Change is not new to CVD. As a 20-year volunteer, I miss some things. The Country Fair and Children’s Parade were fun but are gone because it takes people to put them on. CVD could have died when the Chamber of Commerce gave it up years ago. Instead, CVAC was formed. Members make decisions together, and Jean Duffy has worked for years doing a lot of thankless jobs with her club, Soroptimists, to earn the title of general chairwoman. She and the other members have an obligation to make decisions based on facts and realities.

CVD is more than a big carnival that a checkbook in the sky pays for. Members of CVAC work all year long to make it happen. We hope for a little recognition, new members and money to fund our local programs of scholarships, safe shelter and food for the needy. The Elks sell sandwiches. Rotary Clubs work the midway. My little Zonta Club of 20 women brings hundreds of special needs children into the park for a truly special Kids Day.

The Kiwanis Club has done a fabulous parade for years, and they probably think it’s time for another group to spend the countless hours verifying insurance and paying for security, barricades and the $500 to bus in each band — even local ones, because it’s not in the schools’ budgets.

CVD needs to make the best use of space and manpower available. Check out http://www.conejovalley.com to see what organization is best for you.

— Evie Bystrom, Thousand Oaks