Drunk and drugged driving remains the number one killer on our roadways, with nearly 802 DUI deaths and 24,000 Alcohol Involved Injuries reported statewide. The “Avoid the 9” DUI Task Force is stepping up enforcement efforts to crack down, catch and arrest impaired drivers who put themselves and others at risk.

With the Independence Day holiday being one of the deadliest holidays of the year, a sobriety DUI checkpoint will be conducted on Friday, July 3, 2015 starting at 6 PM to Saturday, July 4, 2015 at 1 AM in downtown Colusa.

Besides the DUI checkpoint, Officers from the Colusa, Williams, and Marysville Police Departments and the California Highway Patrol will deploy a DUI saturation patrol throughout the weekend. Officers will show zero tolerance for impaired drivers.

The “Avoid the 9” DUI Task Force reminds everyone that there are numerous consequences as a result of being caught driving impaired, such as the risk of killing or harming others, jail time, insurance hikes, potential loss of a driver’s license, just to name a few.

The “Avoid the 9” DUI Task Force recommends these simple tips for a safe Fourth of July:

1. Plan a safe way home before the fun begins
2. Before drinking, designate a sober driver
3. If you are impaired, call a sober friend or family member
4. If you happen to see an impaired driver, call 911
5. If you know someone who is going to drive impaired, take their keys and help them make arrangements to get where they are going safely.

The Marysville Police Department is the host agency for the “Avoid the 9” Campaign and funding for the “Avoid the 9” campaign is from a grant from the California Office of Traffic Safety, through the National Highway Traffic Safety Administration.

Low water levels causing hazards

An analysis of 2014 recreational boating accidents shows that drought makes boating riskier, according to the California State Parks Division of Boating and Waterways.

Recreational boating accident statistics collected by DBW show that although the total number of reported boating accidents in the state fell slightly from 2013 to 2014, drought conditions persisting throughout the state bring additional risks.

“As water levels drop, underwater hazards become more prevalent,” said DBW’s Acting Deputy Director Christopher C. Conlin. “It is critical for all boaters, inland and coastal, to plan ahead, exercise caution and make sure everyone in a boat is wearing a proper-fitting life jacket.”

Low water levels and boat operator inattention were the primary factors in the increased number of recreational boat collisions with fixed objects and groundings last year. Other highlights from a summary of 2014 boating accidents include:

• A 59 percent increase from 2013 in collisions with fixed objects and a 23 percent increase in groundings.
• Accidents on lakes decreased 29 percent, while accidents on coastal waters increased 35 percent, reflecting the drought-induced shift of boating recreation from inland lakes to coastal areas.
• Of the 39 California boating fatalities in 2014, 59 percent of victims drowned. In those cases where investigators could determine whether a life jacket was used, 96 percent of victims were not wearing a life jacket.
• Boater on California’s waterways should use common sense and follow this advice to stay safe:

• PLAN AHEAD: You should plan ahead and find out if your favorite boating spot has any boating operating restrictions. If your favorite spot is closed for boating and you opt to boat in a river or ocean, remember that operating vessels in these environments is very different than in lakes. Plan ahead, take a boating safety class or invite someone with experience to show you how to boat safely in rivers or the ocean.

• EQUIP YOUR BOAT: Make sure your boat is ready for the boating season. All required equipment must be onboard. Most importantly, make sure you have Coast Guard-approved and properly fitted life jackets for everyone on board.

• HAZARDS: Adjust your boating activities to the drought conditions. Water conditions are low enough in many places to make for hazardous boating. Areas that were easily boated a year ago may be dangerous this year. Keep a proper lookout for trees, snags, sandbars, etc.

• BOAT RESPONSIBLY: Take a boating safety class or course to further minimize boating accidents. It is also critical for everyone in a boat to practice common sense measures, such as wearing a life jacket at all times, avoiding the consumption of alcohol and operating boats at safe speeds. Last year, the top three causes (statewide) of boating accidents were operator inattention, excessive speed and operator inexperience.

DBW promotes boating and water safety through an array of awareness programs, including a safety media campaign. The theme of this year’s campaign is — “Make your H2Oath at BoatCalifornia.com and Wear It California!”

The campaign’s messages emphasize the importance of wearing a life jacket and saving water.

Water conservation can keep water in California’s lakes and therefore provide more recreational opportunities. The use of life jackets can help you enjoy these recreational opportunities in a safe manner — accident statistics show that fatalities can be decreased significantly when boaters wear a properly-fitted life jacket.

Please visit www.BoatCalifornia.com to explore ways you can keep your family and friends safe on California’s waterways this summer and to take the H2Oath.<

Celebrating 100 Years of the Colusa County LibraryWhat Book Inspired you?

What Book Inspired you?

Bill Rohde pictured holding his prized Glass Insulator, and the book that started sparked his interst in the collection of Glass Insulators.

Milholland’s 2nd Edition, Most About Glass Insulators was the book that inspired a unique collection that Bill Rohde says “borderline hoarding.”

An appraiser and loan officer for Farm Credit Services of Colusa-Glenn, and a storm chaser hobbyist, Rohde is a passionate collector and enthusiast of glass insulators.

“I can remember the Fresno County Library Book Mobil coming to our area,” said Rohde, “as kids ordered your average kids books, I was looking for information about glass insulators.”

First produced in the 1850’s Glass Insulators were originally designed to keep wires linking telegraphs and telephones insulated from the wooden poles; as the expansion of electricity, there was a major manufacturing of insulators in the 1920’s through the 1940’s.

When Rohde first received the book ‘Most About Glass Insulators’, he recalled laying on his bed, listening to Led Zeplin while reading the book cover-to-cover.

“I can remember being amazed at all the different styles, colors, and shapes of the glass insulators,” said Rohde, “They fascinated me.”

Rohde checked out the book so many times that he was eventually allowed to buy the book.

And in the book ‘Most About Glass Inuslators’, Rohde found his favorite insulator.

I used to study it a lot – I would then begin drawing it,” said Rohde, “I even put it on my first business card. I absolutely loved it.”

Rohde later found his favorite glass insulator at a collectors convention.

Today, Rohde has a collection of over 50,000 Glass Insulators and serves as the treasurer of both the National Insulator Association and the Golden State Insulator Club.

“This has been a lifelong hobby for me,” said Rohde, “something that keeps me very busy – and to think it all started with a book.” <

With the celebration of Independence Day right around the corner, thousands are gearing up for a weekend long celebration of family, friends, barbecues, and of course fireworks.

Boom! Crackle! The sky lights up with a series of colors and flashes, then the roar of “oohs and aahs” from the crowd. Fireworks on the Fourth of July can be thrilling for Americans, but not for some of its heroes — Veterans coping with PTSD

“It’s upsetting to most Veterans with PTSD. It’s something they try to avoid,” said Dr. Jeffrey Fine, Director of the PTSD program at VA New York Harbor Healthcare System (VANYHHS). Dr. Fine said the reaction “can range from a startle to a full-blown anxiety attack and a flashback of combat.” That’s why, he explained, many Veterans keep noise-canceling headphones on hand.

Over the years, “some Veterans have acclimatized and have learned how to successfully minimize their reaction to fireworks, TV, and sudden noises.”

Clinical Psychologist Dr. Wendy Katz, also of VANYHHS, treats many Veterans with PTSD, who dread the Fourth.

“The flash of light, firecrackers, can sound to them like mortar attacks.” They are often also embarrassed by their exaggerated startled reaction in front of friends and family. “I worked with one Veteran, who took cover with his young son at this kind of celebration,” said Dr. Katz. “It’s very complicated for them since it’s supposed to be the birthday of freedom.”

Families can help ease the anxiety, said Clinical Psychologist Dr. Michael Kramer, a PTSD specialist at VANYHHS. If a Veteran has a strong negative reaction, he can have the support of his family and friends by anticipating a possible reaction and preparing for it. For example, if it is discussed, they can plan on where they will stand when they go out, make a point to stay close to exits and come up with a back-up plan if the Veteran has a bad reaction.” Dr. Kramer also recommended that patients avoid going out to see fireworks “if they predictably have strong negative reactions to fireworks, loud noises, and crowds.”

Dr. Fine agreed. “It’s a matter of personal choice about how much a Veteran wants to risk having to deal with a bad reaction, balanced with the reluctance to isolate themselves from the center of the action.”

The Independence Day celebration is partly about celebrating veterans and in the great spirit of our nation here are some ways we all can show our compassion for those that have defended our country.

• Consider viewing public firework displays instead of setting ones off in your neighborhood.
• Talk with Veterans in your neighborhood to see if any particular fireworks are upsetting.
• Let neighbors know what time you will be setting off fireworks and for what length of time.
• Refrain from setting off fireworks at unexpected times during the day or early hours in the morning.
• Choose a location that will be least likely to disturb vets.
• Minimize the amount of fireworks that you set off.

Extreme heat and dry conditions have fire officials on high alert, and with continued abuse of illegal fireworks, Arbuckle Fire Chief, Casey Cox, is considering a firework ban.

“It was like a war zone last year here in Arbuckle,” said Chief Cox, “illegal fireworks were flying through the air – all over town. I am not sure when our residents became blind to the law, but enough is enough.”

Chief Cox commented that he was not against fireworks, but quite the opposite – as he quite enjoys them – yet the safety of the community, he is sworn to protect, comes first.

“I understand we all love our fireworks, and to many organizations fireworks are their largest fundraiser of the year; but burning down your home, your neighbors home or the loss of life –  isn’t worth it.” said Chief Cox.

As many Arbuckle residents witnessed last year, dozens of ‘bottle rocket’ type fireworks and professional grade fireworks were shot off last year. Most fireworks illegal, or operated without a proper permit.

“In years past, these types of fireworks have caused fires that threatened homes,” said Chief Cox, “and this year with the drought, there is an added safety concern.”

As firefighters battle blazes caused from firework negligence, often causes delays with other emergencies.

“What people don’t understand is that if we are fighting a fire caused by the negligence use of fireworks, we could be delayed responding to other emergencies,” said Chief Cox, “causing someone to lose their life isn’t worth a few a few seconds of sparkle.”

Only 296 communities within California that allow “Safe and Sane” fireworks for 2015 and fire departments across the state are urging extreme caution during California’s Drought.

“It can take hundreds of thousands of gallons of water to control a large fire,” said Chief Ken Pimlott, Director of CAL FIRE, ““We are urging the public to celebrate our nation’s independence by attending a professional fireworks display. For those who choose to use fireworks to celebrate, make sure fireworks are allowed in the area of use and follow all safety precautions. You don’t want to ruin your celebration by becoming financially responsible for a fire caused by your activities.”

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.

“I don’t want to be the bad guy and ban fireworks, but the Fire Department is asking for community support and to celebrate the 4th of July – safe and sane,” said Chief Cox, “However, if conditions continue as in years past, the Arbuckle Fire Board could make the decision and join other communities and banning fireworks altogether.”

Chief Cox added that if anyone has any questions regarding fireworks purchased to stop in at their local Fire Department for inspection.

“It’s better to be safe than sorry,” said Chief Cox.

Leo will be deeply missed by his Family.

He is survived by his 3 brothers Luis, Isac and Logan; his grandparents Martin & Rosa Garcia

A Visitation will be held on Thursday, July 9, 2015 from 5PM to 8PM.

A Funeral Mass will be held on Friday July 10, 2015 a 10:00 a.m. at Our Lady of Lourdes Catholic Church on 4th and Oak Colusa, once services are concluded cremation will be the final disposition.

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

Sheila worked as a cook at Colusa Regional Medical Center for over 10 years and Travelers Inn for several years. She enjoyed playing Bingo and cooking.

Sheila is survived by her children Bill Reister of New Hampshire, Bob Reister (Linda) of Los Banos, CA, Sonia (Russ) Wilson of Phoenix, AZ, Ed (Cyndy) Reister of Colusa, CA, Toni (Tom) Ballestero of Peoria, AZ. Brothers Rick Wilmoth of Colusa, CA, Clyde Loreto of Fresno.  19 Grandchildren and 38 Great Grandchildren.

She is preceded in death by her brother Jonny Loreto and her Mother Mary Wilmoth.

A celebration of Sheila’s life will be held at 10:00a.m. Wednesday July 15th at the McNary-Moore Chapel 107 5th Street Colusa. Private burial will be held at a later date.

Memorial contributions may be made in Patricia Sheila Reister’s name to the Colusa Regional Medical Center Foundation 199 E. Webster Street Colusa, CA 95932.

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

What is graywater?
Graywater is untreated wastewater collected from bathtubs, showers, washing machines and bathroom sinks and reused for outdoor irrigation or toilet flushing. It does not include wastewater from kitchen sinks or dishwashers. Of course, it does not include toilet water.

Is graywater allowed in my area and do I need a permit?
Current California law (as of January 1, 2014) graywater is legal but laws can change. A permit is not needed for simple clothes washing system.

Simple systems
Simple systems can include buckets of water collected from warming up the shower water. Just be sure to use the water within 24 hours of collection. In 2009 California declared it legal to divert washing machine water to home gardens. This is the easiest way to use graywater and does not need a permit.

Where do I use graywater?
Graywater should only be used on ornamental plants. It should not be used on edible plants. Use graywater friendly soaps, shampoos and detergents. The quality of your graywater depends upon what goes into it.

Benefits of graywater
Using a graywater system to irrigate landscape plants can conserve water by recycling water otherwise destined for a treatment plant. Most graywater systems will not supply enough water to irrigate the entire yard but it can supplement your irrigation.

Risks and problems of graywater
There has been limited research on the risks of graywater. Here are some possible risks.
•    Can have pathogens such as E. coli, salmonella.
•    Can contain, bleach, boron, salts.
•    Cannot store it over 24 hours.
•    Clogs drip systems.
•    Don’t use near a creek or river.
•    Don’t let it run off your property.
•    Need to use a mulch basin.
•    Don’t use on acid loving plants.
•    Don’t use on your lawn.

There are many resources for graywater on the internet. Please be careful what resources you use. I used resources from the University of California, several UC Master Gardener programs and Sunset.

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.

During the holiday weekend, law enforcement and fire officials commented that the weekend was luckily a quiet one.

“I would like to thank the community of Arbuckle for celebrating a safe and sane Fourth of July,” said Arbuckle Fire Chief, Casey Cox, “It was a very quiet evening and although we had a few incidents we were able to pinpoint the offenders.”

The community of Arbuckle celebrated a safe and sane holiday after news that fireworks may be banned if illegal fireworks continue.

“It appeared that everyone did a great job of keeping the illegal activity down and displaying their fireworks properly,” said Cox.

After word had hit the streets that a firework ban was on the horizon, Cox commented that people expressed concern and opted to have their fireworks checked for extra measure.

Although given a passing grade this year, Cox commented that the Arbuckle Community will be under a watchful eye on the next Fourth of July.

The Williams Fire Department reported no incidents caused from fireworks through the Fourth of July holiday.

Fireworks on the Sacramento River in Colusa went without a hitch, as hundreds came out to watch the spectacular show.

Sgt. Elden Tamez of the Colusa Police Department commented that the Fourth of July holiday was pretty quiet and had no issues of concern. The department was busy along with other area law enforcement cracking down on drivers under the influence.

Assistant Sheriff, Jim Saso commented that the Colusa County Sheriffs Department had a busy weekend with dozens of calls – several of those calls fireworks related; however, no citations or confiscations were made.

On Thursday, July 2, 2015, at approximately 8:15 AM, Justin Brink, 24 of Clearlake, CA was driving his vehicle a 2013 Mazda 3 in the southbound lane of SR 29 south of SR 175 just outside of Kelseyville.

According to the Clear Lake California Highway Patrol, for unknown reasons, Brink allowed his vehicle to cross the double yellow lines into the northbound lanes and into the path of Robert

Ochoa, 27, of Meridian, CA, driving a 2008 International refrigerated box truck.

As Brink’s vehicle crossed the double yellow lines, it collided with the left front of Ochoa’s vehicle.

Subsequently, Ochoa lost control of the vehicle and collided with a 2006 Toyota Solara traveling southbound driven by Monte Yttreness, 68, of Ukiah, CA.

Ochoa sustained fatal injuries as a result of the collision.

Brink sustained major injuries and was transported by air ambulance to Santa Rosa Memorial Hospital.

Yttreness and his passenger, Jeanne Yttreness, 64, of Ukiah, CA suffered minor injuries, and both were transported to Sutter Lakeside Hospital.

The Clear Lake Area CHP Office is currently investigating this incident and asks anyone with information regarding this collision to call the Clear Lake Area CHP Office at (707) 279-0103.

Ochoa was a former resident of Colusa and attended Colusa High School.

The news of Ochoa’s death saddened the small community where he grew up. It was said that Ochoa was active in his community and coached youth football.

A Go Fund Me account has been established to help with funeral expenses for Ochoa. The fund can be found at http://www.gofundme.com/yme38k

Husted Road home damaged by fire caused from an electrical issue with a window air conditioning unit. (Photo by Chris Nelson)

On Tuesday, June 30, 2015, at approximately 7:00 PM, the Williams Fire Department was dispatched to a structure fire located on Husted Road in Williams.

Upon arrival, fire crews were able to contain the fire to a single bedroom and extinguish quickly.

Williams Fire Chief, Jeff Gilbert commented that the fire was determined to have started from an electrical malfunction in a window air conditioning unit within the bedroom.

Occupants of the residence were able to exit the home safely, and no injuries were reported as a result of this incident.

Williams Home located on 8th & B Street in Williams damaged by fire, cause unknown. (Staff Photo)

On Thursday, July 2, 2015, the Williams Fire Department was dispatched to a structure fire at the corner of 9th and B Streets in Williams.

Upon arriving on the scene, the back portion of the home was fully engulfed and ignited surrounding vegetation.

According to Williams Fire Chief, Jeff Gilbert, the fire appeared to have started in the back utility porch where the washer and dryer were located; however the exact cause was not determined at the time of press.

The fire and fire extinguishing efforts caused extensive damage to the home.

Gilbert commented that everyone was able to exit the home safely, and no injuries were reported as a result of this incident.

Colusa County Transit Manager Kent Boes pictured with Colusa County Transit Driver Martin Vasquez in front of the new Transit Bus. The Bus is scheduled to be in service in the next couple of weeks. (Staff Photo)

At the June 30, 2015, meeting of the Colusa County Transit Authority, Transit Manager Kent Boes unveiled its new fleet of buses.

A total of five, 2015 Glaval, 19 passenger buses, were purchased with Public Transportation Modernization, Improvement, and Service Enhancement Account (PTIMESA) Grant Funds at a cost of $399,231.

The buses will replace its aging and high mileage vehicles currently in transit service.

In addition to new busses, the Colusa County Transit will sport a new color scheme and design.

The design was inspired by Williams High School Student, Deisy Paniagua, who submitted her artwork for the Colusa County Transit Bus Logo Competition.

Supervisor Kim Vann congratulated Paniagua and presented her with a $100 check.

Featuring key elements from Paniagua’s design, the new bus will feature the ‘Three Sisters’ mountain range and a country road.

“Everyone seemed very pleased with the new design,” said Boes, “I would like to congratulate Deisy on her accomplishment.”

The graphics were applied by Rough Ryderz of Colusa.

The new buses will also feature several security cameras that also record sound to enhance passenger and driver safety.

Boes also commented that the buses will continue to feature business advertising on the outside of the bus as well as feature spots in the interior.

“The new buses will have affordable advertising options for businesses inside the bus,” said Boes, “it’s a great opportunity for businesses to promote themselves.”

The PTIMESA Grant also allowed for the Colusa County Transit to repave its deteriorated parking lot and in the planning phase of a solar parking structure.

The Colusa County Transit is a Dial-a-ride Service servicing Colusa County. Open Monday through Friday from 7 AM to 7 PM.

Earlier this year the Colusa County Transit expanded its operation hours to 7 PM, allowing for county residents to utilize the public transportation system to travel to and from work.

For more information or to get a ride, call (530) 458-0287.

Picture of team: Top (L-to-R): Dereck Edwards, Blake Steidlmayer, Coach Meza, Cesar Lopez, Tomas Meza, Marcos Parra. Bottom (L-to-R): Daniel Meza, Bryson Bowen, Alex Velazquez, Alonso Navarro, Ben High. (Submitted Photo)

NorCal Swat was among 113 teams that battled it out at the 8th Annual 2015 SANTA CRUZ BOARDWALK JAM AAU Basketball Tournament, June 27-28th.  Led by Coach Cesar Meza, Swat looked to redeem themselves after placing 4th in the 2014 tourney.  “All these other clubs had never heard of Colusa County, until now”-Coach Meza. Swat includes area players from Williams, Colusa, Arbuckle, Maxwell and even Oroville.  “That is why I do what I do. We have so much talent in our area, it’s important to get them out there so they can showcase their skills and hopefully it will open up opportunities for them.”- Meza.

Game 1 against the Supreme Kourt of San Mateo was a good testament for what was to come for the 16U Swat team.  Beating SK 47-44, Swat moved on to the next tier . In game two, after falling behind at the half, Swat prevailed once again outscoring in the fourth, beating Scotts Valley Warriors 49-39.  Game 3, Championship game against the Santa Clara’s Titans was a non-stop, highly competitive battle for top spot. “They were a really good team, fast and gave us a good run but we kept fighting”-Meza. Fight they did, beating the Titans 51-47.

The suspect who has been seen on camera appears to be a white male adult approximately 5’10” – 6’ tall, thin build, light brown/blonde hair with facial hair.

Due to the new surveillance cameras installed throughout the yard, the suspect is seen on multiple occasions at this location stealing and vandalizing the yard.

If anyone has identifying information, please contact the Yuba Sutter Area CHP at (530) 674-5141, callers may remain anonymous.

“County Committees are unique to FSA and allow producers to have a voice on federal farm program implementation at the local level,” said Nannen.

To be eligible to serve on the FSA county committee, a person must participate or cooperate in an agency administered program, be eligible to vote in a county committee election and reside in the Local Administrative Area (LAA) where they are nominated.

This year, nominations and elections will be held in LAA 3, which includes the area west of Interstate 5.

Producers may nominate themselves or others as candidates. Organizations representing minority and women farmers and ranchers may also nominate candidates. To become a nominee, eligible individuals must sign form FSA-669A. The form and more information about county committee elections is available online at:  www.fsa.usda.gov/elections.

Elected county committee members serve a three-year term and are responsible for making decisions on FSA disaster, conservation, commodity and price support programs, as well as other important federal farm program issues. County committees consist of three to 11 members.

“It is important that county committees are comprised of members who fairly represent the diverse demographics of production agriculture for their community,” said Nannen. “All producers, including women, minority and beginning farmers and ranchers are encouraged to participate in the nomination and election process.”

FSA will mail election ballots to eligible voters beginning Nov. 9. Ballots are due back in the Colusa County Office by mail or in person no later than Dec. 7, 2015. All newly elected county committee members and alternates will take office January 1, 2016.

“Nominating potential county committee members, voting for candidates and serving on the committees are truly services to your community and the agriculture industry,” said Nannen.  “County Committee members make important decisions on how federal farm programs are administered locally to best serve local needs and interests.”

For more information about county committees, please contact the Colusa County FSA office at (530)458-5131or visit www.fsa.usda.gov/elections.

A 1997 Audi caught fire Sunday on 7th Street in Williams, fire crews determined the fire to have been caused by an electrical issue. (Photo Submitted by: Bill Greer)

On Sunday, July 12, 2015, Firefighters were called to extinguish a car fire in Williams, CA.

Located in front of the Williams Police Station on 7th Street, a 1997 Audi was reported smoking before catching a flame at around 9:45 AM.

Crews quickly extinguished the fire; that was determined to have been caused by an electrical problem

A Willows resident was able to exit the vehicle without injury.

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“Superhero’s grow superfoods” was the theme for the 2015 Colusa County Exhibit at the 2015 California State Fair.

The exhibit won a silver ribbon.

“I wanted something different,” said UCCE Colusa County Employee, Gerry Hernandez.

Themed after popular comic book characters representing the counties top crops.

“We have Dr. Nuts, Miss Hot Sauce, Rice Rocketeer, and Captain Beefheart,” said Hernandez, “all representing the top four commodities Colusa County Produces.”
Competing with 23 other counties, with the California State Theme ‘Fairs and Festivals’, several exhibits featured their county festivals, fairs, and events, while others focused on tourism or information.

“I am very happy with our silver award,” said Hernandez.

Colusa County won silver in 2014 and won gold in 2013.

Best of show was awarded to Sonoma County.

“The Colusa City Police Department has recently taken on the responsibility for the Code Enforcement,” said Colusa City Police Chief, Josh Fitch, “The position was formerly held by the cities building department.”

A retired Sergeant with the Colusa County Sheriff’s Department, Erdelt brings 30+ years of experience to the code enforcement position.

The part-time position of Code Enforcement Officer handles the identification and overseeing the removal of overall blight and building code violations throughout the city.

“It is our goal to ensure compliance and to improve the quality of life and safety of our citizens,” said Fitch.

Fitch commented that the department already receives several complaints a week for overgrown yards, junk accumulation and abandoned vehicles.

“With the department taking on the responsibility of code enforcement, something can be done about the situation,” said Fitch.

Colusa Residents concerned that city codes are not being obeyed may report concerns to the Code Enforcement Office by calling (530) 458-7777 or by emailing kerdelt@colusapd.org.