Little League says 'thank you'

The city recently hosted a World Series celebration for the Thousand Oaks Big League World Champions.

There was a great deal of effort that went into this event, and it is only proper to thank those who helped make it possible.

I would like to thank Ed and Lynn Hogan and the Hogan Foundation for opening up the Gardens of the World to the community.

I would also like to recognize and thank Mayor Dennis Gillette, including the entire City Council as well as the Tex Ward, the board of directors and the staff of Conjeo Recreation & Park District.

Special thanks go to Joe Gibson, chairman of Conejo Recreation & Park District, who was instrumental for obtaining accommodations from local politicians, a nice addition to the evening's event.

The Conejo Valley Unified School District Board of Education, including Superintendent Mario Contini, should also be recognized for 100 percent attendance in this tribute to the youth of our community.

Jana Covell, Scott Mitnick and Linda Pappas from the city manager's office deserve special thanks, too, for helping plan this event.

Our special guest's included Sparky Anderson, Jay Johnstone, Ventura County Supervisor Linda Parks and city of Westlake Village Mayor Susan McSweeney.

And finally, a big thanks, to our biggest fans: master of ceremonies Bob Wilson and his wife, Linda, for supplying the food for the celebration from Cisco's restaurant.

It's great to know that we have a close knit community. Just like the Thousand Oaks Big League team, you are all champions and great stewards of the very special place we all call home. John Short III President, Thousand Oaks Little League