Lynda Miller

Tuesday's Fillmore Unified School District (FUSD) Board Meeting began with recognition of Lynda Miller, President and Founder of Support for the Kids. Miller has dedicated 20 years to charitable organization work helping children and families. Superintendent Dr. Adrian Palazuelos introduced Miller stating, "Lynda Miller has touched a lot of lives here in Fillmore." Fillmore Middle School Principal Scott Carroll referred to her as an angel saying, "She's been a model for giving." Other statements were equally praising Miller's dedication saying, "It is wonderful to know there's someone out there so giving and supportive to kids and families time and time again." Testimonies were given of the wide range of support and offerings Miller has given to the community such as stoves, beds, clothes and more for those in need.

Miller responded stating, "Thank you for the recognition. There is nothing greater than giving someone a helping hand." She continued stating that it would not have been possible without the support of her husband Gary Miller, "Without him nothing could have happened."

The first item discussed was a grant presented by Assistant Superintendent Andrea McNeill. FUSD received $287,513 in grant money which is part of the $500 million in one-time monies called the "Educator Effectiveness Block Grant. School districts may use the funding for specific professional development activities such as beginning teacher and administrator support, coaching, support for improvement, professional development, promoting teacher quality and effectiveness. $137,200 equates to $700 per teacher for preparedness for Common Core, Cooperative Learning, English Language Development and other needs, with the remaining $150,313 being used for Literacy Coaches.

The next item discussed was the AVID Program (Advancement Via Individual Determination) presented by Director Charice Guerra. AVID is a 501c3 nonprofit established in 1980 that provides strategies for encouraging and promoting a path to college for underrepresented students. Fillmore High School, with 122 students in the program, has had the program for a number of years and Fillmore Middle School, with 64 students in the program, recently reinstated it on its campus.

Fillmore High School senior Luis Landeros, who is part of the program, spoke of his future goals of studying engineering in college through grants and scholarships. Destiny Zavala, an 11th grader and also part of the program, spoke of her college goals majoring in either the medical field or journalism.

The last item discussed was Core/Basic Materials presented by Assistant Superintendent Martha Hernandez. The materials discussed was the need for new textbooks. "We are really very behind," Hernandez told the Board. There are a number of new AP classes that need new textbook and other classes that have outdated textbooks. For the new classes; AP Statistics will be issued "The Practice of Statistics," AP Environmental Science will be issued "Living in the Environment" and AP Psychology will be issued.

Other textbooks that are being replaced; AP US History will be issued (new) "American Pageant," AP European History will be issued "Western Civilization" and Native Speakers 2 will be issued "!Ven conmigo! Nuevas Vistas Curso Dos." The new textbooks will be on display for public viewing in the FUSD Boardroom for 30 days.

In final discussions Palazuelos informed everyone that there are presently three new math programs being piloted at Fillmore Middle School.

An action taken and approved was Board Members Sean Morris and Scott Beylik were appointed to the Long-Range Facilities Master Plan Steering Committee for a term of one year.

In a continuing effort to help women advance their education, the local Fillmore chapter of P.E.O. (Philanthropic Education Organization) will be offering financial awards this spring. To be eligible, you must be a woman who attends or has been accepted to an accredited undergraduate degree program or a vocational/skills training program, live within the 93015 Zip code area, and have at least a 3.5 grade point average. Anyone interested should contact the College and Career Center if you are a student at Fillmore or Sierra High School or contact Patricia Morris at morrisp905@gmail.com. The deadline for application is March 6, 2016.

Mike Wolfe, Frank Fritz, and their team are excited to return to California! They plan to film episodes of the hit series AMERICAN PICKERS throughout California with filming scheduled for March.

AMERICAN PICKERS is a documentary series that explores the fascinating world of antique ‘picking’ on History. The hit show follows Mike Wolfe and Frank Fritz, two of the most skilled pickers in the business, as they hunt for America’s most valuable antiques--from motorcycles, classic cars and bicycles, to one-of-a-kind vintage memorabilia.

As they hit the back roads from coast to coast, Mike and Frank continue their mission to recycle America by rescuing forgotten relics and giving them a new lease on life, while learning a thing or two about American history along the way.

AMERICAN PICKERS is looking for leads and would love to explore your buried treasure. They are on the hunt for characters with interesting and unique items. Some of what they look for: vintage bicycles, toys, unusual radios, movie memorabilia, advertising, military items, folk art, pre-50’s western gear, early firefighting equipment, vintage musical equipment, automotive items, and clothing. They are always excited to find things they’ve never seen before and learn the story behind it.

If you or someone you know has a large, private collection send us your: name, phone number, location and description of the collection with photos to: americanpickers@cineflix.com or call 855-old-rust.

California Department of Public Health (CDPH) Director and State Public Health Officer Dr. Karen Smith today advised that although there is no evidence of mosquitoes carrying Zika virus in California, people should always take steps to avoid mosquito bites, including removing standing water and wearing insect repellant when necessary. Californians should also be advised of international travel alerts for the countries where Zika virus is circulating.

“Although no one has contracted Zika virus in California, mosquito bites can still be harmful and the public should take steps to protect themselves,” said Dr. Smith. “Help reduce the risk of mosquito bites by removing standing water from around your home and wearing mosquito repellant when appropriate.”

As of Jan. 29, 2016, there are six confirmed cases of Zika virus in California, all of which were contracted when traveling in other countries with Zika virus outbreaks in 2013 (1), 2014 (3) and 2015 (2). CDPH will continue monitoring for any confirmed cases in California and will provide weekly updates every Friday. To protect patient confidentiality, specific locations of infected patients cannot be disclosed.

Zika virus is primarily transmitted to people by Aedes aegypti and Aedes albopictus mosquitoes, the same mosquitoes that can transmit dengue and chikungunya viruses. These mosquitoes — which are not native to California — have been identified in 12 California counties, although there are no known cases where the mosquitoes were carrying the Zika virus in this state. The six confirmed cases of Zika virus in California were acquired in other countries.

The Centers for Disease Control and Prevention (CDC) have issued a travel alert (Level 2-Practice Enhanced Precautions) for people traveling to regions and certain countries where Zika virus transmission is ongoing: American Samoa, Brazil, Colombia, Costa Rica, Curacao, El Salvador, French Guiana, Guatemala, Haiti, Honduras, Martinique, Mexico, Nicaragua, Panama, Paraguay, Suriname, Venezuela and Puerto Rico.

People traveling to these and other countries with known Zika virus risk should take steps to avoid being bitten by mosquitoes, including:

• Use insect repellents containing DEET, picaridin, IR3535, oil of lemon eucalyptus, or para-menthane-diol for long lasting protection. If you use both sunscreen and insect repellent, apply the sunscreen first and then the repellent. Pregnant women and women who are breastfeeding can and should choose an EPA-registered insect repellent and use it according to the product label
• Wear long-sleeved shirts and long pants
• Use air conditioning or window/door screens to keep mosquitoes outside. If you are not able to protect yourself from mosquitoes inside your home or hotel, sleep under a mosquito bed net
• Help reduce the number of mosquitoes outside by emptying standing water from containers such as flowerpots or buckets

The CDC and CDPH have also issued guidance for pregnant women recommending they avoid countries where Zika virus is circulating. Pregnant women who cannot avoid travel to these countries should talk to their health care provider and take steps to avoid mosquito bites. The CDC and CDPH have also provided guidance for physicians on the evaluation of pregnant women and infants who may have been exposed to Zika virus.

Most people infected with Zika virus will not develop symptoms. If symptoms do develop, they are usually mild and include fever, rash and eye redness. If you have returned from an affected country and have fever with joint pain, rash within two weeks, or any other symptoms following your return; please contact your medical provider and tell the doctor where you have traveled. While there is no specific treatment for Zika virus disease, the best recommendations are supportive care, rest, fluids and fever relief.

There is concern that Zika virus may be transferred from a pregnant woman to her baby during pregnancy or delivery. Preliminary reports suggest that Zika virus may cause microcephaly (abnormal fetal brain development). This possibility has not been confirmed and is being actively investigated. CDPH has requested that health care providers report suspected Zika virus disease or associated conditions of microcephaly to local health departments. Local health departments will report cases to CDPH, which is coordinating referral of any specimens to CDC for diagnostic testing.

For more information on Zika virus disease and other mosquito-borne illnesses, please visit the CDPH Zika virus information webpage. www.cdph.ca.gov

Ventura County Sheriff's Department

The Fillmore Girls Softball/T-Ball League offers players, ages four and one-half to sixteen, living within the Fillmore, Piru, and Santa Paula communities to participate in a softball program. The goal of the program is to instill and develop good sportsmanship, discipline, teamwork, and leadership; all excellent qualities our youth need to build along with self-confidence and a strong sense of community.

Sometime between January 14, 2016, at 7:00 pm and January 16, at 9:50 am, unknown person(s) broke a latch to a storage container at Shiells Park and stole several articles of sporting equipment used by the league. Some of the property stolen included three sets of brand new “Easton” catcher’s gear, two five gallon buckets of softballs, and three 100-foot long extension cords.

The Fillmore Police Department is asking for help to track down the softball gear and to apprehend the person(s) responsible for this crime against the community. If you have any information, please contact Detective Javier Chavez at the Fillmore Police Station or any deputy you may encounter. You may remain anonymous and your information will remain confidential.

Nature of Incident: Burglary of Fillmore’s Girls Softball/T-Ball League Equipment
Report Number: Report Number 16-7664
Location: Shiells Park, 649 C Street, Fillmore
Date & Time: Between January 14, 2016 at 7:00 pm and January 16,2016 at 9:50 am
Unit(s) Responsible: Ventura County Sheriff’s Office - Fillmore / Santa Clara Valley Station
(S)uspects, (V)ictims, (P)arty, (D)ecedent City of Residence Age
(V) Fillmore Girls Softball/T-Ball League
Prepared by: Detective Javier Chavez
Media Release Date: January 22, 2016
Follow-Up Contact: Detective Javier Chavez, Fillmore Sheriff’s Station
805-524-2233; Javier.chavez@ventura.org
Approved by: Captain Dave Wareham

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).

Former FUSD Board Member Dave Wilde raised questions of bullying and harassment by “two council members [who] had issues with Rigo and that both resorted to harassment and bullying to resolve their differences”. Wilde read an open statement during public forum at Tuesday’s council meeting.

The Fillmore City Council received some strong and direct wording during the public comments at their January 26, 2016 meeting. A former Fillmore Unified School District (FUSD) Board Member addressed the Council stating, "Good evening, my name is Dave Wilde and I have lived in Fillmore for approximately 40 years. Two weeks ago I would have told anyone who would listen that Fillmore has two outstanding citizens. Both are well respected and popular members of this community. One is seated in this room, the other is Rigo Landeros. I'd known Rigo since he was 14 years old. He was a former student of mine and played high school football for me. His death is both a troubling and confusing loss to both me and this community. In the short time after his death I've heard some rumors that are very alarming. The most alarming is that two council members had issues with Rigo and that both resorted to harassment and bullying to resolve their differences. If that is true, I am deeply concerned about the lack of leadership and conflict resolution skills that two of our community leaders exhibit. This lack of skill should not be tolerated because of the potential affects it could have on others in Fillmore. This community has a lot of questions about Rigo's death and what drove him to do what he did. They deserve an explanation. I spent four years on the school board and during that time I felt we had made and were making some serious mistakes. A board colleague and myself fought hard for 15 months to stop the direction we (the district) but failed until a third member joined our position. During the election process that followed, both my colleague and myself admitted we felt mistakes were made, but were glad to announce that a new superintendent was hired, positive changes were finally underway. It is hard to admit you had made mistakes and we both knew that we would be seen not as two individuals, but as a group of five. We were all equally to blame. If these rumors of bullying and harassment are true, this council, as a group of five, needs to reflect and take ownership for addressing the questions this community has in regard to Rigo's death. It is what we should expect from our civic leaders."

The meeting began with two Proclamations. The first was presented to Laura Bartels, for outstanding leadership in her efforts in the donation of 700 new winter coats during the holiday season for those in need in the community. Bartels started the coat drive several years ago, and also volunteers for the Santa Clarita Valley Legal Aid. Bartels responded, "It's a real community effort" saying a special thanks to Max Pina, Rigo Landeros and others.

Next to receive a Proclamation was Big Brothers and Big Sisters of Ventura County in recognition of National Mentors Month. Mentor Amelia Aparicio spoke of the value of mentoring and importance it plays in reaching a child's potential, "There are 147 mentors at Fillmore High School who volunteer a minimum of one hour per week and some three time per week....the youngest mentored is 6 years old and goes up to 18 years...we give them (the mentors) different resources...to let them know what's available in our community."

A Comprehensive Annual Financial Report on the City's finances was presented by Charles De Simoni CPA and Scott W. Manno CPA, CGMA with Rogers Anderson Melody & Scoll, LLP. "It's important that the public have an understanding of the process," Simoni explained. To test for internal controls entails the accountants scour through council minutes reviewing appropriation reports to assure the public that the city is in compliance with regulations and money is being spent properly. The process takes three months to compile.

In new business the Council addressed preparing a response to a FEMA Map Revision. Roxanne C. Hughes, PE with Willdan Engineering addressed the Council on the revised model of the Santa Clara River asking for public input regarding the flood mapping. Mayor Diane McCall asked if the Heritage Valley Levy had been accredited. Hughes responded, "It's not accredited yet, it is being worked on."

Other new business was the increase on assessments for eight sub-zones within the Landscape and Lighting District No 2. There are 24 zones with 8 operating in a deficit requiring a ballot process to approve levy increases. Cost have increased 2-3% each year in lighting, water and landscape maintenance. Ballots will be mailed out the first week in February to start the 45 day ballot time period and will be tabulated to complete the process at the March 22nd Council meeting.

Questions were asked through emails and directly to the city if there were too many trees planted. Council Member Douglas Tucker responded that city planning requires the planting of trees, but that a developer planted extra trees for the aesthetic value and was suppose to remove them. But, the developer is no longer involved.
Some have questioned extending the recycled water lines and upgrading to more efficient lamps in the fixtures such as LED. Council agreed to consider such things.

The last of new business was disbanding the Sheriff's Contract Negotiating Ad-Hoc Committee. When discussed, Mayor ProTem Carrie Broggie stated "It's a done deal." To which Tucker responded, "Actually it's not." A vote was taken with McCall, Broggie and Council Member Manuel Minjares voting "Yes" and Tucker only "No" vote (Council Member Rick Neal was not in attendance).

During final comments City Manager David Rowlands commented on the good relationship between FUSD and the City adding that there is now a Fillmore High School Water Polo Team and thanked all those involved in the tribute to Fire Chief Rigo Landeros.

Minjares commented of a problem between the City Council and City Staff. McCall added that the City Council should be included in the staff training sessions. Broggie agreed that the training sessions could improve the Council and staff relationship.

Enlarge Photo

The Fillmore Explorer post #2958 recently competed in the Chandler Explorer Tactical Competition in Chandler, Arizona on January 15, 2016.

The Explorers are a group of young people aged fourteen to twenty one, who are in the ninth grade or above, and have an interest in law enforcement. As explorers they participate in ride-alongs with Ventura County Sheriff’s Deputies, assist with community events and are involved in community outreach. The explorer program helps build strong leadership and communication skills that are crucial in today’s society. The explorer program helps prepare individuals to succeed in all of their current and future endeavors.

The Chandler Tactical Explorer Competition is put on every year by the Chandler Police Department, in Chandler, Arizona. Most events were scenario based, meaning that the explorers were presented with situations and they had to resolve the situation with the tools that were provided. Some of which are: Marijuana Field Raid, 5 Man Hostage Rescue Team, 10 Man High Risk Warrant. These scenarios were graded on the teams overall teamwork, leadership, and execution. The other types of events that the explorers participated in were a three mile run, five and ten man swat truck pull, and the tactical relay.

At the tactical competition, the explorers participated in a plethora of events. The post placed in three events. They received a third place trophy for the five man swat truck pull. In addition, they received a second place trophy for the Shoot/Don’t Shoot scenario and Sr. Explorer Isaiah Galvez placed fifth in the explorer pistol shoot.

If you have any interest in joining the explorer program you are welcome to attend the weekly Tuesday meetings that take place at Sierra High School at 5 PM. There will be a recruiting period in the month of February, 2016, accepting any males or females ages 14 to 21 that have completed the 8th grade. We encourage all who are interested to join the explorer program.

Prepared by: Explorer Sergeant Nicholas Bartels and Explorer Senior Danielle Ramirez

The Fillmore & Western Railroad (F&W), with the sound of its whistle and the sight of the tourists waving as the train crosses Highway 126, is now part of Fillmore and the charm that brings both tourism and new residents to town. But there is a legal battle that continues between Ventura Country Transportation Commission (VCTC) and F&W over the cost of maintenance that has left the future of the railroad in question.

Back in 2001 a 20-year maintenance contract between F&W and VCTC was agreed upon that stated VCTC would pay to maintain the tracks and that F&W could renegotiate some terms and conditions every three years. The contract was renegotiated in 2007 where it was agreed VCTC would pay $321,000 per year for F&W for maintenance.

There are six and a half years remaining on the original contract with both parties disagreeing for years on exactly what the contract represents. VCTC has a claim against F&W stating they have not fulfilled their part of the contract and a breach has occurred. The claim states the lines/track have not been maintained properly. F&W countered that railroad signals and crossings are not line maintenance and are VCTC responsibility. Superior Court Judge Rebecca Riley delayed the eviction until the latest appeal is resolved, which to date is in its fourteenth year of legal wrangling. Both parties will be back in court the second week of February as the battle continues.

The contract states that F&W will maintain the 30-mile rail line of track that runs from Ventura to the Los Angeles County line east of Piru. It was agreed that F&W would do the service maintenance, but not the cost of capital repairs; which F&W billed VCTC separately. The question of what is considered a capital repair created a huge difference of opinion between the two which VCTC maintains F&W is responsible for both. VCTC, which owns the line, has been trying to evict F&W and stopped paying for track maintenance in 2013, saying the line is too costly for the county to maintain.

F&W owner Dave Wilkinson disputes VCTC claims and maintains VCTC must honor the legal binding contract. Wilkinson, who said he has invested $2 million in F&W explained that maintenance is only part the cost of operating trains; there is also the cost of replacing parts and paying for fuel and oil that F&W pays for along with employees to run the train. According to Wilkinson VCTC is trying to force F&W out of business, "We have suffered such losses....Thomas the Train won't return until this legal court business in over....we've lost all our tour buses, and so many people think the train is shut down they don't bother coming."

The problems began years back when the VCTC hired So Pack Rail to upgrade the tracks west of Santa Paula from "excepted grade" to Grade 1. Excepted grade is the lowest of train track grades and trains must travel under 10 mph with no passengers, only freight. Grade 1 allows trains to travel 15 mph with or without passengers.

The track previously Excepted Grade, had been maintained by Southern Pacific Railroad. After the upgrade, Southern Pacific refused to maintain the Grade 1 track due to the increase in labor and added cost. Grade 1 requires the tracks be inspected two times per week, whereas the Excepted Grade requires only one inspection a week; basically half the labor.

At that time, the part of track running to the east, between Santa Paula and Fillmore, was being maintained by F&W and VCTC could not find a company to maintain the track north of Santa Paula. That was when, in 2001, VCTC went into the 20 year service maintenance contract with F&W to maintain the full 30 miles of track. Wilkinson maintains the contract does not cover the cost of capital repairs; which F&W billed VCTC separately. The capital repairs are such things as train signals and crossing guard rails.

Wilkinson is also dealing with Homeland Security, as worries of track maintenance and tampering by terrorists has become an even bigger issue. "They (Homeland Security) just contacted me last week. They do about four times a year now," Wilkinson stated, "That doesn't bother me."

At present Speers Plastic, which manufactures artificial turf and a large amount of irrigation, plumbing and fire protection products, is hauling freight on the Montalvo to Santa Paula line. The plant where the plastic are manufactured and shipped is still being upgraded and there is a likely need of the use of the track in the future.

Fillmore & Western's trains, trestles and railway line have been featured in more than 300 commercials, TV shows and films and have put both towns on the map as filming locations. According to Wilkinson his collection of antique trains is the largest in the country, maybe the world. That in itself adds value to tourism in both towns.

Both Santa Paula and Fillmore residents enjoy the charm the trains bring to their town and are cheering for success in court and a future of continuing to have the trains stay in their town.

American Red Cross of Ventura County

The American Red Cross encourages blood donors to make an appointment to give this winter. Eligible blood donors of all types are needed, especially those with O, AB, B negative and A negative.

Blood is needed to respond to emergencies large and small, across the country every day. For Heather Von Glahn, it was a personal emergency – her 8-year-old daughter’s leukemia diagnosis – that inspired her to make the commitment to give blood regularly. “I’ve seen blood save her life at least 10 times,” said Von Glahn. “When friends and family ask what they can do for my daughter, I tell them to donate blood. It matters so much!”

Blood donations are needed now and throughout the winter to maintain a sufficient blood supply for patients in need. Make an appointment to donate blood by downloading the free Red Cross Blood Donor App, visiting redcrossblood.org or calling 1-800-RED CROSS (1-800-733-2767).

American Red Cross Woodland Hills Donation Center
6338 Variel Ave.
Woodland Hills, Calif. 91367

Monday and Tuesday: 12:00 p.m. – 7:00 p.m.
Friday: 7:30 a.m. – 2:30 p.m.
Saturday: 7:00 a.m. – 2:00 p.m.

Additional blood donation opportunities:

Oxnard
2/8/2016: 8 a.m. - 2 p.m., Oxnard Fire Department Headquarters, 360 W. 2nd Street

Simi Valley
2/12/2016: 1 p.m. - 7 p.m., Rancho Santa Suzanna Community Center, 5005-C Los Angeles Ave

Thousand Oaks
2/1/2016: 1 p.m. - 7 p.m., Thousand Oaks Inn, 75 W Thousand Oaks Blvd
2/10/2016: 1 p.m. - 7 p.m., Thousand Oaks Inn, 75 W Thousand Oaks Blvd

Ventura
2/2/2016: 9 a.m. - 3 p.m., Ventura Museum, 100 E Main St

How to donate blood
Simply download the American Red Cross Blood Donor App, visit redcrossblood.org or call 1-800-RED CROSS (1-800-733-2767) to make an appointment or for more information. All blood types are needed to ensure a reliable supply for patients. A blood donor card or driver’s license or two other forms of identification are required at check-in. Individuals who are 17 years of age (16 with parental consent in some states), weigh at least 110 pounds and are in generally good health may be eligible to donate blood. High school students and other donors 18 years of age and younger also have to meet certain height and weight requirements.

Blood donors can now save time at their next donation by using RapidPass to complete their pre-donation reading and health history questionnaire online, on the day of their donation, prior to arriving at the blood drive. To get started and learn more, visit redcrossblood.org/RapidPass and follow the instructions on the site.

About the American Red Cross
The American Red Cross shelters, feeds and provides emotional support to victims of disasters; supplies about 40 percent of the nation’s blood; teaches skills that save lives; provides international humanitarian aid; and supports military members and their families. The Red Cross is a not-for-profit organization that depends on volunteers and the generosity of the American public to perform its mission. For more information, please visit redcross.org or visit us on Twitter at @RedCross.

Video clips courtesy Sebastian Ramirez, Andrew Castel de Oro, and Scott Duckett.
[Editor's note: The Gazette did not want any ads to appear in this video. Any ads that appear in this video do so beyond our control. A YouTube user has claimed copyright ownership of the bagpipes song "Going Home" and YouTube is displaying ads on their behalf.]

Fillmore Unified School District

The first Fillmore Unified School District (FUSD) Board Meeting of the 2016-2017 school year began with heartfelt eulogy by Board President Virginia de la Piedra addressing the loss of Fire Chief Rigo Landeros, "If you knew him, you knew he impacted your life." She spoke of Landeros' positive impact on Fillmore and the board members themselves. Board Member Sean Morris spoke of how their paths had crossed at Rotary Club where Morris was President just before Landeros took over that position. Landeros was very helpful when two Rotary Clubs merged and "strong minds" were present stating "Rigo always showed concern....he'd be there, he'd help you." Board Member Lucy Rangel said she remembers having Landeros as a 6th grade student and that you just knew he was going places and how he will be missed. Superintendent Dr. Adrian Palazuelos commented that Landeros was the first person to introduce him to Fillmore and remarked of his genuine honesty and warmth. At the end of giving their thoughts, de la Piedra asked everyone in the room to stand for a minute of silence in recognition. As the meeting continued, de la Piedra holding back tears and visibly upset, Palazuelos stepped up for a few minutes until de la Piedra gained her composure and she continued chairing the meeting.

The first item presented was recognition of Fillmore High School Drama Class teacher Josh Overton and his students Fatima Bazurto, Israel Brooks, Trysten Riddle and Nicholas Podada for their 2015 performance of The Rainmaker. Also recognized, but not in attendance were Blake Paloiso and Rachel Rivera.

During the Superintendent Report Palazuelos spoke of the resources coming from Sacramento, which he stated are good at present, but the coming years may be lean. Palazuelos emphasized that money must be reserved for the possibility of "resources getting tight" and the need to prioritize..."Right now things are positive, but that could change in a minute."

In the Governor's CONTINUED »

Ventura County Sheriff's Department

The Honda Accord is the most frequently stolen vehicle in the United States according to the National Insurance Crime Bureau in their 2015 annual “Hot Wheels Report.” The Honda Civic is #2 on their list.

On January 15, 2016, at 4:55 AM, deputies patrolling on Highway 126, east of Wells Road, saw two vehicles on the right side of the shoulder. The deputies stopped to render assistance and investigate but shortly thereafter, they realized one of the vehicles was an unreported stolen Honda from the city of Oxnard.

As deputies attempted to contact the two subjects, Omar Martinez, 20 of Fillmore, attempted to drive way from the scene in his vehicle, which had a flat tire. Deputies briefly chased Martinez but due to the condition of his vehicle, he was unable to maintain control and collided into the center guardrail a short distance away. He was detained by the deputies.

Multiple car keys for Honda vehicles were found attached to the ignition of the second vehicle, a Honda Accord being driven by Daniel Mendoza, 18 of Fillmore. The Honda Mendoza was driving was registered to an address in the city of Oxnard. Neither Mendoza nor Martinez was able to provide the name of the registered owner.

Based on the suspicion that the Honda driven by Mendoza may be stolen, deputies contacted officers with the Oxnard Police Department, who in turn contacted the registered owner. The registered owner confirmed that the vehicle was stolen.

Martinez and Mendoza were arrested and booked for grand theft of a vehicle, conspiracy to commit a crime, and possession of burglary tools. Both were booked at the Main Jail in Ventura.

Prepared by: Detective Javier Chavez

United Blood Services has upgraded it’s “blood mobile”, a familiar sight in the area, with a brand new unit. The new blood mobile was especially built and configured to United Blood Services specifications and is designed for the lifesaving work they do everyday. It has a very specialized lay-out and specific technical equipment to conduct even more efficient blood drives than the older unit. The space was designed for optimal blood donor use and low physical effort for donors regardless of donor size or posture.

United Blood Services new blood mobile will be out and about in the community effective immediately at blood drives being held at high schools, places of worship, businesses, special events and more! In fact, this new blood mobile will travel to 350+ community blood drives in 2016 to collect blood from United Blood Services fabulous volunteer blood donors.

Nearly, 60% of the blood collected in the Ventura & Santa Barbara area comes from community blood drives. Having this new state of the art blood mobile to hold blood drives in will become an even greater tool in having blood available to hospital patients when needed. Donors are encouraged to tour the bus at one of many blood drives happening in the area. Donors can make an appointment for an area blood drive by calling 877-827-4376 or by going online at www.Blood4Life.org and clicking on “Donate Blood” and typing in their zip code to find a list of drives nearby. Appointments are appreciated, but not necessary. Walk-ins are welcome, and will be honored. Much needed blood donations may also be made at our Ventura Center on 2223 Eastman Ave or our Santa Barbara Center on 4213 State Street.

Those who are age 16 and older, weigh at least 110 pounds and are in good health, can likely donate. Additional height and weight requirements apply for donors age 22 and younger. Donors who are age 16, will need a parent permission slip to donate (which can be obtained online at www.UnitedBloodServices.org).

Sammy is a Black male, 11 years old, 4’11” tall, 70 pounds, with black hair and brown eyes.

The Ventura County Sheriff’s Office needs the public’s help finding Sammy Evans, who has been missing since the night of January 16, 2016.

On January 16, 2016, Sammy's mother contacted the Ventura County Sheriff's Office and reported Sammy missing. Sammy has a medical condition and requires daily medication. Sammy was last seen by family members on January 16, 2016, at about 9:00 PM.

Sammy is a Black male, 11 years old, 4’11” tall, 70 pounds, with black hair and brown eyes.

It is currently unknown how Sammy may be dressed.

Sammy's family and the Ventura County Sheriff’s Office are concerned for Sammy’s safety and are asking for the public’s help in locating him. Anyone with information on Sammy’s whereabouts is asked to contact Deputy Scott Baugher at (805) 797-6353 or the Ventura County Sheriff’s Office Dispatch Center at (805) 654-9511.

Nature of Incident: At Risk Missing Juvenile
Report Number: 16-8028
Location: Tree Ranch Rd, Upper Ojai area
Date & Time: 01/17/16 @ 0900 hrs
Unit(s) Responsible: Ventura County Sheriff's Office and Upper Ojai Search and Rescue
(S)uspects, (V)ictims, (P)arty, (D)ecedent City of Residence Age
Sammy Evans Upper Ojai 11
Prepared by: Deputy Scott Baugher
News Release Date: January 17, 2016
Media Follow-Up Contact: Deputy Scott Baugher
805-797-6353
scott.baugher@ventura.org
Approved by: Captain Kenney

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).

[The following article was first printed in The Fillmore Gazette on July 18, 2013, in recognition of Fillmore Fire Chief Rigo Landeros. We are running it again in tribute to a good man.]

Tribute to a Good Man
There are many “Only in Fillmore” and “Hometown boy makes good” stories to recount, but the one about Fillmore's own Rigo Landeros deserves mention in both those categories! If I didn't live in Fillmore and personally know Rigo for over 20 years I would be suspicious myself that in today's environment anyone would be asked to do what he was asked to do; or that he could accomplish what he did these past 11 months as interim city manager. But to really understand how this happened, and how it actually worked, you really have to know a little background about Rigo, Fillmore’s Fire Chief.

Except for being born in Ventura, Reguberto “Rigo” Landeros, 49 years old has lived all his life in his hometown of Fillmore. He has been educated in Fillmore Unified School District Schools; San Cayetano and Sespe Elementary Schools, Fillmore Junior High School (now Fillmore Middle School) and he graduated from Fillmore High School in 1982.

Rigo is the son of Nicholas and the late (2001) Gabriela Landeros of Fillmore. Rigo's father was a hard working family man who toiled in the orange orchards until age 70 as a laborer. Rigo is the youngest of six Landeros children; Brothers Nick 59 years of Ventura, Frannie, 56 years of Fillmore, Chris, 54 years of Fillmore and sisters Abbagail, 58 years of Pearblossom, CA, Annaberta, 52 years of Fort Wayne, Indiana and Josie, 51 years of Lancaster, CA. His father-In-Law Tom and mother-In-Law Jan Petersen also live in Fillmore.

Rigo is married to his wife of 25 years, Laura (Petersen), and together they have three children; daughter Christina Bingham, 28 years (husband Elden), living in Fillmore with Granddaughters Gabriella, 5 years and Mea, 1 month. Christina is a Chef for Garmin's Restaurant and Irish Pub in Santa Paula and Elden is employed by Gelson's Markets in the City of Commerce. Sons Daniel, 23 years of Port Hueneme is employed as a Grocery Clerk for Whole Foods in Oxnard and David, 21 years of Fillmore, who broke tradition, is a welder in Oxnard.

There are four qualities I have learned about Rigo over the years; he has fierce a love for his family, especially for his wife Laura. I have also known that he is a very hard worker and a dedicated and loyal friend and employee of the two employers I have known him to work for; Gelson's Markets and the City of Fillmore. And lastly Rigo has difficulty saying “no” to a friend, or to a good cause!

It is important to know Rigo's employment history prior to his employment with the City of Fillmore to understand how he could work under the stressful, and sometime adverse conditions that existed when he stepped up to to sit as the acting City Manager nearly one-year ago.

While still a teenager, Rigo began his career in the grocery business at the age of 14 as a means to change the direction his father had him heading. With six children to feed the Landeros Family needed everyone to chip in and contribute to the wealth of the family. As a result all were required to work in the orange orchards picking fruit and giving back their wages to help support the household. Rigo tells me he hated working in the orchards and one day while walking down Central Avenue in Fillmore he wandered into Austin's Market (formerly Segovia's and today Estrella Market), located at the corner of Main and Central and asked the owner Bill Austin for a job. Impressed with young Rigo he was hired on the spot to sweep the sawdust from the floors (sawdust was used at that time in and around the meat counters), clean the meat cutting equipment and some other general custodial duties. It was at this time he learned about customer service and developed his interest in meat cutting. Although the new job removed him from farm labor, he still was required to assist with the finances of the family, a concept that Rigo embraced.

Rigo worked at Austin's Market until about 1984 when he was hired at the Green Acres Market in Simi Valley. It was there he began a four-year apprenticeship in meat cutting. Rigo left Green Acres Market for a position at Gelson's Markets in 1988 as a meat cutter and worked for Gelson's Markets until 2009. Gelson's Market is a chain of 18 markets stretching from the Orange County city of Dana Point to Santa Barbara to the north. Gelson's Markets are known for their high quality Produce and Meat Departments as well as high quality take-home foods prepared on their premises. Gelson’s Markets and their employees are known for their gusto, can-do spirit and love of the customer. Those company traits clearly speak to Rigo's passion towards life and work, and define who Rigo is.

Throughout his tenure with Gelson's, Rigo progressively moved up the corporate ladder. He held positions as; assistant manager, then manager of the meat department. He was then placed as the supervisor of the meat departments of all of Gelson's 18 stores which eventually led him, because of his expertise, to Human Resources where he was responsible for the hiring of meat cutters for the chain. Not one to go unnoticed for his hard work and dedication Gelson's Markets again tapped Rigo to be their buyer for Gelson's meats, gourmet cheese and service deli. As their Director of Meat and Deli, Rigo traveled the world negotiating contracts with foreign processors of meat and imported cheese. In addition he was responsible for insuring the processors met the standards of the USDA (United States Department of Agriculture) before allowing their products to be sold in Gelson's Markets.

Rigo’s dream began back about the same time he decided he no longer wanted to work as a farm laborer and happened into Austin's Market. Rigo always had it in the back of his mind that he wanted to some day become a firefighter. That thought became a passion and may have started with his childhood relationship with the then Fillmore Fire Chief and neighbor Oscar Lefever. Chief Lafever was somewhat of a mentor in and around Rigo's neighborhood on Foothill and Central Avenue. In 1982 he became a Ventura County Fire Department Reserve Firefighter after completing their Fire Academy. He stayed there until 1994 when he moved to the all Volunteer Fillmore Fire Department as a volunteer firefighter and rose through the ranks as an Engineer, Captain, Assistant Chief and in 2009 he left Gelson's Markets to accept the position as Fillmore Fire Chief. Rigo told me because of his passion to become a firefighter he always held that dream close, but while at Gelson's Markets he lost sight of that passion as he worked hard within the system. Becoming the Fire Chief for the City of Fillmore rekindled that passion and met his goals as a professional firefighter.

So how does someone working in the hierarchy of a successful grocery store chain, earning a six figure salary, find himself leaving that security and taking a position within the City of Fillmore as their Fire Chief? The answer was not easy for Rigo and it was complicated. I know this personally because over the years Rigo and I have talked about the dilemma of following his passion for firefighting, or continuing to thrive at Gelson's Markets. And, I know it was a huge decision for him, and for Laura, when Rigo was presented with the opportunity to lead the Fillmore Fire Department. This would be a decision that would seriously challenge his financial ability to support his family at a time when his family's needs were increasing. It was here that Rigo told me, “Laura was the driving force for me. Laura has defined who I am today. She has always sat on the sidelines supporting me. I always knew I could do better in my life and make my parents proud of me. Laura helped me do that. But, I do apologize to her for putting her, and my family through the stress.” Rigo told me you have to have a passion for what you do. Rigo does and Laura saw and supported his passion.

Those of us living in and around the City of Fillmore are very aware of how contentious politics in Fillmore had been over recent years. When you combine that with a shrinking budget, loss of revenue sources and a pending lawsuit from a previously released fire chief, a perfect storm was about to hit Fillmore City Hall. Over time two city managers and a interim city manager came and went. A number of key department heads and employees left the City either because of budget cuts, or because of the inability of city leaders to work with their department heads, or act within the best interest of the citizens they were elected to serve. One-by-one those elected officials left office, or were voted out of office, and in 2011 Rigo found himself serving as the Fire Chief/Acting Public Works Director. This occurred after long-time Public Works Director Bert Rapp left for calmer waters and a job closer to his home in Ojai. Then in August of 2012 Yvonne Quiring, then the embattled City Manager, left her position virtually overnight, and Rigo was asked to serve as the Acting City Manager until a replacement could be found. He accepted the challenge. But, he was asked to continue to serve as the City Fire Chief and Acting Public Works Director concurrently with his now Acting City Manager duties.

If you have been following all of this Rigo was now serving as the Acting City Manager, sitting Fire Chief and Acting Public Works Director of a city functioning with half of its employees due to budget cutbacks to balance the budget, and the loss of critical department heads who left because they no longer felt supported by the elected officials, or did not feel secure in their employment tenure.

So how did Rigo find himself as the “Go-to Guy” for this rudderless ship sailing into the perfect storm? Some reasons are his extensive and highly successful corporate background, as well as an earned strong reputation for being someone who was loyal and willing to work hard. The City Council knew they had someone right in front of them who would give it his best to do it right, or die trying! They knew Rigo loved his hometown and would not fail.

There was also another reason. Rigo is also well known for not being able to say ‘no’ to anyone, or to any challenge if Rigo believes in the cause. There is not a service club or youth group that has not asked Rigo for donations of Tri-Tip from Gelson's Markets, or asked him to provide the chef services for cooking the BBQ. I know that once Rigo has committed he will deliver. Many times when he was unable to make the connection for the donated Tri-Tip, he would quietly pay for the Tri-Tip out of his own pocket and donate it so as not to disappoint those hosting the fundraiser. This would hold true for a fundraiser for the soon to be newly elected Sheriff, any 4-H, or FFA event, or even the funeral services for a friend's mother. Everyone knew Rigo could always be counted on and that is what the City of Fillmore needed.

As to how he was successful in keeping things afloat Rigo told me, “I was blessed to have the trust of the City Council. I also had the help of the City Staff to move the City forward. I was able to organize the people around me to help me succeed. All of the City Staff helped me get through it. Former Fire Chief'(s) Pat Askren and Bill Herrera did the ground work for the Fire Department so that all I had to do was continue what they had started. With a functioning Fillmore Fire Department, I could then concentrate on my Acting Public Works Director/City Manager duties.”

Rigo has affiliations in many areas of service; he was a former Fillmore Lions Club member, he is the current sitting president of the Rotary Club of Fillmore, many years of involvement with local 4-H and FFA, previous member of the Board of Directors for the City of Hope/Grocery Industry Representative, coached Little League and Youth Basketball, past Board Member of the Santa Clara Valley Wellness Foundation and past President of the 500 member California Dairy/Deli/Bakery Association. All of which has help prepare him for the challenges he has endured over the past 11 months.

As our conversation for this article was approaching a close, I commented to Rigo, that like President Obama, Rigo's hair has grown conspicuously gray almost overnight. Rigo, without comment, smiled as he looked into the side view mirror of his Fire Chief SUV, and ran his fingers through his graying hair. As he put his SUV into reverse I said to him, “I love you man!” And Rigo responded, “I love you too!”

As one member of the broad Fillmore Area Community I know I speak for many of the people living in and around Fillmore when I say thank you Rigo, and Laura, for the sacrifices they have made over the past 11 months. Those sacrifices have brought the City of Fillmore to the point where a new City Manager, Mr. David Wayne Rowlands, can confidently take the helm. I know Rigo will be there to help Mr. Rowlands succeed. Thank you Rigo for a job well done!

A Landeros Family Benefit Fund has been set up at https://www.gofundme.com/krd8tras

And a Meal Train has been established for The Landeros family https://www.mealtrain.com/trains/g0krne