Claudia Portugal Cornejo, 52, of Fillmore

VENTURA, Calif. – Ventura County District Attorney Erik Nasarenko announced today that Claudia Portugal Cornejo (DOB 10/26/72), of Fillmore, was sentenced to twelve months in jail for defrauding COVID-19 relief programs and stealing more than $101,000 from the County of Ventura, the State of California, and individual victims. An additional twenty-eight months in jail was suspended as a term of her felony probation. Cornejo pleaded guilty on October 21, 2024, to five felonies: two counts of grand theft, presentation of a fraudulent claim, false personation, and conspiracy to commit a crime.

“The defendant stole tens of thousands of dollars from taxpayers and hardworking individuals, lining her own pockets at the expense of those in real need,” District Attorney Erik Nasarenko said. “Through the hard work and investigative eye of the Sheriff’s Office and County CEO’s Office, her schemes were exposed and brought to the attention of our prosecutors.”
In June 2020, the County of Ventura launched the Business Assistance Grant (BAG) Program to support local businesses impacted by the pandemic. Over four phases, grants were awarded to eligible businesses that met specific criteria, including having a valid business license in Ventura County and proof of operation before March 17, 2020. A similar program, the California Relief Grant Program, was funded by the state.

Cornejo orchestrated a scheme to submit fraudulent applications, stealing $70,000 from the County of Ventura and $25,000 from the State of California. She also charged individuals upfront fees to submit applications on their behalf but never did, stealing an additional $6,800 from two victims.

The fraud was discovered in October 2021, when the County of Ventura’s Executive Office identified suspicious documents in BAG Program applications, including forged business certificates and doctored tax forms. An investigation by the Ventura County Sheriff’s Office Major Crimes Unit and the County CEO’s Office revealed Cornejo submitted multiple fraudulent applications, often charging victims to submit the paperwork, and taking a portion of approved grants. She carried out the scheme from her business, Fillmore General Services. The County also determined that outside of the frauds perpetrated by Cornejo, the fraud was not widespread.

Senior Deputy District Attorney Howard Wise, a member of the Special Prosecutions Fraud and Technology Crimes Unit, prosecuted the case.

“It is appalling that Ms. Cornejo took advantage of programs designed to help established businesses stay open during COVID,” Mr. Wise said. “However, I was deeply impressed with the earnestness which the County of Ventura investigated this matter, shut it down, and supported the prosecution.”

In addition to the twelve-month jail sentence, Cornejo was ordered to pay restitution in the amount of $92,659 to the County of Ventura for loss to the County and the costs associated with investigating the fraud. She was also ordered to pay $25,000 to the State of California and $6,800 to two individual victims. Those victims paid Cornejo to submit grants on their behalf but did not know Cornejo was engaged in fraud. Cornejo kept the money and did not submit the promised grant applications

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Case: 2022000241

Defendant Information:
Claudia Portugal Cornejo (DOB 10/26/72) Fillmore
Charges pled guilty to:
• (2 counts) PC 487(a) – Grand theft
• PC 72 – Presentation of fraudulent claim
• PC 529(a)(3) – False personation of another
• PC 182(a)(1) – Conspiracy to commit a crime.

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Contact: Joey Buttitta
Title: Communications Manager/PIO
Phone: (805) 767-3400
Email: Joey.Buttitta@ventura.org
Approved: SW
Date: March 4, 2025
Release No.: 25-028

On 03/02/2025, (S) Jesus Garcia was arrested for first-degree burglary, violation of a court order and misdemeanor drug offenses.

On 03/02/2025, at about 2:50 AM, a victim reported a residential burglary at an apartment building located in the 600 block of River Street in Fillmore. The victim stated the burglar had entered their apartment while they were home and stole items. Fillmore patrol personnel responded to the residence and confirmed a first-degree residential burglary had occurred and the suspect fled the scene with property belonging to the occupants of the apartment.

At about 8:22 AM, staff of a local group home reported a client, Jesus Garcia, had walked away from their facility where he was mandated to stay in accordance with a court order. Garcia was last seen the night prior. As patrol personnel were looking for Garcia, staff members of the group home advised Sheriff’s Dispatch they found him near the river bottom and the A Street bridge. This is near the area where the burglary occurred earlier in the morning.

Fillmore patrol resources responded to the group home and spoke with staff members and Garcia. During patrol’s investigation, they developed probable cause to arrest Garcia for a violation of Penal Code § 166(a)(4) – [Violation of a Court Order] and Health & Safety Code § 11550(a) – [Under the Influence of a Controlled Substance]. A subsequent search at the facility was conducted and patrol personnel located evidence linking Garcia to the residential burglary.

Garcia was transported to the Fillmore Police Station and interviewed by a detective from the Fillmore Bureau of Investigation where they obtained additional evidence linking Garcia to burglary.
During the afternoon hours, detectives followed up with the burglary investigation and canvassed the area where the burglary occurred. During the canvas, they located additional evidence linking Garcia to the burglary. Garcia was supplementally arrested for a felonious violation of Penal Code § 460 – [First-Degree Residential Burglary]. He was transported and booked at the Pre-Trial Detention Facility for the aforementioned offenses pending court proceedings.

The Ventura County Sheriff’s Office would like to thank members of the public for their on-going support and due diligence in providing information to assist our agency in solving crimes. We are better at what we do because of our community partnerships. Join us in the fight on crime by following us on “X” @fillmoresheriff, Facebook, Instagram @VCSHERIFF and @FILLMOREPD, and with Nixle by texting your zip code to 888777 to receive local law enforcement and public safety alerts and advisories.

Prepared by: Sergeant Jarrod Foote
News Release Date: 03/03/2025
Approved by: Captain Eduardo Malagon
Booking Photo Release: NO

On 03/03/2025, deputies with the Ventura County Sheriff’s Office-Fillmore Station arrested a 41-year-old man following a firearm incident in the quiet community of Ventura County known as Piru. At about 4:37 AM, patrol deputies from the Fillmore Station responded to a report of a neighbor shooting into another neighbor’s residence in the 700 block of Park Street, located in the unincorporated community known as Piru. Arriving deputies located the victim and his family who were evacuated as a safety precaution.
As the investigation unfolded, deputies determined a firearm had been negligently discharged, with a round striking and entering a neighbor’s residence. Fortunately, no injuries were reported.
A short time later, the suspect, identified as (S) Patrick Casas, 41, exited his residence and was taken into custody by deputies without incident.

Detectives with the Fillmore Bureau of Investigation along with field evidence technicians from the Sheriff’s Bureau of Identification, and scientists from the Sheriff’s Crime Lab responded to the location for the investigation. A search warrant was obtained followed by a subsequent search of Casas’ residence. As a result, additional evidence linking Casas to the crime was located including 12 rifles, five handguns, and hundreds of rounds of ammunition. None of the firearms seized were lawfully registered to Casas.

Casas was transported and booked at the Pre-Trial Detention Facility for a violation of Penal Code § 246.3(a) – [Negligent Discharge of Firearm into Residence]. Casas was served a Temporary Emergency Gun Violence Restraining Order authorized by a Ventura County Superior Court Judge. Casas remains in custody pending court proceedings.

The Ventura County Sheriff’s Office reminds our community members of the serious consequences of improper firearm handling and urges gun owners to exercise extreme caution.

The Ventura County Sheriff’s Office would like to thank members of the public for their on-going support and due diligence in providing information to assist our agency in solving crimes. We are better at what we do because of our community partnerships. Join us in the fight on crime by following us on “X” @fillmoresheriff, Facebook, Instagram @VCSHERIFF and @FILLMOREPD, and with Nixle by texting your zip code to 888777 to receive local law enforcement and public safety alerts and advisories.

Prepared by: Sergeant Jarrod Foote
News Release Date: 03/04/2025
Approved by: Captain Eduardo Malagon
Booking Photo Release: NO

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Ventura County Crime Stoppers will pay up to $1,000 reward for information, which leads to the arrest and criminal complaint against the person(s) responsible for this crime. The caller may remain anonymous. The call is not recorded. Call Crime Stoppers at 800-222-TIPS (8477).

By Nancy Rodriguez

The City of Fillmore is thrilled to reflect on the success of our youth basketball program, Legendz. This year, we welcomed a spirited group of 21 players who brought boundless energy and enthusiasm to the court. With the dedication of our six amazing coaches—Matthew Hernandez, Nancy Hernandez, Tania Melgoza, Yvette Moore, Miguel Rico, and Marissa Rodriguez—this season has been nothing short of spectacular!

Legendz was designed with passion and purpose, aimed at supporting young athletes who are looking for that extra bit of assistance to dive into the world of sports. Our program focuses on ensuring that every participant can progress at their own pace, allowing them to develop as individual players while honing vital skills. Whether dribbling, shooting, or teamwork, our players have made tremendous strides this season, and we couldn’t be prouder!

One of the most exciting developments this year was the introduction of adaptive basketball, spearheaded by our devoted Cultural, Arts, and Recreation Commissioner, volunteer, Nancy Rodriguez Hernandez. This program has opened doors for more young athletes to engage in the sport, emphasizing inclusivity and participation. It’s heartwarming to witness how this program has positively impacted our community, offering everyone the chance to experience the joy of basketball.

A heartfelt thank-you goes out to all our coaches, players, families, city staff, and Mayor Christina Villasenor, for not only supporting the program, but making sure that the Boys and Girls Club gym was a safe place for everyone to play. It was a memorable season filled with growth, friendship, and fun. We look forward to seeing everyone back on the court next year, ready to create more unforgettable memories together! Go, Legendz!

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VENTURA, Calif. – An investigation by the California Department of Fish and Wildlife (CDFW) and the Ventura County District Attorney’s Office has determined that a petroleum-contaminated wastewater discharge into Grimes Canyon Creek originated from a vacuum truck operated by a temporary employee of Advanced Industrial Services, Inc. (AIS).

The case began on November 1, 2022, when an employee of California Natural Resources Group discovered petroleum byproduct in a dry creek bed at the Dryden oil lease facility in Fillmore. Environmental authorities launched an investigation to determine the source of the contamination.
Investigators used a combination of physical evidence, logbook records, photographs, tire tread analysis, and witness statements to track the discharge back to an AIS-operated vacuum truck. Evidence showed that between 4:00a.m. and 4:49 a.m., the driver loaded petroleum-contaminated wastewater, backed the truck up to Grimes Canyon Creek, and discharged approximately 150 gallons into a ravine leading to the creek bed. The driver then left without reporting the spill, as required by law.

“This case underscores the importance of thorough environmental investigations and the critical role of state and local partnerships to protect Ventura County’s natural resources,” said District Attorney Erik Nasarenko. “The objective of this settlement is to ensure that harmful discharges into our environment do not reoccur.”

Following the inve-stigation, AIS reached a $29,736 settlement with the Ventura County District Attorney’s Office. The company was also ordered to comply with permanent injunctive terms prohibiting the unlawful disposal of petroleum products.
Authorities urge the public to report any suspected environmental violations to ensure the protection of local waterways and ecosystems.

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Contact: Joey Buttitta
Title: Communications Manager/PIO
Phone: (805) 767-3400
Email: Joey.Buttitta@ventura.org
Approved: SW
Date: February 28, 2025
Release No.: 25-026

Story by Girls Wrestling Head Coach Michael Torres

Friday, February 21st. La Habra, CA-The Fillmore High School girls wrestling team concluded its season at the CIF Masters Meet, held at Sonora High School in La Habra, with three athletes—senior co-captains Alexa Martinez and Emma Torres, along with sophomore Naomi Bonilla—qualifying for this prestigious event. These three wrestlers were Citrus Coast League Champions who showcased their strength and perseverance, marking the end of a memorable season for the Flashes.

Sophomore Naomi Bonilla, wrestling in the 110-pound weight class, faced a tough road at the Masters Meet, finishing with a 0-2 record. Bonilla’s first match saw her lose by pin to Alice Liu of Arroyo High School. In her second match, she faced Jaslene Higuita of Rowland High School and also lost by pin. While the results were not in her favor, Bonilla’s qualification for the CIF Masters Meet was a remarkable achievement, and the experience will undoubtedly serve as valuable experience for her in the coming years.

Senior co-captain Emma Torres, competing in the 130-pound weight class, wrapped up her high school wrestling career with a 0-2 finish at the CIF Masters Meet. Her first match resulted in a loss by pin to Ava Sosa of Hillcrest High School, and in her second match, Torres lost to Gabriela Jimenez of Paloma Valley High School with an 11-2 decision. Despite a challenging day at the Masters, Torres leaves behind an extraordinary legacy. Over the course of her career, she claimed four Citrus Coast League (CCL) championships, never losing to a CCL opponent in individual or tournament preseason, season, or postseason competition throughout her four years. In her senior season, she also earned fourth place at the CIF Northern Division Individual Championships. Torres’ leadership, work ethic, and dedication to the team will be deeply missed.

Senior co-captain Alexa Martinez, competing in the 145-pound weight class, had a strong showing at the Masters Meet, finishing with a 2-2 record. In her first match, she faced Annalese Arroyo of Norco High School, losing by a score of 16-4. Martinez bounced back in her second match with a win by pin over Jaydan Colgan of Temecula Valley High School. She continued her winning ways in her third match, defeating Gianna Panaggio of Marina High School by pin. Martinez’s final match ended with a narrow 10-14 loss to Melissa Moreno of Paloma Valley High School as she gave up 4 points in the final 10 seconds of the match. Although she didn’t make it to the final rounds, Martinez’s performance highlighted her strength, skill, and determination. This season, she became the first-ever FHS Girls Wrestling CIF Champion and captured her first Citrus Coast League Championship in the 145 lb. weight class, marking a historic milestone for both her and the program.

While the CIF Masters Meet did not end with the results they hoped for, the fact that Torres, Martinez, and Bonilla were the only athletes from Fillmore High School to qualify for the meet speaks volumes about their skill and dedication. Their efforts at the event, as well as throughout the season, demonstrated the commitment they have to their sport and their team.

Head Girls Wrestling Coach Michael Torres shared his pride in the team: “I couldn’t be more proud of Emma and Alexa, who have left a lasting legacy on this program. Both of them have worked tirelessly over the years, and I am glad to have coached them through their middle school and high school years, and their accomplishments speak for themselves. They pass the torch on to Naomi, who will continue to grow and help lead this team in the future. The commitment, effort, and heart that all of our athletes have shown this season is something special.”

The Fillmore High School girls wrestling program extends its deepest gratitude to the assistant boys’ and girls’ wrestling coaches Adrian Bonilla, Jorge Bonilla, Ignacio Juarez, David Navarrete, Head Boys Coach Manuel Ponce, Athletic Director Kim Tafoya, FHS administration, faculty and staff, as well as the families, volunteers, and fans for their support throughout the season. The future looks bright for the Lady Flashes, and with continued hard work and dedication, they are poised to tackle new challenges in the seasons to come.

On Wednesday, February 19, Fillmore High School held the Grand Opening Ceremony for their new stadium; the long-time wait is now over. They kicked off the season with members of the Sanchez family throwing the ceremonial first pitch.
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Courtesy https://www.blog.fillmoreusd.org/fillmore-unified-school-district-blog/2...

At 2:30 p.m. on Wednesday, February 19, 2025, the Fillmore Unified School District (FUSD) celebrated the grand opening and dedication of Fillmore High School’s (FHS) new Booty Sanchez Varsity Baseball Field located along the intersection of 3rd Street and Shiells Drive.

The event was attended by FUSD governing board members, superintendent and staff, FHS principal, staff, and students, the Sanchez family, The Friends of Booty, and a stadium full of Fillmore and Piru athletic boosters and Flashes baseball fans.
FUSD Superintendent Christine Schieferle said, “We would like to thank Debbie Sanchez and the Sanchez family for attending the event and for supporting the new field that will continue honor Booty’s contribution to our community. We would also like to thank the Fillmore-Piru community for approving Bond Measure V that helped provide funding for this beautiful state-of-the-art baseball stadium that will be enjoyed by students and families for generations to come.”

Booty’s wife Debbie Sanchez said, “From the bottom of our hearts, the Sanchez Family would like to thank the community of Fillmore and the school board for continuing to honor the legacy of Booty Sanchez.”

The event ended with the Sanchez family throwing ceremonial first pitches to The Friends of Booty.

The season opening baseball game that followed the opening ceremony resulted in a big Flashes win. Final score Varsity Flashes 14, Oxnard’s Santa Clara High 3. Go Flashes!

On Monday, February 17, the Fillmore Lions Club annual speaker contest took place and contestants waited patiently to give their speeches to the Judges. Above are the contestants who participated: Diana Martinez, Emma Victor, Christine Nguyen (winner), Diana Santa Rosa, Camila Razo and Karla Hernandez – all students from Fillmore High School. Photo credit Fillmore Lions Club.
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On Monday, February 17, the Fillmore Lions Club annual speaker contest took place and contestants waited patiently to give their speeches to the Judges. Above are the contestants as they make their speeches: Diana Martinez, Emma Victor, Christine Nguyen (winner), Diana Santa Rosa, Camila Razo and Karla Hernandez – all students from Fillmore High School. Photo credit Fillmore Lions Club.
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By Gaylynn Brien

Christine Nguyen, an 11th grade student at Fillmore High School, has taken the first step to winning scholarships for college by winning the Club level contest, a local competition, sponsored by the Fillmore Lions Club. The winner of the Club level contest receives $100 and all other contestants, considered “runner ups”, receive $25 in cash prizes.

Christine Nguyen’s speech was among five other contestants that included Diana Martinez, Camila Razo, Karla Hernandez, Emma Victor, and Diana Santa Rosa, all from Fillmore High School, in the annual California Lions Student Speakers Club Contest. Multiple District Four California Lions Clubs International is sponsoring the program to emphasize the importance of public speaking as a critically important life skill to young people everywhere.

The speech was selected by a panel of three judges: Janey Munoz, Doris Nichols, and Christina Villasenor. The judges looked for its originality, main points being supported by evidence, conclusion, emphasis, voice control enunciation, pronunciation, sincerity, enthusiasm, poise, cohesive effort, logic, organization, speaker persuasiveness and adhering to the topic, “Artificial Intelligence (AI): Friend or Foe”. The contest, and judging, was held on February 17, 2025 at the Fillmore Lions Club House.

The Fillmore Lions Club President, Jaclyn Ibarra, and Student Speaker Club Committee, Gaylynn Brien and Lynn Edmonds, all were impressed by the expression, creativity and talent of the students from Fillmore High School.

Nguyen will advance to the next level competition in the district, which is the Zone level contest, and will compete to win $150. The winner of the Zone level contest will advance to the Region level contest. The next levels of the contest include the District, Area, then Final level. The winner of the District will receive $4,500 in scholarships, the Area winner will receive $6,500 and the Final level winner of the competition will receive a scholarship worth $10,000. The total amount of possible scholarships that a winner can receive is $21,000.

Above are Fillmore Flashes who placed in the CIF Northern Division Girls Wrestling Championships Naomi Bonilla, Sophomore placed 6th in the 11lb weight class, Alexa Martinez, Senior, Co-captain was named CIF Northern Division Girls Champion and Emma Torres, Co-captain placed 4th. Photo credit Torres and Karina Vergara.
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Pictured above are the Fillmore Flashes who competed at CIF Northern Division Girls Wrestling Championship February 14 & 15, Olivia Juarez, Karina Vergara, Natalia Herrera, Alexa Martinez, Emma Torres, Naomi Bonilla, Ava Manzano, Skyla Sandoval, Jasmine Contreras, Delilah Cervantez. Photo credit Torres and Karina Vergara.
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Above is Fillmore’s Alexa Martinez raising her hands in victory as she was named CIF Champion for the 145lb weight class. Photo credit Torres and Karina Vergara.
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Story by Girls Head Coach Michael Torres

Adelanto, CA – Feb. 14-15 – The CIF Northern Division Girls Wrestling Championships took place over two days at Adelanto High School on February 14-15, where the Fillmore Flashes Girls Wrestling Team showcased their talent and determination.
Alexa Martinez, a senior and co-captain of the team, claimed the title of CIF Northern Division Champion in the 145 lbs.

weight class, securing 1st place in a 24 girl bracket with a record of 4-0, with 2 pins. This victory marks a significant milestone for FHS, as it is only the second CIF Championship in school history, with the first and last individual CIF championship being won by Richard Preciado in 1993. Alexa’s win is especially historic as it is the first-ever CIF Championship for the FHS Girls Wrestling Program since Girls HS Wrestling was sanctioned as a sport in 2013.

Emma Torres, also a senior and co-captain, earned 4th place in the 130 lbs. weight class with a record of 5-2, with 3 pins. Emma’s tenacity and technical skill were on full display as she fought through tough matchups in a 35 girl bracket, including competing against an undefeated top wrestler in the nation, Samantha Sachs, from Glendora High School in a quarterfinal matchup. Emma’s impressive performance in one of the most competitive divisions earned her a spot among the region’s best.

Naomi Bonilla, a talented sophomore, was undefeated on the first day of competition and eventually took 6th place in a field of 35 girls in the 110 lbs. weight class, with a record of 4-3 and 1 pin. The young athlete keeps demonstrating her potential and establishing herself as one to watch in the future.

Head Girls Coach Michael Torres expressed his pride in the team’s accomplishments, saying, “Alexa’s championship win is a historic moment for the program, and Emma and Naomi’s performances were outstanding. We’re excited to see what’s next at the CIF Masters Championship. I know they will continue to represent FHS with pride. They’ve all worked so hard, and this is a testament to their dedication and perseverance.”

Here are the full results from the tournament: 105 lbs.: Olivia Juarez: 1-2, 110 lbs.: Naomi Bonilla: 4-3, 115 lbs.: Delilah Cervantez: 0-2, 120 lbs.: Jasmine Contreras: 0-2, 125 lbs.: Natalia Herrera: 1-2, 130 lbs.: Emma Torres: 5-2, 135 lbs.: Karina Vergara: 0-2, 140 lbs.: Skyla Sandoval: 0-2, 145 lbs.: Alexa Martinez: 4-0, 235 lbs.: Ava Manzano: 0-2.

Now, Bonilla, Martinez, and Torres will face the top 8 competitors from the Eastern, Western, Northern, and Southern Division championships in their respective weight classes at the CIF Masters Championship Tournament on Friday, February 21st, at Sonora High School in La Habra. Each athlete will be placed in one of two 16-girl bracketed tournaments with the top 4 girls from each moving on to the State Championship in Bakersfield the following week. This will be their next challenge as they continue to represent FHS on an even larger stage.

By FHS Girls Wrestling Head Coach Michael Torres

Saturday, January 25th, 2025. Norwalk, CA-The Fillmore High School Girls Wrestling team displayed tremendous determination and sportsmanship at the John Glenn High School Lady Eagles 32-Team Invitational, held this past weekend. Competing against some of the best talent in the Southern California region, the Flashes held their own and showed growth throughout the tournament, with several wrestlers achieving impressive results.

Senior Emma Torres, competing at 132 lbs, earned a 6th place finish with a 2-2 record. Her performance showcased her tenacity and ability to perform despite being in ill-health.

In the 117 lbs weight class, sophomore Naomi Bonilla finished in 8th place with a solid 3-2 record. Her performance was one of the standout efforts for the Flashes, demonstrating her skill in a highly competitive bracket.

Other notable pe-rformances came from seniors Alexa Martinez, who finished with a 2-2 record, and Ava Manzano, who finished 1-2. Both athletes showed promise, pushing themselves through tough competition and continuing to grow their wrestling abilities.

Unfortunately, a number of Fillmore’s first year wrestlers faced tough challenges in their brackets. Juliet Bustos (107 lbs), Jacqueline Lomeli (127 lbs), Skyla Sandoval (137 lbs), Michelle Pinedo (137 lbs), and Candy Aguilar (147 lbs) each finished 0-2, but their perseverance and dedication throughout the event speak volumes about their commitment to the sport.

Girls Head Coach Michael Torres praised the team’s effort, emphasizing the importance of the tournament in helping the athletes develop and improve. “This tournament was a step up the level of competition that we have faced, with a lot of CIF State Qualifiers that entered the contest. This experience will only make the team better as they move forward into the postseason and CIF Championships.”

The Flashes will look to build on their performance as they host the Citrus Coast League Finals on Saturday, February 8th at 10:00 am at the Fillmore High School Gymnasium with athletes from Channel Islands, Fillmore, Hueneme, Nordhoff, and Santa Paula all vying for the CCL crown in their respective weight classes and looking to qualify for CIF Championships in Adelanto the following week.

Erika Herrera-Terriquez, new Fillmore City Manager. Photo credit Gazette staff.
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Fillmore, CA – February 11, 2025 – The City Council of Fillmore is proud to announce the appointment of Erika Herrera-Terriquez as the new City Manager, effective February 12, 2025. Erika has been serving as the Interim City Manager, overseeing the entire organization and providing leadership during this transitional period. Prior to her Interim appointment, Erika served as Assistant City Manager and has worked with the City for six years.

Erika brings a wealth of experience, bilingual skills, and a deep commitment to the Fillmore community. In her previous role as Assistant City Manager, she worked closely with city staff and residents to enhance the quality of life in Fillmore. Her dedication to public service and her desire to implement the City Council’s vision for the city’s future make her an excellent choice to lead Fillmore forward.

In response to her appointment, Erika expressed her gratitude and enthusiasm: “I am deeply honored and humbled by the City Council’s trust in me to serve as Fillmore’s City Manager. This community holds a special place in my heart, and I remain fully committed to working tirelessly to enhance the quality of life for our residents, support our dedicated staff, and advance the Council’s goals and policies. It is a privilege to lead this incredible city, and I look forward to continuing our efforts to foster a thriving and vibrant community.”

Erika’s heartfelt message to the community reflects her genuine passion for Fillmore and its residents. The City Council is confident that under her leadership, Fillmore will continue to thrive and achieve its goals.

Fillmore’s Mayor, Christina Villasenor, stated: “In the four plus years I’ve been on the City Council, Erika’s professionalism, thoroughness and dedication to improving the City’s functioning and accountability for the benefit of our residents has been crystal clear. I’m thrilled for the City that Erika will continue to be at the helm of our day-to-day operations as we progress and strive to provide the best local government services to our community and vision for our future.

City Attorney Tiffany Israel commented: “The appointment of Erika Herrera-Terriquez as Fillmore’s new City Manager marks an exciting new chapter for Fillmore. Her extensive experience in public administration and commitment to serve the community will be invaluable in driving progress and ensuring effective leadership. I look forward to working with Erika to support the city’s growth and success.”

For additional information, please contact, Tiffany Israel

Please visit www.fillmoreca.gov and follow us on Facebook, Instagram, Twitter, and LinkedIn.

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Community Contact: Name: Tiffany Israel Title: City Attorney Phone: 949-250-5411
Email: tisrael@awattorneys.com

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Ventura County Search and Rescue K9 (VCSARK9) brings “Hug A Tree and Survive” Program to Santa Paula Boys and Girls Club and Fillmore Boys and Girls Club

In January Team Members Lisa Hammond and Virginia Feyh (and her K9s Velvet and Huck) and volunteers Linda Munday and Angel Esquivel of the Ventura County Search and Rescue K9 Team (VCSARK9) came to talk to the kids (and adults) about the program “Hug A Tree and Survive”.

VCSARK9 is a 501c3 nonprofit organization dedicated to the development, training and deployment of high performance, volunteer canine teams which will in turn effectively assist in the search and rescue or search and recovery of missing persons.

Hug-A-Tree and Survive was developed in the United States following the search for Jimmy Beveridge in 1981, and was first adapted for Canadian use by the RCMP. It was updated by the National Search and Rescue Secretariat (NSS) and the SAR Volunteer Association of Canada (SARVAC) in 2015 with new videos and activities to support program delivery. Hug-a-Tree and Survive is an AdventureSmart program that helps lost children survive in the woods. It teaches children how not to become lost in the woods, and what to do should they become lost. If a child should become lost in the woods, hugging a tree can help them stay safe, and be found. Staying near a tree offers some protection from the elements, and keeps lost children in the same place, which makes it easier for searchers to find them. The presentation included a short video presentation, discussion about the 4 rules to help keep children safe, and a demonstration with one of the dogs training to be on the VCSARK9 Team, Velvet and Huck, both Redbone [!@#$] Hounds.

The Hug-a-Tree Rules

Hug-A-Tree and Survive emphasizes four key rules to keeping children safe:
TELL AN ADULT WHERE YOU ARE GOING.

Always tell your parents, or another trusted adult where you are going, who you are going with, and when you will be back. You can do this in person, over the phone, through a text message, or by leaving a note in a place they will see it.
IF YOU ARE LOST, “HUG-A-TREE” AND STAY PUT.

A tree can help protect you from the elements while you’re outdoors, and most importantly, keep you in one place. Depending on where you are, there may not always be a tree. Perhaps your “tree” can be a large rock or bench at a park, or a sales counter at a mall. No matter what your landmark is, it is important to stay put, in order to stay safe.

KEEP WARM AND DRY

Temperatures change throughout the day, and can drop at night. Even if you are warm during the day, keep your jacket handy for night time. If you get cold, put on an extra layer, pull up your hood or put on your hat if you have one, tuck your shirt in, tuck pant legs into your socks, and zip up your jacket. You can also keep warm by building a nest to keep you off the ground, or by using an emergency shelter.

HELP SEARCHERS FIND YOU BY ANSWERING THEIR CALLS.

Whether searchers are parents, police officers, or SAR volunteers, remember they just want to get you home safely. Answer back to their calls by making noise and signaling (remember that whistle!), so you can be heard and seen. Make sure to leave lots of footprints and clues, so searchers can follow your tracks to find you.

While designed for the outdoors, these rules are easily transferable to other places including sporting events, shopping malls, public parks, urban areas, and much more! Together, these core points work to ensure kids have the knowledge and training needed to safely enjoy the outdoors, and their communities.

For more information about the “Hug A Tree and Survive” program go to https://www.adventuresmart.ca/programs/hug-a-tree-and-survive/. For more information about VCSARK9 go to www.vcsark9.org. This presentation was funded by a grant from the California Fire Foundation https://www.cafirefoundation.orgwhat-we-do/for-grant-seekers