Courtesy FHS Boys Soccer Coach Javier Alcaraz

Friday, December 2nd Fillmore vs. Royal
Varsity: Fillmore 1 – Royal 2; Goal: Jared Ramos; Penalty Kick. Record: 2 – 4.
JV: Fillmore 2 - Royal 3; Goals: Bryan Magana & Adrian Funtes.
Frosh: Fillmore 0 – Royal 5.

***

Wednesday, November 30th Fillmore vs. Buena.
Varsity: Fillmore 3 – Buena 1; Goals: Arnulfo Zepeda (1); Alejandro Lanza (1); Jesus Angel Avila (1). Assist: Arnulfo Zepeda (1), Daniel Sandoval (1). Record: 2-3.
JV: Fillmore 4 - Buena 2 Goals: Leo Villegas (1); Diego Magana (1), Jesus Canchola (2).

In all our computer lives, let’s face it, there are problems “waiting to happen”. Such issues might be virus and/or spyware problems, a need to incorporate security to protect confidential information, setting up and/or verifying backups are performing properly to be sure our data is safe, setting up or enhancing a network so information and hardware is shared and secure, keeping redundant cost and time efforts minimized, and a slew of other issues.

Also, a big issue often overlooked, in my opinion, is lack of documentation. Documented information can be referred to whenever you like, eliminating extra effort in going and AGAIN looking as all system specifications, configurations, working notes, etc.

With that in mind, a good place to start is to create a ‘pro-active’ versus ‘re-active’ computer environment to ensure your operations are kept at efficient operating levels.

My suggestion is to start by implementing Maintenance Plans. You can do this for 1 computer or 100 computers. The details will of course vary, but the goal is the same; by implementing a structured, timely maintenance plan, you stay AHEAD of the failure curve. Maintenance plans can assist in keeping your systems and overall computer-related operations running more efficiently. They can also assist in saving costs. Such an example would be cleaning your current system in the most efficient manner and upgrading the memory. This would give you a solid working system by perhaps upgrading a system, still meeting your requirements, at a much lesser cost than a new system. Maintenance Plans also ensure routine tasks are performed (Defrag, etc.) that many users are unaware of or in reality, just tend to say “I’ll do that later”, and later never comes!

There’s no denying how important computers have become in our daily lives, whether using for the success of our business or home personal use, however, we can still maintain SOME form of control! Start by properly maintaining what you have and go from there…

I hope this bit of information helps you with your computer operations. Until next time, don’t forget your backups!

Harv Oliver is the owner/senior tech for HANDS-ON Consultations (HOC) Computer Support Services serving Fillmore, Ventura County & Beyond since 1998. For more information, visit the HOC web site at http://www.hocsupport.com or call (805) 524-5278. NOTE: Provided information is presented as a courtesy ONLY. Please check with an IT professional for assistance or perform suggestions at your own risk. Harv Oliver or HANDS-ON Consultations is not responsible for any activities users perform.

One of the most common things I run into are users unable to open what they believe to be a “Microsoft File” but it won’t open. Now those of you who’ve resolved this know what I’m talking about. Those who haven’t, you’ll thank me for this simple fix!

The common question is, “I have MSWord, why can’t I open this?!” While this applies to Excel, Access, and Word, we’ll use MSWord for our example. A quick tutorial; all files have an extension at the end of them, even though you may not know it. This is how your computer knows what application to use when opening a file. The newer releases of MSOffice (2007 & 2010) save the files with an extension of ‘docx’ while the previous versions (97-2003) save files with the extension of ‘doc’. Note the “x” at the end of the new version? While the new version can read old versions, the older version is not smart enough to open the new version.

There are two solutions:

If you’re a user with MSWord 97-2003, download the file: ‘FileFormatConverters.exe’
Here’s the link: http://www.microsoft.com/download/en/details.aspx?id=3

Install this Microsoft provided fix. You’ll now be able to see those files with the ‘docx’ extension. HOORAY!

If you have a newer 2007 or 2010 version of MSWord, FIX THE SETTING! The best way to resolve this is to set your new version of MSWord to ‘default’ saving the files in backward compatible format. Then, no matter who you send the files to, no matter what version of MSWord they have, the can read them. Here’s how:

1. Open Microsoft Word

2. Click the File tab.

3. Click Options.

4. Click Save.

5. Under Save documents, click Word 97-2003 Document (*.doc) in the Save files in this format.

That’s it!

I hope this bit of information helps you with your computer operations. Until next time, don’t forget your backups!

Harv Oliver is the owner/senior tech for HANDS-ON Consultations (HOC) Computer Support Services serving Fillmore, Ventura County & Beyond since 1998. For more information, visit the HOC web site at www.hocsupport.com or call (805) 524-5278. NOTE: Provided information is presented as a courtesy ONLY. Please check with an IT professional for assistance or perform suggestions at your own risk. Harv Oliver or HANDS-ON Consultations is not responsible for any activities users perform.

Flashes Wrestlers have strong showing against Nordoff in League Match

On Wednesday 1/18/12 the Flashes hosted Nordoff for a League Wrestling Match. After a strong showing at Chaminade the Flashes looked focused yet loose and relaxed for the 5:00 PM match up. The evening started with 3 JV matches and came away with 2 wins and 1 loss. Jonathon Minero, recovering from an injury, stepped back into the ring and won on points. Andrew Bonilla, a freshman, gave it his all but ultimately pinned by his opponent. Alexis Ramirez matched up against a Nordoff’s lone female wrestler and was able to pin her in the 2nd period.

Varsity wrestling started off at the 126 pound weight category. Reporting for Fillmore was Micah Chumley who won by forfeit. Team Captain Robert Bonilla came out fast and strong overwhelming his opponent quickly showing his aggressive technique. Bonilla won by pin. Mark “the man behind the mask” Zavala, also a Team Captain, went into the 3rd period and found his opportunity to pin his man for the win. Alex Rivera won by points in what was the lowest match score of the night 2 – 0. Rudolfo Lopez wrestled well but was pinned by his opponent. Gilbert Murillo a relatively new wrestler gave it 100% and was able to make correction during the match while Coaches Ponce and Estrada calling in the moves, but he was ultimately pinned by Nordoff. Joseph “Beast” DeLaMora showed his sheer physical dominance and pinned his man for the win. Michael Castro lost by pin in the 2nd period. George Orozco won by forfeit. Sammy “They Bull” Orozco, Team Captain, put on a points clinic and decided to win by technical default rather than by pin as is his usual preference. Marco Vega, Team Captain, won by forfeit as did David Cadena. Nic Stehly and freshman on the Varsity Team, lost to a Senior from Nordoff but not before showing great promise. Joseph Rojas, a freshman for the Flashes, also lost by pin.

The final match score was Fillmore 44 – Nordoff 30.

Next week Fillmore hosts two matches. On Tuesday 1/24/12 LA Baptist travels to Fillmore for a 5:00 start time. This match will be held in the High School Gym.

On 1/25/12 the Santa Paula Cardinals travel to Fillmore. This match will be held in the Middle School Gym. Santa Paula has been the reigning league champions for 3 years in a row. The Flashes fielding a full squad hopes to change that record this year. If can only see one Flashes Wrestling Match this year this will be the one you’ll want to see. Come prepared because this will be off the hook good.

On Saturday 1/7/12 the Flashes traveled to Chaminade High School in North Hills for the annual Chaminade Tournament. Chaminade always hosts a great tournament which is attended by big wrestling schools such as St. John Bosco and Bishop Alemany. After Saturday’s matches the Flashes can be added to the list of tough wrestling schools.
The Flashes fielded both JV and Varsity team for the match. Coach Calderon and Coach Ponce split their efforts with Coach Calderon taking the Lady Flashes to the Santa Paula All Girls Tournament. Coach Ponce had his hands full running both JV and Varsity squads, but as always Coach Ponce delivered the goods.
Standout JV Flashes wrestlers include: Nic Stehly at 113 pounds who took 1st place, David Cadena at 106 took 2nd place, George Orozco wrestled at 195 and took 1st place, Cameron Riley wrestled at 220 pounds and took 2nd place and Andy Vasquez matched up in the heavyweight division and came home with a 1st place. Great job JV Flashes.

As for the Varsity they meant business and they let their wrestling speak for them.
Robert Bonilla, Flashes Team Captain, wrestled at 138 pounds and went 5 – 0, with 4 pins and 1 bye, taking 1st place. He was voted on by all Coaches and was awarded Tournament Middle Weight MVP.
Sammy “The Bull” Orozco wrestled at 220 pounds and took 1st place with a record of 5 – 0, 4 by pin and 1 bye. Sam missed being awarded Tournament Heavy weight MVP by one vote.
Joseph DeLaMora wrestled at 170 pounds and took 1st with 3pins and 2 byes.
Mark Zavala took 2nd place with a record of 4-1, 3 wins by pin, 1 by points.

The Lady Flashes wrestled at the Santa Paula All Girls Tournament on Saturday. If you’re not aware of it the sport of wrestling is exploding with girls taking up the sport. Schools from as far south as San Diego and as far north as Santa Maria were in attendance. The Flashes have 9 female wrestlers in the program this year, unfortunately only 6 were able to attend the tournament. The wrestling was fierce and very competitive. Felicity Zavala placed 5th in her weight category. Blanca and Brenda both had 2 wins and Megan and Daisy were unable to get a win but got lots of mat time and gain valuable experience.

Stay tuned for video highlights of the tournament.

Upcoming Matches:
Thursday 1/12/12: Flashes travel to New Jewish Community 4:00 PM

Friday and Saturday 1/13 & 14: Flashes travel to Palmdale for the Highland 10 way.
Action starts promptly at 1:00 PM on Friday and 9:00 AM on Saturday.

Saturday 1/13/12: JV travel to Hueneme for a JV 10 Way. 9:00 AM.

(l-r) Coach Ponce, Marco Vega (heavyweight took seventh place), Coach Cal, Robert Bonilla (132 lbs took third place), and Coach Froggy. It's been over ten years since a Fillmore wrestler placed at this tournament. There were over 20 schools participating.
Enlarge Photo

Fillmore Flashes Senior Robert Bonilla earns a bronze medal at the Gold Coast Classic.
Bonilla wrestled at 132 pounds and had a record of 3 wins, 1 loss. Bonilla won his first round with a Bye, due to tournament seeding. In his second match he pinned his opponent. Bonilla was pinned in his third round match for his only loss. Bonilla tech'ed his fourth round opponent with a score of 16 - 1. Outstanding performance by Bonilla.

Marco Vega, wrestling in the Heavy Weight Class, earned 7th place in the tournament.

Stay tuned for Match Highlight footage, coming soon.

Correction: The Gold Coast Classic is a one day tournament, not two day as previously reported.

The Annual Gold Coast Classic wrestling tournament begins today, 11/20. This is a two day individuals style tournament. Lose two and you're out. Historically this is where toughness is measured and wrestler grit is determined. Good luck to all the Flashes participating in the Gold Coast. Stay tuned for video highlights.

Go Flashes!

Video highlights, from the Flashes versus Fremont wrestling match. Film supplied by Jorge Bonilla.

Fillmore Wrestling 12 14 11 Match Highlights

Fillmore Wrestling 12 14 11 Fastest Pin

Fillmore Wrestling 12 14 11 Match of the Night

On 12/13/11 the Flashes hosted Fremont for the Flashes first home wrestling match of the 2011/12 season. Under the watchful eyes of Coach Calderon, Ponce and Penzato the Flashes protected their home mat against Fremont. The Varsity Flashes came out on top with a final score of 51 – 30 over Fremont. Nice work Flashes! Match videos will be uploaded soon, stay tuned to the Flashes Wrestling Blog.
132 Micah Chumley beat his opponent on points.
138 Robert Bonilla pinned his opponent.
145 Mark Zavala won by pin.
152 Alex Rivera also won by pin.
170 Joseph DeLaMora won on points.
220 Sammy Orozco won by pin.
Heavyweight Marco Vega won by pin.
Fillmore won the following weight classes by forfeit: 106 and 112
Flashes “Fastest Pin” goes to Heavyweight Marco Vega for pinning his opponent within 60 seconds. At weigh-ins Marco gave up 13 pounds to a heavier opponent, but that didn’t seem to slow Vega down one bit. Great work Marco for getting it done quickly.
Prior to the Varsity match several JV Wrestlers took to the mat. Coach Calderon reported that Lilly Duran really came out prepared to wrestle and awarded her the “Flashes Standout Match of the Night”. “Lilly is relatively new to wrestling and is building on her skills… tonight she used her basic wrestling skills to control her opponent… I am really proud of her effort” said Coach Calderon. Unfortunately the Flashes lost the JV Match against Fremont.
Up Next: Flashes travel to Channel Islands for the Channel Island 10 Way on Friday and Saturday. Flashes, go represent!

Flashes Wrestlers earn GOLD and SILVER at Camarillo 10 Way Tournament

On December 9 - 10, the Fillmore Flashes traveled to Camarillo to compete in the Camarillo 10 Way Tournament. This is the first large tournament to kick off the Flashes wrestling season. For new wrestlers, this may be the first experience walking into a gym with 6 mats packed with wrestlers and coaches and stands packed with parents and fans. The atmosphere is loud and, at first, seems rather chaotic with matches going off randomly, whistles blowing, coaches coaching and wrestlers encouraging their teammates. It can be overwhelming and intimidating to the uninitiated. For the seasoned wrestlers, this is where they want to be. All the gym time, all the practice, all the mat time, and all the video watching leads up to this point; match time. Some of the Flashes have been here before. They know what to expect and they know the work that lies before them. For new Flashes wrestlers, this is an opportunity to be tried and tested, to compete, and to learn and grow.
A full squad is comprised of 14 wrestlers. Team points are tallied by combining the score of each individual wrestler. Each individual wrestler earns a win/loss record at each tournament in their respective weight class. This allows both school and individual to be ranked. For the Camarillo 10 Way the Flashes fielded the following squad.
Weight Class / Wrestler Name / Tournament Record (wins –loss)
106 David Cadena 4-6
113 Nick Stehly 1-9
120 Joseph Rojas 3-7
126 Micah Chumley 5-5 (2 pins)
132 Forfeited class
138 Robert Bonilla 9-1, (7 pins, 2 decision)
145 Forfeited class
152 Mark Zavala 2-8
160 Alex Rivera 5-5, (3 fault pins)
171 Jonathon Munoz 1-9
182 Forfeited class
195 Michael Castro 5-5
220 Sam Orozaco 10-0. (9 pins)
HW Marco Vega 9-1, (9 pins)

As a team, the Flashes were victorious over the following schools: Rio Mesa 48-33, San Luis Obisbo 39-33, and Harvard Westlake 39-36. As a team the Flashes lost to Pacific 54-22, Centennial 69-6, Pioneer 62-18, Thousand Oaks 60-24, Camarillo 51-27 and Ayala 42-30. The Flashes tied in their match with San Marcos 42-42.

After two days of wrestling, the following Flashes earned Gold and Silver Individual medals for their efforts:
Sam Orozco, wrestling at 220 pound, was perfect with 10 wins and 0 losses. 9 of Orozco’s wins were by pin. This level of effort earned Sam “The Bull” 1st place in the 220 lbs weight class.
Robert Bonilla , wrestling at 138 pound, ended up with a 9-1 record. He earned 2nd place in his class. Robert’s loss was to a California State Masters competitor. At the end of three periods of wrestling it came down to points, 5-2.
Marco Vega, wrestling Heavy Weight Class, earned 2nd place with a 9-1 overall record. All of Marco’s wins were by pin. It’s worth noting that Marco is “wrestling up” and is giving up 50 pounds in some cases to his opponents.

When asked what this week has in store for the Flashes, Coach Calderon explained,
“Some of wrestlers, like Mark Zavala, will be able to move to their normal weight class. Once that happens I expect to see great things…Mark’s results this past weekend do not reflect his wrestling ability and talent; I expect great things from him and our other wrestlers… This will be an exciting season once we fill out all the weight classes and stop giving up team points due to forfeits”.

On Wednesday, 12/14/11, Freemont will travel to Fillmore for a Flashes home match. JV Matches will begin at 5:00 PM with Varsity Matches immediately following. Come on out and support the Flashes Wrestling Team!

I checked in with Coach on 12/9/11 and he was very excited to report that he’s brought in a real “Technician” for the Flashes to learn from. I was introduced to Ian Penzato and had the opportunity to see his instruction to the Fillmore Flashes Mat Rats. Coach Penzato wrestled at Lincoln College in Illinois but was unable to make the final team due injury. When asked about his wrestling career he was upbeat and said “even though I didn’t make the final team due to a severe knee injury I am proud to say that wrestling go me to college”. For those that are unaware wrestling is THE sport back east. If you are on your High School Varsity Team people in town know who you are and they support you. The stands are filled to capacity for matches, weekly local access TV shows are produced which highlight wrestling, the wrestlers themselves and what to expect at the next match. Coach Penzato said “I hope to be able to teach the Flashes a few things and ramp up wrestling in Fillmore”. Coach Calderon continues to find a way to elevate wrestling at Fillmore High School and the addition of Coach Penzato to his staff should yield great results for the Flashes. Also on the mat tonight was Coach Ponce who is assisted by Flashes alumni and well respected wrestler, now MMA fighter, Jose “Froggy” Estrada.
When I asked the Coach who is looking solid at this point in the season Coach Cal said “Robert Bonillo is wrestling with a lot of intensity this year, he’s like a tiger on the mat, really aggressive and focused”. “Mark Zavala is our “Technician” this year and has a lot of moves in his arsenal” said Calderon. “I’m just really excited about what I’m seeing from all the Flashes wrestlers this year”. Based upon the amount of sweat on the backs of the squad at 7:15 PM I think we all should look forward to what the Flashes Wrestlers achieve this season.

12/9/11 the Flashes travel to Camarillo for the Camarillo 10 Way Tournament two day tournament. The Flashes brought home several gold medals last year and they hope to better that this season. Go Flashes!

On 12/7/11 the Flashes made the trek to Santa Ynez for the midweek match. Coach Calderon was excited and upbeat about the performance turned in by his wrestlers. The match final score was Santa Ynez 53 – Fillmore 30. Last year Fillmore earned a total of 6 points against Santa Ynez. 2011 is looking good for us” said Coach Cal. Winning by pin against Santa Ynez was, Robert Bonilla 138 pounds, Jonathon Minero 145 pounds, Mark Zavala 152 pounds, George Orozco 195 pounds and Sam Orozco 220 pounds. “The score doesn’t do justice to the level that Fillmore wrestled at.” “We either won by pin or lost by pin and we forfeited at 132 pounds, so I’m pleased with what they did” said Coach Cal. “The ones we lost by pin it comes boils down to technique. We’ve got some freshmen in our lineup and they’re learning and coming along really well”.

The Flashes 2011/12 Wrestling Season has begun. What's new this season for Flashes Wrestling? New faces and new names, a lot of them. The under classes at Fillmore High School are well represented in the JV ranks this year. Many of the new wrestlers are football players who report "We want to stay in shape". News Flashes fellas, you don't know what "shape" is until you've wrestled. Their hearts in the right place and they'll pick up the skills needed to compete. The rookie wreslters have excellent examples to look to on the mat. Wrestling is all about dedication and Fillmore has some hard core wrestlers which should inspire the first timers. Some of the returners from last year include; Mark Zavala, Marco "Hot Dog" Vega, George Orosco, Sammy "The Bull" Orosco, Robert Bonilla, Alex Rivera, Cameron Riley, just to name a few. Returning from a one year break is Micah Chumley adding to the ranks of experience.

This is the year for Lady Flashes to break out and make a statement. From the depth of the roster it looks like the Lady Flashes have about 13 on the roster.

Coach Calderon returns to Fillmore as Head Coach. Assisting Coach Cal is Manuel Ponce. Look for a video blog report on all the coaches for the Flashes in the next few weeks, as well as the Wreslter Introductions.

Flashes Wrestling - BELIEVE.

Wrestler Hydration Test Scheduled for 11/22/11
This is a mandatory test for all Wrestlers. What is the purpose of the test and how are the results used you ask? Read the information below gathered from CIF appendix on Weight Management.

FROM CIF
HYDRATION INFORMATION
The purpose of the hydration test is to help assure that each wrestler’s weight taken at the time of
measurements is an accurate weight from which a minimum weight can be established. Below are some
guidelines that can help you prepare for the hydration test. But staying hydrated means more than passing
the hydration test. It is an important step in making sure you perform your best in your sport.
Water is second only to air in its importance to our survival. Our bodies are 60 to 65% water by weight.
Much of this fluid weight comes from the muscles (70% water) and the blood – both of which are critical
to optimal athletic and wrestling performance. Dehydration compromises muscular endurance and
strength. Dehydration also decreases blood volume, which can decrease athletic performance and
increase the risk for heat illness (heat cramps, heat exhaustion or heat stroke).
The key to staying hydrated is to drink plenty of non-caffeinated beverages throughout the day, and to
replace fluid loss incurred while working out. On a daily basis, this will help you feel stronger and last
longer at practice and matches. It will help you pass the hydration test before your measurements are
taken.
Below are some guidelines:
* Two hours prior to hydration test have wrestler drink 24 ounces of water (three cups).
Drink 8 to 10 (8 ounces) glasses of water, or non-caffeinated beverages daily.
* Drink another 4 cups for every hour you workout. If you have a 2-hour football practice,
that means an additional 8 cups of fluids. Individuals who sweat heavily or are in a hot
environment may need to drink 6 to 8 cups of non-caffeinated beverage for each hour
they workout.
* 2 hours before the game, match or hydration test, drink 16 to 24 ounces of water or noncaffeinated
beverage. The 2-hour time frame will allow the body to clear excess fluid
from the body. Being dehydrated, then drinking immediately prior to an athletic contest
or the hydration test will do little to help improve performance or pass the hydration test.
* These tips stress avoiding caffeine, because caffeine is a diuretic. That means it
increases urine production. Increased urine production means you are losing extra
fluids, essential for top performance and will likely become dehydrated. Caffeine is a
common ingredient in some sodas, coffee beverages and some teas. Chocolate and
some pain relievers may also contain caffeine. Additionally, carbonated beverages will
also contribute to the sensation of “feeling full” or bloated. This sensation may be
counter-productive, as it will likely diminish the thirst drive.
Carefully following these guidelines, along with the recommendations in The Wrestler’s Diet will
increase your chances for a healthy, safe and successful high school wrestling season.

The Flashes 2011/12 Wrestling Season has begun. What's new this season for Flashes Wrestling? New faces and new names, a lot of them. The under classes at Fillmore High School are well represented in the JV ranks this year. Many of the new wrestlers are football players who report "We want to stay in shape". News Flashes fellas, you don't know what "shape" is until you've wrestled. Their hearts in the right place and they'll pick up the skills needed to compete. The rookie wreslters have excellent examples to look to on the mat. Wrestling is all about dedication and Fillmore has some hard core wrestlers which should inspire the first timers. Some of the returners from last year include; Mark Zavala, Marco "Hot Dog" Vega, George Orosco, Sammy "The Bull" Orosco, Robert Bonilla, Alex Rivera, Cameron Riley, just to name a few. Returning from a one year break is Micah Chumley adding to the ranks of experience.

This is the year for Lady Flashes to break out and make a statement. From the depth of the roster it looks like the Lady Flashes have about 13 on the roster.

Coach Calderon returns to Fillmore as Head Coach. Assisting Coach Cal is Manuel Ponce. Look for a video blog report on all the coaches for the Flashes in the next few weeks, as well as the Wreslter Introductions.

Flashes Wrestling - BELIEVE.

A Middle East melt down has begun, ushered in by the lynching of Libyan madman Gadhafi; the violent alteration of alliances and regime in Libya; the inherent tribal, ethnic, ideological and religious fragmentation in that oil rich country; the volatile Arab Street from North Africa to the Persian Gulf; the disintegration of nepotism-based Arab regimes; the artificial boundaries of Arab countries, which exacerbates ethnic and sectarian violence; and the 1,400 years absence of Arab democracy and intra-Arab comprehensive peace and compliance with agreements.

The call for Israel to assume additional risks for peace defies Middle East reality. It is a derivative of the "Arab Spring" delusion, fueling Arab radicalism and terrorism.

According to the astute Arab journalist, Elias Harfoush, "[Recent developments in the Middle East are] closer to a civil war than to a popular revolution….Societies that are supposed to constitute nations are dismantling into tribes, sects and conflicting doctrines…. Libya and Yemen represent two examples of the prototype of internal dismantlement that can eliminate the dream of change. The two countries host a resident state of radicalism called Al-Qaeda. The latter represents a danger to the Western interests and to the interests of the neighboring countries….The so-called Arab Spring has its leaves almost wilting…. There goes Tunisia [Jasmin Revolution] with its citizens flooding the shores of the Italian Lampedusa Island in order to seek a European shelter…."

While Western commentators and politicians are captivated by the delusions of the "Arab Internet Revolt" and the "Arab March of Democracy," the anti-Western Muslim Brotherhood (MB) emerges as a major beneficiary of the Arab Winter, which is toppling anti-MB regimes. Unlike the Khomeini Revolution, the MB is set on a gradual takeover of Egypt and other Arab countries, leveraging the sacrifice by other opposition groups. Focusing on their mission – the global spread of Islam and the defeat of the apostate and the infidel – the Muslim Brotherhood adheres to long-term, patient battles through political and subversive tactics. Iran has recently gained in stature, thawing the frosty relations with Egypt, meddling further in the domestic affairs of Iraq, Saudi Arabia, Bahrain and other Gulf States, and securing two bridgeheads in Gaza (Hamas) and Lebanon (Hezbollah).

Western observers tend to ignore the significance of the 1,400 year old monopoly of Islam over the religious, educational, social and political aspects of every Arab country. Such a repressive monopoly guarantees an Islamic victory in every "democratic" process. The 1979 "freeing" of Iran from the autocracy of the Shah, produced the Khomeini Revolution, a radical, oppressive, megalomaniac Islamic regime. The 2002 election in Turkey yielded the less-radical Islamic regime of the Justice and Development Party, headed by Erdogan, who aspires to head the Islamic World and reinstate the Ottoman Empire.

Furthermore, a fundamental incompatibility exists between liberty-driven Western democracy and liberty-devoid Islam. Arab regimes dread freedom of religion, freedom of expression, freedom of speech, free competition, free press, free Internet and free minds. Therefore, since 2003, US attempts to democratize Iraq have been perceived, by the House of Saud and other pro-US Arab regimes, as a lethal threat. Arab regimes hijack the electoral process, advancing their own tyrannical agenda. In 2006, Condoleezza Rice's insistence upon introducing democracy to Gaza catapulted Hamas terrorists to power. In 1996, Jimmy Carter certified the "electoral" victory of Arafat, who proceeded to launch an unprecedented campaign of terrorism. In 1979, the eagerness to spread democracy led Western leaders to support the Khomeini Revolution. During 1917-1967, a sustained campaign, by the British Empire, to introduce democracy to Arab lands failed decisively.

The “Lead from the Rear” policy of the Obama Administration (which comes down to an inability to lead at all, either on U.S. or Foreign Policy) has exacerbated and enableled terrorist regimes to begin a total Middle East take over. Tunisia and Egypt, having been infiltrated by the terrorist group the Muslim Brotherhood and the terrorist regime of Iran, has all ready announced the implementation of Sharia Law.

Syrian president Bashar al-Assad has threatened the U.S. that any attempt to intervene on behalf of the Syrian citizens being murdered in the streets by the Syrian military would lead to an “earthquake” that would crumble the Middle East.

Add to this the vast amount of weapons (including chemical weapons as confirmed by the Libyans) that have been taken by terrorist groups during the uprisings, and the Middle East has become more dangerous than ever.

In the early 1990’s, the Chinese watched in fascination at how rapidly the United States defeated Saddam Hussein in the first Gulf War.

They realized there was no way they could meet the technological advanced American military on the conventional battlefield and win. As they studied how the United States had waged its wars, they saw that leaps in technological innovation drove innovation in American military tactics. Not the other way around.

The Chinese considered this quite a profound discovery and began to embrace the idea that in a China versus America military conflict, the inferior China could beat the superior United States. In fact, China’s defense minister, General Chi Haotian, even stated that war with the U.S. was inevitable and that China would not be able to avoid it. He said the key issue for the Chinese armed forces was going to be controlling the initiative- how the war would be fought. It would all come down to how each side approached waging war. China knew exactly what their plan would be. Their blueprint became known as Unrestricted Warfare.

The first and most important rule of Unrestricted Warfare is that there are no rules. Nothing is forbidden. The plan calls for merciless, unconventional out-of-the-box thinking. The key is asymmetrical attacks on every sphere of American life-political, economic, and social.

Using doctrines of leaders like Sun Tzu (The Art of War), they focused on the time proven methods of surprise and deception, particularly by weaponizing civilian technologies and employing them without morality, mercy, or limit in order to crush American society.

What is ‘weaponizing civilian technologies?’ For example, one of the U.S.’s most important technologies is electricity. If electricity were weaponized, meaning an opponent had found a way to use it against the U.S., America would be devastated. Without electricity, fuel doesn’t get pumped, trucks don’t move, food and drugs don’t get delivered, the economy grinds to a halt, society starts to break apart. Fires don’t get extinguished, looting and crime doesn’t get stopped, you pick up the phone to dial 911 and there is no dial tone. Soon there are no police, there are no firemen. All there is, is chaos.

It could be argued that losing the Internet to hackers would have the same as an enemy turning off our electricity, either through widespread sabotage or with an electromagnetic pulse weapon.

The Chinese military leaders who developed the Unrestricted Warfare plan explained that in the realm of low-intensity conflict, the vulnerabilities of the U.S. actually become exponentially more pronounced. In essence, there are multitudes of things that U.S. citizens believe are harmless that a clever enemy could turn against them, and use them to cripple the U.S. in a heartbeat.

The blackout of 2003 hit eight U.S. states and parts of Canada. Not only was power generation and delivery affected, but so were the water supply, transportation, communications, industry, and the overall economy. There was looting. The overall cost was estimated at between 7 to 10 billion dollars. The power outage affected more than 55 million people and was the second most-widespread electrical blackout in history.

Forensic investigation showed that China’s Peoples Liberation Army sponsored hackers had hacked the U.S. electrical power system network that controlled distribution to the Northeast and were mapping it. It has been privately alleged that they were leaving behind hidden, malicious software, known as ‘Trojan Horses,’ that could be activated at a later date, specifically in a time of Unrestricted Warfare, in order to knock American power systems offline. Where it went wrong, supposedly, was that while leaving the ‘Trojan Horses’, some hacker or a group of hackers accidentally activated theirs, causing the blackout.

Subsequent investigations of networks across the U.S. showed widespread compromise of the nationwide electrical system by the Chinese. ‘Trojans’ had been planted everywhere.

At least 11 people died because of the blackout, and it contributed to the fall of the Ontario government in a provincial election. And it only lasted a couple of days.

The impact on national security was just as serious. Without power, critical systems used by the U.S. to detect illegal border crossings, port landings, and breaches of sensitive sites were all compromised. Even more disturbing was the blackout was a neon sign for terrorists, pointing right at one of America’s greatest Achilles’ heels.

The Driving Philosophy Behind Unrestricted Warfare- It is all about positioning yourself for victory. Why meet your enemy sword to sword, where he is the strongest, when you can force him to expose his side, where he is weakest, and strike him there.

Besides weaponizing civilian technologies, Unrestricted Warfare also works to slowly influence U.S. culture with their values via ‘cultural warfare,’ influencing American media.

Cornering and rigging the markets for things America needs, such as oil and rare earth minerals, through ‘resource warfare.’ Joining international bodies like the U.N. Security Council and voting against American resolutions and interests as part of ‘international law warfare.’ Manipulating the value of the dollar and subverting the banking and stock markets via ‘financial warfare.’ The list is multifaceted and it goes on and on. And it includes terrorism.

Many people aren’t aware of when the 9/11 attacks happened, we all saw dancing in the streets of the Muslim world. What we didn’t see, though, was the sheer exuberance displayed by state-controlled Chinese media. They produced video games, books, and documentaries glorifying the violence and calling it a ‘humbling blow against an arrogant nation.’

Many people also don’t know that the Chinese predicted that bin Laden would hit the World Trade Center, and they predicted it 3 years before it happened. U.S. Intelligence also learned that before 9/11, the Chinese military had been providing training to the Afghan Taliban and al Qaeda. The American intelligence apparatus was stunned by this revelation and couldn’t figure out why the Chinese were mixing with Islamic terrorists. It all had to do with ‘Unrestricted Warfare.’

The Chinese wanted to build their own worldwide Islamic terror network that they could unleash against their enemies, particularly the U.S. at will. They developed deep ties with the Taliban in order to develop even deeper ties with al Qaeda. Much as they mapped U.S. electrical networks, they wanted to map existing Islamic terror networks. This is how the Chinese were able to build a terrorism network rivaling al Qaeda.

(A special note of thanks to Brad Thor, former member of the Department of Homeland Security’s Analytic Red Cell Program for the above information.)

Ok, so it's early in the school year. And there is a lot happening in FUSD. And in every District. But we're focused here. Even if you don't have kids in the District you should be paying attention because this is YOUR tax dollars being spent, the state of the schools affects property values, whether companies want to bring their headquarters here (Anyone need a job? )...

The numbers are right there, staring everyone in the face. Here is a link to the California Department of Educations records for FUSD... http://dq.cde.ca.gov/dataquest/Acnt2011/2011APRDstPIReport.aspx?cYear=&a...

This record shows that FUSD is now in Program Improvement year 1 (see my article in the gazette if you don't know what PI is or read about it online). Yes there are issues with NCLB and I join most folks in not being a fan of standardized testing BUT until all those educators figure out a feasible way to measure student learning, it's what we've got. And the numbers show that the way it's being done, doesn't cut it. We need to change things up. We are using OLD teaching methods and "analog" classrooms in a 3D world. Just because it's way you've done it for 30 years doesn't mean it is the "right" way. Here's the video I got that terminology (analog classroom vs. 3d) from.

We have to recognize that kids today simply live and operate in a world totally unlike that of their parents. We have to change the look, feel, culture and experience of the classroom.

Now specific to FUSD, when is the community going to demand accountability? I feel like I'm standing on a mountain top shouting all by myself. Folks are not comfortable going on the record (ie. letting me use their names in articles because they are afraid for their jobs in the District and cause they still have kids in the District... is that crazy? Not in FUSD.. it's a fact that they perceive this District as hostile to anyone who speaks out against anything going on, anyone who asks questions, or says" Hold on,, you can't do that".... ) Teachers and staff members who do speak out are reprimanded by colleagues. I am tired of it. Plain and simple. Enough is enough. The folks in charge (school board, superintendents office and ALL ASST. Superintendents) need to step up, have some guts, grow some.... oh you know... and do what is best for the kids. This does not mean we all will agree with what is done,, but going with business as usual is not working.

Last month I met with Dr. Nishino. He asked me Why I choose to take my son out of FUSD. HE WAS THE FIRST ADMINISTRATIVE STAFF MEMBER OF FUSD TO ASK ME THAT QUESTION. The staff members present when I requested my sons enrollment papers back even handed me back my letter explaining why I was pulling him out. There is an environment of fear and of "my way or the highway." Do you know how many students leave FUSD every year? And that means $$$$ lost for FUSD... ask YOUR school board what THEY are doing (they can't wait for others any longer) to bring those families back. I hope that the interim folks being brought in are ready and wiling to rock the boat a bit. To show folks that they need to adapt or get left behind, because you know what? The kids are being left behind...

I have recently attended a school board meeting in a nearby district. Wow ! can I just tell you.. what a true world of difference. Just the agenda itself had more information about the resolutions being passed so folks know what is actually being proposed. Either a school board has an interest in communicating with the community or they don't...

HELLO RESIDENTS OF FILLMORE, ARE YOU PAYING ATTENTION. THESE STUDENTS ARE YOUR FUTURE. ARE YOU WILLING TO ALLOW THE SAME FOLKS YEAR AFTER YEAR TO FAIL THEM ????? THINK ABOUT IT. The middle school has not met state targets for eleven years, and there are school board members still sitting on the Board. I mean really, does that make any sense?

Ask the school board about the NEW school in FUSD. Heritage Valley IndependEnt Studies. ASK ABOUT IT. Has a school board member been paid as a substitute teacher? Isn't there some policy about school board members being employed by the Distsrict? WHAT IS THE DISTRICT DOING ABOUT "AR"? REMEMBER ALL THE PARENTS WHO SPOKE OUT LAST YEAR? HAVE THEY RECEIVED A RESPONSE? DO YOU WANT THE SAME SCHOOL BOARD MEMBERS WHO HAVE SAT BEHIND THE DESK WHILE FUSD MOVED INTO PROGRAM IMPROVEMENT CHOOSING THE NEXT PERMANENT SUPERINTENDENT? REALLY, THINK ABOUT IT. YOU CAN INVESTIGATE. I'll be at the next Board meeting, where will you be on Tuesday night?

THE ONLY STUPID QUESTION, IS THE ONE YOU DIDN'T ASK.

****
Slightly a different topic, (and this is likely to [!@#$] some people off) and this is for Districts across the Nation not just FUSD, since when is it the role of a school District to provide jobs? This is not a cash cow, this is a public school.

Here is a great story that you may have seen about a Superintendent who reduced his OWN pay by $800,000 over 3 years to benefit the District. WOW !
www.abcnews.go.com/US/school-superintendent-larry-powell-takes-800000-pa...

I hope everyone has had a wonderful summer. With the first day of school just around the corner (August 16) for FUSD families, I bet many have questions about what this year will be like.

Not only has FUSD hired it's interim Superintendent, Dr. Nishino, but FUSD has a fabulous looking new website.
Have you seen it recently? If not, then you need to check it out. What else is new?
The look is up to date and makes it easy to navigate. Each school's site has the same format, and has a place for a photo of the front of the school, with places for a school calendar and other info for each school to customize.

AND, the entire website can be read in Spanish by clicking once at the top of the site. This is a big deal and I hope it's used by the Spanish speaking families served by FUSD.

I really like the look and feel of the new website. I especially like the photographs added. The revamped site brings it up to date and makes it an "attractive" site to visit. I hope that it will make it easier for the community to connect with their childs school and the District as a whole.

Here's the link to the FUSD site: http://www.fillmore.k12.ca.us/home/

News is coming on the interim superintendent and on other news from the District. Stay Tuned.

The Sacramento Bee, Jul. 10, 2011

Editorial: State board is set to approve smart rules on 'parent trigger' for schools

Read more: http://www.sacbee.com/2011/07/10/3757242/state-board-is-set-to-approve.h...

Recognizing some sense of urgency to do something about 1,300 chronically low-performing schools in California, the Legislature last January opted for innovation.

In a first-of-its-kind law in the nation, lawmakers gave parents direct tools to require school boards to act to restructure schools.

But regulations to implement the law have been painfully slow in coming from the State Board of Education. A year and a half after the law's passage, parents and school districts still do not have predictable, consistent rules in place for everybody to follow.

Read more: http://www.sacbee.com/2011/07/10/3757242/state-board-is-set-to-approve.h...