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

Caltrans Reminds Public that Highways Should be Kept Clear
 
MARYSVILLE – Caltrans is reminding motorists that snow play is not permitted in State Roadside Rest Areas (SRRAs) or alongside highways, onramps or offramps for the safety of the public and other drivers.
 
With the recent storm systems in the Sierra Nevada region and accompanying clear weather conditions, many people have driven to the mountains for some family fun in the snow. However, drivers are parking alongside highways and in non-designated areas for snow play, creating hazardous driving conditions for other motorists and preventing big rigs from using rest areas for federally-mandated stops.
 
Caltrans SRRA’s have been overcrowded lately with motorists stopping to play in the snow, despite clearly displayed message boards and signs stating that snow play is not permitted. This has created traffic congestion along highway exits, which is unnsafe for motorists. Vehicles are also parking in designated big rig areas, preventing truckers from stopping to rest.
 
In addition, motorists have been using highway onramps and offramps for snow play, increasing chances for traffic collisions and preventing snow plows from clearing lanes and shoulders. Caltrans has been working closely with the California Highway Patrol (CHP) to monitor and prevent snow play in non-designated areas. Vehicles found parked illegally may be cited or towed for public safety.
 
While Caltrans recognizes the beauty of the snow in the Sierra Nevadas and welcomes visitors to the area, the agency’s priority is keeping California state highways clear and safe for all motorists. Legal snow play areas can be found on the California State Parks website at http://ohv.parks.ca.gov/?page_id=1233.

by Glenn Mollette 

A Happy New Year is on the agenda for most people. 
 
Arrive at 2020 alive. Another full year of life will give you the opportunity you desire to pursue happiness and fulfillment. You can't achieve anything in this world if you are dead. Think about driving a bit slower, eating healthier, some daily exercise and monitoring your health. The reality of life is that at some time and in some way each of our lives will end. Be mindful of health and taking care of yourself in 2019. 
 
Make a couple of friends in 2019. Too many close friends can be a lot of work but too many Americans are isolated and lonely. My wife and I spent almost two hours visiting people in a local nursing home on Christmas Eve. I played the violin for different people in their rooms and then the dining room. Everyone was very quiet and no one seemed to have any visitors during our visit. I felt the heaviness of their loneliness on Christmas Eve. People come and people go in this life however be open to building a couple of friendships with people that you might visit with occasionally. A good life consists of having some good people you can talk to. 
 
Have something to do. If you are going to school, or working a job or raising a family you have plenty to do. Some people are trying to do all three and it's more than enough. Everybody needs a constructive day. Have something that you need to do. Have something to look forward to and something to occupy your time. You need to feel like your life counts for something and it's up to you to make it count. Create your life. Come up with something to do that is meaningful to you. 
 
Be smart about your money. Make some. Give some away. Save some and spend some. You can't take any of it with you so you should try to enjoy whatever income you have. However, you might live longer than you think. A good friend of mine told me he would run out of money at age 90. He was 89 and concerned. He lived to 93. He had Social Security but his income dramatically dropped his last three years. We never know about our longevity but try to save and spend in balance. 
 
Seek wisdom. Pray, meditate, seek the wisdom of God and smart people. Make sure the people you consult know what they are talking about but listen and learn. We are never too old to learn. 
 
So dear reader, Happy New Year to you. May 2019 be the best year of your life. It won't necessarily be easy or free from aggravation or pain but I hope you will have peace and joy throughout all the events and circumstances of your life. Keep this in mind, your happiness will begin and end in you. Happiness is in inside job and 2019 is now all before you. 

 
SACRAMENTO, Calif. – On January 3, 2019, the California Department of Water Resources (DWR) will conduct the first snow survey media availability of the season. This event invites members of the media to join DWR staff as they measure water content in the snowpack, a key indicator for water supply. 
 
When:     Thursday January 3, 2019, 11:00 a.m.
Where:    Phillips Station, intersection of US 50 and Sierra-at-Tahoe Road (directions below)
Who:       California Department of Water Resources
 
The Phillips Station snow course is one of more than 260 snow courses across the Sierra Nevada that DWR manually or electronically measures each winter and early spring. Data collected from the monthly snow surveys help determine the amount of water that will melt and run off to state reservoirs during warmer months. The information is critical to the water managers who allocate California’s natural water resources to regions downstream.
 
John King with DWR’s Snow Survey Section, along with Dr. Michael Anderson (DWR’s State Climatologist), will conduct the snow survey and respond to questions from the media. King, Anderson, and other DWR staff will be available for interviews immediately following the briefing.
 

 
SACRAMENTO, Calif. – As the winter holiday season continues, the California Highway Patrol (CHP) asks motorists to resolve to start the New Year with safe celebrations.  This means planning not to drive impaired or distracted.
 
The CHP will observe the New Year with a Maximum Enforcement Period (MEP) from
6:01 p.m. on Friday, December 28, 2018, to 11:59 p.m. on Tuesday, January 1, 2019.  All available personnel will be on duty.  The CHP will focus on impaired drivers, but officers will also watch for distracted driving, speeding, and seat belt violations, as well as motorists in need of assistance.
 
During last year’s New Year’s MEP, 40 people died in collisions on California roadways.  Sadly, more than two-thirds of the vehicle occupants killed within CHP jurisdiction were not wearing a seat belt.  In addition, CHP officers made 936 arrests for driving under the influence during the New Year’s MEP, which was one day shorter than the upcoming holiday enforcement effort. 
 
“Impairment of any kind while driving is illegal.  Alcohol, cannabis, or legal or illegal drugs can all affect your driving,” CHP Commissioner Warren Stanley said.  “Impaired driving is a serious crime that can lead to an arrest, serious injury, or death.”
 
The AAA Foundation for Traffic Safety has found that an overwhelming majority of
drivers – almost 95 percent – consider driving after drinking alcohol a serious threat to their personal safety.  However, 13.5 percent reported driving at least once in the past year when they thought their alcohol levels might have been close to or possibly over the legal limit.  More than
90 percent of drivers perceive people driving after using illegal drugs to be a serious threat to their personal safety.
 
Planning for a safe ride to and from festivities is easy and smart.  Numerous alternatives to driving impaired are available, including ride-hailing services, public transportation, or calling a taxi or a sober friend or family member. 
 
The mission of the CHP is to provide the highest level of Safety, Service, and Security.
 
###
 

Agency urges drivers not to take the risk of driving impaired


WASHINGTON – This holiday season, the National Highway Traffic Safety Administration is reminding Americans that it is never okay to drive impaired. Motorists traveling in the coming weeks can expect to see increased law enforcement on the road as part of the high-visibility Drive Sober or Get Pulled Over campaign, running from December 14 to 31. This year, for the first time, NHTSA’s annual Drive Sober campaign has expanded to focus not just on drunk, but also on drug-impaired driving with the If You Feel Different, You Drive Different campaign.


Last year, California ranked second among states with the highest number of alcohol-related crashes in the month of December. Across the state, 97 lives were lost in traffic crashes involving a drunk driver.


NHTSA Deputy Administrator Heidi R. King released two video messages urging travelers to drive sober this holiday season.


According to NHTSA, 10,874 people were killed in 2017 in motor vehicle traffic crashes in which a driver had a blood alcohol concentration (BAC) over the legal limit of .08 grams per deciliter. During the month of December 2017, 885 people lost their lives in traffic crashes involving a drunk driver. Like drunk driving, drug-impaired driving is impaired driving, which means it is dangerous and illegal in all 50 states, Puerto Rico, and Washington, DC.


NHTSA recommends the following actions to stay safe this holiday season:

• Remember, it is never okay to drive drunk or high. Designate a sober driver or plan to use public transportation or a ride share service to get home safely. Before you go out, download NHTSA’s SaferRide mobile app, available on Google Play for Android devices, and Apple’s iTunes Store for iOS devices. It lets you share your location so a friend can pick you up. The app is free and available for Apple and Android devices.
• If a friend or family member is impaired by alcohol or drugs and planning to drive, take their keys and help them make other arrangements to get home safely. Don’t worry about offending someone—they’ll thank you later.
• Be alert and distraction-free, and if you see an impaired driver, call 911 as soon as it is safe to do so.
• Buckle up. Wearing your seat belt is your best defense against an impaired driver.

SACRAMENTO, Calif. – As Californians travel this week, the California Highway Patrol (CHP) is set to begin its Christmas Maximum Enforcement Period (MEP). This additional enforcement is intended to further ensure the safety of the motoring public during the holidays.


The MEP begins at 6 p.m. on Friday, December 21, and continues through 11:59 p.m. on Tuesday, December 25. The focus of the MEP is speed limit enforcement, but officers will also be watching for any signs of impaired driving. During this period, all available officers will be out on the roadways for enhanced enforcement efforts and assisting motorists wherever needed.


“The California Highway Patrol wishes everyone a happy and, most importantly, safe holiday season,” CHP Commissioner Warren Stanley said. “Please remember to drive sober, avoid distractions, always buckle up, leave plenty of time to reach your destination, and consider the possibility of inclement weather.”


The holiday season brings celebrations and time spent with family and friends, but unfortunately they also result in a considerable loss of life on California’s roadways.

 
SACRAMENTO, Calif. – New laws approved by the California Legislature in 2018 will affect roadway safety in several ways, including helmet use on bicycles and motorized scooters, hit-and-run on bicycle paths, modified exhaust systems, and enhanced safety for refuse collection vehicles. To support its mission of providing the highest levels of Safety, Service, and Security, the California Highway Patrol (CHP) is highlighting several of these new laws.
 
Bicycle hit-and-run on bike path (AB 1755, Steinorth): The provisions of the felony hit-and-run law are extended to cyclists on Class I bikeways (bike paths). Currently, in the California Vehicle Code, a driver involved in a collision resulting in death or injury to another party is required to stop at the scene. This law clarifies that the same vehicle code also applies on Class I bikeways and allows law enforcement to hold individuals accountable for reckless behavior.
 
Bicycle helmets (AB 3077, Caballero): Persons under age 18 not wearing a helmet on a bicycle, scooter, skateboard, or skates will receive a “fix-it” ticket. A citation is considered non-punitive and correctable if proof that the minor has completed a bicycle safety course and has a helmet that meets safety standards is presented within 120 days to the issuing law enforcement agency.
 
Helmet use on motorized scooters (AB 2989, Flora): Bicycle helmets are no longer required for riders of motorized scooters who are age 18 or older. Motorized scooters may operate within a Class IV bikeway as well as a Class II bikeway and on highways with speed limits up to 25 miles per hour. Local jurisdictions may pass ordinances to allow motorized scooters on highways with speed limits up to 35 miles per hour. It is still illegal to operate a motorized scooter on a sidewalk.
 
Certain vehicle exhaust violations no longer correctable (AB 1824, Committee on Budget): A fine will become mandatory, not correctable, when loud motor vehicles and motorcycles are cited. Previously, a driver or motorcyclist who was cited for modified or excessively loud exhaust or muffler systems could correct the violation to avoid a fine.
 
Passing waste service vehicles (AB 2115, Santiago): When approaching or overtaking a refuse collection vehicle with its amber lights flashing, drivers must move into an adjacent lane, if possible, and pass at a safe distance. If it is not possible, drivers must slow to a safe and reasonable speed. This law provides a safety margin for sanitation workers while they are actively working.
 
# # #
 
 

​ 
 
                                Sierra County District Attorney
Lawrence R. Allen
District Attorney / Public Administrator
 
                                                                        100 Courthouse Square                   513 Main Street
                                                                         P.O. Box 457                                P.O. Box  886       
                                                                         Downieville, California 95936          Loyalton, California                               
                                                                         530.289.3269                                   530.993.4617
                                                                        FAX 530.289.2822                           FAX 530.993.1667
                                                                        larryallen@sierracounty.ws     
 
 
                                  
 
Nathan Ashley (20) Loyalton.  Use of a controlled substance.  Eighteen months probation, 2 days jail, fine $1140.
 
David Morrison (43) Loyalton. Morrison pled guilty to battery causing force likely to produce great bodily injury, child endangerment and driving under the influence.  He was sentenced to five years formal probation, 660 days in jail, fine $945, ordered to attend a batters program and successfully complete drug court.
 
Richard Price (29) Loyalton.  His probation was violated by use and possession of a device used to inject controlled substance, failing to contact probation, and possession of methamphetamine.  His probation was reinstated, he was ordered to jail for 30 days, and then into residential re-hab.
 
Leana Conrady (28) transit (Reno).  She was convicted of attempting to escape custody, resisting officers with force and violence, and vandalizing a sheriff’s vehicle.  She was sentenced to 4 years probation, 180 days jail, fines of $705, ordered into re-hab, and ordered to successfully complete drug court.
 
Tammy Prewitt (44) Loyalton.  Petty theft of a person’s cell phone, which was recovered. twelve months probation, 4 days jail, and fine $275.
 
William Guidotti (24) Loyalton.  Driving with a blood alcohol of .08% or more in his system and causing injury.  Three years probation, 2 days jail, fine $2787, and restitution was reserved to be determined at a future date.
 
Adam Marzell (32) Loyalton. Resisting or delaying an officer who was attempting to arrest him on an our of area warrant. Thirty days jail, fine $650.
 
Taylor Price (28) Beckworth.  Driving with a blood alcohol level of .08 or more.  Three years probation, 2 days jail, fine $1920, attend alcohol school.
 
Kyle Price (30) Chico.  Driving while license suspended for a previous alcohol offense. Three years probation, 10 days jail, and fine $2249.
 
Jeanie Nelson (44) Susanville.  Hunting in X zone with D zone tags.  Fine $850.
 
Felipe Cuevas (50) Oakland.  Loaded firearm in vehicle while hunting.  Fine $274.
 
Nathan Ashley (20) Loyalton.  Violation of probation for using a controlled substance. Sixty days jail, probation reinstated.
 
David Ostler (64) Los Angeles.  Altering a stream bed and causing pollution to a waterway.  Three years probation, 100 hours community service, fine $3235, restore section of Cold Creek that was impacted (to date close to $50,000 has been expended for the restoration of the stream).  He undertook to alter cold creek which he viewed as causing a potential problem on his vacant property in Sierraville without the appropriate permits and oversight by agencies responsible for the stream.
 
Christopher Marin (61) Loyalton.  Fail to register as sex offender.  Three years probation, 16 days jail, fine $923.
 
Leif Rasmussen (64) Reno.  Driving under the influence and possession of concealed firearm in a vehicle.  Three years probation, fine $2960, complete alcohol school.
 
Travis Frazier (22) Loyalton.  Sex with a minor.  Three years probation, 60 days jail, fine $235, stay away from victim. He was extradited to Nevada to face felony burglary charges there.
 
Sheri Wolverton (49) transit (Butte County).  Felony  preparation of false evidence – she showed at probation knowing she would be drug tested with phony urine attached to her leg.  Thee years probation, 90 days jail, and ordered to re-hab.

THE OATHS OF OFFICE were given School Board Trustees at the December 11th Board of Education meeting held in Downieville. Taking the Oath were incumbents, Alan Wright, Mike Moore, Jennifer Gant and newly-elected Trustee, Andy Genasci as well as County Board Superintendent, Dr. Merrill Grant.
Dr. Grant recognized out-going Board member Sharon Dryden by video conference, who was attending in Loyalton. Sharon was praised for her 20 years’ of serving students and staff as she moves into more public service, having been elected as Sierra County Supervisor for District 5.
Dr. Grant talked of an interest in developing the middle field for soccer with a landscape group doing irrigation. He called it the “missing piece of the athletic field.” There will be a meeting after the New Year to look at costs.
For facilities, Dr. Grant talked of doing deferred maintenance in the spring to look at deficiencies, replacing carpet and furniture. There was a question over the high school gymnasium and whether the patching was under warranty. Andy Genasci 
​wanted to move up maintenance, particularly windows rated as poor.
Dr. Grant told how “very expensive” and hard to replace windows are to do at one time and mentioned a bond for facilities and improvements. Mike Moore said he’d recommended windows be replaced at the time when they are broken but it never happened.
Megan Meschery talked of teacher development and six elementary school teachers observing Tahoe Truckee teachers on strategies and coming back with new knowledge, calling it good to take teachers out for observations.
There was discussion over approving a contract retainment from Hat Creek for a paving project and $19,000 for new material not approved by the County Board of Education. The extra charge was not included in the original bid by Hat Creek. Dr. Grant will look at options. Mike Moore said he’d not vote on the extra money.
Dr. Grant was excited about the Adult Education Coordinator job description with all new money and designing a program. He told of being one of three voting members, including Plumas County and Feather River Jr. College. He called it “very unique.”
Business Manager Nona Griesert gave First Interim actuals for the County and District both having positive certifications. She told of 60% in classified, certificated salaries and benefits. Dr. Grant said he’s seen those expenses go as high as 80%.
Dr. Grant and all Board members had been to a new training session in Sacramento as a refresher course put on by the small school districts association. It was considered enjoyable and its policy program was felt could save time at Board meetings.
During her Loyalton Elementary School report, Principal Annie Ceresola told of the upcoming basketball tournament and $5,000 in paint and repairs made at the old middle school gym, called “awesome.”
At Loyalton High School, Principal Tom Jones noted  they need a solution on how to get charging stations besides carpet and paint. There’s a leadership tree decoration contest he called “very festive.”
In Downieville the boiler project is “tightened up.” There is talk of a mountain bike club.
Under public comment, Stephanie Shelby started discussion over recruiting a math teacher, highly qualified. She wanted to make sure college-bound were on a path to success. Mike Moore, a former math teacher, called it a number one priority for the Board and they’ve looked as far as Washington and Oregon and called math teachers “very hard to find.” He told of allowing seven years of experience for the salary schedule.
It was asked if they’d reached out to Paradise, which was said to still have a school district. It was said the local district has a list of every vacancy and a world wide service. Math teacher Kim McKinney is leaving in January and it was said there is a short term plan for 2018-19. Megan Meschery told of asking neighboring counties with similar pay on recruiting talent and attending career fairs.
It was reported out of Closed Session, a conversation on the phone with the attorney had been held over two employees. It was decided to adopt an investigation and recommendation and a corrective action placed in the employee’s file with the attorney’s report.
For negotiations, it was stated it had been talked about last session on the request and information.

​


​Event Showcases Efforts to Keep Goods Moving During Holidays
 Eric Sauer, California Trucking Association Vice President, Policy and Government Relations; Tom Brannon, Caltrans District 3 Deputy Director of Maintenance and Traffic Operations; Jeffrey Greer, FedEx Freight Senior Vice President of Human Resources; Lieutenant Matt Tweed, California Highway Patrol Truckee

KINGVALE, CA – The California Trucking Association (CTA), California Department of Transportation (Caltrans) and the California Highway Patrol (CHP) gathered today at the Caltrans Maintenance Station in Kingvale to showcase their unique partnership behind the California Pusher Truck Program, which literally pushes trucks through mountain storms to keep millions of dollars in commerce moving over Donner Pass during the winter season.


“CTA has partnered with Caltrans on the Pusher Truck Program for more than 30 years. By employing pusher trucks, Caltrans can help big rigs that have lost traction on the steep inclines of Donner Pass regain momentum and ensure the $4.7 million per hour in commerce continues moving through the Interstate-80 corridor,” said Eric Sauer, CTA’s senior vice president of government affairs. “This program would not exist without the generous financial support of CTA members, whose contributions fund the program, and, most importantly, FedEx’s incredible donation of two of their fleet trucks that have been
retrofitted to provide truckers with the ‘push’ they need to increase the safety of all travelers during the harsh winter months,” Sauer added.


“FedEx Freight is proud to work with the California Trucking Association and Caltrans on this important effort,” said Jeffery Greer, senior vice president of human resources for FedEx Freight. “Our contribution to the Pusher Truck Program is a great opportunity to demonstrate FedEx’s ‘Safety Above All’ promise in a way that benefits drivers and the communities in which they operate.”


Every hour, more than 3,500 trucks traverse Donner Pass, a number that increases during peak holiday time. The Pusher Truck Program ensures big rigs are able to keep moving, roads stay open and driving conditions are safe for all drivers.


“This program is critically important because it keeps closures of I-80 to a minimum. Even when fully ‘chained up,’ commercial big rigs often struggle to gain enough traction on the snow-covered inclines of Donner Pass, particularly if they have to stop for slowed or blocked traffic. As part of this important partnership, CTA provides maintenance, parts, and service for the pusher truck. Caltrans, in return, provides fuel, insurance, pre-ops and post-ops of the equipment, and qualified operators,” Tom Brannon, Caltrans District 3 deputy director of maintenance and traffic operations, added.


Additionally, Caltrans, CHP and CTA representatives took the opportunity today to remind drivers of important safe winter driving tips as many Californians take to the roads this holiday season.


As part of its ongoing efforts to improve roadway safety, and keep traffic and commerce flowing throughout the state of California, the California Highway Patrol conducts significant educational outreach to the public. “The safest driver is an educated driver, and in no place is that statement more true than in the Sierra Nevada Mountains. Time and time again we encounter motorists who are ill-prepared or un-informed about the weather and driving conditions in which they find themselves. Our outreach goal and partnership with Caltrans and the California Trucking Association is to make our roadways safer, reduce collisions and most importantly keep traffic moving,” said Matt Tweed, commander with the California Highway Patrol.


Informational posters have and will be placed in the region’s state highway rest areas, more than 20,000 winter driving tips cards will be distributed to gas stations, convenience stores, vacation home rental agencies and other locations frequented by travelers. Social media also will be used to make sure travelers are prepared for winter driving conditions as they travel to and through the mountains this holiday season.

TAKING THE OATH OF OFFICE for Eastern Plumas Health Care’s Board of Directors were Gail McGrath, Theresa Whitfield, and Harvey West III who were sworn in by outgoing Secretary Lucie Kreth shown at right.

EASTERN PLUMAS HEALTH   CARE’S  (EPHC) Board of Director’s meeting was held Thursday, December 6th at EPHC’s Education Center in Portola. The annexation with Sierra Valley Hospital District (SVHD) was discussed and Chairman, Jay Scutt stated it was going through fine. He said they were to meet with Plumas County LAFCo on Monday, December 10th and hoped to have the annexation done by January 1st. Skutt stated Sierra County Planning Director Tim Beals and SVHD Chairman Bill Copren were present and wanted the Board to look at a Sierra Valley section off of Highway 395 in Long Valley that they would need to service. He stated if they didn’t want that responsibility they could change the sphere of influence. Beals said this came up during the property tax negotiations as part of the LAFCo process and stated there are no protocols for that area, so when there’s an incident everybody ​shows up. He stated there’s also no structural fire protection in Long Valley. Beals said Sierra County Fire Protection District #1 is in the LAFCo process to annex the whole district and would ultimately have an agreement with Truckee Meadows Fire for EMS and Fire service to that area, so there would be an overlap. Beals stated EPHC can include it or exclude it but would need a coordinated approach, adding it didn’t need to be decided that day. Vice Chairman Paul Swanson said it should be who can get there fastest, and thought if they couldn’t they shouldn’t do it. EPHC won’t do anything until after the annexation is finalized. Their minutes reflected it would be a special study area that would need to be addressed.
An audit presentation was done by Auditor Jerrel Tucker of JWT & Associates, LLP who stated it 
was good news. He stated there were no material weaknesses, and no reportable findings. Tucker stated EPHC paid out $3.7 million and received about $8.6 million. He said they have increased cash on hand and accounts payable is down, adding it was a good year. Tucker continued by stating EPHC is expanding where they need to, and didn’t see any red flags. Chairman Skutt asked if they could do better at bad debt collecting. Tucker stated they are at 45 days and write off percentages have stayed really consistent. He said EPHC’s bad debt has stayed at 2-3% and stated anything under 5% is great, adding they were doing a really good job.
The Chief Nursing Report was given by Interim CEO Jayne O’Flanagan who stated through a series of unfortunate events, three acute care nurses are off work right now. She said they’ve been working on adjusting staffing. 
O’Flanagan reported the CNA program started December 3rd and finishes on January 11th. She stated they have eight students in the program and hope to retain five of them. She said there’s been a CNA shortage so they haven’t been able to fill all beds in the skilled nursing facilities. She stated they havewaiting lists and continue to work with local families.
Congratulations to Shawna Lael, Back Office Supervisor, who was selected as Employee of the Year.
O’Flanagan told how lunch and dinner are now being served to staff and felt it was going really well. Swanson mentioned giving meals free of cost to employees, adding he saw it as a morale boost and thought it wouldn’t be very expensive to implement. 
Skutt said they are looking at treating about 35-40 acres of forest surrounding the hospital for fire safety.

​EASTERN PLUMAS HEALTH CARE’S (EPHC) new CEO Todd Plimpton with Acting CEO Jayne O’Flanagan.

TODD PLIMPTON was recently hired as EPHC’s CEO and starts the new position on January 3rd.
Todd was born in Lakeview, Oregon, graduated high school in Fallon, Nevada and has spent the last 29 years in Lovelock, Nevada where he has been an attorney practicing law with his firm Belanger & Plimpton.Todd owned a property management company, was on the school board for 16 years as well as raising a family. He was in the military 33 years and retired as a Brigadier General. He has four adult children, a 22-year-old and 19- year-old triplets.
Todd looks forward to the job as CEO and feels it’s a good opportunity to work for a great hospital. Having represented many hospitals as an attorney, he was excited to see EPHC doing so well. He stated he has met staff and the board of directors and looks forward to working for them and will work to make EPHC the “provider of choice.”
Todd loves the outdoors and enjoys exploring new parts of the country. He is also a golfer and looks forward to playing the local courses.

December 12, 2018/by Jon CoupalOn its surface, the case heard last Wednesday by the California Supreme Court in CalFire Local 2881 vs. CalPERS doesn’t seem that important. At issue is the so-called “California Rule,” an obscure legal doctrine relating to public employee pensions. But for California’s beleaguered taxpayers, the case is one of extraordinary importance because its outcome will determine the extent to which the local governments will look to taxpayers to shore up failing pension plans even more than they already do.
Labor interests have argued that under the “California Rule,” no pension benefit provided to public employees by statute can ever be withdrawn without replacement with some “comparable” benefit, even if it’s deferred compensation for services not yet provided, and even if the Legislature determines that citizens who are not public employees are unfairly suffering as a result of prior legislatures’ mistakes.
More than a decade ago, California politicians, seeking to curry favor with public-sector labor, began enacting laws to significantly increase public employee compensation. Among these enhanced benefits were a series of laws which allowed public employees to spike their pensions. For example, a 2004 state law allowed employees with at least five years of service to purchase up to five years of additional credits — commonly labeled “airtime” — before they retire. Under this plan, a 20-year employee could receive a pension based on 25 years of contributions.
When the recession hit and many pension funds were looking at billions in unfunded liability, it was clear that the party was over. To his credit, Governor Jerry Brown presented a 12-point comprehensive pension reform plan which, had it been enacted, would have solved virtually all of California’s public pension problems. Although the California legislature rejected most of the proposals, they did address some of the more egregious abuses including the airtime benefit law which was repealed in 2013.
One has to give credit to the public-sector unions for their tenacity. Once they have secured some perceived advantage, you’d have better luck taking a steak out of the mouth of a lion than have them give it up without a fight, no matter how unjustified that advantage is.
But reasonable people living in the real world can recognize unsustainable levels of benefits when they see them. This includes local government leaders and Democrats, not just fiscal conservatives and reformers. And apparently, if Wednesday’s hearing is any indication, the courts are equally as perceptive. Several justices of the Supreme Court were openly skeptical of the union’s position that the benefit of an airtime option could never be changed, and they further appeared open to other legislatively approved reductions in future retirement benefits.
The Howard Jarvis Taxpayers Association filed an friend-of-the-court brief in the Supreme Court on behalf of itself as well as the Ventura County Taxpayers Association, advocating the interests of those who are ultimately responsible to pay the billions of dollars necessary to maintain the solvency of public pension funds – the taxpayers. Regrettably, due to mismanagement and corruption, the state’s largest pension funds have served neither public employees nor the public at large. Pension obligations at the state and local level are “crowding out” other public spending and, as a result, schools, highways and public-safety needs have been short-changed.
A ruling in support of the legislature’s ability to make modest reductions in future pension benefits would go a long way toward saving California from fiscal disaster. But more than that, it would be an important first step in correcting the imbalance between ordinary California citizens and well-funded a special interests.
Jon Coupal is president of the Howard Jarvis Taxpayers Association.

Recent U.S. Supreme Court Decision in South Dakota v. Wayfair, Inc. 
Expands Retailers’ Tax Collection Obligations Under California Law

The California Department of Tax and Fee Administration (CDTFA) announced today that beginning April 1, 2019, out-of-state retailers selling above certain thresholds into California will be required to collect California use taxes on their sales into California. Today’s Special Notices also impact in-state and out-of-state retailers' obligations to collect and remit district use taxes adopted by California localities. 


“Today’s announcement does not increase or create any tax," said CDTFA Director Nick Maduros. "Rather, California will now require more out-of-state retailers to collect and remit taxes just as brick-and-mortar retailers have done for decades.  With the Supreme Court’s decision in Wayfair, California is able to help level the playing field for California businesses.”


Requirements for Certain Out-of-State Retailers

The new use tax collection requirement is not retroactive and applies only to sales made on and after April 1, 2019. For out-of-state retailers, the new collection requirement applies if, during the preceding or current calendar year, the retailer’s sales for delivery into California exceed $100,000 or the retailer makes sales for delivery into California in 200 or more separate transactions.

Retailers who are already required to be registered to collect California use tax prior to April 1, 2019 will see no change in their registration obligations; retailers with a physical presence in California are still generally required to be registered with the CDTFA. 

Although the new requirement to collect California use tax applies only to sales on and after April 1, 2019, retailers may choose to register and collect the tax prior to April 1, 2019. Retailers can register on the CDTFA website at www.cdtfa.ca.gov.


“We know the legislature is also looking closely at this issue and we look forward to working with them as we proceed,” said CDTFA Director Nick Maduros.


Impact on District Tax Collection Requirements for Out-of-State and In-State Retailers


With today’s announcement, certain retailers selling above these thresholds in a single local jurisdiction (district) will also be responsible for collecting that district’s use tax pursuant to Revenue and Taxation Code section 7262 and the Supreme Court’s decision in South Dakota v. Wayfair.  This responsibility will apply if, during the preceding or current calendar year, the retailer’s sales into the district exceed $100,000 or the retailer made sales into the district in 200 or more separate transactions.  This requirement will apply equally to in-state and out-of-state retailers.
 
District taxes are the voter-approved sales and use taxes imposed by cities, counties and other local jurisdictions (districts) added to California’s base sales and use tax rate of 7.25 percent to fund important local services. Currently, retailers located in a taxing district are engaged in business in that district. A retailer is also engaged in business in a district where they have some form of physical presence under existing law.

Beginning April 1, 2019, any retailer whose sales into a district exceed $100,000 or who make sales into a district in 200 or more transactions in the preceding or current calendar year is considered to be engaged in business in that district and is required to collect that district’s use tax on sales made for delivery in that district.

Retailers are required to report and pay any district tax to the CDTFA on their sales and use tax return.  
The CDTFA plans to begin the interested parties process for rulemaking next year.

Taxpayer Assistance Available

Taxpayers seeking additional information on registration requirements can find the CDTFA’s online guide Use Tax Collection Requirements Based on Sales into California Due to the Wayfair Decision at www.cdtfa.ca.gov/industry/wayfair. Taxpayers may also contact their local office for assistance.


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Note: This news release may discuss complex tax laws and concepts. It may not address every situation, and is not considered written advice under the relevant Revenue and Taxation Code section for the tax or fee program listed above. Changes in law or regulations may have occurred since the time this news release was written. If there is a conflict between the text of this news release and the law, decisions will be based upon the law and not this news release. For specific help, please contact the CDTFA at 1-800-400-7115.





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SACRAMENTO – California Attorney General Becerra today joined a bipartisan multistate coalition of 43 attorneys general in a letter urging the prioritization of updates to the Social Security Administration’s (SSA) electronic databases and verification methods, so that institutions can instantly check for and flag synthetic identity theft. By statute, the users of the system — namely banks and their service providers — pay fees to cover the cost of developing and operating the system. Synthetic identity theft occurs when identity thieves use real Social Security numbers, along with fictitious names and birthdates, to manufacture new identities. Currently, delays in the verification process at the SSA allow thieves an opportunity to use stolen identities before an incident is flagged. 

“The Social Security Administration should use every resource available to protect the identity of vulnerable individuals,” said Attorney General Becerra. “It’s time to move the SSA’s verification technologies into the 21st century to keep up with identity thieves who are exploiting our vulnerabilities. We urge the SSA to prioritize making its systems as nimble and strong as possible, when the funding is available from banks and others that will use the system, to combat this growing problem.”
In May 2018, Congress passed legislation directing the SSA to develop an electronic database for financial institutions to verify consumers’ information. The SSA’s current system does not allow these institutions to check identity in real time, giving fraudsters an opportunity to exploit any delay. The thieves target the most vulnerable, particularly children and recent immigrants without credit histories. This has an ongoing impact on the credit and finances of these individuals who enter the market already hobbled with poor credit and an inaccurate credit history, including fraudulent transactions. In the letter, the attorneys general advise the SSA to implement electronic signatures, or other verification methods, so that financial institutions can verify identity and flag identity theft in real time to protect these vulnerable groups from severe harm.
In the letter to the SSA, Attorney General Becerra joins the attorneys general of Alabama, Arkansas, Colorado, Connecticut, Delaware, Florida, Hawaii, Idaho, Illinois, Indiana, Iowa, Kansas, Kentucky, Louisiana, Maryland, Michigan, Minnesota, Mississippi, Montana, Nebraska, Nevada, New Hampshire, New Mexico, New York, North Carolina, North Dakota, Ohio, Oklahoma, Oregon, Pennsylvania, Rhode Island, South Dakota, Tennessee, Texas, Utah, Vermont, Virginia, Washington, West Virginia, Wisconsin, Wyoming, and Washington, D.C.
Attorney General Becerra has made protecting consumers a top priority. In April 2018, he issued a consumer alert for seniors regarding fraud and identity theft. Californians who believe they are victims of identity theft should visit the Attorney General’s Identity Theft First Aid page and can take steps to limit the damage done by a thief by following the identity theft victim checklist.
A copy of the letter can be found here.

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By Glenn Mollette 
 
Will people remember you after you die? Will anybody even care? How will you be remembered?
 
I can't recall a more respected, loved and admired human than George H.W. Bush. The love and outpouring of celebrating his life was more than I've ever seen. I watched the President Kennedy funeral and recall the national horror and grief associated with his assassination. I remember when Martin Luther King was killed and the outpouring of grief that followed. We can remember these and many dark periods of sadness. President Bush of course lived a long life with many opportunities that few people will ever have. 
 
He became the 41stPresident of the United States. He was a former Congressman, CIA director, millionaire oil man, graduate of Yale and came from a family who had money and many life achievements. While much has been said about his humility you don't achieve all he did without being self-serving.  It takes some ego to run for public office. If you don't have a strong ego you can't pull off all that running for such an office involves. You have to believe in yourself. Granted - Bush could have simply maintained his work in the oil business and racked up a few more million dollars but he made millions and his desired the power of public office, even the Presidency. This in no way berates him. Somebody has to do the work and Americans and world leaders have lauded his life and success. I don't believe anyone has said anything bad about him lately on national television and they shouldn't. His life of incredible work and service is over. He has gone on to his greater reward. 
 
No one knows how they will be remembered after their death. Bad people are remembered for their evil deeds. Good people are remembered for their good works. How will you be remembered? 
 
Jesus Christ is remembered of course every day in some way. He is celebrated at Christmas, Easter, at church and in our lives of faith and devotion. He is remembered for how he lived, and what he did. He is remembered for what he called us to do in our personal lives of faith. No one has been remembered and worshipped like Jesus Christ. His life was different than most all people who are remembered. He came to serve in every way. He didn't have any money, fast boats, big houses or political clout. He lived and died to demonstrate a loving God. His life mission was to help, seek and save the lost. 

The bottom line is you will not be remembered like Jesus Christ or even George H. W. Bush. However, you can be remembered for loving people. You can be remembered for being a good mom or dad. You can be remembered for being good to your children and grandchildren. You can be remembered for being good to your parents.  You can be remembered for being a good neighbor. You can be remembered for being a good citizen and faithful to your church or synagogue. You can be remembered for your service to your community and your country.  Most importantly is to be remembered for being you. God only made one you. Just be you. Be a good you. Try to be a better you and that is all you can do.
 
Actually the world needs for you to be all that you were created to be. 
He only made one Jesus and one, "41" and he only made one you. So, be who you are and we all have room to improve. I have my work cut out being me and when we are remembered people will remember us for who we were while we were alive. Therefore, since you are reading this you are still working on how you will be remembered when time here is through. 

WALNUT CREEK, Calif. Nov. 29, 2018. “Looks great! Little full. ‘Lot of sap.” In the coming weeks, many Californians will head out to “select the most important of Christmas symbols.” In doing so, they could end up on Santa’s naughty list, especially if they don’t follow AAA’s tips to safely transport their Christmas trees this holiday season.

“Although it may be an annual tradition, transporting a Christmas tree isn’t as easy as you think,” said Michael Blasky, spokesperson for AAA Northern California. “Every year, drivers break the law and damage their cars by improperly securing their Christmas trees or selecting a tree that would make Clark Griswold jealous.”

An estimated 20 million Americans who purchased a real Christmas tree in the last three years did not properly secure it to their vehicle, risking serious vehicle damage and dangerous road debris, according to a AAA survey. Vehicle damage that results from an improperly secured Christmas tree, such as scratched paint, torn door seals and distorted window frames, could cost up to $1,500 to repair. In addition to vehicle damage, Christmas trees that are not properly secured are a safety hazard for other drivers.

Drivers can stay on the nice list this year by taking the following steps to transport their Christmas trees:

Select the right sleigh. It’s best to transport a Christmas tree on top of a vehicle equipped with a roof rack. However, if you do not have a roof rack, use the bed of a pickup truck, or an SUV, van or minivan that can fit the tree inside with all doors closed. Use an old blanket to prevent paint scratches and protect the vehicle finish.

Tether your tannenbaum. Bring strong rope or nylon ratchet straps to secure the tree to your vehicle’s roof rack. Avoid the lightweight twine offered by many tree lots. Secure the tree at its bottom, center and top. Use fixed vehicle tie-down points and loop around the trunk above a lower branch, to prevent any side-to-side or front-to-rear movement. Before you leave the lot, give the tree several strong tugs from various directions to make sure it is secured in place and will not blow away.

Keep thy branches lovely. Protect the tree by wrapping it in netting before loading it. If netting is unavailable, secure loose branches with rope or twine. Always place the tree on a roof rack or in a pickup bed with the bottom of the trunk facing the front of the vehicle.

Avoid saying “Oh Fudge!” by driving carefully. Avoid highways and take city streets or back roads, if possible. Higher speeds create significant airflow that can damage your Christmas tree and challenge even the best tie-down methods.

Drivers can face hefty fines and penalties as well as jail time if an unsecured tree falls off their vehicle. Currently every state has laws that make it illegal for items to fall from a vehicle while on the road. Most states’ penalties result in fines ranging from $10 and $5,000. Drivers can prevent injuries and avoid penalties by properly securing their loads to prevent items from falling off the vehicle.

According to the AAA Foundation for Traffic Safety, road debris – which could include objects like improperly secured Christmas trees that fly off cars, landing on the road or on other cars – was responsible for more than 200,000 crashes that resulted in 39,000 injuries and 500 deaths over the past four years. And, about two-thirds of debris-related crashes are the result of improperly secured items falling from a vehicle. 

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

Want to spread goodwill this season? Practice in the parking lot.
 
(Alexandria, Va. – December 7, 2018) -- As we all know, the holidays are a time of giving – and giving back. Acts of generosity, such as shopping for thoughtful gifts, putting coins into the red charity bucket, donating food or toys, and volunteering at soup kitchens and homeless shelters remind us of how fortunate we are and fill us with true holiday spirit.

But do we practice that mindfulness of others’ needs when we’re parking? Look around the parking lot or garage of any busy shopping center before the holidays and you’ll witness a tense competition for close-in spots, carelessly parked vehicles, unlawful use of disabled parking placards, and numerous other parking no-no's. It’s enough to make Santa Claus cringe.

Naughty or Nice?
This season, be conscious of your own parking etiquette and the needs of others. The International Parking & Mobility Institute (IPMI) has compiled a quick checklist of naughty and nice parking habits: 

• Naughty: You’ve parked sloppily and over the lines, at worst taking up two spots, or at best increasing the chances that neighboring shoppers can’t get in and out safely or without dinging their cars or side mirrors.
• Nice: You’re looking out for pedestrians (especially children), pets, and other vehicles as you back out of your spot.
• Naughty: You’re walking through the parking lot texting or talking on the phone, oblivious to the cars around you. According to the National Safety Council, more than 500,000 crashes occur in parking lots and garages annually, and numbers spike during the holidays.Back in the driver’s seat, you check your phone for messages while others are waiting for your space.
• Nice: You return your shopping cart to the store or cart receptacle so it’s not rolling into cars, taking up precious parking spaces, or illegally blocking the cross -hatched zones needed by people with disabilities who use wheelchair ramps to exit their vehicles.
• Naughty: You borrow your grandfather’s disabled parking placard even though he isn’t with you. This and other abuses practiced daily deny millions of people with disabilities the ability to shop, or lead an independent life, according to the Accessible Parking Coalition.
• Nice: You park in the back of the lot where spaces are plentiful – after all, walking is healthy exercise that helps counter all that holiday overeating!
• Naughty: Going too fast around a parking facility in order to secure an open space. If no speed limit is posted, assume it’s 15 mph.
• Really Nice: When someone wants that parking spot you’ve coveted, you smile and gesture for him or her to take it, knowing another space will free up soon.

“There’s no quicker route to getting into the spirit of the season than putting someone else’s needs before your own – and no easier way to start than in the parking lot,” says Shawn Conrad, CEO of IPMI.

Conrad’s best advice? “Allowing extra time to find a spot during the holidays will make it even easier to be a safe, considerate, and courteous parker.” 

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SACRAMENTO — California Attorney General Xavier Becerra today announced that he has joined a bipartisan working group of 40 state attorneys general seeking to end illegal robocalls. The coalition is reviewing the technology that major telecommunications companies are pursuing to combat illegal robocalls, and is working to ensure that consumer protection remains the companies’ highest priority.
“As families gather around the dinner table each night, they shouldn’t be bombarded by unwanted robocalls,” said Attorney General Becerra. “Robocalls made from fake numbers are more than just a nuisance – they’re illegal. We should be doing everything in our power to eliminate these types of calls, which far too often lead to identify theft and financial loss. Consumers and their personal information continue to be at risk, so we are working with our industry partners to provide every landline and wireless customer with access to free and effective call-blocking tools.”
Robocalls are the number-one consumer complaint reported to the Federal Communications Commission (FCC). The California Attorney General’s Office is a leader on this issue, pressing the FCC and telecommunications companies, as recently as last year, to do even more by providing call-blocking technology to consumers. Since it was formed, the multistate group has had in-depth meetings with several major telecom companies. These productive meetings have led to greater information sharing about the technological capabilities currently in existence or development to fight these calls.
Attorney General Becerra and his colleagues are working to:

• Develop a detailed understanding of what is technologically feasible to minimize unwanted robocalls and illegal telemarketing;
• Engage the major telecom companies to encourage them to expedite the best possible solutions for consumers; and
• Determine whether states should make further recommendations to the FCC.

Attorney General Becerra is committed to protecting consumers as a top priority. Since assuming office, he has announced a $53.25 million judgement against Dish Network after it engaged in illegal telemarketing calls to consumers on the Do Not Call registry; a $33 million multi-state settlement with Johnson and Johnson marketing over-the-counter medicines that failed to meet quality standards; a $586 million multi-state settlement with Western Union for wire fraud scams; and a record $18.5 million multi-state settlement with Target, in response to allegations that over 40 million customers had their payment card information compromised during the 2013 holiday season after the company failed to provide reasonable data security.



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California Fire Safe Council (CFSC) is pleased to announce 45 projects have been selected for funding for the 2018 Grants Clearinghouse Fire Prevention Program.
CFSC approved $4.795 million in federal grant funds to support wildfire risk reduction projects in at-risk communities in 30 counties across California. To view the results, click here to open the 2018 Grant Report.
The selected projects help California communities respond to the growing concern over catastrophic wildfire and exemplify efforts to create fire adapted communities. Through subgrants from CFSC, these projects provide support to implement fuel reduction projects such as community chipper programs, fuel breaks, and roadside and defensible space projects. These projects will also utilize educational tools to spread the Fire Safe message and engage community members.
Funding for the 2018 Grants Clearinghouse is provided through master grants to CFSC by the Cooperative Fire Program of the U.S. Forest Service (USFS), Department of Agriculture, Pacific Southwest Region. These State Fire Assistance and Tree Mortality grants provide $4,795,000 for subgrants to support:
• Hazardous fuels reduction and maintenance projects on non-federal land
• Community Wildfire Protection Plans and other plans or assessments • Prevention and mitigation education and outreach opportunities.
In addition to the federal funds, the projects will utilize over $5.5 million in matching funds, both in-kind and cash contributions. This generous support demonstrates the value of collaboration and partnerships among agencies and organizations to create Fire Adapted Communities. Many of the matching funds are from CAL FIRE’s 2018 California Climate Investments grant program which will enable recipients to expand and broaden their grant project scope. Congratulations to the Fire Safe Councils, resource conservation districts, fire protection agencies, and other organizations whose projects were selected for funding! 

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