Starting July 1, 2024, the Fillmore Senior Center will be open until 4:30 p.m. throughout the summer (August 30, 2024), giving Seniors a cool, comfortable place to relax and enjoy their day. While the center will be operating past its normal hours, there will not be additional programming in the afternoon, but Seniors are welcome to just come by and beat the heat! Courtesy https://www.facebook.com/cityoffillmore.

Courtesy Linda Nunes

Civic Pride Volunteers have selected the yard of Andrea Muehr-Legan and her husband, Doug Legan, at 634 Shiells Drive, to receive the July “Yard of the Month” award.

Andrea moved here from Bonn, Germany in 2014 and Doug has lived in Fillmore all his life, being involved in the oil industry.
Doug made it clear that Andrea has done all the work creating the beautiful flower beds and planters and maintaining the yard. He only takes credit for the interesting and unusual lawn sculpture - a small, actual Pump jack, used in pumping oil, that he acquired in Tapo Canyon.

Andrea is an animal trainer for the movie industry and has a business called Backstage Animal Services. Her interesting website is at www.backstageanimalservices.com.

The planters near the house, contain Blue Chalk Fingers, Mexican Sage, Lantana, Society Garlic, Citronella, Jasmine, red Geraniums, Bird of Paradise, and Plumbago, displaying blue, purple and red/yellow tones. The side bed contains Solanum in tree form, Alstromeria in yellow and rust, purple Lantana and Lavender. Near the street, Butterfly Iris, yellow Lantana and a beautiful, dark purple, foliaged plant with purple blooms make a welcoming statement. I had to look this plant up and it is Trachelium caeruleum, or Blue Throatwort, a Mediterranean native.

Andrea and Doug received a gift certificate from Otto and Sons Nursery, who have supported this project since the beginning. Thank you, Otto and Sons Nursery, and thank you Andrea for allowing us to learn about your lovely yard.

The Fillmore Police Department encourages citizens to rejoice and celebrate over the Fourth of July weekend responsibly and with consideration for the safety of all members of the public and their respective property. With the anticipated increase of the city’s population during the festivities, in addition to the inherent dangers associated with illegal fireworks, the Fillmore Police Department will have extra patrol deputies on patrol throughout the city over the holiday weekend.

The Fillmore Police Department wants to remind community members of the following information pertaining to illegal fireworks and the fines associated with these crimes:

“Safe and Sane” fireworks, bearing the seal of the State Fire Marshal, can be legally sold, possessed, and enjoyed within the city limits of Fillmore between 12:00 PM, June 28th, and 12:00 PM, July 5th.
Fireworks that are not labeled “Safe and Sane” or do not have the seal are considered illegal and dangerous. Anyone who possesses or manufactures illegal fireworks will be subject to arrest pursuant to Health and Safety Code sections 12677, 12305, and Penal Code section 18710.

Violators may also be cited for violating city municipal codes and are subject to a $1000.00 fine.
If you witness any illegal firework activity, please call our Sheriff’s Communications Center at (805) 654-9511 or, if there’s an immediate threat to life or property, 9-1-1.

Fillmore residents can also remain anonymous and report illegal firework activity by calling the City of Fillmore’s fireworks hotline at (805) 524-1500, extension 350.

The City of Fillmore does not condone the use of illegal fireworks at any time, or the use of safe and sane fireworks outside the designated dates and times noted above. The Ventura County Sheriff’s Office would like to thank members of the public for their ongoing support and due diligence in providing information to assist our agency. We are better at what we do because of our community partnerships.

Nature of Incident: Fourth of July Holiday and Fireworks
Report Number: N/A
Location: City of Fillmore
Date & Time: June 28 through July 05, 2024
Unit(s) Responsible: Fillmore Police Department

Prepared by: Sergeant Jarrod Foote
News Release Date: June 27, 2024
Approved by: Captain Eduardo Malagon

Fourth of July approaches, the Ventura County District Attorney’s Office is issuing a warning to residents and visitors about the severe dangers associated with illegal fireworks. The presence and misuse of these fireworks pose significant risks across our communities, leading to fires, injuries, and loud explosions that scare our dogs and cats and can be particularly distressing for individuals suffering from post-traumatic stress disorder (PTSD).

In Ventura County, the sale, use, and possession of fireworks are strictly regulated. Only "Safe and Sane" fireworks are permitted, and these are only legal within the city limits of Fillmore. It's crucial to note that even if you legally purchase "Safe and Sane" fireworks in Fillmore, their use or possession outside of Fillmore is illegal throughout the rest of Ventura County.

Fireworks are hazardous and can result in serious injuries. Sparklers, often mistakenly considered safe, burn at a scorching 1,200 degrees Fahrenheit—significantly hotter than boiling water at 212 degrees or wood burning at 575 degrees. These temperatures can cause severe burns, particularly to children's hands and fingers.

All aerial fireworks and those that explode are illegal. This includes common types such as skyrockets, bottle rockets, roman candles, firecrackers, and M80s. These items are prohibited throughout California due to their dangerous nature.

"Let’s safely celebrate the Fourth of July," said District Attorney Erik Nasarenko. "Illegal fireworks are a real danger and can quickly start fires or seriously injure our loved ones."

Violating fireworks laws carries serious legal consequences. Under California Health and Safety Code sections 12500-12702 and Penal Code sections 18710-18750, individuals found in possession or using illegal fireworks may face misdemeanor or felony charges. Penalties include up to one year in jail for misdemeanors and up to three years for felonies, with fines ranging from $500 to $10,000 depending on the severity of the violation.

Stay safe and enjoy a lawful Fourth of July celebration by attending public fireworks displays conducted by professionals: Ventura County Fourth of July Events

Bardsdale United Methodist Church has just become a member of the Little Free Library network of small neighborhood libraries in order to encourage reading and to build community through the sharing of books.

The library was constructed by local craftsman Jack Stethem and is a replica of the historical church that was erected in 1898 by farming families south of Fillmore. Months of detailed work by Jack shows minute details of the building including stained glass windows and a chandelier above the Sanctuary entrance. Two doors on either side of the structure allow easy access for you to donate or retrieve books.

Jack has several replica libraries located in Fillmore including the Fillmore Historical Museum, Trinity Episcopal Church, Otto and Sons Nursery as well as various private residences. While Jack’s specialty is old historic structures, anyone can build their own library and begin sharing books with friends and neighbors.

Little Free Library is an international non-profit organization whose mission is to promote reading and to get books into the hands of readers of all ages at no cost. For more information about this great organization, go to www.littlefreelibrary.org. You may even want the satisfaction of having a library in front of your home.

Pictured (l-r) are Dan Phipps, Ken Van Fleet, John Gartman, and Larry Jennings. Article/photo credit Brandy Hollis.
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Last week I asked a friend if he knew anyone or anything that I might have missed when writing about the good people of this community. He said yes—the Santa Clara River Valley Railroad Historical Society (SCRVRHS).

Last night was the fireworks booth safety meeting at the city and I was introduced to the kind group of SCRVRHS men who told me they have been in existence since 1993. Their main goal is the preservation and education of the railway used by Fillmore Western. Larry was an engineer and the others were mechanics. They also restored an old engine right here in town. They are headed up by their president John Gartman.

They maintain the property that meets up with Mountain View with the train turntable. Since the railway is no longer in operation their organization needs all the help they can get to keep operating with their mission. This year they will have a fireworks booth at the old Texaco station on the highway. All proceeds from their Safe & Sane fireworks booth will help with the preservation for generations to come.

The public is welcome to their monthly meetings the 2nd Wednesday of the month at 7pm; they run railroad videos at this time as well. On the first Wednesday of the month at 7pm they hold their board meetings and the public is welcome but only members are allowed to vote. The meetings are held at the old Fillmore Fire Station on Main Street, north of city hall.
For more information follow up at www.scrvhs.org.

Dr. Minako Watabe

Courtesy Dr. Minako Watabe- Chief Medical Officer of Santa Paula Hospital and Ventura County Medical Center and OBGYN
It is understandable why some residents of the Santa Clara Valley are upset over the recent announcement to relocate Labor and Delivery and Intensive Care services from Santa Paula Hospital to Ventura County Medical Center.

The difficult decision was made after months of careful consideration, evaluation, and discussion with key leaders. We believe that this will promote the long-term sustainability of Santa Paula Hospital.

Last week the Ventura County Board of Supervisors approved the Fiscal Year 2024-2025 Budget. In turn, the recommendation to relocate Labor and Delivery and ICU services 14 miles away to Ventura County Medical Center was finalized.

Santa Paula Hospital is not closing and will remain open and ready, with a 24-7 Emergency Department, expanded availability for surgical services through access to an additional operating room, and gastroenterology services. We will continue to provide Santa Clara Valley residents with the compassionate care our staff is known for.

While there have been concerns voiced, as well as inaccuracies communicated, about these changes, it is imperative to understand that this decision was rooted in several pivotal factors. These factors are aimed at enhancing the ability to deliver high quality care to Santa Clara Valley residents, and to support the long-term sustainability of the hospital as we continue the planning process for the new Santa Paula Hospital.

Healthcare industry dynamics are constantly evolving. It’s not uncommon for the industry to be influenced by shifts in the insurance landscape, patient preferences, population demographics, and advancements in medical technology.

Our responsibility as a health care delivery system, and public safety net system, is to evaluate the impacts these factors have or will have. We then can initiate strategic changes that allow us to meet the evolving needs of our patients.
Despite numerous multi-faceted efforts, which included traditional marketing, grassroots communication and strategic collaboration with local community partners and health care stakeholders, we, like many communities across the state and nation, saw a continuing decline in birth rates as well as the number of women delivering their babies at Santa Paula Hospital. As we have also seen, this has shaped the decisions of other hospitals, including local area hospitals, to no longer provide labor and delivery services.

Similarly, while our Emergency Department volumes have increased, the number of patients that required ICU level care at Santa Paula Hospital has also declined.

Relocating labor and delivery services to VCMC affirms our dedication to ensuring that expecting mothers in the Santa Clara Valley and greater Ventura County have access to the highest levels of comprehensive and specialized care.

VCMC is a Level II Trauma Center (only one of two trauma hospitals in the County), a training hospital, and home to the county’s only Pediatric Intensive Care Unit and oldest Neonatal Intensive Care Unit.

More importantly, Women’s Health care services will not disappear in the Santa Clara Valley. We will continue to provide pre-natal, post-partum, and comprehensive women’s health care services through our four primary care clinics in the Santa Clara Valley, staffed by the same team of excellent providers.

This restructuring will in fact enhance our commitment to providing women access to essential healthcare services close to home. As well, it will continue to address health care inequities for Latina women, through expanding in-demand services such cancer screenings and the early detection and treatment of cancers such as breast and colon cancer.

Looking ahead, plans for a new hospital in the region reflect our commitment to prioritizing, modernizing, and providing the best in healthcare services and facilities to Santa Clara Valley residents. This initiative will continue to involve careful planning to anticipate and accommodate the healthcare needs of a growing population.

We look forward to continuing to provide high-quality, compassionate care to our community.

In observance of the Independence Day holiday, employees of Santa Clara Valley Disposal will be taking the day off on Thursday, July 4. As a result, in Fillmore the company will collect residential customers’ trash, recycling and yard/organic waste one day later than usual that week – on Saturday, July 6, instead of on Fillmore’s usual Friday pickup day. The regular schedule will resume the following week.

Remember that residential customers can place all three carts curbside every week, as Santa Clara Valley Disposal collects all waste weekly – including food waste, which is recyclable. All food waste should be placed in closed paper or plastic bags and the bags should be tossed in the organics waste cart.

It’s important to recycle your food waste every week. In 2022, the state of California began to require the diversion of food waste from landfills, and your efforts are needed. Even if you only have food waste bags and no yard waste, you should still put the food waste bags in your organics waste cart and take it to the curb every week for pickup.

Harrison Industries serves the cities and surrounding unincorporated areas of Ventura, Ojai and Camarillo as well as the unincorporated areas of La Conchita, Lake Sherwood, Lynn Ranch, Ojai Valley (Ventura River Valley), Oxnard Plain, Newbury Park, Piru, Pt. Mugu, Rancho Matilija, Rincon, Santa Rosa Valley, Somis, Santa Paula, Upper Ojai, Yerba Buena, and the Channel Islands Beach Community Services District, plus the city of Carpinteria as E.J. Harrison & Sons; and Fillmore and surrounding unincorporated areas as Santa Clara Valley Disposal.

For more information, visit www.ejharrison.com.

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CAMARILLO, Calif. – The Ventura County Transportation Commission (VCTC) will offer
additional Intercity bus service and roadside assistance to help visitors enjoy a smooth and easy
trip to X Games Ventura 2024 on June 28-30 at the Ventura County Fairgrounds.
VCTC strongly encourages people heading to the X Games to use public transit, walk, bike or
carpool to the event. Public transit options include VCTC Intercity and Gold Coast Transit
District bus service, as well as Amtrak Pacific Surfliner and Metrolink rail service. For those who
must drive, VCTC’s Freeway Service Patrol will provide roadside assistance along a segment of
Highway 101 in Ventura.

VCTC Executive Director Martin Erickson said the X Games and similar community events
provide an opportunity for people to explore public transit options in Ventura County.
“People can take the bus or train, or both, to travel to the X Games and at the same time learn
how public transit can help them reach destinations in their everyday travel,” Erickson said.
More information about the travel options is available at goventura.org/xgames.

VCTC INTERCITY BUS SERVICE

VCTC’s Intercity bus service provides transportation throughout Ventura County, to Santa
Barbara and to Woodland Hills. Travelers to the X Games can use Highway 101, Highway 126
and Coastal Express routes to get to the fairgrounds.

The Highway 101 and 126 routes will be extended to Thompson Boulevard and Figueroa Street
in Ventura. The Coastal Express route will stop at Thompson and Figueroa instead of Santa
Clara and Oak streets. The Highway 101 route, which normally operates Monday to Saturday,
will be extended to Sunday for the X Games. More information is available at
goventura.org/xgames.

Information about fares is available at https://www.goventura.org/vctc-transit/fares-passes/.
Riders are encouraged to use VCbuspass, a contactless regional transit pass that is accepted
by all public transit operators in Ventura County. To get a pass, download the Umo Mobility app
on an Apple or Android phone. VCbuspass cards can also be purchased at
goventura.org/vcbuspass or by calling VCTC’s Regional Transit Information Center in advance
of the X Games at 800-438-1112.

VCTC buses are specially equipped with spaces to store bicycles. Most buses have either frontmounted bicycle racks and undercarriage compartments. E-bikes are allowed.

All VCTC buses are ADA-accessible and are equipped with lifts to assist riders who use
wheelchairs or have limited mobility.

FREEWAY SERVICE PATROL

To assist motorists, VCTC will temporarily extend its Freeway Service Patrol to a segment of
U.S. 101, from Johnson Drive to California Street, from 10 a.m. to 6 p.m. June 29 and 30.
The FSP program places roaming tow trucks along freeways with the goal of quickly getting
disabled vehicles moving again at no cost to the motorists. Drivers provide such services as
changing flat tires, providing a gallon of fuel and taping leaky hoses.

The program aims to reduce congestion and prevent secondary accidents. FSP trucks currently
operate along three segments of Ventura County highways during peak traffic periods Monday
through Friday.

For more information, visit https://www.goventura.org/getting-around/fsp/.
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 and in Spanish at goventura/org/buena.

Courtesy Public Information Officer Karin Grennan, Ventura County Air Pollution Control District Agency

The Ventura County Air Pollution Control District is issuing an Air Quality Alert because unhealthy conditions are forecast for Monday, June 17.
Smoke from the Post Fire is expected to cause the Air Quality Index (AQI) to fall in the unhealthy range for everyone. Measured levels of PM2.5, particulate matter with a diameter of 2.5 micrometers or less, have reached unhealthy for sensitive groups in the Simi Valley area with the potential to reach unhealthy levels for all in the overnight and morning hours. While the largest smoke impact remains near the northeastern portions of Ventura County, elevated levels of PM 2.5 are anticipated to increase in all locations during the Sunday overnight hours and into Monday morning.
Smoke and ash from wildfires contain very small particles that can harm the lungs and heart.
The district issues Air Quality Alerts when the AQI has reached or is forecast to reach an unhealthy level for all. A lower AQI can affect sensitive groups. This includes children, older adults and people with heart disease or respiratory conditions such as asthma, chronic obstructive pulmonary disease and emphysema.
The alert is in effect until conditions improve.
When air quality reaches an unhealthy level for you or when you see or smell smoke, Ventura County Public Health recommends that you:
• Stay indoors as much as possible, preferably in a “clean room” with an indoor air filtration device where you can avoid cooking or burning candles.
• Close all windows and doors that lead outside unless it is extremely hot.
• Operate home and car air conditioners in recycle or recirculation mode. Close the fresh air intake and replace dirty filters.
• Avoid strenuous outdoor activity. If you must work outside, wear a properly fitted N95 mask.
An AQI forecast for PM2.5 reflects what is possible for a 24-hour day. At times, air quality is likely to be better or worse than what is indicated for the entire period. Levels of smoke and particles and the areas affected will vary over time. Conditions can change rapidly depending on winds.
For real-time data on air quality, check the AirNow NowCast AQI at www.airnow.gov or fire.airnow.gov. AirNow uses hourly data from the district’s five monitoring stations throughout the county to provide air quality information for the surrounding regions.
Ventura County farmworkers can receive text and audio alerts when wildfire smoke increases the AQI to unhealthy and hazardous levels. To sign up, text “SMOKE” for English or “HUMO” for Spanish, Mixteco and Zapoteco messages to 855-522-0034.
People can get Daily Air Quality Reports from the district by signing up to receive emails at vcapcd.org or by following the district on the social platform

As Independence Day approaches, excitement builds in Fillmore for our spectacular annual fireworks show. Fillmore stands out as the only jurisdiction in Ventura County that allows the use of safe and sane fireworks, making our celebration truly unique. Join us on July 3rd for a night of dazzling lights, festive fun, and strong community spirit.

However, while we enjoy this tradition, it’s essential to prioritize safety and proper disposal of fireworks. Fillmore’s fireworks show is a highlight of the summer, bringing families and friends together to enjoy a brilliant display that lights up the night sky. This year, the event promises to be even more spectacular, with a variety of fireworks that will captivate audiences of all ages. As we prepare for the celebration, we encourage everyone to adhere to the guidelines that ensure a safe and enjoyable event for all. Remember to use fireworks only in designated areas to prevent accidents and fires. Setting off fireworks in unauthorized areas can pose significant risks to both people and property. Additionally, once the festivities are over, please dispose of used fireworks in the containers provided at local parks. This helps keep our community clean and reduces the risk of fire hazards.

When using fireworks, always adhere to designated areas to prevent accidents and fires. Setting off fireworks in unauthorized locations can pose significant risks to both people and property. It’s vital to use fireworks responsibly, keeping a safe distance from structures, dry grass, and other flammable materials. After the excitement of the fireworks, proper disposal is crucial. Used fireworks should be fully extinguished before disposal. Use the containers provided at local parks for discarding spent fireworks. This helps keep our community clean and reduces the risk of fire hazards.
Safety extends beyond fireworks to include the disposal of food waste, especially following state guidelines like California’s SB 1383. This legislation aims to reduce organic waste in landfills to combat climate change. Proper disposal of food waste is essential, particularly during celebrations and gatherings. Fillmore residents are encouraged to sort their waste and use designated bins for food scraps and other organic materials. By doing so, we support the city’s commitment to sustainability and comply with regulations aimed at reducing greenhouse gas emissions.

By incorporating these safety measures and waste disposal practices, we can all contribute to a safer, cleaner, and more environmentally friendly Fillmore. Whether celebrating with fireworks or enjoying a meal with loved ones, remember that responsible disposal and eco-friendly choices make a significant difference. Let’s celebrate responsibly, keeping our community safe and beautiful for everyone.

Happy celebrations, Fillmore! Together, we can ensure a joyous and safe experience for all.
This safety and informational article was funded by CalRecycle, for additional information regarding SB1383, please visit https://www.Fillmoreca.gov/236/Cal-Recycle.

Fillmore’s AYSO 242 is celebrating 45 years of service to the community with close to 700 athletes playing soccer last year. It is one of the oldest non-profits in North America. This year they will begin the fall 2024 season, August 17; register by June 30th at www.AYSO242.org. Read the article for full details. Above action photos from past AYSO seasons. Photo credit AYSO archives.
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This fall Fillmore AYSO Region 242 will host its 45th year of service to the community here in Fillmore. Photo credit AYSO archives.
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Article by Nancy Rodriguez Hernandez

AYSO Region 242 is in preparation to celebrate a huge milestone this year, their 45th season of serving the youth in Fillmore, which kicks off on Saturday, August 17th.

Fillmore AYSO 242 is the largest youth sports organization in Fillmore, with close to 700 athletes playing soccer last year, and has served thousands of youths in over four decades; it is part of North America’s oldest non-profit soccer organization, AYSO, American Youth Soccer Organization. Fillmore AYSO 242 thrives on the power of volunteers; every coach, referee, and board member involved is a volunteer, dedicating countless hours of year-round hard work to the success of this 10-week soccer program.

Arnold Munoz, who had all four of his children participate in the program, has been bringing the community together for the last nine years as Regional Commissioner. Arnold’s goal as RC is to “create a fun, family-friendly environment for the athletes to develop their social and leadership skills, while their families enjoy watching them on the field!’
Fillmore AYSO 242 continues to grow and introduce new programs, including its most recent addition, EPIC, Everyone Plays in Our Community, a soccer program designed to adapt and support each athlete’s needs with the help of buddies on the field. The program is set to start its third season this year and is something truly special in our town, “it brings happiness to our children to be a part of a team and participate in learning new skills. It’s what inclusion is all about,” said coach Tania Melgoza, who has a child that participates in the EPIC program.

Fillmore AYSO 242’s 45th season is dedicated to all those who have committed their time to our youth, if it wasn’t for the thousands of volunteers we’ve had throughout the years, Fillmore AYSO 242 wouldn’t be as strong and far-reaching as it is today, and for that Fillmore AYSO 242 is forever GRATEFUL!

If you’re interested in registering your child for the fall 2024 season, please do so by June 30th at www.AYSO242.org. Anyone registering after the cut-off date will be placed on a waitlist.

The Ventura County Sheriff’s Office has partnered with 7-Eleven, Inc. in the 29th consecutive year of “Operation Chill®.” The Ventura County Sheriff’s Office and 7-Eleven want to reward local kids through the company’s community outreach program.
This summer, as our deputies’ patrol neighborhoods, they will keep an eye out for youth doing great things. Some acts include kids wearing safety helmets while riding a bike or skateboard, kids observing safety rules while crossing the street, kids participating in positive activities, kids holding the door open for someone, kids picking up trash, or kids helping someone in need. If observed, our deputies and professional staff, at any of our stations in the county, will make a positive contact with the youth and issue an Operation Chill coupon. The coupons can be redeemed for a free small Slurpee drink at any participating 7-Eleven®, Speedway®, or Stripes® store.

This year, 7-Eleven will issue nearly 550,000 coupons to more than 1,300 participating law enforcement agencies across the country, including the Ventura County Sheriff’s Office.

The Ventura County Sheriff’s Office looks forward to recognizing the good deeds being done daily by the youth in our communities. We have a lot of great kids in our communities and we have a lot of Slurpee coupons to hand out to keep encouraging them to become great citizens. This program allows us to continue to build trust and relationships with the communities we serve. We are better at what we do because of our community partnerships.

Prepared by: Sergeant Thomas Miller
News Release Date: 06/03/2024
Approved by: Captain Jason Hendren