California Farm Bureau President Jamie Johansson today responded to Gov. Gavin Newsom’s signing of Assembly Bill 2183.




“The California Farm Bureau is deeply disappointed in Gov. Newsom’s decision to sign the misguided union organizing legislation, Assembly Bill 2183. Farm Bureau stands with California’s agricultural employees and will continue to defend their right to make uncoerced choices about union representation. However, the governor’s unfortunate decision to sign this bill will create a mail-in balloting system that threatens the integrity of secret ballot elections and leaves farm employees vulnerable to intimidation by union organizers with an obvious interest in the outcome. It also forces California’s farmers and ranchers to choose to give up free speech and private property rights in a dubious trade to allow their employees a real voice in a union election.”
 
The California Farm Bureau works to protect family farms and ranches on behalf of nearly 31,000 members statewide and as part of a nationwide network of nearly 6 million Farm Bureau members.

​

Protected Left Turns Now in Effect at Schaffer Mill/Truckee Airport Roads
 
PLACER COUNTY – Caltrans is alerting State Route 267 (SR-267) motorists to expect operational changes to the traffic signal at the intersection of Schaffer Mill Road and Truckee Airport Road in Placer County.  
 
Today, Caltrans maintenance crews replaced traffic signal lights at the intersection and recalibrated signal timing to permit dedicated left turns for motorists traveling from Schaffer Mill or Truckee Airport Roads onto SR-267. Previously, motorists attempting to make left turns from these secondary roads had to yield to through traffic, creating long queues and extended travel delays.
 
These improvements were implemented based on feedback from local residents and officials.
 
Caltrans District 3 is responsible for maintaining and operating 4,385 lane miles in 11 Sacramento Valley and Northern Sierra counties. For project updates, follow Caltrans District 3 on Twitter @CaltransDist3 and on Facebook at CaltransDistrict3. For real-time traffic, click on Caltrans’ QuickMap quickmap.dot.ca.gov/ or download the QuickMap app from the App Store or Google Play.
 

A Brief Overview of Loyalton’s HistoryThe area which eventually became Loyalton was first settled in the late 1850’s, when settlers bound for the Sacramento Valley found a lush valley nestled within the Sierra Nevada mountains. The resulting settlement was originally named “Smithneck”, but after the community raised significant amounts of money for the Union cause during the Civil War, the town changed its name to reflect that they were a “loyal town” to the Union. Hence, the town of “Loyalton” came to be.
Loyalton began primarily as a farming and dairy community, and in the 1880’s was renowned for its cheese-making. The area was also a popular spot for logging operations due to the rich forests (including what is now known as the Tahoe National Forest).
Construction on the Boca & Loyalton Railroad finished in 1901, prompting the town of Loyalton to incorporate as a city to support the lumber industry. Loyalton was at one time one of California’s largest cities in land area (expanding some 50 square miles into the surrounding forests) and an early implementor of alcohol prohibition, though both of these aspects of Loyalton changed in the 1930’s when the city limits were redrawn to a more modest area (less than one square mile) and the mostly-ignored alcohol restrictions were eliminated.
Loyalton’s logging industry experienced a slump in 1915, caused by the decline of gold mining in California. Nearly all of Loyalton’s lumber mills shut down (with the exception of the Roberts mill, which relocated to another part of the Sierra Valley). The Clover Valley Lumber Company opened at the old Roberts mill in 1917, operating under various ownerships until eventually rebranding as Sierra Pacific Industries.
Loyalton’s dairy industry languished after World War II due to new regulations pertaining to pasteurization. Dairy ranches were subsequently replaced by beef ranches, beginning a tradition of beef cattle ranching that persists today.
History of the MuseumThe Loyalton Museum (also known as the Milton Gottardi Museum) has been in existence for more than 30 years. It was founded by Milton Gottardi (1928 - 2006), who was a high school teacher in Loyalton for 39 years. He also served on the city council for 38 years and was mayor of Loyalton for 29 of those years.
Elda Fae Ball started under Milton Gottardi in 1998 and served as curator until 2012 at the museum’s original location on A24, next to the city park.
Jackie Mitchell took over as curator in 2012, and she oversaw the relocation of the museum to its present location in 2015.
The former middle school was built in the 1930’s and had not been in use by the school district for 12 years when a large volunteer effort brought the building back to life as the Loyalton City Center. The Loyalton Museum occupies one wing of the building, with City Hall offices and the Senior Thrift Store occupying the other wing.

Gary Nelson, largely responsible for the railroad exhibits, is the current curator.

The museum is open Memorial Day to Labor Day except for special tours.

​SACRAMENTO, CA – Today Assemblyman Kevin Kiley (R-Rocklin) released the following statement in response to California’s average gas price surpassing $6.00 per gallon. The current price of $6.04 is now $2.77 more than the national average of $3.77.
 
“California gas prices have jumped 24 cents in the last two days," Kiley said. “Californians are now paying over $6 per gallon, nearly $3 more than the national average. This is the result of longstanding policy failures, compounded by the Governor and Legislature's refusal to suspend the gas tax as other states have."
 
In January, Kiley introduced AB 1638, an urgency measure that would have immediately suspended the gas tax and saved Californian’s over 50 cents per gallon at the pump. That bill was rejected in the Assembly on multiple occasions. Instead of providing relief, the Speaker of the Assembly created the Select Committee on Gasoline Supply and Pricing to study the issue. To date, the committee has held two hearings and has yet to produce anything actionable.
 
Assemblyman Kevin Kiley represents the 6th Assembly District, which includes the Sacramento, Placer, and El Dorado County communities of Cameron Park, El Dorado Hills, Fair Oaks, Folsom, Granite Bay, Lincoln, Loomis, Orangevale, Penryn, Rocklin, Roseville, and Sheridan.
 
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​Tahoe National Forest Truckee Engine 371 firefighter Meredith Anello showing and telling what a USFS wildland firefighter does for a local Glenshire Elementary TK class during their “Community Helper” week earlier this week.

What’s for dinner on the fireline?
TNF Engine 371 firefighter Meredith Anello asks the kids to guess what is in the Meals Ready-To-Eat (MRE) packet and then letting the new recruits pass around and squish the spaghetti and meatballs.


A Tahoe National Forest Fire Family/Community Feature

By Meredith Anello
Forestry Technician- Wildland Firefighter Engine 371
Public Information Officer-Fire 
U.S. Forest Service
Tahoe National Forest 
Truckee Ranger District

​
While Tahoe National Forest (TNF) Fire crews have been fighting the Mosquito Fire, TNF Fire Resources across the Forest, have remained ready to respond to new incidents and also have been engaging with our community members of all ages at local events.

Tahoe National Forest Yuba River Ranger District Camptonville Engine 331 and Fire Prevention Patrol 31 set up a Forest Service Booth at the Camptonville Volunteer Fire Department picnic whom they often work with during incidents.

TNF Camptonville Patrol 31 Jessica Prince shares this “feel good Fire story”…
“My 10 year old daughter was performing for her first time in front of people at the CVFD picnic. She was terrified and was wanting to quit. The TNF Camptonville Engine 331 firefighters I work with stepped in and not only practiced with her that morning, but performed with her at the event, uniform and all. It just goes to show we are family. We don’t do it for the money, the work can be challenging, but at the end of the day, there’s a camaraderie here that is unmatched.”

On the East side of the Forest, in a Glenshire Elementary TK class, a TNF Truckee Engine 371 firefighter took her turn to show and tell about being a USFS Wildland Firefighter during their “Community Helper” week. The 4 year old “recruits”, who knew a lot about the Mosquito Fire already, were most intrigued by the Super Soaker-like Bladder Bag nozzle and guessing what was for dinner on the fireline before squishing the Meals Ready-To-Eat (MRE) spaghetti and meatballs packet from her line gear.  

“Whether it’s out on the fireline or within our communities, TNF Firefighters appreciate every opportunity to serve our public, and our public lands…best job in the world,” said TNF Engine 371 Firefighter, Meredith Anello.

Interested in becoming a US Forest Service-Tahoe National Forest Seasonal Wildland Firefighter? Applications for the 2023 Fire season on Engines, Hotshot/Handcrews, Helicopter Helitack Crew, Fuels Crews, Lookouts, Air Tanker Base, and Dispatch are being accepted online at usajobs.govstarting Sept. 29-Oct. 6, 2022. Contact your local USFS Tahoe National Forest Ranger Station for more information and check out the Tahoe National Forest Fire Employment webpage.  https://www.fs.usda.gov/detailfull/tahoe/home/?cid=fseprd838779&width=full

There is No Better Time to Schedule Your Mammogram
www.tfhd.com


 (Tahoe/Truckee, Calif.) –  October is National Breast Health Awareness Month, an initiative created to increase awareness of early detection and prevention of breast cancer. If you’ve never had a mammogram, call Tahoe Forest Health System during October for an appointment.
Mammograms and monthly self-checks are the most effective methods for detecting breast cancer early. The earlier breast cancer is found, the better the chances treatment will work. A mammogram is a quick and easy procedure performed by a certified mammography technologist and interpreted by a board-certified radiologist.  A doctor’s order is not required for a screening mammogram, and follow-up care is available.
The Briner Imaging Center at Tahoe Forest Hospital offers the Genius® 3D MammographyTM Exams now with Enhanced Detection Technology, the latest breakthrough in breast cancer detection. It is the most accurate technology available, delivering sharper, more detailed images, and higher levels of detection. It is the only exam rated by the FDA as superior for women with dense breast tissue.
To schedule a mammogram, please call the Briner Imaging Center at (530) 582-6510. Most insurance plans are accepted.
Free or reduced-cost screenings may be available. Please call (530) 582-6458 for more information.
#####

About Tahoe Forest Health System
Tahoe Forest Health System, which includes Tahoe Forest Hospital in Truckee, CA, and Incline Village Community Hospital in Incline Village, NV, offers 24-hour emergency care, urgent care, primary and specialty health care clinics including Tahoe Forest Orthopedics and Sports Medicine, Commission on Cancer (COC) accredited cancer center, the Gene Upshaw Memorial Tahoe Forest Cancer Center, and the Joseph Family Center for Women and Newborn Care. With a strong focus on high quality patient care, community collaboration, clinical excellence and innovation, Tahoe Forest Health System is a UC Davis Rural Center of Excellence. For a complete list of physician specialties and services, visit www.tfhd.com.
 

CONFIDENTIALITY NOTICE: This email, including attachments

The City of Loyalton's overdue water bill total had increased to $53,510.71. There was discussion over potentially adding past due water and sewer bills to property tax since only property owners are billed. It’s now done with Downieville Public Utility District and Sierra Brooks and would need priors by August to add to property tax bills. One $15,343.58 account was stated to make payments each month. If in arrears the end of June of July, making payments or not, the customer history could be applied to taxes with it renewed and updated every year. Mayor Sarah Jackson told of prior State requirements and how they still can’t turn water off. The Council passed a similar Resolution of Confirmation of the Downieville Public Utility District, “the delinquent fees become a lien on the real property to be collected by the County at the same time and in the same manner as property taxes and the amount of uncollected water service fees past 60 days due has become significant and the final report delivered to the Sierra County Auditor.” Joy felt it may get somebody’s attention. It was moved by Darlene Riede, seconded by Joy Markum and passed. Their resolution will be on next month’s agenda and “prepare to alert customers.”

Dr. Glenn Mollette 


Nearly five million foreign nationals have entered the United States since Biden became President. Some people call them undocumented immigrants, some call them unauthorized immigrants, many call them illegal immigrants. If they were entering the country legally with proper documentation then we would call them documented immigrants or legal immigrants. 


Wyoming has 581,075 people. Have you ever been to Yellowstone National Park?  Vermont has a population of 623,251 people. The District of Columbia has a population of 714,143 people. Alaska’s population is 724,357. North Dakota has 770, 026. South Dakota’s population is 896,581. The population of Delaware is 990,334. (Stats from populationreview.com). These seven states combined have a population of under 5.5 million people. To get a more accurate count I suppose we could drop off Wyoming and that would put us closer to the total number of foreign nationals who have illegally without documentation entered crossed our borders. In other words, our country has grown the population of at least six of our smallest populated states in six years. 


However, there are no worries because densely populated states won’t remain that forever. We cannot add 4-5 million illegal immigrants every two years without having serious population issues in our nation. 


What would a half million of these new unauthorized immigrants do to the state of Wyoming? What about Vermont? Would Vermont like to have a generous helping of a few hundred thousand people begging for housing and food?


The population of Kentucky is about 4.5 million people which is somewhere very close to the number of illegal immigrants. Where can Kentucky add a half million people? There are no jobs in East, Kentucky but a lot of devastation from the recent flooding. West Kentucky is still trying to rebuild from the worst tornadoes in history. What about Lexington or Woodford County? They still have a nice ten mile stretch of horse farms that could easily accommodate one-half million foreigners. Put these people to work giving bourbon tours. 


Texas Governor Greg Abbott and Florida Governor Ron Desantis have the right idea, share the love. Open borders should never mean that Texas and other border states get all the love and joy of these millions of people coming illegally into America. Texas already has 30 million people. Florida has 22 million people. Plus, Texas and Florida get hot. Hot weather and crowds are not a good combination. Martha’s Vineyard has less than 20,000 people. The climate is cooler. The water is pretty and there is some good fishing in the area as well. I can see where immigrants would be content in this part of America. Rehoboth in Delaware would also be a nice spot for the undocumented foreigners. Rehoboth is where Joe Biden likes to stroll along the Boardwalk in this quaint costal Atlantic community of fine restaurants, shops and summer vacationers. The illegals could certainly transform this little community. 


California has a population of 40 million people. New York has almost 20 million and Illinois has almost 13 million with Chicago exploding with its own problems. Do any of them really have the financial ability to care for another million people? 


If we do not get control of our border and regulate the flood of people who are coming into this country illegally, soon we will not have a country. 






Here Dr. Mollette each weekday at 8:56, 11:30 and 4:26  EST on XM radio 131 
  
Contact him at GMollette@aol.com. Learn more at www.glennmollette.com 
Buy his books at Amazon.com and other online dealers
 
   additional biographical, Dr. Glenn Mollette is a graduate of numerous schools including Georgetown College, Southern and Lexington Seminaries in Kentucky. He is the author of 13 books including Uncommon Sense, the Spiritual Chocolate series, Grandpa's Store, Minister's Guidebook insights from a fellow minister. His column is published weekly in over 600 publications in all 50 states. 



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On Sunday, September 11th, Sierra Valley 4-H club members presented our Nation’s Flag at the Rotary Club Fly In Breakfast in Beckwourth for the Pledge of Allegiance.  
​

Also on Sunday, September 11th, members attended the Vinton Grange’s 90th Birthday Party celebration.  We got to learn about the history of the Grange and the Sierra Valley.

Listed left to right:  Blaine Morgan, Callie Steffanic, Ryker Osburn, Micah Williams, Aurora Osburn, Everett Powers

Written by Callie Steffanic, Communications Officer/Reporter, Sierra Valley 4-H Club
​

Executive Director of the Sierra Buttes Trail Stewardship, Greg Williams, speaks to attendees at the 2022 RCRC Annual Meeting regarding the work of the organization in building trails and connecting Lost Sierra communities while improving forest health and supporting rural economies.

 

SACRAMENTO, CA – On Friday, September 16, the Rural County Representatives of California (RCRC) concluded their Annual Meeting, held at the Marriott Hotel in Napa, California. This year, over 200 local government representatives attended the meeting, representing RCRC’s 39 member counties.
 
The event featured many experts sharing their knowledge on issues pertinent to rural governance. This included engaging panel discussions with specialists in economic forecasting, broadband deployment, politics, rural tourism, and city-county governance.
 
“The RCRC Annual Meeting is an important event for rural leaders, as it creates the space for local government representatives from around the state to collaborate and share ideas,” said RCRC Board Chair and Nevada County Supervisor Dan Miller. “We are fortunate to have been joined by speakers at the highest levels of their field, imparting their knowledge and experience for the benefit of our attendees.”
 
In addition to the panel discussions, the event included a meeting of rural county administrators and a joint meeting of the RCRC Board of Directors with its affiliate entities Golden State Finance Authority and Golden State Connect Authority. Attendees also participated in the RCRC Annual Auction and Basket Drawing, during which county-themed baskets are auctioned off to support a select number of charities in the county of the RCRC Chair.
 
"It has been an honor to host RCRC's Annual Meeting here in beautiful Napa County," said RCRC Legislative Vice Chair and Napa County Supervisor Diane Dillon. "The connections and discussions that occurred at this year's Annual Meeting will have a continuing and significant impact, helping to guide rural leaders as they work to address the key issues facing their communities."
 
RCRC's Annual Meeting serves as a venue for rural leaders to gather and engage on important issues affecting rural counties. To learn more about RCRC, visit www.rcrcnet.org. 
 

 
ABOUT RURAL COUNTY REPRESENTATIVES OF CALIFORNIA (RCRC)
 
The Rural County Representatives of California (RCRC) is a thirty-nine member county service organization that champions policies on behalf of California’s rural counties. RCRC is dedicated to representing the collective unique interests of its membership, providing legislative and regulatory representation at the State and Federal levels, and providing responsible services for its members to enhance and protect the quality of life in rural California counties. To learn more about RCRC, visit rcrcnet.org and follow @RuralCounties on Twitter, Facebook and Instagram.
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Size: 76,290 acres Containment: 39% Total Personnel: 3,037
MOSQUITO FIRE
INCIDENT UPDATE Date: 9-20-2022 Time: 7:00 a.m.
Fire Information: 211 (Local) or 530-264-8309 Media Information: 530-217-3263
Phone Hours: 8:00 a.m. to 8:00 p.m. daily Email: 2022.Mosquito@firenet.gov
Incident Websites:
inciweb.nwcg.gov/incident/8398 fire.ca.gov/incidents/2022/9/6/mosquito-fire/
Start Date & Time: Tuesday, 9-6-2022, 6:27 p.m. Cause: Under Investigation
Location: Mosquito Road at Oxbow Reservoir Suppression Strategy: Full Suppression
People Evacuated: 244 Structures Threatened: 2,382 Total Structures Destroyed: 78 Total Structures Damaged: 13
The Mosquito Fire remains in unified command with California Interagency Incident Management Team 5, CAL FIRE, Placer County Sheriff, and El Dorado County Sheriff.
CURRENT SITUATION
The current storm brought wetting rain showers overnight, with storm totals ranging from 0.75 to 2-inches over the fire area thus far. Despite the continued precipitation, lingering areas of heat remain in pockets of smoldering heavy fuels and places such as stump holes. Rain showers are expected to continue throughout the day, with the potential of isolated thunderstorms. A Flash Flood Watch remains in effect for the fire area with a possibility of ash and debris flows associated with thunderstorms. The cooler temperatures and high humidity will continue to give firefighters the opportunity to gain ground on the containment of the Mosquito Fire.
On Monday, a large number of evacuation orders were lifted in both Placer and El Dorado counties as the fire continued to hold within its existing containment lines on the southern and western flanks. Several areas remain under evacuation orders due to their proximity to the fire and ongoing safety concerns, which firefighters and cooperators are working diligently to mitigate. Unified Command and cooperators meet daily to ensure that everything is being done to return all evacuees to their homes as soon as possible.
Throughout this storm, firefighters remain in the communities continuing to patrol areas with existing containment lines for any potential issues. Crews are also aggressively engaging in building direct control lines along the fire's edge. This weather event has given firefighters a great opportunity to knock out the fire while it is down. Adding containment to the fire's eastern flank has become the priority, which is no easy task in rugged terrain, especially with the rainy weather. The multiple river canyons remain challenging for firefighters to safely access and build control lines. Access to portions of the fireline has become compromised with the significant amount of rain received. Due to muddy conditions, many dirt roads that crews use to access the fire's edge cannot be used. Firefighters will continue looking for opportunities around the fire, especially on the eastern front, to continue constructing and securing direct control lines ahead of a warming and drying weather trend forecasted to start this Thursday.
MOSQUITO FIRE
INCIDENT UPDATE Date: 9-20-2022 Time: 7:00 a.m.
EVACUATIONS — PLACER COUNTY
Interactive evacuation map: placer.ca.gov/evacuations, Mosquito Fire information: tinyurl.com/234azf6d
Evacuation Orders are in effect for the following Placer County zones: 1A, 3A, 4A, 14, 21 and 22 Evacuation Warnings are in effect for the following Placer County zones: 1B, 2, 3B, 4B, 5, 6, 7A, 23, and 25.
Evacuation Orders are in effect for the following El Dorado County areas: Stumpy Meadows.
Evacuation Warnings are in effect for the following El Dorado County areas: Volcanoville, Quintette, Silver Hill, and East Stumpy Meadows.
ROAD CLOSURES
View road closures in the vicinity of the Mosquito Fire on the Caltrans interactive map: quickmap.dot.ca.gov.
EVACUATION CENTERS Placer County:
• Sierra College, 5100 Sierra College Blvd., Rocklin, California. Enter on Rocklin Road for parking, which is in Lot B. Shelter is in cafeteria (building J).
El Dorado County:

• Cameron Park Services District, 2502 Country Club Drive, Cameron Park, California. Overnight shelter with meals, showers, limited health services, and parking for trailers. Animals in crates and carriers are allowed.
  
• Green Valley Community Church, 3500 Missouri Flat Road, Placerville, California. RV parking is limited and no hookups. Small domestic animals in crates or on leashes are allowed (no large animals or birds).
  ANIMAL SHELTERS Placer County:
  

• Gold Country Fairgrounds, 209 Fairgate Road, Auburn, California (large & small animals, livestock ok) El Dorado County:
NATIONAL FOREST CLOSURES
National Forest System lands, roads, and trails in the vicinity of the Mosquito Fire are closed under multiple orders. Maps are included in the Orders linked below.

• Rubicon Jeep Trail: Tahoe National Forest Order No. 17-22-10 (tinyurl.com/3uapupe5), Lake Tahoe Basin Management Unit Order No. 19-22-07 (tinyurl.com/2p9ckfcr)
  
• Tahoe National Forest Order No. 17-22-09 (tinyurl.com/2dfxw6v9)
  
• Eldorado National Forest Order No. 03-22-16 (tinyurl.com/5dxz5cp6)
  STRUCTURE STATUS
  

EVACUATIONS — EL DORADO COUNTY
Interactive evacuation map: bit.ly/3ATtqao, Mosquito Fire information: edcgov.us/mosquito-fire-information

• Diamond Springs Shelter, 6435 Capitol Avenue, Diamond Springs, California (small animals only)
  
• Rancho Murieta Equestrian Center: call 916-985-7334 for information (equines only)
  
• Flying M Ranch, 5421 Buck Mountain Road, Placerville, California (large animals only)
  

In both Placer and El Dorado counties, Damage Inspection Specialist (DINS) Teams have completed assessments of all structures within the Mosquito Fire perimeter. The status of each structure can be found on either Placer County’s interactive map tinyurl.com/j9b28ufb or El Dorado County’s interactive map tinyurl.com/4pkujys9. 

​

 
SACRAMENTO, Calif. – The California Highway Patrol (CHP) and the Office of Traffic Safety (OTS) will help parents and caregivers ensure every child is properly restrained in the correct safety seat for their age and size as part of Child Passenger Safety Week from September 18-24.
“When installed and used correctly, child safety seats and safety belts can prevent injuries and save lives,” said CHP Commissioner Amanda Ray.  “The best way to protect your child in the car is to use a properly fitted child safety seat and seat belt.”
Motor vehicle crashes are a leading cause of death for children, and the latest research from the National Highway Traffic Safety Administration shows 46 percent of child safety seats are not installed correctly.
California law requires that all children under age 2, weighing under 40 pounds and under 40 inches tall, ride in a rear-facing car seat.  All children under age 8 must ride in the back seat of a vehicle, in an age-appropriate child safety seat.  Safety experts recommend all children ride in the backseat until age 13.  For more information about child passenger safety, visithttps://www.chp.ca.gov/Programs-Services/Programs/Child-Safety-Seats.
“This week is a great opportunity for parents and guardians to get that extra assurance that their child is as safe as possible riding in the car,” OTS Director Barbara Rooney said.  “Child passenger safety technicians are here to assist parents with choosing and installing the right car seat.”
As part of Child Passenger Safety Week, CHP Child Passenger Safety (CPS) technicians will provide child safety seat inspections, education, and hands-on training for parents and caregivers.  National Seat Check Saturday is September 24, however, free inspections by CPS technicians are available all year by appointment at any CHP Area office.  To locate your local CHP Area office, please visit https://www.chp.ca.gov/find-an-office.
The mission of the CHP is to provide the highest level of Safety, Service, and Security.

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​9.6.22 7:30pm TNF Mosquito Fire from CWN Type 3 Helicopter H617CD working fire with Helicopter manager on board-TNF 514 Tahoe Helitack Superintendent Justin Buckbee and Senior Squad Boss Kenon Smith. Retardant lines dropped from air tankers can be seen along fire’s edge along with additional helicopters below bringing water to the fire during the aggressive initial attack.
📸 Courtesy of Kenon Smith

9.8.22 Tahoe National Forest Truckee Hotshots, Tahoe Hotshots, (American River Hotshots-engaged, but not pictured) fighting the 2022 Mosquito Fire near Foresthill
📸Courtesy of TNF Truckee Hotshot Captain Dustin Freedman
​

Tahoe National Forest Maintains Incident Response Preparedness While Supporting Mosquito Fire. 

Tahoe National Forest (TNF) Fire Prevention, Detection, and Suppression Resources have been staffing 24 hours when conditions across the TNF warrant the need for remaining fire and all hazard ready for a rapid incident response at any hour. The Tahoe National Forest has a 100% full fire suppression policy for every fire ignited on the TNF. As High and Very High Fire Danger conditions exist across the Forest, TNF Dispatchers dispatch a full wildland fire response to initial attack every TNF Fire.


While TNF Fire resources were staffing 24 hours beginning the Friday before Labor Day, they responded, caught, and contained 5 TNF wildfires, all less than 1/4 acre over Labor Day weekend while also providing mutual aid assistance to CAL FIRE and additional cooperators for fire and medical aids.

After being released from CAL FIRE’s Hill Fire, TNF crews were extending staffing Tuesday 9.6.22 when the Mosquito Fire near Oxbow Reservoir on the American River Ranger District ignited at approx. 6:27pm. Tahoe National Forest Fire Resources with cover resources immediately responded and began aggressive fire suppression efforts. The TNF full wildland initial attack response consisted of Air Attack 17 with Air Tankers, Type 1,2,3 Helicopters with Helitack, Helicopter-Rappelers, Hotshots, Engines, Fire Prevention Patrols/Fire Investigators, Fuels personnel, Dozers, Water Tenders, and TNF Fire Chiefs. Two additional agencies also dispatched resources. Ground firefighting resources engaged in taking full suppression action to contain the fire, supported by the air resources. Due to the time of day that the fire ignited, with TNF Air Attack over the fire, air tankers and helicopters performed as many retardant and bucket drops as they could before having to return to base right before dark. The edge of a thunderstorm sent downdraft winds through the fire area greatly increasing the rate of fire spread and causing spotting as the fire burned in an area of steep terrain in three river drainages containing critically dry fuels exacerbated by an extreme and prolonged heat wave. Firefighters from various agencies continued fire suppression operations while Placer County Sheriff’s Office initiated evacuations for the protection of life/safety as the fire burned actively overnight.

Tahoe National Forest local fire resources have remained engaged in fire suppression operations, structure prep and defense, joined by the additional resources fighting the Mosquito Fire, ordered by TNF Dispatch and Expanded Dispatch at the Grass Valley Emergency Command Center. TNF Dispatch, in addition to supporting the Mosquito Fire, are dispatching and supporting TNF Fire Resources responding to new incidents while filling orders for additional resource needs for the Mosquito Fire and the Forest.

While providing local TNF Fire Resources to support the Mosquito Fire, TNF Fire Chiefs continue to maintain Forest coverage for new incidents. They are prepositioning TNF and cover Fire Resources, and implementing 24 hour staffing as needed. Sequoia National Forest Helicopter N304HA with 523 Kernville Helitack was ordered and arrived 2 days after the Mosquito Fire started as an Initial Attack resource providing coverage on Forest stationed at TNF White Cloud Helibase. Several hours after their arrival, a new fire start on the TNF Sierraville Ranger District was reported and TNF Fire resources from Truckee and Sierraville quickly took suppression action on the Yuba Fire off Yuba Pass where they caught and contained the fire at .1 acres.

Conditions on the Tahoe National Forest are conducive to fire starts and growth. No matter where TNF Fire Resources are positioned or committed across the Forest, TNF Fire Prevention, Detection, and Suppression Resources remain ready to respond and are committed to the protection of life safety, communities, properties, and our Tahoe National Forest- our home, your home, a home away from home.


As the TNF maintains preparedness, its important that everyone is prepared for wildfires or other emergencies not only during National Preparedness Month but always. Be sure to sign up for your county’s emergency alert notifications. 

Interested in becoming a USFS wildland firefighter and make a difference protecting communities and natural resources? Visit Tahoe National Forest website and Facebook for upcoming hiring info. Temporary Seasonal Job Applications are accepted on USAJobs.gov from Sept. 29-Oct. 6 for 2023 Fire Season. 

For information on the Mosquito Fire visit Inciweb, as well as Tahoe National Forest Social Media. 
https://inciweb.nwcg.gov/incident/8398/

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9.8.22 Tahoe National Forest Dispatchers at the Grass Valley Interagency Emergency Command Center supporting Mosquito Fire, as well as coordinating Initial Attack to new fire starts on the Tahoe National Forest such as today’s .1 acre Yuba Fire on SVRD.
📸 Courtesy of TNF Fire PIO Meredith Anello

9.8.22 USFS Tahoe National Forest American River Hotshots receiving an early morning briefing before heading to Mosquito fireline on their home district. ​​
📸 Courtesy of TNF American River Hotshot Bobby Blaine

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9.8.22 Tahoe National Forest Sierraville and Truckee Engines contain Yuba Fire off Yuba Pass to .10 acres with smoke from Mosquito Fire behind them. 
📸 Courtesy of TNF Engine 361 Wildland Fire Apprentice Krystal Benn

 
Washington D.C. – This week, amid an intense heat wave, federal wildland firefighters are battling numerous rapidly-spreading fires that threaten communities in California and Oregon. At the same time, they are fighting for long-overdue and much-needed career reforms in the halls of Congress. 
The wildland fire community, flanked by numerous advocacy groups, came together to launch a letter-writing campaign aimed at U.S. Senators, calling for the introduction and passage of H.R. 5631, The Tim Hart Wildland Firefighter Classification and Pay Parity Act. The stalled legislation is critical to securing a dwindling workforce, one driven away by meager wages and inadequate mental health benefits. For decades, federal wildland firefighters have been paid a fraction (think 50% or less) of what their state and municipal counterparts earn. They also battle work-related mental health issues like post-traumatic stress disorder, and the rate of death by suicide among firefighters is rising,outpacing line-of-duty deaths.
The campaign is an appeal to Senator Kyrsten Sinema (D-Arizona), who chairs the Subcommittee on Government Operations and Border Management, the subcommittee widely seen as the first stepping stone to public hearings for H.R. 5631, or “Tim’s Act.” 
The letters, authored by numerous wildland firefighter advocacy groups, cited multiple inequities but focused on firefighter retention and recruitment. During recent congressional hearings, what has been known on the ground for years became evident to Congress: the attrition rate of seasoned firefighters, coupled with federal agencies’ inability to hire quality candidates, has resulted in a hollowed-out workforce. Direly understaffed, firefighters cannot provide safe, effective responses to ever more destructive wildfires. 
Career wildland firefighters describe a grim situation, with about 25% fewer firefighters available to respond to these emergencies. As the San Francisco Chronicle reports, that translates to nearly 1,300 unfilled jobs. This shortage increases risk for the remaining first responders and decreases their ability to protect life and property. 
With the final days of the 117th Congress ticking away, the first responders currently assigned to wildfires across the country are worried their voices will go unheard. “All they’re asking is that the Senate consider the reforms offered in Tim’s Act. Introduce the bill, hold hearings, and learn about why this legislation will secure the future firefighting workforce and prevent further resignations. Hear, from current and retired wildland firefighters, why the measures in Tim’s Act will go a long way toward improving the mental health system and caring for those who sacrifice so much,” said Kelly Martin, President of Grassroots Wildland Firefighters. 

SACRAMENTO, CA – Today Assemblyman Kevin Kiley (R-Rocklin) reacted to news that gas prices are expected to continue rising in California, even as they fall across the country:
 
“The Legislature had an opportunity to provide real relief to Californians by suspending the gas tax,” Kiley said. “Instead, the Supermajority opted to create a do-nothing Select Committee as an attempt at political cover. Now our residents are paying the price.”
 
In January, Kiley introduced AB 1638, an urgency measure that would have immediately suspended the gas tax and saved Californian’s over 50 cents per gallon at the pump. That bill was rejected in the Assembly on multiple occasions. Instead of providing relief, the Speaker of the Assembly created the Select Committee on Gasoline Supply and Pricing to study the issue. To date, the committee has held two hearings and has yet to produce anything actionable.
 
Now, experts are saying that we can expect to see an increase of as much as 50 cents per gallon in the cost of fuel over the next two weeks, even as gas prices go down in the rest of the United States. As of Monday, the national average was $3.71, while the California average was $5.40.
 
Assemblyman Kevin Kiley represents the 6th Assembly District, which includes the Sacramento, Placer, and El Dorado County communities of Cameron Park, El Dorado Hills, Fair Oaks, Folsom, Granite Bay, Lincoln, Loomis, Orangevale, Penryn, Rocklin, Roseville, and Sheridan.
 
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Retired conductor from the Western Pacific/Union Pacific Railroads, Chris Skow had a fascination with trains ever since high school. Living in Victorville, California at the age of 16 he spent his weekends taking pictures of Santa Fe and Union Pacific trains. After classes he was allowed to help load and unload the mail on the Chief passenger and City of Los Angeles trains. He then became involved with rebuilding Mojave Northern steam locomotive No. 2 after it was donated to the California Southern Railroad Museum and moved from Victorville to the Orange Empire Trolley Museum located at Perris, California. Once No. 2 was back in operation he became its fireman and sometimes engineer.
While living in San Bernardino in 1968-69 he attended college and was hired by the Santa Fe Railway as a station operator full time. This was when he started planning railroad trips with other students who loved the way Chris hosted and planned the adventures.
In 1969 he was working at Mission Tower in downtown Los Angeles, controlling all of the passenger trains coming in and out of LA Union Station. One day at 5 AM a close friend from Portola, Bob Larson, at Western Pacific engineering, called and asked him if he would like to interview for a break man's position. The only catch was that he had to be in Portola the same day no later than 3 PM. The trainmaster planned to hire 10 brakemen.
Chris agreed, and when he got off duty at 7 AM, headed for Portola about 450 miles away. Upon arrival he reported to the trainmaster around 3:30 PM, but by this time the brakemen were already hired. The trainmaster was so impressed that Chris drove up from Los Angeles that he hired him to be a temporary Clerk and crew caller at the Portola depot until a brakeman job became available. Chris accepted the position and the next day drove back to San Bernardino and gave notice to the Santa Fe that he was just hired by the WP. On September 9, 1969 he reported to work for the midnight shift at the Portola depot. Servicing and watering in the California Zephyr was the highlight of his job. The train master kept his word and two months later gave Chris his brakeman's job.
His love for photography went hand-in-hand with his love of trains, finding any opportunity to photograph them. When he joined the Army in 1970 he became a Public Relations Photographer working at the pentagon. He enjoyed being able to take pictures of military railroads and on one assignment got to visit Fort Eustis, Virginia to photograph military railroads and was given access to all areas of the railroad. He also worked on the crew for the nickel plate 759 Berksire with the High Iron Company.
Released from active duty in 1973 Chris returned to Portola and went right back to work for Western Pacific. He began forming tours for fellow Western Pacific employees and launched his first international tour in 1983 to South Africa to tour trains and see steam locomotives. The year after, he expanded his tours to locations worldwide, and his company Trains and Travel international has been providing tours ever since.
His resume and experience extends to many skills and abilities and his passion for railroads extends not only with his travel company, but also onto his unique labor of love surrounding his house. As you drive up a mysterious road and into the driveway of his house, you would never imagine the magic surrounding it. As soon as you step foot onto the property you are greeted
with the beginning of his extensive model train display. For many years Chris has invested extensive time and detail to his model train surrounding his property. As you follow the trail around to different scenes and trains, no matter what age you are, the wonderment of the miniature models makes you feel like a kid again. What seems like miles of model trains, tracks, and villages, the details involved are truly a masterpiece design. Telling decades of train travel, Chris has incorporated waterfalls, creeks, tunnels, and more to create another world around his garden.
One cannot imagine the magic of his intricate displays until you pay it a visit. He also plans to keep expanding his display, so make it a point to come back every year to see what has changed. He plans on running his trains all summer long, and you can give him a call to schedule an appointment before the season ends. You can see more information about his tour company at traintrips.biz and call him at (530) 836-1083. 

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Nearly 3/4 of the funding comes from SB 1

 
REDDING – The California Department of Transportation (Caltrans) announced today it will begin work September 19 on a project to improve water drainage along State Route 70 in Plumas County. The $426,000 project includes $311,000 in funding from Senate Bill (SB) 1, the Road Repair and Accountability Act of 2017.


“Continued upkeep of drainage systems along State Route 70 in the Feather River Canyon is a necessity,” said Dave Moore, District 2 Director. “Funding assistance from Senate Bill 1 allows these vital repairs to be made quickly to keep culverts in good operating shape prior to the onset of inclement weather.”


Crews will be replacing four culverts on SR 70 from just west of Grizzly Creek Bridge to just west of Twain Road.  Once work begins, motorists should allow extra travel time as they may encounter one-way traffic control with the possibility of up to 10-minute delays, Monday – Friday during daytime hours.


Motorists are reminded that the law requires them to slow down, obey temporary speed limit reductions, and drive carefully in and around construction areas.  The project is anticipated to be completed by the end of October.  Lamb Unlimited General Engineering is the lead contractor on the project.
  
SB 1 provides $5 billion in transportation funding annually shared equally between the state and local agencies. Road projects progress through construction phases more quickly thanks to the availability of SB 1 funds, including projects that are partially funded by SB 1.  For more information about other transportation projects funded by SB 1, visit www.rebuildingca.ca.gov.
 

SIERRA VALLEY, Calif. (Aug. 10, 2022) – The intersection of culture, history, farming and artisan crafts collide on Saturday, Sept. 24, 2022, from 10 a.m. to 4 p.m. for the 5th annual Sierra Valley Art + Ag Trail (SVAAT), presented by the Sierra County Arts Council with support from the Sierra Nevada Conservancy and Plumas Arts. Event organizers aim to highlight the sustainable ranching practices, local history, nature conservancy and local artisans for a day of exploration, education and fun for all ages.  
This free event encompasses the Sierra Valley, the largest alpine valley in California, with over 100 miles of self-guided exploration through pristine vistas and historic ranches. For $25, guests pick up a commemorative Passport containing images taken by local photographers at one of our four trailheads – pass includes a place to stamp and track your progress, a map with the location and history of the 11 event sites as well as the locations of ADA restrooms, barn quilts and food stops throughout the Sierra Valley. Guests who reserve their Passport in advance earn two free entries to the prize drawing.


 
      Goodwin Ranch Barn and Quilt, credit Sierra Valley Art + Ag Trail
The event is also free for the local exhibitors. In return, the exhibitors donate a piece of their work to the incredible Art + Ag Trail prize drawing taking place at 12 p.m. Sept. 24, the event day. Prize baskets will be on display and available to pick up at the Loyalton Trailhead. Winning entrants will be notified by email. Visitors can purchase prize entries in advance online or at one of our four trailheads.
SVAAT highlights include barn quilts, market farms, working ranch tours, historic buildings and local artisan crafts of every medium – wood, paint, glass, ceramic, metal and fiber among others. Additionally, the Art & Ag Trail offers kid-friendly interactive activities including branding, roping, a petting zoo, textile demonstrations, education on food, fiber and urban gardening, a Cattlemen’s lunch, fresh local pies sold by the Grange and much more.
In the late 1800s, Sierra Valley’s large number of family-run dairies supplied milk, cream and butter to the Comstock Lode miners in Virginia City, Nevada. Today these 100+-year-old dairy barns, many built with hand-hewn timbers and wooden pegs, still stand and serve the local ranchers. The Art + Ag Trail participants are given a rare opportunity to visit these privately owned barns, ranches, farms and other historic sites while taking in the talented local artists, historians and exhibitors. “We want to provide a day where visitors can experience the authentic living history of our Sierra-Plumas families,” said Lindsay McIntosh, SVAAT director.
To assist with planning, indicate your attendance by completing the free online registration here.
To purchase passports, prize entries, grab & go lunches, kickoff event tickets and more, go towww.sierravalleyartagtrail.org/event-information
Sierra Valley is a stunning alpine valley the size of Lake Tahoe nestled between the Sierra Nevada, the Cascade Range and the Great Basin. The valley is home to many historic cattle ranches, beautiful old dairy barns, market farms and talented artisans. Located at the headwaters of the wild and scenic middle fork of the Feather River, the valley’s freshwater marshes, grass meadows and sage steppes provide varied habitats that support an array of wildlife, including growing herds of pronghorn antelope, mule deer and the occasional elk. It is also a nationally designated Important Bird Area with over 260 bird species visiting during the year.
About the Sierra Valley Art + Ag Trail
The event was developed through the cooperative efforts of residents, local organizations, sponsors, funders and many individual artists and family-owned farms and ranches. The Sierra Valley Art + Ag Trail is an event of the Sierra County Arts Council. Visit SierraValleyArtAgTrail.org for more information.  
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