NEVADA CITY, Calif. – The U.S. Forest Service is preparing an annual application to the California Department of Parks and Recreation, Off-Highway Motor Vehicle Recreation Division, to request funding for trail maintenance, restoration, facilities development, law enforcement, and planning for off-highway vehicle (OHV) access.


On Thursday, February 11, 2016, the Forest Service will host an open house from 4:00 p.m. – 7:00 p.m. for individuals and organizations to provide input and review proposals for the application.


“I encourage anyone interested in the OHV program to drop by this informal open house to discuss their ideas on these proposals. Written comments are most helpful if sent by February 23,” stated Joe Chavez, Tahoe National Forest Trails Program Coordinator.


These annual grants provide important funds for the Forest Service to develop and maintain trails and trailheads, repair winter storm damage and restore trailside environments, plan for OHV trail and facility improvements, as well as provide patrolling and monitoring of these areas. When finalized, the grants will be available for public review and comment on the State of California’s website (http://ohv.parks.ca.gov) from March 8 – April 4, 2016.


What:              Open House to discuss off-highway vehicle grant proposals
           
Where:            Tahoe National Forest Headquarters
                        631 Coyote St., Nevada City, CA  95959
                        Upstairs conference room (enter from upper parking lot in back of building)
 
When:             4:00 p.m. – 7:00 p.m. on Thursday, February 11, 2016


Questions, comments or letters can be directed to:
                        Joe Chavez, Forest Trails Program Coordinator
                        Tahoe National Forest, 631 Coyote St., Nevada City, CA 95959
                        Email: joetchavez@fs.fed.us
                        (530) 478-6158


For more Tahoe National Forest information, go to www.fs.usda.gov/tahoe. Follow us on Twitter at twitter.com/Tahoe_NF and “Like” us on Facebook at www.facebook.com/TahoeNF.

A nomination for this award is very prestigious and he was escorted by Principal Sara Sheridan to the banquet held on January 22, 2016 in Redding. 
Principal Sheridan sent the following letter on his behalf:
“In the 30 years that Dave Valle has been at Portola High School, he has earned the reputation for being one of the most respected and well-liked teachers on our campus.  His students describe him as a teacher with high expectations, creative and engaging lessons and a passion for the subject that he teaches.
Mr. Valle is dedicated to educating and exposing his students to the outdoors and the world of science.  He has spent years developing and perfecting the curriculum for each of the many classes that he teaches.  His Biology, Anatomy, AP Environmental Science, Museum Science and junior high science classes are the highlight of the courses that we offer each year.  His classes are run flawlessly – he consistently utilizes technology as he engages his students in discussions on the most recent scientific research.   His daily lessons are designed to make his students think critically and engage in hands-on activities.   He motivates and inspires his students!
Mr. Valle consistently goes above and beyond for his students.  Each year, he takes his AP Environmental Science class on a 3 day camping trip to study wildlife conservation and learn the importance of habitat conservation and stewardship for the benefit of Elk and other wildlife.  He has created strong community partnerships with the local Audubon Society, Feather River Land Trust and the Fish and Game Commission.  These partnerships have resulted in outstanding learning experiences for our students.  He works closely with our Outdoor Education Coordinator to engage his students in field trips that center on local watershed education.
Mr. Valle is passionate about exposing his students to wildlife and the outdoors.  Over a four year period, he and his classes (with the help of community organizations) constructed a phenomenal outdoor education classroom and trail system.  The outdoor education area, which is located directly behind the school, has a 1-mile trail loop and an outdoor classroom with a stage and stadium style seating.  Under his direction, his students have installed wildlife guzzlers, bird houses and motion sensor cameras that keep a record of the growing number of animals that visit the area daily.  
Mr. Valle is not only well-liked and respected by his students, but by the staff and community as well.  He works well with all teachers on our staff and he is consid-

CONTACT: press@dougwrightforcongress.com  /  (530) 276-8272
Doug Wright Announces Campaign for Congress in California's 1st Congressional District
Redding, CA - Redding born, North State local Doug Wright launches his run for Congress in California’s 1st District today, pledging to bring new leadership and a solutions-first, future-focused approach to Washington.  He launches his widely anticipated campaign with an announcement event at the Shasta Venture Hub at 4300 Caterpillar Road in Redding where he will be joined by supporters at noon.
In his speech, Doug launches his campaign as a political outsider stating "being a Congressman isn’t just about flying back and forth to DC, it’s about working right here at home, here in our district."
Doug, a proud 5th generation North State native, grew up in Berney, CA, a small logging town in the mountains outside of Redding. Driven by his work ethic, Doug went on to UCLA where he earned his BA in political science. During his undergraduate education, he worked full time for a local attorney to pay for school, which sparked his interest in law. He then received his JD from the McGeorge School of Law. 
Doug returned to the North State to serve the community he grew up in and started his own law firm, Wright Nash, where he represents small business owners and advocates for everyday people. In addition to his small business firm, Doug also owns a cattle ranch.
Doug has served on the board of directors of the Rotary Club of Redding, the Greater Redding Chamber of Commerce, the Economic Development Corporation for Shasta County, the Governance Committee for the United Way of Northern California, and Mercy Foundation North.
Doug will bring his experience and his deep knowledge of the community’s needs to give California’s 1stCongressional District the representation it deserves.
“I know very well how to represent diverse interests.  I’m trained to analyze complicated Constitutional and legislative issues.  I have a well-developed understanding of how the laws work, and often times how the laws don’t work as intended.  Every day I sit down and listen in order to figure out how to navigate through the complexities of laws while delivering the best outcomes.”
As an unconventional candidate, Doug will launch a campaign where he will bring community stakeholders together to solve the problems of the North State instead of playing the status quo politics of DC.  Rather than a typical venue, Doug chooses to launch his campaign from the Shasta Venture Hub because of his vision to revitalize his rural community.
“We need to revitalize rural America with forward thinking projects like the Shasta Venture Hub.”
Named as a 20 under 40 Emerging Leader in the North State by Redding.com, Doug now lives in Millville, CA, on a cattle ranch with his wife, Heather, and their three children, Walker, Reagan, and Rexton.
To hear more about Doug’s vision for the North State, sign up at www.dougwrightforcongress.com

​

​LOYALTON CITY COUNCIL met January 19th with attorney Steve Gross present.
For appointment of City officers, Brooks Mitchell made a motion to keep officers as they were with Pat Whitley as Mayor and he being Vice Mayor. It was voted down by Ernie Teague, John Cussins and Mark Marin.
John moved Mark as Mayor and Ernie as Vice Mayor which was approved by those three and passed. Pat and Brooks voted no. Pat immediately told Mark, “You can take over right now.” Pat stated she’d like to see it on the ballot and have the mayor elected by the people in November rather than appointed. Attorney Gross said the question to the voters would have to be agendized for discussion.
As new mayor, Mark moved to standing committees yet had no list and on advice from Counsel, will carry it over.
Finance Director Kim Lombardi announced Ross with Good Ideas had contacted her over the available rain barrels which had been delayed for a huge order yet Loyalton’s were next in line.
There was lengthy discussion following Ernie’s reading of a letter from Richard Adcock regarding his alley way and it was decided to make a map of those with utility easements and clear the alleys.
For Fire Department Report, Chief Shawn Heywood called it “pretty quiet.” The department has a new brush truck in service and has applied for two federal grants, one a radio regional grant and one vehicle grant for a water tender. The department is now meeting every other week.
During the Finance Report, Pat “screamed fire,” with  $30,000 in general checking “sounding the alarm,” and down to bare bones. She warned contingencies are for emergencies and if the City is in existence, to “tighten the purse strings.”
Ernie asked “how much in the bank,” and Kim said the total general fund is $209,503.39 including the Enterprise funds. John wanted a better way to clarify the financial reports seeing no park fund. Kim stated it would be more paperwork and compared to the County, she called it having “good software.”  Cussins voted against approving the report.
Payment of bills included no invoices for USDA and totaled $100,451.62. There was heavy questioning on “Where’s the receipt for new gas meters?” Kim could give the receipts but not the invoices. In conclusion, John stated a set amount of people would do purchasing.
Discussion over supplying information in a timely fashion to the bookkeeper in regards to attorney contact for financial records had Brooks stating “A lot of legal counsel advice doesn’t stipulate what for.”  Steve would give direction to codes. Brooks wants less attorney time and John wants to use Counsel more. Ernie felt there would be “not as many lawsuits” and stated that’s why Counsel was there.
Ernie told of $50,000 less on water and sewer at the park and now zero. He told of losing $12,000 on First Five and being $60,000 down and it’s hard to make that money up. Kim told of significant decline on park rentals since May last year.
Mark brought up the situation with the Loyalton Mobile Home Park, option to shut off the water and the City can’t absorb the loss. Steve Gross explained it was a master meter with special procedures and State statutes for water service. He told of the City’s ability to comply with procedures to terminate service, to provide notice and for customers to choose not to terminate service and to stop the bleeding on service.
To set up individual meters was said to be expensive, Steve stated the City has no property rights there, calling it a “bad situation.” He stated it’s not the City’s responsibility to serve individual units and by providing notice at the park, each has the opportunity to become a customer. But the problem is the City probably has to terminate service.
Pat talked about a lien on the trailer park but the County takes the money first if it sells and John agreed, the County is”not obligated to pay one red cent.”
Van Maddox, County Auditor was in the audience and explained if the property sells for more than taxes due, the remaining funds are held and liens or the bank can put in claims if all interested parties know if there are excess funds. They have one year and who gets in first helps. He advised, if it’s sold, “keep an eye on it and get a claim in as soon as possible.” Van said the County was trying to find out the State’s next step.
Mark suggested and Brooks supported the City work together with the County for a solution good for both parties. Steve said one option was if the City lien could foreclose but there would be a race between the City and County to foreclose. Van told if foreclosed, $303,000 is owed the tax collector.
From the audience, Annie Terrasas asked different costs and John said those outside city limits charge is different. Pat added the trailer court pays 1.5  the residential rate. Mark explained the city doesn’t own the water line and the park is on contract. Brooks further explained there are four lots of the park in the city; a split service.  It was voted the City Public Works meet with the County. Steve suggested a Finance Committee Meeting, subject to the Brown Act.
Public Works
Brooks stated the Wastewater Treatment Plant litigation had been continued to January to set a trial date. Steve has had “very little contact on that.”
Update on the old museum building had County Supervisor Paul Roen state that talk over the County renting the building had “not officially been discussed at the Board level.”  Ernie suggested advertising it for rent, moved by Brooks and seconded by John and passed.
John told of needing to upgrade the 2005 telemetry at the plant which has had several failures. He quoted $8,000.
Ernie complained of at least 50 vehicles hindering snow removal last storm. Sheriff Tim Standley was asked for direction and he asked if snowplows can function and do what the City needs? John will compile a list of those which vehicles have not been moved at all during storms, making no effort. Tim said if there’s a issue, “Give a call. We’ll tow it lickety split.” The same goes for those vehicles not registered. 
A burglar system was discussed but not agendized and will be continued.
Commercial cultivation and delivery of medical marijuana within city limits had Steve explain dual licenses for the State and local jurisdictions. He explained in October the State passed three new laws; tougher on referrals, commercial cultivation and delivery service. Commercial cultivated allowed cultivation by patients or care givers. To regulate commercial, the Council would have to adopt an ordinance by March 1st and can be on an urgency basis. Steve recommended discussion if the council wants to regulate commercial use within the city and if not, it’s at the mercy of the State guidelines. There is work, he noted, to remove the March 1st date. Cities and counties could take action by prohibiting commercial grows within cities and come back later and allow it rather than be precluded by no action at all. The law of delivery can regulate or prohibit dispensaries or companies to patients.  He said most ordinances prohibit commercial cultivation and also prohibit delivery, stating it could be any business with many law enforcement concerns. People driving are subject to attack and robbery, Counsel said, calling it a “crime magnet” to allow delivery within a city. In general, he said law enforcement’s view is not supportive of commercial grows although there are revenue opportunities.
John asked Sheriff Tim Standley to address the issue and he spoke on what Nevada County is doing with an emergency ordinance banning growing marijuana outdoors and allowing 12 plants within boundaries, not living or quarters habitated. The sheriff said the consensus of the CA Sheriff’s Association‘s vast majority is they are going to pass prohibiting outdoor grows, noting it’s easy to drive by if marijuana is in violation. 
Ernie told of the County limit of 18 plants per person; maximum four people with 72 plants. Mark: “That’s a lot of pot.” From the audience, editor Don Russell sang praises of marijuana with him “staring in Michigan.”
Supervisor Paul Roen stated the County’s last public hearing on the subject will be January 26th and it will be on the agenda for recommendation on February 2nd.  The 72 plant maximum is for residential caregivers, he said.  Brooks suggested an ordinance denying outside grows within City limits. John said if the active derivative isn’t that high it should be allowed. Brooks said just no dispensaries. Mark agreed with Brooks on outside grows because of stealing.  Tim said Nevada County uses legislatures’ intent for severely sick and allows small amount grown indoors limited to a number of plants or square footage. He told of having dealt with 11-foot plants.
Brooks directed Counsel to prepare an ordinance prohibiting commercial grows, no outdoor and only indoors for medicinal purposes and prohibit delivery. It would be adopted as urgency since the next regular meeting is February 16th. 

 
NORTH LAKE TAHOE, Calif./Nev. (January 15, 2016) — Conditions couldn’t be better for skiers and snowboarders in anticipation of the Martin Luther King, Jr. Weekend. North Lake Tahoe ski resorts are reporting more than one foot of snow in the last 24 hours, while a new storm system is headed toward the region late Friday into Saturday morning followed by another possible system moving in Sunday.


All resorts are reporting 100 percent open terrain, weather conditions permitting. So far this season the region has received about 19 feet of total snowfall at the upper elevations, sitting at 142 percent above normal according to the Nevada Natural Resources Conservation Service.


See below for new 24-hour snow totals at North Lake Tahoe resorts:
Alpine Meadows: 13”
Boreal Mountain Resort: 16”
Diamond Peak: 12”
Donner Ski Ranch: 12”
Granlibakken: 11”
Homewood Mountain Resort: 14” at the summit
Mt. Rose: 13” at the summit
Northstar California: 18”
Squaw Valley: 11”
Soda Springs: 11”
Sugar Bowl / Royal Gorge: 13” at the summit
Tahoe Donner: 12”
Tahoe XC: N/A


Both on and off the slopes, there’s plenty of ways to enjoy North Lake Tahoe’s new snow. Nordic skiers slide across snowy terrain at Tahoe XC, Tahoe City Winter Sports Park, Resort at Squaw Creek and many other venues. Locals and visitors alike can experience many Nordic skiing locations for a discounted price with the Nordic 12 pack. For more information visit www.GoTahoeNorth.com/Nordic.


Out of the bindings, children and kids at heart have access to sledding hills at North Tahoe Regional Park, Soda Springs Snow Park and have tubing opportunities at many ski resorts. Take the experience to the next level with a dog-sled tour from the Wild Alaskan Fish Company or cozy up on a Borges Sleigh Ride at Sand Harbor State Park. Head to www.GoTahoeNorth.com/Sledding for more sledding opportunities.


For last minute deals to stay and play in the North Lake Tahoe snow in during Martin Luther King, Jr. Weekend, visit www.GoTahoeNorth.com/Deals.
 

QUINCY, Calif., January 14, 2016 – Plumas National Forest officials are seeking to fill 15 seats on a federal advisory committee (RAC) responsible for selected projects on federal land within Plumas County. 


“RACs are a great way for interested local community members to engage in a public lands dialogue and recommend resource projects funded by this legislation,” said Acting Forest Supervisor Daniel Lovato.


Once appointed by the Secretary of Agriculture, the RAC will review projects to recommend for funding consideration by the Plumas National Forest Supervisor. Just under $500,000 will be available for projects to be initiated by September 2017 and funding obligated by September 2018.


RACs were established as a provision of the Secure Rural Schools and Community Self-Determination Act of 2000. By law the four-year term, 15-member committee is composed of a wide representation of national forest interests organized into the three categories. An additional member is also appointed as a replacement should a committee member leave for any reason.


RAC projects must have broad community-based support with objectives that may include, but are not limited to, road, trail and infrastructure maintenance or obliteration; soil productivity improvements; improvements in forest ecosystem health; watershed restoration and maintenance; restoration, maintenance and improvement of wildlife and fish habitat; control of noxious and exotic weeds; hazardous fuels reduction; and reintroduction of native species.


Projects must be on public land but can occur on private land if it can be demonstrated that there is a benefit to public land resources.


Applicants can apply for the Plumas RAC membership by contacting Lee Anne Schramel, public affairs officer, (530) 283-7850. Applicants must complete a cover letter, interest form and an FBI background check form prior to being considered for the committee. Information about the Secure Rural Schools legislation and RACs may be found at: http://fs.usda.gov/main/pts/home .

January 16, 2016..... PSREC has had to switch it’s system to backup resources to work around the fault on the transmission line to restore power to members while crews continue to search for the root cause of the outages. We apologize for the inconvenience and ask members to bear with us, and conserve as much as possible until we can put the system back to normal. These intermittent outages will likely continue into the weekend, until we locate the root cause of the fault, so, please, please conserve! And be prepared for outages. Information can be found on our website at www.psrec.coop. Please report outages to 800-555-2207. 

On December 28, 2015 at US-395 at the Shoe Tree,  Robby George, 36, of Orofino, Idaho was driving a Nissan Frontier directly behind TJ Hunt, 24 of Mount Lake Terrace, WA in a Chevy 3500 on a snowy US-395. George failed to realize Hunt was stopped in the lane for a hazard ahead. George hit the brakes but was unsuccessful in stopping. Consequently, George’s Nissan collided with the rear of Hunt’s Chevy. No injuries were reported.

On December 31, 2015 on SR-89 at Calpine Road Beverly Mitchell, 66, of Calpine was driving a 2012 Subaru Forester southbound on SR-89 approaching the intersection with Calpine Road at a speed of 20mph. Jess Martinetti, 61, of Sierraville, was driving his 2005 Toyota Tundra northbound on SR-89 at the intersection of Calpine Road at a speed of 40 mph. Mitchell failed to observe Martinetti driving northbound and began to make a left turn onto Calpine Road. Martinetti observed Mitchell making the left turn and took evasive action to avoid a collision. Martinetti swerved to the right onto Calpine Road and was struck in the left rear by Mitchell. Following the collision both vehicles were removed from the roadway. The cause of this collision is under investigation.

On December 31, 2015, Scott Heavin, 33 of Portola was driving a 2007 Toyota at approximately 4 p.m. and was backing his vehicle in the parking lot of 67007 Highway 70 in Blairsden when his vehicle impacted with a parked vehicle. During the investigation, it was determined Heavin was under the influence at the time of the collision. Heavin was subsequently arrested and booked into Plumas County Jail.

CHP REPORT: On January 1, 2016 Dennis Person, 44 of Quincy was driving a 1997 Polaris 800 driving on US Forest Service land at 2:30 p.m.near Bucks Lake at the stated speed of 40mph when he failed to observe a creek bed directly in front of his location.Person allowed the Polaris to collide with the opposing bank of the creek bed. Person was wearing safety equipment and taken to Plumas District Hospital.

​On January 2, 2016 at the snowmobile staging area on Little Truckee Summit, SR-89 Kristy Adkins, 17 of Santa Clara was driving a 2011 Skidoo at approximately 1:30 p.m. preparing to take a snowmobiling tour. Before being instructed to do so she started the vehicle and as Roxane Villeda, 52 of American Canyon, CA walked by her location, the snowmobile moved forward, due to the throttle being activated and the front right ski impacted with Villeda’s right shin. Villeda was transported to Tahoe Forest Hospital for medical evaluation and was released with minor injuries.

On January 6, 2016 CHP officers were dispatched to a solo vehicle collision on SR-70 near Old Highway Rd. which involved a Ford F250 driven by Merill Domenichini, 25, of Paradise, CA at approx. 7:05 a.m. Domenichini was going approx. 40 mph per his statement and lost control of the truck around a right hand turn and collided with a dirt embankment and then rolled over, coming to rest on the passenger side of the truck and blocked the westbound lane of SR-70. Domenichini and his passenger, a black lab, were uninjured in the collision. CHP took a report and provided traffic control until the roadway was cleared.

On January 10, 2016 at approximately 1500 hours, a California Highway Patrol Truckee Area Officer observed a disabled vehicle on Interstate 80 westbound, located within the Donner Lake Vista Point. Upon making contact with the occupants of the vehicle, the Officer noticed several spent bullet casings and bullet holes in the body of the vehicle. After a brief discussion with the occupants, the Officer determined that a domestic violence incident had occurred in which the male occupant, Harris Maynard Riddle, of Stockton, CA, had fired several shots from a 9mm pistol into the body of the vehicle. During the assault, one of the rounds struck the female occupant in the leg. The firearm used was recovered in the vehicle, at which time Riddle was arrested for various weapons charges and the attempted homicide of the female victim. The victim was transported to the Tahoe Forest Hospital where she was treated and released for a single gunshot wound to the leg. The scene was secured by members of the California Highway Patrol Truckee Area and Truckee PD. Riddle was booked at the Nevada County Sheriff’s Truckee Jail. The CHP’s Investigative Services Unit and the Multiple Accident Investigation Team will handle the investigation to its conclusion.

LOS ANGELES – Attorney General Kamala D. Harris today issued a consumer alert to Californians regarding new requirements for the registration and regulation of drones, also known as small Unmanned Aircraft Systems (sUAS), due to the increased popularity of the technology.  According to the Federal Aviation Administration (FAA), effective December 21, 2015, drone operators who owned their drones prior to December 21 have until February 19, 2016 to register their drones with the FAA; those who purchased a drone on or after December 21 must register their drone prior to flying it outdoors. 

There is a $5 registration fee, however, individuals who register their drone before January 20 will have this fee refunded.  These new requirements apply to drones weighing more than 0.55 pounds; drones under this weight requirement need not be registered.  Drone operators who fail to properly register their drone may be subject to civil and criminal penalties.
These new requirements were issued to address safety concerns stemming from the rising popularity of drones.  It is projected that in 2016, 1 million drones subject to this registration requirement will be sold in the U.S., a 145 percent increase from 2015.  In 2014, according to the FAA, there were 238 total drone incidents reported; in 2015, this number had jumped to over 650 by August.
PROPER REGISTRATION AND SAFE USE OF DRONES
You can find complete directions for registering your drone here: https://registermyuas.faa.gov/.  The Attorney General offers California consumers the following highlights regarding the registration process and the safe use of drones:

• Drone registration should be completed online at https://registermyuas.faa.gov/ when: 1) a drone weighs between 0.55 pounds and 55 pounds, 2) the drone is owned by an individual, and 3) the drone is used for recreation.  Drones that weigh less than 0.55 pounds need not be registered with the FAA.  The weight limit applies only to the flying portion of the drone.
• Drone operators who owned their drones prior to December 21, 2015 have until February 19, 2016 to register their drones.  Those who purchased a drone on or after December 21, 2015 must register their drones with the FAA before flying outdoors.  The drone registration fee is $5.  This fee will be credited back to those who register before midnight, Eastern Standard Time, on January 20, 2016.   
• Drone registration should be done by paper (rather than online) when a drone is greater than 55 pounds, when a drone is used for commercial purposes, or when a drone is used for reasons other than merely a hobby or recreation.  
• A drone operator should always have the FAA registration certificate available, either in print or electronically, when flying a drone.  The registration certificate contains the FAA registration number, the registration’s expiration date, and the name of the drone certificate’s registrant.  
• Consumers who own multiple drones only need to register once with the FAA, and may use the same registration number on all of their drones.  Drone operators should visibly and legibly place their unique registration number on their drones. 
• To register a drone, a person must be at least 13 years old (if a drone’s operator is younger than 13 years of age, a person 13 years of age or older – such as a parent – must register the drone).  Additionally, you must be a U.S. citizen or permanent resident in order to receive a registration certificate from the FAA. 
• If a drone is not registered and is used outdoors, the FAA may impose penalties of up to $27,000.  Criminal penalties for the failure to register a drone include fines of up to $250,000 and/or imprisonment.
• A drone should be flown cautiously and safely.  It should not be flown near crowds of people or stadiums.  The FAA’s Advisory Circular on the use of model aircrafts may be found at http://www.faa.gov/documentLibrary/media/Advisory_Circular/AC_91-57A.pdf, and it provides that operators should fly drones below 400 feet and within their vision.        
• A drone should not impede, and should make way for, any manned aircraft.  Additionally, a drone should not be flown within 5 miles of an airport, unless the airport’s operator and control tower are contacted in advance.  For a list of California airports, go to http://www.faa.gov/airports/airport_safety/airportdata_5010/.  Consumers are also encouraged to review local ordinances that may be applicable to drone usage.

HELPFUL RESOURCES
The FAA’s YouTube videos on safe drone usage and drone registration are available at https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=l38WN5717jc, https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=XF5Q9JvBhxM, and https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=3jwPaFp8nMg.
Information regarding the FAA’s drone registration process is available at http://www.faa.gov/uas/registration/.  
Questions regarding the registration of drones with the FAA may be directed to UAShelp@faa.gov.  Live telephone assistance will be provided starting on December 25, 2015, at (844) 244-3565.  For additional facts regarding the drone registration requirements, go to https://www.faa.gov/uas/registration/faqs/.
What to do if A DRONE VIOLATION OCCURS
The FAA should be contacted immediately if you suspect that a drone violation has occurred.  The FAA’s Western Regional Operations Center may be reached at (425) 227-1999, or at 9-wsa-opsctr@faa.gov.
Additionally, if you suspect that a drone is unregistered, or is being utilized in a hazardous manner, contact your local police department or sheriff’s office.  In the case of an emergency, call 911.
Finally, the California Department of Justice protects the rights of consumers and collects complaints on a wide range of issues, including drone violations to identify wrongful activity.  To submit a complaint to the California Department of Justice regarding the dangerous or unlawful use of a drone, please use one of the following complaint forms:
English: https://oag.ca.gov/contact/consumer-complaint-against-business-or-company.  



​

 
 
            Heather Dudek (31) Camptonville.  Possession of a device for injecting controlled substance.  Two years probation, 2 days jail, fine $1050.
 
            Joshua Jaquez (34) Vinton.  Unlawful take of a deer (a doe).  One year probation, fine $1065.
 
            Edward Ebbit (34) Grass Valley.  Hunting in the X deer zone without proper license (he shot and damage the robot deer). Three years probation, forfeit Remington .710 caliber rifle, restitution to Sierra County Fish and Game Commission for damage to the deer $2420, fine $1050,  and no hunting for two years.
 
            Donn Castillo (53) and Clark Waskowiak (26) both of Meadow Vista.  Hunting bear in a closed zone.  One year probation, fine $1250.
 
            Ket Saechin (37) Sacramento.  Unlawful take of a deer in the X zone without the proper tags, and loaded firearm in vehicle.  One year probation, fine $1695, forfeit Sako .270 caliber Winchester Short Magnum rifle.                       
 
 
 
 
            Sheryl Weber (56) and Loken Weber(60) of Robbins.  Both had a loaded firearm in vehicle, bothe were put on one year probation and fined $665 each.
 
             Mark Erickson (43) Truckee.  Driving with a .08 or higher blood alcohol.  Three years probation, two days jail, fine $2427, and attend alcohol school.
 
           
 
Dakota Vance (24) Downieville.  Driving with a .08 or higher blood alcohol level with a prior conviction  for same.  Three years probation, 10 days jail, fine $3522, and attend alcohol school.
 
Brent Hutcherson (27) Plumas Lake.  Possession of a firearm while hunting deer during archery season.  One year probation, fine $10050.
 
Kohl Knoefler (33) Oroville.  Drunk in public.  One year probation, 12 days jail, fine $455.
 
Devon Castle (31) Calpine.  Driving under the influence with a prior conviction for same.  Three years probation, 10 days jail, fine $2622, and attend alcohol school.
 
​

Cited violations were are May 1, 2014, July 11, 2014, September 15, 2014, December 5, 2014, January 15, 2015 and April 9, 2015.
The Notice of Suspension to Operate Loyalton Mobile Home Park, LLC is dated December 31, 2015, written to owner Steven Griggs, of Trident Pacific Real Estate Group in Newport Beach, CA. with addresses also in Kings Beach, CA and Reno, NV.
The suspension states he “may not operate, occupy, rent, lease, sublease, demand or collect rent, or hire out for occupancy, any lot within the Mobilehome Park. Because the park no longer has a valid Permit ot Operate, pursuant to HSC Sections  18214 and 18500, it is not legal for you to charge or accept rent for lots in the park, or for rental mobilehomes or recreational vehicles you may own that are in the park. 
“During the suspension period, a Permit to Construct is still required for any construction or repair activity related to correction of the previously cited violations.”
It further states, “Under the provisions of the Mobilehome Residency Law and/or local ordinances, you may be liable to the residents and/or the County of Sierra for various fines and penalties, actual damages of the residents including relocation costs incurred by residents as a result of this action, as well as other judicial remedies resulting from your failure to comply with applicable laws.”
There’s a huge back tax liability owed the County and a $200,000 water and sewer bill owed the City of Loyalton.
Conditions in the park have deteriorated to attract squatters and illegal possession in the worst of living conditions right here in Loyalton.
Where is Steven Griggs and what lies ahead for those 30 occupied trailers in the park; several long-time residents who are subjected to a declining environment. 
​For photos and a complete story, see the January 14th issue of Sierra Booster.

SUSANVILLE, Calif., January 7, 2016 – In anticipation of a wet winter, snowmobile and ski routes in Lassen National Forest will be off-limits to wheeled vehicles from January 7, 2016 through March 31, 2016. In addition, all vehicles with or without wheels are prohibited year-round in designated wilderness areas.
These restrictions are designed to ensure visitor safety and to protect natural resources. The ruts left by wheeled vehicles in the snow can create hazardous conditions for snowmobilers and skiers. In addition, precipitation can soften the ground and roadbeds, increasing the chance of wheeled vehicles getting stuck and causing resource damage.
“One reason people get stuck, especially on the groomed snowmobile trails, is because the surface looks like a road and is passable when temperatures are cold,” said Law Enforcement Officer Mike Cone. “But when the ground thaws slightly, or if the vehicle travels off the groomed section, it becomes high-centered and gets stuck.”
Violating road and trail closures is not only dangerous, it can also be costly. It could mean a hefty fine, and violators could also bear the cost of repairing damage to the trails.
With 400 miles of groomed trails, conditions permitting, Lassen National Forest has the largest snowmobile trail system in California.
"The past few winters have been disappointing for snowmobilers, cross-country skiers, and snowshoers,” said Dave Hays, Lassen National Forest Supervisor. “We are off to a more promising start this season, and we are working to ensure your safety and enjoyment of winter activities on the Forest."
While snowmobiling and other winter recreation activities can be fun and exciting, Lassen National Forest reminds visitors to be safe and observe the rules of the Forest:

• Always check the weather forecast ahead of time.
• Tell someone where you’re going and when you’ll be back.
• Never go out alone.
• Obtain a map of your destination and determine what areas are open to which activities.
• Wear a helmet, eye protection, and other safety gear when appropriate. 
• Respect the environment and try not to disturb wildlife. 
• Always use common sense and courtesy on the trails.

A weekly report to keep snowmobilers apprised of conditions will soon begin posting on the Lassen National Forest website, www.fs.usda.gov/lassen, along with Vehicle Use Maps showing roads where wheeled vehicles are seasonally restricted.  For more information about the maps, restricted areas, or current conditions, contact any ranger district or the Forest Supervisor’s Office at (530) 257-2151.
Lassen National Forest lies at the Crossroads of California, where the granite of the Sierra Nevada, the lava of the Cascades and the Modoc Plateau, and the sagebrush of the Great Basin meet. The Forest is managed for recreational access as well as timber and firewood, forage for livestock, water, minerals, and other natural resources.


The mission of the U.S. Forest Service, part U.S. Department of Agriculture, is to sustain the health, diversity and productivity of the nation's forests and grasslands to meet the needs of present and future generations. The agency manages 193 million acres of public land, provides assistance to state and private landowners, and maintains the largest forestry research organization in the world. Public lands the Forest Service manages contribute more than $13 billion to the economy each year through visitor spending alone. Those same lands provide 20 percent of the nation's clean water supply, a value estimated at $7.2 billion per year. The agency has either a direct or indirect role in stewardship of about 80 percent of the 850 million forested acres within the U.S., of which 100 million acres are urban forests where most Americans live.
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On January 10, 2016 at approximately 1500 hours, a California Highway Patrol Truckee Area Officer observed a disabled vehicle on Interstate 80 westbound, located within the Donner Lake Vista Point. Upon making contact with the occupants of the vehicle, the Officer noticed several spent bullet casings and bullet holes in the body of the vehicle. After a brief discussion with the occupants, the Officer determined that a domestic violence incident had occurred in which the male occupant, Harris Maynard Riddle, of Stockton, CA, had fired several shots from a 9mm pistol into the body of the vehicle. During the assault, one of the rounds struck the female occupant in the leg. The firearm used was recovered in the vehicle, at which time Riddle was arrested for various weapons charges and the attempted homicide of the female victim. The victim was transported to the Tahoe Forest Hospital where she was treated and released for a single gunshot wound to the leg. The scene was secured by members of the California Highway Patrol Truckee Area and Truckee PD. Riddle was booked at the Nevada County Sheriff’s Truckee Jail. The CHPs Investigative Services Unit and the Multiple Accident Investigation Team will handle the investigation to its conclusion.

QUINCY, Calif., January 11, 2016 – The Plumas National Forest is planning to fill several temporary positions in various locations. These temporary positions can start as early as April and usually end in September; new hires could work up to a total of 26 weeks.  A wide variety of jobs are available in archaeology, botany, recreation, timber, wildlife, and firefighting.


Applicants may apply for these jobs through the USA Jobs website at http://www.usajobs.gov.
Applicants will be required to create a profile with a username and password, then asked to describe their work experience and level of education.


To be considered for jobs on the Plumas National Forest, applicants should select one or more of the following California locations in USA Jobs when submitting an application: Quincy, Greenville, Belden, Oroville, Challenge, Berry Creek, Blairsden, Beckwourth and Doyle.


The job announcements for these positions will be posted in USA Jobs beginning in 2016, initially during the month of January; other announcements may be posted later in the season.  The first five-day vacancy announcement will open Monday, January 11 and close on Friday, January 15. Applicants are encouraged to read the vacancy announcements thoroughly for specific information about job requirements, how to apply, and most importantly, points of contact and phone numbers for more detailed guidance on available positions.


For more information about the application process and to search for job opportunities, please visit the following website: http://www.fs.fed.us/working-with-us/jobs.

sierracounty.ws           
 
 
           
 
 
            Heather Dudek (31) Camptonville.  Possession of a device for injecting controlled substance.  Two years probation, 2 days jail, fine $1050.
 
            Joshua Jaquez (34) Vinton.  Unlawful take of a deer (a doe).  One year probation, fine $1065.
 
            Edward Ebbit (34) Grass Valley.  Hunting in the X deer zone without proper license (he shot and damage the robot deer). Three years probation, forfeit Remington .710 caliber rifle, restitution to Sierra County Fish and Game Commission for damage to the deer $2420, fine $1050,  and no hunting for two years.
 
            Donn Castillo (53) and Clark Waskowiak (26) both of Meadow Vista.  Hunting bear in a closed zone.  One year probation, fine $1250.
 
            Ket Saechin (37) Sacramento.  Unlawful take of a deer in the X zone without the proper tags, and loaded firearm in vehicle.  One year probation, fine $1695, forfeit Sako .270 caliber Winchester Short Magnum rifle.                       
 
 
 
 
            Sheryl Weber (56) and Loken Weber(60) of Robbins.  Both had a loaded firearm in vehicle, bothe were put on one year probation and fined $665 each.
 
             Mark Erickson (43) Truckee.  Driving with a .08 or higher blood alcohol.  Three years probation, two days jail, fine $2427, and attend alcohol school.
 
           
 
Dakota Vance (24) Downieville.  Driving with a .08 or higher blood alcohol level with a prior conviction  for same.  Three years probation, 10 days jail, fine $3522, and attend alcohol school.
 
Brent Hutcherson (27) Plumas Lake.  Possession of a firearm while hunting deer during archery season.  One year probation, fine $10050.
 
Kohl Knoefler (33) Oroville.  Drunk in public.  One year probation, 12 days jail, fine $455.
 
Devon Castle (31) Calpine.  Driving under the influence with a prior conviction for same.  Three years probation, 10 days jail, fine $2622, and attend alcohol school.
​

Lassen National Forest Seeks
Wildland Firefighters for 2016 Season


SUSANVILLE, Calif., January 7, 2016 – Lassen National Forest plans to hire up to 50 temporary wildland firefighters for the 2016 fire season. Duty stations include Chester, Forest Ranch, Mineral, Susanville, Hat Creek, Old Station, Fall River Mills, and Manzanita Lake.


The positions to be filled include hotshot/handcrew, helitack, engine/water tender, lookout, dispatch, and entry-level positions. Details about specific jobs and locations can be found at http://www.fs.usda.gov/Internet/FSE_DOCUMENTS/stelprd3828187.pdf.


The five-day vacancy announcements will open on USA Jobs (www.usajobs.gov), on Monday, January 11 and close on Friday, January 15. Applicants are encouraged to read the vacancy announcements thoroughly for specific information about job requirements and how to apply. Applicants will be required to create a profile with a username and password, then asked to describe their work experience and level of education.


“When applying for a federal job, you should be very detailed and precise in describing your work experience,” said Civil Rights Officer Michael Green. “Remember that the person who will be reviewing your application cannot assume that you have specific knowledge; you must say it in writing.”


For more information, contact Michael Green at (530) 252-6603 or any the Lassen National Forest  District office: 
Almanor: (530) 258-2141
Eagle Lake: (530) 257- 4188
Hat Creek: (530) 336-5521


Lassen National Forest lies at the Crossroads of California, where the granite of the Sierra Nevada, the lava of the Cascades and the Modoc Plateau, and the sagebrush of the Great Basin meet. The Forest is managed for recreational access as well as timber and firewood, forage for livestock, water, minerals, and other natural resources.


The mission of the U.S. Forest Service, part U.S. Department of Agriculture, is to sustain the health, diversity and productivity of the nation's forests and grasslands to meet the needs of present and future generations. The agency manages 193 million acres of public land, provides assistance to state and private landowners, and maintains the largest forestry research organization in the world. Public lands the Forest Service manages contribute more than $13 billion to the economy each year through visitor spending alone. Those same lands provide 20 percent of the nation's clean water supply, a value estimated at $7.2 billion per year. The agency has either a direct or indirect role in stewardship of about 80 percent of the 850 million forested acres within the U.S., of which 100 million acres are urban forests where most Americans live.
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USDA is an equal opportunity provider, employer, and lender.

Gov. Jerry Brown’s 2016-17 Budget raises spending to new historic levels despite his statements to the contrary

Today, Governor Jerry Brown released his 2016-17 Budget to outline how he wants to spend Californians’ tax dollars. Using conservative sounding talking points to describe his Budget, such as ‘it would be short-sighted in the extreme to now embark upon a host of new spending only to see massive cuts when the next recession hits’ and ‘in view of the $27 billion deficit of just five years ago, and the much larger one in 2009, it is clear that fiscal restraint must be the order of the day’, it’s surprising to see that his proposed 2016-17 budget spends $7 billion more than last year’s budget and a whopping $15 billion more than his 2014-15 budget.


Clearly, Governor Brown’s rhetoric doesn’t match his liberal spending plan for the nation’s largest state. In total, the spending increases in the two years since Brown was reelected in 2014 total $22 billion more in government largesse. It doesn’t take an economics degree to realize that ‘fiscal restraint’ is clearly not the order of the day:


California State Budgets over the Past 3 Years (Source: Legislative Analyst’s Office)

2014-15
$107.9 Billion

2015-16
$115.3 Billion

2016-17
$122.6 Billion (proposed)

*** Total increase in spending since 2013 ***
$ 22.1 Billion


Put in perspective, the $22 billion in additional spending could have paid off nearly a third of our state’s $76 billion bond debt, increased our rainy day fund to over $26 billion, or even provided tax refunds of approximately $1300 to each of the 17 million Californians that filed tax returns.


With Brown’s proposed 2016-17 Budget, the Governor is trying to have his cake and eat it too, at the expense of hardworking Californians. With the highest in the nation personal income, gas, and sales taxes, California’s continued and callous disregard for taxpayer dollars has resulted in the state now also boasting the nation’s highest poverty rate.


In the Governor’s own words, ‘using surplus revenue won’t work and whoever said that is definitely not an accountant’, Jerry Brown shouldn’t be increasing spending, but instead should be using California’s additional tax revenue to shore up the state’s balance sheet, prudently save for the future, and directly improve the economy by returning the excess taxes to the taxpayers.                   

28,084 New National Flood Insurance Program Policies Purchased in California since August
Oakland Calif., -- The Federal Emergency Management Agency (FEMA) today released new data on National Flood Insurance Program (NFIP) Policies, showing an increase of more than 20,000 new NFIP Policies written in California during the month of November 2015. 
There is a 30 – 90 day period for new policies to be reported to FEMA and the latest available data, released today, shows an increase of 28,084 new flood insurance policies purchased in California from August 31 – November 30, 2015.
“Flooding is the most costly and devastating disaster we face as a nation,” said FEMA Region 9 Administrator Robert Fenton.  “The major increase in flood policies show Californians are taking the threat seriously and taking powerful steps to protect their families and property.  Those who may need and not have a flood policy should act today, as policies generally take 30 days to go into effect.”    
The 12% increase is the first of its kind in recent history.  The previous reporting period showed that policies increased 3% from August 31 to October 31.  During that timeframe, 7,181 new federal flood insurance policies were written in California.     
“We are encouraged by the number of Californians that are becoming financially prepared for the flooding that is expected from El Nino,” said Janet Ruiz, California Representative for the Insurance Information Institute.   “It is crucial to protect our families and homes by preparing for catastrophes ahead of time.”
FEMA administers the National Flood Insurance Program (NFIP) and works closely with more than 80 private insurance companies to offer flood insurance to homeowners, renters, and business owners.  In order to qualify for flood insurance, the home or business must be in a community that has joined the NFIP and agreed to enforce sound floodplain management standards. 
Flooding can happen anywhere, but certain areas are especially prone to serious flooding.   Many areas in California are at increased flood risk from El Niño, as a direct result of wildfires and drought. 

• Residents should be aware of a couple things:
  • You can’t get flood insurance at the last minute. In most cases, it takes 30 days for a new flood insurance policy to go into effect. So get your policy now.
  • Only Flood Insurance Covers Flood Damage. Most standard homeowner’s policies do not cover flood damage.
  • Get all the coverage you need.  Your agent can walk you through the policy.

• Know your flood risk.  Visit FloodSmart.gov (or call 1-800-427-2419) to learn more about individual flood risk, explore coverage options and to find an agent in your area.

• Flood insurance covers flood, but there are other affects from flooding that may apply to you.   Damage from mudflows is covered by flood insurance; damage from landslides and other earth movements is not.   Speak to your agent.

NFIP is a federal program and offers flood insurance which can be purchased through private property and casualty insurance agents.  Rates are set nationally and do not differ from company to company or agent to agent.  These rates depend on many factors, which include the date and type of construction of your home, along with your building's level of risk.
FEMA’s Region 9 office in Oakland, CA has established an El Niño Task Force and is working with the California Office of Emergency Services with the mission of preparing the Region and its partners for the impact of El Niño.  The task force is evaluating the core capabilities needed to protect against, mitigate, respond to, and recover from any flooding that occurs across the region this winter.  Last month, the FEMA Region 9 Office released its Draft Severe El Nino Disaster Response plan and convened a regional interagency steering committee meeting in Northern California to exercise the plan.
FEMA recognizes that a government-centric approach to emergency management is not adequate to meet the challenges posed by a catastrophic incident.  Utilizing a “whole community” approach to emergency management reinforces that FEMA is only one part of our nation’s emergency management team.
Visit Ready.gov for more preparedness tips and information and follow FEMARegion9 on Twitter.
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January 5, 2016
 
SACRAMENTO, CA - A coalition of California environmental groups and geoengineering awareness organizations from across the state has formed as “California For Natural Skies” (CFNS) and is coordinating an anti-geoengineering rally of the same name to be held on the north steps of the California State Capitol in Sacramento on January 13, 2016 from 10 am - 3pm.  
 
CFNS is coordinating to bring awareness to the public and to our congressional representatives that geoengineering programs have been implemented and should be halted immediately. The unpublicized experimentation on our climate by the military, the geoengineering scientists, and their financial backers has had demonstrably disastrous effects on the planet, including record breaking drought, extreme weather conditions never seen before in history, and large-scale die-off of native trees and other flora. Human health impacts have also been significant. Rainwater and standing water tests conducted by internationally certified labs have demonstrated the presence of abnormal levels of toxins, including aluminum and barium, both of which are included in geoengineering patents and are specified in scientific papers as ideal metal oxides for use in Solar Radiation Management, a form of geoengineering being widely discussed by scientists to mitigate the effects of climate change.
 
The rally on January 13, 2016 will include speakers Michael J. Murphy, the award winning Director/Producer of “What in the World Are They Spraying?”; Marvin Herndon, PhD in Nuclear Chemistry; and Patrick Roddie, a San Francisco based activist who has testified at the Federal EPA and recently presented his research internationally to the Paris Climate Conference as well as the Istanbul Security Conference in Turkey.  Many other notable speakers, musicians and representatives from geoengineering awareness groups across the state will be present.  Activists and concerned citizens will be meeting with their congressional representatives to demand action toward legislation that would ban geoengineering. Currently, there are no laws governing climate engineering experimentation in our atmosphere.
 
The California For Natural Skies coalition includes Chico Skywatch, SoCal Skywatch, Environmental Voices, Sonoma County Geoengineering Awareness, South Bay Geoengineering Awareness, Tuolumne County Geoengineering Awareness, El Dorado County Geoengineering Awareness, Sacramento Skywatch Action Committee, Stop Spraying Us-SF/Bay Area, Sierra Nevada Geoengineering Awareness, and Reno Skywatch.
 
 
Press Contact:
Lisa Thomas
Sierra Nevada Geoengineering Awareness
530-401-5578
Email: sngawareness@att.net
sngawareness.weebly.com
http://worldviewclimateengineering.weebly.com/-http://sngawareness.weebly.com/