Get ready! Fillmore 4th of July is near. Fireworks booths are up around town, with sales starting on Saturday, June 28th, 2025, noon to July 5th. Local non-profit organizations will begin Safe & Sane Fireworks sales, a long-time tradition. Above is Saint Francis of Assisi’s Church booth from past years. Photo credit Gazette staff.
Get ready! Fillmore 4th of July is near. Fireworks booths are up around town, with sales starting on Saturday, June 28th, 2025, noon to July 5th. Local non-profit organizations will begin Safe & Sane Fireworks sales, a long-time tradition. Above is Saint Francis of Assisi’s Church booth from past years. Photo credit Gazette staff.
Enlarge Photo

Courtesy https://www.fillmoreca.gov/CivicAlerts.aspx?AID=226
Posted on: June 12, 2025

Safe & Sane Fireworks sales officially begin in Fillmore on June 28th! Celebrate responsibly while supporting a great cause! Every firework purchased at an officially permitted booth helps fund local nonprofit organizations, with all proceeds going directly back into our community. Let’s work together to make this 4th of July safe, fun, and meaningful for everyone in Fillmore!

Click here: https://www.fillmoreca.gov/DocumentCenter/View/1059/Fireworks-Edu-Info--...
Fireworks - Safety - Sales - Regulations for more for Fireworks Sales Info, Safety Tips, & Regulations.

Keep it Legal

• Safe and Sane fireworks are legal within the city limits of Fillmore beginning June 28th,12:00 P.M.- July_5th, 12:00 P.M. Discharging Safe & Sane fireworks in Fillmore outside the permitted dates and times specified is illegal.

• Fireworks not displaying the State Fire Marshall’s safe & sane logo are illegal year-round in all California cities.

• A citation will be issued to those found engaged in the sales/ discharge/possession of non-approved fireworks. The fine for this is $1,100 and may result in jail time.

• To report illegal activity please call the Ventura County Sheriff’s Office at 805-524- 2233.

• Never allow children to play with or ignite fireworks.

• Never try to re-light or pick up fireworks that have not ignited fully.

• Keep a bucket of water or garden hose handy in case of fire or other mishap.

• Do not ignite fireworks if you are consuming alcohol.

• Nearly half of all firework’s related injuries are from sparklers.

• 51% of fireworks related injuries involve individuals 18 years of age or younger

• Do not discharge fireworks near dry weeds, brush or other fire prone areas. Negligent discharge of fireworks can result in fines or jail time.

• Fireworks purchased in the City of Fillmore are only legal here. Fireworks are illegal in all other Ventura County Cities.

• Visitors to the City of Fillmore are encouraged to visit a public park to discharge their fireworks.

 


 
Fillmore Unified School District has selected Cinda Francis as new principal and Erin Sebek as assistant principal of Fillmore High School for the 2025-2026 upcoming school year. Full bios in article.
Fillmore Unified School District has selected Cinda Francis as new principal and Erin Sebek as assistant principal of Fillmore High School for the 2025-2026 upcoming school year. Full bios in article.
Enlarge Photo

Fillmore Unified has announced new Principals and assistant principals for multiple school throughout the district, read full bios below and stay tuned next week for two more new additions to Fillmore Unified:

Courtesy https://www.blog.fillmoreusd.org/fillmore-unified-school-district-blog/2...

Cinda Francis Selected New Principal, Fillmore High School

Degrees and Certifications/Credentials:
Bachelor’s Degree: Bachelor of Arts in Social Studies, Westmont College
Master’s Degree: Master of Arts in Educational Leadership, Claremont Graduate University
California Credentials: Administrative Services Credential, Single Subject Teaching Credential in Social Science with CLAD authorization

“I am honored to serve as the new Principal of Fillmore High School, beginning next school year. My journey in education spans nearly three decades, all dedicated to serving the students and families of the Fillmore Unified School District since 1998.

My administrative career began in August 2019 when I transitioned to serve as Assistant Principal at Fillmore Middle School. In August 2021, I moved to Fillmore High School as Assistant Principal, and since 2022, I have specialized as the Assistant Principal over Curriculum and Instruction, focusing on academic excellence and instructional innovation.

My foundation in education was built in the classroom as a Social Studies teacher, where I developed a deep understanding of student learning and engagement. I proudly served as the Social Studies Department Chair.

Throughout my career, I have been committed to supporting diverse learners and developing fellow educators. I served as the AVID Coordinator, helping students develop college and career readiness skills. As the English Learner Site Lead, I championed programs to support our multilingual learners. My passion for educator development led me to serve as a New Teacher Mentor and as a PAR (Peer Assisted Review) Support Provider, working with teachers across K-12 to enhance instructional practices.

I earned my Bachelor’s degree in Social Studies from Westmont College, where I developed my foundational knowledge in history, government, and social sciences. Recognizing the importance of educational leadership, I pursued and completed my Master’s degree in Educational Leadership from Claremont Graduate University, preparing me for the administrative roles I have embraced.
With nearly 28 years of dedicated service to the Fillmore Unified School District, I bring deep institutional knowledge and an unwavering commitment to student success. I look forward to leading Fillmore High School into its next chapter of excellence in academics, arts, athletics, and activities. Together, we will strengthen our community partnerships and continue building on our proud tradition. Go Flashes!”

***

Courtesy https://www.blog.fillmoreusd.org/fillmore-unified-school-district-blog/2...

Erin Sebek Selected Assistant Principal, Fillmore High School

Degrees and Certifications/Credentials: Bachelor’s Degree: Bachelor of Arts in Political Science – International Relations from the University of California, San Diego

Master’s Degree: Master of Arts in Education from Pepperdine University
Doctorate Degree: Doctorate in Educational Leadership (k-12) from California Lutheran University in progress – expected Spring 2028
California Credentials: Administrative Services Credential; Single Subject Teaching Credential in Social Science with CLAD authorization

Ms. Sebek brings over two decades of exceptional educational leadership to this role, having served the Fillmore Unified School District since 2006. As Fillmore High School Department Chair for Social Studies, she has led a dynamic team of five educators while implementing professional learning communities and innovative curriculum strategies that have elevated student achievement across the department.

A respected educational leader, Ms. Sebek currently serves on Fillmore High School’s Guiding Coalition, where she works on implementing comprehensive Multi-Tier Systems of Support in partnership with Solution Tree. Her commitment to educational excellence earned her recognition as Fillmore High School’s Teacher of the Month in May 2023.

Ms. Sebek’s passion for curriculum development shines through her work designing and implementing instruction for AP Psychology, World History, and AP European History. Her dedication to student success is further demonstrated by her role as AVID Site Coordinator from 2006-2016, which significantly increased Fillmore High School’s acceptance rates to four-year colleges.

Her global perspective was enhanced when she was selected by the Transatlantic Outreach Program to represent California in Germany, bringing international educational insights back to our community.

Currently pursuing her Doctorate in K-12 Educational Leadership at California Lutheran University, Ms. Sebek holds a Master’s in Education from Pepperdine University and a Bachelor’s in Political Science with an emphasis in International Relations from UC San Diego. She has recently completed her Administrative Services Credential and holds certification as a Trauma Informed Specialist.

energetic puppy, Reggie.

“I look forward to building strong relationships with our students, families, and staff. I’m truly proud to be part of the Fillmore Unified family and can’t wait for the great work we’ll do together.”

 


 
Above is evidence collected by the Ventura County Sheriff’s during their search warrant. Photo credit Ventura County Sheriff’s Office.
Above is evidence collected by the Ventura County Sheriff’s during their search warrant. Photo credit Ventura County Sheriff’s Office.
Enlarge Photo

During the first week of June 2025, detectives assigned to the Camarillo Special Enforcement Unit (SEU) began an investigation into a possible illicit firearms dealer operating out of the City of Fillmore. SEU Detectives identified the illicit firearms dealer as, City of Fillmore resident, (S) Timothy Padilla. During the investigation, SEU Detectives developed probable cause to arrest Padilla for a violation of California Penal Code Section 27545 – [ Unlawful Transfer of a Firearm]. During the second week of June 2025, SEU Detectives obtained a Ventura County search warrant signed by a Magistrate of the Ventura County Superior Court. The search warrant ordered detectives to search Padilla’s person, residence, vehicles, and property.

On 06/13/2025, at approximately 0700 hours, detectives assigned to various units and bureaus within the Ventura County Sheriff’s Office served the signed Ventura County search warrant at Padilla’s residence located in the 800 Block of Santa Clara Avenue, Fillmore. Padilla was contacted and swiftly taken into custody for the aforementioned violation.

Detectives began a search of Padilla’s residence. During the search detectives located firearms and ammunition strewn throughout the residence. Detectives ultimately located a total of 137 firearms, hundreds of firearm magazines, and approximately 100,000 rounds of various caliber ammunition.

A lengthy examination of the evidence ensued and detectives began categorizing the firearms. During the categorization process detectives identified multiple assault style firearms to include, a Fabrique Nationale Herstal 7.62 x 51mm NATO Assault Rifle, a Mac-10 style pistol with a vertical foregrip, and a Beretta 9mm Pistol with a threaded barrel capable of accepting a suppressor. Additionally, detectives located an M1919 Browing belt fed Machine Gun chambered in 7.62x51mm NATO. Detectives also located linked .50 BMG (Browning Machine Gun) rounds.

Through the investigation it was learned Padilla had been unlawfully transferring and selling assault weapons and other firearms to the residents of the County of Ventura. Padilla was ultimately arrested for California Penal Code Section 30605(a) – [ Possession of an Assault Weapon] and California Penal Code Section 27545.

Padilla was ultimately booked into the Ventura County Pre-Trial Detention Facility. Based on the investigation and evidence located as a result of the search, detectives believed more likely than not any monetary funds possessed by Padilla would have been the proceeds of illicit firearm sales.
Based on the circumstances of the investigation, detectives petitioned the Ventura County Superior Court for an increased bail as well as to challenge Padilla’s source of bail. As a result, Padilla’s bail was set at $500,000.

On 06/17/2025, the Ventura County District Attorney’s Office elected to file the following charges against Padilla: 10 counts of California Penal Code Section 27545, five counts of California Penal Code Section 30600(a) – [ Felony Transportation of Assault Weapons], and two counts of California Penal Code Section 30605(a).

The Ventura County Sheriff’s Office would like to thank members of the public for their on-going support and due diligence in providing information to assist our agency in solving crimes. We are better at what we do because of our community partnerships.

Join us in the fight on crime by following us on 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.

Prepared by: Senior Deputy Frank W. Corona
News Release Date: 06/17/2025
Approved by: Captain Jason Hendren
Booking Photo Release: NO

***
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).

 
At last Tuesday’s Fillmore City Council meeting the City of Fillmore recognized the Fillmore High School Boys Baseball team (left) for their CIF Championship, and the Fillmore Middle School Girls Soccer team (right) for earning Middle School League Champions. Fillmore Unified School District Superintendent Christine Schieferle, said, “Congratulations students and coaches for all of your athletic accomplishments!” Courtesy https://www.blog.fillmoreusd.org/fillmore-unified-school-district-blog/2025/6/11/city-of-fillmore-recognize-student-athletes-and-coaches.
At last Tuesday’s Fillmore City Council meeting the City of Fillmore recognized the Fillmore High School Boys Baseball team (left) for their CIF Championship, and the Fillmore Middle School Girls Soccer team (right) for earning Middle School League Champions. Fillmore Unified School District Superintendent Christine Schieferle, said, “Congratulations students and coaches for all of your athletic accomplishments!” Courtesy https://www.blog.fillmoreusd.org/fillmore-unified-school-district-blog/2025/6/11/city-of-fillmore-recognize-student-athletes-and-coaches.
Enlarge Photo
 
On Saturday, June 14th, at 12:43 p.m., the Ventura County Sheriff’s Office, Fillmore City Fire, and AMR Paramedics responded to a vehicle versus motorcycle crash at Ventura Street and Olive. Arriving firefighters found a black Ford Explorer and a motorcycle with two riders. One patient was located underneath the passenger side of the vehicle, while the second patient was treated by firefighters. A second ambulance was also requested. Both riders were taken to a local hospital, Condition Unknown. Photo credit Angel Esquivel.
On Saturday, June 14th, at 12:43 p.m., the Ventura County Sheriff’s Office, Fillmore City Fire, and AMR Paramedics responded to a vehicle versus motorcycle crash at Ventura Street and Olive. Arriving firefighters found a black Ford Explorer and a motorcycle with two riders. One patient was located underneath the passenger side of the vehicle, while the second patient was treated by firefighters. A second ambulance was also requested. Both riders were taken to a local hospital, Condition Unknown. Photo credit Angel Esquivel.
Enlarge Photo
 
Fillmore Fire Department was one of several agencies that took part in a controlled burn on Thursday, June 12th. Photo credit Angel Esquivel. See more photos online.

VCFD & LAFD crews in training. Photo credit Angel Esquivel.
Fillmore Fire Department was one of several agencies that took part in a controlled burn on Thursday, June 12th. Photo credit Angel Esquivel. See more photos online. VCFD & LAFD crews in training. Photo credit Angel Esquivel.
Enlarge Photo

VCFD along with firefighters from Ventura City Fire, Oxnard Fire, LAFD, and Fillmore Fire conducted a controlled burn in Fillmore on Thursday, June 12th, 2025.

The controlled burn operation was part of the S219 Firing Operations class led by instructors from VCFD. This training provides firefighters with hands-on experience using strategic burn operations as part of their firefighting tactics. The burn also provided hands-on training for newly hired VCFD hand crew members in an active but controlled fire environment.

Controlled burns like this also allow firefighters to remove fuels when conditions are favorable, and are an important part of wildfire preparedness.

 
Pictured left is Lori McLain with her daughter Presley McLain. Presley was awarded the P.E.O. 2025-2026 STAR Scholarship for $2,500. Also, pictured right is Destiny Juarez with her mother Monica Loewen. Destiny was awarded a $1,000 scholarship from the P. E.O. Sisterhood. Photo credit Jan Lee and Lori McLain.
Pictured left is Lori McLain with her daughter Presley McLain. Presley was awarded the P.E.O. 2025-2026 STAR Scholarship for $2,500. Also, pictured right is Destiny Juarez with her mother Monica Loewen. Destiny was awarded a $1,000 scholarship from the P. E.O. Sisterhood. Photo credit Jan Lee and Lori McLain.
Enlarge Photo

By Jan Lee

On Wednesday, May 28th, 2025, at the Fillmore High Senior Awards Night, the P.E.O. Sisterhood is one of the largest community-based women’s organizations in North America with almost 250,00 members. Our organization provides loans, grants and scholarships to women through its six philanthropies. We are committed to helping women achieve their educational goals.

Each year, chapter GY, Fillmore, holds fund raisers to procure money to give to women seeking further education. There are many deserving graduating seniors in the Fillmore Unified School District. This year we are giving a $1,000 scholarship to Destiny Juarez. She will be studying psychology at the university level with the goal of becoming a clinical psychologist. We wish her much success.

The P.E.O. STAR Scholarship recognizes the accomplishments of graduating high school young women planning to pursue post-secondary education. This candidate is nominated by the local chapter then selected by the P.E.O. STAR Scholarship Board of Trustees of International Chapter who read the applications from outstanding young women from all over the United States and Canada. The STAR Board chose to honor Presley McLain with one of the 2025-2026 $2,500 scholarships. She will study business and marketing. Presley was selected because she has demonstrated excellence in leadership, extracurricular activities, community service, academics and potential for success.

We extend to both of these outstanding students our congratulations on their character and accomplishments. To all the Class of 2025 we say, make us proud! Your family, teachers and staff (from TK to seniors) have invested years to get you where you are. You are our future!

 
Congratulations Fillmore Middle School teacher Mrs. Bortins for her recognition as one of the Educators of Excellence in Ventura County. Fillmore Middle School Principal Jenny Plugge said, “This is an amazing accomplishment and Fillmore Middle School is so proud of you!” Courtesy https://www.facebook.com/permalink.php?story_fbid=pfbid0ez1wyVbNs2gjQ1xWMPvfEbPrmZLhHhgPjthduBsRavpD93DbWiaALt5bcaQqcYApl&id=100063524712513.
Congratulations Fillmore Middle School teacher Mrs. Bortins for her recognition as one of the Educators of Excellence in Ventura County. Fillmore Middle School Principal Jenny Plugge said, “This is an amazing accomplishment and Fillmore Middle School is so proud of you!” Courtesy https://www.facebook.com/permalink.php?story_fbid=pfbid0ez1wyVbNs2gjQ1xWMPvfEbPrmZLhHhgPjthduBsRavpD93DbWiaALt5bcaQqcYApl&id=100063524712513.
Enlarge Photo
 
On Monday, June 16th, 2025, at 6:19pm a fire broke out at Torrey Road and East Giberson Road in Piru and quickly spread. Firefighting air tankers were called in to assist. As of 7:25am June 18th, the fire is at 100% containment and burned 44 acres. All evacuation warnings have been lifted and all roads are now open. Crews may still be seen mopping hotspots. Information and photo courtesy https://www.fire.ca.gov/incidents/2025/6/16/howe-fire
On Monday, June 16th, 2025, at 6:19pm a fire broke out at Torrey Road and East Giberson Road in Piru and quickly spread. Firefighting air tankers were called in to assist. As of 7:25am June 18th, the fire is at 100% containment and burned 44 acres. All evacuation warnings have been lifted and all roads are now open. Crews may still be seen mopping hotspots. Information and photo courtesy https://www.fire.ca.gov/incidents/2025/6/16/howe-fire
Enlarge Photo
 
Courtesy https://www.fillmoreca.gov/CivicAlerts.aspx?AID=226.
Courtesy https://www.fillmoreca.gov/CivicAlerts.aspx?AID=226.
Enlarge Photo

Courtesy https://www.fillmoreca.gov/CivicAlerts.aspx?AID=226
Posted on: June 12, 2025 | Last Modified on: June 12, 2025

Safe & Sane Fireworks sales officially begin in Fillmore on June 28th! Celebrate responsibly while supporting a great cause — every firework purchased at an officially permitted booth helps fund local nonprofit organizations, with all proceeds going directly back into our community. Let’s work together to make this 4th of July safe, fun, and meaningful for everyone in Fillmore!

Click here: https://www.fillmoreca.gov/DocumentCenter/View/1059/Fireworks-Edu-Info--...
Fireworks - Safety - Sales - Regulations for more for Fireworks Sales Info, Safety Tips, & Regulations.

Keep it Legal

• Safe and Sane fireworks are legal within the city limits of Fillmore beginning June 28th,12:00 P.M.- July_5th, 12:00 P.M. Discharging safe and safe fireworks in Fillmore outside the permitted dates and times specified is illegal.

• Fireworks not displaying the State Fire Marshall’s safe & sane logo are illegal year round in all California cities.

• A citation will be issued to those found engaged in the sales/ discharge/possession of non-approved fireworks. The fine for this is $1,100 and may result in jail time.

• To report illegal activity please call the, Ventura County Sheriff’s Office at 805-524- 2233.

• Never allow children to play with or ignite fireworks.

• Never try to re-light or pick-up fireworks that have not ignited fully.

• Keep a bucket of water or garden hose handy in case of fire or other mishap.

• Do not ignite fireworks if you are consuming alcohol.

• Nearly half of all fireworks related injuries are from sparklers.

• 51% of fireworks related injuries involve individuals 18 years of age or younger

• Do not discharge fireworks near dry weeds, brush or other fire prone areas. Negligent discharge of fireworks can result in
fines or jail time.

• Fireworks purchased in the City of Fillmore are only legal here. Fireworks are illegal in all other Ventura County Cities.

• Visitors to the City of Fillmore are encouraged to visit a public park to discharge their fireworks.