music community! Time: Doors 6:30 p.m., Show 7-9p.m. ish. Suggested Donation: $10, but please be generous in your support of these top tier talents whose creative work is their livelihood. 100% donations go to artists. No one turned away for lack of funds. All Ages: Bear in mind we do not censor our artists so please make sure to check out the lineup and make the best decision for your family. Parking: Street parking Food/Drink: Beverages for small purchase, thanks to our sponsors! Duck Foot Brewing Company. Guests are welcome to bring food into the venue (please eat and dispose of waste respectfully) Accessibility: Please direct any venue accessibility requests to Molly mollyrose@nhunited.org. Remaining 2025 Season Schedule: *subject to change Jul 25 - The Bella Lunas - Espi - Miranda Ramos Aug 29 - Claire King - Hailey Wetzel - Lexi Pulido Sep 26 - Joe Summers - Grainne Hunt - Helena Holleran Oct 24 - Shea Givens - Kevin Cooper - Anthony Cullins Dec 5 - Holiday Edition! - JT Moring - Cara Cormier - David Beldock and Peggy Watson For inquiries, media comps, or further information, please contact: Lindsay White lindsaywhite.music@gmail.com Songwriter Sanctuary on Instagram

Now that President Trump has signed Republicans' massive overhaul of the federal student loan program, we explain what's set to change.

The White House said that after the administration eliminates "woke" culture from the Smithsonian, it would expand to other museums around the country. Would that be possible?