Each year since the early 1990's the Camarillo, Somis, Pleasant Valley Lions Club and the City of Camarillo have set off fourth of July community fireworks within several hundred yards of the Ventura County Animal Shelter where 400 lost, abandoned and already traumatized dogs and cats are housed. After July 4th, 2005 we respectfully asked both the Lions Club and the Mayor and Camarillo City Council, along with County Supervisor Kathy Long to move the fireworks to another location. Unfortunately our pleas fell on deaf ears.

Barbara Dunsmore of San Diego and Ha Adolfo from Carson inspired us to quietly demonstrate at the corner of Las Posas and Pleasant Valley roads. We were joined by Lachlan Sosa and his mother Patricia Sosa from Hollywood. All four cancelled their plans and drove to Camarillo to demonstrate. You four and Kay Nielsen of Somis are my heroes and I don't know where to begin to thank you for your compassion and understanding.