The Environmental Learning Center will offer several programs this week. Special activities begin at 4 p.m. Friday, Aug. 21, with the two-hour “Guided Painting at the ELC: Beneath the Mangrove.” This is called a “Dabble in Color paint-and-sip session” in which participants will receive step-by-step instruction while creating a 12-by-12-inch painting on the pavilion stage; no experience is required. Guests may bring their own beverages (instructor and venue will not provide drinks). The painting workshop is for all skill levels. The next day, the ELC offers two special events – one about managing mosquitoes and another on the culinary arts. “Currents & Connections: Mosquitos” runs from 12:30 p.m. to 2:30 p.m. Saturday, Aug. 22. It features Jeff Summersill of the Indian River Mosquito Control District who will discuss aerial mosquito-control operations, including treatment planning, products, larvicide treatments and drone use. Dr. Eva Buckner will lead a mosquito-bite-prevention workshop covering mosquito biology, disease transmission and the use of insect repellents, permethrin-treated clothing and spatial repellents; attendees will receive a free insect repellent. That session is free. Then, the Nourish & Flourish “Knife Skills” class, led by Chef Stacy Maple, will be held from 10 a.m. to 11:30 a.m. Saturday, Aug. 22, in the Lagoon Gallery. The $20 program will cover knife safety, grip, cutting techniques, selecting knives and food-preparation practices, with light tastings included. It is open to participants ages 12 and older; children younger than 12 must be accompanied by an adult. The next day, the ELC offers “The Art of Stillness: A Book Talk & Guided Meditation Experience” running from 3 p.m. to 4 p.m. Sunday, Aug. 23, with Sebastian-based author and speaker Mark Blacknell. Drawing from his book, “Just Stare at the Wall: Living the Universe From Where You Sit,” Blacknell will discuss mindfulness, attention and presence, followed by a guided meditation, reflection and audience questions. Admission to the Art of Stillness is free. The Environmental Learning Center is at 255 Live Oak Drive, Vero Beach. For reservations and additional information, call 772-589-5050 or visit DiscoverELC.org.
Exchange Club of Vero Beach will present its fifth annual Sangarita Challenge at 6 p.m. Thursday, Aug. 20, at the United Against Poverty UP Center. Attendees will vote for favorite margaritas, sangrias and small plates during the fundraising event. Tickets are $50, with proceeds supporting the club’s community service programs. The United Against Poverty UP Center is at 1400 27th St., Vero Beach. For tickets and additional information, visit Eventbrite.com.
Team ORCA, the Ocean Research & Conservation Association, will present “Stewardship and Community Action” at 6 p.m. Thursday, Aug. 20, at Raw Space. Presented with the Stewards exhibition, the free program will examine marine science, conservation work and ways residents can participate in protecting local waterways and ecosystems. Admission is free. Raw Space is at 1795 Old Dixie Highway, Vero Beach. For information, visit Stewards-IRC.org or TeamORCA.org.
Riverside Theatre’s Comedy Zone brings in standup comedians Bear Webb and Angela Nacca this weekend. The shows run at 7 p.m. Friday, Aug. 21; and 6 p.m. and 8:30 p.m. Saturday, Aug. 22. Get there early and you can order dinner and drinks. Doors open for pre-show dining at 6 p.m. Friday and 5 p.m. Saturday, and 7:45 p.m. Comedy Zone table seats are $25 and side seats are $15. The approximately 80-minute shows are recommended for ages 18 and older and may contain coarse language and adult content. There is no drink minimum, and parking is free. The theater’s free Live in the Loop outdoor concert series runs from 5:30 p.m. to 8:30 p.m. Thursday through Saturday. The schedule this weekend features blues performer Joey Tenuto Thursday, Aug. 20; Short Circuit performing music from the 1970s, 1980s and 1990s Friday, Aug. 21; and the Lionheart Band performing reggae, calypso and variety dance music Saturday, Aug. 22. Guests may bring chairs for the outdoor concerts, and admission is free. Riverside Theatre is at 3250 Riverside Park Dr., Vero Beach. For tickets and additional information, call 772-231-6990 or visit RiversideTheatre.com.
