Ventura County, CA. — As the Red Cross responds to the latest tornadoes in Joplin, Missouri, it continues its multiple relief operations across the South in response to April’s tornadoes and the continued flooding along the Mississippi River. This spring, more than half of the country has been affected by damaging weather, disrupting people’s lives from North Dakota to the East Coast. Since March 31, more than 10,000 Red Cross disaster volunteers have provided thousands of overnight stays in shelters, distributed thousands of cleanup and comfort kits and served more than 1.8 million meals and snacks.

Across the Central Coast, local Red Cross chapters have already deployed more than 20 volunteers to assist with the response and recovery efforts across the U.S. – doing everything from Public Affairs, to Sheltering, Nursing and Recovery Casework. Jim McGee, Regional CEO, said, “Everyday we have seen heartbreaking images coming from the South and Midwest – to be able to send our volunteers to those locations to help our friends and neighbors in need is truly an honor. Today, our region stands ready to deploy more volunteers if necessary.”

Collectively, this is one of the largest Red Cross disaster relief operations in the history of the organization. The Red Cross depends on financial donations to help people affected by disasters like tornadoes, floods and wildfires, as well as countless crises at home and around the world. People can make a donation to support American Red Cross Disaster Relief. Visit www.redcross.org or call 1-800-RED-CROSS; people can also text the word “REDCROSS” to 90999 to make a $10 donation. Contributions may also be sent to local American Red Cross chapters or to the American Red Cross, P.O. Box 37243, Washington, DC 20013.

About the American Red Cross, Ventura County Chapter:
The American Red Cross helps people prevent, prepare for and respond to emergencies. Last year, more than half a million volunteers and 30,000 employees helped victims of 70,000 disasters nationwide; and taught lifesaving skills to millions. Locally, the American Red Cross, Ventura County Chapter provided services to more than 50,000 members of our community and distributed disaster preparedness and health and safety materials to thousands of school children, seniors and community members. The Red Cross is not a government agency; it relies on donations of time, money, and blood to do its work. For more information, please contact the American Red Cross, Ventura County Chapter at (805) 987-1514. You can now follow the American Red Cross, Ventura County Chapter on Twitter for up to date information: @RedCrossVentura.

Youth of all ages are invited to travel the world of imagination during the 2011 Summer Reading Program which runs from June 12 to August 21. “One World, Many Stories” is the theme for youth up to 12 years of age. “You Are Here” is for teens.

All aspects of the program are free including prizes, certificates, story time, craft programs, parties and events. To kickoff the program, Mr. Dave Twister, balloon artist extraordinaire, will perform at each of the Ventura County Library branches during late May and the month of June. The calendar of shows and events is at www.vencolibrary.org and flyers are available at each library circulation desk.

Youth are encouraged to keep track of the time they spend reading, or being read to by someone else. After reading 15 hours, they receive a prize and a certificate of achievement. Teens are also welcome to volunteer to help run the programs. Volunteer credit may qualify for community service hours at their schools. For more information, call Lori Karns (805 677-7156) or your local Ventura County Library branch.

Ventura County, CA. - The Breastfeeding Coalition of Ventura County is seeking nominations for its annual Breastfeeding Friendly Workplace Awards. Nominations will be accepted through June 30. Winners will be contacted the week of July 18. Selected nominees will be publicly acknowledged on August 2 and their awards will be presented by the Ventura County Board of Supervisors, coinciding with National Breastfeeding Awareness Week, the first week of August, which is celebrated in the United States and throughout the world. Nomination forms may be obtained at the following links: www.breastfeedventura.org or http://www.breastfeedventura.org/awards.html

The Breastfeeding Friendly Workplace Award recognizes local businesses of all sizes, licensed childcare centers or daycare providers, non-profit and government agencies, and medical community members that support optimal health for families with breastfeeding support.

After the winners are announced the public is invited to a no host picnic at Thille Park, Ventura, acknowledging World Breastfeeding Awareness Week, August 1-7, with members of the Breastfeeding Coalition of Ventura County.

Employers, childcare and healthcare providers make a critical difference in whether a working mother continues to breastfeed her infant. Each deserves to have their efforts recognized and rewarded.

Fillmore High Alumni Association

Hello to all you Fillmore High Alumni. Come join in all the fun at our Annual Alumni Dinner at the Veterans Memorial Building. Social hour starts at 4:00, and dinner starts at 6:00pm. Gary Laird (Class of 76') from Lairds Meat Shop in Santa Paula will do the honors and prepare our meal of Tri-Tip, Chicken, Sausages, and all the trimmings. Dessert will be included. Heres the run down. If you subscribe to the Alumni Newsletter (Flashbacks) the cost is $30.00. If you do not subscribe to the newsletter, the cost is $35.00. If you decide to pay at the door, the cost is $40.00. Our address is P.O. Box 385, Fillmore, CA. 93016-0385. As the date gets closer to June 4th, you may want to walk in your payment to the Alumni Office located at 540 Sespe Ave., #6. (Alumni Office is opened Mon, Wed, and Fri from 9:00am to 12:00 noon). We hope to see you on June 4th. Come meet our 2011 Scholarship Recipients. "All Hail to our Alma Mater" 805-524-0416.

The Ventura County Air Pollution Control District’s new program, Sky Savers, (www.skysavers.org) was introduced this past Earth Day, April 22. The online “green” coupon program educates residents about environmental issues while saving them money.

It also highlights local merchants who offer products and services which help the environment.

Participating merchants include A & F Country Market; Agromin; American Bicycle Security Co.; Bark Em Pet Supplies; Bill’s Bike Shop; Crowne Plaza Ventura Beach; EcoLogic Life; Elemental Landscapes; Farmer and the Cook; Global Encasement, Inc.; Green Clean Maid Service; Innovative Marketing; Lake Casitas Boat Rentals; LifeSource Water Systems, Inc.; McGrath Family Farm; My Footprint; Open Air Bicycles; Organic Roots Mattress; Otto and Sons Nursery; PermaCity Solar; Petropolis; Plaza Cleaners; Precision Environmental Inc.; REC Solar; Simi Bike Works; Terramor Organic Home; Trek Bikes of Ventura; Underwood Family Farms; Wilshire Home Entertainment; and Wm. J. Matson Company.

According to public information manager Barbara L. Page, “We are so excited these companies are offering “green” discounts to County residents. Most of the coupons are good through the end of June and some last much longer. We urge people to visit the web site at www.skysavers.org to learn about air quality, take real action to help the environment, and save some money as well.” Call 805/435-3103 for more information.

Fillmore Rotary Club: Pictured (l-r) are Counselor, Karen Ashim; College/Career Technician, Isela Larin; and Martha Richardson, Rotary Club President.
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This year the Rotary Club of Fillmore awarded seven Fillmore High School students $1,000 scholarships each. The students are Sean Chandler, Claire Faith, Diana Gumbler, Chloe Keller, Troy Spencer, Kianna Tarango, and Isis Topete. The Club also presented Certificates of Appreciation to High School Counselor, Karen Ashim and College/Career Technician, Isela Larin.

Over 60 family and friends attended the Soroptimist International of Fillmore awards ceremony at La Cabana Restaurant in Santa Paula on Wed. April 27, 2011.

The highest Soroptimist honor that evening, the Ruby Award was presented to a woman who, through her personal and professional activities, worked to improve the lives of women and girls. It was presented to a woman who has worked in extraordinary ways to benefit women and girls. This year the winner is Toni Galvez. It was presented to her by Soroptimist Betty Carpenter.

The Women’s Opportunity Award was presented to a woman who is currently working towards improving their education, skills and employment prospects. It was presented by president of Fillmore Soroptimist Ari Larson to Lolita Wyche.

The Imogene Vest Memorial Scholarship Award was presented by Soroptimist Dr. Christine Johnston. This scholarship is awarded to two Fillmore High School students based on community service and academic performance. The winners are, Chloe Keller and Riley Wright.

The Violet Richardson Award also presented by Dr. Christine Johnston is awarded to a young woman who makes the community and world a better place through volunteer efforts. It was awarded to Ashley Morino.

Congratulations to the following winners of the Verna Padelford Writing Awards-Fillmore High School presented to the students by Soroptimist and award ceremony chair Lynne Brooks: Short Story, 1rst Place Claire Faith for The Real Boy, 2nd Place Vanessa Villa for Scars and 3rd Place Eriyana Linder for A Kind of Peace. In poetry 1rst place was presented to Itzelle Iniguez for Alzheimer’s, 2nd Place Alex Gaspar for The Guardian and 3rd Place Mayra Flores It’s Life.

Fillmore Middle School winners for short story included 1rst Place for Vivian Ceja, New Place in My Heart and 2nd Place George Tarango, Fillmore’s Legend. For poetry 1rst Place went to Colton Farrar for I Was Raised by Music, 2nd Place, Luke Myers for Laziness and 3rd Place, Taylor R. Wright for I Love Swimming.

Congratulations to all of these outstanding citizens. For more information on Soroptimist International of Fillmore please contact President Ari Larson at petenari55@hotmail.com or call 805.794.7590.

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.