Memorial Day Ceremony speaker this year is local resident, Ernie Villegas.
Memorial Day Ceremony speaker this year is local resident, Ernie Villegas.
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The Bardsdale Cemetery will hold its Memorial Day Ceremony on Monday, May 27th at 11AM.

The featured speaker this year is local resident, Ernie Villegas. Ernie is the principal owner of Villegas Public Affairs. He currently serves on the Board of the Fillmore/Piru Veterans Memorial District. Recently he was the Special Projects Manager for the City of Fillmore, responsible for Economic Development. While attending school he served in the U. S Army Reserves from 1970-1976. Ernie has more than 30 years in local government. He was Mayor and Councilman for the City of Fillmore from 2002-2006 and is the former District Director for California State Assemblyman, Jeff Gorell, having served from 2010-2014. He is a retired Public Affairs Manager for Southern California Edison, having served for 30 years. Ernie serves on various boards including the Fillmore/Piru Veterans Memorial District, the Fillmore-Piru Veterans Day committee, Ventura County Vista Real Charter Schools, the Santa Clara Valley Boys & Girls Club and El Concilio Family Services. He is also a member of American Veterans United.

He and his wife Chris have three grown sons and 10 grandchildren, all living in Ventura County. The Reverend Bob Hammond of St. Stephens Anglican Church will give the Inspirational Message.

Also assisting in the ceremony will be VFW Post 9637, Boy Scout Troop 406, Cub Scout Troop 3400 and Bill Morris. The Boy Scouts & Bardsdale 4H will put out the flags on Friday, May 24th and they will be picked up by the Bardsdale 4H on Tuesday, May 28th. After the service water and cookies will be available. Cookies are provided by Fillmore PEO.

The Board of Trustees of the Cemetery District: Greg Taylor, President, Lynda Edmonds, Secretary, Lisa Hammond, Bill Morris and newest board member Aileen Wokal would like to invite the community to this special event.

 
On Saturday, May 18, Rotary Club of Fillmore hosted a 5/10K Run & Fitness Walk. The run & fitness walk began at 8am in front of the Fillmore Unified School District. After the run, awards were given. This race is in memory of our fallen Rotarian, John Scoles, dedicated in his honor. John was an influential member of the Fillmore community, a long time Rotarian, and a former high school and collegiate athlete. He could be seen daily running throughout town. Our t-shirt design includes a runner with a J & S design to commemorate his memory. Photo credit Angel Esquivel-Firephoto_91.
On Saturday, May 18, Rotary Club of Fillmore hosted a 5/10K Run & Fitness Walk. The run & fitness walk began at 8am in front of the Fillmore Unified School District. After the run, awards were given. This race is in memory of our fallen Rotarian, John Scoles, dedicated in his honor. John was an influential member of the Fillmore community, a long time Rotarian, and a former high school and collegiate athlete. He could be seen daily running throughout town. Our t-shirt design includes a runner with a J & S design to commemorate his memory. Photo credit Angel Esquivel-Firephoto_91.
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Assistant Superintendent, Dr. Isaac Huang
Assistant Superintendent, Dr. Isaac Huang
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Fillmore Unified School District Superintendent Christine Schieferle said, “We are delighted to share that as a result of action taken at the April 2, 2024 School Board meeting, Dr. Isaac Huang was appointed as the Assistant Superintendent for Educational Services commencing on July 1, 2024.

Dr. Huang’s previous role was Director of Expanded Learning, where he spearheaded the development of innovative programs and expanded learning opportunities for all students in our district. In October, Dr. Huang was asked to fill an interim appointment as Assistant Superintendent of Education Services where he quickly transitioned to fill that vacant seat. His transition was smooth as he quickly acclimated to keep all functions of Education Services key initiatives successfully moving forward. He has proved to be a valuable leader in FUSD where he is dedicated to supporting our educational programs.
With an extensive two-decade career in education, Dr. Huang has consistently prioritized meeting the holistic needs of students, encompassing their academic, social-emotional, and physical well-being. His dedication to the field of education spans the entire educational spectrum, from early childhood education to adult learning.

Dr. Huang is a strong advocate for instilling growth mindsets and fostering a culture of active learners rather than passive students. He places a significant emphasis on equity and diversity, exemplified by his participation in the Inaugural Equity Task Force of the Conejo Valley Unified School District. In his free time, Dr. Huang dedicates himself to serving others through his involvement with the CALSA (California Association of Latino Superintendents and Administrators) Mentoring Committee. He also holds the position of Past-President and is a founding member of CAAPLE (California Association of Asian Pacific Leaders in Education).

Furthermore, Dr. Huang is an active board member of the California Association for Supervision and Curriculum Development (CASCD), an organization committed to promoting exemplary practices that ensure all learners reach their fullest potential. His dedication to educational leadership extends beyond his professional duties, reflecting his commitment to driving positive change in education.

Dr. Huang’s educational achievements include a Doctor of Education degree from USC, a Master of Arts degree in Education Administration from California State University Los Angeles, and a Bachelor of Arts degree in Child Development from California State University Northridge.

His professional journey commenced as a preschool educator and progressed to become an elementary school teacher. He subsequently served as a Teacher on Special Assignment (TOSA) with a focus on curriculum and second language acquisition. Dr. Huang has also contributed his expertise by teaching at Rose City Continuation High School in Pasadena and instructing post-secondary candidates in the MAT Program at the University of Southern California as an Adjunct Professor.
In administrative roles, Dr. Huang has served as a site administrator at both the elementary and middle school levels. Notably, he served as the principal and lead educator at Madrona Elementary in the Conejo Valley Unified School District. His remarkable contributions were acknowledged by CALSA, which named him the 2021 Statewide Site Administrator of the Year for his unwavering dedication to creating a community that fosters innovative and equitable learning opportunities for the students they serve.

We look forward to Dr. Huang’s continued leadership as Assistant Superintendent of Educational Services.”

 
The Fillmore Unified School District and the City of Fillmore hosted a Health & Wellness Fair on Saturday, May 18, from 10am-1pm, in front of the school district office, 627 Sespe Avenue. The event offered many different booths promoting health and wellness tips, tricks and resources for all who may have needed them. Thank you to all who came out to support! Photo credit Angel Esquivel-Firephoto_91.
The Fillmore Unified School District and the City of Fillmore hosted a Health & Wellness Fair on Saturday, May 18, from 10am-1pm, in front of the school district office, 627 Sespe Avenue. The event offered many different booths promoting health and wellness tips, tricks and resources for all who may have needed them. Thank you to all who came out to support! Photo credit Angel Esquivel-Firephoto_91.
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It was Homerun Derby Day at the Fillmore Little League fields on Saturday, May 18, 2024. It’d been a fantastic year for Little League Baseball; so much mighty talent, and drive for hometown baseball. Pictured, Shane Morger, of Fillmore’s Bunnin Chevrolet, who drove up to the field sporting a $500 check to help continue in their sponsorship with the league, along with extra-large boxes full of equipment to help keep the costs down.  Chevrolet and Little League Baseball have a long relationship of supporting youth. Prior to driving over to the fields, Shane made a stop to support the Rotary 5k, 10k run and last weekend we saw him at FWSC Casino Night. He was having a blast at the roulette table! Fillmore Little League and their sponsors work hand-in-hand to ensure the program continues to run smoothly and grow, just like our little hometown. Thank you, Bunnin Chevrolet, Leo Bunnin and Shane Morger, along with the rest of the team, for continuing to help support your community! Photo/article courtesy Brandy Hollis.
It was Homerun Derby Day at the Fillmore Little League fields on Saturday, May 18, 2024. It’d been a fantastic year for Little League Baseball; so much mighty talent, and drive for hometown baseball. Pictured, Shane Morger, of Fillmore’s Bunnin Chevrolet, who drove up to the field sporting a $500 check to help continue in their sponsorship with the league, along with extra-large boxes full of equipment to help keep the costs down. Chevrolet and Little League Baseball have a long relationship of supporting youth. Prior to driving over to the fields, Shane made a stop to support the Rotary 5k, 10k run and last weekend we saw him at FWSC Casino Night. He was having a blast at the roulette table! Fillmore Little League and their sponsors work hand-in-hand to ensure the program continues to run smoothly and grow, just like our little hometown. Thank you, Bunnin Chevrolet, Leo Bunnin and Shane Morger, along with the rest of the team, for continuing to help support your community! Photo/article courtesy Brandy Hollis.
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On Wednesday, May 8th, at approximately 2:15pm, deputies were dispatched to the Sespe Creek area just north of Old Telegraph Road with a reported unresponsive male subject who had possibly drowned in the creek. Deputies arrived and began CPR on the subject until they were relieved by paramedics from the Ventura County Fire Department. Despite life-saving efforts, the 36-year-old Fillmore resident was pronounced deceased at the scene. There was nothing suspicious noted at the scene and the cause of death is pending an autopsy by the Ventura County Medical Examiner’s office. Photo credit Angel Esquivel-Firephoto_91.
On Wednesday, May 8th, at approximately 2:15pm, deputies were dispatched to the Sespe Creek area just north of Old Telegraph Road with a reported unresponsive male subject who had possibly drowned in the creek. Deputies arrived and began CPR on the subject until they were relieved by paramedics from the Ventura County Fire Department. Despite life-saving efforts, the 36-year-old Fillmore resident was pronounced deceased at the scene. There was nothing suspicious noted at the scene and the cause of death is pending an autopsy by the Ventura County Medical Examiner’s office. Photo credit Angel Esquivel-Firephoto_91.
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On April 13, 2024, police responded to a call at Fillmore’s Dollar General on Ventura Street to a reported theft by two subjects, but no arrests were made at the time. On May 8, 2024, police arrested suspects Daniel Garcia and Destiny Beserra for an unrelated incident and found probable cause to arrest them in connection to the Dollar General theft incident.
On April 13, 2024, police responded to a call at Fillmore’s Dollar General on Ventura Street to a reported theft by two subjects, but no arrests were made at the time. On May 8, 2024, police arrested suspects Daniel Garcia and Destiny Beserra for an unrelated incident and found probable cause to arrest them in connection to the Dollar General theft incident.
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A joint effort by Fillmore Patrol Services and the Fillmore Bureau of Investigations resulted in the arrest of two subjects believed to be responsible for the theft of highly sought-after merchandise from the Dollar General store in Fillmore.

On 04/13/2024, Fillmore patrol deputies responded to the Dollar General store located at 1154 Ventura Street in Fillmore for a report of two subjects who committed a theft from the store. From the investigation, deputies learned a female acted in concert and conspired with a male to steal a shopping cart full of merchandise by leaving through an emergency exit of the store without paying for the items.

After the initial investigation, Fillmore patrol deputies collaborated with Fillmore detectives and were able to identify the male and female involved in the theft.

On 05/08/2024, Fillmore patrol deputies contacted (S) Daniel Garcia and (S) Destiny Beserra in the city of Fillmore for an unrelated incident. As a result, Garcia and Beserra were arrested for being under the influence of a controlled substance.

Incident to arrest, detectives developed probable cause to arrest Garcia and Beserra for the organized retail theft from the Dollar General store on 04/13/2024. Ultimately, they were supplementally booked for a violation of Penal Code § 490.4 – [Organized Retail Theft]. Both subjects were later booked at the Pre-Trial Detention Facility in Ventura pending court proceedings.

Nature of Incident: Organized Retail Theft Arrests
Report Number: 24-45063 / 24-56374
Location: 1154 Ventura Street, (Dollar General) Fillmore
Date & Time: 04/13/2024 @ 6:11 PM
Unit(s) Responsible: Fillmore Patrol Services, Fillmore Bureau of Investigation

(S)uspects, (V)ictims, (P)arty, (D)ecedent
(S) Daniel Garcia Santa Paula, CA 32
(S) Destiny Beserra Santa Paula, CA 33

Prepared by: Senior Deputy Wendell Cambell
Approved by: Captain Eduardo Malagon

 

Fillmore Patrol Services arrested two Los Angeles County residents for felony offenses of burglary and conspiracy to commit a crime.

On 05/06/2024, during the early morning hours, a vigilant Fillmore resident called Sheriff’s Communication Center to report a vehicle burglary in progress in the 600 block of Mountain View Street, Fillmore. The resident was able to provide information, which included a suspect vehicle description. The Sheriff’s Communication Center coordinated with Fillmore patrol resources and dispatched them to the area of the reported crime.

Deputies responded to the area and located the suspect vehicle. An enforcement stop was conducted, and the occupants were identified as Diego Solis and Victor Valtierra. Both were detained pending the investigation.
After a thorough investigation by deputies, Solis and Valtierra were identified as the suspects involved and were arrested for Penal Code § 459 – [Burglary] and Penal Code § 182(a)(1) – [Conspiracy to Commit a Crime]. A search of the vehicle led to the recovery of thousands of dollars’ worth of stolen merchandise, which included property belonging to a Fillmore resident. Both subjects were booked at the Pre-Trial Detention Facility.

Report Number: 24-55456
Location: 600 block of Mountain View Street, Fillmore
Date & Time: 05/06/2024 @ 2:45 AM
Unit(s) Responsible: Fillmore Patrol Serivces, Sheriff's Communication Center

(S)uspects,(V)ictims,(P)arty,(D)ecedent
(S) Diego Solis Lynwood, CA 29
(S) Victor Valtierra Southgate, CA 42

Prepared by: Sergeant Jarrod Foote
Approved by: Captain Eduardo Malagon

 
City Council discussed issues concerning home-made yard sale advertising which is negatively affecting city appearance.
City Council discussed issues concerning home-made yard sale advertising which is negatively affecting city appearance.
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All items passed 5-0 except for 8A – passed 4-1
8. NEW BUSINESS

8.A INTRODUCTION OF AN ORDINANCE AMENDING CHAPTER 7.28 OF THE
FILLMORE MUNICIPAL CODE TO ESTABLISH NEW OIL WELL DRILLING
SETBACK REQUIREMENTS FROM RESIDENCES AND SCHOOL AND
ADOPTION OF EXEMPTION FROM CEQA.

REQUEST

That the City Council approve the first reading to introduce Ordinance No. 24-970 to amend
Fillmore Municipal Code Chapter 7.28 to allow staff to implement and enforce additional drilling
and setback requirements for the production of oil, gas, and other hydrocarbon substances and
establish uniform “no-drilling” areas:

8.B AUTHORIZATION FOR PURCHASE OF EMERGENCY BACKUP GENERATOR
FOR THE POLICE DEPARTMENT
RECOMMENDATION

It is recommended that the City Council approve the purchase of an emergency backup diesel
generator for the Police Department through a joint purchasing agreement with Sourcewell and
authorize the City Manager to execute any agreement or purchase order necessary to carry out the
purchase.

8.C DISCUSSION OF CITY OF FILLMORE YARD SALE AND SIGN POLICY
8.D ADVISORY COMMITTE MEMBER NOMINATION FOR THE VENTURA AIR
POLLUTION CONTROL DISTRICT (APCD) ADVISORY COMMITTEE.
RECOMMENDATION

Staff recommends that the City Council appoint a representative to the Ventura Air Pollution Control
District Advisory Committee (APCD) and/or direct staff to advertise for this vacancy and have the
City Council Ad Hoc Interview Committee review applications and recommend an appointment.
8.E PUBLIC HEARING: CONSIDER SECOND EXTENSION OF URGENCY
ORDINANCE INSTITUTING A TEMPORARY MORATORIUM ON THE
ESTABLISHMENT OR EXPANSION OF MEDICAL MARIJUANA DISPENSARIES
OR FACILITIES AND MOBILE MEDICAL MARIJUANA DISPENSARIES WITHIN
CITY LIMITS FOR AN ADDITIONAL TWELVE MONTHS AND FINDING OF
EXEMPTION UNDER THE CALIFORNIA ENVIRONMENTAL QUALITY ACT.
RECOMMENDATION

Staff recommends City Council take the following actions:

1. Receive the staff report and conduct the public hearing;

2. Waive full reading and adopt by four-fifths vote Interim Urgency Ordinance No. 24-971
(Attachment 1), extending for twelve months from December 11, 2024 the temporary
moratorium prohibiting medical marijuana facilities and mobile medical marijuana
dispensaries within City limits, as read by title only;

3. Find that Interim Urgency Ordinance No. 24-971 is exempt from CEQA; and

4. Direct staff to continue to study appropriate modifications to the Fillmore Municipal Code to
mitigate the conditions outlined in this staff report and Section 2 of the Urgency Ordinance
that arise out of developing, maintaining, and expanding medical marijuana facilities and
mobile medical marijuana dispensaries. The Community Development Director is further
directed to report back to the City Council with his findings at least 10 days prior to the
expiration of this ordinance.

8.F PUBLIC HEARING TO CONSIDER THE ADOPTION OF RESOLUTION NO. 24-
4004 CONFIRMING THE ANNUAL BUDGET AND ORDERING THE ANNUAL
LEVY AND COLLECTION OF ASSESSMENTS FOR THE FILLMORE
STORMDRAIN MAINTENANCE DISTRICTS FOR FY 2024-25.
REQUEST

Staff requests that the City Council conduct a Public Hearing and adopt Resolution No. 24-4004
Confirming the Annual Budget and Ordering the Annual Levy and Collection of Assessments for
the Fillmore Storm Drain Maintenance Assessment Districts Nos. 01, 01A, 03, 04, 05, 06 and 07
in Fiscal Year 2024/2025, Pursuant to the Benefit Assessment Act of 1982.

8.G PUBLIC HEARINGS TO CONSIDER THE ADOPTION OF RESOLUTIONS
APPROVING THE ENGINEERS ANNUAL LEVY REPORT FOR FISCAL YEAR
2024-25 AND ORDERING THE ANNUAL LEVY AND COLLECTION OF
ASSESSMENTS FOR FISCAL YEAR 2024-25 WITHIN THE CITY OF FILLMORE
HERITAGE VALLEY LANDSCAPE AND LIGHTING DISTRICT 2007-1 AND
LANDSCAPE AND LIGHTING DISTRICT NO. 02, RESPECTIVELY.

RECOMMENDATIONS

City staff recommends that the City Council take the following actions:
Actions to open and close the Public Hearing:

1. Open the Public Hearing to receive public testimony regarding the City Council’s intent to
approve the Engineer’s Report and the levy of assessments within LLD 2007-1 and LLD 02;

2. Close the Public Hearing. Actions to approve the Engineer’s Annual Levy Report and
Order the Levy of Assessments:

Actions to confirm and order the annual levy:

1. Adopt Resolution 24-4000 - A Resolution of the City Council of the City of Fillmore,
2. RECOMMENDATIONS
3. RECOMMENDATIONS
4. City staff recommends that the City Council take the following actions:
5. Actions to open and close the Public Hearing:
6. 1. Open the Public Hearing to receive public testimony regarding the City Council’s intent to
7. approve the Engineer’s Report and the levy of assessments within LLD 2007-1 and LLD 02;
8. 2. Close the Public Hearing. Actions to approve the Engineer’s Annual Levy Report and
9. Order the Levy of Assessments:
10. Actions to confirm and order the annual levy:
11. 1. Adopt Resolution 24-4000 - A Resolution of the City Council of the City of Fillmore,
12. California Approving the Engineer’s Annual Levy Report for the City of Fillmore Heritage
13. Valley Landscape and Lighting District 2007-1 for Fiscal Year 2024/2025;
14. 2. Adopt Resolution 24-4001 - A Resolution of the City Council of the City of Fillmore,
15. California Confirming the Diagram and Assessment and Ordering the Annual Levy and
16. Collection of Assessments within the City of Fillmore Heritage Valley Landscape and
17. Lighting District No. 2007-1 for Fiscal Year 2024/2025;
18. City staff recommends that the City Council take the following actions:
19. Actions to open and close the Public Hearing:
20. 1. Open the Public Hearing to receive public testimony regarding the City Council’s intent to
21. approve the Engineer’s Report and the levy of assessments within LLD 2007-1 and LLD 02;
22. 2. Close the Public Hearing. Actions to approve the Engineer’s Annual Levy Report and
23. Order the Levy of Assessments:
24. Actions to confirm and order the annual levy:
25. 1. Adopt Resolution 24-4000 - A Resolution of the City Council of the City of Fillmore,
26. California Approving the Engineer’s Annual Levy Report for the City of Fillmore Heritage
27. Valley Landscape and Lighting District 2007-1 for Fiscal Year 2024/2025;
28. 2. Adopt Resolution 24-4001 - A Resolution of the City Council of the City of Fillmore,
29. California Confirming the Diagram and Assessment and Ordering the Annual Levy and
30. Collection of Assessments within the City of Fillmore Heritage Valley Landscape and
31. Lighting District No. 2007-1 for Fiscal Year 2024/2025;

California Approving the Engineer’s Annual Levy Report for the City of Fillmore Heritage
Valley Landscape and Lighting District 2007-1 for Fiscal Year 2024/2025;
2. Adopt Resolution 24-4001 - A Resolution of the City Council of the City of Fillmore,
California Confirming the Diagram and Assessment and Ordering the Annual Levy and
Collection of Assessments within the City of Fillmore Heritage Valley Landscape and
Lighting District No. 2007-1 for Fiscal Year 2024/2025;
Public Hearing to Consider the Annual Engineer’s Report, Levy and Collection of Assessments
for LLD 02 and LLD 2007-1

May 14, 2024

Page 2 of 6

3. Adopt Resolution 24-4002 - A Resolution of the City Council of the City of Fillmore,
California Approving the Engineer’s Annual Levy Report for the City of Fillmore Landscape
and Lighting District No. 02 for Fiscal Year 2024/2025;

4. Adopt Resolution 24-4003 - A Resolution of the City Council of the City of Fillmore,
California Confirming the Diagram and Assessment and Ordering the Annual Levy and
Collection of Assessments within the City of Fillmore Landscape and Lighting District No.
02 for Fiscal Year 2024/2025;

5. Authorize staff to incorporate the revenue and expenditures contained in the Annual Budgets
for LLD 02 and LLD 2007-01 into the City of Fillmore Annual Budget.

RECOMMENDATIONS

City staff recommends that the City Council take the following actions:
Actions to open and close the Public Hearing:

1. Open the Public Hearing to receive public testimony regarding the City Council’s intent to
approve the Engineer’s Report and the levy of assessments within LLD 2007-1 and LLD 02;

2. Close the Public Hearing. Actions to approve the Engineer’s Annual Levy Report and
Order the Levy of Assessments:

Actions to confirm and order the annual levy:

1. Adopt Resolution 24-4000 - A Resolution of the City Council of the City of Fillmore,
California Approving the Engineer’s Annual Levy Report for the City of Fillmore Heritage
Valley Landscape and Lighting District 2007-1 for Fiscal Year 2024/2025;

2. Adopt Resolution 24-4001 - A Resolution of the City Council of the City of Fillmore,
California Confirming the Diagram and Assessment and Ordering the Annual Levy and
Collection of Assessments within the City of Fillmore Heritage Valley Landscape and
Lighting District No. 2007-1 for Fiscal Year 2024/2025;

Public Hearing to Consider the Annual Engineer’s Report, Levy and Collection of Assessments
for LLD 02 and LLD 2007-1

May 14, 2024

Page 2 of 6

3. Adopt Resolution 24-4002 - A Resolution of the City Council of the City of Fillmore,
California Approving the Engineer’s Annual Levy Report for the City of Fillmore Landscape
and Lighting District No. 02 for Fiscal Year 2024/2025;

4. Adopt Resolution 24-4003 - A Resolution of the City Council of the City of Fillmore,
California Confirming the Diagram and Assessment and Ordering the Annual Levy and
Collection of Assessments within the City of Fillmore Landscape and Lighting District No.
02 for Fiscal Year 2024/2025;

5. Authorize staff to incorporate the revenue and expenditures contained in the Annual Budgets
for LLD 02 and LLD 2007-01 into the City of Fillmore Annual Budge

 
On Saturday, May 11, Fillmore Citizen’s Patrol hosted their Annual Bicycle Safety Rodeo at Rio Vista Elementary School, along with help from the Fillmore Fire and Ventura County Sheriff’s Office. The overall goal was to educate parents and children about the safety aspects of riding a bicycle, skateboard, or scooter on streets. A Bicycle Safety Rodeo is a safety clinic where young riders can learn about proper safety and the rules of the road. There was a bicycle safety course chalked out for basic riding skills and more. Above are photos of all the fun at this year’s Bike Rodeo. Photo Credit: Angel Esquivel-Firephoto_91.
On Saturday, May 11, Fillmore Citizen’s Patrol hosted their Annual Bicycle Safety Rodeo at Rio Vista Elementary School, along with help from the Fillmore Fire and Ventura County Sheriff’s Office. The overall goal was to educate parents and children about the safety aspects of riding a bicycle, skateboard, or scooter on streets. A Bicycle Safety Rodeo is a safety clinic where young riders can learn about proper safety and the rules of the road. There was a bicycle safety course chalked out for basic riding skills and more. Above are photos of all the fun at this year’s Bike Rodeo. Photo Credit: Angel Esquivel-Firephoto_91.
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On May 13, 2024, at the Fillmore Unified School District Board of Trustees meeting, Rio Vista Elementary Principal Beverly Garnica presented an update on the success of the school’s programs, activities, and initiatives for the 2023-2024 school year. Office Manager Karina Lechuga, and Speech Language Pathologist Isabella Liu, were both recognized for their outstanding work, and dedication to Rio Vista Elementary staff, students, and families. Photo credit https://www.blog.fillmoreusd.org/fillmore-unified-school-district-blog/2024/5/13/rio-vista-elementary-school-update-amp-recognition.
On May 13, 2024, at the Fillmore Unified School District Board of Trustees meeting, Rio Vista Elementary Principal Beverly Garnica presented an update on the success of the school’s programs, activities, and initiatives for the 2023-2024 school year. Office Manager Karina Lechuga, and Speech Language Pathologist Isabella Liu, were both recognized for their outstanding work, and dedication to Rio Vista Elementary staff, students, and families. Photo credit https://www.blog.fillmoreusd.org/fillmore-unified-school-district-blog/2024/5/13/rio-vista-elementary-school-update-amp-recognition.
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CDFW wildlife officers recently responded to several tips received through the Californians Turn in Poachers and Polluters (CalTIP) site. A wildlife officer contacted a man in possession of 49 rainbow trout in a section of Piru Creek in Los Angeles County that was catch and release only. Piru Creek is one of two streams in the Angeles National Forest managed for wild trout. Size and bag limits are in place to allow recreational harvest and consumption of fish and game species in low enough numbers to ensure their populations are self-sustainable. Left unchecked, poaching activities, like being over the allowable limit and undersized takes (especially before they have a chance to reproduce), threaten those populations and the lawful authority to fish or hunt for them. Witnesses to a poaching or pollution event can report them to CalTIP at https://wildlife.ca.gov/Enforcement/CalTIP.
CDFW wildlife officers recently responded to several tips received through the Californians Turn in Poachers and Polluters (CalTIP) site. A wildlife officer contacted a man in possession of 49 rainbow trout in a section of Piru Creek in Los Angeles County that was catch and release only. Piru Creek is one of two streams in the Angeles National Forest managed for wild trout. Size and bag limits are in place to allow recreational harvest and consumption of fish and game species in low enough numbers to ensure their populations are self-sustainable. Left unchecked, poaching activities, like being over the allowable limit and undersized takes (especially before they have a chance to reproduce), threaten those populations and the lawful authority to fish or hunt for them. Witnesses to a poaching or pollution event can report them to CalTIP at https://wildlife.ca.gov/Enforcement/CalTIP.
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On Saturday, May 4th, 2024, the Sgt. Ron Helus Ride for the Blue event was held to honor all first responders. This year’s ride began at 8:00 a.m. at Simi Valley City Hall. They stopped at the following police stations in this order: Thousand Oaks, Moorpark, Camarillo, Port Hueneme, Oxnard, Ventura, and Santa Paula, before ending their ride at the Fillmore Police Station at 2:30pm. Photo credit Angel Esquivel-Firephoto_91.
On Saturday, May 4th, 2024, the Sgt. Ron Helus Ride for the Blue event was held to honor all first responders. This year’s ride began at 8:00 a.m. at Simi Valley City Hall. They stopped at the following police stations in this order: Thousand Oaks, Moorpark, Camarillo, Port Hueneme, Oxnard, Ventura, and Santa Paula, before ending their ride at the Fillmore Police Station at 2:30pm. Photo credit Angel Esquivel-Firephoto_91.
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The FHS Staff surprised this year’s FHS Athletes of the Year Nataly Vigil and David Jimenez at the Fillmore High School Gym with teammates, coaches, and administrators this past Wednesday, May 1st. Both athletes will attend a dinner on June 2 where they will be honored with all other Ventura County athletes at the Ventura County Hall of Fame dinner. Photo credit Lilah Duran.
The FHS Staff surprised this year’s FHS Athletes of the Year Nataly Vigil and David Jimenez at the Fillmore High School Gym with teammates, coaches, and administrators this past Wednesday, May 1st. Both athletes will attend a dinner on June 2 where they will be honored with all other Ventura County athletes at the Ventura County Hall of Fame dinner. Photo credit Lilah Duran.
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On Monday, May 6, at 9:30am, Ventura County Fire Department was on-scene of a pickup truck fully engulfed on eastbound SR126 / Pyle Road. According to CHP the truck was on a tow truck and caught on fire. Photo credit Angel Esquivel-Firephoto_91.
On Monday, May 6, at 9:30am, Ventura County Fire Department was on-scene of a pickup truck fully engulfed on eastbound SR126 / Pyle Road. According to CHP the truck was on a tow truck and caught on fire. Photo credit Angel Esquivel-Firephoto_91.
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Pictured left, Pastor George Golden with Pastor Ken Castellanos.
Pictured left, Pastor George Golden with Pastor Ken Castellanos.
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Written by Carina M. Montoya

It was standing room only on Sunday, April 28, when Pastor Dr. George Golden gave his last service at the Fillmore First Baptist Church, and “passed the baton” to the church’s new lead pastor, Ken Castellanos. It was a bittersweet occasion for the congregation, including many friends and family who attended, to bid farewell in quiet sadness to someone who has devoted the past 15 years to the church, and to welcome Pastor Castellanos who has been the church’s associate pastor.
Pastor Golden has been the longest serving pastor at the First Baptist Church since its founding in 1942. He began ministering at the church in 2009 and through the years the name First Baptist Church in Fillmore has become synonymous with Pastor Golden’s name. He resurrected a dwindling and fateful church with a low congregation of about six people to its current congregation of 50 to 75.

The First Baptist Church was originally located off Central Avenue in downtown Fillmore. The property at 1057 First Street was purchased in the 1970s and became the church’s new location. Upon Pastor Golden’s assignment to the church, there were many upgrades and renovations needed. Through the years his growing congregation brought in much needed donations, including time that some congregation members donated to help with the renovations. The parsonage was renovated twice; the once dirt parking area was paved; a new roof was installed; and the interior of the church was renovated.

Pastor Castellanos brings to the First Baptist Church in Fillmore a genuine desire to continue Pastor Golden’s legacy, but with a renewed spirit of purpose. New members have already joined the congregation. His partner and wife of twenty years, Janny Melgoza-Castellanos, a native of Fillmore and a 1989 graduate of Fillmore High School, is a Bible study leader. Pastor Golden has no doubt that together, Pastor Castellanos and Janny, will further grow and develop the church into a stronger and more diversified congregation.

Pastor Golden is not retiring from ministering, only transitioning from one place to another. He will first take a short two-week hiatus from ministering to travel to Nairobi, Africa, for a couple of weeks where he has been raising money to build an abandoned women’s shelter. Many of his other accomplishments in helping people in Africa have been the installation of a water well for a mission; installation of a solar system for another mission; rebuilt an abandoned church located in a remote area in a Nairobi jungle; and supported two orphanages by paying their leases. Upon his return home, he will begin ministering again in Ventura.

 
Shane Morger of Bunnin Chevrolet presenting Brandy Hollis with a Diamond Sponsorship check for the Fillmore Women’s Service Club Casino Night event coming this weekend.
Shane Morger of Bunnin Chevrolet presenting Brandy Hollis with a Diamond Sponsorship check for the Fillmore Women’s Service Club Casino Night event coming this weekend.
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Bunnin Chevrolet is doing it again—supporting the Fillmore community. Public Relations Director Shane Morger presented Fillmore Women’s Service Club Rep Brandy Hollis with a Diamond Sponsorship check for their Casino Night event coming this weekend. Brandy had this to say, “I know Shane and his crew are looking forward to Casino Night. I look forward to watching this busy person relax a little bit. We are going to let the dice roll and see what happens when you bet big on your community! Thank you, Bunnin, from all of us here at FWSC.” Fillmore also appreciates Bunnin’s excellent auto service and delicious cafe! Article/photo credit Brandy Hollis.

 

The Fillmore Fire Department in conjunction with the Ventura Regional Fire Safe Council has received a grant to dispose of flammable vegetation in residential neighborhoods that are adjacent to wildland areas. This grant is being applied to all residents who reside in Fillmore. All residents who live within three hundred yards of a wildland area are especially encouraged to take advantage of this free opportunity.

On Saturday May 11th, from 9:00 AM to 2:00 PM, all residents in the City may haul any tree/brush trimmings direct to the Fillmore City Well #4 location at 728 Goodenough Rd. for free disposal. Any ornamental vegetation and cut grass/weeds will also be accepted if it is free of any dirt, metal, plastic, or other trash.

Residents are especially encouraged to have professional tree trimmers, trim up palm trees, of all dead palm fronds as these can be especially hazardous when caught on fire. All palm fronds will accepted.

Any questions may be directed to the Fillmore Fire Chief at 524-1500 xt 226.

 
On Thursday, April 25th, at 4:21pm, a VC Sheriff’s deputy conducted an enforcement stop on a motorcycle for a minor traffic violation in the area of Ventura Street and Saratoga Street. As the motorcycle yielded, the male driver discarded what appeared to be a firearm into some nearby bushes. The driver and female passenger were both detained pending investigation; deputies searched the area and found a pellet gun. Based on the investigation, the male was arrested for being under the influence of a controlled substance, possession of drug paraphernalia, and possession of an imitation firearm in public. The female passenger was arrested for being under the influence of a controlled substance and carrying a concealed dirk or dagger. Both arrestees are San Bernardino County residents and were booked at the Pre-Trial Detention Facility. Photo credit Angel Esquivel-Firephoto_91.
On Thursday, April 25th, at 4:21pm, a VC Sheriff’s deputy conducted an enforcement stop on a motorcycle for a minor traffic violation in the area of Ventura Street and Saratoga Street. As the motorcycle yielded, the male driver discarded what appeared to be a firearm into some nearby bushes. The driver and female passenger were both detained pending investigation; deputies searched the area and found a pellet gun. Based on the investigation, the male was arrested for being under the influence of a controlled substance, possession of drug paraphernalia, and possession of an imitation firearm in public. The female passenger was arrested for being under the influence of a controlled substance and carrying a concealed dirk or dagger. Both arrestees are San Bernardino County residents and were booked at the Pre-Trial Detention Facility. Photo credit Angel Esquivel-Firephoto_91.
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Evidence collected during the investigation. Photo credit Ventura County Sheriff’s office.
Evidence collected during the investigation. Photo credit Ventura County Sheriff’s office.
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In collaboration with Farm Watch, the Fillmore Investigations Bureau communicated crime trends identified from recent agricultural thefts occurring in the Santa Clara Valley. Empowering the agricultural community as our eyes and ears has contributed to the identification and apprehension of a repeat offender of agricultural thefts.

On April 15th, 2024, deputies assigned to the Fillmore Patrol Station responded to a call-for-service at a local farm reference an attempted theft of avocados. Patrol deputies were informed that a large quantity of avocados pre-staged in bags and crates was located on the farm. The farm owner stated this was suspicious and inconsistent with the normal operation of the farm. The farm owner’s diligence and education of previous crime trends, as well as quick notification to law enforcement, prevented thieves from completing the theft of the pre-staged avocados. The patrol deputy was able to collect evidence relating to the crime and authored a crime report.

On April 24th, 2024, deputies assigned to the Fillmore Patrol Station contacted Jose Antonio Rosales Hernandez in the 100 block of A Street, Fillmore. Based on previous law enforcement contacts, patrol deputies knew Hernandez had previously been convicted of Penal Code § 487(b)(1)(A) – Grand Theft of Vegetables and Fruit. Hernandez was placed on Ventura County Probation and accepted probation terms requiring him to submit to search of his person, residence, vehicle, or any property under his control by a probation officer of law enforcement officer, with or without a search warrant, for items prohibited by his probation conditions.

During the contact, patrol deputies conducted a search of Hernandez’ person, vehicle, and residence in compliance with Hernandez’ court appointed probation conditions. During the search, patrol deputies found methamphetamine, collected additional evidence, and developed probable cause to connect him to the attempted theft from the local farm on April 15th, 2024. As a result of the contact, Hernandez was arrested and booked into the Ventura County Main Jail for being in violation of Health & Safety Code § 11377 (a) – Possession of a Controlled Substance and Penal Code § 664/487(b)(1)(A) – Attempted Grand Theft of Vegetables and Fruit.

The Fillmore Patrol Station encourages the agricultural community to utilize “Farm Watch,” a partnership between the farming community and the Ventura County Sheriff’s Office. Farm Watch is a county-wide electronic neighborhood watch program that is distributed to more than several hundred farms, ranches, nurseries, and supply houses. This program provides information to ranchers on agriculture crime trends and on how to react and treat the crime scene so that potential evidence is preserved for immediate processing by deputies of the Ventura County Sheriff’s Office.

The Ventura County Sheriff’s Office and Fillmore Police Department are committed to increasing and strengthening community partnerships and utilizing technologies and evidence-based practices to enhance collaborative efforts at reducing crime and improving public safety of all residents by continued community partnerships. Join us in the fight on crime by following us on Twitter @VENTURASHERIFF, Facebook, Instagram @ VCSHERIFF, and with Nixle by texting your zip code to 888777 to receive local law enforcement and public safety alerts and advisories.

Nature of Incident:Farm Watch Collaboration Results in Arrest of Repeat Offender
Report Number: 24-49822
Location: 100 block of A Street, Fillmore
Date & Time: April 24th, 2024, at 8:00 A.M.
Unit(s) Responsible: Fillmore Patrol, Fillmore Investigations Bureau
Suspects City of Residence Age
Jose Antonio Rosales Hernandez Fillmore, California 32

Prepared by: Detective Dustin Heersche
News Release Date: April 24th, 2024
Approved by: Captain Eduardo Malagon

 
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