With the economic worries, “We’re surprised at all the businesses taking part this year, but they’ve not only been helping us but they’re very enthusiastic about it.” The 98 Cent Store on East Main Street has remained “very generous, we already had toys a week ago... the celebration” is made possible by numerous generous donors and volunteers who act from their hearts, noted Carlos Jr., in the spirit of the season.The future of the event could see a change of scene: “It’s getting bigger and bigger. Although Casa does a very good job for us,” Carlos Jr. said the celebration is starting to outgrow the venue.Carlos Jr. said he particularly enjoys seeing his father “satisfied; he sees the holiday celebration as an accomplishment... he just dreamt it up one year, and every year it gets better and he’s happy. I’m happy to see his dream come true, and happy that everybody - those who attend as well as those who donate and volunteer are happy.”But most of all, “I’m happy to see Dad’s dream come true. That’s what I enjoy the most though, seeing my dad realize one of his dreams.”
4th annual Negocios de Santa Paula Conpartiendo Navidad Con Su Gente
December 17, 2008
Santa Paula News
The 4th Annual Negocios de Santa Paula Conpartiendo Navidad Con Su Gente/Santa Paula Businesses Sharing Christmas With Their People holiday celebration will be held Wednesday, December 17 from 3 to 6 p.m. at Casa de Mexicano, offering toys for the kids, free food, music, Santa Claus and fun, according to Carlos Ortiz Jr., son of the founder of the season celebrating event.
By Peggy KellySanta Paula TimesThe 4th Annual Negocios de Santa Paula Conpartiendo Navidad Con Su Gente/Santa Paula Businesses Sharing Christmas With Their People holiday celebration will be held Wednesday, December 17 from 3 to 6 p.m. at Casa de Mexicano, offering toys for the kids, free food, music, Santa Claus and fun, according to Carlos Ortiz Jr., son of the founder of the season celebrating event. Carlos Ortiz Sr., owner of Santa Paula’s El Pescador, spontaneously founded the event four years ago, and he has been hard at work on it ever since.“Dad’s working very hard,” as is his brother Victor, noted Carlos Jr. We want to make sure our father gets recognition” for the celebration, which last year drew more than 1,600 people to the Casa.“We’re expecting at least 2,000 on Wednesday. Every year it’s getting bigger, and” with the severe economic downturn Carlos Jr. said he expects even more people to attend.“We are definitely pleased this has become an annual event. We’ve had such a good response in past years; we expect more this year. My dad and the businesses he invites” to take part in providing the celebration “work hard to make sure all the people are fed,” enjoy good music, and each child receives a toy and a visit with Santa, AKA Councilman Bob Gonzales.
