HOT DISPUTE: Ventura County’s cash-strapped schools could...

HOT DISPUTE: Ventura County’s cash-strapped schools could be out nearly $30 million collectively if Proposition 187 passes (B1) . . . Proponents of the measure--which would bar illegal immigrants from public services--argue it could ultimately save California close to $10 billion a year. The state’s acting schools chief, William D. Dawson, predicts legal headaches if the measure passes. “It’s going to be a snake pit of litigation.”

FASHION FLASH: In the movie “The Graduate,” the word “plastics” was whispered into Dustin Hoffman’s ear as the secret to success. . . . Now, officials are hoping T-shirts made of recycled plastic will help launch stores planned for state parks. There are two such stores in Sacramento--and no plans yet to open one in Ventura County. But the shirt is available by mail. “It’s softer than cotton,” marveled parks spokeswoman Laura Wagner.

OLDER AND WISER: Break out the champagne: Several Ventura County cities celebrate birthdays this month, and a couple of them are big ones. . . . Thousand Oaks will turn 30 with a celebration (B5), and Camarillo will reach the big 3-0 on Oct. 22. And today, Simi Valley hits the quarter-century mark. . . . Moorpark, by comparison, is on the brink of adolescence: That city celebrated its 11th anniversary this year.