By Fillmore Fire Department

The Fillmore Fire Department in conjunction with the Fillmore Fire Foundation is kicking off the annual Holiday Toy Drive this week. Collection drop off boxes for new toys are available at the Fillmore Police and Fire Stations, City Hall and the Bank of the Sierra. As part of the Toy Drive, on Sunday, December 8th, the Fire Foundation will be holding the annual Chicken Dinner Fundraiser to collect donations that will used to purchase hundreds of toys for children in the Fillmore/Piru area. A complete chicken dinner meal is prepared for anyone wanting to donate fifteen dollars ($15) that will be used to purchase a new toy. All meals will be for take-out only and will be available via a drive-thru process, this year the dinner will be held at the Fillmore High School Cafeteria, enter via the Horseshoe entrance off First St. Dinner will be served from 5 -7 PM. In lieu of a $15 donation, a new toy valued at $15 or greater may be donated. The hundreds of toys purchased from this event will be combined with those that are donated by the Community and then distributed on Saturday, December 14, from 9AM-12 PM at a huge Community Holiday Giveaway event. If you would like to donate to the Toy Drive/Community Giveaway or would like to purchase tickets/drop off toys, please call 805-815-0328.

Posted on: November 14, 2024 courtesy https://www.fillmoreca.gov/CivicAlerts.aspx?AID=165
City of Fillmore’s Annual Tree Lighting & Night Market – December 1st, 5:00 p.m.
Celebrate the holidays with us in Downtown Fillmore! The City’s Annual Tree Lighting & Night Market is happening on Sunday, December 1st from 5:00 p.m. to 8:00 p.m. This family-friendly event will be filled with holiday fun, shopping, and new activities for all ages. Mark your calendars and bring your loved ones for a memorable night!

Event Highlights: Tree Lighting Ceremony at 6:00 p.m.
NEW! Fillmore Spirit Business Bingo: Pick up a Bingo Card starting Wednesday, November 27 at participating businesses or the City booth on event day.

How to Play: Visit each of the 9 participating businesses—La Fondita, Estrella Market, Fillmore Town Theater, Scented Path, Cielito Lindo Beauty Salon, Fillmore Family Store, Diamond Realty, and Los Altos Mexican Restaurant—and get your card marked.

Prizes: Turn in your completed card at the City booth for a holiday present! The first nine people to submit a completed card will win a special prize sponsored by our participating businesses.
Raffle: Completed cards also earn entry into our raffle at 6:15 p.m. near the tree lighting. Participants must be present to win.

Snow Play Area hosted by Lemon Tree Embroidery – perfect for kids and families to experience a little winter magic in Fillmore!

Santa Photo Booth: Snap a holiday photo under our ornament with Santa himself.
Live Music & Entertainment: Enjoy festive tunes and performances throughout the night.
Food Trucks and Local Vendors: Grab a bite to eat and explore unique holiday gifts.
Gather your family and friends, and don’t miss out on an enchanting evening in Fillmore! For more details, stay tuned to our website and social media.

On Friday, November 8, 2024, the Original Lowrider Legends presented Fillmore resident Sonia Chessani, member of Good Times Car Club, with the Mentorship Honor Award at the Petersen Museum.
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Above is Sonia Chessani with her son Alexz Chessani after receiving her award.
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On Friday the evening of Friday, November 8, 2024, in Los Angeles, California, at The Petersen Museum, over 450 people were in attendance, where 13 recipients and three car club dynasties were celebrated. Fillmore resident Sonia Chessani is the only female recognized that evening by Host and Master of Ceremonies Joe Ray. Sonia was presented with a ring and the Mentorship Honor Award.

To her surprise weeks before actual presentation, Mr. Ray, previous 14-year Chief Editor of Lowrider Magazine and now Founder/Owner of Original Lowrider and Podcast Show, contacted Sonia to present her with accepting the Mentorship Honor award. After a brief conversation she accepted the honor, and said her first thought was, “Now I have to wear a dress!” Yet she was very grateful to be a recipient.
Sonia is happy she followed her teenage dreams of being in a car club, because when she started out in this passion, females were not easily embraced in the surrounding car club community; most rode with their significant other, or shotgun. Sonia said that she never tried to stand out as a female but wanted to be treated and respected as an equal. With determination and perseverance her dreams all came to favor. It all started when she was given membership and a plaque after her probation and acceptance with Nite Life Car Club of Santa Barbara in mid-80’s.

At present time Sonia has been an active member of Good Times Car Club based in East Los Angeles under Founder Paul Sanchez and Co. Founder late Jesse “Papo” Sanchez, belonging to the Southern California Chapter for 13 years under the direction of President Danny Jaime and Vice President Serafin “Pelon” Romero. Sonia has been heavily involved in the Lowrider Community for over 37 years, starting her passion in the mid 80’s. She commenced in the mini truck era when the Lowrider culture was at its low and evolved into the lowrider scene with her 1978 Oldsmobile Cutlass.

Sonia has traveled over the years thru the States including California, Nevada, Arizona, Colorado, Texas, and Georgia this past year with relative Daniel Gonzalez of Daniels Kreations, as a support member to the Rick Ross Show while her car is currently under a full restoration, due to come out soon. Sonia is also Marketing Director of Lowrider Scene Magazine and is owner of her clothing line Lo Mio Apparel since 2020 which coincides with the Lowrider culture she represents.

Sonia has assisted working car shows over the years, placed in numerous shows, and been awarded several honors. In 2007 she was presented with an award at Long Beach Veterans Stadium “Ladies of Lowriding”. In 2014 Nite Life Ventura Co. Car Club presented her with an award for “Dedication & Commitment” in Ventura, Ca. In 2017 she was presented with an award of recognition by Pachuco Car Club in Oxnard, California at a show dedicated to “Women in Lowriding” for her involvement over the years; and for her 1978 Oldsmobile Cutlass “Lowrider Girl” being featured back-to-back within months of each other in 2017 in Lowrider Magazine and Lowrider Scene Magazine, both published worldwide.

In 2017 at an awards banquet in Las Vegas, Nevada, Good Times Car Club Founder Paul Sanchez presented her with an “Excellence” award for magazine coverage, where she has been a member of Good Times Car Club since 2011. Sonia was also inducted into the National Lowrider Hall of Fame Class of 2019, and now recently chosen as a recipient “Lowrider Legends” Class of 2024.

Sonia says that her biggest honor is to follow in the Chessani Family’s car passion and only wishes her father, the late John Chessani, could be here watching her accomplishments, but is proud to have her mother, Adela, son “Freshh”, and so many friends and supporters who have stood by her side thru her journey over the years.

On Sunday, November 17, 2024, AYSO EPIC Fillmore program players attended the Section 10’s Bill Keene Memorial EPIC Festival, and Fillmore Region 242, participating for the first time with four EPIC teams in the festival; Lions, Minions, Orange Crush, and Blue. Above are some of this year’s participants. Photo credit Nancy Rodriguez Hernandez.
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Pictured above are some of the Blue Sonic Players smiling along with the Grinch as they take a photo to end their 2024 season. Photo credit Nancy Rodriguez Hernandez.
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By Nancy Rodriguez Hernandez

Hundreds of AYSO EPIC soccer players came together at Arroyo Vista Recreational Park for Section 10’s Bill Keene Memorial EPIC Festival hosted by AYSO Region 363, Moorpark, a day full of festivities, competition, camaraderie, games, music, food, and plenty of free activities for EPIC families.

EPIC (Everyone Plays In Our Community) is a program within AYSO (American Youth Soccer Organization) that provides a quality soccer experience for children and adults whose physical or mental disabilities make it difficult to successfully participate on mainstream teams. The EPIC program, which has only been around for three seasons in Fillmore, wrapped up the regular season with over 40 players registered, including three players who played both EPIC and core. EPIC has continued to grow in the Fillmore community with the help of an AMAZING group of sponsors and volunteers, including coaches, referees, buddies, and parents.

The EPIC Festival, formerly known as VIP Festival, had been on hiatus since 2017, and was brought back on Sunday, November 17, with AYSO EPIC teams participating from all over Los Angeles and Ventura Counties, including: Woodland Hills, Palmdale, Camarillo, Thousand Oaks, Simi Valley, Moorpark, Ventura, Fillmore, and more. Fillmore, Region 242, participated for the first time with four EPIC teams in the festival, Lions, Minions, Orange Crush, and Blue Sonics thanks to their amazing coaches Sandra Guerrero, Matthew Hernandez, Nancy Rodriguez Hernandez, Tania Melgoza, and Yvette Moore.

Among the amazing individuals and local businesses who have generously donated goods and services to the Bill Keene Memorial EPIC Festival, include Amazon Fresh (Moorpark), American Trophy, Angel City Football Club, City Auto Body, Costco (Simi Valley), DJ Joey Funk, DJ Ecto 1, Estrella Market, Everything Face Paint, LA Galaxy, Lemontree Embroidery, One Step A La Vez, Rainbow Connection, Simi Valley Challengers, Simi Valley Elks Lodge #2492, SouthWest Heating and Air Conditioning, Susie Q Photography, Thousand Oaks Elks Lodge #2477, Tri-Counties Regional Center, and Viva SuperHeroes Behavior Services.

For more information on EPIC Festival 2025 and the EPIC Fillmore program, visit the websites below, or contact Nancy Rodriguez Hernandez at aysoEPICfillmore@gmail.com.

By Michael Torres

Nov. 9, 2024. Antelope Valley, CA — The American Grappling Federation (AGF) Antelope Valley Open, held at the Antelope Valley Fair and Events Center, was a thrilling showcase of skill and determination, with the Fillmore Jiu-Jitsu Club making a remarkable impact. Under the coaching of Professor Michael Torres, a Gracie Humaita Black Belt trained by Mario Aiello, several young athletes represented their club with outstanding performances.

Mateo De La Cruz, competing in the gray and white belt division, put forth an impressive display, earning a silver medal. Mateo’s strategic grappling and effective techniques caught the attention of both coaches and spectators alike, as he also claimed an additional silver medal in the no-gi division, solidifying his status on the winner’s podium.

Maya Ramirez, another white belt competitor, showcased her skill and determination throughout the tournament. She was rewarded with a silver medal in her division. In addition to her gi success, Maya also secured a silver medal in the no-gi division, highlighting her versatility and adaptability on the mat.
Jacob Ramirez, competing in the gray and white belt category, matched his teammates’ success with a silver medal of his own.

Rounding out the team’s achievements was Aiden Ramirez, who earned a bronze medal in both the gi and no-gi divisions. Aiden’s determination and skill were evident as he navigated his matches, showcasing the spirit of sportsmanship and perseverance.

Torres expressed immense pride in his students’ accomplishments. “These young athletes have worked incredibly hard. I’m proud of each one of them for their performances this weekend,” he stated. “Every medal earned is a testament to their effort and the supportive environment we cultivate in training.”
Brazilian Jiu-Jitsu is a martial art and combat sport that focuses on ground fighting and submission grappling techniques, emphasizing the use of leverage and technique to control and submit opponents. The students train out of Perce’s Kenpo Karate studio off of Highway 126 which offers classes for adults and kids throughout the week. For more information call or text Professor Torres at 805-443-8501 or email fillmorebjj@gmail.com.

By Richard Chang

FILLMORE, Calif. (Nov. 25, 2024) — California United FC 2016 Boys team clinched the Coast Soccer League Division 2 North title on Sunday with a dramatic 1-0 victory over Oxnard FC in the season finale at Fillmore Middle School.

Entering the match tied atop the standings with 25 points each, the stakes were clear: a win would secure first place for either side, while a draw would give Oxnard FC the title. California United delivered under pressure, with Fabian Cabrera scoring the decisive goal in the first half off a pinpoint assist from Rex Masterson.

Goalkeeper Kevin Ponce was instrumental in the victory, recording a clean sheet with multiple critical saves to keep Oxnard off the board. The shutout marked another highlight in Ponce’s impressive season, solidifying his reputation as one of the league’s top goalkeepers.

California United’s success this season has been guided by an experienced and dedicated coaching staff, including Head Coach Miguel Martinez, Assistant Head Coach Josue Garcia, and Assistant Coach Javier Alcaraz. Their leadership and tactical acumen have been pivotal in developing the team’s strong chemistry and resilience.

With the victory, California United finishes the season with 28 points (9-2-1), edging out Oxnard FC, which ends with 25 points (8-3-1). Oxnard United SC placed third with 23 points (7-3-2), followed by Farwest United at 23 points (7-3-2).

California United’s season was also marked by individual accolades, with Ponce being named Player of the Month for September and Masterson earning the honor in October. League officials will announce the November Player of the Month and Player of the Year awards next week.

“It was a total team effort,” said California United head coach Miguel Martinez. “We’ve worked all season for this, and to see it come down to a performance like today is incredibly rewarding. I’m so proud of these players.”

California United now looks ahead to 2025 with momentum, eager to build on their league title and continue their strong form.

Pictured top left is House/Case Manager Brandi Brown, introducing visitors to the Tender Life program. The evening hosted an open house of the newly remodeled home and property. Photo credit Gazette Staff.
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Above are visitors to the Meet & Greet enjoying refreshments in the backyard of the Tender Life home. Included in the crowd were Fillmore Mayor Carrie Broggie, newly-elected Councilman Gary Cushing, and Tender Life Board of Director members Tim and Amy Gurrola. Photo credit Gazette Staff.
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On Friday, November 15th, Tender Life held a Maternity Meet & Greet at its new home in the 200 block of Fillmore Street. The open house drew over a hundred supporters and is a welcomed addition to the Fillmore community. The event was well attended by many from in and out of the community. Tender Life Mission Statement: “Tender Life is a Christ-Centered ministry ensuring life for unborn children by providing opportunities for housing, help and hope for women during their pregnancies and beyond. Since 1985, Tender Life has offered a safe place to transform lives in a judgment-free home where you can pause, regroup, and redirect your life. We’ll meet you where you are, equip you to overcome your unique challenges, and help you choose the best path going forward for you and your baby.” www.tenderlifematernity.org.

Deputies from the Fillmore and Camarillo Sheriff’s Stations worked together to locate and rescue a fourteen-year-old victim from a motel in Camarillo.

On November 12, 2024, the Ventura County Sheriff’s Office received a call about a fourteen-year-old girl who was absent from her school in Fillmore. School Resource Officer’s responded to the call for service and discovered, through a cellular phone tracking application, that the victim was at a motel in the city of Camarillo. This information was quickly relayed to the deputies in Camarillo who responded to the local motel.

Once at the motel, deputies began to review surveillance footage and observed the victim at the location with an unknown male. As deputies were ascertaining what room the victim and unknown male were in, they observed the two in a vehicle in the parking lot. The victim and unknown male, later identified as Salvador Heredia Sanchez, were detained in the parking lot. Sanchez who is twenty-nine years old, was taken into custody and transported to the Camarillo Police Station. The victim was evaluated by medical professionals and reunited with her family.

The investigation revealed the victim met Sanchez through a social media application. They had been communicating through social media for about two weeks prior to planning to meet in person. The victim willingly went with Sanchez. Sanchez used typical grooming techniques when communicating with the victim. The Major Crimes Bureau Sexual Assault Unit, in conjunction with the Ventura County Sheriff’s Crime Analysis Unit, are working on notifying surrounding agencies about this investigation as Sanchez has no ties to Ventura County.

The Major Crimes Bureau Sheriff’s Office Sexual Assault Unit is committed to the safety of our community’s youth. The overwhelming access afforded to young people online can be overwhelming and is opportunistic to sexual predators. Information about online safety is available from the National Center for Missing and Exploited Children at www.missingkids.org. Age-appropriate education presentations are available as well as multiple other educational topics related to the safety of our youth. Talk to your kids about safety on-line.

Sanchez was booked into the Ventura County Jail for violations of California Penal Code (PC) 261.5(c), Unlawful Sex with a Minor, PC 272(a)(1), Contributing to the Delinquency of a Minor, PC 288(c)(1), Lewd Act Upon a Child, PC 288.3(a), Luring. Sanchez’ bail is set at $250,000.00. His next court appearance is November 14, 2024.

Report Number: 24-143299
Location: City of Fillmore and City of Camarillo
Date: November 12, 2024
Unit(S) Responsible: Sheriff's Major Crimes Bureau, Camarillo Patrol Serivces, Crime Analysis Unit

(S)uspect(s),Victim(s):

(S) Salvador Heredia Sanchez Lompoc, CA 29
(V) Female juvenile Fillmore, CA 14

Prepared by: Detective Chris Dyer
Approved by: Captain Victor Medina

(VENTURA, Calif. — Nov. 14, 2024) The Ventura County Air Pollution Control District is offering $1.5 million in grants for organizations to install and operate electric vehicle chargers along the Highway 126 corridor.

The 126 Corridor EV Chargers Incentive Program is designed to improve air quality in Santa Paula, Fillmore and Piru and support the transition to EVs by providing much-needed chargers along the heavily trafficked route.

On-road vehicles are a major source of Ventura County air pollution, especially near major roadways. The harmful pollutants they emit include nitrogen oxides, which react with sunlight to form ozone, and fine particulate matter. The county exceeds state and federal standards for ozone, or smog.

An average of up to 106,000 passenger cars and 67,000 heavy-duty trucks traveled along Highway 126 daily in 2022, according to Caltrans. This impacts the residents of Santa Paula, Fillmore and Piru, areas that are designated as low-income and disproportionately affected by air pollutants by the California Climate Investments program.

The grants are available to public and private entities located in Ventura County including government agencies, school districts, colleges, businesses and nonprofit organizations. Projects that provide public access to chargers will receive priority consideration.

Public entities and any plans that provide public access are eligible for grants covering up to 100% of costs. Private projects that do not provide public access can receive grants for up to 85% of costs. Requests for less than maximum grant amounts will receive priority, though.

The chargers must be available at cost to the public or the organization’s employees for at least the term of the grant, which can range from three to eight years. Longer grant terms will receive priority. The chargers must be level 2 or higher.

Eligible expenditures include charging equipment and the costs of building, installation, design, engineering, consulting and fees. Grants also can cover software, card readers, specialized tools and three years of operational costs not including regular maintenance. Projects that expand or enhance existing chargers to improve efficiency or safety also are eligible.

The district is funding the program with a portion of the $6-per-vehicle registration fee surcharges it receives from the California Department of Motor Vehicles. Since 1991, the district has used this money for cost-effective projects that reduce vehicle emissions as part of its mission to protect public health and agriculture in Ventura County from air pollution.

For additional details and applications, visit vcapcd.org/126-Corridor-EV.htm. For more information, contact Holly Galbreath at holly@vcapcd.org or 805-303-3666.

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Karin Grennan
Public Information Officer
Ventura County Air Pollution Control District