Excavators continued work at the park in demolition of the former Loyalton Swimming Pool.
According to Structural Superintendent Louis Siqueido, who has been a constant member on the planning, "The equipment was originally supposed to go back to Reno Friday but since we ran into a couple hiccups along the way they were gracious enough to let us keep it until Monday. The equipment came from Q&D construction out of Reno and they provided the trucking too get it here and back to Reno. They also provided all the fuel costs for the equipment while it was in use here with all of it being a donation for the new rec center! Local resident Sean Troupe secured the equipment and is also a Foreman for Q&D, he and Tyler Martin who is also an employee of Q&D donated all their time to operate the equipment. This entailed about 10 hours a day since Monday to make sure we were able to achieve our goals while we had the use of the equipment. 

"Al Pombo Inc. And Hobart Mills Recycled Aggregate have also gotten on board to help with the recycling of the concrete debris. Al Pombo has also offered his services in assisting with the backfilling of the void left from the old pool. This is a huge contribution as we have hit a substantial amount of groundwater and the soil is not beneficial to the building of the new rec center. We must proceed with the backfilling and site prep with caution to ensure the site will be stable to sustain the construction of the new building. This is well beyond my expertise and he brings years of experience and knowledge that will prove invaluable to this project! This is a critical step to making our vision a reality for our great little community and future generations. 

"Also, with the partnering of Lindsay McIntosh and Musica Sierra we can add the old museum building into this project. By incorporating her project with the new rec center we can begin the development of a master plan for the reinvigoration of the the entire east side of the city park that will beautify this area in conjunction with the ballfields. This will allow better access, parking and walkways to each of these facilities and provide community pride in this area. 

"Once this is all completed, we hope to continue to improve our city park to incorporate other uses that the public sees a need for. Hopefully the community will get behind this project as there is still quite a bit of work still to be done including funding, volunteer opportunities and planning for local needs. We are very close to making all this a reality and with the continued support from the city, local businesses and the public we can keep moving forward with an investment into the future of our terrific community!"

The demolition has continued in the week's heavy rain.

Demolition of the Loyalton Swimming Pool started this week with plans to replace it with a community center. Thanks to Kunsman Fencing Co., Q&D Construction, Shawn Troupe, Louis Siqueido and a host of volunteers who worked in the heavy rain and cold all week! The former building was pieced out and recycled with no cost to the city!

State-of-the-art seedling nursery to facilitate forest restoration, research, and conservation projects for communities to increase forest resilience after wildfire, disease, or pest outbreaks

(Sacramento) The California Department of Forestry and Fire Protection (CAL FIRE) awarded Sierra Pacific Industries (SPI) a $3 million grant to advance production of tree seedlings in California. This grant leverages SPI’s investment in the first phase of a more than $10 million state-of-the-art nursery to be built and operated by SPI in Siskiyou County’s Gazelle, CA. The nursery will specialize in production of native conifer seedlings for forest restoration, research, and conservation projects.
“CAL FIRE is very pleased to be partnering with Sierra Pacific Industries to expand tree nursery production in California, especially now when reforestation is so critical for the future of our conifer forests,” said Stewart McMorrow, Staff Chief of Wildfire Resilience at CAL FIRE. “This nursery will add much needed capacity and jobs and will serve to further our combined efforts to restore forest cover on private and public lands. We are thankful that Sierra Pacific Industries can make this a reality. “
Wildfires have burned millions of forested acres in California in recent years. Current nursery capacity in the Western U.S is not sufficient to fill the need for seedlings to reforest these damaged landscapes. More than a third of the forests that have burned recently have seen high-severity fire, which kills at least 75 percent of vegetation, leaving altered landscapes of dead trees behind. Without direct intervention, the most severely burned forests are likely to be replaced by brush. This funding will enable SPI to start project construction sooner than planned, helping to increase capacity to rapidly respond to reforestation needs and ensuring California-grown seedlings are available for post-fire recovery efforts.
“The demands to revive forestlands in the state far outweigh the supply of materials that our industry is able to currently accommodate,” said Jimi Scheid, CAL FIRE Reforestation Services Manager. “Being able to amplify these outputs in the form of ready-to-plant, climatically suitable seedlings, will help us mitigate the growing threats to our forests and the benefits they provide.”
This new nursery will help address the need for additional seedling production in a short amount of time. Production will ramp up over the first several years with 6 million seedlings projected to be sown in 2024, followed by another 12 million seedlings the following year. The nursery, expected to be fully operational by 2026, will be capable of producing 25 million seedlings annually. Additionally, it will employ about 10 full-time people and as many as 110 seasonal workers, which is a benefit to the rural community of Gazelle.
“Healthy, growing forests provide clean water and air, important wildlife habitat, recreational opportunities, and jobs for rural economies,” said Jessica Hinojosa, SPI Tree Improvement Manager. “SPI is making this investment to help meet our State’s growing needs for high-quality, native conifer seedlings. We appreciate CAL FIRE’s support for this immense endeavor. We look forward partnering with public and private organizations across the State that are working to recover and restore California’s forests.”
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The Department of Forestry and Fire Protection (CAL FIRE) serves and safeguards the people and protects the property and resources of California. The men and women of CAL FIRE are dedicated to the fire protection and stewardship of over 31 million acres of California's privately owned wildlands. CAL FIRE's mission emphasizes the management and protection of California's natural resources; a goal that is accomplished through ongoing assessment and study of the State's natural resources.
Sierra Pacific Industries is a third-generation, family-owned forest products company based in Anderson, California. SPI owns and sustainably manages more than 2.4 million acres of timberland in California, Oregon and Washington and is one of the largest U.S. lumber manufacturers. The company also produces millwork, windows, and renewable energy. In California, SPI has over 3400 crew members supporting the company’s operations that include 1.9 million acres of timberlands, 10 sawmills, three millwork and remanufacturing plants, two bark plants, five biomass cogeneration energy plants, and windows manufacturing plants. 

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Members of the 2022 Grand Jury
Carrie Blakley (Foreperson) of Downieville, California Nina Tucker (Pro Tem) of Loyalton, California
Allison Gunier (Secretary) of Loyalton, California
Davey Scott (Communications Officer) of Sierra City, California Don Yegge of Sierra Brooks, California
Jim Kelley of Loyalton, California
Susan Kelley of Loyalton, California
Tony Tucker of Loyalton, California 


INTRODUCTION TO THE 2022 SIERRA COUNTY GRAND JURY REPORT
Even though the Constitution of the United States originally contained no reference to a grand jury, the Fifth Amendment to that founding document states, inpart:
No person shall be held to answer for a capital, or otherwise infamous crime, unless on a presentment or indictment of a grand jury...
In California, Article I, Section 23 of the state constitution mandates:
One or more grand juries shall be drawn and summoned at least once a year in each county.
It is based on these mandates, and on our individual and collective conviction that a grand jury, acting morally and ethically under the law, serves the people of Sierra County as a much needed and honorable agency of oversight of government, that we undertook our work throughout this year.
As you will note in this report, this Grand Jury interacted with several people in a variety of capacities. We here express our gratitude to each of these persons for their willingness to work with the Grand Jury, and for the input they gave to our various investigations and quests for information and knowledge.
Additionally, we express our gratitude to those persons who trusted the grand jury process enough to lay complaints before us, believing that we would honor their confidentiality and their grievances. It is our hope that each of these persons feels that the Grand Jury treated their complaints with respect and honest effort.
Finally, we express our gratitude to the people of Sierra County for the opportunity to serve them as members of this Grand Jury. It has been a humbling experience to take up the responsibility laid before us. It is our hope that the members of the Sierra County community feel that they have been well-served by this Grand Jury and we encourage those who are able to do so to consider serving on a Grand Jury in the future.
2022 Sierra County Grand Jury Report 2
CHAPTER 1: COUNTY GOVERNMENT
The California Penal Code(§925) states(in relevant parts):
The grand jury shall investigate and report on the operations, accounts, and records of the officers, department, or functions, of t h e county. The investigations may be conducted on some selective basis each year.
This Grand Jury understands that mandate to mean that its responsibility entails evaluating and reporting on the "regular" functioning of county departments and officers, as well as investigating and reporting on any extraordinary circumstances within county departments or involving county officers.
To this end, this Grand Jury invited the heads of several county departments to share with the Grand Jury the normal operations of their respective departments. These were not investigations into these departments, but merely an opportunity for the members of the Grand Jury to learn how the county government operates on an everyday basis.
This Grand Jury chose to investigate the county’s response to the COVID pandemic that became a major issue in Sierra County, as well as the rest of the country and world, in early 2020, and throughout 2021. This investigation took the form of interviews with representatives from county agencies, as well as readily available documentation on the Sierra County Website and the Center for Disease Control and Prevention (CDC) Website.
2022 Sierra County Grand Jury Report 3
SECTION 1.1: DEPARTMENTAL ORIENTATION
In order to educate itself as to the normal functioning of Sierra County government, this Grand Jury invited the heads of several departments to make presentations to the Grand Jury about the workings of their various departments. These presentations included information regarding staffing, finances, operations, practices, and policies that direct the functioning of their departments.
The departments and department heads involved in this orientation process were:

• Clerk-Recorder's Office: Heather Foster, Clerk-Recorder and Registrar of Voters
  
• Planning and Building Department: Tim Beals, Director of Planning and Building
  
• Public Works Department: Tim Beals, Public Works, Roads, and Transportation Director
  
• Sierra County Sheriff’s Office: Mike Fisher, Sheriff
  The Grand Jury expresses its gratitude to each of these persons for taking the time to meet with the Grand Jury, and for helping to orient the Grand Jury as to the normal functioning of government in Sierra County.
  

2022 Sierra County Grand Jury Report 4
SECTION 2: COVID RESPONSE
COVID-19 first appeared in Sierra County in May 2020. As of December 8, 2022, Sierra County has had a total of 760 cases with six deaths. According to the CDC, the total cases of COVID in the United States as of December 8, 2022 is 99,241,649 with 1,080,472 deaths. Total updated booster doses of persons five years of age and older is 42,017,288. As the numbers across the country and the world were staggering at times, it was imperative that Sierra County in conjunction with the Office of Emergency Services (OES), bravely tackled the pandemic head on to protect our citizens.
When COVID-19 first arose, the way the county and its agencies dealt with everything had to be re-evaluated to protect the citizens.

• The Sierra County Sheriff’s Office (SCSO) handled calls a little differently including citations and temporary release when warranted to minimize inmates in close proximity to one another in the jail. Deputies followed protocols including masks, distancing when possible and testing. When many of the officers contacted COVID, others filled the duties by working overtime to ensure there was not a shortfall within the department.
  
• The SCSO implemented mandatory COVID precautions including the use of N95 masks, rubber gloves and eye protection. If a situation arose with an uncooperative person who were spitting, spit masks were used and, if necessary, netting. Hand sanitizer was a standard and was used to minimize the risk or COVID, refraining from alcohol-based hand sanitizer for alcohol-related cases as it absorbs into the skin. In those cases, soap and water were used.
  
• The Sierra County Health Department (SCHD) followed the CDC guidelines and administered mandates and issued quarantine orders to citizens that either tested positive for COVID-19 or were in the same household. Although quarantine orders were issued and masks were mandated, the SCSO did not enforce the orders. They were available to serve paperwork but did not police any orders or mandates on the communities or their citizens.
  
• As soon as available, the SCHD offered and encouraged its citizens, especially those at risk, to vaccinate against COVID-19 and set up drive-up COVID-19 testing facilities.
  
• There was much controversy in the community over the mandate of masks and the possibility of mandated vaccination. The SCHD continued to follow CDC guidelines. 
  

• There were strange changes to tourism in Sierra County during the pandemic. As travel bans increased in the larger cities, tourism increased in Sierra County. People wanted to get away and many chose to avoid the threat of COVID by visiting smaller, less populated communities such as those found in Sierra County. We saw an increase in car clubs and off-road recreation. With that there was an increase in car crashes, accidents and hospital visits. By 2022 things settled down. The increase in visitors ended up not being a burden on our resources but it was something that had to be taken into consideration for contingency planning.
  
• Fortunately for our county, we received approximately $560,000 in COVID Relief Funds (CARES Act), which paid for a large portion of the Sheriff’s personnel and two new vehicles.
  Findings
  

2022 Sierra County Grand Jury Report 5
F1.2.1TheSierra County Health Department, in conjunction with the Sierra County Sheriff’s Office and the Office of Emergency Services were not prepared for a pandemic, such as COVID-19 that first surfaced in May 2020, nor was the rest of the state, country or world.
F1.2.2The Sierra County Health Department, the Sierra County Sheriff’s Office and the Offices of Emergency Services acted quickly to protect the citizens of this county.
F1.2.3Due to the quick response by Sierra County officials, to the pandemic, the effects of COVID-19 were minimized, and Sierra County had the lowest death rate per capita.
2022 Sierra County Grand Jury Report 6 

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SACRAMENTO, Calif. – The California Highway Patrol (CHP) urges everyone to ring in 2023 responsibly by designating a sober driver.  
 
The CHP will conduct a Maximum Enforcement Period (MEP) starting at 6:01 p.m. on Friday, December 30, 2022, continuing through 11:59 p.m. on Monday, January 2, 2023.  During that time, all available CHP officers will be out on patrol with a focus on removing impaired drivers.
 
“Every year, people’s lives are impacted forever by making the decision to get behind the wheel while under the influence,” CHP Commissioner Amanda Ray said. “Driving impaired is never worth it and certainly not the way to ring in the new year – always designate a sober driver.” 
 
During the previous new year’s MEP, 29 people were killed and CHP officers arrested 495 impaired drivers.  Additionally, the CHP issued over 2,300 citations for speeding and 26 citations for seat belt violations during the same time period.
 
To help bolster this year’s holiday traffic safety effort across state lines, the CHP will again coordinate with the National Highway Transportation Safety Administration and law enforcement partners from all over the Western United States.  With this year’s “Eyes on the Interstates” initiative, officers from Washington, Oregon, Nevada, Arizona, Idaho, and Montana will be teaming up with the CHP to increase awareness about driving under the influence and removing impaired drivers from the roadways.
 
The mission of the CHP is to provide the highest level of Safety, Service, and Security.
 

 

SACRAMENTO, Calif. – As we head into the new year, the California Highway Patrol (CHP) is educating the public on traffic safety laws that were passed during this year’s legislative season and signed by Governor Gavin Newsom.  The laws take effect January 1, 2023, unless otherwise noted.
 
Public Employment: Peace Officers: Citizenship (Senate Bill (SB) 960, Skinner)
The law maintains that peace officers, including peace officer trainees, be legally authorized to work in the United States consistent with federal law and regulations, however, removes the requirement that they be citizens or permanent residents of the United States.
 
Catalytic Converters (SB 1087, Gonzalez) (Assembly Bill (AB) 1740, Muratsuchi)
These laws specifically list who can sell catalytic converters to recyclers and require those recyclers to keep documentation such as the year, make, model, and copy of the vehicle title from which the catalytic converter was removed.  The purpose of these laws is to help reduce catalytic converter theft.
 
Vehicular Manslaughter: Speeding and Reckless Driving (SB 1472, Stern)
This law expands the criteria for “gross negligence” as it relates to the crime of vehicular manslaughter.  Drivers involved in sideshow activity, exhibition of speed, or speeding over 100 miles per hour which results in a fatality could now be charged with Vehicular Manslaughter with Gross Negligence.
 
Motor Vehicle Speed Contests and Exhibitions of Speed (AB 2000, Gabriel)
Parking lots and off-street parking facilities are now included as locations where it is a crime to engage in a speed contest, exhibition of speed, or sideshow activity.
 
Endangered Missing Advisory: Feather Alert (AB 1314, Ramos)
The new “Feather Alert” allows law enforcement agencies to request the CHP to initiate an alert when an indigenous person has been kidnapped, abducted, or reported missing under unexplained or suspicious circumstances, and specific criteria has been met to permit alert activation. Additionally, consistent with the Department’s existing AMBER, Blue, and Silver Alert programs, this new “Feather Alert” program encourages the use of radio, television, and social media to spread the information about the missing indigenous person.
 
Hit-and-Run Incidents: Yellow Alert (AB 1732, Patterson)
This law authorizes law enforcement agencies to request the CHP to activate a “Yellow Alert” when a fatal hit-and-run crash has occurred, and specific criteria has been met to permit alert activation. The law also encourages local media outlets to disseminate the information contained in a Yellow Alert.  The new law serves to use the public’s assistance to improve the investigatory ability for law enforcement agencies throughout the state when working to solve fatal hit-and-run crashes. 
 
Online Marketplaces: Reporting (AB 1700, Maienschein)
This law requires the Attorney General’s Office to create an online reporting system for users of third-party online marketplaces to report listings of suspected stolen items.  The reported information would be available to local law enforcement and the CHP’s Organized Retail Crime Task Force to assist with investigations. 
 
Bicycles Omnibus Bill (AB 1909, Friedman)
Much like the move over or slow down law, this law provides for increased protections to bicyclists by requiring vehicles passing or overtaking a bicycle in the same direction, to move over to an adjacent lane of traffic, if one is available, or slow down and only pass the bicyclist when safe to do so.  The law also permits Class 3 e-bike riders to use approved bicycle paths and trails, bikeways, and bicycle lanes.  The law prohibits local governments from requiring bicycle registration and allows local authorities to prohibit any electric bicycle on an equestrian, hiking, or other recreational trail.
 
Electric Bicycles: Safety and Training Program (AB 1946, Boerner Horvath)
This requires the CHP to work with other traffic safety stakeholders such as the California Office of Traffic Safety, to develop statewide safety and training programs for electric bicycles.  This training program, which will consist of electric bicycle riding safety, emergency maneuver skills, rules of the road and laws pertaining to electric bicycles, will launch on the CHP’s website in September 2023.
 
Pedestrians (AB 2147, Ting)
This law prohibits peace officers from stopping pedestrians for certain pedestrian-specific violations, such as crossing the road outside of a crosswalk, unless there is an immediate danger of a crash. The CHP reminds all road users of the responsibility to travel safely and look out for one another on the road.
 
 
The mission of the CHP is to provide the highest level of Safety, Service, and Security.

The Plumas County Board of Supervisors met December 13th, 2022.
Ava Hagwood and Amy Hendrickson commented regarding wages, workloads, and benefits of employees as well as daily struggles of the cost of living.
Tracey Ferguson, reported with the Planning Department, giving an update on the process for bringing residents broadband internet where it wasn't previously available through collaboration with the Golden State Connect authority using the Local Agency Technical Assistance Grant. There was discussion to get propositions for possible providers and mapped locations of areas to proceed with the project.
Zachary Gately, Plumas County Grant Manager, and DeAnne Blankenship, Consultant with California Health Collaborative, gave a presentation regarding the American Rescue Plan Act (ARPA) funds. Plumas County received $3,653,039 in ARPA funds. The funds were designated to address COVID related expenses. The county engaged the California Health Collaborative for advice on how to use the funds starting last Fall. They gathered department head proposals to address the needs of departments. They then created and conducted a community survey getting close to 300 responses, comparing common themes with department heads, setting the stage for recommendations.
The updates for expenses were given under categories. The first was administration, focusing on reimbursement for janitorial services and air scrubbers. In engineering, projects include the Blairsden bridge project (set for completion in 2024) and the Beckwourth sewer pump which
was completed but went over budget. With Human Resources, funds were designated for a one-time $1,500 stipend for essential employees, and the county is still finalizing the $1,500 payments to the Sheriff’s Office personnel. IT is planning to update cyber security, software, and the technology used in the meeting room for better quality zoom meetings and an online presence. The library plans to add a larger variety of e-books, audiobooks, and hotspots. The Sheriff's office requested two transport vans which they received, and an updated computer system for dispatch that is in the process of replacing. Gatley said as far as broadband, they are still looking into how to allocate the funds into other county plans.
The last item was regarding businesses and community based organization grants, and how to develop applications for the grants in order to present to the board. Gatley also spoke about the local assistance and tribal consistency fund, reporting that approximately $7.5 million has been allocated to Plumas county for any governmental purpose (besides lobbying) since March 2021. Discussion was held about direction on how funds should be allocated to be able to submit the applications by the end of January. - Story by Arielle Hardy
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AT LOYALTON SWIMMING POOL: installing the temporary construction fence around the building to restrict access will be on Wednesday, Dec 21st. According to Structural Superintendent Louie Siqueido, they will also be mobilizing the equipment needed in the demolition next week also. “We are tentatively scheduled to begin the demo on December 26th and should be able to get it down and the bulk of the debris hauled off that week. As of right now I have scheduled the fencing for 30 days and my goal is to have all the tear down done at that point so the site will be safe for the public. We will finish the site prep as soon as the ground thaws for the new building and do the final grading at that point.”
According to Louie “We have been able to secure everything for the demolition with zero cost to the city. “
Many thanks to Kunsman Fencing which Louie states is “The one huge contribution is Kunsman Fencing of Portola! They have donated all the materials and labor for the temporary construction fencing that will secure the site.”
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SAN MATEO – Today in San Mateo, California Attorney General Rob Bonta joined Second Harvest of Silicon Valley to share tips and resources on how to donate safely and avoid scams while giving this holiday season. Attorney General Bonta has primary regulatory oversight of charities and the professional fundraisers who solicit on their behalf in California. The Attorney General may investigate and bring legal action against charities that misuse charitable assets or engage in fraudulent fundraising practices. In providing today’s tips, Attorney General Bonta encourages donors to take the necessary steps to ensure that their donations get into the correct hands.
“As food prices continue to soar, making ends meet may be a struggle for some families this holiday season,” said Attorney General Bonta. “Fortunately, Second Harvest of Silicon Valley is helping families fill their pantries with food to make a hot meal. This holiday season, we’re standing with Second Harvest and organizations throughout California to deliver an important message: Before donating to charitable organizations this holiday season make sure to do your research and ensure the charity is legitimate. My office is committed to protecting donors from deceptive solicitations. If you believe that a charity or fundraiser has acted in bad faith, please report it immediately at oag.ca.gov/charities/complaints.” 
“As the hub of the charitable food system in Silicon Valley, Second Harvest ensures our neighbors have access to nutritious food not just during the holidays but throughout the year,” said Leslie Bacho, CEO of Second Harvest of Silicon Valley. “Monetary donations to the food bank and other local nonprofits serving our community have never been more important as inflation takes a toll on local families and more need support. Second Harvest is committed to being good stewards of the resources entrusted to us in service to our clients and our community. We strongly encourage all donors and funders to research organizations of interest before donating.” 
Tips on How to Donate Safely and Avoid Charity Fraud

• Check the Registration Status: Charities and professional fundraisers soliciting donations in California are required to register with the Attorney General’s Registry of Charitable Trusts. They are also required to file annual financial reports. Before you donate, make sure to confirm that the charity is registered and up to date with its financial reporting. The Registry of Charitable Trust’s Registry Verification Search tool allows you to search the Registry’s database and verify whether a charitable organization or fundraiser has complied with the Attorney General’s registration and reporting requirements.
• Give to Organizations You Trust: Always do your research before making a donation. Review the charity’s annual financial reports to find out how much of your donation will actually be spent on the charitable cause, as well as how much, or if any, will go to overhead and employee compensation. Research charities in your community and support those that make a positive impact.
• Don’t Be Pressured by Telemarketers and Ask Questions Before Donating: If you receive a call from a telemarketer, take your time and make sure to ask plenty of questions, such as the name of the fundraising organization, whether the fundraising organization is registered with the Attorney General’s Office, the name of the charity that is benefitting from the solicitation, how much of your donation will go to charity and how much to the fundraising company, and the direct telephone number of the charity that is receiving the donation. If the telemarketer tells you the donation is for your local animal shelter, hospital, school, police, or other public safety agency, check directly with the benefitting organization to confirm that it authorized the solicitation and will actually benefit from your donation. Don’t fall for pressure tactics or threats. Remember, you have the right to decline the donation request. Hang up if you feel pressured or threatened.
• Be Cautious of "Look-Alike" and Fake Websites and Emails: Be on the lookout for websites and emails that use slightly different web addresses (URLs) or email addresses in order to pass off as a legitimate charity. Scammers sometimes purchase these types of URLs or create fake email accounts in order to trick potential donors into donating to a look-alike website or steal your information. Be careful of fake websites by closely looking at the web address, and be cautious of web addresses that end in a series of numbers. If a charity’s website or email is asking for your detailed personal information — such as your Social Security Number, date of birth, or your bank account number — it may likely be a scam.
• Watch Out for Similar-Sounding Names and Other Deceptive Tactics: Some organizations use names that closely resemble those of well-established charitable organizations in order to mislead donors. Additionally, if you receive an email from an organization to which you have never donated, take extra precautions before clicking on any links. Be skeptical if someone thanks you for a pledge or donation that you never made, as scammers use this trick to deceive you into paying them. If you are unsure whether or not you made a donation, make sure to check your records.
• Be Wary of Social Network Fundraising: Never assume charitable fundraisers that you see online or on social media are legitimate, even if it is shared by someone that you trust. If you plan to donate through a social network solicitation, do your research first and find out what percentage is going to the charity, whether you will be charged a fee, or if a percentage of your donation will be paid to the platform website.
• Protect Your Identity: Never give your Social Security number, credit card information, or other personal identifiable information in response to a charitable solicitation. Some organizations may sell or rent their donor lists to other organizations, including organizations that are not charities. Before making a donation, review the charity’s privacy policy to find out if your information will be shared with outside companies.
• Be Careful When Making Electronic Donations: Electronic donations — such as donations made via text, QR Codes, and portable credit card readers have become common practice due to their ability to provide a quick and easy way to donate on the spot. While convenient, remember that anyone can create a QR code, send a text, or buy a portable card reader. Always confirm that the solicitation was submitted by a charity, or that the person facilitating the transaction is authorized to receive donations on behalf of a charity. Always check your receipt and your credit card/online payment method] statement to ensure that the transaction charged to your account is accurate.

For more information on how to protect yourself against charity fraud, visit our donation tips webpage at https://oag.ca.gov/donations. Complaints against charities can be filed using our charity complaint form at https://oag.ca.gov/charities/complaints.

 

SACRAMENTO, Calif. – The holiday season is upon us, and the California Highway Patrol (CHP) wants travelers to get to their destinations safely.
 
“With anticipated high volumes of traffic, and impending winter storms, the CHP wants you to slow down, buckle up, and never drive impaired,” said CHP Commissioner Amanda Ray.  “Give yourself some extra time to get to your destinations, make sure your vehicles are fueled up and properly equipped for your travels, and most of all, always designate a sober driver.”
 
According to data from the CHP’s Statewide Integrated Traffic Records System, 28 people were killed in California crashes throughout the Christmas Maximum Enforcement Period (MEP) last year. During that 54 -hour MEP, CHP officers made 341 arrests for driving under the influence. Additionally, the CHP issued 1,151 citations for speeding violations and 16 citations for occupants not being properly restrained.
 
The CHP will begin the MEP at 6:01 p.m. on Friday, December 23, and continue through 11:59 p.m. on Sunday, December 25. During that time, all available officers will be on the road for enhanced enforcement and to assist any motorists or pedestrians in need.
 
During the MEP, the CHP will deploy all available officers to patrol the highways looking to remove impaired drivers.  Additional focus will be placed on speeding, which is one of the primary causes of crashes in California.
 
The mission of the CHP is to provide the highest level of Safety, Service, and Security.
 

THANK YOU SIERRA COUNTY ARTS COUNCIL, SIERRA SCHOOLS FOUNDATION, FS FOUONDATION AND MUSICA SIERRA. Students performed on Wednesday to a grand audience of parents and family.  Merry Christmas!

 
(Washington, D.C.) – Today, Congressmen Doug LaMalfa (R – Calif.) and Mike Thompson (D – Calif.) responded to the exclusion of their bill, H.R. 7305, from the FY2023 omnibus funding package. Due to an impasse in the United States Senate, all tax provisions – including H.R. 7305 – and disaster relief provisions were excluded from the government funding package.
 
Congressmen LaMalfa and Thompson introduced this legislation earlier this year to exempt thousands of fire victims who are receiving compensation from the Fire Victim Trust from having to pay federal income tax on their settlement money or attorney fees that are included in the settlement.
 
"It's appalling that after all this time an agreement could not be made between the House and Senate to deliver wildfire survivors financial relief from abusive taxes. Congressman Thompson and I have led a bipartisan delegation, including our Senators, to fight for Fire Victim Trust beneficiaries' tax-exempt status. The removal of the tax package as a whole was a significant setback by the Senate. I will continue to fight for this bill and we will reintroduce it quickly in the new Congress. I expect there will be a new effort on disaster relief and other tax provisions that were not included,” said Congressman LaMalfa. "The IRS’s response has been frustrating and tone deaf. Fire victims need certainty and fairness, not to be double taxed. This tax relief will help in rebuilding their lives."
 
“It is a sad day when a bipartisan bill that helps people and has broad support in both chambers of Congress can’t get through the Senate,” said Congressman Thompson. “This is terrible for fire survivors throughout California. There are several tax bills that must be considered next year, and I will continue to push that relief for fire survivors be included.”
 
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.
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TNF Sierraville Engine 361 Firefighter Eric Clarke monitors conditions such as weather, smoke dispersion, fire behavior and fuel consumption, while continuously patrolling the Saddle NE Pileburn unit.  📸courtesy of TNF Sierraville Fuels 64 Frank Bojorquez
By Meredith Anello
Forestry Technician- Wildland Firefighter Engine 371
Public Information Officer-Fire 
U.S. Forest Service
Tahoe National Forest 
Truckee Ranger District
TNF Sierraville Ranger District Fire and Fuels personnel successfully completed planned prescribed fire pile burning operations after recent precipitation and environmental conditions enabled them to meet the burn objectives for the following units.
-Jackson Meadow, one landing (1 acre) near the Jackson Meadow Reservoir Dam completed last week.
-Outback, one landing (20 acres) located near Little Truckee Summit, completed last week.

-Summit NE, approx. 37 landings (185 acres) and located in Carman Valley, completed this week. Utilizing snowmobiles proved necessary to gain access due to the snow accumulation and location.

The pileburn units will continue to be patrolled by local Fire and Fuels resources until they are determined to be out. Sierraville Fuels Technician and Prescribed Fire Burn Boss Frank Bojorquez relayed that the Sierraville Ranger District, utilizing the burn windows that opened between Nov. 5th and Dec. 8th, in accordance with specific Burn Plans, have completed 550 acres of pile burning.

​TNF Fire and Fuels personnel utilize snowmobiles pulling drip torches, fuel, and tools to make access and conduct prescribed firing operations in the Saddle NE pileburn unit on the Sierraville Ranger District after recent precipitation enabled pile burning but required snowmobile use to gain entry to the unit.📸 courtesy of TNF Sierraville Assistant Engine Operator Quentin Booth
TNF Fire and Fuels personnel utilize snowmobiles pulling drip torches, fuel, and tools to make access and conduct prescribed firing operations in the Saddle NE pileburn unit on the Sierraville Ranger District after recent precipitation enabled pile burning but required snowmobile use to gain entry to the unit.📸 courtesy of TNF Sierraville Assistant Engine Operator Quentin Booth

TNF Sierraville Firefighter Dave Mastrella ignites a pile in the Outback prescribed fire pileburn unit last week that was built during aspen restoration that took place in previous years.
📸courtesy of TNF Sierraville Fuels 64 Frank Bojorquez

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The year-end holidays are expected to be the third busiest in more than 20 years, AAA data reveals


WALNUT CREEK, Calif. - (Dec. 12, 2022). Holiday travel through the end of the year continues to rebound despite inflation worries.
Nearly 15 million Californians are expected to pack their bags during the 11-day period between December 23 through January 2, according to AAA data. That’s a 3.7 percent rise from last year.

Overall, the year-end holidays are expected to be the busiest since 2019. Nationwide, nearly 102 million people will travel by car, an increase of nearly 2 percent from 2021. About 7.2 million people will fly, an increase of 14 percent over last year. 

“With Christmas and New Year’s Day falling on a Sunday, heavier traffic can be expected through the end of the year,” said Brian Ng, Senior Vice President of Membership and Travel Marketing for AAA Northern California.

The California Department of Fish and Wildlife (CDFW) and the California Department of Water Resources (DWR) have announced that the Feather River Fish Hatchery in Oroville will increase its production of fall-run Chinook salmon in 2023 to approximately 9.5 million fish to combat the impacts of drought and a thiamine deficiency affecting natural spawning and in-river production.
It is the second consecutive year the Feather River Fish Hatchery will exceed its typical production quota of 6 million fall-run Chinook salmon to help sustain California’s commercial and recreational salmon fisheries. The hatchery raised and released 8 million fall-run Chinook salmon smolts in 2022.
The hatchery, which is owned by DWR and operated by CDFW, is seeking to produce approximately 8 million fall-run Chinook salmon smolts and 1.5 million fall-run Chinook salmon fingerlings in 2023 – a 3.5 million increase over typical production goals.
“With the combination of prolonged drought, low adult returns, and a thiamine deficiency impacting in-river production, we feel it’s extremely important to maximize the actions we have available to us in the hatcheries to help sustain this extremely important population of salmon,” said CDFW Fisheries Branch Chief Jay Rowan.
The Feather River Fish Hatchery has collected 17 million fall-run Chinook salmon eggs to help meet these elevated production goals – 2 million more eggs that the hatchery’s typical egg collection target. Approximately 11,000 adult, fall-run Chinook salmon returned to the hatchery in 2022, a significant, below-average return.
Two million of the additional salmon smolts produced will be trucked to release sites in the San Pablo and San Francisco bays to maximize survival. Another 1.5 million of these additional fish will be released into the Feather River earlier in the season and at a smaller size than typical river releases. This is an experimental effort to take advantage of more favorable weather and river conditions in early spring. Twenty-five percent of the fall-run Chinook salmon produced by the Feather River Fish Hatchery in 2023 will be marked and tagged so that scientists can monitor the success of the releases.
“Releasing additional fall-run in both the Feather River and near San Francisco Bay will provide more salmon for harvest opportunities and for research,” said DWR State Water Project Assistant Deputy Director John Yarbrough. “It’s critical that when we change strategies, even during drought, we have the tools in place to understand both the impacts and the benefits of these actions. Continuing to mark these fall-run and follow them throughout their lifecycle will give us the information necessary to inform future actions.”
In the past few years, California’s Chinook salmon populations have suffered from a thiamine deficiency, which is a lack of thiamine or Vitamin B1, which can cause death in both juvenile and adult fish. The thiamine deficiency has been linked to booming anchovy populations in the ocean and adult salmon feeding almost exclusively on anchovies compared to a more diverse diet of prey species.
CDFW and DWR have been able to successfully treat both adult salmon returning to the Feather River Fish Hatchery and the fertilized eggs produced. Until there are changes in the ocean food web, thiamine deficiency will continue to be a problem for these fish. CDFW and DWR will continue to manage the Feather River Fish Hatchery to produce salmon for harvest and conservation using the best available science and management practices.
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After years of planning and collaboration with fire scientists, firefighters, stakeholders, and local community partners, the new map reflects changes in fire hazard in unincorporated, rural areas, as experienced in California over past years.
Sacramento – CAL FIRE - Office of the State Fire Marshal this week will begin a public comment period for the regulatory adoption process to update the existing map that captures Fire Hazard Severity Zones (FHSZ), which is a comprehensive map that ranks California’s State Responsibility Area (SRA)--or rural, unincorporated areas--based on the likelihood different areas will experience wildfire.
After years of work to develop a sound scientific basis and methodology with a range of experts and stakeholders, updates to this map bring this valuable tool and statutory requirement current in a way that accurately reflects today’s reality for wildfire hazard throughout the state. More specifically, this process includes a few details to know below:

• This current revision only updates areas in California’s unincorporated, rural areas where wildfires tend to be frequent—called the “SRA” or “State Responsibility Area.” This does not include cities or large urban areas.
  
• This process does not change rules or requirements for homes or properties in these areas related to wildfire prevention, preparedness, and mitigation. The same requirements will remain regardless of whether a particular area is reclassified or not.
  
• The last Wildfire Hazard Severity Zone map was updated in 2007 and required an update. A lot has happened since 2007. Using the best available science with academic researchers and others, this updated map reflects the impacts of a changing climate and includes a variety of other key factors.
  
• This is the beginning of a nearly two-month public process. These maps are being shared for your comments and questions during the regulatory process. A total of 57 public hearings will be held throughout the state with the goal of hearing from you.
  
• An online public toolkit and interactive map is available to help answer your questions. Take some time to explore your address, read the FAQs, learn about the process and where to turn. A hotline is also available to help answer your questions directly and to help increase access.
  

(916) 651-3473
@CAL_FIRE calfire.dutypio@fire.ca.gov
“Ensuring Californians know the wildfire hazard in their area is critical to ensuring we all take the appropriate steps to prepare for wildfires,” said Chief Daniel Berlant, CAL FIRE Deputy Director of Community Wildfire Preparedness and Mitigation. “The updated map is the product of years of discussions and incorporates the latest science to provide a long-term outlook of an area’s wildfire hazard.”
CAL FIRE’s fire scientists and wildfire mitigation experts developed the map using a science-based and field-tested model that assigns a hazard score based on the factors that influence fire likelihood and fire behavior. Many factors are considered, such as fire history, existing and potential fuel (natural vegetation), predicted flame length, blowing embers, terrain, and typical fire weather for an area. These zones fall into the following classifications – moderate, high, and very high.
Working closely with the Department of Insurance and other agencies, CAL FIRE is creating a shared approach to further reduce wildfire risk that assists residents and businesses with accessing affordable insurance. The Department’s first-ever report on climate insurance recommended updated wildfire hazard mapping to improve public safety. Insurance companies and researchers, along with insurance agents and brokers, have been involved throughout this process to ensure cooperation between all sectors to better support Californians. And while insurance companies use similar methodologies to calculate risk as they price their insurance offerings to consumers, insurance risk models also incorporate many factors beyond this process, and many of these factors can change more frequently than those that CAL FIRE includes in its hazard mapping.
CAL FIRE remains committed to answering all questions from the public and working with the Department of Insurance, the insurance industry, and consumer groups throughout this process.
“Making California safer from wildfires is our top priority, and my Department of Insurance will continue to work closely with the first responders at CAL FIRE to better prepare our communities,” said Insurance Commissioner Ricardo Lara, who issued the Safer from Wildfires insurance framework with CAL FIRE and other agencies earlier this year as well as finalizing his new regulation to increase access to wildfire safety discounts and to ensure consumers can learn more about wildfire risks being considered by their insurance company. “Public education about where current wildfire hazards exist is essential to reducing the threat to local communities and maintaining access to affordable insurance. I encourage Californians to ask questions in this public process and to learn more about the tools that exist to help communities and governments reduce their local risks.”
Overall, the map shows increased fire hazard, reflecting California’s increase in wildfire occurrence and severity because of many factors, including a changing climate. The map has been updated to more accurately reflect the zones in California that are susceptible to wildfire, to help provide transparency for planning and preparedness efforts, and to provide communities a forecasting tool so that the public can take steps to prevent and prepare for wildfire. The hazard mapping process incorporates local climate data and changes in burn probability based on recent trends in fire occurrence. The model was reviewed and validated by members of the science community, as well as with outreach with various stakeholders including insurance, building, fire, and local agencies.
“Counties acknowledge the importance of accurately mapping fire hazard severity zones,” said Doug Teeter, Butte County Supervisor and Incoming Chair, Rural County Representatives of California. “RCRC member counties appreciate CAL FIRE’s continued engagement of local governments in this important effort.”
The State Fire Marshal is mandated by California Public Resource Code 4202-4204 to classify lands within the SRA into FHSZs and the most recent SRA FHSZ map was last updated in 2007. The FHSZ
zones are used for several purposes, including to designate areas where California’s defensible space standards, wildland-urban interface building codes, and the State Minimum Fire Safe Regulations are required. They can be a factor in real estate disclosure, and local governments may consider them in their general plan. However, officials stress it is important to note that within the SRA mitigation requirements already apply to all zones. A designation change for an area does not affect the legal requirements for mitigations since they are already required consistently across the SRA.
“As we continue to focus on addressing California’s housing crisis, we support the importance of building so that structures are safely designed and built to mitigate an area’s wildfire hazard,” said Dan Dunmoyer, President and CEO of the California Building Industry Association. “To build more fire safe communities in the future, it is critically important for CAL FIRE to update these maps to ensure we all can take steps to build a more resilient California.”
Ways to stay informed and join the conversation
As part of the adoption process of the map, CAL FIRE invites public comment on the proposed map between December 16, 2022, and February 3, 2023. The public may submit written comment at the address below or through email at FHSZcomments@fire.ca.gov. In addition, CAL FIRE will host a public comment hearing in all 56 counties that have SRA to receive public comment. Information on the hearings can be found on CAL FIRE’s website at osfm.fire.ca.gov/FHSZ.
Written comments may be submitted by U.S. mail to the following address:
Office of the State Fire Marshal
C/O: FHSZ Comments
California Department of Forestry and Fire Protection P.O. Box 944246
Sacramento, CA 94244-2460
To determine the FHSZ of a property, the public can easily search an address using a new FHSZ Viewer at osfm.fire.ca.gov/FHSZ.
In order to help California residents better understand the FHSZ map and answer questions, CAL FIRE has created a public toolkit on its website to include new and easy to follow sections, including maps, frequently asked questions, and an automated “hotline” to contact for specific information. The new website also includes dates, times, and locations of FHSZ public hearings that will be held in the 56 Counties that have FHSZs within the SRA. For information about FHSZs, visit the program’s website at osfm.fire.ca.gov/FHSZ. The public can also call an automated hotline at (916) 633-7655.
Following the adoption of the SRA FHSZ Map, CAL FIRE - Office of the State Fire Marshal will begin providing local governments updated FHSZ maps for Local Responsibility Areas. Under California Government Code 51178, the State Fire Marshal is required to provide local agencies with the areas within their jurisdiction that meet FHSZ criteria for their local adoption and implementation.
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Visit Truckee-Tahoe invites athletes to book lodging in Truckee to support sustainable travel.

TRUCKEE, Calif. (Dec 13, 2022) - North Tahoe USASA announces partnership with Visit Truckee-Tahoe, the official tourism authority for Truckee, California, a mountain town dedicated to sustainability with ambitious climate goals. USASA was awarded a Sustainable Truckee sponsorship from the organization to promote the North Tahoe Series and Futures Tour and to invite athletes to learn and practice sustainable behaviors while traveling. Athletes are encouraged to support the sustainable mountain town by booking lodging with Truckee’s 12 hotels, inns and lodges and over 1,200 mountain homes.  

Just 12 miles from Lake Tahoe, Truckee is thrilled to welcome the North Tahoe Series, a ski and snowboard event series held at resorts in the Truckee-Tahoe region. The series culminates with the Futures Tour at Northstar California Resort from February 27 to March 3, 2023, a stepping stone to the Olympics that attracts world-class youth athletes across the nation. With Sustainable Truckee sponsorship, the Futures Tour prize purse will increase to $8,000, the most of any USASA Futures event.

"We are excited to receive Sustainable Truckee sponsorship from Visit Truckee-Tahoe. This recognizes the history of the Truckee as a premier destination for winter sports athletes, the value that USASA provides for the Truckee community, and how it attracts sustainably-minded visitors to the region through pinnacle events,” said Simon Haskell, Series Director for USASA North Tahoe Series. 

Committed to sustainability, Truckee has set ambitious greenhouse gas reduction goals of 80% reduction in GHG emissions by 2040, 100% renewable electricity by 2030, and 100% renewable energy by 2050 - establishing itself as a mountain town leader dedicated to climate action. 

Along with its climate goals, Truckee is taking steps to reduce waste and provide sustainable transportation. The Town of Truckee recently banned single-use foodware, encouraging the use of Green Boxes, a reusable takeout container accepted at nine participating restaurants. EV charging stations are widely available, 22 miles of scenic paved paths are plowed in for winter walking or biking, and a new winter shuttle, TART Connect, provides free, on-demand rides from Truckee lodging to the walkable Historic Downtown.

“This sponsorship showcases Truckee’s commitment to providing premier athletes with a sustainable mountain town experience,” said Colleen Dalton, CEO of Visit Truckee-Tahoe. “Sustainable Truckee’s presence at USASA events will show athletes how Truckee is affecting positive change within the winter sports community, and how they can help too.”

The partnership will raise awareness of sustainable practices implemented in the Truckee community at USASA local events and at the USASA Futures Tour between February 27 and March 3, 2023 at Northstar California Resort.

Athletes participating in the USASA North Tahoe Series and Futures Tour can book Truckee lodging with the official Tourism Authority at www.VisitTruckeeTahoe.com/usasa.
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IMAGES AVAILABLE UPON REQUEST

About USASA 
USASA is a snowboard and free skiing organization with a membership of over 5000 athletes. It has a legacy of producing world-class athletes and providing fun, fair and innovative events. USASA holds 500+ Regional Events nationwide for athletes of all ages and levels. It provides opportunities to develop skills, build confidence, and find community in a safe environment that nurtures creativity, progression, and inclusion. 

About The Futures Tour
The Futures Tour is a multi-event series presented in collaboration between USASA and US Ski & Snowboard event departments along with support from regional clubs and event organizers. These l events are designed to be the entry-level into FIS competitions for Freeski and Snowboard and serve as the stepping stone to the Rev Tour/Nor-am, World Cup, X Games and Olympic qualification. You must be 13 & over to compete at Futures Tour events and hold both a US Ski & Snowboard and FIS competitor membership.

The 2023 Futures Tour is presented nationally by Monster Army, USPA. With regional stops at Mt. Snow, Vermont, Park City, UT, Mammoth Mountain, CA and Northstar, CA hosting the final stop. 

About Visit Truckee-Tahoe
Established in August 2020, Visit Truckee-Tahoe (VTT) is the 501c6 Destination Marketing & Management Organization (DMMO) for Truckee, California. Visit Truckee-Tahoe is guided by a 2020-2025 Management District Plan funded by the Truckee Tourism Business Improvement District (TTBID 1.25% tourism fee on lodging.) The VTT Board of Directors prioritizes sustainability, visitation management and a balanced tourism economy. 

About Sustainable Truckee
Sustainable Truckee is a strategic initiative created and funded by Visit Truckee-Tahoe forstewardship programs, services and sponsorships that protect and enhance Truckee. Since 2020, funding has supported projects such as Truckee Trail Host Ambassadors, Visitors Guides to Wildfire Preparedness, All-Inclusive & Adaptive Trails for EveryBODY™ and more.

Visit Truckee-Tahoe Mission
Visit Truckee-Tahoe promotes, protects and enhances Truckee as an authentic mountain town. We serve our lodging business members, partner with key organizations and balance our actions for the well-being of our community.

About Truckee, California - 12 miles from Lake Tahoe & 35 minutes from Reno (RNO)
Truckee, California, located 20 minutes from Lake Tahoe, is an authentic mountain town with world-class ski slopes and hundreds of miles of backcountry used as a training base camp for athletes around the world. With a charming historic downtown to the 1800s and a vibrant Cultural District, there is plenty to do from shopping to craft brew tastings and walking along the Truckee River. Learn more at www.visittruckeetahoe.com

About Keep Truckee Green
Keep Truckee Green is the Town of Truckee’s sustainability, solid waste, and resiliency program. Keep Truckee Green coordinates the planning and implementation of Town’s waste reduction and climate change actions. In partnership with the community, Keep Truckee Green fosters culture to proactively address climate change and lead by example.