SACRAMENTO—State Superintendent of Public Instruction Tony Thurmond will visit several schools in Plumas County as well as meet with education leaders and community officials to welcome students back and celebrate the first day of in-person instruction for Greenville Elementary School students on Monday, September 27, 2021.
Superintendent Thurmond will first welcome Greenville Elementary School students and their families back to school as they have been relocated to attend classes at the Taylorsville campus due to devastation to infrastructure and utilities in the Greenville community and surrounding area. From there, he will travel through the devastated center of Greenville and then visit both Chester Elementary School and Chester Junior/High School in Chester to learn about the impacts of the Dixie Fire on schools and the surrounding community. Superintendent Thurmond will distribute donations of gift cards that may be used for food, gas, hotel, or other needs by families affected by the wildfire as provided by the Californians Dedicated to Education Foundation’s (CDEF) Emergency Response Fund.
“We are all experiencing the devastating effects of climate change, and these horrific wildfires—on top of a global pandemic—have tested the resolve of many of our rural communities,” said Thurmond. “We stand with these communities and will continue to be resilient and work to secure needed resources for recovery and to ensure the safety of educators and students.”
Earlier this month, Superintendent Thurmond delivered donations and met with educational leaders, families, students, and officials affected by the Caldor Fire in El Dorado County.
Superintendent Thurmond is visiting schools across the state to uplift the incredible work and resilience of educators, students, families, and community partners as schools struggle with reopening for in-person learning and the threat of wildfires.
Donations to CDEF disaster relief can be made on the CDEF GoFundMe page.

Harold Pease, Ph.D.



September has been designated preparedness month.  Anyone the least bit observant can see gigantic storms on the horizon.  The nation is divided as in 1860, the year before the Civil War.  Few families can discuss politics around the dinner table, when everyone comes home, without someone getting angry.  Few adults have not chosen one side or the other—there is no middle.  There is no nonpartisan elected leaders, college professors, or even religious leaders, although this group mostly try to keep their biases silent and focus on loving one another and Christ, so that congregations do not divide and donations do not dry up.  
One side condemns the riots of the summer of 2020 where burning, pillaging, and violence occurred.  The other called them “mostly peaceful demonstrations” and focus on the “insurrection” in the Capital building, January 6, although the supposed insurrectionists broke nothing nor hurt anyone.  No guns were found in their possession but unarmed Air Force veteran Ashly Babbitt was killed by capital police.  Films show them escorted into the building by capital police.  Eight months later some arrested, for essentially trespassing, remain in prison without trial.  Twice since, fences have been erected around the capital to protect it from phantom insurrectionists.  
One side indoctrinates themselves with primarily MSNBC and NBC, the other with Fox News and NewsMax.  Today essentially all news is propaganda news.  The only break in this is when a hurricane comes through strong enough for the sides to lay down their weapons to barricade their communities from wind and flood. 
One side believes COVID-19 was generated in part by American scientists including Anthony Fauci, in the Wuhan laboratory in China, and used to encourage shutdowns and thus mail-in ballots to elect Joe Biden.  That much surrounding the pandemic was used by the opposing political party, in conjunction with Big Tech and Big Pharma, to undermined the Constitution and freedom.  The other side view the above as disinformation and censor it all.
One side, convinced that the other cheated in the election of 2020 and every election since, (two Georgia U.S. Senators and governor in California), insists on forensic 2020 audits in all battleground states.  They maintain that Donald Trump was rightfully elected president. They also maintain that the Space Force recorded every vote in every county in the nation and are proof positive that China electronically switched Trump votes to Biden.  If so, this brings treason into play.  The other side censors all such information and refuses all attempts to access ballots or Dominion voting machines to prove otherwise.  
The long-awaited Arizona forensic audit, to come out September 24, is expected to produce fireworks when it discloses the above.  False flags (staged news events to fill the news cycle to bury this news) are expected; anything: a death of a prominent political leader, an attack by China on Taiwan, hostage taking of Americans left by Biden in Afghanistan, a mass shooting or bombing, anything, to keep the audit off the front page—even a news blackout to keep this story submerged.  
When it does come to light expect cities to burn as in the summer of 2020 led by Antifa and Black Lives Matter, and not just downtown.  Expect travel and commerce restrictions and delays.  Expect food prices to escalate further.  Since Biden has been in office meat prices have soared: beef 59.2%, pork 34.1%, chicken 32%, fish 18%, and turkey 41.4%.  Eggs are now up by 31.7% and grain prices 98% (X22 Reports Episode 2574A Sept. 12, 2021).  When the George Soros funded riots move into the suburbs look for truckers to cease deliveries to affected areas and skyrocketing price increases.  Factory items, already backed up, could become unavailable.  Consider a red October and November and Marshall law in some cities in coming weeks.
Gather a few weeks or months supply of food and essentials for your families now, before preparing is called hoarding and made unlawful, also toilet paper and commonly used medications.  Store some water and warm clothing or blankets, should electricity be cut off for more than a few days or weeks.  Stock up on all those things that were scarce in the pandemic of 2020.  Silly!  Extreme!  Yes, but eventually if I am wrong, and I pray that I am, you will use these items anyway, so what do you have to lose?  
If China was an accomplice intentionally bringing COVID to America and/or electing Joe Biden, both are acts of war and there will be repercussions to them which could escalate to more than just the information war we are now in.  As difficult as it is to think this way, consider enduring an EMP or nuclear exchange.  
If these people risked treason by stealing the election they are not going to give it back without force.  And if we let them get away with it they will do it forever in the future.  When free elections vanish so do the Constitution and liberty.  The military, under devolution, will have to restore order and freedom.  When this is proved Joe Biden and Kamala Harris are not likely to be in power long thereafter.
Collusion with an enemy country (China) is treason and those involved will have to be tried in military courts as enemy combatants under devaluation as outlined in two LibertyUnderFire previous columns.  The military may have to be in place several months before the lawful winner is more fully restored.
September has been designated preparedness month.  When storms are on the horizon, the wise prepare just in case.
 
Dr. Harold Pease is an expert on the United States Consitution and a syndicated columnist. He has dedicated his career to studying the writings of the Founding Fathers and applying that knowledge to current events. He taught history and political science from this perspective for over 30 years. Newspapers have permission to publish this column. To read more of his weekly articles, please visit www.LibertyUnderFire.org.
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PG&E Urges Customers to Prepare an Emergency Kit and Go Bag in Advance of a Disaster
 
 
SAN FRANCISCO, Calif.— The fall season begins tomorrow, and bone-dry drought conditions have made the western United States a tinderbox prime for wildfires. That, combined with the threat of earthquakes, floods and landslides, makes it essential for Californians to be prepared for disasters. Pacific Gas and Electric Company (PG&E) reminds its customers that the best time to prepare for an emergency or natural disaster is before it happens. That’s what National Preparedness Month is all about.
 
Start by gathering supplies and creating an emergency kit that will last for several days after a disaster for everyone living in your home. Be sure to include flashlights, fresh batteries, first aid supplies and cash. If you already have a kit, make sure it’s up to date. Customers can get updates on power outages in their neighborhood using PG&E’s outage information line at 1-800-743-5002 and PG&E’s Electric Outage Map online at pge.com.
 
Don’t forget to pack a go-bag, a bag of essential items ready for use in case you need to evacuate your home. Consider the unique needs of everyone in your family, including elderly, children and pets.
 
It can be hard to imagine what an evacuation might feel like and what you would grab first, if you had the chance. In a recent video on PG&E’s Safety Action Center website, you can watch a Sierra foothills family put through a simulated wildfire evacuation to demonstrate how being prepared can help bring calm to the chaos.
 
Emergency Preparation Tips

• Plan for multiple evacuation routes and discuss them with your family.
• If you own a generator, make sure it’s ready to operate safely.
• Make sure you know how to open your garage door manually, as it may not function if the power is out.
• Have cash on hand and a full tank of gas.
• Keep mobile phones fully charged.
• Identify backup charging methods and keep hard copies of emergency numbers.
• Plan for medications that require refrigeration or devices that need power.
• Have masks and hand sanitizer readily available, both at home and in your car.

 
Electric Safety Tips

• Treat all low-hanging and downed power lines as if they are energized and extremely dangerous. Keep yourself and others away from them. Be aware of trees, pools of water and other objects that may be in contact with power lines. If you see damaged power lines and electric equipment, call 911, and then notify PG&E at 1-800-743-5000.

 
If your vehicle comes in contact with a downed power line:

• Stay inside! The safest place is in your car. The ground around your car may be energized.
• Honk the horn, roll down your window and yell for help.
• Warn others to stay away. Anyone who touches the equipment or ground around the vehicle may be injured.
• Use your mobile phone to call 911.
• Fire department, police and PG&E workers will tell you when it is safe to get out of the vehicle.

 
If there is a fire and you have to exit a vehicle that has come in contact with downed power lines:

• Remove loose items of clothing.
• Keep your hands at your sides and jump clear of the vehicle, so you are not touching the car when your feet hit the ground.
• Keep both feet close together and shuffle away from the vehicle without picking up your feet.

 
Gas Safety Tips

• If you are ordered to evacuate, please evacuate as soon as possible. Do not shut off your gas service just because of the evacuation order.
• If you smell gas, hear gas escaping, see a broken gas line, or suspect a gas leak, you can shut off your gas line, but only if it is safe to do so. Alert others and evacuate the area to an upwind location if possible.
• If you smell gas, do not use anything that could be a source of ignition, including candles, cell phones, flashlights, light switches, matches or vehicles, until you are a safe distance away.
• Customers who smell gas should vacate the premises immediately, call 911 and then PG&E at 1-800-743-5000.
• For additional information related to your gas service, please visit our website www.pge.com/gassafety.

 
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 www.pge.com/ and http://www.pge.com/about/newsroom/.

Lassen National Forest/Plumas National Forest
Forest Service News Release Dixie Fire Update for September 18, 2021
Fire Information: 530-592-0838 (7am to 10 pm) Inciweb: https://inciweb.nwcg.gov/incident/7690/
Follow QR Code for contacts and additional information
Dixie Fire West Zone –
The Dixie Fire started on Tuesday, July 13 and has now burned 960,641 acres with 88 percent containment. The incident is being managed under a Unified Command with
CAL FIRE.

• Today winds are forecast to be out of the southwest and gusty to 25 mph along the ridgetops of the fire. A fire weather watch has been issued for these conditions.
• The increased wind today could result in elevated fire activity in the northern area of the fire near West Prospect Peak. Additional resources are staged to respond if necessary.
• The fire area will likely see rain Saturday night and in to Sunday. The public is advised to watch out for fire traffic during periods of reduced visibility.
• Firefighters will construct containment lines south of Hwy 89 through Lassen National Park.
• Firefighters have worked diligently to complete mopup along the fire’s perimeter near the community of
  Old Station. The fire area around that community is now in patrol status.
• Fire weakend trees threatening containment lines are being removed.
• Suppression repair work has started in the southern area of the fire. Examples of this work includes
  creating erosion control structures and placing fallen trees across bulldozer firelines.
  •
  Closures:
  Information regarding Evacuation Orders and Evacuation Warnings are posted on the Sheriff’s Office Website, Facebook, and Twitter for your respective community.
  Residents may also view up to date information maps at:
  Zonehaven: https://zonehaven.com/
  Inciweb: https://inciweb.nwcg.gov/incident/closures/7690/

960,641 Acres
88% Containment
2,259 Total Personnel
(NIMO) Team 1 integrated with California Interagency Management Team 14, and
National Incident Management Organization
The Lassen National Forest Dixie Fire Closure Order is in effect until November 30, 2021 to provide safety for
our firefighters and the public.
Smoke will be seen in fire areas along highways and roadways. Stopping along the roadway is
prohibited due to hazards.

Forest Order No. 05-11-00-21-25
USDA Forest Service
Plumas National Forest
Beckwourth and Mt. Hough Ranger Districts Beckwourth Complex & Dixie Fire Area, Road, Trail, and Recreation Site Closure
Pursuant to 16 U.S.C. § 551 and 36 C.F.R. § 261.50(a) and (b), and to provide for public safety, the following acts are prohibited within the Plumas National Forest. This Order is effective from September 19, 2021, through November 30, 2021.

1. Going into or being upon National Forest System lands within the Beckwourth Complex and Dixie Fire Area, Road, Trail, and Recreation Site Closure, as described in Exhibit A and shown on Exhibit B (map). 36 C.F.R. § 261.52(e).
   
2. Being on any National Forest System road within the Beckwourth Complex and Dixie Fire Area, Road, Trail, and Recreation Site Closure as described in Exhibit A and shown on Exhibit B (map). 36 C.F.R. § 261.54(e).
   
3. Entering or using any campground listed in Exhibit A and shown on Exhibit B (map). 36 C.F.R. § 261.58(b).
   
4. Entering or using any trailhead, or portion thereof, listed in Exhibit A and shown on Exhibit B (map). 36 C.F.R. § 261.58(b).
   
5. Being on any National Forest System trail, or portion thereof, listed in Exhibit A and shown on Exhibit B (map). 36 C.F.R. § 261.55(a).
   
6. Entering or using a boat launch, or portion thereof, listed in Exhibit A and shown on Exhibit B (map). 36 C.F.R. § 261.58(b).
   

Pursuant to 36 C.F.R. § 261.50(e), the following persons are exempt from this Order:

1. Any Federal, State or local officer, or member of an organized rescue or fire fighting force in the performance of an official duty.
   
2. Persons with Forest Service Permit No. FS-7700-48 (Permit for Use of Roads, Trails, or Areas Restricted by Regulation or Order), specifically exempting them from this Order.
   
3. Owners or lessees of land in the Beckwourth Complex & Dixie Fire Emergency Area, Road, Recreation Site and Trail Closure, to the extent necessary to access their land.
   

These prohibitions are in addition to the general prohibitions in 36 C.F.R. Part 261, Subpart A.
Forest Order No. 05-11-00-21-25
USDA Forest Service
Plumas National Forest
Beckwourth and Mt. Hough Ranger Districts Beckwourth Complex & Dixie Fire Area, Road, Trail, and Recreation Site Closure
A violation of these prohibitions is punishable by a fine of not more than $5,000 for an individual or $10,000 for an organization, or imprisonment for not more than six months, or both.
16 U.S.C. § 551 and 18 U.S.C. §§ 3559, 3571, and 3581.
Executed in Quincy, California, this 18th day of September 2021.
______________________________ Christopher Carlton
Plumas Forest Supervisor
This Order supersedes Forest Order No. 05-11-00-21-15, dated July 20, 2021; No. 05-11-00-21-16, dated July 23, 2021; No. 05-11-00-21-18, dated July 24, 2021; and No. 05-11-00-21-21, dated August 11, 2021. 

​

Eligible firearms can be registered with the California Department of Justice from October 1, 2021, through December 31, 2021
OAKLAND – As Senate Bill 118 goes into effect, expanding the state’s assault weapons ban, California Attorney General Rob Bonta today announced owners of firearms that are now banned by the bill will be able to register their firearms during an upcoming three-month period. In 2020, SB 118, which then-Assemblymember Bonta voted to pass, broadened the state’s definition of “assault weapons” to include semiautomatic centerfire firearms with certain specific features. Californians who lawfully possessed these firearms before September 1, 2020, must register their eligible assault weapons with the California Department of Justice (DOJ) between 9 a.m. PST on October 1, 2021, until 11:59 p.m. PST on December 31, 2021.
“SB 118 closed a loophole in our law’s definition of assault weapons that will prevent gun manufacturers from developing and selling these firearms in California,” said Attorney General Bonta. “Many of our laws are currently under attack in the courts, but my office will continue to defend the commonsense gun laws that have worked to keep Californians safe.”
SB 118, which went into effect on September 1, 2020, changed the definition of an assault weapon to include a semiautomatic centerfire firearm that is not a rifle, pistol, or shotgun, and:

• Does not have a fixed magazine, but has any one of the attributes currently associated with assault weapons;
• Has a fixed magazine with the capacity to accept more than 10 rounds; and
• Has an overall length of less than 30 inches.

The bill exempts individuals who lawfully possessed firearms that meet the new definition before September 1, 2020, as long as they register their firearms within DOJ’s registration period: 9 a.m. PST on October 1, 2021, through 11:59 p.m. PST on December 31, 2021. 
Beginning October 1, 2021, at 9 a.m., registration applications may be submitted electronically at www.oawr.doj.ca.gov or by submitting the Other Assault Weapon Registration Form (BOF 1039), which is available for download from the Forms and Publications page on the DOJ website. Additional information, including registration fees and requirements, can be found at www.oag.ca.gov/firearms/oawr-notice.
It is important to note that the registration period for “other assault weapons” differs from and is not an extension of the bullet button assault weapons registration period.

# # #

You may view the full account of this posting, including possible attachments, in the News & Alerts section of our website at: https://oag.ca.gov/news/press-releases/stronger-assault-weapons-ban-takes-effect-attorney-general-bonta-announces
​

SACRAMENTO—On Tuesday, September 21, at 11:30 a.m., State Superintendent of Public Instruction Tony Thurmond will hold a press event to announce a new plan to improve literacy rates of California students. Specifically, Thurmond intends to launch a statewide literacy campaign that will help all third grade California students to be able to read by the year 2026.
According to 2018–19 data from Smarter Balanced Summative Assessment for Literacy/English Language Arts, 51 percent of California students met or exceeded grade-level standards. When looking at student groups, the percentage dropped to 39 percent for economically disadvantaged students, 41 percent for Latino students, and 33 percent for Black students.
“Once a student learns to read, a student can read to learn anything,” said Thurmond, who added that reaching literacy by third grade has long been a goal of California schools and a key benchmark in measuring and predicting student success. “We must take bold action to help students meet this important milestone and to put them on a path for lifelong learning as opposed to a path that increases the likelihood that they will drop out of school or end up in the criminal justice system.”
Thurmond’s plan for increasing literacy is expected to center on legislation that will fund professional learning for educators, the establishment of a task force to oversee and guide a statewide literacy campaign, and efforts to get more books into the hands of students and their families to help them develop a love for reading.
Besides Superintendent Thurmond, guest speakers include:

• Assemblymember Mia Bonta (D-Alameda)
• Hedy Chang, Executive Director, Attendance Works
• Jan Gustafson-Corea, Chief Executive Officer, California Association of Bilingual Education (CABE)
• Matt Navo, California State Board of Education Member and Executive Director, California Collaborative for Educational Excellence (CCEE)
• Dr. Christopher J. Nellum, Executive Director, The Education Trust—West
• Keith Pace, Executive Director, California School Employees Association
• Jackie Thu-Huong Wong, Chief Deputy Director, First 5 California

Organizations interested in working on this statewide literacy effort with Thurmond and the California Department of Education should contact statewideliteracycampaign@cde.ca.gov.
The State Superintendent will take questions from reporters during media availability immediately following the announcement.
Who
State Superintendent Public Instruction Tony Thurmond and special guests.
 

What
Announcement of a new plan to improve literacy rates of California students
 

When
Tuesday, September 21, 11:30 a.m. to noon
 

Where to watch
Register in advance via Zoom:
https://us02web.zoom.us/webinar/register/WN_B1uYGqTmSzCY-tC3W9s4Jg
CDE Facebook Page:
https://www.facebook.com/CAEducation

#####
The California Department of Education is a state agency led by State Superintendent of Public Instruction Tony Thurmond. For more information, please visit the California Department of Education’s website. You may also follow Superintendent Thurmond on Twitter, Facebook, and YouTube.
 

---

 
For Immediate Release, Sept. 16:                          Contact:  Alan Gottlieb (425) 454-4911
 
BELLEVUE, WA – A report in the Wall Street Journal showing that nearly half of all new gun buyers since January 2019 are women is not surprising, considering efforts to defund police agencies, the Citizens Committee for the Right to Keep and Bear Arms said today.
 
The WSJ report on the 2021 National Firearms Survey notes approximately 3.5 million women and 4 million men bought guns for the first time between 2019 and April of this year. Overall, the draft report suggests more than 81.4 million Americans over the age of 18 own firearms, translating to 31.9 percent of the adult population.
 
“We’ve known that women are the fastest-growing segment of the gun-buying public,” said CCRKBA Chairman Alan Gottlieb. “We’re delighted to see so many women joining the firearms community, learning new skills, making new friends and taking more responsibility for their safety and the safety of their families.
 
“In the process,” he continued, “these new gun owners are learning more about their rights and responsibilities. We have always encouraged new gun owners to seek good safety instruction through local gun ranges or gun clubs so they can become both competent and confident.
 
“As a result,” he added, “we’re seeing more women joining our organization. They’re willing to fight to protect their newly-exercised gun rights, and we’re proud to have them on board.”
 
Gottlieb said nobody should be surprised by the rising interest in gun ownership, especially during a time when many law enforcement agencies are losing officers due to political posturing by politicians who seem more interested in headlines than public safety. Crime rates are increasing as a result, and law-abiding citizens are realizing they must take more responsibility for their personal safety.
 
“Millions of Americans appreciate now, more than ever, the fact that our Second Amendment protects their right to own a gun,” Gottlieb observed. “This should send a message to anti-gun politicians and the gun prohibition lobby that increasing numbers of American citizens aren’t buying the nonsense they’re selling. Instead, these good-sense citizens are buying firearms, learning to use them properly and making it clear they will not surrender their safety, and that of their neighborhoods, to an emboldened criminal element.
 
“Too many proponents of public disarmament live in gated communities, enjoy private security and all the perks of elitism,” he stated. “Average citizens enjoy no such luxuries. They don’t live in a bubble, and they’re not going to live in fear.”
 
With more than 650,000 members and supporters nationwide, the Citizens Committee for the Right to Keep and Bear Arms (www.ccrkba.org) is one of t

 
SACRAMENTO, Calif. –During Child Passenger Safety Week, September 19 through 25, 2021, the California Highway Patrol (CHP) will educate the public on the importance of ensuring children are riding in a properly fitted and installed child passenger safety seat. 
 
According to the National Highway Traffic Safety Administration (NHTSA), car crashes are the leading cause of death for children ages 1 to 13.  In 2020, 90 children aged 13 and under died as a result of car crashes in California.  The NHTSA reports that while most parents and caregivers are confident they have correctly installed their child’s safety seat, when checked almost half (46 percent) are found to be installed incorrectly. 
 
California law requires all children under the age of 2, or weighing under 40 pounds and under 40 inches tall, ride in a rear-facing car seat.  All children under the age of 8 must ride in the back seat in an age-appropriate safety seat.  Safety experts recommend children ride in the back seat until the age of 13.  For more information about child passenger safety, visithttps://www.chp.ca.gov/Programs-Services/Programs/Child-Safety-Seats.  
 
“Proper use of child safety seats can mean the difference between life and death,” CHP Commissioner Amanda Ray said.  “Our child passenger safety technicians can assist you in ensuring your most precious cargo arrives safely.” 
 
At all CHP child safety seat events throughout the week, child passenger safety technicians will provide free safety seat inspections, education, and hands-on training for parents and caregivers.  These free safety seat inspections are also available year-round, by appointment, at any CHP Area office.  To locate the nearest CHP Area office, please visithttps://www.chp.ca.gov/find-an-office.
 
Funding for this program is provided by a grant from the California Office of Traffic Safety through the NHTSA.
 
The mission of the CHP is to provide the highest level of Safety, Service, and Security.
 

 
Tahoe, California – Liberty Utilities (Liberty) is notifying customers that it may implement a Public Safety Power Shutoff (PSPS) in  THESE AREAS on or about Sunday, 9/19 from 1 a.m. to 4 p.m.to reduce wildfire risk and promote the safety of the community during the anticipated extreme weather conditions. If a PSPS is implemented, it could last more than 24 hours before power is safely restored.
The state of California grants authority to Liberty to implement a PSPS in high-risk areas when extreme weather conditions present a clear danger to public safety.
Customers who require power to operate life-essential medical equipment are strongly encouraged to call 9-1-1 if they are unable to secure necessary alternative power.
“We understand power outages are never convenient for customers, and we appreciate the community’s cooperation as we consider these measures to keep the area safe from wildfires,” said Travis Johnson, Vice President, Operations.   
For safety, customers are advised to take the following proactive measures:

• Create an emergency kit including, but not limited to, flashlights, first aid supplies and local maps. Consult Ready.gov for additional emergency kit necessities.
• Plan for medical needs that may be impacted by a power shutoff, including medications that need refrigeration or devices that require power. Be sure to register an energy-related medical needs at 1-800-782-2506.
• Store nonperishable foods and water to support your family for a minimum of 48 hours.
• For additional information and real-time updates, please visit libertyutilities.com or follow us on Facebook (@LibertyUtilitiesLT) and Twitter (@LibertyUtil_CA).

If a PSPS is implemented, Liberty will activate Community Resource Centers (CRC) throughout the de-energization event to provide customers with essential resources and an opportunity to speak directly with customer care representatives. 
 

By Ted Gaines
Word count 634
 
Kate Tibbitts can’t make this plea to you.  She can’t cast a vote or call a legislator or sign a petition for change. She can’t install a security system or add another deadbolt to her Sacramento home. Kate Tibbitts is dead. She was raped, murdered, her pets killed and home set on fire by a transient career criminal. Her innocent life ended in horror. Her death, while heartbreaking, is not surprising.  Kate’s tragedy can be traced back to political trends and liberal policy decisions that, if not reversed, will leave a longer trail of victims behind them.
 
The recall election succeeded in highlighting California’s dysfunction. This administration will be forever linked to raging wildfires, massive and inhumane homeless camps, Employment Development Department fraud and French Laundry hypocrisy, but what most symbolizes Newsom’s reign, and the madness of the legislature, is the upside-down view of crime and punishment. The saddest and most profound symbol of Newsom's tenure is Kate Tibbitt’s tombstone.
 
California is conducting a real-time experiment implementing the “de-incarceration” philosophy, which paints the criminals themselves as victims of “the system,” and considers their imprisonment the true injustice. This is the animating thought behind the emptying of our prisons and the no-cash bail push in the legislature. Newsom’s administration recently went all-in for de-incarceration by sidestepping the legislature and unilaterally green lighting the early release of more than 70,000 of felons back on to California streets. Expect a crimewave to follow.
 
It’s hard to end up in prison. The myth of a prison sentence for a first-time offender for marijuana possession may be politically appealing to some, but it’s mostly imaginary. Our prisons are stuffed with hardened criminals, violent felons, who get paroled and commit new felonies to get back in.
 
Troy Davis, the suspect in Ms. Tibbitts’ murder, has a rap sheet that would defy the belief of a law-abiding citizen. The Sacramento Bee reported Davis’ list of charges includes resisting an officer, battery on an officer, possession of methamphetamine, threatening an officer, misdemeanor sexual battery, assault and battery, assault with a deadly weapon, robbery, and other unnamed crimes in June 2021. He was also, according to the Bee, arrested for auto theft this past June and released with zero bail, per state policy. He did not show up for his arraignment and became a “parolee at large.”
 
One-man crime scourge Troy Davis should be in prison. Kate Tibbitts should be alive.
 
But we’ve recently built a system where it’s hard to get in to prison and easy to get out.  “Realignment,” Proposition 47 and Proposition 57, Newsom good-time credits increase, Newsom-mandated zero cash bail, all of these policies are pillow-soft on crime. They rob law enforcement of power and the ability hold criminals accountable. Society suffers as crime explodes.
 
Greenhouse gas reduction is not a concern for Kate Tibbetts. It doesn’t matter that she can’t get a single-use plastic bag at the grocery store or a plastic straw at a restaurant. She can’t get a subsidy to buy a Tesla or install rooftop solar. While Newsom and the legislature focus on fashionable leftist elite concerns, the real state has fallen apart.
 
Basic government services, such as public safety, which includes punishing criminals to hold them accountable, as well as keeping them off the street where they commit more crime, have taken a back seat to self-congratulatory moral grandstanding.
 
Kate’s last moments must have been grisly. I pray for her family and friends, who will deeply mourn her death.  No legislation can undo her loss. No policy will prevent wickedness. But we absolutely cannot facilitate it.
 
The simple fact is that career criminal Troy Davis could not have killed Kate from his prison cell.
 
I plead with you all – support policies that punish crime and maintain our civil society. Our lives depend on it.
 
Senator Ted Gaines (Ret.) was elected to represent the Board of Equalization’s First District. He is a leading taxpayer advocate, defender of Prop. 13, and is committed to providing trustworthy and transparent representation for nearly ten million constituents in 30 counties of northern, eastern, and southern California. For more information, visit boe.ca.gov/Gaines.
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THE REQUEST FROM THE CITY OF LOYALTON for the County to consider assuming Planning and Building inspection services for the City was discussed during the Sierra County Board of Supervisors’ meeting held Tuesday, September 7th. Planning Director Tim Beals stated the purpose of this item was to give a report on progress. He reported they had a meeting at Sierraville School with Mayor Sarah Jackson, one of the members of City Council, as well as Supervisors Terry LeBlanc and Lee Adams. Beals said at this meeting it was clear there are a number of questions that need to be resolved; insurance, liability, exposure of litigation, opinions of City attorney and whether involvement is needed by County Counsel. The County recently received an email from a very disgruntled City resident expressing contempt and concern for their building process. He stated it has become apparent there are probably some legacy issues they need to understand. Beals recommended another meeting to include the City attorney and County Counsel to understand the scope of what they are being requested to do and whether it’s an appropriate move for the County to make. He felt the City was up against a wall at this point.
Supervisor Adams supported pulling County Counsel into this to look at some of the alternatives. He didn’t want to split the Board and suggested if there was not a consensus they shouldn’t move forward. Adams felt badly for residents and the current council who had nothing to do with what happened, but added that didn’t make it a County issue. He suggested the City hire someone to do a full evaluation of what they have been doing the last 10 years, adding this was well beyond their capability.  
Supervisor LeBlanc reminded the Board that quite a few years ago, two councilmembers decided to take it over and do it themselves. Now those councilmembers are gone and City doesn’t know what they are doing. He figured the County would have to take it back, or teach them how to do it. LeBlanc stated the City was not in good shape, just lost a council member, lost their water and maintenance employees. He said Loyalton is still a part of Sierra County who had been doing it for years. LeBlanc didn’t think it would be that much of a burden to take it back. He reiterated the City doesn’t have a clue on what they are doing.  
Supervisor Sharon Dryden agreed with Adams on this item, adding she didn’t feel they had a full consensus of the Board. Adams felt it was best for the City to talk to their internal council and maybe pull in an expert from out of the area, adding the City does have to make some choices. He stressed having the upmost respect for Mayor Jackson and what she is trying to do, but has a quagmire and not of her own making. Adams said the City is within Sierra County but are legally separate from the County adding, “They drive their own ship. We can’t drive it for them.”  
No action was taken.



PROPOSED GRANT FOR FUNDING the consolidation analysis for water systems within the community of Sierra City was discussed at the Board of Supervisors’ meeting held in Downieville, Tuesday, September 7th. Planning Director Tim Beals stated there had been considerable concern of updating with the water purveyors and had not met since COVID. A meeting was finally held on August 25th. He reported they only had one water system they couldn’t get hold of but the other 16 were there. Two parties called in virtually and all others were present. Beals stated the meeting was very productive. Steve Watson Lassen District Engineer from the State Water Board was present and reported to the water purveyors that grant funding was available and management had authorized the County to be the applicant. Beals said everyone supported the concept of the consolidation study except one. The one who did not felt uncomfortable speaking for the party that wasn’t present. Everyone attending was well informed and agreed that this should happen. There was a consistent concern that the greater community needed to look at this issue. He stated 16 systems, were all in states of disrepair with not a lot of maintenance and management support, adding it was a definite need that needs to be looked at. Once they have the report then decisions can be made. It was emphasized, that this was not an effort by the County to be the water purveyor of Sierra City. Beals stated the two issues that needed approval weere the Board’s willingness to support the application for funding and authorize the Public Works department to proceed with discharge of the grant and preparation of the report. Supervisor Sharon Dryden asked how much of it was grant funded. Beals thought the grant was 100% funded by the State. A consensus was given by the Board to allow Beals to move forward.
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SACRAMENTO - Today, the Governor’s Office announced the allocation of $138 million for wildfire prevention grants statewide to help mitigate the risk of catastrophic wildfire. In budget negotiations for this year’s wildfire prevention funding, Senator and Assemblywoman Dahle identified a list of unfunded, shovel-ready projects throughout the First Assembly and Senate District prepared for immediate funding to fire safe communities. 

Senator and Assemblywoman Dahle released the following statement in response to the governor’s announced funding and its inclusion of over $30 million to Fire Safe Councils in their districts who will now have the resources to complete several critical projects:

“We are excited to announce the data we gathered on unfunded projects was prioritized in the governor’s funding, and thankful for his trust in our local Fire Safe Councils abilities to do this critical work. Our local Fire Safe Councils will be able to use this $30 million to complete vegetation management projects that have been ready and waiting for state funding. This funding will give our brave firefighters a fighting chance to stop catastrophic fires before they destroy more lives, property, and livelihoods.”

“Over the last two years, more than 6 million acres have been destroyed by wildfire, much of which could have been avoided had we begun decades ago to mimic nature by clearing unnatural undergrowth mechanically and with controlled burns.”

“This new funding will give our communities some of the resources necessary to prioritize areas that are prone or in danger of future wildfires, establishing much-needed firebreaks to protect communities. However, this is only a drop in the bucket compared to the scale and financial resources we will need to treat the millions of acres of forest in California. State and federal officials also need to focus on mobilizing the timber industry, reducing environmental regulation and costly red tape that holds up projects, and commit substantial, ongoing funds to wildfire prevention. We will continue to push for these reforms and fight to bring additional resources to our districts to create a safer North State.” 

A full list of the 2021 Fire Prevention Grant recipients can be found here.


# # #
 
Senator Brian Dahle represents California's 1st Senate District, which contains all or portions of 11 counties, including Alpine, El Dorado, Lassen, Modoc, Nevada, Placer, Plumas, Sacramento, Shasta, Sierra, and Siskiyou.

 
Liberty may implement a Public Safety Power Shutoff (PSPS) for THESE AREAS, due to extreme fire conditions. A #PSPS is not imminent at this time; however, customers are encouraged to plan ahead for the possibility of an extended shutoff that could begin 1am Sunday, September 19 and last more than 24 hours. Customers who require power to operate life-essential medical equipment are strongly encouraged to call 9-1-1 if they are unable to secure necessary alternative power. Please join us for a PSPS briefing on Friday, September 17 at 5:00 p.m. Join by clicking HERE.  
 

On the Monday, September 13, 2021 the front porch of the old house at White Sulphur Springs Ranch (WSSR) began to get a facelift that was years in the planning.  After months of delays, the process of restoring the front façade was begun.  Mohawk Valley Stewardship Council (MVSC) volunteers, complete with 40 year old cement mixers, began the process of pouring the concrete footings that will support the beams of the West porch.  This is the side of the old house that faces Highway 89 and the entrance to the Mohawk Valley.  Years of weathering and neglect resulted in a near collapse of this side of the house. 
The ranch was designated an historic structure in the 1983 Plumas County General Plan. In spite of this, the old house was in the process of being dismantled when the community began to take notice and neighbors started a campaign to save the ranch.  The MVSC was formed in 2009 and the restoration of the historic ranch site was begun.
The WSSR website, www.WhiteSulphurSpringsRanch.com, has more about the history and the restoration of the ranch.  It also has information on how the community can support the work of the MVSC.  This includes memberships, direct contributions and legacy brick purchases.
photos by Janet Reihsen
 
Mohawk Valley Stewardship Council volunteers shovel the concrete in place for the front porch footings. Left to right, Robert Ware, Tom Barker and John Barker.      Facelift5.jpeg
 
Tim Buckhout and Don Maddelena in front of the antique concrete mixer used to start the repair of the front porch of the old ranch house at White Sulphur Springs in Clio.  Facelift4.jpeg
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September 15, 2021
Recently, Brandeis University updated its list of no-longer-politically correct idioms we should eliminate from our vocabulary. 
Among them is the one that’s always disturbed me a little, but seems perfectly apropos this week: There’s more than one way to skin a cat.
Perhaps more relatable to Californians living in 2021 (who hopefully will never need even a single reason to skin a cat) is the reality that there is more than one way to hold an elected official accountable.
While the mainstream media is drunk off Gavin Newsom’s victory, the governor and elected officials up and down the state should consider:ordinary Californians — Republicans, Democrats, and everyone in between — made Newsom answer for his role in California’s downward spiral and they won on Tuesday.
Just think back to this past spring. California remained one of the most locked down states in the country, despite having the lowest COVID rate in the nation at the time. Indoor capacity limits were in place, masks were required indoors, non-essential offices and many businesses were prohibited from opening. The United Teachers Los Angeles and smaller teachers unions throughout the state refused to meaningfully return to in-person teaching, and threatened to keep students at home behind screens even in the fall.
But then, in May, it began to seem as though a recall election could materialize. A grassroots, bipartisan network of Californians had submitted the required number of signatures — and then some — to put Newsom’s political future up for a vote. The establishment powers started their collective shock then panic. Could their guy actually lose? In California? The all-out assault on his challengers kicked into high gear, and even included labeling the leading African American candidate as the “Black face of white supremacy.” In July, a headline-grabbing poll found Newsom’s chances of beating the recall too close for comfort.
The money, especially from government unions, started flowing into Newsom’s campaign. He collected more than $80 million and spent almost $60 million more than his closest competitor Larry Elder, the clear winner of Question 2. 
Newsom realized his political future was on thin ice and that, for the first time in his career, he’d have to fight for his job. Even though he refused to give up his emergency powers, suddenly, pandemic restrictions began fading into the background, and Californians were permitted to enjoy freedom previously only experienced by elites and lobbyists at the French Laundry. To much media fanfare, Newsom “reopened” California in the summer. Restaurants could more fully reopen, fans were filling stadiums, normalcy was on the horizon. The state’s powerful teachers unions, seemingly overnight, went silent, laid down their arms, and returned to school. The governor tried to reassure his constituents at every juncture that California was “roaring back!”
None of this would have happened without the threat of recall. And while many readers may understandably be discouraged today, remember that efforts to improve peoples’ lives, even if the result is only temporary, are worthwhile. 
Over the summer, small business owners were able to reopen, saving countless family businesses from the bankruptcy that loomed. Individuals were able to get off the government dole and return to work, restoring their sense of pride in themselves and hope in the future. Friends were allowed to share meals together at their favorite local restaurants maskless, reviving the sense of community squashed by the pandemic and government’s response to it. Children are back in school where they are learning face-to-face with their teachers, and importantly, playing with other children and experiencing some sense of normalcy. 
Many — the California Policy Center included — have speculated that a Newsom win this week could send the state backward in its reopening. Schools may again shut their doors, and relegate children to isolation and increased learning loss. Masks and vaccine mandates could spread. Businesses could close shop, some temporarily and others permanently. The California economy, which Newsom has so proudly claimed is “roaring back” would be silenced, again.
But, the truth is, Newsom and the government unions that elected him would be wise to proceed cautiously. Though Newsom saved his job this week, he will soon find himself campaigning again, first for the June 2022 primary and then, if he’s lucky, for the November General election. Voters should not let their discouragement or relief prevent them from holding Newsom’s feet to the fire these coming months. 
David may not have killed Goliath, but he took him down. So much so that California Democrats are working to reform the recall process, ensuring they never face such a challenge again. 

Support the California Policy Center. Donate Today.The Newsom recall election was just the beginning for ordinary Californians committed to challenging establishment power, special interests, and the status quo. A bipartisan, grassroots excitement has sprung up and is taking hold throughout the state. There are 15 efforts underway to recall California school boards, along with efforts to recall other public officials, from county supervisors to district attorneys. Voters could have the opportunity to vote on not one, but two, ballot proposals in 2022 that would disrupt public education. They might even consider whether to make public-sector unions illegal. 
While Newsom is right to breathe a sigh of relief this week, he shouldn’t get too comfortable. 

​The U.S. Forest Service will end Regional Closure Order No. 21-04 affecting National Forests in California at 11:59 pm today. However, Forest Closure Order No. 05-11-00-21-21 remain in effect on the Plumas National Forest. For more information, please visit the links below.
 
https://cms.fs.usda.gov/Internet/FSE_DOCUMENTS/fseprd940207.pdf
 
https://cms.fs.usda.gov/Internet/FSE_DOCUMENTS/fseprd940209.pdf
 
 

 
REDDING – The California Department of Transportation (Caltrans District 2) wishes travelers a safe and enjoyable holiday weekend. Motorists are reminded that areas of construction, maintenance, and emergency work remain in effect and are advised to check roadway conditions and allot extra time for delays surrounding travel on this holiday weekend.
 
Historically, peak travel dates and times surrounding this holiday weekend are:
 
·      Friday, September 3rd between the hours of 6:30 p.m. and 9:30 p.m.

·      Monday, September 6th between the hours of 10:30 a.m. and 5 p.m.
 
While many crews will not be working over the weekend, road work will be in effect in many areas through Friday, September 3rd and starting again on Tuesday, September 7th. In addition, Caltrans District 2 alerts the public to the following long-term work zones, rest area closures, and areas of traffic congestion:
 
·      STATE ROUTE 299, MONUMENT FIRE EMERGENCY WORK – On Friday, September 3rd between the hours of 7 a.m. and 7 p.m., motorists will be escorted through the closure area via pilot car from Big Flat to Burnt Ranch in Trinity County at 7 a.m., 8:30 a.m., 10 a.m., 11:30 a.m., 1 p.m., 2:30 p.m., 4 p.m., 5:30 p.m., and 7 p.m. For Saturday, September 4th – Monday, September 6th between 7 a.m. and 7 p.m., motorists will be escorted through the closure area at the top of every hour. Beginning Tuesday, September 7th, openings every 1 ½ hours will resume again between 7 a.m. and 7 p.m. Only local residents and emergency personnel are allowed in the closure area between 7 p.m. and 7 a.m. daily (overnight hours).
 
·      STATE ROUTE 70, DIXIE FIRE EMERGENCY WORK – On Friday, September 3rd between 6 a.m. and 6 p.m., motorists can plan for up to 2-hour delays on State Route 70 between Jarbo Gap and Quincy at various locations for emergency work. From Saturday, September 4th – Monday, September 6th, no work or delays are planned in the area for Caltrans operations, however motorists may encounter areas of permitted emergency work. Motorists should plan for up to 2-hour delays beginning again on Tuesday, September 7th at 6 a.m.
 
·      STATE ROUTES 36 & 89, DIXIE FIRE EMERGENCY WORK – On Friday, September 3rd between 6 a.m. and 6 p.m., motorists can play for up to 1-hour delays in various locations on State Routes 36 and 89 for emergency work. From Saturday, September 4th – Monday, September 6th, no work or delays are planned in the area for Caltrans operations, however motorists may encounter areas of permitted emergency work. Motorists should plan for up to 1-hour delays beginning again on Tuesday, September 7th at 6 a.m.
 
·      SOUTHBOUND INTERSTATE 5, BLACK BUTTE OVERHEAD BRIDGE REPLACEMENT – Southbound Interstate 5 is reduced to two lanes between Weed and Mt. Shasta for the Black Butte Overhead Bridge Replacement Project in Siskiyou County. Motorists may experience delays during periods of higher traffic volumes.   
 
·      STATE ROUTE 36, AUGUST COMPLEX SLIDE – 24/7 traffic control is currently in effect for slide work on State Route 36 in Trinity County, approximately 6 miles west of the junction with State Route 3. Motorists should plan for up to 60-minute delays during daytime hours through September 3rd at 7 p.m. While no work is planned for Saturday – Monday (September 4th – September 6th), motorists will encounter flagging operations 24/7 with minimal delays. Longer delays (up to 60-minutes) are planned to begin again on Tuesday, September 7th at 7 a.m. 
 
·      STATE ROUTE 299, FRANCIS B. MATTHEWS SAFETY ROADSIDE REST AREA – The Francis B. Matthews Rest Area on State Route 299, near Salyer in Trinity County, will be closed over the holiday weekend due to continued construction work. Motorists traveling in the area should plan their stops accordingly.
 
·      NORTHBOUND INTERSTATE 5, O’BRIEN SAFETY ROADSIDE REST AREA – The O’Brien Rest Area on northbound Interstate 5, north of Redding, will be closed over the holiday weekend due to continued construction work. Motorists traveling in the area should plan their stops accordingly.
 
·      NORTHBOUND & SOUTHBOUND INTERSTATE 5, WEED SAFETY ROADSIDE REST AREAS – The Weed Safety Roadside Rest Areas on northbound and southbound Interstate 5, north of Weed in Siskiyou County, will be closed over the holiday weekend due to continued construction work. Motorists traveling in the area should plan their stops accordingly.
 
·      STATE ROUTE 89 NEAR McARTHUR – BURNEY FALLS MEMORIAL STATE PARK – Impacted traffic flows have occurred on recent holiday weekends on State Route 89 near McArthur – Burney Falls Memorial State Park in Shasta County. Motorists are asked to utilize alternative routes for through traffic in the area and plan for delays if they are intending to visit the park.
 
Motorists are recommended to follow roadway conditions often for any possible new incidents that may cause traffic control or areas of closure.  Up to date California highway conditions are available 24/7 through QuickMap. Motorists are also advised to tune to 1610 AM (97.9 FM in Modoc County and 1580 AM in Butte County for State Routes 70 & 191) when flashing lights are operational on Highway Advisory Radio signs and to immediately call 9-1-1 if they find themselves in an emergency situation.
 
Traveler resources include:
 
·      QuickMap: http://quickmap.dot.ca.gov/ (also available by free app. for smartphones)
·      One-Stop-Shop (Western U.S.): http://oss.weathershare.org (mobile version available at: http://oss.weathershare.org/m)
·      District 2 Project Information: https://dot.ca.gov/caltrans-near-me/district-2/d2-projects
·      District 2 Facebook and Twitter pages with updated project and incident information
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​Division of Boating and Waterways Provides Tips for Safe Boating During Low Water Conditions and Ahead of Labor Day Weekend
 
SACRAMENTO, Calif. -- With this year’s drought conditions impacting waterways throughout the state and the busy Labor Day weekend ahead, the California State Parks Division of Boating and Waterways wants to remind recreational boaters that drought conditions may reduce water levels, but not the dangers. When on waterways, boaters are reminded to recreate responsibly by adjusting their activities to the drought conditions as areas that were easily previously accessible may now be different and unfamiliar. Many lakes and reservoirs have restrained boat launch ramp availability or have reduced speed limits.
"We strongly encourage boaters to plan ahead and check the impact of the drought on their favorite waterway before going out on the water,” says DBW Acting Deputy Director Ramona Fernandez. “And if you visit a new boating location, be sure to exercise caution, wear a life jacket and be prepared."
Here are some safety tips to keep you and your loved ones safe on the water:
Know Before Your Go: Contact your local waterway manager to check if your favorite boating location has any operating restrictions. Expert tip: download the BoatCA app for a listing of California boating facilities. If you opt to boat on a different waterway than usual, be sure to familiarize yourself with your new surroundings. Operating on the ocean or river is different than operating on a lake.
Watch for Navigational Hazards: Low water can expose obstructions that could cause harm to you and your boat such as tree branches, snags and sand bars. Keep a proper lookout and heed warnings.
Be Prepared: Before heading out to the water, take a safe boating course and apply for your lifetime California Boater Card. The card is legally required for all operators of motorized vessels on California’s waterways. The law is being phased in based on operator age. For 2021, operators 40 years of age or younger must obtain the card. Visit CaliforniaBoaterCard.com for a complete list of approved courses and to apply for your card.
Equip Your Boat: Make sure you have all required equipment on board. View a virtual safety check to ensure you have the proper equipment. All boaters should wear a properly fitted U.S. Coast Guard-approved life jacket.
Leave the Alcohol on Shore: Consuming alcohol negatively impacts vision, balance and reaction times and can cause dehydration. The effects of alcohol are heightened on the water compared to on land, with the environmental stressors such as wind, noise, and vibrations of the boat. Boating under the influence is illegal on all bodies of water. Law enforcement can terminate your voyage and issue citations if you are found to be impaired.
For more tips on how to recreate responsibly or to view California’s boating laws, please visit www.boatcalifornia.com.
With record-setting drought conditions in California, it is imperative that we all do our part to conserve water. Boaters are encouraged to repurpose unused water from their trip and skip the boat wash. Unless you need to rinse the salt water, just wipe the boat down with a damp cloth. For more tips on water conservation, visit SaveOurWater.com.