AAA continues its Tipsy Tow service to ensure that impaired drivers stay on the sidelinesWALNUT CREEK, Calif. Jan. 30, 2019. To help drivers and their vehicles get home safely after the Super Bowl festivities, AAA Northern California is offering its Tipsy Tow service on Super Bowl Sunday. The service will start at 6 p.m. on Sunday, Feb. 3 and runs through 6 a.m. on Monday, Feb. 4.
 
“AAA wants motorists to plan ahead for a safe ride home if they are planning on attending a Super Bowl party where alcohol is involved,” said Michael Blasky, spokesperson for AAA Northern California. “But if your plans fall through, we encourage drivers, passengers, party hosts and restaurant managers to take advantage of our service, as driving while intoxicated is never a winning play.” 
 
Tipsy Tow provides a free ride home and vehicle tow of up to 10 miles for any driver, not just AAA Members. For mileage beyond this, motorists are charged a standard towing rate. To use the service, anyone who wants to ensure a safe ride home for an impaired motorist should call 1-800-AAA-HELP (1-800-222-4357) and state that they need a Tipsy Tow.

Services will not be provided to motorists requesting a tow to another drinking establishment, repair facility or any other location other than their home or a hotel if the motorist is, or plans to become, a guest. Other services not covered include requests to start a vehicle, flat tire change, gas delivery, taxi service and requests to transport more than two people with the vehicle.

AAA estimates that a first-time DUI conviction can cost a motorist more than $10,000 in fines, penalties, legal fees and increased insurance costs.

About AAA Northern California
AAA has a proud history of serving Members for over 100 years. The company is on a mission to create Members for life by unleashing the innovative spirit of 4,000 employees representing nearly 6 million Members across Northern California, Arizona, Utah, Nevada, Montana, Wyoming and Alaska. In addition to legendary roadside assistance, AAA offers home, auto and life insurance, and extraordinary travel services. According to Via Magazine's Smart Guide, being a AAA Member can save you more than $1,200 a year. Learn more at AAA.com.
###

   
   

https://www.realclearpolitics.com/articles/2019/01/02/say_his_name_rip_cpl_ronil_singh_139054.html#comments-container

In the still of the last night of 2018, the silence of California Dems chilled the air and airwaves.
Border wall opponent Sen. Kamala Harris tweeted three times between Christmas and New Year's Eve bemoaning the plight of illegal immigrants and their children.
But not a peep was heard from Harris about the brutal shooting death of Newman, California, Police Department Cpl. Ronil Singh at the hands of a Mexican gang member illegally in the country and protected by the very sanctuary policies Harris champions.
Border wall opponent Rep. Nancy Pelosi decried the deaths of two illegal immigrant children on the same day Singh was murdered, bashed the government shutdown and, on New Year's Eve, promoted her upcoming MSNBC special.
But not a peep was heard from Pelosi about Singh, the suspected illegal immigrant murderer, or the arrests of a total of seven alleged accomplices -- all reported to be illegally in this country as well.
Border wall opponent Sen. Dianne Feinstein released a public letter to the Customs and Border Patrol agency on the day of Singh's murder to voice her "strong concern about the recent deaths and illnesses of children detained in Border Patrol custody, and to request a full accounting and a revised protocol to prevent such tragedies from occurring in the future."
But not a peep was heard from Feinstein about Singh, no call for investigation of how the suspected murderer and his alleged accomplices arrived in the U.S., were able to evade arrest and detection, and who employed them, and aided, abetted, and sheltered them.
Neighbors, friends and co-workers turned out in full force for a candlelight vigil this week memorializing the dedicated, patriotic, compassionate, hard-working husband and father of a 5-month-old baby. But rabble-rousing liberal politicians, so quick to rush down to the border to exploit the migrant caravan crisis and sabotage President Donald Trump's efforts to keep America safe, were nowhere to be found.
How could any decent citizen not be moved by Reggie Singh, who broke down in tears while expressing thanks to local, state and federal officers upon the arrest of his hero brother's suspected murderer after an intense multiagency manhunt?
How could any public servant not be outraged by the revelations of Stanislaus County Sheriff Adam Christianson, who reported that Ronil Singh's suspected murderer from Mexico had worked illegally as a laborer, had known gang affiliations, and had two prior drunk driving arrests before the fatal traffic stop and attempted escape back to Mexico.
California's sanctuary laws, supported by every California Democrat and signed into law by Gov. Jerry Brown, barred local authorities from reporting the alleged cop-killer for his prior criminal arrests to ICE.
The priorities couldn't be starker: Open borders Democratic hearts bleed for those bent on undermining our sovereignty, while they turn blind eyes to legal immigrants like Indo-American Singh, originally from Fiji, who honored our institutions and enforced our laws.
Newman Police Chief Randy Richardson paid tribute to his friend and employee: "This is a man that loved his country. This is a man that worked hard for what he believed in. He believed in this community."
Singh was the true story of the American dream, brought down by the ongoing open borders nightmare. He cherished his family roots and heritage, but embraced the privileges and responsibilities of legally obtained citizenship as a fully assimilated American. And this is precisely why California Democrats won't say his name, acknowledge his sacrifice or investigate the policy failures that led to his death.
The silent Dems have spent 30 years obliterating the difference between legal and illegal immigration.
They've spent every waking moment since President Trump took office denying the chaotic consequences of sanctuary policies.
They've spent the past year demonizing law enforcement officers at both borders and across the interior, stoking fear and hatred of those who put their lives on the line 24/7/365.
To speak Cpl. Ronil Singh's name is to admit the blood on their own hands.
COPYRIGHT 2019 CREATORS.COM

​CHP:
On January 13, 2019 at approximately 7:13 p.m.,Candis Thomas, 31 of Portola was driving  a Jeep SUV westbound on SR-70 just east of the Sleepy Pines Motel. Thomas stated she was distracted and looking back at her chil in the rear seat and she allowed the Jeep to drift off onto the right shoulder. The Jeep drifted onto the north shoulder which was covered in snow. The Jeep continued in a westerly direction and collided with  rock wall and then a wood power pole. The Jeep came to rest on its wheels. Thomas and her two children exited the Jeep on their own. The owner of the Sleepy Pines Motel called 911 and reported the collision. Emergency crews arrived and Candis Thomas was transported to Renown Medical Center with a fractured left arm. Her hildren, ages 12 and 9, had no injuries.
 
On January 15, 2019 at 7:45 p.m., Larry Binns, 72 of Clio was driving a 1976 Porsche northbound on SR-89 toward the Plumas/Sierra County line. It was snowing and snow had accumulated upon the roadway surface. Caltrans had snow plows active and R-2 chain controls in effect for this section of highway. The vehicle was not equipped with snow chains and was not a four-wheel drive vehicle. He lost control causing the vehicle to cross over the southbound lane and leave the west roadway edge and down a steep embankment. The Porsche came to rest approximately 100 feet down the embankment upon impacting  a tree. Binns was not wearing a seatbelt and was injured during this collision. He was subsequently transported to Renown Medical Center in Reno with major injuries.

On January 24, 2019 at approximately 0715 hours, a 17-year-old Beckwourth, Ca resident was driving a 2012 Chevrolet pickup while pulling a 1994 Feather Lite Horse trailer with three horses.​ The driver's mother, Kim Grashuis, was seated in the right front passenger seat. They were driving southbound on SR-89, just south of Westside Road. Ruben Villa-Arroyo was driving a 2019 Freightliner 3 axle box truck on SR-89 northbound approaching the Chevrolet. The road surface was icy and a dense layer of fog had limited visibility to approximately 75'. As the Chevrolet's driver entered a right hand curve the horse trailer tires lost traction, swung to the left and into the northbound lane, directly into the path of Mr. Villa-Arroyos' Freightliner. The Chevrolet sayed in the southbound lane. Mr. Villa-Arroyo observed the out of control trailer and attempted to steer to the right, but  a collision could not be avoided as the nearly sideways horse trailer collided directly in the Freightliner's front grill, hood and windshield. The horse trailer was completely separated from the Chevrolet. Mr. Villa-Arroyo sustained fatal injuries as a result of the collision and was pronounced deceased at the scene by emergency personnel. All three horses inside the trailer sustained fatal injuries. The driver and passenger in the Chevrolet were not injured an remained at the scene.
The collision is still under investigation by the Quincy Office of the California Highway Patrol. Alcohol or drugs are not believed to be a factor in the cause of this collision. For any inquires about this collision please contact the Quincy Office of the California Highway Patrol at 530-283-1100.

THE CROWD in the Loyalton Middle School gym during the 6th grade girls' championship game between Quincy and Portola Sunday, January 20th.

FIRST PLACE - Portola 6th grade girls

WINNING FIRST - LOYALTON 7TH GRADE GIRLS
​

FIRST PLACE - Portola 6th grade boys.  Loyalton 8th grade boys also took first place.
​

8th grade boys' action as Braden Armstrong takes a shot.

The weather outside was snowy following Sunday's championship games.

Robert B. Charles, Contributor, Association of Mature American Citizens


Over coffee in diners and pasta in kitchens, Americans are saying one thing: Washington, grow up. They know most fellow Americans rise for work, act responsibly, and earn an honest living. Whatever they think of President Trump – who appears to keep promises – they disdain the know-it-all, self-satisfied, smug-as-a-bug Congress.


Last week, in an act of breathtaking hubris, Democrat House Speaker Nancy Pelosi (D-CA) used her newly-reclaimed gavel and pedestal to simply disinvite a President of the United States from delivering the Nation’s Annual State of the Union address. Average Americans, whether they planned to watch or not, should be aghast. 


Never mind this tradition is constitutionally authorized under Article II, section 3, clause 1. Never mind, the speech is a mainstay – on the nation’s calendar since Woodrow Wilson’s in-person address in 1913, with 95 given in-person to Congress. Never mind the address is expected by Americans – and viewed around the world as a touchstone of our republic’s health. 


One person – Nancy Pelosi – pulled rank, declaring the speech will not happen. Every American – Democrat, Republican, or neither – should be asking what is up, and more specifically, what is wrong with this Speaker. The audacity of this act is almost beyond rational comment. Is there no respect in this House for history? For the office of the presidency? For the expectations of the American People? 


And why did the Speaker do this? Because the president insisted on 5.7 billion dollars to finance a barrier on America’s Southwest Border – to protect our health and safety. That barrier – a wall – aims to deter, prevent and slow illegal immigration and drug trafficking into America’s towns and cities. The President aims to protect the country, a labor that he is constitutionally sworn to undertake – just as Nancy Pelosi and her Democrat Caucus are. 


So the President asked 5.7 billion dollars be added to a one trillion dollar bill. Now, there are a million billions in a trillion, so the president is asking less than one percent of that bill – for the wall. Or less than 2 percent of discretionary spending in it (i.e. non-entitlement funds). But no, say the Democrats. And for a mule-kick in the teeth: No State of the Union.


Here is the interesting part. Forced to do so, this President just canceled the State of the Union. But last week, he took a constitutional shot at the Speaker, cancelling her “CODEL” by military plane to Europe and Afghanistan.


Mean? Disproportionate? On one hand, Senator Lindsay Graham (R-GA) called the spat “sophomoric.” And one has to wonder, where will this clash of constitutional prerogatives end? Probably nowhere good. Likely, Congress steps up to the President’s compromise, or he goes with a national emergency and initiates an executive transfer.


But look closer. Nancy Pelosi and the Democrats are showcasing the runaway privileges of Congress – and the President is calling them out. Not only are they not doing their jobs, they are having fun on your hard-earned money. What the President did – either intentionally or by happenstance – in denying Nancy Pelosi her free plane is shine a light on Congressional perks. There are many.
Here is what hard-working Americans often do not know. Congress takes tens of millions of dollars in free trips around the world every year, at taxpayer expense.  On the cheaper end, they use tax dollars for commercial flights. These (rather oddly) average $10,000 per trip. Members and staff in 2016 took 557 such trips, averaging $10,000 per person per trip, Europe to Far East. While overall costs are hidden, public reports record at least $14.7 million in taxpayer dollars in 2016 for these commercial trips. That will top $20 million this year, according to Treasury.


More often and mostly unreported, congressional delegation trips (so-called “CODELs”) and staff delegation trips (“STAFFDELs) use top-end military planes for these festive outings. There are hundreds of these annually, averaging more than $100,000 per trip – just for the plane. Onboard, they gets free drinks, food, security and every comfort. 


More, they big per diem money that allows buying extras, a host room where they stay, and no customs agent on return. Why do you think CODEL trips return late at night? No announcement? Reporters and cameramen are asleep, while members take their hauls quietly home.


These trips contain “down time” which is often spent shopping, purchasing everything from fancy foreign rugs and local handiwork to exotic foreign gifts. Most left unreported, that is your “fact finding.” Truth is, in floor debates, drafting legislation and in hearings, they use a Congressional Research Service report, most days. 


What of other perks? Members of Congress get $174,000 in salary, and half the year off (239 days to be exact). They get free downtown and airport parking, free gym privileges, free healthcare subsides, and a retirement plan that offers a $59,000 pension, versus average American’s social security of $15,000. They get free medical care downstairs in the Capitol, for all shots from foreign travel inoculations to the flu. 


It gets better. Until otherwise corrected, they are all exempt from dozens of laws, slander and libel on chamber floors to avoidance of Freedom of Information Act requirements. They are not required to comply with Occupational Safety and Health Act requirements, despite holding hearings on why others don’t.


Beyond that slush fund to pay off harassment claims – again using your money for their settlements – they are exempt from compliance with protections against retaliation for whistleblowers, posting worker rights, prosecution for retaliating against employees, requirements to train employees about workplace rights and legal remedies, or record-keeping requirements for workplace injuries and illnesses. Who is holding the hearings on those issues? Not Nancy Pelosi.
How can all this be, you might ask? Allow me to answer a question with a question: Who passes these laws? Who has the power to exempt themselves from OSHA to provisions of insider trading? Congress, of course. 


As Democrat-controlled House members grouse about White House security clearances, mark this too: No member of Congress is required to go through a full-field security check or to pass even a SECRET security clearance, before they can demand and see anything. 


Nor are they required to conform to traditional requirements issuing subpoenas. Rather than bound by standard federal practices, congressional processes are insular and self-set. Thus, Democrat counsel has been known to call Republican deposition witnesses and tell them not to comply with majority subpoenas. One would think Canons of Ethics, but not here.


So, as the Nation waits for the State of the Union speech that will not occur – since an untethered, unbridled House Speaker has canceled it, we might be inclined to ask: Where is the check on Congress, which seems not only against fences, but increasingly unfenced? When will rationality and accountability return? When will Washington grow up? 


Robert B. Charles was an Assistant Secretary of State under Colin Powell, former US Court of Appeals Clerk for Judge Robert Beezer, taught at the Harvard University Extension School, and currently leads a consulting group in Washington, DC.

###
_______________________________


The Association of Mature American Citizens [AMAC] [https://www.amac.us] is a vibrant, vital senior advocacy organization that takes its marching orders from its members. We act and speak on their behalf, protecting their interests and offering a practical insight on how to best solve the problems they face today. Live long and make a difference by joining us today at https://amac.us/join-amac.

 
Anyone who has taken the time to pay attention to themes of the Plumas Sierra County Fair, would see that they have been all over the map. Some have reflected the point in time of the Fair; like “150th Anniversary” in 2009 or “Come Alive in ‘75” for 1975. Others were calls to action; the first modern Fair in 1940 was based on the theme “It’s Your Fair, So Be There”. After that, it would appear organizers didn’t feel the need for a theme until 1952. At that time, there was a close connection between the Fair and the Plumas Chamber of Commerce, the former led by the legendary Tulsa St. Elmo Scott and the latter by Chet Peckinpah, both members of the Western Fairs Association Hall of Fame. That year features the first of several that promoted the economy and attractions of the County; “Lumbering Progress”. Although the use of themes was still sporadic, later years had similar motives; “Outdoor Glory”, “Natural Resources….Plumas County’s Wealth” and “Progress’n Plumas Style”.
 
History had its turn on many occasions. 1976 featured “Plumas Pride In Our Past, Faith In Our Future”, followed in 1977 with “The Old West At Its Best”. 1983 made a nod to agriculture and history with “Harvest of History”. And of course, the old faithful rhyming and word play themes seemed to be popular since the 80’s. “A Family A-Fair” in 1985, and “Bales, Tails & Happy Trails” in 2010. The past few years though, the Plumas Sierra County Fair Board has made choices that have given the Fair an opportunity to address issues that can educate and inspire our community. The 2017 theme of “Art to Ag” was awarded First Place among fairs with attendance of 100,000 or less on the West Coast, as well as being nominated as one of the top 5 outstanding programs of fairs of all sizes.
 
The 2019 Plumas Sierra County Fair Theme is “Show What You Grow, Share What You Know”. The theme acknowledges the Fair’s deep connection with agriculture by inviting everyone to enter what they have grown, or raised. That might include vegetables or flowers from your garden, or even a potted plant. The second part of the theme is more universal. It is our opportunity to share our knowledge with each other. Fair Manager John Steffanic says the Fair is not looking to do that in a passive way. “We would really like to tap the extensive knowledge and experience of our community, and offer that to anyone who may be interested.” He describes classes, workshops and presentations in every area of the fair. “I would love to find someone who may have travelled to another part of the world and has photos and stories to share,” Steffanic said, “Or, if someone wants to offer a quick class in how to play ukulele, that’s the kind of thing we are looking for!” He invites anyone who may have an expertise in something floriculture, sewing, cooking, painting, travel or even home improvement, to contact him at the Fair office.
 
“Everyone has a bit of a teacher in them,” he offered, “this is their chance to play that role.” Steffanic hopes to have dozens of topics covered during the five days of the Fair; August 14 through the 18th, 2019. Fair goers that attend classes will be given a “transcript” that will keep track of what topics they experienced. Who knows what sort of rewards await those that fill up their class schedules!
 
Besides the mentioned class offerings, the Fair is reaching out to all the schools in the area to help promote education any way possible. From having a county wide science fair to offering free entries for school projects, the Plumas Sierra County Fairs wants everyone in both counties to be touched by the gift of learning.
 
The 2019 Exhibit Guide is scheduled for release around the first week of February. “The exhibit guide is the portal to a successful fair,” declared the Fair Manager. “We are so strong in our Art Barn entries, but really need to see a significant increase in entries to the Floriculture and Home Arts Buildings.” Steffanic emphasized that the more entries, the stronger the fair.
 
In an effort to help improve the number of competitive entries, Fair U will make its return on Saturday, March 2 at the fairgrounds. This workshop features several classes on how to grow, raise and make projects to enter into the Fair in August. Further details on that event will be released later in January, but Steffanic urges everyone to mark that date on their calendars.

MICHELLE REUGEBRINK taught with world renown teachers at 1440 Multiversity in Scott’s Valley. Winston Reugebrink helped with the filming and streaming. The summit link has a hand out on each person’s BIO.
Here's the link with the downloads. The streaming link is open and available for watching over and over. 
https://www.mindful.org/mcl-summit/
 
​

 
The Food Bank of Northern Nevada is honoring the MLK National Day of Service on Monday, January 21 by offering an all-ages volunteer session from 2 –4 p.m.   Generally, the age requirement to work at the Food Bank warehouse is at least ten years of age.  For this event, children of all ages will be volunteering with their families.     During this session, volunteers will be packing produce into family-size bags for distribution through the Mobile Harvest program and the 140+ partner agencies who  distribute food throughout the area.  The MLK National Day of Service all-ages volunteer session will be held at the Food Bank of Northern Nevada warehouse located at 550 Italy Drive, Sparks, NV 89437, off USA Parkway.
 
“I can’t think of a better way to honor Martin Luther King, Jr. and his legacy,” said Al Brislain, president & CEO of the Food bank of Northern Nevada.  “It is a perfect opportunity for parents to share the importance of volunteering to their children, and we have a lot of fun and help feed families at the same time.”
 
In 1994, Congress designated the Martin Luther King Jr. Federal Holiday as a national day of service and charged the Corporation for National and Community Service with leading this effort. Taking place each year on the third Monday in January, the King Day of Service is the only federal holiday observed as a national day of service – a “day on, not a day off.” The King Day of Service empowers individuals, strengthens communities, bridges barriers, addresses social problems, and moves us closer to Dr. King’s vision of a “Beloved Community.” 

​LOYALTON CITY COUNCIL met January 15th when Van Maddox, Sierra County Auditor told “not good news.” After a nine year hiatus of a State auditor, the City needs to pay back $59,809.82 which he told of being broken into three payments of $19,936.61. The December payment had been taken out and the disbursement had been reduced.
Van admitted, “It is my fault; I do the work.” Mayor Sarah Jackson wanted to negotiate. Van called it “complicated and the tax law” and they couldn’t split it more than three years. Council member Joy Markum called it “upsetting”  over the “County taking a payment before we see documentation.” She fumed that Van “wrote a check to the State that affects what we get.” Van explained the school and cemetery districts should have gotten that money and told of the spread of money of proper taxes between them.  Not just Loyalton, but for a number of districts he admitted, “I made the mistake of overpaying Loyalton for nine years,” and told the Council, “You still have the largest residual coming.” He told of trying to get it repaid over five years but the State wouldn’t let him.
Joy told of getting the $19,936.61 less than usual in taxes and “that hurts us.” Van explained working for the City as he does the County and would need another accountant of his stature to keep paperwork and reports going.
Mayor Jackson said the financial impact of $20,000 a year will “shut the lights off,” and told Van to go back to the State. Joy told of expecting the County to make payments and stated, “It wasn’t Loyalton who did it.” Van explained he was told what to do in repayment by the State Controller.
The possibility of City bankruptcy was discussed with Van explaining all debts would go to him. He’d done research and all bills go to the County and then to water and sewer.
Markum wanted the name and e.mail of the auditor and told Van to “be prepared to advocate on our behalf.” The mayor stated there would be a backup letter to Van’s e.mail to the State. Markum stated, “It will shut us down. That’s reality.” Council member Darlene Riedi moved and Markum seconded to direct a letter.

To: Loyalton City Council
Re: State Property Tax Audit
This last summer the State Controller’s Office performed an audit of the last nine years property distributions (AB8 Calculation). The State audi determined that I had made some small calculation errors and over paid the City of Loyalton.
Although these errors were small in any given year the cumulative effect was the City of Loyalton was over paid from 2019/10 thru 2017/18 an additional $59,809.82. Although the State has no issued a final report they require that these funds be paid back to the other taxing agencies (schools, fire district, cemetery districts and the county)This wil result in the allocation of property taxes for three years will be reduced in the December distribution by $19,936.61.
I am sorry for any hardship this will cause the City. If the City Council wishes I will attend a City Council meeting and answer any questions.
Sincerely,
Van A. Maddox C.P.A.
Sierra County Auditor/Treasurer-Tax Collector
 
To: Van A Maddox, CPA
Mr. Maddox:
The City Council received your December 19, 2018 letter informing the City that the State Controller’s Office determined that you had made small calculation errors that resulted in the City being overpaid from 2009/2010 through 2017/18 in the total amount of $59,809.82. You further informed the City that in order for the County to be repaid, the City’s allocation of property taxes for three years will be reduced in the December distribution by $19,936.61.
The City is disappointed to learn that it has been overpaid, but fully understands the need to repay the County. While $19,936.61 in one year may not be a large sum to the County, it is a large amount to the City. The loss of that much money each year for three consecutive years will cause significant hardship to the City and further strain an already woefully inadequate budget.
The City respectfully requests that rather than requiring the repayment over three years, that it repay the County over nine years, which is the same period of time over which the overpayments were made. Under this scenario the allocation of property taxes for nine years would be reduced in the December distribution by $6,645.54. Please confirm in writing to the City Council that  a nine year payment schedule is acceptable and send the City a check in the amount of $13,291.07, which represents the additional amount the City would have received with the December 2018 distributuion under a nine year repayment schedule.
Respectfully,
Sarah Jackson, Mayor
 
 
 

​
Dear Sierra Valley Residents,
Concerning The Sierra Hot Springs Development Proposal
I have read the Draft Initial Study and Master plan documents. I have read them several times.
I have a thorough understanding of 1) scope of the proposed development and 2) its impact, as
described in the documents. While studying these documents I sought to identify benefits to
the people living in Sierra Valley. I found none.
The proposed Master Plan is not by any stretch of the imagination a “reasonable amount of
development” for Sierra Valley and its small communities. I support a right-sized approach, one
that has no negative impact on our air quality, natural resources, traffic noise pollution, traffic
congestion, water quality, wildfire danger, cell phone and internet services.
The Sierra Hot Springs proposal is a large scale self-contained commercial development
project whose goal is to keep all guests inside the Sierra Hot Springs compound for the entire
duration of their stay. With the exception of gasoline and fire protection, everything that a guest
needs will be located inside the Sierra Hot Springs compound. So, not a single guest dollar
will be spent at Sierraville, Sattley or Loyalton small businesses.
Northstar, Squaw Valley and DisneyWorld have a similar business model. They maximize their
revenue by ensuring that most guests remain on-site and spend until their stay is over. The
town of Kings Beach on Lake Tahoe was a thriving community in the 1980s before Northstar
was developed and sucked all the evening foot traffic away from Kings Beach restaurants.
Same thing happened to Tahoe City due to the development at Squaw Valley.
Think about it, Sierra Hot Springs will drain foot traffic from Sierraville, Loyalton and Sattley
because guests that today, patronize our lodging, restaurants and markets, will disappear. They
will eat at the Sierra Hot Springs restaurant, sleep in Sierra Hot Springs lodging and
campgrounds, patronize the Sierra Hot Springs market etc. The only thing missing from these
plans is a gasoline station.
We will not get business from the Sierra Hot Springs 50+ employees either, because they will
live within the compound. And, their jobs are not the type that provide a middle-class lifestyle
where a person can raise a family, buy a car, a house and afford an occasional vacation. No,
these are jobs where you lose your accommodation if you leave. These are jobs for cleaners,
massage therapists, maintenance people, cooks, bus boys, bartenders and waiters. These are
jobs without benefits or a good career path. These are jobs for students from South America
and elsewhere.
And, you can forget about guests leaving the compound for recreation - no, they will be
spending their time and their money on yoga classes, meditation classes and other activities in
one of the 5 new conference centers (misleadingly called workshops in the plans). Dearwater
airstrip will become busier, thus increasing noise and air pollution over Sierra Valley. Private
planes buzzing Sierraville from Dearwater are already a nuisance.
Guests will have lots of accommodation to choose from - the 60 unit hotel, 11 cabins, a
dormitory, the RV/trailer park and the 7.5 acre 150+ person tent campground surrounding
wetlands and sensitive habitat.
As each guest arrives, they will check into the Administrative office, where they will pay Sierra
Hot Springs the appropriate fees for lodging. Guests will buy their provisions at the Sierra Hot
Springs market and deli and fix their meals in the Sierra Hot Springs Communal Kitchen or at
one of the open air cooking facilities in the campground. Many guests will eat their breakfast,
lunch and dinner at the Sierra Hot Springs restaurant which seats 60 people. And, if the
restaurant is at capacity, 40 guests will be seated on the restaurant’s patio for their meal.
So despite looking diligently, I cannot find any benefits to Sierra Valley businesses. What I see
is negative impact to Sierra Valley residents due to diminished air quality, traffic, noise,
increased wildfire danger due to a new high voltage overhead electrical line, propane tanks,
123 wood burning fireplaces and 716+ people driving to the compound, plus massive
disruption due to 20+ years of construction 7 days a week.
I have about 91 concerns with the project. You can download them from shsprings.org.
A self-contained development such as this provides no benefit to Sierra Valley businesses and
residents.
• Surely, it would make more sense to build the 60 unit hotel in downtown Loyalton, which has
an ideal vacant lot for such a building Main Street. This would breathe new life into Loyalton.
• Surely, it would make sense to build 50% of the proposed Conference Room space in
Loyalton, and 50% at the Hot Springs site. Such an arrangement would be terrific for
Loyalton and right-sized for Sierraville.
• Surely, it would make sense to cut the proposed campground in Lemmon Canyon to 20-30
spaces and make it summer-only camping, to avoid the site becoming a ghetto like
Loyalton’s former trailer park. A year-round campground, with a communal kitchen,
communal bathrooms and communal showers and communal open air cooking facility, is
likely to become an eyesore. Loyalton’s trailer park was full of vermin and trash and it still is
not 100% cleaned up.
• Surely it would make sense to use Loyalton’s newly cleared trailer park - and rejuvenate it
and build some sites for trailer parking there - rather than Lemmon Canyon. The City Council
has been thinking about how to use that site.
• Surely we are not going to agree to a 20+ year Development Plan, where we will suffer from
20+ years of construction for 7 days a week. Surely?
Please get your feedback via a letter to Sierra County Building and Planning Department by
their deadline of January 25, 2019. To help you identify the issues that matter most to you and
your family, please read the Draft Initial Study and Masterplan document. You can find copies
on the County web-site and on shsprings.org, where you will also find a document with my
specific concerns about the proposed project and its impacts.
Surely, we can do better than this for Sierra Valley business and residents. Surely we can strike
a balance between our needs and that of Sierra Hot Springs.
Sincerely,
Carolyn Chambers
Sierraville

​LOYALTON CITY COUNCIL held a budget meeting January 8th with Bookkeeper Tracy Smith. It was a grueling process going through every budget line by line reviewing the individual totals and Tracy giving out the total so far this year, last year’s total and the amount, if any, reimbursed. Mayor Sarah Jackson wanted to shoot high and be conservative on figures.
In the Park and Social Hall budget, there was a $1,350 positive balance.
The Fire budget ended with a negative $7,045 and a conclusion that preliminary training for new firefighters should be paid by the City. 
For Highways and Streets, it was alarming how the cost of lights had doubled and Vice Mayor Nancy Rogers was to call to verify the cost of $64,000 so far this year and to check whether SCORE insurance provides training for the boom truck. The City gets a 60% rebate on snow grooming after $5,000. There was a reduction of $815 in the transfer from the General Fund and a final positive balance of $37,187.
The Sewer Enterprise Budget was the last budget reviewed and ended with a $32,141 negative balance. Salaries so far total $36,994 and last year’s total was $73,118 so that total was increased to $75,000. Contracted services was increased to $25,000 after the year’s total with Farr West so far is $24,525. 
The Debt Principal is $122,495; Debt Interest, $100,300 and Debt Reserve is $11,205. The City pays $6,000 a week out of the General Fund to the Enterprise Fund to pay the loan.
Total contingencies was stated to be $129,864.11 and takes a 4/5 vote to spend. 
The meeting lasted four hours and the council was praised for its work. The General Fund and Water Budgets will be covered on January 15th at 5:30 p.m. prior to the regular meeting.

​, 
WITH THE FAILURE OF PROPOSITION 6, Sierra County’s Road Fund looks secure financially and according to Auditor/Treasurer-Tax Collector Van Maddox, there are unanticipated revenues in the General Fund. With the implementation of the new property tax system, accurate property tax revenues were not known until late October with an additional $111,663 in property taxes to the general fund and $21,731 in unanticipated Vehicle License Fee funds.
With that news, the Supervisors lifted the hiring freeze, promoted the current Account Technician II in the Auditor’s Office to an Account Technician III,  authorized the Auditor to purchase RTL deposit system for the new property tax system not to exceed $28,000, created the position of Personnel Analyst and combined it with the Safety Officer vacant position to create a full time position with an increase to the General Fund of $23,000. This position would be a Confidential position working for Management with sensitive and confidential information. The Board increased the Board of Supervisors' base salary to offset the elimination of in-county travel costs and also eliminated any potential salary increases through longevities with Supervisor Dryden voting no. Each supervisor shall receive a salary of $3,037.40 per month, except the current incumbent for District 2 who shall receive $3,468.88 per month, which includes two prior longevities and $300 in county travel through the end of his service for the current term of office ending January 2, 2023. The Chairperson of the Board of Supervisors shall receive an additional stipend of $100.00 per month.

​EAST SIERRA VALLEY CHAMBER OF 
COMMERCE met January 4th at the new Larkspur Cafe at 9 a.m. with tasty breakfasts.
American Indian Heritage Day
This new event is being planned by Alan Schumacher and Gus Donowho. This proposed annual event would be a craft fair with speakers and Native American dancing.  The craft fair would be open to all vendors and maybe have Native food. Under discussion was which tribes to contact and arranging meets, yet which Sharon Dryden reminded the group nothing is open on reservations due to government shut-downs.
Car Show June 8th
Chairmen are Mike Welbourn and Terry LeBlanc who reported they’d had 120 cars last year. New member, Paul Cueto, having done graphic work, offered to open a Facebook page for year-’round exposure.
Under food discussion, Golden West Dining will open early that day.
Sharon Dryden suggested raising the registration cost to include an extra large t-shirt that car show enthusiasts like to collect. Paul added, it wasn’t necessary to include a date on the t-shirts.
Tour de Manure June 15th
The ESVCC will participate as usual
Monthly Country Markets Dates:
These Markets are free to vendors and are held at the kiosk across from White’s Sierra Station on Main Street in Loyalton, 10 a.m. to 2 p.m.
    July 6th will be start-up date to be featured along with the monthly meeting

    August 10th to be held  witha possible American Indian Heritage Day.

    September 7th as a regular market

    September 28th as part of Art + Ag Tour

    October 26th as the annual Pumpkin Carving
Trees on Main Street:
Being State specific, the trees to be replaced will be a derivative of maples. Watering downtown was discussed with President Mike Welbourn suggesting the chamber may have to be responsible for splicing the lines and members may have to volunteer.
County board vacancies
Sierra County Supervisor Paul Roen told of a vacancy on the County Resource Conservation District Board with the Van Vleck ranch in escrow. The position is ag-related and covers up to Davis Lake and Frenchman Lake to Little Truckee Summit. Associate members are welcome, too, according to Roen.
Other vacancies are on the Groundwater District Board.

-

As January 1st came and went, so did the implementation of a bevvy of new laws. Here are some that you may or many not have known about. (Spoiler Alert: if you read your Capitol Update religiously last year, then you already know about these new laws!)
-Plastic Straw Ban: At our state's restaurants and fast food joints, plastic straws will not be given with drinks unless directly asked for by the customer. The final language of this bill is much softer, thanks, in part, to the pressure of our CFRW members on our legislators. 
-Kid's Soda/Juice Ban: Similarly, at our state's restaurants and fast food establishments, soda, juice, and flavored milk will no longer be offered with kid's meals unless directly asked for by the customer. Water and unflavored milk will be the default drink given with all kid's meals. 
-Gender X: You now have a third gender option when you register for your driver's license. Male, female, or nonbinary are the new options available to you on state official documents such as birth certificates and driver's licenses. 
-Prepaid Stamps on Ballots: As you may recall, California will be a total vote-by-mail state for the next election, and onward. To make voting even simpler for everyone, the state will provide prepaid envelopes for mailing your ballot back. So easy, a child can do it! 
- California Federation of Republican Women
Nam-Yong Horn, President
​
​

Green America Lauds Landmark State Bill Introduced to Mandate Digital Receipts as Default Alternative to Wasteful, BPA- and BPS-Coated Paper Receipts.
SACRAMENTO, CA – January 8, 2019 – A new bill in the California Assembly would make the state the first in the U.S. to mandate that retailers must offer digital receipts as the default to customers starting January 1, 2022. Customers will still be able to request a paper receipt in lieu of a digital receipt. Reflecting the focus of Green America’s “Skip the Slip” campaign, the bill, introduced by Assemblymember Phil Ting (D-San Francisco), will help protect consumers and workers from the toxins that often coat paper-based receipts, while also creating substantial environmental benefits.
“We applaud Assemblymember Ting for introducing legislation that will protect the health of California workers and consumers, while protecting the environment,” said Green America’s climate and recycling director Beth Porter. “Over time, this legislation would prevent millions of trees from being logged for paper receipts, which fewer and fewer consumers want, and which often go straight to landfills. This bill will make California a leader in addressing the impacts of paper-based receipts.”
“Retailers who have adopted digital receipts are already seeing benefits in terms of reduced costs and greater connection to their customers,” said Green America’s executive co-director Todd Larsen.  “Assemblymember Ting’s bill will benefit retailers, workers, and consumers in California, and it will be an important step forward in addressing the increasing impacts of paper-based receipts.”
Green America’s “Skip the Slip” report documented the following national impacts annually of paper-based receipts:

• Use 10 million trees
• Consume 21 billion gallons of water
• Generate 686 million pounds of waste and 12 billion pounds of CO2

In addition, research from Ecology Center estimates 93 percent of paper receipts are coated with Bisphenol-A (BPA) or Bisphenol-S (BPS), known endocrine-disruptors. These toxins are absorbed when people touch receipts and are linked to serious health problems, including numerous types of cancer, diabetes, and reproductive issues. The environmental and health impacts of paper-based receipts highlight the need for retailers to adopt digital receipts.
Skip the Slip highlights cost-effective digital and non-toxic solutions for retailers to protect their employees and customers, and reduce their impacts on the environment, while reducing fraud and increasing sales. There are major companies that have successfully adopted many of these solutions, including Best Buy, Apple, Lidl Grocery, and Trader Joe's.
ABOUT GREEN AMERICA
Green America is the nation’s leading green economy organization. Founded in 1982, Green America provides the economic strategies, organizing power and practical tools for businesses and individuals to solve today’s social and environmental problems. http://www.GreenAmerica.org
MEDIA CONTACT: Max Karlin for Green America, (703) 276-3255, or mkarlin@hastingsgroup.com. Nannette Miranda, Office of Assemblymember Phil Ting,  916-319-2019.

SACRAMENTO - Senator Ted Gaines (R-El Dorado) today was sworn in as an elected Member of the California State Board of Equalization (BOE) during a ceremony held at the Stanley Mosk Library and Courts Building in Downtown Sacramento. The oath of office was administered by Governor Gavin Newsom.

"I am excited to continue serving Californians as a taxpayer advocate," said Senator Gaines. "My new role as a BOE Member comes with different challenges and opportunities, but my number one priority is to ensure hardworking Californians are allowed fair tax policies that create jobs and grow our economy."
Senator Gaines will represent more than nine million California residents living in the 1st Equalization District, which spans inland California from San Bernardino County to the Oregon border. The five-member BOE is a publicly elected tax board responsible for administering Property Tax, Alcoholic Beverage Tax, and Tax on Insurers programs.
"Californians should be treated with respect and fairness when it comes to tax administration. They are tired of being over-taxed, and over-regulated. I pledge to fight on their behalf," said Senator Gaines.

Prior to being elected to the BOE, Senator Gaines served 12 years in the State Legislature as a tireless advocate for California's taxpayers, ratepayers, businesses and families. He fought to protect citizen privacy and led major efforts to bring thousands of new jobs to the state, as well as support critical legislation to strengthen and expand California's infrastructure.

In addition to his life in public service, Senator Gaines is a successful small business owner, having owned Gaines Insurance for more than 30 years. He has been married to his wife Beth since 1986 and together they reside in El Dorado County and are blessed with six children and two grandchildren.
As a constitutional officer, Senator Gaines is currently the highest-ranking elected Republican state official in California.

# # #

Senator ​

 
The onset of winter weather means challenging conditions for outdoor activities and lurking dangers to our bodies – the back in particular.
 
Slipping on ice and shoveling snow cause many mishaps. And, health professionals point out, cold weather alone makes the back vulnerable to injuries whether one is clearing the driveway, skiing, sledding, or working out. Muscles, tendons and ligaments in the back tighten and become less flexible, thus more prone to injury.
 
But while back problems may begin or become more pronounced in winter, Dr. Bradford Butler says there’s a year-round prescription for protection, through prevention, and it starts with maintaining flexibility.
 
“Almost all spinal problems begin with a loss of flexibility,” says Butler (www.drbradfordbutler.com), a chiropractor and author of The Blueprint For Back Pain Relief: The Essential Guide To Non-Surgical Solutions. “The less flexible we are, the more stress the back is under; therefore, the more likely you are to have injury and breakdown.
 
“Let’s face it, very few people value prevention. If we did, as a country, we wouldn’t have the world’s most expensive health care system. For preventing back pain, maintenance care is always cheaper, faster, and longer-lasting than looking for a quick fix.”
 
Dr. Butler shares a six-point prevention strategy:
 

• Focus on stretching and flexibility. “Our body is designed to move,” Dr. Butler says. “Regular walking is a naturally occurring way to stay flexible. Yoga is a fantastic way to increase overall body flexibility, strength, and wellness.”
• Change your work environment. Dr. Butler says sitting for extended periods at work may be the biggest cause of back problems. “Sitting accelerates the breakdown of all parts of the spine that can cause pain,” he says. “Research suggests sitting is the worst position for your lower back. Get up and move around as much as possible. A standing desk is a good option.”
• Exercise regularly. “This is key to preventing back pain,” Dr. Butler says. “In addition to flexibility, strength that comes with consistent exercise is a main factor in avoiding injury.’
• Target nutrition and weight loss. Maintaining a healthy weight is important in preventing back pain. “The heavier you are, the more stress is transferred to your spine, muscles, and joints,” Dr. Butler says. “Eat a natural diet and avoid toxic and over processed foods. Healthy foods give your body the building blocks to heal and repair faster.”
• Seek chiropractic maintenance. “Having regular chiropractic care is an effective and safe way to prevent back and neck problems,” Dr. Butler says. “Chiropractic adjustment mobilizes the joints of the spinal segments, which prevents degeneration, injury, and pain.”
• Get massage treatments. “Massage therapists are experts in relaxing tense muscles or working out trigger points and breaking up scar tissue,” Dr. Butler says. “Massage also helps you deal with stress, which leads to tension.”

 
“The old saying ‘An ounce of prevention is worth a pound of cure’ couldn’t be truer, especially when it comes to your back,” Dr. Butler says. “Prevention is an investment, not an expense.”
About Bradford Butler
Bradford Butler, a chiropractor and author of The Blueprint for Back Pain Relief: The Essential Guide to Nonsurgical Solutions (www.drbradfordbutler.com), is owner and director of Oakland Spine and Physical Therapy, which has three locations in northern New Jersey. Dr. Butler, a graduate of the New York Chiropractic College, has twice been named one of America’s top chiropractors by Consumer Research Council of America and his offices have received the exclusive NJ TopDoc Award for eight consecutive years.
 

SIERRA COUNTY BEHAVIORAL HEALTH ADMINISTRATIVE DIRECTOR Lea Salas reported under Department Managers Reports during the Sierra County Board of Supervisors’ meeting on December 18th in Loyalton that they had their tri-annual review, and was very happy to report that both Sierra and Placer County did very well. Salas stated she was happy with the progress and said the State has noticed the progress as well. Sierra Valley Apartments have changed ownership and are planning to do renovations. She said the rumor is, they are looking at taking four units at a time to renovate, and residents would be displaced as far away as Reno. Salas said they are trying to mitigate problems for people receiving services, medically fragile, or those with In Home Supportive Services. She said she didn’t anticipate this happening until summer and is hoping to have a discussion with the new owners. Supervisor Peter Huebner has had some phone calls from constituents on this problem. Supervisor Lee Adams asked if there were any vacant apartments residents could move to while theirs was getting fixed.  Lea said no it is full. He suggested bringing in trailers until they are fixed, which Salas stated they were discussing, and added they are happy that the apartments will be up to code.
Salas also wanted to thank Chairman Scott Schlefstein for working with Sierra County Behavioral Health and all the committees he served on and hoped he would continue to contribute as a citizen at large. She concluded by stating Schlefstein really made some great contributions to the committee.
Sierra County Planning Director Tim Beals also reported and talked about the   Sierra Brooks water system and vacant parcels. He said he would be making the effort to send out a letter to owners clarifying the only time residents will get a fee is when they want water service to their vacant parcel.
Beals stated the Sierra Hot Springs Public Review Period is in place and there will be a public hearing. He said his office received a couple inquiries to extend the review period because of the holidays and after talking with the applicant, they are extending the review period to end on January 25th, and the public hearing will be sometime in February.
Beals announced a cell tower would be constructed in Downieville as part of the ​first effort between Office of Emergency Services and AT&T on providing emergency communications. He stated AT&T is currently reviewing locations and is focusing on Ruby Bluff. Beals appreciated the effort made by the Board and Supervisor Lee Adams with RCRC who reached out to those agencies and applied pressure.
He reported that Sierra Pacific Industries (SPI) has requested the ability to terminate a bond securing the sidewalks for the business park in Loyalton now owned by American Renewable Power (ARP).  Beals said it was an interesting question that SPI still owned the bond but not the property. He stated he would be having a meeting with ARP to see if it could take responsibility of the bond or forfeit the requirement for the bond.

Top 5 Mistakes Siblings Make After Holidays
with Aging Parents


(January 3, 2018) – The new year has local families battling after the holiday visit with aging parents or grandparents. Early January is typically the time of year adult children face the reality that their parents need help. But often, siblings argue about what to do and when. That’s why the aging experts at Senior Care Authority created the TOP 5 Mistakes to Avoid after Holidays with Aging Parents.


“Right after the holidays we often see major conflict among family members who just got back from a visit with Mom and Dad and argue about their condition and how and when to help. Their house was a mess, their mail piled up, bills weren’t paid, and they aren’t as well-groomed as usual — all signs it’s time to step in,” says Frank Samson, CEO of Senior Care Authority, the leading national eldercare consulting franchise with experts in our area. “Siblings may fight and draw battle lines and that’s when we can help ‘referee’ and mediate by helping the family find assisted living or other solutions.”


Senior Care Authority’s
Top 5 Mistakes to Avoid After Holidays with Aging Parents

• 1) Sis Will Handle it ALL – Typically, one sibling, often the oldest daughter, assumes the role of the parents’ primary decision-maker and caregiver and the other siblings are happy to be off the hook. Even if you live far away from your aging parents, you can help. You can perhaps handle some of their finances online, or call every day to check in on needy parents, giving relief to the primary caregiver. Don’t be hands-off and assume your sibling will carry the load alone.

• 2) Why Should I Ask? – If you’re the sibling who’s the primary caregiver, you may have to ask for help. Don’t assume your siblings can read your mind and will know how stressed out you are. Don’t think siblings are rotten people because they’re not offering to chip in. Speak up and ask for help and often family members will step up.

• 3) Support the Supporter – It’s important to let the primary caregiver sibling know you appreciate everything he or she does for Mom and Dad and you’re all in this together. Perhaps treat your siblings to dinner or a special outing as a break from caregiving duties. Call often to check in and visit as much as possible so they know you’re all a united team.

• 4) Make Big Decisions Without Discussions – Don’t assume that because you take the lead in your parents’ care, you can make decisions without feedback from your siblings. It’s smart to have weekly “conference” calls so all siblings can weigh in. If conversations get heated, take a break and continue the discussion next week, once everyone calms down. Often, if aging parents have dementia and can’t speak for themselves, adult children vote on big decisions and bring in an eldercare consultant who helps guide them.

• 5) Don’t Revert to Childhood Roles – Perhaps one sibling always seemed closer to your parents and you felt like he/she was the “favorite,” Don’t let those roles define who you all are now. You are all adults, so give siblings who once may have been disengaged a chance to step up and you might be surprised.

“It’s always best when siblings put aside childhood roles and disagreements and work together for the best living solutions for their parents,” says Samson. “If siblings fight, or even when they get along, we can help navigate the aging process so it’s not so overwhelming and confusing.”


Top 5 Signs Your Aging Loved Ones Need Help

• Physical changes – losing weight (not eating right), gaining weight (possible diabetes).
• Sleep cycles – too much sleep (possible depression), insomnia (possible reaction to meds).
• Medications – expired/unused prescriptions. Write a list of meds and post on the fridge and keep a copy in your parents’ wallets so caregivers and even first responders know the drugs they’re taking.
• Normal routines – Are parents still active in senior groups, religious organizations, hobbies? If not, why not?
• Basic upkeep – Are they keeping up with housekeeping, bill paying, lawn care, home repairs? If not, it’s time to step in and help. It’s also a good idea to appoint one sibling Power of Attorney (POA) to handle finances so bills are sent to one place and paid on time.

We would love to have our experts come to your newsroom, or perhaps you can visit a local family as siblings navigate the stress and struggle of caring for elderly loved ones.


About Senior Care Authority:


Senior Care Authority® is a Senior Placement and ElderCare Consulting organization based in Petaluma, California. Founded in 2009, the franchise serves nearly 60 communities in 13 states.
Senior Care Authority provides a national network of professionally trained and experienced local advisors who assist families with the overwhelming challenges associated with selecting the best options in assisted living, memory care, nursing care and other long-term care services. The company ranked in Entrepreneur’s Top 500 New Franchise list in 2017 and 2018. For more information about the company’s franchise opportunity, visit us online at www.seniocareauthority.com/franchise.