On May 12, 2020, Plumas County submitted a request for a variance to the Governor’s Stay-at-Home Order for our local Stage 2 business to open at a quicker pace than the rest of the state. Today, the state approved the variance. Plumas County has met the criteria provided by the state. To see the variance go to state website at https://www.cdph.ca.gov/Programs/CID/DCDC/Pages/COVID-19/Local-Variance- Attestations.aspx or our local website at www.plumascounty.us. The state determines which businesses will open in each stage. The following Stage 2 businesses are now allowed to open with specific safety plans in place:
PG&E Hosting Regional Webinar on Community Wildfire Safety Program
WHAT Pacific Gas and Electric Company (PG&E) is hosting a webinar for customers in Placer, Nevada, Sierra, and Yuba counties to share information about its plans to prevent wildfires and reduce the impacts of Public Safety Power Shutoff (PSPS) events on customers and communities. Topics covered during the webinar will include improvements PG&E is implementing to make PSPS events smaller in size, shorter in length and smarter for customers, as well as local progress on key wildfire prevention work. The interactive webinar will provide an opportunity for customers to hear about work in their community, have the opportunity to ask questions of PG&E subject matter experts and share their feedback. WHEN Wednesday, May 13, 2020 5:30 to 6:30 p.m. REGISTRATION Access and register for the webinar by visiting this link:https://bit.ly/2xlsS0j Listen live by dialing: 866-501-6088 Conference ID: 2285479 Visit www.pge.com/wildfiresafety for a full schedule of webinar events WHY As we all work to fight coronavirus (COVID-19), we also know wildfire season is around the corner. PG&E’s work to prevent wildfires and reduce the impact of PSPS events is essential for the safety of customers and communities and will continue as long as PG&E can perform it safely for both employees and customers. With the increased wildfire threat our state faces, PG&E is enhancing and expanding our efforts to reduce wildfire risks and keep customers and communities safe. This includes:
To learn more about PG&E’s wildfire safety efforts and how customers can prepare, visit www.pge.com/wildfiresafety. By Dr. Glenn Mollette America is now opening back up. People are starting to venture back to church. Places of work are reopening. Restaurants are reopening. State parks are reopening. The beaches are opening many places. Most Americans are breathing a sigh of relief. Americans are sick and tired of Covid-19. We're tired of hearing about it and we're tired of the repercussions from it. More Americans now are unemployed since The Great Depression. More unemployment claims have been filed than ever before. Many Americans have filed for unemployment weeks ago and still haven't a penny of money. I continue to hear from people who haven't received a stimulus check. We are tired of the news and the latest countdown of every county's death stats from Covid-19. If you want to increase your risk of mental illness just keep watching television eight hours a day as many Americans have been doing. In my town we have to hear about how many have died from every county in three states. Our hearts break and grieve for these families. It's just tough hearing the stats every day about so many counties in so many different states. What must be next? We must find a vaccine for Covid-19. We must develop it in our country if at all possible and we must not enrich China with billions of dollars with anything that comes out of that country. China has done and given us enough. We don't need more from China of anything. By the way, quit buying anything made from China. Use commonsense! Be safe, be smart. Don't go to church if you don't want to! If you have health or age issues stay home or go walk the park. People in church are going to be in close proximity. It cannot be avoided totally. Hallways are narrow and restrooms are small at church. You are going to be close to somebody. You can go to church later. Pray at home, read your Bible at home and if you have any income you can mail your church a check. However, if you want to go to church then go but respect other people. Wear your mask for now and be distant. Be courteous. Go back to work if you still have a job. Your employer doesn't want you to be sick. Your employer is financially struggling now too. He wants to keep the factory or the business safe and healthy. They can't make it if everybody gets sick. Go to work and be a part of the solution. Don't be the problem. Go somewhere if you can. America and actually the entire planet are stir crazy. Keep your mask handy and wash your hands a lot. Carry your disinfectants with you. Clean everything often. Respect social distancing. Be safe. Next, start thinking about how you are going to vote this fall. If you don't like how your elected leaders are leading then you can change it by voting. Click here for -> Books By Glenn Mollette , Read his latest book Uncommon Sense Music by Glenn Mollette through iTunes and all music dealers Contact him at GMollette@aol.com. Learn more at www.glennmollette.com Like his facebook page at www.facebook.com/glennmollette Coronavirus Relief Available from the Small Business Administration
The federal Small Business Administration (SBA) is offering several coronavirus relief options to help alleviate the financial hardships resulting from the coronavirus (COVID-19). The programs have received an overwhelming number of applications from businesses, so be sure to check the SBA website for the latest updates on the status of these programs.
Use of Community Development Block Grant (CDBG) Funds for Infectious Disease Response Community Development Block Grant (CDBG) funds may be used for a range of eligible activities that prevent and respond to the spread of infectious diseases such as COVID-19. Check out the Quick Guide to CDBG Eligible Activities to Support Infectious Disease Response for guidance and additional information. Economic Development Resources for Communities and Businesses Impacted by the Coronavirus The California Association for Local Economic Development (CALED) has assembled resources for communities and business impacted by the coronavirus (COVID-19). The page will be continually evolving as new resources become available. To go directly to the CALED resources, click here. Coronavirus (COVID-19) County Resource Page Available The California State Association of Counties (CSAC), RCRC’s local government partner, continues to provide excellent up-to-date state and federal information to counties on this ever-changing pandemic event. We encourage visiting CSAC’s COVID-19 resource page, which contains vital links to all CSAC COVID-19 advocacy letters and resources. CSAC’s staff continues to work around the clock to update activities so that all of California’s counties can remain properly informed. A California judge recently ordered a Calaveras County property owner liable for damages after their tenant committed environmental crimes in conjunction with a cannabis operation. Under Fish and Game Code section 12025, civil penalties can be levied against a landowner or occupant who has violated one or more environmental laws in conjunction with commercial cannabis cultivation. The code applies to both licensed and unlicensed operations and the civil penalties are added to any criminal fines. The California Department of Fish and Wildlife (CDFW) had its first 12025 case in front of a judge in September. At the conclusion of the trial, the judge ordered a Calaveras County landowner liable for over $680,000. The ruling was significant because the judge determined that the landowner was ultimately liable for the environmental violations despite the landowner's claim that he was not directly involved in the activity. The decision can be found here. During the investigation, CDFW and local authorities eradicated over 6,200 plants at the unpermitted cannabis grow, which was linked to 10 separate sites where discarded vehicles, garbage and human waste were dumped in or near a stream. "CDFW uses this authority on egregious environmental cases that threaten fish, wildlife and the habitats they depend on to survive," said David Bess, Deputy Director and Chief of the CDFW Law Enforcement Division. "Our staff have documented properties with mounds of garbage near waterways, dewatered streams and banned pesticides, all of which were detrimental to the environment." Since October 2016, CDFW has filed 10 administrative complaints under section 12025 against landowners and tenants in Calaveras, Humboldt, Mendocino, Sonoma, Tehama and Trinity counties. Some of the parties were registered agents of limited liability companies. Of the 10 complaints, the majority were settled with terms that included remediation of the impacted property. This complaint filed in Calaveras County led to a week-long hearing and resulted in the decision above. The total amount of civil penalties ordered to date is nearly $2 million. While all the cases to date have been on unlicensed cannabis sites, the focus is on environmental impacts from the cannabis cultivation, not the legality of the operation. More details on state compliance can be found here. To learn more about CDFW's cannabis program, please visit wildlife.ca.gov/cannabis or email askcannabis@wildlife.ca.gov. To report environmental crimes, such as water diversions, pollution and poaching, please call the CalTIP hotline at (888) 334-2258 or text information to "TIP411" (847411). SIERRA COUNTY SHERIFF MIKE FISHER reported during the COVID-19 update at the Board of Supervisors’ teleconference meeting held Tuesday, May 5th that he was 100% supportive of the continued work of Public Health and the Supervisors, but wanted to talk about what he was seeing throughout the County. He stated with Washoe County being shut down, people are flocking to Dog Valley where last weekend they had a drive by shooting, and many parties with 20-30 people. He added that Stampede Reservoir is extremely busy with large groups of people camping in dispersed campsites because campgrounds are closed. Fisher said there is very little mask wearing throughout the communities, and felt Public Health needs better communication with businesses, adding he is also getting asked a lot on the availability of masks. Fisher stated the County is getting an influx of people coming in from areas where counties are opening and he is not seeing people adhering to the social distancing, non-essential travel or wearing facemasks, and stressed he is not the mask police, but isn’t seeing some of the businesses adhering to masks. Fisher thought they really needed to look at the reality. He didn’t want to embarrass anybody but asked how many people were in the boardroom without a mask during the meeting adding he saw 7-8 with no masks wanting to put some reality back into the conversation. Supervisor Lee Adams stated that all of them were at least 6 feet apart in the boardroom and didn’t think you’d need a mask if you could do that distance, which he was told you don’t. Regarding campgrounds, Supervisor Paul Roen stated going forward the Governor is to meet with the Regional Forester to get campgrounds open. Adams said it was a double-edged sword, if you open the campgrounds they will come. Fisher stated his department has seen an 80-90% uptick in calls on the weekend for suspicious people. Public Health Officer Celia Sutton-Pado said that is exactly why there is concern for resurgence and added she was clearly concerned with this behavior, but stated we can be the models of what is expected in our County.
SHERIFF'S LOG 4/26/20 - 5/3/20 4/26/20 First Divide near Shuters Mine Downieville - Reporting party claims that he was assaulted while walking to his residence and then turned around to report incident. Dog Valley Verdi - Report of lots of ATVers camping and destroying Dog Valley area. Hill side to the west of the senior complex - Loyalton RP states there were suspicious people in the woods the last couple days, now there are buzzards flying in the same area. Truckee - Report of possible sighting of child abuse. Downieville - Request for Deputy contact regarding a civil issue. Creek Past the Hot Springs Sierraville - Report of overdue parties Downieville - Report of a suspicious person 4/27/20 Isham Ln. Sierraville - Report of suspicious activity up Isham Ln. Fight Downieville - Call reporting a possible fight in front of Downieville River Inn 10 Bee Ranch Rd. Downieville - Report of a subject shining a flashlight outside a residence that is empty. 4/28/20 Near First Divide Downieville - assistance after being forcibly removed from own claim. HWY 49 MPM 1.59 Downieville - Report of single MC accident. Possible broken arm. Loyalton - Reporting Party claims someone is accessing her email and cell phone without permission. 4/29/20 Loyalton Area Loyalton - 911-Report of loud bangs/guns being fired. Dog Valley area, Loyalton - Report of illegal camper Ridge Road, Alleghany - Report of vehicle rollover Dog bite, Loyalton - report of being attacked by three dogs 4/30/20 Sierra City – Report of controlled burn. Citation issued. Longhorn Dr.,Loyalton – Suspicious male on yard of reporting party 5/1/20 Sierra City- report of burglary Sierra City – Traffic citation for CVC 21460(a) 2nd Divide, Downieville – Report of illegal campers Loyalton – Report of suspicious male near residence looking into it Verdi – Vehicle accident near Stampede Downieville –Reporting someone possibly breaking into an apartment Verdi – Report of multiple gunshots going off at bon fire gathering near Summit 1. 5/2/20 12 miles west of Loyalton – Vehicle versus bovine, negative injuries and driver left the scene Hwy 49 at Indian Valley Outpost Goodyears Bar – Report of motorcycle down Downieville Power Plant – Report of large group of kayakers Jones Valley near Babbit Peak, Loyalton – Report of party stuck in mud Smithneck near Lewis Mill, Loyalton – Subject cited for suspended license Stampede Reservoir, Verdi - Subject cited for out of county warrant Stampede Reservoir, Verdi - Subject cited for out of county warrant Main, Loyalton – Individuals worried over canine roaming town 5/3/20 Lavezzola Road, Downieville – Request check on husband at mining claim Gold Lake Rd., Bassetts – Report of multiple illegal campers Smithneck Rd., Verdi – Alwin Schell arrested for driving under influence VC23152(a) Sierra City – Suspicious male with child Camptonville – Suspicious vehicle and person Downieville – Report of intoxicated subject causing disturbance SUSANVILLE, Calif., — May 6, 2020. The USDA Forest Service Pacific Southwest Region (Region 5) is proud to once again partner with the California Department of Forestry and Fire Prevention (CAL FIRE), and partners across the State, reminding communities and the public that live and work within wildland and forested areas about the importance, especially this pandemic emergency, of preparing their homes and properties for wildfire.
“Preparedness is key to California residents reducing their exposure and risks to destructive wildfires,” said Anthony Scardina, Deputy Regional Forester for Region 5. “We stand shoulder to shoulder with our wildland fire service partners at the state and local levels to protect our fellow Californians in 2020 and beyond. We need all citizens and visitors of California to help prepare for and prevent wildfires, especially during this pandemic emergency to reduce impacts to communities and preserve firefighting resources throughout the state and country.” The education-focused week occurs annually in May and highlights the benefits and techniques of home hardening, defensible space, and technologies that help homeowners and communities to be both proactive and prepared. Partnership and Preparedness are exponentially more important this year as we all adjust to a new normal. Help Be A Preparedness Hero:
“We take pride in bringing awareness and educating our community on the importance of fire prevention and preparedness”, stated Deb Bumpus, Forest Supervisor, LNF. “Along with our partners, this is an ongoing priority consisting of reminding everyone about the dangers posed by wildfires and having a plan in place when a fire strikes.” The Forest Service manages 18 National Forests in the Pacific Southwest Region, which encompasses over 20 million acres across California, and assists State and Private forest landowners in California, Hawaii and the U.S. Affiliated Pacific Islands. National forests supply 50 percent of the water in California and form the watershed of most major aqueducts and more than 2,400 reservoirs throughout the state. For more information, visit www.fs.usda.gov/R5. For additional information, please call the Supervisor’s Office at (530) 257-2151, Almanor Ranger District, (530) 258-2141, Eagle Lake Ranger District (530) 257-4188, or the Hat Creek Ranger District (530) 336-5521 during the hours of 8:00 a.m.- 4:30 p.m. Monday-Friday for customer service. # # # USDA is an equal opportunity provider, employer and lender. SACRAMENTO - Today, Senate Republican Leader Shannon Grove (R-Bakersfield) and Senator Mike Morrell (R-Rancho Cucamonga) issued statements after delivering a letter to Governor Newsom urging him to allow Houses of Worship to reopen as part of California's Stage 2. Members of the Senate and Assembly Republican Caucuses signed on to the letter which media can read here. Stage 2 is part of California's "Resilience Roadmap Stages" which is set to start on Friday, May 8. Some businesses that are included in the state's early phase of "Stage 2" include book stores, clothing stores, sporting goods, toy stores, and florists, given they follow additional safety protocols. The governor's initial Roadmap announcement cited schools and childcare facilities with modifications as being included in Stage 2. Senate Republican Leader Shannon Grove: "The stay-at-home order has been very difficult for individuals dealing with isolation, anxiety, depression, substance abuse, and domestic violence. During this time when people are mourning lost loved ones and struggling in their everyday lives, it is more important than ever that houses of worship be open for millions of Californians to seek hope, encouragement, support, and healing. Houses of worship should be considered a higher priority for the Governor and be included into Stage 2 of our state's reopening plan." Senator Mike Morrell: "Congregations and ministry leaders have adapted to the pandemic in extraordinary ways to care for their members and maintain critical connection when many are feeling more isolated and lonely. However, these acts are not a replacement for gathering together at a house of worship. With the governor's Stage 3 perhaps months away, California should look to instead partner with churches and others to reopen during Stage 2 with clear guidelines that protect public health while recognizing spiritual needs as essential and assuring the safeguarding of First Amendment rights." ### Senate Republican Leader Shannon Grove represents California's 16th Senate District which encompasses large portions of Kern, Tulare and San Bernardino counties and including the cities of Bakersfield, Barstow, California City, Exeter, Frazier Mountain, Joshua Tree, Mojave, Needles, Ridgecrest, Rosamond, Taft, Tehachapi, Twentynine Palms, Tulare, Visalia, Yucca Valley and portions of the Kern River Valley. Follow her on Facebookand Twitter. For press inquiries or questions, please contact Jacqui Nguyen, press secretary for the Senate Republican Caucus, at 858.999.7706. SACRAMENTO – After numerous discussions with California State Board of Equalization (BOE) leaders, business groups, and others, Governor Newsom today announced that he is granting property tax extensions and making payment plans available to qualifying property owners. The Governor issued two Executive Orders. The first allows homeowners and business property owners to set up a payment plan to pay their property taxes through May 2021 without being assessed a 10-percent penalty. The second Executive Order extends the payment due date of the business personal property tax to May 31. Prior to today’s announcement, May 7 was the due date for business owners to pay taxes on their business personal property, which is valued annually based on a January 1 lien date and consists of all property owned or leased by a business. “I am pleased the Governor has granted these extensions. They will provide significant relief to the many homeowners and business owners who are having a difficult time meeting their financial obligations while following the Governor’s stay-at-home order due to the COVID-19 pandemic. It’s important that elected officials do whatever possible to lessen the burden on taxpayers,” said BOE Member Ted Gaines. On Wednesday, May 13, the BOE will hold a special meeting to discuss issues and potential actions related to the impacts of COVID-19 on property tax assessment. If you are a business that will be reopening on May 8, 2020 please send your Reopening Memorandum of Agreement to Public Health by May 7, 2020. Even if you are a business that is not opening on May 8, please review the Reopening MOU and prepare for submitting soon. The Reopening MOU was sent to all Sierra County businesses on Friday, but it can also be found at the following link: http://sierracounty.ca.gov/599/Business-Reopening-Plan You can submit your plan to Public Health via email (COVID19@sierracounty.ca.gov), Fax (530)-993-6790, or by mail (202 Front St., Loyalton, CA 96118). ALSO, there will be a virtual meeting hosted by the Sierra County Visitors Bureau on May 12, 2020 at 1:30pm. Sierra County Public Health Department will be a guest speaker during this meeting. ALL businesses are welcome to attend this meeting and submit their questions ahead of time. If you are interested in attending please register using the following link:https://us02web.zoom.us/meeting/register/tJYlcOitqT8vEt2orLPNqsVgDM_7nj2eN1q8 For more information or questions regarding this meeting, please contact COVID19@sierracounty.ca.gov *****ATTENTION BUSINESSES***** If you are a business that will be reopening on May 8, 2020 please send your Reopening Memorandum of Agreement to Public Health by May 7, 2020. Even if you are a business that is not opening on May 8, please review the Reopening MOU and prepare for submitting soon. The Reopening MOU was sent to all Sierra County businesses on Friday, but it can also be found at the following link: http://sierracounty.ca.gov/599/Business-Reopening-Plan You can submit your plan to Public Health via email (COVID19@sierracounty.ca.gov), Fax (530)-993-6790, or by mail (202 Front St., Loyalton, CA 96118). ALSO, there will be a virtual meeting hosted by the Sierra County Visitors Bureau on May 12, 2020 at 1:30pm. Sierra County Public Health Department will be a guest speaker during this meeting. ALL businesses are welcome to attend this meeting and submit their questions ahead of time. If you are interested in attending please register using the following link:https://us02web.zoom.us/meeting/register/tJYlcOitqT8vEt2orLPNqsVgDM_7nj2eN1q8 For more information or questions regarding this meeting, please contact COVID19@sierracounty.ca.gov *****ATTENTION BUSINESSES***** If you are a business that will be reopening on May 8, 2020 please send your Reopening Memorandum of Agreement to Public Health by May 7, 2020. Even if you are a business that is not opening on May 8, please review the Reopening MOU and prepare for submitting soon. The Reopening MOU was sent to all Sierra County businesses on Friday, but it can also be found at the following link: http://sierracounty.ca.gov/599/Business-Reopening-Plan You can submit your plan to Public Health via email (COVID19@sierracounty.ca.gov), Fax (530)-993-6790, or by mail (202 Front St., Loyalton, CA 96118). ALSO, there will be a virtual meeting hosted by the Sierra County Visitors Bureau on May 12, 2020 at 1:30pm. Sierra County Public Health Department will be a guest speaker during this meeting. ALL businesses are welcome to attend this meeting and submit their questions ahead of time. If you are interested in attending please register using the following link:https://us02web.zoom.us/meeting/register/tJYlcOitqT8vEt2orLPNqsVgDM_7nj2eN1q8 For more information or questions regarding this meeting, please contact COVID19@sierracounty.ca.gov Restriction of recreational facilities and short-term lodging rentals in Sierra County; Hotels, Motels, Homes, RV Parks, Airbnb, VRBO, Campgrounds, any other transient rentals and congregate settings such as Summer Camps, of less than 30 days in response to the COVID-19 threat.
The COVID-19 pandemic continues to pose a looming threat to the health and safety of the people of Sierra County. At this time, the Sierra County Public Health Officer has issued an order limiting the use of all short-term rentals and to specific purposes consistent with the Governor’s “Stay At Home” order. This action is consistent with efforts across the United States and California. Our response efforts seek to slow the spread of the COVID-19 virus and decrease the overall impact on physical, emotional and mental impact on individuals, families, healthcare workers, all of which place strains on medical facilities and the local economy. To fight the spread of COVID-19 on March 19, 2020, Governor Newsom issued Executive Order N-33-20, commonly called the “Stay at Home” order, requiring all persons residing in the State to remain in their homes or places of residence, except as needed to maintain the continuity of operations for critical infrastructure. The Order does not have a specific end date. Essential Functions The guidance provided by the Governor’s Office lists specific jobs and functions within those critical infrastructure sectors deemed “necessary.” This includes hotels and lodging activities related to isolating or quarantining persons infected with or exposed to the COVID-19 virus, or housing workers performing jobs deemed essential to maintaining critical infrastructure. This does not include vacation or “get away” destinations that are not normal places of residence. The Governor’s guidance also recommends going outside for fresh air or to take a walk, as exercise and recreation are essential to personal health and well-being. Traveling to Recreate Human travel promotes the spread of disease and the presence of visitors in Sierra County has potential to exacerbate the spread of the COVID-19. If you live in Sierra County, please recreate close to home and minimize contact with others. If you do not live in Sierra County, please do not come to Sierra County to recreate at this time. General Protective Measures Wherever you are, it is important to use good personal protective measures. * Avoid congregating in groups. * Maintain social distancing of 6 feet at all times. * Avoid crowded areas like trailheads and parking lots. * Wash your hands and use hand sanitizer often. In short, it is OK to enjoy the outdoors, but do it in a safe, isolated, and individual manner. We understand the uncertainty that exists with the Governor’s Order, as it does not provide an end date. The order from Sierra County Public Health is for these restrictions to be in place at least through June 1, 2020. Future actions by the Governor’s Office could trigger an adjustment of this date. Thank you for your patience and understanding as we continue to stand together to beat this disease. Celia Sutton-Pado, MD Public Health Officer For more information, please go to: http://sierracounty.ca.gov/582/Coronavirus-COVID-19 By Melinda Myers
May is National Skin Cancer Awareness Month and a busy time for gardening and other outdoor activities. Gardening provides many benefits but like any outdoor activity it’s important to protect yourself from the sun’s damaging rays. More than 5 million cases of skin cancer are diagnosed each year and most are associated with exposure to the ultraviolet rays from the sun. And even though it’s the most common form of cancer in the U.S. it is also one of the most preventable. Help reduce this percentage and keep yourself and others safe with a bit of skin cancer prevention. Use sunscreen year-round. It is easy to overlook during those extremely cold or hot months where we may be bundled up or spending minimal time outdoors. In fact, running errands and even time spent in the car results in sun exposure. Apply a sunscreen with UVA/UVB protection and a minimum SPF of 30 over your entire body at least 30 minutes before going outdoors. This includes cloudy days when we often forego this precaution. Reapply sunscreen every two hours or after swimming or excessive sweating. Pay close attention and make a generous application to lips, tips of ears, and the backs of your neck and hands. Keep a bottle of sunscreen in your garden tool kit as a reminder to apply throughout the day. If it’s easily accessible, you are more likely to apply it as needed. Avoid gardening and outdoor activities when the sun is most intense. This is usually between 10 a.m. and 4 p.m. Find those shady spots in the landscape to weed or relax during that time. Avoiding the intense sunlight means cooler temperatures that make working in the garden more enjoyable. Cover up for greater protection. Wear a broad brimmed hat to protect your ears, scalp, neck and face from the sun. Don clothing of tightly woven fabric that helps block harmful UV rays. And talk to your dermatologist about the benefits of investing in photoprotective clothing. Be sure to include gloves when purchasing sun protective clothing. Look for knit gloves like Foxgloves (foxglovesinc.com) that provide 50+ UPF, Ultraviolet Protection Factor. These gloves are made of lightweight, breathable fabric and come in a variety of colors, including skin tone, making them easy to wear when working, driving or participating in any outdoor activity. And don’t forget about your eyes. Wear sunglasses and a broad brimmed hat to protect your eyes when gardening, relaxing or recreating outdoors. Check your skin regularly for any suspicious moles, spots, growths and changes. And visit your dermatologist at least once a year. They can help you detect and manage problems early. As you work to improve your landscape or do other outdoor activities this season, add sun protection to your to-do list. Then encourage your family and friends to do the same. A bit of prevention can reduce your risk of becoming that one individual in five that develops skin cancer by the age of 70. Melinda Myers has written numerous books, including Small Space Gardening. She hosts The Great Courses “How to Grow Anything” DVD series and the nationally-syndicated Melinda’s Garden Moment TV & radio program. Myers is a columnist and contributing editor for Birds & Blooms magazine and was commissioned by Foxgloves for her expertise to write this article. Her web site is www.MelindaMyers.com. SACRAMENTO, Calif. – The California Highway Patrol (CHP) announced that beginning today, it will distribute 100,000 face coverings supplied by the Federal Motor Carrier Safety Administration to truck drivers in California. “The California Highway Patrol is honored to be a part of the distribution of these protective face coverings for truck drivers,” CHP Commissioner Warren Stanley said. “The Department recognizes the essential task these drivers are providing to keep critical goods and supplies available.” “The Department of Transportation’s Federal Motor Carrier Safety Administration (FMCSA) worked closely with the Federal Emergency Management Agency (FEMA) and trucking stakeholders to coordinate and ship 800,000 protective masks to State Motor Carrier Safety Assistance Program (MCSAP) law enforcement agencies throughout the country for distribution to truckers all over the country,” said Collin B. Mooney, executive director of the Commercial Vehicle Safety Alliance. “State and local partners, in conjunction with FMCSA, continue to assist in the distribution of the masks … to ensure that the masks are supplied directly to truckers who maintain our nation’s supply chain during this crisis. The Agency is appreciative of FEMA for supplying these masks, and for our state partners who have worked together to ensure they reach America’s truck drivers.” The CHP will distribute the face coverings to its 17 commercial vehicle enforcement facilities in each of our eight field Divisions throughout the state based on known truck volume. Truck drivers will be provided coverings at the front counter of the enforcement facilities and during other contacts by departmental commercial vehicle personnel. To find the locations of CHP Commercial Vehicle Enforcement Facilities by CHP Division, go to https://www.chp.ca.gov/find-an-office, scroll down and click on a specific geographic Division or call 1-800-TELL-CHP (1-800-835-5247). The mission of the CHP is to provide the highest level of Safety, Service, and Security. SACRAMENTO — In recognition of Giving Tuesday Now, California Attorney General Xavier Becerra today provided tips to Californians on how to avoid falling victim of charity scams. In response to the COVID-19 pandemic, Giving Tuesday Now was established as a global day of giving and unity. Attorney General Becerra has the primary responsibility for supervising charities and the professional fundraisers who solicit on their behalf in California. Under Government Code section 12598, the Attorney General may investigate and bring legal actions against charities that misuse charitable assets or engage in fraudulent fundraising practices. Complaints related to charities operating in California should be filed with the Attorney General’s office at https://oag.ca.gov/charities/complaints. “For Giving Tuesday Now, communities are coming together to help support each other during the COVID-19 pandemic. It is important that donors do their research and give to charities that are legitimate and trustworthy,” said Attorney General Becerra. “As Californians continue to support each other during these unprecedented times, my office will continue to go after bad actors who try to take advantage of our great state’s generousity.” Donation Tips
# # # Hello:
I’m writing on behalf of a partnership with:
We’re doing this via a brief survey over the next 10 days that will lead to weekly stories in May and June shared via public radio and community newspapers. I’m writing to see if you might help us get the word out about the survey by sharing it with your networks—via the partner organizations you are in touch with, friends and family. Here is the link https://www.surveymonkey.com/r/PlumasSierraVoices. If you have any questions or suggestions do let me know via email: hageorge@ucanr.edu. Many thanks, Holly Holly George, Emeritus Livestock/Natural Resources & Community Development Advisor University of California Cooperative Extension Plumas-Sierra Counties 208 Fairgrounds Road, Quincy, CA 95971 Email: hageorge@ucanr.edu Phone: 530-283-6270 (front office) NOTE---I’m not in the office very often so email is best means of communication Fax: 530-283-6088 Today, Governor Newsom announced that on Friday, May 8th retail businesses can reopen for curbside pickup only, and manufacturing and supply chains may reopen as well. Businesses not listed, will still be reopened in a phased approach. Sierra County Public Health Department asks that if you are a retail business, manufacturing or supply chain reopening on Friday that you submit your Reopening Memorandum of Agreement to Public Health by May 7, 2020. If you are a business not immediately listed in this announcement, please review the Reopening MOU and prepare for submitting soon. The Reopening MOU was sent to all Sierra County businesses on Friday, but it can also be found at the following link: http://sierracounty.ca.gov/599/Business-Reopening-Plan You can submit your plan to Public Health via email (COVID19@sierracounty.ca.gov), Fax (530)-993-6790, or by mail (202 Front St., Loyalton, CA 96118). We look forward to working with you to reopen our communities! SUSANVILLE, Calif., — May 1, 2020. The Pacific Southwest Region is moving forward with prescribed fire operations as conditions and resources permit. Previously, the region had postponed prescribed fires to reduce potential smoke impacts to communities while public health officials considered the interactions of smoke with COVID-19 effects; and to ensure our emergency response resources were putting into place proper procedures to mitigate COVID-19 risks.
Regional Forester Randy Moore stated, “To date we have accomplished a lot of important fuels reduction projects this year with our partners to protect communities and reduce the risks of catastrophic wildland fires. We will continue to prioritize the health and safety of communities and firefighters during this global and national emergency and will also conduct prescribed fire where feasible as an important tool to protect communities and natural resources as we prepare for the upcoming peak fire season.” Prescribed fire is an important tool in the protection of communities and forests from large scale wildfire. Continuing our service to you while doing our part to address the COVID-19 Pandemic is our priority. The Forest Service manages 18 national forests in the Pacific Southwest Region, which encompasses over 20 million acres across California, and assists state and private forest landowners in California, Hawaii and the U.S. Affiliated Pacific Islands. National forests supply 50 percent of the water in California and form the watershed of most major aqueducts and more than 2,400 reservoirs throughout the state. For more information, visit www.fs.usda.gov/R5. For additional information, please call the Supervisor’s Office at (530) 257-2151, Almanor Ranger District, (530) 258-2141, Eagle Lake Ranger District (530) 257-4188, or the Hat Creek Ranger District (530) 336-5521 during the hours of 8:00 a.m.- 4:30 p.m. Monday-Friday for customer service. “Wildfire Preparedness Week” Proclaimed for May 3-9”Sacramento – This week marks California’s annual “Wildfire Preparedness Week,” and CAL FIRE is raising awareness and encouraging families and communities to take a proactive approach in personal wildfire preparedness.
Over the last three years, California has experienced five of the deadliest wildfires and seven of the most destructive wildfires in state history, with more than 3.7 million acres burned, some 34,000 structures destroyed, and more than 145 lives tragically lost. This year, dry and warm conditions can lead to an increased potential of fire activity. Since last year, California has been amplifying resources to protect public safety, including the completion of 35 high priority fuel reduction projects. The 35 projects resulted in protecting 90,000 acres by directly treating 12,000 acres. Additionally, in 2020 CAL FIRE plans to directly treat 50,000 acres. Additionally, CAL FIRE is partnering with the California National Guard and other agencies to provide early detection to wildfires throughout California to minimize reaction times and monitor fire affected areas to augment responses if necessary. Also, CAL FIRE will be amplifying resources with the use of technology through the Innovation Procurement Sprint that will help predict potential fire behavior and impact. Finally, CAL FIRE has focused on the procurement of new Blackhawk helicopters that can carry and deliver more water to impacted areas. “As we continue to deal with challenging times, we want to make sure Californians know we are prepared for this year’s fire season, and also, the importance of them knowing what they can do to prepare themselves,” said CAL FIRE Chief Thom Porter. More importantly, CAL FIRE is also ensuring residents know about the importance of educating and preparing themselves and their communities. For instance, safeguarding their homes through the creation of defensible space by clearing vegetation 100-feet or more away, as well as using fire resistant landscaping to help stop the spread of wildfire, is strongly advised. This is especially important since approximately 25 percent of the state’s population, or 11 million Californians, live in a high-risk fire zone. Thousands of communities, from small mountain towns to suburbs to large urbanized cities, depend on smart planning and prevention tools such as protective fuel breaks, defensible space around homes and home hardening for their safety and survival. These tools work together to build more fire-resilient communities. “Preparedness is key to California residents reducing their exposure and risks to destructive wildfires, especially during this pandemic period,” said Anthony Scardina, Deputy Regional Forester for Region 5. “We stand shoulder to shoulder with our wildland fire service partners at the state and local levels to protect our fellow Californians in 2020 and beyond.” Additionally, CAL FIRE is encouraging Californians to access the revamped “Ready for Wildfire” web-based app, which is a helpful resource to use in year-round preparation. The “Ready for Wildfire” web-based app now takes a personalized approach that includes local alerts, checklists for preparedness, including evacuation plans, and other kits. To download the free Ready for Wildfire web-based app, visit https://plan.readyforwildfire.org/. So far this year, CAL FIRE has responded to more than 900 wildfires that have burned more than 1,100 acres. Read Governor Gavin Newsom’s Proclamation of the 2020 Wildfire Prevention Week. El Dorado County has been chosen by the State to have two COVID-19 testing sites. One site has been located in the South Lake Tahoe area and the other for the west slope of the county. The two sites will be open to the public, appointment only, without restrictions to test for COVID-19. These two test sites are planned to be open for approximately two months and can be extended if needed.
The COVID-19 testing registration opened on May 3rd and testing will begin at the South Lake Tahoe site on May 5. Please notify your staff and employees of this opportunity, especially those in the utility, restaurant, grocery, food supply, and public works industries. Testing will be paid for by your personal medical insurance provider unless you do not have insurance coverage. For those who do not have medical coverage, the State will cover the cost of the test. Please have your identification card available at the site for registration purposes. It does not matter if the individual is documented or undocumented to get the test. If they do not have an identification card, the staff will generate a unique identifier number to get results. El Dorado County officials are working hard to ensure that all residents of our community, from both California and Nevada, will be qualified to be tested at this site. If you are for any reason turned away due to your Nevada residency, please send us an email. Test results are expected to take 48-72 hours. All test results will be entered into the California Reportable Disease Information Exchange (CalREDIE) site. Patients will receive a card at the time of testing to go to LHI.CARE for test results and they will be contacted by telephone if the patient's test comes back positive. The nurse will contact positive test result patients. Process is APPOINTMENT ONLY Register for an appointment at https://lhi.care/covidtesting For those without internet access, 888-634-1123 COVID-19 Testing Site: Lake Tahoe Community College Gymnasium 1 College Drive S. Lake Tahoe, Ca. 96150 Open May 5th Tuesday - Saturday Hours 0700-1200 & 1300-1900 hrs Closed Sunday & Monday Register for an Appointment By Dr. Glenn Mollette I wish mom were still here so I could take her out to Sunday dinner. The problem with Sunday dinner this Mother's Day is that most of the restaurants either won't be open yet or operating under new guidelines. Restaurants make their biggest payday of the year typically on Mother's Day. Even in states that are wide open for dining there is the problem of social distancing. Can you imagine this week going to a restaurant that only is allowed 25% occupancy or maybe 50% occupancy at best? Many states will still be closed tight this Sunday adding further pain to the economic dilemma of business owners across America. For some restaurants being closed this Sunday will be the nail in the coffin of their business. This year to celebrate mom's day you still can patronize your favorite restaurant by ordering from them and bringing the food back home. This will still take some pressure off mom. Also, insist on cleaning up the mess when it's over. Mom shouldn't have to do this on Mother's Day, Overall this is the toughest Mother's Day we've had in America during my lifetime. So many millions are struggling financially. Buying a nice meal from a restaurant to take home to feed everyone is a stretch for many. With 70,000 or more deaths now due to Covid-19 this Mother's Day will be the hardest day ever for a lot of families. There will be an empty chair at the table. Millions of Americans have moms in nursing homes. Their moms are in danger of being exposed to Covid-19. People will probably not be able to visit mother because she is in the nursing home. This is painful. There are just so many distressing scenarios being played out around the world. From health care workers who are at risk, to unemployment and a new era of poverty hitting out country, to people just going crazy over social distancing. The way to celebrate Mother's Day this year is don't forget. Don't distance yourself from this celebration. Honor mom while you have her. Honor some other mothers too who have been special to you. When I was a child, I had $5 my dad gave me for being "brave" to have my tonsils removed. The only thing I wanted to do as a child was to take mom and dad to the local G.C. Murphy's grill. We sat at the bar and we all had hotdogs and cokes that cost me about $3. My mom didn't want me to spend my $5 but she smiled when I bought lunch that day as a 7-year-old kid. I would love to have mom back this Sunday and do anything that might make her smile. This Sunday, it could be the simplest thing but give it a try. Mom is worth the effort. QUINCY, Calif. – The Plumas National Forest is looking for a committed, hardworking, highly skilled workforce to work in fuels and wildland fire management. The permanent, seasonal fire positions include dispatch, engine crews, fire & fuels management, helitack, interagency hotshot crews, and prevention. The vacancy announcements for these positions are posted on the U.S. Government's official website for employment opportunities - www.usajobs.gov . If you wish to be considered for these positions you must apply to the vacancy announcement outreach by the closing date of May 13, 2020. Each job has a specific job contact (note: a real person). Please let them know you are interested in the position in addition to filing your application on usajobs. For questions regarding the Plumas National Forest hiring process, please contact Martin Senter at martin.senter@usda.gov or 530-927-9894. Other information about the Plumas National Forest, including current fire management jobs, may be found at: https://www.fs.usda.gov/plumas. ### SACRAMENTO, Calif. – Throughout May, National Bicycle Safety Month, the California Highway Patrol (CHP) and the Office of Traffic Safety (OTS) are joining forces to remind everyone to share the road safely and courteously. Since the “stay-at-home” directive brought on by the COVID-19 pandemic, many people in California have taken to their bicycles for exercise and a change of scenery. “In this uncertain time, more people are out on the streets biking for exercise, recreation, mental health, and affordable transportation,” CHP Commissioner Warren Stanley said. “Bicyclists, pedestrians, and motorists must stay alert to keep everyone safe.” The events traditionally held throughout California by the CHP for Bicycle Safety Month may be somewhat curtailed in 2020. However, many CHP Area offices will continue to give helmets to children who do not have them. Their parents or guardians are urged to call their closest CHP office for information on how to obtain one. According to the National Safety Council, cyclists who wear a helmet reduce their risk of head injury by an estimated 60 percent. California law requires cyclists under 18 to wear a helmet, but it is a good idea for all who ride. “If you are out riding a bicycle during the current pandemic, the same safety rules and habits still apply,” said OTS Directory Barbara Rooney. “To maximize safety, we encourage you to both be aware of your surroundings and practice physical distancing for the sake of you, your family, and others.” Statistics from the CHP’s Statewide Integrated Traffic Records System show that, during the past five years, 792 bicyclists were killed and more than 56,000 were injured in traffic crashes. The data also shows that riding on the wrong side of the roadway and right-of-way violations are the major causes of bicycle-involved crashes. Motor vehicle drivers are reminded to give bicyclists extra room when passing – at least three feet is required by law. When turning right, drivers should look over their right shoulder to scan for bicyclists, especially when crossing into a designated bike lane. Before opening a car door, drivers should always look for passing bicyclists, especially when next to a bike lane. The mission of the CHP is to provide the highest level of Safety, Service, and Security. The OTS administers traffic safety programs with the goal of reducing deaths, injuries, and economic losses. # # # SUSANVILLE, Calif., — May 1, 2020. The Pacific Southwest Region is moving forward with prescribed fire operations as conditions and resources permit. Previously, the region had postponed prescribed fires to reduce potential smoke impacts to communities while public health officials considered the interactions of smoke with COVID-19 effects; and to ensure our emergency response resources were putting into place proper procedures to mitigate COVID-19 risks. Regional Forester Randy Moore stated, “To date we have accomplished a lot of important fuels reduction projects this year with our partners to protect communities and reduce the risks of catastrophic wildland fires. We will continue to prioritize the health and safety of communities and firefighters during this global and national emergency and will also conduct prescribed fire where feasible as an important tool to protect communities and natural resources as we prepare for the upcoming peak fire season.” Prescribed fire is an important tool in the protection of communities and forests from large scale wildfire. Continuing our service to you while doing our part to address the COVID-19 Pandemic is our priority. The Forest Service manages 18 national forests in the Pacific Southwest Region, which encompasses over 20 million acres across California, and assists state and private forest landowners in California, Hawaii and the U.S. Affiliated Pacific Islands. National forests supply 50 percent of the water in California and form the watershed of most major aqueducts and more than 2,400 reservoirs throughout the state. For more information, visit www.fs.usda.gov/R5. For additional information, please call the Supervisor’s Office at (530) 257-2151, Almanor Ranger District, (530) 258-2141, Eagle Lake Ranger District (530) 257-4188, or the Hat Creek Ranger District (530) 336-5521 during the hours of 8:00 a.m.- 4:30 p.m. Monday-Friday for customer service. # # # USDA is an equal opportunity provider, employer and lender. |