On Saturday, December 14, 2024, the Fillmore Condors competed at the 2024 USATF Junior Olympics held in Indiana. Pictured above are the kids who competed L to R Top Row: Able Arana, Ethan Leighton, Damian Santa Rosa, Isabelle Enriquez, Kirsten Theabold, Itzel Arana, Kristin Theabold, Christine Beltran, Mycah Castrol, Brooklyn Limon. Bottom Row L to R Jacob Santa Rosa, Jacob Ramriez, Nate Magana, Ares Sanchez, Carlos Marin and Zach Magana Missing: Nick Enriquez. Photo credit Fillmore Condors.
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By Fillmore Condors

Congratulations to these 17 athletes who traveled to Shelbyville, Indiana to compete in the 2024 USATF Junior Olympics held on December 14, 2024. Some of these athletes were new to the National Race experience others were veterans in this highly competitive race. Going up against the best in the United States is an honor and something that no one can take away from them. They have been practicing since August, 3-4 times a week, clocking in mile after mile and competing in races every Saturday over the course of these past 5 months. They headed out to Indiana ready to complete and to do their best all while battling cold temperatures in the low 20’s, high altitude and muddy slushy conditions. Come race day they persevered and showed us what kind of determination and resilience they are made of as each age group ran and crossed the finish line for their races.

The boys Gremlin team who consisted of 4 Condor Athletes; Ares Sanchez, Mycah Castro, Zach Magana and Carlos Marin brought home the Bronze Medal. Brooklyn Limon of the girls Bantam Division who is also a part of Fillmore Condors brought home the Bronze Medal as well. On Behalf of the organization, all your families, friends and community we want to extend a huge congratulations on a job well done. Every single one of our athletes represented the city of Fillmore with great sportsmanship, dedication and competitiveness that we can admire.

By Jan Lee

Why are we talking about the flower show in winter? The show isn’t until April 26 and 27, 2025!
However, one of the most popular categories is roses. Roses need to be pruned in January to have beautiful blooms in the spring. Otto and Sons Nursery in Fillmore offers Rose Care Classes: January 4, 10am -12; Jan 11, 10-12; January 18, 10-12; and January 25, 1-3pm. Sign up early, the classes fill up.

The theme this year is “Fillmore Spirit in Bloom”. It will be held at the Active Adult Center on Santa Clara Street in Fillmore. As usual, there will be live music, a plant sale and refreshment cafe.

As you mark important dates on your new 2025 calendar, be sure to write in the Fillmore Flower Show in April. Nourish those plants, arrange those dish gardens and plant some seeds. We’ll see you in April at the Fillmore Flower Show!

VENTURA, Calif. – If you are giving or receiving a gift card this holiday season, make sure you know your rights! California law offers important protections for gift card holders and purchasers, ensuring fairness and transparency in how gift cards can be used and redeemed.

These consumer rights are outlined in California Civil Code section 1749.5:

• Gift cards in Cali-fornia never expire.

• Retailers must replace or refund the value of unusable gift cards.

• Upon request retailers must provide cash or a check for gift card balances of $9.99 or less.

• Gift cards sold in California cannot be subject to service or related fees, except for dormancy fees under very limited circumstances.

Additionally, gift card issuers may not “opt out” of the requirements of Civil Code section 1749.5.
If you experience issues using or obtaining a refund for an eligible gift card, the Ventura County District Attorney’s Office encourages you to take action. Contact us via email at daspecialops@ventura.org or by phone at (805) 662-1750.
Learn more about holiday gift card scams on our Instagram page.

Contact: Joey Buttitta

Title: Communications Manager/PIO

Phone: (805) 767-3400

Email: Joey.Buttitt a@ventura.org

Approved: SW

Date: December 20, 2024

Release No.: 24-154

The Fillmore Flashes Girls Wrestling team made a strong showing at the Channel Islands Girls Wrestling Tournament held at Del Sol High School in Oxnard on Saturday, December 7, with standout performances from co-captains Alexa Martinez and Emma Torres.

Alexa Martinez, a senior co-captain, turned in an impressive performance in the 145 lb. weight class, finishing in 2nd place out of 9 athletes. Alexa demonstrated her strength, skill, and determination, finishing with a 2-1 record on the day. Her only loss came in a hard-fought final match, but she made her presence felt throughout the tournament with a series of dominant performances.

Alexa’s success at the Channel Islands Tournament is just the latest chapter in an impressive season. She also played a key role in the team’s dual match against Newbury Park earlier in the week, where she pinned her opponent, earning a crucial 6 points for the team. With a season record of 9-2 and two tournament placements under her belt, Alexa continues to be a driving force for the Flashes both on and off the mat.

Emma Torres, also a senior co-captain, had an exceptional showing in her first tournament of the season. Competing in the highly competitive 130 lb. weight class, Emma faced a full bracket featuring 16 wrestlers. Despite the stiff competition, Emma dominated the tournament with a 4-1 record, securing 3rd place overall. She won all four of her matches by pin, showcasing her wrestling acumen and relentless drive.

With her strong finish at Channel Islands, Emma now boasts a 6-2 record for the season. Her hard work and preparation have clearly paid off, and she has quickly established herself as one of the team’s top competitors.

“Our team captains’ tenacity and ability to stay focused under pressure were on full display,” said Fillmore’s head girls coach Michael Torres. “They have been a huge asset to the team, not only through their individual success but also by supporting their teammates every step of the way.”

Though the team faced tough competition, several athletes showed strong promise, with Karina Vergara (135 lbs), Christine Panopio (140 lbs), and Yoseline Cruz (140 lbs) each finishing with 2-2 records. Ava Manzano (235 lbs) also showed perseverance with a 1-2 record.

Overall, while some wrestlers faced tough early exits, the Flashes earned valuable experience on the mats as they continue to prepare for upcoming events and dual matches.

The Flashes head into the next phase of their season with weekend tournaments in December at Hueneme High School, Saturday, December 14th and at Millikan High School, Saturday, December 21st.

The next home dual meet will be vs. Channel Islands High School: Wednesday, January 8th, start time: 5:30 pm.
Full Results: Celeste Juarez (110 lb.) 0-2, Delilah Cervantez (115 lb.) 0-2, Jasmine Contreras (115 lb.) 0-2, Micaela Ramirez (120 lb.) 0-2, Emma Torres (130 lb.) 4-1, Jacqueline Lomeli (130 lb.) 0-2, Karina Vergara (135 lb.) 2-2, Michelle Pinedo (135 lb.) 0-2, Skyla Sandoval (135 lb.) 0-2), Christine Panopio (140 lb.) 2-2, Yoseline Cruz (140 lb.) 2-2, Alexa Martinez (145 lb.) 2-1, Candy Aguilar (170 lb.) 0-2, Ava Manzano (235 lb.) 1-2.