Ventura Fire Safe is hosting FREE Chipper Events across Ventura County to help residents dispose of brush and reduce wildfire risk. Multiple locations including Fillmore, Piru, Santa Paula, Ojai, Ventura, Thousand Oaks & more April – July 2026. Registration is required for ALL locations. Help protect your home and community by clearing defensible space the easy way. Register today: venturafiresafe.org/chipper. Courtesy https://www.facebook.com/cityoffillmore.

As your elected Sheriff, I am committed to transparency, accountability, and maintaining the trust of the communities we serve. This statement is intended to provide an explanation regarding our agency’s use of Flock Safety’s Automated License Plate Reader (ALPR) technology and the findings of a recent audit of Flock system data.
The Sheriff’s Office has been utilizing ALPR technology for nearly a decade. ALPRs capture vehicle-related images, including an image of the vehicle’s license plate. This information is used for legitimate law enforcement investigations and public safety operations. Our Flock ALPR data is stored in an encrypted cloud environment for one year before it is deleted.
State law prohibits California law enforcement agencies from sharing ALPR data with out-of-state and federal law enforcement agencies. California law also limits cooperation between California law enforcement agencies and federal law enforcement agencies as it pertains to immigration enforcement, with few exceptions as outlined in Senate Bill 54.
To comply with state law, in June of 2023 we disabled Flock’s “National Lookup” feature. This feature allowed participating law enforcement agencies throughout the country the ability to search ALPR data of other participating agencies. Flock estimates that 75% of their 5,000 law enforcement customers throughout the nation participate in “National Lookup.” By disabling this feature, we ensured that our data was only searchable by California law enforcement agencies.
ALPR technology has proven to be an invaluable investigative tool. It has assisted law enforcement in:
- Locating suspect vehicles in homicide, robbery, burglary, and organized retail theft investigations
- Locating and recovering stolen vehicles
- Finding vehicles associated with missing persons, Silver Alerts, and Amber Alerts
- Investigating hit-and-run auto collisions
- Identifying vehicles connected to violent crimes
- Enhancing officer safety during active and high-risk incidents (such as an active shooter)
Since implementing ALPR technology, our agency has experienced numerous investigative successes. A few are highlighted below:
- The Sheriff’s Office utilized ALPRs (including Flock readers) to assist in recovering 38 stolen vehicles in 2024 and 46 stolen vehicles in 2025. Many arrests were made associated with the vehicle thefts over this time frame.
- On July 1, 2024, suspects used stolen vehicles to burglarize a Camarillo gun store, stealing 63 firearms. Flock readers linked a suspect vehicle between Thousand Oaks and Camarillo, leading to the identification of six suspects from Riverside and Las Vegas. Working with the Bureau of Alcohol, Tobacco, Firearms, and Explosives, authorities arrested the group, clearing a nine-month spree involving nine different gun store burglaries and 300 stolen firearms.
- On January 1, 2025, multiple semi-trailers and tractors, including loads stolen from Harbor Freight in Camarillo, were taken across Los Angeles and Ventura counties. Flock readers tracked the stolen trailers, enabling detectives to identify suspects, secure search warrants, make arrests, and recover $1.5 million in stolen merchandise.
- On July 2, 2025, a woman was followed from her bank to her workplace in Moorpark in an attempted theft. Deputies obtained a partial license plate from the victim. Sheriff’s Dispatch – Advanced Real Time Information Center (ARTIC) used ALPR data to identify the suspect vehicle and confirmed a hit in Simi Valley, allowing investigators to quickly locate and detain both suspects. The suspects were positively identified and arrested, and a search of the vehicle uncovered a large amount of cash and evidence linked to additional follow home theft cases, demonstrating the critical role ALPR played in the successful resolution.
- On November 25, 2025, multiple reports of gunshots and screaming led deputies to respond to a confirmed shooting into a residence in Nyeland Acres. Witnesses reported the suspects fled in a dark-colored Nissan Altima and used a rifle. Dispatch provided critical ALPR data identifying the suspect vehicle in Camarillo. Deputies located the vehicle shortly after and arrested one adult and four juveniles. A modified AR-15 style rifle was recovered.
- On January 10, 2026, deputies received a Flock hit on a vehicle driven by a known probationer and located it parked at a shooting range in Piru. A records check confirmed the driver was a convicted felon prohibited from possessing firearms. Because of the ALPR hit, the suspect was arrested on several firearms related charges.
- On January 25, 2026, after a jewelry theft in Moorpark, the suspect fled in a red Dodge Challenger, colliding with several parked vehicles. An off-duty deputy who witnessed the event provided the license plate, and ARTIC leveraged Flock data to track the vehicle’s movement through Simi Valley, Thousand Oaks, and into Camarillo. Deputies located the vehicle and arrested two suspects for theft-related charges, conspiracy, and hit and run. The stolen jewelry was recovered and returned to the victim.
- On January 31, 2026, a witness in a homicide investigation provided specific details about a vehicle connected to the suspect. A search of ALPR data helped to identify the complete license plate number of the vehicle within 8 minutes of the call to dispatch. The information allowed law enforcement to quickly locate the vehicle and bring the search for the suspect to an end.
These are just a few examples of how the use of ALPRs keep Ventura County residents safe. These systems enable us to quickly develop investigative leads that would not otherwise exist, significantly improving our ability to prevent crime, solve cases, and protect victims and the public. The safety of our residents is our highest priority.
Earlier this month, the Ventura County Sheriff’s Office learned that some California law enforcement agencies discovered an error by Flock that caused their “National Lookup” feature to turn on without explanation and without notification to the agency. Those agencies reported that their ALPR data became searchable by out of state law enforcement agencies, including federal law enforcement agencies.
As a result, our agency conducted an audit of our ALPR data on February 11, 2026. The purpose of this audit was to confirm that our ALPR data had not been accessed or shared by law enforcement agencies outside of California.
The audit revealed that despite the Ventura County Sheriff’s Office disabling “National Lookup” in June of 2023 to comply with state law, from February 19, 2025, through March 19, 2025, Flock’s error allowed law enforcement agencies from outside the state of California to query our data without our knowledge or approval just over 364,000 times.
The audit further revealed that 299 search justifications entered into the system referenced immigration enforcement. This was done by both federal and local agencies outside California, accounting for a total of 0.08%, or less than 1/10 of 1 percent of all searches.
Upon discovery of the audit results, our agency immediately engaged with Flock representatives, who told us that other agencies experienced similar issues. Flock further advised that due to limitations in technical logging, it was impossible to determine the specific cause. They provided three possible explanations for how our data became searchable nationwide from February 19, 2025, through March 19, 2025:
1. One of our agency’s administrators activated a nationwide lookup feature that would allow out-of-state agencies to access our data.
2. A Flock employee activated the nationwide lookup feature.
3. A system bug automatically activated the nationwide lookup feature.
Regarding bullet point one, we conducted an internal investigation and determined that no one from our agency activated the national lookup feature.
We learned that on or about March 19, 2025, Flock made a company-wide decision to remove the ability for any California law enforcement agency to activate the national lookup feature, which potentially explains why our data was shared for only one month. According to Flock, this was done to ensure compliance with California law.
Flock was unable to determine if any of the out of state queries matched images captured by our ALPRs, but only stated that our data was accessible to out of state or federal agencies and not specifically targeted by out of state or federal agencies. To be clear, we do not know if any out of state law enforcement agencies or federal law enforcement agencies received any images or information captured by our license plate readers.
Effective immediately, we have implemented enhanced internal safeguards, including daily audits conducted by our agency to independently verify system settings and access logs.
Flock has made internal improvements to their system to prevent this from occurring again. This includes reassurances that Flock does not have any contracts with ICE or any sub-agency of the Department of Homeland Security. Flock has blocked federal agencies from engaging in any data sharing relationships with California law enforcement agencies. Flock verified that no California law enforcement agencies have the option to have their data searched by or shared with any law enforcement agency outside the state, including with federal agencies. Flock initiated features that automatically block any searches of data that use immigration related terms as a justification for the search.
Additionally, to ensure full transparency and secure the most reliable and compliant technology available, our agency will explore alternative ALPR vendors. This process will allow us to evaluate all available vendors and ensure that whichever system we utilize moving forward provides the highest standards of security, accountability, and functionality.
ALPR technology remains a powerful and critical tool in combating crime and protecting our communities. Its value in identifying suspects, recovering stolen vehicles, locating missing people, and solving serious and violent crimes cannot be overstated.
However, public trust is equally critical. It is the cornerstone of effective law enforcement. It is essential to community safety, accountability, and legitimacy. We are committed to maintaining that trust through transparency and our responsible use of technology.
Prepared by: Sheriff Jim Fryhoff
News Release Date: February 27, 2026
***
Nature of Incident: Flock Safety Automated License Plate Readers and Data Security
Date: February 27, 2026

Ventura County Sheriff’s Emergency Services is inviting the public to review and comment on the updated Ventura County Operational Area Emergency Operations Plan from March 3 through April 3, 2026, at 5:00 PM.
Residents, businesses, and community organizations are encouraged to take part in a virtual Town Hall on March 18, 2026, at 6:30 PM. Staff will highlight what has changed in the plan, explain why it matters, and outline how to submit comments. The meeting will also include a preview of the County’s upcoming Hazard Mitigation Plan update.
The Emergency Operations Plan serves as the County’s playbook for preparing for, responding to, and recovering from disasters. It defines roles and responsibilities, supports coordination across jurisdictions, and outlines how the Emergency Operations Center is activated during incidents.
To review the draft plan, register for the Town Hall, or submit comments, visit:
https://ready.venturacounty.gov/eop-update-2026/
Individuals who require language translation or other accommodations to participate in the Town Hall may request assistance during online registration, by calling 805 437 4205, or by emailing OES.OES@venturacounty.gov. Requests should be submitted by noon on March 13, 2026, to allow time for coordination.
Prepared by: Director Patrick Maynard
News Release Date: 3/2/2026
Patrick.Maynard@ventura.org
***
Community: Ventura County Seeks Public Input on Emergency Operations Plan (EOP)
Nature of Incident: Ventura County Seeks Public Input on Emergency Operations Plan (EOP)
Date & Time: March 3, 2026 – April 3, 2026
Unit(s) Responsible: Sheriff’s Emergency Services

Pictured (l-r) is Fillmore Rotary Club President Scott Beylik presenting guest speaker Steve Conaway with a Rotary mug. Photo credit Martha Richardson.

Fillmore Rotary Club President Scott Beylik introduced this week’s guest speaker Steve Conaway. Steve has been involved in competitive BBQ-ing for several years. He started by talking to others and got enthused to try it, sending him down the long BBQ competition road. Steve cooks different proteins, chicken, ribs, pork and beef brisket. At first, he didn’t win but began taking classes and then was off. He has cooked all over the United States and is the top in US. In 2019 he got Grand Champion and then covid hit and things changed. Now he is part of a different company. He talked about what the judges look for in the meat appearance, texture, and taste. The main goal is to make something the judges like, not just some new idea the person comes up with. What he enjoys about competing is seeing friends. In three weeks, he is going to Texas to compete in the World Championship event. As part of his program, he set up his BBQ in the parking lot and brought in Rib Eye steaks for all the Rotary members to try. Delicious!

April 25 & 26 will be the 2026 Fillmore Flower Show. This year’s theme is “A Blooming Good Time”. Locals are invited to participate or to come out and enjoy the show. Above are two bouquet entries from a previous show. Photo credit Linda Nunes.

“A Blooming Good Time” is the theme for the upcoming Fillmore Flower Show, which will be April 25th & 26th! Our Website, www.fillmoreflowershow.org, will soon have the new brochure posted, but right now you can see the photo gallery from previous years & last year’s brochure with all the divisions & descriptions.
I would like to point out two Divisions that can be confusing-Division IV-Bouquets & Division V-Arrangements. Bouquets will be brought to enter in your own, well-labeled vase, & it will have cut stems of the same variety of flower-like different colors of Sweet Peas with only their own leaves-nothing else. Division V- Arrangements will be brought on a tray or in a vase with whatever mix of flowers & leaves, including dried plant material, a book or statue that fits with your theme, in either Traditional, Oriental or Modern Abstract style. The entire arrangement can’t be larger than 20” x 20”.
Get your creative juices flowing! Hope to see you at the show!

FRIENDS OF THE BLANCHARD COMMUNITY LIBRARY

BACK STACKS Used Book Sales

BIG SATURDAY SALE March 7, 2026

10AM TO 2PM

March SALE ITEM

50% OFF ALL Gardening Books

Bonus! 50% OFF ALL Green Books Too

It is starting to feel like Spring. Sunny warm days are calling us to get our gardens started. Why not check out the Back Stacks collection of classic and specialized gardening books. Organic gardening, succulents, vegetables, herb gardening, container gardening.

You name it, we probably have it!

We have loads of gently used books at Low, Low Prices.

If you miss the Saturday sale, the weekday hours are outlined below.

Wednesdays from 12 pm to 4 PM (except January 1st)

Thursdays from 12pm to 2pm

Fridays from 12 pm to 2pm

We accept cash, checks and credit cards.

We have a large inventory of Fiction and Non-fiction, as well as children’s books. Our collection features 1,000’s of used books from 50 cents to $2, as well as collectible books from $4 and up. 100% of book sale proceeds goes to support the Blanchard Community Library. PLEASE NOTE: We love receiving donations, and accept everything EXCEPT VHS, magazines or cassette taps. Also, we accept donations ONLY on days when the Library is open for business to ensure that your generous donation is not damaged or stolen.

Located at the Blanchard Community Library, 119 North 8th Street, Santa Paula,

LOOK FOR our BOOK SALE SIGNS on 8th Street

Layla Bloom, 11th grade, FHS, designed the winning logo for this year’s VC Academic Decathlon.

A special Thank You to team advisor Benjamin Bradshaw!
The Ventura County Office of Education (VCOE) is pleased to announce the winners of the 2026 Ventura County Academic Decathlon, which was held last month. The winners were revealed at a ceremony held on February 9th in Camarillo. Nine high schools that participated this year are Fillmore High School, Adolfo Camarillo High School, Channel Islands High School, Oak Park High School, Pacifica High School, Royal High School, Santa Susana High School, Thousand Oaks High School, and Westlake High School. The theme for this year’s Academic Decathlon was “The Roaring Twenties.”
DESIGN AWARD- Layla Bloom, 11th grade, FHS. Layla designed the winning logo for this year’s VC Academic Decathlon.
MVP AWARD (Honor, Scholastic, Varsity): Emma Victor, Emily Barajas, Mable Lengning
COMMITMENT TO EXCELLENCE AWARDS-Christian Diaz
INDIVIDUAL AWARD WINNERS ESSAY-Division 2 (Bronze): Sofia Ibarra, Mable Lengning, Camila Razo.
ACADEMIC DECATHLON-ESSAY AWARD WINNERS-SCIENCE-Division 2 (Bronze): Joaquin Ibarra; (Silver) Alexander Ramirez.
INDIVIDUAL AWARD WINNERS INTERVIEW-Division 2 (Gold): Camila Razo.
INDIVIDUAL AWARD WINNERS-MUSIC-Division 2 (Bronze): Camila Razo; (Gold) Mable Lengning.
INDIVIDUAL AWARD WINNERS-MATHMATICS-Division 2 (Bronze) :Alexander Ramirez.
INDIVIDUAL AWARD WINNERS-ECONOMICS-Division 2 (Silver): Thaily Soriano.
INDIVIDUAL AWARD WINNERS-ART-Division 2 (Silver): Thaily Soriano; (Gold) Mable Lengning.
INDIVIDUAL AWARD WINNERS-SPEECH-Division 2 (Bronze): Faith Marcelino; (Silver) Emma Victor.
INDIVIDUAL AWARD WINNERS-LITERATURE-Division 2 (Bronze): Thaily Soriano; (Silver) Joaquin Ibarra.
INDIVIDUAL AWARD WINNERS-SOCIAL SCIENCE-Division 2 (Bronze): Christian Diaz; (Silver) Mable Lengning.
HIGHEST INDIVIDUAL SCORE AWARD-RECIPIENTS FOR EACH TEAM: Emma Victor.
OVERALL TEAM SCORE DIVISION 2- (3rd Place) Fillmore High School.
***
The Academic Decathlon is an opportunity for high school students in Ventura County to compete against teams from schools throughout the county. Students compete in 10 academic events that cover subjects ranging from art to economics. A unique aspect of the competition is that it’s designed to include students from all academic backgrounds. The United States Academic Decathlon is the nation’s premier scholastic competition for students from public and private high schools across the country.
For list of full winners go to: https://www.canva.com/design/DAHAShkr3yU/l49nsCeFW9TQPKydSSXL1w/viewutm_....

Date: February 12, 2026
The City of Fillmore is pleased to announce that Channel 10, the City’s local government access channel, has been updated to better serve residents and keep the community informed.
Channel 10 is regularly updated with City Council meeting broadcasts, important announcements, and the latest news and updates from the City of Fillmore. This ensures residents have convenient access to timely and transparent information about the City of Fillmore.
Residents are encouraged to tune in to Channel 10 to stay connected with City Council meetings and important City updates.
***
Contact:
Name: Angel Garcia
Title: Sr. Management Analyst Phone: 805-946-1827
Email: agarcia@fillmoreca.gov

The Fillmore Rotary Club speaker last week was Kevin McSweeney, Planning Department Director for the City of Fillmore. He has held that position for 34 years. He talked about what was needed to get approval for a license and about the various inspections with the Fire Department and Building Department. There are many rules and regulations that need to be followed. He also stated that the State informed the Planning Department that they have to provide low-income housing and that is being done. In regard to the Rite Aid building and what would be there next, he stated that the owners of the building are Rite Aid and no one has contacted the city. So, we’ll wait and see.

Courtesy https://www.fillmoreca.gov/1353/Upcoming-2026-Weed-Abatement-Calendar
The City of Fillmore’s Weed Abatement Program is a proactive effort led by the Fire Department to reduce wildfire risk by ensuring properties are properly maintained and free of excessive dry vegetation.
Due to changing weather patterns and increased wildfire danger throughout the year, weed abatement enforcement now occurs year-round rather than during a single “fire season.” Property owners may receive notices based on inspections and weather conditions, particularly during periods of dry weather and increased Santa Ana wind activity.
The program includes property inspections, mailed notices, and follow-up contacts for properties that do not meet compliance standards. Owners are given time to clear weeds and hazardous vegetation before further enforcement actions are taken.
Properties that are missed initially or experience regrowth later in the year may be re-inspected and contacted again to ensure continued compliance.
The City’s goal is to help protect residents, neighborhoods, and businesses by reducing fire hazards and promoting community safety through responsible property maintenance.

February 3, 2026
(Ventura) – Ventura County Clerk-Recorder and Registrar of Voters Michelle Ascencion announced the February 9, 2026 opening of the nomination period for the June 2, 2026 Statewide Direct Primary Election. Those who are interested in running for office should make an appointment to obtain their candidate filing documents from the Ventura County Elections Division for the following offices:
Voter-Nominated Offices
- Governor
- Lieutenant Governor
- Secretary of State
- State Controller
- State Treasurer
- Attorney General
- Insurance Commissioner
- Member, State Board of Equalization, 2nd District
- United States Representative: 24th, 26th, and 32nd Congressional Districts
- Member of the State Assembly: 38th, 42nd, and 46th State Assembly Districts.
Nonpartisan Offices
- Superintendent of Public Instruction
- Judge of the Ventura County Superior Court: 16 Seats
- Ventura County Board of Supervisors: 2nd and 4th Supervisorial Districts
- County Assessor
- County Auditor-Controller
- County Clerk and Recorder
- County Treasurer-Tax Collector
- County Superintendent of Schools
Official nomination documents for these offices are available beginning at 8:00 a.m. on February 9 at the Ventura County Elections Division, located in the Lower Plaza of the Hall of Administration, 800 S. Victoria Ave., at the Ventura County Government Center. Appointments for in-person services are highly encouraged and can be made online at Vote.VenturCounty.gov or by calling the Elections Division at 805-654-2664.
The nomination period closes on Friday, March 6, 2026. All nomination documents and fees must be filed with the Elections Division no later than 5:00 p.m. If nomination documents for an incumbent officeholder are not filed by the March 6 deadline, the voters shall have until 5:00 p.m. on Wednesday, March 11, 2026 to nominate candidates other than the incumbent. There is no extension for an office where the incumbent has reached their maximum term limit.
Other Key Events (approximate dates)
- Randomized alphabet drawing for the ballot order of candidates - March 12, 2026
- 90-day Voter notification postcard mailed to voters - March 4, 2026
- 60-day Voter notification postcard mailed to voters - April 3, 2026
- State Voter Information Guide mailed to voters - April 23, 2026
County Voter Information Guide mailed to voters - April 23,2026
- Vote by mail ballots sent - May 4, 2026
- Early voting opens at Government Center - May 4, 2026
- 11-Day Vote Centers Open - May 23, 2026
- 4-Day Vote Centers Open - May 30, 2026
Last Day to Vote/Election Day - June 2, 2026
Potential candidates interested in learning more about the nomination process can read the June 2, 2026 Statewide Primary Election Candidate Information Guide available on the Elections Division website.
For assistance, please contact the Elections Division at candidate.filing@venturacounty.gov or 805-654-2664.
The Ventura County Clerk-Recorder & Registrar of Voters is committed to “Preserving history and protecting democracy for the people of Ventura County, past, present, and future.” More information about the agency’s services is available 24/7 at ClerkRecorder.
VenturaCounty.gov.

The program was presented by Patrick Maynard, Ventura County Emergency Services Coordinator. He works with several county agencies, such as fire and sheriffs. Patrick talked about evacuations stating sometimes it is best to stay home, depending on the situation. VC Emergency.com gives updates on whatever is happening. The most important thing to remember is to be self-sufficient with your family and home, “Plan & Prepare”. Know where your family is meeting outside, in case of fire. Look around your home--what could be a problem and fix it. You may want a generator in case the power is out for days. Mainly be aware of what is going on so you won’t be surprised.

Traditionally the busiest wedding day of the year, the County Clerk-Recorder’s Office in Ventura will open limited hours for a group ceremony
(Ventura, CA) – Every year, February 14—Valentine’s Day—is the busiest day for weddings at the Ventura County Clerk-Recorder’s Office, with dozens of couples visiting the County Government Center to obtain a marriage license or say “I do” during a civil marriage ceremony.
However, Valentine’s Day falls on a Saturday this year, which is outside the Clerk-Recorder’s regular business hours. Recognizing the high demand for weddings ceremonies on February 14, Ventura County Clerk-Recorder Michelle Ascencion has announced a special Valentine’s Day group wedding ceremony to give couples the opportunity to marry on this popular and meaningful day.
“Everyone wants to get married on Valentine’s Day—it’s very romantic,” said Clerk-Recorder Ascencion. “When Valentine’s Day is during the week, we’ll have up to 40 couples come in to tie the knot at our office, many times more than our usual schedule of about 10 ceremonies on a regular day.
“Since we know people want to get married on Valentine’s Day, we decided to open for a few hours on that Saturday to be able to accommodate the couples who want to make Valentine’s Day their wedding and future anniversary date.”
A single group ceremony will be officiated by Clerk-Recorder Ascencion at 10:00 AM in the Hall of Administration at the Ventura County Government Center, 800 S. Victoria Avenue, Ventura. All couples participating in the Valentine’s Day wedding event need to register through the County Clerk-Recorder’s website at ClerkRecorder.VenturaCounty.gov. They must obtain a Ventura County-issued marriage license no later than Friday, February 13.
Wedding day check-in (physical IDs required) will take place between 9:00 and 9:30 AM only. The ceremony will be performed in English with simultaneous Spanish translation and will last approximately 15 minutes. Couples are welcome and encouraged to carry flowers and exchange rings during the ceremony. Due to space restrictions, couples are limited to no more than 8 guests (for a total of 10 in their party).
Following the ceremony, the Clerk-Recorder staff will process each marriage license so couples can purchase certified copies of their marriage certificate the same day. Service will be provided on a first-come, first-served basis according to check-in order.
The ceremony fee is $60, payable by cash, check, or credit card (a $2.50 processing fee applies to each credit card transaction) and is due at check-in. Certified copies of the marriage certificate are available for $19 each after the ceremony.
Please Note:
Marriage licenses will not be issued on Valentine’s Day; the event is ceremony only.
Parking for the Hall of Administration is available in Lot F or Lot G.
Couples must bring their valid, pre-purchased Ventura County marriage license and a physical ID to check-in.
Appointments for marriage licenses may be made at ClerkRecorder.VenturaCounty.gov.
Visit the Valentine’s Day Wedding Page or call (805) 654-2263.
“Valentine’s Day is a day of love, and we love being a part of it!” Ascencion said. “We look forward to hosting this special, one-of-a-kind ceremony and celebrating many new beginnings.”
The Ventura County Clerk-Recorder & Registrar of Voters is committed to Preserving History and Protecting Democracy for the people of Ventura County—past, present, and future. More information about the agency’s services is available 24/7 at ClerkRecorder.VenturaCounty.gov.

On February 3, the City of Fillmore Fire Department launched it’s annual Weed Abatement Program in their efforts to reduce wildfire risk and protect the community. Above is a Fillmore firefighter surveying the fields from a previous weed abatement event. Photo courtesy Fillmore Fire Chief Keith Gurrola.

February 3, 2026, Fillmore, CA — The City of Fillmore Fire Department has launched its annual Weed Abatement Program as part of ongoing efforts to reduce wildfire risk and protect the community. Due to changing weather patterns and increased fire danger throughout the year, weed abatement enforcement now occurs year-round rather than during a single fire season.
The program includes property inspections, mailed notices, and follow-up contacts for properties that do not meet compliance standards. Property owners are responsible for clearing dry weeds and hazardous vegetation from their properties to help prevent fire hazards and maintain community safety.
Properties that were missed during initial inspections or experience regrowth later in the year may be re-inspected to ensure continued compliance. These efforts support the City’s goal of minimizing fire risk and promoting a safer environment for residents and businesses.
To learn more and view the full schedule, please visit the City’s dedicated Weed Abatement page: https://www.fillmoreca.gov/1353/Upcoming-2026-Weed-Abatement-Calendar.
***
Contact:
Name: Erika Herrera-Terriquez Title: City Manager
Phone: 805-946-1712
Email: eherrera@fillmoreca.gov
Name: Angel Garcia
Title Senior Management Analyst Phone: 805-946-1827
Email: agarcia@fillmoreca.gov

Millie Shackelford will be celebrating her 100th birthday on February 13, 2026. She was born in Miami, Oklahoma as Mildred Hartwell Cartwright. Her early life was marked by frequent moves. After the loss of her mother, she followed her father’s various jobs during the depression.
During High School, she ended up in Superior Arizona and met Troy Shackelford. They married on June 6, 1944 (D-Day). After their wedding, they traveled to Virginia Beach to wait for Troy’s Aircraft Carrier to be deployed to the Pacific war effort. While Troy was in the Navy, Millie worked as a phone operator for the Military in Port Hueneme.
After the war, Troy and Millie visited their lifelong friends, George and Lawanda Campbell, who lived in Fillmore. Troy got a job at Rudkin Motor Service, and Millie worked as a Dress Shop Associate and later as a Pre-School Paraprofessional at the Sonshine School where they raised two children.
Millie’s love for Fillmore was exemplified by her involvement in its organizations and activities. Some of these include PTA, Girl Scouts, Boy Scouts, Ventura County Garden Club, and a volunteer at the Fillmore Library during Art Arundell’s tenure.
Her attributes of creativity, curiosity, a sense of adventure, and loyalty to friendships mark her many interests, including sewing, cake decorating, gardening, epic orchid and rose cultivation, Floral Design, pottery, reading, fitness activities (such as Curves and daily walks), and especially her many travels.
She and Troy had two children, five grandchildren, and ten great-grandchildren. In 2014, a decline in Millie’s health forced her to leave her beloved Fillmore to live in an assisted living facility near her son in Fresno. Recently, she has relocated again to an assisted living facility in Idaho near her son’s current home.
Despite an unsettled childhood, her constant positivity, infectious smile, and love for people have made her special to the many lives she has embraced. We celebrate her 100 years of Giving and Love.

The 2026 Fillmore Flower Show has announced the theme of this year’s show which is “A Blooming Good Time”. The show will be held April 24 – 26, at the Fillmore Active Adult Center. Above entries from last year’s show. Full details in article. Photo credit Linda Nunes.

“A Blooming Good Time” is the theme for the 2026 Annual Fillmore Flower Show, coming up, April 25th & 26th. It is held at the Active Adult Center, 533 Santa Clara St. Fillmore, Ca.
We will have a boutique that features potted plants & a table with cuttings, by the bag. The boutique has unique mobiles & other garden related items and the amazing thing is that all these plants, etc. are “sold” by donation only. The money we take in helps us keep the show going each year.
If you are interested in helping, we could use donated rusty & interesting small items to make the mobiles. Just give Linda Nunes a call at 805-302-7527 to pick them up or if you have items or cuttings to donate for our boutique that would be wonderful as well!
There will be a Café area with a place to sit, visit with friends & enjoy a homemade cookie & a cool fruit tea drink and we will also have a “Children’s Potting Table “where a child may plant a little succulent in a pot to take home. And this is free for children!
Encourage your children & grandchildren to take part in this lovely tradition that began in 1919 & stopped only for the war effort, a time of burn out, & then Covid. We will have old albums there for people to look back at previous shows…some finding pictures of their Grandparents.

Ventura County, California – As football fans gear up for the excitement of the big game, the Ventura County Sheriff’s Office reminds everyone that the best game plan includes getting home safely. Whether you’re hosting a party, attending a gathering or enjoying the game at your favorite spot, planning ahead for a sober ride will keep you and everyone on the road safe.
“Super Bowl celebrations are a time for fun and community, but safety should always come first,” said Sergeant Matthew Ogonowski. “If you plan to drink, make sure you have a reliable way to get home, whether that’s a designated sober driver, rideshare, taxi or public transportation.”
During Super Bowl LIX weekend (February 7 and 8), the Ventura County Sheriff’s Office will have additional officers on patrol looking for drivers suspected of being under the influence of alcohol and/or drugs.
Plan for a Safe Celebration
Before heading out for Super Bowl festivities, follow these tips to stay safe:
• Designate a Sober Driver: Choose someone ahead of time who will stay alcohol-free and make sure everyone gets home safely.
• Use Ridesharing Services, Taxis or Public Transportation: Rideshare apps and transit options are safe alternatives to driving if you’ve been drinking.
• Host Responsibly: If you’re hosting, offer plenty of non-alcoholic beverage options and make sure your guests have safe, sober rides home.
• Look Out for Others: Don’t let friends or family members drive impaired. Take their keys and help arrange a safe ride.
• Never Drive Impaired or Distracted: It’s not worth the risk – your life and others’ lives depend on it!
Impaired driving is not just from alcohol. Prescription drugs, over-the-counter medications, cannabis products and other drugs may also cause impairment. If you plan on drinking or taking medications with a driving warning label, let someone who is sober drive. If you see someone who appears to be driving while impaired, call 9-1-1.
Funding for this program is provided by a grant from the California Office of Traffic Safety, through the National Highway Traffic Safety Administration.
Prepared by: Sergeant Jason Christmann
News Release Date: January 23rd, 2026
Approved by: Captain Jason B. Hendren
***
Nature of Incident: Score Big on Safety: Celebrate Super Bowl Responsibly
Plan ahead with a sober ride before the big game
Location: County of Ventura
Date & Time: January 23rd, 2026
Unit(s) Responsible: Ventura County Sheriff’s Office

READY TO GARDEN? Planning for Spring and Summer
5:30 - 6:30 pm Monday, February 9, 2026 (monthly series)
Transform your gardening space into a fresh food paradise! Grow vegetables and herbs. Learn to create a food garden that thrives in Ventura County’s coastal climate.
We’ll cover top spring/summer vegetables that flourish in our region, planning your garden layout for maximum harvest, essential herbs for your kitchen garden, techniques for small yards, pest management, and water-smart growing methods for drought conditions.
Perfect for beginners and intermediate gardeners looking to grow fresh, healthy food at home. Bring your food garden dreams and questions!
Taught by certified Master Gardener, Terry Garman.
Register: https://surveys.ucanr.edu/survey.cfm?surveynumber=47135
Walk ins welcome!

Santa Clara Valley Disposal will maintain its regular trash, recycling and yard/organics waste collection schedule on Friday, Feb. 20, in Fillmore during the week of Presidents Day, which is observed on Monday Feb. 16.
Remember that Santa Clara Valley Disposal residential customers can place all three carts curbside every week, as the company collects all waste weekly – including food waste, which is recyclable. All food waste should be placed in closed paper or plastic bags and the bags should be tossed in the organics waste cart. This prevents food waste contamination because food waste and yard waste are processed separately. Even if you only have food waste bags and no yard waste, you can still put the food waste bags in your organics waste cart and take it to the curb every week for pickup.
Harrison Industries serves the cities and surrounding unincorporated areas of Ventura, Ojai and Camarillo as well as the unincorporated areas of La Conchita, Lake Sherwood, Lynn Ranch, Newbury Park, Ojai Valley (Ventura River Valley), Oxnard Plain, Piru, Point Mugu, Rancho Matilija, Rincon, Santa Paula, Santa Rosa Valley, Somis, Upper Ojai, Yerba Buena and the Channel Islands Beach Community Services District, as well as California State University Channel Islands and the city of Carpinteria, as E.J. Harrison & Sons; and the city of Fillmore as Santa Clara Valley Disposal.
For more information, visit www.ejharrison.com.