Piru Elementary School Principal Viviana Laureano presented an update on the programs, activities, and initiatives to the FUSD board for the 2024-2025 school year. Attendance/Health Clerk Sonia Mendez was awarded Classified Employee of the Month, and Counselor Saira Fuentes was awarded Certificated Employee of the Month. Courtesy https://www.blog.fillmoreusd.org/fillmore-unified-school-district-blog/2025/4/3/piru-elementary-presentation-at-board-of-trustees-meeting.
Piru Elementary School Principal Viviana Laureano presented an update on the programs, activities, and initiatives to the FUSD board for the 2024-2025 school year. Attendance/Health Clerk Sonia Mendez was awarded Classified Employee of the Month, and Counselor Saira Fuentes was awarded Certificated Employee of the Month. Courtesy https://www.blog.fillmoreusd.org/fillmore-unified-school-district-blog/2025/4/3/piru-elementary-presentation-at-board-of-trustees-meeting.
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This past weekend Fillmore AYSO Region 242 attended the 2025 AYSO Sections 1/10/11 EXPO in San Diego at the event Fillmore’s AYSO’s Arnold Muñoz was honored as the AYSO Area 10W Volunteer of the Year. Above is the group of Fillmore’s AYSO members Picture above is Megan Hadley (Fillmore Region 242 Coach Admin), Marie Sasson (Fillmore Region 242 Treasurer), Crystal Cardenas (Fillmore Region 242 CVPA), Alyssa Ceballos (Fillmore Region 242 Secretary), Cindy Elliott (Fillmore Region 242 Ref Admin) and Arnold Muñoz (Fillmore Region 242 Regional Commissioner) who attended the event. Inset, is Fillmore’s Arnold Muñoz (Fillmore AYSO regional commissioner) being presented his award by Dave Howells (AYSO Area 10W Director). Photo credit Arnold Muñoz.
This past weekend Fillmore AYSO Region 242 attended the 2025 AYSO Sections 1/10/11 EXPO in San Diego at the event Fillmore’s AYSO’s Arnold Muñoz was honored as the AYSO Area 10W Volunteer of the Year. Above is the group of Fillmore’s AYSO members Picture above is Megan Hadley (Fillmore Region 242 Coach Admin), Marie Sasson (Fillmore Region 242 Treasurer), Crystal Cardenas (Fillmore Region 242 CVPA), Alyssa Ceballos (Fillmore Region 242 Secretary), Cindy Elliott (Fillmore Region 242 Ref Admin) and Arnold Muñoz (Fillmore Region 242 Regional Commissioner) who attended the event. Inset, is Fillmore’s Arnold Muñoz (Fillmore AYSO regional commissioner) being presented his award by Dave Howells (AYSO Area 10W Director). Photo credit Arnold Muñoz.
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By Gabriela Santa Rosa of Fillmore AYSO Region 242

This past weekend, board members from Fillmore AYSO Region 242 attended the 2025 AYSO Sections 1/10/11 EXPO in San Diego,
where they spent time learning, connecting, and preparing for another exciting season of youth soccer. The annual expo
offers a valuable opportunity for volunteers from across the region to receive training, continuing education, share ideas,
and bring back fresh knowledge to better serve their local communities.

One of the highlights of the weekend was the recognition of Fillmore’s very own Arnold Muñoz, who was honored as the AYSO
Area 10W Volunteer of the Year. The award was proudly presented by AYSO Area 10W Director Dave Howells, recognizing Arnold’s
outstanding dedication and contributions to AYSO and the families he serves.

In true Arnold fashion, he didn’t just accept the award—he also completed additional training and certifications, further
equipping himself to guide the Fillmore AYSO board, coaches, and families through another successful year.

In addition to receiving this prestigious award, Arnold was also recently re-elected as Regional Commissioner for Fillmore
AYSO 242, a role he has faithfully served in for the past nine years. His involvement in AYSO spans nearly two decades: 18
years as a coach, 17 years as a referee, three years as Regional Coach Administrator, and two years as a board member.

Arnold’s passion for youth sports and his commitment to the Fillmore community have left a lasting impact. Under his
leadership, Fillmore AYSO continues to thrive, offering a positive and inclusive soccer experience for players and families
alike.

Congratulations, Arnold, on your well-deserved recognition and continued leadership. We look forward to a fantastic 2025
season!

 


 
On Saturday, March 29th, at 2:26 P.M., Fillmore Police Department, Fillmore City Fire, and AMR Paramedics responded to a two-vehicle accident near Highway 126 and Fillmore Street. Minor injuries were reported; cause of the crash is under investigation. Photo credit Angel Esquivel.
On Saturday, March 29th, at 2:26 P.M., Fillmore Police Department, Fillmore City Fire, and AMR Paramedics responded to a two-vehicle accident near Highway 126 and Fillmore Street. Minor injuries were reported; cause of the crash is under investigation. Photo credit Angel Esquivel.
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Angel Esquivel is Fillmore Fire Department’s new photographer!

In December 2020, Angel began photographing auto accidents in Fillmore, while he was enrolled in the Fillmore Unified School District’s homeschool program, graduating in 2022, and continuing to VC College. He also was a member of the Ventura County Sheriff’s Explorer Program.

Angel’s homeschool teacher suggested he submit his work to The Fillmore Gazette and ask if they were interested in publishing his photographs. Four years later, he is still contributing to the Gazette as an independent photographer. Besides traffic collisions, Angel has branched out to community affairs, including parades and festivals, and fire and police events.

Angel also runs a Facebook group where anyone can join and report any traffic incidents between Piru and Santa Paula. The group is called “SR126 Fillmore-Traffic/Updates/Accident/Information”. He also shares his photos on his Facebook page, “Fillmore Public Safety News,” and Instagram @angggel.esquivel. 

Angel has always maintained an interest in becoming a photographer for the Fillmore Fire Department.
“As an independent photographer, I thought it fascinating to witness how our first responders work during an emergency,” he stated.

And now it’s official! He’s received a black helmet with a unique “Photographer” shield from the department, and will continue to serve the fire department, and the community with his photos in the Gazette. 

Congratulations, Angel!
Angel Esquivel is Fillmore Fire Department’s new photographer! In December 2020, Angel began photographing auto accidents in Fillmore, while he was enrolled in the Fillmore Unified School District’s homeschool program, graduating in 2022, and continuing to VC College. He also was a member of the Ventura County Sheriff’s Explorer Program. Angel’s homeschool teacher suggested he submit his work to The Fillmore Gazette and ask if they were interested in publishing his photographs. Four years later, he is still contributing to the Gazette as an independent photographer. Besides traffic collisions, Angel has branched out to community affairs, including parades and festivals, and fire and police events. Angel also runs a Facebook group where anyone can join and report any traffic incidents between Piru and Santa Paula. The group is called “SR126 Fillmore-Traffic/Updates/Accident/Information”. He also shares his photos on his Facebook page, “Fillmore Public Safety News,” and Instagram @angggel.esquivel. Angel has always maintained an interest in becoming a photographer for the Fillmore Fire Department. “As an independent photographer, I thought it fascinating to witness how our first responders work during an emergency,” he stated. And now it’s official! He’s received a black helmet with a unique “Photographer” shield from the department, and will continue to serve the fire department, and the community with his photos in the Gazette. Congratulations, Angel!
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On Sunday, March 30th, 2025, Fillmore High School Girls 4x100 Relay Team took first place as well as shattered a 30-year record set back in 1995. Above is the Flashes Girls 4x100 relay team; (l-r) Mia Munoz, Kimberly Magana, Janessa Corona, and Karinna Magana. Photo credit https://www.blog.fillmoreusd.org/fillmore-unified-school-district-blog/2025/3/30/girls-4x100-team-break-school-record.
On Sunday, March 30th, 2025, Fillmore High School Girls 4x100 Relay Team took first place as well as shattered a 30-year record set back in 1995. Above is the Flashes Girls 4x100 relay team; (l-r) Mia Munoz, Kimberly Magana, Janessa Corona, and Karinna Magana. Photo credit https://www.blog.fillmoreusd.org/fillmore-unified-school-district-blog/2025/3/30/girls-4x100-team-break-school-record.
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Courtesy https://www.blog.fillmoreusd.org/fillmore-unified-school-district-blog/2...
On Sunday March 30, 2025, at the Simi Valley Invitational, Fillmore High School Flashes Girls 4x100 Relay Team blazed to 1st place in the Girls Rated Division with a time of 50.50 seconds, not only winning the race, but shattering a 30-year school record set back in 1995. Congratulations, ladies, you are officially in the Fillmore High School history books! Go Flashes!

 

The Fillmore Police Department invites you to an “Easter Eggs-travaganza event,” a special event designed to bring the community members together for a fun event and open conversations with our local law enforcement and the community. Bring your family and kids to play some fun games and interact with our public safety personnel from the Mounted Unit, SWAT, Bomb Unit, K9 Unit, Fillmore Fire Department and others. Come check out the various specialized vehicles and equipment used by first responders to help keep our communities safe. Our staff will be coordinating games and setting up an Easter egg hunt for the children in attendance.

Event Details:

Date: Saturday, April 05, 2025
Time: 9:00 am – 12:00 pm
Location: Two Rivers Park
1110 River Street, Fillmore
We look forward to seeing you!

Prepared by: Technical Specialist Jesus Gaytan
Approved by: Captain Eduardo Malagon

 
Fillmore’s Nova Storage has announced the grand opening of its expanded self-storage facility. Stop by Nova Storage – Fillmore, 455 A Street. Visit us at NovaStorage.com. Photo credit Kelly Hanna.
Fillmore’s Nova Storage has announced the grand opening of its expanded self-storage facility. Stop by Nova Storage – Fillmore, 455 A Street. Visit us at NovaStorage.com. Photo credit Kelly Hanna.
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By the Nova Storage team

Two years in the making, opposite Fillmore Middle School, Nova Storage is pleased to announce the grand opening of its expanded self-storage facility located in Fillmore. This significant enhancement includes the addition of 14 drive-up units and 177 indoor units, contributing 16,500 new rentable square feet to the existing facility. This expansion represents our steadfast dedication to providing exceptional storage solutions while adapting to the changing needs of our cherished community. Located at 455 A Street, we invite you to visit us and see for yourself how we can help you declutter your life—all while providing a warm smile and friendly service!

***

About Nova Storage:

Based in Mission Hills, California, Nova Storage has been providing safe, clean, well-lit, and secure self-storage solutions to over 8,500 satisfied tenants since 1982. As a locally owned and operated company, we proudly serve the Los Angeles, San Bernardino, and Ventura Counties with 10 convenient locations.

For more information about our Nova Storage - Fillmore facility, please visit NovaStorage.com, call our friendly manager Guillermo at (805) 524-3177, or email us at Fillmore@novastorage.com. Our office hours are 10:00am-6:00pm Monday -Friday and 10:00am-5:00pm Saturday – Sunday

 
On Saturday, March 22, Fillmore’s California United (Boys 2008) team clinched the State Cup Final in San Bernardino. Pictured above is Fillmore’s CU 08’ Boys team. Top row (l-r): Head Coach Juan Hernandez, Julio Ballesteros, Christian Ramirez, Giovany Huerta, Hector Hernandez, Goalkeeper Julian Medina, Cesar Hernandez, Goalkeeper Jose Zaragosa, Juan Manuel Medina, Jacobo Madrigal, and Alexander Nunez. Bottom row (l-r): Jesús Canchola, Julián Huerta, Nathaniel Negrete, Abraham Vargas, Abe de la Cruz, Sergio Robles, Luis Vigil, and Alonso Arellano. Photo credit Erika Arana, CUFC Public Relations.
On Saturday, March 22, Fillmore’s California United (Boys 2008) team clinched the State Cup Final in San Bernardino. Pictured above is Fillmore’s CU 08’ Boys team. Top row (l-r): Head Coach Juan Hernandez, Julio Ballesteros, Christian Ramirez, Giovany Huerta, Hector Hernandez, Goalkeeper Julian Medina, Cesar Hernandez, Goalkeeper Jose Zaragosa, Juan Manuel Medina, Jacobo Madrigal, and Alexander Nunez. Bottom row (l-r): Jesús Canchola, Julián Huerta, Nathaniel Negrete, Abraham Vargas, Abe de la Cruz, Sergio Robles, Luis Vigil, and Alonso Arellano. Photo credit Erika Arana, CUFC Public Relations.
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By Erika Arana (CUFC Public Relations)

Saturday, March 22, was a historic day for California United (Boys 2008) as they triumphed in the State Cup final in San
Bernardino, securing a 1-0 victory over Antelope Valley. This hard-fought win not only cemented their status as one of
Southern California’s top teams but also marked their second consecutive State Cup title, an achievement that speaks to
their skill, determination, and resilience.

The championship-winning goal came from Julio Ballesteros, whose decisive strike sealed the match in favor of California
United. The team’s remarkable 5-0-1 record, with 22 goals scored and only 3 conceded, showcased their dominance throughout
the tournament. Representing the small town of Fillmore, California, these young athletes overcame formidable opponents from
larger cities such as Los Angeles, Anaheim, and Coachella, proving that heart and teamwork can overcome any challenge.

This victory was the result of a collective effort, with each player stepping up in crucial moments. Co-captain Julian
Medina provided a solid presence in goal, ensuring the team’s defensive strength. Team captain Héctor Hernandez led a rock-
solid defensive line, alongside Juan Medina, Julian Huerta, and César Hernández, shutting down opposing attacks with
discipline and determination.

In the midfield, Julio Ballesteros, Christian RamĂ­rez, JesĂşs Canchola, and Alonso Arellano controlled the pace of the game,
linking defense to offense with precision. The forward line, spearheaded by Abe De la Cruz, who scored an impressive seven
goals, and Jovani Huerta, posed a constant threat to defenders throughout the tournament.

The team’s depth was also a key factor in their success, with Sergio Robles, Luis Vigil, Abraham Vargas, Alexander Nunez,
Nathaniel Negrete, and Jose Zaragoza making significant contributions whenever called upon by Coach Juan Hernandez. Their
commitment and adaptability played a crucial role in the team’s journey to the title.

Beyond their talent and teamwork, these young athletes displayed incredible mental and physical toughness. They endured
extreme weather conditions, playing in morning games at 39°F and afternoon matches in 88°F heat, all while traveling long
distances for three consecutive weekends. With only two practice sessions before the tournament, their success is a
testament to their dedication, discipline, and love for the game.

With this victory, California United (Boys 2008) has once again put Fillmore on the soccer map. Their hard work and
perseverance have not only earned them another championship but have also set the stage for exciting futures in high school
soccer and beyond.

Congratulations to California United on this incredible achievement—your community is proud of you!

Full tournament Stats:

CU (7) vs Leon (1): Goals: JesĂşs Canchola 3, Jair Garcia 1, Abe de la Cruz 1, Alonso Arellano 1, Christian Ramirez 1

Assist: Abe de la Cruz 2, Christian Ramirez 1, Julio Ballesteros 1, Alonso Arellano 2, Cesar Hernandez 1.

Overall record: 1-0-0

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CU (6) vs Power Evolution (1): Goals: Abe de la Cruz 4, Sergio Robles 1, Jesus Canchola 1

Assist: Hector Hernández 3, Julián Medina 1, Jair Garcia 1, Jesus Canchola 1

Overall record: 2-0-0

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CU (0) vs Ojai United (0): Shut Out: Sergio Robles

Overall record: 2-0-1

***

CU (4) vs Lompoc Academy (1): Goals: Jair Garcia 1, Julio Ballesteros 1, Abe de la Cruz 1, Christian Ramirez 1

Assist: Abe de la Cruz 1, Luis Vigil 1, Christian RamĂ­rez 2

Overall record: 3-0-1

***

CU (4) vs Necaxa (0): Goals: Julio Ballesteros 2, Abe de la Cruz 1, Nathaniel Negrete 1

Assist: Hector Hernandez 2, Jair Garcia 1

Overall record: 4-0-1

***

CU (1) vs Antelope Valley (0): Goals: Julio Ballesteros 1

Assist: Jesus Canchola

Overall record: 5-0-1

 
Fillmore Civic Pride volunteers have selected the April 2025 Yard of the Month at 439 Mallard as the winning yard. Owners Ayna (Anna) & Peter Scamardo received an award from Otto & Sons Nursery. Photo credit Linda Nunes.
Fillmore Civic Pride volunteers have selected the April 2025 Yard of the Month at 439 Mallard as the winning yard. Owners Ayna (Anna) & Peter Scamardo received an award from Otto & Sons Nursery. Photo credit Linda Nunes.
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By Linda Nunes

Civic Pride Volunteers have chosen the yard of Ayna (Anna) & Peter Scamardo at 439 Mallard for the April “Yard of the Month”
award.

The Scamardo’s moved from Camarillo in 2010 & with both working out of Fillmore, they decided to use a landscape company to
design their yard. This company is no longer in Fillmore, so they use another company to maintain their yard & lawn in
perfect condition. Ayna said they like a beautiful yard, but work takes so much time, that yard work is not a priority when
they get home.

Since they are at the end of a cul de sac, their yard continues halfway around the end of the street with three Liquid Amber
trees, Red Hibiscus, & Gold Bouganvilla. Moving up towards the front of their home are a row of Hybrid Tea Roses just
beginning to bloom with Lavender plants forming a border. A large pot of Lemon Grass leads your eye past the Roses, toward
a large Pepper tree with various Lavenders around the base, making a focal statement.

French Lavenders edge the textured walkway to the front door. Peter said he had the walkway installed, being a car/truck
“buff”, so people would not brush past his vehicles in the driveway, on their way to the front door.

Near the front windows of the home are a Gardenia bush trained into a tree, Mock Orange shrubs & Mystic Spires Salvia.

Peter & Ayna are familiar with Otto & Sons Nursery & were pleased to receive the award…”more roses?”, expressed Ayna.

Take a drive around these neighborhoods that come off Sespe Street & be surprised.

Civic Pride volunteers appreciate Otto & Sons Nursery for making this project possible.

 
Evidence collected by Ventura County Sheriff’s Office
Evidence collected by Ventura County Sheriff’s Office
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On 03/21/2025, (S) Adrian Aguilar and (S) Jose Mercado were both arrested for firearm-related offenses.

At about 1:00 AM, diligent members of the community called to report “shots heard” in the quiet unincorporated agricultural community south of Fillmore known as Bardsdale. Patrol personnel from the Sheriff’s Fillmore Station responded to the area and quickly located an occupied vehicle in the area the shots were coming from.

The vehicle’s occupants, Adrian Aguilar and Jose Mercado, were detained pursuant to the shooting investigation. As a result of the investigation, deputies determined Aguilar and Mercado were involved in the shooting and arrested both.

During their investigation, deputies located a loaded unserialized handgun, often referred to as a “ghost gun.” The term “ghost gun,” is used to describe firearms which lack serial numbers or markings. Additionally, ghost guns are illegally transferred without the use of a federal firearms license dealer, which makes the firearms untraceable by law enforcement and are preferred by criminals. The prevalence of these firearms has been on the rise in recent years.

Ultimately, Aguilar was arrested for DUI and a Penal Code § 246.3(a) – [Negligent Discharge of a Firearm]. Mercado was arrested for Penal Code § 246.3, Penal Code § 25850(a) – [Carrying Concealed Firearm on Person], Penal Code § 27545 – [Unlawful Firearm Transfer], Penal Code § 32310 – [Possession of Large Capacity Magazine]. Both were transported to the Pre-Trial Detention Facility and booked for the aforementioned offenses pending court proceedings.

The Ventura County Sheriff’s Office is committed to responding to public concerns in a manner that builds confidence in our agency and strengthens relationships to empower businesses and residents to be the eyes and ears of the community
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 “X” @fillmoresheriff, Facebook, Instagram @VCSHERIFF and @FILLMOREPD, and with Nixle by texting your zip code to 888777 to receive local law enforcement and public safety alerts and advisories.

Prepared by: Sergeant Jarrod Foote

News Release Date: 03/21/2025

Approved by: Captain Eduardo Malagon

Booking Photo Release: NO

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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).
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