At April 10, 2024 Virtual Event, PG&E Local Leaders Will Answer Questions and Share Available Resources MARYSVILLE, Calif. — Pacific Gas and Electric Company (PG&E) invites customers in Butte, Sierra and Yuba counties to a virtual webinar to share more about what we are doing to reduce wildfire risk and make our system safer. On Wednesday, April 10 from 5:30 to 6:30p.m., PG&E experts will provide a brief presentation, during which participants will have the opportunity to ask questions. During the webinar event, customers can:
The event can be accessed through the below link, by phone or through PG&E’s website, pge.com/webinars. CountiesDateTimeLink and Dial-In Butte, Sierra and YubaWednesday, April 10, 20245:30 – 6:30p.m.Link: https://bit.ly/4a0h6Fm Or Dial-In: 888-469-3314 Conference ID: 9643008 American Sign Language interpretation will be available, along with dial-in numbers for those who aren’t able to join online. For the full webinar events schedule, additional information on how to join and recordings and presentation materials from past events, visit pge.com/webinars. More information and resources to help you and your family prepare for and stay safe in the event of an emergency can be found at safetyactioncenter.pge.com. About PG&E Pacific Gas and Electric Company, a subsidiary of PG&E Corporation (NYSE:PCG), is a combined natural gas and electric utility serving more than 16 million people across 70,000 square miles in Northern and Central California. For more information, visit pge.com and pge.com/news. You can read about PG&E’s data privacy practices at PGE.com/privacy. Sierra County Loyalton, CA - April 4, 2024: A Sierra County resident recently died of hantavirus pulmonary syndrome, a disease caused by a North American strain of hantavirus known as Sin Nombre virus, which is transmitted by deer mice. This is the first case of hantavirus disease reported this year in California. The last hantavirus case reported from Sierra County was in 2003. This tragic loss is a reminder of the risk of hantavirus in the Sierras, a known region of exposure in California. Although it is rare, hantavirus can be very serious and deadly. About three cases of hantavirus disease are reported each year in California, and about one in three people with hantavirus disease die. One cannot catch this virus from another person. People can become infected with hantavirus when they breathe in air contaminated with the virus. Particles containing hantavirus get into the air when deer mice (Peromyscus maniculatus) urine, saliva, or droppings (feces/poop) are stirred up. The chances of this happening increase when opening or cleaning cabins, sheds, outbuildings, barns, garages, or storage buildings in rural areas that have been closed for the winter where deer mice have entered, or for people working, playing, or living in closed spaces where mice are present. Hantavirus infections are typically reported in summer months, however this case, which occurred in March of this year, demonstrates that infection can occur year-round. Investigation of the case-patient’s residence found evidence of mice around the home. Hantavirus illness begins with a fever and flu-like symptoms, such as headache and body aches, typically one to five weeks after inhaling the virus. Gastrointestinal symptoms such as vomiting, diarrhea and abdominal pain are common in the early part of the illness. Respiratory symptoms, including cough and feeling short of breath, are not present at first, but may develop after a few days, signaling a progression to hantavirus pulmonary syndrome and increased chances of deadly respiratory and heart failure. When people start having trouble breathing their condition may rapidly worsen and become critical. There is no specific treatment or cure for hantavirus infection, but early high-level intensive medical care can increase the chance of survival. Diagnosis and timely transfer to higher-level hospitals is challenging as the disease can progress rapidly before diagnostic testing can be completed. Most people who become ill with hantavirus report some exposure to rodents in the preceding weeks, typically while cleaning a room or a shed that has been closed- up for some time. If you have a fever, difficulty breathing, and have been exposed to rodents or rodent- contaminated materials, talk to a healthcare provider right away and tell them about your recent exposure to rodents (especially mice). Page 1 of 2 How can I prevent hantavirus infection?
April 3, 2024
Today, The Sacramento Bee highlighted a recent report saying California’s economy will fall to the sixth largest in the world, trailing behind India. The article points out California’s GDP grew only 2.1% last year, ranking California as 32nd for growth in the United States and below the US average of 2.5%. But apparently, all is fine and dandy in Newsom’s pocket universe. He has gone as far as to say: • “California is a remarkable state, on our way to be the fourth largest economy in the world. Eat your heart out, Germany.” • “California is poised to now become the 4th largest economy in the WORLD.” • “[California’s economy] has continued to outperform the nation.” • “This state continues to be the temple of the American economy.” • “[California had] one of the fastest growing economies anywhere on planet Earth.” • “[W]e play an outsize role as soon to be the fourth largest economy in the world, closing that gap every day on Germany.” This is yet more proof of how disconnected Newsom is from reality. Here are the facts: Capitol Democrats have severely mismanaged California’s economy. While the rest of America is creating jobs, California is losing them. We have the highest unemployment rate in the nation at 5.3%, a $73 billion state budget deficit, and we are losing residents to Texas and Florida in record numbers. Newsom and Capitol Democrats squandered away a historically large $100 billion surplus two years ago, managed to blow up the state’s deficit, and continue to force businesses to flee the state. It’s time to stop the war on California's economy by loosening regulations, cutting taxes, and getting Californians back to work! Today, The Sacramento Bee highlighted a recent report saying California’s economy will fall to the sixth largest in the world, trailing behind India. The article points out California’s GDP grew only 2.1% last year, ranking California as 32nd for growth in the United States and below the US average of 2.5%. But apparently, all is fine and dandy in Newsom’s pocket universe. He has gone as far as to say: • “California is a remarkable state, on our way to be the fourth largest economy in the world. Eat your heart out, Germany.” • “California is poised to now become the 4th largest economy in the WORLD.” • “[California’s economy] has continued to outperform the nation.” • “This state continues to be the temple of the American economy.” • “[California had] one of the fastest growing economies anywhere on planet Earth.” • “[W]e play an outsize role as soon to be the fourth largest economy in the world, closing that gap every day on Germany.” This is yet more proof of how disconnected Newsom is from reality. Here are the facts: Capitol Democrats have severely mismanaged California’s economy. While the rest of America is creating jobs, California is losing them. We have the highest unemployment rate in the nation at 5.3%, a $73 billion state budget deficit, and we are losing residents to Texas and Florida in record numbers. Newsom and Capitol Democrats squandered away a historically large $100 billion surplus two years ago, managed to blow up the state’s deficit, and continue to force businesses to flee the state. It’s time to stop the war on California's economy by loosening regulations, cutting taxes, and getting Californians back to work! After a dry start to the year, March storms provided boost to snowpack but runoff will be the key to future water supply Governor Newsom highlights new California Water Plan Update 2023 to chart California’s path towards a sustainable, climate-resilient, and equitable water supply SACRAMENTO, Calif. – The Department of Water Resources (DWR) today conducted the all-important April snow survey, the fourth measurement of the season at Phillips Station. The manual survey recorded 64 inches of snow depth and a snow water equivalent of 27.5 inches, which is 113 percent of average for this location. The snow water equivalent measures the amount of water contained in the snowpack and is a key component of DWR’s water supply forecast. The April measurement is critical for water managers as it’s considered the peak snowpack for the season and marks the transition to spring snowmelt into the state’s rivers and reservoirs. DWR’s electronic readings from 130 stations placed throughout the state indicate that the statewide snowpack’s snow water equivalent is 28.6 inches, or 110 percent of the April 1 average, a significant improvement from just 28 percent of average on January 1. The focus now shifts to forecasting spring snowmelt runoff and capturing as much of that water as possible for future use. “It’s great news that the snowpack was able to catch up in March from a dry start this year. This water year shows once again how our climate is shifting, and how we can swing from dry to wet conditions within a season,” said DWR Director Karla Nemeth. “These swings make it crucial to maintain conservation while managing the runoff. Variable climate conditions could result in less water runoff into our reservoirs. 100 percent snowpack does not mean 100 percent runoff. Capturing and storing what we can in wetter years for drier times remains a key priority.” California’s reservoirs remain in good shape thanks to state efforts to capture and store as much water as possible from record storms in 2023 and again this season. The State Water Project has increased storage by 700,000 acre-feet at Lake Oroville and by 154,000 acre-feet at San Luis Reservoir since January 1. Statewide, reservoir levels currently stand at 116 percent of average. However, there are challenges ahead as the spring runoff begins. The dry start to the year, soot and ash from burn scars that accelerates snowmelt, and other factors may result in below average spring runoff which can impact water availability. Recently, the State Water Project increased its forecasted allocation of water supplies for the year to 30 percent, up from an initial 10 percent, due to the storms in February and March. However, uncertainty about the spring runoff and ongoing pumping restrictions to protect threatened and endangered species in the Delta has impacted that allocation forecast. “California has had two years of relatively positive water conditions, but that is no reason to let our guard down now,” said Dr. Michael Anderson, State Climatologist with DWR. “With three record-setting multi-year droughts in the last 15 years and warmer temperatures, a well above average snowpack is needed to reach average runoff. The wild swings from dry to wet that make up today’s water years make it important to maintain conservation while managing the runoff we do receive. Our water years moving forward will see more extreme dry times interrupted by very wet periods like we saw this winter.” That need to adapt to a changing climate is why Governor Gavin Newsom joined today’s snow survey at Phillips Station to announce the release of the California Water Plan Update 2023. The Water Plan Update sets forth a vision for all Californians to benefit from water resources that are sustainable, resilient to climate change and achieves equity for all communities and benefits the environment. Check out the Water Plan Update to learn more about how the plan focuses on key issues including addressing climate urgency, strengthening watershed resilience, and achieving equity in water management. As part of the state’s climate adaptation efforts, over the past two years, California has worked with local groundwater agencies and state and federal partners to capture as much water as possible to prepare for the next drought. In 2023, more than 1.2 million acre-feet of groundwater recharge was permitted by state agencies, with nearly 400,000 acre-feet of flood water recharged using the Executive Orders issued by Governor Newsom. On average, the Sierra snowpack supplies about 30 percent of California’s water needs. Its natural ability to store water is why the Sierra snowpack is often referred to as California's “frozen reservoir.” Data from these snow surveys and forecasts produced by DWR’s Snow Surveys and Water Supply Forecasting Unit are important factors in determining how DWR provides water to 27 million Californians and manages the state’s water resources. DWR conducts five snow surveys at Phillips Station each winter near the first of each month, January through April and, if necessary, May. For California’s current hydrological conditions, visit https://cww.water.ca.gov. Additional Resources
### SACRAMENTO, CA – This is not an April Fools’ joke. Restaurant operators and job creators have been raising the red flag for months, as they are concerned with the negative impact of the minimum wage hike. Capitol Democrats pushed for the passage of Assembly Bill 1228 (Holden, 2023) and Governor Newsom signed it into law.
Following Paneragate, media outlets from the New York Times to the Wall Street Journalhave also been reporting that restaurant owners are bracing for the long-term effects of the 25% minimum wage hike, including reducing workers’ hours or worse, laying off thousands of workers altogether and replacing them with automation. Ultimately, additional wage costs will be passed on to consumers via higher prices in what one restaurant owner calls a “silent tax.” Sadly, many restaurants that cannot afford the wage hike are considering closing altogether. “Get ready for $20 burgers and fries served up by robots,” said Senate Minority Leader Brian W. Jones (R-San Diego). “Governor Newsom, Democrat lawmakers, and special interests are completely responsible for the mass layoffs of fast food workers and collapsing businesses in California.” This new law goes into effect just days after California was ranked number 1 in the country for unemployment. “This law is a rotten deal, no matter how much the other side attempts to spin it,” said Caucus Chair Senator Kelly Seyarto (R-Murrieta). “We need to protect employers and not make it harder for them to do business and create jobs in California.” “It’s already too difficult for families to be able to afford this state,” said Senator Rosilicie Ochoa Bogh (R-Yucaipa). “What we need to be doing is working to lower living costs and increase opportunities for growth, not the other way around.” “As a small-business owner, I know that doing business in California is becoming increasingly difficult,” said Senator Brian Dahle (R-Bieber). “This was a big win for the labor bosses, but in reality, it hurts those trying to achieve economic mobility. This law will force businesses to reduce their employees' hours, automate services, or opt to do business in another state. It's unfortunate that labor activists are destroying California's economy and the entrepreneurial spirit that has always been a part of our state.” Senator Dahle also delivered a veto letter to Governor Newsom urging him to veto AB 1228 last year. ### Dr. Glenn Mollette If President Biden could announce on November 1, 2024 that all student debt is forgiven, he would do so. That would surely be a way to get a few more votes. If you have a $100,000 student loan, then you have a heavy burden of paying back that loan. To suddenly have the debt cleared would be a marvelous feeling. Would this make you feel like Biden is a great President? Would this boost your confidence in his ability to lead our nation? Or, would you see such an act as a last-ditch effort to do whatever it takes to stay in the oval office for four more years? Thousands of Americans have carried the weight of student loans for years. Thousands have paid back the loans. Loans are never fun to pay back. Car payments, house payments, and credit card debt are tough to carry for years and years. Is it fair that many Americans have paid off student debt but suddenly thousands of Americans could have a large portion of their debt wiped away? It doesn’t seem fair. Is it good for America? Many more Americans need to borrow money for college. Paying back student loans is one way to keep money circulating back into the government coffers. What if someone paid back 75% of their loan in ten years then the other 25% would be forgiven? What about a two or three percent interest rate on student loans? What if people went to community colleges their first two years? There has to be a better way than just waving the magic wand and clearing debt to boost popularity. Interest rates are going to come down between now and November 1. A 30-year mortgage by November 1 will be closer to six percent. The stock market is roaring. If you have some money in stock then you have to be enjoying the increase. What goes up always comes down some, eventually. Don’t look for it to go down much between now and November first. The one thing President Biden doesn’t seem to want to do is stop the invasion of America. The invasion of America continues. Allowing up to 8.5 thousand illegals per day is not a fix. Outlaw gangs have taken over parts of South America in Columbia and Venezuela and parts of central America. Gangs have taken over Haiti. The cartel seems to roam freely in Mexico. These outlaws are coming into America. Violence, stealing, and killing are all they know. They will fight with and kill police officers, assault and murder women, steal from you, and terrorize our communities. Most of our small American counties are understaffed to protect our citizens from gangs armed with semi-automatic weapons. The invasion must be stopped today. Border states deserve all the help the federal government can give in securing the borders immediately instead of making it difficult on the states. Soon there will be so many illegals from China and throughout the world in our country that we will not have enough police or military to protect ourselves. We see this happening before our very eyes. The issues of student loans, interest rates, gasoline prices, inflation, and much more impact our lives significantly. Nothing is impacting our nation like the invasion. Please Mr. President and Congress, stop the invasion of our nation. Find books by Glenn Mollette at Amazon.com Learn more about his books, columns and music at GlennMollette.Com SALARIES for appointed and elected department managers were discussed during the Sierra County Board of Supervisors’ meeting held March 19th in Loyalton. Supervisor Sharon Dryden stated she’d been able to meet with all the department managers except for one and out of all the discussions, the main priority was to bring Tier 1 to a higher level than mid managers. She tried to find the “sweet spot” that everyone could live with and recommended a 5% increase to Tier 1 which would be $140,532.46 annually, 5% increase to Tier 2 - $147,559.09 and 7% increase to Tier 3 -$157,888.22. Supervisor Lee Adams appreciated Dryden’s comments in trying to be fair to everybody, but felt the 5%, 5%, 10% was more equitable. He recommended they wait until after they see what the final budget would be and then put this as a priority on the wish list. Chairman Paul Roen felt the same, adding it was alarming what they recently heard in Sacramento. Public Works and Transportation Director Bryan Davey stated the actual raises for what Adams was proposing would be 7.57% raise for Tier 1, 3.12% raise for Tier 2 and 4.35% raise for Tier 3. Dryden was comfortable with what Adams proposed, adding right now Tier 1 department managers were making less than mid managers. It was stated employees have had 27% in COLAs (Cost of Living Adjustments) and in the same 17 years department managers received only 10%. Dryden added some employees have half their paycheck going to benefits and felt they were well deserving of this increase. Adams recommended a partial fix right now, by bringing Tier 1 up by 1/2 to put them over mid managers at $135,588.71. Clerk-Recorder Heather Foster appreciated them having the discussion. Adams added until they see the numbers from the state, he didn’t want to “tie the hands of future boards”. Auditor Van Maddox stated if they implemented half just of Tier 1 it would be $6,722.25 for the rest of this year. A full year would be $26,889. If they implemented the whole 5%, 5%, 10% it would be $85,761 for a year. Maddox added the only thing that would change is the CalPERS rate which will drop slightly and future COLAs. Adams liked the intent of 5%, 5%, 10% and to take action on half for Tier 1 and defer the rest of the changes until they know what the final budget is. Board gave direction to bring back as a resolution.
A RESOLUTION rejecting bids for the Sierraville School Renovation Project due to budget constraints of this project was approved unanimously during the Sierra County Board of Supervisors’ meeting held March 19th. Public Works Director Bryan Davey reported they had received two qualified bids but both were over $1 million, which is double the total funding available through State Parks Prop. 68 and USDA grants. He stated he would continue to work with the architect to rescope the project to fit within the available budget, adding no additional funds were available. The highest priority has always been to replace the roof, and Davey feels they can also get the painting, windows and doors done with the rescope. ALAN TEAGUE of Sierra City was unanimously appointed as the new Planning Commissioner by the Sierra County Board of Supervisors on March 19th in Loyalton. Teague takes the seat made vacant by retiring Commissioner Janet Baldridge. He has many years of experience in Software Development and spent six years on City of Alameda Planning Board. Teague listed major accomplishments on that Board as their Housing Element, General Plan and updating Zoning to match. Teague spent the last three years designing, managing and building an off-grid home in Sierra City and wanted to be on Sierra County’s Planning Commission to give back to the community. Supervisor Lila Heuer made the motion to appoint Teague. She felt he was the most qualified and the Planning Commission didn’t have anyone from her district. Teague, who was online, appreciated the phone calls from a couple supervisors to talk about his application and was interested in helping the county. One area he was focused on was workforce housing he sees a need for. Supervisor Lee Adams appreciated such interest in the position and felt any of the five applicants would serve the county well. He liked to see all areas of the County represented. Board Chair Paul Roen announced that two seats will term out this fall adding there would be more opportunities to serve on this board and encouraged the other applicants pay attention to the upcoming vacancies. Nichole Johnson nbjohnson28@hotmail.com Various Ramp and Shoulder Closures Expected Throughout the Month of April
NEVADA COUNTY --- Caltrans is alerting motorists of various ramp and shoulder closures along State Route 20/49 (SR-20/49) in Nevada County as part of the $26 million Gold Nugget Project. Motorists can expect various ramp closures between Grass Valley and Nevada City starting Sunday, March 31 from 6 p.m. to 6 a.m. Construction activity will pause Friday morning and resume the following Sunday night, continuing throughout the end of April. Crews are working to upgrade these facilities to current Americans with Disabilities Act (ADA) standards. Roadside message signs will be in place along SR-20/49 to alert motorists of the closures and will not affect multiple ramps in succession. Additionally, various shoulder closures will take place during the day for electrical and clearing work, but they are expected to have little impact to the traveling public. The schedule is subject to change or be delayed due to weather conditions, material availability, or other unexpected events. The work kicks off the beginning of the Gold Nugget Project, which will rehabilitate the pavement between the SR-20/49 separation and Stonehill Road/Dow Road. The project will replace sign panels, upgrade Transportation Management System elements, and rehabilitate drainage systems within the area. DeSilva Gates Construction LLC of Dublin is the prime contractor for the project, which is expected to be completed by winter 2025. Caltrans District 3 is responsible for maintaining and operating 4,385 lane miles in 11 Sacramento Valley and Northern Sierra counties. Caltrans reminds motorists to “Be Work Zone Alert” and slow in construction zones for the safety of travelers and crews performing these improvements. The department will issue construction updates on X @CaltransDist3 and on Facebook at CaltransDistrict3. For real-time traffic, click on Caltrans’ QuickMap or download the QuickMap app from the App Store or Google Play. Loyalton Elementary's multi-purpose room was well decorated in artistic talent along with various hands-on science projects on Thursday evening, March 28th. Back in the cafeteria, hearty nacho dinners were served which was described as the best part of the night! Mrs. Mason’s 5th graders class space projects were real popular!
CHP REPORT – On March 16, 2024 at approximately 8 p.m., an unknown male driver was driving an older black Ford Expedition westbound on SR-70, west of Soda Creek Rd., through a construction zone with one-way controlled traffic. The construction zone was in place due to a large rock slide that had occurred and was blocking the westbound lane of SR-70. K-rail and cones had been put in place around the rock slide. This required westbound traffic to drive around the rock slide, K-rail and cones by temporarily entering the eastbound lane; thus, the need for one-way traffic control. A 2021 orange Automated Flagger Assistance Device (AFAD) was parked on the south shoulder of SR-70 with its arm down across the eastbound lane of SR-70 stopping eastbound traffic until the way was clear for eastbound traffic to proceed through the construction zone. As the Expedition was nearing the west end of the construction zone, the driver failed to move the Expedition back into the westbound lane and the front of the Expedition collided into the AFAD arm. The driver continued westbound in the eastbound lane after leaving the construction zone. The driver never stopped to make any notification to anyone regard-
ing the collision, his identity or his vehicle information. The Quincy CHP Office is asking for assistance from the community in identifying the driver of the older black Ford Expedition. The driver most likely lives in the Feather River Canyon and is described as a heavy set, long haired, bearded male in his 50s or 60s wearing glasses and usually has a female with him in the vehicle or a lap dog. Anyone with information related to the driver or the vehicle is encouraged to call the Quincy CHP Office at (530) 283-1100. Recognizing Health Disparities in Racial and Ethnic Minority Groups
By Dr. Archana Dubey, Chief Medical Officer, UnitedHealthcare of California April is recognized by the U.S. Department of Health and Human Services as Minority Health Month, an observance that brings awareness to health disparities and encourages action through education, early detection, and disease control. Part of this work includes raising awareness about the disproportionate health outcomes among people who belong to racial or ethnic minority groups. The conditions in which we are born, live, learn, work, play, and worship and our age – known as social determinants of health (SDOH) – have important impacts on health. Differences in SDOH contribute to the stark and persistent chronic disease disparities in the U.S. among racial, ethnic, and socioeconomic groups, systematically limiting opportunities for members of some groups to be healthy. Cancer
Mental Health
Prenatal Care
This awareness month brings light to differences in the health outcomes of various racial and ethnic minority groups. This awareness can also inform individuals about how groups who have poor social determinants of health and lack of access to high-quality medical care are more likely to be diagnosed with and die from diseases. State Farm, which stopped offering new homeowner policies in the state last May, cited issues related to inflation, natural disasters, reinsurance rates and “the limitation of working within decades-old insurance regulations.”
Renters insurance will not be affected, the insurer said, adding that the “difficult but necessary” decision will affect a portion of State Farm's California policyholders as follows:
The move follows those of other insurance companies leaving California, including four Kemper subsidiaries as well as Farmers Direct Property and Casualty Insurance — both of which said last November that they would withdraw from certain homeowner policy markets. Like Florida, California has seen a number of insurers leave the market, often citing the region's growing climate-related risks and reinsurance rates. Last month, two home insurers said they were eyeing rate hikes in Florida. In October 2023, a S&P Global Market Intelligence study found a national average spike of about 8.8% in homeowner premiums last year. In response to the state's uptick in non-renewal notices, the California Department of Insurance recently released 10 tips for finding residential insurance. This includes a help page with links for filing consumer complaints. Two young children were found safe by CHP officers on March 17, following a parental abduction that occurred in Reno, Nevada. Officers from the Truckee CHP office received a Be-On-The-Lookout alert for a suspect vehicle that was associated with the kidnapping of a 7-year-old and a 9-year-old and was believed to be heading to California. CHP officers located the vehicle on Interstate 80, east of Soda Springs, and conducted an enforcement stop that resulted in the safe recovery of the two children and the arrest of one of the suspects. The second suspect, the mother of the two children, had exited the vehicle but was located by officers from the CHP’s Gold Run Area a short time later along Rainbow Road, near I-80. She was taken into custody without incident. Both suspects were charged with kidnapping.
Dr. Glenn Mollette Feeling like you have some control over your life is vital for life happiness. Control is not always easy. It takes planning, sacrifice, work and good fortune. Lots of things can happen in life that will shake the earth beneath our feet. Illness, weather disaster, a bad accident, and stupid mistakes. We are all vulnerable to any and all of these. Considering anything can happen in life and chances are it will, we can all still make an effort to be in control of our daily lives. First, know who you are and build on who you are. There is only one you and there will never be another like you. Chances are you may have become a clone. You started out as an original but became someone else. You may have redesigned your life to be accepted by a certain workforce, group, religious entity, fraternity, sorority, or political party mindset. This works for a while but you won’t be very happy because it requires more work to not be you than it takes to just be you. This doesn’t mean that you can’t be a better you. We all can and should strive to be better, smarter, and the best we can be. Being a lazy, irresponsible, and ignorant are sure ways to not feel good or very secure in life. Life security and a feeling of having control over our lives requires work and living higher. Living lower will sink you. Build on who you are for success and happiness. Next, you have to work. Yes, we have to work. It’s essential to life security. The person who can work and wants to work will feel better and sleep better. There are all kinds of work and not every kind of work is for everyone. Discover what kind of work you enjoy and can do and learn to do it as well as you can. Working will give you a feeling of well-being. Millions of people in America can’t work for various reasons. Disability happens, millions are handicapped by various health related issues. Our country helps millions with Social Security disability and Medicare. At least with these government assistance programs people have something on which to survive. Keep in mind that a disability income in never a ticket to prosperity. What you can afford will be very limited. However, I do know people who have done well investing in the stock market even on a limited disability income and have done amazingly well financially. Keep in mind if you are going to make a house or car payment it requires a serious income and a paying job. Try to lock into a job that you enjoy and can do. Third, save money and stay out of debt as much as possible. Buy a house you can afford and save some money every month in an IRA or 401k or whatever is available to you. Research index funds and consider buying some stock in an index fund as you can. Index fund fees are typically cheaper. I’m not a stock advisor so do your own investigating. A school teacher friend bought index fund stocks every month for years and ended up with over a million dollars in stock by her retirement. Money isn’t everything but you’ll sleep better if you know you can buy groceries tomorrow and can pay your utility bills. Finally, take a few minutes every morning and at the end of the day to be grateful. Give God thanks for all and anything you have and ask him to give you strength, wisdom and peace for the day or throughout the night. Find books by Glenn Mollette at Amazon.com Learn more about his books, columns and music at GlennMollette.Com Global Media | P.O. Box 1238, Newburgh, IN 47629 California Google searches for "power outage" spiked 190% in the past month. Indeed, California has experienced the 2nd most power outages in March over the past five years compared to all other U.S. states. Amidst California's winter storms, our exclusive study delves into the heart of California's wild weather, uncovering startling trends and crucial insights.
Highlights:
Given that California averages 3.4 blackouts in April, your audience may be keen on starting to prepare. In fact, since 2003, California (474), Texas (435), and Washington (262) have faced the most power outages, highlighting a widespread vulnerability across states to extreme weather and infrastructure challenges. - Pete Freeman Associate, Digital PR at Fractl Sponsored by Loyalton High School Booster Club, the highly-successful Crab Feed was held March 23rd at Sierra Valley Grange Hall in Vinton with a full crowd. The crab was piled on among salad, pasta and bread with plenty of butter. Those "Crab Feed Experts," who kept the night flowing flawlessly were Sheri Roen, Annie Ceresola and Randi Durney. The Barkeeps were Paul Roen, Dwight Ceresola and Eric Petterson. Auctioneer Dave Roberti, with help from his brother, Rick, always makes the live auction especially entertaining. The VIP Table for 2025 for 8 people was won by Joy Engineering for a second year which includes all service for the night, decorated table and two bottles of wine. Among items auctioned was a Sierra Valley barn photo with a frame by the late Bob Vaum, donated by Large Animal Veterinary. Bob was a big supporter of the Crab Feed with his handmade bird houses and the crowd applauded Bob. SHARON CRAIN, mother of Sheri Roen, looks on as her lovely handmade afghan blanket, 70 x 52, made with "lots of love, priceless," is auctioned off for $400. THE HIGHLY-CREATIVE CALPINE COMMUNITY donated this antique wheelbarrow Spring Cart which included bulbs, plants, custom made metal hangers, bird feeder, $400 gift card to Blairsden Garden Center with over a $500 value. It auctioned for $525. This antique English Saddle and saddle bag with a $250 value, was donated by Grizzly Cub Parent Club and brought in $200.
The Love Falls Bridge across the North Fork Yuba River at mile 1196.2 has been damaged and is closed by Tahoe National Forest. The bridge is 1/4 mile south along the PCT from Highway 49 near Sierra City, California. The bridge normally provides safe passage across the steep rockbound canyon above the falls. - Pacific Crest Trail Assoc.
Detour information Traveling northbound, at mile 1194.6 take the Wild Plum PCT Access Trail (#12E04) downhill to the west. Reach Wild Plum Road and continue on it to Sierra City. Or turn right on Ostrom Way and rejoin the PCT at the trailhead on Highway 49. WASHINGTON – Today the House Education & the Workforce Committee passed Representative Kevin Kiley’s (R-CA) Congressional Review Act (CRA) resolution to overturn the Department of Labor’s (DOL) final worker classification rule that jeopardizes the ability of millions of Americans to work as independent contractors. The CRA has over 60 cosponsors in the House of Representatives and comes after the DOL final rule was released earlier this year. Click here to view Rep. Kiley’s remarks from the markup. Click here to read the resolution. “Washington should support workers, not regulate them into oblivion. As Acting Secretary of Labor, Julie Su and the Biden Administration have announced a new Department of Labor rule, modeled after on the same job-killing AB 5 that will cost millions of independent professionals across the country their livelihoods while restricting the freedom of many millions more to have flexible work arrangements. Our legislation under the Congressional Review Act nullifies this terrible regulation and protects independent contractors. I want to thank Chairwoman Foxx for bringing this legislation to a vote in the markup and I want to thank the Committee for their support,” said Rep. Kiley. The CRA passed by a vote of 21-13 in the markup. Background: Biden Administration rule attempts to restrict the ability of American workers to classify as an independent contractor and take advantage of the flexibility it provides. The rule creates a non-exhaustive, six-factor litmus test for unelected bureaucrats to interpret and decide who is and who is not classified as an independent contractor. It also casts as large a net as possible and gives less legal certainty to independent contractors impacted by the regulation. A recent study out of George Mason University concluded that AB 5 “was associated with a significant decline in self-employment and overall employment in California.” One to Two Feet Anticipated Across Mountain Passes
MARYSVILLE – Caltrans is alerting motorists about a moderate spring storm in the Sacramento Valley and the Sierra Nevada that is expected to create some travel delays for the end of the week and weekend. The National Weather Service has issued a Winter Storm Warning from noon Friday to 8 a.m. Sunday. Snow accumulation is forecast between 8 to 18 inches above 5,000 feet and 2 to 3 feet at the highest peaks. Wind gusts are also forecast up to 45 mph. Motorists should be prepared for chain controls, reduced visibility, additional travel times and delays. If motorists travel during the storm, Caltrans advises to pack extra supplies in the event of an emergency or if traffic is held for an extended period of time. Those supplies should include extra snacks, water, a blanket, and a flashlight. In the Sacramento Valley, rain amounts are forecast between 0.5 and 1 inch. The highest amounts are anticipated near Redding and into the foothills. Motorists should be prepared for slick travel conditions and longer than normal commute times. Updates to the forecast can be found on the National Weather Service website. Motorists are also encouraged to check Caltrans’ QuickMap before traveling for current road conditions and chain requirements or download the QuickMap app from the App Store or Google Play. Road information is also available on Caltrans’ website or by calling the California Highway Information Network automated phone service at 1-800-427-ROAD (7623). Caltrans District 3 is responsible for maintaining and operating 4,385 lane miles in 11 Sacramento Valley and Northern Sierra counties. The department will issue updates on X @CaltransDist3 and on Facebook CaltransDistrict3. (Washington, D.C.) – Today, Congressman Doug LaMalfa (R-Richvale) responded to President Biden’s unveiled final electric vehicle mandate rule. This de facto electric vehicle (EV) mandate would phase out internal combustion engine vehicles, requiring 67% of new light-duty vehicles and 46% of medium-duty vehicles to be electric by 2032. Its costly and burdensome implementation would ultimately harm American consumers by dictating that they purchase electric vehicles that are, on average, costlier, and that may not logistically work for them, as California regularly has rolling electric blackouts in the summer, and also one of the highest electricity costs in the country. “The average American does not want, and cannot afford, a new electric vehicle. This deeply unpopular mandate will forever tie our auto industry to the Chinese Communist Party, which produces a majority of the lithium needed for these EV batteries and has the potential to decimate our domestic energy industry and harm our auto-manufacturing industry. We lack both the power grid infrastructure and the power generation to support this rule. Demand for EV’s is falling now, mandating their purchase by eliminating the supply of vehicles people want is un-American. I will be looking into every possible avenue to stop it,” said Congressman LaMalfa. Congressman Doug LaMalfa is a lifelong farmer representing California’s First Congressional District, including Butte, Colusa, Glenn, Lassen, Modoc, Shasta, Siskiyou, Sutter, Tehama and Yuba Counties. ###
On the Lookout for Campground Hosts for the May-September 2024 Season. SUSANVILLE, CA, March 20, 2024 — There is no substitute for the personal touch that makes a camper feel welcome. Do you enjoy interacting with people and camping in the great outdoors? Are you interested in spending the summer in beautiful Lassen National Forest? If so, you might consider volunteering as a campground host with us. Each year we search for enthusiastic volunteers who enjoy the outdoors and like helping people, to support our public lands by greeting visitors and taking care of the many campgrounds here on the Lassen National Forest. Campground Hosts assist the Forest Service with the operation of our campgrounds by: • Greeting visitors, answering questions, and providing information • Informing visitors of campground rules, including fee requirements • Performing light maintenance such as litter pickup, restroom cleaning, raking, and campsite cleaning • Monitoring campground use and reporting issues to the Forest Service We provide Campground Hosts with uniforms, tools, supplies, and any training necessary to serve in our campgrounds. Campground Hosts receive a free campsite, and at certain locations, may receive free propane refills, and a daily reimbursement in exchange for their service. Length of stay and weekly hour commitments can very. Contact the local ranger station for more information. Background checks will be performed on all prospective Campground Hosts. To find out how you can become a Campground Host, or to request more information, please contact the Lassen National Forest, Almanor Ranger District at 530-258-2141 or Hat Creek Ranger District at 530-336-5521 during regular business hours. Applications will be accepted until all host positions are filled. For more information about the Lassen National Forest follow us on Facebook @LassenNationalForest or X (formerly known as Twitter) @LassenNF. ### USDA is an equal opportunity provider, employer and lender. March 19, 2024 State Route 70 remains closed to through traffic between Jarbo Gap (west of Pulga) and the Greenville Wye (junction with State Route 89) in Butte and Plumas Counties. Caltrans and contractor Nordic Industries, Inc. continue rock scaling and debris material breakdown at slide locations approximately 3 miles east of the Butte/Plumas County Line (approximate post mile 3) and between Twain and the Greenville Wye (approximate post mile 29.9). Work also continues in the District 3 construction area near Cresta following multiple slides. There remains no estimated time to reopen the highway. Crews are continuing to work to return these slide areas to 24/7 one-way traffic control as soon as possible, pending future weather, activity, and area safety. 24/7 updated highway conditions are available via QuickMap and updates on the emergency efforts in Plumas County can also be found on the Caltrans District 2 Facebook and Twitter pages. Updates on the slide area near Cresta in Butte County can be found on the Caltrans District 3 Facebook and Twitter pages. If you have other questions, please contact the Caltrans District 2 Public Information office at 530-225-3426 or D2PIO@dot.ca.gov. Link to recent drone video footage |