​ 

Safety Sam will help promote statewide traffic safety, 
public education and awareness campaigns  
 
SACRAMENTO – The California Department of Transportation (Caltrans) and the California Office of Traffic Safety (OTS) today unveiled Safety Sam as their new safety cone mascot. The name was selected in a statewide student contest and is part of the campaign to expand public safety awareness to protect highway workers throughout the state.  
 
Huntington Christian School (Huntington Beach) student Miller Ruiz’s winning name was selected from nearly 2,000 entries submitted by K-12 students across the state. In recognition of his winning suggestion, Miller will receive a laptop, a $500 gift card, a $500 gift card for their teacher’s classroom, T-shirts, and a visit from Safety Sam. The mascot will educate Californians on the importance of moving over a lane or slowing down when they see his orange friends and highway workers.  
 
“Caltrans makes safety priority number one, and safety cones are critical to let drivers know when and where highway workers are on the road,” said Caltrans Director Tony Tavares. “Including young people in our safety awareness campaigns helps us raise the awareness of both the next generation and current drivers, and we’re excited to make Safety Sam the face of the important work being done to keep our highway workers and the traveling public safe.”  
 
"Educating the public on safe driving behaviors is key to helping save lives on our roadways," said OTS Director Barbara Rooney. “Safety Sam engages the public in a fun and interactive way while serving as an important reminder to be attentive when approaching work zones.” 
 
In 2020, nearly 7,000 work-zone crashes occurred on California roadways, resulting in more than 3,000 injuries and nearly 100 fatalities. Nationally, drivers and passengers account for 85% of people killed in work zones.  
 
California’s “Move Over” law requires all drivers to move over a lane if safe to do so, or if unable to do so safely, slow down when they see amber flashing lights on Caltrans vehicles, law enforcement, and other emergency vehicles and tow trucks. Failure to obey the “Move Over” law can result in fines up to $1,000, plus points on your driving record. 
 
The statewide contest ran from Nov. 21, 2022, through Jan. 20, 2023. Safety Sam will be used by Caltrans Districts for community outreach and engagement efforts. The mascot’s image will also be used in materials aiming to inform the public about the importance of the “Move Over” law and work zone safety. 
 
With safety as its top priority, Caltrans is using the Safe System approach to achieve its goal of reducing to zero the number of fatalities and serious injuries on state highways by 2050. This approach builds on its ongoing work to improve safety throughout its network and on all transportation projects the department funds or oversees, which includes “complete street” features that provide safe and accessible options for people walking, biking and taking transit. 
 
All contest prizes provided courtesy of iHeart Media. For more information on Caltrans and OTS initiatives, visit BeWorkZoneAlert.com and GoSafelyCA.org.

 

Caltrans, OTS Unveil New Student-Named Work Zone Safety Mascot 
Safety Sam will help promote statewide traffic safety, 
public education and awareness campaigns  
 
SACRAMENTO – The California Department of Transportation (Caltrans) and the California Office of Traffic Safety (OTS) today unveiled Safety Sam as their new safety cone mascot. The name was selected in a statewide student contest and is part of the campaign to expand public safety awareness to protect highway workers throughout the state.  
 
Huntington Christian School (Huntington Beach) student Miller Ruiz’s winning name was selected from nearly 2,000 entries submitted by K-12 students across the state. In recognition of his winning suggestion, Miller will receive a laptop, a $500 gift card, a $500 gift card for their teacher’s classroom, T-shirts, and a visit from Safety Sam. The mascot will educate Californians on the importance of moving over a lane or slowing down when they see his orange friends and highway workers.  
 
“Caltrans makes safety priority number one, and safety cones are critical to let drivers know when and where highway workers are on the road,” said Caltrans Director Tony Tavares. “Including young people in our safety awareness campaigns helps us raise the awareness of both the next generation and current drivers, and we’re excited to make Safety Sam the face of the important work being done to keep our highway workers and the traveling public safe.”  
 
"Educating the public on safe driving behaviors is key to helping save lives on our roadways," said OTS Director Barbara Rooney. “Safety Sam engages the public in a fun and interactive way while serving as an important reminder to be attentive when approaching work zones.” 
 
In 2020, nearly 7,000 work-zone crashes occurred on California roadways, resulting in more than 3,000 injuries and nearly 100 fatalities. Nationally, drivers and passengers account for 85% of people killed in work zones.  
 
California’s “Move Over” law requires all drivers to move over a lane if safe to do so, or if unable to do so safely, slow down when they see amber flashing lights on Caltrans vehicles, law enforcement, and other emergency vehicles and tow trucks. Failure to obey the “Move Over” law can result in fines up to $1,000, plus points on your driving record. 
 
The statewide contest ran from Nov. 21, 2022, through Jan. 20, 2023. Safety Sam will be used by Caltrans Districts for community outreach and engagement efforts. The mascot’s image will also be used in materials aiming to inform the public about the importance of the “Move Over” law and work zone safety. 
 
With safety as its top priority, Caltrans is using the Safe System approach to achieve its goal of reducing to zero the number of fatalities and serious injuries on state highways by 2050. This approach builds on its ongoing work to improve safety throughout its network and on all transportation projects the department funds or oversees, which includes “complete street” features that provide safe and accessible options for people walking, biking and taking transit. 
 
All contest prizes provided courtesy of iHeart Media. For more information on Caltrans and OTS initiatives, visit BeWorkZoneAlert.com and GoSafelyCA.org.

 

Caltrans, OTS Unveil New Student-Named Work Zone Safety Mascot 
Safety Sam will help promote statewide traffic safety, 
public education and awareness campaigns  
 
SACRAMENTO – The California Department of Transportation (Caltrans) and the California Office of Traffic Safety (OTS) today unveiled Safety Sam as their new safety cone mascot. The name was selected in a statewide student contest and is part of the campaign to expand public safety awareness to protect highway workers throughout the state.  
 
Huntington Christian School (Huntington Beach) student Miller Ruiz’s winning name was selected from nearly 2,000 entries submitted by K-12 students across the state. In recognition of his winning suggestion, Miller will receive a laptop, a $500 gift card, a $500 gift card for their teacher’s classroom, T-shirts, and a visit from Safety Sam. The mascot will educate Californians on the importance of moving over a lane or slowing down when they see his orange friends and highway workers.  
 
“Caltrans makes safety priority number one, and safety cones are critical to let drivers know when and where highway workers are on the road,” said Caltrans Director Tony Tavares. “Including young people in our safety awareness campaigns helps us raise the awareness of both the next generation and current drivers, and we’re excited to make Safety Sam the face of the important work being done to keep our highway workers and the traveling public safe.”  
 
"Educating the public on safe driving behaviors is key to helping save lives on our roadways," said OTS Director Barbara Rooney. “Safety Sam engages the public in a fun and interactive way while serving as an important reminder to be attentive when approaching work zones.” 
 
In 2020, nearly 7,000 work-zone crashes occurred on California roadways, resulting in more than 3,000 injuries and nearly 100 fatalities. Nationally, drivers and passengers account for 85% of people killed in work zones.  
 
California’s “Move Over” law requires all drivers to move over a lane if safe to do so, or if unable to do so safely, slow down when they see amber flashing lights on Caltrans vehicles, law enforcement, and other emergency vehicles and tow trucks. Failure to obey the “Move Over” law can result in fines up to $1,000, plus points on your driving record. 
 
The statewide contest ran from Nov. 21, 2022, through Jan. 20, 2023. Safety Sam will be used by Caltrans Districts for community outreach and engagement efforts. The mascot’s image will also be used in materials aiming to inform the public about the importance of the “Move Over” law and work zone safety. 
 
With safety as its top priority, Caltrans is using the Safe System approach to achieve its goal of reducing to zero the number of fatalities and serious injuries on state highways by 2050. This approach builds on its ongoing work to improve safety throughout its network and on all transportation projects the department funds or oversees, which includes “complete street” features that provide safe and accessible options for people walking, biking and taking transit. 
 
All contest prizes provided courtesy of iHeart Media. For more information on Caltrans and OTS initiatives, visit BeWorkZoneAlert.com and GoSafelyCA.org.

With the lack of sunshine, warmth, and summer recreation, it is normal to sometimes get a little
“blue” in the winter months. Here are a few ways to combat seasonal depression, and even lift
your spirits year-round.

1. Houseplants
Having plants in your home cannot only brighten your living space, but also help to purify
the indoor air, which is often more polluted than we think. In addition, research has also
shown that plants are much more conscious than we once believed, and have shown to
have empathy towards other plants as well as their owners. This could also be why
plants are affected differently by different musical genres, (which gives you a great
excuse to blast some Bach while doing chores around the house.)
Having live plants indoors during the winter is a beautiful way to stay connected to
nature, and as a reminder that spring is just around the corner. Many houseplants are
low maintenance, and can propagate (create baby plants) fairly quickly and grow fast.
Spider plants, or Chlorophytum, is a common houseplant that you will be able to take
care of easily, even if you don’t have a green thumb. Philodendrons are also a quick growing
plant, and as it grows you can trim its branches, and by putting them in water, will form
roots to either plant another plant, or leave them in water as a water vase.

2. Exercise
While it may be challenging to go out for a walk or do outdoor activities during the winter
months, there are ways to get the circulation pumping to release endorphins (feel good
chemicals) into your brain more quickly. Exercise can be as easy as using proper
techniques for squats when bending over like making a fire in the fireplace, moving
wood, or loading the dishwasher.
Squatting whenever possible, or doing lunges (think vacuuming by bending the knees
more instead of the back) and by making small changes like keeping your back
straighter and upright, and keeping your knees over your ankles while tightening your
core, while doing chores, optimizes your activity to get the blood pumping. Playing feel-
good music and dancing can also be an easy mood-booster, and if you want to dance
like no one is watching (even if they are) you will burn even more calories!

3. Light Therapy and Blue Light Blocking Devices
With more awareness coming into the light about seasonal depression, light therapy
devices have come into the market, boasting incredibly positive results. Without
exposing yourself to harmful Ultraviolet (UV) radiation, light therapy devices give you
many positive benefits of the sun without exposing you to harmful light emissions, or
ever having to leave your house. They even have alarm clocks that are set to emit light
according to the sunrise, in order to help you synchronize to the natural circadian
rhythms of nature.
With artificial light, comes certain frequencies (often referred to as blue light) from our
electronic device, often affecting our ability to go to sleep at normal hours when the sun
goes down (like our ancestors once did.) Light devices and blue light blocking glasses
can help us reprogram our circadian rhythms to get better sleep at night, as well as
waking up more refreshed in the morning.

4. Snow Crafts
There are a number of different ways that you can incorporate the beautiful Sierra
Nevada snow into your crafts, letting mother nature play a role in your designs. One way
to do this is through ice tye dye. By laying out fabric onto the snow, you can take normal
powdered tye dye (without adding water) and sprinkle in on the fabric. Then, using either
snow or ice cubes (this can be done in hot summer months also) place the ice over the
fabric and let it do its magic! The ice will melt over the fabric, creating unique designs,
fun for the whole family! You can also use watercolor pencils and paper, creating your
art and then setting the paper outside to have the snow fall on it. Art in general, as well
as finding other hobbies that fit your lifestyle and preferences, can help tremendously,
especially on those “snow days” where you feel cooped up in the house.

5. Supplementation
With many people lacking in basic nutrients because of food not being as nutritious as it
was once due to soil quality and environmental aspects, it may be wise to consider
supplementing your diet with additional nutrients, especially in the winter. A high quality
vitamin D supplement can help provide nutrients you may normally get from the sun, as
well as a fish oil or omega 3 supplement, and probiotics. As always, talk to your health
care professional to see what supplements you are lacking, and what you may benefit
from the most.

6. Volunteering
With winter being a time of inner reflection and gaining a new perspective on how we
desire to manifest and shape our lives for the new coming year, a great way to maintain a
positive perspective on life is by volunteering. Not only does it help other people, it also
releases endorphins, and helps you to have the fulfillment that you are making a
difference in people's (or animals) lives, as well a greater purpose than just yourself. By finding ways to volunteer, you not only get a social outlet, but a way to be involved in your community,
to help to make the world a better place. Getting out of the house and finding ways to
connect can be crucial to not only human potential and well-being, but especially this
time of year where many people feel disconnected and isolated.

7. Community Resources
Take a visit to your local library, you may find the perfect book for a cozy read by the
fireplace! Check out local events, like the longboard races happening monthly, to enjoy winter
festivities. Perhaps consider finding ways to enjoy the snow by snowshoeing, skiing,
snowmobiling, or simply finding a peaceful place to reflect, like by the lake or river that you can
drive to daily easily, and sit in your car if it’s too cold to venture out, even for just a few minutes
of meditation. If travel is not an option, find a comfortable space like a window or chair that you
can do some journaling in, or any activity that comforts you (maybe a jigsaw puzzle?)!

No matter where you find yourself this season, make it the best possible winter you can.
By searching for positive perspectives, and being grateful for what we have, we can find new
opportunities to learn, grow, play, and evolve, into the happiest version of ourselves! Hoping you
find your inner bliss no matter what time of year it is, and my wish is that joy, peace, and love,
are with you, no matter what part of this journey you are on.

(Left to right) BJ Jordan, Sierra County Arts Council Executive Director; Mia Martinelli, Sierra County Poetry Out Loud Champion; Abigail Sainsbury, Second Place; Riley Pearmund, Third Place.”

~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~

​The fifth annual Poetry Out Loud County Finals for Sierra County were held on Friday, February 3, 2023, in the Student Lounge of Downieville High School, with three student participants, and over twenty people in attendance.  Poetry Out Loud, an initiative of the National Endowment for the Arts, began in 2005 on a national and statewide basis.  In California, it is administered by the California Arts Council, and in Sierra County by the Sierra Arts Council.
    Poetry Out Loud is a program for high school students that involves memorization and recitation of poetry.  Poems are selected from an anthology found on the national Poetry Out Loud website (poetryoutloud.org).  The participants’ efforts are judged on physical presence, voice and articulation, dramatic appropriateness, evidence of understanding, overall performance, and accuracy.  
    This year’s county champion is Downieville High School senior, Mia Martinelli, whose two poems were “anthem for my belly after eating too much”, by Kara Jackson, and “Free Radical”, by Alison C. Rollins.  Mia will now add a third poem to her repertoire, as she prepares to represent Sierra County in the State Finals, which will again be held as a virtual competition in March.  Additionally, as county champion, Mia is invited to submit a written poem of her own creation as part of the state Poetry Ourselves competition.
    In second place is Abigail Sainsbury, a Downieville High School sophomore, whose two poems were “April Midnight”, by Arthur Symons, and “Acquainted with the Night”, by Robert Frost.  Rounding out this year’s winners, in third place, is Downieville High School senior, Riley Pearmund, whose two poems were “Snow Day”, by Billy Collins, and “Lincoln”, by Vachel Lindsay.
    The Sierra County Arts Council presents awards of $250, $150, and $100 to the first, second, and third place winners, respectively.  Additionally, in those years when the State Finals are held in person, the Arts Council pays to send the county champion and a chaperone to Sacramento for the event.
    As always, the Poetry Out Loud County Finals would not happen without the dedicated and enthusiastic efforts of many people.  BJ Jordan, Executive Director of the Sierra County Arts Council, serves as the partnership link with the California Arts Council, writes the grant that funds Poetry Out Loud locally, and facilitates guidance for the program.  Irene Frazier, Downieville High School English teacher, provided encouragement, direction, and support to students considering involvement in the program, and especially to those who finally decided to participate.  The Criteria Judges this year were Carl Butz and Tessa Jordan.  The Accuracy Judge was Mindy Strine.  The Scorekeeper was Linda Guffin.  And, the Prompter was Lynn Fillo.  Their willingness to participate, and the abilities they brought to their respective tasks, made the competition possible.  To each and all, we say a most gracious and sincere, “Thank You!”.
    And, to our student participants, we echo the words printed on the certificates they received:  we honor and celebrate your skill and your courage in “demonstrating the power of the poet in the life of the world”.

On January 31, Governor Gavin Newsom appointed several new members to the California Air Resources Board (CARB).  CARB is charged with “protecting the public from the harmful effects of air pollution and developing programs and actions to fight climate change.”   
Governor Newsom’s new appointees include: 

• Eric Guerra, 44, who currently serves as a Vice Mayor for the City of Sacramento. 
  
• V. Manuel Perez, 50, who is a Riverside County Supervisor and formerly represented Riverside and Imperial Counties in the California State Assembly. 
  
• Bill Quirk, 77, a physicist and former member of the California State Assembly and Hayward City Councilmember. 
  

• Susan Shaheen, 56, who is a professor of civil and environmental engineering at UC Berkeley. 
  

Governor Newsom also reappointed Diane Takvorian (environmental health), and John Eisenhut (agriculture) to CARB and reappointed Gideon Kracov to the South Coast Air Quality Management District Board, for whom he currently sits as a delegate on the CARB Board. 
CARB’s Board is made up of 16 members, 12 of whom are appointed by the Governor and 4 of whom are appointed by the Legislature.  Board members serve for six-year terms.  Six board members must serve on local air districts, one must have experience in automotive engineering, one must have experience in chemistry, meteorology, agriculture, or law, and one must be a physician and surgeon or authority on the effects of air pollution.  Two members are appointed as members of the public and two legislators serve as non-voting ex officio members. 
RCRC is frequently engaged with CARB as they develop strategies to reduce air pollution and implement the state’s climate change programs. 

​On Tuesday, January 31, 2023, a jury trial was commenced in the Sierra Superior Court in the matter of People v. Anthony John Harris.  Mr. Harris, who had previously been represented by counsel, elected to proceed to trial representing himself.
 
         On the day of trial, Mr. Harris decided against proceeding with a jury and the jurors were discharged from further service.  The matter then proceeded as a court trial.
 
         Following one witness, Mr. Harris decided to plead no contest to all 5 charges in the complaint, i.e., violating Health and Safety Code section 11370.1, possessing a controlled substance in the immediate presence of a loaded firearm, a felony, Health and Safety Code section 11550(e), possessing a loaded firearm under the influence of a controlled substance, a felony, Vehicle Code section 23152(f), driving under the influence, Health and Safety Code section 11550, being under the influence of a controlled substance, and Health and Safety Code section 113645, possession of drug paraphernalia, all misdemeanors. 
 
         Mr. Harris is set for sentencing on March 9, 2023 at 9:00 a.m.
 
 

The IRS exists to serve Americans, not to make the lives of taxpayers harder



By Rep. Michelle Steel and Sen. Bill Hagerty


If you haven’t heard, the IRS is looking to expand its reach into yet another aspect of Americans’ private lives. This time, they want to snoop on your private bank records and transactions. Contrary to President Biden’s claim, they aren’t just going after the wealthy, they are coming for you. This is unacceptable, and Congress must act to stop this outrageous overreach.

We all know the disappointment of having to miss a big concert or sporting event because life just got in the way. What do we do with those expensive tickets? Sell them to a friend, of course. Thankfully, apps such as Venmo make this easy. Found some knickknacks in the attic and need some extra cash for rent? Easy, sell them on Etsy. Simple, right? Not if the IRS gets its way.

Now, if you are asking yourself why the IRS is all of a sudden going to start snooping on your private transactions, the answer is simple: Democrats inserted a hidden provision in the American Rescue Plan requiring third-party payment platforms to report to the IRS when a company or individual brings in revenues exceeding $600 or makes a single transaction. Historically, the IRS was only required to report this information for a company or individual if revenues exceeded $20,000 across 200 commercial transactions.

After much warranted public outcry and a lack of guidance on implementation, the IRS announced at the end of 2022 that it will delay implementation of this provision until the next tax season.

Had the IRS been able to implement their new burdensome reporting requirements, come tax season this April, individuals would have been responsible for reporting these simple transactions to the IRS, completing their complicated 1099K form, and adding another burden to the already onerous tax filing process.

That means the IRS would be empowered to snoop on the private finances of Americans who use a third-party payment platform on anything from the transfer of concert tickets to paying rent, setting up an online wedding registry fund, or even selling a couch to a neighbor or used textbooks to a fellow student. And with radically expanded IRS enforcement thanks to the partisan Inflation Reduction Act, innocent taxpayers could face new challenges with the army of new tax enforcers. To make matters worse, with the IRS’ bolstered data collection, our constituents will face new risks of having their sensitive personal information opened to unauthorized access and identity attacks.

That’s why we reintroduced our legislation, the Stop the Nosy Obsession with Online Payments Act. Our bill would strike the American Rescue Plan Act’s new reporting modification and return reporting requirements to their pre-2021 status.

Under the weight of inflation, many Americans have turned to microbusiness, gig work, or even selling their belongings to make ends meet. The imposition of this reporting requirement will punish them for doing so by subjecting them to an additional, confusing tax form that may cause them to overreport their income or force them to waste time documenting the value of an item they sold. In many cases, filing this form will be a complete waste of time, serving only to prove the taxpayer has no additional tax liability. The IRS exists to serve Americans, not to make the lives of taxpayers harder.

Additionally, the added paperwork burden will only cause further unacceptable delays for an IRS that is already unable or unwilling to prioritize the timely processing of filers’ tax returns. The agency needs accountability and reform — not more weapons to squeeze law-abiding taxpayers. Congress should be working together to simplify and reduce tax filings; our legislation does that.

Congress must act now to prevent an overbearing IRS from imposing this requirement on hardworking individuals. We urge all our colleagues in Congress, regardless of party, to support this legislation so we can undo this IRS reporting debacle and make the tax system work better for all Americans.

• Rep. Michelle Steel is an American politician serving as the U.S. representative for California’s 45th congressional district since 2023. Sen. Bill Hagerty is an American politician, businessman, and former diplomat serving as the junior United States senator from Tennessee since 2021.

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ONE MORE THING we don’t want the former Loyalton Swimming Pool area to mimic: the former Loyalton Mobile Home Estates and its lack of progress. 

* * * * *
“FLASHBACK to the 1950s,” my sister, Lori, called it.
We were on our early morning chat, Lori on her landline and me on my cell, and we could hear another voice. “Hello.......” Lori said. A man’s voice responded.  “Hello?” Lori explained we were on a chat and asked where he was. “Norm” was on Court Street in Loyalton. We were both on Second. He and Lori were both with AT&T and Norm said the phone company would be out after he’d called several times. Phones only rang one time. Lori gave Norm her phone number and asked that he include her in any repair. We were just about to sign off when yet another voice came on. Norm said that was Larry from Truckee. Laughing, Norm said, “This is Loyalton.” We all wished each other a good day. He offered to let us talk but we signed off......just like the 1950’s. 

* * * * *

HELEN ROBERTI remembers not having a phone. “When I was a teenager I thought everyone had a phone except us! All my friends in town had one but we didn’t! There were ‘farmer’s lines’ in some places, just not by us,” she says. 
Those farmer lines were a real life line with Louise Ghidossi as operator. During the big winter of 1951-52, Helen stated it was the only line that didn’t go down because it was only one wire and ran from Scolari’s (now Lost Marbles) and it stayed up all that winter, allowing folks to visit.
Helen and the late Elmer Roberti were married in 1954 and didn’t have a phone. Elmer’s mother, Josephine had one, on the farmer’s line from Beckwourth as far as Scolari’s (Lost Marbles Ranch) then it turned east and was attached to the wooden fence posts going through the sagebrush pastures to the Roberti Ranch about four miles away and had existed many years. It never required maintenance and in many places just laid on the ground. 
A new building was going up in Loyalton for the telephone company so the offer came to them for the farmer line. Helen remembers, “We had to build the line to Loyalton to be connected. So, Elmer and his dad, Alfred, did build it in the fall of 1955.” Each party on the party line was supposed to build their own line from their house to the main line. “Well,” Helen says, “some did but most didn’t! Elmer and Alfred built the main line and their’s too!” The main line ran from Dyson Lane up the six mile stretch to Loyalton City limit. Then Pacific Bell took over. Elmer and Alfred helped or built most of the seven legs to hook on to the main line.
At the time, Elmer was a member of the National Guard and drove to Quincy every Monday night. There was a small mill there and he would pick up “pecky cedar” posts to take home to serve as tele-
 
​phone poles on the new project. Elmer had an auger on the tractor to help dig the post holes but the hard pan half way to town was very difficult to penetrate, so they filled 10-gallon milk cans with water and filled the holes and left them to soak which helped a little.
Helen was pregnant with their eldest son, Jim, and remembers painting those posts with creosote, a category of carbonaceous chemicals formed by the distillation of various tars used to protect wood outdoors. She remembers having had a “big brush,” and how “it smelled so strong.” 
Finally the telephone was hooked up and was the first phone Helen had ever had. It was a wall unit with the crank and many years later, son, Dave, refinished it at school. Josie’s was a table model, complete with crank. All calls went through Operator Clara Short.  The switchboard in Loyalton, located behind Timber Cafe, was bigger than Beckwourth’s. 
There were seven parties on their line starting with Elmer, Josie, Edith Huntley, Lucky Hereford cook house, Lucky Hereford “DeBerg” (the former Albert Dotta Ranch), Leon Dotta and Charlie Wily.
Helen states Elmer had a “hard job” as he did all the upkeep and repairs on the main line and of course, did the legs too because if one of the legs was down the whole line was. Sometimes the line might be pulled half way across a field because a piece of farm equipment caught it and the driver didn’t notice  - or care.
When the phones were hooked up there were a few minor problems since they were sharing the line with six other people and needed short conversations or at least to get off the phone when they knew someone else needed it. Some did and some didn’t. When someone’s phone was inadvertently left off the hook they usually found it and put it back on. If they didn’t Elmer had to track it down.
For Helen, “rubber necking,” or listening in on other’s conversations was a problem. Josie thought it was o.k. to do it. She just didn’t want anyone listening in on her conversations. Among others, Helen shared a line with Edith Huntley and Josie shared with Helen’s parents which was awkward so the lines were switched.
Some spoke Swiss to avoid being understood. Helen had gone to Santa Rosa and learned “Double Dutch.” She taught it to her friend, Betty Ramelli, and the two would speak it to confuse any who may be listening in.
Phones would each have unique rings. Helen remembers being called, “Helen of the two rings,” by Gwen Warren’s granddaughter.
In the early eighties they had a new line to build. So, Elmer and the Roberti boys built that one but it was for a buried cable, no poles from their ranch to Highway 49. This ended the need for the farmer party line - they had private lines! Helen says, “While we were grateful for the farmer line, we sure enjoyed the private line!”
For the private line, they dug a deep trench for the telephone company to lay the cable for about four miles and, Helen says, “With no more line repairs!”
Some of the old farmer line remained along the six-mile stretch. Those old pecky cedar posts served another purpose when Roy White used them to hang television lines. The last remaining poles of the original line were recently taken out of the former Wily Ranch, now Grandi’s, and those few just coming into town.

IT’S COLD! Monday’s temperature at the Filippini Ranch was 11 degrees below zero. In town, it was as low as -5. All Loyalton schools had a late start.
Tuesday, in town, it was reported -6.  

​NEVADA CITY, CALIF. (Feb. 2, 2023) — Tahoe National Forest is proud to welcome Kyle Jacobson as Forest Fire Management Officer. Jacobson most recently served as Assistant Fire Mangement Officer on the United States Forest Service Lake Tahoe Basin Management Unit.  

“I have known Kyle for over a decade and am excited that he is joining our team on the Tahoe in this critical leadership position,” said Tahoe National Forest Supervisor Eli Ilano. “This past summer, Kyle helped us all navigate through the Mosquito Fire in addition to leading our fire, fuels and aviation programs. He brings a wealth of knowledge, expertise and passion to the Tahoe.” 

Jacobson began his career on the Los Padres National Forest while completing his graduate education in Forestry Management. He also worked for the USFS Pacific Northwest Research Station studying fire behavior and fuels. Jacobson joins the Tahoe after spending the last 15 years on the Lake Tahoe Basin Management Unit in a variety of fire and fuels management roles. 

Jacobson also serves as a member of California Interagency Incident Management Team 4 as a Type 1 Operations Section Chief. 

Jacobson has been temporarily detailed in the Forest Fire Management Officer role on the Tahoe National Forest since July 2022 and succeeds Jason Withrow, who retired summer 2022. 

###

USDA is an equal opportunity provider, employer and lender.

TNF Wildland Firefighters from Engines, Hotshot, Helitack crews, depart for South Carolina Fire/Fuels Assignment
📸 Courtesy of TNF Wildland Firefighter Kenon Smith -514 Tahoe Helitack Senior Squad Boss

​16 TNF Wildland Firefighters from Yuba River, Sierraville, and American River Ranger Districts off Engines 331, 332, 334, 361, 362, the American River Hotshots, and 514 Tahoe Helitack have returned from a Fire/Fuels assignment to the Sumter National Forest in South Carolina. “For the past two weeks, we’ve been supporting fire suppression preparedness as well as engaging in prescribed fire burn unit preparation for hazardous fuels reduction," relayed TNF Sierraville Engine Captain 362 Zac Stockdale.

Divided into Fuels modules and stationed on the Enoree and Andrew Pickens Ranger Districts, TNF firefighters worked alongside local resources and trainees received training opportunities as Engine, Crew and Dozer Bosses as well as Firefighter 1 training from TNF qualified single resource bosses. The assignment also afforded our firefighters, who are all certified sawyers, the opportunity to utilize and further their chainsaw felling and bucking skills in the local hardwood and pine stands-clearing recent storm damage and removing hazardous dead trees(snags) in the prescribed fire burn units. Leaf blowers and a dozer were used to open up and improve control lines around the units. The combined efforts of the firefighters resulted in 8500 acres of prescribed fire burn units prepped and ready for when conditions are conducive to implement planned prescribed fire-a critical fuels treatment for hazardous fuel reduction increasing Forest and community resilience.

The off-Forest assignment also provided the opportunity to further enhance camaraderie among the wildland firefighters who are from all different modules across the TNF. This unique camaraderie greatly contributes to Tahoe National Forest Fire and Aviation being a highly effective team and a Fire family that will continue working together conducting training, engaging in planned TNF Prescribed Burns and other Fuels projects, as well as responding to fire and all-hazard incidents on Forest, locally, and nationally.

“This experience has been very fulfilling. Working as a wildland firefighter has given me the opportunity to travel the country, work with various crews, and learn new skills, like using a chainsaw.”- Krystal Benn
Tahoe National Forest Wildland Firefighter

Interested in joining our Tahoe National Forest Fire and Aviation Team for the upcoming 2023 Fire Season?
Applications accepted on USAJobs.gov between Feb. 7-16th
For complete details on this In Person Hiring Event in Redding on Feb. 14/15, go to link below and contact TNF Fire Module Supervisors
In person attendance is not required to apply.
https://www.fs.usda.gov/working-with-us/jobs/CA-FireHire

​As a Dozer Boss Trainee, TNF Firefighter Danny Sadlo worked with the local dozer to reopen existing dozer line around part of the Prescribed Fire Burn Unit, assessing ground conditions, terrain, and identifying hazards such as snags-overall looking out for the safety of the dozer.
📸Courtesy of TNF Wildland Firefighter
Danny Sadlo-TNF Camptonville Engine 331 Senior Firefighter

​TNF Certified Sawyer from 514 Tahoe Helitack providing Hazard Tree Felling Training for snag removal in Prescribed Fire Burn Unit to fellow firefighter from TNF Sierraville Engine 361
📸 Courtesy of TNF Wildland Firefighter Krystal Benn-TNF Sierraville Engine 361 Wildland Fire Apprentice

​Tahoe National Forest Firefighters from Engines 331, 332, 334 utilize leaf blowers and hand tools to improve control lines around Prescribed Fire Burn Units.
📸Courtesy of TNF Wildland Firefighter Liam Kok- TNF Downieville Engine 332 Engineer

​Tahoe National Forest Firefighters receive district orientation while stationed on Sumter National Forest, South Carolina
📸 Courtesy of TNF Wildland Firefighter Kenon Smith-514 Tahoe Helitack Senior Squad Boss

​Tahoe National Forest Wildland Firefighters who are all certified sawyers utilize their chainsaw skills to clear recent storm damage and remove dead snags from Prescribed Fire Burn units.
📸Courtesy of TNF Wildland Firefighter Liam Kok- TNF Downieville Engine 332 Engineer

​A unique camaraderie exists among Tahoe National Forest Wildland Firefighters that contributes to a highly effective Fire and Aviation team and Fire family.
📸 Courtesy of TNF Wildland Firefighter Kenon Smith-514 Tahoe Helitack Senior Squad Boss

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USFS California Wildland Firefighter Hiring Event

The Forest Service is hosting an in-person hiring event for permanent, permanent seasonal, and temporary wildland fire positions across various forests in California including the Tahoe National Forest.
For complete details please see link below:
https://www.fs.usda.gov/working-with-us/jobs/CA-FireHire

Tahoe National Forest hiring representatives will be in attendance in Redding and it is strongly encouraged to contact the TNF duty stations that you are interested in working at ASAP, before the hiring events take place.

Applicants Do Not have to attend the in-person event to apply.

In-person Hiring Event When/Where:
February 14-15, 2023 
from 9 AM -5 PM PST
Red Lion Hotel
1830 Hilltop Drive
Redding, CA 96002

Skip the line and reserve your spot today using this link https://www.fs.usda.gov/working-with-us/jobs/CA-FireHire

For applicants who plan on attending an event, we highly suggest applying on USAJOBS.gov during the application open period, before the event and reserving a scheduled time in order to avoid a long wait. Our goal with these events is to answer questions, move applicants through the interview process, and match local candidates with local positions in California.

Applicants may still attend the event as walk-ins. However, we cannot guarantee a walk-in applicant will make it through the application, interview, and job offer process during the scheduled event.

Applications accepted February 7-16, 2023, for Redding event on USAJOBS.gov for positions on hand crews, engine crews, hotshot crews, and more. Search for these Fire Jobs using the following announcement numbers on USAJOBS.gov and apply by the closing date.

• Permanent /Permanent Seasonal Firefighter
Forestry Aid GS-0462-03
Forestry Technician GS-0462-04
USAJOBS Vacancy Number 23-EHTOCR-R5JAN-FS4886-34DH

• Temporary Seasonal Firefighter
Forestry Aid GS-0462-03
USAJOBS Vacancy Number 23-EHT-OCR-R5JAN-TF3867-3DH

• Temporary Seasonal Firefighter
Forestry Technician GS-0462-04
USAJOBS Vacancy Number 23-EHT-OCR-R5JAN-TF0003-4DH
Meredith Anello

Forestry Technician- Wildland Firefighter Engine 371
Public Information Officer-Fire 
U.S. Forest Service

Tahoe National Forest 
Truckee Ranger District
10811 Stockrest Springs Rd. 
Truckee, CA 96161
cell 4197047214
work cell 5305592829

California Could See a Return to Warm and Dry Conditions in Remaining Two Months When the State Snowpack Usually Peaks
SACRAMENTO, Calif. – The Department of Water Resources (DWR) today conducted the second snow survey of the season at Phillips Station. The manual survey recorded 85.5 inches of snow depth and a snow water equivalent of 33.5 inches, which is 193 percent of average for this location on February 1. The snow water equivalent measures the amount of water contained in the snowpack and is a key component of DWR’s water supply forecast. Statewide, the snowpack is 205 percent of average for this date. Two months remain until April 1, when the state snowpack usually peaks.
The snowpack received a significant boost from one of the wettest three-week periods on record in California, following the driest three-year period on record. California also experienced above average precipitation in December just months after one of the hottest heatwaves in state history in September.
“California has always experienced some degree of swings between wet and dry, but the past few months have demonstrated how much more extreme those swings are becoming,” said DWR Director Karla Nemeth. “California is preparing for more intense and dangerous climate swings by bolstering both drought and flood preparation. While today’s results are good news for water supplies, we know from experience how quickly snowpack can disappear if dry conditions return in the months ahead.”
DWR’s electronic readings from 130 snow sensors placed throughout the state indicate the statewide snowpack’s snow water equivalent is 33.7 inches, or 205 percent of average for this date. While those results are currently outpacing the record 1982-83 season, two months still remain. Every day it does not rain or snow, the conditions are drying. If California returns to dry conditions and the next two months lack additional precipitation, like what the state experienced last season, a significant snowpack early in the winter can quickly disappear. Periodic rain and snow over the next several months will be key to get the biggest water supply benefit from the state’s snowpack without posing additional flood risks.
“Large snow totals like today are a welcome sight but also present new challenges for water managers as they walk the fine line between water supply and flood control,” said DWR’s Snow Surveys and Water Supply Forecasting Unit Manager Sean de Guzman. “As we move into the snowmelt season in the spring, water managers will work to manage flood risk and optimize the snowpack’s water supply benefits during peak demands in the summer.”
On average, the Sierra snowpack supplies about 30 percent of California’s water needs and is an important factor in determining how DWR manages the state’s water resources. Its natural ability to store water is why the Sierra snowpack is often referred to as California's “frozen reservoir.”
DWR is currently conducting Airborne Snow Observatory (ASO) survey flights to collect more information on the snowpack accumulated by these powerful storms. Data from these flights, which use LiDAR and spectrometer technology to measure snowpack across broad swaths of key watersheds, will be used by DWR to get an accurate account of California’s snowpack and its water content and will increase the accuracy of water supply runoff forecasts. Since the storms California experienced in January saw variable snow elevations, this data, combined with snow course and snow sensor data, will help DWR understand how snow has been distributed across the Sierra Nevada.
These new data tools align with Governor Newsom’s “California’s Water Supply Strategy: Adapting to a Hotter, Drier Future” which calls for modernizing how the state manages water. The tools will also help inform flood management decisions, which will be increasingly important as California swings between extreme drought and flood. The recently adopted 2022 Update to the Central Valley Flood Protection Plan emphasizes the importance of flood management and the need to adapt California’s flood infrastructure to a rapidly changing climate.    
As the state prepares for a hotter, drier future, Californians should continue to use water wisely so that we can have both a thriving economy, community, and environment. DWR encourages Californians to visit SaveOurWater.com for water saving tips and information. As more swings between wet and dry conditions continue in the future, the public education campaign promotes making water conservation a way of life year-round.    
DWR conducts five media-oriented snow surveys at Phillips Station each winter near the first of each month, January through April and, if necessary, May. The next survey is tentatively scheduled for March 1.
Additional Resources

• Video of today’s Phillips survey
• Digital photos of today’s Phillips survey (available early afternoon)
• B-roll of today’s Phillips survey (available early afternoon)
• Snowpack readings (View readings for current regional snowpack and historical snowpack comparison)
• Precipitation data (View current California Data Exchange Center charts for the Northern Sierra 8-station index for updated rainfall readings in the critical northern portion of the state, as well as the  San Joaquin 5-station index and Tulare Basin 6-station index)

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By Ching Lee




Skyrocketing natural gas prices this winter have sent shockwaves through California nursery operations, which use the fuel to heat greenhouses. Some of them face utility bills as much as five times higher than in previous years.
Natural gas remains one of the biggest production costs in the winter for some greenhouses. Unable to absorb the increases, nursery operators say they must raise prices to customers, including farmers who buy transplants and seedlings for planting.
Sandra Fischbein, executive director of the Vegetable Transplant Nursery Association, said the “extremely high” natural gas rates were unexpected and have forced the businesses to add fuel surcharges to their plants. Because of chilly wintertime temperatures, she said there’s little heating conservation nurseries can do without hurting their plants.
“If you don’t heat the plants, they’re not going to be ready in time,” she said. “(Seeds) may not germinate. There’s going to be quality issues.”
Impacts of the rate hikes will snowball as some nursery customers will also need to adjust their prices and budgets, Fischbein said. She noted she’s working with other farm groups to raise awareness and gain insight on why natural gas prices have risen so dramatically in California, even as they’ve dropped in other parts of the country.
In a December report, the U.S. Energy Information Administration pointed to several factors that have contributed to natural gas prices on the West Coast rising to current levels. For one, widespread, below-normal temperatures in much of the region have boosted natural gas usage for heating.
At the same time, natural gas supply has not kept pace with the increased demand. The West Coast, which relies heavily on natural gas imports, has seen reduced deliveries from Canada and the Rocky Mountains, EIA said.
Maintenance activities in West Texas also placed constraints on interstate pipeline capacity, leading to less natural gas flowing to the West. In addition, natural gas storage levels in the Pacific region have plummeted, with inventories 30% below the five-year average, EIA reported.
Storage levels are much lower in Northern California, EIA said, because Pacific Gas & Electric Co.’s injections to rebuild natural gas inventories lagged behind previous summers.
In a statement to Ag Alert®, PG&E said high temperatures late last summer hampered storage injections and required gas to be withdrawn to support gas-fired power generation. California’s multiyear drought and low hydroelectric generation also put upward pressure on demand for natural gas to generate power, the utility said.
Michael Williamson, whose Williamson Energy firm buys and hedges natural gas for commercial clients such as nurseries, has been trying to sound the alarm on the natural gas situation.
He said one of the biggest contributing factors to the price surge is PG&E’s reclassification in 2021 of some 51 billion cubic feet of working gas to base gas. Working gas is what’s available to the marketplace, while base gas, or cushion gas, refers to the permanent inventory needed to maintain sufficient pressure to support pipeline operations.
Williamson said the reclassification amount represents about 25% to 30% of the total storage. Though the gas didn’t go anywhere, he said, PG&E “failed to replenish or backfill that amount of gas into storage.”
He acknowledged that colder temperatures and increased demand for natural gas have strained the system. But he said the point of having gas in storage is to be able to pull it out during peak-demand periods to increase the supply in the marketplace.
Williamson said he has asked the California Public Utilities Commission to grant an immediate 60-day emergency order to allow PG&E to reclassify 50 Bcf of gas as working gas. This would allow PG&E the flexibility to use more of its storage gas, providing some immediate relief in the market.
Longer term, Williamson said he would like to see a state mandate that requires the utility to replace the reclassified gas to base gas and refill its working gas storage to prior five-year averages.
“Unless PG&E increases its storage back to the five-year average, this is going to happen again and again and again,” Williamson said.
PG&E said the reclassification had no impact on the total natural gas in storage and the withdrawal capacity of its storage assets.
“California natural gas prices show no obvious impact that can be directly attributed to the reclassification,” PG&E said in its statement to Ag Alert®.
The company also pointed out that as with other utilities, PG&E does not control the market prices it pays for gas and electricity and does not mark up the cost of the energy it buys.
Gilroy-based Headstart Nursery has been paying higher natural gas prices since November because it produces poinsettias for the holiday season, company Vice President Randy Costa said. The nursery also grows other ornamentals and vegetable transplants, and its December and January gas bills have soared four to five times higher than prior years, he said.
Costa said the company initially thought it could make adjustments to try to cut gas usage, but the cost spikes have been “too extreme” to keep up.
“We’re talking hundreds of thousands of dollars,” he said. “That’s a huge impact on our business.”
Up until last month, the nursery has eaten the increases without raising prices. It has now started contacting customers to explain why they will see an additional 10% to 12% surcharge.
Costa said the last-minute change is “a real inconvenience” for his customers, who have already finalized budgets, contracts and planning.
Even though the nursery produces “a lot of volume,” its profit margin remains “very low,” and “any major hiccup to our production really affects the bottom line,” he said.
With nighttime temperatures dipping into the low 30s, San Diego County nursery operator Arnold Mueller said this is one of the coldest winters he can recall in the region. His gas bill in December rose 60%.
In addition to turning down the heat, Mueller said the nursery has long used energy curtains, which act as a blanket for the greenhouse at night.
“There’s only so much you can do to conserve,” he said.
He said higher energy prices have not only eviscerated profits, they’ve reduced the higher wages he would like to pay his employees, who themselves are struggling with higher energy costs for their homes and cars.
As a long-term remedy, Mueller said the state needs to work on its natural gas infrastructure with more pipelines and storage.
“I think California dropped the ball like they’ve done with water,” he said. “It frustrates me, especially when you see them spend billions of dollars on the bullet train. I would think this would be a much higher priority.”
(Ching Lee is an assistant editor of Ag Alert. She may be contacted at clee@cfbf.com.)


​

New Program Makes It Easier to Live Responsibly with Bears
The California Department of Fish and Wildlife (CDFW) and the Nevada Department of Wildlife (NDOW) are proud to support BearWise, the innovative North American program that helps people live more responsibly with bears. The BearWise website, www.bearwise.org, offers a wealth of scientifically sound information and practical advice. The state agencies will work closely with the USDA Forest Service Lake Tahoe Basin Management Unit and California State Parks to incorporate the BearWise messaging as part of their united effort through the Lake Tahoe Interagency Bear Team.  This will ensure that residents and visitors across the Tahoe Basin will receive the same messaging regarding bears and how to manage human-bear conflict across state lines.
“In the Tahoe Basin, growing numbers of both bears and humans are leading to an increase in human-bear encounters and conflicts,” said NDOW Biologist Carl Lackey.  “Bears pay no attention to boundaries and have no idea when they cross from public to private lands or from one state to another; that’s why a North American program with consistent messaging that can be used by anyone who lives, works, recreates and travels wherever bears also live makes so much sense.”
BearWise Information and Resources
Bearwise.org offers a wealth of information on black bear biology and behavior as well as sections on preventing human-bear conflicts at home and outdoors, including vacationing in bear country, bear safety information, guidelines for raising livestock, bees and crops, tips for dog owners and bird lovers, helpful FAQs, and information about how neighborhoods, communities and businesses can put BearWise to work.
BearWise Resource Center
In addition to "The Six Bear Wise Basics” for both “At Home” and “Outdoors,” the BearWise online store offers a variety of handouts and activity sheets people can download for free in addition to items like magnets, door hangers, stickers and signage that can be ordered individually or in bulk.
BearWise Article Bank
The BearWise Article Bank features dozens of articles that focus on bears, bear behavior, and what people can do to prevent conflicts with bears. Articles can be reprinted in newsletters or community newspapers and shared on social media. Anyone can sign up to receive timely news and helpful information.
About the BearWise Program
BearWise was developed by state agency bear biologists who wanted to make sure that no matter where people lived, played, or traveled, they got the same consistent message about coexisting with bears. Today the BearWise program is managed by a team of North American bear biologists and communications professionals and supported by the Association of Fish and Wildlife Agencies and the BearWise member state wildlife agencies.
For more information and to sign up for email alerts, visit www.bearwise.org
For more information on Lake Tahoe bears, visit: www.tahoebears.org
To report human-bear conflicts:

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

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Persons with disabilities needing reasonable accommodation to participate in public meetings or other CDFW activities are invited to contact CDFW's Accessibility Coordinator at (916) 651-1214, the EEO Office at (916) 653-9089, or send an email to EEO@wildlife.ca.gov. Reasonable Accommodation requests for facility and/or meeting accessibility should be received at least 21 days prior to the event. Requests for American Sign Language Interpreters should be submitted at least two weeks prior to the event, and requests for Real-Time Captioning at least four weeks prior to the event. These timeframes are to help ensure that the requested accommodation is met. If a request for an accommodation has been submitted but due to circumstances is no longer needed, please contact the Accessibility Coordinator immediately.

OAKLAND – In recognition of Identity Theft Awareness Week, California Attorney General Rob Bonta today provided Californians with tips to avoid falling victim to identity theft. Identity theft occurs when someone steals your personal information to commit fraud, typically for financial gain. This can include your name, credit card information, Social Security Number (SSN), or other identifying information. This Identity Theft Awareness Week, Attorney General Bonta encourages individuals to utilize the tips below to keep their assets safe from identity theft and fraud. 
“Every day, identity theft costs Californians valuable time and money to restore their good name,” said Attorney General Bonta. “This Identity Theft Awareness Week, I urge everyone to stay vigilant and take proactive measures to help reduce the risk of identity theft.”
Tips to Avoid Identity Theft 
Identity theft can happen to anyone. Below are tips that can help you lower your risk of becoming a victim of identity theft: 

• Protect your Social Security number: SSNs have evolved into a universal identifier, serving as a key to much of your personal information. With your name and SSN alone, an identity thief can open new credit and bank accounts, rent an apartment, or even obtain employment under your name. To protect your SSN, avoid carrying your Social Security card in your wallet, and instead keep it at home in a safe place. Only provide your SSN when absolutely necessary – such as on tax forms or employment records – and if a business asks you for your SSN, see if there is another number that can be used instead. If a government agency asks for it, expect to see a required “disclosure” form that should provide information on whether your SSN is required or optional, how it will be used, and the agency's legal authority to ask for it.

• Recognize "phishing" attempts and don't take the bait: Scam artists "phish" for victims by posing as banks, stores, or government agencies. They will attempt to trick you into providing your personal information via phone call, text, e-mail, and postal mail. While some organizations may need to verify your account number, password, or SSN, legitimate companies will never reach out to you in this way. W-2 phishing emails are another form of phishing scams that are particularly common during tax season. In these types of scams, cybercriminals target and trick employees of a specific company, including employees of payroll or human resources departments, into providing IRS W-2 forms. Using spoofing techniques, the scammer disguises an email to make it appear as if it is coming from an organization’s executive or some other trusted person in an attempt to request a list of all company employees and their W-2 forms. The best way to avoid phishing attempts is to never give out personal information to anyone, unless you are the one who made the initial contact. 

• Protect your online information and accounts with strong passwords: Passwords play an important role in keeping your online accounts and personal information safe. Protect yourself by using different, unique passwords for each of your online accounts. Make sure that the passwords you use are at least eight characters, including a mix of letters, numbers, and symbols. It’s best to never reuse passwords and consider using a password manager. If given the option to do so, consider using a two-factor authentication to provide an extra layer of security to your accounts.

• Check your credit card bills and bank statements often: Protect yourself from fraud by consistently checking your credit card bills and bank statements for signs of identity theft. Look for unauthorized charges, withdrawals, or unexpected bills, and report irregular activity to your bank as soon as you see it. If you notice that a bill didn’t arrive on time, it may mean that someone has changed the contact information on your account in order to hide fraudulent charges.

• Take advantage of free annual credit reports: One of the best ways to protect against identity theft is to monitor your credit history. You are entitled to one free credit report every year from each of the three national credit bureaus: Equifax, Experian and TransUnion. Your credit history contains information from financial institutions, utilities, landlords, insurers, and others. By checking your credit reports at least once a year, you can identify signs of identity theft, as well errors in your report that could be raising the cost of your credit. Order your free annual credit reports by phone, toll-free, at 1-877-322-8228, or online at www.annualcreditreport.com.

Victims of Identity Theft
If you are a victim of identity theft, contact your local police department or sheriff’s office right away. You may also report identity theft and generate a recovery plan using the Federal Trade Commission’s website at identitytheft.gov.
For more information and resources on identity theft, visit the Attorney General’s website at oag.ca.gov/idtheft.

By Arielle Hardy

​With the recent prices of eggs going up to $8 a dozen, consumers all across the nation are left wondering, what is the cause for such a price increase? While many media outlets are blaming the avian flu, other chicken owners with backyard flocks have been reporting that their flocks have not been laying eggs at all since last fall. Some owners are blaming the feed sold by Tractor Supply stores, comparing production to poultry owners who bought local feed, and saw no difference in egg production. 

In regard to Highly Pathogenic Avian Influenza (HPAI) according the the USDA website, as of January 27, 2023, nationwide there have been only 27 cases of confirmed flocks within the last 30 days, and .38 Million birds affected, as opposed to December at 5.07 Million, or November at 3.75 Million. As of January 19, 2023 the USDA reports that California has had zero commercial flocks affected by the outbreak, and five backyard flocks affected, but somehow total 29,756 birds affected, as if each “backyard flock” would have almost six thousand birds and are considered “backyard?” (However that math adds up.)

If that is the case, with the large amount of egg producers in California, one would look back to the supply and cost of feed. Could the two be linked? Could it be possible that a source of feed that has been distributed throughout the country is somehow linked to both? Is it possible that central locations where people go to buy feed (like Tractor Supply) would be sources of cross contamination from peoples shoes? Why are some states not affected at all?
I would also like to bring forth the question of genetic modification of hatcheries from the sources of poultry breeders. Could it be possible that giant corporations want to control the food supply so much that they would go to the extent of invoking fear into poultry owners and consumers, and then as a ditch-all effort, genetically modify the chicken breeds themselves so they lay less eggs? This would not be the first time we have seen such manipulation with our food supply. 
If HPAI can be transmitted to flocks, what are the patterns of the flocks being affected? Are the owners visiting a local lake and wearing the same boots into the backyard/barnyard? What can you do if you have poultry of your own? Here are some extra safety precautions you can take to help prevent any cross contamination into your flock.

1. Have a Dedicated Pair of “Muck” Boots

This not only helps you to prevent any cross contamination from the bottom of your shoes that you could have picked up from public places (think grocery stores, gas stations, feed stores, parks, or another barnyard) but it also helps to prevent you from tracking in any bacteria that could be in the barn from coming into the house.

1. Wash Shoes Regularly and Wear Protectors

Since HPAI can be linked to wild birds; lakes, rivers, and even parks and trails may have dropping that can be brought back on the bottoms. Filling a shallow tray of soapy water tall just high enough to submerge the soles can be an easy way to have a quick clean. The tray can even be left by the front door during warm months for a few days, which makes for less cleanup hassle. Another option (that I recommend anytime you are visiting another farm, and I was surprised no one was wearing them at the Ag and Art day last year) is to wear protection over your shoes. This can be as simple as plastic bags and rubber bands covering your shoes that you can easily turn inside out and throw away.

1. Keep the Coop Area Clean and Have a Covered Run

For a number of health reasons, it’s always important to keep the coop as clean as possible, especially in cooler, winter months. Having a covered, fully enclosed poultry run not only adds another defense against predators, but helps to prevent wild birds from being able to contaminate a portion of where the birds spend time, and to stay out of your bird's food and water. If a run is not a viable option, a sun cloth covering the outside area may be a good alternative.

While I would like to see more factual evidence of “Avian Flu” causing large companies to process mass amounts of chicken, I will also be further researching the feed and egg production. Backyard flock owners need to take all possible precautions to help themselves be aware, in order to be as self-sufficient as possible, and as new truths become revealed, even more questions rise to the surface. 




1. https://www.aphis.usda.gov/aphis/ourfocus/animalhealth/animal-disease-information/avian/avian-influenza/hpai-2022/2022-hpai-commercial-backyard-flocks

 
QUINCY, CA — Plumas National Forest Road 29N43, commonly known as Antelope Lake Road on the Mount Hough Ranger District is closed for construction.
The gate at the western terminus of Plumas County Road 111 and Forest Road 29N43 is closed.  The road closure extends eastward from the gate to the intersection with Forest Road 28N03 at Boulder Creek Dam near Antelope Lake.
Along approximately 10 miles of the road segment, more than 100 culverts are being replaced to improve drainage and the road will be repaved.
Work is continuing through the winter and early spring as weather conditions allow and the road is closed for public, employee and contractor safety.  Winter storms have resulted in rockfall along the road within the construction area.  The road is also impassible as culverts are removed and replaced.  
Work on the ground on this long term construction project started in late October and is estimated to continue for at least the next 18 months.
A schedule for partial reopening of the road and available detours during the summer recreation season will be provided this March.
“The work being done on Antelope Lake Road is critical for improving drainage, watershed health and public safety due to the road damage from the Walker Fire,” said Plumas National Forest Engineer Jonathan Berry.  “We appreciate everyone’s patience as the contractor and Forest Service engineers work on this extensive project.”
For more information on the Plumas National Forest, visit www.fs.usda.gov/plumas, follow the forest on Twitter @USFSPlumas or on Facebook at www.facebook.com/USFSPlumas. 
 
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USDA is an equal opportunity provider, employer and lender.

Participants can earn up to $250 for 7-month pilot




SACRAMENTO — The California Department of Transportation (Caltrans) is recruiting volunteers who reside and travel in rural and tribal communities to participate in the latest testing phase of a “road charge” pilot. Up to 500 volunteers will participate in a seven-month simulated road charge system, which charges drivers based on the number of miles they travel rather than the amount of gas they use to support the state’s critical transportation infrastructure. There will be no cost to participate, and upon completion, volunteers will be eligible to receive an incentive of up to $250.


“Rural and tribal communities have unique travel needs and may interact with a road charge system in different ways,” said Caltrans Director Tony Tavares. “It is essential that Caltrans understands their needs as it develops an equitable and convenient alternative to the gas tax.”


Starting in March 2023, the California Road Charge Public-Private Roads Project will explore the technical aspects of reporting mileage, as well as engage rural and tribal communities in a conversation about their communities’ priorities in a potential road charge system to fund road and highway maintenance.


This pilot will simulate how participants interact with a road charge system by reporting mileage and “paying” mock invoices. The pilot will conduct surveys to gauge participants’ preferences and experience.


As vehicles become more fuel-efficient and the state’s transition to zero-emission vehicles accelerates, Caltrans is researching possible alternatives to the state gas tax, which California has historically relied on to build and maintain the state’s transportation system. Volatile oil prices and California’s phasing out the sale of new gas-powered cars by 2035 add increased urgency to research ways to bring long-term stability to transportation funding. For that reason, Caltrans is testing various methods to collect per-mile rather than per-gallon fees.


This demonstration is funded through a grant from the U.S. Department of Transportation’s Surface Transportation System Funding Alternatives Program and will build on Caltrans’ previous road charge pilots: California’s Road Charge Pilot in 2017, which introduced the road charge concept to Californians, and California’s Four-Phase Demonstration, which tested the road charge concept across several platforms including pay-at-the-pump and electric vehicle charging station systems, usage-based insurance, transportation network company fleets, and automated vehicles.


Volunteers interested in participating in the pilot – and the incentive of up to $250 – may visit http://www.caroadcharge.com/projects/public-private-roads-project/ and complete the participant recruitment survey. Participants must be California residents over the age of 18. The pilot is employing the highest standards in data protection and safeguarding, ensuring that Caltrans will not receive any sensitive information from participants.


To learn more about the California Road Charge Project and the Road Charge Program, please visit www.caroadcharge.com.

​

 
QUINCY, CA — Last week, despite wet conditions at higher elevations, 47 acres of pile burning was successfully completed on the Plumas National Forest.  Additional treatments are planned this week on the Feather River and Mount Hough ranger districts, conditions permitting.
The 45 acres remaining on the Concow Rim Road project to prepare for tree planting were completed by the end of the week.  On the Mount Hough Ranger District, 2 acres of pile burning was successfully done in Butterfly Valley.
This week, fire managers on the Feather River Ranger District are planning pile burning from Brush Creek to Bald Rock Trailhead Tuesday and Wednesday, pile burning Scotch broom near Magalia Thursday, and possibly burning piles at Feather Falls, conditions permitting.
On the Mount Hough Ranger District, fire managers are hoping to start ignitions on approximately 75 acres of piles in the Moonlight burn area near Antelope Lake to prepare the area for replanting this spring and summer as part of restoration efforts.  These piles are at lower elevation and there is still 2 to 3 feet of snow on the ground in the area.
Smoke is expected to be visible in nearby communities, including Brush Creek, Berry Creek and Magalia on the Feather River Ranger District.  The Moonlight pile burning will be visible to communities in Indian Valley and possibly communities along U.S. Highway 395, including Susanville.  There are no expected significant long-term impacts to nearby communities. 
Short duration, minor smoke impacts are expected along neighboring forest roads. 
Visibility on roads in the project areas may be reduced, especially early in the morning and late evening as smoke settles.  Drivers in the area should use caution.
If weather conditions become unfavorable, including increased or gusty winds in the area, burning will stop until conditions improve.  Firefighters will be monitoring conditions and the burning piles until fires are out.

OAKLAND – In recognition of Identity Theft Awareness Week, California Attorney General Rob Bonta today provided Californians with tips to avoid falling victim to identity theft. Identity theft occurs when someone steals your personal information to commit fraud, typically for financial gain. This can include your name, credit card information, Social Security Number (SSN), or other identifying information. This Identity Theft Awareness Week, Attorney General Bonta encourages individuals to utilize the tips below to keep their assets safe from identity theft and fraud. 
“Every day, identity theft costs Californians valuable time and money to restore their good name,” said Attorney General Bonta. “This Identity Theft Awareness Week, I urge everyone to stay vigilant and take proactive measures to help reduce the risk of identity theft.”
Tips to Avoid Identity Theft 
Identity theft can happen to anyone. Below are tips that can help you lower your risk of becoming a victim of identity theft: 

• Protect your Social Security number: SSNs have evolved into a universal identifier, serving as a key to much of your personal information. With your name and SSN alone, an identity thief can open new credit and bank accounts, rent an apartment, or even obtain employment under your name. To protect your SSN, avoid carrying your Social Security card in your wallet, and instead keep it at home in a safe place. Only provide your SSN when absolutely necessary – such as on tax forms or employment records – and if a business asks you for your SSN, see if there is another number that can be used instead. If a government agency asks for it, expect to see a required “disclosure” form that should provide information on whether your SSN is required or optional, how it will be used, and the agency's legal authority to ask for it.

• Recognize "phishing" attempts and don't take the bait: Scam artists "phish" for victims by posing as banks, stores, or government agencies. They will attempt to trick you into providing your personal information via phone call, text, e-mail, and postal mail. While some organizations may need to verify your account number, password, or SSN, legitimate companies will never reach out to you in this way. W-2 phishing emails are another form of phishing scams that are particularly common during tax season. In these types of scams, cybercriminals target and trick employees of a specific company, including employees of payroll or human resources departments, into providing IRS W-2 forms. Using spoofing techniques, the scammer disguises an email to make it appear as if it is coming from an organization’s executive or some other trusted person in an attempt to request a list of all company employees and their W-2 forms. The best way to avoid phishing attempts is to never give out personal information to anyone, unless you are the one who made the initial contact. 

• Protect your online information and accounts with strong passwords: Passwords play an important role in keeping your online accounts and personal information safe. Protect yourself by using different, unique passwords for each of your online accounts. Make sure that the passwords you use are at least eight characters, including a mix of letters, numbers, and symbols. It’s best to never reuse passwords and consider using a password manager. If given the option to do so, consider using a two-factor authentication to provide an extra layer of security to your accounts.

• Check your credit card bills and bank statements often: Protect yourself from fraud by consistently checking your credit card bills and bank statements for signs of identity theft. Look for unauthorized charges, withdrawals, or unexpected bills, and report irregular activity to your bank as soon as you see it. If you notice that a bill didn’t arrive on time, it may mean that someone has changed the contact information on your account in order to hide fraudulent charges.

• Take advantage of free annual credit reports: One of the best ways to protect against identity theft is to monitor your credit history. You are entitled to one free credit report every year from each of the three national credit bureaus: Equifax, Experian and TransUnion. Your credit history contains information from financial institutions, utilities, landlords, insurers, and others. By checking your credit reports at least once a year, you can identify signs of identity theft, as well errors in your report that could be raising the cost of your credit. Order your free annual credit reports by phone, toll-free, at 1-877-322-8228, or online at www.annualcreditreport.com.

Victims of Identity Theft
If you are a victim of identity theft, contact your local police department or sheriff’s office right away. You may also report identity theft and generate a recovery plan using the Federal Trade Commission’s website at identitytheft.gov.
For more information and resources on identity theft, visit the Attorney General’s website at oag.ca.gov/idtheft.

Sierra County’s people are our most treasured resource. The Upstate Creative Corp grant applications will soon be available on-line.  The Sierra County Arts Council will be seeking a diverse panel pool ensures the integrity of our grant review process for all applicants, representative of our county’s unique rural demographics, eclectic geography, and wealth of organizations, perspectives, and knowledge.
Eligible applicants will be included in a panelist pool to be approved by Sierra County Arts Council – as a partner agency to the Administering Organization for the California Arts Council – in the months preceding the 2023-24 Upstate California Creative Corps grant activity period.
Specifically, panelists selected to serve the Upstate California Creative Corps will be reviewing Sierra County’s applications. We will contact panelist applicants between February and March, 2023.
The Upstate California Creative Corps is a media, outreach, and engagement campaign designed to increase awareness around public health, water and energy conservation, climate mitigation, emergency preparedness, relief, and recovery, civic engagement, and social justice. $3.38m will be re-granted to artists, and arts and social service organizations, as well as units of government, who will employ artists to this end.
Panelists must meet the following criteria:

1. They must be Sierra County residents
   
2. They must be able to assess the strengths and weaknesses of multiple applications based on our Upstate California Creative Corps published program goals and review criteria
   
3. They must have the capacity to take part in three (3) mandatory virtual group meetings and 10-12 hours reviewing grants, taking notes, and attending meetings and orientations over a six-to-eight-week period. Each panelist receives a modest honorarium of $150. All reviews and meetings may take place in-person and / or remotely. More information about reviewing grants will be provided at the appropriate time.
   
4. If you are also a member of an organization or are an individual artist appling for the Creative Corps grant, you may still serve on the panel. As a panelist, you will be required to recuse yourself for assessment of your application.
   

What's next? If you would like to apply click on the “Apply” button below. Once you complete the form, you'll receive an automated message confirming your submission. Then, we'll follow up and contact panel applicants on an individual basis as we begin putting panels together. More about Upstate California Creative Corps can be found at upstatecreativecorps.org.
Questions? If you have any questions, please reach out to B.J. Jordan 530-961-2188 or bj@sierracountyartscouncil.org. Thank you for your interest in becoming a panelist, we look forward to talking talking with you soon.

Sierra County’s people are our most treasured resource. The Upstate Creative Corp grant applications will soon be available on-line.  The Sierra County Arts Council will be seeking a diverse panel pool ensures the integrity of our grant review process for all applicants, representative of our county’s unique rural demographics, eclectic geography, and wealth of organizations, perspectives, and knowledge.
Eligible applicants will be included in a panelist pool to be approved by Sierra County Arts Council – as a partner agency to the Administering Organization for the California Arts Council – in the months preceding the 2023-24 Upstate California Creative Corps grant activity period.
Specifically, panelists selected to serve the Upstate California Creative Corps will be reviewing Sierra County’s applications. We will contact panelist applicants between February and March, 2023.
The Upstate California Creative Corps is a media, outreach, and engagement campaign designed to increase awareness around public health, water and energy conservation, climate mitigation, emergency preparedness, relief, and recovery, civic engagement, and social justice. $3.38m will be re-granted to artists, and arts and social service organizations, as well as units of government, who will employ artists to this end.
Panelists must meet the following criteria:

1. They must be Sierra County residents
2. They must be able to assess the strengths and weaknesses of multiple applications based on our Upstate California Creative Corps published program goals and review criteria
3. They must have the capacity to take part in three (3) mandatory virtual group meetings and 10-12 hours reviewing grants, taking notes, and attending meetings and orientations over a six-to-eight-week period. Each panelist receives a modest honorarium of $150. All reviews and meetings may take place in-person and / or remotely. More information about reviewing grants will be provided at the appropriate time.
4. If you are also a member of an organization or are an individual artist applying for the Creative Corps grant, you may still serve on the panel. As a panelist, you will be required to recuse yourself for assessment of your application.

What's next? Apply on line at www.sierracountyartscouncil.org. Once you complete the form, you'll receive an automated message confirming your submission. Then, we'll follow up and contact panel applicants on an individual basis as we begin putting panels together. More about Upstate California Creative Corps can be found at upstatecreativecorps.org.
Questions? If you have any questions, please reach out to B.J. Jordan 530-961-2188 or bj@sierracountyartscouncil.org.
 

SACRAMENTO — The California Transportation Commission (CTC) allocated over $988 million today to repair and improve transportation infrastructure throughout the state. This funding includes more than $450 million from the federal Infrastructure Investment and Jobs Act of 2021 (IIJA) and more than $250 million from Senate Bill (SB) 1, the Road Repair and Accountability Act of 2017.
 
“The CTC’s investments will help rebuild California’s transportation infrastructure while increasing transit and active transportation options. These projects reflect the CTC and Caltrans’ commitment to safety and meeting future challenges,” said Caltrans Director Tony Tavares.

District 2 Projects the CTC approved include

• Feather River Inn Intersection Project (Near Blairsden, from 0.4 mile east of Little Bear Road to 0.4 mile west of Route 89): New roadway construction to Route 70, drainage work, and striping.

 

• Cromberg Rehab Project (In and near Cromberg and Portola, from Gill Ranch Road to 0.2 mile west of Big Grizzly Creek Bridge): Rehabilitate roadway, repair and replace culverts, upgrade guardrail, upgrade bridge railing at Humbug Creek Bridge, and make pedestrian facilities Americans with Disabilities Act (ADA) compliant. The project will also improve safety and ride quality. This project includes $95.7M in IIJA funding.

SB 1 provides $5 billion in transportation funding annually that is shared equally between the state and local agencies. Road projects progress through construction phases more quickly based on the availability of SB 1 funds, including projects that are partially funded by SB 1. For more information about transportation projects funded by SB 1, visit RebuildingCA.ca.gov.
 

SACRAMENTO, Calif. –The Department of Water Resources (DWR) today announced that recent storms will allow the State Water Project (SWP) to boost deliveries to 29 public water agencies serving 27 million Californians. Based on the amount of water captured and stored in recent weeks, DWR now expects to deliver 30 percent of requested water supplies – or 1.27 million acre-feet -- in 2023, up from the initial 5 percent announced on December 1.
The allocation increase is the direct result of extreme weather in late December and nine atmospheric rivers in early January that helped fill reservoirs and dramatically increase the Sierra Nevada snowpack. The SWP’s two largest reservoirs (Oroville and San Luis) have gained a combined 1.62 million acre-feet of water in storage -- roughly enough to provide water to 5.6 million households for a year. While Water Year 2023 began with below average precipitation, conditions shifted to extreme above average conditions.

“We are pleased that we can increase the allocation now and provide more water to local water agencies,” said DWR Director Karla Nemeth. “These storms made clear the importance of our efforts to modernize our existing water infrastructure for an era of intensified drought and flood. Given these dramatic swings, these storm flows are badly needed to refill groundwater basins and support recycled water plants.”
The updated SWP delivery forecast takes into account current reservoir storage and is based on a conservative runoff forecast.  It does not take into account the current Sierra Nevada snowpack. DWR will conduct snow surveys on February 1, March 1, April 1, and May 1 and may further update the allocation as the water supply outlook becomes clearer with the new data.

In addition to on the ground surveys, DWR will gather data from its Airborne Snow Observatory (ASO) surveys. For the second year in a row, DWR is broadening the deployment of these more sophisticated technologies, such as ASO surveys, that can collect snow measurements farther upslope of the Sierra Nevada. The data from these flights, which use LiDAR and spectrometer technology to measure snowpack across broad swaths of key watersheds, will be used by DWR to get a more accurate account of California’s snowpack and to update water supply runoff forecasts. Since the storms California experienced this month saw variable snow elevations, the data from ASO flights will help DWR verify snow course and snow sensor data and understand how snow has been distributed across the Sierra Nevada.
DWR cautioned that while recent storms have been impressive, two months remain in the wet season and California could see a return to warm and dry conditions prior to April 1. Californians should continue to use water wisely to help the state adapt to a hotter, drier future and the possible return of drought.
The SWP pumps currently are operating at maximum capacity of 9,500 cubic feet per second (cfs) and will continue to be adjusted as needed to meet State and federal requirements.  However, had the proposed Delta Conveyance Project been in place, the SWP could have stored an additional 202,000 acre-feet of water – enough to supply more than 710,000 households for a year – between January 1 and January 23 while staying within compliance of rules to protect endangered species.
California traditionally receives half its rain and snow by the end of January. Water managers will reassess conditions monthly throughout the winter and spring. Starting in February, the assessments will incorporate snowpack data and runoff forecasts.

Water managers will be monitoring how the wet season develops and whether further actions may be necessary later in the winter. Additional actions that have been taken previously, such as submission of a Temporary Urgency Change Petition (TUCP) or installation of the West False River Emergency Drought Salinity Barrier in the Sacramento-San Joaquin Delta, are unlikely this year based on current conditions.
Each year, DWR provides the initial SWP allocation by December 1 based on available water storage, projected water supply, and water demands. Allocations are updated monthly as snowpack and runoff information is assessed, with a final allocation typically determined in May or June.
The lowest initial SWP allocation was zero percent on December 1, 2021, with limited water designated only for any unmet human health and safety needs. Last year’s final allocation was 5 percent plus unmet human health and safety needs. Four of the 29 State Water Contractors ultimately requested and received additional human health and safety water supply.
​

California has strong laws to remove guns from dangerous individuals when red flags are present 
LOS ANGELES — California Attorney General Rob Bonta today issued a public safety alert reminding Californians of the strong laws in place to temporarily remove guns from dangerous individuals and potentially prevent an oncoming tragedy. The Attorney General reminds Californians that, in addition to criminal laws that prohibit certain individuals from possessing firearms, California has strong protections in the form of civil orders: Gun Violence Restraining Orders (GVRO) and Domestic Violence Restraining Orders (DVRO), as well as other orders like Workplace Violence Prevention Orders, School Violence Restraining Orders, and Civil Harassment orders. These protections allow for the temporary removal of firearms from individuals who may be a danger to themselves or others. These orders can be a critical tool to remove firearms and prevent the purchase of new guns by individuals who pose a significant risk of harm to themselves or others. 
“Often in the aftermath of tragedies such as mass shootings, we hear about red flags displayed by the perpetrator that could have signaled an impending crisis or trauma,” said Attorney General Bonta. “California has strong red flag laws that allow the public and law enforcement to recommend the removal of guns from those who may be a potential threat. Criminal and civil orders that result in the removal of firearms are critical tools that can help save lives, but they are severely underutilized. When you have concerns that someone may pose a threat, we encourage you to act; If you see something, say something. We are in this together, and together we can save lives.”
In 2016, California became one of the first states to enact a red flag law. In California, these laws are called Gun Violence Restraining Orders, or GVROs. GVROs are court orders that prohibit individuals from owning or possessing firearms. The law initially allowed only law enforcement officers and family members of a person they believed was a danger to themselves or others to petition the court to prohibit that person from possessing firearms. The law has since been expanded to allow law enforcement officers, family members, employers, coworkers, and school employees to petition the court for a GVRO to prohibit a person from possessing firearms who they believe poses a serious threat.  
In addition to GVROs, someone experiencing abuse or harassment may be able to obtain other civil orders through their local court or through law enforcement. These orders include DVROs, Workplace Violence Prevention Orders, School Violence Restraining Orders, and Civil Harassment orders. These orders provide protection for people being harassed or abused and include firearm prohibitions. Individuals who are in fear of or experiencing abuse by someone with whom they are in a close relationship – such as a current or former spouse, partner, or parent – can request a DVRO.  
These critical laws can assist law enforcement in recovering firearms from individuals who have shown a probability to commit violence, harassment, or abuse. Additionally, they can prevent those individuals from obtaining firearms in the first place. 
For more information on how to obtain Emergency or Permanent orders under these provisions, go to courts.ca.gov or oag.ca.gov/ovgp/gvro-dvro. 
Attorney General Bonta has long-advocated for the increased use of GVROs to prevent gun violence. In October 2022, Attorney General Bonta brought together California's city attorneys and county counsels for a special virtual convening on GVROs. The goal of the meeting was to highlight the lifesaving impact of GVROs and to provide resources and impetus for local agencies to establish GVRO programs in their offices. Attorney General Bonta specifically cited the success of San Diego’s comprehensive GVRO program. Under this program, Deputy City Attorneys apply for GVROs on behalf of officers from the San Diego Police Department. In 2021, over 31% or 435 of the 1,384 GVROs issued statewide were issued in San Diego County. Since the inception of the groundbreaking program, more than 1,500 firearms have been confiscated through GVROs. Removing these firearms is believed to have prevented multiple violent incidents, including mass shootings. 
Victims of domestic violence who are in immediate danger should call 911. For additional information and assistance call:

• The 24-hour National Domestic Violence Hotline: 1-800-799-SAFE (1-800-799-7233)
• The Victims of Crime Resource Center: 1-800-VICTIMS (1-800-842-8467)

For additional information on resources available to survivors of sexual violence please visit: oag.ca.gov/sexual-violence.

# # #

 
QUINCY, CA — Work resumed today on the pile burning that started last week on the Feather River Ranger District of the Plumas National Forest.
Approximately 5 acres were treated last week near Concow Rim Road.  The goal this week is to burn the remaining 45 acres of piles this week in preparation for tree planting for forest restoration later this winter.  Today firefighters were able to successfully treat 10 acres of piles.
Additional fire management resources from other national forests in the area are assisting with the project.  Pile burning is only occurring as conditions allow and ignitions are expected to continue through Thursday.
The Mount Hough Ranger District is planning to ignite approximately 10 acres of the Butterfly East Timber piles in Butterfly Valley tomorrow, conditions permitting.
Conditions are being monitored across the forest for opportunities for pile burning as part of fuel reduction efforts.
Smoke is expected to be visible but not have significant long-term impacts to nearby communities, including Meadow Valley and Quincy.  Short duration, minor smoke impacts are expected along Highway 70 and neighboring forest roads. 
Visibility on roads in the project areas may be reduced, especially early in the morning and late evening as smoke settles.  Drivers in the area should use caution.
If weather conditions become unfavorable, including increased or gusty winds in the area, burning will stop until conditions improve.  Firefighters will be monitoring conditions and the burning piles until fires are out.
For more information on the Plumas National Forest, visit www.fs.usda.gov/plumas or on Facebook at www.facebook.com/USFSPlumas.