Bob Crum

Faithful readers of this column (thank you) know that I shoot straight from the camera, so to speak, to help you improve your photography. Accordingly, I'm going to present a mnemonic acronym that originated with fellow photographer K. Rockwell reconstituted with my embellishments.

Composition, again, is the topic because it's the heart and soul of a compelling photograph. Ignoring the principles of composition almost always results in lackluster photos.

The acronym for better photos is: F.A.R.T. Seriously. As soon as you collect yourself let's see why... ahem... F.A.R.T.ing will improve your photography. Let's begin.

F = Feel. As you arrive at a photogenic scene you'll immediately think: 'Wow, I need to photograph this'. Amateurs promptly take the shot...click... and move on. That's a snapshot... not a photograph. Ponder why you're “feeling” compelled to shoot the photo.

A = Ask. Ask yourself what's special about what you're seeing that creates the itch to photograph it? Spectacular colors? Unique light? Something bizarre? Mentally define what is 'most' compelling about the scene.

R = Refine. Refinement is challenging! As you begin to understand why you want to shoot the photo, refine whatever the specialness is that demands to be photographed. To the degree that you can refine the specialness you 'feel' compelled to photograph is the degree that your photo's wow factor will increase. Lastly...

T = Texture. Is the specialness that you feel urged to photograph involve 'texture'? If so, capture that 'texture' robustly. Or is the compelling attraction a unique color or combination of colors? Fill the 'whole' frame with the special color(s). If the scene includes unique leading lines that attracted your attention refine that and fill the whole frame with that specialness.

As you mentally refine the image, eliminate everything that doesn't relate to or enhance the image. Everything! Creatively composing your photos will produce a strong image. Let's look at an example.

The greatographer (me) arrives at a waterfront and looks... a vivacious mermaid sunning out on the breakwater. My dream photo! Frolicking dolphins all around her. Delicate teal-colored translucent sunlit waves lapping at the rocks. Photogenic aplenty. As I slowly raise my camera... whoa... instead of “you-know-what”... you know that I can't take the photo until I first invite the mermaid to swim over and join me for lunch at Neptune's Seafood Buffet. But I digress...

What first caught my eye? The attractive color of the translucent waves? The frolicking dolphins? The vivacious mermaid? Before I raise my camera to take a photo, I remember to first... ahem... “you-know-what.”

Obviously, the major attraction is the mermaid. As I look through the viewfinder (holding up a sign saying: SMILE) I'll fill the whole frame with only the mermaid's specialness. Eliminate the frolicking dolphins & the appeal of the teal-colored waves. I'm going to zoom in and fill the entire frame with the mermaid. Aaaaaaah!
Wait. As I recall the acronym, I'll Refine' the image. By zooming out just a little I can add some context to the photo. A teal-colored wave would add a 'splash' of color and liveliness. Showing just a little of the rocks (key word: little) adds a touch of texture. Voila, with a little Refinement I just “created” a great photo.

Now that you know how to achieve great compositions, thus great photos, nothing left to do but practice F.A.R.T.ing. Besides, you'll feel better as your stinky photos improve. Just sayin'. But when you see me in Vons, probably not a good idea to yell: “Hey Bob, I F.A.R.T.ed!

Photo of the Week, and other fireworks photos at fillmoregazette.com are included now because too much to do last week on a short deadline.

Happy photoing.

Email your comments, questions and/or suggestions to bob@fillmoregazette.com

The California Department of Public Health (CDPH) is reminding Californians about the importance of safe food handling to prevent foodborne illness while enjoying picnics, barbecues and other outdoor activities during the summer season.

Salmonella, E. coli and Campylobacter are bacteria most commonly recognized for causing foodborne illness in the United States each year. Most of these cases are mild and cause symptoms for only a day or two, but some cases are more serious. However, there are some easy and effective steps you can take to help lessen your chance of contracting a foodborne illness.

“You can protect yourself, your family and your friends from foodborne illness by following simple safety tips for properly preparing and handling food,” said Dr. Smith.

Following these four “Cs” can prevent foodborne illnesses:

Chill:
• Keep hot foods hot and cold foods cold. Bacteria can grow in foods kept in the temperature “danger zone” (41°F-135°F) / (5 °C-58 °C) for an extended period of time.
• Refrigerate leftovers to less than 41°F / 5 °C as soon as possible, but definitely within 2 hours.
• Use shallow pans and loosely cover while in the refrigerator to allow warm air to escape and facilitate cooling.
• Select cold foods at the grocery store last and put them away first when you get home to keep them cold.
• Refrigerated foods packaged in hermetically sealed or vacuum-packaged containers should always be stored in the refrigerator. Storing these types of vacuum-packaged products at room temperature could allow the production of Botulism toxin.
• Follow package instructions, especially when it comes to keeping foods refrigerated.
• Thaw frozen foods in the refrigerator or in a microwave immediately prior to cooking. Never thaw frozen foods on the counter.

Clean:
• Wash your hands with warm, soapy water for at least 20 seconds before and after handling food. Humming “happy birthday” twice while washing hands is a good way to ensure you are washing long enough.
• Scrub cutting boards with hot, soapy water after preparing each item and before moving on to the next food. If your cutting board has deep grooves or cut marks, which make it difficult to clean, consider replacing it.
• Wash and thoroughly rinse utensils and cutting boards with soap and water. Thoroughly cleaning them with a bleach solution (made of one tablespoon of unscented liquid bleach diluted in one gallon of water) will provide effective sanitation action.
• Cover any cuts or skin abrasions on your hands to avoid contaminating the food.
• Keep pets and household chemicals away from food preparation areas.

Prevent Cross Contamination:
• Keep raw and cooked foods separate.
• Use separate cutting boards and knives for chopping ready-to-eat produce and raw meats.
• Never rinse raw poultry because it spreads germs around the kitchen sink, which can serve as a source of contamination for other foods.
• Discard used marinades.
• Use clean utensils and plates to remove cooked foods from grills and pans. Never place cooked foods back into the dish that held the raw or uncooked foods.
• Separate raw and uncooked meats from ready-to-eat items when shopping at the grocery store. Place raw meats in disposable, plastic bags away from other foods.
• If you use reusable shopping bags for groceries, designate specific bags for meats to avoid cross-contamination. Wash and dry bags as they become soiled.
• Store bags used for groceries at home in a manner which protects them from other sources of contamination such as pets, children, and chemicals.
• Thaw frozen foods in the refrigerator in water-tight containers to prevent juices from leaking onto ready-to-eat and cooked foods.

Cook:
• Use an accurate thermometer to measure the final internal temperature of meat and meat products. Color is an inaccurate way to determine if meat is sufficiently cooked.
• Measure the temperature in the thickest part of the food, ensuring the thermometer does not touch bone or the cooking pan which can give you an inaccurate reading.
• Wash thermometers after each use.
• Wait until foods are completely cooked before taste testing.
• When using a microwave to cook or reheat food, be sure to rotate or stir the food to facilitate thorough heating. Additionally, some labels recommend a “resting time” for the food after cooking before it should be served. Those instructions should be followed in order to allow the heat to evenly distribute.

Visit CDPH’s Cooking Raw Meats webpage for additional information.

Alfredo Avalos, Fillmore

600 lbs of illegal fireworks were confiscated from a seizure that occurred Wednesday, June 28th.
Enlarge Photo

Earlier this month, sheriff’s detectives obtained information indicating illegal fireworks were being sold by (S) Alfredo Avalos from his residence at 656 Fourth Street, Fillmore. Detectives conducted an investigation and believed Avalos was in possession of a large quantity of fireworks that are illegal in California.

On June 28th, detectives served a search warrant at the location and seized approximately 600 pounds of illegal fireworks. These fireworks were found throughout the residence, including kitchen, garage, and the bedroom of a minor child, and posed a significant threat of injury and fire, not only to the suspect’s family, but to the public, as well. Three firearms were also found, including an AK-47, a stolen .22-caliber rifle, and an unregistered .22-caliber rifle.

(S) Avalos, who was not present at the time of the service of the search warrant, turned himself in to detectives later in the morning. He was arrested for the following charges and booked into the Pre-Trial Detention Facility with a bail of $20,000:

Health and Safety Code Section 12305 – Felony possession of an explosive
Health and Safety Code Section 12671 – Misdemeanor possession of illegal fireworks
Health and Safety Code Section 12700(b) – Misdemeanor fireworks and pyrotechnic devices
Penal Code Section 27545 – Misdemeanor unlawful transfer of firearm
Penal Code Section 30605(a) – Felony possession of assault weapon
Penal Code Section 496(a) – Misdemeanor receiving stolen property under $950 (Prop 47)

“Safe and Sane” fireworks, bearing the seal of the State Fire Marshal, can be legally sold, possessed, and enjoyed in the city of Fillmore between 12:00 PM, June 28th, and 12:00 PM, July 5th. All other fireworks, including altered “Safe and Sane” fireworks and fireworks that explode and/or launch into the air, are illegal in Fillmore and throughout Ventura County and the state.

Violators may be cited for violating the city municipal code and subject to a $1,000.00 fine, or they may be arrested for more serious crimes. If you witness any illegal activity, please call the Fillmore Police Department at 805-524-2233 or, if there’s an immediate threat to life or property, 9-1-1.

Nature of Incident: Illegal Fireworks and Weapons Seizure and Arrest
Report Number: 17-92306
Location: 656 Fourth Street, Fillmore
Date & Time: June 28, 2017 / 7:00 AM
Unit(s) Responsible: Fillmore Detective Unit and Patrol, West County Investigations Bureau, Sheriff’s Bomb Unit, Sheriff’s Gang Unit, Sheriff’s Major Crimes Bureau
(S)uspects, (V)ictims, (P)arty, (D)ecedent City of Residence
(S) Alfredo Avalos Fillmore
Prepared by: Sergeant Kevin Vaden
News Release Date: June 28, 2017
Detective Bill Meixner, (805) 947-9391
william.meixner@ventura.org
Approved by: Captain Jim Fryhoff

Fillmore Unified School District

On Wednesday, June 28, 2017, the Fillmore Unified School District (FUSD) and Fillmore Unified Teachers Association (FUTA) reached a Tentative Agreement for the contract negotiations and 2017-2018 unit member work calendar. We express thanks and appreciation to the FUTA bargaining team members for their efforts to reach a Tentative Agreement. A copy of the signed Comprehensive Proposal, Article 1, and Agreement Between FUSD and FUTA regarding the 2017-2018 unit member work calendar have been posted on the District website. FUTA leadership will be working to present the parties’ Tentative Agreement to the bargaining unit for ratification.
Upon successful ratification by FUTA, the FUSD Board of Trustees will be presented with the agreement for consideration of approval.

Individuals Present for June 28, 2017 Negotiation Session
FUTA Bargaining Team:
Kassie Chambers, Rio Vista Elementary Teacher
Kristen Dewey, San Cayetano Elementary Teacher
Tammy Ferguson, San Cayetano Elementary Teacher
Mary Jordan, CTA Regional UniServ Staff
Kelly Hess, Fillmore Middle School Teacher
Brian Ricards, Fillmore High School Teacher
Donna Wojciechowski, Heritage Valley Independent Study Teacher
FUSD Bargaining Team:
Stefan Cvijanovich
Andrea McNeill
Todd Schieferle
Adrian Palazuelos

Tentative Agreement Includes:
• FUSD will sunshine openers for negotiations in October 2017 to be available to negotiate in November 2017;
• Article 1: Agreement. The collective bargaining agreement is closed as of 6/28/17 and the Successor agreement term is 2016-2019;
• Collaboration Pilot for 2017-2018 school year;
• Unit member work calendar with fall break for 2017-2018;
• 2% one-time off-schedule payment for 2016-2017 salaries paid;
• Stipend for FMS Drama;
• Stipend increase for FMS Yearbook;
• .055% pay differential for all Special Education teachers and Speech and Language Pathologists;
• Combine cheerleading coach stipends and change to a yearlong stipend starting 2018-2019;
• Status Quo on the following articles:
• Article 8: Extra Pay
• Article 10: Transfers
• Article 17: Leaves
• Article 34: Seniority
• TOSA MOU

By now, I presume that everybody knows that there was a “Car Show” in town on the 4th.

Subsequently, I photoed it in the hot brutal sun. In hind sight, I should have stayed home and celebrated the 4th with a 5th of Jack Daniels, of course. But I digress...

The sun was extraordinarily bright indeed. Uncomfortably warm temperature. Worse, bright sun makes the paint of a beautifully restored classic car look as faded as an over-boiled lobster. Blah!

What to do? Well, I simply retrieved my trusty circular polarizer (CP) filter. Every photographer should have one in their landscape kit. If I lost mine, I'd have to take up knitting. A polarizer filter is an invaluable tool for certain conditions. Like the car show.

It serves two useful functions. First, it cuts glare and reflections, allowing the vibrant colors to render with greater saturation as opposed to looking 'washed out'. In other situations, for example, those puffy cumulus clouds stand out delightfully against a deep blue sky produced with a CP filter.

It's called a circular polarizer because after mounting on the lens, it can be rotated. Hence, the amount of polarizing by the CP filter is adjustable. This makes it possible to apply just the right amount of effect. Sometimes, at certain times of the day, I notice the polarizer can make the blue sky too dark. Simply rotate the filter to lessen the effect. Very handy.

Important! The circular polarizer is most effective when shooting at a 90° angle from the direction of the sun. If you're shooting in the direction of the sun or 180° from the sun, i.e., in line with the sun, the CP filter will have no effect. When you get back home, you'll have paint the sky with blue sky computer paint (I'm beginning to bottle it so it'll be for sale soon).

One other minor issue. Because the sky is darkened the most when shooting at a 90° angle from the sun, deviating somewhat will most likely end up with an uneven sky. The sky will be darkened the most at the 90° angle from the direction of the sun and less dark at a lesser angle of the sun. Generally, that doesn't bother me, but it might you. Tip: The blue sky unevenness can be adjusted in post processing.

One other thing I also learned when I photoed Mermaids up at Big Sur. A CP will on average reduce the light to your lens by one stop. So in low light conditions, remember to apply exposure compensation to adjust accordingly. I got slapped with a mermaid tail because I underexposed her.

Lastly, all circular polarizer filters are not equal. Don't buy a cheapy. Cheap CP filters will distort your colors not to mention the overall image quality. Buy a quality CP filter and it will last 75 years. To verify this, I'm having my CP filters placed in my burial pine box so I can check the claim. Stay tuned to this space.

My CP filter of choice is the B+W (Schneider) Kasemann HTC filters. They are the best. Most importantly, they make my mermaids look gorgeous.

Speaking of gorgeous, check the vibrant reds, the rich blues, the luscious greens and the deep black in the photos of the cars I shot with a B+W Kasemann CP filter. Very cool under a hot sun. BTW, did you notice how high I jumped to get the Photo of the Week shot?

Happy photoing,

Email me your question, comments and/or suggestions to: bob@fillmoregazette.com

The Medical Cannabis Regulation and Safety Act (MCRSA), was signed into law by the Governor in 2015. Effective January 1, 2016, this law established a regulatory and licensing program for commercial activities relating to medical marijuana throughout the State, including cultivation, transportation, manufacturing, testing and dispensing.

The Adult Use of Marijuana Act (AUMA or Prop 64) is a marijuana legalization initiative that received the required number of votes to become state law at the November 8, 2016 election. AUMA authorized the personal cultivation of marijuana and recreational use of marijuana by adults with called for the establishment of recreational marijuana licenses to be issued by the State commencing January 1, 2018. In response to the MCRSA and AUMA laws, the City Council adopted regulations prohibiting all commercial activities relating to both medical and non-medical marijuana.

Complete Details:

Miguel Ramirez Villasenor, 45

On June 22, 2017 at 6:05 AM, Investigators with the Port Hueneme Police Department arrested Miguel Ramirez Villasenor, a 45 year-old Fillmore resident, for suspicion of committing penetration with a foreign object on a person under 16 years old and lewd acts on a child 14 or 15 years old.

On June 18, 2017, the Port Hueneme Police Department received a report that Villasenor had engaged in inappropriate sexual conduct with a 15 year-old female at a residence in the 100 block of East Bay Boulevard in Port Hueneme.

Villasenor was arrested in the 700 block of Third Street in Fillmore after a three day investigation.

Villasenor was booked at the Port Hueneme Police Department on the following charge(s): California Penal Code Section 289(i) – Penetration with a Foreign Object on a Person Under 16 Years Old. California Penal Code Section
288(c)(1) – Lewd Acts on a Child 14 or 15 Years Old, Suspect 10 or More Years Older than the Victim.

Villasenor posted bail in the amount of $50,000 and was released pending a court appearance.

Anyone with information is asked to contact Detective Rocque Lopez Sr. at 805-986-6578 or rrlopez@cityofporthueneme.org

Information Courtesy Port Hueneme Police Department Incident Press Release.

California Highway Patrol

The California Highway Patrol is recommending to the Ventura County District Attorney’s Office that Jonathan Castro, 26 of Tulare, be charged with manslaughter in the death of Maria Del Carmen Paniagua, 41, of Piru.
On December 19, 2016, at approximately 3:20 P.M., a multi-vehicle traffic collision occurred resulting in a fatality in the unincorporated area of Ventura County. The collision was on SR (State Route) 126, at Center Street, Piru.

Castro was the driver and only occupant of a GMC Savana cargo van traveling eastbound on SR-126 approaching Center Street at an unknown speed. Maria Del Carmen Paniagua, 41 year old, from Piru was stopped in a Ford using the left turn lane on eastbound SR-126 to turn onto northbound Center Street. For reasons still under investigation, the GMC cargo van driven by Mr. Castro drifted into the turn lane and collided with the rear of the Ford. As a result of the collision, the Ford was pushed into the westbound lanes of SR-l26 where it collided with the 2003 Chevrolet being driven by Mr. Jose Samuel Martinez. The Ford driven by Mr. Ramon Palomo and the Chevrolet driven by Mr. Oscar Magana became involved almost simultaneously as the initial collision unfolded.

As a result of the collision between the Ford driven by Ms. Paniagua and the Chevrolet, driven by Mr. Martinez, Ms. Paniagua was ejected from the Ford. Initial indications show that Ms. Paniagua was not wearing a seat belt. In the Ford being driven by Ms. Paniagua was her four years old daughter and her two year old grandson. Both children were seated in the rear seat of the Ford using child restraint systems. Both children in the Ford sustained severe injuries. In the Chevrolet driven by Mr. Martinez were two passengers, one seated in the right front passenger seat and an infant in the left rear seat. No known injuries to the infant are known this time.

This incident resulted in the full closure of all westbound and eastbound lanes of SR-126 for approximately five hours. The Ventura County Fire Department, Ventura County Sheriff’s Department, Ventura County Air Unit, and Caltrans all responded to assist with medical care, emergency air and ground transportation to local hospitals and traffic control.

With the Fourth of July holiday quickly approaching, CAL FIRE is reminding everyone to do their part to prevent fires and injuries caused by fireworks. Two out of five fires on the 4th of July are caused by fireworks, more than any other cause of fires. The majority of these incidents are related to either the use of illegal fireworks or state-approved fireworks that are used incorrectly.

"Understanding the dangers associated with the use of illegal fireworks, or misuse of legal fireworks, is critical to keep everyone safe during the holiday,” said Chief Ken Pimlott, CAL FIRE director. “Any person who starts a fire from fireworks – even accidentally – can be held liable for the costs of fighting the fire and any resulting property damage.”

There are also legal ramifications when it comes to certain types of fireworks. Possession of illegal fireworks such as sky rockets, bottle rockets, roman candles, aerial shells, firecrackers and other types that explode, go into the air, or move on the ground in an uncontrollable manner can lead to a possible fine of up to $50,000 as well as prison time or jail for up to one year. Even “Safe and Sane” Fireworks taken into a city or county where they are banned is illegal. The State Fire Marshal approved “Safe and Sane” fireworks are allowed for use in many communities; however, they are not approved state-wide. Before purchasing these types of fireworks, be sure to check your local ordinances and follow the instructions to avoid accidents and injuries.

“Please celebrate the holiday safely,” said State Fire Marshal Dennis Mathisen. “If you choose to use fireworks, make sure they are the Safe and Sane, and not the illegal variety. Remember, if it flies in the air or explodes, it is illegal.”

Here are a few tips to help you be safe this 4th of July:
• If fireworks are not legal where you live, do not use them.
• Buy only State Fire Marshal-approved (Safe and Sane) fireworks.
• Have a bucket of water and a hose handy in case of a fire.
• Always read directions and have an adult present.
• Use fireworks outdoors only.
• Parents are liable for any damage or injuries caused by their children using fireworks.
• Use common sense and keep a safe distance.
• Never attempt to re-light or “fix” fireworks.
• Sparklers can reach temperatures over 1,000°F, don’t give them to children.

CAL FIRE has already responded to more than 2,135 wildland fires this year (January-June 2017). Residents are urged to visit www.ReadyforWildfire.org for tips on how to prepare their homes and family for wildfire.

Here are 5 simple tips for keeping your pets safe:

1. Stay inside: Try to keep your pet indoors at all times during holiday celebrations. Ideally, someone stays home with your pet. If you must go out, be sure to keep your dog leashed.

2. Make them feel safe: Comfort your pets with pets as needed and stay nearby if possible. Make sure they can access their crate or "safe place." If necessary, ask your veterinarian or local pet retailer about natural calming products, anxiety wraps and other products.

3. Avoid the noise. Keep your windows closed and your TV on to help mask the noise outside.

4. Act normal! Your pet takes cues from you and your family. Go about your normal routine as much as possible.

5. Protect your pet before the fireworks begin. There are a number of lost-pet devices and services available today. Among the various pet-finder services available, the Pet Amber Alert ID Tag/Pet GPS combines Amber Alert technology with a QR Code and GPS to help MORE lost dogs, cats and even birds return home safely.

By following these tips, hopefully fewer families will face the heartbreak of losing a pet during the July 4th holiday.

Enlarge Photo

Enlarge Photo

Enlarge Photo

Enlarge Photo

Questions keep pouring in weekly. If I don't get to answering your question, stay tuned. I may (or may not) get to it one day. (hint: bribes work!)

First question by Chester B: Why don't you ever mention that it's OK to shoot in “P” mode?

Well, Chester, I so rarely use it... I think the last time was back in 1962... that it's not uppermost in my mind. I only use “P” mode when absolutely necessary. By the way folks, “P” stands for “Program”... not “Professional” mode.

On rare occasions I switched to “P” mode. For example, when shooting an event, exposure goes bonkers when the subject in one moment is in sunlight and the next in shadows. No time to fiddle with shutter speed and aperture for exposure compensation. Remember, there are no re-shoots in event photography. Get the shot or go home. And no paycheck. Switching to “Program” mode is quick and the camera will immediately adjust the shutter and aperture for a respectable exposure. Sweet, eh? Remember: To “P” or not to “P” is usually determined by how much iced tea is consumed before the shoot. Oh, and of course, the shooting circumstances.

While “P” mode sometimes saves the day (and paycheck) it's important to recognize the limitations. To compensate for a decrease in light, the camera may elect to reduce the shutter speed in order to obtain a respectable exposure. Thus I have to be sure to hold the camera VERY steady or create a blurry photo. And no paycheck.

Or the camera may instead decide to open the aperture for sufficient light for a respectable exposure. That precludes my desire for either bokeh or depth-of-field (DOF). However, when shooting events, bokeh (background blur) and DOF are seldom significant factors. Getting the subject in focus is most important. Or no paycheck.

All things considered, I only use “P” mode to get the shot (and paycheck) in extraordinarily difficult circumstances that happen quickly. It's almost always too restrictive for me. It removes my ability to “create” the image that I perceive in my mind.

For example, when shooting sunbathing Sespe Creek mermaids (presently tanning at Surfer's Point) in “P” mode, the camera will arbitrarily set the shutter speed and aperture sufficient to get a respectable exposure. That's OK for a snapshot. I prefer to take control and create the photo. If the background is a distraction, I simply open the aperture which decreases DOF and creates a nice blurry background: Bokeh. Maybe I'll have the sun back-light the mermaid and with proper camera adjustments create a silhouette. Lovely! By taking control, bingo, I create the image that I want. Um, almost. Tweaking is the norm... maybe a lil shutter speed adjustment... or tweak the aperture... maybe shift the ISO a bit... now BINGO. I just “created” the perfect mermaid photo! And a paycheck. Of course, this is all predicated on the fact that I have time to make the required adjustments. When I don't, then it's time to “P”.

Obviously, when I take control of the camera I have the ability to “create” an image to my liking and preference. I love the fulfilling, creative aspect of photography. But Chester, taking snapshots in “P” mode is certainly OK. Tally ho! But I'll bet that with just a little effort on your part at taking control of the camera, you will “P” less. Just sayin'.

Roses are from my garden. Too hot to venture far afield.

Happy photoing!

Email questions, comments and/or suggestions to: bob@fillmoregazette.com

Fillmore Unified School District

2017 Summer Construction Projects
The Board received a report on the 2017 Summer Construction Projects taking place across the district. Information was presented by Assistant Superintendent, Andrea McNeill.

2017-2018 Local Control Accountability Plan
The Board approved the 2017-2018 Local Control Accountability Plan.

2017-2018 Proposed Budget
The Board approved the 2017-2018 Proposed Budget

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

Board of Trustees to meet again unless otherwise announced:

Regular Meeting Tuesday, August 1, 2017
Regular Meeting Tuesday, August 15,2017
5:30 pm Closed Session, 6:30 pm Open Session
627 Sespe Avenue, Fillmore, CA 93015
Fillmore Unified School District (805) 524-6000

John Silva, Sylmar

On 06/09/2017, Detectives from the Ventura County Sheriff’s West County Street Narcotics Team concluded a four month narcotic investigation into the methamphetamine trafficking activities of John Silva. On 6/09/17 at approximately 1030 hours, a traffic stop was conducted on Silva’s vehicle as he was driving in the city of Fillmore. Silva was arrested for being under the influence of a controlled substance and driving on a suspended driver’s license. A search of his vehicle revealed approximately two pounds of methamphetamine and a sum of US Currency. Later that day, the West County Street Team assisted by detectives from the Sheriff’s Special Crimes Unit, executed a search warrant at Silva’s residence in Sylmar. More narcotics, two firearms and evidence of methamphetamine sales were located.

Silva was booked at the Ventura County Main Jail on narcotic and weapons violations. He posted bail of $50,000 and is currently awaiting arraignment on his current charges.

The West County Street Narcotics Team is comprised of narcotic detectives from the Ventura County Sheriff’s Office and the Oxnard Police Department.

Prepared by: Sergeant Guy Moody
Approved by: Captain Robert Thomas

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).