Season of Gratitude & Invitation to a Magical Holiday Event

November is a time to express gratitude for others; our family and friends, our community, and our veterans. Yet, as the holidays gear up, it is also the time to remember to prioritize your well-being too. Mental health support for veterans, children and youth, older adults, adults, and LGBTQ+ folks is available. And remember, no matter how hectic it gets this season, as a united and resilient community we can each do our part to ensure happy holidays for all!

In Burbank and San Fernando Valley, we hold deep respect for our veterans every day. So on Veterans Day, we made sure our recognition of their service, sacrifice, and bravery rang across the Valley! It was my great honor to host our 2nd Annual Valley Veterans Day event, and to participate in celebrations in Panorama City, City of San Fernando, and the 21st Annual San Fernando Valley Veterans Day Parade. 

YOU nominated them for their exemplary service to our country and communities. Congratulations to SD 20’s 2024 Veterans of the Year!

Petty Officer Second Class Rocio Palmero
United States Navy

Sergeant Edgar Ortega
United States Marine Corps

Your health is your future. With financial help available for more Californians than ever before, NOW is the time to sign up for quality, affordable health care coverage through Covered California! Enrollment closes January 31, 2025. 

SAVE THE DATE!
On December 13, join me as we transform the courtyard of your Senate District 20 office building into a fantastical land of holiday magic and intrigue. Learn about my legislative work in Sacramento, which is bringing needed change for Burbank and San Fernando Valley, connect with state and community resources, meet Santa, and enjoy refreshments while we marvel at the evening’s enchantments!

Friday, December 13 | 5:30-7:30 PM
6150 Van Nuys Boulevard
Van Nuys, CA 91401
RSVP and information, call 818-901-5588 

First come, first served at
LA Mission College’s Drive Thru Turkey Giveaway!
Thursday, November 21 | 5-7 PM
13356 Eldridge Avenue, Sylmar, CA 91342
For information, call 818-521-2495

Did you know our office can follow up on financial assistance requests made to LA County Regional Centers for vehicle accessibility modifications? District Representative Andrés helped a Northridge constituent, who was seeking financial assistance through North Los Angeles County Regional Center (NLACRC), to convert a minivan for their family member with limited movement. Unfortunately, the process had stalled for far too long. Although NLACRC is managed by LA County, it also falls under the jurisdiction of California Department of Developmental Services (DDS). Andrés was able to facilitate communication with the agency, and bring about a more prompt turnaround time for processing the request!

Need assistance with a state department? FIND your district representative by city or call 818-901-5588.

The Museum of the San Fernando Valley at Valley Veterans Day
Anheuser-Busch Van Nuys aerial photos
Busch Gardens vs. today

From 1966-1979, Van Nuys had its own theme park, Busch Gardens! It all started when Adolphus Busch married the daughter of brewer Eberhard Anheuser. Among the couple's many extravagant properties was the addition of a "theme park and tropical oasis” to their San Fernando Valley brewery. The Garden’s monorail, boat rides, bumper cars, and rare birds may be long gone (the bridge to nowhere still stands!), but Anheuser-Busch remains an economic driver in SD 20 to this day. For two years running, Anheuser-Busch in Van Nuys has generously hosted our Valley Veterans Day!

Thank you for reading the Senate District 20 November Newsletter!

May you and your families be well,

Senator Caroline Menjivar, MSW