Hertel is marshal

After seven weeks of fundraising by Conejo Valley Days Grand Marshal candidates, "Silver Spur" Shirley Hertel and Mark "Snake Oil" Reyes, the 2003 grand marshal was named at a final fundraiser Friday at the Goebel Senior Adult Center.

Silver Spur Shirley is grand marshal. Together with Snake Oil, the pair raised about $25,000 for their charities, WeCAAN (Working to Eliminate Child Abuse and Neglect), and the Young Artists Ensemble.

"Fundraising was a challenge this year because people were preoccupied by what was happening overseas," said Mary Sepe, CVD Grand Marshal event chairwoman. "Despite this, the candidates conducted a spirited, professional and friendly race. The real winners are the designated charities."

The two will take part in the Conejo Valley Days Parade at 9 a.m. Saturday along Thousand Oaks Boulevard and events throughout Conejo Valley Days, April 30 through May 4 at Conejo Creek Park South. For more information about Conejo Valley Days, contact the CVD hotline, (805) 371-8730, or check the CVD Website www.conejovalleydays.com.