Fillmore Unified School District
Fillmore Unified School District

The Fillmore Unified School District (FUSD) met with representatives from the Fillmore Unified Teachers Association (FUTA) on November 25, 2019, for the third mediation session. The mediation session was held at the District Office (627 Sespe Avenue, Fillmore, California) beginning at 9:14 AM. FUSD and FUTA reached a Tentative Agreement at 3:39 PM on Monday, November 25, 2019.
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TENTATIVE AGREEMENT BETWEEN THE FILLMORE UNIFIED SCHOOL DISTRICT AND THE FILLMORE UNIFIED TEACHERS ASSOCIATION

The District and FUTA agree to maintain the terms of the July 1, 2016-2019 collective bargaining agreement between the parties status quo for that term, plus one additional year, through June 30, 2020, except for the following modifications:

1. All certificated bargaining unit salary schedules, with the exception of the Hourly/Daily Extra Pay Certificated Assignment schedule shall be increased by 4.0% effective July 1, 2018. All certificated bargaining unit members actively employed by Fillmore Unified School District on June 30, 2019 shall be eligible for all retroactive pay.

2. All certificated bargaining unit salary schedules, with the exception of the Hourly/Daily Extra Pay Certificated Assignment schedule shall be increased by 2.5% effective July 1, 2019.

3. Health and Welfare Benefits under Article 5 shall remain status quo.

4. Article 19, Class Size, shall be modified as stated in the signed April 24, 2019 tentative agreement (attached hereto as Exhibit 1).

5. The parties’ signed February 26, 2019 Tentative Agreement for the MOU on Collaboration shall not be implemented.

6. For the 2019-2020 school year, the parties shall implement their February 26, 2019
Working Agreement for one additional middle school grade level chair at 6th grade (attached hereto as Exhibit 2).

7. The parties agree to defer implementation of the February 26, 2019 Working Agreement goal planning, performance observation, and final evaluation forms pilot until school year 2020-2021 (attached hereto as Exhibit 3). The evaluation committee shall resume meeting during the 2019-2020 school year to draft language to support the pilot forms. The goal of the evaluation committee is to present updated contract language for article 11 when negotiations begin for 2020-2021.

8. There shall be no reopener negotiations for 2019-2020. Both parties shall sunshine their proposals for school year 2020-2021 by March 27, 2020. Negotiations shall commence within 30 days after the sunshining process is complete.

9. Both parties shall take this agreement for ratification as a package and shall support ratification. No single element of this package shall be voted on separately. Should both parties not approve this agreement in its entirety, the entire agreement shall be null and void.

There will be a general meeting on Tuesday, Dec. 3rd at 3:30 in room 8 at San Cayetano to go over the tentative agreement in more detail. Voting will commence at each site beginning Wednesday, Dec. 4th - Friday, Dec. 6th. Votes will be counted at 3:30 at San Cayetano on Monday, December 9th. All members are encouraged to attend to witness the count.

 
Saturday, December 7th at 10am will be the 18th Annual Fillmore Lions Club Christmas Parade, taking place on Central Avenue. Pictured above is a photo from last year’s Christmas parade.
Saturday, December 7th at 10am will be the 18th Annual Fillmore Lions Club Christmas Parade, taking place on Central Avenue. Pictured above is a photo from last year’s Christmas parade.
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Believe it or not, the Fillmore Lions Club Christmas Parade is right around the corner. This year’s Christmas Parade will be held on Saturday, December 7th. As always, Santa will trade in his sleigh for the morning and make his special trip down Central Avenue aboard a Fillmore Fire Department fire truck. At the end of his ride, Santa will make his way to the depot to take photos with the kids, so make sure to bring your camera to take pictures.

The Christmas Parade is open to individuals, businesses, civic organizations, school bands, church groups, car clubs and equestrians. Just about any group or person who wants to celebrate the season with a “themed entry” is welcome and there is no cost to enter the parade. To be a part of the Christmas Parade, send an email to FillmoreChristmasParade@gmail.com and an application will be sent to you. Or visit our website at FillmoreLionsClub.org and click on the parade poster to find the application. For questions or additional information, please contact Lion Scott Lee at 524-1896.

Please remember that the parade route will be posted “No Parking” from 8:00 am to approximately 12:00 pm on the day of the parade on Central Avenue from Third Street to Santa Clara. Cooperation from residents is needed in order to keep vehicles off of the parade route during that time for the safety of parade participants and spectators.

Although the Fillmore Christmas Parade has a long standing tradition in Fillmore, it was in danger of being cancelled in 2001 when the parade lost its’ sponsor. The late Hank Carrillo suggested the Fillmore Lions Club assume the responsibility for the Christmas Parade as a service to the community and the Lions Club continue to sponsor the Parade in Hank Carrillo’s honor. Fillmore Lions wish you a wonderful Thanksgiving and look forward to seeing you on December 7th!

 
Some may have noticed that the old Skillin and Carroll Mortuary building closed down back in September of this year. The building has a new sign in its place that reads “Perez Family Funeral Home.”
Some may have noticed that the old Skillin and Carroll Mortuary building closed down back in September of this year. The building has a new sign in its place that reads “Perez Family Funeral Home.”
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On Friday, November 22nd Leo Bunnin was back in Ventura County with the Grand Opening of Bunnin Chevrolet of Santa Paula. Over 300 customers, city and county officials, chamber members and Bunnin employees “rocked the tent” as Leo Bunnin (center) cut the ribbon to make Bunnin Chevrolet of Santa Paula officially open.
On Friday, November 22nd Leo Bunnin was back in Ventura County with the Grand Opening of Bunnin Chevrolet of Santa Paula. Over 300 customers, city and county officials, chamber members and Bunnin employees “rocked the tent” as Leo Bunnin (center) cut the ribbon to make Bunnin Chevrolet of Santa Paula officially open.
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Photo of the Week: "Sun reflection on green unicycle in Central Avenue shop window" by Bob Crum. Photo data: Canon 7D MKII camera, manual mode with Tamron 16-300mm lens @16mm. Exposure; ISO 16000, aperture f/22, 1/500th second shutter speed.
Photo of the Week: "Sun reflection on green unicycle in Central Avenue shop window" by Bob Crum. Photo data: Canon 7D MKII camera, manual mode with Tamron 16-300mm lens @16mm. Exposure; ISO 16000, aperture f/22, 1/500th second shutter speed.
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Prepare to pounce!
Bob Crum
Bob Crum

Is 'time' an abstract mental construct, or does it exist independent of human consciousness? 2019 is like a wisp of smoke, briefly observed before rapidly dissipating. Doesn't it seem like July 4th was last week? Now Thanksgiving is abruptly upon us.

This Thanksgiving, and always, thank you! I am so grateful to have so many ardent readers. In my wanderings around our town of Fillmore, many of you have told me that you enjoy reading this column. It's because you tell me that my column is worth the three minutes to read that I faithfully continue to pound the keys on my keyboard week in and week out.

The day after Thanksgiving is the vexatious Black Friday! And you can hardly wait to leap eagerly into the pandemonium, right? Relax, you have no choice! Like Black Holes, Black Friday possesses such a powerful gravitational pull that not even the stingiest budget can prevent you from spending wildly. With your list in hand, you mysteriously find yourself inline at 5 a.m. for the 6 a.m. store opening. The idea that you could escape the gravitational pull of Black Friday ads is folly. Resistance is futile, so compelling are the tantalizing tales of your heroic conquests. The idea that you could sleep in and retain a firm hold on your money is utter fantasy. Imagine the coveted treasures should you prevail and survive the rough-and-tumble melee. Keyword: Survive!

Photographers, and wannabe photographers, Black Friday is your optimum opportunity to buy the camera, or lens, that you've been lusting for while saving enough money to treat me to lunch-for six months! Remember, cellphone cameras are virtual cameras pretending to be a camera. You deserve better. The best cellphone camera is no match for a dedicated camera for creating desired photos-snapshots notwithstanding! Camera manufacturers are producing an impressive variety of fantabulous cameras.

First, distill your needs from a long list of options. Are you primarily a landscape, portrait, macro, fashion, sports, travel, wildlife, event or street photographer? And do you also intend to record videos with your camera? The type of photography you will shoot the most will help you determine the best-suited camera while keeping in mind many cameras can be effectively used for various kinds of photography.

DPreview.com writes: "A Canon EOS M200 is a capable, inexpensive and easy-to-use compact mirrorless camera. Its image quality and autofocus performance are solid, its video performance is passable, and it's an excellent option for new users looking for their first dedicated camera." Also, the Canon EOS Rebel T7 is an excellent all-around inexpensive camera. If you prefer Nikon, the brand has a couple of quality entry-level cameras. The Panasonic Lumix DMC-G7 with a 14-42mm and 45-150mm lens can be bought at Samy's Camera for $497.00! Imagine that! For a pocket camera while traveling Europe or a U.S. national park, the Canon Powershot G9 X MarkII is perfect. For a tight budget, consider the Canon Powershot ELPH 180.

Online retailers like Adorama often present some phenomenal photo gear sales. For example, a Canon EOS Rebel T6 DSLR with 18-55mm IS and 75-300mm III Lenses for $399.00, free shipping and no sale tax. Awesome deal! The link: http://tinyurl.com/smjgzye. To shop closer at home: samys.com and hoopercamera.com. Happy shopping!

Cyber Monday (CM), the Monday after Black Friday, often also present great deals on tech gear and photo editing software. Do your research! KNOW precisely what brand and model camera (or photo-related item) that you want so when you see it on sale- POUNCE! Great deals disappear quickly. For example, I need a new TV. I know exactly what Samsung model I want. I'm ready to pounce!

Happy Thanksgiving.

Send comments, questions or suggestions to: focusonphotography@earthlink.net

 
Pictured above is Charles Richardson, resident of El Dorado Mobile Estate Park, holding up one of three dirty water filters at last week’s city council meeting, to demonstrate the issue of poor water quality at the park.
Pictured above is Charles Richardson, resident of El Dorado Mobile Estate Park, holding up one of three dirty water filters at last week’s city council meeting, to demonstrate the issue of poor water quality at the park.
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On Tuesday, November 12th, 2019, Fillmore and El Dorado Mobile Estates resident Charles Richardson address the City Council with his concerns over the water quality at the El Dorado, and a city rep’s comment back in 2004 about a coming water fix.

Following are Mr. Richardson’s opening remarks, which were emailed in August 2019 to City Manager Dave Rowlands: “Our discussion went back and forth but in October the City Manager ceased communications with me. David Smallwood wanted to meet with me at my house but that did not happen either. That is why I’m here tonight under Oral Communications.”

“I met with Bert Rapp about the dirty water at El Dorado. I installed a whole house water filter in November 2004. We moved to El Dorado on November 14, 2004.

“First filter, best I could buy. He (Rapp) reimbursed my $30, I think. Suggested using a corrugated type filter. Stated that when new houses around El Dorado are built, there will be a hook-up to our “closed system”. Stated that a hookup to El Dorado’s water system would create an open loop system thus cleaning up our dirty water.”

Mr. Richardson then showed several dirty water filters from his home. Sixty-one filters replaced every three months at a total cost of $20 per filter, and total to date cost of $1,220.

His solution request? New water line in stalled on east side of Pole Creek, tied into that line with El Dorado at Coronado, a cul-de-sac street just next to the newly installed water line.

Jump to 2019, and a lot of dirty water under the bridge.

“I expected Mr. Rapp’s solution to be applied to El Dorado when the new water system was installed about one month ago, but that did not happen.

“I’ll be back every two weeks if necessary until El Dorado’s dirty water is rectified. Please expedite the new hookup with the newly installed water line at Pole Creek.

“Thank you for your attention and dealing with this major issue.”

The Gazette will keep you up to date on Mr. Richardson’s quest.

 
Prior to last night’s school board meeting Fillmore United Teacher Association members and their supporters rallied in front of Fillmore Unified District to protest the failed contract negations, and lack of FUSD leadership to present teachers with what they consider a fair offer in their fight for a mutual agreement.
Prior to last night’s school board meeting Fillmore United Teacher Association members and their supporters rallied in front of Fillmore Unified District to protest the failed contract negations, and lack of FUSD leadership to present teachers with what they consider a fair offer in their fight for a mutual agreement.
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Board meeting highlights for the Fillmore Unified School District

First Interim Report
The Governing Board received a presentation on the First Interim Report. Presentation was delivered by Assistant Superintendent, Andrea McNeill and Director of Fiscal Services, Martha Corona

Fillmore USD Discipline Plan
The Governing Board received a presentation on the Fillmore USD Discipline Plan. Presentation was delivered by Assistant Superintendent, Stefan Cvijanovich

Approve Date and Time of Annual Organizational Meeting The Governing Board approved that the Annual Organizational Meeting will be held on December 17, 2019.

Approve Tentative Agreement between the California School Employees Association (CSEA) Chapter 421 and the Fillmore Unified School District The Governing Board approved the Tentative Agreement reached during the last negotiations session.

Approve CSEA/Management /Confidential Schedules The Governing Board approved the CSEA/Management/Confidential salary schedules.

Personnel Recommendations
The Board approved all personnel recommendations including new hires, promotions, resignations, and leaves.

 

Diego Angel Aguilar, 14, passed away on November 17th in the early morning hours. Angel was asleep in a travel trailer about 30-feet from the main house on Willard Canyon when it caught fire. Several drivers who saw the fire from SR 126, and Angel’s family, tried to rescue him but were defeated by the fire. Angel attended Piru Elementary and Fillmore Middle and High Schools. There are two fundraisers for the Aguilar family: this Friday, November 22nd (see notice above), and on Sunday, November 24th, there will be a sale of tacos, drinks and sweets. All funds will go towards the Aguilar family. The Friday fundraiser will start at 2:00pm at 849 1/2 4th St., in the City of Fillmore.

 
The Flashes Boys and Girls Cross Country teams traveled to Riverside this past weekend to compete in the CIF Division 4 Southern Section Cross Country Prelims. The Boys team finished second in their heat, which qualifies them to advance to the CIF Finals on Saturday, November 23rd in Riverside. Pictured above is the Flashes Boys Cross Country team after their heat: (L-R) Matt Munoz, James Flores, Rey Laureano, Fabian Del Villar, Juan Carlos Laureano, Jesse Martinez, Alex Manzo, Davis Flores, Erick Gutierrez, Dave Bustos, Jesse De La Cruz, and Michael Camilo Torres. Go Flashes! Photos courtesy Coach Kim Tafoya.
The Flashes Boys and Girls Cross Country teams traveled to Riverside this past weekend to compete in the CIF Division 4 Southern Section Cross Country Prelims. The Boys team finished second in their heat, which qualifies them to advance to the CIF Finals on Saturday, November 23rd in Riverside. Pictured above is the Flashes Boys Cross Country team after their heat: (L-R) Matt Munoz, James Flores, Rey Laureano, Fabian Del Villar, Juan Carlos Laureano, Jesse Martinez, Alex Manzo, Davis Flores, Erick Gutierrez, Dave Bustos, Jesse De La Cruz, and Michael Camilo Torres. Go Flashes! Photos courtesy Coach Kim Tafoya.
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FHS Girls Cross Country competed this past weekend, finishing 15th out 22 teams which competed. However, senior Vanessa Avila finished in 15th place this past weekend with a time of 19:59.9, which was enough to qualify her for the Finals as an individual.
FHS Girls Cross Country competed this past weekend, finishing 15th out 22 teams which competed. However, senior Vanessa Avila finished in 15th place this past weekend with a time of 19:59.9, which was enough to qualify her for the Finals as an individual.

Written By Epi Torres

On Saturday, bright and early, the Boys and Girls Varsity Cross Country teams traveled to Riverside to compete in the CIF Division 4 Southern Section Cross Country Prelims. The meet was held at the old abandoned golf course, a relatively flat, hot, windy, dusty course, with a few added rises to test ones strength and endurance.

The first race of the day featured 22 teams and eight individual qualifiers. The Fillmore girls found themselves in a tough battle finishing in 15th place among some very good competition. Vanessa Avila was the top finisher for the Flashes running to a 15th place finish in a personal best time of 19:59.9 for her on this course. This was well enough for Vanessa to advance to CIF Final as an individual. Vanessa was followed by Angelica Herrera 87th in 22:53.7, Alianna Tapia 94th in 23:10.8, Jasmine Vega 97th in 23:16.3, Lorena Perez 104th in 23:30.8, Giselle Perez 143rd in 26:43.7, and Natalie Cobian 144th in 26:53.8.

The boys’ team followed in a very competitive race that included the number one ranked team in CIF Div. 4 SS, Foothill Technology. Nineteen teams and five individuals toed the start line in this race. Fabian Del Villar led all Fillmore competitors finishing in 11th place in a time of 16:33.1. He was followed by Erick Gutierrez 15th in 16:45.4, Davis Flores 19th in 16:51.6, Alex Manzo 22nd in 16:58.9, Rey Laureano 32nd in 17:16.5, Juan Carlos Laureano 34th in 17:16.6, and Jesse Martinez 46th in 17:35.2. In the team competition, the boys finished 2nd in their heat, thereby qualifying for CIF Finals next Saturday.

Next Saturday, the boys’ team currently ranked 3rd in CIF Southern Section Division 4, and ranked 6th in the California State rankings will return to the same venue in Riverside with the goal of finishing among the top seven teams and qualifying for the CIF State Finals at Woodward Park in Fresno on November 30th. Along with them, the lone Senior member of the girl’s team, Vanessa Avila will also try to qualify for the State Meet as an individual.

 
Last Friday, November 15th, the Flashes Football team traveled to Yorba Linda High School to take on Esperanza Aztecs in the second round playoff game of the 2019 season. After a long hard fought game the Flashes fell short to the Aztecs 18 – 7, and ended their 2019 season with an over all record 8-2. Photos courtesy Crystal Gurrola.
Last Friday, November 15th, the Flashes Football team traveled to Yorba Linda High School to take on Esperanza Aztecs in the second round playoff game of the 2019 season. After a long hard fought game the Flashes fell short to the Aztecs 18 – 7, and ended their 2019 season with an over all record 8-2. Photos courtesy Crystal Gurrola.
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Submitted By Coach Sean Miller
The Fillmore Flashes' football season ended last Friday night in the second round of CIF playoffs with an 18-7 loss to the Esperanza Aztecs. Senior Quarterback Jared Schieferle threw for 200 yards and a touchdown to junior half-back Justice Rodriguez. Rodriguez finished the game with 3 catches for 50 yards and a touchdown. On defense, sophomore safety Phillip Cervantez led the way with 6 tackles. Senior linebackers David Julian and Bryce Nunez also played well, with Bryce adding 2 tackles for loss along with his 3 tackles and David adding 1 tackle for loss along with his 4 tackles.

The Flashes season is over, and Coach Miller would like to thank everyone who has supported the football team this season. This includes, but isn't limited to, the Fillmore Alumni Association, Fillmore Fire Department, Central Station, The Fillmore Gazette, Fillmore High School faculty and administration, and all community members who have contributed to the football program's success this year. Thank you.

 
Pictured above a photo from last year’s Annual Toy Drive put on by the Fillmore Fire Department. Kids lined up as volunteers helped pass out gifts to each child who attended.
Pictured above a photo from last year’s Annual Toy Drive put on by the Fillmore Fire Department. Kids lined up as volunteers helped pass out gifts to each child who attended.
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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 Fire Stations. As part of the Toy Drive, on Sunday December 8th, the Fire Department will be holding the annual Chicken Dinner Fundraiser to collect new toys and/or generate funds 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 an unwrapped toy or who wishes to donate monetarily to the fundraiser. The dinner will be held at the Fillmore City Fire Station, 711 Landeros Lane. Dinner will be served from 5-7 PM. Meals may be eaten at the Fire Station or take out orders will be available. The hundreds of toys received from this event will be combined with those that are donated by the Community and then distributed the following week on Saturday December 14, in a huge Community Holiday Giveaway event.

This year’s annual Fillmore Community Holiday Giveaway will be held Saturday December 14th from 9 AM – 12 PM at the Fillmore City Fire Station, 711 Landeros Lane. This is the annual event where holiday commodities are given to the children who reside within the Fillmore Unified School District boundaries. Each child will have a picture taken with Santa Claus. They will also receive a new toy and reading book, a new coat and socks, holiday bags of groceries will also be available as well as a limited number of Christmas trees. Cotton candy, popcorn and candy canes will be distributed. The children and their families will be able to visit with First Responders and learn safety tips.

Annual sponsors of the event include our local Fillmore Police and Fire Departments, Santa Clara Valley Legal Aid, The Latshaw Foundation, One Step A La Vez, Soroptimist International of Fillmore, Saint Francis of Assisi Church, Fillmore Future Farmers of America, Sespe 4-H, Rotary International of Fillmore, Fillmore Lions Club, Ventura County Deputy Sheriff’s Association, the Sheriff’s Mounted Posse, Fillmore Citizen’s Patrol, Fillmore Search and Rescue, The Fillmore Fire Foundation and numerous other generous personal and business donors.

If you would like to help donate to the Fillmore Community Holiday Giveaway, you may give new toys, coats, books, socks or canned food; drop boxes are located at the Fillmore Police Station and at the Fillmore City Fire Station. Cash donations are gladly accepted, checks may be made out to “The Fillmore Fire Foundation” with a notation of “Holiday Giveaway”. Donations may be mailed to Fillmore Fire Foundation” PO Box 331, Fillmore , CA 93016 or for drop off, please contact Scott Beylik (805) 732-1101 or Keith Gurrola (805) 558-0932.

 
 
Photo of the Week: "Deceased ghoul died of M&M overdose at Trunk or Treat" by Bob Crum. Photo data: Canon 7D MKII camera, Tamron 16-300mm lens @16mm; exposure ISO 8000, aperture f/22, 1/160th shutter speed.
Photo of the Week: "Deceased ghoul died of M&M overdose at Trunk or Treat" by Bob Crum. Photo data: Canon 7D MKII camera, Tamron 16-300mm lens @16mm; exposure ISO 8000, aperture f/22, 1/160th shutter speed.
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$109.95 complete
Bob Crum
Bob Crum

What could go wrong? (You'll see!) I have a Tripp Lite step transformer plugged into the 120-volt outlet because the voltage dips to 115 volts when I turned on the A/C or microwave. Bad condition for sensitive computer electronics. The transformer takes the reduced voltage and boosts it to 120 volts. I also have a UPS (Uninterrupted Power Supply) plugged into the step-up transformer. The UPS provides run-time to power down the computer properly when electricity is abruptly stopped. Especially important when shooting mermaid boudoir photography. But I digress.

Along came the Santa Ana breeze, the wind sufficiently strong to blow over a D9 bulldozer. To prevent the ferocious winds from possibly downing power lines and igniting a wildfire, SoCal Edison switched off power to many customers. I was one of them. As I sat without electricity for eternity (34 hours), I mentally envisioned going back in time, way back to 1889. Journey back with me.

It was 3:30 p.m., and I had just left a bar in Albuquerque, New Mexico, where I quenched a bit of dusty trail thirst with a couple swigs of white lightning. Upon my trusty horse, Brandy, I rode back out to where I parked the horse-drawn ATTW (All Terrain Trail Wagon). Because the bar was out of beef jerky, I needed to hunt for supper out in this hinterland. With my 30-30 carbine, I began the hunt. Elk steak would be nice. I'd better be lucky because I had only one round of ammo until I get to Sedona, AZ. About 100 yards off, a rabbit darted out from under the brush. My aim was good. Back at the wagon, I prepared a campfire. While the rabbit was roasting, I fed and watered Brandy.

The late afternoon sun was painting the sky with gorgeous hues of lavender and crimson. I grabbed my faithful Eastman Interchangeable View (EIV) camera that I bought in 1888 at Miss Daisy's mercantile in Dallas, TX.

I bought the pricey 5 X 8 model EIV camera. Without a lens and shutter, the smallest model costs $26. The largest one had a price tag of $100, without lens and shutter. My 5x8 model cost: Camera, case and one holder, $34, a Beck Autograph Rectilinear lens $35, Laverne between the lens shutter $30, 2 extra plate holders $3.20, tripod $3.50, black cloth $1, and a $3.25 roll of film. Complete deluxe outfit cost $109.95 paid for with poker winnings back in Kansas City.

Back to the present day, imagine living back in that period. Having lived entirely off the land for a week in Florida's Big Cypress preserve, perhaps I could go back to that time and ably survive. But I wouldn't go back without my Canon 7D MKII camera. I could handle beef jerky for breakfast and roasted rabbit for supper, but I'm done with the Eastman Interchangeable View camera! Especially the painfully slow 100 exposure roll of ASA 10 film. Snails crawl faster!

Electricity finally restored but not without problems. The equipment survived, but for unknown reasons, several of the computer programs got discombobulated. And I was in the middle of a huge editing project. I had to download and reinstall photo editing programs. That was routine. Downloading and reinstalling the plugins was painful. It was a frustrating couple of weeks getting everything working properly. To date, getting the computer 100% remains a work in progress and I'm running out of Tequila.

Warning: Black Friday is coming. Save $ on the camera of your dreams! Here's a resource link: http://tinyurl.com/slgpz37.
Send comments, suggestions or questions to: focusonphotography@earthlink.net

 
On Monday, November 11th at 10am on Central Avenue, Veteran’s and their families were invited to participate in a Veteran’s Day Parade, ceremony and barbecue lunch. Veterans and their families were also invited to march in the parade, as well as ride in one of the classic cars provided by Sespe Creek Car Events. Pictured is a portion of Fillmore Boy Scouts Troop 406 marching in this year’s parade carrying a banner listing the names of all the Veterans from the Fillmore, Piru and surrounding areas who gave their lives for their country. Immediately after the parade at the Veterans Memorial Building a ceremony “Honoring Our Hero’s” was held to recognize those who have served. Also recognized was the Grand Marshal John Munoz, who served in the US Army from 1966 – 1968.
On Monday, November 11th at 10am on Central Avenue, Veteran’s and their families were invited to participate in a Veteran’s Day Parade, ceremony and barbecue lunch. Veterans and their families were also invited to march in the parade, as well as ride in one of the classic cars provided by Sespe Creek Car Events. Pictured is a portion of Fillmore Boy Scouts Troop 406 marching in this year’s parade carrying a banner listing the names of all the Veterans from the Fillmore, Piru and surrounding areas who gave their lives for their country. Immediately after the parade at the Veterans Memorial Building a ceremony “Honoring Our Hero’s” was held to recognize those who have served. Also recognized was the Grand Marshal John Munoz, who served in the US Army from 1966 – 1968.
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Pictured above is Master Carpenter and Furniture Maker John Galbraith inside his workshop at The Citrus Packing House in Fillmore.
Pictured above is Master Carpenter and Furniture Maker John Galbraith inside his workshop at The Citrus Packing House in Fillmore.
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Another Casualty of the City vs Packing House Red Tag

The giant old Packing House building sits quietly in the center of Fillmore, across from the fire station. Traffic hustles on A Street and Landeros Lane, going to school and work. Now and then, fire engines race off to save somebody. Students walk by on the sidewalk. Nobody even looks at the old building, it's just part of the background. It's there, and has been there, for more than 100 years.

But underneath the building is a giant basement, extending the entire length and width of the building, with a giant hallway that runs down the middle, big enough that trucks can drive in and out for loading and unloading. From outside, it all looks quiet. But down below, surrounded by thick concrete, things are happening. Machines are running. Craftsmen are hunched over their benches. Things are being made. It's another working day in the Secret Underground Laboratory.

Today, with special permission, I'm inside, in the basement. It's cool and dark, and I'm venturing deep down the long hallway, rows of compartments and rooms on both sides. Some are being used for storage, some are empty, and some are walled off into private workshops. I find a wooden wall with the sound of a table saw behind it. Built into the wall is an odd Dutch-style door. Odder yet, the Dutch-style door has a pair of miniature doors built into it with a string hanging down. I imagined pulling the string would trigger some kind of puppet play. I learned pulling the string rings a bell that signals a guest has arrived.

I'm visiting the shop of John Galbraith, Master Carpenter and Furniture Maker. John is a tall, strong man with silver hair and weathered hands. He builds custom wood projects of many kinds – special display furniture for commercial stores, complex home office shelving units, parts for boats – and he's always booked with clients. His shop is crowded, full of tools and workbenches, and parts of jobs in progress – teak boards, walnut panels, hand carved trim pieces – the smell of fine sawdust fills the air.

John is full of stories, speaking in many voices with a quick wit. A real character. John has studied acting in the past and still occasionally does small parts for fun. He was born in Ireland, lived in England, and then spent most of his adult years in Toronto, working as a contractor and carpenter. In 1968, John drummed in a blues band with Geddy Lee, who went on to become the front man for the rock band Rush. John moved to the Los Angeles area in 2012 and worked as a contractor out of his garage.

In Los Angeles, John met David Storrs, and did a few contracting jobs for him. David had just bought the Fillmore Packing House building and invited John to ride up and see it, and explained how he wanted to turn the building into a center for small craftsman shops. David suggested John set up a workshop here, and become one of the early tenants. At that time, the only tenant was Steve Butcher, upstairs, restoring Airstream trailers. John put together a quick shop in the basement, and started working from there. As other Craftsman tenants moved in, he moved down the hall to his current spot, and built it up nicely. He's been in his current shop for six years.

John lives in Los Angeles and serves clients all around the city; but his workshop is here in Fillmore. This is where he builds his projects and does the real work, quietly, underground. He's an example of how Craftsman businesses can operate in a small city like Fillmore. He's one of the Secret Underground Craftsmen.

Unfortunately, in August of this year, the City of Fillmore red-tagged the building and locked everyone out of their shops for 5 days. Since then, The City has kept the building yellow-tagged and limited everyone’s access to their shops. The hour and day restrictions have made getting work done difficult for everyone, and people are leaving, including John.

Although John is leaving Fillmore, he is available for hire and hopes to have many excuses to come back to visit the many friends he’s made here in town. You can contact John via his website at www.johnbgalbraith.com

 
At last night’s city council meeting Veteran’s of Foreign Wars Post 9637 was recognized as the Best Trunk at this year’s second annual Trunk or Treat event.
At last night’s city council meeting Veteran’s of Foreign Wars Post 9637 was recognized as the Best Trunk at this year’s second annual Trunk or Treat event.
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Fillmore City Council Meeting

8. D - PUBLIC HEARING FOR THE ISSUANCE OF REVENUE BONDS ISSUED BY THE CALIFORNIA MUNICIPAL FINANCE AUTHORITY IN THE AMOUNT OF $53,000,000 FOR THE ACQUISITION AND CONSTRUCTION OF 77 UNIT MULTIFAMILY RESIDENTIAL UNITS LOCATED AT 210-220 SANTA CLARA STREET

It is recommended and approved that the City Council:1) Conduct the public hearing under the requirements of TEFRA and Internal Revenue Code of 1986 (the “Code”); and2) Adopt the resolution approving the issuance of the Bonds by the CMFA for the benefit of the Developer, or its subsidiary or affiliate, to provide for the financing of the Project. This resolution is solely for the purposes of satisfying the requirements of TEFRA, the Code and the California Government Code Section 6500, et seq.

8. A The City Council received and approved contract status report regarding citywide landscape and tree maintenance services and provided direction to address the need for landscape irrigation system repair and maintenance. A contract amendment with Mariposa to add irrigation system maintenance into the base contract was discussed and approved.

8. B. City Council approved the Agreement for Construction of Development Improvements with Packing House Opportunity Fund, LLC, a California limited liability corporation (“Developer”) to ensure the timely construction of improvements to the existing building at 341 A Street (“Building”).

Although the City does not take shutting a business down lightly, after years of delays and lack of follow through on needed repairs by the owner of the Property, on August 15, 2019 the City issued a “red tag” on the Building pursuant to the California Building Code. With the red tag in place the Building could not be occupied until the unsafe conditions were corrected and the City authorizes limited entry. The red tag was issued because the Building was an unsafe structure for occupancy and being used or occupied without a certificate of occupancy. The two most significant conditions posing a danger to the people working in the building, which danger the City takes seriously, included the i) lack of required means of egress (exits), including non-complying exit stairways and exit doors; and ii) lack of required occupancy separation walls between tenant and/or separate occupancy spaces.

None of the current businesses within the Building, including the owner, have business licenses. As part of the process to bring the Building into compliance with all applicable codes the owner and tenants will be required to obtain and maintain business licenses, which will result in the payment of nominal fees to the City. Moreover, once the Improvements have been constructed, the Developer may rent additional space in the Building to new tenants, subject to compliance with applicable City regulations.

8.C. ADOPT RESOLUTION 19- 3740 AUTHORIZING APPLICATION FOR AND RECEIPT OF SENATE BILL 2 (SB 2) PLANNING GRANTS PROGRAM FUNDS.

City Council took the following actions: A. Determined that the consideration of Resolution No. 19-3740 is exempt from the California Environmental Quality Act (“CEQA”) pursuant to Section 15378 of the CEQA Guidelines; and Approved Resolution No. 19-3740 authorizing staff to submit an application for grant funding from the SB 2 Planning Grants Program.

8.E. Council Adopted the Human Resources Administrative Assistant (Confidential) job description.

 
Timothy Fulp, 70 of Sun Valley
Timothy Fulp, 70 of Sun Valley

A Sun Valley man was arrested in connection with the theft of lawfully grown hemp plants and now faces multiple drug related charges.

In the early morning hours of 11/08/19, deputies responded to a theft that just occurred in the 4000 block of E. Telegraph Road. A security guard who was hired to monitor a hemp farm observed a male subject holding a large bag. The guard ordered the subject to stop, but he refused and fled on foot. Suspecting there may be an accomplice, the guard checked the area further and found a second subject lying in the field among marijuana plants. This suspect was identified as Timothy Fulp. Deputies discovered multiple trash bags filled with recently cut hemp plants. They also located hedge clippers that appeared to be used to cut the crop and methamphetamine on the ground. During a search of Fulp, deputies also recovered drug paraphernalia. The second suspect was not captured. Fulp told deputies that he believed the hemp he was stealing was marijuana that contained THC, which is the key ingredient in the psychoactive drug.

Fulp was arrested for the following charges; 487 (a) PC- grand theft, 182 (a)(1) PC- conspiracy, 11377 (a) HS- possession of a controlled substance, 11364 (a) HS- possession of drug paraphernalia and 11550 (a) HS- being under the influence of a controlled substance. Fulp is currently in custody pending arraignment on 11/13/19, his bail is set at $50,000.00

The hemp plants that are grown in the region have an extremely low percentage of Tetrahydrocannabinol (THC) and are grown primarily for industrial purposes. The plants may look and smell the same as marijuana with higher levels of THC but the due to the hemp plants low THC levels, it is difficult to experience the intoxicating effects as non-industrial marijuana.

Nature of Incident: Theft of Lawfully Grown Hemp Plants
Report Number: 19-175370
Location: 4000 E. Telegraph Road, Piru
Date & Time: 11/08/19 2:00 am
Unit(s) Responsible: West County Patrol Services
(S)uspects, (V)ictims, (P)arty, (D)ecedent City of Residence Age
(S) Timothy Fulp, 70 of Sun Valley
Prepared by: Sergeant Vince Alvarez
Approved by: Captain Garo Kuredjian

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).

 
(l-r) Anthony Tapia, 18 of Fillmore and Roman Rodriguez-Landeros, 19 of Newbury Park.
(l-r) Anthony Tapia, 18 of Fillmore and Roman Rodriguez-Landeros, 19 of Newbury Park.
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Ventura County Sheriff's Department
Ventura County Sheriff's Department

Two teenagers were arrested in connection with a vandalism spree that occurred throughout the City of Fillmore.

On 10/19/19, a sergeant from the Fillmore Police Department observed two suspicious subjects walking near the intersection of First Street and Old Telegraph Road. The sergeant attempted to contact the individuals, but they immediately ran. Deputies gave chase and followed the subjects to a nearby residence. Deputies were able to make contact with the occupants of the home. While doing so, they identified Roman Rodriguez-Landeros and Anthony Tapia as the subjects who ran. During the investigation, deputies noticed that both teenagers had fresh paint on their hands. Deputies learned that Tapia and Rodriguez- Landeros spray painted property in the area with graffiti. Deputies were able to establish probable cause to arrest them for misdemeanor vandalism. They were cited and released on a promise to appear citation.

Later that day, deputies discovered a large amount of graffiti throughout the City of Fillmore. The graffiti was similar to the markings discovered earlier in the morning. The Fillmore Investigative Unit conducted follow up and linked Tapia and Rodriguez-Landeros to the additional graffiti. The vandalism exceeded the criteria for felony vandalism. Detectives authored search warrants for Tapia and Rodriguez-Landeros’ residences in Fillmore and Newbury Park. Upon service of the warrants, investigators collected additional evidence that linked the suspects in the crime spree.

Tapia and Rodriguez-Landeros were arrested for the additional charges of conspiring to commit felony vandalism. Rodriguez-Landeros posted bail and is currently out of custody pending his court hearing. Tapis remained is currently in custody and has a court hearing on 11/12/19, his bail is set at $20,000.

Nature of Incident: Graffiti Vandals Arrested
Report Number: 19-164596
Location: City of Fillmore
Date & Time: 10/19/19 2:30 am
Unit(s) Responsible: Fillmore Patrol Services/ Investigations Unit
(S)uspects, (V)ictims, (P)arty, (D)ecedent, City of Residence, Age
S-1 Roman Rodriguez-Landeros, Newbury Park, 19
S-2 Anthony Tapia, Fillmore, 18
Prepared by: Sergeant Vince Alvarez
Approved by: Captain Garo Kuredjian

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).

 

Courtesy Safety for Citizens
10:07pm on Monday night, November 11, CHP, Ventura County Fire Department and AMR paramedics responded to a vehicle crash on Grimes Canyon Road in Bardsdale between Fillmore and Moorpark.
The crash was described as a semi truck rollover. There was an initial report the driver may have been trapped, however the driver was reported to be out by the time the first fire engine arrived, according to radio traffic.
The location of the crash on Grimes was reported to be a blind corner, according to CHP. CHP said there were initial reports traffic had been coming in hot around the corner. All lanes were said to be blocked.
The driver reportedly had an injury to their arm, according to CHP. The semi was hauling uniforms, according to radio traffic. The driver was being transported by ambulance to the hospital. A cause for the crash was not available.

 

Monday, November 11th: a high speed chase began on Interstate 5 (I-5). California Highway Patrol (CHP) attempted to stop a vehicle traveling southbound on the I-5 for speeding and the chase began. The car continued traveling westbound to SR 126, passing through Santa Clarita into Ventura County. The vehicle then took Highway 23 in Fillmore through to Grimes Canyon into Moorpark and travelled south to Thousand Oaks. The car was clocked traveling at 120 miles per hour, Ventura County Sherriff’s Department took over the chase and ended it at the Oaks Mall in Thousand Oaks, where the three suspects fled on foot through the mall. Evidently they purchased new clothes and changed to evade the police. Sheriff’s Deputies with help from CHP officers, searched the mall. Sightings of the suspects were reported, but were not found: the search was called off. Police are still looking for the suspects.

 
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