VENTURA COUNTY, CA - California Women for Agriculture’s (CWA) Ventura County Chapter will host the organization’s monthly meeting on Tuesday, July 15.

The meeting will be led by CWA Ventura County Chapter President Bonnie Weigel, who also serves as President and CEO of Ventura County’s regional food bank, FOOD Share. The meeting is open to the public and will welcome special guest speaker Nancy Low, HR Director and Safety Director of the Oxnard Lemon Company. Low will discuss Oxnard Lemon Company and Good Agricultural Practices (GAP) Policy.

California Women in Agriculture’s Ventura County Chapter is a founding chapter for the agricultural organization whose mission is to promote a strong industry in California. For more information, visit its Facebook page.

Meeting Details:
Who: The Ventura County Chapter of California Women for Agriculture meeting
When: Tuesday, July 15, at 5:30 p.m.
Where: Rhumb Line Restaurant, 1510 Anchors Way Dr., Ventura, Calif. 93001

About Bonnie Weigel:

Bonnie Weigel’s servant-based leadership style has provided the foundation for the collaborative results-based partnerships that she is known for. She has 15 years of experience in the corporate and nonprofit sector centered in sustainable strategic fund, resource, and organizational development.

Under Weigel's leadership FOOD Share has grown to serve 63 percent more people in need—now at over 74,500 people monthly—with the help of 180 partner agencies, a team of 40 staff members, 320 volunteers and 15 Volunteer Board of Directors who provide over 3,000 hours monthly of volunteer service.
Current and notable projects include a collaborative between Ventura County Together and the Grameen Social Business Institute at CSUCI focused on developing best practices to move those into poverty towards a self-sufficient future.

Weigel is a Governor appointed Director of the 31st California Agricultural District, President California Women For Ag – Ventura County and serves as Board of Director for the Ventura County Community Foundation and El Concillo.

Weigel has received the Top 50 Women In Business Award every year from 2008-2014 as well as the Rotary International Paul Harris Service Above Self Medal, 2012 Woman of the Year, Oxnard Chamber.

Are You Ready To Stand Up For A Child Who Needs You?

Find out how at our next Informational session:

Thursday, July 31
6:30-8 pm, Camarillo

CASA is the only volunteer organization that empowers everyday citizens as officers of the court. In an overburdened social welfare system, abused and neglected children often slip through the cracks among hundreds of current cases. CASA volunteers change that. Appointed by judges, CASA volunteers typically handle just one case at a time—and commit to staying on that case until the child is placed in a safe, permanent home. While others may come and go, CASA volunteers provide that one constant that children need in order to thrive.

CASA needs more volunteers! Currently there are over 40 children in Ventura County that have been assigned to the program but are on a waiting list because of the lack of volunteers. Please consider attending the next CASA Informational Session on Thursday, July 31st to prepare for the upcoming 30-hour training session. For more information about the upcoming CASA Informational session please contact Bernadette Cardenas, at (805) 389-3120 or Bernadette@casaofventuracounty.org.

To reserve a seat call 805.389.3120

After you have registered, you will receive location information by email or phone call.

Scholarship winner Chelsey Fitzgerald

The Fillmore Women's service Club is pleased to announce the recipients of the Fillmore Women's Service Club Scholarship. On June 11th at Sierra High School Chelsey Fitzgerald received a Community Scholarship. The Fillmore Women's Service club is proud to have been able to award scholarships to help our graduates achieve their dreams and aspirations. You can be a part of the dream by supporting out Fireworks Booth located south west of town.

VENTURA COUNTY, CA - 2014—Gold Coast Transit (GCT) bus passes are now available for purchase at the Ventura County Government Center’s Hall of Administration. Passes are available in 31-day, 15-ride and day-pass quantities for adult, youth, and reduced-fare riders.

GCT riders may also take advantage of the transit system’s new Trip Planner feature on its website. Supported by Google Transit, this tool provides passengers the opportunity to plan their upcoming trips with GCT on Google by inputting their desired travel date, time and destination. The module will give a suggested travel route, linking to available transit, including the intervals at which the bus arrives and departs.

GCT is committed to providing safe, efficient, quality public transit service for western Ventura County. For more information on GCT, including route information and pricing for bus passes, visit www.goldcoasttransit.org.

Kentucky bound Pony Clubbers receive donation from Mimi Burns representing the Fillmore Women's Service Club to help towards their expenses in this exciting adventure.

Bailey Brantley and Jillian Morris, of Fillmore, are members of the Kings Corner Pony Club Riding Center and qualified through the Camino Real Region to compete at the United States Pony Club National Championships in Lexington, Kentucky. The The National Championships are held every three years at the famous Kentucky Horse Park, and approximately 3,000 Pony Clubbers attend from all over the country.

Bailey, 16, will be competing in the Eventing discupline on her horse Boys Knight Out. Eventing consists of three phases over three days, Dressage, Cross Country and Stadium Jumping.

Jillian, 11, qualified for the Quiz Competition, and will spend 4 days answering questions about feeds, equipment, safety, veterinarian care, parts of the horse, rules for competitions, and much more. Some questions are oral, written and some are hands on.

The Camino Real Region is sending over forty Pony Club members from the region which extends from Long Beach to Santa Ynez. And from the coast to Las Vegas. Each Pony Clubber had to meet National and Regional qualifying requirements in order to make the teams. The Camino Real Region are sending teams in Show Jumping, Dressage, Eventing, Quiz and Tetrathalon.

We wish them all a successful journey and enjoy this wonderful educational experience.

Ventura County, CA - To reduce overcrowding at Ventura County Animal Services (VCAS) adoption centers, VCAS has discounted the adoption fee on all shelter animals, dogs, cats, rabbits and more, from now through July 11. In addition, 85 animals have had their adoption fees waived, thanks to sponsorships provided by Paw Works, Inc., a nonprofit organization dedicated to helping VCAS maintain its no-kill status.

“It’s critical that we free up some kennel space at our adoption centers before the busy 4th of July weekend,” said Tara Diller, VCAS director. “We encourage anyone who has been thinking about adding a new pet to their family to take advantage of this great deal.”

VCAS offers pet adoption services at their Camarillo and Simi Valley adoption centers seven days per week from 11 a.m. – 6 p.m. Although VCAS adoption centers will be closed to the public on July 4, officers will be on duty from 8 am – 4 pm to answer phones and in the field and at VCAS adoption centers all day to receive stray animal drop-offs, facilitate animal reclaims and respond to emergencies.

When adopted, all VCAS dogs and cats come with a certification of surgical sterilization, preliminary vaccinations, their first rabies vaccine, a Ventura County animal license, an implanted trovan microchip and a certificate for a free health exam at any Ventura County veterinarian’s office. In addition, dog adoptions include a free 6 week obedience class.

For more information or to view photos of VCAS adoptable animals online, go to: www.vcas.us

The City of Fillmore celebrates its 100th anniversary this year. In honor of this milestone, The Artists Guild of Fillmore has designed a unique exhibit of small image artwork to be shown at Diamond Realty and Investment located at Central Avenue and Santa Clara in the heart of Fillmore. The show is open to the public during regular business hours July 1 through August 31, 2014.

The ten artists of the Guild have created a wide range of post card sized pieces depicting local scenes of Fillmore past and present including its focus on agriculture, as well as general landscape and abstract compositions. All are presented anonymously and identified only after purchase by the signature on the back of the piece and the accompanying printed bio of the artist.

The post card size of the art harks back—perhaps even to early Fillmore—to a time before texting, emailing and instant messaging when a brief message was written on a card with a picture and posted through the mail. Each piece is a one of a kind original—watercolor, acrylic, collage, mixed media, oil--available for purchase to begin or add to an art collection. Small image fine art is featured in many galleries including London’s “Secret Post Card “ sale at The Royal Academy of Art.

Diamond Realty owner, Theresa Robledo along with the Artists Guild of Fillmore invite the community and friends to enjoy this artistic celebration of Fillmore’s 100th anniversary. Office hours are Monday through Friday, 10 am to 5pm and Saturday, 1pm to 4pm. A reception hosted by the Guild is set for Friday, August 15, 5-7pm.

The Paul Harris Fellowship was established to honor the founder of Rotary, Paul Harris, in 1957. It was awarded to Rigo Landeros, Fillmore Rotary President, because his life exemplifies the humanitarian and educational objectives of The Rotary Foundation. Martha Richardson, Rotarian, had the honor of presenting this award, on behalf of the Club, and Rigo's wife, Laura, presented him with his Paul Harris Pin.

The Fillmore Historical Museum is happy to report the recent receipt of a $4,500.00 grant from Chevron Corporation for programming, accessioning and display purposes in support of the Fillmore Incorporation Centennial Events. The Museum is a 100% volunteer organization and appreciates the support given by businesses and individuals in the community. If you should want to know more about the history of Fillmore, Piru, Sespe and Bardsdale please come to visit your local Museum.

Our goal is to preserve and display the history of our four local communities. Visit the museum to see artifacts from Fillmore’s early days including many pictures of the city as it was 100 years ago. The Museum is open Tuesday, Wednesday, and Friday from 9-12 and 1-4, and on Thursday afternoon from 1-4. We are also open from 10:00 to 3:00 on Saturday.

Please join us on July 10th at the Museum’s Southern Pacific Depot for a reception from 4:00 pm until 6 pm jointly hosted by Chevron Corporation and the Fillmore Historical Museum to celebrate the 100 years since incorporation.

Martha Gentry
Executive Director

Can’t stand the heat? Come to the air conditioned Rancho Camulos schoolhouse for some edu-tainment. Ever wonder what those Victorian ladies wore under those fancy gowns? Dorothea Phelan, as Mrs. Horace Swazey and her "maid", Joyce Nielsen, as Phoebe, will educate and entertain you about Victorian clothing of the late 1800s and present a spoof on the revealing removal of the many layers of clothing worn at that time.

The $5 suggested donation also includes a docent- led historic tour. Reservations are not required but are appreciated. Rancho Camulos Museum and National Historic Landmark is on Highway 126, 2 miles East of Piru and 10 miles west of the I-5 at the Santa Clarita Newhall Ranch Road exit and will be open for tours at 1:00, 2:00, and 3:00. See www.ranchocamulos.org for more information about the museum. Bring a picnic basket and blanket and enjoy where the history, myth, and romance of old California still linger…

Rancho Camulos Museum and National Historic Landmark has been selected as one of the non-profits benefitting from the 2014 Citrus Classic Balloon Festival, July 25-26 in Santa Paula. Launched seven years ago, this is the closest hot air balloon festival to Santa Clarita and features evening balloon glows, entertainment , and activities for all ages. Festival details are available at www.citrusclassicballoons.com.

Rancho Camulos Museum on Hwy 126 near Piru operates a collection of historic buildings that remain from the original Mexican land grant, Rancho San Francisco which once included all of Santa Clarita. It is the only National Historic Landmark in Ventura County. The museum’s mission is historic preservation, restoration, and education. Each year thousands of area children visit Rancho Camulos on interactive field trips to learn about their local history and heritage at the “Home of Ramona”. Museum Marketing Liaison, Maria Christopher, said “we are really happy to have this fundraising opportunity and hope the community will support us in maximizing our efforts.”

Fundraising efforts as part of the Citrus Classic Balloon Festival – Rancho Camulos Museum partnership include advance ticket sales and on site activities. Special promotion Friday, July 25 tickets are available for $20 for adults / $10 youth 6-14 through the Citrus Classic Balloon Festival website ( using promo code “RC” for individual or “RC2” for pairs of tickets) or by contacting Rancho Camulos Museum (info@ranchocamulos.org). These tickets include parking, admission, a Spencer McKenzie chicken or beef taco plate, beverage, desert, and glow stick.

That evening Rancho Camulos Docents will also be hosting the VIP wine tasting and Ventura Limoncello tasting at the July 25th Sunset Wine Dinner which is a separate ticketed activity that requires advance purchase and also benefits the museum.

On Saturday July 26th from Noon to 6:00 Rancho Camulos Museum will be hosting the Taste of Ventura Pavilion which will feature sampling and sales of local products. This is part of the Festival events including weather dependent balloon activities running from dawn until 10 PM. Early morning tethered balloon rides will be available weather permitting for an additional charge. That evening there will also be a separately ticketed Craft Beer Pairing Dinner. Tickets are available on line.

Advance ticket purchase is strongly encouraged as the festival is expected to sell out (if so, it will be posted on Facebook).

VENTURA COUNTY, CA - Ventura County Animal Services (VCAS) is bracing for what is sure to be one of their busiest weekends of the year. Each year, during the days surrounding 4th of July, hundreds of pets become frightened by fireworks and run away from their homes and yards. These pets, lost and confused, often end up at VCAS’ animal adoption centers in Camarillo and Simi Valley.

“The sights, sounds and smells of fireworks can be terrifying for some pets,” said Tara Diller, VCAS Director. “By following some very simple safety tips, people can keep their animals safe and secure while they enjoy 4th of July festivities.”

Pet Safety Tips:
1. Do not take your pet to fireworks displays.

2. Do not leave your pet alone in the car - Pets can suffer serious health effects, even death, in a few short minutes when left in a hot car. Unfortunately, partially opened windows do not provide sufficient air, but they can provide an opportunity for your pet to be stolen.

3. Make sure your pets are properly licensed and wearing identification tags, so that if they become lost, they can be returned promptly. Make sure that tags have current phone numbers and VCAS has current owner contact information on file.

4. Get your pet microchipped or, if it already is, make sure the microchip company has your current contact information.

5. Animals found running at-large should be taken to a VCAS animal adoption center, where they will have the best chance of being reunited with their owners.

6. Keep your pets in a comfortable and quiet area during Fourth of July festivities. If your pet is crate trained, then their crate is a great choice.

7. Be sure that you remove any items that your pet could destroy or that would be harmful to your pet if chewed. Leave a television or radio playing at normal volume to keep your pet company if you won't be home.

8. If your pet seeks comfort in a bath tub, under a bed or other small space, let them. Do not try to lure them out. If the space is safe and it makes them feel more secure, leave them there.

9. Never leave pets outside unattended, even in a fenced yard or on a chain. In their fear, pets who normally wouldn't leave the yard may escape and become lost, or become entangled in their chain, risking injury or death.

10. If you know that your pet is seriously distressed by loud noises like thunder or fireworks, consult with your veterinarian before July 4th for ways to help alleviate the fear and anxiety he or she will experience during fireworks displays.

Those who do lose a pet can search for it on VCAS’ website: www.vcas.us or by using their free iPhone/Android mobile pet adoption app. The iPhone version of the app can be downloaded at the Apple iTunes store: http://bit.ly/1nXm3jK and, the Android version can be downloaded at Google Play: http://bit.ly/V3LEAz.

In addition, VCAS posts photos of all lost animals brought into their adoption centers on the VCLostPets Twitter site: https://twitter.com/VCLostPets.

Ventura County Sheriff's Department

The Fourth of July is a favorite holiday for many Americans. Families and friends gather to celebrate our country with food, parades, parties, and fireworks. For many people, the celebration includes alcohol, but the holiday quickly goes from festive to fatal when people choose to drive after drinking. Over the July 4th holiday period in 2012 alone, 78 people were killed in alcohol impaired-driving crashes on our nation’s roads.

To crack down on drunk driving this Fourth of July, The Avoid the 14 DUI Task Force will be out in full force, aggressively targeting those who put lives in danger. “Every Ventura County law enforcement agency is ramping up their enforcement to make our roads safer this Fourth of July,” said Captain Jim Fryhoff. “For everyone’s sake, don’t drink and drive or you will be targeted for arrest. The ‘Drive Sober or Get Pulled Over’ campaign means zero tolerance for drunk driving – no excuses.”

The Avoid the 14 DUI task force will be cracking down on drug and alcohol impaired driving, deploying officers to two (2) DUI/Drivers License checkpoints, and one (1) DUI saturation patrol. The CHP will be deploying all available officers onto freeways and county roads for its Maximum Enforcement Period (MEP).

Data from the National Highway Traffic Safety Administration (NHTSA) show that 10,322 people were killed in drunk-driving crashes in the United States in 2012—representing a third of all crash fatalities. Data shows that the Fourth of July holiday period is especially deadly. During the July 4th period in 2012 (6 p.m. on July 3 to 5:59 a.m. on July 5), there were 179 people killed in crashes, and 44 percent of those crashes were alcohol-impaired.

In every state, it is illegal to drive with a blood alcohol concentration (BAC) of .08% BAC, yet people continue to break the law and drive drunk. According to the FBI, over 1.28 million drivers were arrested for driving under the influence of alcohol or narcotics in 2012. And the rate of high-BAC impaired driving is astounding. In fatal crashes during the July 4th period in 2012, more than one fourth (28%) involved a driver or motorcycle operator with a BAC of .15 or higher – almost twice the legal limit.

NHTSA data also reveals that 46 percent of young (age 18-34) drivers were drunk (BAC of .08 or higher) while driving in fatal crashes over the July 4th period in 2012(6 p.m. on July 3 to 5:59 a.m. on July 5). Motorcycle operators are also over represented as the highest percentage of alcohol impaired drivers in fatal crashes. In 2012, more than one-fourth (27%) of the motorcycle operators in fatal crashes had a BAC of .08 or higher.

Drunk drivers are more common at night, too. Over the July 4th period in 2012, more than a third (39%) of the drivers in nighttime fatal crashes (6 p.m. to 5:59 a.m.) were alcohol-impaired, as compared to 16 percent of drivers in fatal crashes during the day.

“This Fourth of July holiday, you can show your patriotism by helping to make Thousand Oaks roads safer for everyone,” said Avoid the 14 Captain Jim Fryhoff. “Remember,” Captain Fryhoff warned, “to Drive Sober or Get Pulled Over. It’s as simple as that.” Law enforcement is not messing around this Independence Day: if you’re caught driving drunk, you will be arrested. And keep in mind that aside from putting your life and the lives of others at risk, driving impaired can also lead to serious consequences. A DUI arrest can mean time in jail, loss of your license, and steep financial expenses; the average DUI costs about $10,000.
Law Enforcement recommends these simple tips to prevent drunk driving:

• Plan a safe way home before the fun begins;
• Before drinking, designate a sober driver;
• If you’re impaired, use a taxi, call a sober friend or family member, or use public transportation;
• If you happen to see a drunk driver on the road, don’t hesitate to Call 9-1-1;
• If you know someone who is about to drive or ride while impaired, take their keys and help them make other arrangements to get to where they are going safely.

Avoid the 14 DUI Task Force funding is provided by a grant from the California Office of Traffic Safety, through the National Highway Traffic Safety Administration.

Nature of Incident: July 4th DUI Task Force
Report Number:
Location: Thousand Oaks, CA
Date & Time: July 4, 2014 through July 5, 2014
Unit Responsible: Thousand Oaks Police Traffic Bureau
Prepared by: Sergeant Brad Clifton
Media Release Date: June 27, 2014
Follow-Up Contact: Sergeant Brad Clifton at
brad.clifton@ventura.org
Approved by: Captain Rob Davidson

Ventura, CA - Food allergies, which researchers estimate affect up to 15 million Americans, will be the focus of a free seminar Community Memorial Health System is holding on Tuesday, July 15.

Prashant Verma, M.D., who specializes in allergy and immunology, will conduct the seminar that will be held from 6 to 8 p.m. in Community Memorial Hospital’s eighth-floor Nichols Auditorium. CMH is located at 147 N. Brent St., Ventura.

Food Allergy Research & Education reports a food allergy reaction sends someone to the emergency room every three minutes in the U.S. Dr. Verma will discuss food allergy risks, what happens during an allergic reaction and the differences between food allergies and food intolerance.

Dr. Verma received his medical degree from the Chicago Medical School in Chicago and completed his internship and residency at the University of California San Diego Medical Center. He is certified by the American Board of Allergy and Immunology and the American Board of Internal Medicine. Dr. Verma also is a clinical instructor at the UCLA Department of Medicine and is a member of the Community Memorial Hospital medical staff.

Registration is free but reservations are required. Call 1-800/838-3006, or visit cmhshealth.org.

Community Memorial Health System is a not-for-profit health system, which is comprised of Community Memorial Hospital, Ojai Valley Community Hospital, and 11 family-practice health centers entitled Centers for Family Health. The health system is located in Ventura County, California.

SANTA PAULA, CA. – Santa Clara Valley Bank (SCVBank;OTCBB: SCVE) today announced that Mrs. Leslie A. Cornejo has been elected Chairperson of the Board. Mrs. Cornejo replaces Mr. Scott Rushing who has served as Chairman for the past two years. Mr. Rushing will continue to serve as a Director of the Bank. Additionally, Mr. Elias F. Valdes was re-elected as Vice Chairman. In the spirit and tradition of community based organizations, the SCVBank Board has customarily rotated the leadership of the Board.

President and CEO Cheryl L. Knight commented, “Leslie Cornejo is highly qualified to lead SCVBank.” Mrs. Cornejo was raised in Southern California, attended local public schools and graduated with a Bachelor of Arts degree in Spanish from the University of California at Irvine in 1971. She is also a graduate of the Marian Bergeson Excellence in Public Services Series and was appointed by the Governor of California to the 31st District Agricultural Association (Ventura County Fair Board), also serving as a past President. She participates in a number of local civic activities and is a board member of the Santa Paula Police and Fire Foundation. Mrs. Cornejo has owned Santa Paula Travel Agency since 1989 and is a founding director of Santa Clara Valley Bank.

Incoming Chairperson Cornejo stated, "I am honored to be selected by my fellow members of the Board of Directors of SCVBank to serve as their Chairperson. My focus for the future is to continue the fine work of my predecessors in building shareholder value, as well as attending to the banking needs of our community."

Knight praised outgoing Chairman Rushing for his leadership, “Mr. Rushing provided his constant support and leadership as Chairman of the Board for the past two years as the economy and bank recovered and moved forward.”

Outgoing Chairman Rushing reflected, “It was an honor and a privilege to serve as the Bank’s Chairman for the past two years. We had many challenges but never lost our focus on delivery of excellent customer service. I want to thank our executive officers and staff for all their support. Great progress was made positioning the bank to take advantage of opportunities as the economy continues to recover. I am certain our new Chairperson Leslie Cornejo will be an effective leader.”

Founded in 1998, SCVBank currently operates three branches in Santa Paula, Fillmore, and Valencia. Under its stock symbol of SCVE., SCVBank’s stock is traded through McAdams Wright Ragen and Raymond James & Associate. The Bank’s web site is www.SCVBank.com.

Santa Clara Valley Bank Corporation Headquarters
901 East Main Street
Santa Paula, California 93060
805 525-1999
Statements concerning future performance, developments or events concerning expectations for growth and market forecasts, and any other guidance on future periods, constitute forward looking statements that are subject to a number of risks and uncertainties. Actual results may differ materially from stated expectations. Specific factors include, but are not limited to, the effect of interest rate changes, and the ability to control costs and expenses, the impact of consolidation in the banking industry, financial policies of the United States government, and general economic conditions.

The Fillmore Women's service Club is pleased to announce the recipients of the Fillmore Women's Service Club Scholarships.

Receiving the Educational Scholarships on June 4th were Nikole Spencer, Anthony Larin, Carson McLain, Citlali Grazo, Kiana Hope, Gilberto Acevedo, Melissa Nunes, Marisson Dorantes, Banely Robles, Serena DeLa Cruz,

Jillian Baughman was awarded a Community Scholarship.

On June 11th at Sierra High School Chelsey Fitzgerald received a Community Scholarship.

Our Adult Women's Scholarship was award to Ramona Enriquez of Piru to continue her education.

The Fillmore Women's Service club is proud to have been able to award scholarships to help our graduates achieve their dreams and aspirations. You can be a part of the dream by supporting out Fireworks Booth located south west of town.

The Artists Guild of Fillmore is hosting a "Meet the Artists Reception" Thursday, June 26, 2014 from 5:30-7:30 at the Blanchard Community Library. The reception celebrates the work of ten local, Fillmore artists who exhibit their art in a variety of media and creative styles.

The exhibit is presented in collaboration with the Santa Paula Society of the Arts and the Staff of the Blanchard Community Library. The library is located at 119 N. Eighth Street, Santa Paula, and is open Monday, Tuesday and Thursday from noon - 8PM, Wednesday from 10am-6pm, and Saturday from 10am- 2pm.

Participating artists welcome all to the Reception, and look forward to an ARTFUL evening.

SANTA PAULA, CA. - Santa Clara Valley Bank (SCVBank;OTCBB: SCVE) today announced that Mrs. Leslie A. Cornejo has been elected Chairperson of the Board. Mrs. Cornejo replaces Mr. Scott Rushing who has served as Chairman for the past two years. Mr. Rushing will continue to serve as a Director of the Bank. Additionally, Mr. Elias F. Valdes was re-elected as Vice Chairman. In the spirit and tradition of community based organizations, the SCVBank Board has customarily rotated the leadership of the Board.

President and CEO Cheryl L. Knight commented, “Leslie Cornejo is highly qualified to lead SCVBank.” Mrs. Cornejo was raised in Southern California, attended local public schools and graduated with a Bachelor of Arts degree in Spanish from the University of California at Irvine in 1971. She is also a graduate of the Marian Bergeson Excellence in Public Services Series and was appointed by the Governor of California to the 31st District Agricultural Association (Ventura County Fair Board), also serving as a past President. She participates in a number of local civic activities and is a board member of the Santa Paula Police and Fire Foundation. Mrs. Cornejo has owned Santa Paula Travel Agency since 1989 and is a founding director of Santa Clara Valley Bank.

Incoming Chairperson Cornejo stated, "I am honored to be selected by my fellow members of the Board of Directors of SCVBank to serve as their Chairperson. My focus for the future is to continue the fine work of my predecessors in building shareholder value, as well as attending to the banking needs of our community."

Knight praised outgoing Chairman Rushing for his leadership, “Mr. Rushing provided his constant support and leadership as Chairman of the Board for the past two years as the economy and bank recovered and moved forward.”

Outgoing Chairman Rushing reflected, “It was an honor and a privilege to serve as the Bank’s Chairman for the past two years. We had many challenges but never lost our focus on delivery of excellent customer service. I want to thank our executive officers and staff for all their support. Great progress was made positioning the bank to take advantage of opportunities as the economy continues to recover. I am certain our new Chairperson Leslie Cornejo will be an effective leader.”

Founded in 1998, SCVBank currently operates three branches in Santa Paula, Fillmore, and Valencia. Under its stock symbol of SCVE., SCVBank’s stock is traded through McAdams Wright Ragen and Raymond James & Associate. The Bank’s web site is www.SCVBank.com.

Santa Clara Valley Bank Corporation Headquarters
901 East Main Street
Santa Paula, California 93060
805 525-1999
Statements concerning future performance, developments or events concerning expectations for growth and market forecasts, and any other guidance on future periods, constitute forward looking statements that are subject to a number of risks and uncertainties. Actual results may differ materially from stated expectations. Specific factors include, but are not limited to, the effect of interest rate changes, and the ability to control costs and expenses, the impact of consolidation in the banking industry, financial policies of the United States government, and general economic conditions.