Most county offices will be closed in observance of the holidays listed in the schedule below.
- Christmas Day: December 23 and 26, 2016
- New Year's Day: January 2, 2017
Whether you’re Snapchatting, scrolling through Instagram, or sending a text while on the road, it’s clear that cell phones have become a top distraction for drivers – often causing traffic collisions on the road. A study conducted last spring by the California Office of Traffic Safety (OTS), showed that at least 13 percent of the state’s drivers were either seen talking, texting or using a cell phone in some manner. This number has increased from nine percent in 2015.
To combat distracted driving, Assembly Bill 1785, signed by Gov. Jerry Brown last September, takes effect on Jan. 1, 2017. The new law expands California’s restrictions on the use of mobile phones behind the wheel. Drivers will no longer be able to operate any handheld wireless telephones or any electronic devices unless the device is specifically designed to allow voice-operated and hands-free operation, and must be used in that manner while driving.
The California Office of Traffic Safety shares the following tips to staying focused while driving:
- Listen to—don’t watch—GPS devices and make sure to input your destination before leaving or stop to change your route if necessary.
- If a call or text absolutely can’t wait, pull over into a parking spot and conduct your call safely.
- Never: talk, text, email or use any apps on any handheld electronic device while driving.
- Better yet, turn off your phone and place it out of reach as soon as you get in the car.
High visibility ‘zero tolerance’ enforcement operations are being conducted by law enforcement agencies across the state. Drivers caught talking or texting on a mobile device or other handheld devices will be ticketed.
To avoid the traffic fines, car crashes and life-threatening consequences that are associated with driving while distracted, eliminate your distractions when behind the wheel. For more information regarding distracted driving facts, please visit www.ots.ca.gov.
Also, visit the Official U.S. Government website for Distracted Driving at www.distraction.gov.
The Sutter County Counsel’s Office announced Wednesday the completion of a project to make it easier to search an online database of the County’s local ordinances.
County ordinances are local laws that are adopted and enforced within a local government's jurisdiction. These laws are in addition to federal and state laws. The California Legislature provided for the codification of county ordinances in Sections 50022.1 - 50022.10 of the California Government Code.
Sutter County’s ordinance code had been online before, but there was no way to conduct a search for topics through keywords. Finding what you were looking for proved cumbersome.
The update allows users of the website to find all references to a word or topic in the County’s Ordinance Code with either a simple search, or with more advanced phrase, wildcard, Boolean, and proximity searching techniques. The simple search feature will give you the results you're looking for in most instances -- just like a Google search.
The online version of the Sutter County Code of Ordinances is revised as updates are available. While every attempt is made to keep this online version current, it should be used for reference only.
Sutter County's online version of the County Code of Ordinances is hosted on the Municode website, and can be accessed through the County’s website at suttercounty.org, using the top navigation menu under Government then submenu General Information, on the Items of Interest tab on the home page, and at the bottom of the Sutter County Board of Supervisors page. For your convenience, the direct link is: https://suttercounty.org/ordinances
The public can view hard copies of the ordinances at the following locations:
-
Sutter County Library
750 Forbes Avenue, Yuba City
10 am to 7 pm Monday through Thursday and
10 am to 5 pm Friday and Saturday -
Sutter County Board Clerk and County Administrative Office
1160 Civic Center Blvd., Suite A, Yuba City
8 a.m. to 5 p.m., Monday through Friday
California has already seen a bit of wet weather and soon it will be here in full force. The holiday travel season is starting back up and that means trouble on the roadways for those who don’t plan ahead. The California Office of Traffic Safety is reminding motorists to plan ahead and take extra safety measures before embarking on your holiday journey.
Before your trip:
- Take time to prepare. Make sure your brakes, windshield wipers, defroster, anti-freeze, heater and exhaust system are in top condition. Always check your tires before driving. Make sure they are properly inflated and the tread is in good condition.
- Minimize distractions. This may mean turning off your cell phone and/or putting it out of reach. Include in your outgoing message that you can’t answer while you are driving. Don’t call or text anyone at a time when you think they may be driving.
While traveling the roadways:
- Remain alert. Constantly scan the road for brake lights in front of you.
- If it’s raining, keep your vehicle toward the middle lanes since water tends to pool in outside lanes.
- Do not use cruise control during wet or snowy road conditions. Cruise control can cause skidding and loss of tire traction in winter conditions.
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In the event you find yourself hydroplaning or skidding, remember the following:
- Do not brake or turn suddenly. If you need to brake, do so gently with light pumping action.
- Turn your steering wheel in the direction of the skid and as you recover control, gently straighten the wheels.
By planning ahead and following these tips, you can ensure that your holiday season is a safe one. For more information on all OTS efforts, visit www.ots.ca.gov.
On Thursday and Friday, November 24th and 25th, most county offices will be closed in observance of the Thanksgiving Holiday.The current unofficial count for the Election Results will be posted and updated periodically after the Polls close at 8:00 p.m. on November 8, 2016.
On Friday, November 11th, most County offices will be closed in observance of Veterans Day.Sutter County Agricultural Commissioner Lisa Herbert announced today the walnut buying period will begin Tuesday, November 1, beginning a window period that will end April 30, 2017, pursuant to the County’s Walnut Theft Prevention ordinance. The walnut buying period is the declared conclusion of harvest of the Chandler variety of walnuts by the Agricultural Commissioner, after consultation with walnut growers, during which non-processing walnut buying operations within Sutter County may lawfully purchase and receive walnuts that have not been dried or processed.
The ordinance was established to deter thefts from commercial walnut growers by creating a time frame for walnut purchases and the use of documentation to identify the growers of walnuts.
Walnuts are the second highest valued agricultural commodity in Sutter County. According to the Sutter County 2015 Crop Report there were 26,496 harvested acres in Sutter County with a market value of $77,454,000. “The Walnut Theft Prevention ordinance is intended to deter theft and proof of ownership is a mandatory requirement of the ordinance”, stated Herbert.
For more information or to access a proof of ownership form approved by this office please see the Agricultural Commissioner’s website: http://www.co.sutter.ca.us/doc/government/depts/ag/aghome
There are similar ordinances in place in Butte, Tehama, Glenn, and Yuba counties, and in several counties to the south.
Daylight Saving Time ends on Sunday, November 6 at 2:00 a.m.
In the U.S., clocks change at 2:00 a.m. local time. In spring, clocks spring forward from 1:59 a.m. to 3:00 a.m. In fall, clocks fall back from 1:59 a.m. to 1:00 a.m. The phrase "Spring Forward, Fall Back" is used to help people remember how to reset their clocks.
Move your clocks back one hour at the resumption of Standard Time.
Contrary to popular belief, no federal rule mandates the observance of daylight saving time. Daylight Saving time and Time zones are regulated by the U.S. Department of Transportation.
With the Presidential General Election coming up soon on November 8th, visit the Sutter County Elections page to find election guides and voter information for vote by mail status, the provisional voter, and more.
Be informed and vote!
Sutter County Public Health is hosting their 8th annual Haunted Health Fair Friday, October 28, 2016 from 2:30 pm to 5:30 pm at the Sutter County Public Health Department, 1445 Veterans Memorial Circle, Yuba City.
This is a free community event for trick-or-treaters of all ages. Family fun will include healthy and interactive games, face paintings, photo booth and much more. Children and family members are encouraged to dress in their best costumes.
Hope to see you all there!
For more information, please call (530) 822-7215
If you have any questions, please contact Interim Assistant County Administrator Steven Smith at 530-822-7100.
This time, the judge said the suit cannot be refiled.
In May, former Sutter County Administrative Officer James Arkens filed suit in U.S. District Court against the County, supervisors Jim Whiteaker, Ron Sullenger, and Dan Flores, and Auditor-Controller Nate Black, alleging wrongful discharge, defamation, age discrimination, unlawful retaliation, and intentional and negligent infliction of emotional distress.
On July 25, U.S. District Judge William Shubb dismissed the lawsuit, but allowed Mr. Arkens an opportunity to refile certain of the allegations. In August, Mr. Arkens filed suit again, alleging constructive discharge, defamation, age discrimination, and retaliation.
This morning, Judge Shubb dismissed all remaining allegations against the county with prejudice, meaning they cannot be refiled.
“Reading the judge’s ruling, it is clear there was no wrongdoing by anyone at the County and there was no factual or plausible basis for any of the allegations brought against the County, or the board members, or the auditor-controller,” said Board Chairman Larry Munger. “We are very pleased with the outcome, and looking forward to the important work we do as a Board of Supervisors.”
Mr. Arkens was hired by the Board of Supervisors under a three-year contract which began in February, 2013. The Board of Supervisors announced in September of 2015 that it would not be renewing Mr. Arkens’ contract when it expired in February of 2016.
“My issue with him was his management style, not anything else. I’m sorry Mr. Arkens reacted to our decision by creating a story about a conspiracy where none existed,” said Supervisor Sullenger. “I’m happy the judge saw the truth of the situation.”
“I have learned things usually fall apart when they have been held together with fabrications and deceit,” said Supervisor Whiteaker. "Sutter County will move forward in its quest to find a new CAO that has effective leadership and vision for our County.”
“It is unfortunate this claim was ever filed,” said Supervisor Flores. “The employees of Sutter County are dedicated, and passionate about serving the citizens of the county. We have a great work environment where we share a common vision. We all look forward to welcoming a new CAO in near future who shares this vision.”
“It’s good to get these baseless allegations set aside so we can get back to focusing on the work of the county,” said Auditor-Controller Black.
As voting draws near for the general election, Sutter County's Elections Department is launching a mobile friendly voter information website specific to each voter's address.
"We're really happy to be able to offer a service that will give Sutter County voters information about the candidates and measures based on their resident address they can access on a smartphone or from their desktop computer," said Sutter County Clerk-recorder Donna Johnston, the County's chief elections official.
After the voter enters their address as they are registered to vote, the guide will display candidates and measures specific to their address, along with candidate statements and photos, if they have been provided by the candidates.
As the election nears, a polling place locator with a map will be added to the website.
The voter guide is also screen-reader enabled for visually impaired voters.
The guide can be found by entering www.Sutter.YourVoter.Guide into an internet search engine, or through the Sutter County Elections website (click on the Voter Guide and Poll Place Locator link under Voter Information). The Elections website is http://suttercounty.org/elections
Overseas military voting is currently underway. Absentee balloting begins October 10. The last day to register to vote is October 24. Election day is Tuesday, November 8.
The public is requested to remain away from the area. Barricades will be placed at West Butte Road on the west and Kellogg Road on the east.
The military is working to accommodate residents who live in the area.
Debris from the plane is scattered in a wide area and recovering the pieces of the plane will be critical to the investigation.
The section of roadway will remain closed until further notice.
Flashing warning lights have been installed on Highway 99 south of Yuba City near a truck stop that has created hazardous traffic conditions when large trucks enter and exit the highway.
The lights were installed near the intersection of Oswald Road by Caltrans this month as a compromise after efforts to have a traffic light installed were denied, said Fifth District Sutter County Supervisor Barbara LeVake. She said she and Planning Commissioner Zac Repka and Assemblyman James Gallagher discussed the traffic issue with Caltrans, but they were informed a traffic light was not suitable at the location. “I would like to thank Barbara and Zac for really pushing on this safety issue and (District 3 Caltrans Director) Amarjeet Benipal for taking action,” Assemblyman Gallagher said. “We want to continue to work on this and are hopeful the new traffic signals will help keep motorists alert.”
The Commander of the Yuba-Sutter California Highway Patrol said the warning lights will save lives.
“Thank you to all of our fellow stakeholders that made the safety enhancements to the 99 corridor a reality,” said Capt. Shon Harris of the CHP. “Experience has shown that any step we can take in this direction will undoubtedly save lives. I am confident that our community will see positive results due to this collaborative effort.”
On Monday, September 5, most county offices will be closed for Labor Day.The Sutter County Board of Supervisors has asked the recruiter helping it find the next County Administrative Officer to create an online survey which allows County residents to help the board identify the characteristics and qualifications the new CAO should possess
The Board released the link to the online survey today: https://www.surveymonkey.com/r/ DWJH8QZ.
"Our Board is taking the time to find the right candidate, and part of the process is asking for the public's help," said Board Chairman Larry Munger. "This survey has four parts: one on characteristics, one on qualifications, one on public expectations for priorities, and one open ended on the whole process. We hope people take the opportunity to help us in this important endeavor."
Those without access to a computer can mail responses to The Board of Supervisors, 1160 Civic Center Boulevard, Yuba City, CA 95993.
- What are the five most important characteristics you would like to see in the next County Administrative Officer?
- Is there any specific experience you feel the next County Administrative Officer should possess?
- What would you like to see the next County Administrative Officer focus on and/or accomplish in their first 12-18 months on the job?
- Do you have any other comments, questions, or concerns?
After one attempt in front of an administrative hearing officer and two attempts in court to get around Sutter County’s new marijuana cultivation ordinance banning outdoor grows, a 300-plant cultivation on Catlett Road in the Pleasant Grove area was voluntarily abated Monday morning.
The operation, on land leased by Cal Farms Medical Supply at 219 West Catlett Road, is the largest known cultivation to date in Sutter County. In court documents filed in connection with the grow, the attorney for Cal Farms claimed an investment of $80,000 was made in establishing the marijuana cultivation.
An inspection by Sutter County Development Services and the Sutter County Sheriff’s Department on Tuesday confirmed that all of the plants have been cut down and were being removed from the property. In addition to losing the investment in the plants, those leasing the property and the property owners will be on the hook for administrative penalties, enforcement costs, and even taxes on the plants and farming equipment. The full cost is still being calculated.
“This is a tremendous, combined effort by the departments of Sutter County,” said Board Chairman Larry Munger. “Our ordinance bans commercial grows, bans outdoor grows and establishes fines of $1,000 per day for grows that are out of compliance. For those who really need access to medical marijuana and want to grow it, there’s a way to do it that is a lot easier than a lot of other places. We’ve even made it so you don’t need a building permit for pre-fabricated greenhouses which do not exceed 80 square feet in size. But no commercial grows or outdoor grows are allowed in Sutter County.”
Fifth District Supervisor Barbara LeVake was very pleased with the results. “A special thank you to the Sheriff, County Counsel and Development Services for their hard work in abating this large grow in my district,” she said. “My constituents are very pleased with the results.”
As of the second week of August, Sutter County had responded to 60 complaints of alleged marijuana gardens in violation of the County’s new ordinance, and had found 54 outdoor marijuana gardens. Of those, 45 have been voluntarily abated. After visits by the County to the property, “we’re getting a high rate of voluntarily compliance,” said Danelle Stylos, Director of Development Services. None of the gardens, however, have been as large or presented the legal challenges posed by the Catlett Road property.
On June 30, Development Services received an official complaint about marijuana growing outside on the Catlett Road property. On July 8, County personnel inspected the property and issued a Notice of Violation, which included an order that the marijuana be abated by July 18 or the property owner appear at an administrative hearing. Attorney Mitchell L. Abdallah of Sacramento appeared before Administrative Hearing Officer Michael Johnston on behalf of Cal Farms Medical Supply and argued that because his clients had relied on the previous version of the Marijuana Cultivation ordinance, they should be allowed to continue to operate. Johnston disagreed, and ordered abatement by August 5.
The order also imposed administrative penalties of $1,000 per day if the cultivation was not removed prior to August 6. When the cultivation was not removed by that date, Sutter County imposed administrative penalties in the amount of $30,000, billing 30 days at a time.
Abdallah appealed Johnston’s ruling, first to Sutter County Superior Court, and later to the Third District Court of Appeal, arguing the marijuana farm should be permitted to remain under the old rules. The County opposed his request and argued the new ordinance, adopted March 22, applied to all properties regardless of whether they met criteria under the older ordinance. Judge Perry Parker of the Sutter County Superior Court agreed with the county and refused to issue a stay of enforcement.
Abdallah then appealed that ruling to the Third District Court of Appeal which denied the appeal on August 11 upholding Judge Parker’s order.
Because Cal Farms ultimately abated the cultivation on August 15, the administrative penalties were reduced from $30,000 to $10,000 to reflect the actual number of days that the cultivation was allowed to remain on the property after the August 6 deadline set by the Administrative Hearing Officer.
Under the ordinance, administrative penalties which are assessed in 30 day increments may be reduced proportionately when proof is provided to Development Services that the cultivation has been removed. In this case, the cultivation was removed 10 days after the penalties were imposed so the amount was reduced from $30,000 to $10,000. However, the County is calculating the cost of enforcing the ordinance, including the time of law enforcement and code enforcement personnel, and the cost of County Counsel personnel.
Additionally, Sutter County Assessor Todd Retzloff said his office will also be assessing the property owner the value of each of the marijuana plants and all of the associated agricultural equipment on the property, as he is allowed to do under state law.
Before abatement
After abatement
The Sutter County Board of Supervisors expressed its support for the men and women of local law enforcement Tuesday night and encouraged local service clubs and community members to join a national effort to “Back The Blue.”The Board of Supervisors presented Gold Resolutions affirming the support of the Board of the Supervisors and the residents of Sutter County to representatives of the Yuba City Police Department, the California Highway Patrol, the Sutter County Sheriff’s Department, the Sutter County Probation Department, and investigators from the Sutter County District Attorney’s Office.
The Gold resolutions detailed the history of law enforcement officers putting their lives on the line for American communities since the 18th century, the tens of thousands of professional interactions engaged in each year by the men and women in law enforcement in Sutter County, and noted the dramatic increase in violence against police officers and “a national dialogue disrespectful and often unfairly critical of law enforcement.”
“The Sutter County Board of Supervisors affirms this community’s abiding support and respect for the men and women of law enforcement, and understanding of the critical role of law enforcement in the quality of life of our community,” the Gold Resolutions read.
Board member Barbara LeVake displayed a variety of blue ribbons and encouraged residents to “Back the Blue” by displaying ribbons, button stickers, window decals, or other paraphernalia indicating support for law enforcement officers.
“Every day our law enforcement personnel risk their lives to protect our homes and our communities,” LeVake said. “Every day, law enforcement men and women pin on their badges in their dedication to protect and preserve our freedom.
“Back The Blue is a public awareness campaign which has started across the U.S. dedicated to displaying public support for law enforcement. I would like to initiate that campaign in Sutter County and encourage Yuba County to join with us.
“While the emphasis is on law enforcement, I would like to also include firefighters,” LeVake said. “They, too, risk their lives to keep us safe and often times can be the first responders in certain situations.”
“I can’t express my appreciation enough,” said Supervisor Dan Flores, who recounted how law enforcement and fire personnel saved his son who nearly drowned several years ago. “You are doing a great job.”
“The need to support law enforcement is out there all the time,” said Supervisor Jim Whiteaker, who comes from a law enforcement family. “They are doing an incredible job for Sutter County.”
“Sometimes I think we take law enforcement for granted, like we take our electricity being turned on at home for granted,” noted Supervisor Ron Sullenger. “We just assume naturally that when we need some assistance or help that we are going to receive it. So I think it is great that we are taking a little bit of extra time to honor the guys and the gals that are trying to maintain some semblance of order in our community.”
A possible case of West Nile Virus (WNV) in a Sutter County adult is under investigation.
The patient is recovering at home.
If confirmed, this would be the first report of a case of WNV illness in Sutter County for 2016. In
2015, a total of 2 cases were reported with no deaths from WNV. There have been a total of
four WNV-related deaths in Sutter County, occurring in 2012 and 2014. The Sutter-Yuba
Mosquito and Vector Control District continues to be active with mosquito control and monitoring
mosquito activity and will continue until cold weather.
Risk for WNV infection from mosquito bites continues into late Fall for humans, horses, and
other mammals. It is very important to always take the simple precautions that reduce the risk
of mosquito bites and becoming infected with West Nile virus whether at home, participating in
outdoor activities, or traveling. The 4 "D"s is an easy way to remember how to prevent mosquito
bites:
- D - DEET - use DEET, picaridin, oil of lemon eucalyptus or IR3535. These are the EPA approved mosquito repellents to prevent bites; be sure to follow package instructions for age of person and how to apply
- D - Dawn and Dusk - avoid going outdoors at dawn and dusk when the mosquitoes that carry WNV are most active
- D - Doors and windows - make sure that the screens on your doors and windows are not broken or torn
- D - Drain all standing water around the outside of your house - gutters, jar lids, tires, flower pot trays are some common places
Effective July 1, 2016, Sutter-Yuba Mental Health Services is going by a new name: Sutter-Yuba Behavioral Health.For decades, residents of Sutter and Yuba Counties have received mental health and substance use disorder treatment at Sutter-Yuba Mental Health Services (SYMHS). The title of this long-time community service provider has made no mention of substance use disorder treatment.
On July 8, 2014 the Mental Health Advisory Board and the Substance Use Advisory Board decided to merge the two consumer, family, and community member-run boards and create one integrated advisory board. This new board was titled the Behavioral Health Advisory Board. Since this time, SYMHS has been steadily integrating mental health and substance use treatment programs.
By integrating these disciplines, services are being tailored to better address the needs of individuals with complex mental health and substance use challenges.
In addition, across the state, the merging of mental health and substance use disorder functions at the county level has increased the use of the term “behavioral” which succinctly bridges the traditional gap between the disciplines of mental health and alcohol and other drug treatment providers.
On May 24, 2016 the Sutter County Board of Supervisors approved a request to change the name of Sutter-Yuba Mental Health Services to Sutter-Yuba Behavioral Health, effective July 1, 2016.
In addition to the name change, Sutter-Yuba Behavioral Health has adopted a logo that encompasses the belief that each mind matters, that recovery from mental illness and substance use disorders is possible, and that we can be the catalyst to empower a healthy community. Our name will change, but our commitment to providing essential mental health and substance use disorder treatment services for our bi-county community is unchanging.
For More Information, contact Tony Hobson, Ph.D., Assistant Director Human Services, Behavioral Health Director, 822-7200.
The Sutter County Board of Supervisors accepted a Homeland Security Grant for $172,501 Tuesday, June 28 to provide training and equipment to six local agencies involved in emergency management response.
Funds from the 2015-2018 Homeland Security Grant will be distributed between the Sutter County Office of Emergency Management, Sutter County Public Health, Sutter County Sheriff’s Department, Sutter County Fire, Yuba City Police Department, and Yuba City Fire Department, according to Sutter County Emergency Operations and Loss Prevention Manager Lori Hersant.
The Board of Supervisors authorized the county to apply for the grant in September of 2015.
The grant will provide: $39,312 to the Sutter County Sheriff’s Department toward an upgrade of the base unit radio communication console; $23,000 to Sutter County fire for personal protective equipment; $20,000 to Sutter County Public Health for emergency preparedness training; $20,001 to Sutter County for the Emergency Operation Center IT equipment upgrade and training; $40,000 to the Yuba City Fire Department for search and rescue equipment; and $21,563 to the Yuba City Police Department for mobile radio enhancements.
Sutter County will receive $8,625 for administering the Homeland Security Grant.
She will succeed Tom Sherry, who retired last year.
Ms. O’Hara, who has 30 years of experience in Health and Human Services, will begin July 11.
She has worked the past 10 years with Yolo County’s Health and Human Services Department, currently serving as the director of the agency’s service centers. Previously, she was the Assistant Director of the Yolo County Department of Employment and Social Services.
She worked for 20 years for Yuba County, during which time she was an eligibility supervisor, an administrative analyst, and a program manager.
Ms. O’Hara, who lives in Yuba City, has an Associate of Arts degree in Business from Yuba College, and a Bachelor of Arts degree in Management and a Master of Public Administration degree from Golden Gate University.
Tom Sherry retired in the fall of 2015. Former Human Services Director Ed Smith has been serving in the position on an interim basis.
WIC is a nutrition program for Women, Infants, and Children. You may qualify if:
- you are pregnant, breastfeeding, or just had a baby
- or have a child under age 5
- and have a low to medium income, and live in California
- Nutrition Education and Health Information
- Breastfeeding Support
- Checks for healthy foods (like fruits and vegetables)
- Referrals to medical providers and community services
Yuba City, CA 95993
(530) 822-7224
If you haven't been in yet, the new Sutter County Memorial Museum exhibit "Sacrament: Homage to a River" looks great! And better yet, the photographer, Geoff Fricker, signed all copies of the book that the exhibit is based on. So come pick up a copy before they are gone! The exhibit runs until August 13, 2016.
In "Sacrament: Homage to a River", Geoff Fricker's atmospheric photographs reveal the geology, history, and ecology of the Sacramento River, from salmon runs and weekend events to dam infrastructure and abandoned mining sites. In dreamlike black and white, the river takes on mythic proportions, both within its wild eco-systems and alongside its human-made influences.
On Monday, May 30th, most County offices will be closed in observance of Memorial Day.All new parents, pregnant moms and parents of children up to 1 year are invited to the annual Sutter County Baby Fair on Saturday, May 14th from 10 am to 12 pm at the Veterans Hall, 1425 Veterans Memorial Circle, Yuba City. Join Sutter County Public Health, WIC, and the Children and Families Commission in celebrating parenthood and the newest members of our community.
The Sutter County Tobacco Control Program applauds the Sutter County Human Services - Health Division for designating a Smoke, Tobacco, and Nicotine-Free Campus. The new policy, approved by the Board of Supervisors on January 26, 2016, will include Sutter County Human Services – Health Division, Peach Tree Clinic, and the adjacent Sutter County Elections Office building. Implementation of the new policy will begin on Earth Day, April 22nd, 2016.
The Smoke, Tobacco, and Nicotine-Free Campus policy declares that the use of tobacco, nicotine, electronic smoking devices or use of any product that mimics smoking be prohibited anywhere inside or outside the building including sidewalks, grounds surrounding the building and private vehicles on the Sutter County Human Services - Health Division campus. This policy applies to all staff, campus visitors, clients, vendors, contractors and volunteers. The policy designation promotes the health and well-being of all Sutter County employees and the community they serve by decreasing risk of secondhand smoke inhalation.
According to the California Department of Public Health, about 15% of Sutter County adults smoke. This means roughly 85% of Sutter County residents DO NOT smoke. In Sutter County, 1 in 5 deaths each year is attributed to smoking (Max et al., 2014). According to Centers for Disease Control and Prevention, secondhand smoke is a cause of numerous health issues in infants and children, including asthma attacks, respiratory infections, ear infections, and sudden infant death syndrome (SIDS). Some of the health conditions caused by secondhand smoke in adults include coronary heart disease, stroke, and lung cancer.
For more information on "Creating a Healthier Sutter" and adopting a voluntary policy for a Smoke, Tobacco, and Nicotine-Free Campus call Sutter County Public Health Tobacco Control staff at (530) 822-7215. Residents are encouraged to visit Sutter County Public Health from 11am to 1pm on April 22nd, 2016 to celebrate with us, learn more, and pick up a free tobacco cessation "quit kit."
Sutter County will close its Public Health Laboratory effective April 1, 2016. Declining demand for laboratory tests performed by this facility has resulted in this closure. It is anticipated the County will save approximately $100,000 annually through this action.
Sutter County residents who desire to have well water tested may receive that service through the City of Yuba City’s wastewater treatment facility at 302 Burns Drive, Yuba City. The water testing lab is open Monday through Friday from 7:00 am to 3:30 pm. The bacteria test costs $38.00 and the lab can provide sterile bacteria sample bottles for sample collection. For additional information, customers can call the lab at 530-822-7694 or visit the website at www.yubacity.net.
Public Health Lab testing services for certain contagious diseases will continue to be available to health care providers through The Sutter County Public Health Communicable Disease Control Program. Information is available by calling (530) 822-7215 or on the Sutter County Public Health website at www.suttercounty.org
Animal rabies testing after potential human exposure will continue to be available through Sutter County Public Health jointly with the Sutter Animal Services Authority (SASA) at 200 Garden Highway, Yuba City. More information available at SASA at (530) 822-7375.
Don't forget to move your clocks forward this weekend! Daylight Saving Time begins on Sunday, March 13 at 2:00 a.m.
In the U.S., clocks change at 2:00 a.m. local time. In spring, clocks spring forward from 1:59 a.m. to 3:00 a.m.; in fall, clocks fall back from 1:59 a.m. to 1:00 a.m. The phrase "Spring Forward, Fall Back" is used to help people remember how to reset their clocks.
An outbreak of Zika virus in the tropical parts of the Americas is causing great concern because of a possible link to a serious birth defect. Our understanding of Zika virus and guidance on how to protect ourselves and our families is evolving very rapidly. The two types of invasive mosquitos that can spread Zika virus to people have been found in Southern and Central California, but have not reached Sutter County. Sutter County has had one returned traveler with Zika virus two years ago who recovered.
There is no identified risk of becoming infected with Zika virus in Sutter County at this time, but it is important to always prevent mosquito bites because they can carry other viruses, including West Nile Virus.
Fact sheets are available about Zika virus in general and about Zika virus in Sutter County.
- Sutter County Zika Fact Sheet - English
- Sutter County Zika Fact Sheet - Spanish
- Zika Question and Answer
On Monday, February 15th, most county offices will be closed in observance of Washington's Birthday.
Sutter North Foundation is sponsoring the $500 first place team prize for the Sutter County team that loses the
largest percentage of weight in the Big2Little Weight Loss Challenge conducted by Yuba and Sutter counties and
several health care, fitness, media and business partners.
Weigh-ins begin tomorrow at the locations listed below. Challengers have until March 12 to enter. Additional weigh-in
times and locations will be listed later today.
View the pdf file for a list of weigh-in locations, prize categories, and sponsors, or visit www.yubasutterhealthy.org.
View the pdf file for a copy of the entry form and rules.
More than $2,000 in cash prizes will be awarded to individuals and teams in the Big2Little Yuba vs. Sutter Health Weight Loss Challenge that begins January 30 and runs through April 30.
The Boards of Supervisors of Yuba and Sutter counties, playing on the historic rivalry between opposite banks of the Feather River, have each adopted resolutions challenging residents to lose weight to see which county can shed more pounds.
Sutter County has a 30 percent obesity rate and Yuba County has a 32 percent obesity rate, which is greater than the statewide average of 24.5 percent. Obesity is linked to many diseases, including diabetes, hypertension, and heart disease. The weight loss challenge is designed to motivate residents to lose weight and to understand the connection between obesity and disease.
The weight loss challenge will be based on percentage of weight lost, and not number of pounds lost, so individuals of differing weights may compete on a more equal footing.
The location and hours of several weigh in locations throughout Yuba and Sutter counties will be announced Monday. Saturday, January 30, will be the first weigh-in day, but weigh ins will continue at some locations for several weeks into the challenge.
Challenge participants must be 18 years old by the day they weigh in to be eligible.
Individual and team categories will be established. A team may consist of as few as 3, but no more than 5, members.
The Challenge is being conducted by Yuba and Sutter counties in cooperation with many community partners. Each of the prizes will be sponsored by a community partner and not by the general fund of either county.
Prize amounts and sponsors (thus far) are:- First place Yuba County, $250, Harmony Health Medical Clinic.
- First place Sutter County, $250, Rideout Health.
- Second place Yuba County, $175, Ampla Health Center.
- Second place Sutter County, $175, Ampla Health Center.
- Third place Yuba County, $100, Maggie Capitano Farmer’s Insurance.
- Third place Sutter County, $100, Pure Joy Yoga.
- First place team Yuba County (3, 4, or 5 on a team), $500, still unsponsored.
- First place team Sutter County (3, 4, or 5 on a team), $500, still unsponsored.
Businesses or organizations who wish to sponsor one of the prize levels are asked to contact Chuck Smith at 530-822-7100.
Art of Survival is a traveling exhibition probing the complexity of the Japanese American confinement site in Newell, CA. It became the only officially designated segregation center during WWII and was ruled under martial law. Called Tule Lake, this location was the largest of the 10 confinement sites and, because anyone deemed a troublemaker by the federal government was relocated to Tule Lake, it ultimately housed people from all sites. Many of the people who were brought in under segregation were people who knew their rights had been egregiously undermined and were willing to stand up to the injustice. Accused of being disloyal, in their dissent, they were ironically acting in the most American way. The incarceration of 120,000 people of Japanese descent, most citizens of this nation, was a travesty; Tule Lake was exponentially disturbing.
Through haunting images of artifacts by fine art photographer Hiroshi Watanabe we glimpse into the lives of those who were held at Tule Lake and are encouraged to consider both the orchestration of life behind barbed wire and what it might have been like to live with constant turmoil and uncertainty. Oral histories allow us to hear varying views on some of the complex issues of Tule Lake in the voices of those held captive.
Update
On February 19, 1942, President Roosevelt signed and issued Executive Order 9066. This order, which was a direct reaction
to the bombing of Pearl Harbor, gave the Secretary of War the authority to prescribe military zones “…from which any or
all persons may be excluded”. The entirety of the West Coast was deemed a military zone, and those persons excluded were
all those of Japanese descent, as well as some of Italian and German descent.
On February 19, 2016 at 6 p.m. Jim Tanimoto, who grew up in Gridley, will speak at the Museum regarding his experience of internment at Tule Lake. This is a rare opportunity to hear the experiences of someone interned at the camp. This event is free.
Art of Survival is being supported in part by a Preservation of Japanese American Confinement Sites Grant administered by the National Park Service, Department of the Interior. Further support provided by The Oregon Community Foundation, Fred W. Fields Fund; Klamath Tourism Grant; Klamath Arts Council Grant; and generous donations by Densho Digital Archives and Hiroshi Watanabe. This traveling exhibition was made in cooperation with The Tule Lake Unit of WWII Valor in the Pacific National Monument, Beds National Monument, and the U.S. Fish and Wildlife Service.
About 7 in 10 middle and high school students – more than 18 million young people – see e-cigarette advertising in stores, online, in newspapers and magazines, or on television and in movies, according to a new CDC Vital Signs report.
E-cigarette ads use many of the same themes – independence, rebellion, and sex – used to sell cigarettes and other conventional tobacco products. Advertising of tobacco products has been shown to cause youth to start using those products. The unrestricted marketing of e-cigarettes and dramatic increases in their use by youth could reverse decades of progress in preventing tobacco use among youth.
“The same advertising tactics the tobacco industry used years ago to get kids addicted to nicotine are now being used to entice a new generation of young people to use e-cigarettes,” said CDC Director Tom Frieden, M.D., M.P.H. “I hope all can agree that kids should not use e-cigarettes.”
Data from the 2014 National Youth Tobacco Survey (NYTS) show 68.9 percent of middle and high school students see e-cigarettes ads from one or more media sources. More youth see e-cigarette ads in retail stores (54.8 percent) than online (39.8 percent), in TV/movies (36.5 percent), or in newspapers and magazines (30.4 percent).
- Read the full press release .