Pictured are Paul & Laura Ortega, longtime Piru residents who will be recognized at the Annual Piru Christmas Parade on Saturday, December 14, 2024 at noon, with a festival at the Train Depot Park.

This year’s Annual Piru Christmas Parade & Festival will take place Saturday, December 14, 2024, at 12pm and will begin at Piru Elementary School and route through Center Street. Immediately following the parade will the be the festival at the Train Depot Park with food, live music, performances, and more for all to enjoy. If you have any questions, call 805-814-6140 or email piruneighborhoodcouncilinc@yahoo.com.

Paul is a lifelong resident of Piru. Paul & Laura met 30 years ago, and Paul proposed to Laura during the Christmas festivities and Laura became a resident of Piru. They have since both been dedicated to our community and have grown their family here. The Ortegas have two children Anissa & Steven, a beautiful daughter-in-law Nikka, and they are expecting their first grandson in February 2025.

Paul has donned the Santa hat and played the jolly character for over thirty years in the Piru Christmas Parade & Festival. He would also be found riding Santa’s sleigh, known in Piru as Engine 28, handing out candy and gifts throughout the town. Paul enjoys bringing smiles and happiness to the children and families of Piru.
Laura has made her mark in her community as well. When her children were attending school, Laura dedicated her time to help start the Friends of Piru PTA group. She also taught catechism for five years at The San Salvador Mission. Laura has filled the role in the past as Piru Neighborhood Council’s Member at Large and she continues today to help with the annual Senior Graduation Dinner event, held at the Newhall Mansion.

Paul and Laura are always willing to help the Piru Neighborhood Council, and our community is blessed from their dedication and care to Piru. They are good examples of what Piru is all about: always ready to help anyone at any time.