(Nevada City, CA.) – Today, Congressman Doug LaMalfa (R – Richvale) announced that he secured $6.6 million in federal funding for three projects throughout Nevada County.
 
The Nevada County Sheriff’s Office Dispatch Center will be awarded a $4.8 million Community Oriented Policing Services (COPS) Technology and Equipment grant for radio infrastructure improvements. Improved radio systems will decrease response times of first responders during times of natural disasters and large-scale incidents requiring multi-agency responses, ultimately increasing public safety.
 
North San Juan will receive a Fire Suppression System through a $1,050,000 United States Department of Agriculture Community Facilities grant. This funding will be used to install a 330,000-gallon water storage tank, pipeline and fire hydrants in the downtown core of North San Juan. The town currently lacks public water service and an emergency water pipeline for fire suppression.
 
CAL FIRE Nevada-Yuba-Placer Unit will receive $750,000 for The Ponderosa West Grass Valley Defense Zone will be awarded through the U.S. Forest Service’s State and Private Forestry Landscape Restoration Program. This project was listed in Nevada County’s Local Hazard Mitigation Plan, the Plan and is ranked the number one priority project in the Nevada County Community Wildfire Protection Plan for Western Nevada County. These funds will be used for wildfire fuel reduction treatment on 600 acres of private lands which are currently overgrown with dense vegetation and at risk of an uncontrollable wildfire.
 
This funding was all secured by Congressman LaMalfa through the FY 22 Appropriations Bill as part of a community grants program.
“Public safety, fire suppression, and prevention are all at the utmost importance for the forested towns of Nevada County. These projects’ wide range of benefits will improve the safety of residents all throughout the county, and I am pleased that we could secure this funding that’s so worthy of federal support,” said Congressman LaMalfa.
 
"I'm thrilled to see this project funded for North San Juan and thank Congressman LaMalfa for his support. The new fire suppression system will give firefighters the tools to protect our rural North San Juan community. The infrastructure will provide new opportunities for downtown businesses that don't have access to a large, commercial water supply," said Board of Supervisors Chair Sue Hoek. "Infrastructure projects are costly, and this one has been a decade in the making. This is a huge win for our North San Juan community."
 
“Wildfire preparedness is our number one priority in Nevada County, and the Ponderosa West project is critical to protecting Grass Valley during a large-scale wildfire event," said District III Supervisor Dan Miller. "Congressman LaMalfa has really looked out for us by helping to secure this funding. Once Phase II is completed, we'll have a 1,000-acre park-like, shaded fuel break protecting our communities."
 
“This funding will be key to upgrading our significantly aging infrastructure and expanding our radio coverage throughout Nevada County. The upgrades will allow compliance with federal mandates while also improving our interoperability functions with other local, state, and federal public safety partners.” said Nevada County Sheriff Shannan Moon. "This project will be a game changer for our community and our law enforcement officers."
 
Congressman Doug LaMalfa is a lifelong farmer representing California’s First Congressional District, including Butte, Glenn, Lassen, Modoc, Nevada, Placer, Plumas, Shasta, Sierra, Siskiyou and Tehama Counties.
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Some of the most radical COVID bills anywhere in the country face a vote next week. These will be major fights on the Assembly and Senate Floor.
Here’s where things stand with the “Vaccine Work Group” bill package:

• We’ve killed the three worst bills: the student vaccine mandate, the employer vaccine mandate, and the bill to defund police for not enforcing mask mandates.

• One bill, the dreadful measure removing parental consent, passed the Senate by a single vote. I’m confident we’ll kill it in the Assembly; in any case, a court has already deemed it unconstitutional.

• The remaining four bills – testing, vaccine registry, social media censorship, and medical censorship – now face a vote of the full Senate or Assembly. I will be speaking against both Assembly bills.

To advance to the other house, each bill must pass by next Friday, May 27. Passage in the Senate requires 21 votes and in the Assembly 41 votes. See a list of the bills and their status here.
Meanwhile, Democrat legislators are tweeting “Suspend the #GasTax NOW.” These are the same people who repeatedly voted against my bill. Next week, we’re giving them a chance to make good on their tweets: another floor fight.
We’re now at $6.05 a gallon while the national average is "only" $4.56. In so many ways, California is a preview of what's in store for America if we don't change course: mandates, inflation, crime, an open border, sky-high taxes, a government that never stops growing.
Elon Musk just said he’s voting Republican for the first time this year. He won’t be the only one.
Kevin Kiley
California Legislator
*You can still sign up for a yard sign or to volunteer at ElectKevinKiley.com. Thank you!

 
Opening tomorrow, Friday, May 20, are numerous sites in the Feather River Canyon, Lake Davis Recreation Area, Frenchman Lake, Antelope Lake Recreation Area, Bucks Lake Recreation Area, and isolated sites on the Beckwourth and Mount Hough Ranger District operated by Outdoors in Plumas as a concessionaire under permit with the Plumas National Forest.
 
More information on sites managed by Outdoors in Plumas is available at www.outdoorsinplumas.com.
 
Forest recreation specialists are opening Wyandotte Campground at Little Grass Valley Recreation Area, as well as sites in Sly Creek and Strawberry Campgrounds in the Sly Creek Recreation Area on May 22.
 
Forest visitors should be aware of closures and current conditions when planning a trip.  More information about recreation opportunities on the Plumas National Forest can be found at www.fs.usda.gov/plumas.
 
Despite recent storms, fuel conditions remain extremely dry in the forest.  Area residents and visitors are asked to use caution with anything that could spark a wildfire and to ensure campfires are dead out and cold to the touch before leaving.
 

Motorists Should Expect Travel Delays in Work Zones
 
TRUCKEE – Caltrans is alerting Interstate 80 (I-80) motorists to expect travel delays between the I-80/State Routes 89/267 interchange and the Donner Pass Road Overcrossing (Exit 184) in Truckee for continued roadway construction activities.
 
From 8 p.m. Sunday, May 22 through 5 a.m. Friday, May 27 the #1 (left) lane of I-80 westbound will be closed around the clock for drainage work in the median. Due to the upcoming Memorial Day holiday, work will be restricted for the long weekend, with the #1 westbound lane closure resuming Tuesday, May 31 at 9 p.m. and continuing through 10 a.m. Friday, June 3. This lane reduction is anticipated to continue weekly Sunday night (8 p.m.) through Friday morning (10 a.m.) until the end of June.
 
In addition, eastbound motorists should expect intermittent lane closures beginning Tuesday, May 31 at 9 p.m.between the SR-89 south on-ramp and the Central Truckee off-ramp (Exit 186) while I-80 is re-striped for a slight shift of traffic lanes toward the median. Construction crews will be placing temporary concrete barriers known as k-rail along the right shoulder area in preparation for excavation work.
 
Construction activities are part of a $30.6 million project to rehabilitate the existing concrete on I-80 in Truckee, install a westbound auxiliary lane from the SR-89 south on-ramp to the Donner Pass Road off-ramp, install eastbound acceleration lanes from the Donner Pass Road on-ramp and SR-89 south on-ramp, improve drainage, and upgrade concrete walkways along ramps to meet current Americans with Disabilities Act (ADA) standards.
 
Teichert Construction of Rocklin is the prime contractor for the project, which is scheduled to be completed in fall 2022. Weather, equipment availability or other unexpected events may delay or prolong the work.
 
The department will issue construction updates on Twitter @CaltransDist3, on Facebook at CaltransDistrict3and on the Caltrans District 3 website. For real-time traffic, click on Caltrans’ QuickMap quickmap.dot.ca.gov/ or download the QuickMap app from the App Store or Google Play.
 

KEVIN KILEY, Congressional candidate is shown at the Gold Nugget Republican Women's meetiing Wednesday night with Stacey Estrada and Mary Ervin.

KEVIN KILEY was a featured speaker at the Gold Nugget Republican Women's meeting at the new outdoor dining area at Golden West in Loyalton May 18th.
Kiley earned his bachelor's degree from Harvard University, his J.D. from Yale Law School, and his master's in secondary education from Loyola Marymount University. His professional experience includes working as a teacher and an adjunct professor.
Kevin Kiley was elected to the California State Assembly in 2016 and has been reelected twice. In the 2020 election, he received more votes than any Republican in California history.
Each year in the Legislature, Kevin has declined the per diem allowance, giving up $40,000 in income annually. He also declined a pay raise granted to the Governor and Legislature in 2021.
Kevin told about his endorsement by former President Donald Trump, calling him “gracious enough” to meet after nine holes of golf and how they “hit it off.” Kevin read the President’s statement which called him a “conservative champion.”
He told the audience of his fights with Governor Gavin Newsom, including over the gas tax, the State of Emergency and the October 2020 trial where he won and the Recall when Newsom “pulled out all the stops” spending $70 million and telling how “battles have gotten bigger and bigger and worse and worse.”
He told how everything that’s gone wrong in California is going national all by design. He called California a warning to the nation and vowed to “fight Biden and Pelosi just as hard as I’ve fought Newsom.”
Under question by CTL assistant manager on illegal immigrants and forestry being the front end of fires, Kevin stated illegals should be deported immediately with the State Sanctuary bill. On forestry, he told how the budget has tripled in three years. “We sacrifice the most and get the least in return,” he stated. He talked in favor of the forest being properly managed, ladder fuels and brush cleared. He told how the State had done a tiny fraction of what needs to be done and how it’s lied. He was in favor of higher priorities and reducing regulations and called it a failure by both State and federal government. “Timber harvest plans don’t pencil out,” he said. He cited the Creek Fire near Shaver Lake and the Caldor Fire in El Dorado County where Fire Safe areas were spared.
Kevin talked in favor of biomass and how it lowers fire risk.
CTL Forest Management Manager Jeff Holland told how he is trying to rebuild cutting lumber and how the local area is not part of bioRAM. “The politics of bioRAM needs to stop,” he told the Assemblyman.
Jeff was also worried about vaccines for his grandkids. In answer, Kevin told how a “truly stunning radical proposition” to mandate every student be vaccinated had died.
Asked about the belief your vote doesn’t count and voter fraud, Kevin agreed since the recall rules changed in the middle of the recall and the new $35 million voter education contract was illegally given with no bid but stated “a lot of legislation is underway.” Fix California, election integrity, poll watchers and strike teams all have safeguards in place, he said, to give peace of mind.
 
 

Photo courtesy Stacey Estrada

Open to those with no acting experience- casting now!

The casting team for a new feature film - 1975 Music Therapy Film (Working Title) - is announcing a nation-wide casting call. They are looking to cast paid, speaking roles to play various characters in the film. The film’s director is committed to finding original and authentic new talent, and is therefore open to those with little or no acting experience. The roles they are casting include characters who have an affinity for music, so they are especially seeking musicians with particularly distinctive looks and personalities. The film is set in the mid-70s in California.
Production will likely start in Fall of 2022 in Los Angeles, CA. Travel and accommodations will be provided for all out-of-state talent. Pay will be union scale - $1056/day or $3,756 per week.
Online auditions can be submitted virtually by visiting www.tinyurl.com/NationalOpenCall and by filling out the online casting call form and uploading a video audition.
The casting team is searching for real, vibrant people of all ages. Those with interesting looks and natures should apply! More information can be found at MusicTherapyFilm.com. Anyone interested in more information should send an email to MusicTherapyFilm@gmail.com. 

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Sometime in our past, there was a big event called the county fair. It was a place where people from across the county came to gather, see old friends and show off their animals, preserved foods, hay and a drawing or photo. They ate food that you couldn’t get at the local diner, and drank beer that WAS available at the local bar, but it tasted better at the fair. They were entertained by musicians and magicians and acrobats and puppets and….each other. They could put all that food and drink at risk by riding machines that spun them around and flipped them upside down. It was a simpler time. It was the BEST time. Will we ever feel that way again?
 
Darn straight! We are pretty sure we remember how to do this and we’re giving it our best shot! The 2022 Plumas Sierra County Fair comes alive again this July 28-31 in Quincy, California. It’s been a long time since the young and old residents of Plumas and Sierra Counties have walked through the front gates to the sounds and sights of the fair. Let us remind you how it all works.
 
You come to the fairgrounds and park out front. It costs $3 per car, and we mainly use that as a fund raiser, so thanks for kicking in. Admission to the fair is $6 for adults, $5 for seniors/students (13-17 & 62+), and $4 for kids (6-12 years). You can buy weekly passes which is cheaper if you are planning on going at least two days. Once you get into the fairgrounds, you will see a good selection of food vendors, offering everything from mini donuts to funnel cakes, Thai BBQ to corn dogs. There’s entertainment from the moment you pass through the gates; steel drums, a mind reader, marionettes, Cisco Jim’s Cowboy Camp, and more. You will find the Imagination Gallery in the Mineral Building where you can play giant games, like Simon on a device taller than most fairgoers. A new presentation comes in the form of Powerhouse; high energy tap dancing and clogging act featuring professional dancers that have competed on national television. Probably one of the most popular acts to ever perform at the Plumas Sierra County Fair is Street Drum Corp, and they’re coming back. These guys have won national competitions and love Plumas County. Another “never before seen” show in Plumas County is the Pee Wee Stampede. They’ve been at the Texas State Fair for over 17 years and are rolling into Quincy for Fair Week. This highly entertaining show is a “hands on” method of instilling the cowboy ways to kids 3 to 6 years old. It’s a kid’s rodeo with music, stick horses and bulls, cowboy hats, chaps, rodeo back numbers, trophies and ribbons. Yeehaw!
 
The entertainment doesn’t end there. Come to the legendary Old Town Stage Thursday through Saturday evenings for live music; Walker and Willis on Thursday (or Willis and Walker, depending on who you’re talking to), Rickety Bridge on Friday and Rummy on Saturday. Since we’re bringing back the past, the grandstand will come alive on Saturday night with a live performance of up and coming country star, Jake Jacobson. By the time the fair gets here, Jake will have dropped two singles and has some major touring planned in the coming months. He has been touring around the country, but wanted to come back to his home county to perform for everyone after COVID and fires. Details will be announced in June. Of course, count on the popular American Valley Speedway race on Sunday night to top off the fair.
 
After decades of having the fair in August, we had to alter the dates to secure a carnival, but it’s OUR carnival. Wold Amusements has been serving our fair for a long time, but with all the upheaval, had to make arrangements that didn’t work with our schedule. It is of note that if Wold Amusements can’t be our carnival, we won’t have a carnival. They are the only outfit that is willing, and gladly so, to come provide the rides that are so important to our experience. By lining up two other fair; Trinity County and Lassen County, we were able to secure this great show for years to come.
 
Golden Tickets are back. For $90, you can ride all the rides, every day of the fair, as much as you like. Plus, there are a couple of coupons for discounts on carnival food and Midway games. If you won’t be going more than a day or two, you can purchase a carnival coupon for $25. It can be redeemed for $32 worth of ride coupons, or, you can exchange it for an all day ride wristband on Thursday or Sunday. Presale carnival tickets will be available beginning in June from these locations: Safeway, all Plumas Bank branches, Sierra Valley Home Center, Sierra Valley Feed, all library branches and the Fair Office.
 
It will all come back to you quickly, but here’s an important reminder. ANY fair is only a fair because of the competitive exhibits. Fairs show what a community has made, grown and raised. First, consider entering something in the fair for other people to see, and perhaps win a ribbon and a bit of money. Second, take the time during your visit to go into the Floriculture Building, the Home Arts Building, the Art Barn, the Junior Agriculture Barn and the Livestock Barns. See what your neighbors have made, grown or raised. Entering is easy; you can pick up an exhibit guide at any Plumas Bank branch, a public library or the Fair Office. Easier still, you can download the guide, or just the section you want, from the Fair website – www.plumas-sierracountyfair.net. It will tell you what you can enter, when to turn in the entry form, and when to bring your actual entry to the fair for judging and display. But wait, it gets better! The PSCF Foundation is paying for most entry fees, so entering is FREE to you. You still get the ribbon and the prize money if you win or place, but it costs nothing to enter. There are a few exceptions and those are covered in the guide.
 
There is so much more to come, so look for more information wherever you are reading this and on Facebook. The website is another great place for information as we get closer to the Fair dates of July 28-31, 2022.
 
This will be a “Celebration of Fairs Past” by celebrating the return of a fair in the present

Plumas County — Caltrans began the Butterfly Two Wolf Creek Rock Fence project today, which will completely replace the existing rock fencing at multiple points located on State Route (SR) 70 and 89 in Plumas County. The project also includes culvert rehabilitation.


Commuters can expect minimal delays of 5 minutes over the course of the project, as construction continues through the summer. 


The $1.8 million project includes 70 working days, with 65 days requiring light traffic control. The entire project is expected to be completed by August 2022.


To stay up to date on highway projects, please follow us on Facebook and Twitter. Project information can also be found on the District 2 webpage. The public can also call (530) 225-3426 during working hours or send an email to D2PIO@dot.ca.gov. Updated highway conditions for California can be found on QuickMap and on One-Stop-Shop for the Western U.S. 


Contractor Stewart Engineering Inc., North Region Construction and Caltrans District 2 thank the traveling public and local communities for their patience during the construction of the project.

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The Governor touts the state’s ‘all-hands-on-deck’ approach to address the drought. Yet, he did not propose funding for above ground water in this year’s budget. His Administration has not approved permits for water storage projects like Sites Reservoir – after almost a decade of voters’ approval of Proposition 1, a $2.7 billion bond dedicated to build water storage. These empty promises come on the heels of the California Coastal Commission’s (many of whom were appointed by the Governor) rejection of a desalination plant in Southern California. Assemblyman Vince Fong (R-Kern County) Vice Chair of the Assembly Budget Committee issued the following statement:
 
“Californians are facing the third year of a devastating drought. Yet, the Governor continues to fail to invest in above ground water storage in this year’s or next year’s budget.
 
“Despite all the words, the one thing missing is immediate funding for above ground water storage that Californians desperately need.
 
“The Governor must plan better to build and finish water storage projects to collect every drop of water that’s given to us.”
 
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Solar and wind facilities advancing both companies’ sustainability goals
 
OAKVILLE, ON, May 10, 2022 - Liberty, a subsidiary of Algonquin Power & Utilities Corp. (TSX/NYSE: AQN; “Algonquin”), announced today its collaboration with Meta (NASDAQ: FB) on the new 112 MW Deerfield II wind project in Michigan. This long-term power purchase agreement (PPA) for 100 percent of the energy and environmental attributes from Deerfield II builds upon the existing renewable energy partnership the companies have at the operating Altavista solar facility in Virginia. The Deerfield II wind project is expected to contribute to Liberty’s ESG goals and help Meta continue to support its operations with 100% renewable energy. The project is expected to achieve commercial operations in 2023.
 
Located in Huron County, Michigan, adjacent to Liberty’s Deerfield I wind facility, the Deerfield II wind project represents a significant opportunity to advance the growth of Michigan’s renewable electricity supply, while supporting Liberty and Meta’s sustainability objectives. The project represents an investment of approximately $200 million for Liberty and is expected to:  

• Provide approximately $2 million per year in property tax revenue
• Support local schools, roads and various care facilities 
• Inject capital into the community by compensating local landowners
• Create 200 temporary and permanent jobs for workers

 
Jeff Norman, Chief Development Officer for Algonquin, commented: “Wind and solar energy investments are critical streams within our growth program, and we’re very pleased to be able to expand upon our existing partnership with Meta.” Mr. Norman also noted: “Our company is all about thinking globally and acting locally. Projects like Altavista solar and Deerfield II allow us to have that dual-level impact by supporting Meta’s operations with 100% renewable energy while contributing to the surrounding communities.”
 
Liberty will develop, engineer, construct, own and operate the Deerfield II wind project. Construction began in April 2022.
 
“Since 2020, our global operations have been supported by 100% renewable energy and, as we continue to grow, it is increasingly important that we have strong partnerships to bring new renewable energy to the grid,” said Urvi Parekh, head of renewable energy at Meta. “We appreciate the work Liberty has done to help us bring these 112 MW to the grid in support of our operations.”
 
For more information on how Liberty (Algonquin) and Meta are advancing sustainable solutions, please visit:
 

• Algonquin: http://algonquinpower.com/sustainability/
• Meta: sustainability.fb.com

 
About Algonquin Power & Utilities Corp. and Liberty
Algonquin Power & Utilities Corp., parent company of Liberty, is a diversified international generation, transmission, and distribution utility with over $16 billion of total assets. Through its two business groups, the Regulated Services Group and the Renewable Energy Group, Algonquin is committed to providing safe, secure, reliable, cost-effective, and sustainable energy and water solutions through its portfolio of electric generation, transmission, and distribution utility investments to over one million customer connections, largely in the United States and Canada. Algonquin is a global leader in renewable energy through its portfolio of long-term contracted wind, solar, and hydroelectric generating facilities. Algonquin owns, operates, and/or has net interests in over 4 GW of installed renewable energy capacity.
Algonquin is committed to delivering growth and the pursuit of operational excellence in a sustainable manner through an expanding global pipeline of renewable energy and electric transmission development projects, organic growth within its rate-regulated generation, distribution, and transmission businesses, and the pursuit of accretive acquisitions and value enhancing recycling of assets.
Algonquin's common shares, preferred shares, Series A, and preferred shares, Series D are listed on the Toronto Stock Exchange under the symbols AQN, AQN.PR.A, and AQN.PR.D, respectively. AQN's common shares, Series 2018-A subordinated notes, Series 2019-A subordinated notes and equity units are listed on the New York Stock Exchange under the symbols AQN, AQNA, AQNB, and AQNU, respectively.
Visit AQN at www.algonquinpowerandutilities.com and follow us on Twitter @AQN_Utilities.
Caution Regarding Forward-Looking Information
Certain statements included in this news release contain information that is “forward-looking” for purposes of applicable securities laws (collectively, “forward-looking statements”). The words “will”, “expects” and similar expressions are often intended to identify forward-looking statements, although not all forward-looking statements contain these identifying words. Specific forward-looking statements in this news release include, but are not limited to, statements regarding expected future generation capacity, production, completion date, community benefits, job creation and tax revenue with respect to the Deerfield II wind project. These statements are based on factors or assumptions that were applied in drawing a conclusion or making a forecast or projection, including assumptions based on historical trends, current conditions and expected future developments. Since forward-looking statements relate to future events and conditions, by their very nature they require making assumptions and involve inherent risks and uncertainties. Readers are cautioned that although it is believed that the assumptions are reasonable in the circumstances, these risks and uncertainties give rise to the possibility that actual results may differ materially from the expectations set out in the forward-looking statements. Material risk factors include those set out in Algonquin’s Management Discussion & Analysis and Annual Information Form for the year ended December 31, 2021, each of which is available on SEDAR and EDGAR. Given these risks, undue reliance should not be placed on these forward-looking statements, which apply only as of their dates. Other than as specifically required by law, Algonquin undertakes no obligation to update any forward-looking statements or information to reflect new information, subsequent or otherwise.
 

Sacramento, CA — Today, Governor Gavin Newsom unveiled the 2022-23 May Revision Proposal, which continues to reflect the state’s vision to defend women’s right to choose, expand access to health care for all Californians, and protect the most vulnerable.

“We applaud Governor Newsom’s actions to support the whole-child, whole-family framework by investing in children’s mental health, supporting child care providers and infrastructure grants, and providing immediate financial relief to families most impacted by rising inflation and cost pressures.”  said Jackie Wong, Executive Director for First 5 California. 

The May Revision does not address the challenges that prevent low-wage earners from utilizing the state’s Paid Family Leave and State Disability Insurance (SDI) programs. “The current wage replacement rates and other administrative challenges do not allow our lowest paid parents and caregivers the ability to access this benefit to bond with their newborns and babies.” said Ms. Wong. “California can lead by making our family paid leave program the most equitable in the nation by addressing the shortfalls in these programs.”   

The May Revision estimates General Fund revenues to be about $55 billion higher than January’s Budget Proposal, which provides this Administration an opportunity to establish a broad-based relief package of $18.1 billion in fiscal relief to Californians to address inflation-related cost pressures. 

The May Revision Budget proposal outlines the following new investments:

• $290 million to support children’s mental health and community-based youth suicide prevention and outreach programs. 
  
• $157 million to waive child care and preschool family fees for about 400,000 low-income families from July 1, 2022 to June 30, 2023.
  
• $200.5 million for minor renovation and repair projects for child care facilities in low-income regions and areas with minimal access to services. 
  
• $114 million to hold harmless voucher-based child care providers and preschool providers reimbursement for authorized hours of care, from July 1, 2022 to June 30, 2023.
  
• $57 million, for a total of $125 million, to expand access to reproductive healthcare services, improve clinical infrastructure and workforce support. 
  
• $20 million to assist alternative payment programs in capacity grants. 
  

“We also want to recognize Senate pro Tem Toni Atkins’s and Senator Nancy Skinner’s leadership in crafting a budget priority package that works for children and families, the Senate’s “Putting Wealth to Work,” that would make significant investments in improving early care and education.” said Ms. Wong. 

The Senate’s “Putting Wealth to Work” plan proposes the following investments:

• $1 billion in ongoing support to increase provider reimbursement rates to the 90th percentile of the regional market rate and additional funding to improve benefits for the childcare workforce. 
  
• $245 million to continue waiving family fees and extending the provider hold harmless policies. 
  
• $445 million for child care facilities expansion and infrastructure investments, professional development and workforce support. 
  
• Increase eligibility for low-income children, address rate adjustment factors to support preschool providers.
  

For more information about First 5 California, visit www.ccfc.ca.gov. 

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ABOUT FIRST 5 CALIFORNIA:

First 5 California was established in 1998 when voters passed Proposition 10, which taxes tobacco products to fund services for children ages 0 to 5 and their families. First 5 California programs and resources are designed to educate and support teachers, parents, and caregivers in the critical role they play during a child's first five years – to help California kids receive the best possible start in life and thrive. For more information, please visit www.ccfc.ca.gov. 

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​Senator Dahle Reacts to the May Revise Budget Proposal
 
SACRAMENTO, CA – Senator Brian Dahle (R-Bieber) reacted to the today’s release of the May Revise budget proposal.
 
“It is a shocking revelation that California’s budget surplus is now over $97 billion, which equates to $2,400+ per resident, and the governor has proposed only returning a small portion to the taxpayers who generated it. Yes, California should invest in priorities like addressing the mental health and homelessness problem, improving education, water shortages, and wildfire risks, but we cannot continue to throw taxpayer dollars at failed policies that lack real solutions to these challenges. I look forward to discussing those solutions and returning tax dollars to Californians,” said Senator Brian Dahle (R-Bieber)
 
Senate Republicans have expressed their priorities in a letter to Legislative Budget Chairs, and look forward to discussing them in the upcoming Budget negotiations.
 

Lanes Reduced in State Route 89 South Roundabout During Maintenance Work
 
TRUCKEE – Caltrans is alerting State Route 89 south motorists to expect a lane reduction in the two-lane roundabout just north of Deerfield Drive for the next couple of weeks.
 
Maintenance crews, in coordination with the Town of Truckee, will be performing grading work in the roundabout to improve drainage and reduce water ponding. Work is scheduled from 7 a.m. to 5 p.m. Monday, May 16 through Thursday, May 19, and Monday, May 23 through Thursday, May 26.Maintenance crews may complete grading work earlier than anticipated.
 
During grading activities, the #1 (inside) lane of the roundabout will be closed, which will prevent left turning movements through the roundabout. Motorists may need to use alternative routes to access the Interstate 80 eastbound on-ramp due to the roundabout lane closure.
 
Caltrans reminds motorists to Be Work Zone Alert and slow in work zones for the safety of travelers and crews performing these improvements. The department will issue construction updates on Twitter@CaltransDist3 and on Facebook at CaltransDistrict3. For real-time traffic, click on Caltrans’ QuickMapquickmap.dot.ca.gov/ or download the QuickMap app from the App Store or Google Play.
 

 
SACRAMENTO - Today, Senate Republican Leader Scott Wilk (R-Santa Clarita) and members of the California Senate Republican Caucus delivered a specific list of budget priorities to Democratic leadership in anticipation of the governor’s May Revise of the budget. California Democrats have stated that the budget surplus ‘could hit a staggering $68 billion,’ and Senate Republicans urge investing those funds wisely.
 
“California is going to hell in a handbasket under a one-party rule,” said Senate Republican Leader Scott Wilk. “The budget should be laser-focused on addressing affordability, rising homelessness, public safety, and an environmental crisis with regard to drought and wildfire that threatens entire communities. These are the issues that keep ordinary Californians up at night.” 
 
Click here to read the full budget request. Included in the full list to address affordability and homelessness are:
 
--FULL Gas Tax Holiday - The state should immediately suspend the gas tax to reduce the cost of fuel for families suffering from record-high prices. The revenues should be backfilled by the General Fund so that transportation projects will not be impacted.
--Lower Costs for Renters - To help offset rising rental costs, California should increase the renter’s tax credit to $1,000 for spouses filing joint returns, heads of households, and surviving spouses. It should also include a $500 tax credit for other individuals to provide temporary assistance for one of California’s most significant problems.
--California Student Tax Credit - To assist students with the rising costs of housing, transportation, or other school expenses, California should offer up to several thousand dollars in student tax credits per year for eligible students.
--Address Mental Health and Substance Abuse Needs - The state should invest $10 billionto build the facilities needed to address the related crises of mental health, substance abuse, and homelessness.
--Invest in Water Storage - The state must invest the $2.6 billion necessary to fully fund the already voter-approved Sites Reservoir that will provide water storage for 1.5 million homes per year.
--Prepare for Wildfires - The state needs to remove the red tape and roadblocks stalling wildfire prevention and treatment projects.

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Gavin Newsom is still trying to punish businesses that stayed open during lockdowns and is specifically targeting political opponents. 

Even his media allies are disturbed. A Sacramento Bee headline reads: “Roseville restaurant that hosted ‘Newsom hour’ facing 30-day closure over COVID order.” The story continues:
"A Roseville restaurant that provocatively defied one of Gov. Gavin Newsom’s coronavirus emergency orders is fighting a potentially crippling suspension...Matthew Oliver, the restaurant owner, recently learned the [ABC] agency still wants to shut the House of Oliver. The notice came after The Bee featured him in a news story about how Placer County managed Newsom’s public health orders, often by ignoring state directives."
I’ve just sent Newsom and ABC a letter demanding the proceeding against House of Oliver end immediately, calling it “politically motivated” and a “selective prosecution.”
Last year, incidentally, I authored legislation to wipe clean all license revocations and fines for noncompliance with COVID orders. The bill had bipartisan support and was about to pass when leadership intervened, killing it on a 6-7 vote.
Newsom could never justify lockdowns, so he simply ordered them by fiat. In the same way, trying to close Matt Oliver’s business (which employees 100 people) is not just petty and vindictive, but a flagrant abuse of power.
If Newsom doesn’t back down, he’ll be shot down in court. In the meantime, if you’re in the Sacramento area, join me and Matt at House of Oliver today after 5 for a revived “Newsom Hour.” 
Kevin Kiley
California Legislator

On May 10th, 2022, at approximately 0809 hours, a male pedestrian (Michael Probst, 57 yrs old, out of Quincy) was walking across the Safeway parking lot in a northerly direction.  Brian Cote (58 yrs old, out of Calpine) was driving a Dodge 2500 pickup truck in a southerly direction in the Safeway parking lot, turning left (east) toward the male pedestrian.  The front of the pickup truck struck the male pedestrian and ultimately traveled over the top of the pedestrian.  Probst was pronounced deceased at the collision scene. 
 
This collision still remains under investigation.  If any member of the public has information regarding this incident, they are encouraged to contact the California Highway Patrol at (530) 283-1100.

Sierra County, CA– May 10, 2022 –Downieville’s iconic Cold Rush Café (https://www.coldrushcafe.com/) is holding its Grand Opening from May 12-15th to celebrate its new ownership. Four local friends came together to form a partnership, which they call Empire Creek Provisions, which focuses on keeping year-round businesses alive in their remote community in Sierra County, which largely is supported by seasonal tourism. Located in the historic “gold” building that once housed the 1950s-era Quartz Café in the quaint mountain town—200 Main Street, Downieville, CA—Cold Rush Café is one of the first sights for visitors as they drive eastbound along Highway 49 & the Scenic Yuba River Byway as they enter the pioneer town of Downieville, CA. This gourmet coffee shop, cafe, and ice cream parlor is just steps away from the confluence of the emerald green waters of the Downie and North Yuba Rivers where families stop to picnic, swim, spend their family vacation, mountain bike, or simply relax along the sandy shores and shaded banks.
 
Cold Rush has been operating under a “soft opening” in April and May of 2022 to prepare for the summer season, but is excited to relaunch the café and introduce new hours and new menu items for breakfast and lunch including a variety of bakery items, organic grab-and-go goods, and bagels with a variety spreads. This summer, Cold Rush plans on opening their Build-Your-Own (BYO) Sandwich Bar for lunch options. “We're excited to welcome guests year round, seven days a week, and to carry as many fresh and organic ingredients as possible. We aim to carry on the tradition of Cold Rush Cafe, and the spirit of Quartz Cafe before that. A community hub, a gathering place to connect, socialize and make memories.” said Sonya Ziegler Meline, investor in Cold Rush Cafe.
 
New items to look out for include loose leaf New Zealand Sunny Slopes Tea, a refreshing fruit tisane option made of dried fruits including kiwi and strawberry. Also enjoy the decadent avocado toast which includes Dave’s Killer Bread, everything bagel seasoning, olive oil drizzle, and organic arugula. Many classic menu items are also available for long standing customers to enjoy including favorites such as the White Chocolate Lavender Latte, Espresso Milkshake, and the organic chocolate mochas.
 
The crew at Cold Rush is also excited to introduce their signature blended drinks they call Rushies in varieties that include green tea, espresso, mocha, chai, and the local’s favorite, the dirty chai which includes two shots of espresso with a spiced chai tea. All Rushies and drinks are offered with a variety of alternative milks including oat, almond, hemp, and more.  

Café Moto is the premier roaster Cold Rush utilizes for their coffee and espresso beverages. They are a California-based family owned supplier of fairtrade, solarpower roasted, and organic coffee and tea since 1990. Many Cafe Moto sources from women owned co-ops – and their brew ratio of 16:1 percolates rich flavor & fragrant aroma for their diverse products.
 
The Cold Rush ice cream bar stocks 12 different flavors from a variety of premium brands to satiate summertime cravings and has a plethora of titillating toppings and sauces to make your treat extra sweet! A signature topping includes golden star sprinkles to honor the gold rush history of Sierra County.
 
Some things to look forward to at this weekend’s opening event include free mini ice cream cones, coffee drinks, tea, and discounted food items as well as a raffle for a “Coffee-a-day for a Month” giveaway and other baskets.
 
Customers are also encouraged to join the Rush Club by asking Cold Rush baristas for a Rush Club Card - Buy 10 drinks and get the 11th free. “We hope to welcome our community to join in the fun. It’s a low key way to celebrate a small business in our community! I hope to see everyone come down and grab a gourmet coffee, a frosty treat, or swing by for a friendly chat this weekend, or any day of the week!” said general manager, Max Ryan.
 
 
 
ABOUT COLD RUSH
Cold Rush Cafe is a small town coffee shop, a community hub, and a homebase to plan your adventures in Downieville. We pride ourselves on serving organic and fair trade espresso and coffees, a selection of 12 premium ready to scoop ice creams, and quick and nourishing meals for breakfast and lunch. Our team is ready to greet you with a smile 7-days-a-week.
 
​

 
By Bryan Golden
 
     Many problems we have could be avoided or minimized if more people refused to follow the crowd.  Group behavior often instills fear and panic as it becomes a self-fulfilling prophecy.  Regardless of reality, the crowd is lead with false premises.  They then behave as if what they are being told is true.  As a result, their actions transform the alleged circumstances into reality.
     For example, there are reports that a specific bank might be having financial problems.  In fact, there is no truth to the rumors.  Nevertheless, its customers panic, causing a run on the bank.  Now the bank does have monetary difficulties. 
     Crowd mentality is a powerful force that sweeps up many as it builds momentum.  However, crowd mentality is rarely grounded in logic or reasonable thinking.  Group think assimilates individuals who, by themselves, normally aren't governed by fear.
     One major contributing factor to the crowd mentality is media hysteria.  The media's choice of words when reporting on events has a huge impact.  Subjective descriptions are used to evoke a specific reaction.  When the headlines are dire, the crowd behaves accordingly.
     A negative group mindset is as contagious as an epidemic.  Individuals are subjected to peer pressure.  They are chastised for any contrarian views.  Mob psychology has impacted us throughout history.
     People caught up in crowd mentality accept what they are told without questioning its validity.  The result is a few controlling many.  Just watch how a few sheepdogs can direct a heard of hundreds of sheep.  People will behave as part of the crowd in ways they would never imagine were they acting independently.
     You want to guard against being pulled into the crowd.  Although it’s tempting to go along with the flow, resistance is worth the effort.  Giving up your individuality carries too high a price.  There are some simple steps you can take to avoid getting caught up with the crowd.
     You don’t have to participate in any mass hysteria.  You are in control of your thoughts and actions.  Think for yourself.  Ask questions.  What is the source of the information you are getting and what is the bias?  Also, is there any hidden agenda?
     What works for others isn’t necessarily right for you.  You need not follow along just because someone else is behaving in a particular fashion.  Consider your own situation and beliefs.  What makes sense for you is the essential issue.
     For example, let’s consider the economy.  Historically, its fluctuations are cyclic.  Perhaps there is a downturn and the crowd is yelling the sky is falling.  However, you have an income and are OK financially.  Why should you change your behavior and go along with the crowd?
     What about a situation where the opposite exists?  The crowd is gushing about a surging economy.  Yet, you have lost your job and are struggling.  In this case, you must tailor your actions to accommodate your situation.
     What others say or think about you doesn’t matter.  Your life shouldn’t be structured to seek approval.  You are responsible for your actions along with the results.  You can’t blame anyone else for what you do.  The excuse, “everyone else was doing it” doesn’t have any validity.
     When you follow the crowd, you abdicate your free will.  The risk is doing things you may regret.  Your behavior may then also exacerbate your own situation, making problems worse.
     Crowd behavior and attitude is often negative.  By getting caught up in it, you get pulled down.  Stay independent, remain positive, and follow your own path.  You will be happier and accomplish more.


  Bryan is the author of "Dare to Live Without Limits."  Contact Bryan at Bryan@columnist.com or visit www.DareToLiveWithoutLimits.com Copyright 2022 Bryan Golden
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Paul Bianco and coordinator Holly Johnson at the Mohawk Community Resource Center in Blairsden
 
THE COWBOY CONNECTION:
He is a frequent visitor at the Mohawk Community Resource Center (MCRC) in Blairsden.  He enjoys using the library, and some of the other conveniences. As it is for so many residents of Eastern Plumas County the resource center is a familiar and important place. In the course of his many visits he got to know the MCRC coordinator, Holly Johnson. After a while, and many conversations later, Holly realized that this guy had an important story to tell. He’s a senior citizen, a long time resident of Plumas County, and a part of the history of White Sulphur Springs Ranch.
His name is Paul Bianco.  Holly arranged for Paul to tell his story to a couple of Mohawk Valley Stewardship Council (MVSC) volunteers.  The MVSC are the stewards of White Sulphur Springs Ranch and Paul’s history took on a special meaning for these people and their organization.
Paul’s grandfather came to Ellis Island from Italy in 1917, probably to escape the world war that was destroying Europe.  Paul’s father was a World War II naval veteran and Paul was born in San Francisco in 1946. The very definition of a baby boomer. He was in his late 30’s, on a long horseback ride on the Pacific Crest Trail in 1985, when he stopped for a while in Graeagle. In his words he was “overwhelmed” by the appearance and the ambiance of the community. He saw an impressive looking gent that was striding through the park.  The guy stopped to pick up a piece of trash and put it in his pocket. Paul decided then that he wanted to be a part of this community.  He found out later that the impressive stranger he saw was Harvey West. Being an experienced horseman, Paul stopped at the Graeagle Stables to ask for a job.  Both the horses and the grounds were in terrible shape. He offered to work at the stables in order to improve the conditions and establish himself in the community, knowing that he would someday own this business.  After less than two years working as a wrangler he made the right offer to buy and became the new owner.
The next 10 years saw great improvement at the stables. Paul worked hard to make the customer’s riding experience something special. One of the most popular trips was a ride and an overnight at the then, bed and breakfast inn, White Sulphur Springs Ranch. The following is a quote from the Sacramento Magazine of June, 1987.
“Twice a week throughout the summer, guided groups of about a dozen guests (more than half first-time riders) depart the stables in downtown Graeagle to wind along scenic Feather River country trails and beside the meandering middle fork. Champagne and other refreshments are served along the way and the tired mounts receive carrots dipped in honey and rolled in oats.
Nearly ten miles and three hours from the stables, the troupe arrives at White Sulphur Springs Ranch, where travelers soak their weary muscles in a warm spring fed pool or toss horse shoes in the isolated meadow, while chefs prepare the evening’s steak barbecue.
After breakfast the next morning the group heads home (sandwiches and wooden tubs of drinks await lunchgoers at a picnic table in the pine forest along the way), arriving at Graeagle by noon.  Cost of the trip, meals and lodging included, was $165”
Paul Bianco had turned the dilapidated Graeagle Stables he found in 1985, into a successful tourist attraction and an important chapter in the history of WSSR. He sold the business ten years later, in 1995.
During the time of Paul’s ownership of the stables the complex at White Sulphur Springs Ranch (WSSR) included a hen house, a bunk house, a blacksmith shop, a carriage house and at least two other structures besides the main ranch house.  The resident managers were Judy and Jim Cowen.  The property was owned by Don Miller and Linda Miller Vanella.  In Paul Bianco’s memory these two siblings did not get along and due to poor management, the bed and breakfast venture failed. The property was finally sold in 2003.
It quickly became apparent that the new owner was not interested in restoring or even maintaining the historic property.  Some of the outbuildings were destroyed and the big main house was in the process of being dismantled.  At that point a group of dedicated residents formed the 501(c)(3) public benefit, Mohawk Valley Stewardship Council (MVSC). The destruction stopped and the renovation began.
Paul Bianco’s experience with WSSR reminds us of what an important part of the community it used to be.  The story of his relationship with WSSR, brings Plumas County history to life and shows us how the return of the functioning ranch can add to the quality of life in the  community.
The MVSC is in the middle of a fundraising campaign called “Build a Legacy, Brick buy Brick”. Begun in 2016, the idea is to sell concrete bricks, inscribed with a message, that will become part of the landscape at WSSR. To date over 200 bricks have been installed near the entrance to the old ranch house.  The Board of Directors of the MVSC has decided to donate a brick to honor Paul Bianco’s connection to WSSR.  The inscription will read “Paul Bianco, Graeagle Stables 1985-1995”.  The figure of a horse will accompany this text.
Bricks can be ordered from a brochure located on site near the brick display. They are also available via the website at www.whitesulphurspringsranch.com or by contacting chairperson, Janet Reihsen, either online, at jreihsen@earthlink.net ,or by phone, at 530-836-2495. The mailing address for the MVSC is PO Box 25 Clio CA. 96106.
For more information about the MVSC, its organization and goals, go to the website. To be a part of the process of restoring the historic ranch, contact the volunteer chairperson, Judy Porep-Lullo at 530-836-0254.
John Lullo, April 2022