WILLIAMS PIONEER REVIEW • PAGE 1 • JULY 2, 2013
JULY 2, 2013
VOLUME 6 • ISSUE 12 • SEQUENCE 131
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WILLIAMS PIONEER REVIEW • PAGE 2 • JULY 2, 2013
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From the Publisher Publisher & Editor in Chief:
Lloyd Green Jr.
lloyd@williamspioneerreview.com Historian
Pat Ash
Guest Photographer
Richard Lau
Guest Columnists
Denise Rinzler • Melssia Green
530.924.0225 FAX: (530) 924-0225
PO Box 1124 • Williams, CA 95987 www.WilliamsPioneerReview.com VOLUME 6 • ISSUE 12 • SEQUENCE 131
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The Williams Pioneer Review is locally published by: Lloyd Green Printing & Marketing
Williams, California
We reserve the right to accept or refuse submissions and edit for content and length. We also reserve the right to refuse advertising that in our opinion does not reflect the standards of the newspaper. The opinions expressed, whether by paid advertisement or editorial content does not necessarily reflect the views of this newspaper. Content submitted may be reprinted and acknowledged without consent unless specifically requested. We are not responsible for any errors, omissions or representations contained in the articles, letters, etc. within these pages. LOCALLY OWNED & OPERATED SINCE 2008 PRINTED IN WILLIAMS CALIFORNIA
ISSN 2161-7139 ►June 2, 2013◄
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Lloyd Green Jr. • publisher@williamspioneerreview.com
tragic week it has been for the Prescott Arizona, as 19 members of their Hotshot team were tragically killed while battling a disastrous wildfire. Officials have said that all of the firefighters did what they were trained to do when they were faced with an emergency situation; they deployed their emergency fire shelters, a tentlike, heat resistant shield that is normally used in a last-ditch effort to survive. However, these tents are not flame retardant after any period of intense fire. On behalf of the Williams Pioneer Review, we express our sincere condolences to the Arizona fire service and the families of the fallen as they struggle to cope with the sacrifice these heroes gave. This tragedy has been marked as the most firefighters to perish in a wildfire in over 80
years. As we celebrate the Independence Day this 4th of July, we must remember all who have sacrificed for our country, giving us what we have today. In addition, please keep fire safety in mind this Independence Day weekend; it is extremely important to be responsible and proactive while using fireworks and refrain from using fireworks that have been deemed unsafe and illegal. With the high temperatures, and a rather dry spring and winter. Fire danger is imminent, and you are not only putting yourself at risk; but putting the lives of others and emergency personnel at risk. May everyone have a save and relaxing holiday! P
PG&E Offers Tips for Save & Cool Summer
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ummer officially starts tomorrow, and Pacific Gas and Electric Company (PG&E) offers the following time-proven tips to help customers be aware of summertime hazards that come with hot, dry weather and certain outdoor activities. Summer safety tips: • “Look Up and Live!” – Use caution and keep fireworks, balloons, kites and toys (such as high powered water guns or remote control aircraft) away from overhead electric lines. Contact with lines can lead to serious injury, fires and outages. • Never go near a power line that has fallen to the ground, is dangling in the air or appears to be damaged. Always assume downed electric lines are energized and dangerous. Stay away, keep others away and immediately call 911 to alert the police and fire departments. • Observe local laws. Contact your local police or fire department to make sure fireworks are allowed in your area. If so, keep a bucket of water or a water hose close by. • Pay attention to overhead power lines
when using long, aluminum poles to clean your pool. Watch where the other end of the pole is located in relation to power lines. • Avoid playing around overhead power lines and power poles. Hot weather safety tips: • When temperatures are unusually high, you can visit PG&E-supported Cooling Centers to escape the heat, free of charge. For information on Cooling Centers, or to find out if there is one in your neighborhood, contact your local city or county. • If your neighborhood does not have a Cooling Center, plan trips to public places with air conditioning such as libraries, movie theaters or shopping malls. • Avoid strenuous activities in hot, direct sunlight. • Drink plenty of water and avoid alcohol or caffeine when the weather is hot. • Pay attention to your body. Muscle cramps, dizziness and nausea may be signs of a heatrelated illness.
WILLIAMS PIONEER REVIEW • PAGE 4 • JULY 2, 2013
Community calendar
Thursday, July 4
Grand Island Fourth of July BBQ 8:00 a.m. to 11:00 a.m. Grimes Fire Department Colusa Fireworks Display Along the Sacramento River Park Begins at Sunset Sponsored by the Colusa Firefighters Association
Saturday, July 6
Leeseville Gap Bicycle Race 6:30 a.m. Registration Williams Elementary School
Sunday, July 7
Blood Drive 9:00 a.m. to 12:30 p.m. St. Bernadette’s Hall, Colusa Hosted by the: Colusa Knights of Columbus
Monday, July 8
Colusa Farmers Market 4:00 p.m. to 7:00 p.m. Memorial Park, Colusa
Wednesday, July 10
Arbuckle Farmers Market 5:00 p.m. to 7:00 p.m. LaVanche Hursh Park, Arbuckle
Williams Community Center Activities
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, Homemade Desserts GAME DAY: Third Wednesday of the month, at 1:00 PM. - 4:00 PM Join us to play games, meet new people and have fun!! Bridge: Fourth Wednesday of the month, at 1:00 P.M. - 4:00 PM Play Bridge • Everyone Welcome!
Submit your Community Announcement by sending an email to: publisher@williamspioneerreview.com
briefs
Fourth of July BBQ: The Grand Island Fire Department in Grimes, California will be hosting its biennial Fourth of July Breakfast. Biscuits and Gravy, scrambled eggs, diced potatoes, pancakes, sausage, ba-con, fruit salad, and BBQ pork chops will be served with coffee and assorted juices. The event is host-ed on Thursday, July 4th from 8:00 a.m. to 11:00 p.m. at the Grand Island Fire Department. Bring your appetites! All proceeds go to improvements of the Grand Island Fire Department and Scholarship Fund.
CRMC Board of Directors: Colusa Regional Medical Center is looking for members of the community to serve on the hospital Board of Directors. There are three (3) open board positions. To apply and be eligible to serve, you must be a current member of Colusa Regional Medical Center. To become a new member, a donation of $100 or more is required, which entitles any business and/or individual one vote at the annual general membership meeting. If you are interested or know someone who would be willing to serve in this capacity, please send in (no later than June 22, 2013) your name, along with a short bio, to Colusa Regional Medical Center, attention: Dierdre Athenais, 199 E. Webster Street, Colusa, CA 95932, or e-mail to dathenais@ colusamedicalcenter.org. Election results will be announced at the annual board meeting in July. Serving as a member of the Board of Directors does require your attendance and participation at a monthly morning meeting (third Wednesday of the month) and any special meetings as needed. We encourage all people of Colusa County to consider this opportunity.
Arbuckle United Methodist Church is offering Vacation Bible School “God’s Backyard Bible Camp Under the Sun” where kids have a blast serving Jesus. Dates/Times: July 29 to August 2, 2013, 9am-12pm each day. Location will be at Arbuckle United Methodist Church, 600 Pendleton, Arbuckle. Sign up will be on Saturday, July 27, 10am-12pm at the church. For more information: 476-2515.
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.
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 lowincome families may qualify for a free car seat. Call (530) 458-0380 to sign up for the next class.”
Ladies Twilight Golf League now available at the Colusa Golf and Country Club. Two person teams tee off at 5:30 p.m. every Wednesday through the end of July. Players do not have to be embers. For more information please call Cathy Whitesell at (530) 237-7765 or Tina Beckley at (530) 713-5288.
Leeseville Gap Bicycle Race: The 23rd annual Leesville Gap Bicycle Race is scheduled for Saturday, July 6th, with registration beginning at 6:30 a.m. at Williams High School, the first riders will start at 8.The 63-mile clockwise circuit will include the western hills of Colusa County. For more information contact Robert Leibold at 209-533-4996, email to veloprol@sonnet.com, or visit www.velopromo.com.
Knights of Columbus to Host Blood Drive: The Knights of Columbus will be hosting a blood drive from 9 a.m.-12:30 p.m. on Sunday, July 7th at St. Bernadette’s Hall, 735 Ware Avenue, Colusa. Participants will receive a free T-shirt and MyBloodSource Rewards to redeem online. For more information, call 1-866-822-5663.
Grief Support Services: McNary-Moore Funeral Services, in partnership with Sutter North Hospice, is currently hosting grief support meetings from 5 p.m.-6 p.m. on the second and fourth Tuesday of each month. Meetings are held at McNary-Moore Funeral Chapel at 107 Fifth St., in Colusa.
WILLIAMS PIONEER REVIEW • PAGE 5 • JULY 2, 2013
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onald Ray Peart, 77, a lifetime Yolo County resident died Friday, June 28, 2013. Don was born August 23, 1935, in Woodland. Don graduated from Woodland High School in 1954 and studied Agronomy at UC Davis, where he met his wife, Vesta. They were married September 1960 and spent 52 wonderful years together. Don farmed rice, row crops and almonds in Southern Colusa County and Northern Yolo County. Don was very active in community activities. He served as Director of Yolo County Farm Bureau, Commissioner of Dunnigan Fire Department, Trustee of Pierce Joint Unified
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Donald Ray Peart
School District, Member of Yolo County Planning Commission, Director of Colusa County Water District, and Director of Heidrick Ag History Center. In 2004 Don was named Agribusiness Person of the Year. Don enjoyed fishing, his vacation home in Fort Bragg, spending time with family and traveling the world with his wife, Vesta. Don is survived by his devoted and loving wife, Vesta, his sons, Jim Peart and Andy (Kelly) Peart, and his two precious granddaughters, Madelyn and Ally Peart, all of Arbuckle. Brother Neal (Judy) Peart of Woodland, sister Beverly Furnish of Rancho Cordova, stepsisters,
Rodney J. Rodrigues
odney John Rodrigues, 13, of Colusa, CA, passed away on June 23, 2013. He was born May 31, 2000 in Colusa, CA. Rodney was a joy to his family and will be dearly missed. Even though he never went to college, Rodney was a teacher. He helped educate many medical students and residents during various hospital stays and doctor’s appointments. His years in the Colusa school system helped teach fellow schoolmates tolerance and acceptance. Above all, he taught his family how to come together and celebrate the little things. He taught them to seize any moment and make it special because tomorrow is unknown.
Nora Carlin of Gridley, and Judy Carroll, sisters-in-law Sara Dorn and Susan (Stan) Kauffman of Kelseyville. He was preceded in death by his parents Beverly Peart and Jean Joseph, step-mother Eleanor Peart, step-father Leroy Joseph, step sister, Nancy Carroll, brother-in-law Darrell Furnish and in-laws Gael and Marian Kauffman. The family would like to thank Dr. Yee and the staff in the ICU at Woodland Memorial Hospital for their wonderful and compassionate care, and the Dunnigan Fire Department and the Arbuckle Fire Department for their quick
He enjoyed classical music, watching movies with his sister and relaxing in the hot tub. Survivors include his Loving Parents Manual and Lori Rodrigues and sister Hope Rodrigues of Colusa; Grandparents Lee & Marian Boyes of Colusa, John and Mary Jane Rodrigues of Colusa, Kendi Sellers of Gainesville, Georgia and a large extended family. A Memorial Service will be held at the Trinity United Methodist Church at 11:00 a.m on Saturday, June 29, 2013. Contributions may be made in Rodney’s name to Trinity United Methodist Church of Colusa, Shriner’s Hospital for Children, or Ronald McDonald House Charities.. P
response and help. Private graveside services will be held at the Woodland Cemetery. Arrangements are being handled by McNary’s. Please join the family at a Celebration of Life for Don on Wednesday, July 17, at 11:30 am at Arbuckle Golf Course, on Hillgate Road in Arbuckle. In lieu of flowers, his family would suggest donations be made to your favorite charity . P
PUBLIC NOTICE
WILLIAMS CEMETERY DISTRICT
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he Williams Cemetery District herby notifies the public of the rules and regulations pertaining to the placement of items on grave markers. Our rules are structured to assist us in keeping a safe and trouble free environment. Flowers are allowed only in the vase built into the monument or foundation. Free-standing vases are not allowed. Planting of any kind is not allowed other than by the cemetery staff. Items placed on the marker foundations can be removed by the cemetery staff at their sole discretion. Items removed from the markers will be held at the cemetery office for a period of 30-days, in which time the family may collect the items. Items will be disposed after 30-days. Thank you for your understanding in this matter. For more information please contact the Williams Cemetery District at 2438 Zumwalt Rd, Williams, Ca 95987. (530) 473-5444
WILLIAMS PIONEER REVIEW • PAGE 6 • JULY 2, 2013
Cool Summer
Recipe Corner Delicious
Grape Salad Tortellini Salad • Mixture of Green & Red Seedless Grapes • 1 Cup of Full Fat Greek Yogurt • Squirt of Honey • 1/4 Cup of Cream Cheese • 1tsp of Vanilla
Combine the Full Fat Greek Yogurt, Honey, Cream Cheese and Vanilla and mix until creamy in a large mixing bowl. Make sure your grapes are really cold, and fold into your cream mixture. Add a sprinkling of brown sugar, and toasted walnuts for garnish; or add raisins, feta cheese, and sliced almonds for additional flavor.
Super Easy
Bean Dip • 1 (16 oz.) can refried beans • 8 oz. cream cheese • 1 cup shredded Mexican cheese divided • In a medium sauce pan over medium heat, combine refried beans and cream cheese and stir until well combined and hot. Stir in 3/4 cup shredded Mexican cheese until combined and melted. Pour into a serving dish and sprinkle 1/4 cup shredded Mexican cheese on top.
• 2 - 9 or 10 oz packages of fresh or dried cheese tortellini Cooked and cooled slightly. • One bag of fresh spinach • 2/3 cup fresh grated Parmesan cheese • 2 cups of halved cherry tomatoes • 2 - 2 oz. cans sliced black olives, drained • 8 oz. of diced hard salami • Fresh basil - cut into slivers • Italian Salad Dressing to taste • Optional -Marinated Artichoke Hearts Wash and dry the spinach and cut it into about 1 or 2 inch slices. Add the cooked tortellini to a large bowl and all the rest of the ingredients except the salad dressing. Start with a smaller amount of spinach if you think you may have a lot. Toss it all together. Add salad dressing to coat lightly. Taste it and add salt and pepper to taste. Add more spinach if you think it needs it.
Friday Night
Dinner Club New Theme Each Week
Serving Friday Night Dinner • 5pm to 8pm
For Reservations Call
(530) 458-6100 415 Market Street • Colusa Ca
Fresh
Garden Salsa • 5-6 Roma tomatoes, chopped • 1 Small onion, chopped • 1/2 Cup fresh cilantro, chopped • 2 Serrano or Jalapeño chiles, seeded and minced • 1 Clove garlic, minced • 2 Tbsp. Freshly squeezed lime juice • Salt and pepper to taste.
Mix everything in a bowl. That’s pretty much it. Recommendation: Once mixed, let the mixture sit for at least an hour, or preferably over night. The longer the better, as the flavors get a chance to permeate over time.
Cool
Avacado Salsa • 3 avocados diced chunky • 1/4 cup chopped red onion • 3 Roma Tomatoes diced • 1/8 cup fresh cilantro finely chopped • 1 Tbsp. lime juice • 1/4 tsp. garlic salt • 1/8 tsp. pepper After you have diced and chopped the avocados, red onion, Roma tomatoes and cilantro, combine in a medium bowl. Add lime juice, pepper and garlic salt. Toss and lightly stir to combine flavors.
WILLIAMS PIONEER REVIEW • PAGE 7 • JULY 2, 2013
California Highway Patrol
Have a Safe & Responsible Fourth of July Holiday
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Williams Pioneer Review
s the nation prepares to celebrate Independence Day, the California Highway Patrol (CHP) reminds everyone to plan ahead for a safe holiday for you and your family. This year the holiday falls on a Thursday; for many, it could turn into a four-day weekend full of celebration and good times. In conjunction with the Independence Day holiday, the CHP will engage in a Maximum Enforcement Period (MEP). Officers will be focusing enforcement out on the road during the long holiday break, looking for motorists who are a danger to themselves or others on our state’s highways. The MEP begins Wednesday, July 3, at 6 p.m. and continues through Sunday, July 7, at 11:59 p.m. “We want the public to enjoy their family, friends, food and fireworks,” said CHP Commissioner Joe Farrow. “However, that fun should not come at the expense of someone’s personal safety and the safety of those on the road with them.” Last year’s Fourth of July MEP was only 30 hours long, but
tragically resulted in nine people being killed in California. In addition, CHP officers made 479 arrests for driving under the influence during that same time period. The CHP encourages motorists to put a plan in place to save lives on the road this Independence Day. A great start to a safe and enjoyable holiday begins by following a few helpful tips. • If your Independence Day celebration includes drinking alcohol, arrange for a friend or family member who will not be drinking to be the “Designated Driver.” • Always wear your seat belt. Make sure all passengers, adults and children, are also buckled up. • Watch your speed. Stay at or below the limit, depending upon road conditions. • Plan ahead if you will drive long distances. Add extra time to your trip so you will not feel rushed and take a break every hour or so to get refreshed. P
Fourth of July Fire Safety
California’s Zero Tolerance of Illegal Fireworks
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Williams Pioneer Review
ummer in California is officially underway and the warm temperatures bring increased outdoor activities, with the Fourth of July being no exception. Many Californians and tourists will be celebrating our nation’s independence with fireworks, and CAL FIRE wants to stress the importance of fireworks safety and the State’s zero tolerance against illegal fireworks. “Every year CAL FIRE and fire departments across California respond to hundreds of fireworks-related fires that result in millions of dollars in damage,” said State Fire Marshal Tonya Hoover, CAL FIRE – Office of the State Fire Marshal. “If you are going to use fireworks, check first with your local fire department to make sure they are allowed in your area. If they are, use only fireworks that carry the State Fire Marshal’s ‘Safe and Sane’ seal.” California has a zero tolerance for the sale and use of illegal fireworks. Illegal fireworks include 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. It is illegal to sell, transport, or use fireworks that do not carry the “Safe and Sane” seal, as well as possess or use any fireworks in a community where they are not permitted. If convicted, a violator could be fined up to $50,000 as well as sent to jail for up to one year. There are
nearly 300 communities within California that allow “Safe and Sane” fireworks. “Even with a temporary cool down and rain in parts of Northern California, our fire activity remains significantly higher than average,” said Chief Ken Pimlott, director of CAL FIRE. “With how dry conditions are, if fireworks are used illegally or in an unsafe manner, they can easily spark a fire or cause injuries; the consequences to our communities can be devastating.” CAL FIRE is asking Californians to prepare for wildfires by taking these actions: • Check that fireworks are allowed in the area of use • Make sure the firework has the State Fire Marshal “Safe and Sane” seal • Purchase only from legitimate organizations authorized to sell • Have a bucket of water, sand or garden hose available at firing site • Read all instructions before use • Dispose of used fireworks in water • Never alter, modify or enhance fireworks • Make sure fireworks have proper clearance from flammable materials including dry grass and brush. P
WILLIAMS PIONEER REVIEW • PAGE 8 • JULY 2, 2013
Grant Program Returns to Farmers Market
Williams Pioneer Review
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he Colusa Farmer’s Market opened on June 17. Not only does the Market provide great produce and local crafts and services information, it also brings an opportunity for non-profit grant funding. For the third year running Premier Mushrooms Inc. is donating mushrooms for sale at the market with the proceeds being donated to the grant fund which benefits Colusa County non-profit groups. The Market will be opened for business each Monday from 4 pm to 7 pm throughout the summer and early fall. According to the market coordinator Lynda Reynolds there are a lot of the favorites coming back this year. Although opening night was a little slower than most, Reynolds expects that vendors will increase with each week. She added that not only does the certified
farmer’s market provide incredible locally grown fruits and vegetables; it also provides a venue for local crafters and services. “I really want to see the market used to support our local artisans and service providers as well as our growers,” said Reynolds. On opening night Sue Graue or Rebecca Root provided Tobacco Education information. If Monday night was any indication, the mushrooms are still in great demand. “We have folks who just wait for these great mushrooms,” said Reynolds. “We have seen a huge success with this program for the past couple of years so we are very thankful that Premier is once again offering us this opportunity,” said Reynolds. “We pick up the mushrooms which are picked fresh the day of each market,” said Reynolds. “They don’t get any fresher.
This is just a superb product grown right here in Colusa County,” she said. Each year the grant program has provided $1,000 to the county’s nonprofit groups. Some of the past recipients include Safe Haven Drop-In Center, Colusa County Literacy Program, Colusa County Grown, Colusa High School Music and many more. Premier CEO John Ashbaugh said he is more than pleased to be a part of this project. “Colusa County has been very supportive and anytime we can give back to the community we like to do that,” he said. To learn more about the Farmer’s Market, become a vendor or inquire about the grant program contact Reynolds at (530)777-6767 or colusacountyfood@ hotmail.com. P
WILLIAMS PIONEER REVIEW • PAGE 9 • JULY 2, 2013
Agriculture
CDFA Approves Slight Increase in Price of Milk
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he minimum milk price paid to California dairy farmers will go up starting next month, but the adjustments amount to just a fraction of what producers had requested and half of the last price increase the California Department of Food and Agriculture granted earlier this year. In a hearing decision announced last week, the department ordered the temporary price increase— which applies to all five classes of milk and takes effect starting in July until the end of the year—despite a recommendation from CDFA's own hearing panel to not raise prices at all. The changes come as a result of a hearing held in May and will raise producers' monthly pool prices for the next six months by about 12.5 cents per hundredweight, according to CDFA. Specifically, the department
Williams Pioneer Review Source: California Farm Bureau Federation will increase Class 1 milk prices by 3 cents per cwt.; Class 2 and 3 by 5 cents per cwt.; and Class 4a and 4b by 15 cents per cwt. The current increases are half the level of what the department previously adopted after a hearing last December. That hearing resulted in a raise to producers' monthly pool price by about 25 cents per cwt. for four months—from February through the end of May. In a letter to dairy stakeholders, CDFA Secretary Karen Ross said she has ordered the temporary price relief for milk producers even though their "testimony on the hearing record failed to provide economic data to justify the industry's positions." But she said current market conditions, specifically "the uncertainty of the 2013 corn crop and questions about the stability of the market recovery," warrant a temporary
adjustment to minimum milk prices. Producer groups expressed disappointment in the latest decision. They had asked CDFA to raise the Class 4b price—which cheese manufacturers pay for milk— by about $1.20 per cwt., an adjustment that would have resulted in an increase of about 50 cents to producers' basic pool price. Processors supported a sixmonth extension of the same temporary price increases the department had set back in February, which would have increased producers' pool price by about 25 cents per cwt. "This is the first time in recent memory that CDFA has adopted a producer price increase that is less than the amount that large private processors considered fair," said Lynne McBride, executive director of Turlock-based California Dairy Campaign. "The decision by the secretary makes it clear that our state system is failing dairy producers." The proposal that producers presented during the hearing mirrors a milk pricing formula they have introduced through Assembly Bill 31, which would establish a formula for dry whey that brings California prices closer in line with what's paid to dairy farmers in surrounding states under the federal milk marketing order. Dairy farmers have long held that there has been a disparity between the whey value in the state's Class 4b price and the federal order's whey value. They decided to sponsor AB 31—which would direct CDFA to set a value for dry whey in the 4b
price no less than 8 percent of the whey value used in the federal order—after repeated attempts to address the issue through hearings with CDFA, said Michael Marsh, CEO of Western United Dairymen. Marsh said dairy organizations are "going to keep pushing the California Legislature" to see if it will provide relief beyond that announced by CDFA. AB 31 is now held in the Assembly Appropriations Committee as a two-year bill, after the Assembly Agriculture Committee in May decided it was not yet ready to make the sweeping changes in the bill but wanted to keep AB 31 alive. Instead, committee leaders asked CDFA to hold a hearing to consider the need for additional price relief. But in the end, CDFA's hearing panel determined that milk prices have improved enough this year to push producer margins positive again, even with feed costs continuing at historic high levels, and that the state's milk supply appears to be balanced in relation to demand. Without concrete data, the panel said, there is concern that a temporary price increase would disrupt "the normal marketing conditions of the state's milk supplies or finished dairy products." Rachel Kaldor, executive director of Dairy Institute of California, which represents processors, said the group's hearing testimony reflected the findings of the hearing panel— that there were no economic factors to justify a continuation of a milk price increase. Continued on Page 10
WILLIAMS PIONEER REVIEW • PAGE 10 • JULY 2, 2013
CDFA Approves Slight Increase in Price of Milk But given that several legislators had asked for the CDFA hearing—saying that the Legislature is not the place to impose one side's milk pricing preference—and given that they had also asked producers and processors to work toward short- and long-term solutions, "we requested that the secretary's decision be modest and of short duration," Kaldor said. The hearing panel did not address a key concern for dairy farmers—that the state's dry whey value continues to lag behind what's in the federal order. "That's unfortunate, because it was an opportunity to bring some clarity to very muddy waters," Marsh said. Rob Vandenheuvel, general manager of Milk Producers Council, said even though the law requires CDFA to consider
the relationship between the state's minimum milk prices and the prices paid for comparable milk around the country, the department did not mention the issue in its hearing panel report. "We obviously think the staff at CDFA made a gross error in their analysis by ignoring this critical piece," he said. In her stakeholder letter, Ross continued to stand by the California Dairy Future Task Force that she formed last year as the best venue to work on a longterm overhaul of the state's milk pricing system, even as she acknowledged other ongoing efforts—through legislation and, potentially, the federal milk marketing order—that are attempting to achieve the same goal. Meanwhile, three dairy cooperatives—
California Dairies Inc., Dairy Farmers of America and Land O'Lakes—said they are moving ahead with drafting regulatory language to initiate the process of replacing California's current milk marketing order with a federal order. The cooperatives said they decided to pursue the change after reviewing findings from a study they had commissioned last year that suggests "a properly written federal milk marketing order" could potentially result in higher farm gate prices and benefit California dairy farmers. In addition to drafting the language, the process for implementing this change requires a petition to the U.S. Department of Agriculture, a public hearing and approval by two-thirds of the state's dairy farmers. P
Senate Passes Immigration Bill Williams Pioneer Review Source: California Farm Bureau Federation
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comprehensive immigration-reform measure passed the U.S. Senate Thursday by a vote of 68-32. Now that the Senate has acted, California Farm Bureau Federation President Paul Wenger says the House of Representatives should follow suit. Wenger said the Senate bill will help family farmers and ranchers address chronic problems in hiring an adequate, legal immigrant workforce. "People who work on California farms make a big contribution to our state and its economy," Wenger said. "It's time we provide immigrant farm employees with a system that recognizes their contributions and permits them to work legally on our farms and ranches." Wenger said the agricultural program included in the Senate immigration bill represents an agreement among agricultural organizations and the United Farm Workers on a system to benefit both farmers and their employees. It contains an agricultural program that accounts for people who want to enter the U.S. to work on farms and the people who are already in the country and can earn a chance for legal status while continuing to perform farm jobs. "People who are already in the country would have to pass a background check. If they don't have
legitimate work documents, they should be required to pay a fine. They should also be allowed to come out of the shadows and continue to contribute to our communities," Wenger said. He noted that the program in the Senate bill represents a bipartisan compromise. "It's not perfect but it's a big improvement from current programs that don't work for either farmers or their employees," Wenger said, encouraging the House to adopt similar reforms. "A workable agricultural immigration system benefits border security," Wenger said, "allowing border agents to concentrate on preventing drug dealers and other criminals from entering the country. We will work to make sure our representatives recognize that and create a reformed immigration system for farmers and their employees." Both senators from California, Democrats Barbara Boxer and Dianne Feinstein, voted in favor of the immigration bill. In a statement, Feinstein said she was "especially pleased" with the bill's agricultural provisions, which she noted include "creation of a new Blue Card program for legal status and a pathway to citizenship for current undocumented farm workers." Feinstein said the bill
"establishes two new agricultural visa programs to make sure farmers are able to legally hire future workers when local workers are unavailable." American Farm Bureau Federation President Bob Stallman said farm organizations will work with members in the House of Representatives to pass "responsible immigration-reform legislation," adding that he considers it "critical that both chambers pass legislation that can be reconciled in conference and signed into law." The president and CEO of Western Growers, Tom Nassif, said he looks forward to passage of a companion immigration measure in the House. "Our immigration system is broken," Nassif said. "Without leadership and courage from our elected representatives and workable new legislation to correct these problems, it cannot be fixed." In a joint statement, California Secretary of Food and Agriculture Karen Ross, Wenger, Nassif and UFW President Arturo Rodriguez called the Senate immigration bill "a significant and compassionate step forward for this nation" and encouraged the House "to take similar action." Permission for use is granted, however, credit must be made to the California Farm Bureau Federation when reprinting this item. P
WILLIAMS PIONEER REVIEW • PAGE 11 • JULY 2, 2013
Free Medical Alert Robo-Calls Alarm Consumers BBB wars to hang up! Williams Pioneer Review
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etter Business Bureau Serving Northeast California is warning of automated calls offering free medical alert systems that prompt consumers to disclose credit card information. According to consumers, they receive telephone calls with prerecorded messages that claim a relative or friend recommended them for a free product. Recipients of the call are prompted to press a number to accept the offer. After accepting, another call is initiated to request personal information including credit card numbers. The calls claim to be from various well-known medical alert service providers, but the providers contend the calls are not originating from them. Better Business Bureau urges call recipients to end the call. Some consumers have reported accepting the free monitoring system only to find out later they have been billed for services. Several consumers report the phone number comes in as blocked, or that when they attempt to call the number
back, they find that the number on their caller ID is not in service. “Free offers are very enticing as they seem to carry no conditions or risk,” said Gary Almond, president of BBB Serving Northeast California. “Not so. Free offers often fail to disclose conditions and can lead to unauthorized charges.” In California, calls made via automatic dialing-announcing devices, or “robo-calls” are only legal when the recipient is already a member or client of the company or organization initiating the phone call, or if an emergency system is contacting you regarding an emergency situation. In other cases, these calls are acceptable if a live person announces the nature of the call, the contact information for the company represented and obtains consent from the person called to hear the prerecorded message. Better Business Bureau offers the following suggestions when receiving unsolicited phone calls:
• Remember that pre-recorded calls in California are typically not lawful. • Check the background of any company before doing business with them. • Get the specifics. The Federal Trade Commission requires free offers disclose all terms and conditions of the offer. • Take your time in making a decision. Watch for salespeople who claim an offer is only good today. • Keep a record of the number on your caller ID, hang up and discuss the purchase with a friend or family member. Be wary of doing business with someone calling from a blocked number. • Do not give credit card or Medicare numbers to callers you do not know. • If you think the call is illegal, file a complaint with your telephone company and the FTC.
How to Avoid Massive Student Loan Debts
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Williams Pioneer Review
ith college costs skyrocketing, more college students are waking to the realization that they are trapped under massive debts. It doesn’t have to be this way, say experts. The numbers are staggering, as 65 percent of student loan borrowers misunderstand or are surprised by aspects of their student loans, according to studies. And student loans account for the most common form of increasing debt among ages 1824, with 60 percent of students graduating with an average of $24,572.45 in student loan debt. Students are not being taught enough financial responsibility, say experts at Lexington Law, a leading provider of consumer credit correction services. Only four states require a class in financial education. As such, many educators are urging greater financial education requirements.
In the meantime, there are things students can do to avoid getting buried under debt. A recent survey revealed that one in three graduates would have pursued one of the following, if they could do it all again: • Scholarships • Financial aid • Started saving earlier • Pursued higher paying majors • Worked while in college Parents and students can access free financial education tips and services at www.lexingtonlaw.com. Remember, a little knowledge can help secure your wallet.
WILLIAMS PIONEER REVIEW • PAGE 12 • JULY 2, 2013
City of Williams Aquatic Program Welcome to the Williams Parks and Recreation Aquatics Program. Our goal is to provide a quality program and to encourage family participation through various water-related activities. The facility is fully staffed with certified American Red Cross lifeguards who are dedicated to providing great customer service and customer safety. We would like to thank you for choosing our programs. Free Family Night Every Tuesday From 6 p.m. to 8 pm Pool Hours & Admission 12 p.m. to 6 p.m., Tuesday through Saturday Children (under 18) - $1.00; Adults - $1.50 NOTE: Williams Pool is available for private party rentals. Please call 473-2603 for more information. FREE Swim Days Free Swim Days - Every Friday starting June 28th, from 11a.m. to 6 p.m. June 28th – Sponsor: Recology Butte Colusa Counties July 5th - Sponsor: Williams Market & Bazaar July 6th – Sponsor: California Family Foods July 12th _ Sponsor: Ramada Inn July 19th – Sponsor: Valley West Care Center July 26th _ Sponsor: Granzellas Inc. Aug 2nd – Sponsor: Fouch & Son Pharmacy Swim Lesson Registration Pre-register at the pool or by mail until Saturday, July 27th. $25 per person each session. Classes Begin July 30th • Starfish - Mommy or daddy and me! Class is for infants 18 to 48 months. 6:30 p.m. – 7:00 p.m. • Tadpole – (Introduction to Water Skills) ages 4-7. Water exploration and basic skills for beginners. 9:00 a.m - 9:30 a.m. • Tadpole – (Introduction to Water Skills) ages 8-13. Water exploration and basic skills designed for older children. 9:30 a.m. - 10:00 a.m. • Guppy – (Fundamental Aquatic Skills) ages 4-13. Teaches fundamental swimming skills for students that have passed Introduction Level Class. 10:00 a.m. - 10:30 a.m. • Shark – (Stroke Development) ages 7-13. Intermediate swimmers who are ready to learn stroke confidence. 6:00 p.m. - 6:30 p.m. • Barracuda – (Stroke Refinement) ages 8-13. Advanced swimmers who have passed Shark level and ready to learn to refine their swimming strokes. Excellent preparation for swim teams. 6:00 p.m. - 6:30 p.m. • Adult Beginner – (Introduction to Water Skills) ages 14 and up. Basic aquatic skills specifically designed for older
non-swimmers. 7:00 p.m. – 7:45 p.m. Frequently Asked Questions How do I know what class to choose? Follow the level guide and choose the level of your child’s skills. If you are still unsure of which level your child may be in, please contact Pool Personnel for assessment. Can I participate in the swim lessons with my child? Parent involvement in their child’s aquatic development is encouraged, however, during swim sessions (except parent/child aquatics), it is important that the child learns independently of his/her parent. This allows for the child to create a trusting relationship with the instructor and promotes development. Some Pool Notes • A change of clothing and an extra towel is recommended. • Swimsuits are required. No un-hemmed shorts or see through shirts allowed. • Swim Diapers are required for children that are not potty trained. Swim Diapers may be purchased at the pool. • No refunds after sessions have started. • The department reserves the right to cancel any class for lack of adequate registration or other reasons deemed necessary.