SAN FRANCISCO — With Tax Day fast approaching on April 18, 2016, Attorney General Kamala D. Harris today issued a consumer alert, advising taxpayers to be wary of schemes targeting hardworking Californians during this tax season.  Each year, millions of California taxpayers file their taxes and many look forward to receiving tax refunds.  Unfortunately, tax season also draws scam artists who prey on individuals who may need help with filing their taxes.  This alert explains some of the most common tax season scams and provides resources to help Californians find reputable tax help. 

In addition to this written alert, Attorney General Harris has also released the second in a “Consumer Spotlight” audio series highlighting consumer issues across the state.  This radio story focuses on Tax Season Scams and includes one Californian’s story about a tax impersonation scam, discussion of other common tax season concerns, and resources to find tax help. 
Listen (Radio Story) 5:41
COMMON TAX SEASON SCAMS
IRS Impersonation Scams
One of the most common scams begins with an unsolicited call or email from a person claiming to represent the IRS.  Sometimes the caller will claim to have information about an unexpected tax refund.  Other “representatives” may demand immediate payment of a phony tax bill, threatening that the consumer will be sued or even arrested if she does not comply.  Consumers should hang up the phone or delete the email because the IRS does not initiate contact with taxpayers by telephone or email, nor does it demand immediate payment without first offering the taxpayer the opportunity to appeal.  Seniors and immigrants in particular may be targeted by these scams, and should exercise caution.
Tax Preparation Scams
Consumers should also be on the lookout for dishonest tax preparers.  Some deceptive preparers may falsify returns in order to claim an inflated refund, only to keep portions of the inflated refund for themselves.  Others may steal the taxpayer’s identity and use it to file a completely fraudulent return.  Finally, as the implementation of the Affordable Care Act continues, consumers should look out for a new scam in which tax preparers incorrectly tell consumers they owe a health coverage penalty that they must pay to the preparer. 
Unnecessary High Cost Products
Consumers should also steer clear of high-cost products that allow them to pay the cost of tax preparation out of their refund.  These Refund Transfers or Refund Anticipation Checks do not get consumers a faster refund and generally have triple-digit annual interest rates.  
TAX SEASON TIPS
While the overwhelming majority of tax professionals are honest, the tips below can help consumers avoid the deceitful ones.  Free tax preparation assistance is also available for seniors, the disabled, individuals whose first language is not English, and people with incomes under $54,000.  Individuals who qualify for free assistance should start by visiting the IRS website to find free tax prep help near you.  Those who do not qualify for free assistance should follow these tips when searching for a legitimate tax preparer.

• Look for a tax preparer with a longstanding presence and trustworthy reputation in the community.
• Always verify that the tax preparer is either registered with the state or exempt from registration because he or she is an attorney, a certified public accountant, or an IRS-enrolled agent.  Visit the California Tax Education Council’s website to check a preparer’s status and for more information about registration and exemption requirements.
• Make certain the preparer has a valid IRS Preparer Tax Identification Number (PTIN).  Use the IRS Directory of Federal Tax Return Preparers to research tax professionals.
• Beware of suggestions that a tax preparer will exploit hidden loopholes or uncover little-known deductions to obtain a bigger refund than the competition.  As a taxpayer you are responsible for the return that you file, so do not allow scammers to coax you into falsifying information.  If a promise seems too good to be true, it probably is.
• Always review a tax return before signing it and watch out for suspicious signs like too many dependents claimed or tax credits that do not seem applicable or have not been clearly explained.  And never, ever sign a blank return.
• Keep a copy of the return.  Honest preparers should provide copies of the return that may be needed for future reference or to answer questions from the IRS.
• Review the IRS Tips on “How to Select an Income Tax Return Preparer.”  

ADDITIONAL RESOURCES FOR CALIFORNIA TAXPAYERS

• Free tax assistance is widely available through the IRS Volunteer Income Tax Assistance (VITA) program for taxpayers with disabilities or limited English proficiency, as well as those with incomes under $54,000.  Visit the VITA website for more information. 
• The Tax Counseling for the Elderly (TCE) program also offers free services focusing on issues affecting seniors.  Visit the TCE program website for more information. 
• Visit the IRS website for more information on finding free tax help. 
• Both the IRS and the Treasury Inspector General for Tax Administration  maintain informative websites with detailed information on the latest scams.
• Consumers can report suspected tax scams to the Office of the Attorney General.  To submit a complaint, please use one of the following forms:

English: https://oag.ca.gov/contact/consumer-complaint-against-business-or-company.
En Español: http://oag.ca.gov/sites/all/files/agweb/pdfs/contact/business_corpform_sp.pdf?
中文: http://oag.ca.gov/sites/all/files/agweb/pdfs/contact/business_corpform_chin.pdf?
Tiếng Việt: http://oag.ca.gov/sites/all/files/agweb/pdfs/contact/business_corpform_viet.pdf?



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Sacramento - Board of Equalization Member George Runner issued the following statement in response to the Governor's announcement of a tentative deal to raise California's minimum wage to $15 per hour:


"Contrary to conventional wisdom, this dramatic wage hike won't hurt millionaires and billionaires. It will hurt lower and middle class Californians, especially those who live in inner cities and rural areas. Entry-level and low-skilled workers, including young people, will find it more difficult to find jobs, pay for childcare, and eat out. Employers will hire fewer workers and instead turn to automation.


"In a state as economically and culturally diverse as California, it's a shame that our elected officials don't realize that a one-size-fits-all approach to combating poverty won't work in our state. Not every city is San Francisco."
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George Runner represents more than nine million Californians as an elected member of the State Board of Equalization. For more information, visit www.boe.ca.gov/Runner.

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Private closed-door deal between Governor and labor unions is bad for small business


SACRAMENTO, Calif., March 28, 2016 – Ahead of the expected announcement of a $15 per hour minimum wage deal between the Governor, labor unions and legislative leadership, NFIB/CA reaffirms its opposition to this onerous burden on small business. 


“Small businesses in California are still struggling to cope with the 25% minimum wage hike over just the past two years. Proposing a 50% increase on top of that is reckless and ignores serious negative consequences including job loss and increased costs to job creators, senior citizens, and non-profits,” said NFIB/CA State Executive Director Tom Scott. “It is no surprise that CEO Magazine has consistently ranked California dead last for its business climate; raising the minimum wage to the highest in the nation is the last thing Sacramento should do to job creators in this state.”


Tom Scott added, “It is especially troubling that this minimum wage deal was crafted behind closed doors with no public input or transparency. It is clear Sacramento is broken when sweeping proposals such as this are crafted in the dark and quickly moved through the Legislature, ignoring the voice of our 22,000 small business members and others.”


Despite a change of opinion by the Governor, it is important to remember that his Department of Finance estimated a state increase to just $13.00 per hour would increase costs to various state agencies by at least $4.7 billion over three years—in addition to fiscal impacts on individuals and businesses. Governor Brown also commented, “Raise the minimum wage too much and you put a lot of poor people out of work…There won’t be a lot of jobs. It’s a matter of balance.”


99.2% of businesses in California are small business, many of which would not be able to continue operating at their current level with a $15 state minimum wage. Seattle is already seeing significant job loss and stagnation following their $15 minimum wage hike, according to the U.S. Bureau of Labor Statistics. Representing the largest number of small businesses in California, NFIB opposes raising the state minimum wage to $15 per hour.


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For more than 70 years, the National Federation of Independent Business has been the Voice of Small Business, taking the message from Main Street to the halls of Congress and all 50 state legislatures. NFIB has 350,000 dues-paying members nationally, with over 22,000 in California. NFIB annually surveys its members on state and federal issues vital to their survival as America's economic engine and biggest creator of jobs. To learn more visit www.NFIB.com/california

A PUBLIC HEARING by the City of Loyalton on March 9th asked questions on marijuana: Whether to allow or ban commercial cultivation of medicinal marijuana; whether to regulate or ban delivery of medicinal marijuana within city limits and whether to regulate growing of medicinal marijuana by qualified patients and/or care givers either indoors or outdoors.
Council members Pat Whitley, Vice Mayor Ernie Teague, Brooks Mitchell and Mayor Mark Marin were present in the absence of member John Cussins.
Brooks stated they wanted to recognize input by citizens. It was a meager crowd in competition with the Loyalton High School  girls’ basketball CIF State Northern CA Division 6 Regional Play offs being held at the local gym.
First to speak, Jason Van Daam told the Council it sounded “like you’re taking a lot away and we won’t be able to get it.” He suggested they “grandfather in some things you just can’t change.” He told of needing a 4-foot area to grow and it takes 18 plants to get 12, calling the number “depressing.”
Council member Pat Whitley talked of California rules, looking at the rights of the people  and trying to do what doesn’t bring in the element of stealing.
Jason felt it “terrible to ban something.” He talked of "no money to heat a building.”
Brooks Mitchell questioned the need of transportation and Jason answered they’re taking it somewhere else from here.
Don Yegge of Sierra Brooks stated the County had put a lot of time and effort in its upcoming resolution and he didn’t think anything was wrong with it. For commercial grows, he didn’t think there was room or space in Loyalton. He mentioned commercial grows and the criminal element associated with it. He told of the County having done a compliant check and “everybody is out of compliance.”
County Supervisor Scott Schlefstein talked of the initiative process and whether or not commercial grows are being allowed. He stated outdoor grows requiring 2 acres or more being considered and probably will take a vote. Structures have to fit a parameter, he explained.
County Supervisor Jim Beard added the current ordinance considers just medical marijuana and not commercial.
Sarah Grew came from PIke and spoke on behalf of cultivators, thoroughly involved with Growers Association of Sierra County and “lots of good things happening.” She spoke of Prop. 215 and being part of a collective, legal, non-profit organization with the main gardener getting a salary with a different financial structure than commercial. She said only a doctor and patient can figure out what’s appropriate; different for cancer or AIDS. Under question from Brooks, she said there was no annual inspection. She continued that a delivery service runs a directive. 
Pat said it wouldn’t work in the city because they don’t have land.
The mayor was impressed with what Sara knew, stating she’s not a “pot head.” That drew sharp    criticism from Jason who stated he’s “disabled; not a pot head.”
Sara stated the cost of growing can be upwards of $30,000, an unsustainable route for the industry. She said “sun and soil are right here.”
Phyllis DeMartini from the audience said some may not want to live next to 13-foot marijuana plants and residents can’t build a fence over 6-foot high. She was against cultivation with commercial use and questioned traffic, asking, “What do we benefit from it?” She questioned, “Why use water resources through a drought.” She suggested those cultivating be put on meters.
Pat had heard from several residents about outdoor grows and greenhouses broken into.
Taking the floor, Loyalton City Clerk Tracy Smith asked the Council if it had done research on how it was legal in the first place and financial jobs it creates. She had been in banking 15 years and stated it was an opportunity here. She questioned them on indoor grows and what it does to homes and said they need to make an educated decision.
Tristan Grew talked on how legalized marijuana threatens the medical community and pharmaceuticals. He talked of hemp and a lot of industry.
Pat questioned how to handle it and what’s good or bad for this town.
Mark said it has to be regulated.
Sarah said Pike is allowed to grow because it’s rural. She mentioned Loyalton allowing for distribution and safe access to medicine. If disregarded, dispensaries will be forced to grow, she said. She stated growing indoors was “not a good route.”
Brooks wanted to continue until the County does its ordinance. Pat questioned why and Mark said so they can hear what the County says.  Brooks stated for transportation, to see what others do and he didn’t care about what Portola does. 
Tracy invited Pat to go see a dispensary, “cleaner than a doctor’s office.”

LOYALTON CITY COUNCIL met March 15th in the absence of member John Cussins. Counsel Steve Gross was present.
There will be a special meeting March 29th at 1 p.m. at City Hall for an audit review and possible action to address findings and corrective action.
Assistant Fire Chief Robert DeMartini gave the date for the annual Spaghetti Feed as May 14th at Sierra Brooks Lodge, starting at 5 p.m. He said the first of April would be the Fire Academy and the local fire department will send three people. ISO will soon show up for an evaluation and update for the rating on insurance and Robert is hoping for a better rating. Wildland Fire season training is in Beckwourth with six local volunteer firemen planning to go with Beckwourth’s department on incidents on its truck. Robert called it “a lot of training.” In conclusion, Robert stated, “All’s well in town.”
Mayor Mark Marin told of “troubles” getting a finance committee meeting but a special meeting would be held with the council to “get it all hashed out.” With approval of Bookkeeper Kim Lombardi stating, “You can pay as presented,” the Council approved $68,672.82 in bills paid.
Regarding disbursement and allocation of reimbursement funds received for response by Loyalton Volunteer Fire Department, acting treasurer for the fire department, Phyllis DeMartini, stated $19,088.46 was for the fire department and $795.76 for the association. She asked for a sub account to build up enough for major items such as a water tender and which can only be accessed by the fire department. The Council voted in favor of such an account and requiring a four-fifths vote of the entire council as a condition of the release of funds.
An update on the wastewater litigation was by Councilman Brooks Mitchell. On May 23 will be a settlement conference in Nevada City and Brooks and Mark will attend. Trial date is now May of 2017 with an estimate of 30 days for the trial. If they settle, they hope to cover costs. A 40-year project, the settlement will have to last 40 years.
Concerning rental of the park building to the County of Sierra, Counsel Steve Gross stated they need a map of the perimeter, a floor plan, insurance and a formula on how the electricity bill is segregated. The city will recarpet and buy paint for the interior. The County will take care of janitorial and pay for wifi.

Sacramento – The Franchise Tax Board (FTB) today reported that most tax refunds are arriving within 12 business days for taxpayers who file electronically and request direct deposit.


However, some refunds can take significantly longer as FTB joins a nationwide effort to protect taxpayers’ money by preventing fraud, tax theft, and other abusive practices. According to the IRS, identity theft and other criminal schemes involving fraudulently filed tax returns are becoming more common.


“No one wants to see refunds delayed,” said Controller Betty T. Yee, FTB chair and the state’s chief fiscal officer. “However, FTB’s anti-fraud efforts help to assure all taxpayers that everything possible is being done to safeguard their hard-earned dollars.”


Since January 1, FTB has issued 4.2 million refunds with an average amount of $700.  About 84 percent of all refunds were issued within seven to 12 days when the taxpayer elected to use direct deposit. That figure was down slightly from 90 percent in the past two years. 


While most California taxpayers will see no delay, some will be asked by the FTB for more information to confirm the figures reported on their returns. Other returns will go through additional reviews to check for accuracy, completeness, and common indicators of fraud or identity theft.


The IRS reports that scammers have tried to trick taxpayers via threatening phone calls in which they impersonate tax agents and through phishing schemes aimed at stealing sensitive tax information. The U.S. Inspector General last week urged taxpayers to stay on high alert through the end of the 2016 tax filing season.


The reviews can mean extended processing times for some taxpayers. FTB has taken this action to make sure the correct refund amount is issued to the right person.


Taxpayers may track the status of their refunds at ftb.ca.gov or download the FTB Refund Mobile App available for iPhone.


Related Tips for Taxpayers
Errors on returns can slow refund processing. Be sure to:
·        Choose the correct filing status.
·        Check the appropriate exemption boxes for your personal, spousal, and dependency exemptions.
·        Enter the names and taxpayer identification numbers for everyone listed on your return.
·        Be sure that required schedules are included and filled out completely.


E-filing is historically more accurate than paper tax returns. E-filing also reduces processing times.


Watch your mail. If FTB needs additional information, respond as soon as possible to reduce processing time. FTB may write asking for more information to verify your identity, your reported wages, and other items. If FTB suspects you may be a victim of identity theft, the first step it takes will be to notify you by mail at your address of record.

Shown below: "Soup," DG "Virus" Gail and Man of Rotary, Dan, "Jaws" awarding Lady of Rotary Jan; Sami with the official charter certificate; Donna Wiggin, Erin Folchi with "Rocky" and Elia "Nana" Miles receiving her fourth Paul Harris award.
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ROTARY’S DISTRICT GOVERNOR Gail Ellingwood was featured speaker at Rotary Club of Loyalton during its Charter Night, March 16th. Gail spoke about her “stories,” concerning the eradication of Polio.
​At the Rotary Club of Loyalton's Charter Celebration on March 16th at the Golden West, several individuals were presented with Paul Harris awards to acknowledge their monetary support of The Rotary Foundation, and/or their out​standing record of community service. The award is named for the founder of Rotary.
Receiving Paul Harris awards that evening were Superintendent of Schools Merrill “So​up” Grant for ​his contributions and ​the good he does with youth. Jan Walker received a Paul Harris award ​from her husband Dr. Lee "Jaws" Walker​ for ​her service to the club and support to him.​ ​Dr. Walker has been a member 37 years. Carol “Rocky” Folchi passed on a Paul Harris to daughter-in-law, Erin Folchi who has taught at Loyalton Elementary School 30 years.  Elia “Nana” Miles received ​her fourth ​Paul Harri​s​ as a ​result of her continued contributions to The Rotary Foundation, and her community service. Daughter Virginia told how her daughter, Dawn, granddaughter of Elia, was a Rotary Youth Exchange​ Student​ in Wales and is now active in Rotary.  District Governor ​Gail "​Virus​" Ellingwood​ received ​her fourth​ Paul Harris and was noted for her travels across the district. Sami Guidotti was ​also awarded a Paul Harris and received the official ​charter ​certificate for the Interact Club of Loyalton. Vice President Chuck “Up chuck” Henson said Sami was here for the ​club's ​77th charter ​celebration, ​and told of dreams of doing something good, having what it takes​,​ and that ​because of her efforts, the Interact Club can be here at the high school in 77 ​more ​years. President Tracy Smith ​presented a Paul Harris given by the club to Donna Wiggin​ Matlock​, not a Rotarian but who serves “above and beyond” and is involved with the youth in 4-H and at the county fair.

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On March 12, 2016 at approximately 2:25 p.m., a California Highway Patrol Officer was providing traffic control at a traffic collision with an ambulance responding in the center divide of I-80 westbound, west of Castle Peak. The CHP Officer was actively directing traffic to the rear of his patrol vehicle getting passing motorists to move over to the right. As he was waving traffic over, Ivy Soon Young Villnow, 19, of Truckee, was driving a Nissan Pathfinder westbound approaching the officer’s location. Traffic began to slow and for reasons under investigation, Villnow changed lanes from the #2  right hand lane to the #1 left hand lane, accelerating and passing slowing traffic. As Villnow proceeded westbound she came upon the CHP Officer directing traffic. Villnow lost control of her Nissan Pathfinder, causing her to collide with the CHP Officer as he was on foot. The Officer was projected several feet, landing face down in the center median snow bank. The vehicle also came to rest in the center median snow bank. A witness to the collision who was also an off-duty EMT, was the first to render aid to the struck officer. CHP Truckee officers were on scene a moment later. The struck officer suffered major injuries and was taken to Renown Medical Center in Reno, NV.
The cause of this collision is still under investigation. Drugs and/or alcohol are ot suspected to be a factor in the collision.
Offer Armacher, ID #019233 is investigating the collision.

CHP OFFICER WHO WAS STRUCK ON SATURDAY PASSES AWAY
SACRAMENTO, Calif. – On Saturday, March 12th at approximately 2:25 p.m., Officer Nathan Daniel Taylor, of the California Highway Patrol’s Gold Run Area, was investigating a traffic collision in the area of westbound Interstate 80 at Castle Peak Road, when he was struck by a vehicle.  Officer Taylor suffered major injuries and was transported to Renown Regional Medical Center in Reno, NV.
Tragically, Officer Taylor, who has been a member of the CHP for almost six years, succumbed to his injuries, and passed away late Sunday night.  He was surrounded by his family, friends, and members of the CHP’s Gold Run Area Office. 
“It is an incredibly sad day for Officer Taylor’s family, the CHP, and the State of California.  The loss of an officer protecting our community is truly devastating!  I would personally like to thank all of our partners, including the medical staff who fought so hard on behalf of Officer Taylor.  We ask for the public’s continued prayers, support, and trust as we go through this incredibly difficult time,” said CHP Commissioner Joe Farrow.
CHP TO HONOR FALLEN OFFICERA bell ringing ceremony will be held Tuesday in memory of California Highway Patrol (CHP) Officer Nathan Daniel Taylor, who died in the line of duty Sunday, March 13.  Officer Taylor was struck by a vehicle Saturday as he was investigating a traffic collision in the area of westbound Interstate 80 at Castle Peak Road in the CHP’s Gold Run Area.  Officer Taylor suffered major injuries and was transported to Renown Regional Medical Center in Reno, NV, where he succumbed to his injuries late last night.  Officer Taylor, 35, of Rocklin, was six-year veteran of the CHP.  He graduated from the CHP Academy in West Sacramento in October 2010 and was assigned to San Jose Area office.  He transferred to the Gold Run Area in January 2013.  Officer Taylor is survived by a wife, three sons, both parents, a sister, and three brothers, one of whom is a CHP officer assigned to the Clear Lake Area.

2016 CIF State NorCal Division V-I Regional Playoffs - Round 2 Loyalton wins 74-30 against Turlock Christian

 
 
 
Vicki Johnson (50) El Dorado County.  Guilty of felony driving under the influence with three or more prior convictions.  Sentencing is April 11.  She remains in custody on a no bail hold.
 
Orion Ehringer (43) Sacramento.  Guilty of felony threatening a witness (a CPS worker).  Sentencing is on March 22.  He remains in custody on a no bail hold.
 
Michael Hayward (55) Carson City.  Sentencing on felony grand theft (welfare fraud).  Four years probation, 68 days jail, ordered to pay restitution to the County of Sierra in the amount of $2134 with 10% interest, and a fine of $1480.
 
Kristi DeBerg (43) Loyalton.  After a contested preliminary hearing, DeBerg was ordered to stand trial on three counts of residential burglary.  She remains in custody on a no bail hold.
 
Casey McFarland (42) Downieville.  After a contested preliminary hearing, McFarland was ordered to stand trial on felony domestic violence charges, and violating a domestic violence stay away order.  He remains in custody on $25,000 bail.
 
Kathryn Hunbra (59) Chilcoot.  Possession of methamphetamine.  Two years probation, fine $1070.
 
Jeffrey Kelley (49) Loyalton.  Was sentenced for felony driving under the influence causing injury.  Five years probation, 180 days in jail, fine $2762, ordered to pay restitution to the victim of $11,676.91, one year driver’s license suspension, and attend alcohol programs.
 
 
Austin Tatum (20) Chester.  Possession of unplugged shotgun (a shot gun that can hold more than 3 shells) while hunting.  Fine $1090.
 
John Lucish (62) Challenge.  No hunting license in possession. Fine $665.
 
Damon Louviere (50) Fairfield.  No deer hunting

 
 
e-Benefits -  benefits is a Department of Defense and Veterans Administration collaboration to provide a web portal housing an online resource for tools and benefits-related information for Wounded Warriors, Veterans, Active Duty Service members, their families, and those who care for them.
 
Benefits will allow service members and Veterans to:
 

• Check the status of compensation and pension claims(track your claim)
• View payment history of received VA benefits (print letter with money amount)
• Obtain or submit an application for the home loan certificate of eligibility
• Access MyHealthe Vet directly from benefits (print COE/certification of eligibility for VA Home Loan)
• Access and retrieve  copies of official military personnel records to include DD-214’s active/reserve orders (print you’re DD 214 etc.)

 
Future releases to benefits will include the capability to:
 

• View status of your current benefits
• Change your address
• Change your direct deposit account

 
Benefits give you access to your own personal information in VA, DOD, and benefits systems.  To protect your privacy and your confidential information, your identity must be confirmed before creating your account.  This is done by offering two levels of access:  Level 1 and Level 2.
 
Go to the benefits web site at www.ebenefits.va.gov for enrollment and account information and instructions.
 
System questions or problems, contact benefits Toll-free customer Support 1-800-983-0937.
 
Plumas County Veterans Services can complete the DMV Veteran Status Verification Form for the new California Veteran Designation on your driver’s license.  We can also issue a Plumas County Veteran ID card to honorably discharged veterans.  Contact our office at 283-6271/6275 if you would like to schedule an appointment (we will need your DD 214) showing honorable service.
You can currently check our website at the Plumas County website.  Under departments, select veteran services.  The VA Van departs at 0700 Tues/Thursdays from the County Annex upper parking lot.  Ensure you call a minimum of three days prior to your appointment at the VAMC Reno to schedule a reservation on the VA Van.