Courtesy Brandy Hollis

Brandon with Heritage Valley Blazer Board Members

Megan Hadley, who was on-scene at the time of the accident, comes bearing gifts of dinner and cards. Irma Alvarez with tears, hugs her and calls her her angel. Doctors told Irma if it wasn’t for Megan’s quick thinking to stabilize him with the help of an unknown woman, along with keeping him conscious, he might not have lived. Her daughter, Zoey Hadley, called 911, while her mom rendered assistance. Doctors also advised Irma if it wasn’t also for Brandon’s helmet, he very well might not be here today. The bone was still protruding on his forehead when transported to Children’s Hospital LA. The next day they were able to perform surgery to close the large holes, which are healing beautifully. Brandon had to undergo this surgery awake and cringed talking about it. In the next week or so the doctors will advise if Brandon has to undergo intensive surgery based on how he is healing.

Heritage Valley Blazers Board Members came by to visit, play video games and bearing presents. They made a considerable donation towards family expenses for his recovery and brought some cool HV Blazers fan gear.
Brandon’s hallway is covered in get well cards and his soccer picture featured in the Gazette is framed. His mother, Irma, is so overcome by the outpouring of the community; she never realized how much it really cared or how good someone else’s well wishes and deeds could make a person feel. All of your prayers have been working and she asks for continued prayers. She told me that when Brandon is healed, she wants to become more involved doing compassionate work in the community that has been a rock for her in her time in need.

Brandon has smiles and is healing, but he doesn’t like that his mom has to cut his favorite shirts to get them over his neck brace. Besides playing sports, Brandon is very musically talented; plays the violin and accordion. He was carrying his instrument home that fateful day. I can’t wait for him to get better so I can hear him play in person for myself.
If you have any information regarding the accident the family asks you contact them at alvarezja_93015@ yahoo.com.

Pictured above is Arnold Munoz and Nancy Rodriguez Hernandez, riding in last Saturday’s Lions Club Christmas Parade.

This town sure is a small one. Seems like you see and meet people you know everywhere. I originally met Arnold Munoz back some 10ish years ago when I coached my daughter and they sent him in to referee the loud coaches’ game (must have been the other coach). Looking back, I can see why Arnold has a calm and quiet soul, but his passion for keeping this program going and growing is evident in this year’s enrollment and community involvement. He has been involved in the program since 2007 as a coach and referee and then the next year became part of the AYSO Board. In 2012 he was named the Regional Coach Administer and then in 2015 he was elected to Regional Commissioner where he still sits today. You can always catch Arnold at the soccer fields before anyone else arrives, or wait till the end of a hot Saturday game and you might catch him under the shade. During the day he is chalking the fields, setting up, coaching and refereeing, plus all the other duties one takes on in that position. Arnold’s drive and determination has led AYSO242 to be the largest youth organization in Fillmore with approximately 700 players. Before I took this picture and before the start of the parade, Arnold proudly pointed to the magnet sticker on the side of the truck that read Bunnin Chevrolet. I know in previous articles I have mentioned how much they do, but here they are doing it again. AMAZING!

Sitting alongside Arnold in the Lions Club Christmas Parade is Nancy Rodriguez Hernandez. Nancy is currently the AYSO Epic Coordinator and the truck bed held the participants of the Epic Program. AYSO Epic focuses on children who are on the spectrum along with the rest of the special needs community. This completed AYSO Epic’s second successful full year here in Fillmore. Nancy not only has been in radio broadcasting for 25 years, she is also a commissioner on the city of Fillmore’s Cultural, Arts and Recreation Commission. With her son in mind, her biggest passion is for inclusivity through sensory friendly environments. That includes many of the city’s events, which are just starting to roll out thanks to her hard work and determination. She is blessed, like so many of us are, with small town willingness to work together. The city of Fillmore, Estrellas Market, Fire Chief Keith Gurrola and Fillmore City Manager David Rowlands are all helping in making our city more inclusive for all. She is also working to start an inclusive basketball team through the city as well. Nancy is driven and passionate, a true momma bear doing everything in her power to empower her son the best way she knows how.
Nancy and I met while working with a non-profit Charitable Givings Committee (Boys and Girls Club of SCV).That year saw a sizable donation and was very exciting. Next time, Heather Swetman and I were setting up a tree for her company Escalera Pest Control, that she sponsored in memory of Ari Larson at the Boys and Girls Club SVG Light Up the Season event. She was at the soccer field and this past year I have come to know her sweet, friendly, compassionate personality. Her desire to make the world more harmonious for not only her son but the entire community is crystal clear by the programs she is putting into place. I know I for one support her movement. The kids are our future and we have to be mindful that everyone deserves to play.

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On November 21, at 2:46pm, Fillmore Fire, AMR paramedics and Fillmore Police responded to a vehicle vs pedestrian at Meadowlark Drive and C Street. The pedestrian, 11-year-old Brandon Alvarez, was coming home from school on an electric scooter when the accident occurred. He was transported to a local hospital in critical condition, involving a broken neck and brain bleed. The driver of the vehicle remained on-scene. Brandon was later transported to Children’s Hospital in Los Angeles. He had just finished soccer playoffs the prior weekend (Boys Jr. Flashes 12U AYSO) and was gearing up for The Bad Boys basketball season. Donations for Brandon’s family may be made at this link: https://mealtrain.com/m3wogl. The Alvarez family is asking for prayers for Brandon, who is thankfully showing improvement. UPDATE: Brandon is home! See family message on page 10.

Courtesy Fillmore Fire Department

The Fillmore Fire Department in conjunction with the Fillmore Fire Foundation is kicking off the annual Holiday Toy Drive this week. Collection drop off boxes for new toys are available at the Fillmore Police and City Fire Station, City Hall, local banks and Diamond Realty. As part of the Toy Drive, on Sunday, December 3rd, the Fillmore Fire Foundation will be holding the annual BBQ Chicken Dinner Fundraiser to collect donations that are used to purchase hundreds of toys for children in the Fillmore/Piru area. A complete chicken dinner meal is prepared for anyone wanting to donate fifteen dollars ($15) or a brand-new toy valued at fifteen dollars or more. This year, the dinner will be held as a drive through only at the Fillmore High School Cafeteria in the Horseshoe area, enter off First St. Dinner will be served from 5:00 -7:00 PM. The hundreds of toys purchased from this event will be combined with those that are donated by the Community and then distributed on Saturday, December 16th, in a huge Community Holiday Giveaway event. To order your tickets for the December 3rd BBQ Chicken Dinner call 805-524-1500 ext 226. or 805-815-0328 or stop by the Fillmore City Fire Station, 711 Landeros Lane. New Toys may also be dropped off at the Fire Station.

FILLMORE, CALIFORNIA – November 16, 2023– FILLMORE WINTER WONDERLAND: SPARKLING LIGHTS AND SEASONAL DELIGHTS.
Get ready to kick off the season in style as Fillmore transforms into a Winter Wonderland on Friday, December 1st! The event will kick off with vendors and food at 5:00 p.m. The highlight of the evening will be the spectacular Tree Lighting Ceremony at Central Park Plaza at 6:00 p.m. This festive event promises an enchanting experience for the entire community.

New This Year - Twinkle, Twinkle, Little Lights
The heart of Fillmore will come alive with the glow of thousands of twinkling lights, creating a magical atmosphere that will captivate young and old alike. Our 12-foot walkthrough ornament, adorned with seasonal decorations, will be a centerpiece, inviting everyone to step into a world of seasonal joy.

Capture the Magic with Santa
Bring your cameras and smiles, as Santa himself will be making a special appearance! Don't miss the opportunity to take pictures with the jolly old man in red and create lasting memories with friends and family.

Melodies of the Season
Feel the rhythm of the season with live musical performance from the Bakery Boys that will add a harmonious touch to the celebration. From classic carols to cheerful tunes, there will be something for everyone to enjoy.

Delicious Bites and Treats
Satisfy your taste buds with a variety of delicious food options available on-site. Whether you're craving sweet treats or savory delights, our local vendors will be serving up scrumptious bites to keep you fueled and festive.

Share the Joy with #FillmoreWinterMagic
Join the community in spreading the joy! Use the hashtag #FillmoreWinterMagic on your social media posts to share your favorite moments from the event. We can't wait to see your photos, videos, and messages as we come together to celebrate the spirit of the season.

Save the date, invite your friends and family, and join us for a night of seasonal enchantment on December 1st. Fillmore Winter Wonderland awaits you!

For questions and further information regarding this, please contact Juana Garcia, Parks and Recreation Department at 805-524-1500 ext. 230 or jgarcia@fillmoreca.gov .
Please visit www.fillmoreca.gov and follow us on Facebook, Instagram, Twitter, and LinkedIn.
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Community Contact:
Name: Erika Herrera-Terriquez
Title: Assistant City Manager
Phone: 805-946-1712
Email: eherrera@fillmoreca.gov
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A Fillmore man was arrested last week in connection to a residential burglary hours after he was released from jail, authorities with the Ventura Police Department announced Wednesday, November 15th.

Oscar Ramos, 30, was taken into custody for “burglary and resisting, delaying, or obstructing police officers” on Tuesday, November 14th. Ramos was eventually booked at the Ventura County Jail, the same place he was released from that morning, according to a news release.

On Tuesday, a resident in the 600 block of County Square Drive, Ventura, became aware that the suspect had entered their home. The resident was not home at the time and officers quickly responded to the scene. Ramos was taken into custody about 20 minutes later.

Before his recent arrest, Ramos was also arrested for “being under the influence of a controlled substance, elder abuse, battery, vandalism, carrying a dirk or dagger, public intoxication, disturbing the peace by fighting, violation of a court order, criminal threats, possession of drug paraphernalia, and resisting an executive officer,” via a news release.

The Civic Pride Volunteer Committee is on the hunt for the 2023 Holiday Yard of the Month to be named December 11. Read article for details. Pictured above are last year’s winners of the 2022 “Holiday Yard of the Month”, Sheila and Bob Mumme’s home on Shady Lane. Photo credit Linda Nunes.
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By Linda Nunes
Our Civic Pride Volunteer Committee will be selecting a “Holiday Yard of the Month” on December 11! This gives you two weekends in December, December 2-3 & December 9-10 to get your decorating completed.
The Holiday “Yard of the Month” will be chosen from decorated homes and yards within the entire Fillmore community. The Civic Pride Committee is putting out a “call” to all be creative and clever, and to get their decorating done early, so a photo of the winner and a list of “honorable mentions” may be put in the Gazette. People can then enjoy a tour of the neighborhoods.
We invite you to send your suggestions for best decorated yard by email to Linda Nunes at lsnunes1411@gmail.com, before the 11th. A member of the committee will be making the selection by December 11th.
The award will be a $50 gift certificate to Otto and Sons Nursery. The Klittich Family have generously continued this award support over the years and award winners always express their excited anticipation to explore the nursery.

For more details & info visit https://www.fillmoreca.gov/DocumentCenter/View/575/Yellow-Map-PDF?bidId=.
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For more details & info visit https://www.fillmoreca.gov/DocumentCenter/View/576/Green-Map-PDF?bidId=.
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For more details & info visit https://www.fillmoreca.gov/DocumentCenter/View/577/Orange-Map-PDF?bidId=.S
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Courtesy https://www.fillmoreca.gov/CivicAlerts.aspx?AID=49

FILLMORE, CALIFORNIA – November 7, 2023–In a significant development, the draft district elections maps are now accessible for public review. The City invites residents to actively engage in this democratic process by examining the proposed maps and providing valuable feedback.

The online viewer link, where you can explore the draft district elections maps, online. Additionally, detailed maps are available for viewing and download at the following links:

Yellow Map – pictured below; More details visit https://www.fillmoreca.gov/Document Center/View/575/Yellow-Map-PDF?bidId=
Green Map – pictured below; More details visit https://www.fillmoreca.gov/DocumentCenter/View/576/Green-Map-PDF?bidId=
Orange Map – pictured below; More details visit https://www.fillmoreca.gov/DocumentCenter/View/577/Orange-Map-PDF?bidId=
Public participation is crucial to ensuring fair and representative districting. Residents are encouraged to voice their opinions, concerns, and suggestions regarding the proposed maps. Your input will play a vital role in shaping the future of our community.

Visit the Online map viewer can be access by clicking here to explore the draft district elections maps and make your voice heard. Let’s work together to create a districting plan that reflects the diversity and interests of our community.
Please visit www.fillmoreca.gov and follow us on Facebook, Instagram, X, and LinkedIn.
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Draft District Elections Maps Available for Public Viewing

Pictured above the Maps District Elections can be courtesy https://ndcresearch.maps.arcgis.com/apps/View/index.html?appid=eb95dbdd7....

All maps

FOR IMMEDIATE RELEASE:

City of Fillmore
Draft District Elections Maps Available for Public Viewing
FILLMORE, CALIFORNIA – November 7, 2023–In a significant development, the draft district elections maps are now accessible for public review. The City invites residents to actively engage in this democratic process by examining the proposed maps and providing valuable feedback.

The online viewer link, where you can explore the draft district elections maps, online. Additionally, detailed maps are available for viewing and download at the following links:

Yellow Map – pictured below – https://www.fillmoreca.gov/DocumentCenter/View/575/Yellow-Map-PDF?bidId=
Green Map – pictured below - https://www.fillmoreca.gov/DocumentCenter/View/576/Green-Map-PDF?bidId=
Orange Map – pictured below - https://www.fillmoreca.gov/DocumentCenter/View/577/Orange-Map-PDF?bidId=
Public participation is crucial to ensuring fair and representative districting. Residents are encouraged to voice their opinions, concerns, and suggestions regarding the proposed maps. Your input will play a vital role in shaping the future of our community.

Visit the Online map viewer can be access by clicking here to explore the draft district elections maps and make your voice heard. Let's work together to create a districting plan that reflects the diversity and interests of our community.
Please visit www.fillmoreca.gov and follow us on Facebook, Instagram, X, and LinkedIn.
Community Contact:

Name: Erika Herrera-Terriquez
Title: Assistant City Manager
Phone: 805-946-1712
Email: eherrera@fillmoreca.gov

The Grand Marshals and guest speakers were given certificates of recognition and plaques for their contributions. Pictured (l-r) at the Veterans Day ceremony are Fillmore Mayor Pro Tem Christina Villasenor, with Grand Marshals Ismael Alonzo and Victor Westerberg, and guest speaker former Police Chief and Marine veteran Richard “Dick” Diaz., Fillmore Knights of Columbus Grand Knight Bob Gradias and Supervisor Kelly Long’s Representative Manuel Minjares. Inset, Fillmore VFW leading the parade down Central Avenue. Inset photo credit Angel Esquivel-AE News.
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Pictured are classic cars which carried Fillmore and Piru Veterans down Central Avenue in this year’s parade and future cadets marching to close out the parade with the Fillmore Police & Fire Departments following. Thank you for serving your country. Photo credit Angel Esquivel-AE News. One of the traditions was the presentation of each branch of service flag and medley. As each branch was recognized, the veterans of that branch stood and saluted as the medley played.
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The Veterans Day Celebration was a huge success as the community paid homage to our local heroes on Friday, November 10th and Saturday, November 11th. The celebration began with a Concert at the Park at City Park on Friday evening. Mack and D started the night captivating the crowd of over 150 with their blend of pop, country, blues, and requests. The headliner was Ventura County’s own “Los Amigos” and they performed a variety of music from rock, cumbia, jazz, and country. Los Amigos are a talented troupe of professional musicians who have played with various artists over the years. Their style of music had the crowd jumping and dancing over the evening.

On Saturday, the Veterans Day Parade started with the Annual Veterans Day Parade hosted by the Fillmore Lions Club. Over 70 Veterans rode in classic cars and corvettes waving at the crowd as they cheered each veteran when they drove by. This year’s Grand Marshals were Victor Westerberg and Ismael Alonzo. Victor and Ismael are long time members of the Fillmore-Piru Veterans of Foreign War. Their dedication and commitment to the members are extraordinary as they work to provide services and information to our local veterans.

The parade was followed by the Annual Veterans Day Ceremony at Fillmore Middle School. The guest speaker was former Police Chief and Marine Veteran Richard “Dick” Diaz. Mr. Diaz shared his experiences serving in Viet Nam. He also discussed the importance of honoring and remembering our Veterans for their commitment and sacrifices to keep our country free. Many of our Veterans still experience physical and mental challenges and supporting them is an essential need to provide the care they need.

Supervisor Kelly Long’s Representative Manuel Minjares, and Fillmore Mayor Pro Tem Christina Villasenor were on hand to present certificates of recognition to Victor, Ismael, and Richard. The Fillmore Knights of Columbus Grand Knight, Bob Gradias presented them with plaques for their contributions.

One of the traditions was the presentation of each branch of service’s flags and medley. As each branch was recognized, the Veterans of their branch stood and saluted, many with tears running down their cheeks.

Music and sound were provided by Danny Ibarra and Danny Rodriguez for both events.

A delicious luncheon BBQ was served to over 200 guests attending the ceremony. Colette Golson and her staff provided a full coarse meal and dessert. Congratulations to Colette for providing such a wonderful meal. And, yes, Vets ate for free!
Kudos to the Veterans Day Committee for their hard work in making this such a success.