 A 10” water main was ruptured at the intersection of Highway 126 and Central Avenue, on Thursday, August 22 at approximately 11pm by a utility company installing fiber optics. Homes, businesses and Rio Vista Elementary south-east of Fillmore were without water, and a Notice to Boil went out from the City of Fillmore. At press time part of Central Avenue between Highway 126 and River Street remains closed. Enlarge Photo By Anonymous — Wednesday, August 28th, 2013
A large section of residential homes and businesses were without water Thursday. A utility company installing fiber optic lines punctured a 10” water main along Ventura St. within the City of Fillmore near Central Ave. on August 22, 2013 at about 11:00 p.m. The City of Fillmore Water System on advisement of the California Department of Public Health, and the Ventura County Environmental Health Jurisdiction temporarily shut water-off to the south-east area of Fillmore in order to make repairs to the waterline. Permanent repairs were estimated to be completed by August 25, 2013. As of presstime, the south intersection of Hwy 126 and Central Avenue was still closed to through traffic. Until the permanent repairs were made, the City of Fillmore issued a Notice to Boil Water to the affected area out of an abundance of precaution until August 26, 2013. The City of Fillmore worked closely with the California Department of Public Health to ensure proper procedures The California Department of Public Health in conjunction with the Ventura County Health Department, and City of Fillmore are advising residents of the southeast area of Fillmore to use boiled tap water or bottled water for drinking and cooking purposes as a safety precaution. Residents were advised to boil their tap water before use, or use bottled water. Bleach and disinfection tables were also recommended. |
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By Jean McLeod — Wednesday, August 28th, 2013
 Fillmore Police Chief Monica McGrath informed the Council of her plans to apply for a state grant from the California Gang Reduction, Intervention and Prevention (CalGRIP) Program of $500,000. Tuesday, August 27, 2013 Fillmore City Council Meeting was new City Manager David Rowlands' first and very short meeting, being completed in less than an hour. Police Chief Monica McGrath and Building Official Stephen Stuart addressed the Council wanting approval for use of grant money received and also applying for future state grants that are available. Other agenda items discussed were the new City's Code of Ethics, an appointment to the Parks and Recreation Commission, and approval of work on the Police Station parking lot. Rowlands attended his first council meeting, with a first statement from the dais, "Glad to be here, it's been an exciting twelve days." When asked the difference between Fillmore and Clayton, Ohio where Rowlands last served as city manager, he responded that Clayton had a lot higher humidity and Fillmore is much busier, then added, "I love it here." Other grant monies were presented by Fillmore's Police Chief Monica McGrath. McGrath informed the Council of $8,215,000 in state restitution funds available for the fiscal year 2014-2015 and her plans to apply for a state grant from the California Gang Reduction, Intervention and Prevention (CalGRIP) Program of $500,000 grant for the period of January 1, 2014 through December 31, 2015. These grants are a competitive process controlled by the Board of State and Community Corrections and require a dollar for dollar match. McGrath told the Council she may not get that amount and that asking for such a large sum is really reaching out there, but feels it is worth a try. Those receiving the grants must have an Evidence-Based Program, Practices and Strategies (EBT) which includes a prevention (43%), intervention (36%) and suppression (21%) approach on how the grant is used. The EBT requires measurable outcomes that reliably produce significant reductions in recidivism (participants who entered and left the program or returned to illegal behavior) and practices known to produce positive outcomes. This requirement ensures the grant monies are being used effectively. A Code of Ethics document was presented to the Council for approval, but in it was an ending paragraph that three of the Council Members questioned and were not comfortable approving. It stated quote; "If it is determined that there is a potential breach in this code of ethics the governing body and /or City Manager should determine the process with which to conduct an investigation that is fair and impartial. The investigation will allow for the accused and the accuser to participate in the investigation on their behalf. Appropriate disciplinary actions will be taken by the governing body. The City Council will be advised of the outcome of the investigation and any potential disciplinary actions taken." Council Member Diane McCall said, "I feel we all have the qualities it called for" but also thought the paragraph quoted was too vague and not clear enough to approve. Council Member Steve Conaway responded that he had been working to have a code of ethics since the last one was taken out years ago and that he appreciates that the one presented has a clear path of what will be done if breached. Council Member Douglas Tucker, who helped write the new Code of Ethics version, said the goal was to give the document some teeth and both sides have a say while keeping politics out of it. The end result was that the document’s wording will be clarified and be resubmitted at the next council meeting. The Council also agreed to some infrastructure improvements and approved the bidding process for work to be done on the Police Station parking lot. This work includes repaving the asphalt lot and moving a fence to allow for an additional 45 feet of parking. It is estimated to cost over $95,000. Construction will start October 23, 2013 and be finished December 1, 2013. Another item on the agenda was approval of a student to the Parks and Recreation Committee. There were two applicants and both were well qualified. Caitlin McCall was chosen due to it being her senior year in high school and the last time she could apply for the position and be involved. The other applicant has two more years of high school leaving two remaining years to apply. |
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By Anonymous — Wednesday, August 28th, 2013
Now that the school year has begun, we would like to remind residents who drive around the city’s schools to be mindful of children walking or riding their bicycles to and from school. Drivers are reminded to be patient in or around school zones as traffic is typically backed up with parents who are attempting to drop off their children at school. It is recommended that if you do not have children attending a school, you find an alternate route during the school hours of 7:00 AM – 4:00 PM in order to avoid any traffic congestion in front of our city Parents are also reminded to teach their children proper bicycle riding safety. Children under the age of 18 must wear helmets properly while riding a bicycle, scooter or skateboard. Studies show that 74-85% of bicycle related injuries could have been prevented with the proper use of a helmet and using proper bicycle safety. Proper use means buying a good helmet, making sure it fits, and making sure to buckle the chinstrap, while fitting it properly under the chin. We would like to remind children to look for an intersection that has a crossing guard or a marked crosswalk before crossing, as this is the safest way to cross the street. A bicycle is considered a vehicle and while riding you must obey the rules of the road. |
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By Anonymous — Wednesday, August 28th, 2013
 City of Fillmore 08/20/13 |
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By Anonymous — Wednesday, August 28th, 2013
City of Fillmore On (date) 8/23/2013 you were notified of the need to boil/disinfect all tap water or use bottled water for drinking and cooking purposes. The City of Fillmore Water System in conjunction with the California Department of Public Health, and/or Ventura County Environmental Health Jurisdiction, has determined that, through abatement of the health hazard and comprehensive testing of the water, your water is safe to drink. It is no longer necessary to boil your tap water or for you to consume bottled water. For more information call: Water Utility contact: City of Fillmore @ (805)524-3701 California Department of Public Health: (805)566-6625 Local Environmental Health Jurisdiction: (805)654-2818 NOMBRE DEL SERVICIO DE AGUA FECHA _____________ CANCELACIÓN DEL AVISO DE HERVIR EL AGUA El (fecha) de le notificaron que tenía que hervir o desinfectar toda el agua de la llave que utilizara para beber y cocinar. El Sistema de Agua de junto con el Departamento de Salud Publica de California, o la Jurisdicción Local de Salud Ambiental han determinado tras la supresión del riesgo de salud, seguido por un análisis completo del agua, que puede beber el agua de su llave sin peligro. Ya no es necesario que hierva el agua de su llave ni que consuma agua de botella. Para más información llame a: Contacto en el Servicio de Agua: Departamento de Salud Publica de California: Jurisdicción Local de Salud Ambiental: |
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By Anonymous — Friday, August 23rd, 2013
City of Fillmore A quick update. For those who haven't heard, there has been a major water leak on a trunk line on Ventura St. (126) and Central Ave.in Fillmore. This was caused by a company installing fiber optic line. Nearly everyone South/East of that intersection is being affected by the leak. At this time there is a boil water notice. See below... Date:8/23/13 BOIL YOUR WATER BEFORE USING Due to the recent event of water outage situation, the California Department of Public Health in conjunction with the Ventura County Health Department, and City of Fillmore are advising residents of the southeast area of Fillmore per the attached map to use boiled tap water or bottled water for drinking and cooking purposes as a safety precaution. DO NOT DRINK THE WATER WITHOUT BOILING IT FIRST. Bring all water to a boil, let it boil for one (1) minute, and let it cool before using, or use bottled water. Boiled or bottled water should be used for drinking and food preparation until further notice. This is the preferred method to assure that the water is safe to drink. • An alternative method of disinfection for residents that are not able to boil their water is to use fresh, unscented, liquid household bleach. To do so, add 8 drops (or 1/8 teaspoon) of bleach per gallon of clear water or 16 drops (or 1/4 teaspoon) per gallon of cloudy water, mix thoroughly, and allow it to stand for 30 minutes before using. A chlorine-like taste and odor will result from this disinfection procedure and is an indication that adequate disinfection has taken place. We will inform you when tests show that water is safe to drink and you no longer need to boil your water. We anticipate resolving the problem by Sunday, August 25, 2013. For more information call: Please share this information with all the other people who drink this water, especially those who may not have received this notice directly (for example, people in apartments, nursing homes, schools, and businesses). You can do this by posting this notice in a public place or distributing copies by hand or mail. |
 Jeffrey McGuire, 16, Fillmore FFA, raised a 1,345 lb. market steer that was awarded FFA Reserve Grand Champion. Enlarge Photo By Bob Crum — Wednesday, August 21st, 2013
Part 2
 Phillip Theising, 11, Bardsdale 4-H, raised a replacement heifer and was awarded 4-H Champion/Reserve Champion. Phillip's champion replacement heifer, Penelope, fetched $10,000 at auction. Enlarge Photo  Samantha Points, 14, Bardsdale 4-H, raised a replacement heifer that was awarded 4-H Reserve Grand Champion and received a top bid of $3,000 at the auction. Enlarge Photo  Timmy Klittich, 16, Fillmore FFA, raised a 150 lb. FFA Champion/Reserve Grand Champion market lamb. Enlarge Photo Story and photos by Bob Crum [continued from last week] Tons of hard work, hours of toil and a little serendipity paid off in a huge way at the Ventura County Fair. Eleven Fillmore, Piru, Bardsdale youngsters raised animals for show and auction that won championships. Incredible! Jeffrey McGuire, 16, Fillmore FFA, raised a 1,345 lb. market steer that was awarded FFA Reserve Grand Champion. Jeffrey is deaf and relayed his story with his mother interpreting. Jeffrey was prepping his large animal and I asked his name.” Diesel” was the reply. An unusual name so I repeated the question. “Yep... Diesel.” Because, as Jeffrey explained... his ears go up and he's all black which reminds him of a diesel truck. Makes so much sense I should have known. How about raising such a large animal. “No problem,” replied Jeffrey, adding, “he was pretty easy but a lot of work” Work? I could imagine but wanted particulars. “Every day, wash, feed and walk Diesel,” explained Jeffrey. “Every day... some days twice a day,” he added. And time it all took? “Two hours a day,” according to Jeffrey. Considering that I don't wash my hair every day, I naturally wondered why such attention to Diesel. “Because, Jeffrey explained, I want Diesel to look good every day.” To that end... Jeffrey uses shampoo and conditioner and blow dries him afterward so his hair is fluffy. Sounded like Jeffrey is a walking beauty parlor for steers. I didn't ask but I'll bet that if Diesel requested a massage... Jeffrey would oblige. Although the auction culminates the year for animal raising, Jeffrey had shown Diesel prior to the Fair and in doing so Diesel won four grand championships. Jeffrey bought his steer from Roger's Livestock. No doubt for good reason. “Roger's Livestock has good breeding lines... lots of muscle... lots of hair... things I like,” explained Jeffrey. But does a 16-year old pick out his own steer, one wonders? “Yes, I pick it out, explained Jeffrey, adding, “I look at his muscles, his hair... I like long hair... and how it walks. At the time of selection, the steer weighs about 500 pounds. Well, might as well pick what you like so long as the steer wins championships. Of course Jeffrey is CONTINUED » |
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By Anonymous — Wednesday, August 21st, 2013
City of Fillmore 8/13/13 |
 Breanna Berrington, Fillmore FFA, raised a 1,342 lb market steer that won FFA Grand Champion and overall Grand Champion. “Bentley” fetched $25/lb, $33,550. Enlarge Photo By Bob Crum — Wednesday, August 14th, 2013
Part 1 (Part 2 next week)
 Macie Wokal, Fillmore FFA, raised a 274 lb market swine that was awarded FFA Grand Champion. Auction results: $40/lb, $10,960. Enlarge Photo  Jazmin Olvera, Sespe 4H, raised a 268 lb market swine that was awarded 4H Reserve Grand Champion. Enlarge Photo  Hailee Smith, Fillmore FFA, raised a market swine of 273 lbs which was awarded FFA Reserve Grand Champion. Enlarge Photo  Erin Berrington, Piru 4H, raised a 1,275 lb market steer that was awarded 4H Champion steer, overall Reserve Grand Champion. Enlarge Photo  Silver Perez, Sespe 4H, raised a 273 lb market swine that was awarded the 4H Champion/Reserve Grand Champion. Enlarge Photo Story and photos by Bob Crum Tons of hard work, hours of toil and a little serendipity paid off in a huge way at the Ventura County Fair. Eleven Fillmore, Piru, Bardsdale youngsters raised animals for show and auction that won championships. Incredible! Presented at the Junior Livestock Auction for sale by 4-H and FFA (Future Farmers of America) youngsters were 347 market pigs, 52 market steer, 5 replacement heifers, 47 market goats, 144 market lambs plus a couple chickens, rabbits and turkeys. No peacocks. First chance you get, visit any grocery store of your choice. Go immediately to the meat counter. Aaaah... there it is... lamb. And you have the perfect recipe. About a pound will do. And it's only $225 a pound. Enjoy! Ummm... is there a problem? At the County Fair's Junior Livestock auction the high bid for the Grand Champion market lamb was $225 per pound! (a new record) The lamb weighs 148 pounds. That's a grand total of $33,300. That is how these 4-H and Future Farmers of America (FFA) youngsters pad their college funds. Besides friends and relatives of all description bidding on animals, there are also several large entities the likes of TNT Truck & Crane, AAA Propane, The Wood Claeyssens Foundation and others that buy many animals at the auction. Sometimes they keep the animal. Sometimes it's returned to the youngsters. Most of the time it's donated to Food Share. It's all extraordinarily good! The following are conversations with the 4-H and FFA award winners at the Ventura County Fair. Macie Wokal, 16, Fillmore FFA, raised a 274 lb. market swine that was awarded FFA Grand Champion. Auction results: $40.00/pound; $10,960.00. Did Macie expect to win Grand Champion? “Umm... kind of,” said Marcie, adding “because when I picked my pig the breeder that I bought it from was really, really into it. The breeder is Leonard Cruz. Daisy is her name but turns out Macie didn't come up with her pigs name, her friend Breanna Berrington did. And how was Daisy as a growing pig? “She was pretty easy going,” Macie explained, adding... I used to raise cattle so this was easier for me.” Kind of took a year off? “Yeah,” she said, pretty much but I'll redo cattle next year. Why raise a pig this year? “Because I've been pretty busy... I play softball so this gave me more time to do softball because cows... you have them for like nine months and pigs you only have them for like four,” explained Macie. But there's more to Macie's story. “This the my first year raising a market hog which goes to slaughter so I'm easing my way into slaughter and then I'm going to do a steer next year, she said. Asking for clarification Macie added, “well because I don't really like the slaughter thing so a pig you only have for four months so you don't get as attached but a steer you have for nine months so you get really attached so I'm easing my way... slowly.” Does Macie have plans for the auction proceeds? “Yes, a car, because I just got my (driving) license,” Macie quickly said. Macie's future plans? “Graduate high school and attend Cal Poly (California Polytechnic State University), San Luis Obispo to become an ag teacher.” Not surprised! Silver Perez, 16, Sespe 4-H, raised a 273 pound market swine that was awarded the 4-H Champion/Reserve Grand Champion. Porky's name is CONTINUED » |
 Alumni Association Board members Corinna “Chandler” Mozley, Mark Ortega, and Maria “Diaz” Kilgore are pictured with Ventura County Supervisor Kathy Long for a presentation of a 100 year congratulatory Proclamation on June 11th. Enlarge Photo By Anonymous — Wednesday, August 14th, 2013
On June, 11th, 2013, the Fillmore High School Alumni Association received a proclamation from County Supervisor, Kathy Long, and the Ventura County Board of Supervisors. It was presented to the Association during the week of their 100th year celebration which was highlighted by a beautiful dinner celebration on the evening of June 15th, 2013 at the Veterans Memorial building. The Alumni Assoc will be at Central Station this Friday evening from 5:00pm to 9:00pm during "Flashback Fridays" in beautiful Downtown Fillmore, and will have their commemorative 100th year Wine glasses available for a small donation of $5.00 for each glass. Congratulations to the Fillmore High School Alumni Association. Onward and Upward to the next 100 years! Whereas, the first graduating class of Fillmore High School was in 1911 with four graduates: Mabel Arthur, Mary Cummings, Sarah King and Albert Wicklund; and |
