Blog Archives - Sierra Booster

California Adopts New Fire Plan

8/30/2018

Strategic Fire Plan Provides Roadmap To Combat Wildfires

Sacramento – As destructive wildfires continue to burn throughout California, the California Board of Forestry and Fire Protection (Board) took action last week in adoption of the 2018 Strategic Fire Plan. The Strategic Fire Plan for California is the State’s road map for reducing the risk and impacts from wildland fires.

“We continue to experience large and damaging wildfires across our State and must work to break the cycle,” said J. Keith Gilless, Chair of the California Board of Forestry and Fire Protection. “This plan addresses the need for continued efforts to prevent wildfire, while considering recent climate considerations like drought and tree mortality.”

The plan update was developed over the past 21-months in a collaborative effort between the Board, CAL FIRE, stakeholders, and public input. “Significant effort went into the development of this plan, and now we have updated policy to guide us through current and future fire seasons.” said Chief Ken Pimlott, CAL FIRE Director.

The Strategic Fire Plan places an emphasis on what needs to be done long before a fire starts, while also looking to reduce firefighting costs, property losses, increasing firefighter safety, and contributing to forest health. The 2018 Strategic Fire Plan has seven goals that include: analyzing the fire risk, supporting land use planning, community preparedness planning, public education, integrating landowner fuels management, identifying fire suppression resources, increasing fire prevention efforts, and post wildfire recovery.

Since the last iteration of the Strategic Fire Plan in 2010, it appears that the impacts of climate change has resulted in increased severity of wildfires, longer fire seasons, increased extreme weather conditions, historic drought, and led to our State’s worst tree mortality epidemic in history. The 2018 Strategic Fire Plan addresses these issues and highlights the need for heightened levels of fire prevention and protection of natural resources.

“The 2010 Fire Plan served us well in navigating one of California’s worst droughts,” said Chief Daniel Berlant, CAL FIRE assistant deputy director and co-chair of the Fire Plan Steering Committee. “This new plan will continue to provide us a framework to reduce California’s growing wildfire risk.”

The State’s Strategic Fire Plan is updated every 8-10 years. Annually, CAL FIRE provides an update to the Board to report on the progress in plan implementation and on successes, as well as challenges. Each CAL FIRE Unit and Contract County develop local fire plans based on the guidance provided in the 2018 Strategic Fire Plan.

The 2018 Strategic Fire Plan is available on the Board’s website at: http://www.bof.fire.ca.gov/.

CANNABIS MANUFACTURING IN LOYALTON?

8/29/2018

JEFF NAUGHTON of Evexia Science is shown above with Council member Joy Markum and Mayor Mark Marin on August 28th during Public Comment. Members of the public are shown in the doorway.

CANNABIS MANUFACTURE AND DISTRIBUTION was subject of a Public Hearing Monday, August 27th at Loyalton City Hall. City Council member Joy Markum called it a presentation on a new business that would like to come in the community and she gave two guidelines: no fist fights and no bullying.
Richard Mackler, advisor and consultant introduced Jeff Naughton and Augustine, interpreter for CA Superior Courts six years, owners of a cannabis medical dispensary business, Evexia Science in Truckee. Richard told of previous successes, and the plan to move out of Truckee which won’t permit retail sales and come do manufacturing and distribution in Loyalton. He planned to give a slide presentation but for a constant barrage of questions.
Among questions were why they didn’t go to Nevada City and why they were denied in Truckee, tax revenue if it’s illegal federally, their environmental plan, law enforcement, business hours, manufacturing concerns, from where retail and distribution are sourced.
Augustine, who has no degree but experience in business, talked of mainly manufacturing and compared it to a bakery but was booed by the audience, urged not to use the comparison.
Richard told of being the only collective in California to do primary research and would love to do a soda factory here, doing initially tablets which is their main product.
He told of Truckee not allowing store fronts or manufacturing. His goal is being a “collaborative partner with Loyalton.” Plans would be to purchase 710 and 712 Main Street vacant lots, contingent on the license, and construct a 4,500 sq. ft. metal building. He hadn’t looked at local construction companies and was reminded by City bookkeeper Tracy Smith that Truckee construction companies have a “huge base of employees” in Loyalton. Under question of distinction of money of tax revenue, Richard stated they put proceeds in a bank, had talked to the town attorney and there was no distinction on where the money’s from.
Richard told of the City being eligible for State grants, they’d have retail sales predominately tablets and edibles with auto and pickup truck distribution.
Questioned on manufacturing concerns, Richard told of using one chemical, alcohol, food coloring and flavors.
With Dennis Marsh stating commercial grows were illegal in Sierra County, Richard said they’d be dealing with maybe 300-pounds of raw material per month.
Sarah Grew of Pike told about adult and medical use of cannabis, caring about wellness and was met with sarcasm with audience members stating, “Illegal drug money is so wrong.” Markum reminded the crowd, “Don’t point fingers.”
Richard told of a sally door for security and controlled entry. He talked of the impact on law enforcement with “not a lot of officers.” He called security their responsibility and material stored in safes. Dennis Marsh corrected him of more police presence and security can’t fall on them but residents and County government. Dennis felt insulted it sounded like town folk are “back water hicks.”
Several in the audience spoke out against the permit until they spoke with the sheriff’s department and a concern for the “well being of town,” the affects of the whole valley and the subject being tabled, wanting the opinion of the sheriff.
Richard told of the State process to track and trace every sale of medical or adult cannabis with independent testing labs. Audience members questioned the sally door and why the building had to be downtown.
Dennis Marsh told the underlying concern was the lack of promotion of the meeting and how it could be an action item the next night at the council meeting and they’d like to see a series of meetings.
Richard said reality was weather, the ability to break ground and pour.
After questioning on State licensing and rules and being read how taxes aren’t seeing the benefit, Richard stated they weren’t taking testimonies but rather to address questions.
Derrick Koch is Boy Scout advisor, EMT, firefighter and told of kids’ individual research, gave percentages and advised, “Don’t do it.”
Victoria Fisher, wife of Sheriff-elect Sgt. Mike Fisher, addressed Richard to do due diligence and contact the sheriff. She called the county “in limbo” and in January they’d make sure the coverage is on both sides of the county. Sgt. Fisher was in Alleghany.
Nurse Donna Dorsey had misgivings, told side affects and risks and stated it “doesn’t sound like medical.” She told of a “clear message” if the community approves this; to our child we approve of marijuana. She called it a “moral issue.”
That was met with an audience member stating, “Flip side is to do something economically.”

August 28th City Council meeting’s Public Comment had Dennis Marsh tell of California’s cannabis enforcement position of 600-feet from any schools. He measured from the proposed lot to the elementary school gym which is 317-feet. He strongly suggested action on cannabis retail processing and distribution not be allowed, calling it “obviously blatant disregard for State law.”
From the audience, Cali Griffin, Future Farmers of America advisor and ag teacher at Loyalton High School, advised the Council “FFA knows the correct rules,” and to make motions correctly and accused them of not following the agenda.
Jeff Naughton called it “simply proposing California legal business under Prop. 64. He stated he’d given the wrong address and it was 706 Main, 600-feet away from School Street. He further argued it doesn’t meet definition of school. He told of bringing jobs which only brought booing from the crowd and had Mayor Mark Marin pound the gavel and introduce Attorney Steve Gross.
Gross explained Prop. 64 allows the city to regulate cannabis activity if it so desires and regulates the State license. The City has no ordinance to regulate cannabis activity. If it wants to regulate it , it needs to adopt an ordinance quickly and to hold a public hearing. The city license has to comply with the city business ordinance. He recommended the Council should accept or deny the application for a business license to be conducted on this property with this zoning and adopt an ordinance. Mark stated to do it this week at a special meeting and opened a public hearing.
Sgt. Mike Fisher, Sheriff-elect questioned Jeff on manufacturing of oils and extraction. Jeff told of a safe micro license, “like a bakery,” and do extractions. “It’s nothing like a local bakery,” the Sgt. replied.
Senior Probation Deputy Chuck Henson stated, “Loyalton should be proud,” stating it’s very small and strong and the town always comes together.
Mayor Mark Marin’s “personal opinion,” was this should go to a vote of the people.
Supervisor Jim Beard questioned why Evexia Science left Truckee and read a letter from Jenna Gatto, AICP Planning Manager of Town of Truckee where she wrote, “Mr. Naughton has illegally operated a delivery service and cannabis extract manufacturing business in Truckee for a number of years.” She added, “I did just confirm that his manufacturing business (EvexiaScience LLC) is registered to a residential property located in Truckee.”
Nina Tucker called it a “moot point” with no zoning and called Loyalton a “magical place.”
The Mayor told Jeff he’d felt deceived over acquiring mill property and a long term plan when the crowd questioned it the previous night and was told no, there was nothing at the co-gen. Jeff went over an elaborate plan to bring the co-gen property into the city and has $8 million “lined up” to develop a soda pop manufacturing-infused business and bring other companies with a $6.5 million payroll and bringing $100,000 into town with a manufacturing tax.
Greg Andal had done studies on crime rates on robbings and shooting deaths.
City Bookkeeper Tracy Smith objected that the attorney already recommended to deny it. She called the crowd, “Some ill behaved,” and should be ashamed. She questioned “why keep putting this man (Naughton) through this?”
The mayor took offense; “You’re not going to talk to me like that.”
Samantha Redman addressed the Council, “A lot of us are o.k. with this coming in,” and she stated growth would be good.
Jessica Norman told of Sierra Nevada Children’s Services across the street from the proposed location having families, trainings and easy access. She is also Youth Leader at Assembly of God Church Hall with 30-75 kids and its proximity was a concern. She stated that city block services more kids than any place in the entire county.
Janet McHenry didn’t want bad business decisions overall for the city and opened the curtain to reveal the school gym.
Jeff didn’t want the city to “hang up manufacturing activities.” He called it “making like candy.” He talked of the issue of zoning and the “one person zoning department.”
Gross advised the council “wrap it up.”
Joy made a motion to deny the permit/business license with Mark seconding it and Nancy voting no, Joy and Mark voting yes and Tracy questioning Nancy. Joy reworded the motion to deny the application for a permit as presented, seconded by Mark and was passed.

National Adult Immunization Week Highlights the Need for Vaccination

8/28/2018

Even healthy older adults are at increased risk for serious lung disease.

Sacramento, CA (August 28, 2018) – This week, August 26 – 31, marks National Adult Immunization Week and the American Lung Association reminds adults that there are recommendations from the Centers for Disease Control and Prevention for vaccination against potentially serious lung diseases.
More than just a bad cold, influenza and pneumococcal pneumonia are potentially serious infections that are among those vaccine-preventable infectious diseases.

Pneumococcal Pneumonia, the most common type of bacterial pneumonia, is often spread through coughing. The symptoms of pneumococcal pneumonia can come quickly and may include high fever, excessive sweating and shaking chills, coughing, difficulty breathing, shortness of breath and chest pain. The Centers for Disease Control and Prevention’s Advisory Committee recommends that all adults 65 years or older receive pneumococcal vaccination.

Influenza, commonly known as the flu, is a highly contagious virus that is usually spread through coughing or sneezing. Symptoms can impact the entire body and may include fever, headache, muscle aches, a dry cough, sore throat and nasal congestion. Health officials recommend that everyone six months of age and older receive an influenza vaccination every year.

“Age alone increases the risk of serious lung infections for more than 47 million Americans over the age of 65, because the body’s immune system naturally weakens with age,” said Dr. Albert Rizzo, Senior Medical Advisor at the American Lung Association. “An estimated 40,000 to 50,000 adults in the United States die from vaccine-preventable infectious diseases or their complications each year.”
Older adults and those with weakened immune systems or certain chronic health conditions – like asthma or chronic obstructive pulmonary disease (COPD) – are especially vulnerable to infectious disease. In fact, for adults 65 and older, the risk for pneumococcal pneumonia, as compared to healthy adults 65 and older, is greater for those with a chronic lung disease.
“It’s always better to help prevent a disease than to treat it after it occurs,” said Dr. Rizzo. “Vaccines are vital to helping to protect lung health, especially when it comes to influenza and pneumococcal pneumonia, which can potentially have a devastating impact on the lives of those whose lungs are already compromised by asthma, COPD and other chronic respiratory conditions.”
Take an online quiz to assess your risk of pneumococcal pneumonia at Lung.org/pneumococcal, developed in partnership with Pfizer. And for more information about the flu, visit Lung.org/influenza or call the America Lung Association’s Lung HelpLine at 1-800-LUNGUSA.
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About the American Lung Association in California
The American Lung Association in California is the leading organization working to save lives by improving lung health and preventing lung disease through research, education and advocacy. The Lung Association is focused on four strategic imperatives: to defeat lung cancer, to improve the air we breathe, to reduce the burden of lung disease on individuals and their families, and to eliminate tobacco use and tobacco-related diseases. For more information about the American Lung Association in California or to support the work it does, call 1-800-LUNGUSA (1-800-685-4872) or visit www.lung.org/california

If you would rather not receive future communications from Ame

California State Parks Encourages Visitors to End Summer Safely this Labor Day Weekend

8/27/2018

SACRAMENTO, Calif. — Labor Day weekend unofficially marks the end of the summer, but for many outdoor enthusiasts, it is another opportunity to enjoy a long weekend in the outdoors. Whether visitors plan on enjoying the outdoors in boats, bikes, horses, off-highway vehicles or surfing, camping, exploring the lakes or mountains, or simply enjoying time with friends and family, it is important to plan and learn about the parks they are visiting.

Below you will find helpful tips to stay safe during this Labor Day weekend:

Wear a Life Jacket:
- Water-related accidents can happen suddenly and rapidly. Make sure you and your loved ones wear properly fitting, U.S. Coast Guard-approved life jackets. Wearing them is the number one way to increase your chances of survival during an accident.
- Several public and private entities make life jackets available to the public on a loan basis. View Locations
Protect Your Loved Ones:
- Supervise children at all times by appointing a designated “water watcher,” taking turns with other adults. Do not assume that someone is watching your children.
- Know your limits. Swimming in a lake, ocean or river is different than swimming in a pool.
- If someone is in distress, seek help from a lifeguard or call 9-1-1 if one is not available.
Avoid Alcohol: Operating your boat or an off-highway vehicle with a blood alcohol concentration (BAC) of 0.08% or more is against the law. Impaired boaters will be stopped and can be arrested even with lower BAC if the conditions are not safe. Your boat can be impounded.
Ocean Rip Currents: If you get caught in one, stay calm and do not fight the current. Swim or float parallel to the shore until you are out of the current and then swim toward the shore.
Trails: Whether you are hiking, horseback riding or operating an off-highway vehicle, stay on designated trails. You are not only protecting natural resources, but you are also ensuring that you do not get lost.
Prepare an Itinerary: No matter what type of recreation activity you will be participating in, leave an itinerary of your trip with a family member/friend with information such as name/age of all participants, travel destination and expected return date. This will ensure law enforcement personnel have a better understanding of your location in the event of a rescue.

Additional safety tips and information on laws can be found online at www.parks.ca.gov/safetytips.

With over 340 miles of coastline, 970 miles of lake and river frontage, 15,000 campsites, and 4,500 miles of trails, California State Parks contains the largest and most diverse recreational, natural, and cultural heritage holdings of any state agency in the nation with 280 state parks. More than 67 million people annually visit California’s state park system. Invent your adventure online at www.parks.ca.gov.

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SIERRA COUNTY CASES WEEK ENDING August 28, 2018

8/27/2018

Eric Tennant (45) Loyalton. Violation of parole after five years prison for arson. He failed to register as an arsonist. 135 days jail.

Michael Brown (29) Truckee. Felony driving under the influence causing injury. Five years probation, 30 days jail, fine $2787, attend alcohol clases.

Sherrie Wolverton (49) Butte County. Violation of probation for failure to report and testing positive for methamphetamine. 28 days jail, probation reinstated.

Travis Marsh (26) Loyalton. Sentencing on conviction of misdemeanor battery on co-habitant. Three years probation, 10 hours community service, fine $1088, must complete one year counselling.

Jonas Clark (48) Sacramento. Animal cruelty by leaving two dogs tied in back of pickup on hot day. One year probation, fine $1040.

Shaun Fowler (49) Sierraville. Preparing false evidence (synthetic urine to avoid drug test). Sentencing is Sept 11.

Richard Price (29) Loyalton. After a contested preliminary hearing, was ordered to stand trial on charges of contacting a minor for sexual purposes and possession of methamphetamine.

Jacob Drummond (38) Sattley. Two counts of violating domestic violence restraining order. Two years probation, fine $1179.

Michael Chapman (42) Sierra City. Annoying phone calls, drunk in public. Two years probation, fines $540, and he is ordered not to call Peter Huebner any more.

Shawna Aving (28) Pike. Felony driving under the influence causing injury, with a prior conviction. Sentencing is on Sep 14.

Genelle Wagnitz (45) Loyalton. Driving with a blood alcohol of .08 or more. Three years probation, two days jail, fine $1885, attend alcohol school.

Justin Ames (41) Grass Valley. Criminal trespass. Two years probation, fine $650, and stay away from the Ruby Mine.

Joe Motley (48) Missouri. Fail to register as a sex offender upon his entry into California. Sentencing is Sept 14.

BEAR ATTACKS AND KILLS DOE IN LOYALTON

8/26/2018

A bear attacked and killed a doe between 7 - 10 a.m. Sunday, August 26th behind Karen and Bruce Ball's home off Beckwith Avenue in Loyalton. There are large populations of deer and bear throughout town but most the bears are seen at night. The Balls said the doe was lame and had two fawns. - Photo by Bruce Ball

LaMalfa Attends Field Hearing on Oversight of California High-Speed Rail

8/26/2018

(Richvale, CA) – Congressman Doug LaMalfa (R-Richvale) issued the following statement after attending a Transportation and Infrastructure Subcommittee on Railroads Oversight Field Hearing on California High-Speed Rail – with a focus on the 2018 Business Plan and potential $100 billion cost.

LaMalfa said: “When California voters approved Proposition 1A, the project was set to cost a total of $33 billion, funded by equal parts federal, state, and private investment. After countless delays, skyrocketing costs, and decreasing functionality, this project has lost all feasibility and is doomed for failure. Now with a projected price tag near $100 billion and more uncertainty than ever, I think it’s time California move on from this failed idea and focus on infrastructure projects which could actually benefit our state. California has far more pressing needs, such as water infrastructure and storage, which would provide immediate value to nearly everyone in the state and could be completed at a fraction of the cost. This high-speed rail project will never deliver on the promises made to Californians, and it’s past time to cut our losses.”

Truckee Experimental Aircraft Association (EAA) chapter is returning

8/26/2018

Hey kids! See Sierra Valley area from the air!
The Truckee Experimental Aircraft Association (EAA) chapter is returning to the Beckwourth Nervino Airport this year to hold a Young Eagles rally, offering free airplane rides for youngsters 8 through 17 years old. The rally will be held on September 9, starting at 8 a.m.
The free rides are part of the EAA’s Young Eagles program, in which volunteer pilots introduce kids to aviation by giving them airplane rides.
The EAA started the Young Eagles program in 1992 with the goal of flying one million kids by December 17, 2003, the centennial of the Wright brothers' flights. They easily surpassed that goal and to date over two million kids in more than 90 countries have joined the ranks of Young Eagles. The Truckee chapter has flown over 4.000 Young Eagles in that time.
"Free airplane rides are just part of the Young Eagles experience," said Tom Meadows, Young Eagles Coordinator. "We hope to kindle a dream that will take them into the aviation community."
Following the flight, each young person receives a certificate making them an official Young Eagle. Their name will then be entered into the “World’s Largest Logbook,” which is on permanent display at the EAA AirVenture Museum in Oshkosh, WI. The Logbook is also accessible at youngeagles.org. In addition to the certificate, the new Young Eagle will be given their own logbook with an access code for a free EAA Student membership and free access to the online Flight Training course offered by Sporty’s Pilot Shop, as well as several other programs.
Come fly with us!
Find more information at: eaa1073.org
Find us on Facebook at: Truckee EAA Chapter

Sierra Valley Art + Ag Trail to be held September 29

8/26/2018

The third year of the Sierra Valley Art + Ag Trail will be rolling into town on September 29. The collaborative event brings visitors from near and far to tour Sierra Valley ranches, farms, historic buildings and a nature preserve to enjoy learning about the Valley’s heritage and present-day agricultural producers, its artists and its abundance of natural assets.
The Sierra Valley Art + Ag Trail features a rare opportunity to explore privately owned 100+-year old barns on working farms and ranches to learn about the history and current management from the agricultural producers operating them – some from families who have lived on the same land for many generations. Those traveling the trail will see farm animals of all kinds – cattle, sheep, goats, alpacas, yaks and more – including some that can be petted and some that take hand-held treats.
In addition to the agricultural component, there will be art on display throughout the valley. Dozens of talented artists from the region will be showing, demonstrating and selling their wares at every event site. Local artists work in a wide range of media, including fiber, photography, paint, ink, graphite, wood, glass, ceramic, metal, stone and more. The event also highlights the Sierra Valley Barn Quilt Trail, offering maps for visitors to views and learn about the colorful quilt squares mounted on barns and buildings throughout the area.

Additional exhibitors will their enthusiasm and knowledge for nature, history and more. Feather River Land Trust’s Sierra Valley Preserve site will feature a natural resource theme, including Land Trust staff, Plumas Audubon, wildlife-focused art, a short interpretive trail, and a birding platform looking out onto the Valley’s wetlands. Sierra County Historical Society members and the Milton Gottardi Museum in Loyalton will bring history to life with costumes and a model train running through a miniature replica of a pre-World War II-era City of Loyalton.
The Sierra Valley Art + Ag Trail also features activities. Many of the artists will be demonstrating their craft. An event passport with beautiful photos from Sierra Valley will be available for purchase, with the opportunity to collect stamps from every artist and site along the Trail. A prize drawing fundraiser for the event, featuring many works of art from participating artists, will be held at the end of the day.
The Sierra Valley Art + Ag Trail offers a window into the past, when the Valley was home to many family-run dairies, supplying milk, cream and butter to the Comstock Lode miners in Virginia City and beyond. Visitors are invited to walk in the steps of long-ago Valley residents, where they shopped, went to school and worked.
The Plumas-Sierra Cattlemen’s Association and Plumas-Sierra Cattlewomen will be serving a delicious meal to end the day. Trail-weary pioneers are encouraged to stop by the Sierra Valley Grange Hall in Vinton from
4 – 6 p.m. for the prize drawing, as well as no-host refreshments and dinner. This will be a fun opportunity to catch up with friends, compare passport stamps, swap stories and refuel for the drive home. The Cattle-folk know their way around a grill and a kitchen, so this is not a stop to be missed.
Additional information can be found on Facebook and on the event website: www.sierravalleyartagtrail.org. The event website will be updated with online sales and reservation opportunities and more information as it becomes available: www.sierravalleyartagtrail.org.
The Sierra Valley Art + Ag Trail is an event of the Sierra County Arts Council, State-Local Partner with the California Arts Council.

SENATOR GAINES PLANS TO STIFFEN PENALTIES FOR WILDFIRE AND DISASTER LOOTING

8/26/2018

SACRAMENTO – Senator Ted Gaines (R-El Dorado) today announced he is planning to stiffen the penalties for anyone caught looting in a disaster area during a state of emergency, such as the California wildfires.

“Unfortunately we’ve seen an increase over the past few years in the number of suspects arrested for looting evacuated homes during the California wildfires,” said Senator Gaines. “To steal precious belongings from fire victims during an already frightening and stressful time is absolutely reprehensible. We need to make sure anyone even thinking about looting knows that jail time will be their reward.”

Gaines’ proposed addition to the legislature’s wildfire Conference Committee legislation will make it a mandatory felony for committing burglary or grand theft during and within an affected county in a state of emergency, local emergency or evacuation order, resulting from an earthquake, fire, flood, riot, or other disaster. Current law involving looting is a “wobbler,” meaning that either a misdemeanor or a felony can be charged depending on the circumstances. The bill will make looting during an emergency or disaster an automatic felony and also increases the required community service time.

Most recently, about a half-dozen looting cases have been reported in the wake of each of the Santa Rosa and Shasta County wildfires, with people entering evacuated neighborhoods and breaking through the doors of homes still standing, stealing personal property such as jewelry, electronics and credit cards.

“We want to make it crystal clear that robbery – especially during a time of crisis – will result in serious consequences. My hope is that by increasing the penalty, we will decrease the amount of cases and deter these criminals.”

Senator Ted Gaines represents the 1st Senate District, which includes all or parts of Alpine, El Dorado, Lassen, Modoc, Nevada, Placer, Plumas, Sacramento, Shasta, Sierra and Siskiyou counties.

Labor Day - Deal With The Stuff

8/24/2018

By Glenn Mollette

Labor Day Weekend gives Americans across the country a three-day weekend to rest, travel and celebrate our freedom to labor. Our jobs increased by two million people in 2017 and have continued to climb in 2018. Hourly wages have seen gains and the stock market has seen twenty months of phenomenal growth. Employers across the country need workers and job seekers have options.

Not everyone will travel on Labor Day and I would like to suggest an activity of Labor that will be mentally good for you and your entire family. Clean out your closet, basement, attic and garage. For years Americans cram "stuff" into closets, basements, attics and garages. After all of these are filled to capacity we build storage barns in our yards. Next, we rent storage units to store more stuff. Have you noticed how many storage units are being built almost everywhere? They are a big business. People that own storage units make big money because there is such a demand for them. The richest man in Kentucky is in the storage space business. We are talking about a state that has been rich in coal, natural gas and bourbon whiskey. Thus, this gives you an idea how many people are storing up stuff.

I inherited my mom and dad's old house. It was my home place growing up and it has been a delight. However after eleven years I'm still throwing stuff away. My family took what they wanted years ago, and a lot of clothes and things were given away or divided up but still yet there was lots of things that mom, and dad in particular had stored up over the years. Just two weekends ago I cleaned out another old building of old tools to give and throw away.

My wife's parents recently passed and left a house of four bedrooms, and a basement and garage filled with 76 years of "stuff." We gave away, had yard sales, divided and divided among family and gave away more and literally had to throw a lot of things in the trash. The family sold this house so it had to be emptied. Emptying a house of an entire life of collected items is hard work but emotionally draining. Every item, picture, garment, old gun, piece of china etc. have memories and it's tough to just throw it in the dumpster.

Why do we collect and store so much "stuff?" Most of it is socked away in a closet or space and hardly used. We unpacked a large basement space of tools, old furniture and more that had not been touched in many years. Why do we do this? Because we think we might want or need it? Maybe the children will want it? Or, maybe the grandchildren will want it? It's amazing how very little of our things our children want. Most of them want their own stuff and seldom want the old. Some people do of course but by and large more is thrown and given away than handed down and used by future generations. Often, so much of the stuff we save is junk, so who wants to take our junk to their house and store it in their basement?

Do yourself and your family a favor. Start cleaning out your storage spaces now and give it away yourself. You'll know where it's going. Do your giving while you are living then you know where it's going. Haul the junk to the dump. Have a yard sale and whatever you have left you will know more about what it is and where to find it. Plus, when you are dead and gone your children we'll be able to rest on Labor Day and not spend their weekend cleaning out all your old clothes and old stuff that you didn't take care of yourself.

There is something really nice about having a closet where you can really see and know what is in that closet. Or it's nice having a garage or an attic where most of it has been cleaned out and organized and only contains what you really need. When you get it done sit back and drink a cold glass of lemonade and give thanks for the things you have and the labor that provided the "stuff" you really need and enjoy.

BOARD OF SUPERVISORS

8/23/2018

SIERRA BROOKS WATER SYSTEM was again discussed at the SIerra County Board of Supervisors’ meeting on Tuesday in Loyalton. Keith Knibb of Sauers Engineering was on hand to answer any questions regarding the Assessment Engineer’s Report to be approved by the Board. Under question on how much this will cost for residents, Knibb stated the annual assessment payment was $246.30 per Equivalent Dwelling Unit (EDU) which comes out to $20.52 per month for 39 years, adding additional rates will be added for operations and maintenance. He said residents could pay it all upfront for $5606.86 and save over $3,000 in interest and service charges. Knibb said the system was designed for 2,500 gallons a day and meters will be installed. There were many questions and County Counsel told the Board, this was not a public hearing, it was just to approve the report and then a public hearing date will be set and ballots will be sent out 45 days prior to the public hearing to be counted that night. The Board tabled the item to the next meeting, September 4th in Downieville.

SIERRA COUNTY’S PROCLAMA-

TION FOR EMERGENCY RESOLU-
TION 2014-066 with regard to catastrophic wildfire potential was discussed during the Sierra County Board of Supervisors’ meeting on Tuesday, August 21st. Sierra County Planning Director Tim Beals stated he placed this item out of frustration. He said the Board adopted a resolution in 2014 proclaiming a local state of emergency and in 2016 under the same approach, and started engaging the rural counties, agencies and Sierra Nevada Conservancy (SNC). Beals felt the “paralysis” in agencies unable to move this forward was stunning, adding the impacts of not doing anything has started people thinking of the exposure of having catastrophic fire here, isn’t a matter of if, but when. Beals stated, “We have been lucky”, and agencies have been asleep at the wheel. Beals wasn’t sure what the Board could do, but felt it was more of a national issue now than it was in 2014 and 2016. Supervisor Paul Roen stated he forwarded the Resolution to Congressman Doug LaMalfa and his District Representative Shane Starr who was present, in trying to continue to draw attention to the fact there‘s a problem. Supervisor Lee Adams stated 70%. of Sierra County’s problem is National Forest land, which is not under the control of the State of California. Chairman Scott Schlefstein added there was a lot of overgrowth on California State Wildlife land in Sierra Brooks.. Beals said they needed to prioritize this on a national level and demand attention. He said one of the concerns, was the posture of the conservancy, and felt they were in a prominent position to be effective on this issue. Roen stated he thought the director was so frustrated he was retiring this fall. Beals thought maybe Rural County Representatives of California (RCRC) had some voice and likened the situation to the tree mortality task force, where there’s 15 counties doing it 15 different ways. He said everybody’s feeling either abandoned or isolated and felt it was a full-time effort to try and garner support. Sierraville District Ranger Quentin Youngblood looked at the situation as an opportunity and focused on three points of consideration: one being the expansion of tier 1 and tier 2 designations. Youngblood stated a lot of dialogue was being had on an expedited planning process and always look at SNC as a central pivot point to these conversations, he felt would be fruitful. Youngblood said to also look at grant money, adding there’s a lot out there. Beals stated leadership to muster the resources was really what was on the table, and felt SNC was in the best position. Local rancher, Dave Goicoechea, stated a lot of big issues we can’t fix, but on a local reference here, he said houses burn, but irrigated cropland usually doesn’t. He said, this was a land use decision, and felt the biggest loss in most forests were grazing rights. Goicoechea told the Board to look at Carson City stating until they started grazing and paid to have sheep brought in, there were fires there. He said usually what sets big trees on fire are little plants next to larger plants that are all edible to livestock, adding there were a lot of things that could be done by this Board. Goicoechea concluded by stating, “You can swear at the dark or light a candle.” Roen stated he and Beals would commit to having a meeting with SNC Chairman.

Superior Court of California, County of Sierra

8/23/2018

The judges of the Superior Court of California, County of Sierra, are pleased to announce the appointment of Ms. Ann Mendez, as their next Court Executive Officer. Ms. Mendez is succeeding Ms. Andi Barone who resigned in June after briefly serving the Court.

Ms. Mendez has served the Superior Court of Sierra County for nearly two years after serving more than four years in the Superior Court of Nevada County in positions of increasingly responsibility. She holds Juris Doctor, Masters of Business Administration, and Bachelor of Science degrees.

Presiding Judge Charles Ervin commented that “Ms. Mendez’s education and experience have positioned her well to lead our Court during a planned period of transition and technological improvement. She is very qualified and will effectively lead the administrative functions of our Court.” Judge Yvette Durant stated “I am so pleased to have Ms. Mendez as the Court's new CEO. While she clearly possesses the intellect and temperament for the job, she has also shown her dedication to serving the citizens of Sierra County through her prior employment with the Court. I firmly believe Ms. Mendez will continue to shine in her new position.”

Ms. Mendez noted of her appointment, “I am excited to assume this new role and for the future of this court. We have an exceptionally talented team at Sierra Superior Court that is focused on delivering the highest quality of service, providing equal access to justice, and to effect fair resolutions of all disputes through consistent and impartial administration of justice.”

Ms. Mendez’s appointment as Court Executive Officer begins on Monday August 27, 2018.

LOYALTON TOWN HALL MEETING ON CANNABIS

8/22/2018

A TOWN HALL MEETING
will be held Monday, August 27th at 7 p.m. at the Loyalton Auditorium where Evexia Science will present their vision for Loyalton concerning commercial cannabis manufacturing and delivery.

Volunteers needed for historic building restoration, August 26-31!

8/21/2018

The Tahoe National Forest and HistoriCorps are looking for motivated volunteers to restore the Camptonville Ranger Station. The work will include roofing and/or siding work, including painting. Please utilize the following link to sign up today https://historicorps.org/events/camptonville-ranger-station-ca/

About the Project: The historic Camptonville Ranger Station is part of the Camptonville Work Center in the Tahoe National Forest Yuba Ranger District. This district is also home to the Tahoe Hotshots fire crew, and the staff onsite are excited to host HistoriCorps volunteers in the preservation of the Ranger Station. The Ranger Station was originally constructed by the Civilian Conservation Corps between 1934-1936.

Camptonville, CA, is a small community along the Golden Chain highway in northern California. The town, like many in the area, first drew settlers attracted to the promise of gold, which was first discovered here in 1850. The town became a major stopping point for Gold Rush miners, and at one point held more than 50 brothels and saloons - and even a bowling alley! When the mines played out, the town turned to timber; and when the primary timber company in the area left, the town turned to relaxation, drawing in tourists attracted to the history and beauty of the area.

McClintock remarks at "Stop the Water Grab" rally at State Capitol

8/20/2018

We live in one of the most water rich regions of the country, and yet our families are now facing the threat of catastrophic water shortages and year-round water rationing. Not because of any act of God, but because of breathtakingly stupid acts of state government. THAT we can change.

We don’t build our reservoirs to more efficiently dump water into the ocean. We build them to store surplus water from wet times so that we have plenty in dry times.

Our state government has forgotten this. They’ve forgotten that before we built our reservoirs, in a drought the rivers all but dried up and there were no fish. They’ve forgotten that raging flood waters blew out entire riparian habitats. And they have forgotten that millions of human beings -- for whom they’re supposed to work -- depend on the water stored in those reservoirs for their prosperity and quality of life. Our would-be rulers may have forgotten, but we haven’t. And we’re about to remind them.

We are at a crossroads between two very different visions of the future.

One is the nihilistic vision of the environmental left: increasingly severe government-induced water shortages, higher and higher prices for electricity and water and food, fewer jobs and a permanently declining quality of life for our children, who will be mandated to stretch and ration every drop of water in their lives.

The other is a vision of abundance: of great new reservoirs that guarantee plentiful water, hydroelectricity, jobs, recreation, affordable groceries – a prosperous future for our children who can enjoy the quality of life that abundant water guarantees.

This is a choice and it is a simple one: scarcity OR abundance; prosperity OR poverty. And this choice requires the active engagement of every citizen to take back this government of, by and for the people.

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August 20th, 2018

8/20/2018

GOOD NEWS!!!
DO YOU NEED A RIDE TO THE
LOYALTON FOOD BANK???
The Loyalton Senior Center Van will provide a route around the valley to serve those who need to access the Loyalton Food Bank.
• Service began August 17th and runs the 1st and 3rd Fridays of each month on food bank days.
• Pick ups will include Sierraville, Sattley, Calpine, Beckwourth, Vinton and the Hill Street Subsidized Housing Complex.
• Service will be round-trip1. Sierraville Fire Station
2. Sattley Store
3. Calpine Post Office
4. Beckwourth Hwy 70 and Genessee Rd.
5. Vinton Hwy 70 and Hwy 49
The van will plan to leave the food bank around 3:30 p.m. to take folks back to their pick-up spots starting with Sierraville
• Transportation needs to be reserved. Seats are limited. People should call 993-4770 between 9 a.m. and 2 p.m. on week days to reserve a spot!

Report Details Ag’s Economic Contribution

8/20/2018

The Agribusiness Institute (ABI) at California State University, Chico has released its annual report detailing agriculture’s contributions to the regional economy of Northeastern California. The report based on 2016 data shows that despite a continued decrease in commodity prices from the high in 2014, agriculture continues to be a driving force in job creation and economic activity within the region.

One in five jobs and $.16 of every dollar created by the Northeastern California economy was tied to agriculture in 2016, according to The Contribution of Agriculture to Northeastern California’s Economy in 2016, written by ABI Director Eric Houk, a professor of agricultural business in the College of Agriculture. The report covers economic activity in Butte, Colusa, Glenn, Lassen, Modoc, Plumas, Shasta, Sierra, Siskiyou, Sutter, Tehama, Trinity and Yuba Counties.

The 13 counties in the study area produced $3.9 billion worth of agricultural products in 2016, which was down 5.2 percent from the previous year and 13.3 percent lower than 2014 due to decreased global commodity prices. Despite the decline of the two prior years, agricultural production in the region was up 38 percent from 2007.

The Contribution of Agriculture to Northeastern California’s Economy in 2016 is supported by U.S. Department of Commerce, Economic Development Administration (EDA) and the California State University Agricultural Research Institute.

The full report is available online at https://www.csuchico.edu/ag/about/agribusiness-institute.shtml. For more information, contact Eric Houk at 530-898-4146 or ehouk@csuchico.edu.

SENATOR GAINES CALLS FOR SPECIAL LEGISLATIVE SESSION ON CALIFORNIA WILDFIRES

8/16/2018

SACRAMENTO – Senator Ted Gaines (R-El Dorado) today submitted a letter to Governor Brown requesting he convene a special session of the legislature this fall to address California’s wildfire crisis.

“The Governor and I were together in Shasta County where we witnessed the Carr Fire devastation, and how these fires can flatten entire communities in minutes,” said Senator Gaines. “California must do more to prevent fires, protect property and save lives. I’m calling on the Governor to convene a special session so we can take action on making our state fire safe.”

While the legislative conference committee is currently focusing its attention on some wildfire issues, there simply is not enough time for meaningful action to be taken on this worsening fire situation before the legislature adjourns in two weeks.

Senator Gaines proposes a special session this fall dedicated to addressing wildfire-related issues, including: fuels reduction strategies; hardening of the urban/wilderness interface; increased logging and increased biomass use; improved federal, state, and local coordination; innovative strategies for fire suppression and forest management; private party incentives for fuels reductions; specific regional challenges facing our state; and local autonomy to address specific local fire conditions.

Senator Gaines suggests the solutions come with aggressive timelines, and hard-and-fast completion dates so that all parties can be held accountable. He also asks that the solutions do not place any greater burden on the backs of taxpayers.

“I know that too often the first impulse in politics is to raise taxes to solve any problem, however, this state is sitting on a multi-billion dollar surplus. That money should be used to make California fire safe, protect our citizens and avoid billions in future spending through better prevention,” said Senator Gaines.

Senator Ted Gaines represents the 1st Senate District, which includes all or parts of Alpine, El Dorado, Lassen, Modoc, Nevada, Placer, Plumas, Sacramento, Shasta, Sierra and Siskiyou counties.

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SENATOR GAINES’ BILL TO HELP TAXPAYERSPASSES ASSEMBLY

8/16/2018

SACRAMENTO – Senator Ted Gaines (R-El Dorado) announced his Senate Bill 1246, a bill that will streamline and modernize the process for expediting property tax refunds to California taxpayers, passed off the Assembly floor.

“I’m pleased to have the Assembly’s support on this important taxpayer protection bill,” said Senator Gaines. “SB 1246 is simple and fair, two elements of good governance that are too often missing in California. We must resolve any overpayment issues as efficiently and quickly as possible, and get taxpayers back what is rightfully theirs.”

Under current law, an outdated and archaic “refund claim form” is required to be mailed to a member of the public who is owed money due to an overpayment of taxes, penalties, assessments, interest or other costs associated with local taxes. The claim form must be signed and returned by the taxpayer before the county can issue a refund.

SB 1246 will speed up the process to allow the county to simply pay the taxpayer what is owed when an overpayment or refund is discovered without the time-consuming paperwork required under current law.

Senator Ted Gaines represents the 1st Senate District, which includes all or parts of Alpine, El Dorado, Lassen, Modoc, Nevada, Placer, Plumas, Sacramento, Shasta, Sierra and Siskiyou counties.

Back to School: It’s Time to Update Your Child’s Health Information

8/16/2018

WASHINGTON — Book bags are replacing beach totes as it quickly becomes time for students to go back to school. Organizing your child’s health information, keeping current with doctor’s appointments and planning for emergency scenarios should be part of every parent’s seasonal routine, the nation’s emergency doctors say.

“We all know about reading, writing and arithmetic. Let’s consider adding a fourth ‘R’ for parents – establishing routine healthy behaviors,” said Paul Kivela, MD, MBA, FACEP, president of the American College of Emergency Physicians (ACEP). “Now is the perfect time to catch up on doctor visits and update your child’s health information. Taking these actions, before an emergency occurs, can help avoid a trip to the ER and possibly save your child’s life.”

Some back to school action items:

Organize your child's medical history records and emergency medical contact information.
Complete a consent-to-treat form. The form authorizes medical treatment and you should give copies to the school nurse and any day care providers. List prescription medications, medical problems, previous surgeries and pertinent family history. Be sure to update your emergency contact information. Free forms can be downloaded at http://www.emergencycareforyou.org/Be-Prepared/Organize-Your-Important-Medical-Information/
Work with your school nurse and appropriate care providers to develop action plans for health issues such as asthma or food allergies. Has your child been screened for allergies? Are all vaccines and immunizations current?
Schedule medical and dental check-ups before school starts or as soon as possible. In addition to a routine physical examination, consider vision and hearing tests, since impairment can adversely affect learning. Consider a sports check-up if your child participates in athletics.
If your child walks to school or to a bus stop, review the route with them. Be sure to point out traffic dangers or other potential hazards. For bus riders, establish a safe and clearly visible pick up/drop off spot, preferably with a group of children.
If your child drives to school, make sure he or she obeys all laws and wear seatbelts. Don’t text and drive!
Make sure your child knows how to call for help in an emergency. Emergency contact numbers should be visible right next to every telephone in your home. Encourage your child to learn when to call 911 and give their name, address and a brief description of the problem.

Avoiding backpacks that are too heavy can prevent back and shoulder injuries. And, packing healthy lunches will help your child develop eating habits that ward off obesity, which contributes to a host of emergency and chronic conditions later in life. Try to encourage a consistent sleep schedule, especially for teens.

More health and safety tips are available at www.emergencycareforyou.org.

ACEP is the national medical specialty society representing emergency medicine. ACEP is committed to advancing emergency care through continuing education, research and public education. Headquartered in Dallas, Texas, ACEP has 53 chapters representing each state, as well as Puerto Rico and the District of Columbia. A Government Services Chapter represents emergency physicians employed by military branches and other government agencies.
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Cannabis Tax Revenue Increases In 2nd Quarter of 2018

8/15/2018

Rise shows compliance trend growing

Sacramento – The California Department of Tax and Fee Administration (CDTFA) today released revenue numbers for cannabis sales for the 2nd quarter of 2018. Tax revenue from the cannabis industry totaled $74,240,257.00 million from April 1, 2018, through June 30, 2018, which includes state cultivation, excise and sales taxes. It does not include tax revenue collected by each jurisdiction.

California’s excise tax on cannabis generated $43,490,668.00 million in revenue during the second quarter of calendar year 2018. The cultivation tax generated $4,482,119.00 million, and the sales tax generated $26,267,470.00 million in revenue. Medicinal cannabis is exempt from sales tax if the purchaser holds a valid Medical Marijuana Identification card.

The revenue from 1st quarter 2018 was $60.9 million, which included $32 million in excise tax, $1.6 million cultivation tax, and $27.3 million in sales tax.

To better serve our taxpayers, CDTFA has opened a new satellite location to accommodate tax and fee payers in and around Humboldt County, created a cannabis external tax advisory group, introduced a new pilot project in which the Statewide Compliance and Outreach Program (SCOP) teams visit known cannabis retailers to educate and assist them in complying with their tax obligations, and implemented improved procedures and security measures for financial transactions.

In November 2016, California voters approved Proposition 64, the Control, Regulate and Tax Adult Use of Marijuana Act. Beginning on January 1, 2018, two new cannabis taxes went into effect: a cultivation tax on all harvested cannabis that enters the commercial market and a 15 percent excise tax on the purchase of cannabis and cannabis products. In addition, cannabis and cannabis products are subject to state and local sales tax at the time of retail sale.

To learn more, visit the Tax Guide for Cannabis Businesses on the CDTFA website.

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NOTICE ON PAYMENT OF LIBERTY UTILITIES BILLS

8/15/2018

Loyalton Pharmacy is no longer accepting
Liberty Utilities payments as an authorized payment center.

August Traffic Alert for SR70 in Plumas County

8/15/2018

One hour delays possible if you are traveling across the Spring Garden Overpass (bridge) in eastern Plumas County on the following dates:
Saturday, August 18th
6:00 A.M. through 3:00 P.M.

Wednesday, August 22th
6:00 A.M. through 3:00 P.M.
Delays won’t occur during school commute hours between 7:00 A.M. to 8:00 A.M.

Saturday, August 25th
6:00 A.M. through 3:00 P.M.

Sierra Pacific Industries Forestland in California Closed to Public Access Due to Extreme Fire Danger

8/14/2018

FOR IMMEDIATE RELEASE Contact: Andrea Howell Date: August 10, 2018 P

Anderson, CA - Due to extreme wildfire conditions and risk to lives and property, Sierra Pacific Industries (SPI) has closed its forestlands in California. SPI takes pride in allowing non-motorized public access for hunting and other recreational values but must take this action to protect resources and public safety. This follows similar announcements by other industrial timberland owners throughout the western United States. This closure will be in effect until conditions change.