WILLIAMS PIONEER REVIEW • FEBRUARY 25, 2013
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FEBRUARY 25, 2013
Revisiting AB1616
COTTAGE FOOD ACT
GEORGE WASHINGTON ARRIVES AT ARBUCKLE SCHOOL
RICE
FARMERS
UNCERTAIN PLANS FOR 2013
GRANT AWARDED TO RECRUIT
VOLUNTEER
FIREFIGHTERS VOLUME 6 • ISSUE 4 • SEQUENCE 123
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Call Us: (530) 924-0225
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WILLIAMS PIONEER REVIEW • FEBRUARY 25, 2013
Williams Pioneer Review
REVISITING AB1616
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COTTAGE FOODS ACT
he California Homemade Food Act was signed into law in September 2012 and became effective on January 1, 2013. The act would allow for the sale of certain homemade, non- hazardous foods known as the “cottage foods”, to be made in private homes and sold to the public. Individuals who own and run these home-based businesses will be known as Cottage Food Operations (CFO). Specifics on the Cottage Food Bill can be found on the California Department of Public Health (CDPH) website or by using this short link: http://bit.ly/ WlKyKv Assemblyman Mike Gatto made a commitment to help microentrepreneurs gain access to these neighborhood-based economic opportunities after his constituent, Mark
Stambler, was shut down by the Los Angeles Department of Environmental Health last June for selling homemade bread to a local cheese shop. “I am happy to see this effort move on to the Senate,” said Gatto. “My constituents are clamoring for local, healthy foods and want to buy products made by local small businesses like Mark’s.” The California Homemade Food Act is consistent with recent chances in the laws of 32 other states. Under AB 1616, foods available for sale would include every-day items such as breads, tortillas, dry roasted nuts and legumes, granola, churros, rice cakes, jams, jellies and other fruit preserves, and cookies. The legislation establishes a two-tier system of operations based upon the point of sale or trade. Continued on Page 12
Opinion Column My Little Mayberry
Simplicity
Simplicity can be satisfying: A single red Camilla in a crystal bowl. Your loved one, your other loved one (the dog), a good book and the fireplace. Free email. Eggs fresh from the chicken. The chicken may feel
differently. Mockingbird songs. An old dented, dinged pickup truck that starts every time. The smell of fresh coffee brewing. Sunrise - never the same. Ditto Sunset. Homemade cookies. A hand written letter
DENISE DENTON-RINZLER
from a friend. Warm gloves. Great sunglasses. Ice cold water in summer. Summer in ice cold water (think Alaska). Holding a child’s hand. Smiles. A good, long walk. Intuiting Earth as
a blue glass globe. You can see all the stars and eternity right through it, above it, in every direction. You’re not afraid. Okay, a bit dizzy, but not afraid. This is your moment. You belong here - to be yourself, to do your work, to
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WILLIAMS PIONEER REVIEW • FEBRUARY 25, 2013
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{ VOLUNTEER
From the Cover
GRANT AWARDED TO RECRUIT
FIREFIGHTERS
Special to the Williams Pioneer Review ................
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hroughout Colusa County, there is a need for volunteer firefighters to adequately protect people and property from fire and fire–related hazards. As call volume increases, more departments depend on volunteer firefighters. Colusa County’s departments serve a rural area of over 21,000 people and provide fire protection and rescue services to 1,100 square miles of rural area. Our 7 volunteer agencies included in the grant respond to structure fires, wild land fires, medical emergencies, water rescue, technical rope rescue, hazardous materials spills, public service assistance calls and other emergencies. Across the United States, 71% of firefighters are volunteers. In Colusa County, that percentage is nearly 90%. The Department of Homeland Security has awarded the Colusa County Fire Chiefs Association a four year Staffing
for Adequate Fire and Emergency program, where each firefighter is able Response (SAFER) grant in the amount to personalize this benefit to meet of $972,050. The SAFER grant was their needs. The IRS regulated cafeteria awarded to 7 Colusa program includes County volunteer fire the option for each FOLLOW departments to help volunteer to choose one increase the number benefit to motivate them THIS TOPIC serieis of total volunteers. to continue to volunteer IN future The departments their time. The benefits ISSUES OF THE included are: Arbuckle/ offered include a 401k Williams Pioneer College City, Bear contribution (tax Review Valley/Indian Valley, deferred), medical Colusa City, Maxwell, and dental insurance Meridian, Princeton premiums, dependent and Williams. The funds will be used care expenses, and advanced education to implement a regional marketing expenses (college tuition). campaign and volunteer benefit These benefits will only be available program in order to retain existing to active members who meet the volunteer firefighters as well as recruit Standards of Performance and are in new volunteers. good standing with their chief. These Colusa County Fire Chiefs believe new benefits will be utilized in our the volunteer recruitment problem marketing efforts for recruiting new is due to the lack of communication volunteer firefighters. between the fire service and the public. For more information on becoming The public does not realize there is a a Volunteer Firefighter, please contact need for volunteer firefighters. your local fire department. ■ The Colusa County Fire Agencies have implemented a monthly financial Above Photo taken by: Richard Lau incentive based on a “cafeteria” benefit Richard Lau Photography
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WILLIAMS PIONEER REVIEW • FEBRUARY 25, 2013
George Washington
“HANGS OUT” AT LOCAL SCHOOL Special to the Williams Pioneer Review ................
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tudents at Arbuckle Elementary School join the ranks of schools across the country who received a gift from the Mount Vernon Ladies’ Association in Virginia. This organization has owned and operated Mount Vernon (Washington’s home) since 1858. On Wednesday, February 20th, Principal Carol Geyer unveiled the gift during the school’s regular Community Sing assembly. A large, framed, official copy of Rembrandt Peale’s “Porthole Portrait” of George Washington will hang in the school’s multipurpose room. In addition, Principal Geyer was presented with an America flag that once flew over the Mount Vernon estate. The celebration of George Washington included Kyle Howell, dressed as the Father of our country, sharing the word of the week with the assembly. Betsy Myers, dressed as Martha Washington, stood by his side. Appropriately, the word of the week was PATRIOTISM. Howell defined the word and gave examples of how children can express patriotism in their daily lives. The Arbuckle FFA leadership class provided a short skit that reminded students of the freedoms Americans enjoy. Working under the supervision of Mr. George Green, the high school students included Manuel Ambriz,
Delaney Cano, Sarah Gwerder, Macey Cox, Judy Duran, and Hilary Brainard. Music teacher, Ron Rector, taught patriotic songs prior to the event and Donna Green led the 1st-5th grade students in singing “My Country ‘Tis of Thee” and “This Land is Your Land.” Mrs. Green reminded students that Washington lived at Mount Vernon for more than 45 years, growing more than 60 different crops. He raised sheep, cows, hogs and wheat. She also clarified that Washington did not wear a wig, but powdered his hair. Students learned that the story of George cutting down a cherry tree as a youngster was a fictional story published in the McGuffey Reader, a popular school book for many decades. His false teeth were also not wooden, but included a cow’s tooth, one of Washington’s own teeth, hippopotamus ivory, metal and springs. Older students studied how Washington served as Commander in Chief of the Continental Army during the Revolutionary War and that he loved devising secret codes for war time messages. Even the youngest students know that George Washington became our first President and is one of many symbols for the USA. During her presentation, Geyer noted that Rembrandt Peale painted more than seventy different portraits of Washington. Between 1780 and the mid 1900’s, portraits of Washington could be found in most libraries, hospitals, banks, and schools all over the country. The Mount Vernon Ladies’
Kyle Howell as George Washington, and Betsy Myers as Martha Washington pictured with AES Principal Carol Geyer after unveiling a gift from the Mount Vernon Ladies’ Association in
Association not only maintains the museum grounds of Washington’s former home, but provides schools with a “Portrait of Leadership” package that contains background information, lesson plans, and activities related to Washington’s life. Their goal is to provide portraits of Washington in addition to educational materials to schools throughout the country to help students understand that George Washington remains a role model today for citizenship and civic responsibility. “I was really concerned that the younger students wouldn’t understand how special the portrait is. But when we lifted the drapes and revealed the 24 x 36 inch framed picture of George Washington, the audience all oohed and aahed,” shared Donna Green. “Students were equally excited about receiving a US flag that once flew over Mount Vernon.” Janet Grimmer, a parent in attendance, mentioned that she and her children would be visiting Mount Vernon this summer. The assembly concluded with the weekly awards earned by students in Reading Counts and the Math Star recognition programs. The flag salute was led by Martha Washington ( aka Betsy Myers) . Serena Carlson, a parent attending the assembly, commented , “ I really enjoyed seeing an assembly that honored George Washington. The portrait is really special and I love hearing the students sing patriotic songs.” ■
Community
WILLIAMS PIONEER REVIEW • FEBRUARY 25, 2013
E V E N T S
Friends of the Colusa County Library Meeting Thursday, February 28th 6:30 p.m. Colusa Industrial Properties Conference Room 100 Sunrise Blvd., Colusa Safe Haven Celebrates 5 Years Williams Antique Show & Sale Friday, March 1st Saturday, March 16th & 2:00 p.m. to 4:00 p.m. Sunday, March 17th 131 5th Street, Colusa Sacramento Valley Museum 1491 E’ Street, Williams Colusa County Arts Council Wine Tasting Omega Nu Golf Saturday, March 16th Tournament Sacramento Valley Museum Sunday, March 31st 1491 E’ Street, Williams Colusa Golf & Country Club 2224 Highway 20, Colusa Colusa Western Days www.colusawesterndays.com April 5th, 6th & 7th Colusa Fairgrounds 1303 10th Street, Colusa Submit your Community Announcement by giving us a call or email: (530) 924-0225 • publisher@wpr-news.com
Community B R I E F S ■ Williams Little League: The The Williams Little League is still taking sign-ups for the 2013 season. Applicants are can sign up at the Williams City Finance Department. Bring a copy of the childs birth certificate, and proof of residence. Cost is $55, each additional child is $50. Fees will increase after March 1st. We are still looking for Volunteer Umpires; training will be provided. For questions please contact Justin Myers at (530) 519-5185. ■ Because We Care!: Become apart of your community and assist in the efforts to keep our town clean. Volunteer with the Citizens for a Better Williams. Meetings are held the 4th Monday of every month at 6:00 p.m. at Louis Cairo’s. ■ Seniors Come Join us for Lunch!: If you are 60 years of age or older and are interested in getting out of the house and meeting others over a delicious hot lunch, please join us! Located at the Boy Scout Cabin, 901 Parkhill Street, in the City of Colusa. Monday through Thursday at noon.
Please call Colusa County Public Health at 530-458-0380 to let us know you are coming! A donation of $3.00 per meal is recommended, but not required. ■ Smoke-free works for me! Interested in making our community healthier and tobacco-free? If so, join the Colusa County Tobacco Prevention Coalition today! Time commitment is minimal and lunch will be provided. Call us at (530) 458-0380 or send an e-mail to TEP@colusadhhs.org ■ Child Safety Seat Classes: “Is your child safe in your car? Certified child safety seat technicians are providing classes at the Colusa County Public Health Department. You will learn how to properly install and use the correct type of car seat for your child. Registration fee is $20 and low-income families may qualify for a free car seat. Call (530) 458-0380 to sign up for the next class.” Submit your brief or event publisher@wpr-news.com
Arbuckle Adult Programs
◆ Yoga & Pilates: 5:30am, Tuesdays & Thursdays. APRD Office, Starting April 1st. ◆ Men’s Basketball: 6:30pm, Thursdays, PHS North Gym, $5 a Night ◆ Interval Aerobics: 7:00pm, Mondays, APRD Office, March Only! ◆ Weight Training, Cardio & Agility Training: 6:30pm, Mondays & Wednesdays, Johnson Junior High Gym ◆ Step Aerobics: 5:30am, Mondays & Fridays, APRD Office ◆ Zumba: 6:30pm, Tuesdays, APRD Office ◆ Low Impact Aerobics: 8:30am, Mondays, Wednesdays & Fridays, APRD Office
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PARKS RECREATION Youth Programs
◆ Youth Zumba: Ages 3 to 9, March 5th – April 30th on Tuesdays. Ages 3-5 @ 5:30pm, Ages 6-9 # 6:00pm. ◆ T-Ball Clinic: Ages 3 to 5 yearolds, clinic to run March 20 – April 20. ◆ Tot Tumbling: Ages 18 months to 3 years. Mondays at 5:30pm. March 11th to April 22nd. ◆ Spring Program Sign-ups: Thursday, February 28th, 6pm7pm. Saturday March 2nd, 10am-11am. APRD Office
FOR MORE INFORMATION CALL (530) 476-3007
Williams Community Center Activities
WE ARE BACK AT HOME! MONDAY NIGHT BINGO: Everyone Welcome! Early Bird Games Starting Time at 6:00 P.M. Regular Games Begin at 6:30 P.M. Refreshments Available at Reasonable Prices, Home Made Desserts GAME DAY: Third Wednesday of the month, at12:30 PM. MOVIE DAY: Fourth Wednesday of the month, at 12:30 P.M. Price: FREE Refreshments are available at a low price.
City ofWilliams P A R KS
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R E C R E AT I O N
■ Williams ZUMBA: held Monday – Thursday from 6pm to 7pm at the Williams Jr. High Multipurpose room. ■ UK Soccer Camp: Starting April 1-5th, 2013. Mini Camp: Ages 4-6 from 9AM-10:30 PM - $70 per child; Half Day Camp: Ages 6-14 from 9AM-12PM$95 per child; Full Day Camp: Ages 8-14 from 9AM-3PM $145 per child; Sign-Up today at the Williams City Hall 810 E Street. ■ Williams Lego Camp: Children of the ages 5-12. Space is limited so don’t wait, sign-up today for only $107 or $150 for Art+Lego Camp! PreEngineering Lego Camp for ages
5-6 @ 9AM-12PM on April 1-5, 2013. Bashem Bots Lego Camp For ages 7-12 @ 1PM-4PM on April 1-5, 2013. This event will be held at the Williams “Old Gym” 1491 E Street. Sign-Up today at the Williams City Hall 810 ‘E’ Street. ■ Williams Art Camp: ages 7-12 @ 9AM-12PM on April 1-5, 2013; Ages 5-6 @1PM-4PM on April 1-5, 2013; This event will be held in the Williams “Old Gym” 1491 E Street. Sign-Up available at the Williams City Hall 810 E St. $75 per child or $150 for Art+Lego Camp. FOR MORE INFORMATION CALL
(530) 473-2955 EXT 117
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WILLIAMS PIONEER REVIEW • FEBRUARY 25, 2013
Obituaries
Carmen Frias Apaseo Carmen Frias Apaseo 77, of Colusa, CA passed away peacefully with her children by her side on February 15, 2013 at UC Davis in Sacramento, CA. She was born July 4, 1935 in Apaseo El Grande Guanajuato, Mexico. She was a Farm Laborer and Cannery Worker and lived in Colusa for 56 years. Survivors include seven children: (4 Sons) Ernest Apaseo (ToniAnn)of Colusa, CA;
Jaime Apaseo of Colusa, CA; Octavio Apaseo of Colusa, CA; Roberto Apaseo Jr. of Chico, CA; and (3 Daughters) Jovita Bassett (Bob) of Yuba City, CA; Diana Trujillo (Felix) of Elk Grove, CA; and Marisa Apaseo of Colusa, CA; ten grandchildren Vincent Apaseo, Justin Apaseo, Hayley Apaseo, Zayna Apaseo, Oscar Apaseo, Daleighney Apaseo, Coralye Apaseo, Giselle Trujillo, Diego Trujillo, and Isaac Serrato Apaseo. She was preceded in death by her father, Cipriano Frias; mother, Jovita Frias Cabrera; husband, Roberto Apaseo;Brother Jose Carmen Frias, and sister in-law Maria Refugio Frias.
Her funeral was held Saturday February 23, 2013 at 10am at Our lady of Lourdes Catholic Church with Father Arbel Cabasagan and Father Roy Doner. Carmen was a very active woman who had an extraordinary work ethic. She was a wonderful mother who enjoyed spending time with her children and grandchildren. She was truly an amazing woman, who was always there for her children. Her hobbies included cooking and gardening. She was a member of Our Lady of Lourdes Catholic Church. Arrangements are under the direction of McNary-Moore Funeral Service. ■
John “Sky Chief” Azevedo John was born 11-01-29 to father Antonio Jose Azevedo and mother Mary Enos in the home on the ranch where he lived his entire life in Maxwell, CA. His father died when he was 9 years old and the family moved to Willows to be closer to family. Returned to the dairy and farmed with his brother Tony (Junior) for many years later adding his children and nephews. Rice harvest was always a family affair met with great anticipation with the end of season being celebrated with a big party. Married his high school sweetheart, Carol Freitas on July 12, 1952 and settled on the ranch raising their three children. John was involved with family, friends and community
Robert William Spinetti
activities. John joined the National Guards in 1948 and served during the Big 1955 Flood in Yuba City. He was always that hard working farmer: when the ‘dairy was sold in the mid 70’s and the ‘girls’ left the ranch, he appreciated that the stainless steel pipes found a good home at the Sierra Brewery in Chico. John had a love of flying, getting his pilot’s license in the early 60s. His great joy was to take his red and white Cessna soaring over Maxwell…solo flights and often joined by family and friends. He was given the nickname “Sky Chief ”. John will always be known as a devoted family man a loving husband, caring father. His grandchildren and great grandchildren were the pride and joy of his life. For most he will be remembered for his friendly outgoing nature, his kind helpfulness and a love for life
and a beaming smile that touched so many. May Sky Chief soar with peace and honor and his memories are forever held in our hearts. John is survived by his loving wife Carol Azevedo of Maxwell, son Ken (Marcia) Azevedo, son, Allan Ernest (Mary Anne) Azevedo, daughter Elayne Marie Azevedo of Pacific Grove.; and his sister Dolores Reckers. Grandchildren Brad, Jeff, Justin and Mikala (Jeff Caine), Andrew, Jennifer and Nathan; ) great grandchild Taylor and many more relatives…and known as “Uncle John” to so many, relatives and community members. Preceded in death by mother Mary Enos; father Antonio Jose Azevedo; and older brother Anthony Joseph Azevedo (Junior). Funeral Mass was held on February 18th at 11:00 a.m. at Sacred Heart Catholic Church in Maxwell.■
Robert William Spinetti , 80, passed away peacefully surrounded by his family on February 7, 2013. He was born in San Francisco on May 15, 1932 to William and Pearl Spinetti. Bob came to Colusa in 1949, where worked the ranch with his uncle and and after graduating high school he joined the US Navy in 1951. He served aboard the US McKenzie during the Korean War, a service he was very proud of. After discharge from the Navy he returned to Colusa and married his first wife, Duane Hurni, in 1956. They had two daughters, Robin and Karin. During this period, Bob worked as an equipment operator for the County of Colusa and then went on to operate and own his own fuel distribution business in Colusa until his retirement. He was also a past member of the Colusa Rural Firefighters. Being that he was born in San Francisco, he has always been a true and devoted SF Giants and SF 49er’s Fan. This devotion has been picked up by his grandchildren who would often phone Papa after or during a game to get his reaction to the game! Bob is survived by his two daughters, Robin (David) Myers; Karin (Alfred) Stegall; eight grandchildren; Scott Zumwalt; Katie Zumwalt Llamas; Kevin Zumwalt; Gracie Myers; Abby Myers; Jodi Stegall; Shelby Stegall; Todd Stegall. He is also survived by two stepdaughters, Tee Erisey ;Elizabeth Bender & four stepgrandchildren. He was preceded in death by his wife, Jean, Aunt & Uncle; Parents; and Sister; and his grandson, Joshua Zumwalt. Services were scheduled at 11:00 a.m. Saturday, February 16th at the First Presbyterian Church 4th and Jay Street in Colusa.
WILLIAMS PIONEER REVIEW • FEBRUARY 25, 2013 Pictured left to right are Colusa County Behavioral Health team members Beth Muehe, Valerie Stirling, Debbie Naylor, Deana Fleming and Jack Joiner.
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Former Yuba College
Vice President
Accepts Position at
Feather River College Williams Pioneer Review ................
F BEHAVIORAL HEALTH STAFF
QUALITY IMPROVEMENT PROJECT
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Special to the Williams Pioneer Review ................
olusa County Behavioral Health was among 13 small California counties to offer team presentations of successful work completed in 2012. Jack Joiner and Debbie Naylor presented on behalf of Colusa County during the final learning session with the California Institute of Mental Health’s Quality Improvement Collaborative program through Advancing Recovery Practices (ARP) on January 16 in Sacramento. Organizational assessments were reviewed, and plans for the next 6 months were covered. Teams also looked at ongoing support from CiMH, and discussed their needs in the future. The collaborative group addresses quality improvement practices, and is made up of county and community-based organizations’
mental health programs. ARP teams have used the Model for Improvement, which is a nationally recognized way of organizing healthcare improvement projects. This model emphasizes small scale testing of interventions, known as change ideas. Team efforts have involved collection, review, and analysis of data to determine whether the changes implemented have been helping the team achieve the goals and objectives established at the initiation of the learning collaborative. Training meetings, known as Learning Sessions, have been held on a regular basis. Participating teams were given a plaque honoring them for their hard work and success. Colusa County Department of Behavioral Health team members included Jack Joiner, Debbie Naylor, Deana Fleming, Sue Bowen, Sally Cardenas, Tami Clark, Valerie Stirling, and Beth Muehe. ■
ormer Yuba College Vice President for Academic and Student Services Dr. Kevin Trutna was appointed by the Feather River College governing board. The decision was announced Feb. 6. Dr. Trutna assumed the position of Interim President at Feather River College on August 6, 2012. Dr. Trutna served Yuba College’s Vice President beginning in 2006, subsequent to holding the position of the Dean of Math, Engineering, Science and Health Occupations. He earned his Ed.D. in Adult and Higher Education from Montana State University, Bozeman, MT. Chancellor Douglas Houston congratulated Trutna on this appointment, and said, “This will be a great move for Kevin who has been very professional in working with the trustees, faculty, and staff at Feather River College to ensure their college continues successfully serving students.” Lisa Jensen-Martin has been serving as the Yuba College Interim Vice President of Academic and Student Services in Trutna’s absence. ■
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WILLIAMS PIONEER REVIEW • FEBRUARY 25, 2013
WOODLAND COMMUNITY COLLEGE
ACCREDITATION REAFFIRMED Special to the Williams Pioneer Review ................
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arlier this month, Woodland Community College received notice from the Accrediting Commission for Community and Junior Colleges (ACCJC) of the Commission’s decision regarding the college’s recent accreditation visit. The Commission met in early January to review evaluation visits from several dozen two-year colleges throughout California, Hawaii and the Pacific Islands. Accreditation is a voluntary, peer-review accountability process that periodically evaluates institutions based on standards of educational practice and effectiveness. The end goal of the process is quality improvement for student success. The Commission reaffirmed Woodland Community College’s accreditation but imposed a sanction of “Warning” to resolve a number of shortcomings related to planning, resource allocation and the assessment of student learning, these shortcomings occur at both the college and the district levels. In October of 2012 Woodland Community College was visited by an accrediting team of administrators and faculty from other ACCJC accredited institutions to evaluate the institution. That team’s recommendations had actually already been identified by the college’s administration, faculty and staff
through a comprehensive self-evaluation process. “I’m really proud of how candid we were in our self-evaluation study and with the team during the site visit. The team and Commissions’ recommendations are simply a reflection of our own self-identified work to improve our services to students and our communities,” said WCC President Dr. Angie Fairchilds. The Commission commended the Woodland Community College faculty, staff, and administrators for their “deep and abiding commitment to WCC and its students;” for “maintaining this commitment to the mission despite the pressures created by the economic downturn and the extensive leadership turnover across the District;” for “providing a rich array of student support services, especially those targeted toward underrepresented populations, and for working to maintain those services despite the budget reduction pressures;” for “maintaining a beautiful, clean and energy efficient campus despite economic challenges;” and for “creating a student-centered environment that encourages involvement in governance through an effective student government and new student trustee to represent the College.” Each year, increasing numbers of colleges across the country and particularly in ACCJC’s region are being placed on sanctions, some even with the severe sanction of “Show Cause,” because
of long-standing shortcomings with accreditation standards. Accountability expectations continue to increase both from the federal government and from the California government as voters and taxpayers demand improvements in student outcomes and greater efficiency from institutions of higher education. “I know the administrators, faculty, and staff of our colleges and district services, and I am confident we will remedy these recommendations within the prescribed timelines. They had already begun the work before the visits last fall and have continued to make good progress. We have outstanding faculty, staff and administrators as evidenced by the Commission’s commendations and we take very seriously the work we need to do to improve our planning and decision-making systems to ensure student success,” said YCCD Chancellor Dr. Doug Houston. YCCD Trustee and Board Chair Brent Hastey said “I’m really proud of how the administration, faculty and staff at our colleges have committed to working together to improve student success. Woodland Community College and the Yuba Community College District is a very different institution than it was just a few years ago because of that new commitment to collaboration, and yet, is unchanged in its commitment to students and our communities.” ■
WILLIAMS PIONEER REVIEW • FEBRUARY 25, 2013
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SPRING IS IN THE AIR
JOIN THE ARBOR DAY FOUNDATION IN MARCH AND RECIEVE 10 FREE TREES
Special to the Williams Pioneer Review ................
The Arbor Day Foundation is making it easier for everyone to celebrate the arrival of spring through planting trees. Join the Arbor Day Foundation in March 2013 and receive 10 free white flowering dogwood trees. “White flowering dogwoods will add beauty to your home throughout the year,” said John Rosenow, founder and chief executive of the Arbor Day Foundation. “Dogwoods are known for their showy spring flowers,
scarlet autumn foliage and red berries that attract songbirds during winter.” The free trees are part of the nonprofit Foundation’s Trees for America campaign. The trees will be shipped postpaid at the right time for planting between March 1 and May 31, with enclosed planting instructions. The 6- to 12-inch trees are guaranteed to grow or they will be replaced free of charge. Arbor Day Foundation members also receive a subscription to Arbor Day, the Foundation’s bimonthly
publication, and The Tree Book, which contains information about tree planting and care. To become a member of the Foundation and receive the free trees, send a $10
contribution to TEN FREE DOGWOOD TREES, Arbor Day Foundation, 100 Arbor Avenue, Nebraska City, NE 68410, by March 30, 2013. Or join online at arborday.org/ march.■
SPRING CLEANING
TIPS TOAVOID INJURY
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leaning your home from top to bottom this spring? Do so with care. From falls off ladders to muscle pain, heavy-duty chores can be hazardous to your health and wellness if you’re not careful. So before you roll up your sleeves and get into the thick of it, take a moment to review some essential safety precautions: Avoid Outdoor Mishaps When mowing the lawn, wear sturdy, closed-toe shoes. Clear your lawn of stones, toys and other potentially hazardous debris before you begin, to prevent flying objects. Keep children away from your yard while you’re mowing. Reduce the risk of a ladder fall by always using a stable ladder. Be sure to use the correct height ladder for the job and follow all weight restrictions. Only set ladders on level surfaces. Pay close attention to what you’re doing and climb up and down the ladder slowly and deliberately. Treat Muscles Right From lawn work to scrubbing floors, unusual repetitious motions can really take a toll, resulting in muscle pain or bruising. Treat your
spring clean like a workout and stretch your major muscle groups before you get started. When lifting those boxes in your basement and any other objects with heft, bend at the knees to avoid throwing your back out. If a chore is causing you pain, stop what you’re doing. Remember to take frequent breaks. And end your long day with a relaxing bath. Clean Safely Cleaning products can be extremely stringent, causing irritation to your eyes, nose and throat. If opting for natural alternatives, such as vinegar or lemons is not an option, use the harsher stuff with care. Open all windows when using harsh cleaning products, especially ammonia. Wear gloves and consider protecting your nose and mouth with a surgical mask. Place products out of reach when you’re not using them if you have pets or small children. By following a few safety measures, you can make your spring clean a rejuvenating experience.■
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WILLIAMS PIONEER REVIEW • FEBRUARY 25, 2013
Agriculture UNCERTANITY AFFECTS FARMERS’ PLANS FOR 2013
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California Farm Bureau Federation
lost some market share, especially in the Mediterranean.” reater competition from Australia’s 2012-13 crop, which Australia and Egypt in will be harvested in April and May, is the global market has expected to be the largest since its 2001 dampened export prospects harvest and Egypt had a record 2012-13 for California rice, and crop, Childs noted. farmers say they worry they will have a Lundberg, who is not associated with harder time covering their production Lundberg Family Farms, said he hopes costs as they face lower returns and prices will be higher but thinks it will uncertainty in future farm programs. depend on how much rice is planted. “This year is kind of scary with all the Farmers in Arkansas, Mississippi and high costs we have, like fuel, fertilizer, Louisiana have switched to growing chemicals, labor and equipment,” said medium-grain rice in years when prices David Lundberg, a rice farmer in Butte have not done as well for long grain, County. “It seems like every year they the dominant variety grown in the keep going up. The budgets are pretty South. But with prices of competing tight now. You have to make sure you commodities such as corn being high, really watch it and get a good yield.” Lundberg said farmers may grow more Lundberg noted the market price for rice of those crops and less rice, boosting has come down, even though California prices. acreage and production both dropped California’s 2012 rice acreage was last year. 556,000, about 24,000 fewer than Nathan Childs, an agricultural 2011, noted Chris Greer, a University economist with the U.S. Department of of California Cooperative Extension Agriculture, attributes the price decline farm advisor for Yuba, Sutter, Colusa, for medium- and short-grain rice to a Sacramento, Placer and Nevada counties. weakened export market due to stronger He said he expects 2013 acreage will be competition from Australia and Egypt. about 525,000 to 550,000, “which would California exports about half its be about average for us if you look over rice crop, with the largest market in the past 10 years.” Northeast Asia, which includes Japan, “The indicators are that the market South Korea and Taiwan. While those has stabilized and is possibly on the upexports have remained stable, Childs trend,” Colusa County rice farmer Chris said, California’s other key markets in Torres said. “We’re hoping it’s going to the Mediterranean and Oceania face get better, but we just don’t know.” substantial competition from Australia Both he and Lundberg said they do not and Egypt. have the kind of ground or equipment In recent years, California rice to switch to other crops and plan to farmers—who produce about 70 percent grow the same amount of rice as in other of U.S. medium- and short-grain rice— years. had benefited from poor production in Another issue that has farmers those competing countries, he noted. worried and confused is the status of Australia’s crop was sharply reduced the farm bill and the future of direct by years of drought, while Egypt had payments. Even though the 2008 Farm not exported much rice due to water Bill has been extended to September, shortages and rice export restrictions Tim Johnson, president and CEO of imposed by the Egyptian government. the California Rice Commission, said “Those factors have reversed,” Childs farmers still face uncertainty about said. “Both countries are shipping more- whether they will receive a full direct normal levels of exports, and the U.S. has
payment this year or one that is subject to cuts from sequestration, perhaps as high as 8 percent. Rice farmers were told initially that the extension of the farm bill effectively extends their direct payments at the 2012 level for the 2013 crop. But as lawmakers grapple with how to pay for sequestrations, Johnson said, “there are discussions in Congress right now over a broad range of subjects relating to the direct payment,” including whether to eliminate them this year or just make cuts to the payments. “From the commission’s perspective, it’s unfair to tell farmers that you’re going to have a continuation of the same farm program they’ve had for the last five years and then come back and change that program after you’ve already told farmers to go and sign up,” Johnson said. “It would be absolutely disastrous and unconscionable to take away the direct payment completely, with no other program in place.” With these unknowns about the farm program, Lundberg said he’s watching his costs, spending less money and not buying any new equipment until he knows what Congress decides to do. Johnson said most growers understand that direct payments likely will not be a part of the next farm bill, as “Congress has very clearly sent that message throughout last year.” It is expected that some form of revenue protection program will take the place of direct payments to provide a safety net for farmers, he added. However, the House and Senate have yet to reconcile their differences on specifics of such a program, he said. Johnson said the commission has been advising farmers to set appointments with their local Farm Service Agency office early and sign up their acres. Farmers typically receive their payments in October. ■
WILLIAMS PIONEER REVIEW • FEBRUARY 25, 2013
GAS PRICES INCREASE
T
AS FEBRUARY COMES TO AN END
oday’s national average price for a gallon of regular unleaded gasoline is $3.75, which is the highest on record for this calendar day. This price is 15 cents more expensive than one week ago, 44 cents more than one month ago and 19 cents more than the average price one year ago. The 44-cent month-overmonth increase is the most dramatic since June 2009. The largest increase on record was August 5-September 4, 2005 when prices jumped 75 cents largely because of Hurricane Katrina. The national average has increased for 33 consecutive days, rising 46 cents or nearly 14 percent during this stretch. This is the longest streak since the price increased 44 cents over 44 days March 22-May 5, 2011. This year’s run-up is not only larger and faster than recent years but is beginning earlier. The national average in 2011 increased by just seven cents during the same 33 day period and in 2012 it increased by 18 cents. One reason for the earlier price increase is the trend of U.S. refineries performing seasonal maintenance and making the switch-over to summer blend gasoline production earlier in the year. This earlier schedule is the choice of refiners and has not come in response to any change to the deadline to complete the transition to summer-blend fuels, which are required in many parts of the country and more expensive to produce. Regional supplies can decrease when refineries go offline and subsequently markets are more sensitive during the changeover period to refinery disruptions that would further squeeze supply, as we have seen this year.
In recent years, the price run-up in 2011 began in mid-February, when the national average increased for 27 consecutive days, starting an 86-cent surge to the peak of $3.98 on May 5. In 2012 the surge began at the end of January and increased 66 of 71 days to a peak of $3.94 on April 5 and 6. This year’s run-up began on January 17. While the peak price this spring may approach the 2011 and 2012 highs, AAA continues to expect the high to be lower than both years. The primary driver of currently rising retail prices has been the aforementioned refinery concerns, however higher crude oil prices have also contributed to a more expensive price at the pump. Unlike recent years, when the price of West Texas Intermediate (WTI) crude oil has approached $110 per barrel, the current early-year increase has been driven by positive economic news rather than geopolitical unrest overseas. Prices in every state have increased over the last week, led by jumps in Tennessee (22 cents), Arkansas (22 cents), Alabama (21 cents), South Carolina (21 cents) and Mississippi (21 cents). The month-over-month increases are even more dramatic and highlight the tremendous surge in prices since mid-January for many Midwest, central and mountain states (see chart below). The highest prices in the country continue to include Hawaii, California and the Northeast; however the surge in Midwestern prices has catapulted several states in that region back onto the top-ten list. ■
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AAA DELIVERS
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BREAKDOWN BASICS
ith more than 125 million vehicles on the roadway and Americans relying on their cars for nearly every part of their life, AAA recognizes one of the most stressful things a motorist can encounter is a sudden breakdown. In 2012, AAA received more than 28 million roadside assistance calls. While 58 percent of those breakdowns could be resolved at the roadside by AAA technicians, nearly 12 million vehicles needed to be towed to a local repair shop for further help. “Being stranded with your vehicle can be a very stressful experience,” said John Nielsen, AAA’s Director of Automotive Engineering and Repair. “It is important to be prepared for a break-down. There are several things to remember that can help keep you safe and get you back on the road more quickly.” What to Do When Your Vehicle Breaks Down on a Roadway Since surroundings, traffic patterns and vehicle hazards vary, it is important to continually monitor and evaluate your situation. AAA offers the following guidelines and general suggestions for motorists experiencing a breakdown. If the car is clearly experiencing a problem but can still be driven a short distance, drive to a safe location such as a parking lot. If the vehicle stops running but still has coasting momentum, guide it to the far right shoulder as far off the road as possible while remaining on level ground. Turn on the emergency flashers to alert other motorists. If the car cannot get completely off the roadway, switch on the safety/emergency flashers and consider leaving the vehicle and moving to a safer location. Occupants should not remain in a vehicle if there is a possibility it may be struck by other traffic. For the same reason, it is generally not a good idea to attempt to push a disabled car off the road. Drivers and passengers should exit a broken down car on the side away from traffic if at all possible. Use extreme caution and watch for oncoming vehicles, especially at night or in bad weather when visibility is limited. While waiting for help, never stand directly behind or in front of the disabled vehicle. In addition to turning on a vehicle’s emergency flashers, drivers can signal other motorists that they have a problem by raising the car hood, tying a brightly colored handkerchief or scarf to the antenna or door handle, or setting out flares, warning triangles or emergency beacons. These signals can help other drivers recognize there is a problem and hopefully prompt them to slow down, move over to allow more room and proceed with caution as they pass. Communicating Your Situation Once the driver and passengers are in a safe location, request assistance from a road service provider such as AAA. Make note of surroundings, landmarks, buildings or road signs to help relay your location. Android and iPhone users can also download the AAA Mobile app which provides easy access to roadside assistance, vehicle battery quotes, Approved Auto Repair (AAR) locations, maps, directions, member-exclusive discounts and travel planning. ■
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WILLIAMS PIONEER REVIEW • FEBRUARY 25, 2013
REVISITING AB1616
COTTAGE FOODS ACT Producers opting to sell directly to the consumer would be subject to registration with the local health department and the completion of a food handler’s course, while producers opting to sell through a retail outlet, such as the neighborhood coffee shop, would be subject to inspections by the local health department. Both would have labels declaring their products “homemade” and have traceable information. Requirements of the Cottage Foods Operations are limited to $35,000 in Gross Annual Sales in 2013; $45,000 in 2014; and $50,000 for subsequent years. A ‘Class A’ Cottage Foods Operations Permit Requires Annual Registration with the Department of Environmental Health. Direct sales only to the end user (sold from the home and special events such as holiday bazaars, bake sales, certified farmers markets) Advertising and transactions made on the internet are okay but NOT for shipping the product via courier service/mail/FedEx/UPS. Product may be delivered by the CFO within the county only. And no routine inspection will conducted at the CFO’s home. A ‘Class B’ Cottage Foods Operations Permit Requires Annual Permit with the Department of Environmental Health. Direct and Indirect sales allowed (indirect to 3rd party). Advertising and transactions made on the internet are okay but NOT for shipping the product via courier service/mail/ FedEx/UPS. Product may be delivered by the CFO within the county only. Permission is required by the receiving county prior to 3rd party sales in other counties. One annual routine inspection is required at the CFO’s home site where the food is prepared. Fees for the permits vary, please contact your local department of public health. CFO’s will have to abide by standard food preparation guidelines and complete a Food processor course. “Our farmer’s markets and street fairs are flourishing parts of neighborhoods throughout the state. They bring a feeling of community in a modern, impersonal world. If we can promote these interpersonal relationships at a time when people are struggling to supplement their family incomes, by removing unnecessary red tape, then we’ve accomplished something important for both the residents of our state and its small businesses,” Gatto commented.
For 20 years and we look forward to serving the community for another 20 years!
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