I had a meeting a couple weeks ago involving business for the Bardsdale Cemetery where I serve on their Board of Directors. Doug Basolo, the Bardsdale Cemetery Manager, asked me to meet him at the cafe located inside of William L. Morris Chevrolet, 1024 Ventura St., for coffee and to discuss some documents I needed to sign. Well I had to stop and think for a second because I had forgotten there was a cafe there and actually thought it was no longer in business, but off I went to meet Doug for coffee while he ate breakfast and I reviewed the papers he needed me to sign.

When I first sat down at Doug's table I was totally taken aback by the plate full of food he was attacking and the thickness of the Black Forrest Ham slice on his plate! Then a nice young man exited the kitchen and filled a cup of coffee for me and engaged me in easy conversation. As it turned out this was David Asher the co-owner and chef of the cafe now known as the Orange Rush Cafe.

Not that I know everyone in Fillmore, but it was obvious to me that David was, as they say, “Not from around here!” David told me that he had opened the Orange Rush Cafe in July of this year and so far he was pleased with the support he has been given. He told me he is from Orlando, Florida and since opening the Orange Rush Cafe he has come to know a lot of local people from Fillmore who frequent his Cafe. David told me that for now he is only open for breakfast and lunch Monday through Friday from 7:00 am to 2:00 pm and Saturday from 8:00 am to 2:00 pm. David did tell me he will start a dinner service on Friday, October 5th and Saturday, October 6th from 5:30 pm to 8:30 pm and will be open each Friday and Saturday after that. Impressed with this newcomer to Fillmore! I told David that I would like to write an article about his Orange Rush Cafe and promised him I would be back for lunch with my wife, Carolyn, soon.

I got to CONTINUED »

Water Sewer Billing Records History received from the City of Fillmore on October 5, 2012, for Fillmore Convalescent Center, Orange Blossom Villa (pages 1-3), and an attached residence (pages 4-5).
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[Update 10/16/12 - Added Public Records Request Images]

Questions were raised again about the Gazette’s alleged bias at Tuesday’s city council meeting. Several speakers, including the city clerk’s wife, complained that the Gazette had falsely accused Clay Westling of being politically prejudiced. Mrs. Westling stated that the Gazette had wrongfully criticized the clerk of failing to comply with Freedom of Information Act emails and Public Records Requests. She maintained that all requests for information were answered completely and in a timely manner.

While each request made of all other council members for water/sewer billings were in fact provided in a timely manner, Councilman Eduardo Gonzalez’ information was not. The first Freedom of Information Act request was made on May 25, 2012. Other requests for Gonzalez’ billings were made in June, July, and two in October. On July 12 the Gazette received an email from Mr. Westling stating: “The City of Fillmore has provided you with all of the records on this topic [Gonzalez] that exist.” “...In the meantime I am treating this topic as closed. Respectfully, Clay Westling, Fillmore City Clerk”

Copies of this message were sent to Yvonne Quiring and Glenda Jay, under “RE: Utility Bill-Council Member Gonzalez.”

On July 11, 2012, the Gazette answered that the information was “significantly incorrect and incomplete, according to recent personal communications between Mr. Gonzalez and myself” [Martin Farrell]. A Public Records Request was sent on October 2, 2012, with this note: “In the event this request is again ignored this issue will be referred to the Ventura County District Attorney for resolution.”

On October 5, the Gazette received some billing information on Gonzalez, though still incomplete, with copies sent to “Rigo Landeros; Glenda Jay; Laura Seo”.

The Utility Billing Account History Report we received indicates Gonzalez has an outstanding balance of more than $95,000 as of September 27, 2012 on his Fillmore Convalescent property.

The Gazette also received billing information from Westling for Gonzalez’ other property, Orange Blossom Villa, for $688 which appears to apply to a single unit of the 66 units involved. A second Public Records Request for Orange Blossom was emailed to City Clerk Westling on October 5 requesting water/sewer history for all units. No response has been received to date.

Mr. Gonzalez’ delinquency amounts to nearly 20 percent of the entire outstanding water/sewer billings. At last night’s council meeting council members Conaway, Sipes, and Washburn voted to send closed, delinquent accounts to collection. Councilmen Jamey Brooks and Gonzalez voted not to send the accounts to collection (under $250,000 in closed accounts were on the city books, with $131,000 of that now closed and in collections).

With over $500,000 in open delinquent water/sewer accounts outstanding, the question remains why wasn’t Councilman Gonzalez vetted before being nominated by Jamey Brooks, seconded by Gayle Washburn, and appointed to the council? Gonzalez was appointed the week of January 11th, 2012; his delinquent bill as of January 26th was $46,189.98 for the Convalescent Center alone. At the January meeting Councilmembers Steve Conaway and Brian Sipes said they wanted more discussion with Conaway motioning for Alex Mollkoy to be nominated, but no one would second Conaway’s motion. Then in a 3 to 1 vote with very little discussion, Washburn, Brooks and Conaway voted to give the seat to Gonzalez; only Councilmember Brian Sipes voted against it.

Another question remains - has the Fillmore City Clerk been involved in a cover-up of Councilman Gonzalez’ delinquent water/sewer billings, which exceed $95,000 for his Fillmore Convalescent Center property? Or, is it merely a question of incompetence? Westling and Gonzalez have been long-time allies in Fillmore politics, dating back to Measure H and I, (November 2008) and the “Sewercide” group (opposing the water treatment plant).

A more complete timeline and record of communications between the city clerk and the Gazette will be posted to fillmoregazette.com next week.

Retiring Officer Jerry Peterson and his wife

The tension at the October 9, 2012 Fillmore City Council Meeting was extremely high as parties from both sides of the ticket, incumbents and new candidates accused the other side of tampering with their political signs. All the political drama kept Fillmore’s Police Chief Monica McGrath busy watching and directing some in attendance to their proper place and at times having to check on the foyer to tone down the loud angry talk that could be heard inside the Council Chamber. There was an hour of public comments mostly from one group that sat together on the north side of the chamber. This group would give a loud applause when someone from their group gave a condemning announcement. This seems to have become a common practice since non-incumbents have announced they were running for office.

Through all the political drama, there were agenda items that were attended to. They included a proclamation to retiring Sheriff Jerry Peterson, an award to Fillmore from United Way, discussion of the 2011-2012 year end budget adjustments, uncollectible utility accounts, budget adjustments regarding the Transportation Development Act and a Community Development Block Grant.

Taking the spotlight CONTINUED »

Question No. 4: With the two letters of No Confidence submitted by city staff regarding ex-city manager Yvonne Quiring, how do you see morale being restored at city hall and in the council that ignored the letters?

SANDRA PELLA:
Question 4 states, “the council ignored the letters;” a statement not based upon fact. The council did respond to the 2 letters of No Confidence drafted by Roger Campbell, an individual who was not employed on city staff, and had no authority to interfere with employee relations. The council addressed allegations from city staff in 2 city council meetings, and spent city funds to conduct 2 investigations. It was found that Yvonne Quiring had acted in a professional and appropriate manner in her dealings with staff.
This incident became a morale issue at city hall because standard policy was not followed; a procedure that is the norm in most organizations. Grievance issues follow a process of levels. The first step is to bring the grievance to the supervisor, and if there is no resolution to the matter, then the grievance is taken to a higher level. In the case of the city staff’s grievances against Ms. Quiring, this standard procedure was not followed. There might have been a resolution on the first level had this process been utilized.
Morale in any organization is restored when employees understand the organization’s vision, goals and policies, and their role in meeting the organization’s objectives. It is management’s responsibility to state the vision, direct the goals and to provide tools necessary for employees to succeed. Webster’s Collegiate Dictionary defines one aspect of morale as, “the sense of common purpose with respect to a group.” Morale is maintained when employees understand policy with regard to grievances and follow the policy guidelines. Communication is always a major key to resolving issues. Problems in the workplace can usually be worked out with cooperation and communication.

MANUEL MINJARES:
There were many CONTINUED »

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Christian Conaway pulls off a double by winning both Classic Luge and Street Luge at the IGSA NorAm Race held on Oct 6 & 7 at Bonelli Park in San Dimas. As a result of his series points standings, totalling 2 Gold medal, 2 Silver medal and 1 Bronze medal, he earned the 2012 IGSA North American Series Street luge Championship.

In the final race of the 2012 IGSA North American Championship Series Conaway dominated the competition on Saturday by setting the fastest qualifying times in both Street Luge and Classic Luge. Conaway bested the time of the second fastest rival by more than two seconds. In a sport that is measured in thousandths of a second a 2 second lead is rare. Conaway uncorked a 1:04.272 on his second qualifying run leaving everyone else racing for second fastest qualifying position. Christian was visibly pleased with his results on Saturday but based on his demeanor he knew he had work to do on Race Day. “Qualifying is qualifying, but it isn’t racing” he said.

IGSA President Marcus Rietema wrote, “Christian Conaway continued the dominance he'd shown in qualifying (on Saturday) to win the street luge race and the NorAm points championship. Conaway, who was competing in his final race before heading out on a two-year mission for his church, left all of his rivals racing for second. He built huge leads off the starting line with a monster push and then rode perfect lines through O-Tang corner all day long leaving no chance for his fellow racers to catch him.” Conaway also went on to race and win in the Classic Luge event against a large field of racers.

The North American Series consists of eight races held in Mexico, Canada and the United States. Capping off the 2012 season with the North American Series Championship was a fitting way to go out on top as he takes a two year leave from racing to provide service to others in Bogota Columbia.

U.S. Navy Petty Officer Second Class Phillip C. Diaz and United States Army Specialist Michael P. O’Neal.

Yesterday, Saturday, September 29th, while talking with my son, United States Navy Petty Officer Second Class Phillip C. Diaz 26 years, who is currently serving in Afghanistan, we had one of those great moments that will always be remembered by our family! It started out by my son interrupting our conversation with, “Holy #@$%$#@!” My heart skipped a beat and I was shaken after he said that because I had about three very bad scenarios running through my mind as I asked him if he was OK! Phillip responded, “Its Michael!” The ‘Michael’ Phillip was referring to is Phillip's nephew and my oldest grandson, United States Army Specialist Michael P. O'Neal 20 years, who is also serving in Afghanistan at a Forward Operation Base much farther south of Bagram Air Force Base where Phillip is stationed.

After talking with both Phillip and Michael I had them promise to take a photo of this moment for me and put it on Facebook! They did just that and by the time I signed on to Facebook later that day there were numerous posting from people in Fillmore and Ohio where Michael is from acknowledging the photograph. Thank you again for bringing our currently serving military members closer to home with the technology we are all fortunate to have available, like reading the Fillmore Gazette online, that can bring them closer from so far away! Our men and women currently serving are truly American Heroes and I know we are all thankful for the sacrifices they make daily for us and will make in the future.

Question No. 3: What actions taken by the current council in the last two years do you agree with most and why? What actions do you disagree with most and why?

SANDRA PELLA:
Actions taken by the current city council in the past two years that I agree with most include:
1. I strongly support the current council’s decision to pursue negotiations with American Water in order to reduce operating and maintenance cost of the water treatment plant. Costs imposed by the operation of the water treatment plant, coupled with the impact of the recession, have adversely impacted Fillmore businesses, schools and households.
2. I agree with the current city council’s commitment to be openly transparent in all decision making policy.
3. I agree with the current council’s efforts to provide a streamlined budget that is user friendly, and for conducting budget workshops that encouraged more participation from the public.
4. I strongly commend the current city council for managing to balance the budget despite criticism for taking necessary actions in order to keep the City of Fillmore solvent.
5. I agree with the current city council’s endeavor to target every possible revenue source, and with supporting the Fillmore Chamber of Commerce as well as other local agencies, to promote filming and tourism. Just since July, filming in Fillmore has generated income in excess of last year’s entire revenues.
The action taken by the current city council in the past two years that I most disagree with most involves a recent decision not to censure Council Member Steve Conaway for violating the Brown Act. As an elected official of the City, every council member is held to a high standard of ethics. The other council members voted to admonish Council Member Conaway for his conduct, thereby being prudent in not expending City monies to pursue further action.

DOUGLAS TUCKER:
As stated at CONTINUED »

The members of the Fillmore Volunteer Fire Department will be wearing pink shirts for the month of October to join the effort to promote Breast Cancer Awareness.

October is Breast Cancer Awareness month, which is an annual campaign to increase awareness of the disease. While most people are aware of breast cancer, many forget to take the steps to have a plan to detect the disease in its early stages and encourage others to do the same.

Statistics show that every 2 minutes there is a new diagnosis of breast cancer. Every 14 minutes a life is lost to the disease. Over 40,000 people will die this year; about 400 of them will be men. 85% of all those diagnosed have no family history. 1 in 8 women will be diagnosed with breast cancer; the leading cause of death in women between ages 40 and 55.

The Firefighters of the Fillmore Volunteer Fire Department would like to remind every woman to have annual breast exams; to provide encouragement to those women who currently battle the disease; and remember those who have lost the battle with this disease.

Fillmore Unified School District

The Fillmore Unified School District (FUSD) Board Meeting began with a public hearing on the sufficiency of textbooks and instructional materials for the K-8 grade provision of standards-aligned and structured English immersion program for the 2012-2013 school year. Also on the agenda was a presentation of a reading event being held later this month for 3rd graders along with an update on Math and English test scores.

Jennifer Weir, Special Populations Coordinator will be partnering with nonprofit Right Road Kids President Paula Phillips, to host a Family Reading Celebration event for FUSD 3rd graders and their families. The event is made possible through a generous grant provided by Reading is Fundamental and Macy’s Department Stores. The grants ranged from $1,000 to $5,000, with Fillmore receiving $5,000, the highest amount. The goal of the grant is to motivate students about the importance of reading, empower families, encourage community support and promote partnerships with educators and parents. The motivational program’s focus is the importance of reading at home, parents/siblings reading to kids and parent classroom involvement. Students attending will receive Right Road Reading Packs, script for the Free Book Store, along with the entertaining programs and edible treats for everyone. The event will take place at Fillmore Middle School on October 23rd between 5:00-7:00 p.m. Fliers will be sent home with all FUSD 3rd graders and parents are encouraged to pre-register by Friday October 5th to assure their child and family members will receive the free materials. Parents or an adult family member must accompany their children. For more information contact Jennifer Weir at 805 524-8036 or jweir@fillmore.k12.ca.us

Although notice was given CONTINUED »

About six weeks ago I wrote an article about a young United States Marine and 2010 Fillmore High School Graduate, Corporal Jose A. Patino, who is now serving in Afghanistan. Corporal Patino contacted me regarding helping him obtain a Military Banner with his name to be displayed in his “Home Town” of Fillmore. Since the fund to help obtain the Banners was nearly depleted and Corporal Patino was in need of a full grant to purchase the Banner a call went out for assistance! I am happy to report that you, the Fillmore and Piru Communities, responded in a big way and to date $2,250 has been contributed!

If that amount of contribution isn't enough, each of those contributing have indicated that the monies they contributed, after purchasing Corporal Patino's Banner, should remain in the account to help purchase other Banners for currently serving members requesting a Banner! Those who contributed are: Steven and Sandra Butts, Adon and Delores Chavez (given in memory of their son Adrian), Jean and Harold Council, Victor and Patricia Westerberg, Debra Niederkorn, Dennis Beeghley and Fillmore Piru Citrus (Brian Edmonds, President).

Thank you to all of them for their contribution towards Corporal Patino's Banner and their generosity to allow the monies to remain in the account to help in the purchase of other Banners for Fillmore's and Piru's brave men and women currently serving. Your support of our own American Heroes is greatly appreciated! Soon Corporal Patino's and three others will have their Banners proudly displayed!

Marvin Villa Fuerte Enriquez, 21 of Rialto, was pronounced dead a the scene of a one-car accident in Piru, Sunday. Enriquez’ died of blunt-force trauma at 7:10 am near Center Street and Highway 126. His car left the Highway, landed on its side against an Edison pole. An air squad was called in but cancelled upon determination of death.

Ventura County Sheriff's Department

On 09/26/2012, at approximately 7:15 P.M. an alert anonymous citizen reported to the Fillmore Police Department a male juvenile subject vandalizing (Graffiti) several private properties, as well as property belonging to victims E.J. Harrison and Southern California Edison.

Officers from the Fillmore Police Department and Ventura County Sheriff’s Office arrived moments later and located the juvenile suspect, who was arrested for “Possession of Tools To Commit a Vandalism (Graffiti”) “Vandalism” and Felony “Possession of a Billy Club.” The 15-year-old juvenile was lodged in Juvenile Hall. Investigators from the Fillmore Police Department and the Ventura County Sheriff’s Office estimate that this juvenile is possibly responsible for at least 35 other vandalisms committed during the past six months to one year.

Nature of Incident: Vandalism-Graffiti arrest
Report Number: RB#12-21697
Location: 400 Block Mountain View, Fillmore California
Date & Time: 09/26/2012 @ 7:15 PM
Unit Responsible: Fillmore Police Department & Ventura County Sheriff’s Office
(S)uspects, (V)ictims, (D)ecedent City of Residence Age
Juvenile Fillmore, Ca 15
Deputy Preparing Media Release: Sergeant David Lea
Media Release Date: September 27, 2012
Follow-Up Contact: Deputy Gene Torres (805) 524-2233
Approved by: Captain Monica McGrath

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 September 25, 2012 Fillmore City Council Meeting began after an hours-worth of speakers addressed the Council on a variety of topics during the public comment section. There were numerous complaints about the political atmosphere in Fillmore, and comments on pie sales, graffiti cleanup, sidewalk sales and much more. The agenda items included approving a letter to the Ventura County Transportation Commission (VCTC), a proposal for the Council to go paperless, a committee to address the budget, City Manager recruitment, implementing a Code of Conduct and what action to take on a possible Brown Act violation. It was this last agenda item that created a great deal of finger pointing and accusations.

The fireworks began with a discussion on whether the Council should ask the staff to prepare pertinent information on establishing a Code of Conduct and Code of Ethics. Mayor Gayle Washburn began the discussion stating Fillmore is very divided and at this time the Council does not have a Code of Conduct. She went on to say that in the past there had been a Code of Conduct, but at the time it was abused and used to prevent some opinions from coming forward. She continued and then stated….”I’ve been personally attacked by another council member.” She then asked “Do we want to put it down on paper or can we trust that we will treat each other with respect?”

Council Member Steve Conaway responded, “…in 2008 the Council voted to repeal the Code of Conduct…I was the only council member to vote not to repeal the Code of Ethics.” He went on to say that he supported putting it on the agenda. To which Washburn responded, “…since you (Conaway) mention that (supporting a Code of Conduct) that gave you a license to violate it?” Conaway responded, “I don’t appreciate the little spin you put on that, and I do support it being brought back.” Washburn then accused Conaway of illegal conduct when during a recent council meeting Conaway stepped down from the dais and addressed the Council as a citizen, calling it a Brown Act violation.

The Brown Act is an act of the California State Legislature passed in 1953 that sets rules that apply to California city councils, county boards, and other local government bodies. It guarantees the public’s right to attend and participate in meetings and what can or can’t be disclosed from a closed sessions without the full agreement of the Council. Also, Council Member Jamey Brooks wanted everyone to understand the Council does not follow Robert’s Rule of Order, but follows Rosenberg’s Rule of Order. Both are rules for proper procedure in conducting meetings. Robert’s Rules of Order was first written in 1876 and is a bit complex. It has been revised numerous times with the eleventh revision in 2011. Rosenberg’s Rule of Order is a contemporary writing and simple enough for most people to understand.

Brooks went on to say that Conaway accused the mayor of trying to get former City Attorney Ted Schneider fired and stated, “You have been unethical every month” and to accuse the mayor of something like that is illegal. Brooks said he didn’t support a Code of Conduct, but he would be ethical.

Conaway recommended a vote to move forward with adding a Code of Ethics, to which Council Member Brian Sipes seconded, but it was then modified with a suggestion that new City Attorney Tiffany Israel bring some drafts of Codes of Ethics to the Council to review.

This was the first council meeting for the new City Attorney who lives in Orange County and has practiced law for 16 years after graduating from San Diego School of Law. In addition to Fillmore she also represents the City of Lawndale.

Israel explained that a Brown Act violation is disclosure of what was said during a closed session and that the Council may chose to wave keeping what was discussed private and allow the public to be informed. The Council then stated that there was a disclosure that was not waved and was published by the Fillmore Gazette, pertaining to the legal fee bids submitted by law firms applying for the City Attorney position.

Brooks then asked the City Attorney to ask each Council Member if they had released the information regarding the proposal on the City Attorney’s position, which she did. When asked council members Washburn, Brooks, Sipes and A. Eduardo Gonzalez responded No they had not. Council Member Steve Conaway was then asked and he responded, “This was all political drama for political purposes.” He refused to say yes or no and wanted no part of the political theatre.

Brooks than asked Israel what procedures can be taken if a council member violates a rule. To which she responded “Admonishment or censure.” Brooks than said he would like to take this to the next level, stating “He (Conaway) took it to a paper and had it published…this is not insignificant. I would like to see him banned from all closed sessions.” To which Washburn replied, “I don’t want to spend a lot of time on this. A verbal admonishment is enough.” Sipes said he agreed with Brooks and Gonzalez added, “I think an action requires consequences. I am very concerned about this and I think something should be done.” Washburn then asked, “Do you want to proceed with the censure?” It was then suggested that Attorney Julie Scott, who acted as Special Council and gave information on California Public Records Act and Freedom of Information Act to the Council at the request of resigning City Manager Yvonne Quiring, handle the legal proceedings. She was asked what her hourly rate was and was told $150 an hour. At this point former Council Member Patti Walker jetted up to the podium and volunteered to pay the first $500 in legal fees. Just after that, a city resident, David Weeks, addressed the council and asked why the Council would put out City money to continue with this. He asked if Fillmore was being sued and if not, then why should the City be spending the money on this? Another thing to consider is that Conaway vacates his Council seat in a little over a month, so what would be gained by the added expense?

At this point Brooks said “I wish to admonish Mr. Conaway for a Brown act violation.” A vote was taken with Sipes the only No vote.

Laurie Hernandez again addressed the Council and asked if the questions she had asked at the last council meeting were on that nights agenda and were they going to be answered. She then said, “The City deserves to have a City Manager who is qualified.” Israel responded to Hernandez by telling her a letter would be sent to her by former City Manager Yvonne Quiring to answer her questions. Hernandez than replied that she was told it would be on this meetings agenda and that the Council had agreed to it. Hernandez was again told that a letter would be sent to her to answer her questions.

Rick Neal, owner of a local business who is running for a council seat, addressed the Council with his concerns in hiring of a new city manager. He suggested the Council look for someone who has worked in a small town similar to Fillmore, is approachable, will interact with the community both socially and professionally, will hold themselves to the highest of standards. He also said they should be able to lead by example and hold their team to a similar standards, someone who is capable of training staff members and communicating the councils’ vision to them.

As the meeting progressed, Brooks, who sits on the Ventura County Transportation Commission (VCTC), asked that the Council send a letter to VCTC along with Santa Paula Council Members who are also sending a letter requesting the VCTC reconsider the decision of divesting itself of administration from bus and transportation service. This change will affect the VISTA Route 126 service and the Fillmore and Santa Paula Dial-A-Ride and is scheduled to happen July 1, 2013. Brooks explained that the expected replacement system has union drivers which are paid at a much higher rate than what is being used now, which will be reflected in the cost of the fare/rates and he is not sure that Fillmore residents could afford the increase. Hwy 126 between Fillmore and Santa Paula has the highest participation in Ventura County and “we can not afford to lose that service” Brooks stated.

Also, the Film Commission has issued three film permits within the past two months; one is for the TV show “The Mentalist” which brought in $4,030 in General Fees and $7,425 in Public Safety Fees and a Lifetime project “Road Trip” by Michael Crawford which took out two permits, paying General Fees of $2,400 and $1,830 and Public Safety Fees of $4,500 and $1,650. Location scouts were also in town and are considering doing a Jeep commercial.

Leslie Klinchuch, with Chevron announced two future tours of the site cleanup and gave an update on the progress being made. Klinchuch said there was a great deal more concrete and underground pipe than expected and when that is completed the soil will be addressed. There will be two site tours on Thursday Oct 18th at 3:00pm and at 5:30pm. At 67 Telegraph Rd. Chevron and the Environmental Protection Agency will be there.

Raelene Chaney announced the holiday season is just around the corner and it’s time to order your Grad Nite Live Pies. She also informed the Council that Marie Calendars has raise their price and the pies are now $13 each. The number to order is 805 524-4909.

Question No. 2: What is your vision for Fillmore if elected/reelected? What do you perceive as the five most important priorities for the city?

SANDRA PELLA:
My vision for Fillmore is to see our City thrive; not merely survive. I envision a restoration to the vibrant, quaint and small town appeal that is characteristic of Fillmore. The recession has adversely affected Fillmore like so many other cities throughout the United States. Our business and residential growth as a City is stagnant, and our household and business budgets are stretched to the limit. As we continue to confront challenges within Fillmore with respect to the economy, and in rebuilding the community’s confidence in our ability to turn things around, we need to address priorities that can affect a positive change:
We need to stimulate business by re-zoning the downtown in order to allow for diversity in types of businesses, and at the same time complete the business park.
We need more avenues for enhancing communication among the business community, Fillmore residents and the City.
We need to raise City income, control costs and balance the City budget; while maintaining responsibility for City resources.
We need to ensure the safety and welfare of the public through maintaining sufficient law enforcement, fire protection and emergency services.
We need to work together toward accomplishing common goals; avoiding divisive political and/or self-interests.
The City Council is only an instrument through which these priorities can be realized. City Council members serve only to meet community needs as determined by the public. You, as Fillmore residents and businesses, are the driving force behind our City’s return to success and prosperity. We can accomplish these goals with effective leadership and a cooperative community spirit.

GAYLE WASHBURN:
My vision is CONTINUED »

Gerardo Vaca, Class of 1988, was inducted into the Hall of Fame.
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Frank Tirado Class of 1971, was inducted into the Hall of Fame.
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The Fillmore High School (FHS) Sports Hall of Fame held its Ceremony weekend on September 14th and 15th. The Hall of Famers past and present were introduced before the Flashes Football game on Friday the 14th. What made it special for all attending was that the Flashes of Fillmore beat the Santa Paula Cardinals in the 102nd meeting between the two teams.

Past Hall of Famers greeted the new Class. The Oldest Flashes Hall of Famer at the game was George Garnica Class of 1950, the youngest April Kozar Class of 1997. They all enjoyed the game and had a chance to talk over old times.

Saturday night was the big night for the Class of 2012. The public was invited to view the Gym and the Hall of Fame at Fillmore High School. They had a chance to see the Hall of Fame wall along with the League Championship Banners and C.I.F. Championship Banners.

In the Hall of Fame they also had a chance to see Championship Trophies and the Hall of Fame Plagues. The Letterwoman’s Jacket of April Ponce-Thompson and Kevin Gross's Phillies Jersey, and all the other items from the Hall of Famers and FHS were also on display.

This year the Hall of Fame Ceremony was held in the Veterans Memorial Building. Over 200 people were in attendance to see the Class of 2012 inducted. It was great to see Hall of Fame coaches Jim Fauver and Bruce Dempsey. Over 20 Hall of Famers were there to welcome the Class of 2012. After a moment of Silence for Hall of Famers Bob Huestis and William "Bill" Pearson, who passed away this last year, the ceremony was in full speed.
This was the first year The Hall of Fame had a new award, “Charles A. Mozley Special Recognition Award". It was named after the great Ventura County Hall of Fame Teacher Charles Mozley. This year the award went to Henry "Hank" Carrillo. Hank was "The Voice" of Fillmore, and he helped out in Fillmore sports at all levels. Hanks wife of 50 years Mary Lou and their two children Richard and Lori were there to accept the award. Mr. Mozley's wife and two of their four children Melissa and Matt where there to present the award.

Two Coaches were inducted into this year’s Class, Coach Jim Hunt and Coach Robert ''Bobby" Calderon. Coach Hunt was the Track and Field and the Cross Country Coach at Fillmore in the 1950's. Hall of Famer John Scloes said, "We knew we were fast in those days, but Coach Hunt taught us how to run track the right way." Coach Calderon was the Wrestling Coach at FHS from 1988 until 2011. He had five Team league Championships and many of his wrestlers won individual championships.

The players came next for the Class of 2012. First up was William "Bill" Case Class of 1939. Bill was an outstanding Football Player for the Flashes. Bill's daughters Anne and Susan were there to accept for their father. Don "Spider" Hughes Class of 1952 was there. The great football, basketball, and baseball player was inducted into the Hall of Fame. Frank Tirado Class of 1971 came from Texas to be inducted into this year’s Class. The star football, basketball, and baseball player for the Flashes was there with his family. Heidi Hope-Popp Class of 1980 was inducted this year. Heidi was a hardnosed, team first, Basketball standout for the Flashes. Heidi was also on the Track and Field team and the Tennis Team at Fillmore.

Michael Hopper Class of 1980 came in from Utah for the event. Mike said all he wanted to do in sports was play for Coaches Bruce Dempesy, Jim Fauver, and Tom Ecklund, all of them Hall of Famers. On this night Mike was also a Hall of Famer. Mike Largen Class of 1981 was inducted, the greatest male golfer that Fillmore has seen. Mike also played basketball for Fillmore, but golf was his best sport. A three-time Most Valuable Player (MVP). for FHS and two-time League M.V.P., Mike played and was a Club Pro for many years.

Next up was Mathew Dollar, Class of 1988, MVP in football and wrestling, Matt had even a bigger night on Friday when the head football coach for the Flashes beat the Cardinals to bring "The Helmet" back home to Fillmore. His Grandfather, William "Bill" Case and he shared the night together as Hall of Famers. Gerardo Vaca Class of 1988 was inducted into the Hall of Fame. The cross country, soccer, and track and field star was on team or was a League Champion nine times for the Fillmore Flashes. Gerardo was one of the greatest runners at FHS. April Ponce-Thompson Class of 1990 was an outstanding basketball, volleyball, and softball player for the Flashes. An MVP and All-Leaguer in all of her sports, April said she owes everything to her late mother Barbara Ponce for being such a strong single mother to her and her brothers and sisters.

Last of the Players for the Class of 2012 Hall of Fame was Art Sosa Class of 1991. Art was the Quarterback and Defensive Back for the Flashes Football team. An outstanding basketball and baseball player for the Flashes, Art was All-League and Captain for all three teams. Art later was a great football coach for FHS.

The Teams that went into The Fillmore High School Sports Hall of Fame Class of 2012 were the 1915 Boy's Baseball Team, the 1975 Girl's Softball Team, the 1977 Girls Volleyball Team, and the 2006 Boy's Soccer Team.

The Fillmore High School Sports Hall of Fame Committee would like to thank Team Gear-up and Crown Trophy, and the Fillmore High School Sports Hall of Fame Club. Without the work the young men and women do for The Hall of Fame, it would not be here; and to all who have donated money and time for this great event to happen. The Fillmore High School Hall of Fame Golf Tournament will be on February 22, 2013. So make plans to join in all the fun and support the Fillmore High School Sports Hall of Fame.