Pigsqueak

California fescue or Blue fescue
Festuca californica
Blue fescue is a California native plant that tolerates our summer drought and various soil types. It has graceful, gray-green leaves and airy flowers that mature to a golden yellow color. The flowers attract butterflies. This grass is my favorite. It has a beautiful blue gray color and the flowers are a nice change during the summer.

Ivy leaf cyclamen
Cyclamen hederifolium
The scented rose-pink or white flowers bloom in late summer and early fall before the leaves emerge. This needs to be planted in dry shade. The ivy leaf cyclamen tolerates a wide variety of soil types and can also grow well in containers.

The Master Gardeners of Colusa County can be contacted by: Email glhernandez@ucanr.edu. Phone (530) 458-0570. office, 100 Sunrise Blvd., Ste. E, Colusa, on Tuesdays between the hours of 9:00 am to 4:00 pm. – or visit us at our plant clinics, farmers markets, Colusa County Fair and at other area events.

Mrs. Lovelady's class with the Williams Fire Department

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Mrs. Lovelady's students at La Fortuna Bakery

Anthony Camarena from Mrs. Lovelady's class petting the Police K-9 Rowdy

Williams Kindergarten Students received a special treat prior to the last day of school – a visit from the Williams Fire and Police Departments and a field trip to local businesses.

“The week long activity included at trip for gelato at Granzella’s and a lesson in bread making and a sweet treat from La Fortuna Bakery,” said Williams Kindergarten Teacher, Keri Lovelady, “It was absolutely delicious and the students had a blast.”

Both Granzella’s and LaFortuna provided treats for the children at little to no cost.

“We are so lucky to have these wonderful restaurants in our community,” said Lovelady.

Later in the week, the Williams Police Department visited the students to discuss safety.

“They brought along K-9 Rowdy for an amazing demonstration,” said Lovelady, “Rowdy showed off his skills and ability follow commands while chasing a ‘bad guy’ in a bite suit.”

At the end of the demonstration, the children were allowed to pet Rowdy.

“It is a memory the students will treasure,” Lovelady commented.

The Williams Fire Department made a special appearance and discussed fire safety.

“The students interacted with the fire equipment and practiced ‘stop-drop-and-roll,’” said Lovelady, “the children even practiced shouting for help.”

Lovelady commented that the children also practiced exiting a building while holding onto a fireman in full gear.

“Last but not least, the kids had the opportunity to take a ride in the fire trucks,” said Lovelady, “including lights and sirens!”

The Williams Kindergarten Students received a special experience during their last week of school, one they are sure not to forget.

“We are extremely grateful to have the service officers in our community,” said Lovelady.

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2015 Williams Pioneer Day

On Saturday, June 6, 2015, the Citizens for a Better Williams hosted the 42nd annual Williams Pioneer Day.

A day filled with fun, family, and good friends; Pioneer Day has been a long-standing tradition for the residents of Williams – celebrating its diverse heritage, and community.

At 9:00 a.m., about 18 street vendors set up along E street, selling delicious food items, unique goods, and provided useful information to the community.

At-about 10:00 a.m. the Pioneer Day parade began with the Colusa County VFW and Maxwell American Legion leading the color guard followed by area emergency services and over 25 parade entries.

“It was a great turnout,” said Margaret Harlow, Citizen for a Better Williams member and parade organizer, “we had a great number of entries this year.”

The parade entries were judged and taking first place was the Williams Family Action Center; the Williams Fire Department placed second, and Morning Star Inc. placed third.

“We would like to thank everyone who came out and supported Pioneer Day,” said Pat Ash, Citizen for a Better Williams President, “thank you for making the event a success.”

The day came to an end with a fireworks display, sponsored by Morning Star Company.

Williams Pioneer Day is a collective effort between the Citizens for a Better Williams volunteers, City of Williams Public Works, the Williams Police Department, the Colusa County Sheriff’s

Volunteer Unit, and the Williams Fire Department.

“I would like to give a special thank you to Morning Star Company for their contribution to the fireworks display,” said Ash, “I would also like to thank Fire Chief, Jeff Gilbert for making sure that the display was done safely.”

Ash also commented that she would like to express her thanks to the Vann Brothers for the use of their property to ignite the fireworks display.

Don’t forget to mark your calendars for the Citizens for a Better Williams Festival of Lights on Saturday, December 12, 2015. Next year’s Williams Pioneer Day will be hosted on Saturday, June 4, 2016.

The driver, Denise Gilmore, 55 of Redding California was traveling southbound in a 2002 Chrysler and experienced a seizure.

According to the California Highway Patrol, Gilmore’s condition caused her vehicle to travel in a western direction off of the roadway.

Her vehicle collided with a metal barbed wire fence and post. Gilmore’s vehicle then continued in a western direction and struck a tree where it then continued to travel in a southern direction.

Gilmore’s vehicle came to rest in a ditch area filled with tule reeds.

Gilmore sustained minor injuries as a result of the collision.

According to the California Highway Patrol, Gilmore’s use of her seat-belt prevented her from sustaining more serious injuries as a result of the traffic collision.

The collision is under investigation with the Williams Area CHP office.

“Carefree summer travel requires extra care by motorists to make sure the trip is not ruined by problems,” CHP Commissioner Joe Farrow said. “Drive at a safe speed, maintain your vehicle, and be aware of the challenges of summer driving.”

Some of the hazards of summer driving:

• Leaving children or animals in a vehicle – dangerous at any time of year – becomes extremely dangerous. Be sure that all children are properly restrained in a safety seat or booster seat when driving.
• More new drivers, generally young and inexperienced, will be on the road when school is not in session.
  Visitors not only generate more traffic on the roadways, but those who are unfamiliar with an area may be distracted looking for landmarks and exits.
• High temperatures may create problems for tires and engines. Hot weather can lead to blowouts in tires that have not been well maintained.
• More bicycles, motorcycles and pedestrians are on the roads. Pedestrians can be unpredictable and hard to see, especially in bad weather or after dark.
• Forest and grass fires generate smoke, reducing visibility and sometimes causing road closures. More emergency vehicles may be on the road in a fire area.
• Check for road reports before you leave home.

“When school is out and temperatures climb, family travel can be a happy occasion,” said OTS Director Rhonda Craft. “We can make sure it stays that way with a little trip planning and attention to safe driving.”

OTS also reminds drivers to make safety a priority:

• Buckle Up. Every Trip. Every Time.
• If you have a vehicle issue, drive out of traffic lanes and off the highway if possible – freeway shoulders are not a safe place for repair work.
• Research road conditions and closures before getting in the car. Visit www.quickmap.dot.ca.gov for real time highway conditions.

A few more tips for safe summer driving from the CHP:

• Vehicle care is critical: oil changes, cooling system, tires, belts and hoses, and windshield wipers and wiper fluid should all be well maintained​.
• Carry a roadside emergency kit with fresh water, cell phone, first aid kit, flashlight, flares and a white flag, jumper cables, jack (and ground mat) for changing a tire, work gloves, basic repair tools and duct tape, a jug of water and paper towels for cleaning up, nonperishable food, extra windshield washer fluid, and maps.

“This was a great opportunity for our students and staff to show our support for our troops,” said Rivera, “This is a very special topic for me as both my sons are in the military and one has been deployed six times overseas.”

Students and staff members began collecting Care Package items which would be sent to our troops for their Fourth of July celebration!

Many of the items included instant coffee, instant oatmeal, instant soups, granola bars, toiletries, sunscreen, and other items included on the list of approved items most needed by our troops.

Williams Upper Elementary Students also made colorful, patriotic pictures, cards and other letters what will be included in the care packages.

“We were overwhelmed with the generosity, and pride of our campus,” said Rivera.

Rivera has also began collecting the names of former students and current staff members who’ve served for our country and placing their names on a special display in the school office.

“I have collected about 40 names, going back to 2002,” said Rivera.

Operation Care Package is a combined effort between the Red Cross Capital Region, KCRA Channel 3, and the Roseville Automall. ■

Volunteers are still being sought to staff the Colusa County boot at the California State Fair in Sacramento.

The fair opens Friday, July 10th, and closes Saturday, July 26, 2015.

All volunteers will receive a admissions ticket, and complementary parking at the State Fair.

Volunteers will need to provide their full name, drivers license number, date of birth, and zip code for Megan’s Law verification.

If you’re interested, contact the UC Cooperative Extension Office in Colusa at (530) 458-0570.

Colusa County Sheriff’s Sergeant Michael Bradwell

Colusa County Sheriff’s Sergeant Michael Bradwell was among 218 law enforcement officers to graduate June 12 from the Federal Bureau of Investigation’s 260th session of its National Academy in Quantico, Virginia. Included in this class were members of law enforcement agencies from the District of Columbia, 20 international countries, five military organizations, and three federal civilian organizations.

Internationally known for its academic excellence, the National Academy, held at the FBI Academy, offers ten weeks of advanced communication, leadership, and fitness training for selected officers having proven records as professionals within their agencies.

Sergeant Bradwell has worked for the Sheriff’s Office since 2006 and is currently assigned to the Field Services Division.

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Photographs are artist rendition of the project. The final paint appearance may appear differently.

At roughly 78 years old, the Pierce High School auditorium is overdue for some much-needed TLC and a longtime project finally coming to fruition.

“It has been quite some time since the Pierce Auditorium was painted,” said Pierce Joint Unified School District Superintendent, Carol Geyer, “I believe it was done in 1991 when repairs were made to the roof – and before that was most likely during the 1980’s.”

Gone will be the faded tan and brown walls, and no longer will paint chips hang from the ceiling.

“The auditorium will be painted in the school’s colors blue and gold, and in an art deco time-period appropriate design,” said Geyer, “we are also removing the old heating and air conditioning ducting and replacing the floor runners and floor lighting.”

The project painting bid was awarded and is estimated to cost the district $70,000. Geyer plans to have the project completed before students return to school.

Besides repainting the auditorium, Geyer would eventually like to replace the dated and deteriorating stage curtains and window treatments.

“The red stage curtain will no longer match the color scheme and is in dire need of replacing,” said Geyer, “the window treatments also need to be replaced as well.”

Though not in the budget for this go around, Geyer hopes that Pierce Alumni would be interested in donating or fundraising to complete the facelift of their alma mater.

“When we started the painting project, I had several people ask me how they could help,” said Geyer, “I want to open the opportunity for our community to give back to our beloved auditorium.”

Not only used for school assembly’s, the Pierce High School auditorium is has hosted community events, school drama performances, as well as concerts and dance recitals,

“If anyone is looking to help, or to contribute, please stop by the district office,” said Geyer.

Geyer commented that the project has been under the artful vision of Pierce Alumn Debbie Charter, and Pierce High School Educator Rebecca Harvey-Rutz, “They are doing an amazing job overseeing the project.”

The current Pierce High School Building was constructed in 1937 after the town successfully petitioned to change the location of the school to its current site. Arbuckle won by a two-to-one margin against College City, The school was built at a cost of $225,000 that included a trustee bond of $125,000 and $100,000 match by the federal government.

Market Street Grill owner, Diane Shuman always wanted to give back to her community, and she is doing it one bowl of soup at a time.

“I am very pleased to announce a new endeavor for Market Street Grill,” said Shuman, “With every bowl of soup that you purchase at Market Street Grill, we are contributing a bowl of soup to someone in need.”

Partnering with ‘A Hand Up’ and the Colusa Presbyterian Church, Market Street Grill will be providing nourishing, and wholesome bowls of soup to those in need.

“Looking around our own community, I realized there was a need that fit well with our mission at Market Street Gril,” said Shuman, “For many families living near or below the poverty line in the United States, putting nutritious food on the table can be a huge struggle.”

While less healthy alternatives might be cheaper, but can contribute to childhood obesity and other health issues.

“Healthy eating is one tenant of a well-balanced life.  A person’s physical, mental and social health are connected to diet, and to one another.  Improving one element can have a positive impact on the others.” said Shuman.

In February of 2014, Market Street Grill has been on providing fresh, healthy food for all of its customers.

“With these thoughts lying on my heart, the answer was simple,” said Schuman, “For every bowl of soup purchased, we will provide a bowl of soup to those in need. Every time you purchase a bowl of soup, you’re joining us in that endeavor.”

“We’ll make the same delicious foods that you enjoy in the restaurant,” Schuman added.

According to the US Census Bureau, in 2013 12.5% of Colusa County’s population was at or below the poverty level.

“Right here in our community, the need is real and immediate,” said Schuman.

When asked where she got the idea, Schuman credited the workings of Blak Mycoskie the Founder and Chief Shoe Giver of TOMS and author of the book Start Something That Matters,

“Blak is the person behind the idea of One for One®, a business model that helps a person in need with every product purchased,” said Schuman, “After reading his book Start Something That

Matters, I was inspired to find a way to help.  One for One®.  A simple, yet revolutionary idea, with rippling effects.”

“We want to thank you for your continued business and support, and for joining us in making our community a better place for all,” Schuman added.

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On Thursday, June 18th, 2015 the Colusa County Girl Scout Troops 4134 and 1764 received their artwork that was recently displayed at the Colusa County Fair.

Many of the troop members received top awards. In addition to their excitement of their own success, troop members extended a huge thank you to Jeanie Kessinger who is a Troop Volunteer.

According to troop leader, Debbie Schantz, Kessinger has helped many of the girls discover their artistic abilities through the various art projects.

“A former Girl Scout herself, Jeanie has devoted a large amount of her time to her community and the Girl Scouts, it is greatly appreciated,” said Schantz.

Kessinger was presented with a special artwork piece in which each troop member completed a portion thereof.

Stacey Zwald-Costello was recently named the Colusa County Free Library Librarian.

Costello, born in Colusa County, moved away as a young child but has many memories of visiting family.

“I have many memories of Colusa County growing up – we would often visit,” said Costello, “It feels good to be back ‘home.’”

Prior to being named the County Librarian, Costello worked as an assistant editor with the Martin Luther King, Jr. Research and Education Institute at Stanford University and worked as the Curatorial Assistant in the History Department at the Oakland Museum of California.

Costello holds a Master’s Degree in Library and Information Science from San Jose State University, and a B.A. and an M.A. in American History from St. Mary’s College of California and San Francisco State respectively.

“I look forward to working with the community and raising my daughter in a place that has meant so much to me,” said Costello.

While finishing up her first week on the job, Costello is working towards familiarizing herself with the library, its patrons, and its programs.

“I hope everyone will be patient with me as I learn the ropes,” Costello added.

As Costello builds her future at the Colusa County Library, she is also celebrating the 100th Anniversary of the Colusa County Library.

“It is really exciting that our library is celebrating its 100th year; our library is an excellent resource for our community,” said Costello, “I invite everyone to stop in and check out a book, at the Colusa County Library.”

The Colusa County Library and the Friends of the Colusa County Library are currently planning a quarterly events, in celebration of the 100th year.

“We are planning an official reception in September with anticipation that the California State Librarian and California Governor will attend.” said Nancy Newlin, Committee Member of the Friends of the Colusa County Library.

As the committee finalizes its plans, more information will be available during that time.

EDITOR NOTE: The printed version of this article contained an error in Stacey Zwald-Costello’s name. We apologize for this error and the online version has been updated to reflect the correction.

Rosa was a member of the Our Lady of Lourdes Catholic Church in Colusa. She enjoyed cooking, helping others in need, and being with family.

Rosa is survived by her husband Jesus Lugo; her children Jonathan Gutierrez, Jesus Lugo and, Jayda Lugo of Colusa, CA; Her mother Enriqueta Gutierrez of Williams, CA,; siblings Linda Jaime of Williams, CA, America Gutierrez of Turlock, CA, Jesus Gutierrez of  Meridian, CA,  Maria Gutierrez of Yuba City, CA, Eduardo Gutierrez of Williams, CA, Juan Gutierrez of Mexico, Sergio Gutierrez of  Mexico, and Sagrario Gutierrez of Mexico.

She was preceded in death by her father Juan Gutierrez.

Memorial contributions may be made in Rosa’s name to the American Cancer Society.

A Visitation will be held on Wednesday, July 1, 2015 from 5-8 with a Rosary at 7:00pm at McNary-Moore Chapel 107 5th Street Colusa.

A Funeral Mass will be held on Thursday July 2, 2015 a 10:00 a.m. at Our Lady of Lourdes Catholic Church on 4th and Oak Colusa, Burial to follow at Holy Cross Catholic Cemetery 1741 Wescott Road Colusa.

Arrangements are under the direction of McNary-Moore Funeral Service FD-410.

Arrangements are under the direction of McNary-Moore Funeral Service. (530) 458-2111.

Williams Cooperative VBS is pleased to announce that together with Child Evangelism Fellowship, they will be providing the children of Williams with a week of FREE Vacation Bible School this summer.

God’s Jungle Adventure is the name of this year’s VBS and will take place July 6 – July 10 at the Williams Community Church from 9 am to 12 Noon each day.

All children who have completed Kindergarten through 6^th grade are invited to attend.

Students will enjoy exciting Bible stories, lively Missionary stories, faith-filled music, fun games, creative crafts, and great tasting snacks.

On Friday, kids will invite their parents to a program and perform for them.

After the performance will be the awards for perfect attendance, most memory verses learned and a bicycle giveaway.

Don’t miss all the fun, call Laurie Klewe today at 458-4503 to register your children today!

On Monday, July 20, 2015, officers from the Colusa Police Department and community members will come together in an informal, neutral space to discuss community issues, build relationships and enjoy a cup of coffee.

All community members are invited to attend.

The event will be at Market Street Grill, 415 Market Street, Colusa starting at 9:00 am.

“The Coffee with a Cop provides a unique opportunity to converse with members of the community in a natural, non-threatening atmosphere and allowing them to communicate concerns,” said acting Colusa Police Chief, Josh Fitch, “community members will also have an opportunity to meet their police officers, and to build trust within the community.”

The majority of contacts law enforcement has with the public happens during emergencies or emotional situations. These situations are not always the most effective times for a relationship building with the community. Additionally, some community members may feel that officers are unapproachable on the street.

Coffee with a cop breaks down barriers and allows for a relaxed one-on-one interaction.

Coffee with a Cop is a national initiative supported by The United States Department of Justice, Office of Community Oriented Policing Services. Similar events are being held throughout the United States, as local police departments strive to make lasting connections with the communities they serve.

The program aims to advance the practice of community policing through improving relationships between police officers and community members one cup of coffee at a time.

Chief Fitch hopes that the event will be well attended and to make the event a monthly feature.

The Colusa County Arts Council will host a “Meet and Greet” artist reception for the opening of its monthly exhibits, featuring the artistic talents of Sandy Lindblad, Peter Adams and Max Komissarchik.

The reception will be held on Thursday, July 2, 2015, from 5:00 PM to 7:30 PM at the Colusa County Arts Council, 430 Market Street, in Colusa.

The reception will include refreshments and good company, and the public is welcome to meet the artists and tour the gallery.

Exhibits will be on display through the month of July. The Colusa County Arts Council Gallery is open Monday through Friday from 11 AM to 2 PM and on Saturday from 11 AM to 3 PM. <

The night sky filled with colorful explosions is a beautiful thing to celebrate the Independence Day holiday – however, it’s a sight that is not to cheap to pull off.

For the last several years, Thomas Reische has been solely responsible for the campaign and fundraising efforts for Colusa’s annual fireworks display. With the event well underway, Reische commented that the committee still needs public donations to meet its $12,000 goal.

“The Rotary Club and Recology have donated $3,000 each,” said Reische, “however we are still far away from meeting our goal.”

Reische is optimistic as traditionally donations arrive at the last minute, but keeping the word out, and making a donation is a sure way to keep the tradition going.

“The Colusa Firefighters Association has kindly allowed us to utilize their organization for donation purposes, and all donations are tax-deductible,” said Reische.

To make a donation, make your checks payable to the Colusa Firefighters Association and mail them to 750 Market Street, Colusa. Remember to add 4th of July Fireworks Show in the Memo.

“I would like to thank everyone for their support and their generous contributions,” said Reische, “together we can provide another great fireworks show and to allow Colusa to be one of the few remaining communities hosting a Fourth of July Celebration in honor of our Nation’s Independence.”

The Colusa 4th of July Fireworks Show is held each year at the Colusa Riverfront Park, located on Main Street at approximately 9:45 PM.

On Saturday, July 4, 2015, the Colusa Lions Club will host its annual rubber ducky race; with the race beginning around 2:00 PM.

Rubber duckies can be purchased for $5 at Messick’s Ace Hardware, or by a Local Lions Club Member.

After prize money has been distributed, remaining funds will benefit Egling Middle School for their 6th Grade yearly trip to Shady Creek.