Ivan Medina from the Network for a Healthy California displays bike and bike helmet, the prize for the passport drawing. One of the Sespe Elementary after school program students won this prize at the drawing!
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Super A Foods and Ventura County Public Health Department hosted the fifth annual Fruit and Veggie Fest in Fillmore last Thursday to help shoppers bridge the nutritional gap and improve their health by snacking smart. Pictured is Joann Torres, and Barry Fisher, Public Health Director who presented Marty Martinez, Super A Store Director with a recognition award for making fruits and vegetables available to the community at affordable prices.
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Super A Foods and Ventura County Public Health Department today hosted the fifth annual Fruit and Veggie Fest in Fillmore to help shoppers bridge the nutritional gap and improve their health by snacking smart. The theme, “snack every day the healthy way” is part of a statewide effort to empower families to be Champions for Change who make healthy, active living a priority.

“With so many choices at the supermarket, it’s often hard for families to be certain they are picking the healthiest options,” said Cristina Wells, retail specialist, Network for a Healthy California. “Through Fruit and Veggie Fest, the Network and Super A Foods help shoppers understand that purchasing and preparing healthy snacks is a small change within every family’s reach. We’re helping families reinvent the idea of what it means to snack.”

Ventura County is battling an obesity epidemic, with more than 62percent of low-income residents ages 18 and above who are currently overweight or obese. Studies show eating fruits and vegetables can help lower the risk of obesity and other serious health problems. Although California is doing better than most states, Californians are still not consuming fruits and vegetables 5 or more times daily. The Dietary Guidelines for Americans, 2010 recommend all Americans eat more fruits and vegetables. Today’s Fruit and Veggie Fest event educated shoppers on the amount of fruits and vegetables they need and reminded them even small steps like snacking smart can lead to big health improvements.

The fun-filled day inspired local participants with activities including store tours highlighting fresh, frozen, canned, dried, and juiced fruits and vegetables; a food demonstration on healthy snacks with free samples, recipes, and cooking ideas; information on community services such as CalFresh, WIC, Head Start, and Health Care for Kids; and, free health screenings provided by Ventura County Public Health Mobile Unit and Chronic Disease Prevention Program. Special guests included Public Health Director Barry Fisher who presented Store Director Marty Martinez of Super A with a certificate of recognition for making available a variety of fruits and vegetables at affordable prices; Dr. Johnston from Fillmore Family Medical Group who addressed community attendees on health and wellness. Champion Mom of Oxnard, Mariela Hill, was also on hand to share with other local moms some of the small steps and changes she has made to include more fruits and vegetables in her family’s daily meals and snacks and to share tips on how to incorporate physical activity for the whole family.
“Grocery stores and supermarkets, like ours, play an important role in making healthy changes happen in our community,” said Marty Martinez, store director. “At Super A’s, we are committed to doing our part by ensuring our customers have access to healthy and affordable food options and opportunities to take part in events, such as Fruit and Veggie Fest, where they can learn how to make healthier choices each time they shop.”

Fruit and Veggie Fest in Fillmore was part of a series of events happening throughout California during the month of May. The event was just one example of how the Network partners with small and large retailers across California to improve the health of families. The Network also provides tips, newsletters, recipe cards and other materials to help retailers encourage shoppers to make informed food purchasing decisions.
“The great crowds during today’s Fruit and Veggie Fest event showed that Fillmore is a community that’s hungry for healthy change. By joining the day’s activities, hundreds of low-income shoppers are now empowered to make important and necessary changes in their households so they can take control of their families’ health and well-being,” added Wells.

About the Network for a Healthy California
The California Department of Public Health’s Network for a Healthy California (Network) is a public health effort working with hundreds of partners and organizations to empower low-income Californians to live healthier lives through good nutrition and physical activity. Funding is from USDA SNAP, known in California as CalFresh. For CalFresh information, call 877-847-3663. For important nutrition information, visit www.cachampionsforchange.net.

Grad Nite Live is having its last fundraiser for the Class of 2011 at Bella’s Teas & Treats on Central Avenue across from City Hall. We are offering a Tea Tasting, Finger Sandwiches and Treats on Sunday, May 29th starting at 1:15PM. The reserved seating tickets are $20 and available now at Bella's, Attraction Spa, and Mrs. Chaney 524-4909. Also the Seniors will be selling them at Grad Nite Live's booth during the May Festival.

Nominations for the 2011-2012 Site Council members are being accepted until June 15th. Please call 524-6103 or email blemons@fillmore.k12.ca.us if you would like to nominate someone to be on the 2011-2012 ballot. Ballots will be mailed to parents in the 2011-2012 registration packets in July.

The responsibilities of the FHS School Site Council are described in detail in Board Policy 1260. In summary of Board Policy 1260, the School Site Council is responsible for developing a three year School Improvement Plan which will address the following topics: instructional strategies, curriculum, and instructional materials which will lead towards student achievement of basic skills, develop knowledge in other aspects of the curriculum and assist them in pursuing educational interests and the development of their self-esteem; supplemental services to meet the special needs of non-English speaking students, educationally disadvantaged students and pupils with exceptional abilities; a professional development component for teachers, other school personnel and volunteers; the improvement of the school environment and climate; and other objectives established by the site council. Annually the site council is responsible for reviewing, evaluating and modifying the school improvement plan and establishing a new school improvement budget.

Tickets will be required for the graduation ceremony. Every human being (babies included) will be required to have a ticket for graduation. Graduates will be issued tickets with assigned seating for their friends and family members. All available tickets will be distributed to graduates. If you are interested in attending the ceremony, please contact a senior to see if they have tickets available.

The Birth Action Coalition is partnering with Baby! International Film Festival in hosting a screening of the documentary film “Guerrilla Midwife” by Skwatta Productions. The film follows midwife Robin Lim in her work through the tsunami disaster zone in Aceh, Indonesia. Lim was recently recognized as a “CNN Hero” for the work she does. Ventura County local midwife Mary Jackson LM provides commentary and insight on gentle birth practices throughout this powerful film. Jackson will be on hand following the film for discussion. Tracy Lough, a midwife who interned at Bumi Sehat, the birth center founded by Lim and featured in the film will also be on hand to answer questions about her experiences serving birthing women. Viewers can expect a moving story that seeks to reinvent protocols and perceptions surrounding pregnancy and childbirth to preserve our planet’s humanity. A trailer for the film can be viewed through BAC’s website: www.birthactioncoalition.org.
“Saving the earth, one baby at a time.” – Robin Lim

When: Friday, June 10, 2011. Reception begins at 7pm, Film at 8pm with discussion to follow.

Where: The WAV Building, 175 S. Ventura Avenue, Ventura, CA 93003

Who: This event is open to the public. Seats for the film are available beginning at 7:00pm for a suggested donation of $10. BAC has also extended speical invitations to local hospital administrators, obstetricians and other individuals who work in the birthing field. Local businesses and organizations who are BAC supporters and who have sponsored this event will have information booths during the reception. This event will benefit BAC (a 501c3 organization) and Bumi Sehat International Foundation.

Why: BAC’s mission is to educate and advocate for the dignity and respect of all birthing women. Part of that mission is educating the public on their options and rights in the birth of their baby, and the importance of evidence based practices and protocols. This film provides a powerful international backdrop to these efforts.

County Supervisor Kathy Long, 3rd District would like to announce to all residents of Ventura County that the next Santa Paula Tattoo Removal Clinic will be held on Saturday May 21, 2011 from 8:30 am – 12 noon, no appointments necessary. Orientation for first time participants will be at 9 am located at 1334 E. Main St. the Santa Paula Family Care Clinic. Due to overwhelming response, spaces will be limited.

County Supervisor Kathy Long spearheaded this clinic in collaboration with the following agencies: Ventura County Public Health, Ventura County Probation Agency, Ventura County Sheriff’s Department, Santa Paula Family Care Clinic, Interface Children Family Services, and CalWORKS.

The clinic not only welcomes participants but volunteers to run the clinic. If you have any questions, or would like to find out how you can help, please call the Santa Paula Family Care Clinic at (805) 933-1242.

Santa Paula, CA. - Santa Clara Valley Bank (SCVBank; OTC BB: SCVE.OB) today announced the promotion of Cheryl L. Knight to Executive Vice President and Chief Operating Officer. She will retain her responsibilities as Chief Credit Officer.

“Ms. Knight has proven herself to be an excellent banking executive. Her broad based experience and abilities have greatly benefited SCVBank,” said Michael D. Hause, President and CEO. He continued, “She has a proven track record of making sound credit decisions and her management skills are impeccable.”

Ms. Knight has previously held the titles of Executive Vice President and Chief Credit Officer at Montecito Bank and Trust, as well as EVP/ Chief Risk Officer for First California Bank. She has held several other management positions at other financial institutions including Union Bank and Wells Fargo. Ms. Knight was also employed by Deloitte & Touche as a financial management consultant.

As a senior officer of Montecito Bank and Trust for nine years, Ms. Knight led the credit function of the $750 million bank that has performed at a high level, assisting in the achievement of a rating of Super Premier Performing Bank by Findley Reports.

SCVBank Chairman Ralph De Leon stated, “The Board is very pleased with the performance of Ms. Knight. Her qualities and background have already added significant value to the Bank.”

Founded in 1998, Santa Clara Valley Bank has offices in Santa Paula, Fillmore, and Valencia. Under its stock symbol of SCVE.OB, Santa Clara Valley Bank's stock is traded through McAdams Wright Ragen, Howe Barnes Hofer & Arnett, and Wedbush Morgan Securities. The Bank's web site is www.SCVBank.com.

Santa Clara Valley Bank Corporate Headquarters
901 East Main Street
Santa Paula, California 93060
805-525-1999

Statements concerning future performance, developments or events concerning expectations for growth and market forecasts, and any other guidance on future periods, constitute forward looking statements that are subject to a number of risks and uncertainties. Actual results may differ materially from stated expectations. Specific factors include, but are not limited to, the effect of interest rate changes, the ability to control costs and expenses, the impact of consolidation in the banking industry, financial policies of the United States government, and general economic conditions.

In observance of the Memorial Day holiday, employees of Santa Clara Valley Disposal will be taking the day off on Monday, May 30. As a result, Fillmore city residential customers will have their trash and green waste collected on Saturday, June 4, one day later than usual.

The regular Friday collection schedule will resume the following week.

For more information, call 647-1414.

The Bardsdale Cemetery will hold it Memorial Day Ceremony on Monday, May 30th at 11AM. Special recognition will be given to Sean Chandler who completed his Eagle Scout project – a Walk of Honor at the Cemetery with a brick walkway honoring those who served our country.

Featured speaker this year is Don Gunderson who attended the University of Wisconsin on a Navy ROTC scholarship. Upon his graduation in 1957, he was commissioned an Ensign in the United States Navy. He later attended the U. S. Naval Postgraduate School in Monterey where he earned his degree in electrical engineering. During his naval service he had two commands as well as three deployment tours to Viet Nam. Captain Gunderson retired in 1985, after completing four and a half years on the staff of the Chief of Naval Operations at the Pentagon. During his years of service, Don was awarded the Legion of Merit, the Bronze Star with combat “V” and the Air Medal as well as numerous campaign and unit awards. Don returned to Ventura County in 1985. From November 1990 to November 2002 he served 12 years on the Fillmore City Council, 4 as Mayor, as well as many county boards.

The Rev. Bob Hammond will give the Memorial Service, special music will be provided by Jeanie Allred. Also assisting in the ceremony will be VFW Post 9637, Boy Scout Troop 406, Cub Scout Troop 3400 and Bob Thompson. The Boy Scouts will put out the flags on Friday, May 27th and they will be picked up by the Sespe 4H on Tuesday, May 31st.

The Board of Trustees of the Cemetery District: Scott Lee, President, Lynda Edmonds, Secretary, Rita Rudkin, Gabriel Asenas and Dick Diaz would like to invite the community to this special event and to view the Walk of Honor. We are very proud that Seab Chandler chose this very special project for the Bardsdale Cemetery.

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Each week, six Fillmore FFA members meet with Mr. Scott Beylik at Beylik Family Farms to plant and take care of different vegetables. The students’ goals are to sell their produce at the Fillmore Farmer’s Market every Wednesday. Last week was Fillmore FFA’s second time selling at the farmer’s market. The students were selling Italian Sweet basil and many different varieties of squash for $2 a plant. These students are working hard to fundraise money in order to attend the 2011 National FFA Convention. These students plan to be selling at the farmer’s market every Wednesday from 3:30-7pm. Next week the members will be selling Italian Sweet basil, different types of squash as well at tomatoes. Come on by and say hi to the students on Wednesday!

Brooke Aguirre is Fillmore FFA's Chapter Reporter

Joe and Terri Aguirre from Aguirre Financial Insurance Services read to the children.
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Renee Perez from Bella’s Teas and Treats (in hat) and Louisa Golson, adult left.
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Joe and Terri Aguirre from Aguirre Financial Insurance Services, Renee and Felipe Perez from Bella’s Teas and Treats and Jane David were participants in three of a series of four Success through Reading events that were held at the Fillmore City Library. The Success through Reading Program sponsored by Soroptimist International of Fillmore and The Fillmore Friends of the Library is a program that joins businesses and children in the community. Local businesses and/or civic minded volunteers read a book to the children at the library and then depending on the theme teach them the principles of dealing with money in a fun way, or they might have a tea party. During Earth Day they learned about making treasure out of trash. “It is a win-win situation,” says President of Fillmore Soroptimist Ari Larson. “The children get the benefit of being read to and learning something new and the businesses are able to showcase their services to the community.” The next Success through Reading event will be held on Wed. June 15, 2011 from 3:30pm-4:00pm at the Fillmore City Library. The theme will be T-is for Train presented by Sandi Ward from Sandi Ward’s Train Stop. The book being read will be And the Train Goes…. by William Bee. If you have any questions please call Soroptimist member Lynne Brooks at (805) 524-3671.

“Purple Corridor of Mystery” by Carmelita Miranda.
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Local photographers, Carmelita Miranda and Charles Morris, have won recognition for their photography from the Channel Islands Professional Photography Association (CIPPA). CIPPA is an affiliate of Professional Photographers of California. Carmelita won a merit and Best in Class in Architecture for her print “Purple Corridor of Mystery” at the competition held on May 9. In the same competition, Charles won a merit in Portrait High School Senior category with an image entitled “On the Right Track.” This image featured FHS High School senior Leah Robledo.

In March, both photographers also won merits in State competition. Charles won for “Saxman” in Portrait High School Seniors. Carmelita won in Nature for “Against the Onslaught”. Both had won merits at the local competition.

Professional photography competition at the local level has three judges who evaluate each entry on specific criteria, without knowing who the maker of the image is. Images can earn up to 100 points. If a print receives 80 points, it receives a merit. Typically only about 1 out of 4 or 5 prints receives a merit in a competition. Often images that are merit winners are submitted to state and national competitions.

Professional photography competitions are used by photographers to hone their skills and allows them to evaluate their work in comparison to other top photographers in the area.

Principal photographers at KSSP are Carmelita Miranda and Charles Morris. KSSP is a full service photography studio specializing in portrait, wedding and quinceanera photography (and video). KSSP Photographic Studios is the school photographer for Fillmore High School, but photographs high school seniors from all over Ventura County. For further information, please contact KSSP Photographic Studios at 524-6400 or visit http://ksspphotostudios.com.

On 5/13/2011 at 1:15pm the City of Fillmore Fire Department and the Ventura County Sheriffs Department will be presenting a nationally recognized program to stop underage alcohol consumption and driving. The program entitled “Every 15 Minutes” is a two-day program that involves over 500 juniors and seniors at Fillmore High School. The program agenda is as follows:

Part I: “Living Dead” - Fifteen students will be removed from class during the first four hours of the day and made up with white faces and black shirts to represent them as an alcohol related death over the proceeding forty-eight hours. These students will not be allowed to speak with any other students, staff or family for the rest of the school day. These students will then be lead to part II of the presentation and will standby throughout the event.

Part II: Mock Vehicle Crash. On May 13, 2011 at 1:15pm all juniors and seniors will be escorted to intersection of Shiells Drive & Second Street at 1:15pm. Students will be allowed to see a real time simulation of a motor vehicle accident resulting from alcohol consumption.

Part III: On Monday, May 16, 2011, juniors and seniors from Fillmore High School will be instructed to watch a recap Friday’s drunk driving accident and write an essay as part of an English class assignment.
Local media and the general public are welcome to attend part II this event. Fire Chief Rigo Landeros and Police Chief Monica McGrath will be on hand Friday May 13, 2011 throughout the duration of the event to answer any questions members of the media may have.

Special thanks to Noontime Rotary, Fillmore High School, Fillmore Unified School District, American Medical Response, the City of Fillmore Fire Department, Ventura County Sheriffs Department, Ventura County Sheriffs Air Unit & the Ventura County Medical Examiners Office for their participation and support in this event.

Sespe NFL Preschool Program is offering a dental clinic in the Dental Van parked in front of Sespe School. It will offer dental services to preschool students and other FUSD students. Please call Sespe School at 524-6161, Patsy Torres or Ana Avila for more details, or confirmation of dental clinic date and time. Please encourage students/parents in need of dental care to inquire /request more information.

Parenting Classes are now being offered at Fillmore Middle School, in English and Spanish, every Monday; English 4-6:30 p.m. and Spanish 6:30-9 p.m. in room D-3.

The Seniors that did not participate in our fund raisers will have to pay $100 for their Harbor Boat Cruise and Bus ticket this year. The seniors knew at the beginning of the school year and again it was noted in the Senior Packet that the seniors were expected to help in the fund raisers by selling pies, sandwich meals, See's candy, suckers, spa (massage/facials) and working the yard sale (parents also) for Grad Nite Live or pay $100. We have a record of the names of students that did work, so we know who is going to pay if they want to go on the Cruise. The money/check is to be stapled to the permission slip signed by the senior and their parent even if the student is 18. Part of it is a medical release so a parent has to give consent. They are to give the permission slip to Jaci in the attendance office and receive a receipt for their money or check. Even though Grad Nite Live had many fund raisers this year and many of the seniors and their families helped, we find ourselves a bit short of the mark of $21,500.

At this time we are $600 short of the boat balance due 5/13/11, $600 for the Magician (has not raised his fee in 20 years), $400 for breakfast, buses (are $1300 each) we need 2 buses for the 100 seniors that are eligible to go now. $2600. The students that pay $100 will be paying for the next buses. So right now we "need" $4200. Money is tight as we all are experiencing just for the necessary things, i understand that and these so called 'extra' things are really hard to come up with, but think of this organization as not just giving a party but a life saving party - the graduated seniors of 2011 are not only safe from drugs, alcohol and accidents, but they have parents and extended family that are sleeping better knowing their senior is safe.

Thank you for all that you have done and will do for us. Please call Mrs. Chaney at 407-5759 or 525-4909. Thank you.