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PIER UPDATE: The Ventura Pier may reopen...

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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.”

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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.”

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