Anti-Abuse Group Marks Anniversary

A Ventura County organization dedicated to combating domestic violence and sexual abuse marked its 20th anniversary Monday with a name change--from the Coalition Against Domestic and Sexual Violence to the Coalition to End Domestic and Sexual Violence--and by promoting its newest fund-raising effort, the Great Gatsby Getaway.

“It’s an elegant train ride going back to the 1930s era,” said Sylvia McGinnis, the coalition’s executive director, about Friday’s event.

Passengers will board the Fillmore & Western Railway train at Central Park, 351 Santa Clara Ave., in Fillmore, at 7 p.m., and embark on a four-hour, round-trip journey through picturesque lemon groves, horse ranches and across old railway trestles to Santa Paula.

Each railway car, styled in 1930s-era Art Deco, will feature its own theme and entertainment. Guests can also bid in a live auction or dine on cuisine prepared by KEYT TV’s Chef Terry during their journey.

The coalition provides a wide range of services to abused women and children, including a 24-hour abuse hotline, crisis intervention and shelter for victims of domestic violence.

Tickets for the Great Gatsby Getaway event are $50 a person.

For more information, call (805) 654-8141.