By Melinda Myers
As garden catalogs are piling up and online versions fill your inbox, your thoughts may turn to the growing season ahead. With so many choices of beautiful flowers and scrumptious vegetables it can be overwhelming and hard to resist buying more seeds and plants than you have space to grow and time to tend. 
Start by flipping through the pages of various catalogs and searching gardening websites and online catalogs to gather ideas and inspiration. Narrow down your search by selecting plants suited to your climate and growing conditions. 
Quality catalogs will list the cold hardiness zone of trees, shrubs and perennials and often include the Plant Hardiness Zone Map developed by the U.S. Department of Agriculture. These hardiness zones are based on the average minimum winter temperature. The lower the number, the more cold-tolerant the plant.
Sunset Climate Zones for North America may be new to many gardeners. A variety of factors beyond high and low temperatures were considered when the 45 hardiness zones were created. Microclimates, growing season, rainfall, humidity, wind patterns, and ocean currents were some of the other factors that went into defining these zones.
Read the plant description and select plants that match the light, soil and moisture in your garden.  Make sure annual flowers and vegetables you select have time to flower and produce before your season ends. Those with a longer time to harvest than your growing season allows will need to be started indoors. You will need time and indoor growing space to start your own long-season plants from seed indoors.
Select the most disease resistant and low maintenance varieties whenever possible. Make sure you have enough space in the garden or containers for all the plants you select and for each of them to reach their mature size. Overcrowding plants increases the risk of disease and can reduce flowering and productivity.
Look for award-winning plants when reviewing the catalogs.  All-America Selections’ winners (AAS) are tested nationally and selected for improved growth habit, flowering, pest resistance or some other unique feature for the home garden. Perennial Plant, Hosta and Daylilies of the Year are selected by members of the various organizations for their outstanding performance.
Consult your local University Extension service. Most create lists of plants and varieties that are best suited to your region. They often recommend planting dates based on the average local soil and air temperatures.
Your next step – inventory any leftover seeds saved from last season. When properly stored in a cool dark location many seeds can last for years.  Longevity does vary with the type of seed, but you may be surprised to find you can get years of planting from one packet of seeds. Onions, parsley, verbena and salvia usually last about a year, whereas properly stored Brussels sprouts, cabbage and zinnias can last an average of five years.
Create your list and set it aside for a day or two before placing your orders. A bit of planning can save you money and increase success as you grow plants best suited to your climate and gardening space.
Melinda Myers has written numerous books, including Small Space Gardening. She hosts The Great Courses “How to Grow Anything” DVD series and the nationally-syndicated Melinda’s Garden Moment TV & radio program. Myers is a columnist and contributing editor for Birds & Blooms magazine and her web site is www.MelindaMyers.com.

SUSANVILLE, Calif., December 30, 2019 -- The Almanor Ranger District on the USDA Forest Service’s Lassen National Forest (LNF) is scheduling its Annual Guided Snowshoe Tours for this winter season with the first tour scheduled for Jan. 17.  These tours are open to the general public, community, and school groups.
The tour covers a variety of topics during the one to two-hour program. Some of the topics covered are basic winter survival skills, environmental education, and local history. The Tours take place in the surrounding LNF, but locations vary depending on current snow conditions.  
Snowshoes for these tours are provided free of charge and are geared for beginners but can be strenuous depending on terrain and snow powder conditions. There is the option of tailoring the tour program to include the California State Standards for environmental education by request. 
This is a great way to enjoy this winter season on the Lassen National Forest and to explore the forest while on snowshoes,” said Deb Bumpus, forest supervisor.  “There’s the magical experience of floating over the snow on snowshoes among snow-laden trees, animal tracks to follow, and the quiet of the snow-hushed forest.”
Upcoming 2020 Winter Snowshoe Tour Schedule (Times to be announced)

• Friday, Jan. 31
• Saturday, Feb. 8
• Friday, Feb. 22

All tours require reservations. To reserve your spot, schedule your school, or get more information about our snowshoe program, contact Carlos Holguin, Visitor Information Services, at (530) 258-2141 or by email at carlos.holguin@usda.gov.
# # #
 
USDA is an equal opportunity provider, employer and lender.

Mark Gaston
Public Affairs Officer

Forest Service
Lassen National Forest, Supervisor's Office

p: 530-252-6604
c: 530-257-2151
mark.gaston2@usda.gov

2550 Riverside Drive
Susanville, CA 96130
www.fs.fed.us


Caring for the land and serving people
​

Date: January 1, 2020
 
For Immediate Release
 
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. 1952 features the first of several themes 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 2020 fair theme is “Young At Heart”. The road leading to that theme began with the idea of how the Fair could showcase the talent and deep resources of our youth in Plumas and Sierra Counties. The Fair Board wanted to celebrate the knowledge and accomplishments of the young people in our community. Then it was asked; “What do we consider young?” Just because someone doesn’t know how to operate a cell phone beyond answering a phone call, doesn’t mean they don’t FEEL young. So, after discussing and considering these deep rhetorical thoughts, the Fair Board found the obvious phrase we all know; “Young At Heart”.
Everyone knows people that, despite their age, are truly young at heart. These are the people, along with the youth of our two counties that the 2020 Plumas Sierra County Fair is built around. Plans to do just that are in the works, but the Fair invites anyone who has an idea, or maybe knows someone that exemplifies the theme, to contact the fair office and share their thoughts. Look for activities that will help us all discover how young at heart we really are.
 
Getting back the youngsters, the Fair is planning a Kiddie Land featuring bounce attractions, activities and games. This concept is centered around the idea of creating a fun, safe place where our younger visitors can hang out throughout the Fair.
 
The 2020 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. “Last year saw a significant increase in entries and contributed to one of our best Fairs ever.” Steffanic emphasized that the more entries, the stronger the fair.
 
The 2020 Plumas Sierra County Fair will take place August 12 – 16, 2020. It always begins on the second Wednesday in August.

PHOTOS COURTESY MARY DAVEY
A CHRISTMAS EVE FIRE Sierra City Fire had Chief Adam De Burg respond along with Firefighter Rich Teisso, and son David,
 They where first on scene after the UPS driver Kevin noticed the house on Main St. Highway 49 was on ablaze and he went to his delivery to report it.
It was reported around 7 pm. Christmas Eve.
The other Sierra City Fire Fighters where Michelle Anderson, Arron Stringer, Conrad MCually,
 Bryan Davey, Cadet Miller, John L. .
Downieville Fire firefighters also responded with Chief Hall, FF Mike Galan and FF Folsom.
 Mary Davey states, "We are so grateful these folks showed up on Christmas Eve.
.A catastrophe was avoided the tenants of the house who were away for the Holiday."
The Red cross is assisting the tenants.
  No cause yet to what started the fire we are thankful no one was hurt..

Ventura, CA – According to California’s Department of Finance (DOF), the state grew by “only” 141,300 over the last year, but that was only because of a net outflow of almost 200,000 Californians to other states. The official state estimate for July 1, 2019, puts California’s population at 39.96 million, a growth rate of 0.35 percent, the lowest recorded rate since 1900.
 
The DOF estimate indicates that the net domestic outmigration of 198,000 was offset by foreign immigration of 158,000 and natural increase (births minus deaths) of 181,000. Immigration drives population growth in the U.S., and even more so in California. According to the Pew Research Center, “Future immigrants and their descendants… are projected to account for 88 percent of the U.S. population increase,” between 2015 and 2065.
 
Californians for Population Stabilization Executive Director Ric Oberlink responded:

“It’s good news that California’s growth rate is slowing. Decades of unsustainable population growth have resulted in crumbling infrastructure, massive traffic jams, increased air pollution, and the destruction of large swathes of California’s precious ecosystems. The fact is, California is already overpopulated; it is why we’re seeing Californians leave the state in record numbers. Overpopulation leads to reduced quality of life.
 
“We think of Europe as the crowded Old World and think of America, especially the West, as the land of wide-open spaces, yet the population density of California already exceeds that of Europe by one-third… and is still increasing.
 
“Population growth drives up the cost of housing and increases the cost of living. These contribute to our crisis of homelessness.
 
“While this exodus slows our increase, it is a sad commentary on conditions in California. Where are the leaders who recognize that we should stabilize our population to regain the high quality of life that used to be the hallmark of California?”

WASHINGTON, DC, Dec 27 -- There’s no toast like the ones we raise a glass to during the holidays but the Association of Mature American Citizens [AMAC] suggests its members -- and senior citizens in general -- need to be careful not to overdo it. 

Senior advocate and AMAC president Dan Weber notes that Americans increase their use of alcohol exponentially between Thanksgiving and New Year’s. “It’s bad enough when youngsters drink to excess, but it can have particularly critical effects on older folk.”

Studies have shown that Americans double their intake of alcohol during the holiday season, starting on what has been called “Blackout Wednesday,” the day before Thanksgiving Day and continuing through New Year’s Day. The publication, Beverage Daily, says that on average most of the year we consume about four drinks a week, but during those festive days from Blackout Wednesday to January 1 we can down eight drinks a week or more.

According to the National Center for Biotechnology Information [NCBI], “In addition to the psychosocial issues that are unique to older adults, aging also ushers in biomedical changes that influence the effects that alcohol and drugs have on the body. Alcohol abuse, for example, may accelerate the normal decline in physiological functioning that occurs with age. In addition, alcohol may elevate older adults' already high risk for injury, illness, and socioeconomic decline.”

The NCBI also suggests that the older you are friends and family are likely to ignore excess drinking, so you can’t necessarily rely on them to keep track of your intake. “Therefore, it is up to you to drink responsibly, which means taking it easy as you pour and limiting your intake,” says Weber. 

“Thus, in preparation for an impending holiday party, you should prepare yourself to be a ‘responsible’ drinker, one who plans ahead before heading out for a night of festivities.” 

Weber offers a few tips when planning for an evening of “fun, food and frivolity” during the season:

-Pace yourself. Limit your drinking to a lightly poured cocktail an hour.

-You’ll consume less alcohol if you have a non-alcoholic drink between boozy drinks.

-Don’t drink alcohol on an empty stomach.

-Most important is to trust your own instincts by not letting a party pal determine that you “need” another drink.

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________________________________
The 2 million member Association of Mature American Citizens [AMAC] [https://www.amac.us] is a vibrant, vital senior advocacy organization that takes its marching orders from its members. We act and speak on their behalf, protecting their interests and offering a practical insight on how to best solve the problems they face today. Live long and make a difference by joining us today at https://amac.us/join-amac.

QUINCY, Calif. - Plumas National Forest officials remind the public that there are several important dates to remember in order to purchase a Christmas tree permit, cut a tree, obtain  a personal fuelwood permit or visit forest offices.
Christmas tree permits:

• Christmas tree permits are available for purchase through Tuesday, Dec. 24, 2019
• Christmas trees can be cut any day of the week through Tuesday, Dec. 31, 2019

Fuelwood permits:

• 2019 personal fuelwood permits expire Tuesday, Dec. 31, 2019
• 2020 fuelwood permits available Thursday, Jan. 2, 2020

Office closures:

• Tuesday, Dec. 24, 2019 (Executive Order dated Dec. 17, 2019)
• Wednesday, Dec. 25, 2019 (Federal Holiday)
• Wednesday, Jan. 1, 2020 (Federal Holiday)

Whether heading out to the forest to cut a Christmas tree, gather firewood or enjoy some snow play, please check the weather forecast and be prepared for changing weather and road conditions. Carry emergency equipment in vehicles and remember there may be no cell phone coverage. Please call 530-283-2050 for more information.
 
For information about the Plumas National Forest visit http://www.fs.usda.gov/plumas and www.Facebook.com/usfsplumas.             
 

 

SACRAMENTO – The California Lottery player who purchased a lucky Powerball® ticket in Floriston (Nevada County) has claimed the $150 million jackpot (less federal taxes). Bill Lawrence is a retiree and happily just celebrated his 20th wedding anniversary. He and his bride had already scheduled their anniversary trip, but given their win, it’s no surprise they may extend the trip.
 
The winning ticket matched all six numbers (23-37-32-58-03 and the red Powerball number 22) from the November 2nd draw. It was purchased at Gold Ranch Lottery, which is located at 1 Gold Ranch Road in Floriston. Gold Ranch Lottery will collect a retailer bonus of $750,000 just for selling the winning ticket. (The retailer bonus is not subtracted from the winner’s prize.)
 
Lawrence and his wife frequently go to Gold Ranch. They buy their Lottery tickets and then head to lunch, specifically to have what he calls the best chicken fried steak in town! “The numbers just kept matching, I couldn’t believe it!” Lawrence said when describing how he felt when he checked his ticket. The lucky winner is planning to get a nicer house and improve the lives of his family. “Everyone is going to get a bump,” he explained.
 
         Powerball is played in 44 states (plus the District of Columbia, Puerto Rico and the U.S. Virgin Islands). Draw times are Wednesdays and Saturdays at 7:59 p.m. PT. The draw closes at 7 p.m., so players must buy their tickets by then to qualify for that draw. Tickets cost $2 and can be purchased from any of the more than 23,000 California Lottery retailers or one of the more than 4,000 Lottery Lucky retailers. Please visit the California Lottery website at www.calottery.com for more information on how to play.
 
The California Lottery’s mission is to provide supplemental funding to California public schools, including kindergarten and grades 1-12, community colleges, the California State University, the University of California, and other California public educational entities. The funds the Lottery transfers to public education total approximately $1.8 billion for fiscal year 2018-19, which amounts to a modest percentage of education’s overall budget. However, this funding is largely non-discretionary, meaning schools can use this for important, yet unfunded instructional programs they would otherwise not afford. During the same period the Lottery generated almost $7 billion in sales, more than 95% of which goes back to the community in the form of prize payments, retailer commissions and bonuses, and contributions to education.  The California Lottery urges its customers to play responsibly.  Problem gambling resources are available to anyone at 1-800-GAMBLER.
 
www.calottery.com


This email was sent to jbuck@psln.com
California Lottery, 700 NORTH 10TH STREET, Sacramento, CA 95811, United States

Nevada City, Calif. – The Nevada and Placer Counties Resource Advisory Committee (RAC) is requesting project proposals for natural resource improvement projects in Nevada and Placer counties that benefit National Forest System lands.  These lands include portions of the Humboldt-Toiyabe, Eldorado, and Tahoe National forests, as well as the Lake Tahoe Basin Management Unit, in Placer and Nevada counties.
 
Project proposals will be reviewed and approved by the Nevada and Placer Counties RAC and the Tahoe National Forest Supervisor per the provisions of the Secure Rural Schools and Community Self-Determination Act of 2000.
 
The project proposal deadline has been extended and proposals will now be accepted through January 3, 2020.  Project proposals may be submitted by community-based organizations, tribes, individuals, or government agencies that are eligible for funding consideration with the Forest Service. All project proposals must demonstrate a benefit to National Forest System lands or resources and must include a letter of support from the associated district ranger. Project proposals should also have broad-based support with objectives that may include, but are not limited to:
•              Road, trail, and infrastructure maintenance or obliteration
•              Soil productivity improvement
•              Improvements in forest ecosystem health
•              Watershed restoration and maintenance
•              Restoration, maintenance and improvement of wildlife and fish habitat
•              Control of noxious and exotic weeds
•              Re-establishment of native species
 
Approximately $214,000 is available for projects. Proposals must be submitted electronically or by mail though January 3, 2020, to be considered for funding. Project submission forms and specific information on how to apply are available online at http://bit.ly/2hbhbOZ  
 
The Nevada and Placer Counties RAC will review applications in February of 2020 and provide their recommendations to the Tahoe National Forest Supervisor for project approval.  All RAC project proposals must be closely coordinated early in the process with the appropriate district ranger and other key partners during the application process.
 
The RAC is a committee of volunteers that advises the Tahoe National Forest about the use of funds allocated through the Secure Rural Schools and Community Self-Determination Act Title II program. The committee encourages cooperation between the Forest Service and local communities on projects that provide mutual benefits to forest resources and communities. It consists of between 9 and 15 county residents who represent a broad cross-section of the community.
 
Additional information about the Secure Rural Schools and Community Self-Determination Act Title II program is available at https://www.fs.usda.gov/main/pts/home. For more information about the Nevada and Placer Counties RAC program, contact Joseph Flannery at (530) 478-6205 or joseph.flannery@usda.gov.
 
For more information about the Tahoe National Forest, go to www.fs.usda.gov/tahoe. Join the conversation by following us on Twitter at twitter.com/Tahoe_NF and Facebook at www.facebook.com/TahoeNF.
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USDA is an equal opportunity provider, employer and lender
 
 
 

Joe Flannery
Public Affairs Officer

F

By Quint Studer
If you looked only at the big picture, you'd have to say we live in deeply troubled times. It seems we've never been more polarized. Political discourse feels more like a war zone than a thoughtful national conversation. But what happens when you zoom in closer?
That's the question I ask myself as I reflect on the past year spent exploring dozens of small and mid-sized communities across America. I've talked with hundreds, maybe thousands, of mayors, chamber of commerce members, new entrepreneurs, business owners, and citizens of all ages. I've sat down to great meals in downtown restaurants, listened to fabulous bands, and attended some of the world's coolest festivals. And what I've found is that the America one sees "up close and personal" bears little resemblance to the America one sees on the national news.
I'm not saying we don't have real problems. We do. But we have more bright spots than dark—more courtesy than incivility—and often that good news flies under the radar. I've always been a believer in shining a light on the positive until it overcomes the negative. Gratitude is more powerful than griping. And what I'm grateful for today, at the turn of the year, is America's communities.
Real life doesn't happen nationally. It happens locally. And at the community level, I see people partnering with their neighbors to solve problems, working hard and playing hard, listening and compromising, and—quite often—making sacrifices for the good of others. Locally is where we're at our very best. It's where we can use our influence and our gifts to make our communities strong and to make life better for everyone.
I view communities through a lens of revitalization because that's the work I do. As things have gotten more dysfunctional at the national level, the by-product is that people on the local level have kicked in. And what I see is that citizens aren't counting on government to "save" them. They're doing the hard work of revitalization themselves. They're owning it. They're investing in their cities and towns. And they're starting new conversations: How can we make our community the best it can be? How can we reinvent ourselves, start and grow local businesses, and transform into a great place to work, live, and play?
This mindset has kicked in everywhere: big cities, small towns, communities of every shape and size. And no wonder. The chaos and uncertainty of the past few decades have made us crave personal connections with our friends and family. We want our children and grandchildren nearby (with good jobs to keep them there). We want lively downtowns with great restaurants, funky stores, cool living spaces, and plenty of fun things to do. And we're making it happen.
In Thomas L. Friedman's book Thank You for Being Late: An Optimist's Guide to Thriving in the Age of Accelerations, he talks about how rapid accelerations in technology, globalization, and Mother Nature are disrupting our lives and leaving people feeling destabilized. He says these forces are like a hurricane, one in which the winds of change are swirling so fast that families can't find a way to anchor themselves.
Friedman makes the case that the only answer is building healthy communities, ones that are flexible enough to navigate this hurricane and provide stability for the citizens within them. He quotes the words from a ballad by Brandi Carlile, "You can dance in a hurricane, but only if you're standing in the eye." Our communities are that eye. They provide a firm place to stand and find stability while all this change is swirling around us.
My hope is that 2020 will be the Year of the Community. We can make it so. We can hold our families close. We can reach out to neighbors to connect with them, to help them, to engage them in the work of making things better. We can shop local. We can partner with government the right way. We can smooth the way for entrepreneurs. We can galvanize our small business communities to drive positive change. And we can act as ambassadors for our communities so that others want to invest, live, work, and play here too.
Won't you join me? Celebrating all the good in our communities, and working together to make them stronger, will make for a 2020 that's even better than all the years that have come before.
# # #
Quint Studer is author of Building a Vibrant Community: How Citizen-Powered Change Is Reshaping America and Wall Street Journal bestseller The Busy Leader's Handbook: How to Lead People and Places That Thrive. He is founder of Pensacola's Studer Community Institute, a nonprofit organization focused on improving the community's quality of life, and Vibrant Community Partners, which coaches communities in building out a blueprint for achieving growth and excellence. He is a businessman, a visionary, an entrepreneur, and a mentor to many. He currently serves as the Entrepreneur-in-Residence at the University of West Florida. For more information, please visit www.thebusyleadershandbook.com, www.vibrantcommunityblueprint.com, and www.studeri.org.

​35 $100 BILLS were handed out during the Loyalton Assembly of God’s Sunday Morning Service December 8th for its annual Operation Blessing.
Pastor Joel Armstrong stressed the blessing and giving with a purpose to shine the light on Jesus.  He stated how it “increases the appetite for generosity.” Each family unit received a $100 bill with the purpose of blessing another.

Edited by Sensible Digs
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Updated October 9, 2019
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Categories Saving Water
Want to make a difference and save more water? Find over 200 effective methods here!Is water conservation something you want to incorporate into your everyday life but you aren’t sure how to start? Do you have kids and would like to teach them to conserve water as well?
Since the 1980s, the rate of water use has been increasing worldwide. According to the 2019 United Nations World Water Development Report, world water usage has risen by about 1 percent per year. Experts predict the demand for water will continue to increase at the same rate globally until 2050 (1).
It’s easy to understand these statistics because, for one, the population is growing. But also, people are generally using more water. From homes to food processing industries, the use and waste of water have skyrocketed (2).
The increased usage has resulted in consequences.
Water Stress Is Real
Currently, over two billion people live in areas of high water stress. Additionally, about four billion people experience severe water scarcity during at least one month of the year. By 2050, seven billion people will face water scarcity or stress conditions.
Water stress comprises more than just a scarcity of water. It also includes a reduced quality of and accessibility to water.
See why we need to conserve water? But how do we do this? You may think you’re already using water mindfully, but we have over 200 more ways to conserve water.
Our tips will help you conserve water at home and outdoors. You’ll also find tips for kids, pets, the office, and your community.


Table of Contents

• In the Kitchen
• In the Bathroom
• Doing Laundry
• Gardening
• Swimming Pools
• Car Washing
• With Kids and Pets
• In the Office
• In Your Community
• With Leak Detection
• Get Started Today!

CLICK TO EXPAND IMAGE
Share This InfographicSaving Water In The KitchenDid you know?
In the United States, food waste contributes 25% of all freshwater used year.
That’s approximately 80 billion gallons of water being wasted each day.

1. Instead of running water waiting for it to heat up, install an instant water heater under your kitchen sink.
2. Catch the water in a bucket if you absolutely need to run your tap as you wait for temperatures to change. You can use that for drinking water or for rinsing dishes.
3. Use a WaterSense faucet to conserve water. These products can save you 20 percent more water (3).
4. If you have a dishwasher, use it. A certified dishwasher will save you over 5,000 gallons of water per year (4).
5. Newer dishwasher models typically clean more thoroughly than older ones. So feel free to cut back on the rinsing if yours is new.
6. Simply scrape dishes before putting them in the dishwasher. Skip the pre-rinse to save water.
7. Got food stuck at the bottom of your pot or pan? Soaking cookware or dishes for a while before washing saves more water than scraping them under running water.
8. If you wash dishes by hand, avoid running the water while you wash. Instead, use one bowl with soapy water and the other with water for rinsing.
9. When washing dishes by hand, keep your faucet turned off while you wash, until you’re set to rinse multiple dishes.
10. Shop smart. If you’re buying a new dishwasher, look for energy-efficient models using the Consortium for Energy Efficiency website.
11. Let the dishes stack up until you have a full load to throw in the dishwasher. While it may not look the most pleasant, it saves up to 1,000 gallons a month.
12. Make the wash quick. If you can, choose the quickest wash setting on your dishwasher.
13. Have one glass for drinking water or use a refillable water bottle. That way, you’ll wash fewer cups every day.
14. Water-conserving ice makers go a long way to save water. Invest in one.
15. Drop an ice cube by mistake? Place them in a plant pot — they won’t care about the 5-second rule.
16. Want to get your two liters every day without waste? Keep a bottle or pitcher of drinking water in the fridge instead of running the tap — no drop wasted.
17. Cook with as little amount of water possible. Trust us when we say your food will taste better anyway.
18. Kitchen multitasking tip? Don’t leave your tap running while you work.
19. After washing vegetables, don’t throw away the water. Water your houseplants instead.
20. Try steaming your veggies instead of cooking. It preserves more vitamins anyway.
21. Steam vegetables over that pot of rice or pasta you’re boiling. You’ll wash fewer dishes too.
22. Got leftover water from boiling pasta or veggies? You can water your plants with that — just wait until it cools.
23. Reuse water from steaming and cooking veggies to make a rich soup.
24. Use the right size cookware to avoid wasting excess water.
25. Eat more plants — animal farming consumes much more water than plant farming. For example, the water footprint of six ounces of steak is 674 gallons, whereas for a salad serving, it’s only 21 gallons (5).
26. If you can, switch to more plant-based milk. Cow’s milk has the highest water footprint (6).
27. Already vegan? Soy and oat milk have the lowest water footprint — lower than almond milk (7).
28. Go easy on processed foods because they take a lot of water to produce. If you add more fresh fruit, veggies, and whole grains to your diet, you’ll be saving water too (8)!
29. Even if you can’t cut meat forever, going meatless once a week will go a long way.
30. Whenever you eat meat, dairy, and eggs, choose pasture-raised products. Grass is less likely to need irrigation — better for water conservation.
31. Thaw your food in the fridge instead of in a bowl of water or under running water.
32. Boiling water for your morning caffeine fix? Only boil what you need; no need to fill up the kettle.
33. We love composting! Try it out and use your garbage disposal less to save water.
34. Food waste costs the U.S. 25 percent of its freshwater consumed per year (9). Waste less food to save more water (10).
35. Attack kitchen floor spills as soon as they happen. This keeps you from mopping the entire space so often.

Saving Water In The BathroomDid you know?
The average shower taken in the US consumes 17.2 gallons of water.
That’s the equivalent of an entire months supply of drinking water!

1. The average American shower uses about two gallons of water per minute. If you keep your daily shower under 5 minutes, you can save up to 1,000 gallons per month if you used to take long ones (11).
2. Switch out your high-flow shower head for a WaterSense certified one.
3. Install an instant water heater in your bathroom to avoid running and wasting water while you wait.
4. Just use cold water if it’ll do, instead of using hot water.
5. When washing your hands, turn off the faucet while you lather.
6. Install water-saving aerators on all of your faucets.
7. Skip the shower when you can — especially during freezing winters!
8. Shower with a bucket. It may feel stone-age, but you’ll save a lot of water.
9. Remember to plug your bath before you start running it. Just adjust the temperature as you fill.
10. If you do run the tap with the bath unplugged, collect water in a bucket for your plants.
11. Keep it strictly showers at home. When you do have a bath, it’ll feel like a real treat.
12. If you can’t do without baths, bathe in a partially-filled tub.
13. Use a bar soap instead of shower gel since moisturizing gels require more water for rinse off (12).
14. Brushing your teeth or shaving in the shower? Turn off the water while you do so.
15. If you brush your teeth at the sink, just turn off the water while you’re doing it. You’ll be saving 4 gallons a minute.
16. Turn off the shower while you wash your hair.
17. Low-flow toilets use as little as 1.6 gallons, as opposed to the usual 5 to 7 gallons per flush. Switch to low-flow to save water (13).
18. Nifty toilet water-saving trick? Place a full plastic bottle in your toilet tank to reduce the amount of water used per flush.
19. Only flush when you do number two or after multiple number ones. Gross, but will save water.
20. Flush with a bucket instead of using your WC.
21. Avoid flushing things — tissues, floss, cotton wool — to dispose of them. Just use a trash can.
22. If your toilet was installed before 1992, consider switching it out for a WaterSense toilet.
23. Try a dual-flush toilet. Dual-flush toilets have a half-flush option for liquid waste and a full-flush for solid waste.
24. Plug the sink instead of running the water to rinse your razor.
25. Install a steam shower. They use less water than traditional showers and are very relaxing.
26. Hire a GreenPlumber to help reduce your water, energy, and chemical use.

Saving Water Doing LaundryDid you know?
A water-efficient washing machine can save up to 7,000 gallons per household per year.
That’s the equivalent of an entire years supply of drinking water for 38 people!

1. Use the right amount of water to match the size of your load of laundry.
2. Reuse your towels whether at home or at a hotel.
3. Make sure to have a full washing machine load before you wash.
4. Avoid overloading your washing machine. Overloading could cause your machine to leak.
5. Watch out for the permanent press cycle — it uses extra water for the additional rinse.
6. Air-dry your laundry. Saving electric energy saves water too.
7. Wash dark clothes in cold water to save water and energy. It also helps the clothes retain their color.
8. Don’t wash your clothes so often. Half the time they aren’t dirty enough to warrant a wash anyway.
9. Buy energy-saving washing machine models using the Consortium for Energy Efficiency website.
10. Ask your plumber to re-route your greywater to trees and plants rather than the sewer line.

Saving Water GardeningDid you know?
The average garden hose sprinkler uses about 1,020 gallons of water per hour.
That’s the equivalent of 5.5 years drinking water for one person!

1. When installing a lawn, choose a lawn mix that matches your climate and site conditions.
2. If you garden, stick to native species that don’t require additional watering.
3. Don’t plant grass in hard-to-water areas such as steep inclines and isolated strips along sidewalks and driveways.
4. Plant native shrubs and groundcovers to reduce your lawn space.
5. Protect against evaporation and keep plants cool by using organic mulch.
6. Use spring and fall as planting seasons — there is more rainfall and less need to water.
7. Consider xeriscaping. This landscape method uses low-water-use plants to conserve water.
8. Fertilizer may make plants grow faster, but it also reduces useful soil water content (14). Use only what you need; don’t over-fertilize.
9. Aerate your lawn often to ensure water penetrates instead of just running off.
10. Don’t overwater your lawn. It just needs it two to three times weekly. Your lawn only needs 1 to 1 ½ inches of water per week (15).
11. Look for WaterSense labeled irrigation controllers.
12. Set up your irrigation system properly to avoid overwatering.
13. Water only when necessary. If you can’t push a 6-inch screwdriver into your lawn, you’re underwatering.
14. Use a watering can to ensure you’re not over-watering and save water!
15. Leaves a lighter shade of green or yellow? Young shoots wilting? Algae growing? You’re probably overwatering.
16. Set a monthly “water budget” for your landscape based on the water needs of your plants.
17. Use a rain barrel (if local regulations allow) to catch water for watering the lawn, washing the car, etc. Just don’t drink it, and keep it covered with a fine-mesh screen to avoid mosquito breeding.
18. Water your lawn early in the morning or in the late evenings. Cooler temperatures will reduce water loss by evaporation.
19. Avoid watering your lawn when it’s windy — you’ll be losing most of the water to evaporation.
20. Water deeply instead of frequently.
21. Group plants with the same watering needs together to avoid overwatering or underwatering.
22. If you have hanging baskets, planters, and pots, place ice cubes on top of the soil to water without overflow.
23. Set a timer when using the hose as a reminder to turn it off.
24. Make sure your sprinklers are actually spraying the lawn, not your sidewalk or driveway.
25. If water keeps running off your lawn, split your watering time. Shorter periods allow the soil to absorb water better.
26. If it’s going to rain, turn off your sprinklers.
27. Make sure you know how to shut off your automatic watering system in case of malfunctions or rain.
28. Don’t forget to adjust the watering schedule to match seasonal weather conditions and landscape requirements.
29. With automatic sprinklers, you can set up moisture or rain sensors. These prevent sprinkling when it’s wet.
30. Make sure your sprinkler delivers big drops of water close to the ground. Smaller drops and mist tend to evaporate before even hitting the ground.
31. The kids want to play with sprinklers or a water toy? Let them play on the dry parts of the lawn — two birds, one stone.
32. Using a drip-irrigation system or hand-watering your garden could cut your water use in half.
33. Consider hiring a pro to install and maintain your irrigation system to keep it working efficiently.
34. The best time to check your irrigation system’s efficiency is in spring.
35. Set your lawn mower blades one notch higher since longer grass holds more soil moisture.
36. Leave lawn clippings on your grass to cool the ground and keep moisture in (16).
37. It’s okay if your lawn goes brown in the winter. Dormant (brown) grass only needs to be watered every three to four weeks — less if it rains (17).
38. Weed your lawn and garden regularly. This reduces the demand for soil water as weeds compete for water and nutrients.
39. If you have hanging plant pots, use ice cubes for watering to prevent water spillage.
40. Attend a landscape class hosted by a water provider. These workshops teach you the most water-effective ways of landscaping.
41. Leave lower branches on trees and shrubs and allow leaf litter to accumulate on the soil. This keeps the soil cooler and reduces evaporation.
42. Ask your local conservation office about xeriscaping with water-thrifty trees, plants, and ground covers.
43. Install gutters and downspouts to collect roof water.
44. Directing water from rain gutters and HVAC systems to water-loving plants is easy but effective.
45. Winterize outdoor spigots when temperatures dip below freezing to prevent pipes from leaking or bursting.
46. To save hot water and energy, consider insulating your hot water pipes.
47. Wash patios, sidewalks, and driveways with a broom instead of a hose.
48. If you have an evaporative cooler, direct the water drain to the plants in your landscape.
49. Know where your master water shut-off valve is — you can save water if you have a burst pipe.

Saving Water With Swimming PoolsDid you know?
A swimming pool naturally loses about 1,000 gallons (3,785 liters) a month due to evaporation.
That’s the equivalent of an entire months supply of drinking water for 67 people!

1. Cover your pool to stop water losses from evaporation — it’ll keep your pool clean too.
2. Install recirculating pumps for your swimming pools, fountains, and ponds.
3. Keep pool water cool to reduce evaporation.
4. Check your pool system’s shutoff valve regularly. If the water level stays higher than normal and overflows when in use, call your plumber.
5. When back-washing your pool, consider using the water on salt-tolerant plants in the landscape.
6. If possible, avoid installing waterfalls and sprays in your pool as they increase water loss by evaporation.
7. If you want to have a fountain, install trickling or cascading fountains. These lose less water to evaporation than spray fountains.
8. Limit the use of your pool heater, if you have one, to reduce evaporation loss.
9. Avoid overfilling your pool. Overflowing pools lose more water due to splashing.
10. Avoid splashing water excessively while playing in the pool.
11. Join a community pool instead of building a private pool.

Saving Water Car WashingDid you know?
A home car wash can go through 80 to 140 gallons (300 to 530 liters) of water in a single wash.
That’s the equivalent of a days supply of drinking water for 220 people!

1. If you can, use car washes that conserve and recycle their wash water.
2. You can also just wash your car on the lawn and water your grass at the same time.
3. Self-service car washes often use the least amount of water. Their high-pressure hoses have a pistol grip and can be turned on and off easily.
4. Turn the hose off when you wash your vehicle. You’ll save up to 100 gallons every time.
5. A squeeze (pistol grip) nozzle for your hose makes car washing more water-efficient. You don’t have to turn the tap to start and stop the flow.
6. Better still, wash your car with a bucket and sponge!
7. Use porous material for walkways and patios to prevent wasteful runoff when you wash your car.

Saving Water With Kids And PetsDid you know?
A small drip from a faucet can waste as much as 34 gallons (128 liters) of water a day.
That’s the equivalent of a days supply of drinking water for 64 people!

1. Teach children to turn off faucets tightly after each use.
2. Give your pets a wash outdoors, in an area of your lawn that needs water.
3. When you clean out your fish tanks, water your non-edible plants instead of throwing away the water.
4. If you change your pet’s water, you can also give the old water to your plants or trees.
5. Encourage your kids’ school to teach and promote water conservation.
6. Teach kids to bring a water bottle to school.
7. Reward your kids when they follow your water-saving tips.
8. If you can, avoid toys like water tables that require a constant flow of water.
9. Making your own pet food will help you control the ingredients and the water consumed. Be sure to talk to your vet first about nutritional needs.
10. Buy conservatively made pet products like hemp dog toys, collars, and leashes.

Saving Water In The WorkplaceDid You Know?
Most workplaces can reduce their water consumption by as much as 30% with free or low-cost measures.
Many of which are just a question of changing common habits.

1. First things first: Conduct a water use inventory and evaluate your organization’s water usage.
2. Draft a policy statement to show your company’s commitment to water conservation.
3. If you’re a business manager, prioritize saving water and lead by example.
4. Post a leak hotline in the bathrooms and kitchens to report leaks or water waste to maintenance personnel.
5. Install sub-meters if you can to closely track your water savings.
6. Have maintenance personnel regularly check for leaks and other water waste.
7. Consider recycling your company’s water if you use processed water.
8. Include a water-saving tip in your employee newsletter or email sign-off.
9. Post quick water-saving tips in staff common rooms and notice boards — with your employer’s permission, of course.
10. Create a company water-saving goal and plan a celebration once that goal is met.
11. Invite your water utility conservation staff to your organization for Earth Day and other environmental events to help promote water savings.
12. Run a water audit to learn your facility’s recommended water use (18).
13. Use the information from your water audit to monitor the utility bills to analyze your monthly water use.
14. Always keep water use in mind when buying equipment for your facility or business.
15. Choose air-cooled appliances over water-cooled ones to save more water.
16. If possible, always choose WaterSense labeled toilets, sink faucets, urinals, and showerheads.
17. Plan and incentivize an employee leak-hunting campaign.
18. Bring a water bottle to work.
19. Install an under-sink water heater if you have an office kitchen.
20. Turn off the water supply to unused areas of your facility to reduce waste from leaks or unmonitored use.
21. Ask employees for suggestions on saving water and give prizes for the best ideas.
22. Publish your company’s monthly water use to monitor your progress toward water-saving goals.
23. Hire a WaterSense irrigation partner to help with your landscape.
24. Consider sending your company landscaper to an irrigation workshop.
25. Reduce office use of plastic water bottles to lower your carbon (and water) footprint (19).
26. Set timers for any decorative fountains and use them only during work or daylight hours.
27. Wash company vehicles as needed and not on a schedule.
28. If using a commercial car wash for company vehicles, choose those that recycle water.
29. Send this article to your workmates — they probably need it!

Saving Water In The CommunityDid You Know?
Up to 30% of fresh water supplies are lost due to leakage in developed countries, and in some major cities, losses can run as high as 40% to 70%.
By helping educate one another we can bring about change.

1. Tell others in your neighborhood and community about water conservation.
2. Reduce the consumption levels of others by donating unwanted clothes and other items that took water to produce. By passing down things you no longer need, you can save water.
3. If you shower at the pool or beach, keep it short.
4. Always turn off beach and pool showers after use — tightly too.
5. Don’t forget to turn off the faucet after using public washrooms.
6. Report any leaks in fire hydrants, plumbing, or other public facilities so they can be repaired quickly.

Saving Water With Leak DetectionDid You Know?
The average family can waste 180 gallons per week, or 9,400 gallons of water annually, from household leaks.
That’s the equivalent of an entire years supply of drinking water for 52 people!

1. Did you know? Ten gallons per day of your water footprint (or 14% of your indoor use) is lost to leaks (20).
2. A 1/16-inch opening in your faucet could waste 100 gallons a day. Check your home for leaks monthly.
3. Toilet leaks are hard to find. Check your toilets at least once a year.
4. Leak detection tip: Put food coloring in your toilet tank. If the color seeps into the bowl without flushing, you’ve got a leak.
5. If your toilet keeps running, you may have a leaky toilet flapper. It’s typically best (and cheap) to replace the whole flapper.
6. Don’t forget to check whole-house humidifiers and evaporative coolers for leaks.
7. Use your water meter to check for leaks.
8. Learn to detect bathroom leaks. Check areas around the tub, tub drain, tub overflow, shower door, and toilet.
9. Report all broken pipes and faulty sprinklers to property owners or your local water provider.
10. Soft, wet spots on your lawn could indicate an underground leak.
11. Check your pool for leaks often and fix any leaks as soon as possible.
12. Look out for leaks under or behind the fridge.
13. Fix dishwasher and washing machine leaks as soon as you can. It prevents bigger issues from popping up.
14. Check your in-ground irrigation system each spring before you turn it on to make sure there’s no damage from frost or freezing during the winter.
15. Outdoor leaks are easy to miss. Don’t forget to check outdoor faucets, pipes, and hoses.
16. If you just can’t find the leak in your irrigation system on your own, it might be best to call a professional.
17. Check your sprinkler system valves for leaks and keep sprinkler heads in good shape.
18. If you have an automatic refilling device, check your pool periodically for leaks.

Start Saving Water TodayThere are so many ways to conserve water. But it’s important to remember that these tips take time to implement.
They also work best when we make them permanent lifestyle changes.
Conserving water is important for our environment. So if you can afford to, choose energy-efficient appliances and plumbing — they save so much in the long run. It costs nothing, however, to use simple tips like being mindful of leaving taps running.
We hope you find the other tips practical, inexpensive, and easy to integrate into your daily life. Don’t forget to teach kids, too!
Which of these tips sound the most helpful to you? How do you conserve water? We’d love to know — please share in the comments.
Also, you can help your community learn ways to conserve water by sharing this post with them.
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Try These 5 Natural Remedies
 
Cold and flu season are upon us, that time of year when body aches, fever, chills and nasal congestion combine and can stop you in your tracks, leaving you bedridden for days.
 
Statistics show that the flu annually sickens millions of Americans, kills tens of thousands, and results in billions of dollars in medical expenses and sick days.
 
“Complications arising from the flu can become serious,” says Dr. Suhyun An (www.drsuhyunan.com), an expert on regenerative medicine and co-author of Demystifying Stem Cells: A Real-Life Approach To Regenerative Medicine.
 
“If you still have symptoms after seven to 10 days, be sure to make an appointment with your doctor. If any of your symptoms include difficulty breathing, a rapid heartbeat, or feeling faint, or if you experience other severe symptoms like a high fever, seek immediate medical assistance.”
 
Dr. An says there are ways to prevent the symptoms from reaching that serious point. To feel better and get back on your feet, she recommends numerous natural cold and flu remedies to alleviate your symptoms:
 
Vitamin C. Some studies indicate that Vitamin C can shorten the lifespan of a cold and boost your immune system. “The best way to get it is through your diet; the fresher the food, the better,” Dr. An says. “Oranges, limes, lemons, grapefruits, leafy greens, and bell peppers are all good sources of vitamin C. Be careful with supplements because they can lead to upset stomach and kidney stones.”
 
Honey. Honey has natural antiviral and antimicrobial properties. “Drinking honey in tea with lemon can ease sore throat pain,” Dr. An says. “Research suggests that honey is an effective cough suppressant, too. Honey often contains Clostridium bacteria, so never give honey to a child younger than 1-year-old because infants’ immune systems aren’t able to fight them off.”
 
Chicken soup. This popular cold and flu remedy helps because hot liquids reduce mucus buildup and keep you hydrated. “Chicken soup, in particular, has anti-inflammatory properties, which help reduce a cold’s unpleasant side effects,” Dr. An says. “Keep some in the freezer or even canned for flu season. It’s quick to prepare that way and soothing to eat.”
 
Aromas. “When you have congestion from the flu, applying camphor or menthol salve around your nose can help break up mucus,” Dr. An says. “Aromatherapy oils, such as peppermint and eucalyptus, can have a similar effect. Also, vapor rub can reduce cold symptoms, especially in children older than 2 years. It helps open air passages to combat congestion, reduce coughing, and improve sleep. It’s a good alternative to over-the-counter cold medicines in young children because of unwanted side effects.”
 
Probiotics. These are friendly bacteria and yeast found in the body, some foods, and supplements. “They can help keep your gut and immune system healthy, and they may reduce your chance of getting sick with an upper respiratory infection,” Dr. An says. “For a delicious and nutritious source of helpful bacteria, include probiotic yogurt in your diet.”
 
“Colds and the flu are threats to us every year, but they don’t have to get us down for long,” Dr. An says. “Natural home remedies can reduce symptoms so you can be more comfortable and get the rest you need to get better faster.”
 
About Dr. Suhyun An, DC, MSN, NP-C
 
Dr. Suhyun An (www.drsuhyunan.com) is the clinic director at Campbell Medical Group in Houston and an expert on regenerative medicine. She is co-author of Demystifying Stem Cells: A Real-Life Approach To Regenerative Medicine and travels the nation speaking on those topics. Dr. An received a BS in Biochemistry and Biophysical Science from the University of Houston, graduated cum laude from Parker College of Chiropractic, and got her master’s in nursing science from Samford University.
 

ADDING 10 MEGAWATTS TO RENEWABLE ENERGY PORTFOLIO


TAHOE, Calif., (December 9, 2019) - Liberty Utilities (CalPeco Electric) LLC announced today that its recently constructed Turquoise Solar Facility has been brought online, adding 10 megawatts of solar to the utility's renewable energy portfolio. With the new facility producing at full capacity, Liberty Utilities, serving the greater Lake Tahoe area, increases its total solar generation to 60 megawatts, or approximately 30 percent of customers' total annual energy consumption.
Located off Interstate 80, just east of Sparks, Nev., the Turquoise Solar Facility is comprised of 160,500 First Solar panels. In February 2017, Liberty Utilities took its first step toward its goal of 100 percent renewable energy with the launch of its first-ever solar generation facility, the 50MW Luning Solar Facility.
"Liberty Utilities is committed to clean and renewable power generation," said Travis Johnson, Vice President of Operations for Liberty Utilities. "The addition of the Turquoise Solar Facility brings us one step closer to our goal of providing 100 percent renewable energy."
Liberty Utilities anticipates additional renewable energy projects to support Liberty Utilities' goal to provide 100 percent renewable energy to its customers.
"Liberty Utilities and our parent company, Algonquin Power & Utilities Corp., are unequivocally committed to adopting a sustainable energy source for current and future generations," said Chris Alario, President of Liberty Utilities' California operations. "We intend to be one of the first electric utilities in the country to support our customers' energy consumption needs using 100 percent renewable sources."
For additional information about Liberty Utilities or its sustainability efforts, customers are asked to visit http://libertyutilities.com/cleanenergy/ or call 1-800-782-2506.
About Liberty Utilities
Liberty Utilities Co. owns and operates regulated water, wastewater, natural gas and electric transmission and distribution utilities in 13 states and New Brunswick. We deliver responsive and reliable essential services to over 800,000 customers. With a local approach to management, service and support, we deliver efficient, dependable services to meet the needs of our customers. Liberty Utilities provides a superior customer experience through walk-in customer centers, locally focused conservation and energy efficiency initiatives, and programs for businesses and residential customers. We measure our performance in terms of service reliability, an enjoyable customer experience, and an unwavering dedication to public and workplace safety. Liberty Utilities currently operates in Arizona, Arkansas, California, Georgia, Illinois, Iowa, Kansas, Massachusetts, Missouri, New Hampshire, New York, Oklahoma, Texas, and New Brunswick, Canada.  For more information, please visit www.LibertyUtilities.com<http://www.LibertyUtilities.com>.
Caution Regarding Forward-Looking Information
Certain statements included in this news release may constitute ''forward-looking information'' within the meaning of applicable securities laws in each of the provinces of Canada and the respective policies, regulations and rules under such laws and ''forward-looking statements'' within the meaning of applicable securities laws in the United States (collectively, ''forward-looking statements"). The words "will", "expects", "intends", "anticipates" and similar expressions are often intended to identify forward-looking statements, although not all forward-looking statements contain these identifying words. Specific forward-looking statements in this news release include, but are not limited to, statements regarding Liberty Utilities' future renewable energy generation projects. These statements are based on factors or assumptions that were applied in drawing a conclusion or making a forecast or projection, including assumptions based on historical trends, current conditions and expected future developments. Since forward-looking statements relate to future events and conditions, by their very nature they rely upon assumptions and involve inherent risks and uncertainties. Liberty Utilities cautions that although it is believed that the assumptions are reasonable in the circumstances, actual results may differ materially from the expectations set out in the forward-looking statements. Material risk factors include those set out in the most recent annual and interim Management's Discussion and Analysis and most recent Annual Information Form of Algonquin Power & Utilities Corp., filed with securities regulatory authorities in Canada and the United States. Given these risks, undue reliance should not be placed on these forward-looking statements, which apply only as of their dates. Other than as specifically required by law, Liberty Utilities undertakes no obligation to update any forward-looking statements to reflect new information, subsequent or otherwise.

​

By Melinda Myers
The holidays are upon us and busy schedules often send us into a panic when looking for the perfect gift for those on our list. No matter your budget, there are affordable gift options your friends and family will love.
Tools are always a welcome gift.  Most gardeners are reluctant to invest in that cool new hand trowel, shovel or rake.  And that’s what makes them a great gift. Or create a starter kit from your extra tools for a new homeowner or gardener. Clean them up, sharpen the blades and bundle them with a bow. Add a gift card from a nearby garden center if your budget allows.
Help your favorite gardener avoid skin cancer and protect their hands when working in the garden by creating a garden basket with gloves, a hat and sunscreen. 
Clean up a corner of the basement or spare bedroom to create a seed starting station.  Purchase the lights and fixtures or set a table in front of a sunny window.  And if your budget is limited, scour the garage and shed or talk to gardening friends to secure items that can be cleaned and reused.
Or give your favorite gardener all they need to start a windowsill herb garden or terrarium. Purchase or recycle the containers and take cuttings, make divisions or purchase the plants you need.
A trip to the basement or thrift store may provide the perfect vessel for your terrarium.  Convert an old aquarium into a tropical biodome.  A large clear glass serving dish, salad bowl or vase may make a unique terrarium sure to intrigue the recipient and their guests.
Help your favorite indoor gardener dress up their favorite hanging plants.  Macramé is back in vogue and adding flare to indoor gardens. Create a few plant hangers from jute and beads.
Preserve a garden memory with a photo of your or the recipient’s garden or favorite plants. A collection of photos can be made into a calendar for a gift that keeps giving all year long.
Share a bit of your garden.  Pass along some seeds you saved or start a few cuttings from your favorite heirloom houseplant.  Dress up your gift with a painted pot or basket.
And don’t forget to share some dried herbs and flowers or preserves made from your garden harvest.  Nothing tastes better or is more beautiful than when it’s homegrown.  Don’t have extra this year?  Make a note on next year’s calendar and plan ahead.
Give the gift of time.  Most of us can use an extra set of hands at certain times of the garden season. No dusting required and it’s a great way to ensure time together.
Put your artistic skills to work and create a garden journal.  A simple notebook dressed up with some photos, artwork or stickers can provide an attractive and inviting place for your favorite gardener to record their gardening successes, failures and other useful garden information.
As you can see, the possibilities are endless.  And getting friends and family involved in creating these gifts is a great way to enjoy time together while preparing for the holidays.
Melinda Myers has written numerous books, including Small Space Gardening. She hosts The Great Courses “How to Grow Anything” DVD series and the nationally-syndicated Melinda’s Garden Moment TV & radio program. Myers is a columnist and contributing editor for Birds & Blooms magazine and her web site is www.MelindaMyers.com.

SACRAMENTO – California Attorney General Xavier Becerra today shared tips to help California consumers shop safely during the holiday season.
 
“As Californians prepare to shop for their loved ones this holiday season, it is important that they take cautionary steps to protect themselves from scammers and other bad actors,” said Attorney General Xavier Becerra. “I encourage consumers to educate themselves on ways to guard their hard-earned money this season.”
 
Tips for Safe Spending
 
Frequently monitor your credit and debit card accounts for suspicious transactions and report any unusual activity to the card-issuing bank. This is especially important to do if there has been a data breach that may involve your card. Ask the bank for online monitoring and alerts on the card account, which will give you early warning of any fraudulent transactions. To protect yourself from fraudulent transactions, cancel your card as soon as suspicious activity is reported on your card and get a replacement card with a different number. You can also contact one of the three credit bureaus (Experian, Equifax, and TransUnion) to place a free initial fraud alert.
 
Never provide your account information to someone you don’t know, especially over the phone. If you receive a call from your bank or credit union requesting a verification of your account information for security purposes, let the caller know that you will call them back and call the number listed on your card or account statement. Do not respond if you receive an email from someone claiming to be from your bank or credit union – it is a scam.
 
Most, but not all, retail stores will allow you to return items you buy within a reasonable time for a full refund, credit, or exchange. In California, a store must clearly display its return policy if it does not offer a refund, credit, or exchange for items returned with a receipt within seven days. There are some exceptions made to this rule, including for perishable goods, goods marked “as is,” and customized goods. Make sure you check the store’s return policy before you buy.
 
Online Purchases – Avoid Online Scams
 
Be Suspicious: If the price of an item seems too good to be true, it most likely is. The seller might not send you anything at all, or the item you get may be counterfeit or stolen.
 
Get the Details: Make sure to read the item description closely, as the fine print may explain that the item is not what is advertised or contains hidden fees.
 
Research the Company: Before you make a big purchase, take time to research the company to make sure it is legitimate. Search online for customer feedback, complaints, and reviews. Don’t just rely on reviews that the company posts on its website. You can also look up the company and review consumer complaints on the Better Business Bureau’s website by searching for where the company is located or doing business.
 
Use a Credit Card: The law allows you to dispute charges on your credit card if something goes wrong. Do not pay with cash, money order, bitcoin, or wire transfers because you will lose the ability to reverse the charge if something goes wrong.
 
Make Sure You Have a Secure Connection: Do not provide any personal or financial information online without making sure that the website you are on is secure. You can do this by looking at the URL address to see if it begins with “https” (the “s” indicates that the site is secure) and/or has a lock icon displayed. Do not submit any form of payment via email; it is not a safe way to transmit financial information.
 
Keep Records: Save your receipts, the advertised description and price of the product, and any communications with the seller. Always check your credit card statements to protect yourself from any surprise charges.
 
Use a Known Device: Public computers, such as those in hotel business centers, may contain viruses and malware that can steal your information. Don’t use them for online purchases or accessing your accounts.
 
Keep Your Device Secure: Update your system, browser, and apps regularly. Take advantage of automatic updating when available. These updates can eliminate software flaws that allow hackers to view your activity or steal your information. For mobile devices, be sure to install phone updates that are distributed automatically.
 
Know Your Wi-Fi:  Don’t use free wireless networks when you shop online. Waiting until you have a secure connection is a smart and easy way to bypass identity theft and financial fraud.
 
Choose Strong Passwords: You can protect your devices and accounts from intruders by choosing passwords that are hard to guess. Use strong passwords that contain at least eight characters, a combination of letters, numbers, and special characters. Refrain from using words that can be easily found in a dictionary or any references to personal information (such as your birthday). You should also use different passwords for different sites.
 
Do Not Click on Pop-Ups: Hackers can use pop-ups to infect your computer with malware, so never click on a pop-up window.
 
Be Aware of Apps: Scammers can use mobile apps and games to hide malware that steals your personal information. Do not download apps unless they are from a known source and have third-party reviews that verify their legitimacy.
 
If You are a Victim of an Online Scam: If you have problems during an online transaction, first try to work it out with the seller or online site. If that does not work, call your credit card company to dispute and reverse the charge as soon as possible. You can also report the company to the Attorney General’s Public Inquiry Unit, the Federal Trade Commission, and the Better Business Bureau.
 
Other Shopping and Spending Tips
 
Everyone loves a good deal, but price tags and sale signs may exaggerate how much of a markdown you’re really getting. For example, “compare at” prices and signs saying “50% off” are common, but the items may have never actually been sold at the higher price. Similarly, many items at outlets and factory stores are lower-quality, made-for-outlet products that are different from the products sold at regular retail stores.
 
Avoid payday loans and other high-interest loans if at all possible. Often, a short-term loan that is meant to tide you over for the season can turn into a cycle of high-interest loans that cannot be paid back without taking out more loans.
 
Zero-interest financing and credit cards may contain hidden terms, such as high fees or high interest rates if you miss a payment. Make sure you understand all terms before accepting an offer, and make sure you make all scheduled payments on time.
 
Additional Consumer Resources
 
More consumer tips and information are available at https://oag.ca.gov/consumers.
 
Consumers can also file a complaint with the Department of Justice using the following form: http://oag.ca.gov/contact/consumer-complaint-against-business-or-company.
 
I

​CHP REPORT: On December 5, 2019, Adam Kammerer, 22, of Galt, CA was driving a 2005 Ford F150 on westbound SR-70 near Phillips Rd. at a speed of 65-70 mph. At the same time Nicole Kelly, 70 of Blairsden, was driving her 2017 Subaru Outback eastbound on SR-70 at a speed of 60mph. Kammerer lost control of his vehicle and struck a metal guardrail which propelled him into the eastbound lane where he collided with a metal guardrail. After colliding with the guardrail he was traveling directly into the path of Kelly’s vehicle. She was unable to take evasive action to avoid the collision and both vehicles collided in the eastbound lane. Following the collision the Subaru caught fire but was extinguished by a party on scene. Kelly was taken to Renown Medical Center in Reno. Her passenger was Thomas Kelly, 85 of Blairsden.
Alcohol is not believed to be a factor in this collision. The cause of the collision is under investigation by the California Highway Patrol.

FROM THE BARBED WIRE, December 6, 2019:
On Thursday, Insurance Commissioner Ricardo Lara issued a mandatory one-year moratorium on insurance companies non-renewing policyholders.  The Commissioner’s action is the result of Senate Bill 824—authored in 2018 by Commissioner Lara while serving as a State Senator—in order to give temporary relief from non-renewals to residents living near a declared wildfire disaster.  This is the first time the Department of Insurance has invoked the new law, which took effect in January.  
In June, the RCRC Board of Directors approved a resolution creating a Homeowners Insurance Ad Hoc Committee (Committee).  RCRC member counties have been disproportionally impacted by recent homeowners’ insurance cancellations and non-renewals following years of devastating wildfires in California.  The Committee is tasked with considering potential solutions for the increase in homeowners’ insurance cancellations and non-renewals in high fire risk areas.  In particular, how county governments can develop programs and measures to encourage greater community-wide access and affordability to homeowners insurance. 
The potential solutions include, but are not limited to, introducing additional insurers into rural areas, working with the insurance industry on an insurance risk-reduction model, examining insurance industry risk modeling, re-creating/revising California’s Fair Access to Insurance Requirements Plan (FAIR Plan), and working directly with policy advocates, the California Legislature, and the Department of Insurance to explore other options.
Members of the Committee include the following County Supervisors:
1. Sherri Brennan (Tuolumne; Chair)
2. Bob Williams (Tehama)
3. Lee Adams (Sierra)
4. Kevin Cann (Mariposa)
5. Diane Dillon (Napa)
6. Randy Fletcher (Yuba)
7. Dan Miller (Nevada)
8. Brian Oneto (Amador)
9. Lori Parlin (El Dorado)
The Committee is tasked with issuing a report of findings no later than the August 2020 Board of Directors meeting.
Full details on Commissioner Lara’s actions can be accessed here.

(Washington, DC) – Congressman Doug LaMalfa (R-Richvale) issued the following statement after voting in favor of S. 151, the Telephone Robocall Abuse Criminal Enforcement and Deterrence (TRACED) Act.
LaMalfa said: “Robocalls have progressed from simply being the nuisance of sales calls to international scams that trick people out of their hard-earned savings.  Robocalls particularly target seniors, costing them billions of dollars each year. This overdue legislation eliminates rules that allowed this tactic to evade enforcement and recognizes robocalls and spoofing for what it is: a crime.”
 
With Congressman LaMalfa’s support, the House passed H.R. 3575, the Stopping Bad Robocalls Act on July 24th, 2019, which also addressed issues surrounding exploitative robocalls. S. 151 includes several provisions from that measure and will now return to the Senate before going to the President for signature.
 
Congressman Doug LaMalfa is a lifelong farmer representing California’s First Congressional District, including Butte, Glenn, Lassen, Modoc, Nevada, Placer, Plumas, Shasta, Sierra, Siskiyou and Tehama Counties.