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.

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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).

Fillmore High School graduating senior, Alejandra Rodriguez is the recipient of the 2017 Rosie Torres Scholarship For Future Teachers. Torres, a retired Fillmore teacher and long-time school volunteer, recently presented the award at an on-campus ceremony.
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Alejandra Rodriguez, a graduating Fillmore High School senior, has been named the 2017 recipient of the Rosie Torres Scholarship for Future Teachers. Members of the Torres family were on hand to present Ramos with the $1,000 scholarship at a recent award ceremony held on campus.

“We congratulate Alejandra for her performance in the classroom and the dedication she has shown to supporting her peers through leadership positions in clubs and activities,” said Rosie Torres. “She has demonstrated a commitment to hard work, academic success and continuous improvement throughout her high school years. We wish her success as she embarks on her next goal to become part of the future generation of educational leaders.”

Now in its fourth year, the Rosie Torres Scholarship For Future Teachers was established to provide college financial assistance to Fillmore High School graduating seniors with plans to pursue a career in early childhood education, elementary education or secondary education and continue their studies at an accredited college or university.

Rosie Torres devoted nearly 30 years to teaching in the Fillmore Unified School District and touched the lives of hundreds of students throughout her career as an educator and community volunteer. Along with her family, she established the scholarship program to inspire the next generation of teachers and invest in Fillmore High School students who are committed to improving the lives of children.

Awards are determined based on academic performance, teacher recommendations and a written essay. Rodriguez’s future plans are to pursue a bachelor’s degree in Mathematics and to become a high school math teacher.

At the Fillmore High School Awards Night, scholarships were present to Collin Farrar, Connie Quintana, Luke Myers, Michael Thompson, Alyssa Ramirez, Virginia Rodriguez, Kiara Del Villar, Sarah Stewart, Bryana Pribe, Marisol Gonzalez, Jaime Jose Gonzales, Janet Mendez, and Kevin Galvan Sifuentes.

Trade and Art Scholarships were presented to Diego Rodrigues, Cody Isaacs and Monterrat Ifante Torres.

Three scholarships were awarded to students, residents of Fillmore, Jessica Schott attending Villanova Preparatory School, Chloe Richardson attending Grace Brethren High School and Michael Groeneveld attending St. Bonnaventure High School.

Davin Banks received the Adult Woman's Scholarship.

The Scholarship Committee enjoyed meeting all the applicants, and were impressed with their accomplishments and their desire and enthusiasm to continue their education.

Need to Cool Off? Cooling Center Now Open.

The City of Fillmore has opened the Active Adult Center located at 533 Santa Clara Street in Fillmore as a “Cooling Center” from 1:00 p.m. until 7:00 p.m. The Cooling Center is opened Monday through Friday. The weather forecast is for extreme heat and the Cooling Center can be an oasis for seniors. The dates and hours can change depending on the weather but whenever the temperature reaches 90 or above the Cooling Center is opened. Fillmore residents are encouraged to use the center to remove themselves from the heat. Cold water and ice are provided.

If you have any questions please feel free to call City Hall at (805) 524-1500 or the Fillmore Active Adult Center at 524-3030.

The mere thought of ribs on the barbie generates torrents of drool. Moreover, the aroma of pork ribs wafting in the air creates excruciating taste bud sensitivity. The prescribed remedy: Consume all-you-can-eat gastroliscious ribs and a tall, cold brewski. When I finally arrived on the downtown scene, I could still smell the last of the ribs that were being taken to city hall, escorted by the Fillmore National Guard and on to the judges. You know, I could do that rib judging gig. For free!

Back to business and some shop talk... just between us. Just a little so don't run off. You've heard me mention about shooting in manual mode. Actually, most times it's in semi-manual mode. Meaning I mostly use either aperture priority or shutter priority while the camera's computer evaluates and adjusts exposure accordingly. Shooting the rib championship and the honey festival is an example of using both semi-manual modes depending on the circumstances and my intentions and/or desired results.

Photographing the judging in city hall, I used aperture priority. I was more interested in depth-of-field meaning foreground and background in focus. When shooting an 8-foot table from one end, with a food presenter at my end, I preferred to have all the people at the table in focus. But intentions don't always agree with circumstances. Though I would have liked to close the aperture to perhaps f/11 to increase depth-of-field (DOF), available light didn't allow for it. Therefore, I had to open the aperture enough for proper exposure. But that's not necessarily bad. Opening the aperture causes the background to blur somewhat because of decreased DOF. This however, directs the viewer's eyes to the subject in the foreground. Many times, directing the viewers eyes is intended. But not always. Blurry backgrounds is not my style... well, except after a couple strawberry margarrritas. But I digress...

After the BBQ shoot, I quickly boarded the Bennett Honey Farm Express so I could get a crowd shot. Here again I preferred everyone in focus. And because light was plentiful, I used f/11 (surprise!) to achieve the required depth of field (DOF). BTW, I use f/11 so much it should be my middle name. Anyway, everyone is in focus, from the first person in the line to the lady with the pink hat waaaaaaaay in the back. However, not sure if it was her hat or a strawberry margarita she was holding high.

The second the train began to move, I immediately switched to shutter priority and increased the shutter speed considerably. The Fillmore & Western highball to Piru might only go 10 mph but it's on a railbed laid in 1887! I know... I was there! Since than, super glue might have been added to the tracks here and there but it's still a bit of a rickety ride. Because I'm rocking to and fro like wild buckwheat in a Santa Ana breeze, I set a high shutter speed to hopefully prevent photo blur as mush...er... much (oh those strawberry margarritas) as possible. For the duration of the trip, I left the aperture on f/11. At the Honey Farm I had to again open the aperture to obtain a respectable exposure in less indoor light. Through the day, white balance and ISO were left on “auto”.

The more you understand the relationship between the trinity of aperture, shutter speed and ISO, the better you can apply the appropriate camera settings to achieve a desired result. Or compensate for any given situation. It's all about creativity! Provided, of course, you're a photographer... not a phonetographer. Just sayin'.

Happy photoing.

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

The California Department of Public Health (CDPH) and California Governor’s Office of Emergency Services (Cal OES) are reminding everyone to stay cool and hydrated as temperatures across the state continue to climb.

For the next several days, temperatures are expected to be 10–15 degrees above normal with many places topping 100 degrees.

“It’s going to be a hot week, and we would like everyone to protect themselves from the dangers of excessive heat,” said CDPH Director and State Health Officer Dr. Karen Smith. “It is important that everyone stay cool, stay hydrated, stay inside and take other precautions to prevent heat-related illness.”

Extreme heat poses a substantial health risk, especially for vulnerable populations including young children, the elderly, those with chronic diseases or disabilities, pregnant women and people who are socially isolated.

“Simple actions can avoid tragic situations when we know weather changes like these are in the forecast,” said Cal OES Director Mark Ghilarducci. “Err on the side of caution if you’re going to be outside these coming days.”

Heat-related illness includes: cramps, heat exhaustion, heat stroke and death. Warning signs of heat-related illnesses may include heavy sweating, muscle cramps, weakness, headache and nausea. Vomiting, paleness, tiredness and dizziness can also be indicators of heat-related illness.

In areas where air quality is poor, people with heart disease, asthma or other respiratory diseases should reduce or eliminate their outdoor activities. Summer schools and programs with children who have sensitive conditions, including heart disease, asthma and other respiratory diseases, should conduct activities indoors as much as possible.

CDPH offers the following tips to stay safe during this period of excessive heat:

• Never leave infants, children, elderly or pets in a parked car. It can take as little as 10 minutes for the temperature inside a car to rise to levels that can kill.

• Drink plenty of water or juice, even if you are not thirsty. Avoid alcohol.

• If you don’t have air conditioning, visit a cooling center or a public place with air conditioning (such as a shopping mall or library) to cool off for a few hours each day.

• Avoid outdoor physical exertion during the hottest parts of the day. Reduce exposure to the sun from 10 a.m. to 4 p.m. when UV rays are strongest, and keep physical activities to a minimum during that time.

• Wear a wide-brimmed hat to cover the face and neck, wear loose-fitting clothing to keep cool and to protect your skin from the sun.

• Regularly check on any elderly relatives or friends who live alone. Many may be on medications which increase likelihood of dehydration.

• To prevent overheating, use cool compresses, misting, showers and baths. Get medical attention if you experience a rapid, strong pulse, you feel delirious or have a body temperature above 102 degrees.

Liberally apply sunscreen (at least SPF 15) 15 minutes before venturing outdoors and re-apply at least every two hours – sunscreen may reduce the risk of skin cancer, the number one cancer affecting Californians.

Visit CDPH’s website for more tips for preventing heat-related illness and tips for treating heat-related illness. You can also find more information about summer heat on Cal OES’ website.

https://www.cdph.ca.gov/Programs/EPO/Pages/BI_Natural-Disasters_Extreme-...

https://www.cdph.ca.gov/Programs/EPO/Pages/BI_Natural-Disasters_Extreme-...

www.cdph.ca.gov