Pictured (l-r) are Fillmore Rotary Club President John Garnica and speaker Luca Lewis. Photo credit Martha Richardson.
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The speaker at Fillmore Rotary last week was Luca Lewis. He is the President of Ventura College and has an extended history that brought him here. He began his higher education career in 1996 as a Physical Education Instructor at Washington State University. Not only did he teach PE but also Sociology. Later his teaching career led him to the University of Idaho, Bellevue College, Highland Community College, Green River Community College and Puget Sound Early College. He began his administrative leadership career at the University of Idaho as Program Manager/Education Specialist in the office of Dean of Students from 2002-2006. He later joined the University of Washington, Tacoma, as Interim Student Affairs Specialist from 2006-2007. In 2008 he became Program Supervisor at Washington State Office of Superintendent of Public Instruction with many responsibilities for the 295 school districts. His career led him on to Bellevue College as Director of High School Programs in 2010. He was overseeing Running Start and other K-12 initiatives to expand enrollment opportunities in the region. In 2012 he became Dean for Student Success and Retention at Edmonds Community College. After all of that experience Dr. Lewis became Vice President of Student Affairs at Ventura College. In 2025 he was appointed Interim President of Ventura College and subsequently became President of the College.

Photo courtesy Ventura County Transportation Commission (VCTC)
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CAMARILLO, Calif. – The Coastal Express, a commuter bus route that each year transports thousands of passengers between Ventura and Santa Barbara counties, is proudly marking its 25th year of service.
The Coastal Express Route is provided through a partnership between the Santa Barbara County Association of Governments (SBCAG) and the Ventura County Transportation Commission (VCTC). The service, which launched on Aug. 6, 2001, is operated by VCTC Intercity and is funded in part by Santa Barbara County’s Measure A half-cent transportation sales tax. It has long been one of VCTC’s most utilized routes, with a ridership of 105,578 in 2025.
“This milestone marks 25 years of partnership between VCTC and SBCAG, providing thousands of trips for students, employees and general travelers, reducing congestion on Highway 101 and improving air quality in our region,” said VCTC Executive Director Martin Erickson.
“The Coastal Express is a great example of what we can accomplish when we work together across county lines,” said SBCAG Executive Director Marjie KIRN. “For 25 years, this service has connected our communities and given people more choices for how they travel. We are proud of what this partnership has built and excited about what the next 25 years will bring.”
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About the Coastal Express Route
The Coastal Express Route provides 27 round trips daily Monday through Friday and five round trips daily Saturday and Sunday. The route extends from Camarillo to Goleta, helping workers get to employment centers such as the Santa Barbara County Courthouse and Cottage Hospital sites. Service to UC Santa Barbara means university students, faculty and staff have convenient access to campus. Leisure travelers can ride the Coastal Express to destinations including Downtown Ventura, Carpinteria State Beach and Santa Barbara Airport. The Camarillo train station is also a connection to local bus service, as well as Metrolink and Amtrak Pacific Surfliner rail services.
In 2026, SBCAG and VCTC added five zero-emission electric buses to the Coastal Express fleet. To represent the agencies’ commitment to improving air quality and protecting the environment, the buses feature artwork of marine life found in the ocean along the route, including starfish, purple urchin and Garibaldi. Learn more about the electric buses at goventura.org/electric.
Tap2Ride, a contactless fare payment system, makes it even easier for riders to take the bus. All VCTC Intercity buses feature the Tap2Ride system, allowing passengers to pay fares using contactless debit and credit cards, mobile wallets and devices. Passengers may still use VCbuspass and cash to pay fares.
To ride the Coastal Express, visit https://www.goventura.org/routes/coastal-express/. Fare information is available at https://www.goventura.org/ride-vctc/fares/.
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About Santa Barbara County’s Measure A
Santa Barbara County’s voter-approved Measure A half-cent transportation sales tax helps support the Coastal Express as part of Santa Barbara County’s efforts to reduce congestion on Highway 101. The service will see additional benefits when the Highway 101 improvements between Carpinteria and Santa Barbara are complete in 2028 with new peak-period high occupancy vehicle lanes between Ventura County and the City of Santa Barbara.
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About the Ventura County Transportation Commission
The Ventura County Transportation Commission is the regional transportation planning agency committed to keeping Ventura County moving. Program information is available at goventura.org.

Pictured (l-r) are Rotary Club President John Garnica and speaker Natalie Garnica. Photo credit Martha Richardson.
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President John introduced the Rotary guest speaker Natalie Garnica, his daughter. Natalie is a Senior Staff Attorney with Public Counsel, the largest non-profit interest law firm in California. Her area of practice is providing legal counsel to former foster children on family law matters. Natalie is a 2009 graduate of Fillmore High School, a 2013 graduate of UCLA and a 2017 graduate of Loyola Law School. She lives in Fillmore with her husband Kyle and their two sons, Daniel and Adrian.

Nomination Period Extension Update: The office of Simi Valley Unified School District: Governing Board Member (Area E) is not eligible for filing during the extension period and has been removed from the list.
August 8, 2026
(VENTURA COUNTY) ---- Ventura County Clerk-Recorder and Registrar of Voters Michelle Ascencion announced the extension of the nomination period for the following offices that are scheduled to be voted on in the November 3, 2026, General Election. Per state law (CA Elec Code § 8027), the nomination period for the below offices is extended when an eligible incumbent officer does not file nomination papers before the August 7, 2026, 5:00 PM deadline.
Nominations for these offices have a five-day extension period that closes on Wednesday, August 12, 2026, at 5 PM:
Cities
- City of San Buenaventura (Ventura): Council Member (District 6)
- City of Simi Valley: Council Member (Districts 2 & 4)
Schools
- Briggs Elementary School District: Governing Board Member (Area 5)
- Cuyama Joint Unified School District: Governing Board Member
- Cuyama Joint Unified School District: Governing Board Member, Short Term
- Fillmore Unified School District: Governing Board Member (Area 2)
- Fillmore Unified School District: Governing Board Member (Area 5)
- Las Virgenes Unified School District: Governing Board Member
- Mesa Union Elementary: Governing Board Member (Area 3)
- Moorpark Unified School District: Governing Board Member (Area 1)
- Mupu Unified School District: Governing Board Member (Area 2)
- Mupu Unified School District: Governing Board Member (Area 3)
- Ocean View School District: Governing Board Member
- Santa Paula Unified School District: Governing Board Member (Area 3)
- Santa Paula Unified School District: Governing Board Member, Short Term (Area 5)
- Simi Valley Unified School District: Governing Board Member (Area E)
- Somis Union School District: Governing Board Member (Area 1)
- Somis Union School District: Governing Board Member (Area 3)
- Somis Union School District: Governing Board Member (Area 4)
- Ventura County Board of Education: Governing Board Member (Area 4)
Special Districts
- Bell Canyon Community Services District: Director
- Hidden Valley Municipal Water District: Director
- Meiners Oaks Water District: Director
- Meiners Oaks Water District: Director, Short Term
- Oak Park Municipal Advisory Council: Director
- Ojai Valley Sanitary District: Director (Division 2)
- Saticoy Sanitary District: Director, Short Term
Contests where the current officeholder has reached the term limit for that office do not go into extension. The nomination extension does not apply to incumbents who are now ineligible to run for the seat since they didn’t file during the regular nomination period.
Contact the Ventura County Elections Division for additional information at (805) 654-2664 or by email at Candidate.Filing@venturacounty.gov. A list of the candidates who have qualified for contests on the November ballot is posted at Vote.VenturaCounty.gov.
The Ventura County Clerk-Recorder & Registrar of Voters is committed to Preserving History and Protecting Democracy for the people of Ventura County—past, present, and future. More information about the agency’s services is available 24/7 at ClerkRecorder.VenturaCounty.gov.

Join the Fillmore Lion's Club for a fun evening to the Red Engine Brewing to hear the talk by Scout Master Sam on Wednesday, August 12th at 6pm. Find out about the Scout program open for youth in Fillmore and Piru, their activities and events. Share your thoughts and ideas as you participate with the Lions in this first of the projected quarterly community meetings about Fillmore/Piru events and programs. Let us know what you would like to have as a topic in the future. Enjoy the fun atmosphere of the Red Engine as you interact with each other and the members of the Lions' Club.

Members of Fillmore FFA came for a visit to Fillmore Rotary last week. They were at VC Fair starting Monday, August 3, and will remain until the Fair ends. The students told Rotary about the animals they are raising and how long they have been in FFA. They all answered questions from Rotarians thoughtfully and confidently. Pictured l to r: President John Garnica, Pam Klittich, Fillmore FFA advisor, Iris Rodriguez (Goat), Ruby Aguilar (Goat), Mariana Avila (Steer), Kristina Budai (Goat), Olivia Nava (Pig), Nicholas Garcia (Pig). Posted August 1, 2026, at 10:14am courtesy https://www.facebook.com/photo/?fbid=1485198586982996&set=a.475058754663....

Courtesy https://www.facebook.com/photo?fbid=1452558610238040&set=pcb.1452558933571341.
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Posted August 3, 2026, at 2:03pm
Attention Fillmore residents! Please note that the pickleball courts will be temporarily converted to tennis courts from August 4th through October 28th to accommodate the Fillmore High School tennis team’s practice season.
We appreciate your understanding and support of our student-athletes as they prepare for their season.

THOUSAND OAKS Calif. – The Ventura County District Attorney’s Office and California Lutheran University today announced the future home of the East County Family Justice Center will be on the campus of California Lutheran University in Thousand Oaks. The Ventura County Board of Supervisors approved the lease agreement for a building located at 26 Faculty Street on August 4, 2026, paving the way to expand critical services for victims and survivors throughout East Ventura County.
The East County Family Justice Center will provide a safe, welcoming location where victims of violence and abuse can access comprehensive support services under one roof. The center will serve victims of domestic violence, elder and dependent adult abuse, sexual assault, child molestation, human trafficking, child abuse, and hate crimes.
“The Ventura County Family Justice Center is built on the belief that no survivor should have to navigate trauma alone,” said District Attorney Erik Nasarenko. “California Lutheran University has been an outstanding community partner for many years, and we are grateful for their commitment to helping bring these vital services closer to the individuals and families who need them most.
This new location reflects what is possible when public institutions and educational partners work together to create safer, stronger communities.”
The Family Justice Center offers free, drop-in services regardless of whether a crime has been reported to law enforcement. In addition to helping victims obtain restraining orders, the center connects survivors with a broad range of wraparound services designed to promote long-term safety, stability, and healing. Services include connections to government and community resources, emergency shelter, as well as the ability to secure essentials such as clothing, grocery assistance, cell phones, and other necessities through the Ventura County Family Justice Center Foundation. The new location will strengthen access to services by providing a central hub for residents throughout East Ventura County while creating new opportunities to collaborate with California Lutheran University. These opportunities could include student internships and academic partnerships to enhance services. The campus location also offers outdoor and athletic facility space available for youth programming aimed at serving children and families impacted by violence.
“California Lutheran University is honored to welcome the East County Family Justice Center to our campus, a partnership that reflects our deep commitment to serving the most vulnerable in our community and embodies our mission to advance justice, compassion and healing through meaningful collaboration between the center and our students, faculty and academic programs,” California Lutheran University President John A. Nunes said.
The new East County Family Justice Center builds upon a longstanding partnership between the Ventura County Family Justice Center and California Lutheran University. Over the years, California Lutheran University students have volunteered with the Family Justice Center and served as counselors at Camp Hope, a summer camp for children impacted by domestic violence and other crimes. The university has also partnered with the Family Justice Center on research initiatives focused on improving outcomes for victims, and hosted the 2024 Strategic Retreat, a two-day workshop dedicated to creating a center in the east county.
The District Attorney’s Office and California Lutheran University also expressed appreciation to the Ventura County Board of Supervisors for its continued investment in programs that improve the lives of victims and families throughout Ventura County.
An opening date for the East County Family Justice Center will be announced at a later time pending completion of necessary refurbishment projects to the existing site.

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Dear Community Members,
The Cruising Fillmore team is hosting a Back-to-School Backpack and School Supplies Drive on August 1st from 6:30pm to 9pm. Donation drop off will be at the Diamond Realty building located at 316 Central Avenue, Fillmore, CA.
Ahead of our upcoming Back-to-School Backpack and School Supplies Drive on Saturday, August 1st, the Cruising Fillmore team wants to extend a heartfelt thank you to the Fillmore community. Your continued support, generosity, and engagement across Facebook, Instagram, and other social media channels have been incredible.
Whether you have shared our posts, donated supplies, volunteered your time, or helped spread the word, your contribution makes a direct difference for local children as they prepare for a successful school year. This drive aims to provide students with essential educational tools, easing the financial burden on families and ensuring children start the year ready to learn.
As the event approaches, we encourage you to continue sharing information and participating in any way you can to help make the event a success. Every donated backpack, notebook, and pencil helps support students throughout our community.
For updates and more information, please follow Cruising Fillmore / cruisingfillmore805 on social media. Together, we continue to show that when a community comes together, great things happen!
Best regards,
Cruising Fillmore Team

By Molly Corbett, President & CEO of Livingston Memorial Visiting Nurse Association
Not long ago, a Ventura County family called Livingston for help. Their loved one was enrolled with another hospice but had not received a visit from one of its nurses in more than three weeks.
Consider what those weeks must have felt like. The family had made one of the most difficult decisions it would ever face. Instead of focusing on their loved one, they were left wondering when help would come and whether anyone was paying attention.
That’s the human cost of hospice fraud and neglect. It’s not only money improperly billed to Medicare. It’s pain that may go unmanaged, calls that go unanswered and precious time consumed by fear and frustration.
For most families, hospice is unfamiliar territory they may navigate only once or twice. The decision often comes amid fear, exhaustion and anticipatory grief. People at that moment should be met with honesty and compassion, not treated as billing opportunities.
At its best, hospice can be a gift. It provides comfort, dignity and symptom management while helping patients live as fully as possible. It supports families, too, giving them more time and space to be present with the person they love.
I believe that’s what makes the growing evidence of hospice fraud particularly heartbreaking.
Federal officials recently suspended payments to approximately 800 hospices and home health agencies suspected of fraud in Los Angeles alone. Those providers accounted for $1.4 billion in Medicare spending last year, according to the Centers for Medicare & Medicaid Services. In May, the agency also temporarily paused new Medicare enrollment for hospices and home health agencies nationwide while it investigates suspicious providers and removes bad actors.
The moratorium does not prevent established hospices from accepting eligible patients, and families should not delay needed care because of it. But the scale of the enforcement action should prompt every family to ask questions before choosing a provider.
This is not a distant problem. Agencies based outside Ventura County solicit patients here, and dishonest operators can evade detection by shifting their operations across county lines. They do not limit themselves to one community or demographic. They exploit people at one of the most vulnerable times in their lives.
Fraud can take several forms. A provider may enroll someone who is not terminally ill, bill for services never delivered or accept a patient and then provide little or no care. Some people do not realize they have been enrolled in hospice until they seek other medical treatment.
No family should be pressured to sign hospice paperwork. If you’re uncertain whether your loved one qualifies, pause and speak with a trusted physician. Ask where the hospice’s office and clinicians are located. Find out who its medical director is, how quickly a nurse can reach your home and what support is available at night and on weekends. A trustworthy hospice will answer those questions without hesitation.
Use Medicare’s Care Compare https://www.medicare.gov/care-compare/?providerType=Hospice to confirm that the hospice participates in Medicare and review its available quality information. A lack of public data does not automatically indicate wrongdoing, but it should prompt more questions.
Families also have rights. Patients may change hospice providers or end hospice care. Review Medicare statements to ensure every listed service was received. Report unfamiliar charges or an enrollment you did not authorize to Medicare.
I’ve seen how deeply fraud harms people who are already vulnerable. One man told a clinician on our palliative care team that he felt bullied into enrolling with a hospice he did not want and he was not even eligible for hospice per Medicare’s guidelines. We also hear from families whose hospice stopped answering calls, disconnected its telephone or simply disappeared.
The harm extends beyond those directly affected. These experiences can erode trust in hospice altogether, causing families to miss care that could bring comfort, dignity and support.
At Livingston Memorial Visiting Nurse Association, we’ve served this community since 1947, and we believe quality care and careful compliance are inseparably linked. As a nonprofit, we answer to our community, not shareholders.
*Putting patients before profits is not a slogan, it’s an obligation to our neighbors, friends and families. Our history is more than a point of pride. It’s a promise that we’ll be here when families call.
We’re not alone. Ventura County has several established hospices providing trusted, compassionate care. Ask questions. Take your time. Expect transparency. Choose a provider with qualified local clinicians and demonstrated commitment to patients and families.
Hospice fraud is real, and we must confront it. So is the extraordinary good that trustworthy hospice teams provide every day. With stronger oversight and families who have good information, we can protect that care and ensure hospice remains what it was always meant to be: comfort, dignity and help when people need it most.

Pictured is Rotarian Scott Beylik, Fillmore Junior Fair Board members Mia Urbano, Myla Puebla and Marissa Calderon, and Rotary President John Garnica. Photo credit Martha Richardson.
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Fillmore Rotarian Scott Beylik presented the Rotary program about the Junior Fair Board. Scott is the advisor for the board and stated that he had been the first student from Fillmore to participate. The organization is made up of young adults, high school age throughout Ventura County. This year there are eight members from Fillmore, out of 20, currently serving on the junior Fair Board. The students put on contests throughout the Ventura County Fair like pie contests, lemon bobbing, watermelon eating and adult showmanship. They also assist the fair in volunteering during special events like Fair Entry Weekend and helping at the Strawberry Festival. The girls also added they learn to speak in public, shake hands and be able to get out of their comfort zone. The program’s goal is to develop leadership skills and learn more about the workings of the Ventura County Fair. The members who attended Fillmore Rotary were Mia Urbano, Myla Puebla and Marissa Calderon, pictured above.

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Posted on July 16, 2026, courtesy
https://fillmoreca.gov/m/news
flash/Home/Detail/285
The City of Fillmore is now accepting nomination papers for City Council seats in the following districts:
• District 1 – Short Term
• District 3 – Full Term
• District 4 – Full Term
The nomination period began Monday, July 13, 2026, and will close on Friday, August 7, 2026, at 5:00 p.m.
Individuals interested in becoming a candidate are encouraged to review the election information available on the City’s website and contact the City Clerk’s Office with any questions regarding the nomination process.
For additional information, please visit https://fillmoreca.gov/m/newsflash/home/detail/285.

On 07/15/2026, (S) Andre Varnado was arrested for domestic violence and firearm offenses.
At about 10:07 AM, patrol deputies from the Sheriff’s Fillmore Station responded to the 7900 block of Pine Grove Road in unincorporated Santa Paula reference a domestic dispute in progress. As deputies arrived, they contacted an adult female and (S) Andre Varnado at a campsite. As the patrol investigation unfolded, deputies developed probable cause to arrest Varnado for a domestic violence offense. He was arrested for Penal Code § 243(e)(1) – [Domestic Battery].
Additionally, the investigation revealed Varnado was a convicted felon out of New Mexico and was in possession of an illegal firearm that had a threaded barrel. The firearm’s threaded barrel classifies it as an assault weapon, and it is prohibited under California law. Varnado was subsequently arrested for violations of Penal Code § 29800(a)(1) – [Felon in Possession of a Firearm], Penal Code § 30605 – [Possession of an Assault Weapon], and Penal Code § 30305(a)(1) – [Felon in Possession of Ammunition].
Varnado was transported to the Sheriff’s Pre-Trial Detention Facility where he was booked for the above offenses pending court proceedings.
The Ventura County Sheriff’s Office is committed to responding to public concerns in a manner that builds confidence in our agency and strengthens relationships to empower businesses and residents to be the eyes and ears of the community.
The Ventura County Sheriff’s Office would like to thank members of the public for their on-going support and due diligence in providing information to assist our agency in solving crimes. We are better at what we do because of our community partnerships. Join us in the fight on crime by following us on “X” @fillmoresheriff, Facebook, Instagram @VCSHERIFF and @FILLMOREPD, and with Nixle by texting your zip code to 888777 to receive local law enforcement and public safety alerts and advisories.
Prepared by: Sergeant Jarrod Foote
News Release Date: 07/16/2026
Approved by: Captain Eduardo Malagon
Booking Photo Release: NO
***
Nature of Incident: Subject Arrested for Firearm & Domestic Violence Offenses
Report Number: 26-90948 & 26-91053
Location: 7400 Pine Grove Rd, unincorporated Santa Paula
Date & Time: 07/15/2026 @ 10:07 AM
Unit(s) Responsible: Fillmore Patrol
(S)uspects, (V)ictims, (P)arty, (D)ecedent
City of Residence; Age
(V) Adult Female, Pecos, NM
(S) Andre Varnado, Pecos, NM, 39
***
Ventura County Crime Stoppers will pay up to $1,000 reward for information, which leads to the arrest and criminal complaint against the person(s) responsible for this crime. The caller may remain anonymous. The call is not recorded. Call Crime Stoppers at 800-222-TIPS (8477).

FRIENDS OF THE BLANCHARD COMMUNITY LIBRARY BACK STACKS Used Book Sale
119 N. 8th Street, Santa Paula, CA
You can’t buy happiness. But, you CAN buy books….and that’s kind of the same thing!
Drop by the Friends of the Blanchard Community Library big Saturday sale on August 1st and buy some happiness.
BIG SATURDAY SALE August 1, 2026
10AM TO 2PM
All FICTION books are 50% off! That includes Science Fiction, Romance, Fantasy, Westerns, Classics, Mysteries and all mass market fiction books. The Back Stacks has tons of hardback and paperback fiction books, waiting to bring you happiness. Stop by the Back Stacks and pick up a gently used book that is new to you!
If you miss the Saturday sale, the weekday hours are outlined below.
Wednesdays from 12 pm to 4 PM (except January 1st)
Thursdays from 12pm to 2pm
Fridays from 12 pm to 2pm
We accept cash, checks and credit cards.
We have a large inventory of Fiction and Non-fiction, as well as children’s books. Our collection features 1,000’s of used books from 50 cents to $2, as well as collectible books from $4 and up. 100% of book sale proceeds goes to support the Blanchard Community Library. PLEASE NOTE: We love receiving donations, and accept everything EXCEPT VHS, magazines or cassette tapes. Also, we accept donations ONLY on days when the Library is open for business to ensure that your generous donation is not damaged or stolen.
Located at the Blanchard Community Library, 119 North 8th Street, Santa Paula,
LOOK FOR our BOOK SALE SIGNS on 8th Street

Civic Pride Volunteers have selected the home of Gil & Maria Chavez at 164 Serra in the El Dorado Mobile Home Estates Park, as the July “Yard of the Month” winner.
They moved from Sylmar in 2022 & Gil added stairs into the side yard for easier access, covered the porch columns with a stone looking tile, & added planter borders across the front yard.
Maria said Gil loves plants, especially unusual ones & added a Fuji apple tree as a focal point in the front. They had an Asian Pear, Avocado & Orange tree on the side, but were told they had to remove them. The front yard contains white & red Geraniums, purple Lantana, yellow Yarrow, drought tolerant white Guara, purple & white Daisies, a large pink Rose bush, with an even larger Fuchsia plant behind it. In the front border are blue “Mystic Spires” Salvia, Lavender, Vinca & “Hot Lips “Salvia plants. Tucked in amidst these flowers are thriving, Pumpkin plants that are already sporting good sized Pumpkins. These were planted for the grandchildren to have small sized Pumpkins for Halloween.
Gil & Maria have been to Otto & Sons Nursery & were very pleased to receive the gift card, so “Gil can purchase more plants”, said Maria.
Civic Pride Volunteers appreciate Otto and Sons Nursery for their generous participation in this project (providing gift cards). This project has encouraged beautification in all neighborhoods, within city limits, since 2003.

Bardsdale United Methodist Church’s new pastor, Laura Perez
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Bardsdale United Methodist Church welcomes Pastor Laura Perez to lead its congregation into a new season of ministry for the Bardsdale and Fillmore communities.
She is a bilingual pastor serving in the California-Pacific Conference of the United Methodist Church. She said she is honored to serve the historic 134-year-old church as of July 1, 2026.
Laura has served congregations in Westmont, La Mirada, Montclair and North Hills, focusing on preaching, pastoral care, discipleship, and community outreach. She is passionate about helping people grow in faith, share God’s love, and discover that God calls people of every generation to meaningful ministry.

Pictured (l-r) are Rotary President John Garnica and guest speaker Laura Asenas. Photo credit Martha Richardson.
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The guest speaker for Fillmore Rotary last week was Laura Asenas. She grew up in Fillmore and music was important in her family. She plays the violin and later received her master’s degree in conducting. She has conducted several well-known orchestras in California. Her main program was on bookkeeping and nonprofits. As far as bookkeeping is concerned the job consists of organizing expenses, receipts, and income into proper accounts, creating financial statements and assisting in tax preparation. Records were kept in books and manually entered. Bookkeeping has changed over the years with programs such as Excel and QuickBooks and now AI. It is important for bookkeepers to be monitored.
Bookkeeping for non-profit is different. The bookkeeper must monitor cash contributions, internal controls and protect against theft. There must be a donor/member list which is frequently updated. They still have to balance the books and financial statements, but there are no owners. There is a Statement of Activities, Statement of Financial Position, Cash Flow Statement and Statement of Functional Expense which must be kept up to date. Fundraisers are important and the IRS needs to know how the money is being used. The organization must stay in compliance with the government or lose its non-profit status.

Ventura County, California – This July and beyond, the Ventura County Sheriff’s Department will have additional officers on patrol looking for drivers who are speeding or driving too fast for conditions.
Speeding remains a leading factor in deadly crashes and is consistently the top safety concern among surveyed California drivers, according to the 2025 California Traffic Safety Survey. Even small increases in speed reduce the time drivers must react and significantly increases the force of a crash. Slowing down is a simple, effective way to prevent tragedies on our roads.
According to the National Highway Traffic Safety Administration (NHTSA), 11,288 people died from speeding-related crashes in the U.S. in 2024, accounting for 29% of all traffic fatalities that year. In California alone, 1,139 people were killed in speeding-related crashes in 2024.
“Speeding is dangerous and puts everyone at risk,” Ventura County Sheriff’s Captain Sullivan said. “Your daily choice to drive within the speed limit protects everyone in our community. Risky driving behaviors like speeding continue to cause preventable tragedies on California roads.”
Drivers can take simple steps to prevent speeding:
• Plan ahead and allow extra travel time.
• Follow posted speed limits, especially in school and work zones.
• Drive at a speed that is safe for the conditions around you. Adjust your speed for changing weather, traffic and road conditions.
• Avoid aggressive driving behaviors like tailgating or weaving through traffic.
Crashes have severe and lasting consequences, and slowing down is one of the most important actions you can take to keep everyone using roads safe. By taking precautions and driving at safe speeds, we can make sure everyone in the community reaches their destination safely.
Funding for this program is provided by a grant from the California Office of Traffic Safety, through the National Highway Traffic Safety Administration.
Prepared by: Sergeant Jason Christmann
News Release Date: July 8th, 2026
Approved by: Captain John Hajducko
***
Nature of Incident: Speeding Catches Up With You: Slow the Fast Down
Location: County of Ventura
Date & Time: July 8th, 2026
Unit(s) Responsible: Ventura County Sheriff’s Office

July 13, 2026
(Ventura County) – Ventura County Clerk-Recorder and Registrar of Voters Michelle Ascencion announced the opening of the Nomination Period for local offices for the upcoming November 3, 2026, Statewide Gubernatorial General Election.
The local offices on the November General Election ballot include municipal, special district, and school district contests. The nomination period for these local races is from July 13 through August 7, 2026. If an eligible incumbent in one of these offices has not filed by close of business on August 7, the nomination period for that race will be extended an additional five days ending August 12, 2026. It should be noted that offices in newly-formed districts (from previously at-large seats) do not have an incumbent and therefore will not have an extension period.
The November 3rd election also includes the run-off contests for the top-two federal, state and county finishers from the June 2, 2026 Gubernatorial Primary Election.
“Besides the high-profile state and federal offices on the November ballot, voters will also find ‘down ballot’ local contests - the races that most directly affect their own Ventura County community: city, school, and special district offices. The candidate nomination period is now open, and we encourage anyone interested in running for an eligible office to watch filing deadlines closely, so they don’t miss the opportunity to enter the race,” said Clerk-Recorder Ascencion.
City Elections in the 2026 Gubernatorial General Election
Elections for all ten cities in the County are included on the November ballot. Candidates for city offices must obtain information regarding candidate qualifications, nomination papers, and filing procedures from their city clerk’s office.
- City of Camarillo: Three City Council Members (Districts 1, 2, and 5)
- City of Fillmore: Three City Council Members (Districts 3 and 4, District 1 Short Term)
- City of Moorpark: Mayor, Two City Council Members (Districts 1 and 3)
- City of Ojai: Mayor, Three City Council Members (Districts 1, 2, and 3
- City of Oxnard: Three City Council Members (Districts 1, 2, and 5)
- City of Port Hueneme: Three City Council Members (At Large)
- City of San Buenaventura (Ventura): Four City Council Members (Districts 1, 4, 5, and 6)
- City of Santa Paula: Three City Council Members (Districts 2, 3, and 4)
- City of Simi Valley: Mayor, Three City Council Members (Districts 2 and 4, District 1 Short Term)
- City of Thousand Oaks: Three City Council Members (Districts 1, 2, and 3)
School Districts Elections in the 2026 Gubernatorial General Election
Official nomination documents for school district offices listed below must be obtained from the Ventura County Elections Division, 800 S. Victoria Ave. (Hall of Administration - Lower Plaza), Ventura, EXCEPT for districts marked by asterisks (*), where candidates may obtain nomination documents at the District office listed. Please contact your District office or the Ventura County Elections Division for more information or to make an appointment.
- Kern County Board of Education: One Governing Board Member (Area 7)
- Ventura County Board of Education: Three Governing Board Members (Areas 1, 2, and 4)
- Ventura County Community College District: Three Governing Board Members (Areas 1, 2, and 5)
- Allan Hancock Joint Community College District: One Governing Board Member (Area 5)
- Conejo Valley Unified School District: Three Governing Board Members (Areas 2, 3, and 4)
- Cuyama Joint Unified School District: Three Governing Board Members (Two Full Term and One Short Term)
- Fillmore Unified School District: Three Governing Board Members (Areas 1, 2, and 5)
- Las Virgenes Unified School District: Three Governing Board Members
- Moorpark Unified School District: Two Governing Board Members (Areas 1 and 3)
- Oak Park Unified School District: Four Governing Board Members (Three Full Term and One Short Term)
- Ojai Unified School District: Three Governing Board Members (Areas 1, 3, and 5)
- Santa Paula Unified School District: Three Governing Board Members (Areas 1, 3, and Area 5 Short Term)
- Simi Valley Unified School District: Two Governing Board Members (Areas D and E)
- Ventura Unified School District: Three Governing Board Members (Areas 1, 4, and 5)
- Oxnard Union High School District: Three Governing Board Members (Areas 2, 3, and 4)
- Briggs School District: Three Governing Board Members (Areas 2, 3, and 5)
- Hueneme Elementary School District: Three Governing Board Members (Areas 1, 3, and 5)
- Mesa Union School District: Three Governing Board Members (Areas 1, 2, and 3)
- Mupu School District: Two Governing Board Members (Areas 2 and 3)
- *Ocean View School District: Four Governing Board Members (Three Full Term and One Short Term)*
- Oxnard School District: Three Governing Board Members (Areas 2, 3, and 5)
- *Pleasant Valley School District: Three Governing Board Members (Areas 1, 2, and 3)*
- Rio School District: Three Governing Board Members (Areas 1, 3, and 4)
- Santa Clara School District: Two Governing Board Members (Areas 1 and 2)
- Somis Union School District: Three Governing Board Members (Areas 1, 3, and 4)
Special District Elections in the 2026 Gubernatorial General Election
Official nomination documents for special district offices listed below must be obtained from the Ventura County Elections Division, 800 S. Victoria Ave. (Hall of Administration - Lower Plaza), Ventura, EXCEPT for districts marked by asterisks (*), where candidates may obtain nomination documents at the District office listed. Please contact your District office or the Ventura County Elections Division for more information or to make an appointment.
- Bell Canyon Community Services District: Two Directors
- Channel Islands Beach Community Services District: Four Directors (Three Full Term and One Short Term)
- Oxnard Harbor District: Three Harbor Commissioners
- Camarillo Health Care District: Three Directors (Zones 4, 5, and Zone 1 Short Term)
- Fillmore-Piru Memorial District: Three Directors (Two Full Term and One Short Term)
- Oak Park Municipal Advisory Council: Three Council Members
- Santa Rosa Valley Municipal Advisory Council: Two Council Members
- Blanchard/Santa Paula Public Library District: Two Library Trustees (One Full Term and One Short Term)
- Conejo Recreation and Park District: Three Directors (Divisions 2, 3, and 4)
- Pleasant Valley Recreation and Park District: Two Directors (Divisions 2 and 4)
- Rancho Simi Recreation and Park District: Three Directors (Divisions 1, 2, and Division 3 Short Term)
- Ojai Valley Sanitary District: Four Directors (Divisions 2, 4, 6, and Division 1 Short Term)
- Carpinteria Sanitary District: One Director (Division 5)
- Saticoy Sanitary District: Four Directors (Three Full Term and One Short Term)
- Triunfo Water and Sanitation District: Three Directors (Two Full Term and One Short Term)
- Antelope Valley East Kern Water Agency: One Director (Division 1)
- Santa Clarita Valley Water Agency: Two Directors (Division 3)
- United Water Conservation District: Three Directors (Divisions 1, 2, and 3)
- Camrosa Water District: Three Directors (Divisions 1, 2, and 5)
- Meiners Oaks Water District: Four Directors (Three Full Term and One Short Term)
- Calleguas Municipal Water District: Two Directors (Divisions 4 and 5)
- Casitas Municipal Water District: Two Directors (Divisions 1 and 4)
- *Hidden Valley Municipal Water District: Five Directors (Two Full Term and Three Short Term)*
- Ventura River Water District: Two Directors
Candidates can visit vote.venturacounty.gov to download the Candidate Filing Guide, and to make an appointment with the Candidate Filing team, or contact 805-654-2664 or elections@venturacounty.gov.
Run-off Contests
The candidates for the Federal, State, and County run-off contests on the November ballot are the top-two finishers from the June 2, 2026 Gubernatorial Primary Election; there will be no new candidates for these contests.
Federal
- United States Representative: Three Congressional Districts (24th, 26th, and 32nd Districts)
State
- Governor
- Lieutenant Governor
- Secretary of State
- Controller
- Treasurer
- Attorney General
- Insurance Commissioner
- State Superintendent of Public Instruction
- State Board of Equalization - District 2
- Members of the State Assembly: Three Assembly Districts (38th, 42nd, and 46th Districts)
County
County Superintendent of Schools
Visit the Ventura County Registrar of Voters website at vote.venturacounty.gov for more information about the November 3, 2026 Statewide General Election. To contact the Elections Office for assistance, call 805-654-2664 or email elections@venturacounty.gov.
Stay up to date on the latest election info by following @VCClerkRecorder on various social media channels.
The Ventura County Clerk-Recorder & Registrar of Voters is committed to “Preserving history and protecting democracy for the people of Ventura County, past, present, and future.” More information about the agency’s services is available 24/7 at clerkrecorder.venturacounty.gov.

Photo credit Ventura County District Attorney Office.
Enlarge Photo

Photo credit Ventura County District Attorney Office.
Enlarge Photo

VENTURA Calif. – Ventura County District Attorney Erik Nasarenko announced today that the District Attorney’s Office has filed a juvenile petition alleging eight counts against a minor who allegedly led Ventura Police officers on a dangerous pursuit through city streets, onto State Route 126, and across the Buena High School campus while riding a e-motorcycle. The petition charges the juvenile with two felony counts of evading a peace officer and evading a peace officer while driving the wrong way, two misdemeanor counts of reckless driving and operating a motorcycle without a valid license, and four infractions for driving the wrong way on a divided roadway, failing to wear a helmet, operating an unregistered vehicle, and driving without insurance.
On June 10, 2026, the Ventura Police Department conducted an organized e-bike enforcement operation at Ventura Community Park after receiving over 100 calls for service in 2026 involving juveniles riding electric bikes and electric motorcycles in an unsafe manner.
Unlike electric bicycles, electric motorcycles are subject to the same laws as traditional motorcycles, including licensing, registration, insurance, and helmet requirements. They are not permitted to be ridden on park property or other areas where off-highway vehicle use is prohibited.
During the operation, officers observed the juvenile riding an e-motorcycle on the park grass. When an officer attempted to conduct an enforcement stop, the juvenile allegedly fled northbound on Kimball Road.
The juvenile is accused of driving northbound in the southbound lanes of Kimball Road while weaving through traffic before riding the wrong way onto the northbound State Route 126 off-ramp. The juvenile then allegedly entered the westbound State Route 126 on-ramp and traveled at freeway speeds before exiting at Victoria Avenue.
The juvenile allegedly failed to stop at the Victoria Avenue off-ramp stop sign, drove northbound in the southbound lanes of Victoria Avenue, and entered the Buena High School campus. Officers later located the abandoned e-motorcycle in the alley of a nearby neighborhood.
As officers investigated, the juvenile and the juvenile’s stepfather arrived at the scene. The juvenile was cited and released pending juvenile court proceedings. The e-motorcycle was impounded.
The minor is scheduled to be arraigned at the Juvenile Justice Center on July 20, 2026.
***
Contact: Joey Buttitta
Title: Communications Manager/PIO
Phone: (805) 767-3400
Email: Joey.Buttitta@venturacounty.gov
Approved: SW
Date: July 7, 2026
Release No.: 26-089