Dear Jan,

I set my alarm for 3:00 a.m. so I could go outside and watch the totality of the lunar eclipse from our backyard here in Calpine this morning. It was absolutely breathtaking—such a gift to witness.

And yes, I woke Bob up to help with the camera. I am the luckiest woman to have such a lovely husband who will stand outside with me in the freezing cold to experience such a beautiful offering from the universe.

We also took a picture of the moon before going to bed on March 2, 2026, so you can really see the progression of the lunar eclipse into totality. It was incredible to witness the whole arc of it.

Also Attached one at a distance I took at 3:11am.

Warm regards and sending full health to you.
Michelle

Michelle Reugebrink-Founder Comprehensive Well-Being LLC
Co‑Founder of the Well‑Being by Design Coach Training Institute
NBC-HWC, IHCP, ICF-MCC, EMCC, ESIA, EIA, ACE-CPT, MBSR (Certified)
Nature and Forest Therapy Guide, Trauma Resiliency Yoga certified
https://compwellbeing.com/
​

by Melinda Myers
 
Plant a variety of bee-friendly shrubs and enjoy year-round beauty and loads of pollinator appeal.  Include a mix of spring, summer and fall bloomers, providing nectar and pollen for visiting bees throughout the season. Selecting bee-friendly shrubs suited to the growing conditions and available space also boosts your landscape’s beauty and reduces maintenance.
Start the season off with dwarf fothergilla (Fothergilla gardenia). Its honey scented white flowers first appear before the leaves, offering food to early foraging bees and other pollinators. The blue-green leaves turn shades of red, orange and yellow in the fall.
Include black (Aronia melanocarpa) and red chokeberries (Aronia arbutifolia) with white flowers in spring, great fall color and the black or red fruit that persists into winter. These plants tolerate some shade, wet soil and occasionally dry soil.
 
Grow the native ninebark (Physocarpus opulifolius) in sunny well-drained locations. This durable drought-tolerant shrub also tolerates occasionally wet soil. White flowers with a pinkish tinge appear in late spring and the rugged exfoliating bark adds texture to the winter landscape.
 
If you are dealing with black walnut toxicity and dry locations, consider planting New Jersey Tea (Ceanothus americanus). This North American native shrub is deer-resistant and prefers full-sun and well-drained soil. White flowers appear in summer that not only support bees and other pollinators, but this plant is also a host for several butterflies.
            
Your garden will be abuzz with bee activity when growing Kalm’s St. John’s Wort (Hypericum kalmianum). This small shrub is covered with bright yellow flowers in mid-summer. Grow this drought-tolerant shrub in full to part sun and well-drained soil.
 
For moist to wet locations consider Buttonbush (Cephalanthus occidentalis). Its round white flowers appear mid-summer, inviting a variety of pollinators to the garden.
 
Summersweet (Clethra alnifolia) and Virginia sweetspire (Itea virginica) are two more summer-blooming shrubs that are shade and moist to wet soil tolerant. Look for varieties of these deer-resistant shrubs that fit your available space and garden design.
For dry shade consider dwarf bush honeysuckle (Diervilla lonicera). This is not one of the invasive honeysuckles but rather a native plant with yellow summer flowers and leaves that turn from yellow to orange and red then purple in fall.
 
Brighten your late summer and fall landscape with Rose of Sharon (Hibiscus syriacus). This large shrub appeals to several specialized bees, prefers full sun to partial shade and is moderately deer resistant.
 
Finish off the season with Seven-son flower (Heptacodium miconioides) considered a large shrub or small tree. You and the many visiting pollinators will appreciate the late season fragrant white blossoms. The rosy-purple calyx persists and the attractive exfoliating bark extends its ornamental appeal through winter.
 
Protect shrubs susceptible to animal damage with an organic repellent like Plantskydd (plantskydd.com). It is safe for pollinators and rain and snow resistant, which means fewer applications are needed. Apply any repellent you select before animals start feeding and according to label directions for best results.
Adding bee-friendly shrubs is an excellent way to support these important members of our community. Don’t stop there. Consider including some pollinator-friendly flowers in your gardens to further extend the bloom time and beauty of your landscape.
 
Melinda Myers has written over 20 gardening books, including Midwest Gardener’s Handbook, 2nd Edition and Small Space Gardening. She hosts The Great Courses “How to Grow Anything” streaming courses and the nationally syndicated Melinda’s Garden Moment radio program. Myers is a columnist and contributing editor for Birds & Blooms magazine and was commissioned by Tree World Plant Care for her expertise in writing this article. Her website is www.MelindaMyers.com. 

 

 
PG&E customers lost over $300,000 to utility scammers in 2025
 
CHICO, Calif. — With scams that target utility customers continuing at a high rate, Pacific Gas and Electric Company (PG&E) joins the Federal Trade Commission in recognizing National Consumer Protection Week, March 2-8, to help educate customers on how to spot the signs of a scam and avoid falling victim.
 
In 2025, PG&E received nearly 24,000 reports from customers who were targeted by scammers impersonating the company, and customers lost approximately $301,000 in fraudulent payments, with the average customer losing $590. Unfortunately, that number is likely just the tip of the iceberg for overall scam attempts, as many go unreported.
 
Scammers calling customers by phone and demanding immediate payment to avoid disconnection continues to be the most common scam. But there has been an increase in recent months of customer reports of utility imposters coming to their door and asking to see their PG&E bill, indicating that scammers are adopting new tactics.
 
“If you receive a phone call threatening disconnection if you do not make immediate payment, or if someone at your door asks to see your utility bill, hang up, close the door and slam the scam. Then, call our 800 number or log into your account at PGE.com to verify your billing details,” said Matt Foley, lead scam investigator for PG&E.
 
“Remember, PG&E will never ask you for financial information over the phone or for payment via pre-paid debit cards or money transfer services like Zelle, and we won’t ask to see your bill at your door,” he said. 
 
Small and medium-sized businesses are also a target, and scammers will focus their efforts during busy business hours, preying on business owners’ sense of urgency to keep the doors open and the lights on. In fact, PG&E received nearly 850 reports of scam attempts targeting business customers during 2025.
 
Signs of a potential scam
 

• Threat to disconnect: Scammers may aggressively demand immediate payment for an alleged past due bill.
• Asking to see your bill: If someone comes to your home and asks to see your bill, they are not with PG&E.
• Request for immediate payment via prepaid debit card or money transfer service: Scammers may instruct the customer to purchase a prepaid debit card then call them back supposedly to make a bill payment, or they may ask for payment via a money transfer service like Zelle.
• Refund or rebate offers: Scammers may say that your utility company overbilled you and owes you a refund, or that you are entitled to a rebate, and then ask you for your banking information.

 
How customers can protect themselves
 
Customers should never purchase a prepaid card to avoid service disconnection or shutoff. PG&E does not specify how customers should make a bill payment and offers a variety of ways to pay a bill, including accepting payments online, by phone, automatic bank draft, mail or in person.
 
If a scammer threatens immediate disconnection or shutoff of service without prior notification, customers should hang up the phone, delete the email, or shut the door. Customers with delinquent accounts receive an advance disconnection notification, typically by mail and included with their regular monthly bill.
 
If someone comes to your door claiming to be with PG&E, customers should know that PG&E personnel carry identification and are always prepared to show it upon request. If a customer still has doubts, they can call 800-743-5000 to confirm whether an individual is there on official company business. And remember, if someone asks to see your bill, they are not with PG&E and you should close the door.
 
As a reminder, PG&E will never send a single notification to a customer within one hour of a service interruption, and we will never ask customers to make payments with a pre-paid debit card, gift card, any form of cryptocurrency, or third-party digital payment mobile applications like Zelle or Venmo.
 
Signing up for an online account at pge.com is another safeguard. Not only can customers log in to check their balance and payment history, they can sign up for recurring payments, paperless billing and helpful alerts.
 
Scammers Impersonating Trusted Phone Numbers: Scammers are now able to create authentic-looking 800 numbers which appear on your phone display. The numbers don’t lead back to PG&E if called back, however, so if you have doubts, hang up and call PG&E at 1-833-500-SCAM. If customers ever feel that they are in physical danger, they should call 911.
 
Customers who suspect that they have been victims of fraud, or who feel threatened during
contact with one of these scammers, should contact local law enforcement. The Federal Trade Commission’s website is also a good source of information about how to protect personal information.
 
For more information about scams, visit pge.com/scams or consumer.ftc.org.   
 
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.

Impassioned pleas from teachers, parents, and community members filled the room at the Plumas Unified School District (PUSD) board meeting on February 11th in Quincy, as the district considered sweeping personnel reductions aimed at addressing a severe financial crisis.
The proposed cuts — affecting certificated, classified, and administrative staff — were presented as part of a Fiscal Stabilization Plan designed to restore the district’s long-term financial health.
During the meeting, the Fiscal Crisis and Management Assistance Team (FCMAT) reviewed findings from a Comprehensive Review completed on December 23, 2025. The report confirmed that PUSD faces significant fiscal challenges, including a structural deficit, cash insolvency, and an inability to meet the state-required reserve levels.
Interim Chief Business Official Stephanie Shatto presented the district’s Fiscal Stabilization Plan, explaining that under Assembly Bill 2756 and direction from the County Administrator, PUSD is required to adopt a formal plan outlining ongoing reductions to correct its financial instability. The district’s reduction target is $9.5 million.
Shatto emphasized that the plan was developed with input from staff and community surveys, student surveys, administrative collaboration, and listening sessions held in Portola, Chester, Greenville, and Quincy.
“This is the final version that will be adopted and used as a road map,” Shatto stated. “Decisions made today are hard, but then we won’t have to come back again and again.”
The district outlined extensive personnel reductions projected to save approximately $8 million, with an additional $1.5 million in cuts to be determined following the 2026–27 interim report.
Proposed reductions include:
Elimination of unnecessary vacancies, saving an estimated $1,855,330
Reduction or discontinuance of 12 full-time teachers, 5 part-time Career Technical Education (CTE) teachers and part-time PE teacher
Cuts to classified services, including:
1 administrative assistant
2 attendance clerks
1 behavioral health specialist
4 bus drivers
2 cook managers
4 custodians
6 library media specialists
14 paraprofessionals
4 student services coordinators
Reduction of one principal position at Quincy Elementary, as the district consolidates Pioneer and Alder campuses into a single site.
During public comment, speakers urged the board to prioritize students and seek collaborative solutions that would minimize harm to classrooms. Many warned that increasing class sizes would negatively impact student achievement.
Speakers appealed to the County Administrator to “do what research and common sense demand,” emphasizing that schools are the foundation of community strength. Several expressed concern that repeated reductions could permanently alter the character and quality of local schools.“Students need to thrive in these lean times, not just survive,” one speaker said. Another cautioned, “When you cut, you bleed — and you risk losing the definition of your school.”
Despite community opposition, County Administrator Richard DuVarney approved all proposed cuts.
Areas under review include:
Reducing or eliminating nonessential contracted services
Reviewing consultant and service agreements
Limiting travel, conferences, and discretionary departmental budgets
Reviewing subscription/licensing costs
Restricting overtime and extra-duty assignments
Moving stipends and other expenses to possible grants
Next steps outlined in the Fiscal Stabilization Plan include additional fine-tuning of projections, staffing impacts, operational adjustments, and implementation timelines will occur. These refinements will be informed by updated financial data and meaningful collaboration with all educational partners, including staff, bargaining units, site leadership, families, and the broader community.
The shared goal remains a plan that is fiscally responsible, educationally sound, and sustainable, ensuring long-term stability for Plumas Unified School District while protecting core student opportunities wherever possible.
  

Sacramento – The California Department of Forestry and Fire Protection (CAL FIRE) is announcing the availability of up to $120 million for Forest Health projects that address extreme disturbance events including catastrophic wildfires, drought, and pest mortality.



CAL FIRE is accepting applications for landscape-scale forest management and restoration efforts designed to improve ecosystem resilience, reduce wildfire risk, and deliver climate benefits such as increased carbon storage and reduced greenhouse gas emissions.


“Healthy forests are already delivering real results on the ground—lower wildfire intensity, safer communities, improved wildlife habitat, and stronger natural systems that store carbon and withstand climate stress,” said CAL FIRE Deputy Director of Natural Resource Management, Eric Huff. “By investing in science-based forest management including reforestation, CAL FIRE continues to accelerate the pace and scale of work needed to protect California’s landscapes and ensure our forests remain resilient for generations to come.”
The Forest Health Program encourages proposals from tribes; local, state, and federal government organizations; nonprofit organizations; and other eligible entities that demonstrate strong ecological outcomes, cross-boundary collaboration, and meaningful community engagement. Since 2017, CAL FIRE has awarded more than $750 million in Forest Health grants. These projects have assisted in restoring and replanting our state’s forests. Reducing wildfire risk, mitigating climate change, protecting communities, supporting rural jobs, and improving California’s water and air—helping ensure healthy forests for the future. See previously awarded projects on the CAL FIRE Awarded Grant Projects Dashboard.


This solicitation includes two parallel funding opportunities totaling $120 million: $55 million from the Greenhouse Gas Reduction Fund (GGRF) and $65 million from Proposition 4 (California Climate Bond). Both funding sources will follow the same timeline and application process; applicants seeking consideration under both must submit separate applications because of different requirements in each funding source.


For the first time, the Forest Health Program will use a two-step application process to reduce applicant burden. Concept proposals will be accepted from March 2 through March 30, 2026, and the most competitive proposals will be invited to submit full applications during the second phase.


A virtual pre-recorded workshop will be made available to explain the grant process and requirements. Please check the Forest Health webpage to view the workshop. Any questions can be directed to [email protected].


The Forest Health program is supported by both California Climate Investments, which invests proceeds from the Greenhouse Gas Reduction Fund through California’s cap-and-invest program in projects that reduce greenhouse gas emissions and benefit disadvantaged communities, and Proposition 4 California Climate Bond, which provides funding for climate resilience and natural resource protection across California. Together, these investments support large-scale forest restoration and wildfire resilience efforts.

​

February 24, 2026

HOWLFORWILDLIFE.ORG/CALGRIZZLYBLOG
SB 1305 Makes This Real—and That’s Exactly Why California Should Slow DownThere is a question at the center of California’s grizzly debate that no bill, no roadmap, and no feasibility study can answer:
Would the bears choose this?
We can’t ask them, of course. But the question matters because it forces us to think like stewards, not romantics.
California now has a new bill, SB 1305, that would create an official state roadmap for grizzly bear reintroduction and declare it state policy to restore grizzlies to California. Even if reintroduction is not immediate, this is not just symbolic language. It is the beginning of a government process designed to move the idea forward.
That is exactly why Californians should stop and ask a harder question than “Could this happen?”
We should ask: Should it?
And in modern California, the answer should be no.
A roadmap is not neutralSupporters will say SB 1305 only creates a process. But processes matter.
Once the state declares a policy goal and orders agencies to build a roadmap, the debate changes. The burden quietly shifts from “prove this is wise” to “work out the logistics.” That is how controversial ideas gain momentum before the public has fully grappled with the consequences.
SB 1305 requires a scientific assessment, tribal consultation, peer review, conflict-response procedures, and cost estimates. Those are all serious components. But a more detailed roadmap does not solve the underlying problem if the underlying premise is wrong for this state.
And the premise is wrong.
California is not a historical postcardGrizzlies once lived here. That is true.
But California is no longer the California grizzlies once inhabited. Today it is a state of roughly 39 million people, extensive infrastructure, dense recreation, and a massive wildland-urban interface. That is not anti-bear rhetoric. It is the basic management reality any honest policy discussion has to begin with.
A map showing habitat patches is not the same thing as a durable, socially workable landscape for an apex predator.
Roads, homes, recreation pressure, livestock operations, attractants, and emergency response constraints all shape what “suitable habitat” means in the real world. If California cannot honestly address those factors first, a roadmap becomes an exercise in optimism rather than stewardship.
Natural return is one thing. Reintroduction is another.This distinction matters, and SB 1305 makes it impossible to ignore.
If grizzlies naturally recolonized California over time, that would be one conversation. It would mean the animals themselves found pathways and selected habitat under current conditions.
But reintroduction is a human decision to place bears in a landscape and then manage the consequences.
That means the state—not the bears—chooses:

• where conflict risk is acceptable,
• who absorbs the costs,
• how long response times can be,
• and what happens when coexistence breaks down.

And when it does break down, it is the bears that pay first: hazing, collaring, relocation, and sometimes lethal removal.
So again: would the bears choose this?
If we can’t answer yes, we should be very cautious about choosing it for them.
California already struggles with the predators it hasBefore California builds a roadmap for a new apex predator, it should demonstrate competence and public trust in managing the predators already on the landscape.
That is not where we are.
Across the state, predator policy involving mountain lions, black bears, and bobcats is already contested, politicized, and often disconnected from timely, flexible management. California’s own black bear planning context reflects a large and growing bear population alongside increasing conflict management demands in a heavily populated state.
Adding grizzlies to that system is not a test of vision. It is a test of state capacity.
And California has not earned confidence on that front.
The Bay Area test still exposes the contradictionThe SF Bay Area was prime grizzly habitat; they lived here, yet no one is seriously proposing grizzly reintroduction in the San Francisco Bay Area.
Why not? 
Because the density, infrastructure, and human use make the idea obviously irresponsible.
That logic does not magically disappear outside the Bay Area.
The same California that makes Bay Area reintroduction unthinkable is the California that shapes the rest of the state too: roads, growth, recreation, politics, and conflict pressure everywhere. The details vary by region, but the governing reality does not.
If a proposal only sounds workable once you ignore how modern Californians actually live on the landscape, it is not ready for policy.
The domino effect on working lands is not a side issueSB 1305 talks about consultation, conflict protocols, and cost estimates. Good. It should.
But no roadmap can paper over a basic truth: apex predator policy lands unevenly.
The first people to absorb the risk are usually ranchers and rural communities. They are asked to carry the uncertainty, modify operations, tolerate losses, and wait for agencies to respond—often under legal and political constraints that urban advocates rarely face themselves.
That domino effect matters for conservation.
When working lands become less viable, habitat stewardship often gets harder, not easier. You cannot build durable wildlife policy while treating the people who live with wildlife as an afterthought.
This is not anti-grizzly. It is pro-stewardship.It is possible to respect the grizzly bear, recognize its history, and still oppose a state-led reintroduction roadmap.
In fact, that may be the more responsible position.
Because real conservation is not about proving that something is theoretically possible. It is about choosing actions that produce durable outcomes for wildlife and people in the world we actually have.
SB 1305 moves California toward a formalized path for grizzly restoration. That should not be treated as harmless planning. It should trigger a much more serious public conversation about state capacity, public safety, working lands, wildlife conflict, and what stewardship really means in a state this large and this developed.
If grizzlies return on their own someday, California can respond to that reality when it happens.
But building a state roadmap now to intentionally place them back into modern California is not humility. It is not caution. And it is not necessarily compassion.
It is an experiment—one the bears never asked for.

​LOYALTON CITY COUNCIL met February 17th amid the snowstorm following a closed session in which they raised Greg Lonergan’s salary to $25/hour. It accepted Joe Dines’ resignation with thanks. Council member Bill Mertton thanked Joe for the roof.
SENIOR CENTER NEEDS
Magdalene DeBerg explained to the Council needed improvements at the Loyalton Senior Center for insurance purposes, including a sprinkler system, galvanized switched out, replacement of exterior siding and the sidewalk fixed. She stated she didn’t expect the City to pay but for anything it can do. Mayor Joy Markum suggested the Council suspend the Senior Center’s $500 monthly payment until work is completed. It was stated she should reach out to the County since the Senior Center serves lunches to those within the County. Council member Sue McIlravy stated the Seniors have been in that building 47 years and requested what repairs they’d done. She told of the room the Senior Center thrift shop takes up at the City Center and the cost of its roof. Joy pushed for suspension of the $500, and agreed the thrift shop would continue to pay propane and electricity and solid waste taxes but Magdalene would get estimates on the repairs first which would also determine the length of time of suspension. Councilman Jerry Gerow moved, seconded by Sue McIlravy and passed.
WATER RESTRICTION SUGGESTIONS
Councilman Bill Mertton made suggestions on water restrictions which would start May 1st, including going by even and odd addresses, watering on every other Saturday, no watering on Sundays, 3 days/week for a limit of 3 hours/day “honor system.”  There would be no water runoff and he was in favor of allowing water for cleaning cars which he said had been the biggest complaint. Commercial watering and penalties would remain. He stated there may have to be further restrictions and there was the possibility of another well under Doug Lawler. This item was moved to unfinished business.
Two new Business Licenses were approved; Eli Helvey for handyman services and another business license for Bob Feeny of Timber Café.
SCHOOL/CITY LAND SWAP
Schools Superintendent Sean Snider approached the Council requesting a piece of property for expansion of the middle school, moving a vacant modular over to the adult education. The City owns that property since it purchased the City Center. He noted he was contacted by Mayor Joy Markum about the City well being on school property and “would love” to work out an even swap. The Council voted in favor for the exchange of property with each entity paying its own attorney fees.

With One Month of the Season Left, Critical Northern California Watersheds are Well Below Average SACRAMENTO, Calif. – The Department of Water Resources (DWR) today conducted the third snow survey of the season at Phillips Station. The manual survey recorded 28 inches of snow depth and a snow water equivalent of 11 inches, which is 47 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. Statewide, the snowpack is 66 percent of average for this date.
Today’s snow survey results show an increase from last month’s measurements following a series of cold, major snow-producing storms that ended a five-week dry period. Unfortunately, the recent storms were not enough to get the state back to average conditions for this time of year. Warmer storms early this week also caused snowmelt at lower elevations.
“Although the storms we saw in mid-February were some of the coldest and best snow-producing storms we have seen since 2023, they were not enough to get us back to average conditions,” said Andy Reising, Manager of DWR’s Snow Survey’s and Water Supply Forecasting Unit. “The snowpack is in better shape than it was one month ago, but we only have a month left of our snow-accumulation season and time is rapidly running out to catch up. Statewide, we are only about 57 percent of where we hope to be by April 1.”
Storms this season have also been unevenly distributed across the Sierra Nevada. While the Southern Sierra Nevada is 90 percent average for today’s date, the Northern Sierra Nevada, where several of the largest major water supply reservoirs are located, is only 46 percent normal for this date.
“Water supply in California increasingly depends on a small number of big storms,” said DWR Director Karla Nemeth. “We face higher drought risk when they don’t arrive and greater urgency to modernize infrastructure to capture water when they do. The dramatic wet-dry swings this winter remind us again that ever-warmer average temperatures have reshaped the California water cycle. We must adapt.”
On average, the largest snow-producing months in the Sierra Nevada are December, January, February, and March. Historically, the snowpack peaks on or near April 1, after which the snowpack transitions to generating run-off into California’s rivers and reservoirs.
While the snowpack remains below average, major reservoirs statewide are currently 122 percent of average. State water managers, including the State Water Project, continue to focus on efforts to capture and store as much water as possible. The monthly snow surveys play a critical role in how the State Water Project allocates water each year.
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 key factors in determining how DWR manages the state’s water resources.
DWR conducts four media-oriented snow surveys at Phillips Station each winter near the first of each month, January through April and, if necessary, May. The next survey is tentatively scheduled for April 1.
For California’s current hydrological conditions, visit https://cww.water.ca.gov.
Additional Resources:

• Video of today’s Phillips survey

February 24, 2026
SACRAMENTO, CA — Assemblymember Pilar Schiavo introduced AB 2021, sponsored by the California Privacy Protection Agency (CalPrivacy), to establish comprehensive whistleblower protections under the California Consumer Privacy Act (CCPA). The bill, known as the Whistleblower Protection and Privacy Act, supports whistleblowers in two key ways — by creating an award program to incentivize these individuals to speak up about potential violations and by establishing anti-retaliation provisions to protect them once they come forward. 
“Companies are collecting and selling data about our children, family, friends, and neighbors every day. California’s privacy laws create strong protections on what companies can collect and sell, but illegal handling still happens,” said Assemblymember Schiavo. “CalPrivacy does everything it can to find and penalize bad actors, but the whistleblower protection and support AB 2021 provides will allow experts with insider knowledge to help CalPrivacy take action quickly to stop companies that harm us and our loved ones by unlawfully selling our private or sensitive data.” 
Technology and data-driven companies often have complex business practices that are intentionally hidden from the public for competitive advantage. This lack of visibility can cloak wrongdoing and make it time-consuming for regulators to uncover potential violations. Whistleblowers are critical in exposing misconduct. However, coming forward is risky without legal protections. Whistleblowers can face job loss, isolation, and even lawsuits.  
“In our data-driven economy, where companies typically process personal information behind closed doors, privacy laws work best when insiders can report violations without fear,” said Tom Kemp, Executive Director of CalPrivacy. “All the privacy rules in the world mean little if the people who see violations can’t speak up without losing everything.” 
AB 2021 supports whistleblowers by offering financial incentives to encourage these individuals to speak up and by protecting them from retaliation after coming forward. Similar to whistleblower laws in the financial services and anti-fraud contexts, the bill allows whistleblowers to share in a portion of an enforcement award and, at the agency’s discretion, permits their attorney to collaborate on the action. Additionally, like many other California laws, employers are prohibited from retaliating against whistleblowers when they report. Taken together, these provisions encourage and protect whistleblowers.  
“Anti-retaliation alone does little to motivate whistleblowers to take the first step,” said Maureen Mahoney, CalPrivacy’s Deputy Director of Policy & Legislation. “We’re grateful to Assemblymember Schiavo for authoring this bill that provides real support to the brave individuals who come forward to protect the privacy of Californians.” 
Whistleblower protections are one of the key elements recommended for technology laws in a reportopens in a new window issued last year by the Joint California Policy Working Group on Frontier AI Models. CalPrivacy is proud to sponsor this important bill which seeks to implement that recommendation and increase transparency and accountability in California’s privacy law.  
About UsThe California Privacy Protection Agency (CalPrivacy) is committed to promoting the education and awareness of consumers’ privacy rights and businesses’ responsibilities under the California Consumer Privacy Act, Delete Act, and Opt Me Out Act.
Consumers can visit Privacy.ca.gov to access helpful and up-to-date information and tips on how to exercise their rights, protect their personal information, and learn about the Delete Request and Opt-out Platform (DROP). In addition, CalPrivacy’s website provides important information about Board Meetings, announcements, and the rulemaking process.
A

 Spring marks higher fuel demand and the switch to the summer gasoline blend
WALNUT CREEK, Calif. (Feb. 26, 2026) - Spring weather may be weeks away in much of the country, but the seasonal rise in gas prices is underway in California. The statewide average for a gallon of regular gasoline rose four cents since last week to $4.63. That price is still 19 cents lower than this time last year.
***The national average for a gallon of regular gasoline went up by more than five cents this past week to $2.98. 
“Refineries are beginning the process of producing summer-blend gasoline which contains pricier additives to help reduce evaporation during warmer months,” said AAA Mountain West Group spokesperson Doug Johnson. “Gas demand is also expected to increase next month as spring break season kicks off and more drivers take road trips.”
Fuel Prices Around the State: 

• San Francisco: $4.84
• Oakland: $4.72
• San Jose: $4.67
• Sacramento: $4.65
• Fresno: $4.59
• Stockton: $4.54

According to new data from the Energy Information Administration (EIA), gasoline demand decreased last week from 8.74 million b/d to 8.73 million. Total domestic gasoline supply decreased from 255.8 million barrels to 254.8 million. Gasoline production decreased last week, averaging 9.2 million barrels per day.
Oil Market Dynamics
At the close of Wednesday’s formal trading session, WTI fell 21 cents to settle at $65.42 a barrel. The EIA reports crude oil inventories increased by 16 million barrels from the previous week. At 435.8 million barrels, U.S. crude oil inventories are about 3% below the five-year average for this time of year.
EV Charging
The national average per kilowatt hour of electricity at a public EV charging station stayed the same at 39 cents. In California, the average cost is 42 cents.
State Stats
Gas
The nation’s top 10 most expensive gasoline markets are California ($4.63), Hawaii ($4.40), Washington ($4.35), Oregon ($3.92), Nevada ($3.71), Alaska ($3.59), Arizona ($3.26), Pennsylvania ($3.12), Washington, DC ($3.09), and Illinois ($3.03).
The nation's top 10 least expensive gasoline markets are Oklahoma ($2.43), Mississippi ($2.52), Kansas ($2.54), Louisiana ($2.55), Tennessee ($2.56), Arkansas ($2.58), Wisconsin ($2.59), Texas ($2.60), North Dakota ($2.61), and Iowa ($2.63).
Electric
The nation’s top 10 most expensive states for public charging per kilowatt hour are West Virginia (52 cents), Hawaii (50 cents), Alaska (48 cents), Louisiana (47 cents), South Carolina (44 cents), New Hampshire (44 cents), New Jersey (43 cents), California (42 cents), Idaho (42 cents), and Tennessee (41 cents).
The nation’s top 10 least expensive states for public charging per kilowatt hour are Kansas (25 cents), Wyoming (27 cents), Missouri (28 cents), Nebraska (30 cents), Utah (31 cents), Iowa (32 cents), Vermont (32 cents), Maryland (33 cents), New Mexico (33 cents), and Delaware (33 cents).
Drivers can find current gas and electric charging prices along their route using the AAA Mobile App, now available on CarPlay. Find current fuel prices at gasprices.aaa.com. Find local news releases at mwg.aaa.com/news/press-release. 

About AAA Mountain West Group
AAA Mountain West Group is a membership and full-service leisure travel organization, proudly serving over 6.8 million Members across Northern California, Arizona, Utah, Nevada, Montana, Wyoming, and Alaska. AAA delivers unmatched expertise and value through roadside assistance and electric vehicle (EV) resources, along with comprehensive auto repair, travel, insurance, financial, and home security services. Powered by 5,300 dedicated Team Members, AAA is on a mission to revolutionize solutions that help our Members.

New LAO report shows short-term revenue growth while California drains reserves and carries up to $34 billion in debt

SACRAMENTO — In case you missed it, the Legislative Analyst’s Office (LAO) released a new revenue forecast showing California is bringing in billions more in revenue than expected. Despite the increase, the state budget continues to rely on roughly $10 billion from the Rainy Day Fund and is carrying a growing “Wall of Debt” totaling between $32 and $34 billion.


The LAO, Department of Finance, and legislative budget experts all agree the revenue surge is temporary and should be treated as a one-time windfall, not ongoing money to support permanent new spending. At the same time, both the LAO and Department of Finance project multi-billion-dollar deficits in future years, even with the current revenue bump.


“California is bringing in so much money, but Democrats are still draining our reserves and piling up debt,” said Assembly Republican Leader Heath Flora. “Instead of saving for the next rainy day, they’re spending every dollar like it’s burning a hole in their pocket.”


According to the LAO, the current budget remains balanced only by withdrawing billions from constitutionally protected reserves, while the state continues to carry tens of billions of dollars in budgetary borrowing accumulated over recent years.


“When the experts tell you the money is one-time only, the worst thing you can do is spend it like it’s permanent,” Flora added. “Republicans are focused on protecting California’s financial stability and avoiding the kind of budget crises that hurt working families the most.”

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​THE REINTRODUCTION of grizzly bears in California is a proposal by Senator Richardson put forth in Senate Bill 1305, which would require the Department of Fish and Wildlife to develop and make publicly available a roadmap consisting of a scientific assessment based on best available data, and consultation with California Native American tribes.
Assemblymember Heather Hadwick shared serious concerns over the Bill stating it speaks to “restoring ecological function,” but does not fully grapple with the reality of communities coexisting with a large apex predator. Hadwick’s bottom line states, California is not adequately managing the wildlife we already have.

www.tfhd.com
 Photo (L to R): Damara Stone, Manager, TFHS Education Department; Nick Cherne, Firefighter/Paramedic;  and Ryan Ochoa, Battalion Chief, Truckee Fire Protection District

(Tahoe/Truckee, Calif.) – Tahoe Forest Health System (TFHS) has donated its Trauma Oriented Manikin (TOM), a high-fidelity trauma training simulator, to the Truckee Fire Protection District to support advanced emergency response training in the region.
TOM is a sophisticated, lifelike training tool designed to simulate a wide range of traumatic injuries and medical emergencies. The equipment allows first responders and healthcare professionals to practice critical, life-saving procedures in realistic scenarios without risk to patients.
The donation reflects Tahoe Forest Health System’s commitment to ensuring vital resources are utilized where they can have the greatest impact. In recent years, TFHS expanded its simulation capabilities through the acquisition of high-fidelity birthing/neonate manikins, Victoria and baby Tory, made possible by the generous support of the Martis Camp Foundation and matching TFHS Team Member Giving donations. With these newer simulators meeting the health system’s evolving training needs, TOM became available for redeployment within the community.
The TFHS Education Department converted an old ICU room into a Simulation Room where staff can come and practice their skills and participate in mock mega-codes. “It was getting a little crowded in the Sim Lab,” says Damara Stone, RN and Manager of the Education Department. “We have really appreciated the chance to train with TOM, but Victoria and Tory are a better fit for our current education and training needs.”
“Truckee Fire will be able to utilize TOM in training for mass casualty incidents and other emergencies,” says Ryan Ochoa, Battalion Chief of the Truckee Fire Protection District. In January 2026, Ochoa, Louden Smith, and Nick Cherne pulled up to the old ICU and loaded TOM into an ambulance headed for his new home.
Truckee Fire Protection District provides emergency medical and fire services throughout the region and maintains a strong partnership with Tahoe Forest Health System in delivering coordinated patient care. The addition of TOM enhances the district’s ability to conduct realistic, scenario-based trauma training for its personnel and underscores a shared commitment to preparedness, and excellence in emergency care.
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About Tahoe Forest Health System
Tahoe Forest Health System, which includes Tahoe Forest Hospital in Truckee, CA, and Incline Village Community Hospital in Incline Village, NV, offers 24-hour emergency care, urgent care, primary and specialty health care clinics including Tahoe Forest Orthopedics and Sports Medicine, Commission on Cancer (COC) accredited cancer center, the Gene Upshaw Memorial Tahoe Forest Cancer Center, and the Joseph Family Center for Women and Newborn Care. With a strong focus on high quality patient care, community collaboration, clinical excellence and innovation, Tahoe Forest Health System is a UC Davis Rural Center of Excellence. For a complete list of physician specialties and services, visit www.tfhd.com.
 

TRUCKEE, Calif. (Feb. 23, 2026) - Tahoe National Forest has lifted the Castle Peak Avalanche Closure. The area was closed for public safety and to support search and rescue operations following an avalanche that occurred on Feb. 17. All victims have now been recovered. Individuals that choose to enter the area are encouraged to proceed with extreme caution.  
“We extend our deepest sympathies to the individuals and families impacted by this tragic backcountry incident, and we grieve with our community,” said Tahoe National Forest Supervisor Chris Feutrier. “As we collectively process this immense loss, our commitment to the safety and well-being of everyone who visits the forest is stronger than ever, compelling us to reiterate vital safety information.” 
Before heading out to recreate on the Tahoe National Forest, members of the public are advised to remain vigilant for potentially dangerous situations.  

• Know before you go: Monitor weather conditions before you set out for the day. 
• Prioritize Safety: Your safety and the safety of others around you is most important. 
• Be avalanche aware: Learn about avalanche conditions. Take a certified avalanche course. Find courses at  Avalanche.org. 
• Be prepared: Bring essential safety gear and know how to use it. Everyone in your party should have an avalanche transceiver, avalanche probes, shovel, backpack and a partner.  

Sierra Avalanche Center provides daily avalanche forecasts for the greater Tahoe region. Review local avalanche conditions, forecasts, observations and safety tips at SierraAvalancheCenter.Org. 

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PG&E crews were out in force through the weekend and today as additional PG&E workers from outside the region arrived to assist local crews in power restoration in storm-damaged Sierra Nevada Mountains.
 
Since the storm began, PG&E crews have restored power to more than 120,000 customers in PG&E’s Sierra Division, which includes El Dorado, Placer, Nevada and Sierra counties.
 
As of 10:20 a.m., about 6,300 customers in the Sierra Division are without power.
 
A series of storms with deep snow and high winds and coupled with saturated soils caused many trees to topple into power lines.  PG&E crews used snowcats, side-by-side vehicles, helicopters and even snowshoes to reach snowed-in areas.
 
Several hundred workers and contractors are in the field today generally working 16-hour days to restore power as quickly and safely as possible.
 
PG&E has been working closely with county emergency agencies and in two separate cases provided snowcats with operators to assist first responders in medical emergencies in El Dorado County.
 
As of 10:20 a.m. Monday, here are the current power outage counts by county:
- El Dorado: 4,255
- Nevada: 1,113
- Placer: 520
- Sierra: 279
- Amador: 3,064
- Calaveras: 5.064
- Tuolumne: 1,587

Over five years, California has recorded 19,241 crashes. The most dangerous roads are:
Rank         California Roads       Total Crashes

1                 I-5                               536

2                  US-101                       409

3                  SR-99                          368

4                    I-15                            290

5                    I-10                             252

6                    I-80                              211

7                    SR-1                            154

8                    SR-91                          121

9                     SR-4                            110

10                   I-215                              98

Where Fatal Crashes Happen in California:

• State highways: 49%
• U.S. highways: 8%
• Interstates: 29%
• Local streets: 15%

We also have city-level data available for localized coverage on request. You can explore the full study on the most dangerous places to drive and see how your state ranks here: https://www.iselect.com.au/car-insurance/insights/the-most-dangerous-places-to-drive/

Residents and business owners who can't afford to buy ice melt for clearing ice in front of their homes, driveways, or commercial entrances should know that help is available from local authorities. Throughout the winter, many businesses on Commercial Street, especially those with north-facing entrances, have had significant ice buildup on sidewalks and streets in front of their doors. While the freezing conditions can be challenging, it’s important for safety that sidewalks and entrances are kept clear. A slip on ice can easily send someone to the hospital, which is an unnecessary risk for patrons and employees alike. A simple, low-cost alternative to ice melt is sand, which provides traction and reduces the chances of slips and falls. Plumas County and the City of Portola are offering free supplies of sand and sandbags at designated locations to help residents and businesses prepare for winter hazards and protect property. Sand and sandbags are available at no cost while supplies last. Supplies are distributed on a first-come, first-served basis, and residents are encouraged to take only what they need.
Available Locations Include:

• City of Portola – 120 Main Street, Portola (for city and county residents)
  
• Graeagle Fire Department – 7620 CA-89, Graeagle
  
• Peninsula Fire Department – 801 Golf Club Road, Lake Almanor
  
• Hamilton Branch Fire Department – 3791 Big Springs Road, Hamilton Branch
  
• Chester Fire/CPUD – 251 Chester Airport Road, Chester
  
• Quincy Fire Station #1 – 501 Lawrence Street, Quincy (sand already bagged)
  
• Indian Valley Fire Department – contact Indian Valley CSD for supplies 
  

These materials are intended to help protect homes, businesses, and property from potential water intrusion and winter hazards. Officials also encourage residents and business owners to stay informed about changing weather conditions and take proactive safety steps as storms approach. While the City of Portola is offering free sand and sandbags for traction and storm preparation, it’s important to note that the City is not responsible for clearing ice from sidewalks in front of businesses. That responsibility falls to each property owner or business operator. Therefore, businesses on Commercial Street have no excuse for neglecting snow and ice removal, especially if financial cost is the barrier. The sand and sandbags are readily available, and using them to improve traction and safety is a simple step that helps protect employees, customers, and neighbors. At the Portola Public Works Department near the Railroad Museum (120 Main Street), there is a large pile of sand and often burlap bags available. In the past, there were community shovels on site, but these sometimes disappear, so bringing your own shovel is recommended. There’s no reason for people to slip and slide in front of homes or businesses when resources exist to make walking surfaces safer. Take advantage of the free sand and sandbags, stock up, and use them where needed. Together, we can make winter safer for everyone.

Lady Grizzlies played Biggs February 20th at home and came within 9 points in the first half but couldn't keep up in the second, with Biggs winning 57-49.

To Our Community,
The recent avalanche that took the lives of nine backcountry skiers has profoundly impacted the Truckee-Tahoe region and beyond. For many, these mountains symbolize connection and belonging, and this loss is deeply felt across our community.
We extend our condolences to the families and loved ones who are grieving. Our thoughts are also with those who were injured and everyone working to process this tragedy. Trauma affects each person differently, and both physical and emotional recovery take time.
We express our gratitude to the first responders and Search and Rescue teams, many of whom are volunteers, as well as the partner agencies that acted swiftly. Their efforts reflect the strength and dedication of this community.
In the days ahead, the impact of this tragedy may continue to unfold. Community members directly impacted by the recent avalanche at Castle Peak who need mental health or grief support can call Tahoe Forest Behavioral Health at (530) 582-3505. The line is staffed Monday- Friday, 8am-5pm. For immediate crisis support, please contact:
·       Placer County 24/7 Crisis Line: (916) 787-8860
·       Nevada County 24/7 Crisis Line: (530) 265-5811
·       Call or text 988 (Suicide & Crisis Lifeline)
·       Or visit the nearest emergency department
This loss is felt widely. Please check in on one another, reach out, and seek support if you need it. We will share more resources in the coming days as they become available.
We share in the grief of our community and remain here to care for those who need us.
With sympathy,
Anna M. Roth, RN, MS, MPH
President & CEO
 
 
 
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About Tahoe Forest Health System
Tahoe Forest Health System, which includes Tahoe Forest Hospital in Truckee, CA, and Incline Village Community Hospital in Incline Village, NV, offers 24-hour emergency care, urgent care, primary and specialty health care clinics including Tahoe Forest Orthopedics and Sports Medicine, Commission on Cancer (COC) accredited cancer center, the Gene Upshaw Memorial Tahoe Forest Cancer Center, and the Joseph Family Center for Women and Newborn Care. With a strong focus on high quality patient care, community collaboration, clinical excellence and innovation, Tahoe Forest Health System is a UC Davis Rural Center of Excellence. For a complete list of physician specialties and services, visit www.tfhd.com.

Customers Warned to Stay Away from Downed Power Lines

​PG&E crews and contractors had to temporarily pause working in the field and return to yards late this morning after whiteout conditions on roadways and falling trees made it unsafe in the Sierra Nevada Mountains.
 
Work will resume to assess and repair storm damage to poles and power lines after severe weather has passed. Crews have returned to the field in parts of Nevada County where weather has allowed.
 
Poor visibility on roads and snow-laden trees toppling over meant about 175 workers in El Dorado, Placer, Nevada and Sierra counties had to return to work yards.
 
PG&E also urges customers to always treat downed power lines as live and to stay away.  Report downed power lines and by calling 9-1-1 or 800-PGE-5000.
 
While crews have made strong pogress in power restoration, new power outages occurred while weather worsened.
 
When crews resume restoration they will be utilizing helicopters and snowcats, navigating challenging terrain, and in some cases, even donning snowshoeing to reach affected areas. Additionally, PG&E has brought in extra crews from outside the region, along with contractors, to support the local teams in restoring power.
 
Despite these efforts, some areas remain inaccessible due to road closures. As of x p.m. Thursday, here are the current power outage counts by county:
- El Dorado: 8,062
- Nevada: 5,315
- Placer: 4,105
- Sierra: 625
- Amador: 5,074
- Calaveras: 9,819
- Tuolumne: 4,931
 
It is crucial for customers to stay prepared in case of power outages. Customers should ensure their phones and tablets are charged and have battery-operated lanterns and flashlights readily available. To report a power outage and received updates, call 800-PGE-5002 or visit www.pge.com/outages