Tickets on sale for Don, Doñas barbecue
By Michelle Knight knight@theacorn.com

Keeping a 42-year tradition, the Pleasant Valley Historical Society will recognize longtime residents and community volunteers at the Dons and Doñas Awards Barbecue on Sun., Aug. 26 at Grove Park.

Since 1965, a year after the city was incorporated, the group of residents who prized Camarillo's agrarian and small-town roots continues to honor its pioneer families and those who contributed to a better community.

The award is named in honor of the city's namesake, Adolfo Camarillo, and his wife, Isabella, said Stan Daily, a longtime resident and chair of the selection committee.

Don is a Spanish word that indicates male aristocracy and Doña is the feminine equivalent.

"This is really the highest honor that could be bestowed on anyone who lives in the area," said Daily, a former honoree and last original society board member. "We have such nice people in Camarillo; we really do. We're so blessed."

This year's honorees are Dave Bratz, Vicky Daniel, Clayton Paschen, Sol Chooljian, David Hibbits, Mary Lou Roberts, Bruce Colell, Carol Lambert, Bob Rust, Kristi Snyder Colell, Eloise Gerry Mansfield, Bill Seaver, Charlotte Craven, Laura McAvoy, Robert Trainer, Ted Daniel, Ron Vincent McConville and Ken Wilhite.

City Councilmember Kevin Kildee said he thinks the award, which has been given to people in a broad range of vocations, is valuable to the community because it honors the city's history and recognizes the founding families that put Camarillo on the map.

"It's very important, I think, to acknowledge those people that made us what we are," Kildee said.

His parents, Bob and Maggie Kildee, are both past award recipients.

Any Somis, Camarillo or Santa Rosa Valley resident is eligible to be nominated if they're a member of a pioneer family or a resident for at least 20 years and involved in the community.

Tickets to the 42nd annual Dons and Doñas barbecue cost $45. For more information, call (805) 482-2580.