​Senator Dahle Reacts to the May Revise Budget Proposal
 
SACRAMENTO, CA – Senator Brian Dahle (R-Bieber) reacted to the today’s release of the May Revise budget proposal.
 
“It is a shocking revelation that California’s budget surplus is now over $97 billion, which equates to $2,400+ per resident, and the governor has proposed only returning a small portion to the taxpayers who generated it. Yes, California should invest in priorities like addressing the mental health and homelessness problem, improving education, water shortages, and wildfire risks, but we cannot continue to throw taxpayer dollars at failed policies that lack real solutions to these challenges. I look forward to discussing those solutions and returning tax dollars to Californians,” said Senator Brian Dahle (R-Bieber)
 
Senate Republicans have expressed their priorities in a letter to Legislative Budget Chairs, and look forward to discussing them in the upcoming Budget negotiations.
 

Lanes Reduced in State Route 89 South Roundabout During Maintenance Work
 
TRUCKEE – Caltrans is alerting State Route 89 south motorists to expect a lane reduction in the two-lane roundabout just north of Deerfield Drive for the next couple of weeks.
 
Maintenance crews, in coordination with the Town of Truckee, will be performing grading work in the roundabout to improve drainage and reduce water ponding. Work is scheduled from 7 a.m. to 5 p.m. Monday, May 16 through Thursday, May 19, and Monday, May 23 through Thursday, May 26.Maintenance crews may complete grading work earlier than anticipated.
 
During grading activities, the #1 (inside) lane of the roundabout will be closed, which will prevent left turning movements through the roundabout. Motorists may need to use alternative routes to access the Interstate 80 eastbound on-ramp due to the roundabout lane closure.
 
Caltrans reminds motorists to Be Work Zone Alert and slow in work zones for the safety of travelers and crews performing these improvements. The department will issue construction updates on Twitter@CaltransDist3 and on Facebook at CaltransDistrict3. For real-time traffic, click on Caltrans’ QuickMapquickmap.dot.ca.gov/ or download the QuickMap app from the App Store or Google Play.
 

 
SACRAMENTO - Today, Senate Republican Leader Scott Wilk (R-Santa Clarita) and members of the California Senate Republican Caucus delivered a specific list of budget priorities to Democratic leadership in anticipation of the governor’s May Revise of the budget. California Democrats have stated that the budget surplus ‘could hit a staggering $68 billion,’ and Senate Republicans urge investing those funds wisely.
 
“California is going to hell in a handbasket under a one-party rule,” said Senate Republican Leader Scott Wilk. “The budget should be laser-focused on addressing affordability, rising homelessness, public safety, and an environmental crisis with regard to drought and wildfire that threatens entire communities. These are the issues that keep ordinary Californians up at night.” 
 
Click here to read the full budget request. Included in the full list to address affordability and homelessness are:
 
--FULL Gas Tax Holiday - The state should immediately suspend the gas tax to reduce the cost of fuel for families suffering from record-high prices. The revenues should be backfilled by the General Fund so that transportation projects will not be impacted.
--Lower Costs for Renters - To help offset rising rental costs, California should increase the renter’s tax credit to $1,000 for spouses filing joint returns, heads of households, and surviving spouses. It should also include a $500 tax credit for other individuals to provide temporary assistance for one of California’s most significant problems.
--California Student Tax Credit - To assist students with the rising costs of housing, transportation, or other school expenses, California should offer up to several thousand dollars in student tax credits per year for eligible students.
--Address Mental Health and Substance Abuse Needs - The state should invest $10 billionto build the facilities needed to address the related crises of mental health, substance abuse, and homelessness.
--Invest in Water Storage - The state must invest the $2.6 billion necessary to fully fund the already voter-approved Sites Reservoir that will provide water storage for 1.5 million homes per year.
--Prepare for Wildfires - The state needs to remove the red tape and roadblocks stalling wildfire prevention and treatment projects.

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Gavin Newsom is still trying to punish businesses that stayed open during lockdowns and is specifically targeting political opponents. 

Even his media allies are disturbed. A Sacramento Bee headline reads: “Roseville restaurant that hosted ‘Newsom hour’ facing 30-day closure over COVID order.” The story continues:
"A Roseville restaurant that provocatively defied one of Gov. Gavin Newsom’s coronavirus emergency orders is fighting a potentially crippling suspension...Matthew Oliver, the restaurant owner, recently learned the [ABC] agency still wants to shut the House of Oliver. The notice came after The Bee featured him in a news story about how Placer County managed Newsom’s public health orders, often by ignoring state directives."
I’ve just sent Newsom and ABC a letter demanding the proceeding against House of Oliver end immediately, calling it “politically motivated” and a “selective prosecution.”
Last year, incidentally, I authored legislation to wipe clean all license revocations and fines for noncompliance with COVID orders. The bill had bipartisan support and was about to pass when leadership intervened, killing it on a 6-7 vote.
Newsom could never justify lockdowns, so he simply ordered them by fiat. In the same way, trying to close Matt Oliver’s business (which employees 100 people) is not just petty and vindictive, but a flagrant abuse of power.
If Newsom doesn’t back down, he’ll be shot down in court. In the meantime, if you’re in the Sacramento area, join me and Matt at House of Oliver today after 5 for a revived “Newsom Hour.” 
Kevin Kiley
California Legislator

On May 10th, 2022, at approximately 0809 hours, a male pedestrian (Michael Probst, 57 yrs old, out of Quincy) was walking across the Safeway parking lot in a northerly direction.  Brian Cote (58 yrs old, out of Calpine) was driving a Dodge 2500 pickup truck in a southerly direction in the Safeway parking lot, turning left (east) toward the male pedestrian.  The front of the pickup truck struck the male pedestrian and ultimately traveled over the top of the pedestrian.  Probst was pronounced deceased at the collision scene. 
 
This collision still remains under investigation.  If any member of the public has information regarding this incident, they are encouraged to contact the California Highway Patrol at (530) 283-1100.

Sierra County, CA– May 10, 2022 –Downieville’s iconic Cold Rush Café (https://www.coldrushcafe.com/) is holding its Grand Opening from May 12-15th to celebrate its new ownership. Four local friends came together to form a partnership, which they call Empire Creek Provisions, which focuses on keeping year-round businesses alive in their remote community in Sierra County, which largely is supported by seasonal tourism. Located in the historic “gold” building that once housed the 1950s-era Quartz Café in the quaint mountain town—200 Main Street, Downieville, CA—Cold Rush Café is one of the first sights for visitors as they drive eastbound along Highway 49 & the Scenic Yuba River Byway as they enter the pioneer town of Downieville, CA. This gourmet coffee shop, cafe, and ice cream parlor is just steps away from the confluence of the emerald green waters of the Downie and North Yuba Rivers where families stop to picnic, swim, spend their family vacation, mountain bike, or simply relax along the sandy shores and shaded banks.
 
Cold Rush has been operating under a “soft opening” in April and May of 2022 to prepare for the summer season, but is excited to relaunch the café and introduce new hours and new menu items for breakfast and lunch including a variety of bakery items, organic grab-and-go goods, and bagels with a variety spreads. This summer, Cold Rush plans on opening their Build-Your-Own (BYO) Sandwich Bar for lunch options. “We're excited to welcome guests year round, seven days a week, and to carry as many fresh and organic ingredients as possible. We aim to carry on the tradition of Cold Rush Cafe, and the spirit of Quartz Cafe before that. A community hub, a gathering place to connect, socialize and make memories.” said Sonya Ziegler Meline, investor in Cold Rush Cafe.
 
New items to look out for include loose leaf New Zealand Sunny Slopes Tea, a refreshing fruit tisane option made of dried fruits including kiwi and strawberry. Also enjoy the decadent avocado toast which includes Dave’s Killer Bread, everything bagel seasoning, olive oil drizzle, and organic arugula. Many classic menu items are also available for long standing customers to enjoy including favorites such as the White Chocolate Lavender Latte, Espresso Milkshake, and the organic chocolate mochas.
 
The crew at Cold Rush is also excited to introduce their signature blended drinks they call Rushies in varieties that include green tea, espresso, mocha, chai, and the local’s favorite, the dirty chai which includes two shots of espresso with a spiced chai tea. All Rushies and drinks are offered with a variety of alternative milks including oat, almond, hemp, and more.  

Café Moto is the premier roaster Cold Rush utilizes for their coffee and espresso beverages. They are a California-based family owned supplier of fairtrade, solarpower roasted, and organic coffee and tea since 1990. Many Cafe Moto sources from women owned co-ops – and their brew ratio of 16:1 percolates rich flavor & fragrant aroma for their diverse products.
 
The Cold Rush ice cream bar stocks 12 different flavors from a variety of premium brands to satiate summertime cravings and has a plethora of titillating toppings and sauces to make your treat extra sweet! A signature topping includes golden star sprinkles to honor the gold rush history of Sierra County.
 
Some things to look forward to at this weekend’s opening event include free mini ice cream cones, coffee drinks, tea, and discounted food items as well as a raffle for a “Coffee-a-day for a Month” giveaway and other baskets.
 
Customers are also encouraged to join the Rush Club by asking Cold Rush baristas for a Rush Club Card - Buy 10 drinks and get the 11th free. “We hope to welcome our community to join in the fun. It’s a low key way to celebrate a small business in our community! I hope to see everyone come down and grab a gourmet coffee, a frosty treat, or swing by for a friendly chat this weekend, or any day of the week!” said general manager, Max Ryan.
 
 
 
ABOUT COLD RUSH
Cold Rush Cafe is a small town coffee shop, a community hub, and a homebase to plan your adventures in Downieville. We pride ourselves on serving organic and fair trade espresso and coffees, a selection of 12 premium ready to scoop ice creams, and quick and nourishing meals for breakfast and lunch. Our team is ready to greet you with a smile 7-days-a-week.
 
​

 
By Bryan Golden
 
     Many problems we have could be avoided or minimized if more people refused to follow the crowd.  Group behavior often instills fear and panic as it becomes a self-fulfilling prophecy.  Regardless of reality, the crowd is lead with false premises.  They then behave as if what they are being told is true.  As a result, their actions transform the alleged circumstances into reality.
     For example, there are reports that a specific bank might be having financial problems.  In fact, there is no truth to the rumors.  Nevertheless, its customers panic, causing a run on the bank.  Now the bank does have monetary difficulties. 
     Crowd mentality is a powerful force that sweeps up many as it builds momentum.  However, crowd mentality is rarely grounded in logic or reasonable thinking.  Group think assimilates individuals who, by themselves, normally aren't governed by fear.
     One major contributing factor to the crowd mentality is media hysteria.  The media's choice of words when reporting on events has a huge impact.  Subjective descriptions are used to evoke a specific reaction.  When the headlines are dire, the crowd behaves accordingly.
     A negative group mindset is as contagious as an epidemic.  Individuals are subjected to peer pressure.  They are chastised for any contrarian views.  Mob psychology has impacted us throughout history.
     People caught up in crowd mentality accept what they are told without questioning its validity.  The result is a few controlling many.  Just watch how a few sheepdogs can direct a heard of hundreds of sheep.  People will behave as part of the crowd in ways they would never imagine were they acting independently.
     You want to guard against being pulled into the crowd.  Although it’s tempting to go along with the flow, resistance is worth the effort.  Giving up your individuality carries too high a price.  There are some simple steps you can take to avoid getting caught up with the crowd.
     You don’t have to participate in any mass hysteria.  You are in control of your thoughts and actions.  Think for yourself.  Ask questions.  What is the source of the information you are getting and what is the bias?  Also, is there any hidden agenda?
     What works for others isn’t necessarily right for you.  You need not follow along just because someone else is behaving in a particular fashion.  Consider your own situation and beliefs.  What makes sense for you is the essential issue.
     For example, let’s consider the economy.  Historically, its fluctuations are cyclic.  Perhaps there is a downturn and the crowd is yelling the sky is falling.  However, you have an income and are OK financially.  Why should you change your behavior and go along with the crowd?
     What about a situation where the opposite exists?  The crowd is gushing about a surging economy.  Yet, you have lost your job and are struggling.  In this case, you must tailor your actions to accommodate your situation.
     What others say or think about you doesn’t matter.  Your life shouldn’t be structured to seek approval.  You are responsible for your actions along with the results.  You can’t blame anyone else for what you do.  The excuse, “everyone else was doing it” doesn’t have any validity.
     When you follow the crowd, you abdicate your free will.  The risk is doing things you may regret.  Your behavior may then also exacerbate your own situation, making problems worse.
     Crowd behavior and attitude is often negative.  By getting caught up in it, you get pulled down.  Stay independent, remain positive, and follow your own path.  You will be happier and accomplish more.


  Bryan is the author of "Dare to Live Without Limits."  Contact Bryan at Bryan@columnist.com or visit www.DareToLiveWithoutLimits.com Copyright 2022 Bryan Golden
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Paul Bianco and coordinator Holly Johnson at the Mohawk Community Resource Center in Blairsden
 
THE COWBOY CONNECTION:
He is a frequent visitor at the Mohawk Community Resource Center (MCRC) in Blairsden.  He enjoys using the library, and some of the other conveniences. As it is for so many residents of Eastern Plumas County the resource center is a familiar and important place. In the course of his many visits he got to know the MCRC coordinator, Holly Johnson. After a while, and many conversations later, Holly realized that this guy had an important story to tell. He’s a senior citizen, a long time resident of Plumas County, and a part of the history of White Sulphur Springs Ranch.
His name is Paul Bianco.  Holly arranged for Paul to tell his story to a couple of Mohawk Valley Stewardship Council (MVSC) volunteers.  The MVSC are the stewards of White Sulphur Springs Ranch and Paul’s history took on a special meaning for these people and their organization.
Paul’s grandfather came to Ellis Island from Italy in 1917, probably to escape the world war that was destroying Europe.  Paul’s father was a World War II naval veteran and Paul was born in San Francisco in 1946. The very definition of a baby boomer. He was in his late 30’s, on a long horseback ride on the Pacific Crest Trail in 1985, when he stopped for a while in Graeagle. In his words he was “overwhelmed” by the appearance and the ambiance of the community. He saw an impressive looking gent that was striding through the park.  The guy stopped to pick up a piece of trash and put it in his pocket. Paul decided then that he wanted to be a part of this community.  He found out later that the impressive stranger he saw was Harvey West. Being an experienced horseman, Paul stopped at the Graeagle Stables to ask for a job.  Both the horses and the grounds were in terrible shape. He offered to work at the stables in order to improve the conditions and establish himself in the community, knowing that he would someday own this business.  After less than two years working as a wrangler he made the right offer to buy and became the new owner.
The next 10 years saw great improvement at the stables. Paul worked hard to make the customer’s riding experience something special. One of the most popular trips was a ride and an overnight at the then, bed and breakfast inn, White Sulphur Springs Ranch. The following is a quote from the Sacramento Magazine of June, 1987.
“Twice a week throughout the summer, guided groups of about a dozen guests (more than half first-time riders) depart the stables in downtown Graeagle to wind along scenic Feather River country trails and beside the meandering middle fork. Champagne and other refreshments are served along the way and the tired mounts receive carrots dipped in honey and rolled in oats.
Nearly ten miles and three hours from the stables, the troupe arrives at White Sulphur Springs Ranch, where travelers soak their weary muscles in a warm spring fed pool or toss horse shoes in the isolated meadow, while chefs prepare the evening’s steak barbecue.
After breakfast the next morning the group heads home (sandwiches and wooden tubs of drinks await lunchgoers at a picnic table in the pine forest along the way), arriving at Graeagle by noon.  Cost of the trip, meals and lodging included, was $165”
Paul Bianco had turned the dilapidated Graeagle Stables he found in 1985, into a successful tourist attraction and an important chapter in the history of WSSR. He sold the business ten years later, in 1995.
During the time of Paul’s ownership of the stables the complex at White Sulphur Springs Ranch (WSSR) included a hen house, a bunk house, a blacksmith shop, a carriage house and at least two other structures besides the main ranch house.  The resident managers were Judy and Jim Cowen.  The property was owned by Don Miller and Linda Miller Vanella.  In Paul Bianco’s memory these two siblings did not get along and due to poor management, the bed and breakfast venture failed. The property was finally sold in 2003.
It quickly became apparent that the new owner was not interested in restoring or even maintaining the historic property.  Some of the outbuildings were destroyed and the big main house was in the process of being dismantled.  At that point a group of dedicated residents formed the 501(c)(3) public benefit, Mohawk Valley Stewardship Council (MVSC). The destruction stopped and the renovation began.
Paul Bianco’s experience with WSSR reminds us of what an important part of the community it used to be.  The story of his relationship with WSSR, brings Plumas County history to life and shows us how the return of the functioning ranch can add to the quality of life in the  community.
The MVSC is in the middle of a fundraising campaign called “Build a Legacy, Brick buy Brick”. Begun in 2016, the idea is to sell concrete bricks, inscribed with a message, that will become part of the landscape at WSSR. To date over 200 bricks have been installed near the entrance to the old ranch house.  The Board of Directors of the MVSC has decided to donate a brick to honor Paul Bianco’s connection to WSSR.  The inscription will read “Paul Bianco, Graeagle Stables 1985-1995”.  The figure of a horse will accompany this text.
Bricks can be ordered from a brochure located on site near the brick display. They are also available via the website at www.whitesulphurspringsranch.com or by contacting chairperson, Janet Reihsen, either online, at jreihsen@earthlink.net ,or by phone, at 530-836-2495. The mailing address for the MVSC is PO Box 25 Clio CA. 96106.
For more information about the MVSC, its organization and goals, go to the website. To be a part of the process of restoring the historic ranch, contact the volunteer chairperson, Judy Porep-Lullo at 530-836-0254.
John Lullo, April 2022
 
 
         
 
 

 

SACRAMENTO – Senate Democrats recently failed to provide gas price relief when they killed Senate Bill 1156, which would have permanently eliminated the annual gas tax increase. SB 1156, authored by Bakersfield Republican Senator Shannon Grove, failed on a party-line vote during its first policy hearing in the Senate Governance and Finance Committee.

With the gas tax set to climb from 51.1 cents to 53.9 cents per gallon on July 1, legislative Democrats have stubbornly refused to provide a lifeline for California drivers. While Democrats sit on their hands, Californians continue to pay the highest prices in the nation at $5.78 for a gallon of unleaded gas. (GasBuddy.com) 
 
“The double whammy of steep inflation coupled with California’s already sky-high cost of living is breaking Californians,” said Senate Republican Leader Scott Wilk (Santa Clarita). “Republicans have been calling for a gas tax holiday since last July. Tone-deaf Democrats have hemmed, hawed, and promised relief but done absolutely nothing to help Californians. It’s deplorable.”

“It’s ironic that Sacramento Democrats refused to give taxpayers even the smallest of breaks when it comes to gas prices, yet they passed tax cuts for marijuana growers on the very same day my legislation died,” said Senator Grove. “This is another example of how the majority party’s agenda is disconnected from the reality that families live every day.”
 
Senate Republicans’ Efforts on Suspending the Gas Tax:

--June 2021: Senate Republicans called for a gas tax holiday.
--July 2021: Republican Senator Rosilicie Ochoa Bogh (Yucaipa) offered amendments formally requesting the suspension of the state gas tax and waiving an upcoming increase. Democrats failed to act then – just as they are failing to act now.
--January 2022: With another anticipated budget surplus, Senate Republicans released our priorities for 2022, including an urgent call once again for a gas tax holiday. 
--March 2022: Senate Republicans doubled down on their calls for gas price relief. Such calls included formally requesting a gas tax holiday in the state budget, introducing legislation to reduce gas tax burdens, and calling on legislative budget committee chairs to take action amidst skyrocketing gas prices earlier this year. 

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Senator Wilk represents the 21st Senate District, which includes the Antelope, Santa Clarita and Victor valleys. Learn more about Scott by visiting his website and be sure to connect with him on social media.

Senator 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. ​

QUINCY, CA — Improving weather signals the start of the summer recreation season, including camping, hiking and fishing. On the Plumas National Forest, recreation facilities typically start reopening in early May.

Preparations are being made to open some sites at Wyandotte Campground at Little Grass Valley Recreation Area, as well as sites in Sly Creek and Strawberry Campgrounds in the Sly Creek Recreation Area on May 22.
Reservations for Wyandotte Campground are available at Recreation.gov. Campsites in the Sly Creek Recreation Area are first come, first served.
There are several other campgrounds managed by the Plumas National Forest available now, including Red Bridge Campground and Brady’s Camp on the Mount Hough Ranger District, and Milsap Bar Campground and American House and Poker Flat OHV Camps on the Feather River Ranger District.
Openings for other sites are currently delayed, and we don’t have an estimated opening date at this time. This includes facilities at Lake Davis and in the Feather River Canyon, which were originally scheduled to open this weekend. Visitors who made reservations on Reservation.gov through May 11 have received cancellation notifications.
The sites are managed by Outdoors in Plumas. We are working with our partners at Outdoors in Plumas to open recreation facilities for the 2022 season as soon as possible. During this process, more cancellations may occur on Recreation.gov until facilities are able to open for the 2022 season.
“We appreciate the patience of area visitors and local communities while we work to open recreation facilities for the season,” said Plumas National Forest Supervisor Chris Carlton. “The past couple years have been difficult for all of our communities, and our goal is to provide access to as many of the amazing recreation sites on the Plumas as soon as possible.”
Outdoors in Plumas operates 68 of approximately 150 developed recreation sites on the Plumas National Forest as a concessionaire under permit with the Plumas National Forest. This includes campgrounds, day use areas, boat launches and other facilities.
The Forest has several Day Use areas that are currently open.
On the Beckwourth Ranger District, this includes Frenchman Dam and Lake Davis Dam Kiosks, Turkey Point, Salmon Egg Shoal, Nightcrawler Bay, Cow Creek and Snallygaster Point Fishing Sites, Eagle Point Fishing Access, Portola and Jackson Creek Picnic Areas, Fairview Point, Jenkins Point and Frazier Falls Trailhead.
On the Mount Hough Ranger District, this includes Antelope Dam Kiosk, Guiney Point Day Use Area, Cascade Trailhead and Day Use Area, Lunker Landing Fishing Site and Round Valley Picnic Area.
For those looking for a camping adventure outside developed facilities, dispersed recreation is a great option.
Dispersed camping is allowed anywhere in the Forest, except for in developed recreation areas (backpacking is allowed in the Lakes Basin Recreation Area, but only to the north of Mount Elwell), within 100 feet of a lake or stream, or within a meadow. Outside of those areas, a campsite can be set up, with camping allowed for up to 21 days. Leave No Trace outdoor ethics should be practiced.
For more information, visit www.fs.usda.gov/activity/plumas/recreation/camping-cabins. Forest visitors should be aware of closures and current conditions when planning a trip.
Many locations on the forest have been affected by wildfire over the past few years and may affect the recreation experience.
Spring weather conditions are also highly variable and can change rapidly, from warm and dry to cold and wet with little notice. This weekend includes precipitation and cooler weather in the forecast, with storms in the forecast through early next week.
Please visit www.outdoorsinplumas.com for additional information on the recreation sites they manage.
For more information on the Plumas National Forest, visit www.fs.usda.gov/plumas, follow the forest on Twitter @USFSPlumas or on Facebook at www.facebook.com/USFSPlumas.
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USDA is an equal opportunity provider, employer and lender. 

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Sacramento, CA - Mother’s Day gifts are often a hard task to conquer. Make the process less strenuous by shopping wisely. Whether you decide on flowers, custom jewelry or a spa date for the wonderful women in your life, always be sure you purchase that special gift from a trustworthy business.  

BBB urges consumers to take extra precaution with placing floral orders, especially online. “Not all online florists are the same,” said Lynn Conner, President Better Business Bureau serving Northeast California. “While some people are extremely happy with their online floral purchases, others find themselves disappointed when the flowers don’t arrive on time, or don’t arrive at all.”
When finalizing gifts and shopping online, BBB recommends the following:
Do your homework. Before ordering any gifts for Mother’s Day, check out the company’s BBB Business profile on BBB.org. The business profile reveals complaint, advertising and government action history – all important things to know when ordering online. Make sure the website you are purchasing from is secure, you understand all company terms and conditions before you buy.
Allow time for shipping and delivery. Check with the retailer or website to be certain that you have allowed enough time for delivery. Make sure that this date is specified clearly and guaranteed when you order.
Have a back-up plan. Make sure you understand the store's guarantee. Find out how customer complaints are handled and what recourse you will have if the arrangement is not satisfactory. It is best to use a credit card when ordering online because you can dispute charges if the order is not delivered. Charges made on a debit card have no recourse through your bank if there is a problem.
Make sure the business has your information.  When it comes to delivery, there are times when delivery instructions need to be confirmed or a delivery driver needs additional directions. Making sure the florist can reach you at a phone number to help make sure your mom receives your gift.

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COMMUNITY MEMBERS prayed around the flag pole at Loyalton Firehouse at 12 noon. Janet McHenry led the group in prayer for family, community, business, government, schools in the midst of wicked winds. - Photo by Janet

Keep Tahoe Bears Wild! 
LAKE TAHOE, Calif./Nev. – The snow is melting in the Lake Tahoe region and a mild winter has given way to a bustling, early spring for wildlife in the area. Bears have emerged from their dens, are on the move and hungry!

In the fall, black bears experienced hyperphagia (pronounced hai·pr·fei·jee·uh), which is an increase in feeding activity (consuming about 25,000 calories a day) driven by their need to fatten up before winter. Over the course of the winter, bears’ bodies utilize those fat stores during hibernation when food is scarce. Come spring, their body mass will have naturally decreased and as a result, bears will be on the lookout for easy food sources to help rebuild those fat reserves.

In the spring, bears come down in elevation to seek out fresh grasses that are starting to sprout, which often brings them into human-occupied areas with green lawns. Unfortunately, these urban areas have an abundance of human attractants for bears to easily access. It is up to visitors and residents to keep bears from finding unnatural, human food sources.

Bears play an important part in Lake Tahoe’s ecosystem and allowing them access to human food and garbage is detrimental to natural processes in the region. Bears help spread berry seeds through their scat, transport pollen, clean up animals that died during the winter, eat insects, and provide other essential functions of nature.

As a result, if they find and access human food and garbage, bird seed, pet food, coolers, and other sources of human food, the Tahoe Basin loses the benefits bears offer to these natural processes. Bears need to be wild animals rather than garbage disposals, especially since these unnatural food sources can impact their overall health and damage and/or rot their teeth.

In fact, bears will unknowingly eat indigestible items from human trash like foil, paper products, plastics, and metal that can damage their internal systems and even lead to death. If these items do make it through their digestive system, they leave it behind in their scat rather than the native seeds and healthy fertilizer needed to grow the next generation of plant life.

Spring is also the time of year that residents or visitors may see a bear they feel looks unhealthy, sick, or orphaned. If anyone has concerns about a bear’s state of health, never hesitate to call state agency wildlife experts. If the bear needs help, wildlife experts have the training to assess the bear’s condition and transport it to a wildlife veterinarian. Healthy bears mean healthy ecosystems, and we can all do our part to set both up for success!

Follow these important tips to help keep Tahoe’s bears wild:

• Never feed wildlife.
• Store all garbage in and properly close bear-resistant garbage containers, preferably bear boxes. Inquire with local refuse companies about bear box incentives and payment programs. Visit southtahoerefuse.com/bear-info/ and/orwww.ndow.org/Nevada_Wildlife/Bear_Logic/ for more information.
• Never leave leftovers, groceries, animal feed, garbage, or anything scented in vehicles, campsites, or tents.
• Always lock vehicles and close the windows. Keep in mind eating in the car leaves lingering food odors that attract bears.
• Keep barbecue grills clean and stored in a garage or shed when not in use.
• Keep doors and windows closed and locked when the home is unoccupied.
• Vegetable gardens, compost piles, orchards, and chickens may attract bears. Use electric fences where allowed to keep bears out. Refrain from hanging bird feeders.
• When camping, always store food (including pet food), drinks, toiletries, coolers, cleaned grills, cleaned dishes, cleaning products, and all other scented items in bear-resistant containers (storage lockers/bear boxes) provided at campsites. Bear-resistant coolers that come equipped with padlock devices should always be locked.
• Always place garbage in bear-resistant dumpsters in campgrounds or in bear-resistant containers at campsites (storage lockers/bear boxes), and close and lock after each use.
• Store food in bear-resistant food storage canisters while recreating in the backcountry.
• Give wildlife space, especially when they have young with them.
• Leave small bears alone, as mom might be right around the corner.

“The bottom line is that Lake Tahoe is bear country. It is up to each one of us, including those living in, visiting, or recreating in the Tahoe Basin to practice good stewardship habits by always securing food, trash, and other scented items,” said USDA Forest Service Public Affairs Specialist Lisa Herron. “Good habits will help ensure we keep Tahoe bears wild.”

To report human-bear conflicts in California, contact the California Department of Fish and Wildlife at 916-358-2917 or report online using the Wildlife Incident Reporting (WIR) system at apps.wildlife.ca.gov/wir. Non-emergency wildlife interactions in California State Parks can be reported to public dispatch at 916-358-1300. To report human-bear conflicts in Nevada, contact Nevada Department of Wildlife at 775-688-BEAR (2327). If the issue is an immediate threat or emergency, call the local sheriff’s department or 911.

For more information on peacefully coexisting with bears, visit TahoeBears.org.

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Suspect: Joel Walker, 35, of Portola.
On Monday, May 2, 2022 at approx. 11:30 pm the Plumas County Sheriff's Office Dispatch Center received several 911 calls reporting a structure fire on Main St, in Portola CA.
Units from Beckwourth Fire, Eastern Plumas Fire and Sierra Valley Fire responded and quickly extinguished the fire. The residence was unoccupied at the time of the fire.
The following morning, Detectives from the Plumas County Sheriff's Office learned the previous occupant of the residence had been in the area just before the fire was reported. Detectives began an investigation assisted by Beckwourth Fire Chief Russell. It was determined through the investigation that Joel Walker of Portola, was responsible for setting the fire. Walker was arrested for Arson and Violation of Parole and transported to the Plumas County Correctional Center where he was booked and is being held on $250,000 bail.
Anyone with information regarding the fire is urged to call the Plumas County Sheriff's Office at 530- 283-6300.
The case will be sent to the DA Office for review.
Visit us online at plumascounty.us and follow us on Facebook 

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Timberfest makes a comeback on May 14th starting at 10 a.m. with a parade in downtown Loyalton. Sierra Booster photos are from 1993 and 1995

TIMBERFEST COMMITTEE 1995 - Joyce McGarity, Rod Thompson, Ed Shelton, Mike Welbourn, Andy White and Charlie Foster. In front are Deanna Foster, Juanita Shelton, Pat Whitley, Tami Thompson and Terry LeBlanc.

Celebrate Mother’s Day anyway you can but don’t miss the opportunity to honor mom. The opportunities pass us by. While mom is alive is the time to do something for her. Too often someone dies and we want to make sure we attend their funeral and buy flowers. We talk about missed opportunities. While your special person is alive is the time to cherish and make a big deal about that person. 

Do what you can do. Mom’s simply want to know you care. You could clean out the garage or clean the house. Spend a day working in the yard or trimming shrubbery. People buy flowers and take mom out to dinner typically on Mother’s Day. It is no secret that flowers have become even more expensive and many restaurants are having employee issues. If you had to wait to be served in the past this Mother’s Day may be challenging. Consider taking mom a card and writing her a letter. Tell her how you feel about her and thank her for being a great mom.  The main thing is don’t forget the day. If you are a long way from home by all means make a phone call.

I know some great mothers. My wife is a phenomenal mother. I have sisters, daughters and a daughter in law who are great mothers. So, there are plenty of people around for me to honor this weekend. I suspect you may know one or two. Even if they aren’t family, wish them a happy Mother’s Day. 

My mother has been in heaven for a long time and so has the mother of my two sons. Mother’s Day is a tough day for them as they lost their mother when they were 20 and 17 year’s old. My wife’s mother passed just a few years ago.  It happens. The chair at the table suddenly is empty and all you are left with are pictures and memories. 

I miss the long telephone conversations with my mother. We talked on the telephone for 30 minutes sometimes twice a week. When I was a child, she was my advocate. She was my school tutor. We didn’t eat out growing up so she kept food on the table three times a day. When I was a small child, we still had a ringer washing machine and the water was not great. We caught rain water in large tubs and then carried it in to wash clothes. I remember a couple of summers of carrying water from the creek to wash clothes. She ironed clothes for an entire day every week. It was a great day when we were finally able to have an automatic washer and dryer. 

Mom worked hard and about twice a week dressed up really nice and she and dad went to church. Like most of our mothers I could write a lot about her but Eula Hinkle Mollette was a wonderful mother. She loved me, corrected me and supported me. I know there were times I disappointed her but she never disconnected from me. She was always there as best as she could be.

The point is don’t miss celebrating Mother’s Day. You only have one mom. Cherish every minute. 


Hear Glenn Mollette every weekday morning EST at 8:56 and 11:31 on XM radio channel 131

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By Dr. Daman Jamarai, Chief Medical Officer, UnitedHealthcare Medicare & Retirement of California
Amanda Rees, CEO, Age Bold
 
While we continue to study and gather data about the second-order impacts of COVID-19, it is becoming clear that the pandemic exacerbated risk factors for falls among older adults like physical inactivity. For this reason, it is vital for older adults to know that support is available that can help reduce their risk for falls and improve their quality of life.
 
Nearly 25 percent of able-bodied older adults in California is classified as physically inactive, putting them at increased risks for falls and disease, according to the 2021 America’s Health Rankings Senior Report. In California, 30.4 percent of adults aged 65 and older reported a fall in the past year, the reported showed.
 
Falls present a more significant health threat than many realize, and, for older adults, they can take a serious toll on quality of life, independence, and overall wellbeing. While the risk of falls increases for older adults, falls are not a normal part of aging and pose a serious public health concern.
 
While contributing factors for falls like physical inactivity, obesity, and alcohol abuse were exacerbated by COVID-19, other risk factors include arthritis, poor balance and vision, certain medications, osteoporosis, certain disabilities and general frailty. Older adults with arthritis, a common driver of disability, are more than twice as likely to experience a fall.
 
Recent data from the Centers for Disease Control & Prevention (CDC) show falls are the No. 1 cause of injury and ER visits for adults age 65 and older. One in 4 older adults fall each year, costing more than $50 billion annually. And that cost is projected to increase up to $100 billion by 2030.
 
As a physician and a leader in healthy aging, we have each seen firsthand the impact of falls on both patients and loved ones. Falls too often lead to a cascade of health challenges and a decrease in quality of life. An older adult who suffers a fall may not be able to enjoy the same activities as before like gardening, sports, or other hobbies.
 
To help address these challenges, Age Bold and UnitedHealthcare are working together in California to provide fitness programs at no additional cost for eligible UnitedHealthcare Medicare plan members and to raise awareness of risk factors for falls among older adults. Proper exercise can reduce risks for falls among older adults by improving strength and balance.
  
In addition to exercise, the CDC has helpful resources and tips for reducing risk for falls, including speaking openly with your physician, having your eyes and feet checked, and removing obstacles in the home that could pose a tripping hazard.
 
COVID-19 caused a shift in consumer demand for flexible, simple, and convenient options to access healthcare and the resources to live a healthier life. It’s more important than ever that we come together to support the older adults in our communities with the resources they need to stay on their feet and maintain the quality of life they deserve.
 

Eastbound Lane Reduction Scheduled Wednesday for Various Maintenance Activities

FLORISTON – Caltrans is alerting Interstate 80 (I-80) eastbound motorists to expect travel delays and a lane reduction between Truckee and the Nevada state line Wednesday, May 4 for various maintenance activities.
From 7 a.m. to 5 p.m. Wednesday, Caltrans will have the #2 (right) lane of I-80 eastbound closed from just east of the Hinton Overcrossing to Floriston.
The I-80 eastbound off-ramp (Exit 199) to Floriston will also be closed for the duration of the work. Motorists wishing to exit at Floriston should continue on I-80 eastbound to the Farad off-ramp (Exit 201), loop onto I-80 westbound via the Farad on-ramp and then use the I-80 westbound Floriston off- ramp (Exit 199), which will remain open.
Caltrans crews will be performing various
activities during the lane reduction including: core drilling, drainage cleaning, sweeping, litter cleanup and replacing electrical lighting along bridge rails and damaged highway delineation/signs.
Caltrans reminds motorists to Be Work Zone Alert and slow in work zones for the safety of travelers and crews performing these improvements. The department will issue construction updates on Twitter @CaltransDist3 and on Facebook at CaltransDistrict3. For real-time traffic, click on Caltrans’ QuickMap quickmap.dot.ca.gov/ or download the QuickMap app from the App Store or Google Play. 

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Someone raised the question on Twitter: If Biden doesn’t run in 2024, who is most likely to get the Democratic nomination? Ben Smith, the former NY Times Writer and BuzzFeed Editor, replied: “Isn’t Gavin Newsom the obvious answer.”
Newsom's delusional White House dreams are no secret. He basically used COVID as a campaign launch, believing if he could out-lockdown, out-mandate, and out-virtue-signal other blue state governors, that was his ticket to national glory.
We saw the same playbook yesterday in response to the leaked Supreme Court opinion. Even though it would have literally no impact on California, Newsom wildly vowed to “fight like hell,” outdoing the histrionics of other politicians.
For a time, it looked like Kamala Harris had boxed him out of the 2024 sweepstakes. But her absolute collapse on the national stage has opened the door – and Newsom is galloping through it in the most ungainly of fashions.
One reason I’m running for Congress is to warn the nation against the disastrous policies Newsom has inflicted on California. Now, it seems that warning may have to be more specific: not to let Newsom inflict himself on America. 
In good news, several Democrats have come out in favor of my proposal to suspend the gas tax. This is only happening after we forced the issue repeatedly. It's further proof: the way you get the Supermajority to act is not by asking nicely.
And in other good news, a new poll shows parents plan to vote Republican by a 28-point margin. It seems the policy of causing kids nonstop misery for two years didn’t go over well. 

Kevin KileyCalifornia Legislator