PIER UPDATE: The Ventura Pier may reopen...

PIER UPDATE: The Ventura Pier may reopen in mid-October--three months earlier than expected. The repair project that closed the pier in September “is running ahead of schedule,” said Monty Clark, head of the fund-raising committee. . . . But the drive to raise $1 million for future maintenance is lagging: only $175,000 collected so far, Clark said. “We thought that by now we would have more.” He’s optimistic: Corporate gifts should start coming in next month, and a listing on the pier’s donor monument will be a hot Christmas gift, Clark said. . . . A thermometer sign noting the campaign’s progress went up Wednesday at Main Street and Mills Road in Ventura.

NOBLESSE OBLIGE: Assemblyman Nao Takasugi is commending himself for spending time with his Ventura County constituents (B1). “A lot of people take this four-week break to go on extended vacation, but . . . this isn’t summer break for me.” . . . Nor for most county legislators. Assemblywoman Paula Boland walked precincts in Simi Valley before taking this week off. Assemblyman Jack O’Connell visited every town in his district, then left for a few days with in-laws. State Sen. Cathie Wright worked her constituents too, but retiring Sen. Gary Hart spent three weeks in the East. Even Takasugi squeezed in some fishing, an aide said. . . . The Legislature convenes Monday.

BEARING FRUIT: Most days, Ray Orozco and his partner are on the road by 3 a.m., bound for Los Angeles for a load of vegetables. Sometimes they have to borrow a truck. But their Ventura produce stand is thriving (Ventura County Life, J6). “It’s the American dream to work, have employees, pay your taxes and get something for yourself and your family.”

DETERMINATION: His fast ball has slowed down. Seven seasons in the minors have taken a toll on his body. Few teams are interested in a 28-year-old pitcher with no big-league experience. . . . But Steve Maye of Simi Valley is convinced that he can pitch in the majors (C12). . . . “All I want is one shot. That’s all.”